Ghia’s Journey from ‘Shark Tank’ to the Mainstream

Ghia’s Journey from ‘Shark Tank’ to the Mainstream

Author: BLISTER August 7, 2025 Duration: 54:36

Ghia is a drink brand that isn’t trying to be beer, wine, or spirits — and definitely not a “mocktail.” It’s bitter, bold, and built for people who want a drink that doesn’t play it safe.

Today, Eli talks with Ghia founder Mélanie Masarin about building a culinary inspired non-alcoholic option that’s not about sobriety, but about choice, occasion, and great flavors. They get into what makes Ghia different, how Mélanie’s multinational upbringing shaped the philosophy of the brand, and why she walked away from a Shark Tank deal without blinking. 

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TOPICS & TIMES:

Introduction and Background (1:48)

The Birth of Gia: A Personal Journey (2:43)

Crafting the First Iteration of Gia (6:14)

Understanding the Non-Alcoholic Movement (11:04)

The Importance of Context in Enjoying Gia (17:12)

Elusiveness and Brand Identity (21:43)

Paving a New Path in the Beverage Industry (28:00)

Defining Success in the Non-Alcoholic Space (29:24)

Cultural Perspectives on Drinking: Europe vs. America (30:44)

The Evolution of Non-Alcoholic Menus (32:42)

The Unique Approach to Non-Alcoholic Beverages (36:21)

Cultural Influences on Drinking Habits (37:48)

Marketing Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Children (39:55)

The Impact of Shark Tank on Business Growth (47:16)

Transitioning from Bottles to Cans: A Strategic Move (51:14)

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There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when someone has dedicated their life to making something tangible, driven by obsession over details most of us overlook. CRAFTED, from BLISTER, is built on those conversations. Each episode moves beyond a simple product review to explore the entire ecosystem of creation, whether the subject is a meticulously roasted coffee, a complex whiskey, a precision timepiece, or a bold new wine. You'll hear directly from the individuals who define these fields-brewers, distillers, founders, and artisans who started their ventures not because it was easy, but because they couldn't imagine doing anything else. This podcast digs into the raw materials, the failed experiments, the business risks taken on a principle, and the quiet triumphs that happen long before a product reaches a shelf. It’s about the philosophy embedded in the process as much as the technical skill. Tuning in feels less like listening to an interview and more like pulling up a stool in a workshop or a tasting room, offering an intimate look at the patience, setbacks, and unwavering standards that transform a simple idea into a crafted object. The stories are specific, but the themes of creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial spirit are universal, connecting anyone who appreciates the depth behind a well-made thing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 109

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