Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we talk with Fabien Val, CEO and owner of Cuir. Hosted by Simona Georgescu of Adduco Communications and Mike Schaefer of Tavens Packaging & Display, the episode provides a rare and heartfelt look into Val's journey from closing a textile company to the helm of a corrugated machinery company.

Connect with Fabien

https://www.cuir.com/en/

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we talk with Justin Hill from Lawrence Paper Company.

In this conversation, Justin shares insights into the company's rich history, spanning over six generations. He discusses the importance of customer service, innovation, and employee engagement in maintaining a successful family business. Justin reflects on the challenges faced throughout the years, including economic downturns and the evolution of the packaging industry. He emphasizes the significance of fostering a strong company culture and the value of long-term customer relationships. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of family business succession and the importance of preparing the next generation for leadership roles.

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this special episode of Breaking Down Boxes, the podcast welcomes a dynamic group of new guest hosts who are set to bring fresh perspectives and engaging stories to the independent packaging industry.

Featured Guest Hosts:

Mike Schaefer - President, Tavens Packaging & Display

Mike shares his unexpected journey into the packaging industry, from his early days as a mechanic to becoming a key player in the box business. He discusses his leadership at Tavens Packaging & Display and reflects on the unique challenges and opportunities within the independent sector.

Jeff Pallini - President, Fosber America

With a background that spans from the tissue industry in Europe to founding Fosber America, Jeff brings a wealth of experience in corrugated machinery. He talks about his passion for supporting independent manufacturers and the stories of entrepreneurship that define the industry.

Simona Georgescu - Founder, Adduco Communications

A seasoned communications professional, Simona offers insights into the intersection of branding, marketing, and packaging. She reflects on her journey from Romania to founding Adduco Communications in New York, and her deep commitment to telling the stories of the packaging industry.

George Perreira - Vice President, Moyy

George’s story is one of growth and resilience, from his early days in sales to leading a successful rebranding and technological transformation at Moyy. He shares his passion for connecting with people and the importance of storytelling in building relationships within the industry.

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

This episode marks a significant milestone as hosts Gene Marino, President of Akers Packaging Service Group, and Joe Morelli, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Huston Patterson and Lewisburg Printing Company, bid farewell as hosts.

As Breaking Down Boxes takes a brief hiatus in August, the podcast will return in September with guest hosts, continuing to offer inspiring stories and valuable insights. AICC is committed to providing a platform that fosters learning, growth, and connection within the packaging industry.

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode, we talk with AICC President Mike D'Angelo.

Mike shares his compelling journey through the packaging industry, offering listeners a wealth of insights into his career progression, the importance of mentorship, and the balancing act between work and personal life. From his childhood experiences to his transition from college to the workforce, Mike's story is a testament to the power of hard work, adaptability, and the enduring importance of personal and professional relationships.

About Mike

Mike is a 40+ year veteran of the packaging industry with experience in the corrugated, folding carton and flexible packaging markets. After graduating from Villanova University, Mike went to work for Bobst North America in a sales support role. Over the next 32 years he rose through various leadership positions in the Bobst organization in various packaging equipment markets. This growth culminated in an 18-year role as Vice President of Sales and Service.

Goss International recruited Mike to be its North American Managing Director and to transition its web offset printing press business from the publication and newspaper markets to the packaging markets. This challenge was successfully met, resulting in the sale of Goss to a private equity company.

After Goss, Mike continued to pursue service to the paper-based packaging industry by joining AICC, The Independent Packaging Association, as Vice President in October 2016. He was elevated to the President’s role at AICC on July 1, 2019.

Prior to joining AICC, Mike had been a 20+ year Associate Member of the Association. Mike has served on the Board of Directors of the International Corrugated Packaging Foundation (ICPF) including a term as Chair. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Flexible Packaging Association (FPA). Both Board experiences showed him the satisfaction that can be achieved in Association management.

Mike and his wife Susan are the parents of two grown daughters. They live in Dumfries, Virginia.

Connect with Mike

• Linkedin
• AICCbox.org

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we talk with Greg Arvanigian, President and CEO of Arvco Container Corp.

Greg Arvanigian's story is as inspiring as it is relatable. In the interview, he candidly reflects on his early years, admitting to the typical pursuits of a college student – playing in a rock band, socializing, and navigating the uncertainties of youth. However, a pivotal moment of self-reflection just before graduation led Greg to reassess his career trajectory, ultimately propelling him into the world of packaging.

Connect

Greg on Linkedin

Arvco

In the next episode you'll hear from AICC's own Mike D'Angelo.

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we talk with Richard Brown, President & Co-owner of The BoxMaker.

