Shows
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastThe Future of Sustainable Packaging: What Every Food Brand Needs To Know About EPRIn this episode, Sarah and Mike are joined by Tim Shay, Director of Procurement at Econo-Pak, to explore how Econo-Pak is helping food brands navigate the future of sustainable packaging and prepare for the growing wave of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws.Currently adopted in five states and with more on the horizon, these regulations shift the cost and responsibility of packaging waste back onto the manufacturers. Tim breaks down what EPR really means, the cost considerations for sustainable packaging, and the technical challenges of switching to materials like PCR (post-consumer recycled content).We also...2025-07-2316 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastThe Econo-Pak Food Packaging Podcast Just Got an UpgradeWelcome to the very first episode of our newly improved podcast! In this kickoff, our hosts, Sarah Richter and Mike Mead, sit down to share behind-the-scenes updates on the exciting changes to the podcast setup—better equipment, a smoother production flow, and upgraded audio and video quality.They also introduce a brand-new Learning Center, designed to provide valuable, centralized resources for anyone in the food packaging industry. From innovative solutions to regulatory compliance, this episode lays the foundation for what's to come.With an emphasis on client feedback, adaptability, and a passion for continuous learning, ou...2025-07-1008 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastFrom Cartons to Cost Savings: Food Co-Packing Procurement with Tim ShayIn this episode of the Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging Podcast, Sarah sits down with Tim, our Director of Procurement, to explore how strategic sourcing, supplier relationships, and packaging choices can impact your food brand's bottom line.Learn how our procurement team supports high-volume food packaging projects, from sourcing film, cartons, and pallets to helping brands meet sustainability goals and retail requirements like Costco. We also share how Econo-Pak’s fixed-cost pricing model simplifies budgeting while driving efficiency.Timestamps:0:00 Introduction0:09 Tim’s background in procurement1:06 How Econo-Pak offers turnkey procurement solutions2:01 Packaging mate...2025-04-1011 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastHow Flexible Equipment Powers Scalable Co-PackingEcono-Pak Maintenance Manager Jared Ellsworth joins us to talk about how flexible equipment setups, smart automation, and quick changeovers allow our team to help clients scale into new retail formats with ease.Timestamps0:00 - 0:25 Introduction: Equipment flexibility in contract packaging 0:26 - 1:10 What makes packaging equipment flexible? 1:11 - 2:05 Starting manual and scaling into automation 2:06 - 2:48 How Econo-Pak shortens lead times for co-packing 2:49 - 3:30 Building efficiency and reducing cost for high-volume clients 3:31 - 4:15 Managing rapid changeovers across three shifts 4:16 - 5:10 Preventing cross-contamination and staying audit-ready 5:11 - 6:00 How shift communication supports seamless transit...2025-04-0108 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastUniversal vs. dedicated co-packing equipment | How Econo-Pak helps food brands scale efficientlyHow do food brands choose the right packaging equipment? In this episode, we break down the difference between universal and dedicated equipment and how Econo-Pak’s flexible approach helps brands test, scale, and optimize their packaging.With over 200 types of packaging equipment, Econo-Pak provides food brands the ability to explore different packaging formats without massive upfront investments. Learn how universal equipment supports market testing and why transitioning to dedicated machinery can improve efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline operations as brands grow.We also discuss: ✅ Why retailers like Walmart, Costco, and Amazon require different packaging sizes...2025-02-0306 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastSOP3 with Co-Packing Project Manager Johnny MontanaIn this episode of the Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging Podcast, Sarah Richter sits down with Project Manager Johnny Montana and GM Mike Mead to discuss the importance of SOP3 (Standard Operating Procedure Form 3) in ensuring food safety, quality, and seamless production.Discover how SOP3:- Captures essential details for new and existing projects.- Supports quality assurance, customer service, and production teams.- Helps clients meet their unique packaging needs across various styles like bagging, blending, and seasoning.