Latest news with #Kindling
Forbes
15-07-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Fueling Adventures: Kindling's Disruptive Snack Journey
Kindling Co-Founders Cameron Smith and Brandon Porra are bringing protein to the snacking aisle Kindling The journey from a booming pancake empire to a new venture in protein-packed pretzels is not straightforward, but for Cameron Smith, it's a path paved with intentional growth and invaluable lessons. In this interview, the co-founder of Kodiak Cakes and now founder of Kindling discusses his strategic approach to building a brand, disrupting categories, and the evolving landscape of health-conscious snacking. He shares insights on community building, financial sustainability, and the relentless pursuit of innovation in the CPG space. Dave Knox: You just started Kindling, but this isn't your first time in CPG. Can you talk about your background and what led you to Kindling? Cameron Smith: I joined Kodiak Cakes when it was around a million dollars in sales, looking to grow and scale. Coming out of college, I was fortunate to join a small business with potential. As we grew Kodiak, I became a co-founder. We expanded beyond pancakes, adding protein to them, and found what worked: building a brand that connects with people, not just offering a functional benefit. We disrupted parts of the grocery store that needed innovation, like frozen waffles. Before us, Eggo dominated with about a 70% share. We saw a huge opportunity to bring whole grains and protein with a brand that resonated with what people seek today, disrupting that space over time. We sold Kodiak years ago to private equity firm L. Catterton. Joel, my partner and co-founder, and I realized the business was significantly bigger, and the stakes and pressure were higher. We're not ones to run from pressure, but we felt it was time to bring in someone who knew how to operate at that scale. We found a woman to run Kodiak; she's been doing great, and they're growing well. I still buy and eat the products. Leaving Kodiak two and a half years ago, I paused and reflected. I took guitar and skiing lessons and spent more time with my four kids. After about a month, I started chatting with businesses, helping them with brand growth. Then, in early February, I told my wife I needed to do something. I get energized by being part of a growing brand, solving challenges like standing out, differentiating, the thrill of retailer wins, and managing supply or improving margins. But it really comes down to leading teams and people. Around then, I started exploring: Could I make a pretzel with better nutrition that tasted as good as any other? I was interested in pretzels for my kids' snacks and for myself, as an active person looking for salty snacks with nutritional balance. Jerkies do well with protein, but other salty options can be challenging. My belief was that if we could create a pretzel that tasted great but had more nutrition, we'd be in a good place. I worked on it, went through many iterations, and launched the business officially last November. We're six months in, still very early. Knox: With Kindling, your mission is about "fueling life's everyday adventures." How does that mission shape your brand-building choices? Smith: As I was developing Kindling, my favorite book was Building a Story Brand . It was interesting because we did so many things at Kodiak that, I later realized, impacted how consumers saw the brand. We just did them because we were thinking about ourselves and how we'd want a brand to communicate. That book sparked many ideas for Kindling. I didn't want Kindling to be oriented towards "Cameron's brand" or "Cameron's pretzel business"—my picture on the back saying, "You're welcome for creating this." That never resonated with me. The book emphasized that people are looking for a guide, like Yoda for Luke Skywalker, because everyone is the hero of their own day. So, with Kindling's branding and communication, we focus on how we can show up as a guide for people. That's why the name "Kindling" signifies "Get your fire started." I love campfires and the moment of the crackling fire. To start a good fire, you need good kindling. We apply that to your personal internal fire—you need the right kindling to get going for adventures or family moments. You want your kids started with the right kindling. I also always wanted an animal, as it can be impactful and connect people to a brand. I love foxes: they're playful, resourceful, and a little mythical. When you see one, it's a special moment. A big reason for the fox is that it's my wife's mantra; she'd tell herself, "You're a feisty fox. You can do this." We're trying to create a brand that connects and resonates, so when people grab it, they think, "Oh, fox. I'm like a fox. I can do this," or "Kindling. I need to get my fire started." Every interaction connects to them and their goals. Kindling's not the hero; they are, and we're supporting them. Knox: You've offered a product with protein and whole grain wheat. How do you balance that with the snackability of pretzels and your first snack? Smith: Pretzels and snacks are more on-the-go. Snacking now feels like it's taking over. People eat snacks for lunch. My kids' school lunches are filled with snacks now—Chomps bars, fruit, and now our pretzels, not traditional sandwiches. That snackability, that ability to have a product that delivers nutritional benefits without sacrificing taste or texture, creates permissibility for consumers. They can eat this and not feel guilty; if anything, they feel better. For adults and parents, packing a Kindling pretzel in their kid's lunch or giving it as a snack feels like a small victory. I've learned that little victories are crucial on any journey; they carry you to the next. Sometimes we have huge victories, like kids eating lots of veggies, but often it's the small ones that keep you going. We're not trying to sneak or hide nutrition. We're clear that this is a balanced product that we believe tastes as good as anything else. Now, you can eat pretzels again without guilt or feeling like you're eating empty carbs or calories. Knox: What skills and lessons did you learn at Kodiak that you're applying to Kindling? Smith: Honestly, so many. I've been working on Kindling for two years now and continue to learn. The biggest lesson from Kodiak has been the impact of building a community around the brand. Getting a product on the shelf is hard, but getting it to sell off the shelf is even harder. At Kodiak, when a product sold well, we knew we'd done many things right. We also saw the community rally. When people criticized the brand on social media, our community would