Ben Weiss is back. After stops on television (Billion Dollar Idea) and the bookshelves (Basementality) the inspirational founder of Bai has returned to the beverage business with Crooked Soda, an idea based on his theory that a low-ABV fermented soda is the next big idea.
Weiss isn’t just coming back to the beverage business, however – he’s also coming back to BevNET Live NYC 2026, where he’ll be sitting down for a conversation on entrepreneurship, brand building, investment, and the state of the industry.
As a founder, Weiss has been a strong marketer, formulator, and fundraiser – but his strongest asset as an entrepreneur has always been a dogged faith in his own vision and an ability to communicate that vision through plan and brand. BevNET Live attendees will learn what it takes to put substance behind that vision to create outstanding products and brands.
A discussion of the reasons and timing surrounding Weiss’ return to the beverage business will also provide important insights into ways founders can recognize opportunities for growth. Weiss sold Bai to Dr Pepper Snapple Group (now KDP) for $1.7 billion in 2016, and has been quietly tinkering with the products that preceded Crooked Pop for several years; now, he sees a chance to disrupt the industry once again, loudly.
BevNET Live will take place on June 10 and 11 at the Metropolitan Pavilion in New York. In addition to speakers and panelists, attendees have the chance to network and sample throughout the event, watch the New Beverage Showdown, and meet with retailers and investors during private 1:1 meetings. Early-stage founders can learn at Beverage School, held before the main stage sessions, while sponsor-led workshops take place throughout the day.
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About BevNET Live
BevNET Live is the beverage industry’s premier event, bringing together brands, distributors, retailers, investors, and service providers to explore what’s ahead for the industry. Featuring top-tier speakers and the fan-favorite New Beverage Showdown, each event draws hundreds of brands from across the country.