The Business of Whats Next

In this episode, host Matthew Shipp talks with Stefani Seek, founder of Seek Coaching (formerly Love the Sell), about how today’s leaders can find clarity, balance, and renewed purpose in their work.After 25 years in corporate sales and leadership, Stefani hit burnout and decided to redefine success on her own terms. Through her 5V’s Methodology, she helps executives and professionals align their values, voice, and vision—bridging the gap between who they are and how they lead.In this episode, we dive into:✅ Why achievement without alignment leads to burnout✅ How subconscious beliefs can quietly limit your growth✅ The 5V framework for rediscovering purpose and direction✅ The importance of setting boundaries and protecting your energy✅ Simple mindset practices to reconnect with your authentic voice✅ Why alignment, not hustle, is the new measure of successConnect with Stefani Seek:🌐 seekcoaching.com 📧 stefani@seekcoaching.comLinkedIn   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

What does it take to buy a niche manufacturing business in the middle of a pandemic—and make it thrive? In this episode, Matthew talks with Dan Saettele, the former banker who now runs Foeder Crafters, the only U.S. company manufacturing foeders full-time. These massive Missouri White Oak fermentation tanks are turning heads in taprooms and changing the way craft beverages are made.Dan opens up about the transition from finance to the shop floor, the operational overhaul he led, and the mindset that keeps the company evolving. This is a story of continuous improvement, smart leadership, and rethinking how tradition meets innovation.✅ What a foeder is—and why it’s different from a barrel✅ How Dan navigated supply chain, staffing, and process redesign✅ The philosophy of “nothing is sacred” in product development✅ Common misconceptions about American oak and how Foeder Crafters challenges them✅ Global trends in fermentation—from Korea to natural wine✅ Advice for anyone thinking of buying a niche business in craft beverage Foeder Crafters of AmericaDan SaetteleInstagramFacebookLinkedIn Sponsors:Debbie Wildrick Consulting    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Coffee’s global supply chain is long, layered, and stacked against the smallest players. Farmers need capital up front. Roasters want terms. And between them, a maze of middlemen adds cost and confusion.Matt Hayes, founder of Bridging Tables, is helping both ends meet. With a background in recruiting and deep ties in emerging markets, Matt built a model that finances trust, not just transactions. By enabling direct trade, providing pre-financing, and focusing on real relationships, Bridging Tables is rethinking how coffee moves and who benefits.In this episode, we dive into: ✅ Why the traditional supply chain doesn’t work for farmers or roasters ✅ How Bridging Tables structures contracts to meet both sides’ financial needs ✅ The story of Kilvet, a small Honduran farmer whose profit soared 1000% ✅ What transparent pricing and live translation tech can do for trust ✅ The role of human connection in building sustainable, scalable change Bridging TablesMatt HayesInstagramFacebook SponsorsDebbie Wildrick Consulting    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Debbie Wildrick knows what it takes to get a beverage brand on the shelf—and keep it there. In this episode, we unpack the critical challenges growing beverage businesses face, especially as they hit that tricky $1M–$5M range.With decades of experience on both the retail and brand side, Debbie offers a deep dive into the strategy, structure, and systems that separate smart scaling from stalled momentum.✅ The #1 mistake mid-stage brands make with distribution ✅ Why shipping costs quietly kill profitability ✅ How to track and interpret retail velocity ✅ When to rebrand—and when to hold off ✅ Building the right sales team inside and out ✅ What it takes to move from startup to scale ✅ A sneak peek at Debbie’s “10 Pillars” program for beverage foundersWhether you’re just starting out or navigating mid-stage growth pains, this episode delivers the kind of tactical insight that moves your business forward.Debbie Wildrick ConsultingDebbie Wildrick10 Pillars to Building a Successful Company  Free DownloadLinkedInFacebookInstagramSponsors:ActionCOACH   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Jim brings decades of experience in beverage distribution and now leads efforts at Western Computer to implement 365WineTrade, a tech platform built specifically for the alcohol space. He shares how integrated ERP systems not only streamline operations but also enable businesses to plan smarter, automate compliance, and ultimately grow without the usual chaos.In this episode, we dive into:✅ Why spreadsheets and QuickBooks don’t scale with your business✅ How 365WineTrade simplifies tax reporting and inventory management✅ The real cost of scaling across state lines—and how to track it✅ Why phased software adoption helps prevent overwhelm✅ How AI and automation are already improving operations for beverage brands Jim HarrisWestern ComputerLinkedInFacebook365WineTradeFood and Beverage ERP Software Sponsors:ActionCOACH    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

