The Packology Podcast

In this episode, Brandon Frank and Ben Gold discuss how AI is transforming business processes and creating opportunities for small businesses to gain a competitive edge. From improving sales and marketing strategies to streamlining operations, the duo highlights practical applications of AI tools like Humantic for sales profiling, content creation, and CRM optimization. They also share success stories that showcase how AI adoption has enhanced efficiency and quality at PPC Packaging.In this episode, we’ll talk about:AI-Driven Business Transformation:How PPC Packaging is integrating AI tools across departments, from marketing to engineering.Leveraging AI to improve lead acquisition, sales calls, and project management.Enhancing Sales and Marketing with AI:Using tools like Humantic to personalize sales pitches and close deals faster.Creating automated workflows to handle repetitive tasks and free up time for meaningful client interactions.Success Stories and Practical Insights:Brandon shares how AI helped secure a major client by tailoring a sales strategy using Humantic insights.The long-term vision of making PPC an AI-native company with automated and interactive processes.About Ben Gold:Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in technology and sales. He specializes in helping organizations adopt AI to improve efficiency, quality, and client engagement. Ben is passionate about making AI accessible and practical for businesses of all sizes.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

In this episode, Brandon Frank and Ben Gold delve into the intersections of AI, geopolitics, and international business. They explore the implications of AI's rapid development within a shifting political landscape, including an AI arms race between the United States and China, regulatory challenges in Europe, and what a Trump presidency might mean for AI innovation and safety. This conversation provides a global perspective on how AI is shaping national security, military strategy, and even cross-border business relations.In this episode, we’ll talk about:AI and International Geopolitics:Insights into how the U.S. and China are investing in AI for military and economic dominance.Predictions for AI's role in national security, including the creation of country-specific AI models.Regulatory Challenges and Innovation:How European Union regulations are slowing AI adoption compared to the U.S. and UK.The balance between fostering innovation and ensuring AI safety on a global scale.The Future of AI Under a Trump Presidency:Speculation on the dismantling of AI safety initiatives in favor of rapid development.Discussion on the risks and ethical concerns surrounding unregulated AI advancements.About Ben Gold:Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in technology and sales. He helps organizations navigate AI adoption by bridging technical concepts with actionable business strategies. Ben's expertise includes AI strategy development, ethical AI deployment, and workflow optimization.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=enWebsite: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.

In this discussion, AI strategist Ben Gold shares insights from his 20+ years in tech sales. He reveals how tools like Apollo and SIG Parser are revolutionizing lead generation and CRM management. Ben explores AI's impact on packaging design using DALL-E 3 and MidJourney for creative ideation. He also announces his upcoming workshop focusing on AI in education and family safety, aimed at preparing parents and kids for the future. The conversation emphasizes adopting AI not just as a tool, but as a necessary shift for thriving in today's world.

In Episode 6, Brandon Frank and Ben Gold discuss new ways AI can help businesses create engaging content, from transforming ideas into images and videos to customizing presentations for specific audiences. They explore popular AI tools for visual and video content creation, including Midjourney, DALL-E 3, HeyGen, and Eleven Labs. Brandon also shares recent updates from PPC Packaging, highlighting how the team is diving deeper into Claude for automating tasks like quality control and call analysis. The episode wraps up with a discussion on using avatars for video content and the question of balancing human presence with AI-driven presentations.In this episode, we’ll talk about:Current AI Tools for Visuals and Video: Ben shares popular AI tools like DALL-E 3 and Midjourney for creating images and HeyGen and Eleven Labs for video and voice cloning, making it easy for businesses to produce multimedia content.Going Deeper with Claude at PPC: The PPC team is using Claude to assist with quality control processes, call analysis, and custom SOPs, bringing new efficiencies to their workflows.Personalized Content Creation: Brandon and Ben brainstorm how AI can streamline content creation by generating multiple posts from one case study and even automating voice and video content.AI for Branding and Avatars: With AI’s ability to create lifelike avatars, Brandon considers whether to create a consistent avatar for PPC’s branding or stick with live presentations.Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry. For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

