Packaging Speaks: Our Story Begins with Walt Ellis

This Friday marks the release of the first episode of our brand-new podcast, Packaging Speaks! Every episode, we’ll sit down with packaging professionals to talk about career development, industry insights, lessons learned, and visions for the future of packaging.

And what better way to kick things off than by going back to the very beginning?

In our first episode, Christian Ellis sits down with Walter Ellis — also known as Wally Pop — the founder of Packstaff and a true packaging industry veteran. From mowing lawns to becoming a vice president of sales, to starting Packstaff and building a trusted name in packaging recruitment, Walt shares the real story behind his journey.

Along the way, he talks about:

• How an unexpected start led to a lifetime career in packaging

• Lessons learned about integrity, resilience, and trusting your instincts

• The importance of building community and credibility in a specialized industry

• Funny (and sometimes wild) stories from decades in packaging and sales

• His advice to packaging professionals looking to grow their careers today

  
  

It’s an honest, heartfelt, and at times hilarious conversation about the twists and turns of building not just a career, but a legacy.

If you’ve ever wondered how Packstaff got its start — or if you’re just looking for a bit of inspiration from someone who's seen it all — you won't want to miss this episode.

Find us on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts and join us as we celebrate where we’ve been, where we are, and where packaging is heading next.

Stay tuned! We’ll be releasing new episodes bi-weekly, featuring packaging engineers, consultants, and thought leaders from across the industry.Because at Packaging Speaks, every career has a story worth telling.

The PackStaff Team