The Wynn's Kitchen Podcast

The Storytelling Secret That Turns Rejection Into Yes with Mike Bosworth

Wynn Austin — Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:29:09 GMT

In this episode, Wynn Austin interviews her long time mentor and sales pioneer Mike Bosworth, about the lessons that shaped both of their entrepreneurial paths.

They explore how curiosity, storytelling, and genuine human connection make selling feel less like persuasion and more like helping people see what’s possible. Mike shares how his early experience supporting customers at Xerox taught him to understand people’s real challenges before moving into sales—and eventually creating Solution Selling.

The conversation also covers Wynn’s persistence building her sauce brand, handling rejection from retailers, and why “no” often means “not now.” They close on the power of vulnerability: going first in deeper conversations creates trust, whether in business, friendships, or relationships.

Takeaways

The importance of curiosity in sales
Using storytelling to build trust
The role of vulnerability in sales and leadership
Strategies for overcoming rejection in sales
The impact of human connection on business success

To learn more about Mike Bosworth and his books, please see links below.

Connect with Mike Bosworth

Want to learn more about Mike Bosworth and his groundbreaking approach to sales, storytelling, and building authentic connections with customers? Connect with Mike on LinkedIn and explore his bestselling books:

Connect with Mike:
Mike Bosworth on LinkedIn

Books by Mike Bosworth:

📚 Solution Selling: Creating Buyers in Difficult Selling Markets
A foundational guide to moving away from traditional product-focused selling and instead helping customers identify problems and discover solutions.
Buy on Amazon

📚 CustomerCentric Selling
Co-authored with John Holland, this book focuses on aligning the sales process with how customers actually want to buy and creating meaningful, buyer-focused conversations.
Buy on Amazon

📚 What Great Salespeople Do: The Science of Selling Through Emotional Connection and the Power of Story
Co-authored with Ben Zoldan, this book explores how storytelling, empathy, authenticity, and emotional connection can transform the way we sell and influence others.
Buy on Amazon

Follow Mike and dive deeper into his work to learn how better conversations, authentic storytelling, and a customer-centered approach can change the way we think about sales.

Episode 5: Find Strength in Community

Wynn Austin — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 19:00:00 GMT

If you enjoyed this episode, please be sure to share and subscribe to the podcast on apple podcast, spotify, or i heart radio. Please leave us a review on apple to help others like you, find our podcast.

To order our delicous & Keto Friendly Asian sauces & healthy recipes, please feel free to check out our website - www.wynnskitchen.com

You can also connect with me on Instagram at Wynn’s Kitchen, that’s my social media of choice. I’m on there daily, sharing what I’m up to and what I’m cooking up!

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 1: Shroomeats providing a healthier way for meat alternative

Wynn Austin — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 19:00:00 GMT

My very first podcast episode of “In the Kitchen with Wynn” I interviewed Dissaya of Shroomeats on her entrepreneurial journey and get her advice.

I’ve had this idea for a long time, and decided to push out of my comfort zone and to go for it. I love sharing my story, and learning about other founder’s stories!

It’s my way of giving back and helping anyone that is on their own entrepreneurial journey. I’ve learned and continue to learn from so many people.

Is it amateur quality: YES,

Was I nervous as hell? HELL YES

Can I do better on editing: DEFINITELY

Do I think my head moves in circles a lot when I talk? 10,000 %

BUT…..if just one person finds the interviews helpful and even a tiny bit inspiring, then it was worth it to me.

Meet Dissaya of Shroomeats!
https://www.shroomeats.co/

Listen in to hear about what inspired her to start her business and some of her business advice. She is setting out to provide delicious and hearty meat alternative "meat" that is made of shitakke mushrooms. She wanted a healthy alternative that tastes good and is natural.

I loved connecting with her and have learned so much for her! Especially since Pandemic, I think most of us are trying to eat healthier and more plant based.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode: 26: How a Bath Bomb Inspired a 10-Year Journey to Revolutionize Tea with Sashee Chandran

Wynn Austin — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin speaks with Sashee Chandran, founder of TeaDrops, about her journey in creating a unique tea experience that combines convenience with quality. Sashee shares her background, the inspiration behind her innovative product, and the challenges she faced in growing her business from a kitchen project to a brand available in major retailers like Walmart and Sprouts. The conversation delves into the importance of quality control, retail strategies, and the balance between family life and entrepreneurship. Sashee offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for humility, resilience, and a clear vision.

Takeaways

Sashee's background in tea influenced her passion for creating TeaDrops.
The idea for TeaDrops came from a desire for quality and convenience in tea.
Sashee's journey involved testing her product at farmer's markets.
Quality control is crucial in maintaining product consistency.
Navigating retail partnerships requires careful consideration of costs and margins.
Sashee emphasizes the importance of community and feedback in product development.
The transition from co-packing to self-manufacturing provided more flexibility.
Balancing family life with business is a constant challenge for entrepreneurs.
Sashee encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to start somewhere and be receptive to feedback.
Resilience and a clear vision are essential for long-term success.

