The Startup CPG Podcast

• #225 - Amazon vs. Your Own Website: The Great eCommerce Debate with Daybreak Agency and Gawronski Media

  In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Daniel Scharff moderates a friendly debate between two ecommerce experts: Rugved Nakadi from Daybreak Agency (Amazon specialists) and Kevin Gawronski from Gawronski Media (DTC paid media). The conversation explores the critical question every emerging brand faces: should you prioritize building your own Shopify website or launching on Amazon first—and what are the real trade-offs of each channel?The discussion reveals how both platforms offer distinct advantages depending on your brand stage, category demand, and resources. Rugved explains why Amazon's high-intent search traffic and fast path to market validation make it ideal for emerging brands testing product-market fit, while Kevin champions the long-term value of owning customer data, building lifetime relationships, and maintaining full control over your brand experience on DTC. Through real examples and honest admissions about each platform's limitations, both experts break down the economics, customer acquisition strategies, and operational realities of scaling on Amazon versus Shopify.Throughout the episode, listeners gain practical frameworks for evaluating which channel to prioritize first, understanding CAC/LTV economics, navigating platform fees and fulfillment costs, and building sustainable growth strategies. Whether you're pre-launch or scaling across multiple channels, this conversation offers clarity on leveraging both platforms strategically while avoiding costly mistakes like chasing every trend or stretching resources too thin.We are proud partners of both Daybreak Agency and Gawrsonki Media. You can contact them and get access to our negotiated ratesDaybreak Agency: Email [email protected] and mention you heard about them through the podcastGawronski Media: https://gawronskimedia.com/contact-us/Listen in as they discuss:DTC vs. Amazon: control and customer ownership vs. speed to market and validationWhy emerging brands often find faster wins on Amazon (and when DTC makes more sense)The economics breakdown: referral fees, FBA costs, CAC, LTV, and conversion ratesHow Amazon's purchase-intent search reduces risk for new product launchesBuilding customer relationships: email lists and first-party data vs. Subscribe & SaveThe review challenge: getting to 30-50 reviews on Amazon vs. social proof on DTCPlatform risks: copycats, algorithm changes, and operational nightmares on both sidesWhy AI is transforming DTC creative production and operational efficiencyStrategic use of both channels: when customers check Amazon after seeing DTC adsFundamental success factors: great branding, solving real problems, and staying focusedEpisode LinksDaybreak Agency (Amazon) Website: https://www.daybreakagency.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/daybreak-agencyGawronski Media (DTC Paid Media) Website: https://www.gawronskimedia.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gawronski-mediaDon't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

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• Investor Spotlight: Jaxon Stuart, Spacestation Investments

  In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Hannah Dittman sits down with Jaxon Stuart, Investor at Spacestation Investments, to explore a unique intersection of venture capital, influencer marketing, and creator-led brands. The conversation reveals how Spacestation evolved from a corporate angel arm founded by a top YouTuber into a full-fledged investment fund—and why their model of strategic SPVs combined with committed capital makes them stand out in the consumer investing landscape.Jaxon shares how Spacestation approaches investing through their "three Ps" framework: people, product, and progress. He discusses the transition from deal-by-deal SPVs to their newly launched venture fund, what momentum really means when evaluating early-stage brands, and why building authentic relationships with founders matters more than checking boxes. Drawing from portfolio successes like Magic Spoon, Graza, Olipop, and Oura Ring, Jaxson reveals what separates compelling investment opportunities and how Spacestation's creator network adds differentiated value beyond capital.Throughout the episode, listeners gain practical insights on investor-founder dynamics, when to start fundraising, and why every founder should write a comprehensive deal memo on their business. Whether you're pre-seed or scaling to Series A, this conversation offers actionable strategies for building fundable brands while leveraging modern marketing channels and maintaining operational excellence through AI and lean operations.Listen in as they discuss:Spacestation's origin story: from YouTuber-founded angel arm to venture fundThe Magic Spoon bowl and spoon origin story and early value-add investingSPVs vs. committed capital funds: structure, flexibility, and founder implicationsThe "three Ps" framework: people, product, and progress in diligenceWhy momentum across multiple metrics matters more than single data pointsBuilding 10+ year relationships with founders and the "low bar" of being a good investorHow Spacestation curates strategic SPV investors from the creator economyWhy every founder should write a living deal memo on their businessWhen to start fundraising: profitable growth vs. accelerating exit timelinesAI's role in operational efficiency and reducing headcount needsThe importance of being value-additive before asking for VC jobsEpisode Links:Website: https://www.spacestationinvestments.com Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaxonstuart/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/space-station-investments/Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.comShow Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (30K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Hannah's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

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• Founder Feature: Linda Xu of Huā Wellness

