The Think Factory Podcast

In this episode of the Think Factory podcast, host Chris Santomasimo sits down with Al Kennickell, president of The Kennickell Group, to explore how a multi-generational family business has survived and thrived since its founding in 1892. Al shares how he transformed the company by taking calculated risks—most notably investing in new printing technology early in his career—and repeatedly reinventing the business to stay competitive. He contrasts his aggressive, growth-oriented mindset with the cautious approach of earlier generations shaped by the Great Depression, emphasizing that success came from balancing risk with discipline and constantly seeking new opportunities.The conversation dives deeply into leadership, decision-making, and succession planning within a family business. Al stresses the importance of accountability, strategic thinking time, and learning from peers, noting that many of his best ideas came from others. He also highlights the need for honest evaluation of the next generation, ensuring successors truly want—and are capable of—leading the business. Throughout, he underscores key leadership principles: remove emotion from decisions, rely on data (especially financials) to guide strategy, and maintain a culture of responsibility and continuous improvement.Disclaimer

This episode of the Think Factory Women’s Roundtable podcast features Val Gonzalez, who shares her journey from an unexpected start in accounting to becoming a global finance leader in the nonprofit space. As CFO of The Climate Reality Project, she discusses how her technical expertise, combined with curiosity and adaptability, shaped her career. Val reflects on key turning points—transitioning from individual contributor to team leader and later working on a global scale—emphasizing the importance of flexibility, listening, and applying knowledge in diverse contexts. She also highlights how her immigrant background and bilingualism became strengths, helping her navigate ambiguity and lead inclusively.The conversation also explores leadership and purpose, with Val emphasizing that great finance leaders go beyond compliance to become strategic partners who enable impact. She shares insights on financial sustainability as a daily practice, and identifies empathy, clarity, and flexibility as essential leadership traits. Offering advice to emerging women leaders, she encourages them to trust their own voice and focus on continuous growth rather than perfection. Ultimately, Val underscores the importance of aligning career with purpose—particularly in climate work—and closes with a reflection on future generations, stressing the responsibility to leave a better world behind.Disclaimer

In this episode, Chuck Slingerland, Vice President of Sales and Service for Barberan Corrugated North America, shares his journey from packaging manufacturer to equipment supplier—and how that perspective helps him guide companies investing in digital print technology.He discusses the evolution of single-pass digital printing, Barberan’s engineering-driven approach, and how advancements in speed, software, and ink are reshaping corrugated packaging, metal decoration, and retail graphics. Chuck also explains how manufacturers evaluate ROI, why uptime and service matter as much as print quality, and where the next wave of innovation in digital printing is headed.Disclaimer

On this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, Derek Volk, third-generation CEO of Volk Packaging in Maine, shares how a family-owned corrugated packaging company has thrived for nearly 60 years by focusing on relationships, small-batch complexity, and making customers’ lives easier. From embracing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to align his 100-person team, to writing Go for Third, a leadership book inspired by years of coaching softball, Derek unpacks lessons on small-ball execution, culture, accountability, and why human connection matters more than ever in an AI-driven world. It’s a candid conversation about succession, community impact, building the right team, and leading with purpose in a rapidly changing business landscape.Disclaimer

On this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we sit down with Jonathan Hawkins, founder of Law Firm GC, to explore the unique—and often overlooked—legal needs of law firms themselves. From handshake partnerships with no written agreements to messy breakups, succession planning, malpractice defense, and the rise of alternative business structures, Jonathan shares what really happens behind the scenes of legal practices. We dig into why lawyers are often risk managers for everyone but themselves, the growing interest in MSOs and outside investment, and how AI tools like ChatGPT are reshaping (and sometimes complicating) the profession. It’s a candid, insider conversation about law firms as businesses—and why even lawyers need lawyers.Disclaimer

