The Packology Podcast

In a recent episode of the Packology Podcast, host Brandon welcomed back AI expert Ben Gold for a captivating discussion about the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) for businesses. With a passion for AI that is almost infectious, Ben shared valuable insights on how entrepreneurs, business leaders, and organizations can harness AI to enhance productivity and streamline operations.

In this episode, we’ll talk about:

• Highlights 7 stages of AI adoption, including emergent and native stages.

• Highlights the need to overcome cultural barriers for effective AI deployment.

• AI can enhance sales processes, meeting notes, and personalized follow-ups.

• Advocates for AI licenses for data protection and collaboration.

• Highlights the risk of outperforming competitors without AI adoption.

• Emphasizes the need for AI integration across all functions.

• Highlights the potential of custom AI models for large data sets.

• Discusses the need for AI governance council and budget for testing AI tools.

• Highlights the need for employee training and AI readiness assessments.

• Notes concerns about AI's potential to reduce workforce and the need for societal awareness.

Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1

Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/

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 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.

Website: bengoldai.com 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsales

Email: [email protected]

The views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Welcome to the Packaging Brothers podcast, where we explore the world of sustainability and packaging. In this third and final episode, we are joined by returning guest Maggie Spicer to discuss collaborative solutions for navigating the challenges and opportunities in sustainable packaging. If you missed the previous episodes, don't worry, as this episode stands alone. However, we highly recommend checking out the previous episodes for a comprehensive understanding of sustainability topics.
 
On this episode, we'll talk about:

• Part 1 covered ESG framework.
• Part 2 discussed greenwashing and environmental marketing claims.
• The FTC is reviewing Green Guides, but no new updates have been announced.
• The need for brands to adapt to changing sustainability regulations.
• Transitioning to sustainable packaging from traditional considerations of product fit, shelf appeal, and budgetary constraints.
• Importance of considering sustainability in product development and marketing process.
• Advice for brands to test compatibility when switching from 100% virgin plastic to 50%.
• Designing packaging with end-of-life in mind to improve recyclability rates.
• Engaging with stakeholders on sustainability.
• Creating a plan for each packaging item based on specific business, quantities, budgets, and distribution channels.
• Consideration of material choices and offsetting environmental impact within the supply chain.
• Positioning for growth and differentiation in the market by embracing sustainability.

Maggie is the founder of Source Beauty ESG. She combines a background as a supply chain lawyer for global technology companies with experience in skincare product design to help beauty brands and retailers with sustainability-focused compliance, design, and strategy.
 
For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers
 
Follow PPCPackaging on social media!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Maggie on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Website: http://www.sourcebeauty.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaretjanespicer/
 
The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Welcome to the latest episode of the Package Brothers podcast, where we had the pleasure of hosting Pete Grett from The BlackRock Group. Pete is a supply chain and logistics expert with a keen interest in the impact of AI on the industry. In this episode, we delved into the challenges and opportunities in the shipping logistics space and how AI is transforming the way businesses operate. Here's a summary of our insightful conversation with Pete Grett.

On this episode, we'll talk about:

• Pete Grett, a supply chain and logistics expert from BlackRock Group, discusses the impact of AI on supply chain logistics and SaaS.
• The Amazonification of direct-to-consumer and B2B markets has created challenges for supply chains, exacerbated by COVID-19. 
• The aftermath of COVID has highlighted the vulnerability and interconnectedness of supply chains, leading to strategic shifts like nearshoring and onshoring.
• The complexity of global manufacturing and customer demands, including sustainability and last-mile delivery, requires creative solutions and a flexible approach to supply chain management.
• The BlackRock Group focuses on improving data quality, defined processes, and training, advocating for a SaaS mentality for flexibility and adaptability.
• The importance of learning and iterating quickly, and predicts a future of niche, customer-centered logistics companies enabled by generative AI and technology advancements.
• The need for a holistic approach to supply chain management, including flexibility and regionalization in inventory management.

Pete has spent over 25 years in the logistics business. He started first as a temporary floor worker in a warehouse and is now leading The Blackrock Group, a Blue Yonder certified WMS partner.  In between, he's held roles of increasing responsibility in operations, IT, and client management. These experiences ultimately led to the formation of The Blackrock Group—a company focused on providing a unique service to customers in need of supply chain services.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en

 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Pete on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn.

