Gluten Free Unwrapped

In this episode of the Gluten Free Unwrapped podcast, host Jenny Finke reflects on the gluten-free community as the holidays approach, discussing the importance of support and kindness among brands and consumers. Jenny addresses the recent controversy surrounding Modern Bread & Bagel, emphasizing how criticism affects businesses and the need for more constructive and kinder feedback. Jenny encourages listeners to engage positively with gluten-free brands and to T.H.I.N.K. before posting mean comments or reviews. Let's uplift one another in this community! PROGRAMMING NOTE: GLUTEN FREE UNWRAPPED WILL BE ON HOLIDAY BREAK UNTIL JANUARY 14, 2026Connect with Jenny Finke (host)Love Me Gluten Free website - lovemeglutenfree.comFollow Love Me Gluten Free on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).Follow Jenny's founder content on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree and subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfinke/Chapters00:00 Introduction and Holiday Reflections00:56 Community Support and Brand Stories02:50 The Modern Bread and Bagel Controversy06:09 The Impact of Criticism on Businesses08:45 The Importance of Kindness and Support12:02 Encouragement for Community Engagement

In this episode, Audrey Dunham shares her passion for baking, nutrition, and the plant-based lifestyle and how it led to the creation of Autumn Sons Baking Company, a line of gluten-free, plant-based cookie mixes. Audrey discusses the challenges of building a brand that caters to people with food allergies and the importance of choosing the right ingredients. She also highlights how her family helped her entrepreneurial journey, her crucial rebranding from 'Peanuts' to a more allergy-friendly name, and her plans for expanding her business.Connect with Audrey and Autumn Sons Baking CompanyWebsite: autumnsonsbaking.comInstagram: @autumnsonsbakingFacebook: @autumnsonsbakingConnect with Jenny Finke (host)Order a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.comFollow Love Me Gluten Free on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).Follow Jenny's founder content on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree and subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfinke/Chapters00:00Introduction to Audrey Dunham and Her Journey03:11The Intersection of Baking and Nutrition06:06Transitioning to a Plant-Based Diet08:44The Birth of Autumn Sons Baking Company11:48Creating Inclusive Recipes for All14:54The Role of Family and Support in Business18:01The Science Behind Gluten-Free Baking20:57Future Plans and Product Expansion28:56The Unique Qualities of Chickpea Flour31:07From Recipe to Retail: The Journey Begins33:06Navigating the Competitive Market36:03Expanding the Brand: Goals and Aspirations39:09Community Engagement and Brand Growth39:56Rapid Fire Insights: Personal Favorites and Misconceptions44:32Final Thoughts and Resources for Listeners

In this episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, host Jenny Finke interviews Dina Mitchell, the founder of Power Soul Cafe, the world's first certified gluten-free fast food restaurant chain.Dina shares her extensive background in the food industry, her journey to create a safe dining experience for those with celiac disease and other dietary restrictions, and the challenges she faces in the gluten-free market.The conversation delves into the importance of certification, the unique offerings on the menu, and Dina's passion for educating others about gluten-free options. As she discusses her business model and plans for expansion, it becomes clear that Dina is driven by a mission to provide safe, delicious food for everyone.Connect with Dina and Power Soul CafeWebsite: powersoulcafe.comInstagram: @powersoulcafeFacebook: @PowerSoulCafeDina Mitchell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinamitchell/Connect with Jenny Finke (host)Order a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.comFollow Love Me Gluten Free on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).Follow Jenny's founder content on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree and subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfinke/Chapters00:00 Introduction to Power Soul Cafe00:59 Dina's Culinary Journey04:54 The Vision Behind Power Soul Cafe13:50 Challenges in Gluten-Free Dining22:02 Understanding Gluten-Free Certification29:53 Menu Highlights and Ingredients39:14 The Evolution of Dining Habits43:03 Scaling the Business: Growth Plans and Strategies48:31 Passion-Driven Entrepreneurship: The Heart of Power Soul Cafe50:40 Celebrity Encounters and Community Engagement54:40 Balancing Work and Life: The Entrepreneur's Journey59:40 Future Aspirations: Expanding Beyond Las Vegas

