Claim OwnershipHealthy Hustle Spotlight
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© Ariana Korman
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Join us on Healthy Hustle Spotlight, where we elevate the voices of industry leaders, innovative companies, and unique investors in the health and wellness space. Each episode dives deep into the inspiring stories behind the brands shaping the better-for-you consumer packaged goods (CPG) landscape. We unpack the latest trends, share valuable leadership insights, and foster connections across the industry.
43 Episodes
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In this episode, we sits down with Mayur Aras, Founder of Lucinda Capital, to discuss how an operator’s background creates a true edge in venture investing — and why backing underrepresented founders is both a strategic opportunity and a necessary shift in CPG. Drawing from his experience inside the industry, Mayur shares how empathy, discipline, and moving beyond traditional pattern recognition shape his investment thesis, why legacy categories are ripe for reinvention, and what he’s building as he backs the next generation of overlooked founders.
Charbel Mawad, founder of Projo, shares how a personal mission to create a better coffee alternative turned into a fast-growing functional beverage brand. We discuss the challenges of formulation, the power of early consumer feedback, the expansion to stick packs to balance product and scalability, and what it takes to build trust in a crowded beverage market. A candid conversation on product iteration, distribution strategy, and defining success as a founder in CPG.
In this episode, we sit down with Max Luthy, founder of Plink!, to unpack his journey from trend forecasting to building a modern hydration brand. Max shares what it takes to turn insights into execution in CPG, including the humbling realities of operations, unlearning assumptions about consumer behavior, and knowing when a trend is ready to become a product.They explore the evolution of hydration as a daily consumer ritual, why utility ultimately drives purchase decisions, and how Plink! has positioned itself as an omni-category product—showing up across hydration, health, and beauty. Max also reflects on balancing sustainability with market needs, testing differentiation early, and the role of community and resources in scaling a CPG brand.Use code HUSTLE20 for 20% off Plink's online store!
From a traditional butcher shop in Switzerland to building one of the most premium bone broth brands in the U.S. — this episode features Thomas Odermatt, founder of Butcher’s Bone Broth. We dive into how old-world craftsmanship became a modern CPG business, why in-house manufacturing is central to quality, and what it means to build a legacy brand instead of chasing quick exits. Thomas shares his approach to retail growth, brand education, and turning bone broth into a daily health ritual, and why “the jiggle” is the ultimate sign of a superior product.
In this episode, we speak with George Ho and Brian McDermott of Frönen about leading through change and building consumer brands with long-term thinking. They discuss stepping into leadership during a transition, earning trust with investors and retail partners, and making disciplined decisions that prioritize consistency, quality, and credibility over short-term wins. The conversation offers a candid look at how thoughtful operations, product standards, and leadership mindset compound over time, and why playing the long game matters in today’s consumer landscape.
This conversation dives into the realities of today’s retail landscape and what emerging brands need to know. We chat with Rachel Krupa, founder of The Goods Mart in NYC and Krupa Consulting, to cover the art of curation, how consumers are actually shopping, the importance of team education, and the power of anecdotal data. You’ll learn what retailers look for, how to prepare your product and pitch, and how to spot trends with staying power.
In this episode, we sit down with brand and marketing expert Ruth Fittock to unpack what truly makes a challenger brand break through. With nearly 20 years of experience in health and wellness, Ruth shares how smart positioning, radical transparency, and clear consumer messaging separate winning brands from the rest. She also dives into her approach to angel investing, the founder qualities she looks for, and how operators can balance data, intuition, and creativity.
In this episode, Sam Moore shares his journey from a high-performing software sales executive to building Hazlo — a functional beverage brand redefining how we drink. We talk about his personal experience with alcohol, the rise of the sober curious movement, and how Hazlo is creating a healthier alternative that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or experience. Sam breaks down his product philosophy, strategic partnerships, and his long-term vision of helping people live happier, healthier lives, without the downsides of booze.
In this episode, we chat with Katie Cella to explore what today’s investors are really looking for — and how founders can better tell their story, demonstrate traction, and build meaningful relationships with capital partners. We also break down how aspiring investors can start angel investing, make confident decisions, and contribute to a more diverse, future-focused investment landscape.
In this episode, Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, shares her journey from being a corporate strategist and stay-at-home mom to launching a tequila brand focused on additive-free products. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of being a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, the wide space she identified in targeting female consumers, and her commitment to social impact through her brand. Mara emphasizes the need for strategic growth, innovative marketing, and community collaboration while navigating the complexities of the spirits industry.
