PODCAST · business
DrinkUp Live Podcast
by Samuel Anderson
Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast.Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast. Hosted by Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith, each week we sit down with founders, suppliers, distributors, retailers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders for real conversations about building brands, growing businesses, and navigating the beverage world. No corporate jargon. No fluff. Just great stories, practical insights, a few laughs, and the people shaping the future of the industry. Grab a drink and join us.
Episodes
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He Sold Pickle Shots Out Of His Trunk. Now He Runs The Co-Packer That Won't Bury You In MOQs.
Dan Graves built Dirty Dill from a garage in Denver, then builtScaleaway to fix the exact problem that almost broke him: co-packers who wantsixteen thousand cases from a brand that hasn't sold one yet. Everybody wants to hear the version where the brand takesoff. Nobody wants to hear the version...
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300 Tequilas On The Wall. Five Of Them Sell with Henry Matus
Henry Matus built a menu intelligence platform that ranks bypalate instead of by brand size. If you make a small brand, this is the shelfmath you have been waiting for. One of my clients walked me down her back bar last week. Three hundred tequilas. Beautiful wall. Great lighting. I asked her how...
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She Returned the $10 Million Check: Faye Coleman, Pure Genesis, and the December 11 Cliff
What a Kraft and Target trained operator can teach beveragefounders about building in a category Washington keeps threatening to kill Most founders spend years chasing a $10 million check. Faye Coleman gave one back. The investor was, in her words, somewhat nefarious. Soshe walked away from the...
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The Money Seat with Kash Rocheleau: Why the Last Hire You Make Decides If You Scale
Most founders think the finance person is a luxury. Something you hire once you've made it. After the sales hire. After the marketing hire. After thecool stuff. Here's the part nobody tells you: The finance seat is the last one most brands fill, andthe first one that pays for itself. Skip it too...
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From Rock Stages to Sold Out: Jeff Cerise and the Eight Year Overnight Success
Most people think building a beverage brand looks likethis: Raise a round. Chase the hot category. Blow up on social.Exit in five years. Clean. Fast. Fundable. Reality? Make the same drink for eight years. Switch yourpackaging. Switch your copacker. Then switch back. Pull your own salary and…
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20 Menus Beat 100 Back Bars
In this episode, Mara shares her journey from corporate law to founding Inspiro Tequila, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, community building, and strategic marketing in the competitive spirits industry.
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The breakup letter that backfired with Ella Parlor
In this episode, Ella Parlor shares her extensive experience in the beverage industry, from Red Bull to consulting, and discusses strategies for brand growth, industry insights, and the importance of authentic leadership.
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How to Build Relationships and Grow Your Beverage Brand
In this episode, Halley Turner from Per Se shares her journey as a multi-passionate entrepreneur in the non-alcoholic beverage industry, emphasizing the importance of persistence, relationship-building, and clear messaging in a rapidly evolving market.
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12 Candy Bars in a Bottle
In this episode, Jeff Roslund shares his journey of creating a low-sugar, keto-friendly liqueur brand, navigating distribution challenges, and innovative marketing strategies to grow his business in a complex industry.
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Building a Premium Tequila Brand: Insights from Katy O'Donnell
In this episode, Katy O'Donnell shares her inspiring journey from aspiring Broadway actress to a leading figure in the tequila industry. Discover how her passion, community engagement, and innovative strategies are shaping the future of premium spirits.
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Strategies for Success in Importing
Given the challenges of importing, Chelsea shared three key strategies for businesses looking to navigate this complex landscape successfully.
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The Ultimate Guide to Formulation, Distribution, and Pricing in Beverages
This episode features a deep dive into beverage industry strategies, focusing on formulation, distribution, pricing, and brand growth. Experts share insights on navigating market challenges, optimizing costs, and building successful brands in a competitive landscape.keywords
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The Business Behind Barrels: Insights from Morgan Salzman
Join us for an insightful discussion with Morgan Salzman, a young whiskey investor and entrepreneur, as she shares her journey into the bourbon industry, the business behind barrels, and the current state of American whiskey. Discover valuable tips on brand development, sourcing, and navigating...
