Eric Martindale is the Founder and CEO of Elite Commerce Group, a full-service agency specializing in Amazon and retail media. Under his leadership, the company has driven over half a billion dollars in retail sales for clients, maintaining a strong focus on testing and innovation to stay at the forefront of digital marketing. A former Marine officer and adventure athlete turned e-commerce authority, Eric is also a passionate technocrat interested in futurism. His unique perspective stems from identifying and exploiting retail frontiers before they become mainstream.

As the retail landscape undergoes a seismic shift driven by automation and the pervasive influence of digital media, businesses face a complex yet exciting frontier. The future of retail is not merely about keeping pace with technological advancements; it requires a proactive approach that blends innovation with strategic agility. So, what strategies must companies that aspire to thrive in this new era implement?

Digital marketing expert Eric Martindale delves into the e-commerce and retail media world, providing invaluable insights into the latest innovations and trends reshaping the industry. He reveals how his agency has driven over half a billion dollars in retail sales through a strong emphasis on innovation and testing, helping brands to navigate the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape. From discussing the role of futurism in business to the profound impact of automation in retail, Eric provides actionable strategies for mission-driven food and beverage brands aiming to excel.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Eric Martindale, Founder and CEO of Elite Commerce Group, about future-focused strategies for brand success in retail. Eric discusses the value of a strong retail media plan, the future of automation and its impact on retail and fulfillment, and the value of adopting a culture of innovation and testing within your agency.

Raina Kumra is the Founder and CEO of Spicewell, a food brand focused on increasing micronutrient intake by enhancing everyday spices such as salt and pepper. She is redefining the concept of food as medicine by prioritizing ethically sourced, nutrient-enriched spices. With experience as an advisor to Google X and a partner leading healthcare and consumer deals at The Fund LA, Raina's expertise extends to digital and organizational transformation as the CEO of Juggernaut. In addition to her business acumen, she's committed to social impact through partnerships with organizations like the Desai Foundation.

In a world where food isn't just about sustenance but also healing, what role do spices play in our everyday health? How are they used to bridge the gap between flavor and medicine, and what ancient practices are being revamped for modern kitchens?

Raina Kumra, a highly creative operational leader, tackles these questions with innovative approaches to food as medicine. She shares how her journey of healing her family with spices motivated her to start Spicewell. She highlights the untapped potential of spices beyond cooking, emphasizing their health benefits rooted in Ayurvedic traditions. Raina elaborates on the powerful properties of spices like turmeric and pepper, discussing their anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits. Her insights reveal a fascinating intersection of culinary arts and health science, offering listeners a fresh perspective on everyday ingredients.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Raina Kumra, Founder and CEO of Spicewell, about the power of spices in food and health. Raina shares the history and critical importance of spices in our diet and global culture, the game-changing health benefits of spices, the inspiration behind creating Spicewell, and the importance of ethical spice sourcing.

Bryn Jones is the VP of Marketing of Huse Culinary, an upscale restaurant and retail food group based in Indianapolis. Huse Culinary owns and operates six restaurants and four restaurant brands, including St. Elmo Steak House, 1933 Lounge, Harry & Izzy’s, and The HC Tavern + Kitchen.

Bryn has spearheaded the expansion of the iconic St. Elmo Steak House cocktail sauce to 3,000 locations both regionally and nationally and launched the spirit side of the business with the introduction of vanilla cherry bourbon. His experience spans marketing to operations, with a keen ability to drive product innovation and market expansion. He is also the Founding Partner of Joey Chestnut Eats, a condiment brand with Joey Chestnut.

Have you ever wondered what it takes to elevate a storied brand to new heights without losing its soul? Navigating the complexities of production, branding, and market expansion is challenging, even for well-established companies. So, can steadfast dedication to quality and innovation create an impact in the competitive world of food and beverage?

Marketing expert Bryn Jones unpacks the nitty-gritty of building and expanding mission-driven food and beverage brands. Drawing on his experience with iconic names like St. Elmo Steak House, he shares his journey from promoting the renowned steakhouse to launching wildly successful products such as the vanilla cherry bourbon, Rare Saint Whiskey, and the all-new Barkeep Vodka. Bryn emphasizes the power of a great product, the importance of storytelling, and how strategic market positioning can make or break a brand.

On this episode of the Firebelly Social Show, Duncan Alney talks with Bryn Jones, VP of Marketing of Huse Culinary, about expanding iconic restaurant products into national retail markets. Bryn discusses how Huse Culinary helps restaurant brands thrive, the challenges and strategies in product expansion, the backstory of the vanilla cherry bourbon, Barkeep Vodka, and Rare Saint Whiskey, and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.