As a solopreneur, even a simple holiday weekend can stir up stress. Why? Because your system gets disrupted, your rhythm pauses, and suddenly all those unfinished to-dos are bouncing around in your head. In this quick Workshop Minute, Matthew Shipp addresses the challenge of mental overload—and offers a proven method to ease it.Matthew explores the power of writing tasks down and how externalizing your thoughts can dramatically reduce stress and sharpen your focus. Whether you're a pen-and-paper person or prefer digital tools, the key is getting your tasks out of your head and into a trusted system.✅ Why keeping tasks in your head creates mental tension✅ The psychological reason unfinished tasks dominate your thoughts✅ How writing things down—literally—gives your brain permission to relax✅ Pen vs. digital: what really matters when externalizing tasks✅ A simple pre-break ritual to reduce anxiety and increase clarity   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Water isn't just an ingredient—it's the backbone of every beverage. But most brewers, roasters, and growers don’t realize how much water quality can make or break their final product. In this episode, we explore the challenge of designing water systems that meet both health standards and flavor goals.Matthew welcomes Cydian Kauffman, co-owner of Pure Water Northwest, to unpack the real science behind water purification. From custom mineral blends to the myths of reverse osmosis, Cydian shares practical insight for anyone working with beverages at scale.✅ The difference between legal standards (MCL) and health goals (MCLG)✅ How to test your water—and why full-spectrum testing matters✅ What brewers need to know about hardness, pH, and calcium✅ When reverse osmosis is useful—and when it’s overkill✅ How agricultural producers use water treatment to protect crops and livestock✅ Simple steps to start improving your water today Cydian KoffmanCydian@purewaternorthwest.comPure Water NorthwestFacebookInstagramX Sponsors:ActionCOACH   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

When your business depends on physical work, long days and wear-and-tear are inevitable. But what if there was a way to support recovery naturally — without relying on constant medication or invasive treatments? This episode looks at a new path forward for businesses and workers alike.Michael Babcock joins the show to share his experience with LifeWave’s X39 patch, a simple, light-activated technology that helps the body heal itself by reactivating dormant stem cells. Michael breaks down how this solution is helping workers across industries stay stronger, heal faster, and extend their ability to perform at their best.In this episode, we dive into:✅ How LifeWave’s X39 patch uses light therapy to support natural healing✅ Why stem cell reactivation matters for physical endurance and recovery✅ Real-world success stories from construction, farming, and logistics✅ The importance of consistency to see real, lasting results✅ New innovations LifeWave is bringing to health and energy sustainability✅ How business owners can better support the people behind their products  Michael BabcockLifeWaveFacebook Sponsors:ActionCOACH   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

When is the right time to scale your business—and what happens if you do it too soon? In this episode of Harvest to Pour, we dig into the critical transition that many business owners face after a period of rapid success. While hitting big revenue goals is exciting, it often reveals hidden gaps in systems, capital, and team structure. Without the right strategy, growth can quickly turn into overwhelm—or worse, backslide.Our guest, Dr. Mike Smith of Action Coach, brings decades of experience helping businesses scale with intention. From leading Fortune 500 transformations to coaching small business owners, Mike shares practical tools that help founders move from chaos to clarity. His approach focuses on measurable steps, structured systems, and aligning business goals with personal freedom. If you're ready to grow—without losing control—this conversation is a must-listen.In this episode, we dive into:✅ Why many businesses fail right after their most profitable year✅ The warning signs you're not ready to scale (even if revenue says otherwise)✅ How to turn a “job” into a sellable business asset✅ What every owner should know about their numbers before growing✅ How Dr. Mike uses diagnostics to uncover growth opportunities✅ The real reason aligning personal and business goals matters✅ Free tools and workshops available through ActionCOACH✅ How to plan for exit, succession, or simply stepping back with confidence Dr. Mike SmithActionCOACHEventbriteLinkedInInstagramFacebook Sponsors:Bluebird Hardwater  Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