- Enhances collaboration between Econo-Pak and its partners for accurate, efficient, and safe production.2024-12-2606 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastHow Strategic Planning and Culture Drive Success with CFO John MellageIn this episode, John Mellage, CFO of Econo-Pak, shares his transition from a 25-year career in public accounting to joining one of the leading family-owned co-packers in the industry. Discover how Econo-Pak’s dynamic work culture, strategic planning, and fixed-cost pricing model have made a difference for both employees and clients. John discusses the importance of building lasting client relationships, fostering team collaboration, and creating an environment where growth is nurtured from the top down. Tune in to hear his unique perspective on what drives success in contract food packaging.Timestamps:00:00-00:03 – Introduction00:04-01:08 – John's backgr...2024-10-3111 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastCertified Sedex Co-Packer with Senior Director of Food Safety and Quality Rohail KhanIn this episode, Sarah Richter talks with Rohail Khan about Econo-Pak's recent success in passing the Sedex audit. Rohail explains what Sedex is, why it matters to global supply chains, and how it ties into ethical business practices, employee safety, and sustainability initiatives. Learn how Econo-Pak maintains high standards across all areas of its business, from ensuring the humane treatment of workers to reducing its environmental footprint.Read the transcript on our blog: https://www.econo-pak.com/certified-sedex-co-packer-with-senior-director-of-food-safety-and-quality-rohail-khan/Timestamps:00:00-00:03 – Introduction00:04-00:17 – What is the Sedex (SMETA) audit?00:18-01:03 – Importance of Sedex for gl...2024-10-1606 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastBehind the Scenes with Sarah and MikeJoin Mike Mead and Sarah Richter as they take you behind the scenes of how they produce their podcast. From syncing audio and video to setting up a dedicated studio space, they share valuable insights into the technical and creative process.Learn how their podcast has evolved to cover industry trends, brand-building strategies, and how they foster trust with their clients. Watch the full video to discover how their setup reflects their brand and helps them create professional, engaging content.Timestamps0:00 - 0:42 Introduction to syncing audio and video0:43 - 1:36 The benefits of having...2024-10-0803 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastFixed-Cost Pricing in Co-Packing Contracts with CEO PJ WiebelIn this episode of the Econo-Pak podcast, CEO PJ Wiebel joins host and General Manager Mike Mead to discuss the benefits of using a fixed-cost pricing model in co-packing contracts. PJ explains how this pricing approach provides stability and predictability for food companies by locking in a set price for packaging services over a 12-month period. This eliminates the unpredictability of variable costs that many manufacturers face, allowing them to better manage their budgets and focus on growth. Tune in to learn how Econo-Pak ensures efficiency while maintaining profitability within a fixed-cost model....2024-10-0303 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastInventory Management in Co-Packing with Brooke WillisIn this episode of the Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging podcast, we sit down with Brooke Willis, our dedicated Inventory Manager. With six years of experience, Brooke shares her journey from starting in the shipping and receiving department to becoming the go-to resource for managing inventory and coordinating projects across multiple departments.Brooke provides valuable insights into how she uses spreadsheets, Outlook calendars, and other tools to ensure seamless communication and efficiency within our operations. She also discusses the critical role of managing raw materials, collaborating with various teams, and maintaining the accuracy of our systems to support...2024-09-0308 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastInterning at Econo-Pak with Noah HarringtonNoah Harrington is a bright and motivated young man with a passion for entrepreneurship. As the nephew of PJ and Bob Wiebel, our CEO and Director of Operations, he has worked as an intern for the past two summers. Listen as Noah shares his experience working on the production floor and helping clients with trialing.Timestamps0:00 Introduction0:10 New podcast room0:30 Family relationship0:47 Interning experience1:48 Spending time with Econo-Pak's Project Manager2:36 Future of interning at Econo-Pak3:16 Noah working with high-profile clients3:32 Trials and FPAs4:51 Noah's future goals7:00 Wrap...2024-08-2007 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastHow Shipping and Receiving Works at a Co-Packing Facility | Econo-PakJoin us for an insightful episode of the Econo-Pak Podcast, where we dive deep into the operations that keep our shipping and receiving departments running smoothly. Hosts Sarah and Mike sit down with Rich and Milly, seasoned professionals from the shipping and receiving team, to discuss the dynamics of our distribution processes and our strategies for efficient logistics management.Rich, with over 13 