Turn every BFCM QR code scan into sales—get the free report now: www.uniqode.com/bfcmcpg
Don’t miss the chance to connect with investors and brands—secure your spot at fandf.startupcpg.com
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, our Editor, Caitlin Bricker, is joined by Daniele Orellana, co-founder of MITTS, a design-forward brand who's rethinking the everyday kitchen sponge. Daniele shares how MITTS was born out of a practical need to care for delicate glassware—specifically high-end wine glasses that were constantly breaking during handwashing. What started as a solution for wine enthusiasts has since evolved into a versatile, aesthetically pleasing tool for anyone seeking a better way to clean non-dishwasher-safe items.
Throughout the conversation, Daniele discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a consumer product brand while maintaining a full-time medical career. She offers insight into the manufacturing decisions behind MITTS, including the difficulties of sourcing production domestically, and the advantages of a non-perishable product. As a first-generation founder, Daniele reflects on the values of risk-taking and resilience passed down from her immigrant parents, and how that mindset fuels her entrepreneurial journey.
Also, hear about how she and her husband balance their professional lives with growing the brand, the importance of customer feedback, and the role of community—especially Startup CPG—in guiding their progress. With practical advice, personal stories, and a clear passion for thoughtful design, this episode is a must listen!
Listen in as they share about:
- Product Evolution and Use Cases
- Manufacturing Challenges
- Shelf Life and Durability
- Community & Mentorship
- Advice to Other Founders
Episode Links:
Website: https://mitts.store/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniele-orellana-258366157/
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 Caitlin's Linkedin
- Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.com
- Episode music by Super Fantastics
Popular Podcasts
CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist
It’s 1996 in rural North Carolina, and an oddball crew makes history when they pull off America’s third largest cash heist. But it’s all downhill from there. Join host Johnny Knoxville as he unspools a wild and woolly tale about a group of regular ‘ol folks who risked it all for a chance at a better life. CrimeLess: Hillbilly Heist answers the question: what would you do with 17.3 million dollars? The answer includes diamond rings, mansions, velvet Elvis paintings, plus a run for the border, murder-for-hire-plots, and FBI busts.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.