To shop Tea Drops and connect with Sahsee, please see the links below.

https://www.myteadrop.com/

Instagram: myteadrops

Linkedin: Sashee Chandran

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 15: Being Seen and Heard: The Power of Authenticity in Marketing with Judy Tsuei

Wynn Austin — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode, host Wynn Austin interviews Judy Tsuei, the founder of Wild Hearted Words, a marketing agency based in San Diego. They discuss Judy's journey as an Asian American woman in entrepreneurship, the importance of storytelling in marketing, and the power of being seen and heard. They also touch on topics such as the impact of upbringing on self-expression, the role of curiosity in personal and professional growth, and the connection between physical and emotional well-being.

In this conversation, Wynn Austin and Judy discuss the importance of authenticity and self-compassion in both personal and professional journeys. They explore the damaging effects of perfectionism and the pressure to present a curated image on social media. They also touch on the power of storytelling and the role it plays in branding and marketing.

Judy shares her work in helping businesses develop their brand strategy and content marketing, while also empowering individuals to embrace their authentic selves. They discuss the value of podcasts in providing support and understanding, and the importance of finding a supportive community.

Key Takeaways

The importance of being seen and heard in personal and professional relationships
The power of storytelling in marketing and business
The impact of upbringing on self-expression and the journey to finding one's voice
The role of curiosity in personal and professional growth
The connection between physical and emotional well-being Authenticity and self-compassion are essential in personal and professional journeys.
Perfectionism and the pressure to present a curated image on social media can be damaging.
Storytelling plays a powerful role in branding and marketing.
Developing a brand strategy and content marketing can help businesses scale and increase visibility.

Thank you for tuning in! To learn more about today's guest and dive deeper into her work, check out the links below:

Website: Wild Hearted Words
Podcast: F*ck Saving Face
Kickstarter Book Campaign

Judy is also writing a new book and has launched a kickstarter campaign:
Book: How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps
For today's overperforming, overwhelmed, and over-it AANHPI who's tired of the Model Minority Myth—and immigrant parent expectations!

If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an update. You can also follow Wynn on social media for behind-the-scenes of her entrepreneurial journey on building Wynn's Kitchen and upcoming podcast guest announcements. Need some dinner inspiration, be sure to check out recipes and information on her Natural Asian sauces on the website!

www.wynnskitchen.com
Instagram: wynnskitchen

If you would like to be a sponsor, please feel free to contact us at hello@wynnskitchen.com

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 14: Save Time, Money, and Avoid Mistakes by Leveraging expertise from CPG Experts on CPG Brains

Wynn Austin — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 17:00:00 GMT

In this podcast episode, I interviewed our special guest Phil Gorman, the founder of CPG Brains, an online marketplace connecting CPG brands with independent industry experts.

Phil shares his journey as a CPG brand owner and the challenges he faced in finding the right consultants and resources. He explains how CPG Brains aims to provide a platform for brands to connect with experts in various sectors, including sales and marketing, operations, finance, and e-commerce. The platform offers flexible and affordable options for brands to get real-world advice and support from experienced professionals.

We also explore the difference between the old world and new world approaches to business in the CPG industry. The old world approach is characterized by a focus on manufacturing, taking orders, and following processes, while the new world approach emphasizes problem-solving, getting things done, and building relationships.

We also cover the importance of knowing when to say no and being disciplined in business decisions is highlighted. Phil talks about the value of collaborations and partnerships as valuable strategies for growth and exposure.

Both Phil and I understand the significance of having experts and consultants who understand and care about your brand - in addition to having valuable advice that can save CPG brands time and money. They may also save the brand from making expensive mistakes.

CPG Brains has experts that covers a wide range of categories from financial, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, fundraising, sales, and more!

You can find an expert for the areas you need help with on their website at: https://www.cpgbrains.com/

Since I started Wynn's Kitchen from my own kitchen, I've learned SO much, and there is so much information (even simple ones) that I wish I knew from the beginning. One of my passions is helping others, so you can also find me on CPG Brains if you need help or advice with launching your own brand!

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking! You can also order my products through our website.

https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Celebrate Your Progress to Keep Moving Forward

Wynn Austin — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 15:00:00 GMT

To kick off 2024, one of my goals is to hop on the mic and create more solo episodes! This past year has been a transformative year for me and for Wynn’s Kitchen. Many people have asked me how I created a sauce from my kitchen, to eventually landing on the shelves of grocery stores. I’m ready to start sharing my journey of how I got into this business and the lessons that I’m learning along the way.

To jumpstart my solo series, I would like to share my word for 2024! Every year, I like to pick a word that will help guide me and the word that is resonating with me is CELEBRATE.