  In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Caitlin Bricker is joined by Linda Xu, founder of Huā Wellness—a wellness brand dedicated to stress relief through natural, clinically backed ingredients. Linda shares her journey from a demanding career in health tech to launching Huā Wellness, driven by a deeply personal experience with burnout and a passion for holistic health.They dive into the science behind key ingredients like ashwagandha, L-theanine, holy basil, and cacao seed, as well as the mental and physical impact of chronic stress. Linda also opens up about her own experience with burnout, navigating life as a solopreneur, and her mission to reconnect people with nature—even in an urban setting. They also discuss the gender stress gap, building brand community, and Huā Wellness’ commitment to promoting green spaces.Whether you're an aspiring founder, wellness enthusiast, or just someone who needs a little help managing stress, this episode offers insight, inspiration, and practical tips.Tune in to learn more about the science behind Hua Wellness and the entrepreneurial vision driving its growth.Listen in as they share about:Founding & Mission of Huā WellnessProducts & IngredientsUrban Wellness & Connection to NatureBranding and Cultural RootsGender Stress GapEntrepreneurial ExperienceCommunity and Customer EngagementAdvice to Aspiring FoundersEpisode Links:Website: https://huawellness.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamxu/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Caitlin's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

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• #224 - The Rise of NeuroGum with Kent Yoshimura

  In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Daniel Scharff sits down with Kent Yoshimura, co-founder and CEO of Neuro Gum, to explore how a rejected Shark Tank pitch turned into a nine-figure functional supplement brand pioneering the chewable energy category. Kent shares the journey of scaling Neuro from $3 million to over $100 million in revenue while competing against legacy giants like Mars Wrigley in one of CPG's most competitive spaces: the checkout lane.The conversation reveals how Neuro built direct-to-consumer dominance through TikTok virality, organic influencer partnerships (including Joe Rogan's 40+ mentions), and strategic collaborations with F1 drivers, DJs, and professional athletes. Kent explains the science behind cold-compressed gum, why microdosing caffeine works better than traditional energy products, and how thoughtful brand building and operational excellence drove exponential growth.Throughout the episode, listeners gain actionable insights on e-commerce fundamentals, new customer acquisition strategies, and how to build brand equity beyond paid advertising. Kent shares candid lessons on breaking into retail, navigating checkout space negotiations, and why staying humble while hiring experienced operators accelerates sustainable growth.Listen in as they discuss:How Neuro Gum scaled from $3M to 9 figures after Shark Tank rejectionThe science of chewable energy and why format innovation mattersNeuro's surprising consumer demographics and why older buyers convertE-commerce fundamentals: LTV/CAC optimization and customer acquisition strategyBuilding brand equity through organic partnerships over paid adsJoe Rogan's repeated endorsements and the power of strategic product seedingPartnership strategy: leveraging athletes and creators for credibilityBreaking into retail: competing for checkout space against Mars WrigleySupplement trends: established ingredients over novel compoundsScaling to $100M: staying humble and hiring people smarter than yourselfEpisode LinksWebsite: https://neurogum.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kentaro/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentyoshimura/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

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• Investor Spotlight: Alex Malamatinas of Melitas Ventures

  In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, host Hannah Dittman sits down with Alex Malamatinas, founder and managing partner of Melitas Ventures, to explore the realities of early-stage consumer brand investing. The conversation dives deep into what investors actually look for in CPG founders, how to navigate the fundraising process, and why understanding your financials—especially the difference between gross margin and contribution margin—can make or break your capital efficiency.Alex shares how Melitas Ventures approaches seed and Series A investments with a focus on authentic better-for-you brands, product-market fit, and strong unit economics. He discusses the importance of choosing the right investor partners, what due diligence really looks like, and how founders can position themselves for success before they even start raising capital. Drawing from portfolio successes like Olipop and Magic Spoon, Alex reveals what separates compelling investment opportunities from the rest.Throughout the episode, listeners gain insider perspective on investor-founder dynamics, the signs of a strong partnership, and practical benchmarks for margin profiles across food, beverage, beauty, and supplements. Whether you're pre-revenue or scaling to Series A, this conversation offers clarity on what matters most when building a fundable, sustainable CPG brand.Listen in as they discuss:How Melitas Ventures evaluates early-stage CPG brands (seed to Series A)The difference between gross margin and contribution margin—and why it mattersWhat investors look for in founding teams and co-founder dynamicsRed flags and green flags during the due diligence processHow to choose the right investment partner for your business stageRevenue traction benchmarks: what $1-10M in sales should look likeThe importance of sales velocity and retention metrics in early tractionWhen bold vision meets financial discipline: balancing growth and profitabilityHow to communicate your numbers effectively in investor pitchesWhy focus and staying in your lane beats trying to do too much too soonEmerging categories Alex is excited about: hair care, fragrance, and multicultural food brandsEpisode Links:Website: https://www.melitasventures.com/ Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-malamatinas-17a25124/Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/melitasventures/Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.comShow Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (30K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Hannah's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected] music by Super Fantastics

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