On this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we dive into the science—and strategy—behind what really makes things stick with Dennis LeBlanc of Drytac. From celebrating 50 years in business to supplying adhesive-coated solutions in over 80 countries, Drytac is far more than a materials manufacturer—it’s an innovation engine focused on solving real-world pain points across visual communications, architectural films, retail, and industrial markets. Dennis unpacks the company’s “Adhesive Sciences” approach, cold-weather and specialty surface technologies, and the growing push toward sustainability without a “green tax.” We explore how smarter material choices—like water-based adhesives, polypropylene films, and new recyclable peel-and-stick papers—are reshaping the industry, why mandates are accelerating change, and what’s next in sustainable product development. If you’ve ever wondered how performance, profitability, and environmental responsibility can truly align, this conversation sticks.Disclaimer

On this episode of the ThinkFactory Women’s Roundtable, Karen Norheim, CEO of American Crane & Equipment Company, shares her remarkable journey from reluctant recruit in her family’s manufacturing business to second-generation leader of a thriving, highly engineered crane company serving industries from nuclear energy to NASA’s Artemis program.Karen opens up about the immigrant grit that shaped her father’s legacy, the evolution of their “Always Lift, Never Quit” mantra, and how she intentionally builds a culture rooted in perseverance, heart, and integrity. From championing women in manufacturing and mentoring future leaders to CEO’ing her own health and navigating rapid technological change, Karen offers candid insights on resilience, stewardship, and what it truly takes to lead with strength and authenticity in today’s world.Disclaimer

In this episode of the ThinkFactory Podcast, Timothy Peters and Louis Rouhaud of Polyart explore how synthetic paper is reshaping print, packaging, and labeling through durability, printability, and sustainability.The conversation dives into how Polyart eliminates lamination steps, reduces carbon footprint and waste, supports recyclability with post-consumer materials, and helps printers and brands cut costs while improving efficiency—offering a compelling look at how innovation in materials can drive both environmental and business impact.Disclaimer

Case Paper’s Blair Jason-Brown and Arika Stoecker share how an 80+ year–old company stays relevant by blending deep industry expertise with creativity, humor, and a people-first mindset.From custom-sized paper and packaging solutions that reduce waste and boost profitability to bold educational tools like “Case Paper TV,” they discuss what it truly means to be “On the Case”—building real partnerships, empowering customers through knowledge, and rethinking how print and packaging can inspire, perform, and tell better brand stories.Disclaimer

In this episode, listeners hear from Mike Seagram, President, and Mark Witkowski, CTO of Publisher Storage and Shipping (PSSC), as they explore how modern technology is reshaping book fulfillment and distribution. From print-on-demand and inventory optimization to data-driven forecasting, AI, and navigating Amazon’s influence, the conversation offers an inside look at how publishers can ship more, store less, and make smarter decisions across the supply chain.It’s a deep dive into how a traditionally “legacy” business is evolving through smarter data, tighter integration, and collaborative partnerships to keep publishers competitive and profitable.Disclaimer

This episode takes a deep dive into how AI-powered software is transforming the printing and packaging industries, moving far beyond buzzwords into real-world productivity, creativity, and efficiency gains. The conversation explores how EngView Systems has been building AI-driven, parametric design tools for decades, enabling packaging manufacturers, designers, and printers to reduce errors, shorten turnaround times, and automate complex structural design tasks that once took hours or days.Kris also discusses how AI, automation, and connected workflows are reshaping everything from cost estimation and sustainability to virtual prototyping, augmented reality, and short-run production. From smarter material optimization to safer, more efficient factory floors, this episode offers a forward-looking view of how embracing intelligent software can help companies stay competitive, profitable, and ready for what’s next.Disclaimer

This episode explores how Xante is helping democratize print technology by making advanced equipment and workflow tools more accessible to print service providers of all sizes. From digital envelope printing to UV flatbeds, roll-fed systems, and DTF solutions, the conversation highlights how Xante enables shops to add new revenue streams, increase efficiency, and reduce labor costs in an increasingly competitive print market.Disclaimer

