ReConnected

Unlock the secrets to thriving in the rapidly evolving natural products industry with Luke Abbott and Bob Burke, an industry legend and the strategist behind brands like Stonyfield and Natural Products Consulting. In this episode of the Reconnected podcast, Bob reveals how the industry has transformed over 40 years, from the gritty days of hand-packed yogurt to the mainstream. Discover why brands must now think holistically across channels, leverage digital and social media, and prioritize profitability over growth at any cost. Uncover concrete strategies on navigating the complex omni-channel landscape, including the importance of mastering unit economics, pricing tactics, and leveraging innovative tools like Instacart and digital coupons. Bob pulls back the curtain on how international brands often underestimate the complexity of the U.S. market, and shares invaluable tips for entering different regions with a realistic, profitable approach. Plus, get insider advice on avoiding common pitfalls, like obsessing over valuation or overextending too soon, and learn how persistence in authenticity and generosity can set your brand apart.Luke and Bob break down how shifting consumer preferences, private label dominance, and the emergence of private label brands challenge even the most established players. Bob discusses the role of storytelling, social media authenticity, and how emerging brands can carve out a white space in a crowded market. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or seasoned brand owner, this episode offers actionable guidance on building a resilient, profitable business in a sea of shifting trends. If you're serious about making a meaningful impact, scaling responsibly, and building a brand that endures, this episode is essential listening. Bob's decades of experience and candid insights will help you see through market noise and focus on what truly matters – profitability, authenticity, and long-term growth.

Join Luke Abbott and Noah Hyams in this episode of the Reconnected podcast to dive into the future of food. Noah Hyams, Vegprenuer founder, reveals why the plant-based industry is at a pivotal crossroads and how you can thrive in this rapidly evolving space. From uncovering the real reasons behind market shifts to sharing insider tactics on building a sustainable food brand, this episode challenges common misconceptions and offers a guide to success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or food innovator, if you're tired of the noise and ready to make an impact, this conversation will reshape your approach and reignite your purpose.Luke and Noah explore how the industry’s hype bubble burst, what truly drives consumer behavior today, and why the words "plant-based" are losing their meaning. Noah breaks down the latest trends: capital scarcity, the importance of authentic storytelling over polished images, and the critical role community and mentorship play in scaling your brand. Discover why focusing on incredible products that happen to be plant-based—and not just "plant-based" for its own sake—can help you stand out and succeed long-term.This conversation is a must-listen for founders feeling overwhelmed, investors questioning where to place their bets, or anyone passionate about transforming the food system.Ready to cut through the noise and turn your passion into a thriving, impactful business? Hit play and join us on this eye-opening journey into the heart of the plant-based revolution.

In this episode of the Reconnected podcast, host Luke Abbott interviews Susan Hartman, co-founder of Recoup Beverage, discussing her journey in the CPG industry, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and the importance of sustainability and regenerative organic certification. The discussion explores the foundational role of trust in co-founder relationships, emphasizing how mutual respect and shared values can drive a brand's success. Susan also highlights the immense value of community and networking, illustrating how connections with organizations like Naturally San Diego have been pivotal in Recoup's growth.Courage is a recurring theme, as Susan recounts the tough business decisions she had to make and the resilience required to navigate the competitive landscape. Her personal story is woven with the influence of sports, which instilled a sense of grit and determination that has been instrumental in her entrepreneurial journey. Balancing work and family life, Susan offers heartfelt encouragement to aspiring entrepreneurs, inspiring them to pursue their dreams with passion and purpose.

In this engaging episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with Maria Pearman, CPA, the food and beverage practice leader at GHJ. Maria shares her unique journey from arts management to becoming a leading figure in the accounting world, particularly within the food and beverage industry. The conversation delves into the intricacies of financial management for consumer brands, the importance of cash flow, and the evolving landscape of natural foods. Maria offers insights into the challenges and opportunities faced by businesses today, emphasizing the need for strategic financial planning and innovation. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a finance enthusiast, this episode provides valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of business growth and sustainability!

