podcast

Caulipower’s sale to Urban Farmer in November 2025 marked the latest chapter in one of the most remarkable founder stories in modern CPG. When founder Gail Becker joined Taste Radio eight months earlier, she spoke candidly about the motivations behind the pioneering brand. With the benefit of hindsight — and knowing where her journey ultimately led — Gail’s perspective on success feels especially resonant.

He built an eight-figure brand without raising a single dollar of outside capital. In this episode, Curious Elixirs founder and CEO J.W. Wiseman explains exactly how he did it. He shares how a direct-to-consumer strategy fueled profitable growth from day one, why relentless product refinement has always taken priority over rapid expansion, and the lessons that have helped the brand thrive on its own terms.

AI is rewriting the rules of product discovery, and brands that aren't optimized for algorithms risk becoming invisible. The Taste Radio team explores how AI is reshaping retail and marketing, unpacks a proposed class action lawsuit over protein labeling claims, and explains why early-stage founders should build with mainstream consumers – not just niche audiences – in mind.

The hosts dive into the sustained wave of protein-infused consumer products – from popcorn to mashed potatoes – and debate whether the market is approaching “protein fatigue” or merely scratching the surface of a macro trend driven more by marketing than science. They also recap Taste Radio’s high-energy meetup in San Diego, spotlighting several new and innovative brands showcased at the event

How did Clio Snacks evolve from a homemade Greek yogurt bar created in a New Jersey garage into a national brand approaching $90 million in annual sales? In this episode, company CEO John McGuckin shares the strategic blueprint behind the brand’s explosive growth, from prototype to distribution in nearly every major grocery and mass retail chain across the U.S.

The hosts dissect Spindrift’s decision to discontinue its Spiked line and spotlight rising CPG stars Mooski and Painterland Sisters, each of which recently announced major funding rounds. They also preview upcoming Taste Radio meetups in the U.S. and U.K., before taking bites and sips of oat bars, cookies and a Patrick Mahomes-backed coffee brand.

What happens when a high-profile protein bar brand suddenly dives into frozen seafood? Naturally, the industry takes notice… and chaos ensues. The hosts unpack David’s unexpected launch of raw cod, a move that seems both strategic and defiant, and which sparked intense debate across CPG. They also delve into the debut of a celebrity’s “love potion” and a luxurious presentation of pecans.