Shows
Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingNew Earth Ventures Launch with Matt Saunders and Wes CarterIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Atlantic Packaging President Wes Carter and New Earth Ventures Managing Partner Matt Saunders for an exciting announcement: the official launch of New Earth Ventures (NEV), a venture capital firm launching in partnership with Atlantic Packaging. Wes shares how Atlantic's decades-long commitment to packaging innovation and sustainability laid the foundation for NEV, while Matt discusses his background in venture capital and how his partnership with Wes came together. Together, they outline how NEV will support entrepreneurs, startups, and customers working to build a more circular, sustainable packaging future.Key To...
2026-05-0525 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingThe Future of Bottles Is Paper with Malcolm WaughIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Malcolm Waugh, CEO of Frugalpac, to explore the innovation behind the Frugal Bottle — a paper‑based alternative to traditional glass packaging. Malcolm walks through his engineering‑rooted career, his years at Tetra Pak, and how he ultimately joined Frugalpac to help lead a packaging revolution. He explains how the paper bottle dramatically reduces carbon emissions, why it maintains a familiar consumer experience, and how global markets are rapidly adopting the technology. The discussion also highlights upcoming innovations, including custom bottle shapes, edible‑oil packaging, and a new paper‑based paint pot.Key Topi...
2026-05-0329 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingInnovating Sustainable Packaging with Julia BialetskaIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Julia Bialetska to discuss her journey from bioecology to tech, and ultimately to creating S.Lab — a company producing mycelium‑based packaging that replaces polystyrene. Julia shares how witnessing massive plastic pollution in Bali inspired her to take action, eventually leading to the development of a fully compostable, natural material made from plant waste and mushroom mycelium. She explains the environmental benefits, the challenges in certification and legislation, and the breakthrough technology behind S.Lab’s decentralized mini‑factories designed to eliminate freight and reduce CO₂ emissions. Julia also highlights her Women in Leadership...
2026-04-2622 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingRevolutionizing Packaging Supply with CEO Matthew WrightIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes longtime friend and industry innovator Matthew Wright to discuss his newest venture, Forest, a platform designed to organize and modernize the packaging industry. Matthew shares the vision behind Forest, how it builds on his work with Specright, and why the packaging marketplace desperately needs better structure, transparency, and technology. Forest aims to simplify how companies find suppliers, manage data, track samples, verify certifications, and communicate all in one intuitive, AI‑native platform.Key Topics Discussed:Matthew’s transition from Specright to launching Forest and the industry gaps he aims...
2026-04-1921 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingMUST Stretch Film System, Reducing Plastic and Saving Money with Ric Lee at Atlantic PackagingIn this episode, Cory Connors sits down with Ric Lee of Atlantic Packaging to discuss one of the most impactful sustainability programs in the packaging industry today: MUST. Ric shares his 30-year journey through the packaging and equipment world and explains how his experience led to the development and expansion of MUST, a first-of-its-kind stretch film management system. The conversation highlights a major announcement around the scale, impact, and validation of MUST, including its role in dramatically reducing plastic use, cutting customer costs, and delivering long-term, financially sustainable environmental benefits. Ric explains how the program evolved from a simple...
2026-04-1225 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingThe Sustainable Paper Alternative with CEO Benjamin DraperIn this episode, Cory Connors talks with Benjamin Draper, CEO of the Hemp Paper Company, about how he entered the industry and why he believes tree‑free, hemp‑based paper can transform sustainable packaging. Benjamin explains how fast‑growing industrial hemp offers environmental advantages such as reduced deforestation, strong recyclable fibers, and soil‑improving benefits. He also shares how his company creates chemical‑free, U.S‑made paper products and prepares to launch new packaging innovations. The conversation covers the resurgence of industrial hemp farming, compostability considerations, and the growing interest from brands seeking high‑impact sustainability solutions.Key Top...
