Guest: Kerry Sanders, Digital Press Guru at EFI

Hosts: Adam Peek, The Label King (@thelabelking on TikTok)

This podcast is sponsored by awesome packaging solutions that get us fired up like Specright!

Get ready to have your mind blown! In this episode, Adam is joined by EFI's Kerry Sanders to unveil a packaging innovation so cool, it's going to change the game. We're talking about the incredible collaboration between EFI and Packsize that brings digital printing and right-sized packaging together in one seamless, on-demand solution.

Adam shows off a box that was designed and printed in minutes—a process that used to take weeks. We dive deep into how the EFI Nozomi press, in partnership with Packsize, is completely disrupting the corrugated packaging industry. This isn't just about making a box; it's about turning every package into a marketing asset, a communication tool, and a brand-building billboard.

Key Takeaways:

* On-Demand Printing is Here: Forget pre-made plates and long lead times. The EFI Nozomi press can create and print a custom box in a matter of minutes, right on the production line.

* Goodbye to Waste: This solution drastically reduces waste by printing on-demand and creating the right-sized box every single time. It's a win for sustainability and your bottom line.

* Your Box is a Billboard: We discuss the game-changing concept of "On-Box Advertising" (OBA). With digital printing, you can instantly create personalized, regionalized, or seasonal campaigns on your packaging—all without extra costs or lead times.

* The Power of Personalization: Variable data printing allows you to add unique names, messages, or even QR codes to each box. Imagine a birthday box that says, "Happy Birthday, [Customer's Name]!" This is how you build a connection with your customers.

* Beyond E-Commerce: The benefits extend far beyond direct-to-consumer. We explore how this technology can be a game-changer for CPGs and brands looking to streamline their repacking processes and reduce manual labor.

A Special Invitation!

Don't miss the full deep-dive! Join Adam, Kerry, and two other industry experts for an exclusive webinar on this groundbreaking technology. They'll be talking more about the insane possibilities for brands, retailers, and 3PLs.

Date: September 3rd, 2025 Time: 2:00 PM EST

Can't make it live? No problem! As long as you register, you'll get access to the recording to watch on your own time. Click here to sign up!

How to Connect:

* Kerry Sanders: Connect with Kerry on LinkedIn or email him at [email protected]

* Adam Peek: Find Adam on LinkedIn and TikTok (@thelabelking)

* EFI: Learn more about the EFI Nozomi press and their other digital solutions at www.efi.com

* Packsize: Explore Packsize's right-sized packaging solutions at www.packsize.com

This podcast is sponsored by awesome packaging solutions that get us fired up like Specright!

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

Welcome back to the People of Packaging Podcast! In this exciting episode, Adam Peek, the host and now co-owner of Label King SLC, sits down with the man himself, Robert Parker, the original Label King.

SIGN UP FOR THE GRAND OPENING IN UTAH ON 8/28/25 FROM 11-1

Adam and Robert share the story behind their new partnership and the launch of Label King's second location in Salt Lake City, Utah. They discuss:

* The Power of Consistency: Robert's journey from a young salesman to a seasoned entrepreneur who built a thriving business on a foundation of hard work and dedication.

* A Leap of Faith: The incredible story of how Robert and his wife Kim started the business with two young kids and a vision.

* The Importance of a Great Team: The value of investing in your employees and creating a company culture where everyone wins, from the front office to the production floor.

* Building on a Legacy: Adam shares how he's leveraging Robert's 23 years of experience and established reputation to bring a new level of service and quality to the Utah market.

* A Call to Action for the Community: Adam explains how even a simple request for a quote helps them refine their systems and better serve the industry.

Special Announcement:

Adam and Robert are thrilled to announce the official Grand Opening and Open House for Label King Salt Lake City on August 28th, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

They invite everyone in the packaging community to come celebrate this new chapter. There will be giveaways, facility tours, and a chance to meet the team. Join them to see the new operation and connect with other industry professionals!

Click here to RSVP for the Grand Opening event.

