Yo, what's good, packaging people? Adam Peek here, and you know how we roll—we're diving deep into the real talk behind building a brand. On this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Jack McNamara and Yash Banthia, the co-founders of Tru Energy Drinks. These guys aren't just making a great-tasting, better-for-you beverage; they're building a brand with a purpose, and their story is a masterclass in hustle and smart business decisions.

From the Dungeon to DrinkTru.com

Jack and Yash's journey is the kind of scrappy startup story you love to hear. We're talking about a a literal dungeon—the basement of a Jiu-Jitsu gym—and a mindset of relentless improvement. We got into the nitty-gritty of their brand's evolution, from the early days of a crazy-expensive, custom-designed shot bottle that customers didn't even understand, to their current sleek, pre-printed cans. It's a prime example of why you can't be afraid to kill your darlings and embrace change, even if it means moving away from your original, most "creative" idea.

The Power of Packaging Evolution

This is where the real value bombs were dropped. We broke down:

* The Cost of Creativity: Why a custom-molded bottle wasn't the right move for them early on, and how tooling costs can crush a new brand's cash flow.

* The Sprint to Scale: The massive leap from a small, local co-packer to a national one, and the significant 35% savings they unlocked by switching from shrink sleeves to pre-printed cans. This is a crucial lesson in understanding your supply chain and the economies of scale.

* Reading the Room (and the Shelf): How a simple redesign, like moving the brand name to the top and adding a clear flavor stripe, can make all the difference in a competitive retail environment. We talked about consumer behavior and why you've got two seconds to communicate what your product is.

Products with a Purpose

One of the coolest things about Tru is their commitment to giving back. I had to call them out for not leading with their charitable contributions—they're just out there doing good because it's the right thing to do. We discussed their partnership with the Trevor Project and how building a brand with a strong mission, even when you're not yet profitable, can be a huge motivator for the team.

Big shout-out to Jack and Yash for their time and their transparency. If you're out there building a CPG brand, trying to figure out your packaging, or just need a dose of entrepreneurial inspiration, this episode is for you.

Check out Tru's full product line at drinktru.com and grab a can or a powder pack to fuel your next big idea. Don't forget to look for them at stores like Market Basket, Wegmans, and H-E-B.

And hey, if you're ever in Salt Lake City, hit up Harmons and tell 'em Adam sent you! And yes, a special shout-out to my parents, Ed and Lydia Peek, and Jack's toddler. Thanks for listening, everyone!

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

Yo! What is going on, everybody! Short quick episode here…

I am absolutely JACKED for this episode. I'm letting you in on one of the biggest decisions we've made for our new label printing business and announcing a huge trip.

Next week, I'm heading to Labelexpo Europe in Barcelona, Spain!

But here's the twist: I'm not primarily going as "The Label King" content creator. I'm going as a business owner and a partner. I'll be spending my time at the CERM booth, and in this episode, I break down exactly why.

Choosing the software backbone for your company—the MIS system—is one of the most critical decisions you can make. It's the central nervous system that dictates how everything flows. Get it wrong, and you're dead in the water. Get it right, and you create a small, powerful advantage that can change the game.

Tune in to hear:

* The massive mistake private equity-backed companies make with their MIS after an acquisition.

* Why "winning on the margins" is the only thing that matters in business (shoutout to my buddy Rob Jeppsen for the wisdom).

* How my connection to CERM goes back to my very first days in the label industry.

* Why we're choosing to partner with a "tech-first" company in a not-so-sexy industry.

* My big goal: Creating 50+ high-quality jobs right here in our Utah community and how the right technology partner makes that possible.

This isn't just a software choice; it's a foundational piece of our strategy to build a legacy.

Find Me at Labelexpo Europe!

* Who: Me and the CERM team

* Where: Hall 3, Exhibition Stand G43

* When: Tuesday & Wednesday of the show

Come say hi, ask questions, and let's talk about the future of the label industry.

Links & Resources Mentioned:

* CERM: Learn more about their game-changing MIS system at cerm.net. If you're looking at your own system, you HAVE to check them out.

* Labelexpo Europe: The biggest label show on the planet.

Let's go! 🚀

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

What's up, People of Packaging!

On this episode, we dive into a corner of the packaging world that most people never see, but it impacts millions of lives every single day: medical device and pharma packaging. I'm joined by Keith E. Smith, President of Vonco Products, and we get into the nitty-gritty of how flexible packaging is evolving in one of the most highly regulated industries out there.

We talk about everything from the challenges of sterilizing materials to the massive push to get away from PVC. And you know me, I love a good sustainability story. Keith drops some serious knowledge about Vonco's game-changing tech that's helping companies innovate without having to replace millions of dollars in equipment. It’s a huge deal!

What We Covered 📦

* The Hidden World of Medical Packaging: We break down the difference between a package and a single-use "device" (like an IV bag) in the eyes of the FDA.

* The Big PVC Problem: Why has PVC been the standard for so long in things like blood bags, and what are the sustainability challenges that are forcing a change?

* Welding Wizardry: Keith explains the difference between RF (radio frequency) welding and heat welding and how Vonco developed a proprietary way to use traditional RF equipment for modern materials like polypropylene. This is a game-changer, folks!

* Sustainability & Supply Chains: We discuss how tariffs on materials like foil and the push for EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) are driving innovation toward more sustainable, cost-effective packaging solutions.

* The Future is Refills: We touch on the rise of refill pouches and concentrates for consumer goods as a way to drastically reduce plastic waste and shipping emissions.

This was one of those conversations that reminds me why I love this industry so much. The innovation happening behind the scenes is just incredible. Huge thanks to Keith for coming on and sharing his expertise!

Connect & Learn More 🔗

* Guest Spotlight: Check out the amazing work Keith Smith and his team are doing at Vonco. They are true problem-solvers in the flexible packaging space.

* Website: www.vonco.com

* Connect with Keith: Keith's LinkedIn Profile

* Sponsor Shout-Out: This episode is brought to you by the folks who help make sense of all this complexity.

* Specright: Tired of managing your specs in spreadsheets? Digitize and take control of your product and packaging data. Learn more at www.specright.com.

As always, thanks for taking some time out of your day to listen! Don't forget to subscribe so you don't miss a thing.

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

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