In this episode, Oscar Perez, CFO of global design firm Snøhetta, offers an inside look at how the company blends architecture, landscape, interiors, and product design to create people-centered spaces around the world—from a groundbreaking presidential library in the North Dakota badlands to a border-bridging children’s museum in El Paso. He reflects on his non-linear career path, the importance of collaborative leadership in creative environments, and the challenges of guiding an international organization through uncertainty, cultural differences, and the post-COVID shift in how teams work.Oscar also shares insights on financial stewardship in a design-driven firm, empowering teams to innovate responsibly, and the evolving balance between personal and professional life as leaders navigate constant change.Disclaimer

In this episode, Alan Taheri shares how he grew One Vision from a tiny copy shop into a nationwide marketing execution powerhouse serving major brands and political campaigns. He dives into the company’s blend of automation, data-driven operations, and wide-format production, explains how listening—not selling—drives their client partnerships, and reflects on the role of AI and robotics in shaping the future of custom manufacturing.Alan also discusses his entrepreneurial origins, One Vision’s acquisition strategy, and why a commitment to problem-solving—even chartering planes when needed—has earned the company long-term loyalty and rapid growth.Disclaimer

In this episode, Ironmark president Matt Marzullo shares how the company has evolved from a traditional print operation into a tech-enabled, omni-channel marketing powerhouse. He discusses Ironmark’s growth through 18 acquisitions, the development of a national footprint, and the talent-driven culture that keeps former owners actively contributing years after joining the organization.Matt breaks down how predictive analytics, AI, and proprietary software are transforming campaign strategy—driving attributable ROI, smarter targeting, and seamless integration between digital and print. He also reflects on industry consolidation, the resurgence of print within modern marketing, and why Ironmark’s collaborative, people-first culture remains its greatest advantage.Disclaimer

In this episode, packaging expert Connie Lefferts shares how decades in the industry have shown her that great packaging can make or break a brand. From discovering the power of packaging through a cookie-company rethink in the ’90s to guiding today’s emerging brands through materials, engineering, design, and market positioning, she offers a masterclass in how the right container elevates a product’s value, presence, and consumer appeal.Connie breaks down the psychology behind what catches a buyer’s eye, the impact of digital printing and small-run capabilities, and why early market research is essential for founders. Her insights reveal why thoughtful packaging isn’t just a finishing touch, it’s a strategic driver of growth and often the catalyst for acquisition-worthy success.Disclaimer

What if your next great marketing breakthrough arrived in the mailbox? Modern Postcard’s Chris Foster sits down with host Chris Santomassimo to discuss how automation, analytics, and good old-fashioned print are combining to create smarter, more human marketing. Together, they trace how direct mail has gone from static postcard to dynamic, data-powered touchpoint.Foster shares real-world examples—from home service pros reaching entire neighborhoods overnight to national brands using automated triggers for anniversaries and new homeowners—all while keeping campaigns privacy-compliant and measurable. Undoubtedly, Modern has become more than a printer—it’s a data company that happens to print. The result is a powerful case for why physical mail still drives modern marketing success.Disclaimer