Part 1 of Going Forward delved into key aspects of Richard's career in the packaging industry that led him to The BoxMaker, offering valuable insights for listeners.

The conversation explores the evolution of digital technology within the corrugated packaging sector. Richard shares insights into the efficiencies brought about by digital production, emphasizing its transformative impact on supply chain dynamics. He reflects on the transition from traditional analog methods to digital processes, highlighting the advantages in terms of reduced waste, enhanced flexibility, and streamlined workflows.

About Richard

Richard Brown has been with The BoxMaker since 2003. Prior to his current role, he served as the Corrugated Sales Manager, Vice President, and General Manager. Richard’s career in packaging began with a summer warehouse job as a teen. He quickly worked his way up to delivery driver, a series of office roles, and then outside sales where he developed and sold custom packages for 13 years.

His first leadership role was in product management at Tenneco. In 1999 he accepted a promotion to lead a branch office of Landsberg Ororoa in the Seattle area. Richard enjoys actively participating in AICC and Vistage.

As a packaging professional, Richard enjoys seeing how things are made, and he maintains a keen interest in client projects as they are produced. He believes being involved in all parts of the process is an excellent way to learn from an array of people and companies.

Richard focuses on ensuring The BoxMaker has the right talent, equipment, and culture in place to serve clients effectively and develop true partnerships. He values treating everyone with respect, living in the moment, and making a positive impact. Richard says, “The impact I have on my coworkers’ lives will be my scorecard as a leader.”

Richard enjoys being outdoors to appreciate the beauty and fresh air of the Pacific Northwest while hiking and fly fishing. He looks forward to spending time in Northwest Arkansas where we recently expanded. He loves spending time with his grandchildren and supporting his local community.

Seattle Business Magazine recognized Richard as Executive of the Year 2020 in its Washington Manufacturing Awards.

Connect with Richard & The BoxMaker

• X
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Resources

AICC CEO Advisory Group

Coming Up

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at www.AICCbox.org. When you invest and engage, AICC delivers success.

Breaking Down Boxes is sponsored by Ox Box, offering strength you can depend on.

Welcome to Breaking Down Boxes. We have compelling conversations with entrepreneurs in the packaging space.

In this episode we talk with Richard Brown, President & Co-owner of The BoxMaker.

Part 1 of Going Forward delves into key aspects of Richard's career in the packaging industry that led him to The BoxMaker, offering valuable insights for listeners.

Richard's journey in the packaging world began at 14 years old, working in his father's distribution company. This hands-on experience and hard-working attitude led to his transformative climb from the warehouse floor to the executive boardroom. His story serves as a testament to the profound impact of practical experience in shaping a successful career in the packaging sector.

The human side of leadership takes center stage as the episode sheds light on the delicate balance between career and family. Richard discusses the significant role family considerations played in his decision-making process, emphasizing transparent communication and the thoughtful evaluation of family dynamics as crucial elements in navigating career choices.

About Richard

Richard Brown has been with The BoxMaker since 2003. Prior to his current role, he served as the Corrugated Sales Manager, Vice President, and General Manager. Richard’s career in packaging began with a summer warehouse job as a teen. He quickly worked his way up to delivery driver, a series of office roles, and then outside sales where he developed and sold custom packages for 13 years. His first leadership role was in product management at Tenneco. In 1999 he accepted a promotion to lead a branch office of Landsberg Ororoa in the Seattle area. Richard enjoys actively participating in AICC and Vistage.

As a packaging professional, Richard enjoys seeing how things are made, and he maintains a keen interest in client projects as they are produced. He believes being involved in all parts of the process is an excellent way to learn from an array of people and companies.

Richard focuses on ensuring The BoxMaker has the right talent, equipment, and culture in place to serve clients effectively and develop true partnerships. He values treating everyone with respect, living in the moment, and making a positive impact. Richard says, “The impact I have on my coworkers’ lives will be my scorecard as a leader.”

Richard enjoys being outdoors to appreciate the beauty and fresh air of the Pacific Northwest while hiking and fly fishing. He looks forward to spending time in Northwest Arkansas where we recently expanded. He loves spending time with his grandchildren and supporting his local community.

Seattle Business Magazine recognized Richard as Executive of the Year 2020 in its Washington Manufacturing Awards.

Connect with Richard & The BoxMaker

• X
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Resources

AICC CEO Advisory Group

Coming Up

In the next episode, Going Forward Part II will cover Richard's time at The BoxMaker. The episode delves into Richard's leadership philosophy and innovative strategy to keep his company on the cutting edge.

New episodes drop the first Monday of every month. Remember to rate, review, and subscribe!

This podcast is brought to you by AICC, The Independent Packaging Association. Learn more at