The Think Factory Podcast

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Walter Allen, founder, owner, CEO, and president of Acumen Building Enterprise, shares the journey that took him from engineering and military service to building a company focused on transportation systems and infrastructure. Walter discusses Acumen’s early work with BART, where the company developed one of the first systems designed to convert large bills into smaller denominations for transit passengers. That project became a foundation for Acumen’s expertise in fare collection, revenue systems, and transportation technology, leading to work with major transit systems including WMATA and Amtrak.

Walter also...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Renee Brown, President and CEO of DePaul Community Resources, discusses the organization’s work supporting children, families, and individuals with disabilities across Virginia. Renee shares how DePaul has grown from its origins as an orphanage in 1977 into a broad continuum of foster care, adoption, independent living, mental health, and disability support services, guided by a mission centered on creating hope and belonging. She also explores the importance of lived experience in leadership and why giving people a voice in decisions that affect them can lead to stronger, more effective programs.

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In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Devin Pintozzi, Chief Operating Officer of American Book Company, shares how his family business has spent 30 years supporting educators and students through print, K-12, test prep, curriculum materials, and digital learning resources. Devin explains why American Book Company takes a print-first approach to education and how the tactile experience of reading, highlighting, writing, and interacting with physical books can help students better retain information and develop skills.

Devin also discusses the evolution of educational materials, the growing importance of consumable coursebooks as standards and testing formats change, and American...

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, we sit down with Becky Rossman, CEO of Tuesdays Promise, an organization dedicated to supporting families affected by 9/11, 9/11-related illnesses, and military service loss. Becky shares how her background as an Army veteran and nonprofit leader shaped her approach to leadership, service, and resilience, as well as how Tuesdays Promise has evolved to meet the long-term needs of the communities it serves.

The conversation explores the realities of grief and trauma, why healing is not linear, and the importance of connection and community in helping people move forward. Becky...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Dr. Christopher Arndt, Interim President and CEO of UNM Medical Group and Chair of Anesthesiology and Critical Care at the University of New Mexico, shares his perspective on leadership, healthcare, and navigating change in a complex medical environment. Drawing from his experience as a U.S. Navy officer, physician, educator, and healthcare executive, Dr. Arndt explains how the military shaped his approach to leadership, teamwork, preparedness, and performing under pressure. He also discusses the unique challenges of leading highly accomplished physicians and why listening, collaboration, and understanding individual perspectives are essential...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Mark Cartier, co-founder of No Limits Cafe, shares the story behind the nonprofit restaurant and workforce training organization creating meaningful employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Inspired by his daughter Katie, who has Down syndrome, Mark and his wife Stephanie recognized the significant lack of employment opportunities available to this community and set out to create a workplace where individuals could build skills, earn a paycheck, gain confidence, and discover their own potential.

Mark discusses No Limits Cafe's paid training program, the importance of independence and...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Percy Dengler, Managing Director of Baumer HHS, discusses how precision technology is helping the packaging and printing industries improve productivity, quality, and sustainability. As Baumer HHS celebrates 40 years, Percy shares the company's evolution from pioneering contactless glue application to becoming a global provider of adhesive application, inspection, sensor, and camera technologies. He explains how smarter glue application can reduce adhesive consumption, minimize waste, improve production reliability, and deliver stronger packaging while helping customers achieve better ROI and total cost of ownership.

The conversation also explores the growing role of...

In this episode of the Think Factory podcast, we sit down with Pam Brandon, founder of AGE-u-cate Training Institute and creator of Dementia Live, to explore the growing challenges of caring for an aging population and those living with dementia. Drawing from her deeply personal experience caring for both of her parents, Pam shares how years as a family caregiver exposed gaps in healthcare education and support—and ultimately inspired her to create experiential learning programs designed to help caregivers and healthcare professionals better understand the realities of dementia.

Pam explains how Dementia Live uses immersive, experiential ed...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we welcome Dr. Judy Keen, Executive Director of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR), for a conversation about the critical role bone health plays in overall wellness and healthy aging. Dr. Keen explains why osteoporosis is often called a "silent disease," the importance of early prevention through exercise and lifestyle choices, and why both men and women should be proactive about protecting their bone health. She also shares how ASBMR is advancing research, education, and global collaboration to improve the prevention and treatment of bone and musculoskeletal diseases.<...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we sit down with Tom Bandy, Founder and CEO of BandyWorks, to explore how data-driven insights are transforming the convenience store industry. Tom shares his entrepreneurial journey—from an unexpected opportunity with Sheetz to building a company that helps operators turn complex data into simple, actionable decisions. He explains why the key to success isn't collecting more information, but delivering the right insights at the right time so managers can improve performance, increase profitability, and make smarter decisions with confidence.

Tom also discusses the future of convenience retail, including th...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Ryan Fox, Corrugated Packaging Market Analyst at Bloomberg, shares an insider’s perspective on the evolving corrugated packaging industry and the market forces shaping its future. Drawing from his experience as both an industry operator and analyst, Ryan explains how Bloomberg’s Green Markets Box Report brings greater transparency to a traditionally opaque sector, helping manufacturers, suppliers, and investors better understand trends in demand, pricing, capacity, and supply chain dynamics.

