Interview with David Spungen – Partner and Wealth Advisor at Corient

“One of the superpowers of an entrepreneur is the ability to get hit in the face with a shovel and get up and go, ‘I’m okay, I’ve got this.’”

That was my favorite quote in this interview with David and that is the kind of honest chat we wound up having. 

Today’s guest is David Spungen is a partner and wealth advisor at Corient, who happens to work with a lot of founders in the CPG business. He’s heard it all and isn’t pulling any punches when it comes to the challenges of being a founder. Especially in this financial climate. 

David and I talk through ALL the challenges of starting a food and bev company in the extremely oversaturated market and how to navigate raising in today’s tricky economy. We also talk about why market research is essential when starting a brand, alternatives to venture capital, and why resilience is imperative. We dig deep into the importance of recognizing your strengths and weaknesses as a founder and reaching out for  support when you need it. 

David also happens to have a fascinating story about how he wound up falling in love with food in the first place. It’s a must for foodies! 

 Here’s what you won’t want to miss from our conversation: 

• How David’s experience in a restaurant put on on this path

• Navigating the oversaturated CPG market 

• Some of the biggest mistakes David has seen founders make

• How David can help and the best time to reach out to him