In this episode, Brandon Frank and Ben Gold share insights from their visit to the Los Angeles Business Show, where AI dominated the conversation across industries. They dive into how PPC Packaging is turning AI concepts into practical wins, like automating email drafts and personalizing LinkedIn outreach. Ben and Brandon also discuss ways to optimize Brandon’s upcoming trip to China with AI and outline the roadmap for PPC’s next steps in their AI journey.In this episode, we’ll talk about:AI at the Business Show:AI is everywhere, with companies from all sectors exploring how it can drive efficiency and impact. Brandon and Ben discuss how PPC Packaging’s AI adoption puts them just ahead of the curve.AI in Action at PPC:PPC team members are finding creative ways to use AI, from LinkedIn outreach to email drafting, which saves time and improves communication.Future AI Plans for PPC:With a new roadmap in place, Ben and Brandon outline PPC’s next goals for AI, including expanded automation and smarter lead generation.Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

Welcome back to The Packology Series! In this episode, host Brandon Frank is joined once again by AI expert Ben Gold to explore how AI is creating real wins for PPC Packaging. They discuss practical, hands-on ways AI is transforming workflows, from automating customer emails to tailoring content that feels personal and on-brand. Ben also shares insights on the advantages of open-source AI models for secure data handling, plus the latest news on OpenAI's shift to a for-profit model. This episode is packed with ideas for making AI work smarter, not harder, in your business—so let’s dive in!In this episode, we’ll talk about:Real Wins with AI:A PPC team member used the Claude tool to transform a recorded conversation into a detailed, customer-ready email, saving valuable time and effort.Personalizing AI for Company Voice:Brandon and Ben talk about training Claude to match PPC’s writing style, making AI-generated content feel more authentic.AI in Data Security and Open-Source Models:Ben shares insights on open-source models like Meta's LLaMA, highlighting how they enable secure, contained AI systems without data leaving the company’s environment.Insights on OpenAI's New Direction:They briefly touch on OpenAI’s recent transition to a for-profit model, including the controversy around this shift and its potential impacts on the AI industry.Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry. For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

In this episode of the PPC AI Series with Ben Gold, Brandon Frank and Ben Gold discuss recent AI developments and their impact on PPC packaging. They explore exciting innovations from OpenAI and Google, focusing on how businesses can leverage these tools to improve efficiency and customer service. The episode also covers AI integration in sales processes, personalized communication strategies, and the use of tools like Claude and ChatGPT for better task management.In this episode, we’ll talk about:AI Developments:OpenAI's recent transition to a private company and leadership changes coincide with Google's new AI tools, such as Notebook LM, which are transforming business applications of AI in document management and other areas.AI in PPC Packaging:PPC Packaging is leveraging AI to streamline sales, marketing, and operations. Ben Gold and Brandon Frank discuss how tools like Claude, ChatGPT, and Google Gemini enhance team efficiency and focus on high-impact tasks.Smarter Communication with AI:AI is transforming PPC's communication by personalizing outreach, preparing for meetings, and quickly qualifying leads. Tools like Humantic help understand prospects' personality profiles, enabling more tailored and effective interactions.AI for Sales Coaching:Ben and Brandon discuss using AI to review sales calls and provide real-time feedback, helping sales reps improve their approach. AI's role in sales coaching could enhance performance by pinpointing key areas for improvement in customer interactions and follow-ups.Next Week’s Teaser:Next week's episode will explore AI-driven video editing tools like Opus Clips and Descript, discussing how they enhance speed and efficiency in content creation.Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years in technology sales. He helps organizations navigate AI adoption, bridging technical concepts and business goals. His specialties include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, and ethical AI deployment. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben provides actionable steps and works closely with clients to optimize their AI strategies. He is also the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the tech industry.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

Welcome back to our ongoing Packology Series! In Episode 2, we join Ben Gold to explore the latest trends in AI, particularly in marketing and sales. Recently, Ben attended the MAICON conference in Cleveland, which focused on the practical deployment of AI in organizations. Let’s dive into what he learned and how it can impact our approach to PPC.In this episode, we’ll talk about:Discussion on the importance of culture in AI deployment within organizations.The role of C-level executives in fostering a culture that embraces new technologies.Need for employee participation and appropriate training in AI processes.Overview of operationalization meetings focused on building custom AI models.Comparison of AI deployment strategies for small vs. large companies.The significance of reasoning in AI to prevent hallucinations.Example of using AI for drafting emails and the importance of personalization.Debate on whether to standardize communication styles across the company or allow individual variations.Insights into recent marketing projects, including packaging for notable brands.Emphasis on the balance between automation and human involvement in the workplace.Ben Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

