Ask an Influencer

Ask an Influencer - Snack Bait: What Makes Gen Z Stop Scrolling

In this episode, we chat with Hallie Parrott, a Gen Z food and snack creator, about how her candid reactions and unique content have built a loyal following. We dive into the factors that make snacks go viral, the importance of nostalgia, and how brands can better connect with Gen Z through authenticity and creativity.  Key topics: * The rise of quirky, unexpected snacks and Hallie’s discovery process through store visits and international markets * How polarizing reactions increase engagement and make content more shareable * The role of texture, flavor combinations, and nostalgia in snack virality * The influence of brand packaging, limited editions, and collaborations on Gen Z’s snack choices * Strategies for food brands to appeal to Gen Z audiences with authenticity and humor * The importance of trust, real reactions, and leaving room for honest critiques in influencer marketing * Emerging snack trends like hot honey, sweet corn, and Asian flavors that are capturing Gen Z’s interest * The value of storytelling, genuine ratings, and influencer voice in building brand loyalty Connect with Hallie Parrott: * TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@cupofmorningswag] * Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/cupofmorningswag] * YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@cupofmorningswag]

Ask an Influencer: Expo West Trends & Snack Discoveries

Season 3 of Ask an Influencer kicks off from the floor of Expo West. Brooke, Robyn, and Kevin (@snackeatingsnackss) [https://www.instagram.com/snackeatingsnackss/] break down the biggest trends shaping the future of food—from protein-packed everything and global flavor mashups to scavenger hunts and the surprising return of bread. They share their favorite snack discoveries, standout brand activations, and marketing ideas brands can learn from, plus insider advice for companies trying to stand out at Expo. Expect product highlights, emerging brands to watch, and a behind-the-scenes look at the energy driving the natural foods industry right now. Featured brands: @moodupmilk [https://www.instagram.com/moodupmilk/] @snackbacktonature [https://www.instagram.com/snackbacktonature/?hl=en] @kingarthurbaking [https://www.instagram.com/kingarthurbaking/?hl=en] @saffronroadfood [https://www.instagram.com/saffronroadfood/?hl=en] @jesseandbens [https://www.instagram.com/jesseandbens/] @jajupierogi [https://www.instagram.com/jajupierogi/?hl=en] @egglifefoods [https://www.instagram.com/egglifefoods/?hl=en] @churnfoods [https://www.instagram.com/churnfoods/] @belgianboys [https://www.instagram.com/belgianboys/] @drinkhotgirlsoda [https://www.instagram.com/drinkhotgirlsoda/] @freestylesnacking [https://www.instagram.com/freestylesnacking/] @flybyjing [https://www.instagram.com/flybyjing/] @goodpop [https://www.instagram.com/goodpop/] @little.latke [https://www.instagram.com/little.latke/] @queenstreetbakery [https://www.instagram.com/queenstreetbakery/] @tattooedcheffoods [https://www.instagram.com/tattooedcheffoods/?hl=en]

Ask An Influencer: Elevating Breakfast, Leading with Joy, and Building Belgian Boys: A Conversation with Anouck Gotlib

In this episode, Brooke & Robyn sit down with Anouck Gotlib, the influential and inspiring CEO of Belgian Boys. Anouck shares how she and her husband transformed a suitcase of Belgian waffles and the desire for a taste of home into a joyful national brand that’s elevating breakfast and winning hearts and minds.  She opens up about showing up authentically, nurturing the heart of her brand, navigating growth, motherhood, and building a business rooted in fun, family, and community. Whether you're a CPG lover, creator, or aspiring entrepreneur, you’ll find Anouck’s insights energizing, honest, and full of wisdom.

Be Yourself, Tell Your Story

Hispanic Heritage Month Highlight This episode celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with two incredible guests: Jackie Hernández (@jackiehdzm), a hair and beauty creator, and Diego León (@dandyinthebronx), a lifestyle influencer. Together, they open up about the value of celebrating who you are and where you come from in a world that often rewards sameness — sharing how embracing their identities and telling their authentic stories became the foundation of their success. They also talk about how brands can and should lean into their own version of this, through storytelling–bringing to light the people, places, values and communities behind the brand. From representation and community to self-doubt and growth, this inspiring conversation reminds us that your story is your strength — and the most powerful thing you can do online is be real. Connect with Jackie: Jackie Hernández (@jackiehdzm) and Diego León:(@dandyinthebronx) Follow @askaninfluencerpodcast on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content, highlights from the show, and upcoming guests.  Follow @jumproprinnovation for regular updates on trending topics.

Ask an Influencer - Hot Takes from the Fancy Food Show: Signs and Signals for the Year Ahead in Food, Wellness & Influence

In this special solo episode of Ask an Influencer, co-hosts Brooke Stewart and Robyn Carter trade places with our usual guests and step into the spotlight ourselves. Fresh off the floor of the 2025 Fancy Food Show in NYC — and our own hosted event and Influencer Panel at Olly Olly Market — we’re sharing what stood out, what’s shifting, and what it all might mean for the future of food and influence. From freeze-dried innovation and elevated frozen meals to beef tallow, beauty from within, and a notable pullback from plant-based, this episode offers an insider’s look at where food culture is heading — and the role influencers are playing in shaping it. If you work in food, CPG, or content creation — or just like to keep your finger on the pulse — this episode is worth a listen. Connect with Us: Follow @askaninfluencerpodcast on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content, highlights from the show, and upcoming guests.  Follow @jumproprinnovation for all of our Fancy Food Show highlights along with regular updates on trending topics. Leave Us a Review! If you loved this episode, we’d be so grateful if you left a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — and don’t forget to share it with the foodies in your life!