In this Thanksgiving episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, Jenny is joined by her husband, Darren Finke, to share the story behind Love Me Gluten Free.From Jenny’s celiac diagnosis that changed their daily life to the creation of a subscription box that delivers safe, gluten-free snacks to thousands of households, they take listeners behind the scenes of what it takes to build a thriving gluten-free business.Jenny and Darren discuss the challenges, lessons, and surprises along the way, highlighting the complementary skills that have helped them grow the brand. They also reflect on the unique experience of working together as a married couple and how their shared values and gluten-free lifestyle have shaped the business and community.This episode offers an insightful look at entrepreneurship, business growth, and the realities of life with celiac disease. Jenny and Darren will also share the one food they both miss most since going gluten-free, as well as answer the question that Jenny asks all her guests - what gluten-free brands they admire most.Follow Gluten Free UnwrappedNew episodes drop every Wednesday. View past episodes and subscribe to our newsletter at goodforyouglutenfree.com/podcast-gluten-free-unwrappedAbout the Guests:Jenny and Darren Finke are the founders of Love Me Gluten Free.Find Darren on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-finke-6b26a1/Find Jenny on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfinke/Jenny is also the host of Gluten Free Unwrapped and a longtime blogger at Good For You Gluten Free.Order a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.comFollow Love Me Gluten Free on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).Follow Jenny's founder content on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree and subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.

In this episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, Jenny chats with Orly Gottesman, the founder of the legendary Modern Bread and Bagel restaurants. Modern Bread and Bagel is a 100% kosher and gluten-free bakery cafe that has become a go-to hot spot for bagels, cinnamon rolls, and more.Orly’s journey into gluten-free baking began when her husband, Josh, was diagnosed with celiac disease. She began experimenting in the kitchen, discovered a natural talent for gluten-free baking, and pursued professional training as a pastry chef. She even launched her own line of gluten-free baking mixes.In this episode, we explore Orly’s path from home baker to entrepreneur, the inspiration behind her most beloved creations, and the challenges and joys of building a gluten-free business in the heart of New York City.About Orly and Modern Bread & Bagel:Visit https://www.modernbreadandbagel.com/ to order online or find a location near you.Instagram: @modernbreadandbagelFacebook: @modernbreadandbagelAbout the Host:Jenny Finke is the host of Gluten Free Unwrapped. She's a longtime blogger at Good For You Gluten Free and founder of the popular gluten-free subscription boxes, Love Me Gluten Free.You can follow Jenny on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree or subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.You can snag a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.com and follow her journey on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).

On this episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, I’m diving into the story of Chef Alina Eisenhauer. She started as a professional pastry chef and bakery owner who competed on multiple Food Network shows, including Cupcake Wars.Chef Alina's career took an unexpected turn when she was diagnosed with Hashimoto's, an autoimmune thyroid disorder, and felt her world crashing in. As a prolific baker, it was evident her craft was making her sick. She shut down her bakery and relearned everything she could about baking without gluten. She even discovered she had a knack for gluten-free baking and developing reliable recipes, even for hard-to-make foods, such as gluten-free breads and pastries.In this episode, we dive into:Chef Alina’s health journey and what led her to change course and go gluten-freeHow she navigated the challenges of learning to bake again without glutenHer experiences competing on Food Network shows and running her own bakeryThe inspiration behind creating her thriving online gluten-free baking communityThe gluten-free flours she says every gluten-free home baker should have in their pantryPlus, we cover some fun rapid-fire questions, including her go-to potluck dessert, the most underrated gluten-free ingredient, and the one skill she wishes she were better at.About the Guest:Learn more about Chef Alina on her website, chefalina.comJoin Chef Alina's free gluten-free baking group on Facebook Check out Chef Alina's Online Courses & Bootcamp Follow Chef Alina on social media:Instagram @chefalinae FB @chefalinae YouTube @chefalinae LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/alina-eisenhauer-75444729/About the Host:Jenny Finke is the host of Gluten Free Unwrapped. She's a longtime blogger at Good For You Gluten Free and founder of the popular gluten-free subscription boxes, Love Me Gluten Free.You can follow Jenny on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree or subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.You can snag a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.com and follow her journey on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).