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with the remarkable Pere Selles, a man whose life is a tapestry of adventure, business acumen, and cultural exchange. Pere shares his journey from Barcelona to the United States, where he carved out a niche in the food industry by introducing Spanish cuisine to American palates. With anecdotes of his early days selling olive oil from the trunk of his car to his current role with the Jose Andres Group, Pere's story is one of resilience and innovation. Listeners will be inspired by his tales of building a business from the ground up, fostering relationships with small family producers in Spain, and his ongoing mission to bring authentic Spanish flavors to the U.S. market. Beyond business, Pere's zest for life is evident in his adventurous spirit, from mountain biking across the U.S. to his plans for a road trip to Baja California. This episode is a celebration of cultural exchange, entrepreneurship, and living life to the fullest.

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott of Vdriven engages in a thought-provoking conversation with a special guest, Elliot Begoun, about the evolving landscape of the food industry. They delve into the challenges and opportunities faced by entrepreneurs, exploring themes of resilience, innovation, and the importance of questioning the status quo. The discussion touches on the significance of board diversity, the impact of consumer behavior on business models, and the need for systemic change in the industry. With insights into the dynamics of omni-channel retail and the future of shopping, this episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone interested in the intersection of business and consumer trends. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to navigate the complexities of the modern market and drive meaningful change. 

In this episode of the Reconnected podcast, we sit down with Laura Dickinson, a visionary leader in the natural products industry. Laura shares her journey from the corporate world to founding One Step Closer, a network dedicated to embedding purpose in business. We explore the challenges and triumphs of creating sustainable supply chains, the importance of regenerative business practices, and the power of community in driving meaningful change. Join us for an inspiring conversation about innovation, resilience, and the future of conscious capitalism.

In this episode, we sit down with Casey Gaston, current Executive Leader of Whole Body & Supplements at Whole Foods Market and former Leader of the Local and Emerging Brands program. With over 21 years at Whole Foods Market, Casey shares her path from oncology nursing to holistic wellness and supplements, ultimately stepping into a leadership role at the nation’s largest natural retailer.Casey shares valuable insights into what it truly takes for early-stage brands to succeed—from the power of purpose-driven retail to lessons learned working with emerging brands. She unpacks the vision behind Whole Foods Market’s LEAP accelerator and what helps products stand out on shelf, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the retailer’s approach to identifying and nurturing promising new brands.Get ready to be inspired as Casey shares how passion, perseverance, and strategic clarity can turn bold ideas into meaningful growth for emerging brands.

In this episode of The Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with Bart Jan Manten—musician-turned-entrepreneur and founder of Neolea, a premium olive oil brand born in Greece. Bart shares his unconventional path from the Dutch music scene to olive groves in Corfu, blending creativity with sharp business instincts to build a brand rooted in authenticity, innovation, and purpose.Bart opens up about transforming traditional olive oil production through cutting-edge techniques, launching the iconic white bottle, and making high-quality olive oil more accessible with Neolea’s new “Pan & Plate” line. From his early influences to his work as an angel investor, Bart’s journey is a powerful reminder that our past experiences—no matter how unrelated they seem—can shape the most meaningful ventures.

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, Luke Abbott sits down with serial entrepreneur Jordan Buckner to unpack the wild, inspiring ride from his early ventures like Chopbox and Tea Squares to building Foodbevy—a platform helping food & beverage founders navigate the chaos of CPG.Jordan gets real about what worked, what flopped, and the panic attack that forced him to hit pause and rethink everything. From scrappy kitchen startups to pitching major retailers with DIY packaging, this conversation dives into the hidden struggles behind “success,” the power of knowing when to pivot, and how Jordan turned failure into fuel for something bigger. 

In this deeply inspiring episode of The Reconnected Podcast, Luke Abbott sits down with Kathryn Shah, co-founder of Spring & Mulberry, for a raw conversation about building a purpose-driven brand from personal transformation. Kathryn shares how her battle with cancer became the catalyst for reimagining sweetness—ushering in a new era of refined-sugar-free indulgence.From her high-powered days at Unilever, LVMH, and Pantone to launching Spring & Mulberry with a bold vision for whole food-based luxury, Kathryn reveals the trials, triumphs, and insights behind her journey.

