Beyond Packaging with Laura Foti & Matthew Wright

Specright

Welcome to Beyond Packaging with Laura Foti & Matthew Wright!

The bi-weekly podcast, released every other Tuesday, will explore the intersection of packaging, innovation, technology, and sustainability. It will also feature a recurring segment with packaging consultant Matt Dingee, examining historical packaging from Michigan State University’s New Product Works Collection. With over 20 years of industry experience, Matthew will also share personal insights and predictions for the future of packaging. The tone is fun and enthusiastic, promising both education and entertainment.

The podcast is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management.

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20 episodes
Avg 26 min
English

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S5 · E6
September 10 · 23 min
Beyond Compliance: Turning Packaging Data into a Business Advantage with Jessie Schwartz
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, Laura Foti and Matthew Wright are joined by Jessie Schwartz, President of Strategic Packaging Partners. They break down why most ERP systems were never built to track packaging specs, leaving companies scrambling to get their data in order to meet EPR reporting deadlines. However, Jessie makes the case that EPR is also a rare forcing function — explaining that the same data can become a source of real cost savings and competitive advantage. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S5 · E5
July 27 · 29 min
Fueling the Future of Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors & Matt Saunders
In this joint episode with the Sustainable Packaging Podcast, Matthew Wright and Laura Foti join Cory Connors and Matt Saunders to discuss the exciting new partnership between Specright and New Earth Ventures. Together, they explore how digitizing packaging data, leveraging practical AI, and strategically deploying venture capital can transform global supply chains. From staying ahead of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations to driving faster product innovation, this episode breaks down why accurate spec data is the foundation of modern, waste-free business. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S5 · E4
June 24 · 28 min
Making the Case for Change with Lisa Husken
Building a business case for new technology is difficult — even if the need is strong. In this episode, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Specright's own Value Engineer, Lisa Husken, to break down exactly how packaging and CPG professionals can turn operational pain points into a compelling case for change. Lisa unpacks the forces driving conversations right now — expanding EPR regulations, geopolitical supply chain uncertainty, and the urgent need for a clean data foundation before AI can deliver any real value. She also shares her framework for building a business case that goes beyond ROI to include risk mitigation, strategic alignment, and long-term compounding value. As mentioned by Lisa, find out how much value you could be gaining with a specification management system with Specright's ROI Calculator: https://www.specright.com/roi-calculator/ Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S5 · E3
May 28 · 26 min
The Hidden Complexity of Packaging Transitions with Maureen Dollard
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, Laura Foti and Matthew Wright welcome Maureen Dollard, Artwork Project Lead at Complete Acuity, the only firm in North America dedicated exclusively to managing packaging transitions for CPG companies. Maureen breaks down what a packaging transition really involves, what most commonly goes wrong — from incorrect die lines to allergen triggers to runout schedules — and why a single source of truth is non-negotiable. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S5 · E2
April 28 · 22 min
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, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S5 · E1
March 19 · 17 min
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, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E14
Nov 25, 2025 · 32 min
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, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E13
Oct 28, 2025 · 27 min
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, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E12
Sep 9, 2025 · 20 min
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, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E11
Aug 25, 2025 · 25 min
Data, AI & The Future of Innovation with Kaushik Boruah
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Kaushik Boruah of LatentView Analytics to explore how data and AI are transforming the packaging world. Kaushik shares his knowledge on the power of analytics to uncover consumer insights, drive smarter innovation, and help brands stay ahead in a rapidly changing market. From the role of AI in product development to what’s next for packaging strategy, this conversation is all about rethinking the future through data. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E10
Aug 13, 2025 · 28 min
Why the Future of Packaging Starts with Better Data with Amanda Sparks
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright speak with Amanda Sparks, VP of Revenue at Micronetbd. Amanda shares insights on how specification management helps companies be strategic and make positive changes in their supply chains, all by using data. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E9
Aug 5, 2025 · 19 min
Reimagining Food & Beverage: The Impact of Packaging Innovation
In this episode, co-hosts Matthew Wright and Laura Foti dive into how packaging is transforming the food and beverage industry. They discuss three stories, from nostalgic mac and cheese makeovers to punk rock energy drinks and snack downsizing. Tune in to hear how design, consumer trends, and brand strategy all impact shelf performance, and what it means for the future of the food and beverage industry. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E8
Jul 15, 2025 · 26 min
Bridging Industry and Academia: Matt Daum on the Future of Packaging
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Matt Daum, Dean and Associate Provost for the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Michigan State University (MSU), and former Director of MSU’s School of Packaging. With over 25 years of industry experience, Matt shares key lessons from his career, including the importance of cross-functional collaboration and learning from failure. He discusses how academia and industry work together to prepare students for real-world packaging challenges, and highlights how emerging trends such as AI and sustainability-driven innovation guide the next generation workforce. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E7