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Neal Dresner shares his journey from banking to creating Rocka Matcha,
Join us as Neal Dresner shares his journey from banking to creating Rocka Matcha, a clean, functional beverage. Discover the science behind matcha, the challenges of building a brand in a crowded market, and insights into sustainable packaging and growth strategies.
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Distribution Does Not Equal Demand, with Ben Salisbury
Ben Salisbury joins Sam Anderson on the DrinkUp Podcast for a master class in modern beverage selling. A 42 year veteran who started with Gallo in 1983, served as a VP at Ste. Michelle Wine Estates, and worked at Constellation Brands, Ben now runs Wine Sales Stimulator and gives away most of his...
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Building a Beverage Brand: Lessons from Chris Wolstenholme
Chris Wolstenholme shares his journey of creating a unique vodka protein water, navigating the challenges of product development, distribution, and marketing in the competitive beverage industry. Learn practical insights on building demand, working with distributors, and scaling a brand from a...
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How a Peruvian Drink Is Changing the Beverage Market
Join us as Marcel Diels, founder of Cooley, shares his journey from entertainment to beverage entrepreneurship, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in launching a Peruvian purple corn drink. Learn about supply chain strategies, brand building, and navigating the early stages of…
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Mastering Media Relations: Strategies for Brand Success with Priya Dua
Join us for an insightful conversation with Priya Dua from Archive PR as we explore the nuances of media relations, brand storytelling, and effective marketing strategies in today's dynamic landscape. Discover how to craft compelling narratives, leverage media for brand growth, and navigate the...
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Mastering Distribution and Demand Creation in Alcohol Industry Chris Siconolfihris S
In this engaging interview, Chris Siconolfi shares his extensive expertise in the beverage industry, focusing on data-driven brand growth, distribution strategies, and demand creation. Discover how to leverage data, optimize distribution, and build demand to accelerate your brand’s success.
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Spirits Stay Hot, Routes Get Messy, Taxes Take Aim
Four things are moving the bev-alc map this week — andthey're not pointing in the same direction. Spirits are still pulling the cart. RNDC is rewriting route-to-market in real time. Illinois wants to tax cocktails like luxury goods. Bourbon's export halo is cracking abroad. Here's what each one...
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A Journey Through 8,000 Years of Winemaking
In this engaging conversation, Samuel Anderson, Kirk Parsons, and Will Parsons delve into the rich history and unique characteristics of Georgian wines. They discuss the significance of Georgia as the birthplace of wine, the traditional winemaking techniques that have been preserved for over…
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Revolutionizing Non-Alcoholic Beverages with Amy Yanzer
In this conversation, Amy Yanzer, founder of Forward Beverage, shares her journey of creating a non-alcoholic functional beverage company. She discusses the unique concept of their taproom, the challenges of distribution, and the innovative production techniques they employ. The conversation also...
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Josh Sizemore Just Keep Going
With 25 Year of entrepreneurial experience and focus on brand building and scaling brands. He is the guy the revived New York Seltzer. Give this a listen if you are thinking about building a brand.
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Navigating the Legal Landscape: Insights from Attorneys
In this engaging conversation, attorneys UJ Paradise and Sean Smallwood share their journeys to law, emphasizing the importance of legal counsel for businesses. They discuss the necessity of forming legal entities, the significance of clear agreements in partnerships, and the complexities of...
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Delta Vine: A New Era of THC Beverages
In this conversation, the founders of Delta Vine, Morgan and Alex, share their journey of creating a THC-infused wine beverage. They discuss the challenges they faced in formulating their product, navigating the regulatory landscape, and building brand awareness. The conversation highlights the...
