We feature leaders of mission-driven food and beverage brands. Come listen to origin stories - and insights about current industry trends, connecting with your audience, building a community, making the world a better place, and of course, #founderlife.
[Sweets And Snacks Show 2025] Flavor Innovation & Family Roots
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews Dror Sharon, Alexandre Bennet, Joanne Montz, Tobe Armendariz, Mayasari Effendi, Matt Alvord, and Daniel Scharff, founders of renowned food brands, on how they’re redefining what it means to build impactful snack brands. They discuss heritage-inspired innovation, winning products, and ingredient transparency. They also touch on go-to-market tips, cultural storytelling, and mission-driven growth.
Massiel Villanueva On Yoga, Family And YÜJ Granola
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Massiel Villanueva, Founder of YÜJ Granola, about redefining what healthy snacking can look like. Massiel discusses the inspiration behind her product, how yoga influences her business philosophy, and her immigrant journey. She also touches on raising four kids while scaling her brand, the importance of soft-baked granola, and pitching to Walmart with courage and authenticity.
Aidan Mehigan On Rebels, Eternal Optimism & Smooth Irish Whiskey
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Aidan Mehigan, Founder and CEO of Natterjack Irish Whiskey, about building a bold spirits brand from scratch. Aidan shares how personality-driven branding fuels growth, his process for crafting a distinctive whiskey profile, and the importance of real-life community-building. The conversation also touches on market disruption, creative marketing, and the value of optimism.
Drinking Is The Social Glue: Libby NA Wine The Newest One To Try
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Grant Hemingway, Co-Founder of Libby Wines, about creating exceptional non-alcoholic wines that elevate social occasions. Grant discusses the cultural shift in drinking habits, the rigorous R&D behind product development, and the role of storytelling in building trust with mindful consumers. He also shares branding decisions, functional beverage trends, and future innovations in the NA wine space.
Jason Woodward: From US Navy Commander To Owner Of Clear Alaskan Glacial Water
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Jason Woodward, Owner of Clear Alaskan Glacial, about building a mission-driven premium bottled water brand. Jason discusses the power of authentic regional branding, overcoming logistics challenges in Alaska, and why a strong internal team and asking the right questions are critical to success. He also shares rebranding strategies, breaking into CPG markets, and the importance of trusted partnerships.
In the rapidly growing plant-based milk market, distinguishing oneself without sacrificing product quality presents a significant challenge. Many brands rely on shortcuts like additives, oils, and flashy marketing, which can […]
Hiring the right person for your mission-driven company can feel like navigating a maze — especially when you want someone who aligns with your values, supports your long-term vision, and […]
Kipster: The World’s Most Conscientious Egg Company
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Olivier Wegloop, Co-founder of Kipster, about reimagining the future of farming through transparency and ethics. Olivier also shares insights on fixed egg pricing models, consumer behavior myths, and lessons from his career shift from advertising to agriculture.
Paul Jarrett: From CPG Founder To Fulfillment Owner
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Paul Jarrett, CEO and Co-founder at Bulu, about how emerging brands can scale logistics without the headaches. Paul shares his cut-the-ship philosophy, how EOS helps him work successfully with his spouse, and how direct retail strategies can outperform traditional distribution. He also discusses crafting memorable brand messaging, parenting lessons from entrepreneurship, and redefining personal success post-startup grind.
[Expo West Series] Exploring Mission-Driven Brands At Expo West
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews food and beverage industry leaders about the intersection of sustainability and innovation in food. They share insights on geothermal salt production works, flavor trends, retail expansion, and consumer engagement. They also discuss oat milk chocolate, highlight branding through illustration, and share hot honey success.
[Expo West Series] Top Mission-Driven Brands Making Waves
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews expert leaders about innovation and purpose in the natural food and beverage space. They discuss category expansion, navigating retail challenges, and product integrity. They also share insights on trends, flavor innovation, and brand accessibility.
[Expo West Series] Food & Beverage Trends With Industry Leaders
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney interviews renowned leaders about trends, challenges, and strategies in the food and beverage industry. They discuss the challenges of launching a new beverage, the return of dairy and organic-focused products, and insights into the growing demand for simple, nutrient-rich foods. They also explore the impact of digestive health on consumer choices and reflect on the power of cultural storytelling in branding.
![[Sweets And Snacks Show 2025] Flavor Innovation & Family Roots](/wp-content/uploads/FIREBELLY-PODCAST-PHONE-MOCKUP-2.png)