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

Every Wednesday you have a chance to win a CAN WE SOLVE IT? Shirt in partnership with SmartSolve! Join us at 8:30 am MST every M-F for the best packaging content on the internet

Dissolvable Packaging with Dana Prenger

Episode Summary:

In this episode, we sit down with Dana Prenger from SmartSolve to talk about a truly innovative solution to the global packaging waste problem: dissolvable packaging. We're joined by packaging expert Evelio Mattos to dive deep into what SmartSolve is, how it works, and its potential to revolutionize industries from retail to food and beverage. Dana explains the science behind their water-soluble materials, the variety of applications, and the incredible journey from a single-product idea to a full-scale sustainable packaging solution. We discuss the challenges of "greenwashing" in the industry, the importance of real, verifiable sustainability, and the future of packaging where the material simply disappears.

Key Discussion Points:

* The SmartSolve Origin Story: How SmartSolve began with a single water-soluble product and evolved into a wide range of dissolvable packaging solutions.

* The Science of Dissolvability: Dana explains the unique composition of their materials and how they safely dissolve in water without leaving behind harmful microplastics.

* Beyond the Box: We explore the diverse applications of SmartSolve's technology, from retail tags and laundry pods to food packaging and medical supplies.

* The Power of Verification: The conversation tackles the issue of "greenwashing" and why SmartSolve's certified, verifiable sustainability claims are so important for brand trust.

* The Future of Packaging: A look at where SmartSolve is headed, including new material innovations and their vision for a world where packaging doesn't have to be a permanent part of the waste stream.

* A Collaborative Approach: The episode highlights the partnership between SmartSolve and their customers, working together to develop custom solutions that meet specific sustainability goals.

Guest Information:

* Dana Prenger: Dana is a key member of the team at SmartSolve, a company on a mission to combat plastic pollution with their water-soluble, dissolvable packaging materials.

* Evelio Mattos: A well-known expert in the world of packaging design and sustainability, Evelio brings his vast knowledge to the discussion, providing valuable context and insights.

Important Timestamps:

* [0:00] -: Introduction to the guests and the topic of dissolvable packaging.

* [5:15]: Dana shares the founding story of SmartSolve and its mission.

* [12:40]: Discussion on the technical side of the dissolvable material and its safety.

* [25:00]: Evelio and Dana discuss the problem of "greenwashing" and the importance of certified sustainable products.

* [35:30]: The future of SmartSolve and new product development.

Links & Resources:

* SmartSolve Website: https://smartsolve.com/

Call to Action:

If you're a business looking to reduce your environmental footprint, or just a curious individual interested in the future of sustainable products, this episode is a must-listen! Subscribe to our podcast for more conversations with innovators who are changing the world, one dissolvable package at a time. And be sure to check out SmartSolve's website to see their incredible products in action.

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

In this episode of the People of Packaging podcast, host Adam Peek sits down with Michael Houston, President & CEO of Future Blue Group and Co-founder of Shower Pouch, for an insightful conversation that delves into his extensive career in packaging and his passion for innovative, sustainable solutions.

Michael's Journey: From Corporate Giants to Entrepreneurial Ventures

Michael shares his impressive career trajectory, starting with his time at major CPG companies like Procter & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson, where he gained invaluable experience in packaging R&D and operations. He later transitioned to companies like Beachbody, where he began to focus on helping smaller businesses navigate the complexities of product development and market entry. His experience also includes roles at Unilever, working with beauty brands like Murad, Dermalogica, and Kate Somerville, and contributing to the Honest Company's IPO. This rich background has fueled his current entrepreneurial pursuits.

Introducing Shower Pouch: The On-the-Go Hygiene Solution

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Shower Pouch, a product born from a personal problem statement. Michael recounts how his father, serving in Afghanistan, highlighted the need for a better hygiene solution than just baby wipes. Collaborating with his business partner, Omar Jimenez (a talented chemist), they developed Shower Pouch – a high-quality, durable, and highly absorbent non-woven wipe designed to clean an entire body with just one product. The conversation touches on:

* The Problem: Addressing the need for convenient and effective hygiene solutions for military personnel, hospital patients, and even active individuals on the go.

* The Innovation: The use of a specialized non-woven material that is highly absorbent and durable, allowing for efficient cleaning.

* Sustainability Focus: Shower Pouch is designed as a durable good, emphasizing reusability and minimizing waste. The packaging even suggests washing and repurposing the wipes.

* Convenience: The product can be used on its own or heated for a more comfortable experience.

