In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Hannah Dittman speaks with Tyler Morgan, Principal at BFG Partners, about the firm’s approach to early-stage investing in consumer brands. Tyler discusses his career path into venture capital and BFG’s investment focus across food, beverage, supplements, beauty, and pet.

The conversation covers BFG’s investment criteria, deal sourcing methods, diligence process, and the key financial and operational metrics they evaluate in prospective portfolio companies. Tyler also shares insights on navigating fundraising, the importance of warm introductions, and how founders can position their businesses for sustainable growth and strategic exits.

This episode provides a clear, practical perspective for founders, operators, and industry professionals seeking to understand what investors look for and how to build long-term, venture-scale consumer businesses.

Listen now to gain expert insights from BFG Partners and strengthen your strategy for growth and fundraising.

Listen in as they share about:

• Overview of BFG Partners
• Investment Themes & Trends
• Early Metrics & What They Look For
• Deal Sourcing and Evaluation Criteria
• Exit Strategy & LP Expectations
• Diligence & Investment Process
• Pre-Revenue & Early Stage Fundraising
• Practical Advice for Founders & Aspiring Investors

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.bfgpartners.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylertmorgan1/

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 @startupcpg
• Visit host Hannah's Linkedin
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
• Episode music by Super Fantastics

In this episode of Startup CPG, Caitlin Bricker speaks with Joe Cassinelli, founder of El Nacho, a premium tortilla chip brand bringing restaurant-quality taste and craftsmanship to the snack aisle. Drawing on nearly 35 years in the restaurant industry, Joe shares the journey of building a manufacturing facility during the pandemic, rebranding from a generic product to a premium offering, and creating bold, lucha libre–inspired packaging that captures consumer attention.

Joe discusses El Nacho’s commitment to quality through the use of regeneratively farmed corn, in-house nixtamalization, and frying exclusively in avocado oil. He also explains how unique, all-natural flavors are developed directly from the menu of his Mexican restaurants, ensuring both authenticity and innovation. From navigating the slower pace of the CPG world to embracing its collaborative community, Joe offers valuable insights into scaling a brand in a competitive category while maintaining product integrity and consumer trust.

Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Flavor Creation & Inspiration
• Consumer Feedback & Iteration
• Relaunch & Rebranding
• Market Position & Retail Strategy
• Sales & Distribution
• Business Lessons & Advice

Episode Links:

Website: https://elnachochip.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-cassinelli-05a66b38/

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 @startupcpg
• Visit host Caitlin's Linkedin
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
• Episode music by Super Fantastics

Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpg

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff is joined by Lauren Handel, founder of Handel Food Law and one of the leading experts on food labeling and advertising compliance. Together, they break down the essential rules and risks of food labeling that every brand needs to know.

Lauren shares her perspective on high-risk claims such as “natural” and “organic,” the nuances of nutrient content and health-related claims, and the role of third-party certifications in reducing exposure to litigation. She also explains the differences between regulatory consultants and attorneys, how to navigate evolving litigation trends, and why consistency across packaging, websites, and advertising is essential.

Tune in now to learn how to protect your brand, avoid costly mistakes, and approach food labeling with a strong strategy.

Listen in as they share about:

• What is Food Labeling Law
• Litigation Trends and Risks
• Regulatory Framework
• Key Claim Categories and Rules
• The Role of Consultants vs. Attorneys
• Marketing Beyond Packaging
• Practical Guidance for Founders

  
  

Episode Links:
Website: https://www.handelfoodlaw.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-handel-food-lawyer/

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 @startupcpg
• Visit host Daniel's Linkedin
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
• Episode music by Super Fantastics
  
  

Don’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.com