At Envision-3, Vice President Brian Franz sees print not as a fading medium, but as a flexible, powerful force that bridges design and technology. In this episode, he talks about how Envision 3 uses print’s tactile value and precision to help brands stand out while keeping production efficient through smart automation.From custom packaging to high-touch direct mail, Brian shows how craftsmanship and curiosity keep print relevant in a digital-first world. He and host Chris Santomassimo dig into why adaptability, authenticity, and humor are key to sustaining success in both business and life.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory, host Susan Kleiner sits down with Teddy Gedamu, founder and CEO of Tenasol, a health tech company leading the charge in AI-powered data transformation. Teddy discusses how Tenasol’s mission—to turn the chaos of health data into clarity—grew from a deep personal connection to the word tena, meaning “health.”From major partnerships with national health plans to innovations that streamline operations and improve care outcomes, Teddy reveals what it takes to drive impact in one of the most regulated industries in the world. His insights on grit, ethics, and leadership offer a grounded look at the real work behind healthcare innovation.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory, Chris Santomassimo talks with Ed Russnow, President of MAC Products Inc., a family-owned New Jersey manufacturer marking 60 years in business. Russnow shares how the company grew from a catalog parts supplier into a solutions-driven engineering firm with the trademark motto “We don’t do easy.”He highlights how MAC Products invests in people—through immigrant workforce development, ESL programs, and automation that upskills employees—while staying rooted in family values and long-term commitment to local manufacturing. The result is a culture built on problem-solving, innovation, and pride in sustaining a multigenerational legacy.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, Alka Bahal speaks with Timothy Moore, Vice President and Head of Legal and Compliance at Corium, about his career journey and leadership philosophy. Tim shares how his path from public service and private practice led him to in-house counsel, where a pivotal secondment at Pfizer sparked his passion for supporting businesses from the inside. He reflects on one of his proudest professional achievements—writing the brief that convinced the Florida Supreme Court to adopt a new hearsay exception—an accomplishment that continues to impact victims’ rights today.The conversation also turns to a discussion on leadership, where Tim emphasizes that true leadership is an evolving journey rather than a fixed destination. He describes his approach as “modular leadership,” adapting to the needs of the moment while grounding himself in genuineness, curiosity, and humility.Disclaimer

How do you stay motivated in consulting for 25+ years while the world shifts from VHS tapes to AI and automation?On this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Alka Bahal chats with Matt Kulp of St. Onge Company about the future of supply chain—why consulting is more about clarity than answers, how to solve instead of sell, and why labor shortages and automation are reshaping the field. Matt also shares timeless career advice: show up, work hard, network, and keep a growth mindset.If you want to hear what keeps an industry leader up at night—and why he still loves the work—don’t miss this conversation.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Susan Kleiner sits down with Roslyn Dashiell, CEO of PEI Kids, a nonprofit protecting child survivors of abuse and violence in Mercer County, NJ. Roslyn shares her journey from corporate marketing to nonprofit leadership, where she applies business savvy to sustain programs that change lives.She discusses PEI Kids’ 40-year impact—counseling, prevention education, and juvenile intervention—along with her leadership style, staff wellness priorities, and the vital role of community partnerships. Roslyn also looks ahead, envisioning PEI Kids as a model for child safety and support nationwide.Disclaimer

In this special ThinkFactory x Printfluencers crossover, podcast hosts Katelin Shanks (RACAMI) and Chris Santomassimo (OGC Solutions) dive into the hidden risks and emerging opportunities shaping the print and packaging world.From the dangers of bad data and the risks of unregulated usage to AI’s potential in workflow automation, Caitlin and Chris share candid insights from both the tech and legal sides of the industry. They dig into how companies can turn risk into opportunity through workflow visibility, smart data management, and niche legal expertise — and why Printing United Expo 2025 will be the place to see it all unfold.Disclaimer

