Headlines

Taste Radio: How Freestyle Snacks Won Over The ‘Sharks’

When “Shark Tank” called, Nikki Seaman was ready. The Freestyle Snacks founder secured $300K for 11% equity, turning a pandemic craving into a thriving brand of snackable olives and pickles. In this episode, Nikki shares how Freestyle’s bootstrapped, profit-focused strategy, viral TikTok buzz, and disciplined retail-first approach fueled growth – and a Shark’s appetite.

Laird Shutters Picky Bars, Moves into Dairy with Protein Coffee

Laird Superfood reported a 10% jump in year-over-year net sales in Q3, as the company prepares to support that growth with innovation within a streamlined product portfolio in 2026 that includes its first-ever dairy-based release.

Hemp Bevs Facing Prohibition Under Fed Funding Proposal

Hemp beverages could be sacrificed in a deal to reopen the federal government, as spending legislation moves through Congress that includes language effectively prohibiting intoxicating hemp-derived THC products.

Diageo Names Consumer Industry Veteran as New CEO

Diageo has tapped Sir Dave Lewis to lead the world’s largest spirits maker into its next chapter, ending a months-long search following former CEO Debra Crew’s departure in July.

Taste Radio: Lessons From Caulipower’s Exit, With Padma & ‘Popcorn’ in Focus

What do the hosts make of Caulipower’s fitting exit, a tennis icon’s investment in a corn-free (!) popcorn startup, and Padma Lakshmi’s partnership with a particularly spicy CPG brand? It’s a full serving of Taste Radio, complete with a taste-test of high-fiber gummy candy and a $20, creatine-packed cereal.