Jul 3, 2025 · 26 min
From Labels to Legislation: Adapting to a New Packaging Era
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright unpack two topics impacting the packaging world today: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and evolving product labeling requirements. From navigating regulatory shifts to the role of data in staying compliant and competitive, they explore how companies can adapt and thrive in a fast-changing landscape. Learn how to stay on top of packaging regulations and innovation trends, as well as hear about Matthew and Laura's new roles at Specright. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E6
Jun 17, 2025 · 23 min
What’s Next in Sustainability? A Global Perspective with Danielle Goad
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, Laura Foti is joined by Specright’s Danielle Goad for a discussion around sustainability, expanding to diverse markets, and the next generation. Danielle shares about her journey with Specright including work around sustainability, investing in the Academia program, and leading the expansion of a Specright presence in Europe. Additionally, the duo touch on the latest news in sustainable design and what sustainability is trending to look like in the future. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Danielle Goad on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E5
Jun 3, 2025 · 14 min
Tariffs, Transparency, and Tough Decisions: Navigating the Modern Day Market
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, co-hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright dive into the critical topic of tariffs and their growing impact on global supply chains, the decisions major brands are making around sustainable packaging, and a conversation on brand identity. Fresh off a panel at the MD&M event in New York, Matthew shares real-world challenges companies face—from deciding whether to relocate suppliers to maintaining visibility across complex vendor relationships. The conversation highlights why strong data and thoughtful planning are key to making confident, cost-effective decisions in uncertain times. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E4
May 20, 2025 · 34 min
Sustainable by Design: How Brands Are Bridging the Gap Between Regulation and Innovation
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright sit down with Cory Connors—Sustainable Packaging podcast host and sustainable packaging consultant—to explore the intersection of sustainability, packaging, and data. Cory shares insights into the urgency of sustainability especially around Extended Producer Responsibility, how businesses can take meaningful steps toward sustainable packaging, and why implementing upcoming best practices makes a lasting impact. Whether you're a business owner, packaging professional, or just curious about greener solutions, this episode offers valuable takeaways. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E3
May 6, 2025 · 44 min
Digitalization and the New Packaging Playbook: From AI to EPR
In the latest episode of Beyond Packaging, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright engage with Matt Reynolds, Editor-in-Chief of Packaging World, to explore innovative packaging solutions and sustainability trends. They discuss Target's paper wine bottles, legislative advances in extended producer responsibility, and the critical role of digital transformation in the packaging industry. The conversation highlights the importance of executive-level focus on packaging and the strategic use of AI and digital twins to boost efficiency and accelerate product development. Closing thoughts emphasize the need for adopting digital tools to stay competitive, with an invitation to explore further insights on PackWorld.com. Download the free report from Packaging World at: https://packworld.dragonforms.com/loading.do?pk=1126_podcast_video&omedasite=pwgmfd2024 Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E2
Apr 22, 2025 · 26 min
Tariffs, the Price of Corrugated & Future of the Box Industry with Ryan Fox
In this episode of Beyond Packaging, Laura Foti and Matthew Wright chat with Ryan Fox of Bloomberg intelligence about tariffs, the price of corrugated packaging, the future of the box industry and more. Plus, they'll go "Off the Shelf" with Matt Dingee at Michigan State University's New Product Works Collection to look back in time at tooth powder! You can connect with Ryan Fox on LinkedIn. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.
S4 · E1
Apr 15, 2025 · 35 min
EPR Traction in the US, the State of Spec Management, & MSU’s New Product Works Collection
In the inaugural episode of Beyond Packaging, hosts Laura Foti and Matthew Wright aim to explore the evolving landscape of packaging and specification management. The episode kicks off with a nostalgic reflection on Matthew’s early days in the packaging industry in New York. The discussion then transitions to contemporary issues, emphasizing the continued reliance on outdated methods—such as Excel, shared drives, and email—for managing complex product spec data. The episode highlights the findings from Specright's third State of Spec Management report, revealing that 65% of professionals still use Excel, with increasing challenges in data accuracy and supplier collaboration. The podcast delves into the implications of new regulations like Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws, which are progressively being adopted in states like Maryland. Insights are shared on how these laws compel brands and packaging companies to modernize data management for compliance and sustainability. There's also a discussion on the rising consumer demand for transparency and the impact of greenwashing, exemplified by a recent fine imposed on Clorox in Australia for false sustainability claims. Special guest Matt Dingee from Michigan State University's New Product Works Collection joins the show to discuss the significance of historical packaging and its potential for inspiring modern innovation. The collection, which houses over 140,000 packages, serves as a resource for both inspiration and practical insights, blending physical and digital data for future-ready solutions. The episode concludes with the announcement of a recurring segment, "Off the Shelf with Matt Dingee," where Matt will present historical packaging to spark fresh insights and discussions. Overall, the podcast underscores the urgent need for the packaging industry to embrace digital transformation in data management to drive compliance, innovation, and sustainability. Beyond Packaging is presented by Specright, the leader in Specification Management. Feel free to connect with Laura Foti and Matthew Wright on LinkedIn To listen to previous episodes click here or subscribe to our YouTube playlist.

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