We all need to take time to celebrate our progress instead of focusing on the outcome. As a goal oriented person, I’m definitely guilty of having moments of attaching my self worth to an outcome.

I’ve learned that mentality does not serve me or anybody else! So let’s CELEBRATE the sheer joy of taking a leap of faith in something that you believe in. CELEBRATE change - even when it’s hard. CELEBRATE our health- because it’s truly the real meaning of wealth. CELEBRATE relationships that are meaningful to us,

ALWAYS CELEBRATE your progress of whatever you are trying to achieve. Big goals are not accomplished overnight, they are achieved through compounding all the small wins. I’ve learned this first hand, from making chili sauce in my kitchen as a side hustle to going ALL IN and landing on over 200 shelves. Building my business is still a work in progress every day!

Friends, thank you so much for listening to The Wynn’s Kitchen Podcast! I look forward to CELEBRATING this incredible journey with you!

If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review on Apple Podcast and Spotify. To make sure you never miss a new episode, please hit the subscribe button and share with your friends that may benefit from this message.

If you are interested in learning more about Wynn’s Kitchen and our products, head over to our website wynnskitchen.com and discover our natural and keto friendly Asian food products and get inspired with our healthy recipes!

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking! You can also order my products through our website.

Website: https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 20: Boundless Futures: Supporting Women in Business with Soon Hagerty

Wynn Austin — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 18:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin speaks with Soon Hagerty, founder of the Boundless Futures Foundation, about the importance of supporting women entrepreneurs. They discuss their personal journeys as Vietnamese immigrants, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the mission of the foundation to provide financial resources and mentorship to aspiring female business owners. The conversation highlights the need for financial literacy and access to capital, as well as the impact of social issues on business success. In this conversation, Soon Hagerty and Wynn Austin discuss the significant gender disparity in venture capital funding, the importance of community support for women entrepreneurs, and the challenges they face in their entrepreneurial journeys. They emphasize the need for women to prioritize their time, say no to distractions, and be financially savvy.

The discussion also highlights the vision for Boundless Futures, a foundation aimed at supporting women-led businesses, and the importance of celebrating small wins in the entrepreneurial journey.

Takeaways

Women inspire me, especially female founders.
Access to financial capital is crucial for entrepreneurs.
Mentorship is vital for navigating business challenges.
Many entrepreneurs lack focus and can overspend early on.
Financial literacy is often underestimated among founders.
The foundation provides grants to women with social impact businesses.
43% of U.S. businesses are owned by women, but only 3% receive venture capital.
Personal stories of immigrant families can drive entrepreneurial spirit.
Starting a business without experience can lead to valuable learning opportunities.
The restaurant industry has a high failure rate, emphasizing the need for savvy business practices. 97% of venture capital goes to men-led businesses.
Women often struggle with saying no, impacting their focus.
Community support is crucial for women's success in business.
Women-led businesses tend to be more community-oriented.
Flexibility in entrepreneurship is vital for women with families.
Financial literacy is essential for entrepreneurial success.
Prioritization is key in managing entrepreneurial challenges.
Celebrating small wins can boost morale and motivation.
Networking can lead to valuable mentorship opportunities.
Starting a business requires clarity on the problem being solved.

To learn more about the opportunities at Boundless Futures:

https://boundlessfutures.org/

https://www.instagram.com/boundless_futures/

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 8: Learn about Sustainable Seafood with The Fishmonger - Tommy Gomes

Wynn Austin — Wed, 15 Mar 2023 16:00:00 GMT

"Sustainable Seafood for me is harvesting species in a manor that is non-destructive to the fishing habitat, not overfishing, with minimal bycatch." - Tommy Gomes

I had the opportunity to chat with Tommy Gomes, known as The Fishmonger in our home town of San Diego, and a TV personality on the Show "The Fishmonger" aired on the Outdoor Channel. Tommy is a San Diego native, whose Portuguese family settled here in 1892. He is the fifth generation of fisherman, but has left the commercial side of fishing, and found himself being an advocate for sustainable seafood.

Being a foodie, I've met Tommy through mutual chefs and friends in the community almost 10 years ago, and was able to reconnect with him when he launched the local fish market & grocery - Tunaville Market - who is also Wynn's Kitchen's retail partner.

In this episode Tommy shares with me the importance of sustainability, responsible fishing practices, encouraging restaurants, chefs, and educating the public on eating local.

Tommy explains that are are so many variety of delicious fish that are caught locally and encourages people to try new types of fish instead of sticking with the fish that are popular. Many times those fish are caught overseas, and travel thousands of miles before they land on our plates. There are a surplus of delicious fish in the area that are underutilized.

Listen in and learn about the hidden secrets behind our seafood, and how we can get better quality seafood, while supporting our local community.

