unPACKed with PMMI

Where do careers in manufacturing really begin for women? In this episode, Meaghan Ziemba shares why the path often starts long before college or a first job, shaped by early exposure, encouragement, and what young girls are (and aren’t) shown. She breaks down who plays a role in that journey and what needs to change to help more women see manufacturing as a path from the start.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PAC...

Festo joins us to talk about how they’re working with PMMI to tackle the manufacturing workforce challenge through training and certifications. We also break down why the skills gap might not be what it seems, and how it connects to the pace of new technology in the industry.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the show that defines where the industry is headed, with th...

In our 200th episode, we talk with Manufacturing Happy Hour host Chris Luecke about what authentic marketing looks like for manufacturers today. We cover how small teams can create consistent, meaningful content without overcomplicating it and why platforms like LinkedIn still matter. The episode also explores how digital engagement can lead to stronger real-world connections.

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Recorded live from the show floor, Sean is joined by Liz Cuneo of Healthcare Packaging and Matt Reynolds of Packaging World to break down what stood out at PACK EXPO East 2026. They cover cold-chain growth, measurable sustainability, paperization and monomaterials, plus the shift to 2D codes and AI-driven insights. If you couldn’t attend, this is your quick recap of what mattered most.

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In this episode, Founder and Chief Trade Strategist of TradeMoves LLC, Shawn Jarosz, pulls back the curtain on the new IEEPA tariffs—why they’ve become the “new normal,” and what a looming Supreme Court ruling could mean for importers, including the possibility of major refunds. You’ll also hear what’s coming next in 2026, from surprise tariff “backup plans” to robotics and USMCA shakeups that could reshape the packaging and proces...

This episode of unPACKed with PMMI is a playback from a PPWLN Learning Circle focused on Connections. Alison Fragale and Lisa Hurtz share why meaningful professional relationships are built through empathy, curiosity, and being helpful, not transactional networking. Walk away with simple, practical ways to build connections that last in the packaging industry.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO Internationa...

PACK EXPO East celebrates 10 years in Philadelphia as the go-to regional show where the packaging and processing community comes together to kick off the year. From automation and AI to sustainability, new exhibitor programs, and hands-on innovation, PACK EXPO East 2026 is where teams connect, explore, and jumpstart what’s next.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the s...

In this episode, we chat with Charlotte Ashcraft of Just Born Inc. about how PACK EXPO East helps CPGs and brands solve real packaging challenges, from handling delicate products to navigating sustainability and EPR requirements, and why hands-on access to suppliers and technology matters.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the show that defines where the industry is h...

In this episode, Alison Fragale breaks down the ideas behind Likeable Badass and why the mix of warmth and competence matters. She talks about power, status, the bias women still face in male-dominated fields, and shares simple tools—like her 10-10-10 challenge—to help you grow your influence and build real connections.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the show that ...

In this episode, we sit down with Nick Haase, Co-Founder of MaintainX to discuss how AI is shifting from a buzzword to delivering real, practical value on the manufacturing floor. Nick breaks down where it makes a difference, why good data and frontline involvement are essential, and how keeping people informed helps teams roll out AI safely and effectively.

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In this episode, we dig into the real challenges companies run into when they bring sustainable materials into the mix. From costs and unreliable supply to old machinery and confusing regulations, it’s not as simple as it sounds. We also talk about why chasing the “perfect” solution is slowing everyone down, and what it takes to make real progress.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywh...

In this episode, we explore how great leaders balance creating culture, building relationships, and executing work. The discussion highlights the importance of trust, psychological safety, and clear communication—showing how making clear requests empowers teams and prevents micromanagement.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the show that defines where the industry is ...

In this episode, we sit down with Senior Vice President of Industrial Automation Business, Andre Marino from Schneider Electric, to discuss how manufacturers can embrace new technology, manage change, and empower both seasoned and emerging workers to drive long-term success.

Schneider Electric is a PMMI Foundation Visionary Benefactor. 

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’...

Recorded at PMMI’s Young Professionals Conference, this episode dives into how today’s leaders can find balance between ambition, rest, and mental well-being. Motivational speaker Justin Jackola offers real-world ideas for managing stress, setting healthy boundaries, and building habits that help you recharge without losing momentum in your career.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywh...

In this episode, Greg Berguig, President, PAC Machinery, discusses the shift to sustainable packaging and what it means for legacy equipment, costs, and collaboration across the supply chain. He shares insights on the challenges, opportunities, and innovations shaping the future of sustainable materials in packaging.

See more innovation in packaging and processing at PACK EXPO International than anywhere else! It’s the show that def...