Product & Packaging Powerhouse

In the "Product & Packaging Powerhouse" Megan Young Gamble interviews international digital marketing strategist and beauty tech enthusiast Viola Ekene. Viola shares her journey from radio presenter to founder of Social Butterfly Haven, a digital marketing agency specializing in beauty and wellness brands. They cover the evolution and fundamentals of digital marketing, key platforms (including underutilized ones like Substack), and the importance of leveraging analytics like Google Analytics and SEO to track and grow brand visibility. Viola emphasizes setting a strong foundational strategy, tailoring content to target audiences and platforms, and balancing organic content with paid ads. She also discusses common mistakes brands make (like focusing on aesthetics over substance and neglecting data) and the growing role of AI and technology in marketing. Viola concludes by highlighting her agency’s offerings, her digital marketing school, and giving tips for brands looking to craft effective, data-driven marketing strategies right from the start.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager [FREEBIE] Access commonly referenced organizations and tools in ONE PLACE with our handy guide HERE [link] https://bit.ly/OSTPlay Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-session[Powerhouse Guest Viola’s LINKS]LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/viola-ekene/? originalSubdomain=ngWebsite : https://socialbutterflyhaven.com/Quotes: If you're running a business and you don't start being intentional about gathering data from day one, then you're going to run blind for a very long period of time.Google Analytics is like the central aspect of your digital marketing where you're able to see, okay, the goal that I want to achieve, which of my marketing efforts are pulling in conversion, are pulling in leads, are pulling in trafficThe metrics that you should be looking at are highly dependent on your goal in a particular season of your businessWhen your eyes are so much on your competitor, you don't know when you subconsciously want to do what they are doing.Aesthetic feeds are cute. Data-driven strategies are profitable.Maximizing marketing ROI depends on one, an understanding of your target audience and your goal at that particular point in time so that you don't waste money.Organic content is like setting your house in order. It is the foundation you need for high-converting paid ads.You need an entirely different approach for Instagram, a different one for TikTok, because the psychographics are not the same. It’s a different terrain altogether.

In the "Product & Packaging Powerhouse" episode featuring Megan Young Gamble and powerhouse guest Chris Doerr, conversation explores sustainable labeling and packaging technologies. With over thirty years of experience, Chris shares insights on the various types of labels and the shift to sustainable practices. He emphasizes the importance of recycling and offers practical tips on reducing landfill waste through methods like composting, recycling LDPE bags, and leveraging digital technologies such as RFID and NFC to educate consumers. As labels are vital in multiple industries, Chris's expertise provides valuable guidance on incorporating sustainability and technology in packaging.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Guest Chris LINKS]LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisdoerrprofile/Company Validators for Full-Service Packaging Services : https://www.validatorsllc.comCompany Simplify INC for Print & Packaging Consulting : https://www.validatorsllc.com/products-and-services/simplify-ink/ View Chris Patents U.S Patent #'s: 5,658,648; 6,267,152 B1; and 6,845,581 B2: https://youtu.be/L2Rc8oTOtd8?si=lSO3sNVvdvofbZXWComposting in Atlanta : https://www.compostnow.org/growth/compostnow-compost-services-atlantaQuotes and HooksAfter a while, I realized there's no new technology on the horizon that's gonna replace labels.Less is just smart, and using less and being smart has been around since the beginning of time.Your packaging has to be more than recyclable; it has to actually get recycled.Zero landfill should be the real goal; not just recycling claims.Most people don’t know if a label should be removed before recycling, and that’s a problem.Just because you use less material doesn’t mean it’s sustainable.