In this enlightening episode of the Reconnected Podcast, Luke Abbott sits down with Angela Marturano, Co-Founder and President of Orchid Holistic Search, a values aligned executive search firm in natural products, and a true connector in the natural products industry. From her early days selling craft beer to launching a boutique recruiting firm during the 2008 crash, Angela shares her unconventional journey into purpose-driven hiring. Broadcasting from her regenerative farm in Costa Rica, she dives deep into how holistic recruiting means more than matching résumés—it’s about aligning values, energy, and company culture.They explore the rise of women in CPG, the power of community, and Angela’s retreats designed to reconnect female leaders with nature and themselves. Plus, a thoughtful dive into the role of AI in recruiting, the importance of knowing your "why," and the value of embracing both masculine and feminine strengths in leadership.Whether you're a founder, recruiter, or just curious about balancing business with meaning, this episode is full of insight, vulnerability, and joy.

In this episode of The Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with Alyssa Vescio, SVP of Merchandising, Sourcing and Product Development, at Whole Foods Market, for a deeply human and inspiring conversation. Alyssa shares her remarkable journey from working in stores at age 16 to leading merchandising across grocery, wellness, beauty, and more at the nation’s top natural retailer. She opens up about personal growth, embracing discomfort, and the power of unlocking collective potential.Listeners will gain behind-the-scenes insight into how Whole Foods curates its shelves, balances local flavor with national scale, and actively partners with emerging brands. Alyssa shares candid advice for founders hoping to stand out, explains how Whole Foods anticipates trends before they hit, and highlights the transformative impact of their foundation’s global initiatives. Whether you're building a brand, navigating your career, or simply curious about the future of food, this episode offers actionable takeaways and authentic inspiration.

Reconnected Podcast: Episode with Bryan ReedIn this episode, Luke Abbott sits down with Bryan Reed, Sr. Director of Grocery & Wellness at Mother's Market, to discuss his 25+ year journey in the natural foods industry—from bagging groceries at 15 to leading strategy at one of the most respected natural food retailers.Key topics covered:🎧 Career Journey: Bryan’s path from Henry’s and Jimbo’s to Mother’s Market.🎧 Industry Evolution: How natural food retail has changed over the years.🎧 Private Label and Wellness: Expanding product lines and meeting customer needs.🎧 COVID-19 Impact: Streamlining inventory and adapting to supply chain challenges.🎧 Future Strategy: Balancing service, product quality, and online fulfillment.Bryan’s deep industry knowledge, strategic mindset, and passion for natural foods make this a must-listen for anyone in the CPG and retail space. 🙌 

In this episode, Luke Abbott sits down with Alex Malamatinas, Founder and Managing Partner of Melitas Ventures, the go-to VC firm for better-for-you consumer brands. With a background in finance and a lifelong connection to CPG, Alex shares how he transitioned from investing in large public companies to backing innovative early-stage brands like Dose, Abbot’s Butcher, and Dream Pops.Key topics covered:⭐ From Finance to CPG Venture Capital: How Alex’s experience at Morgan Stanley and hedge funds led him to launch Melitas Ventures in 2018.⭐ Investment Strategy: What Alex looks for in founders, product-market fit, and capital-efficient growth.⭐ Portfolio Insights: Why Melitas Ventures invested in brands like Olipop and MUD WTR.⭐ Daily Life as an Investor: Balancing portfolio company involvement, industry events, and life as a new dad.If you're interested in the future of food and beverage innovation, this episode offers insights from one of the industry's top investors.Listen now to learn from Alex’s experience in building and scaling better-for-you brands!#ReconnectedPodcast #MelitasVentures #CPG #Investor