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The Hidden Art of CPG Formulation: Secrets from Leyline Labs
Join us for an insightful discussion with Charlotte Mizrahi and Matthias Laudico of Leyline Labs as they share their expertise in product development, formulation, and the complexities of bringing wellness products to market. Learn about the importance of holistic thinking, the role of…
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Navigating the Beverage Industry with Chris Slanga
In this episode, Chris Slanga shares his journey in the beverage industry, discussing his experiences from starting as a musician to becoming the Vice President of Revenue at Red Boot Beverage. The conversation delves into the complexities of co-packing, the importance of grit and marketing in...
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Unlocking Market Trends in Food & Proteins: Insights from Gregory
In this engaging interview, Gregory shares his unconventional journey from small-town Wisconsin to the forefront of the food and alternative protein industry. Discover insights on market trends, the importance of curiosity, patience in brand building, and how to succeed in the competitive CPG space.
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From Sports to Spirits: Victor Harvey's Journey
In this engaging conversation, Victor Harvey shares his unique journey from sports and entertainment to the beverage industry. He discusses the challenges and successes he faced while building his liquor brand, emphasizing the importance of relationships, authenticity, and preparation in…
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The Importance of Packaging in Beverage Success
Lu Duma — Director of Sales at Circle Beverage(Indianapolis-based beverage co-packer), co-founder of Robots One (custompackaging consulting for emerging brands), and a man with printing-industrytattoos to prove he means it. He's been on a printing press since he was 19. He spent15 years in...
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Cash flow management in startups
In this episode, Anthony Domenici from Basecamp Consulting shares insights on startup finance, cash flow management, and building a resilient brand in the competitive beverage industry. Learn practical strategies for managing cash flow, raising capital, and avoiding common financial pitfalls.
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From Glass Lines to Variety Packs
Maletto's been at it since 1994. Started in Indiana.Moved to Eau Claire, Wisconsin specifically to handle Leinenkugel's glasspackaging at the front edge of the craft beer wave. Today they're variety pack specialists running four lines(one fully automated) for Molson Coors, Costco, Sam's Club, and…
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The Journey of a Snackologist: Insights from Dan Levison
In today's fast-paced world, the intersection of food science and entrepreneurship is more relevant than ever. Many aspiring food entrepreneurs wonder: how do you transform a delicious idea into a successful product on the shelf? In this blog post, we dive into an insightful conversation with Dan...
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From Startup to Shark Tank: Jayla Siciliano’s 10-Year Beverage Journey
In this episode, beverage founder Jayla Siciliano shares her 10-year journey from launching a beverage brand to appearing on Shark Tank, including the challenges of fundraising, product development, and market timing. She offers valuable insights for entrepreneurs on resilience, strategic pivots,...
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Oakwell Beer Spa: Where Craft Beer Meets Modern Wellness
Oakwell Beer Spa blends the comfort of a cozy day spa with the fun of a craft taproom, offering private spa suites with infrared saunas, rain showers, and warm herbal “beer baths” infused with hops and barley for deep relaxation. Guests sip curated local beers, ciders, wines, and nonalcoholic...
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Building Brands: The Reality of Market Expectations
In this episode of the Drink Up Live podcast, hosts Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith discuss the complexities of building and scaling beverage brands. They explore the unrealistic expectations many brands have regarding rapid growth, the importance of operational efficiency, and the necessity of...
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Unlocking Manufacturing Potential with Digit Software
In this episode, Adam Smith and Sam Anderson welcome Dan Koukol, co-founder and CEO of Digit, a software company focused on streamlining supply chain management for manufacturers. Dan shares his extensive background in manufacturing, including his experience as a consultant and operator, which…
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The Science Behind Beauty: Dr. Ebru's Insights
In this conversation, Dr. Ebru Karpuzoglu shares her journey from immunology research to creating a skincare line that emphasizes the importance of science in beauty products. She discusses the challenges of being a founder, the lessons learned from failures, and the significance of understanding...
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DrinkUp Daily Podcast Daily Industry Brief January 10, 2026
Daily Industry Brief on what is happening in beverages.
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From Adversity to Impact: The Story of 22 Salute
In this conversation, Eric Ranks shares his inspiring journey from facing personal health challenges to founding 22 Salute, a social enterprise aimed at supporting veterans and first responders. He discusses the importance of mental health awareness, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the...
