People of Packaging Podcast

Ever wonder why that protein shake has a “Supplement Facts” panel instead of “Nutrition Facts”? Or why your favorite craft soda’s label layout looks a very specific way? It is not just design—it is federal law.In this episode of the People of Packaging Podcast, Adam Peek sits down with Lauren Rockteacher, the founder and principal reviewer at Proof and Panel. With a background in food science and regulatory affairs, Lauren is the “label whisperer” that brands call before they hit the shelves.We dive into the high-stakes world of regulatory compliance, exploring why a beautiful design does not always equal a legal one. Lauren breaks down the 200+ checkpoints she uses to ensure brands do not face massive fines, recalls, or the nightmare of throwing away thousands of dollars in printed packaging.In this episode, we discuss:* The Wisconsin Life: Cheese curds, cross-country ski marathons (The Birke!), and why Wisconsin is a packaging powerhouse.* Food vs. Supplement: The subtle (and legally massive) differences in how you claim health benefits.* The AI Trap: Why you should not trust ChatGPT to write your regulatory claims and the funny mistakes it makes.* Conditional Labeling: How one “voluntary” claim can trigger a waterfall of mandatory requirements.* Saving Your Brand: Why regulatory review is an investment, not just a hurdle.Do not let a “catchy” claim turn into a legal catastrophe. Tune in to hear how to bridge the gap between food science, graphic design, and the FDA.Connect with us:* Adam Peek on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adampeek* Adam Peek on TikTok: @thelabelking* Lauren Rockteacher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenrockteacher/* Proof and Panel Website: www.proofandpanel.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

Episode Title: Grow-NY with Jenn Smith Host: Adam Peek Guest: Jenn Smith, Director of Food and Ag Innovation Programs at Cornell University and Director of Grow-NY Summary: In this episode, Adam sits down with the multi-titled Jenn Smith to talk about all things food, agriculture, and innovation in Upstate New York. Jenn dives into the Grow-NY competition, a $3 million business competition that draws startups from around the world to compete for top prizes—including a whopping $1 million! They chat about the importance of sustainability, the circular economy, and how even packaging companies can get in on the action. Plus, find out why Adam has been rocking rope sandals for 30 years! Key Takeaways:* What is Grow-NY? A global business competition focused on food and agriculture innovation, funded by New York State.* The Prizes: A $1 million grand prize, two $500k prizes, and four $250k prizes. It’s an equity investment, not just a grant!* Sustainability Matters: Grow-NY looks for startups that think holistically about sustainability—from soil science to innovative packaging solutions like Living Ink‘s algae-based black ink.* Eligibility: Early-stage startups (7 years or fewer in operation) that are willing to grow their business and contribute to the Upstate New York economy.* The Deadline: Applications are due by May 15th! Links:* Grow-NY Website: grow-ny.com* Adam’s LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adampeek* Adam’s TikTok: @thelabelkingTime Stamps:* 0:00 - Introduction & Jenn’s “Longest Title Ever”* 5:23 - The Ren Fair & Adam’s 30-Year-Old Rope Sandals* 8:20 - Jenn’s Role at Cornell & Extension Agents* 10:33 - Holistic Sustainability in Packaging & Farming* 13:40 - The History & Mission of Grow-NY* 16:20 - Past Winners: Living Ink & Algae-Based Ink* 18:40 - Eligibility & Application Process* 21:20 - What Does “Upstate” New York Actually Mean?* 22:40 - Final Wrap-Up & Application Deadline This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com

In this episode of the People of Packaging podcast, Adam Peek sits down with Kate McLamb and Lauren Alexander, the visionary co-founders of Sistine Spritz. They dive deep into how they built a brand that’s about much more than just a drink—it’s about “romantic rebellion,” community, and intentional design.The Vision Behind the Spritz 🎨Kate and Lauren didn’t just set out to make another beverage; they wanted to create an entire world. Drawing from Lauren’s 20-year background in apparel design and Kate’s experience in video production and business development, they approached the brand like a fashion house. Before the liquid was even finalized, they were building mood boards, crafting Spotify playlists, and defining the “Sistine” aesthetic.Key Highlights from the Episode:* Intentional Packaging: The duo explains why they chose a 750ml champagne bottle with a hand-applied blue wax seal to stand out in a crowded retail landscape.* The “Sexy” Can Challenge: Transitioning from an elegant glass bottle to a 222ml slim can wasn’t easy. They discuss the technical hurdles of maintaining their brand’s “sexy” vibe while adhering to canning standards.* Natural Vibrancy: The striking ruby-red color of the drink isn’t artificial—it’s derived entirely from beets and carrots to match their computer-generated “ideal” hue.* Building Community: From hosting intimate dinner parties in LA to creating curated playlists for “spritz-worthy” moments, Sistine is built on the power of being present with others.Connect with the Guests:* Kate McLamb: [email protected]* Lauren Alexander: [email protected]* Website: sistinespritz.com* Instagram: @sistinespritzConnect with the Label King:* LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/adampeek* TikTok: @thelabelking This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com