Ryan also explores the impact of automation, digital printing, labor shortages, sustainability initiatives, and emerging regulations on packaging manufacturers acro...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Katie Jasmine, Vice President of National Sales at Source One Digital, shares her journey of building a successful sales and leadership career in the fast-paced world of large-format digital printing. Katie discusses how the industry has evolved from traditional signage to creating immersive branded environments, and how adapting to changing technology, customer expectations, and market opportunities has helped drive long-term growth for both her company and her clients.

Katie also offers practical insights on leadership, consultative selling, and professional development, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, communication, and continuous learning...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Ken Coe, Chief Financial Officer of Humboldt Park Health, shares how a community-focused healthcare organization is redefining what it means to deliver equitable care. From expanding wellness initiatives and affordable housing projects to leveraging AI-powered solutions that improve patient outcomes, Ken discusses how Humboldt Park Health continues to innovate while staying true to its mission of serving all members of the community.

Ken also reflects on the leadership principles that guide his work, including empathy, adaptability, and a relentless focus on long-term impact. He offers valuable insights into balancing...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Will Jones, President and CEO of Thompson, shares how he transformed a 140-year-old organization into one of the leading human services providers in the Southeast. Will discusses the leadership principles that guided Thompson through financial challenges, organizational change, and rapid growth, including the mindset shifts that helped the organization thrive during the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to serve vulnerable children and families.

Will also opens up about his personal journey and how his childhood experiences shaped his passion for helping others. The conversation explores trauma-informed care, foster care advocacy...

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, Mark DeBoer, Senior Vice President of Sales at Darwill, shares the story of a company that has spent 75 years evolving alongside the changing world of marketing. From its roots as a traditional printing business to its transformation into a data-driven marketing solutions provider, Darwill has embraced innovation by combining direct mail, digital marketing, creative strategy, and advanced data science. Mark reflects on his nearly 30-year career with the company and explains how listening to customers and adapting to their needs has fueled Darwill’s continued growth and success across multiple generations of...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Kasey Cotulla, Owner and President of Delta Print Group, shares the lessons he's learned from completing more than a decade of mergers and acquisitions in the printing industry. Drawing from nearly 20 years of acquisition experience, Kasey discusses how strategic growth, relationship-building, and patience have helped Delta Print Group expand into one of Northern California’s largest commercial printing and mailing organizations.

Kasey dives into the realities of buying and selling businesses, including deal structures, financing strategies, due diligence, succession planning, and the importance of understanding a seller’s goals. He a...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Jessica Cantin, CEO of Food for Free, discusses how her organization is transforming the fight against hunger through food rescue, sustainable distribution, and community-centered solutions. Jessica shares how Food for Free has evolved from a grassroots effort into one of the country's leading food recovery organizations, delivering millions of pounds of fresh, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food to communities across Massachusetts while addressing both food insecurity and food waste.

Jessica also reflects on her personal experience with hunger and how it shaped her passion for service and leadership. The...

In this episode of the ThinkFactory Podcast, Tara Good Young, CEO of PDI Surgery Center, shares the inspiring mission behind a nonprofit pediatric ambulatory surgery center dedicated to providing life-changing dental care for underserved children and patients with special health care needs. Drawing on more than three decades of healthcare leadership experience, Tara discusses how PDI delivers comprehensive dental treatment under general anesthesia, helping children who would otherwise struggle to access the care they need. She also highlights the organization's commitment to preventive education, community outreach, and breaking the cycle of childhood dental disease through partnerships with schools, medical...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Dory Ellis Garfinkle, Chief Marketing Officer at Siegel+Gale, shares her unconventional journey from growing up in Detroit’s automotive culture to leading marketing and brand strategy for one of the world’s most respected brand consulting firms. Drawing on experiences across mobility, innovation, and design-focused organizations, Dory explores how marketing goes far beyond selling products—it’s about understanding human behavior, challenging assumptions, and helping people see new possibilities for themselves.

Dory dives into the psychology behind successful marketing campaigns, revealing how insights into identity and decision-making can drive me...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Danny Sweem, CEO of M&R Printing Equipment, shares the remarkable story of a company that has spent more than four decades shaping the apparel decoration industry. From its beginnings as a screen-printing equipment manufacturer to its evolution into a global leader in digital printing technologies, Danny discusses how M&R has remained at the forefront of innovation while staying committed to exceptional quality, service, and long-term customer relationships. He also reflects on his own career journey through retail, manufacturing, distribution, and international markets, and how those experiences prepared him to...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we sit down with Jessica Holst of Aligned HR Consulting for a thoughtful conversation about crisis management, workplace culture, and the evolving role of HR leadership in growing organizations. Jessica shares how her firm specializes in stepping into companies during moments of operational or organizational crisis — from compliance failures and employee relations investigations to leadership breakdowns and sudden separation from professional employer organizations (PEOs). Drawing on more than 25 years of HR experience, she explains how strategic HR leadership goes far beyond policy management and becomes a critical driver of business resilience, em...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Bob Hess, founder and CEO of the Forum for Shared Governance, for an insightful discussion about the true meaning of shared governance in healthcare and why it has become one of the most important conversations in organizational leadership today. Dr. Hess explains how shared governance empowers bedside nurses and frontline professionals to have meaningful influence over clinical practice, operational decisions, and the resources that support patient care. Drawing from decades of research and experience, he shares the origins of his groundbreaking Index of Professional Nursing Governance, the...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Will Francis, Executive Director of the National Association of Social Workers across Texas, Louisiana, and Oklahoma, shares insights from his journey across frontline social work, government relations, and executive leadership. He reflects on how firsthand exposure to client challenges led him toward advocacy and ultimately into guiding one of the region’s key professional social work associations. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the importance of collaboration across disciplines, communities, and political perspectives, emphasizing that meaningful systems change in behavioral health and social policy only happens when diverse stakeholders come together.

