Jay Edwards on Why “Packaging Done Right Is Magic”

This week on the season finale of Packaging Speaks, Christian sits down with Jay Edwards, packaging engineer, financial advisor, and founder of Pack2Sustain. Jay’s career has taken unexpected turns. From R&D at Kraft to financial advising, each pivot has sharpened the skills he now brings back to packaging through fractional consulting and thought leadership.

In their conversation, Jay shares highlights from his recent Walmart presentation on global trends, extended producer responsibility, and clean packaging. He explains how these forces, rather than being obstacles, can actually guide innovation. He also digs into emerging ideas like paper-based closures, mycelium-grown packaging, and new plastics made from methane, showing how the industry is evolving beyond traditional life cycle analysis.

The episode also shines a light on Jay’s new book, Packaging Done Right Is Magic, a field guide written to inspire students and professionals with approachable, practical lessons from his 30+ year career.

Jay’s story is proof that careers don’t always move in straight lines, and that staying curious and persistent can keep you connected to the work you love.

Click to watch the video on YouTube, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

-The PackStaff Team