* Availability: Shower Pouch is available on Amazon Prime and through their website, theshowerpouch.com.

Future Blue Group: Driving Sustainable Packaging for CPG Brands

Michael's consultancy, Future Blue Group, leverages his deep industry knowledge to assist CPG brands in various aspects of packaging. The discussion highlights:

* Key Areas of Focus: Future Blue Group helps brands with cutting-edge technical packaging solutions, cost reduction, enhancing packaging aesthetics, improving customer experience, integrating sustainability principles, optimizing supply chain operations, and accelerating market entry.

* Industry Successes: Michael notes significant success working with brands in the supplement space, where he helps optimize packaging for shelf stability and manufacturability, moving beyond generic stock options. He also finds considerable success in the personal care, masstige, and prestige categories, where he navigates complex material and formulation challenges to ensure both aesthetics and functionality.

* The Importance of Data: Michael emphasizes the critical role of data in making informed packaging decisions. He advocates for a scientific, objective approach to sustainability, starting with verifiable data rather than relying on "greenwashing" or gut feelings. This is where tools like Specright.com and Trayak become invaluable.

Sustainability in Packaging: A Call for Clarity

Michael offers crucial advice for brands tackling sustainability:

* Define Your Sustainability: He stresses the importance of clearly defining what sustainability means for your specific brand – whether it's compostability, recyclability, durability, or a combination. A clear definition allows for quantifiable goals and avoids being "all over the place."

* Embrace Material Science: Understanding the materials you're working with, their manufacturing processes, and their environmental impact is key to making truly sustainable choices.

* Beyond Greenwashing: Move past superficial claims and commit to science-based decisions that genuinely reduce environmental impact, particularly focusing on reducing CO2 emissions.

Connect with Michael Houston:

* LinkedIn: Michael Houston

* Future Blue Group: Find them on LinkedIn

* Shower Pouch: theshowerpouch.com

* Email: [email protected]

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

About the Guest(s):

Fred Hart is a prominent figure in the branding and design industry, known for his strategic insights and creative solutions. He is a contributing writer at the Dieline, a strategic advisor for Drum Roll Snacks, and the owner of Hart Brands. Hart is celebrated for his unique approach to branding, focusing on strategy-led design that challenges traditional norms within the consumer packaged goods sector. He is a thought leader who frequently shares his expertise on LinkedIn, where he engages with a community interested in the future of food and beverage branding.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, host Adam Peek sits down with branding expert Fred Hart to explore the dynamic world of food and beverage branding. The conversation unravels the buzzing trends within the industry and how design is shaping consumer choices. Starting with the beverage scene, Fred Hart dives into the rampant "grams gone wild" phenomenon, where protein content is becoming a vocal marketing strategy. He critically examines how this trend is commoditizing products rather than distinguishing brands, sparking a discussion on the balance between highlighting product benefits versus maintaining brand identity.

As the episode unfolds, Fred and Adam transition into examining broader trends in food packaging and branding. The discussion covers the evolution of unconventional design elements such as utilizing multiple fonts and vibrant color schemes to disrupt traditional branding narratives. Fred highlights innovative companies like Graza, which have reimagined olive oil packaging to make it more accessible and relatable. He emphasizes that while design innovation is crucial, it should always aim to challenge the category, not the consumer, facilitating a connection that is both appealing and functional.

Key Takeaways:

* Protein Marketing Dilemma: The beverage industry is increasingly focusing on protein content as a key marketing strategy, but this trend may lead to a commoditization of products rather than differentiation.

* Design Innovation: Brands are experimenting with bold colors, multiple fonts, and unique packaging styles to disrupt traditional market perceptions, such as Graza's squeeze bottle olive oil.

* Influencer-Driven Brands: There is a growing trend of influencers launching their own brands, leveraging their audiences to introduce unique, niche products in the food and beverage sector.

* Community and Branding: Building a strong community is essential for brands. Personalized branding stories and community engagement are key components for modern successful brands like Midday Squares.

* Evolving Consumer Packaged Goods: The industry is continuously changing with brands like Limo and hiQ utilizing direct-to-can printing to create standout packaging that resonates with younger, more design-conscious consumers.

