From Shutdown to Shelf Domination

You know that feeling when something’s working, but deep down, it’s not right?

This week on More Than the Hype, I sat down with Anna Zesbaugh, the founder behind Corpse Reviver (yes, that dreamy hydration brand at Sprouts + Erewhon), to talk about the gutsy pivot that changed everything.

She built a buzz-worthy beverage, then shut it down at its peak—and it turned out to be the best move she ever made.

“Everyone thought we were crazy to sunset the brand… but it was the best move we ever made.”

If you’ve ever questioned what you’re building—or wondered how to break into shelves without a $100K agency—this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen now

Inside This Episode:
✅ The exact strategy that got Corpse Reviver into Walmart
✅ How Anna built packaging that stopped buyers in their tracks—for just $5K
✅ What happened when hard kombucha flopped in the Midwest
✅ Why sunsetting your first big idea might be the move
✅ The "Zebra Striping" trend that’s redefining drinking culture

This one’s a masterclass in intuition, iteration, and playing the long game in CPG.

If you're building bold, bootstrapped, or breaking the mold—you’ll feel seen.

💭 Founder Thought of the Week:
You’re allowed to outgrow your first big idea.

Some brands are bridges. They teach you the game—but they’re not your forever. What’s on the other side of letting go? Clarity. Energy. And the real thing you're meant to build.

Hit play, hit reply, or hit forward to someone building a beverage, wellness, or CPG brand with heart.

🛍️ What We’re Loving Lately

• 🧃 Corpse Reviver’s Berry Hibiscus Drop
  This blue-tinted beauty is functional, floral, and landing at Sprouts nationwide. Get it online here.

• 📸 The Hooch Booch Prohibition-Themed Launch Party
  Remember when we got chased out of the building in waves? Iconic founder moment.

• 🚀 The pivot power
  Sunsetting a brand isn’t failure. It’s a strategy. And Anna just proved it.

🎉 Event Alert: She’s Got the Juice — Denver, September

Our founder-forward, no-BS wellness and community event returns.

We’re actively looking for aligned sponsors—especially brands that support women, wellness, and building with intention.

💬 Enjoying the Show?

 Forward this to a founder friend or hit reply and say Heyyy, I love hearing from you.