People of Packaging Podcast

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This is a podcast where we illuminate the stories of people in the packaging industry and proudly sponsored by Specright.com Hosted by the Packaging Pastor, Adam Peek www.packagingisawesome.com

FEB 12

304 - What exactly happened at the Plastic Treaty in 2024? What is the future of circularity in packaging? - Jon Smieja

About the Guest(s): Jon Smieja is the Vice President of Circularity at the Trellis Group. With a professional background that includes a PhD in Chemistry, Jon brings a wealth of knowledge in sustainability and circular economy. Since March 2022, he has been a pivotal force at Trellis Group, helping guide corporate practitioners in their fight against climate change. Jon is based in St. Paul, Minnesota, and is recognized for his expertise and thought leadership in developing actionable strategies towards a more sustainable future. * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers 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.com Book 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, Adam Peek converses with Jon Smieja, the Vice President of Circularity at the Trellis Group, about the evolving landscape of sustainability and circular economy. With his deep insights on the subject, Jon delves into the intricacies of the UN plastic treaty negotiations, the challenges posed by varied global standards on sustainability, and the critical role of policy in fostering innovation. The dialogue provides a comprehensive overview of current sustainability practices and policies, emphasizing the need for standardized regulations to enhance global cooperation. Jon Smieja sheds light on the international efforts to curb plastic pollution, discussing his firsthand experience at recent global meetings in South Korea. He highlights the significant divide between high ambition countries aiming for production caps on plastics and nations focused solely on end-of-life management. As Jon breaks down these complex issues, he reflects on how upcoming policy actions could push for scaling sustainable innovations, ultimately seeking a level playing field for businesses. Echoing the essence of the circular economy, this episode provides insightful perspectives on the progress and ongoing negotiations in the climate change fight. Key Takeaways: * The disparity between high ambition countries and others on managing plastic pollution is a central issue in global negotiations. * Circular economy initiatives necessitate both upstream production controls and enhanced downstream waste management solutions. * The role of policy as an innovation driver is crucial to scaling sustainable technologies and achieving global environmental goals. * Standardization in sustainability regulations is essential for clarity and effective implementation across nations. * Trellis Group events offer actionable insights for practitioners, facilitating collaboration among key stakeholders in sustainability. Notable Quotes: * "You are an authority on the circular economy." * "There's too much… and keep it out of the environment." * "Policy can be a driver… then the costs come down." * "I always think of sort of policy and these sort of requirements as the father of innovation." * "We can address the current plastics challenge with waste management alone." Resources: * Jon Smieja on LinkedIn * Trellis Group: trellis.net Stay tuned for more episodes filled with enlightening discussions on the latest in sustainability and the circular economy. Listen to the full episode for an in-depth understanding of all topics covered and more inspiring 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