Website: https://www.theblackrock.group/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/petegrett

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Welcome to the Packaging Brothers podcast! In today's episode, we are excited to have the founders of the Green Beauty Community, Daniel and Hannah, join us to discuss the community they have built and the impact it is making in the beauty industry. Their approach to sustainability is refreshing, and we are thrilled to share their insights with our listeners.

On this episode, we'll talk about:

• The community aims to unite sustainability voices in the beauty industry
• Inspired by the need for a brand agnostic organization to champion sustainability
• Daniel's interest in sustainability came from repairing and upcycling salon equipment, while Hannah's passion for eco-conscious beauty was influenced by her family's love for the outdoors and her education at an Aveda school
• Motivated by the 2020 wildfires, they decided to be more environmentally conscious, particularly within the beauty industry
• Created curated education to support sustainability in the beauty industry and aim to inspire and encourage others to make positive changes
• Emphasize the importance of community conversations about sustainability and providing real data for informed decisions
• Promote the idea of letting individuals decide which products align with their personal values
• The community offers forums, webinars, and a directory to help members connect and learn about sustainable practices.

Daniel Johnson, founder of The Green Beauty Community, promotes sustainable salon practices and educates eco-conscious beauty enthusiasts. He also leads The Salon Chair Guys, offering equipment services and eco-conscious cleaning products.

Hannah Craik, an environmental consultant and freelance hair and makeup artist, is dedicated to promoting a cleaner and more sustainable beauty industry by offering coaching, resources, and environmental regulations.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers
Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 
 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Daniel on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn.
Website: https://greenbeautycommunity.com/
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/daniel-johnson-05157a96

Find out more about Hannah on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Website: salonvironment.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-craik-michigan/

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Welcome back to the Packaging Brothers podcast! In part 2 of our series on ESG and sustainable packaging claims in the beauty space, we dive into the intricacies of recyclability, biodegradability, compostability, and carbon emissions. Our guest, Maggie Spicer, provides valuable insights into what brands should be communicating to consumers and what packaging companies should consider when making environmental claims.

On this episode, we'll talk about:
•Discusses topics like recyclability, biodegradability, compostability, and carbon emissions.
•Highlights the issue of greenwashing and green hushing in the industry.
•Uses Colgate's recyclable toothpaste tubes as an example of challenges in making accurate recyclability claims.
•Emphasizes the need for brands to make better green claims and understand the environmental impact of packaging materials.
•Highlights the need for collaboration and communication with all stakeholders in the process of determining recyclability.
•Highlights the need for specialty recycling programs for beauty and personal care products with complex packaging.
•Stresses the need for better communication and education on recycling for consumers and brands.
•Highlights the importance of considering both material composition and product format in sustainability claims and decisions.
•Discusses the evolution of green claims, focusing on respecting the format of packaging to drive recycling at the end of life.
•Suggests using technology tools like QR codes and website links to supplement claims on packaging.
•Suggests brands to take ownership of end-of-life recycling and engage in pilot programs for specialty recycling.
 
Maggie Spicer is the founder of Source Beauty ESG. She combines a background as a supply chain lawyer for global technology companies with experience in skincare product design to help beauty brands and retailers with sustainability-focused compliance, design, and strategy.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media!
 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Maggie on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Website: http://www.sourcebeauty.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaretjanespicer/

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

Get ready to dive into the exciting world of sustainable packaging claims in the beauty industry with Maggie Spicer, a marketing and legal expert, on the Packaging Brothers Podcast! In this captivating series of three episodes, join Maggie as she explores the fascinating realm of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices. Discover how ESG standards play a pivotal role in shaping the beauty industry's future. With infectious enthusiasm, Maggie unravels the challenges and opportunities that come with implementing ESG guidelines. She highlights the pressing need for industry-specific regulations and emphasizes how ESG not only attracts top talent but also appeals to conscious consumers. If you're passionate about sustainability and innovation in beauty, this podcast is an absolute must-listen!

