People of Packaging Podcast

• 310 - Win at home first! w/ author Cory Carlson

  About the Guest(s):Corey Carlson is an accomplished executive coach, podcast host, and keynote speaker known for his expertise in leadership development and work-life balance strategies. He is the host of "Win at Home First" and the co-founder of the Rise community, an initiative aimed at supporting faith-driven men in integrating family and professional success. Corey is also the author of two influential books, "Win at Home First" and "Rise and Go," which delve into personal and professional growth through overcoming challenges and achieving success at work and home.Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek welcomes guest Corey Carlson, who shares insights from his dynamic journey from corporate success to becoming a transformative executive coach and community builder. Adam and Corey discuss the interconnectedness of personal and professional life, emphasizing the importance of 'winning at home first' to achieve overall success.The conversation delves into Corey’s experiences as outlined in his books, "Win at Home First" and "Rise and Go." Through these works, Corey advocates for leaders to integrate family values into their professional lives, proposing that true effectiveness stems from a healthy personal life. Corey discusses practical strategies for improving relationships, including daily reflections on loved ones' positive traits and rising above challenges to grow personally and professionally. Both books offer strategies and insights that resonate across varying career levels, from machine operators to executive leaders, solidifying the significance of personal fulfillment in professional excellence.Key Takeaways:* Importance of Family Life: Successful professional life begins with maintaining healthy personal relationships; prioritizing family impacts leadership effectiveness.* Winning with Intentionality: To improve challenging relationships, practice daily reflections to focus on positive attributes of family members and colleagues.* Resilience and Leadership: Corey's second book, "Rise and Go," emphasizes resilience, encouraging leaders to rapidly recover from setbacks with actionable strategies for personal growth.* Community and Coaching Benefits: Corey underscores the value of coaching and community, providing support networks crucial for overcoming leadership loneliness.* Transformative Leadership: Effective leadership requires balancing corporate goals with personal fulfillment, offering holistic development opportunities at all career levels.Notable Quotes:* "What we focus on expands, and by writing down what you love about someone, you start seeing more of those traits in them."* "All leaders get knocked down; it's just the great leaders get back up quicker."* "The work wins don't offset the losses at home."* "Life can get lonely, even if you’re leading a company or operating a machine. Coaching helps reveal that you're not alone."* "Put your thoughts out in the world; you never know who might benefit or relate."Resources:* Corey Carlson on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Profile* Corey's Podcast: "Win at Home First"* Books by Corey Carlson:* Win at Home First on Amazon* Rise and Go on Amazon* The Rise Community: Learn more about joining this faith-integrated leadership community.* Adam Peek’s LinkedIn: LinkedIn ProfileTune in to the full episode to uncover actionable insights on balancing personal and professional realms to elevate all areas of life. Stay connected for more inspiring discussions in future episodes of the People of Packaging Podcast. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