34 min
JAN 28

303 - Packaging Today - Why labels are awesome and also kinda suck

About the Guest(s): Adam Peek is an expert in the packaging industry with over 14 years of experience. He specializes in labels, folding cartons, and RFID technology. Currently residing in West Jordan, Utah, Adam has a strong footprint in the labeling sector, working with a variety of companies to optimize their product packaging solutions. His deep understanding of the complexities of labeling and packaging positions him as a leading voice in sustainable packaging practices and innovations within the industry. Episode Summary: In this informative episode of the Packaging Today show, Adam Peek tackles an essential and often overlooked aspect of the packaging world: labels. While his co-hosts Cory and Evelio are attending Paris Packaging Week, Adam broadcasts solo from his home base in Utah. He provides an in-depth analysis of why labels are, in fact, a crucial component of packaging—contrary to some industry beliefs. Adam delves into the role labels play in product identification, compliance, and consumer information, asserting that labels are vital not only for brand identity but for the overall functionality and recyclability of packaging. Adam emphasizes the importance of selecting the right labels and adhesives, particularly concerning sustainability and recyclability. He discusses the declining PET resin prices and how the packaging industry must adapt to ensure the economic feasibility of recycling efforts. Adam dissects the complexities of label application, adhesive types, and the dire environmental implications of mismatched materials. The conversation underscores the transition in global packaging towards enhanced recyclability, highlighting how both consumers and companies can contribute to better recycling outcomes by understanding and improving label choices. Key Takeaways: * Labels are Essential Packaging: Labels are not merely decorative; they are essential for product identification, compliance, and consumer engagement, making them an integral part of the packaging. * Adhesive Selection is Crucial: The choice of adhesive on labels significantly impacts the recyclability of packaging, with the potential to either facilitate or hinder the recycling process. * Recyclability Challenges: PET and HDPE containers face distinct challenges regarding labels, and improper label choices can render materials unrecyclable, affecting recyclability economics. * Sustainable Practices: Understanding the complete lifecycle of packaging, including labeling, is necessary for developing sustainable solutions in the industry. * Technological Transition: Upcoming changes like the shift from UPC codes to QR codes (Sunrise 2027) signify evolving labeling technologies and their functionalities. Notable Quotes: * "Labels are packaging. They're not something separate from the realm of packaging, they are integral to it." * "The adhesive is not only about getting that label to stick, but about how we can navigate the challenges posed by recycling." * “There's no perfect solution for packaging. The perfect solution is really to have nothing, but that's not practical." * "The shift from the traditional UPC to QR codes by 2027 will transform how consumers and registers interact with packaging." * "It's not just the label material that needs attention; the adhesive is critically important when it comes to the recycling ecosystem." Resources: * SpecRight * Trayak * GS1 Website for information on Sunrise 2027 * Consortium for Waste Circularity * Packaging Today Podcast: Search on Apple and Spotify for episodes Discover more about the intricacies of packaging design and sustainability by tuning into this episode. Stay updated with the latest trends in the packaging industry, and anticipate insightful discussions from Packaging Today in future episodes. 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

38 min
JAN 23

302 - Can paper really replace rigid plastics? Boardio thinks so!

About the Guest(s): Jennifer Jablonski: Jennifer is a Business Development Manager at Graphic Packaging, focusing on the Boardio product. With a background at Graphic Packaging prior to AR Packaging's acquisition, Jennifer is pivotal in expanding Boardio/s market presence and sustainability initiatives. Max Goodman: Max is the Senior Product Manager for Boardio at Graphic Packaging. He has been instrumental in the product's evolution, witnessing its development from AR Packaging's era into its current iteration under Graphic Packaging. Alex Werne: Alex serves as the Sustainability Manager for the Boardio product at Graphic Packaging. Based in Lund, Sweden, his duties center around developing and advocating for the sustainability credentials of Boardio, aligning with broader organizational goals. * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers 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.com Book 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 insightful episode, host Adam Peek dives into the innovative world of sustainable packaging with a panel of experts from Graphic Packaging. The conversation unfurls the journey of Boardio, a revolutionary packaging solution that blends functionality with sustainability. Jennifer Jablonski, Max Goodman, and Alex Werne share in-depth details on how Boardio emerged from AR Packaging’s legacy product, the Sika Can, evolving into an innovative solution that balances environmental concerns with consumer needs. The episode is rich with discussions on Boardio’s form and functionality, including its manufacturing and logistical efficiencies, which result in a significant reduction in carbon emissions. Topical sustainability challenges, such as EPR laws and the intricacies of material recycling, are also unpacked. The guests share plans for expanding Bordeaux's presence in the North American market, highlighting potential partnerships with industries looking for eco-friendly packaging solutions. The podcast not only introduces Bordeaux’s attributes but also presents actionable insights into the future of sustainable packaging. Key Takeaways: * Boardio is a pioneering product combining sustainability with efficient packaging solutions, rooted in AR Packaging's legacy design, the Sika Can. * The unique flat-packed manufacturing process drastically reduces transportation-related carbon footprints compared to traditional pre-made can solutions. * Boardio is curbside-recyclable, featuring 90% paperboard and 10% other materials necessary for product protection without impacting recyclability. * Expanding co-packing networks will enable Boardio to enter various product categories, including coffee, powdered goods, and supplements, offering brands a sustainable edge. * A holistic approach to packaging sustainability is essential, integrating product protection, carbon footprint considerations, and ease of recyclability. Notable Quotes: * "Boardio is not like a miracle product. We still need like a barrier to protect the product." * "One of the biggest benefits of the Boardio pack is that it is delivered in flat… the efficiency gains compared to any pre-erected packaging is significant." * "With the Boardio pack, we're printing and cutting everything in our facilities, delivering that in flat, then it is assembled in our machinery right before it is being filled." * "The packaging itself often doesn't contribute that much if you look at the whole product to the footprint." * "We really want to see the Boardio package succeed and expand to new markets and new areas. And also beyond North America and Europe, take Boardio globally." Resources: * Graphic Packaging * AR Packaging Heritage * Canada-based partners: Club Coffee and Mother Parkers * Co-packers: JJM Packaging in New Jersey and Combined Technologies Inc. in Indiana For more about the innovative sector of sustainable packaging and further dynamic discussions, tune into the full episode and stay connected for upcoming episodes. 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