On this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Chris Santomassimo welcomes Dave Lewis, President of SnailWorks, for an inside look at how mail tracking data is transforming the way organizations manage campaigns. With decades in the mailing industry, Dave shares how SnailWorks tracks millions of mail pieces each year, helping clients ensure delivery, meet compliance deadlines, and coordinate marketing and call center operations more effectively.Dave also unpacks the bigger picture—postal service slowdowns, ongoing rate hikes, and shifting regulations—while pointing to the resilience of direct mail as a trusted, high-ROI channel. From personalized printing and QR code integration to new postal promotions, he explains why mail continues to hold its ground against digital alternatives and what businesses should expect in the months ahead.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal speaks with Martin Alejandro Landreau, CFO of ULMA Form Works—a global company with a presence in more than 25 countries. With 14 years in hospitality and leadership roles in finance and operations across Argentina, Brazil, Spain, and the U.S., Martin shares how cultural diversity and customer-focused experience shaped his leadership style. He emphasizes empathy, adaptability, and the value of building teams where people feel empowered to disagree, challenge ideas, and offer different perspectives.Martin also reflects on guiding ULMA through transformation—centralizing finance operations, adapting to hybrid work, and embracing digital tools without losing the human element. His insights reveal why attitude can matter more than technical skill, and how transparency, trust, and open dialogue help leaders and organizations thrive in an ever-changing global workplace.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal speaks with Christina Armentano, Chief Operating Officer of Paraco Gas, a third-generation, family-owned propane distribution company.Christina highlights propane’s versatility as a reliable, sustainable energy source—from powering rural communities and serving as backup during outages to supporting electric vehicle charging infrastructure. She reflects on her experience balancing family legacy with innovation, leading nearly 60 acquisitions, and ensuring smooth integration by valuing local communities, employee communication, and best practices from acquired companies.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal chats with Amit Shah, COO of Virta Health, about the company’s bold mission to reverse diabetes and obesity for one billion people. Amit shares how Virta tackles the root cause—poor nutrition—through continuous remote care that uses real-time biomarker tracking, lifestyle coaching, and medication deprescription.By helping patients make sustainable changes and reduce reliance on drugs like GLP-1s, Virta is reshaping what effective, scalable health care looks like. Amit also dives into leadership lessons from scaling high-growth organizations, stressing the importance of patient-centered care and building systems for continuous improvement.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory, the executive team at HC3 shares how they’ve built a thriving culture in the competitive world of fintech and transactional printing. Having doubled in size over the last five years and expanded through strategic acquisitions, HC3 has built a reputation for long-term client relationships and innovative solutions that merge technology with essential financial communications.Kristin Jones (CFO), Tori VanCura-Rutland (Chief Growth Officer), and Lee Long (Chief Experience Officer) share how they’ve turned leadership into a company-wide practice. From using EOS to guide growth to normalizing failure as a leadership lesson, they reveal the strategies that keep their people engaged and their company moving forward.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, the conversation explores the entrepreneurial journey behind Silver Defender, a company focused on antimicrobial protective films---making high-touch surfaces safer in hospitals, stadiums, and beyond.Our guest, Zeynep Ekemen, shares candid insights about managing the high-pressure demands of running multiple businesses and reflecting on lessons from the pandemic. She underscores the role of mentorship, encouraging entrepreneurs to seek guidance from those who have successfully navigated similar paths—while also remembering to give value back. Looking ahead, Silver Defender is expanding within healthcare systems while also developing new related products.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Chris Santomassimo visits Harry Paulison, President of Sonic Packaging Industries, to uncover how the company has spent 30 years turning packaging into a true competitive advantage. From pharmaceuticals to personal care, Sonic delivers turnkey solutions that balance creativity, compliance, and supply chain efficiency—helping clients launch products right the first time.Harry shares how Sonic scaled during the pandemic, why the company invests heavily in technology and U.S.-based manufacturing, and how trust and transparency have built lasting client relationships. More than packaging, Sonic provides strategy, speed, and solutions that bring products to life.Disclaimer

