Join Hayden Thomson as he hosts The Pack Heavy Podcast, a must-listen show for business owners and operators competing in the CPG and food processing industries. Featuring insightful interviews with industry leaders and special guests, this podcast shares valuable knowledge on the challenges, failures and successful strategies that have shaped their businesses. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, tune in weekly to help prioritize what matters most and take your business to the next level.
Episodes
Tuesday Sep 05, 2023
Tuesday Sep 05, 2023
Established in 2020 and situated in Langley, BC, Mindful Monk creates functional and delicious dark chocolate snacks. Alice, the driving force behind the business exclusively utilizes pure monk fruit juice as the sweetener for her chocolates - a first within the category.
During our long and winding conversation, among many things Alice revealed her genuine dedication to well-being - both in life and through her business.
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Find Alice & Mindful Monk here:
- Web: https://mindfulmonk.co/
- IG: @mindfulmonksnacks
- Email: alice@mindfulmonk.co
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Wednesday Aug 09, 2023
Wednesday Aug 09, 2023
In today's episode, Melinda takes us on a journey through the foundational story of Moonshine Mama's. Starting with her motivation for natural health and healing after a stage 3 cancer diagnosis in 2011, right through to the development and launch of the business crafting activated turmeric elixirs on Salt Spring Island. Discover some of the challenges Mel overcame, her passion for natural ingredients and how Moonshine Mama's continues to nourish and revitalize health-conscious individuals nationwide!
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Find Mel & Moonshine Mama’s here:
- Web: https://moonshinemamas.ca/
- IG: @moonshinemamaselixirs
- Email: mel@moonshinemamas.ca
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
It was a pleasure sitting down again with Dominica, who graciously bestowed us with her invaluable insights across a broad spectrum of subjects. From providing a comprehensive overview of this year's Planted Expo to delving into the mechanics of improving your COGS.
Dominica and I also explore the challenges and opportunities that the CPG industry presents, while shedding some light on some essential qualities necessary for entrepreneurs to flourish in this constantly evolving industry. Prepare yourself for an enlightening conversation that promises to inspire and educate all aspiring CPG business owners and operators.
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PLNT LIFE Brand Accelerators (founded in 2020 and located in Vancouver, BC) offers a range of services to help food based CPG businesses bring their ideas to life. With a passion for innovation, PLNT LIFE will work with you to find the most exciting ingredients, trends and innovation to help your brand launch or expand out into the world.
In addition to product development, PLNT LIFE also provides full service support including web & graphic design, social media management and product photography as well as finding the right co-packer, distributor and broker to help you achieve your business goals.
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Find Dominica & PLNT Life here:
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
Wednesday Jul 05, 2023
In 2020, Chae and Jim founded Earthling Foods, a dedicated gluten-free specialty production bakery located in Port Coquitlam. Their expertise lies in crafting exquisite gourmet Dacquoise, which they recently rebranded and trademarked as Dacarons™.
During our extensive conversation, we explore various topics including the inspiring founding story, their recent rebranding journey and some of the unique production methods that they have employed.
Thanks to their extensive distribution network, Earthling Foods' signature creation, Dacarons™, can be enjoyed in over 80 locations. These establishments consist of a select group of independently owned, third-wave cafés that align perfectly with the ethos of Earthling Foods. To ensure widespread availability, the distribution of Dacarons™ is facilitated by Sysco Vancouver, Kelowna and Victoria, further cementing their reach and impact.
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Find Chae & Jim @ Earthling Foods here:
- Web: https://www.earthlingfoods.ca/
- IG: @earthlingglutenfree
- Email: info@earthlingfoods.ca
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
Sunday Jun 18, 2023
On for a second time, Miki and I jump deeper into oomé’s first year of business with a big focus on the wins and challenges that have shaped their business model.
Miki's startup journey will resonate with many entrepreneurs who have encountered typical obstacles and critical decision points in the food production industry.
If you're someone who dreams of turning your idea into reality I recommend going back to episode 95 to hear Miki’s initial startup story prior to listening to this episode. Together, both episodes serve as a powerful example of how much can be achieved within a single year when you commit 100% of yourself to your vision & business.
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Find Miki & oomé here:
- Web: https://www.thisisoome.com/
- IG: @thisisoome
- LinkedIn: Miki Talebi
- Email: miki@thisisoome.com
Brand and packaging design by Tyler Quarles @ https://www.quarles.studio/
Product Photography: Abby Wiseman @ http://abbywiseman.ca/
Miki’s book recommendations:
- Indra Nooyi - Former Chairman and CEO of PepsiCo “My life in full”
- Mike Fata - GROW: 12 Unconventional Lessons for Becoming an Unstoppable Entrepreneur
- Phil Knight – “Shoe Dog”: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Saturday Jun 10, 2023
Saturday Jun 10, 2023
During today's chat, Randy generously pulls back the curtain on distribution and provides some great tips for brands currently working with or considering partnering with a distributor. We also dig into the story of his family's rich history in the business and their journey of building their own brand, Wescana Foods. Additionally, we touch on their recent acquisition of What The Flour and Randy sheds some light on the delicate art of balancing business and family life.
