In this episode of The Flexwork Podcast, hosted by Ludwig Araujo, we sit down with George Ianuzzi, the Country Manager of Koel Colors USA, for a deep, fascinating look into the science, psychology, and innovation behind color across industries. From automotive paints to cosmetics, food dyes to product packaging, George’s 30+ year journey through pigments and product development is anything but black and white.George’s story begins far from the lab, with a background in music and the record industry. But his curiosity—and eventually his obsession—with the hidden mechanics of color pulled him into a world where chemistry, creativity, and commerce collide. Now, as a seasoned expert in effect pigments, color trends, and brand collaboration, George is the bridge between the artistic and the scientific.In this conversation, we explore how color trends originate, how they scale, and how long it really takes for a pigment to land in your favorite lipstick—or on the paint job of a 2026 Lexus. George breaks down how cosmetics often lead color trends that ripple into other markets like automotive and home decor. He also shares how innovation in black pigments has transformed over the past decade, and what his patented Quantum Black pigment could mean for the future of both aesthetics and function.We also unpack the misconceptions around color psychology. While marketers love tying emotion to colors—like red for urgency or blue for trust—George offers a much more nuanced, and evidence-based perspective that may surprise creative professionals and designers alike.Highlights include:The unexpected rise of nail polish as a testing ground for color trendsWhy automotive color development takes 5–7 years—and what that means for staying on trendThe difference between bio-based pigments and synthetic dyes, and why the food industry is struggling to keep upBehind-the-scenes of working with global giants like L’Oréal, Procter & Gamble, and LexusHow George's team uses blacklight technology and quantum physics to create pigments with functional and aesthetic purposeWhat it takes to create a “color of the year” and who really drives those decisions—Pantone or producers?George also talks about the rigorous regulations around colorants in different regions—from cosmetics in South Korea to food dyes in the U.S.—and how navigating this evolving legal landscape has become one of the biggest challenges for innovation.And then there’s the marketing gold: George shares the story behind the redesign of Herbal Essences shampoo, how his team helped reimagine its brand through color, and how it ties into Procter & Gamble’s "First Moment of Truth" philosophy.Whether you’re in marketing, product design, food science, cosmetics, or just someone who’s curious about the unseen forces that shape our perception of products, this episode will change the way you see the world around you.Want more from this conversation or have questions about color strategy, branding, or product design?Follow The Flexwork Podcast and send us your feedback or ideas for future guests. We're here to bring you conversations with industry leaders, creatives, and innovators shaping the future of content, commerce, and culture—one episode at a time.Subscribe, share, and leave a review to keep the conversation going.For studio bookings, production services, or to learn more about Flexwork Studios, visit flexworkstudios.com.

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