On this episode of The Think Factory, we put a spotlight on The Artus Corporation — a fourth-generation New Jersey manufacturer that’s been perfecting the art of precision shims since 1941.We sit down with Noah Katzenstein, VP of Sales & Marketing, who shares how Artus' simple yet brilliant color-coded system has become a game-changer for engineers, while their commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing has helped them stay resilient through decades of disruption. Noah shares how the company balances heritage with modernization, investing in new technology while keeping decades-old machines running with expert craftsmanship. It’s a story of tradition, innovation, and the kind of staying power few manufacturers achieve.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, host Chris Santomassimo is joined by Hilda Murray and Blaes Green of TPC Packaging and Emily Leonczyk of the Paperboard Packaging Council (PPC) for a conversation at the intersection of family-owned business, innovation, and industry collaboration.Hilda shares TPC’s remarkable 100-year legacy as a third and fourth-generation family-owned company specializing in luxury packaging for cosmetics, spirits, pharmaceuticals, and collectibles. Known for its award-winning designs and advanced technologies such as digital foiling and Skodex embellishment, TPC continues to blend artistry, technology, and craftsmanship to create packaging that elevates brands and captures consumer attention.Emily provides insights into the 96-year-old Paperboard Packaging Council, a trade association representing folding carton and rigid box suppliers across North America. PPC supports the industry through training, advocacy, networking, and its signature carton competition, while fostering a culture where even competitors collaborate to solve challenges and drive innovation. The discussion wraps with anticipation for PPC’s upcoming Fall Conference in Vancouver, underscoring the packaging industry’s strength in community, innovation, and shared growth.Disclaimer

Join us for an inspiring episode of the Think Factory's Women's Roundtable podcast as we sit down with Christine Geissler, Global SVP of Human Resources at Reckitt.With a career spanning four decades at some of the world's top companies, including a 20-year tenure at Nestle, Christine offers a unique perspective on rising through the ranks. In a candid conversation with host Alka Bahal, she discusses the importance of a people-centered leadership style, the power of curiosity, and her belief that you can be "strong enough" to make tough decisions while still acting with care and empathy.She challenges the idea of "scarcity thinking" among women, advocating for a culture of abundance where women lift each other up rather than tearing each other down. This is a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt the pressures of imposter syndrome or been told their leadership approach isn't the norm.Disclaimer

.Welcome to a fascinating episode of the Think Factory's Workplace Podcast, where we explore the crucial role of culture in business and community. Host Alka Bahal sits down with Farhanna Sayegh, a seasoned cross-cultural marketing strategist, founder of Cultural Fit, and the First Lady of Paterson, New Jersey.Farhanna draws on her extensive experience working with global brands and her deep civic engagement to explain why "one-size-fits-all" messaging is a thing of the past. She shares invaluable insights on navigating today’s diverse landscape, from balancing global brand consistency with local cultural nuances to addressing disparities in marketing.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal sits down with Dr. Gary Ingenito, a seasoned healthcare executive whose career spans clinical development, regulatory affairs, and medical operations.Dr. Ingenito shares how his dual MD and PhD shaped his critical thinking, career trajectory, and ability to bridge academic research with the pharmaceutical industry. He reflects on his transition from treating one patient at a time to impacting thousands through product development, and on the importance of understanding drugs, biologics, and combination products from multiple angles.From adaptive trial designs to the growing role of biomarkers, he offers insight into how drug development has evolved over the past three decades and underscores the crucial link between regulatory strategy and clinical feasibility.Disclaimer

What happens when your child suddenly stops hitting their developmental milestones—and you have no idea where to turn?In this episode of The Think Factory, Mary Krupp, Co-Director of Progressive Steps, opens up about the emotional side of early intervention. She shares what it’s really like for parents dealing with fear, stigma, and information overload, and how Progressive Steps makes the process feel less overwhelming, meeting families where they are -- literally and emotionally.Disclaimer

.In this episode of The Think Factory, host Anthony Davis speaks with John Harada, co-founder of Solace AI, a pioneering company based in Pennsylvania that’s redefining how AI operates by prioritizing privacy, regulatory compliance, and local data storage. This approach allows businesses—especially in sensitive sectors like banking, healthcare, HR, and disaster relief—to benefit from AI-driven insights without risking security breaches or regulatory violations.With the help of his teenage sons, who are actively developing and presenting their research, Solus has earned peer-reviewed validation and is preparing to showcase use cases at multiple conferences. While the technology is fully functional and scalable today, their primary challenge is spreading awareness.Harada emphasizes that unlike many tech companies profiting off data mining and storage fees, Solace AI is designed to return control to users—making AI a trusted, private, and cost-effective partner rather than a risk.Disclaimer

