Operations is a key part of building your brand. It's how you deliver consistently.

And consistency builds trust — with consumers, retailers, distributors, and partners.

In fact, Operations can become a true competitive advantage!

In this episode, Katie Mleziva (Real Food Brands) and Clint Matthews (Start Right Foods) sit down with Kyle Rood, co-founder of Start Right Foods, to explore why operational discipline isn't just efficiency — it's strategy.

Inside this conversation, you'll hear about:

• Why you should start with Operations in mind
• How small operational refinements can improve margins
• Why packaging and logistics decisions ripple further than you think
• The role of forecasting in protecting long-term growth
• How strong relationships reduce risk and create opportunity
• Why processes are critical to building your business
• How execution separates intention from impact
• Why these concepts are critical, whether you produce your own product or work with a co-manufacturer.

This episode will shift how you think about competitive advantage.

Process doesn't create perfection, but it does create consistency and efficiency!

WANT TO GO DEEPER?

Listening is helpful, but building is better!

1) Connect with Kyle Rood, Clint Matthews, and Katie Mleziva on LinkedIn.

2) Join Katie's weekly newsletter HERE to get the Weekly Worksheet for this episode, designed to help you build your own brand strategy workbook over time. You'll also get additional insights and reflections that aren't shared on the podcast.

3) Book a Brand Strategy Session. Once you're on the newsletter list, you can book a single Brand Strategy Session through the link in every Friday email.

Let's Go Shake Up Shopping Carts!

Katie Mleziva

Host & Food Brand Strategist

Real Food Brands