Leadership Lessons from the Packaging floor and Softball Field

The Packaging Paradigm Podcast

In this episode, Derek S. Volk, a third-generation leader at Volk Packaging, shares his journey in the packaging industry, leadership lessons learned from coaching softball, and the importance of taking risks in business. He discusses the difference between fairness and equality in leadership, the significance of small gestures in business, and the value of honesty in communication. Derek also highlights his commitment to giving back to veterans and shares insights from his personal journey as a parent of a child with autism.

Takeaways

Derek Volk is a third-generation leader at Bulk Packaging.

Leadership lessons can be learned from coaching sports.

Taking risks is essential for business growth.

Fairness and equality are different concepts in leadership.

Small gestures can make a big impact in business relationships.

Honesty is crucial in business communications.

Giving back to the community is a core value.

Understanding limitations is important for success.

Building relationships with veterans is a priority.

Personal experiences shape leadership and business philosophy.

Chapters

00:00 Career Journey and Company Values

07:16 Leadership Lessons from Softball

14:57 Taking Risks in Business

15:24 Taking Risks and Going for It

19:28 Creating a Flexible Plan

23:16 Fair vs. Equal: Understanding Treatment

24:23 The Importance of Small Ball in Business

31:34 Swinging the Right Bat: Knowing Your Limits

37:22 Giving Back: Supporting Veterans

43:19 Chasing the Rabbit: A Journey with Autism