To connect with Tommy and stay updated, follow him on Instagram and watch him on the Outdoor Channel.
https://www.instagram.com/tommythefishmonger/?hl=en
https://www.outdoorchannel.com/hosts/tommy-gomes/388651

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking!

https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

You can find Wynn's Kitchen's products at Tommy's Market - Tunaville Market & Grocery

If you enjoy the show, please support this podcast

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

In the Kitchen with Wynn: Meet Jaden of Steamy Kitchen

Wynn Austin — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 05:00:00 GMT

In this episode, listen in with Jaden Rae, TV Chef, Two-time Author & Founder of Steamy Kitchen.

Jaden is such a bright spirit! You can hear the smile in her voice. She shares her advice on building resilience.

"Make decisions on your commitments and not how you feel" There are days that you won't feel like doing the things that you need to do. But you have to stick to your commitments.

You are not going to want to miss this episode! Listen to the full episode with the Link in Bio under Podcast.

Steamy Kitchen: https://steamykitchen.com/
Wynn's Kitchen: Podcasts

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 24: Finding the Soul of your brand with Asha Mody with Mindsy Design

Wynn Austin — Tue, 30 Sep 2025 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin speaks with Asha Mody, founder of Mindsy Design, about the importance of mindful branding. Asha shares her journey in the design industry and emphasizes the need for brands to have a soul and authenticity. The conversation explores the challenges faced by entrepreneurs, the significance of mindfulness in business, and the power of saying no. Asha provides valuable insights on building a purpose-driven brand, the role of cultural identity, and the importance of community engagement. The episode concludes with practical advice for founders on how to navigate their branding journey with clarity and intention.

Takeaways

A brand must have a soul to resonate with its audience.
Authenticity is key in creating a meaningful brand.
Mindfulness in business helps prevent burnout.
Saying no is a powerful tool for founders.
Understanding your audience's needs is crucial for success.
Clarity in messaging can significantly impact brand perception.
Cultural identity plays a vital role in branding.
Community engagement enhances brand loyalty.
Mindfulness practices can improve decision-making in business.
A clear strategy is essential for sustainable growth.

To connect with Asha and learn more about her services, please head over to her website:

https://www.mindsy.design/

Connect with Asha on Linkedin

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 25: Celebrating Small Victories in Entrepreneurship

Wynn Austin — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of celebrating small victories. She shares personal experiences and insights on how recognizing these moments can foster a positive mindset and encourage growth. Wynn discusses the loneliness of entrepreneurship and the significance of connecting with customers and industry peers.She expresses gratitude towards supporters and encourages fellow founders to stay authentic and enjoy their journey, reminding them that they are doing better than they think.

Takeaways

Celebrating small victories is crucial for maintaining motivation.
Comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy in entrepreneurship.
Building a habit of recognizing achievements can enhance focus.
Connecting with customers provides valuable feedback and joy.
Gratitude towards supporters is essential for a positive mindset.
Every small win contributes to overall growth and success.
Entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey; celebrate your wins.
Staying authentic to your mission is key to fulfillment.
Learning from others in the industry can be beneficial.
Enjoying the journey is as important as the destination.

Resources

Chiso's Capital -Funding ambition & People

https://www.chisos.io/

Cailan Ventures

https://cailan.ventures/

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 4: Little Changes - Big Results for Healthier Living with Steph's Fit Culture

Wynn Austin — Mon, 20 Jun 2022 18:00:00 GMT

"People don't realize the impact of what they put into their bodies, and on their bodies. It effects their hormones, mood, sleep". -- Steph.

When I got a recipe emailed into my inbox, I was curious to check it out! I can't believe that it was from Steph, the owner of Bodyrok (a mega pilates class that I enjoy going to, time to time in between tennis) I checked out her blog and recipes and decided to reach out!

We connected right away and ended up doing a Bodyrok session together and chatting over lunch. I knew that so many people would benefit from Steph's passion for helping people not only look good but feel good.

Steph and her kids have helped many families transition to more plant-based and non-toxic living by showing them the benefits and ease of making little changes to their lifestyle. It has been a long time dream of Steph’s to share her passion for health and wellness with a bigger audience and bring Steph’s Fit Culture to life through this website.

She talks about how we can start making little changes which will eventually compound and becomes a big change with massive results.

I'm not a Vegan or Vegetarian but I love veggies and just looking at her blog, it has helped me replace at least a few meals a week to be vegetarian. "Little Changes....Big Results"

Please feel free to check out Stephanie on Instagram and her website!

Instagram: Stephsfitculture
Website: www.stephsfitculture.com

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode: 9: Never Ignore Your Dreams w/ Ellen Lee

Wynn Austin — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 19:00:00 GMT

On this inspiring episode of In the Kitchen with Wynn, we head into the journey of Ellen C. Lee—professional organizer and author of cookbook "Food That Anchors."

