Beyond Packaging with Laura Foti & Matthew Wright

The Next Generation of Packaging — and the Impacts They're Driving

In this episode of Beyond Packaging, Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Greg Batt, Director of Clemson University's Packaging Science Program, to explore how the next generation of packaging professionals are reshaping the industry. Greg shares how his students are already using AI tools like ChatGPT to accelerate design and prototyping — turning what used to be napkin sketches into polished concepts in a fraction of the time. They talk about why thinking outside the box is no longer optional, how global events and geopolitical shifts are redefining materials, supply chains, and innovation, and how Specright is there to support these change makers and innovators. Plus, Matt Dingee takes us back to 1981 with a foil-stamped Prell concentrated shampoo tube and its very fancy snap cap. Listen now! Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright [https://www.specright.com/], the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lefoti/] and Matthew Wright [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wright-specright/] on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here [https://www.specright.com/podcast] or subscribe to our YouTube playlist [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi753xKKGxZlAuHEbX7_LARxiocL92_T0].

How AI-Ready Data Is Powering the Future of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors

Live from Spec Summit 2026, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Cory Connors, host of the Sustainable Packaging Podcast and Sustainable Packaging Sales and Marketing leader at Atlantic Packaging. Cory discusses the industry’s shift from sustainability ambition to urgent execution, as evolving regulations like EPR and PPWR force companies to rethink how they manage packaging data and compliance. The conversation highlights a growing divide between organizations still relying on fragmented systems and those investing in connected, AI-ready specification data to reduce costs, improve reporting, and scale sustainable innovation. Ultimately, the episode reinforces a clear message: companies that act now—leveraging collaboration, technology, and better data—will lead, while those that delay risk rising costs, inefficiencies, and competitive disadvantage. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright [https://www.specright.com/], the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lefoti/] and Matthew Wright [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wright-specright/] on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here [https://www.specright.com/podcast] or subscribe to our YouTube playlist [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi753xKKGxZlAuHEbX7_LARxiocL92_T0].

Simplifying the Complex: Modern Packaging Innovation with Jonathon Rabedeau

On this episode of Beyond Packaging, discover how NicePak’s Jonathan Rabedeau is simplifying complexity by embracing data-driven design, considering new innovative solutions, and a shift toward minimalistic, sustainable packaging. In this episode, he shares insights from over a decade at NicePak, the company behind many of the store-brand wipes consumers use every day. From navigating evolving sustainability demands to rethinking how brands meet consumer demands, Jonathan offers a fresh perspective on innovation in consumer goods packaging. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright [https://www.specright.com/], the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lefoti/] and Matthew Wright [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wright-specright/] on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here [https://www.specright.com/podcast] or subscribe to our YouTube playlist [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi753xKKGxZlAuHEbX7_LARxiocL92_T0].

Our Packaging Mentor on the Power of Packaging

In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright are joined by Victoria Chatman-Galloway, a global packaging leader whose work spans markets, products, and consumer needs around the world. Victoria shares the story of how she has built influence in large, complex organizations and championed packaging as a strategic business driver. The discussion dives into sustainability, data-driven decision making, and what it means to create packaging systems that truly work. Plus, Victoria shares more about her new role as Founder and CEO of Paradigm Packaging Partners. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright [https://www.specright.com/], the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lefoti/] and Matthew Wright [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wright-specright/] on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here [https://www.specright.com/podcast] or subscribe to our YouTube playlist [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi753xKKGxZlAuHEbX7_LARxiocL92_T0].

Raising a Glass to Packaging Innovation in Wine & Spirits

In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright dive into the wine and spirits industry to explore how brands are embracing sustainability and reshaping their packaging strategies. From eco-friendly bottles and lightweight materials to bold design changes that communicate brand values, this conversation highlights the innovative ways companies are reducing their environmental footprint while strengthening consumer loyalty. Laura and Matthew also discuss how storytelling and transparency in packaging are becoming just as important as the product itself. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright [https://www.specright.com/], the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lefoti/] and Matthew Wright [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-wright-specright/] on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here [https://www.specright.com/podcast] or subscribe to our YouTube playlist [https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi753xKKGxZlAuHEbX7_LARxiocL92_T0].