In this episode, Sam Abramson — who was serving as CEO of Just Date at the time of recording and has since transitioned out of the role — shares the origin story of the brand, which began with a focus on creating healthier sweeteners from dates. The conversation covers the evolution of their product line, including the introduction of date-sweetened chocolate and foodservice clients, and the importance of consumer behavior in shaping their offerings. Sam emphasizes the significance of taste and health benefits in their products, as well as the challenges and strategies involved in marketing and distribution. The conversation also touches on the company’s lean approach to growth and future goals, including expanding their presence in retail and e-commerce.
In this episode, Rachel Simons, founder of Seed & Mill, shares her journey from being a media lawyer to a food entrepreneur, highlighting the evolution of her brand dedicated to sesame products. She discusses the growing popularity of tahini and halva, the health benefits of sesame, and the company's innovative expansion into ice cream. Rachel also addresses the challenges of brand communication, the importance of community engagement, and the lessons learned from parting with co-founders. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the significance of building relationships in the food industry.
In this episode, Howard Fischer shares his journey from traditional finance to impact investing, highlighting the importance of using capitalism as a tool for social change. He discusses the mission of Gratitude Railroad, the investment strategies employed, and the significance of authenticity in founders. Howard emphasizes the need for professionalism in impact investing and the role of policy in facilitating change. He also explores the intersection of film, literature, and social impact, offering insights into the future of sustainable investing and the importance of investor relationships.
Gloria Chou, an award-winning PR strategist, shares her expertise helping founders gain visibility in top-tier media. She emphasizes the benefits of earned media over paid placements, the distinction between PR and marketing, and the power of storytelling in building credibility. Gloria introduces her CPR method for crafting effective pitches and discusses how founders can track their PR efforts. She advocates for a more inclusive PR landscape and encourages founders to embrace their unique stories to connect with consumers.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Greer Tessler, Founding Partner of Simple Food Ventures, shares her journey in Venture Capital, focusing on early-stage investments in the food and beverage sector. She discusses her background, the importance of relationships with founders, and the unique approach her fund takes in evaluating potential investments. Greer highlights her insights on current trends in consumer behavior, the challenges faced in the CPG landscape, and offers valuable advice for entrepreneurs seeking funding. The discussion emphasizes the shift towards healthier food options and the evolving dynamics of the CPG market.
In this episode, Lex Evan, founder and CEO of Lexington Bakes, shares the journey of creating an eco-conscious luxury baked good brand. From self production to a focus on radical ingredient transparency, Lex discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a brand rooted in integrity and innovation. The conversation explores branding lessons from his experience in the beauty industry, the importance of hands-on involvement in branding, and the strategic decisions that have positioned Lexington Bakes for growth in the competitive food landscape.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Lauren Chew, founder and CEO of Love + Chew Brands, shares her journey from tech to entrepreneurship, detailing the challenges and triumphs of building a plant-based snack company. She discusses the importance of consumer feedback in product development, strategies for scaling without external funding, and the operational efficiencies that have driven her success. Lauren also emphasizes the significance of maintaining strong relationships with retailers and the need for a diverse sales strategy to engage consumers effectively.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Regina Trillo, founder of Nemi Snacks, shares her journey of creating a brand that elevates Mexican culture through authentic and sustainable products and branding. She discusses the challenges of representation in the food industry, the importance of flavor innovation, and the need for ethical sourcing. Regina emphasizes the significance of mentorship and community support in navigating the complexities of building a minority-owned business. The conversation also touches on the importance of creating an equitable ecosystem for emerging brands in the CPG space.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this epsiode, Hudson Davis-Ross, Founder & CEO of Plant People, shares his entrepreneurial journey and his experiences in the CPG industry and wellness-driven brands. He discusses the transition from beverage to supplements, the importance of innovation in crowded markets, and the challenges faced during COVID. Hudson emphasizes the significance of building a strong team culture and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the need to get to market quickly and learn from customer feedback.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
In this episode, Nicholas Naclerio shares his journey as the founder of Mmmly, a better-for-you cookie brand. He discusses the challenges of identifying market gaps, scaling production, and the importance of grassroots marketing. Nicholas also delves into funding strategies, building an advisory network, and the realities of the acquisition process, emphasizing the lessons learned and his future aspirations in the food industry.If you're a founder, investor, or industry expert interested in joining us, please contact Ariana Korman.
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