  --------  

  31:02
• 309 - Every Purchase Matters! w/ Fair Trade USA Founder Paul Rice

  About the Guest(s):Paul Rice is the founder of Fair Trade USA, an organization committed to the principles of ethical sourcing and global sustainable development. With a passionate background in international development and social justice, Paul has dedicated over two decades to promoting fair trade practices that empower farmers and workers worldwide. His work in Nicaragua shaped his vision and inspired the creation of a large network of fair trade projects, achieving measurable impact on poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability. Paul is also the author of the book "Every Purchase Matters," which explores the positive influence of conscious consumerism and fair trade.Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!* Gartner Report* Packaging Pros eBook* Home Page* Book a demo with SpecrightMeyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at www.thelabelking.comBook a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!Episode Summary:In this riveting episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek engages with Paul Rice, founder of Fair Trade USA, in a conversation tunneling into the transformative power of fair trade practices. The discussion unfolds with anecdotes from Paul's inspiring journey, revealing how his upbringing and international experiences ignited a lifelong commitment to economic and social justice. Rice shares insights into how fair trade revolutionizes supply chains, highlighting it as a vital solution that marries profitability with sustainability, effectively driving social impact through business.Delving deeper, the episode uncovers the ethos and mechanics behind Fair Trade USA's certification model, explaining how businesses and consumers alike can partake in creating global change. As the conversation unfolds, Rice emphasizes that every purchase — from ordinary groceries to thoughtful gifts — has the potential to contribute to ethical sourcing and sustainability. As listeners navigate these nuanced discussions, they'll discover how harmonizing economic models with social responsibility can collectively uplift communities and ensure long-term business resilience.Key Takeaways:* Fair trade is not just an ethical choice but a strategic business approach that de-risks the supply chain and ensures long-term sustainability.* Businesses integrating fair trade practices can foster resilience against market fluctuations while supporting global poverty alleviation.* Conscious consumerism enables individuals to significantly influence sustainable practices and fair labor conditions through everyday purchases.* Fair Trade USA's rigorous certification standards empower farmers by ensuring they receive equitable compensation, enabling communities to invest in development projects and preserve local ecosystems.* Despite challenges, substantial progress and growing consumer demand for sustainable products suggest a positive trajectory for fair trade initiatives.Notable Quotes:* "Trade not aid, which I dare say is more relevant than ever right now during these times."* "We are harnessing the power of companies and consumers to enable a journey of sustainability in communities."* "My belief is that we are powerful. Each of us as individuals, we are powerful and have the ability to change the world through the purchases that we make."* "Business can and must be a force for good in the world."* "Every purchase matters because when you go to the store, you have a chance to vote for a product that you know is organic or fair trade… that has measurable, verified benefit for the planet and for people."Resources:* Paul Rice's Website: paulrice.org* Fair Trade USA: Fair Trade USA Official Website* Book Mentioned: "Every Purchase Matters" by Paul Rice, available on Amazon and other major bookstores.Listeners are encouraged to delve into the complete episode to fully grasp the engaging discussions and inspiring narratives. Stay tuned for more illuminating content on the impact and innovation within the packaging and sustainability realms. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

  --------  

  31:07
• 308 - Everything you wanted to know about Private Equity, M&A with Mesirow

  About the Guest(s):Melanie Yermack is a seasoned Managing Director at Mesirow, where she co-heads the packaging practice. With over 14 years at the firm, Melanie has developed deep expertise in investment banking focused on mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the packaging sector. She started her career at PricewaterhouseCoopers and has been instrumental in navigating complex financial landscapes to deliver substantial value in packaging M&A deals.Rick Weil has dedicated 24 years to Mesirow as a Managing Director, specializing in M&A advisory. He has extensive experience in working with entrepreneur-owned businesses, providing them with tailored solutions and guidance through every facet of M&A transactions. His comprehensive understanding of both strategic and emotional components makes him a trusted advisor in the packaging industry.Nitay Laor serves as a Vice President at Mesirow, supporting Rick and Melanie in their packaging endeavors. Transitioning from an accounting background, Nitay has immersed himself into M&A in the packaging industry for the past eight years. His role involves deep analysis and strategy formation for complex, multi-year client engagements aimed at maximizing business valuation and market positioning.Episode Summary:Join Adam Peek in this insightful episode of the People of Packaging podcast as he delves into the world of mergers and acquisitions within the packaging industry with experts Melanie Yermack, Rick Weil, and Nitay Laor from Mesirow. This episode unveils the intricate dynamics of preparing a business for sale, understanding market valuations, and the pivotal role private equity plays in the packaging sector. With over 40 years of combined experience, these guests shed light on how investment banking operates within this field and project what the future might hold for packaging M&A.This episode unpacks the resilience of the packaging industry through tumultuous periods such as COVID-19 and economic uncertainties. Melanie emphasizes the importance of longevity in client relationships, underpinning the need for understanding not only market trends but also the unique value propositions of individual businesses. The team discusses the vital role of investment and strategic planning in making businesses attractive to buyers. Rick adds a perspective on the often unspoken psychological aspects of these transactions that aid family-owned businesses in preserving legacies while embracing strategic growth opportunities.Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!* Gartner Report* Packaging Pros eBook* Home Page* Book a demo with SpecrightMeyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at www.thelabelking.comBook a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!Key Takeaways:* The importance of crafting a well-structured and competitive process when approaching mergers and acquisitions to maximize business valuation.* Sustainability initiatives and automation are becoming significant drivers of value in the packaging industry, attracting private equity interest.* The packaging sector exhibits strong resilience and steadiness, even amidst global uncertainties such as tariffs and economic fluctuations.* M&A is a people-centered business that blends sales, finance, and psychology to guide family-owned businesses through pivotal transitions.* Engaging in long-term relationships with financial advisors can empower business owners with strategic foresight for future readiness in selling their business.Notable Quotes:* "Packaging companies killed it during COVID by demonstrating immense resilience and growth." - Rick Weil* "The essence of M&A in packaging is a blend of sales, finance, and psychology." - Rick Weil* "Sustainability is on the top of everybody's mind, and it's achieved in many ways like recycled content and recyclable packaging." - Melanie Yermack* "There's a massive pent-up demand in private equity awaiting the right packaging opportunities." - Rick Weil* "A lot of our clients, it's not just about valuation; it's about culture, employee care, and legacy." - Melanie YermackResources:* Visit Mesirow’s website for more information: www.mesirow.com* Listen to the My First Million podcast mentioned during the episode for insights on leveraging technology in business.To experience the nuance and depth of this conversation, tune into the full episode of the People of Packaging podcast. Gain valuable insights into the evolving landscape of M&A within the packaging sector, and keep exploring further with Adam Peek and his fascinating guests. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the series! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

