Redefining Plastics

Redefining Plastics

Are you confused about plastics recycling? Do you think it is all a fraud? The ultimate goal of this podcast is to provide a platform for the people that are making recycling and the circularity of plastics a reality. Real people that are making a difference! We might even debunk a few myths about plastics, or correct the current narrative around plastics. People choose plastics because of convenience, but we need them to choose plastics because they are a better sustainable packaging option for the environment. Success in these areas will "redefine plastics" in the eyes of consumers. We need to better express the benefits of plastic products. If we do not connect the "Why" of plastics with our overall messaging, we will continue to be deselected in packaging applications by consumer demand. Part of the Brave Media Family #plastics #plasticrecycling #plasticwaste #sustainability #microplastics

Episodes

October 14, 2025 59 mins

In this episode of the 'Redefining Plastics' podcast, host Justin interviews Adrian Colesberry from Buoy. Adrian discusses Buoy's mission to create sustainable products, specifically focusing on the company's innovative use of ocean-bound HDPE plastic for their iconic reusable water bottles.

The conversation covers issues related to polystyrene recycling, environmental impacts of different materials, and the challenges of manufactur...

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Do you think that plastic recycling is a fraud? Are you worried about the future of the recycling industry globally with all of the negative headlines?

In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, host Justin Riney talks to Simon Van Leuven, the Australian Director of Vanden Recycling. They discuss Simon's background, the growth and global expansion of Vanden Recycling, and the challenges and opportunities in the recycling in...

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September 30, 2025 59 mins

Do you think that plastic recycling, as it exists today, cannot work at the scales we need? Then this episode is for you as we attack the issue from different angles.

In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, hosts Samantha Ryan and Justin Riney discuss the critical issue of creating demand to make recycling work. They start with a playful game of 'Two Truths and a Lie' involving pop culture and plastics.

The focus then s...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, host Justin Riney speaks with Greg Janson, President and CEO of Triton Group. Greg shares his extensive experience in the recycling industry, starting from his early days in his father's recycling business to his current endeavors with Triton Ties.

The conversation delves into the evolution of recycling practices, the challenges of competing with low-cost virgin plastics, and innov...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics podcast, host Justin Riney sits down with Laura Stewart, who is the Executive Director of NAPCOR (The National Association for PET Container Resources) to delve into the world of PET recycling. They explore NAPCOR's role in representing the North American PET supply chain, the historical success of PET recycling in the United States, and discuss the challenges and opportunities to increase...

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Join host Justin Riney on the Redefining Plastics Podcast as he welcomes Erin Hass from the Plastics Industry Association. Justin and Erin dive into their collaboration over the past six to seven months, discuss the intricacies of advocacy within the plastics industry, and share insights on polystyrene recycling and government affairs.

Erin, with her extensive political background, brings a wealth of knowledge about the challenges a...

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Welcome to the Redefining Plastics Podcast with Justin Riney, Samantha Ryan, and special guest Michael Workman from Resin Smart by RTI!

In this engaging episode, the team discusses the intricate world of sales within the plastics industry, the importance of mentorship, and the unique challenges faced by women entering this field. Hear firsthand experiences, laugh along with some light-hearted moments, and gain insights into how to o...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, hosts Justin Riney and Samantha Ryan chat with Seth Bland, CEO of Pony Express, about the essential role of freight and logistics in the recycling industry.

Seth shares his journey, starting Pony Express in November 2023, and discusses the challenges and intricacies of managing freight for the "reefer" (Refrigerated Transportation) industry. They explore the importance of building ...

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We head back to episode 1 of the Redefining Plastics podcast as it is a timely topic: the UN Global Plastic Treaty. Negotiations are underway in Geneva for International Negotiating Committee (INC) 5.2, and there does not appear to be an agreement on the horizon.

Joshua Baca of Resilient Partners helps us better understand the negotiations and what to expect in the process.

Check out Joshua's company here:

https://www.resilientpartn...