When you think of canned cocktails, you might picture overly sweet drinks or watered-down hard seltzers. Ranch2O Spirits is redefining that.Founded by Amelia Lattieri, Ranch2O began as a simple idea: make a quality ranch water you could grab from the fridge. With a finance and operations background—and a nudge from her husband—Amelia took the leap into a market that barely existed at the time: liquor-based RTD (ready-to-drink) cocktails. From navigating Texas’s tricky liquor laws to crafting consistent, bar-quality flavors, she’s building a brand rooted in authenticity, strategy, and West Texas tradition.In this episode, we dive into:✅ How a casual conversation at home sparked a beverage startup✅ Why Amelia chose co-packing over building a distillery✅ The biggest challenges of launching a liquor-based canned drink in Texas✅ How Ranch2O built awareness without big marketing budgets✅ The strategy behind their branded cocktail bars and event partnerships✅ What it takes to lead a small, committed team through the ups and downs✅ Why a clear goal for acquisition guides Amelia’s long-term decisions RANCH2O SpiritsLinkedInInstagramFacebook Sponsors and Affilates: Bluebird HardwaterAnchor My Business   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

When you think of coffee at an event, you might picture a standard catering setup—functional, but forgettable. Bean Sprout Coffee Co. is changing that.Founded by Blake Ottomeyer, Bean Sprout Coffee isn’t just about serving espresso; it’s about crafting a hospitality-driven experience that leaves a lasting impression. What started as a pivot from a brick-and-mortar café idea has now become a growing mobile coffee business that partners with local roasters and prioritizes guest engagement over transactions.In this episode, we dive into:✅ How Blake turned a café dream into a mobile business with multiple carts✅ Why customer experience—not just coffee quality—defines success in event services✅ How Bean Sprout Coffee thrives on referrals and word-of-mouth marketing✅ The biggest logistical challenges of mobile coffee service (and how they solve them)✅ What it takes to build a team that shares a passion for service and hospitality Bean Sprout CoffeeLinkedInFacebookInstagram Sponsors and Affilates: Bluebird HardwaterCAGLawAnchor My Business    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

 Introduction to Andreas Duess – Matthew introduces Andreas Duess, CEO of 6 Seed Consulting, and his background in tech and AI.Journey from Tech to Food & Beverage – Andreas shares how he transitioned from working with early AI firms, including Google, to launching a food-focused marketing agency.Founding 6 Seed Consulting – After selling his agency, Andreas founded 6 Seed Consulting to leverage AI and data in the food and beverage industry.The 82% Failure Rate in Food Products – He explains how most new food products fail because businesses rely on consumer statements rather than actual purchasing behavior.The "Say-Do Gap" in Market Research – Andreas describes the disconnect between what consumers claim they want and what they actually buy.How AI Bridges the Say-Do Gap – AI analyzes real-world purchasing data from retailers, food delivery platforms, and smart appliances to reveal true consumer preferences.Real-World AI Insights: The Blueberry Example – A data-driven discovery showed that blueberries sell well not just for health benefits, but because they look visually appealing in food.AI for Product Development: Ozempic-Friendly Foods – 6 Seed Consulting is using AI to help a rice company develop products tailored for weight-loss medication users.The Role of AI in Small Businesses – Andreas emphasizes that AI is not just for large corporations but can help small businesses optimize their strategies.The Future of AI in Food & Beverage – AI is rapidly advancing, and businesses that fail to adapt may struggle to compete in the coming years.The Importance of Community and Learning – Andreas shares how networking and private AI communities have helped him stay ahead of industry trends.Closing Thoughts & Call to Action – The episode wraps up with advice for business owners to start leveraging AI and an invitation to connect with Andreas on LinkedIn. Andreas Duess6 Seed Consulting Sponsors and Affilates: Bluebird HardwaterCAGLawAnchor My Business    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