With her love of organizing and food, Ellen was able to make healthy and quick meals in her kitchen to fit her on the go lifestyle. She never imagined that she would be destine to write a cookbook.

Her destiny found her when she would create workshops and would bring food for the guests attending. She was taken aback when the guests were more excited about her food than the content of the workshop!

She felt that it was a divine encounter that lead her to decided to write a cookbook. She wanted to share her gift and help others eat healthy on the run. Pushing away self doubts, she continued to pursue her dreams with the attitude that no gift is too small. If she only helped a couple people, we cannot discount the impact that it has on those people. That attitude helped her pursue her dreams with the goal of helping others.

During our engaging conversation, these are some of my favorite takeaways:

Nothing is too small to share, you never know the impact that it makes onto others.

The order of execution is really the key in saving time in the kitchen.

Find someone to hold you ACCOUNTABLE to your goal

There is wisdom in having a framework to keep you organized but always be open and flexible

Never Ignore your dreams....do things your way and no dream or project is too small to bring to life

This conversation with Ellen Lee has gotten me fired up to get going with my cookbook! I know that it's going make you think of what gift you have to bring into this world to help others!

Stay connected with Ellen & Purchase her cookbook!
https://www.instagram.com/foodthatanchors/
https://www.foodthatanchors.com/

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

You can find Wynn's Kitchen's products in markets (store locater on our website) and on our website.
https://wynnskitchen.com/

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 19: SipWell Wine: A New Era of Canned Wine with Hilary Cocalis

Wynn Austin — Tue, 29 Oct 2024 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin interviews Hilary Cocalis, founder of SipWell Wine, an award-winning premium sustainable canned wine brand based in San Diego and produced in California. Hilary shares her journey from working in the beer industry to creating a unique line of sparkling wines in cans, emphasizing the importance of convenience and quality. The conversation explores the challenges of running a small business, especially as a mother, and the strategies Hilary employs to market her brand and connect with the community. They also discuss the recent rebranding and expansion of SipWell Wine's distribution.

Takeaways

Hilary transitioned from the beer industry to wine due to a personal interest.
SipWell Wine focuses on premium quality canned sparkling wines.
The names of the wines celebrate hard work and achievements.
Launching during the pandemic allowed for a unique market entry.
Convincing consumers to take canned wine seriously is a key challenge.
Community engagement is crucial for building brand awareness.
Resources like Naturally San Diego help emerging brands connect.
Rebranding was aimed at communicating quality through packaging.
Distribution has expanded significantly with a new distributor.
Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is a continuous challenge.

To learn more about Sipwell Wines and to put in an order you can head over to their website.

sipwellwine.com

For our listeners, enjoy 20% off on your first order with code: WYNN

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 28: Building Community and Authenticity in the Natural Food Industry with Jimbo Somek of Jimbo’s Naturally

Wynn Austin — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this episode of "Wynn's Kitchen Podcast," host Wynn Austin interviews Jimbo Somek, founder of Jimbo's Naturally, an organic grocery store. They discuss the importance of community involvement, environmental practices, and the journey of building a natural food brand. Jimbo shares his experiences from starting at a co-op to establishing his own store, emphasizing the significance of passion and relationships in business. Wynn reflects on her own journey of creating an Asian sauce brand, highlighting the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship. The conversation underscores the impact of making conscious choices in food and business.

Takeaways:

Jimbo's founding story and community impact
The importance of passion and authenticity in food business
Building trust and loyalty through transparency
Sustainable practices and environmental responsibility
Supporting local farmers and small brands
Challenges of scaling a local business
The role of relationships in retail success
Lessons for new food entrepreneurs

Resources & Links:

This episode celebrates authentic relationships, community impact, and the journey of sustainable growth in the natural foods industry.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 7: Overcoming Your Fears

Wynn Austin — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 21:00:00 GMT

I had a wonderful time chatting with Christine Keller who is the founder, and CEO of Moodify Food. She is located in San Francisco, CA - a city that will always have a part of my heart.

Christine shares with me about her journey in starting a company that helps you start off the day the right way, with a healthy and nutritious oatmeal focused on ingredients that helps boost your mood!

With all of us, finally starting our recovery of coming out of the pandemic the past 3 years, I truly believe there are many lingering effects, and one of the most important one is our mental health. I love Christine's focus on nourishing our bodies and her focus on the social impact of improving our moods and mental health.

When I asked Christine, what her biggest challenge in her business, I was pleasantly surprised by her candidness. She said her biggest mental challenge is Fear. Wow!!! How many times do we all focus on our logistical problems but we don't pay enough attention to our own internal challenges.

I LOVED her vulnerability...when she shared that, it struck a huge chord with me. I, myself struggle with fear every single day and knowing that we are not alone really helps.

