The Packaging Paradigm Podcast

Print and packing growth expert Brian Franz

In this episode of The Packaging Paradigm podcast, Dom Crosson welcomes Brian Franz, who is the Vice President with Envision3! Brian is a seasoned sales professional with over 12 years of experience in the commercial print, packaging, fulfillment and direct mail industry. He consults with brands ranging from national healthcare providers to regional nonprofits. In his role as Vice President, Brian plays a pivotal role in helping customers bring their marketing ideas to life. From custom printed packaging and high volume mailers, to fulfillment and warehousing. He is known for his strategic and get it done mindset. In this episode, they discuss the importance of customer service, the evolving landscape of packaging, and how technology (including AI) is shaping the industry. Brian also reflects on his career journey, the significance of networking, and how his faith influences his approach to leadership and service. Places to listen: ⚡https://youtu.be/yyjzqEOQU0k [https://youtu.be/yyjzqEOQU0k] ⚡https://packagingparadigm.transistor.fm/27 [https://packagingparadigm.transistor.fm/27] Connect with Brian Here: ⚡Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfranz/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianfranz/] ⚡Company Website: http://www.envision-3.com/ [http://www.envision-3.com/] Takeaways Customer service is crucial in the packaging industry. Timely communication with customers builds trust. Staying true to core competencies enhances customer confidence. Networking is essential for growth and opportunities. The packaging industry is evolving with technology and design. AI can streamline processes and enhance creativity. Understanding customer needs is key to effective design. A seamless customer experience is built on strong internal processes. Faith can guide leadership and service in business. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for success. Chapters 00:00 Technical Difficulties and Teamwork 01:27 Introduction to Brian Franz and His Journey 03:50 The Importance of Customer Service 06:41 Communication and Technology in Customer Service 08:51 Staying True to Core Competencies 10:29 The Packaging Industry: A Growing Opportunity 12:08 The Art of Design in Packaging 16:24 Developing Seamless Processes for Customer Experience 18:36 Optimizing Packaging Efficiency 20:00 Harnessing AI in Packaging Design 26:19 The Human Element in Sales 31:37 Brian's Career Journey and Growth 37:35 The Importance of Serving Others 39:44 Faith and Personal Values in Business

Transformational Leadership in Operations with Emmy Gottschalk

In this episode of The Packaging Paradigm Podcast we welcome Emmy Gottschalk. She is a transformational operations leader who shares her insights on leadership, launching new departments, and the importance of communication in navigating change. She discusses the role of KPIs in organizational success and introduces the innovative Project Showcase initiative designed to foster creativity within teams. Additionally, Emmy addresses the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in operations, emphasizing the need for organizations to prepare their data and processes before implementation. How to connect with Emmy: ⚡https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmygottschalk/ ⚡www.emmygottschalk.com Takeaways Emmy Gottschalk is a transformational operations leader specializing in supply chain. Transformational leadership involves solving complex problems and optimizing teams. Launching new departments requires clear intent and strong communication. Effective communication is crucial during change initiatives. Silos exist in every organization and need to be managed. KPIs should reflect individual roles and contribute to the organization's mission. Innovation should be encouraged at all levels of the organization. AI can enhance operations but requires clean data and processes. Engaging teams with AI will require transparent communication. Celebrating small wins can motivate teams and foster a positive work environment. Chapters 00:00 Transformational Leadership in Operations 04:01 Launching New Departments 09:21 Communication and Team Dynamics 09:49 Navigating Organizational Change 13:00 Leadership Challenges and Silos 17:44 The Importance of KPIs 23:09 Engaging with Data 27:42 Fostering Innovation through Project Showcase 34:22 AI and Operational Transformation

Innovative packaging solutions are becoming more accessible and affordable.

In this conversation, Jeremy shares his journey founding Givr Packaging, emphasizing the importance of personal goals, mentorship, and sustainability in the packaging industry. He  discusses  how he stays competitive outside of work, the challenges and triumphs of his career, the significance of customer-centric practices, and the evolving landscape of sustainable packaging solutions. In this conversation, Jeremy discusses the importance of ethical sales practices, the memorable moments that keep him motivated in business, and the lessons learned from financial challenges. He emphasizes the role of sports in personal development and the significance of authenticity in business and social media interactions. Takeaways *Starting your journey in the Packaging space and seeing that there was a need for true sustainability. * Sustainability in packaging is increasingly important to consumers. * Mentorship plays a crucial role in career development. * Giver Packaging focuses on customer success and sustainability. * The journey to entrepreneurship often starts with a simple idea. * Sales success can come from embracing rejection and learning from it. * Transparency in business practices builds trust with customers. * Innovative packaging solutions are becoming more accessible and affordable. * A strong team is essential for the success of a business. * The packaging industry is evolving with a focus on environmental impact. You have to tell the customer, this isn't good for you. * If it doesn't align with our mission, we're going to tell you. * We just try to stay true to our values. * Memorable moments in business keep you motivated. * Salespeople's job is to support their customers' financial stability. * Learning from financial challenges is crucial for growth. * Trial by fire teaches valuable lessons in business. * Authenticity is key in social media interactions. * Sports can play a significant role in personal development. * Building relationships is more important than just selling boxes. Chapters 00:00 The Journey to Bodybuilding and Personal Goals 05:53 Career Path and Early Experiences in Paper Science 12:00 Building Giver Packaging and Market Strategy 26:47 The Importance of Ethical Sales Practices 34:37 Learning from Financial Challenges 42:06 Authenticity in Business and Social Media www.Givrpack.com https://www.youtube.com/@givrpack