36 min
JAN 7

301 - Infigo is en fuego! Changing the game for Web2Print for printers w/ Doug Gibson

About the Guest(s): Doug Gibson is the founder and CEO of Infigo, a company specializing in web-to-print solutions designed to streamline printing processes. With over 14 years of experience leading Infigo since its inception in 2010, Doug has successfully expanded the company's global footprint, particularly strengthening its presence in North America. Originally a Scotsman, Doug's professional journey has taken him across Europe and the United States, where he frequently engages with industry stakeholders and represents Infigo at major print and labeling events. * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers 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.com Book 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 sits down with Doug Gibson, the dynamic founder and CEO of Infigo. Broadcasting all the way from Switzerland, Doug delves into the fascinating world of web-to-print technology, highlighting its transformative potential in the print and packaging industry. With a refreshing mix of humor and insight, Doug compares himself to a Mel Gibson doppelganger and shares his personal journey from a Scotsman to a recognized industry leader. Throughout the discussion, Doug shares how Infigo enables printers to increase their orders and revenue through automated, seamless processes. He provides a clear picture of how web-to-print solutions can revolutionize the typical business procedure by allowing 24/7 access for customers — drastically cutting down on lengthy administrative tasks and thereby freeing up businesses to focus on more value-driven interactions. Doug passionately speaks about the importance of easing the accessibility of such technology, arguing that, despite common misgivings, implementing a solution like Infigo can bring multiple competencies and advantages without disrupting existing job roles. Key Takeaways: * Infigo's web-to-print solutions aim to streamline printer operations, enabling more orders and revenue without increasing human intervention. * Automated online experiences offered by Infigo simplify the order, proofing, and payment processes, freeing up company resources devoted to non-income generating tasks. * Doug emphasizes meeting customers where they are, stressing the importance of making transactions easy to maintain competitive industry standing. * A significant part of Infigo's client base has shifted to North America, demonstrating their success and rising adoption of digital tools among US companies. * Doug highlights the need for the industry to keep pace with technological advancement and innovation, moving away from traditional and inefficient methods. Notable Quotes: * "Our number one goal, make getting more orders and make them more money. That's what we, that's what we like to do here." * "Printers have some tooling to enable their businesses to be more successful, more profitable and easier to deal with." * "Let the system do that. Let’s do the proportion of if we’ve got a pie and we’re eating into three quarters of it doing our admin, let’s do it the other way around." * "Move part of your process online. Move part of the problem online." * "It amazes me that they're sitting there, there's a trepidation of saying why should I even bother with doing this?" Resources: * Infigo's Website * Infigo on LinkedIn: Check their page for updates on their services and industry insights. Explore the evolving landscape of printing solutions with Adam and Doug in this episode, providing a rich discussion about the technological leap in printing operations and the value of adopting digital tools. Tune in to understand how Infigo’s solutions can empower your business, stay ahead of trends and maximize efficiency, only on 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