In this episode, you'll learn about some of our logistical challenges we face, and more importantly our mental challenges and how to overcome them.

For more information about Moodify and Christine's story.
Visit: https://www.moodifyfood.com/our-oatmeal

For more information on Wynn's Kitchen and my store:

https://wynnskitchen.com/

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 27: How a Former Academic Built the Only Pan-Asian Market in a Desert Town - Macy Ring of The Ginger Rabbit

Wynn Austin — Tue, 12 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Growing a Community-Centric Asian Food Business: The Ginger Rabbit's Journey

Join Wynn Austin in this inspiring episode as he chats with Macy Ring, founder of The Ginger Rabbit, a Pan-Asian grocery store in Yucca Valley, California. Macy shares her entrepreneurial journey, from sourcing unique products directly from companies to creating a space that celebrates Asian food stories and community connection. Whether you're interested in niche food retail, community building, or authentic ingredient sourcing, this episode offers valuable insights.

Links:

The Ginger Rabbit - https://thegingerabbit.com
Follow Macy on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thegingerrabbit_market

Wynn's Kitchen Products - https://wynnskitchen.com

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode: 11: Nature's Alchemy The Enchanting affects of Fermentation with Madge's Food

Wynn Austin — Sat, 24 Jun 2023 20:00:00 GMT

Welcome to "In the Kitchen With Wynn" In this podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of nutrition and fermentation. Our special guest is Mike Miller, CEO of Madge's Food.

Join us as we embark on a flavorful journey, uncovering the secrets behind the importance of gut health and the positive impact of fermentation on our well-being.

Mike shares with us the magic of probiotics, the intricate fermentation processes, and gain insights into the diverse range of flavors and textures that these transformative foods offer.

Listen in and learn about how Mike and his family business got the idea to launch Madge's food and their passion for fermentation!

You can learn more about Madge's food and order their delicious products at
https://madgesfood.com/

SAVE 10% OFF with CODE: Wynn10

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking! You can also order my products through our website.

https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 16: How Eating REAL Food led to a Chili Sauce Business

Wynn Austin — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 15:00:00 GMT

In this episode of The Wynn's Kitchen podcast, Wynn Austin shares her journey of starting a natural Asian sauce business from scratch. She discusses her initial dreams of working with food, the health challenges she faced that led her to explore healthier eating, and how she created a delicious, healthy version of her favorite Vietnamese sauce- The Sate Chili sauce - that resonated with her community.

Wynn reflects on the overwhelming yet exciting transition from a home kitchen to the idea of a business, emphasizing the importance of taking the first step in entrepreneurship.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 17: Siete Foods' acquisition by PepsiCo is a significant milestone for the CPG industry

Wynn Austin — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin discusses the recent acquisition of Siete Foods by PepsiCo for $1.2 billion, reflecting on the inspiring journey of Siete Foods and its impact on the CPG industry. Wynn shares her personal connection to Siete's story and how it motivated her to pursue her own business, Wynn's Kitchen, focusing on better-for-you Asian sauces. The conversation emphasizes the importance of believing in one's mission and the challenges faced by entrepreneurs in the food industry.

Takeaways

Siete Foods' acquisition by PepsiCo is a significant milestone for the CPG industry.
The story of Siete Foods inspired Wynn to pursue her own business.
Entrepreneurship often involves overcoming self-doubt and fear of failure.
Creating products that solve real problems can lead to success.
The importance of clean ingredients in food products is paramount.
Wynn's Kitchen aims to provide better-for-you Asian sauces.
Entrepreneurs should celebrate the successes of others in their industry.
Building a brand requires persistence and belief in one's mission.
The journey of entrepreneurship can be lonely, but support is crucial.
Reflecting on the reasons for starting a business can reignite passion.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 18: Building Your Brand as an Author with Indie Publisher Quill Hawk Publishing

Wynn Austin — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin interviews Amy M. Le, an author and founder of Quill Hawk Publishing

They discuss Amy's journey from writing her first book, 'Snow in Vietnam', to establishing her own publishing company to help other authors navigate the indie publishing landscape. The conversation covers the challenges of self-publishing, the importance of patience in the publishing process, and the emotional journey of bringing a book to life. Amy shares insights on marketing, building a brand, and the unique stories that every author has to tell, emphasizing that there is always room for more voices in the literary world.

They also talked about Wynn's upcoming Vietnamese cookbook that will focus on having a healthy twist on traditional dishes. The Wynn's Kitchen Cookbook will be published with Quill Hawk Publishing and will be the first cookbook that is published.

