DrinkUp Live Podcast

In this engaging episode of Drink Up Live, host Sam Anderson welcomes Peter Lisoskie, a whiskey enthusiast and the founder of Relatable, a platform for creating interactive video experiences. The conversation explores the evolution of communication from traditional methods to the rise of AI and interactive media. Peter shares insights on the importance of emotional connections in business, the imp...

In this episode of Drink Up, host Sam Anderson welcomes Salvatore Solano, a seasoned expert in the wine and spirits industry. Sal shares his extensive journey, from starting his own import company to founding Grapes and Grains, a consulting agency that helps brands navigate the complexities of the market. The conversation delves into the importance of building relationships, understanding distribu...

In this conversation, Joseph from Mod shares his journey from the inception of his company to its current focus on fan art licensing within the creator economy. He discusses the challenges of navigating brand licensing, the importance of engaging with communities on platforms like Discord, and the innovative campaigns they are running, such as the Brawl Ball case study. Joseph emphasizes the signi...

In this engaging conversation, Andy Poe from Tastemakers discusses innovative approaches to consumer product testing, emphasizing the importance of understanding consumer behavior and the effectiveness of the intercept model. Andy shares insights from his journey in advertising to founding Tastemakers, highlighting the significance of engaging consumers in a friendly manner and the challenges face...

In this engaging conversation, the hosts and guests explore the intricacies of branding, the importance of emotional connections in business, and the dynamics of partnerships. They delve into the unique concept of Brandartica, emphasizing exploration and adventure in branding. The discussion also highlights the significance of community building and the lessons brands can learn from iconic figures...

In this conversation, Chynna Morgan, founder of Vidlo, discusses the importance of customer engagement through video marketing and the challenges she faced as an entrepreneur. She emphasizes the need for community support, the role of failure as a learning opportunity, and the significance of understanding one's audience. The discussion also covers the importance of user-generated content and anal...

In this engaging conversation, Mallory Patton, co-founder of St. Spritz, shares her journey from learning about the beverage industry to launching a successful direct-to-consumer brand. The discussion covers the challenges of distribution, the impact of influencer marketing, and the importance of product positioning in a competitive market. Mallory emphasizes the brand's commitment to quality ingr...

In this engaging conversation, Paul Cullen, former bassist of Bad Company, shares his journey from rock star to culinary expert and wine entrepreneur. He discusses his passion for cooking, the unique in-home dining experiences he offers, and the challenges of navigating the wine industry, including tariffs. Paul also highlights his philanthropic efforts through the Paul Cares Foundation, which sup...

In this engaging conversation, Adam Callinan shares his entrepreneurial journey, including his experience on Shark Tank with his product, Bottle Keeper. He discusses the challenges and successes of building his business, the acquisition by Arctic Outdoors, and the lessons learned from failure and resilience. Adam also introduces his new tech venture, Pentane, which aims to help businesses optimize...

In this episode of the Drink Up podcast, Adam Smith and Ryan Halleman discuss Ryan's extensive background in procurement and supply chain, leading to the formation of Apex Group 360. They explore the importance of understanding client needs, the value of expertise in brand development, and the significance of feasibility studies in market research. The conversation emphasizes democratizing acc...

The conversation revolves around the experiences and insights gained from Expo West, a major trade show for the food and beverage industry. The hosts discuss the scale of the event, the variety of brands present, the importance of networking, and the opportunities for smaller brands to connect with buyers and investors. They also touch on the significance of awards, trends in beverages, challenges...

In this engaging conversation, Brian Soudant shares his extensive experience in the beverage industry, discussing the importance of storytelling, understanding market trends, and the role of distributors and buyers. The discussion emphasizes the need for brands to focus on local markets, prepare thoroughly for buyer meetings, and leverage social media effectively. Brian also highlights the signifi...