defend us like they were part of the business or tribe because the brand identified with them. That's the biggest thing I've wanted to apply here. Another lesson: margin is crucial, both in the early days and over time. We saw that at Kodiak, and we're seeing it now. When you launch a business, you're so inefficient. Packaging costs more, ingredients cost more—every input is theoretically at its highest cost because your scale is significantly lower. That's been a big challenge, knowing where you should be. So, it's been important to build a clear path for where we're going. At Kodiak, we built blueprints for where we wanted to go and innovate. I think about that here too, ensuring we don't get lost daydreaming about the future, which is an ego mentality. You need an execution mentality. For us, it's about what we're doing today to get there and building that blueprint. The last piece is people. You need great people—who can challenge you, who are approachable, authentic, and want to grow and learn. We had and have great people at Kodiak, and we're trying to do the same here. Knox: You have a unique lens on what success looks like. With Kodiak, you knew it was time to bring someone in for the next phase when it exited to L. Catterton. Kindling is a very personal journey, tied to your kids, your wife's "feisty fox" mindset. What does success look like for this business versus Kodiak? Smith: Oftentimes, people equate success directly with finances. "I'll be successful if I make X dollars; my brand will be successful if it brings in this revenue." I saw that at times at Kodiak, defining success by revenue. But then, when you pass that mark, you ask, "Okay, now what does success look like?" The natural reaction is to target the next revenue number. However, revenue provides indicators: Have you built a community? Do you have the scale to do more? A friend told me, "This is an investment, and you need to treat this like an investment. With any investment, you want a good return." That's helped me not be overly emotional about Kindling as "my baby" or "my family's business." Ultimately, it's an investment, and I want it to grow. For Kindling, I think success means establishing a strong community, bringing real growth to the pretzel category, and disrupting how people think about pretzels and eventually snacks. There might be a revenue number or team size tied to that, but those metrics are hard to nail down. I think about success as: Are we impacting people's lives? Are we growing and learning? And from a business standpoint: Are we profitable? Are we sustainable? Are we doing good and impacting the lives of those who work at Kindling? Knox: One remarkable thing about Kodiak was how you navigated retail buyers. You started with mixes, then jumped to frozen waffles and other categories, dealing with different buyers, spaces, and supply chains. How does that impact your thinking for Kindling? Will you repeat that, or will you stay in your lane? What did you learn? Smith: At Kodiak, one of our biggest challenges in the early days was that buyers didn't care much about the pancake category. They had many other categories to manage, and they saw pancakes as a commodity because there hadn't been real innovation. When a category lacks innovation, retailers view it as a commodity. So, at Kodiak, we knew we needed to expand beyond pancakes to grow. It wasn't necessarily intentional; Joel and I fell into it, realizing many categories needed disruption and innovation. We could bring something new. And we could use our story from pancakes to show other buyers in the same retailer, "Hey, here's what we're doing for you in this category. We have this new item." Selling to retailers is never easy, but it made it easier to get through the door in other categories than if we were a brand new brand. For Kindling, pretzels are part of the larger salty snack space, so the overall pie we can target is much bigger. We have a lot of work to do in pretzels, focusing on how to dominate the category and show up strong with retailers. Pretzels alone are a $2 billion category. What we learned at Kodiak is that if you build the brand well in one space, consumers will follow you to another category. When they see your brand there, they're excited because they trust it and it connects with them. They have that community feeling. Consumers often wish their favorite brands made other products because they trust them. Will we do that at Kindling today? I think eventually, but we have so much runway in pretzels alone that we'll focus there for the near future. As we grow, we'll see where our consumers allow us to go and where they want us to go, and then we'll pursue whatever makes sense. Knox: Over the years, you've been at the forefront of the high-protein trend, and now you're applying that to snacking. Where do you see that trend going, and what's next on your radar? Smith: What's fascinating is I remember wondering years ago when people would think they were getting too much protein. As I started Kindling a year ago, I heard a lot about people looking for more protein in more areas. Now, it's fascinating because people want protein in seemingly all aspects of their day: lunch, snacks, dinners, breakfast. Protein products are exploding in grocery stores, and more are appearing on shelves. Interestingly, with the GLP-1 trend, people on these medications need more protein and fiber, so they're dialed into protein. I recently heard that women going through menopause need more protein. People with neurological differences like ADHD or autism need more protein. And individuals trying to stay active and healthy are advised by dietitians to eat more protein and balance their nutrition. People are hearing "more protein" from all angles. I think this trend will only accelerate. However, there will be more focus on protein source, product type, and ingredient cleanliness. People want protein in products they can eat all the time, that feel approachable, and are clean, without questionable ingredients. They want something that tastes as good as what they're used to, so they don't have to sacrifice taste or texture. That's why we chose our specific protein count for Kindling; we tested it to ensure good texture, flavor, and eating experience. I don't see protein demand slowing down. I think it will accelerate. But there will be a greater focus on: What is the protein source? What kind of product is it? How clean are the ingredients? Does this product even need protein? Like beverages—do I need a water with protein in it? While some such products exist, they might be more challenging for consumers who feel protein isn't necessary in that specific item.