Takeaways

Amy M. Le's first book is 'Snow in Vietnam', based on her family's escape from Vietnam.
She founded Quillhawk Publishing to help indie authors navigate the publishing process.
The self-publishing journey can be overwhelming, but support is available.
Indie publishing allows authors full control over their work and rights.
Patience is essential in the publishing industry, as it can take years to see a book published.
Marketing should start as soon as the idea for a book is conceived.
Every author's journey is unique, and there is no one right way to publish.
Building a brand is crucial for authors to connect with their audience.
The emotional experience of holding your published book is profound and rewarding.
There is always room for more stories, and every author has a unique perspective to share.

Find out more about Quill Hawk Publishing through their website:

https://quillhawkpublishing.com/
Instagram: Quill Hawk Publishing

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

EPISODE 2: In the Kitchen with Wynn -Neda of Ossum Bone Broth - Not all Bone Broth are the same

Wynn Austin — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 19:00:00 GMT

I had the opportunity to sit down with Neda, Founder of Ossum Bone Broth. I learned about what inspired her to start her business. She taught me that not all bone broth are created equal, down to the sourcing of the bones and what determines real bone broth! The health benefits of bone broth was just so immense! She walks us through the process and the joys and challenges of starting a new business.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 10: Unleashing the Magic of Storytelling with Courtney Shane

Wynn Austin — Mon, 05 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Get ready to learn the magic of unleashing the magic of storytelling to engage, inspire, and connect with your audience on a deeper level. Do you have a compelling brand story? How important is storytelling for your business?

In this month's episode, I had a in-depth conversation with Courtney Shane, Founder & CEO of Challenger Brand Group, a consulting firm that builds consumer-focused strategies for emerging brands.

Storytelling sounds so simple right? It's actually something that most people struggle with the most! But if you are in sales, have your own business, or is a founder of a company, storytelling is the FOUNDATION of your business and can have a huge impact on your business.

A strong story can mean the difference between someone buying your product,
investing in you, or supporting your business plan vs. being forgotten or
dismissed or getting pushback.

Listen in as Courtney shares, not only the impact of storytelling, but advice and tips on how to unleash the magic of your own brand or business story. More importantly, she shares the BIGGEST mistakes seen in storytelling, and how you can AVOID them!

This episode is gold my friends! Please share it with your friends if you found it helpful and if you think they will find it helpful!

If you could use some help on developing your story or need additional help with your brand, connect with Courtney!

Challenger Brand Group
https://www.challengerbrandgroup.com/

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking! You can also order my products through our website.

https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 21: The Art of Public Relations with Jess Windell of Maven's Consulting

Wynn Austin — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin speaks with Jess Windell, founder of Maven's Consulting, about the intricacies of public relations (PR) and its importance for consumer packaged goods (CPG) brands. They discuss the evolution of PR, the challenges brands face, and the significance of storytelling in marketing. Jess introduces her DIY PR course, Catalyst, designed to empower emerging brands with the knowledge and tools to manage their own PR effectively. The conversation also touches on the PESO model and the changing landscape of media and consumer trust.

To learn more about Maven's Consulting and the DIY PR program Catalyst for emerging brands, visit:

Maven Consulting

Catalyst

Save $500 on the Catalyst program with code: WYNN

Takeaways

PR is an art form that requires creativity and trial and error.
Understanding your stakeholders is crucial for brand success.
It's important to have your brand foundation set before investing in PR.
Authenticity in storytelling is vital for connecting with consumers.
Brands should leverage earned media for maximum exposure.
Shark Tank may not be the best investment of time for brands.
Building relationships with retailers can enhance PR efforts.
PR is about managing reputation and building trust with consumers.
Catalyst offers a comprehensive approach to learning PR at your own pace.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 23: Unlocking Retail Success with EILEEN

Wynn Austin — Fri, 30 May 2025 17:00:00 GMT

In this episode of the Wynn's Kitchen podcast, Wynn speaks with Jordan Karcher, founder of Eileen, an innovative app designed to help consumer product brands manage their products in retail stores. They discuss Karcher's background in the CPG industry, the challenges brands face in retail, the importance of data, and how his app Eileen connects brands with shoppers to gather actionable insights.

Karcher shares his vision for Eileen, the unique shopper experience it offers, and provides valuable advice for CPG brands looking to grow and succeed in a competitive market.

You can learn more about Eileen on their website:

https://www.shopwitheileen.com/

Takeaways

Eileen is like Uber for insights for brands.
Data is crucial for CPG brands but often hard to obtain.
Retail challenges often lead to unexpected outcomes for brands.
Physical presence in stores is essential for product management.
Eileen aims to provide actionable insights for brands.
Shoppers using Eileen provide real-world perspectives on product placement.
The app is designed to be user-friendly and gamified for shoppers.
Brands can set up rewards for product checks in specific stores.
Eileen is retailer agnostic, allowing flexibility for brands.
Focus on creating a great product and the rest will follow.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 22: The Five P's of CPG: A Roadmap to Growth with Marka Basile of Grocery Geeks

Wynn Austin — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Wynn's Kitchen podcast, host Wynn Austin speaks with Marka Basile of Grocery Geeks about the journey of emerging brands in the food and consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry.

