PODCAST: Heritage, Sustainability, and Thoughtful Packaging with Kennedy Gray

Episode Title: Heritage, Sustainability, and Thoughtful Packaging with Kennedy Gray

Guests: Kevin Tillis, Founder of Kennedy Gray and Lynn Talley, Sustainability Educator & Advocate, New Earth Project

Summary

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes Kevin Tillis and Lynn Talley to discuss the intersection of heritage-inspired menswear and sustainable packaging. Kevin shares the story behind Kennedy Gray, a brand rooted in family legacy and classic nautical style, and Lynn explains how New Earth Project collaborates with brands to create thoughtful, sustainable packaging. Together, they explore the impact of intentional design, customer experience, and the journey toward a more sustainable future.

Key Topics Discussed

• Kevin’s inspiration for founding Kennedy Gray: family heritage, classic menswear, and Charleston coastal living
• The role of New Earth Project in supporting brands with sustainable packaging solutions
• How packaging choices reflect brand values and create customer loyalty
• The collaborative process of transitioning to sustainable packaging, including overcoming misconceptions about cost and complexity
• The importance of regulatory compliance and staying ahead of packaging legislation (EPR)
• Customer feedback and the emotional impact of thoughtful packaging (handwritten notes, recyclable materials)
• The connection between sustainability, longevity, and building a heritage brand
• New product developments at Kennedy Gray, including artisanal indigo-dyed cotton pieces and upcoming capsule collections
• Advice for brands: start small, collaborate, and focus on intentional growth

Resources Mentioned

• Kennedy Gray
• New Earth Project (sustainable packaging solutions)
• Sustain SC (advocacy group for sustainable economic development in South Carolina)

Contact

Listeners interested in Kennedy Gray products or sustainable packaging partnerships can visit kennedygray.com or reach out via the New Earth Project website.

Closing Thoughts

Cory, Kevin, and Lynn emphasize the importance of intentionality, collaboration, and sustainability in building brands that last. They encourage listeners—whether students, entrepreneurs, or established brands—to explore sustainable packaging options and create meaningful connections with their customers.

Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!

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