Buzz Feed
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
35 Best Impulse Buy Amazon Prime Day Deals 2025
Amazon Prime Day is here! There are more deals than you could ever begin to look through on your that's where we come in. Through The Seasons version of the beloved Reverse Coloring Book for 45% off if you're looking for a unique way to unwind. It starts with watercolor-like blobs — it's up to you to add the lines! This is great for anyone who loves to find shapes in the clouds. Each book includes 50 pages of watercolor art and includes prompts if you'd like a little bit of direction. Promising review: "I love the variation in the designs provided. The style of a reverse coloring book is great for traveling with when you don't want to have to have 100 different markers or pencils to keep track of. Being able to work in one color pen for a while is nice on road trips, and I like being able to be more creative with my own designs on top of the colored pages." —Katherine DexheimerPrice: $8.29 (typically $14.95) A BaubleBar bubble initial necklace for 64% off (unsurprisingly the lowest price yet) that brings a little party energy to any look thanks to its balloon-like design. Promising review: "Love this necklace! It's dainty and good quality. I have started wearing it every day. I got an M for my daughter's name. The price was very affordable for something simple but elegant." —AmandaPrice: $15 (originally $42; available in every letter) A variety pack of Kindling whole-grain pretzels for 40% off (the best price ever) in fun flavors like dill pickle, garlic parmasen, and honey mustard. Reviewers like the bold flavors and lil' protein boost. Promising review: "I never write reviews, but these were so good! The honey mustard is my favorite, but they were all delicious. And I love that they're 100% whole wheat. We will be buying more." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $17.99 (originally $29.99; also available in pack of individual flavors) An indoor scavenger hunt game for 62% off that'll keep kiddos busy on those rainy summer days and when the weather gets chilly again. It'll keep your tykes out of your hair (for a little while at least), and it's the most discounted this item has been yet! A win-win, if you ask me. Promising review: "I bought this for a 3 1/2 year old and a 5-year-old. It was such a hit!!! We'd play for a while, have to stop for something, and they'd ask if we could play it some more. Lots of repeat play. Other people around asked where it was from and thought that it would be great for any group play or party for kids. I bought the indoor one, but I'm sure the others are great too!" —Ann BurgessPrice: $7.57 (typically $19.97) Crest 3D Whitestrips for 33% off with a no-slip design that'll mold to your teeth and help lighten those coffee stains you thought would be there for a life. You'll get enough strips for 22 days of treatment, which should help your teeth get up to 20 levels whiter! It comes with 44 strips total: enough for 20 regular treatments and two one-hour express review: "I haven't used Crest White Strips in over 5 years. Since then my teeth have stayed really white and I frequently get compliments or questions on how I get my teeth so white. I decided to get a box to boost the whiteness of my teeth. Wow, I was shocked on how much these have improved! Before the strips were really flimsy, hard to remove from the package and were really hard to keep on your teeth — the old ones would slip or bunch up. These are such an improvement! The new strips remove easily from the plastic they are on. The strips are REALLY adhesive! These will not budge! Since I've purchased I have only used about 4 times and I can already notice a difference. Other people have noticed too. I think these are well worth the money and work as good as a professional treatment, I have had friends who have done professional treatments and their teeth are not as white as mine. I highly recommend these to anyone who wants a brighter/whiter smile!" —Vanessa5o5Price: $29.99 (typically $44.95) Or mint-flavored Venus Visage teeth-whitening pens for 41% off (two for less than the price of one!) that are way more convenient than a painful trip to the dentist or an annoying attempt at the strips. Just brush your teeth with the bristled pen whenever you have a minute to work through stains and discoloration (without sensitivity, according to reviewers). Promising review: "This product actually works! Very affordable, too. There are a lot of expensive teeth whitening products out there, but why spend extra money when you don't have to? Definitely worth trying!" —Mona L CuretonPrice: $9.33 for two (originally $15.95) Julia Cameron's The Artist's Way for 43% off chock-full of affirmations, fill-in lists and tasks, and prompts to help you connect with your creative side. The book has hundreds of exercises, activities, and prompts to help you get over writer's block, re-ignite your artistic passion, or help you connect with your creative side for the first review: "Are you feeling stuck — creatively? Then this is the book for you. I had heard so many recommendations about this book. At one point, it seemed like every podcast, speaker or article I read seemed to somehow refer back to this resource. So of course, I had to try it. There's a reason this book is in its 30th Anniversary edition — it works and inspires. Whether you're any type of artist or just someone trying to re-ignite your creative thinking, I highly recommend you get this book. It helps you approach and overcome any creative block you may have (be that writer's block or otherwise). The book takes you through a variety of writing and reflection activities that get you thinking in different ways and are inspiring." —SCAPrice: $9.35 (regularly $16.68) Liquid I.V. electrolyte drink mix for up to 30% off in a variety of exciting, summer-ready flavors ranging from watermelon to pina colada. Besides being delicious, the electrolyte powder is formulated to help hydrate faster than plain water. It also just tastes good so you might be more likely to drink more in general. FYI, depending on your situation, water may be enough to rehydrate you! Read more about electrolyte-enhanced drinks and hydration at Cleveland Clinic. My sister has POTS and needs to stay hydrated to keep her blood pressure up. This is the only brand of electrolyte powder she uses because of its superior taste and salt levels. Promising review: "Incredibly flavorful and tastes like you'd expect. I felt the effects within half an hour and was peppy while working in the Florida heat. Great price and super easy to use." —JoePrice: $16.54+ (originally $23.63; available in 11 on-sale flavors) A lightweight beach tote for up to 25% off so you can bring everything you need to the beach and not bring anything you don't want back. Thanks to the mesh design, belongings can dry faster, and sand just falls out as you walk! Promising review: "I had to snag this bag since it was on sale. It's so spacious, and I love how there's a zippered pocket for your keys and phone. The pocket is covered, so you can't see inside it from either side." —CamiPrice: $8.99+ (originally $11.99+; available in two styles and four colors) Fan favorite TirTir cushion foundation for up to 60% off (it has THOUSANDS of positive reviews and is at the lowest price it's ever been) you'll wonder how you've managed to live this long without owning it — it's said to last 72 hours (wut?!), covers redness, blemishes, and under-eye bags with ease, and comes with a lovely little puff that'll help you reach every crevice of your gorgeous face. Not to mention it's packed with hibiscus and red propolis extracts to help increase your skin's elasticity. 