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Welcome to the Redefining Plastics Podcast with Justin Riney and co-host Samantha Ryan. In this exciting episode, we dive deep into the world of bioplastics with Leah Ford from CJ Biomaterials. Discover the ins and outs of compostable materials like PHA and PLA, their applications, benefits, and challenges. From the intricacies of fermentation processes to the role of composting in tackling global environmental issues, this discuss...

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Join hosts Justin Riney and Sam Ryan on this engaging episode of the Redefining Plastics podcast featuring special guest Ron Shank. While this episode veers off the typical plastic recycling path, the crew delves into conversation about strategic marketing approaches in the plastics industry. Ron, an author and strategic growth specialist, shares insights on his new book and effective marketing strategies. The trio tackles issues l...

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Welcome to the Redefining Plastics Podcast! Join host Justin Riney as he reconnects with long-time industry friend and resin buyer extraordinaire, Susan Estes.

In this lively episode, Justin and Susan dive into Susan's extensive background in the plastics industry, transitioning from packaging roles to commodity management, and her current focus on polymer recycling. They discuss the nuances of procurement for virgin vs. recycled ma...

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Are you on a journey to go "chemical free?" Do you think that chemicals will kill you? You will not want to miss this episode. Join hosts Justin Riney and Samantha Ryan as they welcome chemistry expert Simon Maechling to the Redefining Plastics podcast. Fresh from a holiday break, the trio dives into widespread misconceptions about plastics and chemicals. With humor and insightful anecdotes, Simon debunks myths surrounding everyday...

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July 8, 2025 49 mins

Welcome to the Redefining Plastics Podcast! Join host Justin Riney as he breaks down the complexities of the plastics industry, making it easier to understand for everyone. In this episode, Justin tackles common industry jargon, explaining the various types of polymers, their specific uses, and the processes behind their creation. Learn about the recycling industry, the challenges it faces, and the policy initiatives aimed at impro...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics podcast, host Justin Riney chats with Elayna Simmons, a Gen Z recycling professional with a background in plastics engineering. They discuss the importance of recycling, the perception issues surrounding the plastics industry, and Elena's upcoming adventure on the Appalachian Trail.

The conversation touches on various aspects of the plastics and recycling industries, including the challeng...

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In this engaging and funny episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, host Justin Riney, along with newly appointed co-host Samantha Ryan, welcomes Alex and Mitch from Brave Industries. Together, they dive into innovative strategies for improving plastic recycling, the importance of collaboration within the industry, and the personal, empathetic approach Brave Industries takes to solve big problems.

Listen as they share stories fro...

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Join host Justin Riney on the latest episode of The Redefining Plastics Podcast, featuring Samantha Ryan from Brave Industries. Discover how Samantha, the 'Director of All Things,' keeps her team organized and efficient, discusses the challenges of bringing younger generations into the recycling industry, and shares her personal journey into the world of plastics and sustainability.

From the dynamics of family-run businesses to inno...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, Justin Riney sits down with Eric Appelman from Aduro Clean Technologies to explore their groundbreaking approach to advanced recycling.

Discover how Aduro's innovative process can convert mixed plastic waste into valuable feedstock, potentially solving many issues in the recycling industry. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of advanced recycling, the economic and enviro...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics Podcast, host Justin Riney welcomes recycling expert Rick Demko to discuss the complexities and future of plastic recycling. Rick shares his extensive experience in the industry, spanning over 17 years, and highlights the importance of bridging the knowledge gap to improve recycling processes. The discussion covers the misconceptions about plastics, the impact of misinformation, and the ne...

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In this episode of the Redefining Plastics podcast, host Justin Riney celebrates the launch of the Polystyrene Recycling Alliance. Joined by Joshua Baca of Resilient Partners, Joe Grzyb of EFP Corporation, and Richard Shaw of AmSty, the discussion dives into the motivations and goals behind the new trade group. Topics covered include the recyclability of polystyrene, overcoming misconceptions about expanded polystyrene (EPS), and t...

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