In this episode of "Product & Packaging Powerhouse," host Megan Young Gamble discusses 2025 trends and transitions in product development and packaging, especially in the beauty industry. Emphasizing hyper personalization and prejuvenation, Megan highlights how biotechnology and advanced technology are reshaping personalized beauty and skincare. She also stresses the importance of sustainability in packaging and product choices, with tips on how brands and consumers should approach it. She concludes with insights into her company GLC's new mission to become the leading in beauty operations, accelerating prestige and sustainable products and packaging by the end of 2026.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicformAdditional Resources:Podcast : Kickoff 2025 Trends & Transitions Pt 1 with Megan Young Gamble, PMP®, Chief Project Officer @ GLC. Listen it hereUS Plastic Pact 2.0. Read here Report: Sustainable Beauty and Skincare Market Size. hereEpisode Quotes:Change doesn’t come by being comfortable. Big audacious goals require stepping out of comfort zonesPackaging is the very first impression of your brand. It helps with transportation, containment, safety, and promotion.Hyper personalization is about tailoring products specifically to the consumer’s needs, made possible by advancements in AI and biotechnologyPrejuvenation focuses on preventing skin damage before it happens, shifting the mindset from repair to proactive care.Sustainability is not just a buzzword. It’s about understanding what it means to your brand and your consumers.Biotechnology is marrying science and sustainability, creating lab-grown ingredients like collagen and plant-derived activesConsumers are prioritizing products with holistic wellness benefits, focusing on longevity and gradual results rather than quick fixes.

In this episode of "Product & Packaging Powerhouse," host Megan Young Gamble interviews Dustin Smith, the CEO and co-founder of BoldtSmith Packaging Consultants. They discuss the evolution of packaging solutions, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decisions for optimizing packaging, reducing costs, and improving sustainability. Dustin shares insights on working across various industries, from cheese to submarines, and highlights the critical role packaging plays in shipping, product protection, and cost efficiency. The conversation also touches on sustainability, innovation, and balancing professional and personal life as a busy entrepreneur.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Dustin Smith Links]Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustin-smith-19436526/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/boldtsmith-packaging-consultants/ Website: www.boldtsmithpackaging.com Quotes:Decisions need to be driven by data, especially when you're talking about huge volumes.Packaging optimization isn’t just about cutting costs—it's about finding the perfect balance between performance, sustainability, and brand experienceGreen is nice, but net green is nicerIf you don’t have data, it doesn’t make sense.You can reduce costs and boost sustainability at the same time—it’s all about making data-driven packaging decisions.Got a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform

In this episode of "Product & Packaging Powerhouse," host Megan Young Gamble joins her Husband and Business Partner, Brandon Gamble, discussing the intersection of business and marriage, operating two full time businesses under one household. They emphasize the importance of education, relationship-building, and hard work in entrepreneurship, sharing insights from Brandon's journey with Pallet Pros. The episode talks about pallet industry myths, the value of referrals, and the development of a sustainable business. Brandon also shares details about the Pallet Pros Academy, a coaching course for aspiring pallet business owners. The conversation ends with reflections on balancing work and family life, personal growth, and the evolution of their businesses.Affiliate & Other Links: [Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Brandon Gamble Links]Pallet Pros: www.palletprosga.comPallet Pros Academy: https://www.palletprosacademy.com/Episode Quotes: In marriage and business, it's not about avoiding mistakes; it’s about learning and growing from themDoing good business starts with being a good personYou have to speak life into your partner— because when they win, you win too.Ownership is important; it’s not just about running a business, but owning your journey.Service is key—in business, marriage, and lifeIn business, as in marriage, it’s all about balance—knowing when to work and when to come home.Enjoy the scenic route—don’t rush to the destination; there’s beauty in the detoursGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform

In this episode of Product & Packaging Powerhouse, Megan interviews Vicki Strull, a packaging and design consultant with over 25 years of experience. Vicki discusses her career journey and expertise in print and digital design in the packaging world. They discuss the evolution of technology in packaging and misconceptions about packaging design. Vicki emphasizes the importance of integrity in branding and the impact of business terminology on design. The episode also highlights "shady packaging" and insights on the subconscious impact of touch on shoppers' behavior. The conversation underscores the need for intentional design and creativity to inspire, as well as the importance of understanding business jargon in creative professions.[Host Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan Read our Blogs HERE [ link] https://www.glcblog.site/ Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTube Join our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Guest Vicki Strull LINKS]LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickistrull/Email: vicki@vickistrull.comWebsite: https://vickistrull.comEpisode Quotes:I think that one of their misconceptions is that more on a primary display label is better.Deceptive Packaging: There's something shady about that because I'm thinking I'm getting more than I'm getting because visually I am.The Importance of Brand Purpose: So if they're not in it, you have to and we live our lives this way as well. You know, we have our own core purposes. I also think brands have core purposes.Got a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform

In this episode of Product and Packaging Powerhouse, Megan Young Gamble interviews Rachel Hassall, VP of Procurement at Harvest Hill Beverage Company. Rachel emphasizes the importance of sustainability, regulations, and resilience in procurement. She shares her career journey and insights on building relationships with vendors, aligning sustainability goals, and prioritizing needs in negotiations. Megan Young Gamble highlights the significance of value and partnerships with vendors and suppliers. Rachel encourages saying yes to new opportunities and staying open and emphasizes clear communication of sustainability initiatives to consumers.[Host Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan Read our Blogs HERE [ link] https://www.glcblog.site/ Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTube Join our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform[Powerhouse Guest Rachel Hassall Links] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-hassall/Email: rachel.m.hassall86@gmail.comEpisode Quotes:Be descriptive instead of prescriptive.Building Resilience in Procurement: Resiliency for sure in procurement is the number one thing that people don't value enough or aren't very good at associating dollar values with, because you always, when you're, it all comes back to those dollar signs. So you need to be able to quantify what that resilience can supply you and there's really good ways to do that.Packaging and Value: It's really about what is going to drive value for your business and your consumers.Sustainability in Business: The number one thing in order for your business to succeed and then for your vendors to succeed is to actually know what you want.Ruthless Prioritization in Product Launches: If everything is important, nothing's important, right? And I'm a ruthless Prioritize or like kind of it in life in general, but, if everything is important with your product that you're trying to produce, actually nothing nothing is important and you're gonna find lots of gaps along the way.Got a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://bit.ly/ppptopicform

In this episode, Sandra Pitropia discusses the importance of marketing for compelling campaigns and balancing entrepreneurship. She highlights the challenges of sustainability in packaging and operations, the evolution of diversity and representation in the beauty industry, and the need for larger corporations to capture firsthand consumer data. Sandra also shares insights on the balance between speed, trendiness, consumer demand, and sustainability in the beauty industry, as well as the challenges and opportunities of international expansion. Overall, the episode touches on various aspects of marketing and entrepreneurship in the cosmetic industry.[Host Megan Young Gamble Links][AFFILIATE] Ready to crank out your content in as little as 5 minutes? Use Castmagic, AI powered tool to take your content creation from overwhelmed to overjoyed by saving hours of developing content. Save 20 hours by Signing up today! https://get.castmagic.io/Megan [FREEBIE] Learn about “day in the life” of a Packaging Project Manager → Get our “Starter Packaging PM Freebie” [link] https://glc.ck.page/thestarterpackagingprojectmanager Subscribe & Access our Video Vault YouTube Channel [ link] https://bit.ly/GLConYouTubeJoin our Email List [link] https://glc.ck.page/55128ae04b Follow and Connect with Megan on LinkedIn [link] https://linkedin.com/in/megangambleLearn about GLC, Packaging & Project execution firm for CPG brands http://www.getlevelconsulting.comWork with Me @ GLC, Schedule Discovery Call https://calendly.com/getlevelconsulting/15-minute-insight-sessionGot a topic you'd love us to cover? Share your ideas here [link] https://glc.kit.com/4809f344ab[Powerhouse Guest Sandra Pitroipa Links] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandrapitroipa/Website: https://mycurlid.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mycurlid/Episode Quotes:"The Impact of Small Brands on Larger Companies: The speed at which brands are being launched and products are being put in the market is quite fascinating. The fact that senior leadership is now analyzing small starting brands that nobody would have been concerned about 20 years ago shows the impact these brands have on the strategy of larger companies."Speed to Market Challenges in a Larger Organization: "Yeah. I mean, as you said, like, speed to market in larger organizations is, is a challenge because there are so many processes that have been established, for a very good reason to maintain quality."The Importance of Authenticity in Addressing Diversity and Representation: "If it's not part of the story, let's not do that because it's getting to a point where addressing diversity and representation is becoming very, very challenging for brands to do it authentically, and I feel like they're sometimes struggling to understand what authentic actually means. And Mhmm. It's actually not that hard. It's really not that hard."