10/10. Check out this TikTok of Mikayla Nogueira's review of this review: "I struggle with finding a foundation that's not orange. Someone recommended I try a Korean product and this started going viral around the same time. I lucked into a perfect color match on the first try, but I've learned there are sample packs if you aren't sure about the color. The coverage is incredible. It was very lightweight, not heavy at all. It did settle into my under-eye wrinkles without primer so if you're older that's something to keep in mind. Overall beautiful and long-lasting. This will be my go to foundation from now on." —AJ BondPrice: $10 (originally $25; available in 40 shades and sample kits to find your best shade match) For all you floss-haters — a toothbrush sporting two layers of bristles for 40% off (the lowest price ever) to really get in there. These are great for sensitive teeth but can also be used to clean grout and other small areas of your home in need of a refresh. Mouthwatchers is a small business established by Ronald Plotka, DDS, that specializes in antimicrobial toothbrushes designed to get deeper cleans even patients with "great" dental hygiene might miss with traditional brush and floss routines. Promising review: "I saw these on Instagram and wanted to give them a try. Let me tell you, these are hands down the BEST toothbrushes I have ever tried!!! I had a fancy Oral B and just felt I wasn't getting a good clean. So I switched to these. I have been using these for four weeks now and notice a considerable difference in my teeth and gums! They get every little crevice and clean all the way to the gum line. I see my dentist in another month, so it will be interesting to see what he thinks. I ended up ordering these for all of my kids and my husband replacing the fancy Oral B's we have." —Mom2SixMunchkinsPrice: $5.99 for two (originally $9.99) The iconic Sol De Janeiro Bum Bum Cream for a rare 20% off that not only smells like caramel and pistachio deliciousness (pair it with the also-on-sale body mist to make the scent last even longer!), but also can help tighten and firm the skin with repeated use thanks to the inclusion of caffeine-rich guarana extract. No seriously, Sol De Janeiro rarely goes on sale outside of Sephora's storewide sales, so now is the time to stock up. Caffeine has a number of skincare benefits, including brightening and temporarily reducing the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite, if that's something you're looking to do! You can read more about the skincare benefits of caffeine at the Cleveland review: "I am 60, and I could not get rid of the cellulite on my legs. I started using this product six weeks ago and can noticeably see a difference. I apply morning and evening, before bed for optimal results. It goes on smooth and has a creamy, nonsticky feel. The smell is dreamy, and even my husband has commented on the improvement. Make sure you apply in a circular motion for optimal coverage, absorption, and circulation." —Amazon CustomerPrice: $38.40 (originally $48; check out more Sol De Janeiro deals here) A Lego cherry blossom kit for 47% off for decor you can build yourself. The 430-piece set comes with everything you need to build two stems, and at less than $10 (and its lowest price to date), it's a steal compared to most Lego kits. Promising review: "Great afternoon activity. All of the flower Lego sets are great for a break and getting your mind off things. We have several different flower ones in a vase, and they all seem to fit nicely together." —Jeremy Moeller Price: $7.99 (originally $14.99) A moisturizing Dove body scrub for up to 38% off (the best discount ever) offering a thick, dessert-like experience that'll help your skin feel fresh, bouncy, and soft. Oh, and DELICIOUS SMELLING! Promising review: "I absolutely love this Dove body scrub! The texture is rich and creamy with just the right amount of exfoliating grit. It gently buffs away dead skin without feeling too harsh. The Himalayan salt combined with rose oil leaves my skin feeling incredibly soft, smooth, and lightly scented like a mini spa session in the shower! It doesn't dry out the skin like some scrubs do. I even noticed that my skin feels more hydrated and looks more radiant after just a few uses. A little goes a long way, and the scent is divine, subtle, and floral. If you're looking for a gentle but effective scrub for your self-care routine, this one's a gem." —AnaPrice: $4.97+ (originally $7.97; available in eight scents) A catnip wall mount for 20% off with four different-flavored balls so your kitty can perform a taste test and decide their favorite. It's basically a bourbon flight for cats — that's so cool! They'll be too preoccupied sampling the goods to scream at you for treats for at least a solid 15 minutes (a century in hungry cat time). Reviewers confirm it sticks to the wall as expected, and their cats love it. It's flavored with cat sugar, catnip, silvervine, and gall fruit, respectively. Multiple reviewers said their elderly/senior cats with limited mobility or declining eyesight really enjoyed the sensation of rubbing their face on this and licking it. Promising reviews: "My cats absolutely LOVE this toy! I really like that it adheres to wherever you want to put it, PLUS it is a no mess catnip/treat option for your furry babies! I bought two and WILL be getting more soon, I love them that much! HIGHLY recommend this product and this seller!!!!!" —Pumphrey "My elderly cat turns into a kitten around this! She has very bad arthritis (treating with pain meds) and is not very active, but rolls around kicking her feet and rubbing on the silver vine balls. It brings her happiness and I am grateful." —Kate SteenbergPrice: $7.98 (originally $9.98; also available as a standalone without the board) Mixsoon Bean Essence for 44% off, a K-beauty darling that uses fermented pomegranate as a natural chemical exfoliant to remove flaky, dead skin and fermented barley to hydrate and brighten after, so your face can feel glowy and fresh instead of red and irritated. Promising reviews: "I saw this all over TikTok/Instagram and decided to buy it because I have a lot of sebaceous filaments on my chin and nose. It's a little expensive but I took a gamble: it works! You can physically see the sebaceous filaments come out of your pores; it is not the product bunching up. My problem areas were so much smoother after using and were left with a moisturized glow. I then proceeded to have my boyfriend use this product to see if it worked this well on everyone on the first try, and it worked on his nose as well. Amazing stuff. 🩷" —Losa"I have hyperpigmentation and oily skin. I feel this product regulates my oil production and it helps my makeup look so flawless. 