Welcome back to the Packology Podcast! In this episode, Brandon Frank sits down with Dr. Karen Eng, the CEO and owner of CSMI Manufacturing. With over two decades of experience in engineering and packaging services for USDA and FDA regulated industries, Dr. Eng shares her insights on the evolving landscape of manufacturing, sustainability, and the role of technology in the industry.In this episode, we’ll talk about:Dr. Eng's background and experience in engineering and packaging services.Overview of CSMI Manufacturing and its focus on USDA and FDA regulated industries.Transition from plastic packaging to corrugated materials for sustainability.Historical context of sugar and high fructose corn syrup in beverage manufacturing.Importance of sustainability and reducing carbon footprint in manufacturing.Employee engagement and retention strategies at CSMI.Implementation of ISO 9001 certification and its impact on company processes.Embracing technology (AI, Industry 4.0, blockchain) for operational efficiency.Discussion on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) and its relevance in the industry.Invitation for listeners to reach out to CSMI for manufacturing needs or inquiries.Dr. Karen Eng is an accomplished executive with 27 years at CSMI, where she has led its transformation into a global engineering leader since 2009. As CEO, she drives business development and professional growth for the engineering team. Also CEO of Diversity Gaming Solutions, Dr. Eng has secured video terminal and casino licenses. She actively supports minority and women-owned businesses and the AAPI community, serving as a Trustee for New England College of Optometry and chairing the boards of National ACE's Foundation and APIAVote. Known for her disciplined leadership, Dr. Eng specializes in negotiation and family business transitions, dedicating herself to mentoring entrepreneurs and promoting diversity and inclusion in all her efforts.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Karen on her website and connect with her on LinkedIn.Website: drkareneng.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drkarenengThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024. 

In this inaugural episode of The Packology Series, Brandon, from PPC Packaging, teams up with AI consultant Ben Gold to explore the integration of artificial intelligence into their family-run business. The series is set to document their journey over the coming months, sharing lessons, challenges, and successes in implementing AI and automation across different systems within the company. This episode focuses on the early stages of AI adoption and the exciting potential it holds for increasing efficiency and effectiveness in operations, sales, and marketing.In this episode, we’ll talk about:IntroductionAI Deployment Phases Overview: Ben outlines the 7 phases of AI deployment that companies like PPC Packaging may go through, from being AI beginners to becoming AI proficient and emergent.AI Tools & Challenges: Discussion on the rapid evolution of AI tools like Claude and the future implications for PPC Packaging.Conference & Industry Insights: Ben shares his plans to attend the Mekon conference to stay updated on the latest trends in AI for better strategy deployment.Adoption Strategy & Challenges: Brandon discusses how they’ve introduced AI to the company and how employees are reacting to the changes.Individual Training Importance: Ben emphasizes the need for personalized, one-on-one training sessions to ensure successful AI adoptionBen Gold is an AI strategist and consultant with over 20 years of experience in the technology sales sector. He helps organizations navigate the complex landscape of AI adoption and implementation, bridging the gap between technical concepts and business objectives. Ben's specializations include AI strategy development, change management, talent acquisition, ethical AI deployment, and AI-driven workflow optimization. Passionate about making AI accessible, Ben focuses on providing actionable steps and working hands-on with clients to implement and optimize AI strategies. He is the first video game world champion and a thought leader in the technology industry.For more information and to explore other episodes, go to https://www.ppcpackaging.com/packology-podcast-1Follow PPCPackaging on social media!  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pacific-packaging-components-inc-/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PPCPackaging/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppcpackaging/?hl=en Website: http://www.ppcpackaging.com/Find out more about Ben on his website and connect with him on LinkedIn and Email.Website: bengoldai.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bengoldsalesEmail: ben@bengoldai.comThe views and opinions expressed on the “Packology” podcast are solely those of the author and guests and should not be attributed to any other individual or entity. This podcast is an independent production of Packology, and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2024.