  --------  

  34:15
• 307 - Prepare for the depression of the 2030's and other takeaways from Day 1 at the TLMI conference

  About the Guest(s):Alan Beaulieu: An esteemed economist known for his insightful economic forecasts, Alan Beaulieu has been sharing his expertise at the Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) show for 16 years. He brings a wealth of knowledge on how policies impact economies, particularly focusing on the packaging and manufacturing sectors. Alan is a prolific author and a renowned speaker, lauded for his clear communication style and deep understanding of global economic trends. Though he is retiring, his influential ideas and published works continue to guide industries.Cory Francor: An expert in digital printing, Cory Francor plays a vital role within NAPCO, a company recognized for its comprehensive research on industry trends. He delivers consulting and strategic insights, focusing particularly on advancements in digital and packaging printing. Corey's emphasis on innovative printing technologies and sustainability has made him a valuable voice in both the industry conferences and educational platforms.Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!* Gartner Report* Packaging Pros eBook* Home Page* Book a demo with SpecrightMeyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at www.thelabelking.comBook a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!Episode Summary:In this engaging episode of the People of Packaging podcast, host Adam Peek reports from the TLMI (Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute) show at La Cantera Resort and Spa in San Antonio, Texas. Engaging discussions surrounding economic forecasts and digital printing advancements unfold, featuring presentations from reputable figures like economist Alan Beaulieu and digital printing expert Corey Francor. Each presenter offers unique insights into current trends and future expectations within the packaging industry.Alan Beaulieu shares a comprehensive economic outlook, forecasting global growth from 2025 through 2029 and highlighting potential economic challenges into the 2030s. The session also addresses U.S. export trends, labor shortages, and the influence of immigration laws on the workforce. Meanwhile, Corey Francor discusses the increasing demand for digital printing solutions, focusing on their importance for short lead times and cost-efficiency. He emphasizes how brands are adapting to digital and sustainable practices, stressing transparency with regulatory compliance and sustainability documentation as crucial for industry credibility.Key Takeaways:* Expect global economic growth from 2025 to 2029; be prepared for potential economic downturns in the early 2030s.* U.S. manufacturing and exports are critical, with European and Mexican markets as top import partners.* Digital printing is increasingly favored by brands for its efficiency and cost benefits, especially within the label printing sector.* Sustainability is a top priority for brands, with a significant demand for clear and documented information from packaging suppliers.* Embracing data and technology for improved efficiency is vital for navigating future economic uncertainties.Notable Quotes:* "I'm going to talk about how policies are impacting the economy, not how politics are" – Alan Beaulieu.* "Digital printing is driving the label industry forward with short lead times and cost efficiency." – Cory Francor.* "Listen to millennials because they tend to have a mindset towards efficiency." – Alan Beaulieu.* "Brands are demanding the digital experience over just the digital capability." – Corey Francor.* "Remember, data and technology have to be done with a purpose." – Adam Peek.Resources:* Alan Beaulieu on LinkedIn* Corey's Resource at NAPCO* Tag and Label Manufacturers Institute (TLMI) official website: TLMI* Spec Rite: Spec Rite Website* Packaging Is Awesome Substack: Subscribe HereDiscover more in this episode to learn how the interplay of economic trends and technological advancements is shaping the future of the packaging industry. Don't miss out on future insights; subscribe to the People of Packaging podcast today for continued educational and industry-shaping content. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