10/10." —MissKayMaePrice: $10.08+ (typically $18+; available in two sizes) A pack of seasoning bombs for 25% off that create delicious tinga sauce for your chicken and veggies in a flash. Toss one into a pot, slow cooker, or pressure cooker with your meat and/or vegetables and enjoy a foolproof meal that can feed up to 12 people. The balls come with chipotle, tomatoes, onions, cumin, and oregano. Use your tinga chicken/veggies to make tortas, tacos, or salads. EZ Bombs is a woman-owned small business that sells a variety of spice bombs. Promising review: "SO GOOD, SO EASY! I toss mine in the crockpot and cook on low, no water needed! The flavor is amazing from these bombs, and the price is not bad for two meals! Love the smell of these cooking all day, the taste is amazing! Topped our tostadas with lettuce, queso fresco, and sour cream, SO good! Love this company, we always buy the birria bombs, but will definitely be ordering these again." —BranPrice: $14.99 (originally $19.99) Colorgram fruity glass tint for up to 50% off to give you the glossy pout of a mermaid. Also, can we take a moment to appreciate how cute the packaging is?! Promising review: "I love K beauty products, but a lot of lip tints don't always work on brown/darker skin with two-toned lips. This gives me the perfect pop of color and is soooo juicy! I went back and bought more as soon as I received them. This was my first time trying Colorgram, but it's definitely up there with my faves from Peripera!" —Kendra $7.49+ (originally $14.99; available in 10 shades) A hand casting kit for 31% off (as low as the price gets) so you can create aww-worthy decor with your loved one. Hold hands, dip them into the mold, remove, cast, and display your new art on the included wooden plaque. Of course, you don't have to hold hands — the mold works for any hand gesture you want. ;) Promising review: "Worthy every penny! I got this as a surprise for my husband and I for our anniversary. It was easy to do, and we are both just in awe! It's PERFECT!!" —Kim $23.99 (originally $34.99) An SPF 50 Airy Sunstick Smoothing Bar for 29% off that works like a giant lip balm for your face. It's nonsticky, glides on clear, works nicely as a primer, and is so easy to apply (check out the curved shape), you may actually remember to reapply for once. Plus, it's cheaper than the Supergoop version. Promising review: "NO WHITE CAST! I've been looking for a stick sunscreen and this was just exactly what was needed!! I'm a medium-toned Black woman and looking for something without a white cast is always a challenge. I have applied it on my bare skin and there isn't a white cast at all! It's a 'soft matte' finish, for sure, and looks like natural skin. Like you're not wearing anything at all." —MartinaPrice: $11.99 (typically $16.98; also available in a two-pack) A Fishwife Smoky Trio three-pack for 20% off (the cheapest it's been *and* it's sold out on the brand's site) in case you're running low on supplies. Enjoy with crackers, mix it into a delicious dip, or eat it straight out of the can — no judgement. Includes: a tin each of mackerel, smoked salmon, and smoked rainbow troutPromising review: "My husband loves seafood. He eats it for lunch almost every day. He says Fishwife band is the best he's ever tasted. The Smoky Trio is his favorite. It's more expensive, but it's worth the extra cost. I'll skimp on something else. Btw, the package art is an extra treat." —paprdollPrice: $31.20 (originally $39; the Spicy Hot Trio is also 20% off for just under $4 less than on the brand's site) Medicube's collagen jelly for up to 34% off that happy Amazon reviewers say helped them achieve their "glass skin" dreams. The formula is designed to absorb quickly, and the niacinamide helps protect your skin barrier and keep it hydrated. Promising review: "I'm obsessed with this product. I have dry skin, and this helps plump everything. I use it as the last step in my daytime routine, and it feels like it locks all my serums and toners in. At night, I put a thicker moisturizer on top, and it helps hydrate my skin while I sleep. The texture is so unusual, and I love using the spatula to frost my face with it. I also love the fragrance, and it doesn't irritate my sensitive skin." —Kindle CustomerPrice: $9.72+ (regularly $14.90+; available in two sizes) A patterned, super durable, windproof travel umbrella for 50% off with a LIFETIME warranty, making it the true last umbrella you'll ever buy. This uses fiberglass ribs instead of flimsier aluminum, which helps it keep its shape in 70+ MPH winds, and still manages to be super lightweight and compact for travel. Bonus — the insides of each umbrella has an unexpected, fun pattern!! Check out a TikTok of the Tumella Umbrella in action. Promising review: "Why would anyone want to purchase another umbrella with the warranty this one gives? Not like you will need the warranty with this build quality. Almost every umbrella I have owned has five, maybe six, thin metal rods held together with a tiny pin to form the frame. This thing has reinforced ribs, is as light as you can get, looks great, and all at a low price. Yeah, this is all I need." —E. SmokerPrice: $14.99+ (typically $29.99; available in 25 colors and packs of two) A TikTok-beloved Bio-Collagen Real Deep mask for 30% off that lets you literally get some "beauty sleep." The sleep mask's oligo-hyaluronic acid works to leave your face feeling refreshed and glowy, even if you didn't get your full nine hours. The mask turns transparent after 3-ish hours as it's absorbed into the skin, and loads of reviewers mention visible results after just one treatment. Note: These typically go up to 32% off during Cyber Week and Prime Day, but they are SUPER popular, so this might be a good time to stock up before the word gets out 👀.Promising review: "Caught wind of this on TikTok and decided to give it a whirl. Honestly, it's pretty solid! It really makes my skin look tight and shiny, like I just came out of a professional facial. It's an overnight mask, so yeah, it does have to stay on for a while, which is a bit of a hassle, but the payoff? Totally worth it. My skin feels more elastic, and the pores look minimized, too. If you don't mind the long wear time, this mask could be a game changer for your skincare routine!" —NalaPrice: $13.30 for four (originally $19) A pack of 10 self-heating lavender eye masks for 20% off to help you get in the zone and let off some steam if upcoming summer travel plans, that one broken AC, an ant infestation, etc., have got you STRESSED! Just open, pop one on, and it'll heat up to 113 degrees — no microwave needed. Reviewers note that these are also great for headache relief. Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns review: "While they don't reduce my dryness, I have never slept better wearing these before bed. The heat is so nice. The fit is perfect. Light on my face, and after about 30 seconds, I don't even feel it around my ears. I'm so glad I discovered these. Will be buying again!" —Tiffany Campbell"So soothing and relaxing. 😌 I deal with chronic pain on a 24/7 basis, and that can include headaches, migraines, anxiety, and sleeplessness. These eye masks are such a nice way to relax and drift off to sleep. They smell like lavender and are warm against my eyes and temples, helping to soothe any tension or puffiness from being upset over the pain. They were a gift to me, but I'll be ordering more. 