years at Econo-Pak, shares his journey from starting as a logistics manager to his recent promotion to customer service manager, while still overseeing logistics. Milly, who has climbed the ranks over four years to oversee...2024-04-2920 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastSourcing Packaging Materials for Co-Packing with Purchasing Supervisor Tyler SiscoJoin the Econo-Pak team as we discuss procurement solutions with Tyler Sisco, the experienced Purchasing Supervisor at Econo-Pak. Explore the critical aspects of fostering strong client relationships, navigating the challenges of fixed-cost solutions in procurement, and the innovative approach towards sustainable packaging in the co-packing industry.Key Topics Explored:- The complexities of maintaining relationships with suppliers.- Overcoming procurement challenges.- Providing custom turnkey solutions that allow clients to focus on their brands while Econo-Pak handles the rest.Plus, get a personal glimpse into Tyler's life outside of work, including his...2024-02-0811 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastRequesting a Fixed-Price Quote with COO Ed HornJoin us in the latest episode of the Econo-Pak Food Packaging Podcast, featuring an engaging interview with Ed Horn, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Econo-Pak. With over 17 years at the helm, Ed shares his deep insights into the co-packing industry, discussing the evolution of the field, the importance of efficient processes, and the role of a COO in driving a company's success. He also discusses the importance of the request a quote form in allowing Econo-Pak to provide customers with an accurate quote fast.🔍 Topics Covered & Timestamps:00:00 Introduction00:21 Ed Horn on his journey at...2024-01-3117 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastProduction Scheduling with Plant Manager Patrick SullivanIn this episode of the Econo-Pak Food Packaging Podcast, our Plant Manager, Patrick Sullivan, discusses:- His career growth from a general line worker to Plant Manager- How he creates the production schedule for our clients' products- His experience working with different departments to manage the schedule- The flexibility of the workforce and the ability to adapt to changing resources and capacity- The successful integration of clients, where fast turnarounds and effective communication play a key role00:00 Introduction00:18 Patrick’s career growth01:15 Initiative and learning on th...2024-01-0818 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastFood Safety and Continuous Education with Director of Quality Rohail KhanIn this episode of the Econo-Pak Food Packaging Podcast, our Director of Quality, Rohail Khan, shares his extensive knowledge and experience in maintaining the highest standards of food safety at Econo-Pak. We delve into the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in food packaging and safety, exploring how Econo-Pak stays ahead in ensuring quality and compliance.Rohail also discusses the importance of continuous education for professionals in the industry and how it contributes to a safer food supply chain. He shares valuable advice for those aspiring to pursue food safety and quality control careers.Don't miss...2023-12-1230 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastPackaging Unpacked: A CEO's Take on the Booming Contract Packaging IndustryJoin us for a lively chat with PJ, the CEO of Econo-Pak, where we unpack the bustling world of contract packaging. PJ walks us through the industry's skyrocketing growth and the innovative strides Econo-Pak is making.We talk about why more and more companies are choosing to outsource their packaging needs, the nifty fixed-cost benefits, and how contract packaging is a game-changer in the food sector. PJ explains how Econo-Pak is not just about wrapping things up—they're helping brands experiment and innovate with their products, offering flexibility from trial runs to full-scale production.Whether yo...2023-12-0608 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastAttitude and Opportunity with Materials Supervisor Jessica AlvesWe chat with Jessica Alves, Materials Supervisor at Econo-Pak, to talk about her eight-year journey from working in production to materials, all while learning English as a second language. Enjoy Jessica's bright and positive attitude as she tells us her story.The Econo-Pak Food Packaging Podcast covers topics in the food packaging and manufacturing industry, including quality, materials, machinery, and operations. Plus, tune in for key employee interviews, company news, and more.Follow us on social! 📦🍪🥨🍞🍚 Instagram: https://instagram.com/econopakcopacker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EconoPakCoPacker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/econo-pak...2023-10-0413 min