What’s stopping your business from scaling? It might not be your product, your marketing, or even your sales—it could be your operations. Many businesses run on intuition, muscle memory, and outdated systems, making it impossible to grow beyond a certain point. The solution? Better processes, automation, and structured workflows.In this episode, Joshua Monge, a fractional COO and business operations expert, shares how documenting processes, streamlining workflows, and leveraging automation can transform how a business operates. He also dives into a major challenge facing today’s business owners: succession planning. As Baby Boomers retire, many small businesses risk closing their doors because they are too dependent on the owner to function. Joshua explains why every business should be designed to run without the founder—and how that shift can increase efficiency and business value.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✔️ Why operations—not sales—determine how fast a business can grow✔️ The biggest mistakes business owners make when scaling✔️ How automation can free up hours of work each week✔️ Why most businesses aren’t sellable—and how to change that✔️ A real-world case study: How one business saved 40 hours a month with process improvements Think Adapt BuildBook a 1hr Discovery CallLinkedIn - Joshua MongeFacebook Sponsors and AffiliatesBluebird HardwaterCAGLawAnchor My Business   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Too many business owners find themselves at the center of every decision, with their teams passively waiting for instructions. It’s exhausting, unsustainable, and limits business growth. The good news? You can break free from this cycle by creating a culture of ownership, accountability, and proactive problem-solving.In this episode, we cover:Why employees hesitate to take initiative and how leaders unknowingly reinforce this behavior.The power of psychological safety and how to create an environment where your team feels confident making decisions.Practical strategies to transition from micromanaging to guiding, including timeboxing, structured brainstorming, and accountability frameworks.A step-by-step approach to testing new ideas, assigning ownership, and ensuring follow-through.By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable tools to help your team step up, take responsibility, and drive meaningful results—without waiting for you to give the green light every time. If you're ready to shift from giving orders to team ownership. Sponsors and Affiliates: James Gourley at CAG LawBluebird HardwaterAnchor My Business   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

In this episode of Harvest to Pour, Matthew Shipp sits down with Will Blum, the founder of Bluebird Hardwater, to explore how a clean, non-carbonated, preservative-free alcoholic beverage is transforming the beverage industry. Will shares his journey of navigating complex regulations, sourcing pure ingredients, and creating a product that stands out in a crowded market.Will reveals how persistence and a customer-first mindset drove Bluebird’s success. From overcoming regulatory challenges to building brand loyalty with innovative, clean-label products, listeners will gain actionable insights on thriving in traditional markets.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or simply curious about what it takes to turn a bold idea into a thriving business, this episode offers a blueprint for success. Will BlumBluebird HardwaterLinkedInFacebookInstagram Sponsors and Affiliates:James Gourley at CAGLawAnchor My Business    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