36 min
JAN 1

300! 6 years later, Adam and Ted record together from Ted's studio in NJ

Key Takeaways: * The People of Packaging podcast originated from a chance meeting between Adam Peek and Ted Taitt at a packaging event in New York. * Ted Taitt brings a unique blend of expertise with a background in mechanical engineering and a long history in both the packaging industry and music production. * The episode reflects on the growth and transformation of the podcast, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to increased engagement and content production. * Ted highlights the importance of embracing new experiences and being open to continuous learning as key components for career growth. * The evolving role of AI in packaging design is discussed as a frontier for innovation and creativity in the industry.Specright has some amazing things happening! Please check them out below and help support the podcast! * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers 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.com Book 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! About the Guest(s): Ted Taitt: Ted Taitt is a seasoned professional in the packaging industry with a background in mechanical engineering. A graduate of NJIT, Ted has been immersed in packaging since 1996, developing a rich tapestry of experience and connections throughout his career. Besides his technical expertise, Ted is a passionate music enthusiast with a home studio, where he has been engaged in music production since 1991. Ted's multifaceted career and interests highlight his dedication to innovation and creativity both in engineering and music. Episode Summary: In this milestone 300th episode of the People of Packaging podcast, Adam Peek celebrates the remarkable journey of the podcast with his good friend Ted Taitt. Broadcasting from Ted's home studio in South Plainfield, NJ, the episode takes listeners on a nostalgic trip down memory lane to the origins of the People of Packaging podcast. From their initial meeting at a New York packaging event to the first few episodes recorded in a humble hotel room, Adam and Ted revisit the ups and downs, the lessons learned, and the growth experiences marking their journey together. The episode is rich with insights into Ted's extensive packaging career and his dual passion for music. Adam and Ted discuss the evolving intersection of technology and packaging, with Ted expressing excitement over the creative potential of integrating AI into design. The discussion also touches on personal growth and career evolution, where Ted shares invaluable advice about embracing change and stepping out of one's comfort zone. Through candid dialogue and light-hearted banter, Adam and Ted demonstrate the power of networking and openness, pivotal elements that have shaped their friendship and professional endeavors. Notable Quotes: * "I've been at this for wow. Since 1991." - Ted Taitt * "You have to be open to meeting new people." - Ted Taitt * "Try new things… I think I let a lot of potential growth pass me by." - Ted Taitt * "With the AI tools and what it allows people to do creatively… It's exciting." - Ted Taitt * "Life always wins." - Ted Taitt Resources: * Spec Rite: specright.com * TRAYAK: trayak.com - Offers solutions for life cycle assessment and other goals. * Ted's Home City: South Plainfield, NJ – insights into TED’s life and community. Encourage your audience to listen to the full episode for an in-depth exploration of the unique blend of packaging, music, and personal growth that this conversation offers. Stay tuned for more inspiring content from 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

25 min
12/30/2024

299 - EarthKind is a truly sustainable company from the farm, doing no harm

About the Guest(s): Kari Warberg Block is the innovative founder of EarthKind, a company renowned for its eco-friendly pest control solutions. As the daughter of an entomologist yet possessing a natural ethos about nature, Kari embarked on creating sustainable, humane pest control methods. Her product line, which steers clear from traditional toxic pesticides, has found massive success, selling over $350 million in retail. Her commitment to quality led her to oversee all manufacturing in-house at EarthKind, ensuring each product's integrity and efficacy. Kari is also a respected blogger and contributor to popular publications like Martha Stewart Living and Good Housekeeping. Specright has some amazing things happening! Please check them out below and help support the podcast! * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options! * Get the 2023 Sustainability Report * Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!! Get the dopest Packaging shirts at www.packagingfashion.com Book 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: Join host Adam Peek in an intriguing conversation with Kari Warberg Block, the founder of EarthKind, as they dive into the world of compassionate pest control solutions. This podcast episode is a deep dive into Kari's unique journey from being the daughter of a traditional pest control professional to creating a company that revolutionizes the way we manage pests. Her determination and innovative mindset have navigated EarthKind to the forefront of eco-friendly pest prevention, highlighted by products like Fresh Cab and Stay Away. Kari shares valuable insights into her entrepreneurial path, driven by personal experiences and an unyielding faith. She reveals her pioneering success in the pest control industry—having launched a whole new category that's been adopted by major retailers and even inspired giants like Procter and Gamble. This episode explores the intersection of effective pest control and earth-friendly solutions, showcasing advanced packaging innovations designed by her son and others at Earth Kind. Throughout the discussion, Kari's unwavering commitment to sustainability and quality shines through, offering listeners an enlightening perspective on her mission and legacy. Key Takeaways: * Kari Warberg Block transformed the pest control industry by creating eco-friendly, sustainable solutions that do not rely on toxins or poisons. * Earth Kind's products, such as Fresh Cab and Stay Away, are thoroughly developed and manufactured in-house, emphasizing high-quality and environmentally friendly practices. * Kari's approach is heavily influenced by her upbringing and personal ethos, focusing more on innovative problem-solving than on profit-making. * The packaging of Earth Kind products is an integral component, crafted to maintain the integrity and effectiveness of the pest-repelling contents. * Earth Kind's impact reaches consumers directly and extends to collaborations with brands like John Deere, proving the professional-grade quality of their products. Notable Quotes: * "It always brings me a little bit of extra joy whenever I hear it because it's cool that I can get my kids involved in this whole thing." * "I started this business with my kids and they've had a lot of contributions in it over the years, and ultimately it led to their career choices as well." * "We moved around a lot…which really taught me a lot about people, right, and a lot about culture." * "I prayed a lot and I learned to get really resourceful because if I don’t know something, I need to find the person who knows this." * "Packaging is such an important piece of that. And I'm kind of a junkie when it comes to that." Resources: * Earth Kind * Articles by Kari Warberg Block in major publications like Martha Stewart Living and Good Housekeeping Delve into this captivating episode and discover how Kari Warberg Block's innovative spirit and commitment to sustainability are reshaping pest control at Earth Kind. Don't miss out on more enlightening stories and insights from the People of Packaging Podcast—subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming episodes. 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