2026-04-0520 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingInstitute Of Packaging Professionals (IoPP) with Executive Director Jane ChaseIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Jane Chase to discuss her path into packaging, the value of IoPP membership, and how the organization supports professionals through education, certification, and community. Jane shares her engineering background, why the CPP credential matters, and how IoPP’s programs—from Fundamentals of Packaging Technology to sustainability, medical device, and project management courses—equip both new and seasoned professionals. They also cover student engagement, partnerships, AmeriStar Awards, and IoPP’s growing focus on sustainability through its technical committee and webinar series.Key Topics Discussed:Jane’s engineering path and transition...
2026-03-2922 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingProtecting America's Water and Land: Conservation Alliance with Paul HendricksIn this episode, Cory Connors talks with Paul Hendricks, Executive Director of The Conservation Alliance (TCA), which unites over 200 companies to protect vital U.S. lands and waters. Paul shares his journey from Michigan’s forests to leadership roles at Patagonia, Rivian, and now TCA. He explains how the Alliance funds grassroots conservation work, mobilizes business voices, and drives policy wins—including protecting 28 million acres of Alaska’s D1 lands and the removal of the Klamath River dams. Cory and Paul also discuss why access to nature matters, the economic value of public lands, and how people can get involv...
2026-03-2224 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingRitual’s Journey to Safer Packaging with Lindsay DahlIn this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory welcomes Lindsay Dahl, a long‑time environmental health advocate and current Chief Impact Officer at Ritual. Lindsay shares insights from her 20‑year career working to eliminate toxic chemicals from our homes, products, and environment — including packaging.The conversation explores Ritual’s sustainability journey, their data‑driven approach to packaging decisions, transparent ingredient sourcing, and why “perfect” packaging solutions rarely exist. Lindsay also dives into her new book Cleaning House, discussing chemical misinformation, environmental justice, and the urgent need for bipartisan progress.Key Topics Discussed:Lindsay’...
2026-03-1523 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingRevolutionizing Reusable Packaging with CEO Loic VandermeerenIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Loïc Vandermeeren, founder and CEO of KWiiD, to discuss the innovative reusable box system reshaping sustainable packaging. Loïc shares how his background in IT and pharma, combined with a desire to reduce waste, inspired him to develop collapsible reusable packaging made from a fabric exterior and a replaceable corrugated insert. He explains how KWiiD boxes provide speed, durability, and cost efficiency while dramatically extending the life of corrugated materials. Loïc describes the 14‑iteration design journey, feedback from early partners like Decathlon, and how closed‑loop systems such as click‑and‑collect and...
2026-03-0824 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingAn Artist's Role in Global Climate Change with Benjamin Von WongIn this episode, Cory Connors speaks with environmental artist Benjamin Von Wong, known for large-scale installations that elevate global conversations around plastic pollution, climate change, and overconsumption. Ben shares his unusual path from mining engineering to purpose-driven art and discusses how creative storytelling can bring attention, urgency, and emotional connection to complex environmental issues. He reflects on his United Nations installation The Thinker’s Burden, his involvement in Extended Producer Responsibility initiatives, and his recent collaboration with the World Economic Forum and Atlantic Packaging.Key Topics Discussed:Ben’s transition from mining engineer to envi...
2026-03-0131 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic Packaging3M Innovations with Recycled Content Packaging with Julianne StrunkIn this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory welcomes back returning guest Julianne Strunk from 3M. The discussion centers on 3M’s latest innovation campaign — Recycled Sealing Made Simple — which addresses the growing challenges brands face as recycled content becomes more common in corrugated packaging.Julianne talks about her journey at 3M, the rise of recycled corrugate in the marketplace, the performance issues customers are experiencing, and how 3M is responding with tapes, equipment, and systems designed for today’s packaging realities. The episode also touches on 3M’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, as well as big ann...
2026-02-2223 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingNavigating Global Sustainability with Lydia Geddes of Lorax EPIIn this episode, Cory Connors speaks with Lydia Geddes from Lorax EPI about how her team helps companies navigate Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) globally. Lydia shares her personal journey from sociology graduate to EPR expert, the evolution of Lorax EPI, and why data management is the cornerstone of compliance. They discuss the rapid changes in EPR legislation, the challenges businesses face, and why Lorax EPI’s hands-on approach beats AI-powered shortcuts.Key Topics Discussed:Lydia’s career path and how COVID reshaped her trajectoryWhat Lorax EPI does and why it’s a global leader in EPR...