  --------  

  18:33
• 306 - How Andis is using innovative carton design for sustainable packaging - Megan Lalanne

  About the Guest(s):Megan Lalanne is a seasoned packaging engineer with an impressive background in various industries. Currently employed by Andis, a well-known company producing shaving products, Megan has been instrumental in advancing their packaging engineering capabilities. Educated at UW Stout, she brings her passion for innovation and sustainability into her day-to-day work, ensuring that Andis's packaging is as cutting-edge and efficient as their grooming tools.Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!* Gartner Report* Packaging Pros eBook* Home Page* Book a demo with SpecrightMeyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!New sponsor is Label King! Check them out at www.thelabelking.comBook a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!Episode Summary:In this episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek engages in an enlightening conversation with Megan Lalanne, a packaging engineer at Andis. From the picturesque setting of the Dominican Republic, Megan shares her journey into the packaging world, her remote working experiences, and the innovative packaging strategies employed at Andis. The episode offers insights into how evolving industry demands and sustainability goals shape packaging projects.During their discussion, Megan explores the intricacies of packaging design, including the strategic use of materials, structural elements, and graphic touches like spot UV to enhance shelf appeal. She outlines the different packaging solutions used for Andis products, emphasizing customer experience and brand integrity. Megan also touches on her educational background at UW Stout and how it prepared her for a career in packaging. The episode provides valuable perspectives on maintaining quality and innovation in packaging amid changing market and environmental conditions.Key Takeaways:* Megan's journey from studying at UW Stout to becoming a packaging engineer at Andis highlights the importance of practical experience and adaptability in the packaging industry.* The episode sheds light on the evolution of packaging strategies at Andis, particularly how they balance premium design with sustainability and cost-efficiency.* Megan discusses the role of spot UV and other design elements in capturing customer attention and enhancing product presentation on retail shelves.* Insights into handling packaging production, including navigating domestic and international sourcing challenges, are shared to illustrate operational efficiencies.* Andis's commitment to brand integrity is demonstrated through innovations like the Amazon Transparency program to protect against counterfeiting.Notable Quotes:* "I always loved crafting and wrapping gifts as a kid… crazy that that became packaging."* "The first time you do something, you go all in; you think it's really fun."* "There's so much cool ways that they got really creative with the brand presence."* "Our products look like trophies… they sit them on the counter like a trophy."* "Incredible collaboration with our engineering team allowed us to function well during Covid."Resources:* Andis Website: Explore their products, learn about the tools, and check out potential job openings.* Follow Andis's various social media accounts for insights into grooming products and educations for DIY enthusiasts and professionals.For a full recap of the conversation with Megan Lalanne and to delve deeper into the world of packaging engineering at Andis, tune in to the full episode. Stay connected with the podcast for more industry insights and stories from packaging professionals around the globe. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

  --------  

  31:43

More Business podcasts

Trending Business podcasts

About People of Packaging Podcast