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Brian Smith and Jackie Cuscuna of Ample Hills
Manage episode 474621666 series 3458371
#92.
We’re kicking off Season 3 of The meez Podcast with an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and really good ice cream. In this episode, Josh sits down with Jackie Cuscuna and Brian Smith, the founders of Ample Hills Creamery. Jackie and Brian share candid insights on what it takes to start over in the food industry, the lessons they’ve learned about business and creativity, and how they’re keeping the magic of Ample Hills alive.
They reflect on the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, from expansion struggles to the realities of bankruptcy. The pair also explores the importance of quality control, strategic partnerships, and storytelling in branding. Plus, offer insights into developing new food concepts and their unexpected pivot from ice cream to chicken wings.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, or just someone who appreciates a great comeback story, this is one episode you don’t want to miss.
Links and Resources:
Visit meez: https://www.getmeez.com
Follow meez on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmeez
Follow Brian and Jackie: https://www.instagram.com/astheicecreamchurns?igsh=dmZ6cnJ5Ymdwbmk2
Chapters
1. The Ice Cream Dream Begins (00:00:00)
2. Crafting the Perfect Ice Cream (00:03:05)
3. The Art of Flavor Creation (00:05:59)
4. Behind the Scenes of Ample Hills (00:08:57)
5. Innovations in Ice Cream Making (00:11:59)
6. The Business of Ice Cream (00:14:56)
7. Lessons Learned and Future Plans (00:17:53)
8. Quality Control and Consistency in Ice Cream Production (00:22:52)
9. The Journey from Neighborhood Shop to Scaling Up (00:24:23)
10. The Role of Partnerships and Opportunities in Growth (00:26:28)
11. The Impact of Disney and Celebrity Endorsements (00:28:44)
12. The Rise and Fall: Navigating Success and Bankruptcy (00:33:20)
13. Reinventing the Brand: From Ice Cream to Chicken (00:42:04)
14. Creative Ideation: The Process Behind New Concepts (00:46:52)
114 episodes
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