Unicorns Podcast: The inspiring growth story of Cooee Native Superfoods

The Unicorns Podcast connects you to some of the best and brightest founders, CEOs, executives, business owners, innovators, entrepreneurs and inspiring leaders who make things happen and inspire others.

Host Justin Kelly, former broadcast journalist and PR veteran, chats with leaders from across Australia and internationally about business strategy, what it takes to build a successful company, how to overcome challenges and advice for those on a similar journey.

In this episode, Justin speaks with Terri-Ann “Tezzi” Daniel, founder and CEO of Cooee Native Superfoods – one of Australia’s fastest-growing inclusive food brands that began with just $17.90 and a mother’s determination to help her children with food allergies.

Tezzi shares how her home experiments evolved into a thriving business now stocked in Woolworths, Ampol and IGA, with half a million Cooee cookies soon to be served on Qantas flights.

She talks about turning adversity into innovation, building a national brand while staying true to her Indigenous heritage, and the role of storytelling in creating a loyal customer base. The conversation also explores how Tezzi’s focus on inclusive, allergen-friendly foods and native Australian ingredients has helped redefine what it means to create a brand with both purpose and profit, and how her journey offers valuable lessons for entrepreneurs determined to grow with authenticity and impact.

In this discussion, Tezzi reflects on her grandmother’s influence, the importance of community and the belief that great food can connect people from every background. From her kitchen bench in Lake Macquarie to the skies with Qantas, Tezzi’s story is a reminder that innovation often starts at home – and that passion, perseverance and purpose can turn even the smallest beginnings into something extraordinary.

This podcast was developed in collaboration with Cooee Native Superfoods, a Stockhead advertiser at the time of publishing.

The interviews and discussions in this podcast are opinions only and not financial or investment advice. Listeners should obtain independent advice based on their own circumstances before making any financial decisions.