On this episode of Gluten-Free Unwrapped, I’m chatting with Kerry Brown, co-founder of Eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R., a line of nutrient-dense baking mixes designed for people following restrictive and restorative diets like the autoimmune protocol (AIP) diet.Kerry shares her personal health journey, including challenges with Type 1 diabetes, thyroid issues, and autoimmune conditions, and how discovering the AIP diet transformed her approach to food and wellness. We dive into:Kerry’s path to discovering the AIP diet and what the diet involvesHow she and co-founder Heather McDonough came together to start Eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R.The inspiration behind the company’s unique name Product development, ingredient choices, and creating mixes that are both flavorful and compliant with the AIP dietMarketing a niche product, scaling a business, and navigating early challenges, such as launching a new business during the COVID-19 pandemic.Plus, we have a fun rapid-fire segment where Kerry shares the one baking mix she could eat on repeat, and the most unusual ingredient she's experimented with.About the Guest:Find Eat G.A.N.G.S.T.E.R.'s baking mixes online at eatgangster.com.Use the coupon code LOVEMEGLUTENFREE for 15% off.Follow Kerry on Instagram (@eatgangster) and Facebook (@eatgangster)About the Host:Jenny Finke is the host of Gluten Free Unwrapped. She's a longtime blogger at Good For You Gluten Free and founder of the popular gluten-free subscription boxes, Love Me Gluten Free.You can follow Jenny on Instagram at @goodforyouglutenfree or subscribe to her newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.You can snag a Love Me Gluten Free subscription box at lovemeglutenfree.com and follow her journey on Instagram (@lovemeglutenfree) or Facebook (@lovemeglutenfreebox).

Colin O’Neal, president of Gluten Free & More, joins us to share his journey with celiac disease and the challenges of growing a print publication in today's modern era. Diagnosed over 30 years ago, Colin reflects on growing up feeling unwell, the one food he avoided for decades, and how better gluten-free options have changed his diet today.We also dive into his creative background as an artist, his family's entry into publishing, and his untraditional path to leading Gluten Free & More. Colin shares how he’s grown a print and digital publication at a time when many print magazines are struggling, and how he keeps content fresh, engaging, and relevant.In this episode, you’ll learn:Colin’s personal health and celiac journeyHow his gluten-free diet has evolved over the yearsLessons from taking a family-run publication into the next generationStrategies for growing a magazine in today’s challenging media landscapeColin is a wealth of knowledge, and I know you'll enjoy learning from this publishing and creative master.More about Gluten Free & MoreWEBSITE: glutenfreeandmore.comINSTAGRAM: @glutenfreeandmoremagFACEBOOK: @glutenfreeandmoreMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

On today's episode of Gluten Free Unwrapped, you'll hear the story of Dr. Liia Ramachandra, the founder of Epilynx, an emerging skincare and beauty brand designed to be gluten-free, allergen-free, and free from the top 14 allergens.Dr. Liia’s personal experiences with psoriasis and gluten sensitivity, as well as her unique background as a pharmacist, inspired her to create safe, non-toxic, and effective beauty products for people with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, and autoimmune conditions.You'll learn about Dr. Liia’s personal health journey, as well as:What it was like switching from drug development to creating a skin care product.How gluten in beauty products can adversely affect people with gluten intolerance and celiac disease. What ingredients in cosmetics are on the no-go list,The challenges of starting and growing an allergen-friendly skincare business in a competitive landscape.The one skincare trend that drives Dr. Liia crazy.Find Epilynx products at epilynx.com or on Instagram @epilynxbydrliiaMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

Jules Shepard is a pioneer in the gluten-free world. As the founder of GF Jules, she’s sold over a million pounds of allergen-free flour and baking mixes while championing celiac advocacy long before “gluten-free” was a household term. She was instrumental in shaping the FDA’s gluten-free labeling laws and has spent years empowering home bakers and food businesses through her cookbooks, products, and recipes.In this episode, we dive into:Jules’ personal celiac journey and how it sparked her mission in gluten-free bakingThe story behind GF Jules and how a rogue investor almost put her out of businessLessons learned from advocacy work and her instrumental help in setting the FDA's gluten-free labeling standardsThe struggles Jules faced in scaling and funding GF JulesJules’ favorite baking tips and recipesThe one gluten-free myth Jules wishes would go away!Jules is a trailblazer in the gluten-free community and a true champion for gluten-free eaters everywhere. Tune in for an information-packed episode for anyone who loves a good business origin story.More about GF JulesWEBSITE: https://gfjules.com/INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/gfjulesFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/gfJulesMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