💜" —Megan Masser ReavesPrice: $6.39 (originally $7.99) Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza for 20% off, a DEEPLY beloved, fast-paced card game suitable for kids and adults that will have everyone in fits of high stake giggles in no time. Bonus: each game only lasts 10–15 minutes, so you can go one or a few rounds depending on how much time you've got together. Promising review: "Bought this by accident because I thought these were baby flash cards. Saw these were actually a card game and tried it with my husband and fell in love with this game. It's fun and competitive :D" —ChocorateChippuPrice: $7.99 (typically $9.99) Mise En Scene Perfect Serum for 32% off, a K-beauty favorite that promises intense hydration and heat protection up to 450 degrees. With the help of a blend of oils (Moroccan argan, olive, jojoba, coconut, etc), it can help repair damaged hair and reduce frizz, even in hot, humid weather. It's so effective, reviewers compare it to the $46 Gisou version. Check out a TikTok of the serum in action. Promising review: "Literally, the best hair product you can possibly get that is affordable and doesn't leave your hair greasy — it makes it shiny and super soft. After I get out of the shower when my hair is still damp I put some on my ends and work the rest up into the top of my head. Sometimes I blow my hair dry after I get out of the shower and put it on and then after I blow dry I put it on some more, and it looks absolutely beautiful — no greasy hair here. My hair type is fine and gets oily really fast and yet somehow this product tames it a bit and keeps it looking healthy for days! Will purchase again and again!!!" —Tara KleinPrice: $12.94 (typically $18.99; available in two sizes, a mist style, and four other formulas) Talking Hearts for 22% off — a deck of conversation cards for couples looking to deepen their connection or just pass the time on a long trip. There are 200 questions, plus two wild cards to keep conversation flowing. Promising review: "This game is so fun! My husband and I pick one card, and if the question is a little more difficult, we put it on the fridge and give each other time to answer. Has added a little more genuine conversation into our weeknights raising two girls." —Derrek & AbbyPrice: $14.03 (originally $17.99) Laneige's "Gummy Bear" Lip Sleeping Mask for 30% off, which continues its reign as the TikTok lip care holy grail throne alongside everyone's beloved Laneige Lip Glowy Balm (which is, by the way, also up to 30% off right now 👀👀) — the lip sleeping mask has the same delightful flavors (including the iconic GUMMY BEAR!!) and hydrates lips with the *chef's kiss* lightweight, moisturizing blend that doesn't get all sticky and goopy like competitors. Promising review: "I LOVE this! I wasn't sure if it would work or be good because it blew up on TikTok, and I usually don't trust TikTok recommendations. However, this is amazing! It's not sticky, how I thought it might be, but it's not too buttery either. It stays on ALL night, which is a huge win for me because I sleep on my stomach and usually lip masks rub off at night. But this stays! It's really great and my lips feel so soft! I definitely recommend. Especially if you struggle with dry, flaky lips like me." —Samantha GarverPrice: $16.80 (originally $24; available in four flavors, including Peach, Berry, Grapefruit, and Gummy Bear) — and check out more Laneige Prime Day deals on Amazon! And Laneige's Neo Blurring Powder for 30% off (the first time it's been on sale since it launched, and LOWEST price it's ever been), a low-maintenance option for makeup minimalists who want a matte, yet still radiant, complexion — essentially Photoshop's blurring tool, but IRL. It absorbs oil and blurs pores, leaving your face super glowy for just $25, which is way less than an Adobe subscription. Check out a TikTok of the Laneige Neo Blurring Powder in review: "I loved this setting powder, it blurred my pores and blended my makeup so well that even my husband noticed. Wow! I will be buying more before people find it and sell it all out, hehehe." —Charlotte LaimPrice: $17.50 (typically $25) A 36-pack of Play-Doh for 25% off so the next time it's raining and everyone's all, "I'm BORRRED," you can unleash go into Full Chaos Play-Doh Build Mode to pass the time. Promising review: "The 36-pack Play-Doh set is an absolute creativity booster! With a wide variety of colors, it offers endless possibilities for sculpting, mixing, and imaginative play. My daughter loves crafting everything from animals to pretend food, bringing her ideas to life with vibrant shades. The quality is excellent, with soft, pliable dough that's easy to mold and shape. Whether she's making detailed sculptures or playful scenes, this set keeps her engaged for hours." —ArwenPrice: $20.49 (typically $27.49) A hair wax stick for 26% off (the best discount you'll get!) for flattening those annoying flyaway hairs on the back of your neck or around your hairline. Just slide the formula over targeted areas to control cowlicks, baby hair, frizz, and other wayward strands. Promising review: "This was a first time using a product like this. I highly recommend this product. It tamed my curly hair flyaways and it was so easy to use! I didn't have sticky residue on my hands!! Best thing I have purchased to keep my bun looking good!!" —AngelaPrice: $5.94 (originally $7.99) Oxo's compact Cold Brew Rapid Brewer for 29% off to make cheap, delicious cold brew in FIVE MINUTES (!!) with results so quick and delicious that reviewers love it more than their beloved Aeropresses (and even call it "Aeropress 2.0"). Not only is it faster than comparable models, but it's cheaper, entirely portable, and doesn't need to be charged or plugged in. 🤯 You're going to be swimming in a RIVER of delicious, affordable cold brew with this gizmo. You can use this to brew hot coffee *and* cold brew by adding coffee grounds to the top portion, tamping it down, letting it steep, and pumping into a carafe full of hot or cold water. Check out a TikTok of the Oxo Rapid Brewer in action. Promising review: "I'm in love with various forms of coffee preparation and I've tried all forms of equipment to make them at home. If asked what I prefer for a quick cappuccino, that's easy. This OXO Rapid Brewer. I've played with my Aeropress for over two decades, including all the necessary add-ons and doo-dads to get close to what this machine does on the first attempt. Get comfortable with a bag of fresh beans, a quality burr grinder, and friends. Do rounds of blind taste tests. I think you'll agree." —Cynthia Price: $28.49 (originally $39.99, sometimes $29.99 at Amazon) A set of golden bracelets for 20% off, giving ~quiet luxury~ vibes at "I want to pay rent this month" prices. Reviewers especially love these mix-and-match sets because they look like expensive versions from Cartier — the middle one is giving the $8,000 "Juste Un Clou" and the studded one is giving the $6,000 "Love Bracelet!" Promising review: "I absolutely love this bracelet set! The pieces are delicate yet sturdy, and they can be worn together or separately for different looks. The design is simple but elegant, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions. They're also really comfortable to wear all day. Definitely worth the price!" —Brandy Gay Price: $15.19 for a set of three (also available in sets of two)
Chicago Tribune
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Chicago Tribune
This Chicago chef just won season two of Food Network's '24 in 24: Last Chef Standing'