Econo-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastChatGPT interview about the Benefits of working with a Contract ManufacturerThis week Mike Mead has a QA session with ChatGPT about the Contract Food Packaging industry. ChatGPT answers the questions; What is Contract Food Packaging?What are the benefits of working with a Co-Packer?When is the best time to start working with a contract manufacturer?ChatGPT looks into the future of the Contract Food Packaging industry with a thorough response and prediction. You can watch the video on Podcast and see an Open Ai voice actor answer these questions. The Econo-Pak Podcast is Hosted and Produced by Mike Me...2023-05-0423 minEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging with Project Manager Johnny MontanaEcono-Pak is a contract food packaging specialist. Econo-Pak General Manager Mike Mead talks with Johnny Montana about his role as Project Manager at Econo-Pak.In this episode, I talk with Johnny about the onboarding process for a new customer. How each step of our Trial, First Production Run, and Standard Operating Procedure documents leads to project success. We learn about Johnny's process of managing new projects with each of our departments and how this enables Econo-Pak to provide the best results. You can learn more about ECONO-PAK and our food packaging capabilities by visiting our website...2023-03-2628 minEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastCo-Packing - The benefits of working with a Contract Packaging ManufacturerEcono-Pak is a contract food packaging manufacturer. In this episode of the Econo-Pak podcast, General Manager of Econo-Pak Mike Mead discusses the key benefits of working with a copacker. Why picking the correct contract packing partner is so important. Mike shares a recent customer story that may inspire you and your next product launch. Interested in learning more about how Econo-Pak can help your brand grow and achieve your goals with the ability to scale as the opportunity presents without the vulnerability of variable cost holding you back? Contact us for an efficient, fixed-cost, quality-driven, custo...2023-03-0712 minEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastContract Food Packaging with Maintenance Manager Jared EllsworthEcono-Pak is a contract food packaging specialist. Econo-Pak General Manager Mike Mead talks with Jared Ellsworth the Maintenance Manager at Econo-Pak.In this episode, We talk about our onsite maintenance team. We learn about why Econo-Pak has made such a significate investment in development of our maintenance team. We learn about why creativity is a key attribute that Jared looks for when building his team. We also talk about the growth of the company and how that is creating new opportunities to join our team. You can learn more about ECONO-PAK and our food packaging capabilit...2023-02-1415 minEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastContract Food Packaging with Ed Horn and PJ WiebelEcono-Pak is a contract food packaging specialist. Today host Mike Mead talks with Ed Horn, the Chief Operating Officer ( COO ), and PJ Wiebel, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Econo-Pak.In this episode, We peek behind the curtain at Econo-Pak. Ed and PJ talk about our operations and how we continue to drive success and help our clients scale their businesses. You can learn more about ECONO-PAK by visiting our website: www.Econo-Pak.comEmail your question or have us quote a project. Info@Econo-Pak.comEcono-Pak Podcast is Produced and H...2023-02-0726 minEcono-Pak Contract Food Packaging PodcastContract Packaging with CEO PJ WiebelEcono-Pak is a contract food packaging specialist. Our first guest is PJ Wiebel.PJ is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Econo-Pak. In this episode, we talk about Econo-Pak, and it's current positioning in the co-packing industry.PJ and I talked about the history of the company and how the past 10 years have been focused on the food industry. We learn about Econo-Pak and its capabilities in working with various packaging materials and processes. We discuss the capital investment Econo-Pak has made in purchasing state-of-the-art equipment and what the company is most excited about for...2023-01-2015 min
Listen Up! With MazarsFood for Talk, Episode 35 | A Conversation with PJ Wiebel, CEO of Econo-PakDescription In episode thirty-five of Food for Talk, host Howard Dorman, Mazars Food and Beverage Practice Leader, speaks with PJ…2021-11-1735 min
Law Abiding Biker | Street Biker Motorcycle PodcastAbout the 2016 Harley Dyna Low Rider S | Biker TalkOfficial Website: Podcast-In this episode we talk all about the 2016 Harley-Davidson Dyna Low Rider S we have in the Law Abiding Biker™ garage for a while. We have done quite a few projects on it and of course, we filmed them for you. Check out our video titled, Install Forward Controls on a Harley Davidson Softail or Dyna-Guide & Instructions. We recently put new 12" West Coast MX T-Bars on this bike and they look awesome! Check out our video titled, Install Handlebars Harley Dyna, Softail, Sportster | Extend Wires & Cables. The 2016 Dyna Low Rider S (spec...2017-04-191h 19