#220 - Brain Health Ingredients 101 w/ Cognizin, Radicle Science, and Karma Water

In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Daniel Scharff welcomes three distinguished guests shaping the future of cognitive health and wellness: Kelley Bridenbaugh, Marketing Manager at Karma Water; Katie Emerson, MS, RD, CISSN, Senior Manager of Scientific Affairs at Kyowa Hakko USA; and Kaitlyn White, Director of Scientific Affairs at Radicle Science. Together, they explore the rapidly evolving world of brain health and functional nutrition, examining the scientific, clinical, and consumer trends driving growth in this category. 

Kaitlyn White offers a compelling perspective on how brain health influences nearly every aspect of daily life—from cognition and emotional regulation to sleep, learning, and social connection—while explaining why consumers today are increasingly prioritizing mental wellness across all life stages. Katie Emerson provides an in-depth look at Cognizin® Citicoline, Kyowa Hakko’s clinically validated ingredient that supports neurotransmitter function and cognitive performance, discussing how science-backed innovation builds trust and efficacy in wellness products. Kelley Bridenbaugh highlights how Karma Water leverages research-driven ingredients and transparent marketing to meet consumer demand for products that enhance both physical and mental vitality. 

The conversation also explores emerging research methods, including Radicle Science’s use of wearables, biomarkers, and customizable clinical protocols, which are redefining how scientific data is used to measure real-world health outcomes. Through a blend of marketing insight, scientific expertise, and clinical innovation, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how collaboration between brands, ingredient developers, and research organizations is driving the next generation of mental performance and wellness solutions.

Listen now!

Special thanks to Cognizin® by Kyowa Hakko for sponsoring this episode. Visit them here to learn more.

Listen in as they share about:

• The Rising Importance of Brain Health
• Science Behind Cognitive Ingredients
• Innovation in Research and Measurement
• Brand Application and Consumer Wellness
• Collaboration Between Brands and Science
• Consumer Trends and Market Shifts
• Practical Takeaways for Brands and Consumers

Episode Links:
Website: https://radiclescience.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-kp-white/ 

Website: https://drinkkarma.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelleysullivan1 

Website: https://kyowa-usa.com/ingredients/branded-ingredients/cognizin-citicoline
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-m-emerson/ 

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 Daniel's Linkedin 
• Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at [email protected]
• Episode music by<