On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks again with Samuel Anderson, Managing Partner at BevAssets, about why distribution doesn’t equal demand. They discuss creating pull-through, prioritizing reorders over placements, and supporting markets before expanding. Samuel also shares why brands should build deep in their home market before scaling.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Samuel Anderson, Managing Partner at BevAssets, about the great beverage reset. They explore how moderation is changing drinking habits, the appeal of ready-to-drink cocktails, and why distribution doesn’t guarantee sales. Samuel also shares how sampling and personalized recommendations can make customers feel like VIPs
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Dan Fahrner, CEO and Co-founder of Shake Up Cocktails, about adapting to a changing beverage industry. They discuss shifting drinking habits and the rise of RTDs, why distribution doesn’t guarantee demand, and how brand storytelling and grassroots marketing drive growth. Dan also shares what he would do differently if launching Shake Up today.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Dinos Stamoulis, Co-founder and Chief of Awesomeness of Paleonola, about scaling a food brand through retail growth. They discuss Publix expansion, preparing for Costco, and driving repeat purchases. Dinos also shares advice on founder authenticity, operational focus, and protecting brand integrity.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Katrina Dalao, Founder and Publisher of Grow to Market, about how water brands are moving from basic hydration to lifestyle-driven products. They discuss the rise of premium water, how packaging creates brand identity, and why consumers connect with certain water brands. Katrina also shares insights on how brands can compete through meaning and self-expression.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Isabella Hughes, Co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer at Better Sour, about turning global flavor memories into sophisticated sour candy. They discuss candy for foodies, building a true “sour from within” experience, and using flavors like calamansi, guava, and pomegranate. Bella also shares how customer feedback shapes the brand.
Jill Frechtman: Building Founders (and Great Brands, Too)
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Jill Frechtman, Founder and Strategic Advisor at the Food Founder Collective, about helping emerging food founders build stronger brands and grow as individuals. They discuss clarity over cleverness, finding the one move that matters next, and positioning a product around what customers actually need. Jill also shares why persistence, pivoting, and asking for help are essential.
Spiced, Not Spicy: How Keya Wingfield Is Changing The American Snack Aisle
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, host Duncan Alney is joined by Keya Wingfield, Founder of Keya’s Snacks, to discuss how Indian American flavors can reshape the snack aisle. They explore the homemade origin of Bombay chips, why “spiced, not spicy” matters, and the challenge of moving global foods beyond the international aisle. Keya also shares advice on scaling thoughtfully without chasing every retail opportunity.
Kathie Pelliccio On SuperSeedz: A Snack That Loves You Back
In this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, host Duncan Alney is joined by Kathie Pelliccio, Founder of SuperSeedz, to discuss how real food can make healthy snacking more satisfying. They explore why pumpkin seeds deserve a place beside almonds and pistachios, how flavor wins over skeptical shoppers, and what persistence looks like after years of building a brand. Kathie also shares how she stays energized through pickleball, sleep, and hydration.
Björn Steinar Of Saltverk: Building One Of The World’s Most Unique Food Brands
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Björn Steinar Jónsson, Founder and CEO of Saltverk, about building a globally distinctive food brand rooted in Icelandic tradition. They explore reviving geothermal saltmaking, protecting craftsmanship while scaling, and turning origin and transparency into brand strength. Björn also shares advice on trusting your instincts and leading through uncertainty.
Five Expert Strategies To Supercharge Your Retail Brand Survival
In this special compilation episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney brings together five food and beverage industry experts — Peter Gialantzis, David Mesa, Gian Facenda, Eric Martindale, and Samuel Anderson — to explore the strategies behind sustainable retail growth. The experts examine product placement, trade spend, retail media, consumer trends, and distribution strategies and explain how demand and planning help brands stay on the shelf.
On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney is at the KeHE Holiday Show for a special series of conversations with Gian-Mikel Facenda of Root2Sales, Jud Horner of Real Green, and Llance Kezner of Millie’s Sipping Broth. From retail strategy and order-writing momentum to clean-label dressings and savory sipping broth, this episode explores how brands are bringing wellness, connection, and purpose to the holiday aisle.