Welcome to Some Guys Talking on the Beard Bros Media Network, where industry insights and entrepreneurial journeys take center stage. I’m your host, Brian Holler, joined by my co-host, Aaron Washington. Today, we have the privilege of welcoming an esteemed guest, Simon Knoble, co-founder of Calyx Containers—a pioneering company revolutionizing cannabis packaging.
Introducing Simon Noble and Calyx Containers
Simon kicks off by sharing a bit about himself and his company. Calyx Containers is a packaging innovation firm that began with the goal of reinventing the classic pill bottle—most notably known as the Wanna package—by creating smarter, more functional solutions for the cannabis industry. The company has since expanded into curing technologies and now operates its own manufacturing facility in Utah, producing a wide array of packaging solutions designed specifically for cannabis.
Simon’s journey into cannabis packaging started during his college days at Babson College in Massachusetts. Alongside his co-founder, Alex, Simon recognized the emerging Massachusetts cannabis market following legalization. Their initial foray was a playful, yet strategic, venture into creating stuffed animal bong bags—an inventive way to hide cannabis products from campus security. This led to the development of the Calyx container, inspired by their need for discreet, smell-proof storage.
The Birth of Innovation from Necessity
Simon recounts how the idea for Calyx was born from a real-world problem—finding a better way to package and protect cannabis products. Early on, they faced the challenge of manufacturing at scale. Using a $2,000 3D printer, they rapidly prototyped hundreds of versions of their container, testing and iterating until they found a design that worked.
Their first major breakthrough was convincing brands like Netta and Cultivate to adopt their packaging—marking the start of their entry into the industry. The success of their containers on the East Coast, especially in Massachusetts, where they supported early legalization efforts, was pivotal. Simon emphasizes how strategic timing and persistence played vital roles in their growth.
From Prototype to Production: Overcoming Challenges
Simon shares an anecdote about the early days—labeling 50,000 units manually with a makeshift team of friends and family. They bought U-Haul boxes, rented space in their apartments, and worked tirelessly to meet demand. This grit exemplifies how perseverance and resourcefulness are essential in emerging industries.
Transitioning from a prototype to mass production was a significant challenge. Simon highlights how they made the leap to manufacturing in Utah, investing in their own factory to scale efficiently. He discusses the importance of working within existing infrastructure, leveraging supply chains, and carefully managing costs—especially in a competitive, fast-changing market.
Innovation Driven by Science and Plant Preservation
A core focus for Simon and Calyx is product preservation. Recognizing that a lot of cannabis degradation occurs after harvest—particularly during curing—they partnered with plant science experts to explore how to maintain potency, flavor, and aroma. Their research revealed that maintaining water activity within a specific range (around 0.55 to 0.6) is critical for preserving terpenes and cannabinoids.
Simon describes how the company is developing advanced packaging that buffers moisture and protects the product during storage and transit. This scientific approach ensures consumers receive cannabis that’s as fresh and fragrant as it was in the grow room, elevating the customer experience and supporting industry legitimacy.
Industry Evolution and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, Simon sees an industry at a crossroads—facing regulatory changes, increased competition, and the need for innovation. He emphasizes that success in cannabis is heavily reliant on timing, pattern recognition, and resilience. The companies that adapt quickly, invest in R&D, and prioritize product quality will thrive.
He notes the importance of focusing on plant science and technological innovation, drawing parallels with the food industry, where modified atmospheric packaging ensures freshness and consistency. This focus on science and quality will be crucial as the industry moves toward normalization and broader acceptance.
Advice for Emerging Entrepreneurs
Simon underscores the importance of grit, perseverance, and strategic decision-making. He advises entrepreneurs to start small, test prototypes, build support networks, and make calculated risks. For example, his team’s decision to manufacture their own labels and build a factory was a gamble, but it paid off by giving them control over quality and scaling capacity.
He emphasizes that failure is part of the journey—what matters most is the willingness to learn, adapt, and never give up. The industry demands resilience, a strong work ethic, and an openness to innovation.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Cannabis Packaging and Industry Growth
Simon concludes with a compelling vision: the next era of cannabis packaging will focus on plant science, preservation, and consistency—similar to how the food industry employs modified atmospheric packaging to maintain freshness. His ongoing research with plant scientists aims to develop solutions that preserve potency, flavor, and aroma throughout the supply chain.
He encourages industry players to prioritize quality and scientific understanding, highlighting that the future will reward those who innovate and invest in product integrity.
Connect with Simon and Calyx Containers at CalyxContainers.com or follow them on Instagram. Their commitment to innovation and quality is shaping the future of cannabis packaging—making products better, safer, and more consistent for consumers worldwide.
Thank you for tuning in to Some Guys Talking. Stay innovative, stay resilient, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the cannabis industry.