36 min
12/13/2024

298 - The rise of the espresso martini and the importance of packaging for RTD w/ Night Owl

About the Guest(s): Charlie Grace is the co-founder of Night Owl Martini, a burgeoning brand in the ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail segment. Based in New York City, Charlie brings a wealth of expertise from the beverage industry, focusing particularly on innovative and consumer-oriented solutions in alcoholic drinks. His experience includes developing unique products that cut down on preparation time while ensuring quality, like the tequila-infused espresso martini for which Night Owl is renowned. Partnering with a co-founder who has a strong background in co-packing operations, Charlie is committed to delivering top-notch cocktail experiences conveniently to consumers across the United States. Specright has some amazing things happening! Please check them out below and help support the podcast! * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options! * Get the 2023 Sustainability Report * Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!! Get the dopest Packaging shirts at www.packagingfashion.com Book 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 thrilling episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek chats with Charlie Grace, the visionary behind Night Owl Martini, about revolutionizing the world of ready-to-drink cocktails. As a pioneer in the beverage industry, Night Owl Martini marries the electrifying flavors of espresso with vodka and tequila to serve cocktail quality experiences conveniently in a can. Through this lively discussion, listeners will gain insights into how Night Owl tackled traditional cocktail preparation challenges with their innovative products. Charlie Grace elaborates on the inspiration and journey behind Night Owl Martini, emphasizing the value of premium ingredients and seamless packaging to create a memorable consumer experience. The convenience of RTD cocktails, like Night Owl’s Espresso Martini, curtails the hassle of measuring and mixing – a clear game-changer for cocktail enthusiasts. The discussion navigates through packaging intricacies, nitro-filling for foam quality, and the importance of drink stability. The episode also uncovers plans for Night Owl's growth and distribution across the U.S., encouraging listeners to explore this rising star on the beverage scene. Key Takeaways: * Night Owl Martini is disrupting the market with its espresso martini packed in an aluminum can, offering unique vodka and tequila options for diverse flavor experiences. * The popularity of espresso martinis continues to surge, with Night Owl filling a niche for quality cocktails that are convenient and accessible. * Using nitro in canning ensures Night Owl's martinis maintain their signature foam, enhancing drink presentation even at home. * Sustainability in packaging is emphasized, using recyclable materials to reduce environmental impact while offering a premium product experience. * Night Owl is focused on expanding its distribution, currently targeting ten states primarily along the East Coast, and eyeing future growth across America. Notable Quotes: * "Espresso martinis are one of the most popular drinks both in New York City and around the country, even around the world." – Charlie Grace * "We really wanted a coffee forward tasting profile, and it allows, a great baseline." – Charlie Grace * "Our goal as we look at the Night Owl brand is to really focus on the coffee and alcohol space." – Charlie Grace * "Maybe it will become your happy hour drink of choice when you decide that you need a little pick me up." – Charlie Grace * "Night Owl Martini is not just a product, it's an experience for those who enjoy the finer things in life with convenience." – Charlie Grace Resources: * Website: drinknightowl.com – Explore Night Owl's range of ready-to-drink espresso martinis. * Social Media: Keep up with Night Owl Martini on social platforms for the latest news and updates. * Special Mentions: Adam Peek shares a delightful first experience tasting both the vodka and tequila versions of Night Owl's signature drink, highlighting the brand's potential for corporate gifting initiatives. Dive into this engaging episode to uncover the innovations driving the RTD cocktail revolution. The conversation doesn't end here — stay tuned for more fascinating insights and trends in the evolving packaging and beverage industries! 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

29 min
12/04/2024

297 - Can functional THC beverages help with alcoholism? Jonny Locarni and Magic Cactus believe so!