In this conversation, Adam Smith, Sam Anderson, and Gabriel Spiller discuss the complexities of the food and beverage industry, focusing on the search process, the importance of operations and procurement, and the need for a supportive community for startups. They explore how technology can streamline these processes and the interconnectedness of various business pillars. Gabe shares insights abou...

In this engaging podcast episode, Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith welcome Brandon Crockett, who shares his extensive journey through the e-commerce and marketing landscape, particularly in the alcohol industry. Brandon discusses his various roles, from working with Coca-Cola to launching his consultancy, Rogan Rye. He emphasizes the importance of digital marketing and e-commerce strategies for new...

In this engaging conversation, Samuel Anderson and Samantha discuss her entrepreneurial journey, the unique qualities of Oryx Desert Salt from the Kalahari Desert, and the impact of COVID-19 on her business. Samantha shares insights on the importance of sustainability, community impact, and the challenges of building a brand. They also explore the significance of slowing down in a fast-paced world...

In this episode of Drink Up, hosts Sam Anderson and Adam Smith welcome Marshall Lebovits, an expert in asset-based lending. The conversation explores the intricacies of financing for consumer packaged goods (CPG) and startup companies, emphasizing the importance of understanding different funding options, the role of financial statements, and the significance of networking in the industry. Marshal...

In this engaging conversation, Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith welcome attorney Roger Lee, who specializes in legal matters for consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies. Roger shares his journey from working in renewable energy to becoming a partner at a law firm that supports entrepreneurs in the CPG space. The discussion covers the importance of legal advice for startups, common pitfalls in busine...

In this episode of Drink Up, host Sam Anderson and co-hosts Adam Smith and Courtney O'Brien welcome Matt Lamport, the founder of a unique kombucha brand. The conversation explores Matt's journey from rugby player to entrepreneur, his insights on gut health, and the innovative processes behind his kombucha production. The discussion also delves into the importance of having a clear target a...

n this engaging conversation, Vance Morris shares his journey from working at Disney to becoming a successful entrepreneur with multiple businesses. He emphasizes the importance of customer experience and retention, revealing strategies that can help businesses thrive. Vance also discusses his unique Disney tours for business executives, the significance of systems and processes in running a busin...

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the evolving landscape of the alcohol industry, focusing on distribution dynamics, the blurring of categories, and the importance of brand storytelling. They explore the challenges brands face in finding the right distributors, the significance of margin structures, and the need for brands to harmonize their priorities in development. Additionally, they touc...

In this episode of the Drink Up podcast, hosts Sam Anderson and Adam Smith discuss the upcoming WSWA event and the formation of BevAssets, a nationwide agency focused on helping brands find distribution and customers. They explore the importance of community and networking in the wine and spirits industry, the rise of non-alcoholic and hemp-based products, and the evolving landscape of wine distri...

In this conversation, Lauren Bertrand shares her journey through the alcohol and beverage industry, detailing her experiences from working in various roles to navigating the challenges posed by COVID-19. She discusses her transition to consulting, the importance of brand awareness, and the emerging cannabis beverage market. The conversation emphasizes the need for hands-on marketing strategies and...

In this engaging conversation, the hosts discuss the latest health concerns regarding alcohol labeling, introduce guest Dave Moore, and delve into his extensive experience in the alcohol industry. They explore the complexities of launching an alcohol brand in the US, emphasizing the importance of understanding the three-tier distribution system, building relationships, and navigating pricing strat...

In this engaging conversation, Sam Anderson and Adam Smith discuss Adam's professional journey in the CPG industry, touching on his experiences, insights into FDA regulations, and the essential steps for launching a brand. They emphasize the importance of market presence and operational expertise while also looking ahead to Adam's aspirations for 2025. In this conversation, Adam Smith and...

In this engaging conversation, Danielle Goss shares her inspiring journey from being a registered dietitian to founding Kul Mocks, a brand dedicated to crafting delicious non-alcoholic beverages. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of building her business while navigating motherhood and the importance of community support in the non-alcoholic beverage space. Danielle emphasizes the signific...