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This episode of the Think Factory Podcast features Marc Raad, President, and Stan Carmichael, Director of Special Projects, Significans Automation, as they discuss how the company is reshaping automation across the print, packaging, agency, and brand industries. The conversation focuses on how disconnected “islands of automation” can be unified through integration, enabling seamless data flow, reducing manual touchpoints, and eliminating costly errors. Drawing on decades of combined experience in software and manufacturing, Mark and Stan explain how Significans helps organizations connect disparate systems into cohesive, high-performance workflows.

The discussion also explores how companies move from fragmented processes to f...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast features John Congdon, Global Channel Partner Manager at Skandacor, sharing insights on how print embellishment is transforming packaging, direct mail, and branded materials. With over 20 years in the industry and a global footprint, Skandacor is helping print producers move beyond standard CMYK output through technologies like digital foiling, lamination, and 3D effects. John explains how these capabilities create more engaging, tactile, and visually impactful products that capture attention and elevate brand perception in competitive markets.

The conversation also explores the strong business case behind embellishment, including rapid ROI, increased...

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast features Robert Parker, owner of Label King, a company that has achieved 24 consecutive years of steady growth in the label manufacturing industry. Robert shares the story behind Label King's humble beginnings—starting with a single machine and employee—and how identifying gaps in the packaging supply chain led to long-term success. The discussion also explores major industry shifts, from advances in digital printing to the upcoming transition from UPC codes to QR-based systems, and what these changes mean for brands and manufacturers alike.

At the heart of the conversation is a...

On this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we sit down with John Helline, CEO of BindTech, to explore how a five-generation bookbinding legacy has evolved into a modern, multi-location platform focused on innovation and specialty manufacturing. What began as a single trade bindery acquisition has grown into a nationwide operation known for high-end book production, premium packaging, and advanced finishing techniques like edge printing, embossing, and leather work—helping brands stand out in a crowded, commoditized market.

Beyond operations, John shares the leadership philosophy driving BindTech’s success, emphasizing team empowerment, cultural integration across acquisitions, and fast...

On this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, we sit down with John Helline, CEO of BindTech, to explore how a five-generation bookbinding legacy has evolved into a modern, multi-location platform focused on innovation and specialty manufacturing. What began as a single trade bindery acquisition has grown into a nationwide operation known for high-end book production, premium packaging, and advanced finishing techniques like edge printing, embossing, and leather work—helping brands stand out in a crowded, commoditized market.

Beyond operations, John shares the leadership philosophy driving BindTech’s success, emphasizing team empowerment, cultural integration across acquisitions, and fast...

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.

Th...

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 naviga...

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.

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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...

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 ca...

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 recyc...

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...

On this episode of Think Small, we sit down with Bob Coppedge, founder and CEO of Simplex IT, for a candid conversation that spans four decades of tech evolution—from the early days of automating payroll to today’s AI-driven, data-first world. Bob breaks down why staying “on top” of IT is a myth, how small and mid-sized businesses can responsibly adopt AI without chasing hype, and why process—not products—is the real differentiator. We also dive into his entrepreneurial leap in 2007, his hard-earned lessons on failure, risk, and probability, and the cultural reset that transformed his company from burnout...

What does it really take to make products that stick—without sticking it to the planet? In this episode, a veteran of the adhesive and coatings industry pulls back the curtain on the science behind “sticking stuff to stuff,” sharing how Drytac has evolved over 50 years into a global leader in adhesive solutions.

The conversation dives into cold-weather performance, real-world installation challenges, and why sustainability isn’t a buzzword but a design mindset—from water-based adhesives to recyclable polypropylene films. It’s a practical, candid look at innovation, environmental responsibility, and what keeps manufacturers up at night as sustainab...

In this episode of the ThinkFactory Women’s Roundtable, the CEO of American Crane & Equipment shares a powerful journey through family business legacy, manufacturing leadership, and the grit it takes to build something that lasts. From highly engineered cranes used by NASA and nuclear facilities to cultivating intentional culture, resilient teams, and values-driven growth, the conversation dives deep into what it means to lead with perseverance, heart, and integrity.

Along the way, she reflects on mentorship, women in manufacturing, navigating personal and professional adversity, and why staying ahead of rapid technological change is what truly keeps her up...

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.

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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.

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