Notable Quotes:

* "Simplify to amplify is one of the things I like to say." – Fred Hart

* "Challenge the category but not the consumer." – Fred Hart

* "We're not adults. Everyone knows that." – Fred Hart on branding decisions and humor in packaging.

* "All brands need community. They need people. Brands are in service of people." – Fred Hart

* "The industry's grappling with what have the big companies traditionally done and what are ways of disrupting that?" – Fred Hart

Resources:

* Fred Hart LinkedIn

* The Dieline

* Graza Olive Oil

* Midday Squares

* Limo Sparkling Beverage

* hiQ Drink

* Packaging Peaks in a Sticky Situation by Adam Peek

For an insightful and entertaining dive into the world of food and beverage branding, tune in to this episode and stay engaged for more episodes that promise to deliver more industry insights and thought-provoking discussions.

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

About the Guest(s):

Jim Birch is the CEO of Salsa Queen, a thriving salsa business based in Salt Lake City, Utah. With a rich background in tech and finance, Jim has successfully leveraged his skills to grow Salsa Queen from a local endeavor into a substantial player in the food industry. His leadership has facilitated the brand's expansion into major retailers like Costco and Kroger, while also pioneering innovative products like freeze-dried salsa.

Episode Summary:

Join Adam Peek as he delves into the flavorful journey of Salsa Queen with guest Jim Birch, the CEO of the salsa company that’s taken tastebuds by storm. From humble beginnings in Salt Lake City to expansive growth across major retail outlets, Salsa Queen's story is as spicy as it gets. Discover how Jim, alongside his wife, the eponymous Salsa Queen—who legally changed her name as a testament to her passion—transformed a homemade salsa hobby into a celebrated brand renowned for its innovative packaging and commitment to flavor.

In this episode, the discussion navigates through the founding story of Salsa Queen, highlighting the role of farmers markets and the effective use of social media to build a customer base. The episode provides insights into the challenges and milestones encountered as the brand scaled from local to national markets. Moreover, Jim introduces a revolutionary product—freeze-dried salsa—that stands to reshape how we think about culinary convenience in the culinary world. This pioneering innovation dramatically enhances logistics and shelf life, positioning Salsa Queen as a leader in sustainable packaging and product development.

Key Takeaways:

* Discover the entrepreneurial journey of Salsa Queen, launched by Jim Birch and his wife, including its dynamic transition from local markets to national chains.

* Learn about the strategic growth tactics that propelled Salsa Queen into retailers like Costco and Kroger.

* Explore the innovative freeze-dried salsa product, which offers significant advantages in shipping, shelf life, and consumer convenience.

* Understand the impact of sustainable and efficient packaging solutions in the food industry.

* Hear Jim Birch discuss the importance of hiring skilled personnel to drive growth and meet industry certifications.

Notable Quotes:

* "My wife legally changed her name to Salsa Queen… no one would ever say her real name."

* "We were like salsa dealers… meeting people at parking lots and selling salsa."

* "Freeze-dried candy has become a whole… and I thought her salsas would be perfect for it."

* "You can feel how light it is… shipping that's a game changer."

* "We've become the world's largest producer of freeze dried salsas."

Resources:

* Salsa Queen Official Website: salsaqueen.com

* Harvest Right (Freeze Dryers): harvestright.com

Discover the entire flavorful journey and innovative breakthroughs of Salsa Queen by tuning into the complete episode. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and insights from the world of packaging and business innovation in 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

Hey! No AI generated notes, but you should join us every morning at 8:30 am MST on Youtube and LinkedIn on the Packaging Today Show. Enjoy this episode and be sure to join us!

https://www.youtube.com/@packagingunboxd is where you can find the show

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eveliomattos/ or here

comment live and we even have chances to win shirts and stuff from PackagingFashion.com

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

About the Guest(s):

Steve Pyfrom is the Head of Strategy and Sales at The Nine Digital, a forward-thinking digital marketing agency specializing in the manufacturing industry. With an extensive background in pastoral ministry, Steve effortlessly transitioned to a sales career where he helps businesses flourish in the digital age. Leveraging over two decades of experience within the digital marketing realm, Steve and his team focus on innovative SEO strategies, website development, and comprehensive B2B marketing solutions to elevate brands and drive growth.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of the People of Packaging podcast, host Adam Peek invites Steve Pyfrom from The Nine Digital to delve into the dynamic world of digital marketing and sales. Both sharing unique backgrounds in pastoral ministry, Adam and Steve explore how their experiences have shaped their capabilities in navigating business landscapes. As they discuss contemporary digital strategies, listeners will be drawn into the significance of digital transformation in the manufacturing sector.

