Venture capitalists have long been wary of beverage startups due to thin margins and tough distribution challenges. However, companies like Poppi are redefining this perspective. Poppi, known for its prebiotic soda, blossomed from a kitchen project into a $1.95 billion deal with PepsiCo. On TechCrunch’s Equity podcast, Poppi’s co-founder Allison Ellsworth discusses launching a beverage brand in a market primarily focused on SaaS and AI. From pitching on Shark Tank while heavily pregnant to achieving virality on TikTok and securing a last-minute Super Bowl ad, Ellsworth shares insights on building a leading consumer brand. As an investor on Shark Tank, she also reveals what she now seeks in entrepreneurs. Listen to Equity on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Overcast, Spotify, and other platforms. Follow Equity on X and Threads @EquityPod.
Poppi Founder Discusses TikTok, Super Bowl Ads, and Her Return to Shark Tank
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