Dive into the world of brand strategy and channel marketing with Steve Gaither, Founder of Architect CPG, a Brand strategy and outsourced CMO company. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Steve has helped brands like Real Good Foods, Smith Foods, and Mush achieve market success.Key discussion points include:Steve’s approach to understanding the 4Cs (company, category, competition, consumer) and leveraging data-driven decision-making.Tactics for TikTok, Amazon, DTC, and retail shopper marketing, including budget allocation and measuring performance.Why sales matter more than followers and the benefits of integrating organic and paid content.Tips for creating effective packaging that resonates with consumers and stands out on the shelf.Steve’s practical, data-first perspective offers actionable takeaways for brands looking to scale and stand out in a competitive market.LISTEN now to learn from a CPG expert shaping the future of brand strategy!

In this episode, Luke reconnects with Jeremy Isenberg, President of Chex Finer Foods, a third-generation family business serving retailers from the Northeast to Florida. With 23 years in the company, Jeremy shares insights into preserving a family legacy while navigating the ever-changing food industry.Key discussion points include:How Jeremy’s grandfather and father shaped the values of Checks Fine Art Foods.The art of fostering trusted relationships with customers and suppliers.Insights into industry evolution, customer consolidation, and maintaining service excellence during challenges like COVID-19.How to effectively empower teams, ensuring work-life balance, and giving back to the community.Jeremy’s dedication to his team, family, and community shines through in this conversation, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and leaders alike.Don’t miss this inspiring story of legacy, resilience, and leadership—LISTEN now!

Join us as Luke sits down with Dave Hirschkop, the award-winning entrepreneur and founder of Dave’s Gourmet, who revolutionized the hot sauce and pasta sauce industries. From creating the iconic Insanity Sauce to building an internationally recognized brand, Dave’s story is one of creativity, resilience, and innovation.Key topics covered in this episode include:Dave’s unique approach to building a profitable business without outside investment.How stunts like live scorpions at trade shows captured media attention and made his brand unforgettable.Dave’s innovative approach to product development, like introducing butternut squash pasta sauce to a crowded market.Why Dave decided to sell his business after 30 years and how he found the right buyer.Dave’s journey offers invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs, innovators, and anyone looking to make their mark in the CPG industry.Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring episode—watch now!

Reconnected Podcast with Frank SchuckJoin Luke Abbott as he sits down with Frank Schuck, a Grocery Merchandiser at PCC, the nation's largest food co-op. Frank shares his journey from the specialty food stores of New York City to leading roles at Whole Foods and beyond.In this episode, Frank talks about:How and where his passion for cheese and specialty foods born.The transformation he has been through, and how he adopted a plant-based diet.The evolution of natural and organic food retail and its shift toward transparency, sustainability, and high-quality products.The challenges and opportunities in the food industry, from supply chain fragility to supporting local producers.How PCC makes decisions about personalized curation of product categories.Don’t miss this episode—listen now!

Tune in to the Reconnected Podcast, hosted by Luke Abbott with Dan Altschuler, Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Unovis Asset Management, as he shares his journey as an impact investor focused on transforming food systems. In this episode, they dive deep into the journeys of entrepreneurs, investors, and changemakers. Dan’s professional journey began in banking in Mexico, where he worked with large food corporations. Later, he managed a logistics firm, gaining experience with CPG and food service companies. Dan launched his own CPG venture, Bodhi Natural Snacks, which turned into a five-year "roller coaster" of entrepreneurship. Throughout that experience, he faced nearly every challenge imaginable, making plenty of mistakes but walking away with invaluable lessons.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:Dan's Path to Impact Investing: Dan opens up about their time running Bodhi Natural Snacks, a 5-year entrepreneurial rollercoaster that was filled with hard-earned lessons.Partnership with Chris Kerr: Learn about Dan's collaboration with Chris Kerr, Executive Vice President of Supply Chain and Strategic Sourcing and seasoned investor in early-stage companies.Investment Philosophy: Dive into Dan's approach to investing—what criteria does he look for in entrepreneurs and businesses? How does his philosophy drive his sense of purpose?Challenges for Emerging Brands: Explore the challenges Dan has seen in emerging brands, particularly in navigating the complexities of distribution and scaling. What advice does he offer to founders aiming to make a significant impact?Tune in and hear how forward-thinking entrepreneurs and investors are shaping the future of food through innovation and purpose-driven action.

