290 - Taylor Foxman is the master connector for CPG's!

People of Packaging Podcast

About the Guest(s):

Taylor Foxman is a seasoned professional in the beverage and cannabis industries. Starting her career in public relations and communications, she worked with major companies like Jameson Irish Whiskey and Beyond Meat. Taylor holds a degree from Boston University and has since built a successful career connecting beverage startups with investors, partners, and media outlets. She currently runs The Industry Collective, an exclusive network providing support and guidance to over 80 CEOs globally, many from historically underrepresented groups. Taylor's unique approach combines her extensive network with a focus on creating meaningful connections and spreading positive news about her clients.

About the Sponsors:

Specright has some amazing things happening! Please check them out below and help support the podcast!

* Specright eBook - How to define sustainable packaging strategies!

* Gartner Report

* Packaging Pros eBook

* Home Page

* Book a demo with Specright

Meyers has some incredible sustainable packaging options!

* Get the 2023 Sustainability Report

* Meyers Packaging EPR eBook - it is FREE!!

Get the dopest Packaging shirts at www.packagingfashion.com

Book a demo with Trayak (LCA’s on demand!)

SmartSolve has water soluble label and paper materials. Learn more!

The Scrapp App is going to revolutionize home and corporate recycling. Download for your device today!

Episode Summary:

In this episode, host Adam Peek sits down with Taylor Foxman, who has been pivotal in connecting many entrepreneurs to the "People of Packaging Podcast." Taylor shares her intriguing journey from working in public relations for alcohol brands to advising 80 CEOs of beverage and cannabis companies around the globe. They discuss Taylor's knack for connecting the dots between founders and stakeholders, her approach to fostering brand awareness, and the art of maintaining levity in the high-pressure world of consumer packaged goods (CPG).

Taylor elaborates on her unique, unpublicized business model and how she manages to run a successful multimillion-dollar enterprise without traditional marketing techniques or a public-facing persona. The conversation sheds light on the complexities and challenges of the CPG industry and how Taylor's unwavering support and strategic connections have made significant impacts on the brands she supports. Touching on topics like executive visibility, fundraising strategies, and the vital role of consistent communication, Taylor emphasizes the importance of creating good news and fostering a positive atmosphere amidst industry challenges.

Key Takeaways:

* Strategic Connections: Taylor Foxman excels in connecting CEOs with the right stakeholders at the right time, facilitating growth and strategic partnerships.

* Focus on Positivity: Emphasizing the importance of press releases and positive news, Taylor helps brands stay relevant and engaging without heavy expenses.

* Personal Touch: Using humor and cultural references, such as SpongeBob and Leonardo DiCaprio GIFs, Taylor maintains a personal connection with clients, making the business process enjoyable.

* Industry Challenges: The conversation highlights the significant challenges CEOs face in the CPG industry, accentuating the need for strategic support and consistent communication.

* Organic Growth: Taylor's business thrives on referrals and personal connections, illustrating the power of word-of-mouth and organic reach in building a successful enterprise.

Notable Quotes:

* "I see myself as a global sheep herder… some people have called me the Dumbledore of this industry."

* "First and foremost, forget about me and my reputation. I don't want to waste your time. I don't want to waste the founders' time."

* "I believe in the importance of levity. I need to be like a hype man for these people."

* "I sit in a really interesting spot where it's all come through referrals. I've never had to pitch myself."

* "Even if I can't help, I can find someone who can. So, I back-ended a very big business by just listening."

Resources:

* Taylor Foxman: LinkedIn

* The Industry Collective: Website

* Adam Peek: LinkedIn

Stay tuned for more enlightening conversations and insights from industry leaders on the "People of Packaging Podcast." Listen to the full episode for an in-depth look into Taylor Foxman's innovative approach to brand development and strategic connections.

This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.packagingisawesome.com/subscribe