The Hard Truths of Fundraising Every Founder Needs to Hear (Melissa Facchina)

In this episode, I sit down with investor and CPG veteran Melissa Facchina to explore her path from working in her dad's juice manufacturing business to founding Siddhi Capital and becoming a leading voice in the consumer packaged goods space. Melissa shares how hands-on operational experience shaped her investing philosophy and why strong founder–investor relationships matter more than ever.

We talk about:

• Melissa’s early start in the juice industry and transition from consulting to investing
• Why she launched Siddhi Capital to bring real operational support to emerging brands
• The shift from “growth at all costs” to building resilient, durable businesses
• Challenges and opportunities in today’s competitive beverage market
• Trends like keto and plant-based—and why product quality can make or break them
• How investors must be willing to admit when they don't have the answers and collaborate with entrepreneurs

Whether you’re a founder, investor, or CPG enthusiast, you’ll walk away with practical insights on navigating today’s evolving consumer landscape.