Tune in to the Reconnected Podcast, where Luke Abbott sits down with Justin Jackson, the COO of Jimbo's—one of the leading Markets in the Natural Space! Starting at just 10 years old, Justin began his career path in a small grocery store in Boston, eventually moving into specialty food retail during his late teens. Today, Justin is focused on refreshing the brand, optimizing operations, and building a solid merchant team. Under his leadership, Jimbo's is not just staying ahead of the curve but redefining what it means to be a leader in natural and organic retail.Here are some topics covered in this podcast:Sustainability and change in the food industry.The evolution of the grocery industry and the importance of staying true to one's mission and values.Building business partnerships and the challenges in the natural food industry.Understanding the needs of each link in the supply chain to ensure successful delivery of products to end users.Tune in today!

In this episode of Reconnected, host Luke Abbott sits with Jenny Eu, founder of Three Trees Foods, a leading brand in plant-based milk. Jenny shares her entrepreneurial journey, starting at farmers' markets and bootstrapping her way into a national brand.Inspired by her grandmother's independence and love for nature, as well as her father's seamless blend of work and personal life, Jenny developed a deep passion for clean, nourishing foods. As a mother of two, she has been leading Three Trees with intention and dedication.Some of the topics Jenny and Luke talked about are:Profitability and smart growthBalancing business and family lifeHow to bring innovation forwardThe challenges of distribution and working with brokers and national distributors as an independent brand.Tune in to hear Jenny Eu's inspiring story and insights into plant-based food entrepreneurship!

In this episode, Luke Abbott is joined by Dwight Richmond, Director of the Center Store at Town & Country Markets, who has 30 years of experience in the grocery retail industry. Dwight's career in the food industry began fresh out of college, working in grocery stores, and progressed through roles at Freshfields (later Whole Foods), Dean and DeLuca, K Foods, and eventually leading him to Town and Country Markets, where he currently oversees a team and their private label program. His journey was influenced by his family's legacy in the food industry and included significant experience in both retail and distribution.Some of the topics Luke and Dwight covered in this episode include:Strategies for young brands to succeed in conventional retail environments.Challenges and strategies in seasonal retail operations.Importance of local sourcing and quality in product development.Navigating the dynamics between specialty and natural food stores.Authenticity and customer-centric branding in grocery retail.Insights into managing and developing a private label program.

Welcome to the Reconnected Podcast with your host, Luke Abbott. In this episode, Luke is joined by one of his best friend and earliest clients, Kerry Song, a fellow vegan entrepreneur and founder of Abbot's. Abbot’s Butcher crafts delicious, whole-food, plant-based products available in over 4,000 locations nationwide.Luke and Kerry share their personal journeys in the food industry, highlighting their commitment to sustainability, supply chain transparency, and prioritizing customer experience. Kerry recounts her path from an accidental entrepreneur to the CEO of Abbot's, beginning at Farmer's Markets and gradually scaling up her plant-based food brand. Join Luke Abbott and Kerry Song for an inspiring conversation on the Reconnected Podcast!

Welcome to the Reconnected Podcast with your host, Luke Abbott. In this episode, Luke is joined by an experienced food industry professional and long-time friend, Rich Gillmore, the VP of Center Store at Gelson's. Rich is bringing 37+ years of retail experience from Gelson's, southern california specialty grocer and supermarket chain VONS.  Tune in as Luke and Rich share personal experiences and reflect on the challenges they've faced through their professional career.