Food Network's latest high-stakes cooking competition series brought together 24 chefs from across the country to battle it out over a grueling 24-hour period, aptly named '24 in 24: Last Chef Standing.' And the last chef standing for its second season is Chicago's Jonathon Sawyer, chef partner of the Loop's Kindling. 'I don't think there's anything like this because it's such a microcosm of our competitiveness,' Sawyer told the Tribune. 'Other shows that are maybe as big, like 'Tournament of Champions,' where you have 32 chefs, they go on and they film for three-and-a-half weeks — almost like chef summer camp. But for ('Last Chef Standing') next thing you know, you're 12 hours in and you're like, 'OK I've never filmed TV for this long before where I've never not sat down.' The competition — filmed over a continuous 24 hours — is divided into eight episodes and eight 'shifts,' each featuring a rapid-fire culinary challenge designed to test various skills such as speed, resourcefulness, artistry, adaptability, endurance and creativity. Hosts Michael Symon and Esther Choi required chefs to do many obscure challenges throughout the series — such as asking them to identify seven ingredients used in a bowl of pasta in 90 seconds while blindfolded. The number of ingredients guessed correctly was the number of ingredients they could use to create a noodle-based dish. 'In terms of preparation, there's nothing you can do that mimics what you are going to go through in that show,' Sawyer said. Over the years, Sawyer has participated in several Food Network culinary competitions, including 'Iron Chef America,' 'Chopped Tournament of Champions' and 'Bobby's Triple Threat.' He said the lineup of chefs in 'Last Chef Standing' 'was one of the most talented I've ever gone against.' Chicago chef Stephanie Izard also competed on the show and secured a spot in the final five along with Sawyer and chefs Kevin Lee from Edmond, Oklahoma, Bryan Voltaggio from Frederick, Maryland, and Nini Nguyen, who's based in New Orleans. Sawyer said every chef on 'Last Chef Standing' had been in a previous culinary competition. They all had their own strategies when competing, and the margin of error is almost always small, he said. 'There's gameplay involved with everything,' he said. Sawyer said he consulted with a bunch of chefs who competed during the first season of the show to get an idea of how to handle the twists and turns, and the 'breaks' offered to the competitors as a strategic advantage. According to the Food Network, competing chefs can choose to go to the breakroom, skipping the next challenge and advancing to the next shift. Though the hosts give a fair warning that 'resting now could lead to pain later,' Sawyer said with a laugh. 'It seems like everybody who chose to take a nap was pretty much eliminated right afterward, because it's almost impossible to come out of that break and go right into competition mode,' Sawyer said. During one challenge, the chefs had their gas lines shut off by the hosts, which significantly affected their ability to cook. 'I was gobsmacked with my mouth open, like, oh my god, I cannot believe this is happening right now,' Sawyer said with a laugh, adding that a previous advantage allowed him to sit out that grueling challenge. 'But that was the whole point of adaptability. I'm in a wood-fired restaurant now and we have two hubs, and there are times where the hood vent doesn't work and we just have to twist and adapt. We're not going to close our doors, so we're going to run a modified menu, or we're going to grill everything in advance.' At Kindling inside the Willis Tower, Sawyer focuses on hearth-fired cuisine, blending seasonal ingredients with innovation. Sawyer won the grand prize of $75,000 with a spice-roasted rack of lamb, chanterelles, apricots and uni on top of a silky sunchoke puree. Food Network judges praised the dish as 'fearless, balanced and technically immaculate.' He's donating a portion of his winnings to The Sawyer Foundation, a nonprofit he founded to support hospitality professionals seeking sobriety, re-entry to the industry and supplying ongoing recovery resources. ''I'm now three years sober — we started this conversation to give people an opportunity to find their way to recovery inside of this industry,' Sawyer said. 'I don't think a lot of people realize that I checked myself into rehab, and that's how I got sober. I think coming out of that recovery, whether it's inpatient or outpatient, that's another facet of the Sawyer Foundation — facilitating societal reintegration. What does a job look like now that you're sober? What are your opportunities?' Sawyer said restaurant kitchens can be an unforgiving place for people fighting addiction, but he's hoping he can be a real-world example of what recovery looks like. 'As this season concludes, and as every show that I'm on after this, a big part of my conversation is to eliminate the stigma and champion awareness that addiction is affecting up to 40% of our industry,' he said. 'We need to have people understand that everybody from Robert Downey Jr. to Dax Shepard to Jonathan Sawyer, all suffer in a different way and are able to navigate and be successful, so you can too.'
The Guardian
23-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Hot under the collar: how to ace the dating scene this summer
After what felt like a neverending winter, longer days are finally here, and with them comes the chance for singles of all stripes to give their love life a boost. 'The summer makes everyone happier, more confident and a bit more frisky, so if you're dating, try to make the most of it,' advises Eimear Draper, founder of dating coaching service Kindling. 'Dating apps tend to see a dip in usage in the summer months, and while it's worth keeping them ticking over in the background, with everyone hanging out in parks and beer gardens there are more opportunities to connect with people in real life, too. 'Just going up to someone and saying 'hi' could spark something, whether it's a conversation you feel proud of starting, or the beginning of a real-life romcom. So be brave and take a chance.' Of course, there are some things that can put a damper on the romantic mood, not least hay fever with the itchy eyes and stuffy nose it brings. You could get ahead of the game by using a nasal spray – something like Beconase Hay Fever Relief for Adults could help to keep symptoms at bay so you can concentrate on seeking out Mr, Ms or Mx Right. We asked Draper and Kindling's Sergio Rebelo*, a therapist with a special focus on all things psychosexual, for their expert tips on dating success this summer. Summer confidence can coax you out of your comfort zone, whether that's trying a new hobby, daring to wear the season's romantic ruffles – or choosing a different kind of partner. 'Dating outside your type is always a good thing to try, and summer tends to take the pressure off the dating scene,' says Draper. 'You might be looking for someone to go for a sunny stroll with rather than for the love of your life, so you can swipe right on people you wouldn't normally take a chance on.' 'Communication, honesty and consent are key,' adds Rebelo, 'so be upfront about what you want, whether that's a fun summer fling or something more long term.' Most of us like the idea of meeting somebody in real life rather than on a dating app – but, says Draper, there's no need to make that distinction. 