Josh Sizemore: One Life. Live To The Fullest

Josh Sizemore

Navigating the dynamic and competitive landscape of the food and beverage industry requires more than just ambition. Understanding the nuances of this industry and the art of thriving within it is a pursuit that many are eager to embark upon. So, what can one glean from the experiences of those who have not only weathered the challenges but have also seized the abundant opportunities this industry has to offer?

Serial entrepreneur Josh Sizemore takes us through the exciting world of food entrepreneurship, sharing stories and lessons from opening his restaurant and upcoming venture into health-focused snack brands. He talks about the joy of creating businesses prioritizing customer experiences and the importance of personal health and well-being in entrepreneurship. Josh also delves into new and innovative food products that continue to shape consumer preferences, highlighting the balance each founder must strike between hustling for success and preserving vital downtime.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Josh Sizemore, a seasoned entrepreneur, about his journey in the food and beverage sector. Josh discusses his latest new restaurant venture and its thoughtful approach to hospitality, the impact of personal hardships and health scares on his perspective on life and entrepreneurship, work-life balance, and insights on the rising "better for you" food trend.

Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: 

  • [2:01] Josh Sizemore discusses long-awaited Berkeley restaurant debuts after extensive renovations

  • [3:50] Why hospitality is the foundation of Josh’s business philosophy 

  • [5:49] The impact of personal hardships and health scares on Josh's perspective on life and entrepreneurship

  • [11:03] Why fostering a work-life balance is vital for the sustainability of entrepreneurial endeavors

  • [12:55] Josh's involvement with an innovative snack brand that promises not to spike blood sugar levels

  • [18:15] Thoughts on the growth of the “better for you” food space and new product trends

  • [22:56] Insight into the challenges of new brands competing for grocery shelf space

  • [25:19] Josh's perspective on the non-alcoholic beverage trend 

  • [31:55] Expert advice on early-stage investment strategies

About Josh Sizemore:

Josh Sizemore is a seasoned entrepreneur with a rich history in the food and beverage industry, spearheading a swanky new pizza lounge to contribute to a groundbreaking, health-oriented snack brand. He was the CEO of Beloit Kombucha Company, a venture-backed kombucha brand with an unusual but unbelievable form factor. He is an entrepreneur with multiple successful ventures, including The CITRUS, EZ-Beverages, and Bleu'print Hospitality. Josh serves on the board and as a C-suite executive of several organizations, including the University of California, Riverside, Lionchase North America, and Create Good Foods. He is passionate about health, fitness, and helping others live their lives to the fullest.

Resources Mentioned in this episode

Quotable Moments:

  • "You have one life; live it to the fullest; anything can happen at any time."

  • "As an entrepreneur, you have to be even-keeled; you can't be up or down, or you'll get sideways quickly."

  • "If you can make it on the shelf and keep the velocity going, you'll be back on the shelf and in another store."

  • "Be more family-oriented, stick closer to your family."

  • "Innovation in food and beverages can go one of two ways: you can create something natural and great, or it can be mad scientist stuff."

Action Steps:

  1. Practice self-care regularly: Prioritizing personal wellness is key to maintaining the endurance needed for entrepreneurship.

  2. Engage in the community and gain customer feedback: Authentic interactions with your customer base will shape and improve your offerings.

  3. Analyze market trends and consumer behavior data: Understanding these can help predict future successes and guide product development.

  4. Foster a work-life balance to sustain your business in the long run: Taking time to recharge away from work is essential for continuous productivity and creativity.

  5. Network and collaborate with other industry professionals: Connections can lead to new perspectives, partnerships, and opportunities for growth.

Duncan Alney