Natalie Shmulik is a leading innovation anthropologist known for her ability to decode emerging industry patterns. Grounded in a multidisciplinary background that blends food history, anthropology and consumer psychology, Natalie brings a distinctive lens to understanding how consumers connect with food. She partners with brands to uncover the deeper drivers behind trends and transform those insights into actionable innovation that resonates in market. With over 15 years of experience across retail, foodservice, media and consumer packaged goods, Natalie has developed a holistic understanding of what it takes to launch and scale winning concepts. She is best known for launching and leading The Hatchery Chicago, a world-renowned food and beverage incubator where she supported thousands of brands from idea through commercialization. A former restaurant operator and retail innovation consultant, Natalie has worked across the full food ecosystem, shaping consumer experiences, guiding product development, and building platforms for growth. She is an adjunct professor at Boston University, a contributor to leading industry publications, and a recognized thought leader, named one of the Chicago Tribune’s “10 Business People to Watch,” a NOSH Notable, and a recipient of the Specialty Food Association’s Leadership in Vision Award.