When KC faced open-heart surgery in 2016, her perspective on health shifted dramatically. Recovery pushed her to overhaul her diet, which eventually sparked a passion for baking cookies that everyone could enjoy—regardless of dietary restrictions.By 2020, KC had transitioned from classroom teacher to baking entrepreneur, launching KC Sunshine's Cookies.In this episode, we discuss:How KC made the leap from teaching to baking—and what’s actually harder: teaching or starting a businessHow adopting a gluten-free diet changed her relationship with foodThe challenges she faced along the way, including manufacturing setbacks that slowed her growing brandHow age, experience, and wisdom gave her the courage to persevere through the tough timesMore about KC Sunshine's CookiesWEBSITE: kcsunshinecookies.comINSTAGRAM: @kcsunshinecookiesFACEBOOK: @kcsunshinecookiesMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

For most families, a cruise is about relaxation and indulgence. For Maureen Basye, a family cruise with her 4-year-old son was a wake-up call. Her son struggled to find safe food onboard, and while no one got sick, the stress of constantly worrying about meals made it hard for her family to fully enjoy the vacation. Maureen knew gluten-free families deserved better—that’s when the idea for Celiac Cruise was born.In 2022, Maureen co-founded the Celiac Cruise with travel expert Connie Saunders to alleviate the “food burden” faced by gluten-free travelers. Every dining experience is carefully crafted, every staff member (even the kids’ club team!) is trained on celiac safety, and every meal is served with peace of mind. Along the way, Maureen has navigated her family’s health journey—her son’s diagnosis, her husband’s celiac, and her own struggles with Hashimoto’s—all while building a business from scratch.In this episode, we dive into:Maureen’s personal story and how a family vacation inspired Celiac CruiseThe challenges of starting a gluten-free travel business from scratch—right before COVIDHow she teamed with Royal Caribbean to launch her first cruiseHow she continuously refines the experience to make Celiac Cruise even more valuable to travelersWhere Celiac Cruise is sailing next—and Maureen’s favorite destination 🌍From an inspired mom moment to a worldwide movement, Maureen’s story is about creating not just safe food, but safe spaces where gluten-free families can relax, connect, and celebrate together.More about Celiac Cruise LineWEBSITE: celiaccruise.comINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/celiaccruiseFACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/celiaccruise/More about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

In this episode, you'll hear the inspiring stories of Kendra Williams and Kari Bastyr—two leading ladies in the gluten-detection dog space. Both have celiac disease and rely on gluten-detection dogs, but their paths crossed in a way that changed the field forever.In 2020, Kari saw a video Kendra posted of her dog training with loose flour and sent a DM on Instagram, warning that Kendra’s method was unsafe. That message sparked a friendship—and eventually a business partnership. As they trained their own dogs and shared their celiac challenges, they realized how many people had been misled or were taught incorrectly. Combining Kari’s expertise as a gluten-detection service dog trainer with Kendra’s experience designing learning and development programs for corporations, they developed a series of courses to help others train their gluten-detection dogs safely and effectively.In this episode, you’ll learn:How Kendra’s celiac diagnosis and chronic symptoms inspired her to train her dog to detect gluten.How Kari’s experience as a professional dog trainer and her own celiac diagnosis fueled her mission to help others.The realities of having a gluten-detection dog - both the fun and not-so-glamorous sides of it all. And you'll get to learn more about their dogs, Suki and Birdie, too!COUPON: Get 10% off online courses with code Unwrapped10 at CeliacServiceDogs.com.More about Kendra & KariWEBSITE: celiacservicedogs.comINSTAGRAM:@sukipwd and @celiacservicedogsMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

Karen Hertz’s journey began with a health scare. As a young mom facing melanoma and thyroid cancer, her doctors recommended an anti-inflammatory diet—which meant giving up gluten. For Karen, a longtime craft beer lover who worked at Coors for over a decade, going gluten-free wasn’t just a diet change—it meant giving up beer and part of the lifestyle she loved.That challenge sparked inspiration. Karen dove into the world of brewing, learned everything she could, built the right team, and in 2016 launched Holidaily Brewing Company—Colorado’s first gluten-free craft brewery and the first female-owned gluten-free brewery in the U.S.In this episode, we dive into:Karen’s personal story and her journey to heal her bodyHow she started Holidaily and the grains behind great gluten-free beerThe difference between gluten-free and gluten-removed beer—and what it really meansHow Holidaily became the official beer of the Celiac Cruise, including an exclusive “Sea Day” flavor for cruise-goers The challenges of distributing gluten-free beer across statesKaren’s favorite gluten-free eats around DenverTune in for an insightful conversation about beer brewing, gluten-free living, and the perseverance it takes to trail-blaze in a new industry.More about HolidailyWEBSITE: holidailybrewing.comINSTAGRAM: @holidailybrewFACEBOOK: @holidailytaproomMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

