The 7 Hats

In this episode of The Seven Hats, we sit down with Wade, a seasoned professional in the Consumer Packaged Goods (CPG) industry, to explore his fascinating career journey, mental health challenges, and insights into the buyer-founder relationship. Raised by his entrepreneurial father in Maslin, Ohio, Wade's early exposure to the grocery business instilled a strong work ethic and passion in him. Wade recounts his path from a cook and restaurant manager to owning his own restaurant, and eventually transitioning to a corporate buyer role at Buellers, managing grocery, dairy, and frozen categories. He shares his experiences at Jimbo's and the Fresh Market, contrasting entrepreneurial and corporate environments, and emphasizes the importance of building genuine relationships with brand founders. Wade opens up about the mental health challenges he faced in high-pressure roles, offering advice on setting boundaries, self-care, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. His story highlights the need for leaders to prioritize mental health to succeed professionally and personally. We also discuss Wade's rise as a thought leader on LinkedIn, his collaboration with Alex Bayer on the CPG Vibes podcast, and the importance of consistency, authenticity, and providing community value. As Wade embarks on a new chapter in his career, he reflects on self-evaluation, staying true to his goals, and exploring new opportunities in sales, consulting, or brand development. Join us for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a candid look at the challenges and rewards of working in the CPG industry.