Latest Episodes
From Compliance to Growth: AI's New Role in CPG
AI isn't coming—it's already here, and it's transforming how CPG brands launch products, manage compliance, and compete with industry giants.In this episode of CPG Insiders, Mark Young and Justin Girouard speak with Ronnie Coleman, founder of puntt.ai. Their chat talks about how AI is helping brands automate packaging reviews, regulatory checks, content approvals, and global compliance processes.They discuss:Why AI is leveling the playing field for challenger brandsHow entrepreneurs can move faster than large corporationsThe future of legal, regulatory, and compliance reviewsWhy AI won't replace people—but will change how they workHow AI can help brands avoid costly packaging and marketing mistakesThe importance of becoming an AI-native companyIf you're building a consumer brand, this conversation offers a practical look at how AI can reduce friction, speed up execution, and create competitive advantage.
AI Is Changing Everything - These Are the Books to Read Next
The future belongs to the curious.In this episode of CPG Insiders, Mark Young and Justin Girouard discuss why mindset, imagination, and continuous learning are becoming the most valuable skills in the age of AI.They also share the books that have had the greatest impact on their thinking around entrepreneurship, growth, leadership, influence, communication, and innovation.Topics include:The 10-80-10 AI frameworkWhy 10X thinking changes decision-makingWho Not How and scaling through peopleThe psychology of influence and persuasionEntrepreneurial operating systems and business growthNegotiation lessons from FBI hostage negotiator Chris VossThe future of AI, technology, and human potentialPlus, a complete reading list featuring books from Benjamin Hardy, Dan Sullivan, Byron Sharp, Robert Cialdini, Angus Fletcher, Peter Diamandis, Chris Voss, and more.Featured books include:The 27 Unbreakable RulesHYPNO-TI$INGThe Science of Scaling10X Is Easier Than 2XWho Not HowThe Gap and the GainTractionThe Greater GameHow Brands GrowInfluencePre-SuasionPrimal IntelligenceNever Split the DifferenceWe Are As Gods
The New Rules of CPG Packaging
What separates brands that scale at retail from brands that struggle to stay on shelf?In this episode of CPG Insiders, Mark Young and Justin Girouard sit down with Scott Fuselier and Matt Jones from BCI (Buckeye Corrugated) to break down the real role packaging plays in retail growth, operational efficiency, sustainability, and customer experience. The conversation goes far beyond “just boxes.”They unpack how leading brands use retail displays, power wings, pallet programs, fulfillment solutions, and sustainable packaging strategies to win with retailers like Walmart, Costco, Sam’s Club, Kroger, and more.You’ll also hear: Why packaging is a brand introduction — not just a container How packaging impacts retail sell-through and damage rates What brands need to know about EPR and sustainability regulations The operational mistakes that cost brands money at retail How turnkey fulfillment and display programs work Why “plug-and-play” retail execution matters The future of sustainable corrugated packaging How brands can reduce freight costs and improve efficiency If you’re a CPG founder, brand operator, retail leader, or packaging decision-maker, this episode is packed with practical insight.Key Takeaways Retail packaging directly impacts sales, retailer relationships, and returns Sustainability is becoming a retail requirement — not a nice-to-have Damage reduction can dramatically improve profitability Smart packaging strategy creates operational and retail advantages Great displays help brands win more floor space and visibility
CPG Retail Fundamentals Every Founder Needs w/ the hosts of "Road2Retail"
Breaking into retail isn’t just hard—it’s brutally unforgiving. With only a fraction of new CPG products surviving beyond two years, what separates the winners from the rest?In this episode, Mark Young and Justin Girouard sit down with Bruce Montgomery and Tracey Priest of Road2Retail to unpack what it really takes to succeed in brick-and-mortar.They go beyond the usual advice and get into the operational realities most founders overlook—from pricing strategy and margin math to supply chain readiness, retail expectations, and the hidden costs of failure.If you’re an emerging brand aiming for retail shelves, this conversation is a must-listen.
