Episode Spotlight

Meeting the steady popcorn demand of dorm dwellers was the inspiration for Brian Taylor’s business, Kernel Seasons. As an undergraduate student Brian spent a lot of time studying and snacking. Finding ways to spice up his kernels led Brian to the seasoning aisle of his local grocery store, where he bought a variety of flavors to put his own signature style on a college staple.

Brian’s business sense was nurtured while he was taking college classes. He had just enough knowledge to start the business himself and place his product in 15,000 grocery stores and 1,200 movie theaters nationwide. Listen to Brian’s story of product placement, capitalizing on the momentum and maximizing a business degree.

About Brian Taylor

Brian Taylor is founder and president of Kernel Season’s LLC, America’s number one brand of popcorn seasoning.  As president, Taylor oversees all aspects of the company, including product development, operations, sales and marketing.

During his final two years at the University of Michigan, Brian worked with a team of flavor experts to develop the full line of 14 all-natural popcorn toppings.  Using money from summer jobs, Brian officially launched Kernel Season’s after graduating in 2000. 

Brian is an active member of the Young Entrepreneurs Organization, National Association of the Specialty Food Trade and National Association of Concessionaires.  He was recently accepted to the University of Chicago Graduate School of Business.