Steve Pyfrom highlights the pivotal role of SEO, website development, and predictive marketing strategies in helping manufacturing entities thrive online. Through an insightful dialogue, Steve shares his approach to positioning The Nine Digital as a leader in the digital marketing space by prioritizing client needs and focusing on tailored, people-first solutions. Key takeaways emphasize the transformative potential of digital marketing, strategic partnerships, and the importance of maintaining an effective online presence in a competitive market. This episode is a must-listen for those seeking to understand the intersection of traditional business practices with modern digital strategies.

Key Takeaways:

* Digital Marketing Transformation: Marketing in the manufacturing sector is vital for staying competitive. Steve emphasizes the importance of entering the 21st century with effective digital strategies.

* SEO and Website Development: Underscoring the need for state-of-the-art, functional websites and predictive SEO strategies is crucial to long-term digital success.

* Client-Centric Approach: The Nine Digital focuses on understanding client vision and solving their specific business problems, placing a strong emphasis on discovery and strategy.

* From Pastoral to Sales: Steve describes how skills gained from a pastoral background, such as negotiation and crisis management, have been instrumental in his sales career.

* Detachment from Outcomes: Developing a non-attached attitude toward sales outcomes allows for more authentic client interactions and long-term relationship building.

Notable Quotes:

* "I want to come alongside what their vision is, what they're trying to accomplish, and then see if I can help them."

* "If I know that walking into a situation, I'm A, not going to get offended, B, not going to get thrown off, and C, I kind of know what to do."

* "We're building the foundation first before you build your house anywhere else."

* "For us, the goal is in SEO strategy, you want to have branded traffic and non-branded traffic."

* "You could say that I've always been in the business of conversion."

Resources:

* Steve Pyfrom on LinkedIn: Connect with Steve

* The Nine Digital Website: Explore The Nine Digital

Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on the People of Packaging podcast, where industry leaders and innovators share their expertise and vision. Listen to the full episode for an enriching journey into the transformative power of digital strategies in modern business landscapes.

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

About the Guest(s):

John Chweya is the President of the Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association, an organization that unites over 36,000 waste pickers across Kenya to advocate for their rights and welfare. Growing up in Kisumu, Kenya, John started his journey as a waste picker at the tender age of 13, driven by financial necessity. He has been recognized globally for his inspiring work, including being named in Time Magazine's Next 100 and engaging with the United Nations. John has dedicated his life to transforming the waste picking industry and improving conditions for the workers he represents.

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 enlightening episode, Adam Peek speaks with John Chweya, a prominent figure in the sustainable waste management sector in Kenya. John's story is a compelling narrative of resilience, perseverance, and significant social impact. He shares his personal journey from being a child waste picker facing discrimination and stigmatization to becoming a global advocate for waste pickers' rights.

The conversation delves deep into the vast network and economic significance of waste pickers in Kenya, with John highlighting the critical roles they play in the recycling industry. Adam and John discuss the challenges waste pickers face, such as stigmatization and inequitable pricing by aggregators, and explore John's efforts to drive policy change. Through his leadership, waste pickers are now forming associations to advocate for fair prices and better working conditions. They also discuss John's initiative to acquire a truck to improve economic empowerment for the community by enabling direct sales to recyclers.

Key Takeaways:

* John Chweya, once a child waste picker, now leads over 36,000 waste pickers in Kenya to advocate for fair practices in the recycling industry.

* Waste pickers face significant challenges, including stigmatization and exploitation in pricing by aggregators.

* Collaborations with policymakers and organizations aim to highlight the essential role of waste pickers in sustainable waste management and plastic pollution control.

* John's fundraising initiative to acquire a truck is seen as a key step toward economic empowerment and a sustainable solution for the community.

* There is a pressing need for equitable trade practices to replace charity models in supporting global waste management efforts.