On this episode, we'll talk about:

•ESG is an investment reporting framework for publicly traded companies to report on environmental, social, and governance themes.
•The beauty industry has become pioneering in sustainability and reporting due to consumer interest and tangibility of beauty and personal care products.
•ESG encompasses governance, environmental, and social aspects, with governance focusing on corporate operations and data privacy.
•The use of AI in retail raises ethical questions about consumer privacy and data rights.
•Corporate governance includes diversity, equity, inclusion efforts, and supplier due diligence policies.
•The social aspect of ESG focuses on human health and safety, and sourcing policies for ethically sensitive materials.
•Challenges of verifying ethical sourcing in the absence of governing bodies are discussed.
•The importance of a holistic view of the supply chain for a responsible and sustainable industry is emphasized.
•Emphasizes the importance of considering sustainability at the ideation stage of product development.
•The need for industry-specific guidelines and standardization in green claims is emphasized.
•The importance of ESG in attracting young talent and appealing to consumers is highlighted.

Maggie Spicer is the founder of Source Beauty ESG. She combines a background as a supply chain lawyer for global technology companies with experience in skincare product design to help beauty brands and retailers with sustainability-focused compliance, design, and strategy.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers
Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Maggie on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.
Website: http://www.sourcebeauty.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaretjanespicer/

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

With her expertise in entrepreneurship and strategic exits, Christine brings a unique perspective that can offer invaluable guidance to those navigating the complex landscape of business ownership. Whether you're considering selling your own venture or aiming to scale it to new heights, Christine's insights are bound to provide practical wisdom and actionable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey. So sit back and get ready to delve into the world of entrepreneurship with someone who has been there, done that, and is here today to share her wealth of knowledge with all of us.
 

On this episode, we'll talk about:

• Christine McDannell shares 20 years of business experience
• Started Cleanology in 2003, sold 6 years later
• Emphasizes online business approach, pre-selling memberships, and borrowing capital
• Launched Magnolia Firm for mergers, acquisitions, and private buyers
• Importance of having a plan B, focusing on marketing and customer acquisition
• Advises against selling unprofitable or difficult-to-run companies
• Recommends two years of industry experience for success and avoiding failure
• Focus on digital marketing, branding, design, and content studios
• Emphasizes industry experience and avoiding unnecessary risks
• Discusses challenges of businesses without AI, transitioning to digital systems, and investing in digital technology

Christine McDannell, founder of The Magnolia Firm, is an experienced M&A and business brokerage firm with over 10 successful companies across various industries. She has experience in building, acquiring, and selling companies in cleaning, wellness, cars, real estate, and tech. In 2018, she founded a SaaS company and learned trade raising techniques. McDannell enjoys working with entrepreneurs to disrupt the status quo and discovered gaps in her own companies during the process of selling her own.
 

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en

 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Christine on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn and Twiiter.

Website: https://themagnoliafirm.co/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemcdannell/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/SS_Christine

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2023.

Get ready to dive into the world of sustainable packaging with our incredible guest, Lindsay Dahl! With her expertise and passion, Lindsay has been instrumental in helping brands transform their practices and make a positive impact on the environment. From reducing negative footprints to increasing positive contributions, she knows just how to guide businesses towards a more sustainable future. If you're curious about how corporate social responsibility intersects with activism, product safety, sustainability, traceability, and wellness, this episode is an absolute must-listen!

On this episode, we'll talk about:

• Her experience in government lobbying, including the level of difficulty, bureaucracy, and passionate individuals in the field. Is there were any negative aspects that affected her career choice?
• What dirty tactics are big industries or companies using that impact our lives?
• What work have she been doing at the beauty counter ritual? What she's focusing on now?
• The importance of sustainable packaging and the challenges of traceability for raw materials.
• Many brands struggle with transparency due to fear of backlash.
• The challenges brands, packaging suppliers, retailers, and consumers face in understanding the environmental impact of products. The difficulty in determining carbon emissions and waste impact. Lindsay recommendation on tools, resources, websites, or companies that make LCA data more accessible.
• What does she think about refillable packaging? Is it as good as people think? Should everyone be using it? Are there any things to consider?
• Brands should assess demand and product availability before transitioning to a refill model to avoid waste and financial loss. At what point does she think a brand should start to look at going more refillable?