Seaton and Jill Smith’s celiac journey began in 1990 when their young son was diagnosed with celiac disease. Soon after, they discovered they had celiac disease too. With gluten-free options nearly nonexistent, the family leaned on a local support group for help—but they didn’t stop there.Their experience inspired GF Harvest, the first certified gluten-free oats made using strict purity protocol standards, setting a new benchmark for safe oats. Along the way, they mastered building a brand from scratch and educating families about what “gluten-free” truly means.Retirement didn’t last long. Meeting Dr. Leo during their journey led them to create LEO Verification Systems, a portable gluten tester, sparking both excitement and debate in the gluten-free community.In this episode, we dive into:The Smith family’s personal celiac journeyHow their passion pulled them out of retirementLessons from building GF Harvest—and a gluten-free oat brand—from scratchWhy oats have long been a tricky ingredient in the gluten-free worldThe promises and challenges of the LEO gluten tester and why it's controversialNavigating the hope and criticism around at-home gluten-testing technologyFrom purity oats to portable gluten testers, we dive into the challenges, controversies, and triumphs of the Smiths’ journey.More about Leo VerifiedWEBSITES: leoverified.comINSTAGRAM:@leo2verifiedFACEBOOK: @leoverifiedMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

When Mari Fassett first started whipping up snack mixes as a kid, she never imagined it would turn into a business. What began as something she shared with friends and family eventually became Marimix — a certified gluten-free, whole-grain, plant-based snack that’s equal parts sweet and savory.But Mari’s story isn’t just about creating a crave-worthy snack. In 2017, she survived a serious brain aneurysm that completely shifted her outlook on life and business. Against all odds, she rebranded Marimix with a cleaner formula and a fresh perspective — determined to make snacks that nourish, delight, and bring people together.In this episode, we unwrap:How Mari’s entrepreneurial spirit started in the kitchen at age 12Why she changed her mind about architecture to follow her passion for foodThe health crisis that reshaped her personal and professional journeyHow consumer demand pushed her to create a better-for-you mixThe little wins that keep her motivated (and why joy is her true measure of success)Mari’s journey is an inspiring reminder that persistence, adaptability, and passion are what fuel long-term success.CouponWant to try Marimix? Use code LOVEME20 for 20% off at marimix.com.More about MarimixWEBSITES: marmix.comINSTAGRAM:@marimixsnacksFACEBOOK: @marimixsnacksMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

When Lorissa Link set out to make snacks for her family, she wasn’t just creating another jerky stick — she was rewriting the rules for an entire category. After her son’s food allergy diagnosis and a scary reaction at a birthday party, Lorissa realized the shelves were missing safe, delicious, certified allergen-free snacks.Drawing on her family’s roots in the jerky business, she launched LK Snacks (formerly Lorissa’s Kitchen), and the rest is history. Her story begins on a Minnesota farm, where she learned the value of food from the ground up — lessons that gave her the confidence to start her own meat stick and jerky company.Despite navigating a male-dominated industry, Lorissa was determined to do things differently. She created the first certified Top 9 allergen-free jerky and meat stick snacks, made with the utmost care: grass-fed and finished, non-GMO, and zero-sugar.In this episode, we unwrap:How Lorissa’s farm roots shaped her values — and her approach to food What it was like to marry into the Jack Link’s legacy and still carve out her own brand The birthday party scare that changed Lorissa’s entire outlook on food Why allergen certification was a non-negotiable for LK SnacksLorissa’s journey is proof that with passion - and a clear purpose - can transform not just a product, but an entire industry.More about LK SnacksWEBSITES: lorissakitchen.comINSTAGRAM: @lorissaskitchenFACEBOOK: LorissasKitchenMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