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Unpacking the Beverage Industry with Gamer Packaging
In this episode, Adam Smith and Samuel Anderson engage with Joey Gamer from Gamer Packaging to discuss the critical role of packaging in the beverage industry. They explore the history of Gamer Packaging, the importance of packaging design, and the challenges new brands face in bringing their...
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DrinkUp Daily Industry Brief January 2, 2026
“Welcome to the DrinkUp Podcast – Daily Industry Brief, where we break down what’s happening in the beverage business and what it actually means for brands, distributors, and operators.” On January 2, 2026, the story isn’t alcohol versus non-alc—it’s who owns the whole drinking repertoire. Big...
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DrinkUp Daily Industry Brief 1-1-26
Welcome to the DrinkUp Podcast , Daily Industry Brief, where we break down what’s happening in the beverage business and what it actually means for brands, distributors, and operators.” The headline today: regulators and consumers are teaming up, intentionally or not, to push the industry toward...
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Innovative Marketing: The Birth of Beers with Friends
In this episode of the Drink Up Podcast, Sam Anderson and Adam Smith welcome Dana Hork, co-founder of Beers with Friends, a creative marketing agency. Dana shares the inspiration behind the agency's name and its innovative approach to marketing, focusing on agility and creativity within...
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Scaling Strategies for Beverage Brands
n this conversation, Sam Anderson and Adam Smith discuss the challenges faced by founders in scaling their businesses, particularly in the beverage industry. They emphasize the importance of understanding cost structures, focusing on specific markets, and building brand awareness. The discussion...
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Building Freebird: A Brand with Soul
In this engaging episode of Drink Up, host Samuel Anderson welcomes Jay Williams, founder of Freebird, to discuss his journey from real estate to the beverage industry. They explore the challenges and triumphs of launching a new brand, the importance of personal branding, and the unique identity…
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The Power of Adaptogens in Wellness
In this conversation, Amanda and Sebastian share their journey of creating immunity shots after facing challenges in their business. They discuss the benefits of adaptogens and their role in promoting health and wellness, particularly in relation to immunity, heart health, and energy levels.
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Navigating the Beverage Industry with Robert Cogan
In this engaging conversation, Robert shares his extensive journey through the beverage and real estate industries, emphasizing the importance of connection, teamwork, and patience in achieving success. The discussion covers various topics, including the dynamics of cash and carry businesses, the...
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The Truth About Cannabis
In this conversation, Paulo Lacerda Sobral discusses the misconceptions surrounding cannabis, emphasizing its potential benefits when used thoughtfully. He advocates for education and destigmatization of cannabis, suggesting that it can help individuals reframe their problems and manage stress,...
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Navigating the Retail Media Landscape with Eric Martindale
In this engaging conversation, Eric Martindale discusses his journey in the retail media landscape, sharing insights on the importance of digital marketing, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the evolving nature of the retail market. He emphasizes the need for brands to adapt and pivot in...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast.Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast. Hosted by Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith, each week we sit down with founders, suppliers, distributors, retailers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders for real conversations about building brands, growing businesses, and navigating the beverage world. No corporate jargon. No fluff. Just great stories, practical insights, a few laughs, and the people shaping the future of the industry. Grab a drink and join us.
HOSTED BY
Samuel Anderson
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does DrinkUp Live Podcast have?
DrinkUp Live Podcast currently has 124 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is DrinkUp Live Podcast about?
Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast.Welcome to DrinkUp Live, the beverage industry's favorite happy hour disguised as a podcast. Hosted by Samuel Anderson and Adam Smith, each week we sit down with founders, suppliers, distributors, retailers,...
How often does DrinkUp Live Podcast release new episodes?
DrinkUp Live Podcast publishes regularly with 124 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to DrinkUp Live Podcast?
You can listen to DrinkUp Live Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts DrinkUp Live Podcast?
DrinkUp Live Podcast is created and hosted by Samuel Anderson.
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