Get ready for an engaging conversation that offers practical advice and some fun anecdotes from the world of CPG distribution.
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Randy leads his family business, Nationwide Natural Foods - A distributor that specializes in a wide variety of natural, organic, gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian products to retailers across Canada. Their extensive product range includes their own Wescana Foods and most recently What The Flour, along with a variety of other great brands all catering to diverse consumer preferences.
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Find Randy here:
- Web: https://nnfd.ca/
- Cell : 778 885 0348
- LinkedIn: Randy Sihota
- Email: randy@nnfd.ca
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Tuesday May 30, 2023
Tuesday May 30, 2023
Doaa shares her personal journey into photography - from being inspired by her cultural background, sunlight and slow living. The importance of capturing the essence of a product through the collaborative nature of working with CPG founders and the significance of aligning the photographer's vision with the brand's identity. We also touch on the lost art of film photography, current day digital and what the future may look like with the fast approaching Ai generated art movement.
Get ready for an incredibly fun and insightful conversation that will inspire both photographers and CPG founders alike.
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Find Doaa Jamal here:
- Web: https://www.doaajamal.com/
- IG: @doaajamal_
- Email: doaa.mq@gmail.com
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Monday May 22, 2023
Monday May 22, 2023
Founded in 2018 and based in Okotoks, Alberta - GroundUp Eco Ventures takes a unique approach to environmental innovation by upcycling cafe and brewery waste ingredients to produce delicious super flours, baking mixes and high-value oils.
Shawn and I explore the GroundUp startup journey, genuinely innovative & technical upcycling process / facility build, upfront funding required and brand development to name just a few topics of conversation.
You can find the full range of GroundUp products available via their online store, Amazon.ca and retail locations in Alberta & BC here
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Find Shawn & GroundUp here:
- Web: https://www.groundupev.com/
- IG: @groundup_ecoventures
- Email: Shawn@groundupev.com
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Tuesday May 16, 2023
Join me as I chat with Natasha Compton, the founder and owner of BeCurious PR, a leading agency that helps beauty, food and lifestyle entrepreneurs establish a PR foundation to expand their presence in North America. With over 20 years of experience, Natasha shared her insights into building buzz that drives growth, connecting brands with media, influencers, customers, and partners. We also discuss the current and future impact of Ai on the industry, along with the various services that BeCurious PR provides, including PR Foundation Strategy, Brand Positioning, Founder Narrative, and Media Trend Audits.
If you're an entrepreneur looking to disrupt your industry and fuel your brand's growth, this conversation is a must-listen!
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Find Natasha & Be Curious PR here:
- Web: https://becuriouspr.com/
- IG: @becuriouspr
- Email: natasha.compton@becuriouspr.com
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👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com
Monday May 08, 2023
Monday May 08, 2023
During today's conversation, Dominica and I covered a lot of ground with a big focus on what it takes to successfully launch a CPG brand in the food industry. We explored recipe development, Co-Packing, distribution and brand management with Dominica emphasizing the importance of innovation and keeping up with the latest trends to create standout products. We also discussed the growing demand for plant-based products and the future in this particular space. It was a fast-paced and fun conversation with Dominica that I'm sure will provide some valuable insights into the world of CPG for you all.
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PLNT LIFE Brand Accelerators (founded in 2020 and located in Vancouver, BC) offers a range of services to help food based CPG businesses bring their ideas to life. With a passion for innovation, PLNT LIFE will work with you to find the most exciting ingredients, trends and innovation to help your brand launch or expand out into the world.
In addition to product development, PLNT LIFE also provides full service support including web & graphic design, social media management and product photography as well as finding the right co-packer, distributor and broker to help you achieve your business goals.
________________________________________
Find Dominica & PLNT Life here:
________________________________________
👉 Check out this episode & leave a rating & review on the following platforms:
- Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3Fb2hC3
- Apple: https://apple.co/3uyFrzC
- Amazon: https://bit.ly/3Fxz99C
- Podbean: https://bit.ly/3hbBPAn
👉 Follow the podcast on LinkedIn here
👉 Follow me on LinkedIn here
👉 Instagram here
👉 Please support this podcast by checking out our show sponsor FoodPak
👉 If you have any questions or feedback I would love to hear from you hayden@thepackheavypodcast.com