Notable Quotes:

* "We are not only like, people who have nothing to lose. Actually, most of us have a lot of things to lose because we are human beings that also have families and kids." - John Chweya

* "One of the things that I've been fund mostly fundraising on is for on PPEs. But that is not sustainable, Adam." - John Chweya

* "This is something that I know for sure that if we can attain, then it would mean that over time we, through one track, the sustainability aspect of it would be that one, we are capable of getting more clientele." - John Chweya

* "For first, for the first time in this sector that a customer walks in a supermarket and then decides the price to which they want to buy the, the product that they already have in a supermarket." - John Chweya

* "Trade, not aid, right? And you mentioned that it's not sustainable. Just keep going and asking for money all the time." - Adam Peek

Resources:

* GoFundMe for Kenya Waste Pickers

* Time Magazine Next 100 Article Featuring John Chweya

Tune in to this episode to discover the human stories behind the recycling industry in Kenya and learn how John's inspiring leadership and innovative solutions aim to transform lives and the sustainable waste management landscape. Don't miss out on this and more insightful discussions 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

About the Guest(s):

Lauren Saidel-Baker is a seasoned economist at ITR Economics, a division of CROW LLP. Known for her data-driven and objective approach, Lauren specializes in economic forecasting and consulting, helping businesses and industries navigate economic changes. With a strong academic background from Wellesley College, where she double-majored in Economics and Religion, Lauren brings unique insights into the economic sector, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant.

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 [Podcast Name], host Adam Peek converses with Lauren Saidel-Baker, an economist from ITR Economics, about the complexities and current impact of tariffs on the U.S. economy, with a spotlight on the packaging industry. Lauren delves into the macroeconomic trends, providing data-backed insights into how tariffs affect imports, exports, and consumer behavior. This episode promises to equip listeners with a robust understanding of economic principles and future trends.

Lauren highlights the shifting tides of globalization and nationalism, articulating the nuanced effects of tariffs as merely one facet of broader economic movements. She emphasizes the influence of these policies on business investment and timing, underscoring the resultant uncertainty. With concrete examples like the aluminum market, Lauren illustrates the intricate relationship between tariffs, inflation, and consumer prices. Throughout the episode, she dissects the economic indicators that businesses and individuals should track to make informed decisions, painting a clear picture of current and future economic climates.

Key Takeaways:

* Impact of Tariffs: Tariffs primarily function as taxes designed to protect domestic industries by making imported goods more expensive, yet they introduce significant uncertainty into business planning.

* Potential Economic Downturn in 2030: Lauren projects a potential depression due to demographic shifts, government overspending, and fiscal imbalances, suggesting strategic preparation for long-term financial health.

* Consumer Spending as Economic Strength: The robustness of the U.S. economy is largely bolstered by consumer spending, which continues to rise due to increasing wages and employment levels.

* Importance of Economic Indicators: Businesses should focus on industry-specific economic indicators and adjust strategies based on macroeconomic trends and forecasts provided by reliable resources.

* Preparing for Future Opportunities: The advice includes living below one's means, planning for better investment opportunities post-downturn, and not heavily leveraging current assets.

Notable Quotes:

* "If you remember back, the Biden administration put tariffs on certain items and goods too, so everyone can do tariffs again."

* "The fundamental support for our economic growth is people. Consumer spending makes up two-thirds of GDP."

* "We are looking at another four or five years of pretty steady growth… but have a plan because come 2028, 2029, we'll see those leading indicators start to roll over."

* "The big impact that I'm watching, that I'm concerned about, is just the uncertainty that this is bringing up."

* "We don't see a recession in 2025… Even if through some weird quirk of the math that were to happen, this is not what a business should react to as a recession."

Resources:

* ITR Economics: Stay updated with their economic insights and resources at itreconomics.com

* Blog and Video Content: Explore economic indicators and forecasts tailored for various sectors on ITR Economics’ website.

* Laura Saidel-Baker's Work: Follow her insights on LinkedIn and other social media platforms associated with ITR Economics.

Listen to the full episode for an in-depth exploration of current economic paradigms, strategic insights from Lauren Saidel-Baker, and a comprehensive understanding of how tariffs and broader economic trends affect businesses and individuals alike. Stay tuned to [Podcast Name] for more insightful 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