Founder Feature: Dina DiCenso of RIND

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy speaks with Dina DiCenso, co-founder of RIND, an innovative vegan cheese company based in Brooklyn, New York. Dina shares RIND’s journey from homemade recipes to national retail shelves and fine dining establishments—including a notable appearance at the White House.

They explore the brand's proprietary fermentation techniques, the challenges and advantages of bootstrapping in a competitive category, and the strategic growth of their two lines: RIND and Veggie Underground.

Dina also offers valuable insights into retail expansion, foodservice strategy, and the evolving landscape of plant-based dairy alternatives.

Tune in now!

Listen in as they share about:

• Mission and Motivation
• Product Development
• Bootstrapped vs Self-Funding
• Business Growth and Challenges
• Market Trends & Industry Insight
• Retail and Distribution
• Marketing and Consumer Education

Episode Links:

Website: https://www.rind.nyc/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinadicenso/  

Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.

Show Links:

• Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)
• Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)
• Follow @startupcpg
• Visit host Grace's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by Super Fantastics