2026-02-1530 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingTextile Waste Into Reusable Packaging : KIUD CEO Kaie Kaas-OjavereIn this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, we dive into an innovative solution tackling two major environmental challenges: textile waste and packaging sustainability. Kaie Kaas-Ojavere shares her journey from the fashion industry to co-founding KIUD, a company transforming textile waste into durable, reusable packaging. She explains how KIUD’s material is created, its benefits for e-commerce and circular systems, and the company’s vision for scaling globally.Kaie also discusses the challenges of textile recycling, the importance of controlled waste streams, and how KIUD’s boxes have already proven their durability in real-world use cases. With e...
2026-02-0827 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingViral Attention Drives Action on Bali’s Plastic Problem with Gary Bencheghib of Sungai WatchIn this episode, Cory talks with Gary Bencheghib, co‑founder of Sungai Watch, about his journey from filmmaker to environmental leader and how his team is tackling plastic pollution in Indonesia’s rivers. Gary explains how Sungai Watch has installed hundreds of river barriers, collected millions of kilos of waste, and used viral storytelling to mobilize communities. He also discusses the challenges of Indonesia’s waste infrastructure, the importance of better packaging design, and how recycled plastic from river cleanups is being transformed into new products.Key Topics Discussed:Gary’s background in filmmaking and envi...
2026-02-0126 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingHow to Fix Plastics Recycling (Kate Bailey) Association of Plastic RecyclersSummary:In this episode, Cory Connors talks with Kate Bailey about the challenges and opportunities in plastics recycling. Kate shares her journey from college recycling jobs to becoming a leading voice in policy and design for sustainable packaging. The discussion covers practical steps brands can take, the role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and why collaboration between designers, recyclers, and policymakers is critical for success.Key Topics Discussed:Kate’s background and career path in recycling and sustainabilityThe role and mission of the Association of Plastic Recyclers (APR)APR’s flag...
2026-01-2529 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingInside Packaging’s Future Innovators with Danielle Goad and Nicole TooleBonjour and Hello, In this episode, Cory Connors interviews two standout winners of the Paris Packaging Week Future Leaders Program—Danielle Goad and Nicole Toole—to explore their journeys, innovations, and perspectives on the future of sustainable packaging. Danielle shares how discovering packaging at Cal Poly led to a global leadership role at SpecRight and her upcoming move to London as she builds the EMEA region. Nicole recounts founding ECGO as a college project and transforming it into an AI‑powered recycling education and behavior‑change platform used by students, universities, and brands.Both leaders reflect on being...
2026-01-1829 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingFrom Trash to Trend: High Performance Optics Made From Recycled PlasticIn this episode, Cory talks with James Merrill, founder of Stoked Plastics and Opolis Optics, about transforming ocean‑bound and landfill‑bound plastic into high‑performance sunglasses and goggles. James shares how his experience working in vulnerable communities overseas led him to create a patented recycled‑plastic technology that boosts recycled content up to 75%. They also discuss Opolis’ growth, supply‑chain transparency, and the major setback of a $20,000 theft during an REI fulfillment—followed by strong community support.Key Topics Discussed:How global counter‑extremism work revealed the link between plastic pollution, poverty, and instability.Deve...
2026-01-1133 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingGoogle's Sustainability Mission With Robert LittleIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes his longtime friend and sustainability leader Robert Little to discuss Google’s sustainability mission—particularly its global work in circularity, recycling accessibility, packaging innovation, and the role of AI in modern waste systems. Robert shares his nonlinear career path, the principles that shaped his sustainability mindset, and how Google is leveraging its massive product ecosystem to scale sustainability solutions for billions of users worldwide.The conversation explores Google Maps’ recycling drop‑off locator, Google Trends as a tool for understanding consumer sustainability needs, Google’s plastic‑free packaging design journey, and innovations...