Join host Chris Santomassimo in our latest episode of The Think Factory as he sits down with John Cappelletti, Senior VP of Kirkwood Secure Health (Kirkwood) for an insightful journey through the ever-evolving world of print.Discover how John's unique path, from the tactile experience of offset printing to pioneering dynamic and personalized communications for CVS shaped his unparalleled expertise. John offers a rare, multi-sided perspective, having begun his career running a printing press, then navigating the complexities of the agency side, managing print for a major client like CVS, and now returning to the printing space with Kirkwood. Kirkwood Printing is the company’s specialized division focused on secure, compliant, and high-impact healthcare communications.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, Bob Stewart of Hannaford and Dumas shares how his military background as a Marine officer has shaped his approach to leadership, sales, and operations in the commercial printing industry.He emphasizes the importance of understanding a customer’s mission before jumping into solutions, and how cultivating goodwill and relationship capital often leads to better business outcomes. Bob also highlights the importance of mission-first thinking and being willing to do the small jobs that others reject, recognizing them as gateways to deeper client relationships.Throughout the episode, Stewart’s philosophy is clear: success in both the military and business requires planning, flexibility, and a relentless commitment to solving problems with the resources at hand.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory, we sit down with Ryan Autumn, the creative force behind Autumn Woods. Along the way, he explains how a combination of resourcefulness, mentorship, and persistent optimism helped him scale the company into a sellable, sustainable enterprise—one that he eventually sold, then boldly bought back.He dives into the power of doing the hard jobs yourself first, the indispensable advice of mentors, and why understanding scalability and delegation became his formula for long-term success.Disclaimer

In this powerful episode of The Think Factory, podcast host Susan Kleiner interviews Annette Redding and Coralee Schmitz—two behavioral health leaders whose personal journeys have uniquely shaped their mission at GoMo Health. The episode explores how COVID-19 accelerated innovation in behavioral health, prompting Annette and Coralie to lean into technology they once viewed skeptically. Tune in to hear a testament to how lived experience and digital innovation can create scalable, life-saving impact.Disclaimer

What if your print shop could see exactly where it’s making—or losing—money in real time? In this episode, Print Profit founder Nick Gawreluk joins The Think Factory to reveal how outdated cost models are quietly draining profits across the industry. He shares how his software gives print businesses 20/20 visibility into their pricing, costing, and margins—transforming guesswork into strategy.From solo shops to global PSPs, Nick’s mission is clear: help owners work smarter, not harder. If you’ve ever wondered why your P&L never matches your gut, this episode is a must-listen. To learn more, visit www.printprofit.com or connect with Nick directly on LinkedIn.Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory - Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal speaks with Rachel Platt, CEO of PLATTinum Consulting, about the evolving role of strategic human resources in today’s workplace. Rachel shares her transition from corporate HR executive to founder of a consultancy that partners with small and mid-sized organizations to build intentional, people-first strategies by bringing external credibility, insight, and objectivity.Unlike traditional HR staffing firms, PLATTinum provides high-level, customized support to existing HR departments—grounded in data, best practices, and deep experience across industries. As Rachel notes, “Sometimes the executive team needs to hear it from an outsider.”Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal speaks with Tom Redding, Executive Vice President and Healthcare Practice Leader at St. Onge Company.Redding unpacks his journey into healthcare consulting and highlights how his team helps major health systems improve operational performance. The discussion spans pressing industry shifts, from the growing importance of home-based care delivery to the transformative role logistics will play in the future of healthcare. Redding also touches on the evolving influence of AI—from automating routine communication to potentially reshaping clinical decision-making.Learn why tomorrow’s most successful health systems won’t just be great at medicine—they’ll be great at movement.Disclaimer