The Future of Functional Beverages with Julie Rhodes of Kick Beverages

12/11/2025 47 min
The Future of Functional Beverages with Julie Rhodes of Kick Beverages

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Episode Synopsis

Today, I’m joined by Julie Rhodes, co-founder of Kick Beverages and industry consultant with Not Your Hobby Marketing Solutions. Julie and her team are making waves with Kick Fizz, a hemp-derived beverage that’s redefining how consumers think about social and functional drinks.In this conversation, we dig into:The inspiration behind Kick Fizz and how Julie identified an opening for a hemp-derived beverage in today’s evolving market.How Kick Beverages positions itself in the space between beer and cannabis—and what that means for brand identity, compliance, and distribution.The science and art behind flavor formulation and dosage, and how Kick Fizz balances taste, experience, and safety.The unique challenges of consumer education in a category that’s still new to many drinkers.And finally, where Julie sees the future of THC beverages heading in the next few years—from retail placement to mainstream adoption.It’s a fascinating look at innovation, regulation, and the business of bringing a completely new beverage category to market.Want to learn more? Connect with [email protected]. Sign up for the beer industry financial training newsletter.

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