In this episode of Workshop Minute by Harvest to Pour, I uncover the hidden potential within team frustration. Often dismissed as a negative, frustration is reframed as valuable feedback pointing to areas of untapped growth. Matthew introduces actionable tools like the “alone together” approach and the sailboat exercise to help leaders foster psychological safety, uncover root challenges, and prioritize solutions. Through these techniques, teams can turn obstacles into opportunities and transform disengagement into progress.  Sponsors and Affiliates:James Gourley at CAGLawAnchor My Business    Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Show Notes: James’ Background: James shares how his chemical engineering degree led him to a career in intellectual property law.IP in the Beverage Industry: James explains his experience with PepsiCo, focusing on packaging innovations as a key area for patents.Challenges in IP: He highlights how reducing packaging material can save millions and addresses the limitations of patenting beverage recipes.THC Beverage Market: James discusses the regulatory challenges and frequent packaging changes due to varying state laws.Trademarks vs. Patents: He emphasizes that trademarks, not patents, are the most valuable IP for beverage companies because they protect brand identity.Advice for New Businesses: James stresses the importance of conducting a trademark search and filing early to avoid legal conflicts.Misconceptions About IP: He clarifies that trademark registration is affordable and vital to prevent costly disputes later.Trademark Infringement Case: James shares a recent case where a whiskey brand faced trademark issues over confusingly similar names.Expanding into CPG: He explains how trademark classes may change when businesses transition from restaurants to packaged goods.Actionable Tip: James advises businesses to file a trademark application early as a simple, cost-effective step to protect their brand. James GourleyCarstens, Allen & Gourley, LLPLinkedInFacebookXSponsors and Affiliates:No Ads in this episode thanks to James Gorley at  Carstens, Allen & Gourley, LLP     Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Show Notes:Introduction to Jeff Bach: Jeff discusses his background as a serial entrepreneur and his transition into business brokerage, focusing on the spirits, beer, and wine industries.Why Jeff Chose Business Brokerage: He shares his passion for being involved in deals and helping others through the process, stemming from his previous experience in business ownership.Explaining the Role of a Business Broker: Jeff describes how business brokers, like real estate agents for businesses, help sellers find buyers and facilitate negotiations and closings.Viability of a Business for Sale: Jeff talks about assessing whether a business is viable for sale and the importance of matching seller expectations with market reality.Key Differences in Alcohol Business Valuation: He explains how alcohol businesses, especially those producing aged products like whiskey, have unique valuation factors such as aging inventory and intangible assets like formulas and expertise.Challenges in Selling Alcohol-Related Businesses: Jeff highlights the difficulties in selling alcohol businesses, such as valuing products like whiskey and the impact of a brewmaster or distiller leaving.Preparing for a Business Sale: He advises business owners to plan ahead for an exit strategy, ideally starting 3-5 years before they intend to sell to maximize their business’s value.The Importance of Staging a Business for Sale: Jeff compares staging a business for sale to real estate, emphasizing the importance of cleaning up financials and operations to make the business attractive to buyers.Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations: He discusses how craft distillers and brewers may seek strategic partners or investors to grow their business, often more than seeking an outright sale.Real-World Examples: Jeff shares the story of a brewery in Defiance, Missouri, where the buyers purchased a bar-restaurant for its brewing equipment, showcasing the variety of motivations in alcohol business sales.Conclusion and Final Advice: Jeff stresses the importance of starting the sale preparation process early, understanding valuation, and consulting with a business broker to successfully navigate the sale process. Bach Business BrokersLinkedInFacebook Sponsors and Affiliates:Anchor My Business  Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Key Discussion Points: Introduction and Background: Angus introduces himself and Wherehouse Beverage’s mission to create low-dose THC drinks.Founding Wherehouse Beverage and Early Challenges: He discusses their early regulatory challenge of having to produce THC beverages locally due to state restrictions.Innovative Mobile Production Solution: Wherehouse Beverage developed a mobile production unit to produce beverages on-site in multiple states, circumventing distribution limits.Creating WYNK: The Low-Calorie THC Seltzer: Angus describes WYNK as a low-calorie THC seltzer that provides a social, alcohol-like experience.The Shift to Hemp-Derived THC and Mainstream Liquor Stores: They shifted to hemp-derived THC, allowing distribution beyond dispensaries and into liquor stores.Marketing and Consumer Education: Wherehouse Beverage employs grassroots marketing and influencer campaigns to educate consumers on WYNK’s unique appeal.Regulatory Challenges as the Current Biggest Hurdle: Angus explains that constantly changing state regulations remain their biggest operational challenge.Centralized Production Facility in New York: The company established a centralized New York facility for scalable production and efficient distribution.Expansion Goals and Positioning WYNK Alongside Mainstream Alcohol Brands: Their goal is to position WYNK next to popular seltzer brands, making it widely accessible.Team Strength and Operational Strategy: They’ve built a strong production and compliance team, drawing on craft beer expertise to guide growth.Final Thoughts on Industry Trends: Angus notes that WYNK aligns with the trend toward healthier, non-alcoholic social drinks, appealing to modern consumers. Angus RittenburgWherehouse Beverage CompanyLinkedInInstagramTikTok Sponsors and Affiliates Goodman Coffee RoastersPodmatchAnchor My Business   Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp

Key TakeawaysEscaping the Owner’s Trap: Develop processes and delegate tasks to ensure the business can thrive without you.The Five P Model: Align your business through the Five P’s—Promise, Product, Process, People, and Profit—for growth and personal freedom.Understanding Valuation as a Tool for Freedom: Knowing your business’s value empowers strategic decisions that create flexibility and control.The Importance of Clear Financials: Transparent, accurate financials are essential to accurately gauge and enhance business value.Preparing for an Exit, Planned or Unplanned: An exit-ready business safeguards your investment and ensures smoother transitions when needed. Simplifying EntrepreneurshipWhats your Value Builder Score?LinkedInInstagramFacebook  Sponsors & AffiliatesExit11 CoffeePodmatch  Connect with the HostMatthew ShippBe a GuestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewshipp/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthewjshipp/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emberisolutionsEmberi Solutions: https://emberisolutions.com/Buy me a coffee ☕ https://buymeacoffee.com/mattshipp