Welcome to the Reconnected Podcast with your host, Luke Abbott. In this episode, Luke sits down with Nicolas Mindel, co-founder of Amberstone, to explore his fascinating journey through the realms of finance, investment, and the consumer products industry. Amberstone is an investment firm that supports entrepreneurs and focuses on scaling brand-first consumer product companies into nationally recognized category leaders. Nick and Luke discuss the intricacies of building strong relationships with entrepreneurs and the significance of investing in smaller rounds to support early-stage companies. They emphasize the importance of responsible growth and valuation discovery, particularly highlighting the rapid expansion of health and wellness brands in the market.Join Luke Abbott and Nick Mindel for an enlightening conversation on venture capital, investment strategies, and the future of natural brands in the food industry on the Reconnected Podcast.

Welcome to the Reconnected Podcast with your host, Luke Abbott. In this episode, Luke is joined by Ron Selders, President of  the Fresh Division at UNFI, as they delve into the current state of distribution and Ron's extensive experience spanning 28 years with Tony’s Fine Foods and UNFI.Ron brings a wealth of knowledge and insights from his journey within the industry, from entry-level roles to his current position as President of Fresh food distribution at UNFI. Together, Luke and Ron explore the nuances of leadership, growth, and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of fresh food distribution.Throughout the episode, Luke and Ron delve into the qualities that make a successful leader, including building strong relationships, fostering a supportive team environment, and facilitating individual excellence. They also examine the intricacies of fresh food retailing, highlighting the significance of understanding consumer preferences and fostering mutually beneficial relationships between suppliers and retailers.

In this episode, Luke is joined by Brian Scott, president of Gourmet Foods International, as they delve into the food industry's intricate world of supply chain management. From his roots in Omaha, Nebraska, to his current role as president of Gourmet Foods International, Brian's journey epitomizes the essence of leadership, growth, and innovation in the ever-evolving food supply chain.They discussed the importance of reconnecting supply chains for improved transparency and operational efficiency. They emphasized the role of drivers and distribution centers in the food industry and highlighted the significance of leadership, culture, and supply chain management. They also explored the parallels between wrestling and business leadership, emphasizing the importance of integrity, risk-taking, and emotional intelligence. Join Luke Abbott and Brian Scott on the Reconnected Podcast as they explore the intricacies of food distribution, leadership, and innovation in the food industry.

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, Luke Abbott sits down with Ari Raz, a trailblazer in the CPG entrepreneurship world. With a passion for innovation and a knack for identifying market gaps, Ari shares his fascinating journey from selling caramel-covered lollipops in middle school to founding Once Upon a Farm, the fastest-growing kids' brand in the US. His venture into the baby food industry, propelled by a desire to provide high-quality, fresh options for parents, demonstrates his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to making a difference in the food sector.As the current CEO of Coconut Cult, Ari discusses the brand's unique approach to yogurt production and marketing. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and courage in social media engagement, highlighting how these qualities have contributed to the brand's growth and success.Additionally, Ari shares his involvement in Naturally San Diego, a community he founded to foster collaboration and innovation in the local CPG industry. Tune in to this episode of the Reconnected Podcast for an inspiring conversation with Ari Raz, a visionary leader whose entrepreneurial journey continues to shape the food and CPG landscape.

In this fascinating episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with Steve Black, a giant in the grocery industry, whose journey from a passionate 12-year-old grocery clerk to a seasoned executive has reshaped the way we think about retail. With a career that spans over four decades, Steve has left his mark at notable companies such as Sunflower, Henry's, Sprouts, and Lucky's, climbing the ladder from a store manager to the President and COO at Rouses Markets, and now serving as the Chief Operating Officer of PFS Brands in Missouri. This episode delves into Steve's recent book, "Rules for Success," where he distills 46 years of invaluable lessons on leadership, culture, and the essence of being in the 'people business.'Luke and Steve explore a wide range of topics, from the significance of trust, love, and help in cultivating a healthy workplace culture to the personal strategies for achieving work-life balance and avoiding drama in the professional setting. They discuss the transformative power of forgiveness and self-compassion in leadership, the pivotal role of setting goals and teamwork in the business landscape, and the profound impact of faith in personal and professional growth. Join us for an inspiring journey through the lessons learned from failures, the art of leadership, and the journey towards making a significant difference in people's lives. Tune in to uncover the wisdom Steve Black shares, garnered from a lifetime of experiences and successes in the grocery industry.