About the Guest(s): Johnny Locarni is the founder of Magic Cactus, a pioneering company in the hemp beverage industry aiming to offer the most effective alcohol alternatives on the market. With a professional background that spans finance, film and television, Johnny ventured into the cannabis industry almost by accident but quickly found a niche serving the more cannabis-curious and lighter consumers. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, he spent years in Los Angeles before relocating to Arizona. His entrepreneurial journey is driven by a personal mission to create healthier alcohol alternatives, fueled in part by a personal family tragedy. Specright has some amazing things happening! Please check them out below and help support the podcast! * Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies! * Gartner Report * Packaging Pros eBook * Home Page * Book a demo with Specright Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options! * Get the 2023 Sustainability Report * Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!! Get the dopest Packaging shirts at www.packagingfashion.com Book 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 is joined by Johnny Locarni, the founder of Magic Cactus, to delve into the rapidly evolving intersection of the beverage industry and hemp-derived THC. Johnny shares his unique journey from finance to cannabis and ultimately to founding a beverage company focused on providing a natural alternative to alcohol. The discussion covers the potential of hemp-derived products, their role as alcohol alternatives, and the complex regulatory environment that currently impacts their availability. Johnny outlines the challenges Magic Cactus faced during its research and development phase, emphasizing the need for a product that not only offers a pleasant taste and is low in sugar and calories, but also meets various legal restrictions across different states. By focusing on a microdose approach, Magic Cactus offers consumers a way to enjoy the effects of THC responsibly and legally in many locations. As Magic Cactus continues to navigate the shifting landscape of state regulations, Johnny’s insights offer valuable lessons for anyone interested in the future of hemp-based products. Key Takeaways: * Magic Cactus is innovating in the hemp beverage industry by providing a low-dose THC alternative to alcohol. * The regulatory environment for hemp-derived products is complex and varies widely by state, impacting business strategies and product distribution. * Johnny Locarni’s motivation to create Magic Cactus was driven by personal tragedy and a desire to provide healthier lifestyle alternatives. * The company focuses on producing a low-calorie, low-sugar beverage that can serve as an alcohol alternative for people looking to reduce alcohol consumption. * Navigating regulatory challenges is a continual process requiring frequent updates to product packaging and distribution strategies. Notable Quotes: * "The goal is to create an approachable, natural, non-toxic alternative to alcohol." * "Being a cannabis-born brand wasn't a fit for what we were trying to accomplish." * "What would make more sense is to decipher with a potency cap… rather than trying to figure out the source material." * "We have to be very careful. We can't just say, we just landed this national contract for distribution." * "The mission and vision help. If I didn't have a reason to be doing this, I probably would've… just gone back to finance." Resources: * Magic Cactus Website * Johnny Locarni on LinkedIn * Magic Cactus on Instagram @drinkmagiccactus Listen to the full episode to gain deeper insight into the benefits, challenges, and future possibilities in the hemp-derived beverage industry. Stay tuned to the People of Packaging Podcast for more engaging discussions and expert insights! 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

33 min

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This is a podcast where we illuminate the stories of people in the packaging industry and proudly sponsored by Specright.com Hosted by the Packaging Pastor, Adam Peek www.packagingisawesome.com

Creator

www.packagingpastor.com
Years Active

2022 - 2025
Episodes

302
Rating

Clean
Show Website

People of Packaging Podcast

People of Packaging Podcast

Episodes

304 - What exactly happened at the Plastic Treaty in 2024? What is the future of circularity in packaging? - Jon Smieja

303 - Packaging Today - Why labels are awesome and also kinda suck

302 - Can paper really replace rigid plastics? Boardio thinks so!

301 - Infigo is en fuego! Changing the game for Web2Print for printers w/ Doug Gibson

300! 6 years later, Adam and Ted record together from Ted's studio in NJ

299 - EarthKind is a truly sustainable company from the farm, doing no harm

298 - The rise of the espresso martini and the importance of packaging for RTD w/ Night Owl

297 - Can functional THC beverages help with alcoholism? Jonny Locarni and Magic Cactus believe so!

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