The latest episode of AICC’s Breaking Down Boxes, “Punches, Pivots & Packaging,” delivers an unfiltered and entertaining conversation with Paul Centenari, President and CEO of Atlas Container.
Hosted by Jeff Pallini of Fosber America and George Perreira of Moyy, this episode traces Paul’s remarkable journey — from Golden Gloves boxing to founding a thriving independent packaging company alongside his brother, Peter.
“Paul lived up to his reputation in telling his story unfiltered, honest, humble, and with humor. Love that guy,” said Pallini.
Listeners will hear how a few humbling lessons and a few hard hits — both in and out of the ring — shaped Paul’s approach to leadership, risk, and resilience. What began with “other people’s money” and a desire to make something evolved into one of the industry’s most respected, fast-moving operations.
Paul’s story is equal parts grit and humor. He recounts lessons learned from early mentors, reflections on working alongside family, and the culture of accountability and can-do spirit that defines Atlas today. “We’ve been taking risks for decades,” he says. “You get knocked down, you get back up—and you keep going at it every day.”
Listeners also get a candid look at the company’s open-book management philosophy, its focus on empowering employees, and the deep family values and philanthropy that run through Atlas’s success story.
“Paul’s background, story, and experiences are atypical of how an AICC member came into the business,” said AICC President, Mike D’Angelo. “This podcast delivers some real pearls that listeners can relate to and utilize. All delivered in Paul’s inimitable style.”
Breaking Down Boxes is available on all major podcast platforms and www.AICCbox.org/Boxes