Crafting Careers in Packaging Sales

In this episode of the Packaging Paradigm Podcast, host Dominic interviews Micah Brooks, a seasoned packaging sales professional. They discuss Micah's journey from selling payroll software to thriving in the packaging industry, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, effective communication, and the need for patience in sales. Micah shares insights on leveraging company resources, navigating industry trends like automation and sustainability, and managing personal and professional change. He also reflects on the significance of faith and values in his work and life, concluding with his recent achievements and aspirations for the future. Takeaways * Micah Brooks emphasizes the importance of building relationships in sales. * Transitioning from software to packaging sales allowed Micah to align with his personality. * Consistency and communication are key to building trust with customers. * Sales processes require organization and discipline to be effective. * Leveraging company resources can enhance sales success. * Automation and sustainability are significant trends in the packaging industry. * Managing change requires a positive mindset and support from colleagues. * Celebrating successes is crucial for motivation and growth. * Leadership development programs can provide valuable skills and confidence. * Faith and values play a vital role in Micah's professional life. Chapters 00:00 Career Journey: From Payroll to Packaging 04:48 Building Relationships in Sales 12:00 The Importance of Communication 19:06 Internal vs External Customers 22:00 Sales Process and Growth Mindset 22:57 Revamping the Sales Process 26:07 The Importance of Organization and Discipline in Sales 27:28 Persistence in Sales: The Key to Success 29:57 Building Relationships and Following Up 32:03 Leveraging Resources and Expertise in Sales 37:15 Understanding Market Trends and Customer Needs 44:21 Managing Change in Personal and Professional Life 54:50 Faith and Values in the Workplace

Authenticity in Sales: The Key to Success

In this episode of the Packaging Paradigm Podcast, host Dom interviews Craig Phillips, an experienced account manager in the packaging industry. They discuss Craig's journey from studying packaging at Michigan State to his diverse career experiences, including teaching abroad in Korea. The conversation highlights the various opportunities within the packaging sector, the importance of leveraging technology in sales, and the value of networking. Craig shares insights on using video messaging and AI tools to enhance sales strategies, emphasizing the need to embrace imperfection in communication. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of authenticity in sales and marketing, the impact of point-of-purchase displays, and the significance of design in creating effective marketing materials. They explore common mistakes companies make in display design, the balance between budget and expectations, and strategies for overcoming obstacles in sales. The conversation also touches on finding work-life balance and the diverse career opportunities available in the packaging industry. Takeaways -Craig Phillips has 15 years of experience in the packaging industry. -He emphasizes the diverse opportunities available in packaging, from engineering to sales. -Craig's journey includes teaching English in Korea, which he found to be a transformative experience. -Networking, especially through alumni connections, plays a crucial role in his sales strategy. -He uses video messaging to stand out in sales outreach. -AI tools assist him in crafting emails and visualizing packaging ideas. -The packaging industry is vast, with roles in pharmaceuticals, food, and consumer goods. -Craig's education at Michigan State provided a well-rounded foundation for his career. -He believes in putting oneself out there and not striving for perfection in communication. -Technology is rapidly changing the landscape of sales and packaging. Be authentic and put yourself out there in sales. -Point-of-purchase displays are crucial for capturing consumer attention. -Effective displays can drive impulse purchases and repeat customers. -Packaging plays a significant role in perceived value. -Companies often underestimate the power of displays in marketing. -Choosing the right supplier is essential for quality displays. -Budget discussions are important to align expectations with design. -Sales professionals must learn to overcome disappointments. -Finding balance in life is key to managing work and family. -The packaging industry offers diverse career opportunities. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Packaging Paradigm Podcast 05:02 Craig Phillips: Journey into Packaging and Sales 09:56 Experiences Abroad: Teaching in Korea 14:55 Diverse Opportunities in Packaging 20:00 Leveraging Technology in Sales 24:57 The Future of Packaging and Sales Strategies 26:31 Authenticity in Sales and Marketing 27:00 The Power of Point of Purchase Displays 32:18 Designing Effective Displays 34:28 Common Mistakes in Display Design 36:55 Balancing Budget and Expectations 41:04 Overcoming Sales Obstacles 44:22 Finding Work-Life Balance 49:28 Opportunities in the Packaging Industry https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-phillips-88385112 [https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-phillips-88385112]