Lindsay Dahl, Chief Impact Officer at Ritual, collaborates with brands to create and execute social impact campaigns, focusing on activism, product safety, sustainability, traceability, and wellness. With expertise in advocacy, product safety, responsible sourcing, and sustainability, she has successfully led in enforcing public health laws and mainstreaming clean practices.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Lindsay on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn and Instagram.
Website: https://lindsaydahl.com/
Company: beautycounter.com
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-dahl-3617076 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsay_dahl/

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2023.

Brace yourselves, because the future is here! Our guest today is none other than Ben Gold, a renowned AI consultant and expert who will take us on an exhilarating journey into the world of artificial intelligence. As we explore what lies ahead for this groundbreaking technology, Ben shares his practical advice on how individuals and industries can effectively navigate the upcoming AI revolution. With his incredible expertise and compelling insights, this episode promises to be an absolute treasure trove of knowledge that you won't want to miss!

On this episode, we'll talk about:

• How does Ben specialize in generative AI and how does it relate to the job industry, hiring, and recruiting?
• What is the value of AI and why is it important?
• Which other companies, apps, or resources does he believe will play a crucial role in the future?
• In AI, for those who want to explore the future, what advice does he have for those who want to adopt it and move forward quickly but don't know where to start?
• Which industries or spaces does he believe will be affected first?
• Can AI do everything it can do to allow people to focus on other personal things?
• Can AI disrupt industries like law and taxes by learning laws and saving money? Do you think AI has the same opportunity to disrupt these spaces?
• In terms of design, packaging design is quite popular. Many people are interested in it, as well as other forms of graphic design. What are some interesting tools that he think people should try out? Are there any other new or recommended tools?
• What are some surprising moments when AI applications were combined? Have he seen any interesting examples of these combinations?
• Who does he want to connect and work with?

In January 2023, Ben Gold found himself jobless after leaving his sales engineering job at a technology company. He explored the AI innovation ChatGPT, which helped personalize job search, and recognized generative AI as a game changer. He created an AI-powered career coaching startup, JobCo.ai, and spoke with recruiters, career counselors, and job seekers to understand their issues. His mission is to empower job seekers and career counselors with AI tools and personalized guidance, transforming the employment landscape. Ben Gold has a global perspective and is recognized as the first video game world champion from the early 1980s.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 

 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/

 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/

 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en

 Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Ben on his website and email and connect with him on LinkedIn.

Company: bengoldai.com

E-mail: [email protected]

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsales

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2023.

Are you curious about the secrets behind successful hiring in the beauty industry? Today, we have a special treat for you as we sit down with Barbara Driggers, an expert recruiter from the BG Executive Group. With her invaluable expertise and insider knowledge, Barbara will be sharing her unique perspective on the industry, uncovering what it really takes to land your dream job in this ever-evolving field. So buckle up and prepare for an episode that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to conquer the beauty world.

On this episode, we'll talk about: 

• How did she start in this crazy business, particularly in the beauty industry?
• How long has she been recruiting? Did she struggle at first or did she quickly find success?
• Has she learned any important lessons over the years that she would like to share with someone who is looking to employ or who could be considering a role switch?
• What are some of the most memorable moments in her career?
• In the process of determining if someone is a good fit for the role, how does she do it without giving away too much of the secret sauce?
• Has she ever been hired or asked to work for a company? And she said no. And why was that?
• A shift in the job market due to COVID and her advice on positioning oneself or their business to benefit from the changes.
• Have she noticed any changes in terms of working on-site versus working remotely?
• As things swing back to hybrid or on-site, are we going to see a lot of people having to relocate back to major metropolitan areas?
• Some people who work from home have multiple jobs at different companies without telling their employers. 
• Is having Chief Heart officer, someone who takes care of people in companies, is a good idea? Has this concept been implemented in any companies?

Barbara Guimaraes Driggers, has a successful career spanning from sales representative to Fortune 500 company. She values personal life experiences and aims to match exceptional candidates with organizations for mutual excellence. Barbara's passion for success has led her to become a search consultant, creating the best opportunities for candidates and clients.

For more information and to explore other episodes, go to www.ppcpackaging.com/the-packaging-brothers

Follow PPCPackaging on social media! 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en
Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/

Find out more about Barbara on her website and email and connect with her on LinkedIn.

Company: https://bgexecutivegroup.com/
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone Number: (858) 780-9960
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/barbaraguimaraes

The views and opinions expressed on the "Packaging Brothers" podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packaging Brothers, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2023.