What does it look like to start and grow a CPG brand in real time?
In this first episode in the “Expo West Conversation Compilation Series”, Katie and Clint share three conversations with founders Katie connected with through the show—each at a slightly different stage with a different approach, but all working to build something that stands out.
This interview series highlights Founders and CEOs who saw an issue or opportunity and decided to go for it. Their stories are still being written as they make decisions around product, positioning, marketing, distribution, growth opportunities, and more.
🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear:
- How one founder is bringing a family recipe to life with a modern twist—and validating it through real-time feedback.
- The role of personal pain points in creating differentiated products.
- What early-stage brands are learning through sampling, demos, and direct customer interaction.
- How founders are using organic marketing and community-building instead of paid growth.
- The transition from local traction to seeking broader retail opportunities.
- Why past experiences can become a competitive advantage.
- These founders’ favorite tips that were shared with them.
…and many ideas you can apply to your brand. Stay tuned for future episodes in this series.
🛒 Featured brands:
🍅 Noodo
Tomato sauces made from a traditional Italian family recipe—without the skins! Plus, a modern twist using bone broth for added nutrition. With founder Liana Krasnow.
☀️ Cove Suncare
Sunscreen designed for sensitive skin, combining skincare ingredients with sun protection—without the “whitecast” look. Built from a personal need. With Founder Danvi Gill.
🌶️ Spicekick
Clean, all-in-one seasoning packets designed to simplify cooking with real ingredients and bold flavor. With Founder (plus dietitian, chef, & cookbook author!) Michelle Dudash.
🔗 spicekick.com and michelledudash.com (for cookbooks, recipes & more!)
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💡 Want to go deeper?
If you’re working to build a brand that stands out, join Katie’s email list at:
Each week, you’ll get:
- a short strategic reflection that goes beyond the podcast
- upcoming events or learning opportunities
- and a worksheet to help you take aligned action
Over time, these build into your own brand strategy playbook.
🤝 Share with a fellow food business owner
If this episode sparked an idea or helped you see something differently, share it with someone else who’s working to grow their brand.
And if you haven’t already, a review goes a long way in helping more people find the podcast. We appreciate it and may give you a shoutout! Likewise, if you have any ideas to optimize the podcast, please email us directly at Katie@realfoodbrands.com.
LET’S CONNECT!
Listening is helpful, but doing is even better!
1) Connect with Katie Mleziva and Clint Matthews on LinkedIn.
2) Join Katie’s weekly newsletter HERE Joining the email list gives you access to book single 1 hr Brand Strategy Sessions!
3) Follow along on Instagram for more – @realfoodbrands
Let’s Go Shake Up Shopping Carts!
Katie Mleziva
Host & Food Brand Strategist