2026-01-0435 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingThe Power of Neutral Convening With Dave FordIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Dave Ford, founder and partner of Circle by OPLN, to discuss how neutral convening is transforming collaboration around the plastic crisis. Dave shares the origin of the Circle Program, the launch of the Legislator Guide for Circular Policy, and how bringing policymakers, industry, and NGOs together has shaped national conversations on EPR, DRS, and circularity. He reflects on the early days of OPLN, the pivotal expeditions that exposed leaders firsthand to plastic pollution, and how these experiences built a foundation for trust, shared understanding, and meaningful systems‑level change.Key To...
2025-12-2832 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingAll in One Zero Waste Platform SCRAPP With Mikey PasciutoIn this episode of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors, Cory sits down with Mikey Pasciuto to explore SCRAPP’s evolution from a recycling app to a comprehensive zero-waste platform. Mikey shares insights on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), operational waste costs, and why businesses should design for efficiency rather than just policy. They dive into real-world examples, challenges in recycling infrastructure, and how SCRAPP helps brands navigate complex waste streams and regulations.Key Topics Discussed:SCRAPP’s journey: from barcode-scanning recycling app to full-service waste accounting platformThe role of data in predicting and reducing waste gene...
2025-12-2128 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingHow Patagonia Turns Packaging Into a Brand Statement with Jennifer PatrickGuest: Jennifer Patrick, Global Packaging and Branding Director at PatagoniaSummary:Jennifer shares her journey from photography, creative direction, and print production to leading global packaging and branding at Patagonia, an iconic brand known for sustainability. She discusses how sustainability influences every decision, innovative packaging changes that saved millions of plastic pieces and pounds of paper, and how technology like QR codes transformed customer engagement.Key Topics Discussed:Jennifer’s career path and creative backgroundPatagonia’s sustainability-first approach in packagingRemoving 37 million plastic SwiftachsHang Tag redesign saving 175,000 poun...
2025-12-1424 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingState Senator Heidi Campbell on EPR in Red StatesSummary:In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Senator Heidi Campbell to discuss her journey from music to politics, her passion for environmental issues, and her groundbreaking work on Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) in Tennessee. Senator Campbell shares insights into the “Waste to Jobs” initiative, the challenges of implementing EPR in a red state, and why this approach could transform recycling infrastructure across the Southeast.Key Topics Discussed:Senator Campbell’s background in music and transition into public serviceThe origin and goals of Tennessee’s Waste to Jobs programWhy EPR legislation matters...
2025-12-0724 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingMore Sustainable Plastic with Trei Johnson (Accredo PKG)In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Trei Johnson to discuss the future of plastic packaging and the challenges of recycling flexible materials. Trei shares his path from studying sustainability at Cornell to impactful roles at Unilever and Mars Wrigley before joining Accredo Packaging to lead its sustainability strategy. He highlights Accredo’s unique story as a family-owned company founded by Vietnamese immigrants and its commitment to operating with 100% wind power and developing recyclable packaging solutions.Key Topics DiscussedTrei’s career journey from Cornell to Unilever, Mars Wrigley, and Accredo PackagingHow Accredo was founded and...
2025-11-3024 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingHills Pet Nutrition with Cody LoewenIn this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Cody Loewen from Hills Pet Nutrition to discuss how innovative packaging solutions are driving both sustainability and cost savings. Cody shares his unconventional journey into packaging, the impact of data-driven optimization projects, and how supplier collaboration and new materials are helping Hills Pet Nutrition reduce plastic use, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and improve operational efficiency.Key Topics DiscussedCody’s background in chemical engineering and transition into packagingThe importance of supplier collaboration and shared sustainability goalsMajor savings and plastic reduction achieved through the MUST stretch film optimization program wi...
2025-11-2317 minSustainable Packaging with Cory Connors presented by Atlantic PackagingBig Announcement : Funding from Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research (Constance Gewa)https://foundationfar.org/Deadline is December 17th to apply for funding! https://foundationfar.org/grants-funding/opportunities/packaging-innovation-program/In this conversation, Cory Connors and Constance Gewa discuss the importance of collaborative partnerships in the food and agriculture sector, focusing on the role of the Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research. They explore innovations in sustainable packaging, the structure of funding programs, and the impact of these initiatives on the agricultural community. Constance shares insights on the challenges faced by the industry and the importance of research in developing practical solutions. The conversation highlights upcoming e...
2025-11-1622 min