{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"The Startup CPG Podcast","title":"#191 - GNC’s Next Big Thing: Plink! and Green Regimen’s Winning Formula","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":2371,"description":"In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff sits down with Luke Montgomery-Smith, co-founder of Plink!, and Tyshawn Bryant, founder of Green Regimen, to unpack their incredible journeys through GNC’s Next Big Thing competition. From the initial application process to standing on shelves nationwide, \nLuke and Tyshawn share what it took to win, what they learned working with a major retailer, and how they’ve continued to grow post-launch.\n\nHear how Plink! scaled from Vermont startup to national hydration contender, and how Green Regimen broke through with plant-based protein in GNC’s evolving wellness space. Whether it’s walking into GNC stores to personally connect with staff or mastering the retail pitch, this episode is packed with insights for any CPG founder looking to take their brand to the next level.\n\nDon’t miss this behind-the-scenes look at how hustle, strategy, and timing can lead to big wins.\n\nThinking of applying to the next GNC Next Big Thing?\nApply to GNC x Startup CPG NEXT BIG THING, deadline of 4/30: https://bit.ly/gncnextbigthing\n\nListen in as they share about:\n\nLuke Montgomery-Smith (Plink!)\nApplying to GNC's Next Big Thing\nThe Expo West Connection\nPitching at GNC HQ\nWhat It Takes to Win as a Startup\nFrom End Cap to Permanent Shelf Placement\nBuilding Relationships with GNC Store Staff\nThe Power of Strategic Retail Partnerships\nFundraising Momentum After the Win\nTyshawn Bryant (Green Regimen)\nWhy he Almost Didn’t Apply\nUnderstanding the New GNC\nCreating a Standout Submission Video\nThe Surprise Win for All Finalists\nHow to Make the Most of a Retail Test\nIn-Store Demos and Customer Education\nAdapting to Different Customer Segments\n\nEpisode Links:\nWebsite: https://greenregimen.com/\nLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenregimen/\nWebsite: https://drinkplink.com/\nLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lukejms/ \nDon't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/pMuUaMpWaAi3tfCEgC2OkLBVzokuLjLsIzwDIbGFqi4/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9hMTFl/MTgxNTNlZTAwZjU1/ZmNmNWM1ZjkwMDg5/NTU4MS5wbmc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}