Lezlie Karls Saltarelli, Nick Saltarelli and Jake Karls, the co-founders of Mid-Day Squares, a brand of hybrid chocolate and protein bars, spoke about how the company has achieved its rapid start, the keys to its unique and compelling social strategy, how consistent communication with the brand’s consumers gave the brand a solid foundation on which to build and why a business therapist has been vital to their development.

Bill Moses, the co-founder of KeVita and the founder and CEO of fast-growing beverage alcohol brand Flying Embers, spoke about why “online success dictates the rationalization of taking a product to market,” how the company effectively allocates resources across its product lines and why having “the least polarizing liquid” is key to its innovation strategy. He also explained why personal relationships with wholesalers are critical and the importance of finding balance amid an intense drive to win.

Actresses Nina Dobrev and Julianne Hough are best known for their work in films such as “Lucky Day” and “Rock of Ages” along with popular television shows “The Vampire Diaries” and “Dancing with the Stars.” Now, they’re aiming to be equally recognized in the wine business as the co-owners of premium low-calorie wine brand Fresh Vine Wine.

Jason Wright, the co-founder and CEO of chicken- and pork-based chip brand Wilde Brands, explained how he was able to land investment without having a finished product, why he regrets working with a co-packer, how he collaborated with retail buyers to establish a new protein-centric segment within the snack category and why the keys to winning consumers over always begins with taste.