When Abby Helman Kelly discovered in her 30s that she was gluten intolerant, she found herself in the same frustrating maze many of us know too well—mysterious symptoms, confusing labels, and endless trial-and-error eating. After a naturopath suggested cutting gluten and dairy, Abby’s stubborn eczema cleared up, and she felt better than ever. Later, an egg allergy entered the picture, giving her an even deeper understanding of the challenges of a free-from lifestyle.Out of her own health journey came a mission: help others navigate gluten-free living in a way that’s not just safe—but fun. What started as a hyper-local Connecticut gluten-free restaurant guide quickly grew into Wicked Gluten Free, now one of the fastest-growing gluten-free expos in the country. From her very first event in 2017 to pivoting during COVID when in-person gatherings were impossible, Abby has built an experience that celebrates community, connection, and—of course—delicious gluten-free food.In this episode, Abby shares:What the Wicked Gluten Free expos are like—and who should attendHow pivoting during COVID was essential to keeping the community connectedHer take on the future of gluten-free expos, and why so many expos failHer pick for the best gluten-free restaurant in Boston (yes, you can eat the onion rings!)The story behind the name “Wicked Gluten Free”Abby will also share more about how you can attend or get involved with her upcoming expos.More about Wicked Gluten FreeWEBSITES: wickedglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @wickedglutenfreeFACEBOOK: WickedGlutenFreeMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

In this episode, talk with Trish Thomas, the co-founder of Every Body Eat, a snack brand built on the belief that everyone deserves to feel included at the table, no matter their dietary restrictions. Trish’s journey began after a personal health transformation—dealing with weight gain, hair loss, and extreme fatigue following her first pregnancy. She was diagnosed with an autoimmune disease and, after eliminating gluten, dairy, and corn, experienced a complete turnaround in her health.That transformation led to the creation of Every Body Eat, a brand that’s reshaping the snack aisle with allergen-free, clean, and delicious options. Trish shares her philosophy of "ingredients we left out on purpose" and discusses how Every Body Eat stands out in the crowded gluten-free market.In this episode, we dive into:Trish’s health journey and the inspiration behind Every Body Eat.The importance of transparency, and why Every Body Eat puts its ingredient list on the front of its packaging.Insights into why many small food brands fail and how Trish is combating the stigma.How she manages to balance being a mom and an entrepreneur.A sneak peek at an exciting new product launching soon—shhh!Every Body Eat’s product line, including crunchy crackers and sweet cookie bites, is certified gluten-free, vegan, and free from the top 14 allergens. Trish’s story proves that when you create food that’s safe, clean, and delicious, you can bring every body together—one bite at a time.More about Every Body EatWEBSITE: everybodyeating.comINSTAGRAM: @everybody_eatingFACEBOOK: @everybodyeatMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFollow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!

When Karissa Francis couldn’t find safe snacks to meet her family’s dietary needs, she did what so many of us only dream of — she rolled up her sleeves and started baking her own. With the help of her husband, Josh — who brought years of baking industry experience to the table — the couple set out to create treats their whole family could safely enjoy. In this episode of Gluten Free Unwrapped, you’ll:Hear how Karissa and her husband, Josh, founded Jack’s Allergen Friendly Bakery in 2015 to create treats Josh could safely enjoy after developing a gluten intolerance — and how their daughter’s health struggles made the need for safe, delicious food even more urgent.Learn how they started with cookies (their Chocolate Chip is still the #1 bestseller!) and are now expanding into cinnamon rolls, breadsticks, and dinner rolls — with shelf-stable cinnamon rolls hitting Sprouts this fall.Discover why being top 14 allergen-free is central to their mission, how they started with paleo-friendly recipes, and what it means that five of their cookies are AIP-compliant.Get a behind-the-scenes look at their early days — from Karissa perfecting a shelf-stable cookie over a year of trial and error to Josh leaving a frustrating career path and rediscovering his purpose through baking.Uncover the meaning behind the name “Jack’s” — an acronym made from their family’s initials — and why everything they do is rooted in love, family, and helping others eat safely.Karissa’s story is more than just a gluten-free bakery making allergen-friendly treats — it’s a story of family, resilience, and baking with purpose.More about Jack’s Allergen Friendly Bakery WEBSITES: jackfrancisfoods.comINSTAGRAM: @jacksallergenfriendlybakeryFACEBOOK: @jacksallergenfriendlybakeryMore about the Love Me Gluten Free subscription boxesWEBSITE: lovemeglutenfree.comINSTAGRAM: @lovemeglutenfreeTIKTOK: @lovemeglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @lovemeglutenfreeboxMore about Jenny FinkeJenny Finke is the founder of the popular blog, Good For You Gluten Free. Find her at (goodforyouglutenfree.com and subscribe to her FREE newsletter at welcome.goodforyouglutenfree.com.INSTAGRAM: @goodforyouglutenfreeTIKTOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeFACEBOOK: @goodforyouglutenfreeNever miss an episode. Follow us on @glutenfreeunwrapped on Instagram!