'Everyone says they hate dating apps and want to meet someone in real life, but as soon as you go on a date with someone from an app, that's real life,' she says. 'So instead of getting stuck on the app exchanging lots of messages, go and meet in person. Summer's the ideal time for it, because your first meeting doesn't have to be a big Saturday night date – you can just go for an iced coffee.' 'You can't say the wrong thing to the right person,' says Draper. So if you're looking for Mr, Miss or Mx right, don't be afraid to let your full personality show. 'If your date turns into a relationship, one of you will get food poisoning at some point, and any pretence at civility will be gone. So be your full self from the start. 'For example, if you've got hay fever and are enjoying a picnic in the park, don't be embarrassed if you've got streaming eyes or have to use your nasal spray. It's real, and creates an openness that could work in your favour.' Potentially exposing more flesh as we segue into warmer months can be scary, so before you plunge into summer dating, it pays to do a recce of your wardrobe. 'That summer confidence boost can take a while to emerge after the dark days of winter,' says Draper. 'Instead of trying on 10 outfits before each date and feeling horrible about yourself, put together three go-to date outfits that you know you feel good in, and choose from them. Remember, too, that you're your own harshest critic. 'The people you meet won't notice the things about yourself you're not so keen on.' In winter, your choice of activity is limited to whatever will get you out of the cold and rain. But, says Rebelo, summer opens up a whole new world of possibilities. 'A tour around your local area, by car, boat or on foot, is an ideal first-date activity. It lets you experience the place you both live in a new way without the pressure to just talk for three or four hours straight.' The tour, says Rebelo, could be historical, gastronomical – or even a walk around a graveyard. 'People tend to gravitate towards parks for their summer dates,' he says. 'But cemeteries are far more interesting, and can spark a different kind of conversation.' And if it's raining? 'Do something a bit different, like joining a museum tour or pottery class, which will bring out another side of the person you're dating,' Rebelo says. 'Going to a comedy improv night is a good choice, too – it's a great way to gauge someone's humour, and the perfect way to connect.' Buy Beconase now on Amazon *The healthcare professional featured does not endorse any medicinal brands or products Beconase Hayfever Relief for Adults 0.05% Nasal Spray contains beclometasone dipropionate. For the treatment of hayfever in adults aged 18 and over. Always read the leaflet. MAT-9351
The Guardian
31-01-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
The Straight Story to You're Cordially Invited: the seven best films to watch on TV this week
In his lifetime, David Lynch directed very few films that could safely be shown on TV at Sunday teatime. In this regard, The Straight Story serves as a career outlier. However, despite lacking all his trademark dread and disquiet, it deserves to go down as one of his very best. Based on the true story of Alvin Straight, a man who, in 1994, took his 5mph lawnmower on a 240-mile road trip to visit his sick brother, it shimmers with awestruck wonder. Lead actor Richard Farnsworth was in the latter stages of terminal cancer during filming, and his stubborn determination to see the journey through is reflected throughout the whole movie. A perfect film with a perfect ending. Sunday 2 February, 4.10pm, Film4 In the same way that 2022's Ticket to Paradise felt like a comforting throwback thanks to Julia Roberts and George Clooney's easy romcom patter, this feels like a treat for nostalgists. It stars Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon as two people who double-book a wedding venue with inevitable slapstick repercussions. It's the sort of unapologetically broad comedy that doesn't get made any more, complete with gratuitous alligator wrestling. Will you remember it a year from now? No. Will you have the time of your life watching it now? Certainly. Out now, Prime Video Jane Schoenbrun's 2021 film We're All Going to the World's Fair was memorably unsettling, but this follow-up runs laps around it. A horror about two young people whose nostalgic connection to an old TV show warps their sense of reality, the film manages to visually mimic the old VHS horrors of the 1980s while maintaining a strong modern message about gender identity. Martin Scorsese is a fan, calling it 'emotionally and psychologically powerful.' More than anything, though, it will creep you out to a stupendous degree. Saturday 1 February, 9.40am, 10.35pm, Sky Cinema Premiere For those wondering how Paul Greengrass was able to transition from ITV journalist to Hollywood power player, the answer is with films like Open Fire. This is his first work of filmed fiction; a 1994 made-for-TV movie about the real-life manhunt for escaped criminal David Martin, and the police blunder that led to a national scandal. As a finished piece of work it's undoubtedly a little rough around the edges, and very much of its time. But as an artefact of Greengrass's progress, it's endlessly fascinating. Saturday 1 February, 11.10pm, Talking Pictures TV Sign up to What's On Get the best TV reviews, news and features in your inbox every Monday after newsletter promotion When he was 21, Connor O'Hara lost two of his friends; an ordeal that he used as raw material for his debut feature Kindling. The result is an undeniably lovely story about a group of young men who gather to build a fire during the final summer of their friend's life. It's sweet and poignant, but really shines in its portrayal of male friendship. When Kindling gets it right – when it aims its focus squarely on a group of lads who need each other to get through something unimaginable – it's nothing less than beautiful. Sunday 2 February, 10.30pm, BBC Three In 2015, journalist Shiori Ito awoke to find herself being raped by an older peer. But after the attack, she realised exactly how powerless she was. Her rapist was famous and well-connected. Japan's rape laws were a century old, and no longer fit for purpose. The media refused to touch her story, so Ito started to document her struggle to be heard. Black Box Diaries is that document; a brave and gruelling account of one woman's effort to change an entire culture. The fact she chose to do it at all is admirable; the fact that it worked is incredible. Don't be surprised if this wins an Oscar next month. Tuesday 4 February, 10pm, BBC Four Even by Hollywood standards, you'd be hard-pressed to find a film as poorly treated as The Bikeriders. First bumped from schedules due to strikes, the film was then shopped around to other studios before it limped into cinemas last summer. And yet The Bikeriders is great. A 1950s motorcycle outlaw drama by Jeff Nichols (of Mud and Midnight Special renown), it features Tom Hardy and Jodie Comer, along with newly minted star Austin Butler, all doing brilliant work. Treat this as an opportunity to right a historic wrong. Friday 5 February, 11.25am, 8pm, Sky Cinema Premiere