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott sits down with Robert Johnson, Category Manager at New Seasons Market, known for its dedication to local and organic products in the Pacific Northwest.Robert shares his journey from selling candy as a young entrepreneur to a key figure in retail. Robert reflects on personal growth and the influence of mentors, discusses overcoming introversion, building trust in his team, and advancing from the freight crew to Category Manager. His career showcases resilience, adaptability, and the power of motivation and creativity.

In a recent episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott welcomes Kenny Hausmann. Kenny shares his journey to a significant leadership role, underpinned by a personal mission to enhance access to healthy foods in communities. Kenny and Luke dive into the essence of building trust and meaningful relationships in the business world, stressing the importance of humility and purpose in leadership. Through anecdotes of career progression, and life lessons learned from family, Kenny illustrates the transformative power of supportive relationships and clear personal missions. The discussion also touches upon the challenges of the supply chain and the critical role of transparency and collaboration in achieving industry success.

In this episode of the Reconnected Podcast, host Luke Abbott and guest Alex Bayer delve into the realms of supply chain authenticity, personal growth, and the hurdles faced by small brands in the CPG industry. Their conversation, rich with anecdotes from both Luke and Alex's diverse experiences, spans topics from embracing vulnerability in business to overcoming entrepreneurial challenges. The episode not only highlights theirs personal journeys but also touches on issues like competition, market saturation, and the power of community support within the industry.

In this Reconnected Podcast episode, we explore Jonathan Lawrence's journey from a family vitamin store to his pivotal role in Fresh Thyme's growth. Starting from the humble beginnings of stocking shelves in his family's grocery store, to his current position as a VP of Center Store at Fresh Thyme Market, his story is a testament to dedication and passion in the food retail industry.Jonathan shares insights on balancing family and work, food trade shows, and the significance of in-person connections. Delve into his leadership style, brand management challenges, and the importance of staying true to one’s values in the fast-paced retail world.This episode is a compelling narrative of personal growth, industry challenges, and the transformative power of a strong work ethic in the natural food industry.

In this "Reconnected" podcast episode, Monica shares her career journey from finance to the food industry, driven by her passion for culinary arts and healthy eating. Her story is one of courage and adaptability, reflecting her Polish immigrant roots and a relentless pursuit of personal growth.Highlights of the conversation include Monica's unique perspective on the natural foods industry, insights from her experience at Whole Foods, where she spent over 14 years and her recent career transition. The discussion delves into the challenges and opportunities facing emerging CPG brands, emphasizing the importance of humility, openness to feedback, and community engagement for success in this dynamic sector. Monica's narrative is both inspiring and informative, offering valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and professionals navigating the complex landscape of CPG and retail.

Tune into the latest episode of the "Reconnected" podcast, where host Luke Abbott and industry veteran Wade Yenny delve into the intricacies of the supply chain world. With over 20 years of experience, Wade offers invaluable insights into the grocery industry, from humble beginnings in the restaurant business to leading major grocery chains. Discover how mentorship shaped his career, the role of resilience in overcoming challenges, and the evolution of his leadership style. Wade's journey is a testament to hard work, adaptation, and the power of supportive relationships. Whether discussing personal growth, industry insights, or the future of the CPG industry, this episode is packed with lessons and inspiration for anyone passionate about the dynamic world of supply chains and retail. Don't miss out on these powerful conversations and industry secrets, only on the "Reconnected" podcast.

In this engaging episode of our podcast, we reconnect with the "father of natural", Jimbo, a pivotal figure in natural markets across America. Jimbo and Luke delve into topics like aligning supply chain practices with core values, the importance of business integrity and  supporting local farmers and emerging brands. They also share personal stories of overcoming challenges in starting a natural food store, the resilience required in the face of obstacles, navigating distribution complexities, and the vital role of personal relationships in supply chain management. This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights and experiences from two industry veterans, highlighting the importance of values, integrity, and relationships in the evolving world of retail grocery and natural foods.