They discuss the importance of starting in farmer's markets, navigating distribution challenges, and the critical role of marketing in driving sales. Marka shares insights on the evolving retail landscape, the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship, and strategies for success in a competitive market.

In this conversation, Marka Basile and Wynn Austin discuss the complexities of running a food business, emphasizing the importance of navigating challenges, understanding pricing strategies, and the significance of the five P's of CPG.

They share insights on building long-term client relationships, managing promotions, and knowing when to work with a broker. The discussion also highlights the importance of market demand and staying focused in a competitive landscape, with real-life success stories illustrating the journey of growth in the food industry.

Takeaways

Emerging brands often start in farmer's markets to test their products.
Distribution is a significant challenge for new brands, requiring strategic planning.
Marketing budgets and consumer engagement are crucial for success.
Retailers are increasingly integrating smaller natural products into their offerings.
The CPG industry is becoming more competitive, making it harder for new brands to enter.
Understanding the sales dynamics is essential for moving products off the shelf.
Emotional attachment to products can cloud decision-making for entrepreneurs.
Building relationships with retailers is key to gaining shelf space.
Successful brands need to focus on reorders rather than just initial sales.
Learning from mistakes and adapting strategies is vital for growth. You can talk through issues and come out the other side with a better perspective.
Filling out forms for distributors can be incredibly complicated.
Understanding pricing strategies is crucial for success in retail.
The power of penny profits can significantly impact your margins.
It's essential to have a solid pricing structure to avoid losing money.
The five P's of CPG (Product, Price, Place, Promotion, People) are vital for business success.
Building long-term relationships with clients can lead to sustained growth.
Promotions and managing retailer relationships require constant attention.
Knowing when to work with a broker can accelerate your market entry.
Market demand should be validated before investing heavily in product development.

To connect with Marka and learn more about her services at Grocery Geeks check out the following links:

Website: https://grocerygeeks.net/

Instagram: Grocery Geeks

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 12: Bringing the power of Ginseng to the forefront with Juliet Blake, founder of Ginsa

Wynn Austin — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 19:00:00 GMT

Welcome to "The Wynn's Kitchen Podcast" In this episode, I have a special guest, Juliet Blake - founder of Ginsa - a brand new, sparkling ginseng tonic beverage.

In this episode, not only do we discuss how we share a passion of sharing flavors from our own culture with the world, but also the challenges it takes in starting a natural food and beverage brand. With over 20 years of experience in the beverage business, Juliet shares her foundational strategy for scaling a consumer goods brand.

With a wealth of experience working in the CPG industry with notable brands such as Mama Chia and Zico, she decided that it was time to start her own brand and share the power of Ginseng to the masses by making it accessible and relatable.

Juliet’s love for Ginseng comes from her Korean heritage. She grew up drinking Ginseng and loves the flavor and how it helps her focus and have mental clarity without the coffee jitters. The popularity of Ginseng drinks is well known in South Korea due to its health benefits, but it has not made it’s way mainstream in the states. It’s flavor is not something that everyone can stomach, so Juliet wanted to not only make Ginseng the main ingredient but she turned it into flavorful and easy to drink sparkling tonic.

Her passion to share the health benefits of ginseng pushed her to brave the world of CPG and launching her own brand, Ginsa. In the past she has said that she would never have her own brand, because she has first handedly seen the challenges that founders faced in the brands that she worked with. However, she had a calling that she cannot deny and is up for the challenge.

With her CPG experience, she has been able to fast forward and skip many of the expensive mistakes that many founders have faced.

We talked about how important it is to talk about the non-glamourous aspect of being a founder and the challenges and expenses of scaling. Many times being a food founder and having a brand is glamorized in the media and on social outlets which can be very dangerous for a budding consumer food brand.

Listen in so that you can learn and avoid expensive mistakes in our own brand while learning how to achieve mental clarity with Ginsa.

You can learn more about Ginsa and order their delicious ginseng sparkling tonic at
https://ginsabrands.com/
Instagram: Ginsabrands

Keep in touch with me on my entrepreneurial journey and find out what I'm cooking! You can also order my products through our website.

https://wynnskitchen.com/
Instagram: Wynnskitchen

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn

Episode 6: Stay in the Game w/ Rochelle Drumm of Chipz Happen

Wynn Austin — Wed, 09 Nov 2022 19:00:00 GMT

In this episode, I had candid conversations with Rochelle about overcoming major setbacks in business. My favorite quote of hers is "Stay in the game, be patient and your business will thrive in divine timing." Listen in and learn about the MAJOR Setbacks that we both experienced, and what kept us moving forward.

Thank you again for listening and until next time, keep cooking up your dreams. You’ll never know when it turns into reality.

xoxo,
Wynn