The Think Factory Podcast

In this episode of the The Think Factory podcast, host Alka Bahal sits down with Jonah Fink, President of Net2Phone, to discuss how the company is transforming cloud communications and workplace productivity. Originating from IDT’s early days in VoIP, Net2Phone has evolved into a global provider of modern, mobile-first cloud communications tools for businesses. Their latest innovation, Net2Phone Coach, takes things a step further—leveraging AI to analyze employee conversations, emails, and video calls in real time. It provides both executives and individual employees with actionable insights and performance coaching, creating a tangible bridge between remo...

In this episode of TheThink Factory, Rich Vaill—President of Custom Marketing Solutions, LLC and a proud Marine Corps veteran—shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship, and the mission he’s embraced to support fellow veterans through career transitions.

Rich discusses the emotional challenges of leaving the military, the struggle to translate service experience into civilian roles, and the importance of finding purpose, community, and opportunity after active duty. He also highlights his long-running LinkedIn group, Jobs for Veterans, a platform committed to connecting vets with real, vetted job opportunities. Whether you're a veteran navigating your n...

In this episode of The Think Factory, Paul Yater shares the unconventional path that led him to IT leadership and ultimately to serving as both Chief Information Officer and Head of Human Resources at 84 Lumber—highlighting the value of agile, cross-functional leadership in today’s business environment.

With roots in various IT leadership roles, Yater stepped up to lead HR during a time of transition, relying on his business instincts, people skills, and operational insight rather than formal HR credentials. The conversation also delves into the dual impact of AI from both CIO and HR perspectives, with Yate...

In this episode of The Think Factory, host Chris Santomassimo sits down with Erik Norman, President of swissQprint America. With swissQprint’s recent wave of innovation and product launches making headlines, the timing couldn’t have been better. The conversation kicks off with a spotlight on the new Generation 5 platform—specifically the Nyala 5 and Impala 5 models.

Erik also sheds light on swissQprint's philosophy, sharing how the company operates with the understanding that printers are a major investment for any of their clients, small or large. He elaborates on how swissQprint's mission isn't to push frequent upgrades but rather...

In this episode of The Think Factory, host Chris Santomassimo sits down with Paul Hudson, CEO of Hudson Printing, for a candid conversation on innovation, purpose, and the evolving role of print in a digital world.

Paul unpacks how Hudson Printing is pushing boundaries—from environmental commitments like carbon balancing to proprietary offerings like Spark+ (enhanced color) and TOPO (tactile embellishments). Paul believes every piece of print is hired to perform a job, whether that’s selling a product, sparking reflection, or preserving memory. This insight fuels Hudson’s approach to both design and strategy. The episode is a c...

In this episode of The Think Factory, therapist and Train Emotions founder Barbara Mosquera shares how childhood trauma, cultural identity, and access to care shape her mission. A former teacher turned therapist, Barbara now leads a diverse team focused on making mental health support more relatable and affordable—especially for communities of color. She opens up about her psychodynamic approach, her upcoming CASA volunteer work, and why trauma, big or small, deserves attention.

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Chris Santomassimo speaks with Kevin Heslin, President of Seaway Printing, and Ian Heslin, Vice President, about Seaway’s evolution from a $1 million general commercial shop into a $27 million specialized, data-driven operation. They discuss how performance transparency and real-time data tracking have optimized productivity and fostered a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

This conversation also delves into the complexities of generational leadership transition. Kevin and Ian highlight the importance of aligning roles with individual strengths rather than legacy job descriptions. For Kevin, the most vital lesson to pass do...

As the owner and COO of Evolve Human Labs, Courtney Balderas-Jacob is shaping what care looks like with trauma-informed leadership and spaces that welcome everyone who walks in. In this episode, she shares how designing for empathy and simplicity isn’t just good for clients—it’s transformed how her teams work, grow, and stay engaged.

Courtney also gets candid about leading a workplace where five generations work side by side. From tech-savvy Gen Z to seasoned professionals, she explains how clear communication and flexible systems help everyone thrive. Whether you’re a founder, manager, or just trying t...

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Alka Bahal sits down with Darryl Stratton, HR Director of Alpine Ocean. Alpine Ocean provides expert services in acquiring, analyzing and interpreting data from marine offshore, nearshore and freshwater environments. The company caters to complex and challenging projects that require high-quality data, on-time delivery, and exacting safety standards.

Stratton shares his perspective on the current challenges facing the wind energy sector, including the impact of U.S. policy shifts and emerging opportunities abroad. He explains how Alpine Ocean is focusing on expanding into European and other international markets while...

In this episode of the Think Factory Workplace Podcast, our podcast host Alka Bahal sits with Deepak Shrivastava to discuss valuable HR insights, emphasizing the importance of hiring the right talent for fast-paced, evolving environments. Drawing from his experiences, Deepak explains that the key to success is hiring individuals exhibiting natural curiosity and adaptability, citing real-life instances.

With a career that spans management consulting, e-commerce, real estate, healthcare, and now AI, Deepak shares the leadership principles that have guided him through each venture. His approach focuses on giving people ownership and the freedom to contribute creatively, a...

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, Mark Whitehead, co-founder of NDAY Security, pulls back the curtain on the world of offensive cybersecurity---where expert testers play the role of attackers to strike first and expose vulnerabilities. While most businesses think defense means installing antivirus software and hoping for the best, he explains how real protection comes from testing your systems before an actual attacker does.

With AI-driven tools and a pricing model that costs no more than a monthly antivirus subscription, N-Day is helping companies stay safe without breaking the bank. Their mission is to bring...

In this episode of The Think Factory, we sit down with Amy Zitelman, co-founder of Soom Foods, to trace her family’s bold journey turning tahini from a niche ingredient into a pantry staple across 5,000 stores — including Whole Foods and Walmart. Amy shares the experiences that set the stage for their breakout success during the pandemic, when home cooks discovered tahini’s magic beyond hummus — in banana bread, sauces, and even cookies.

But behind Soom’s rise is also Amy’s personal story of balancing the weight of family legacy, entrepreneurship, and motherhood. As the last sister steering the...

In a candid conversation, La-Toya Hackney shares her professional journey and what it means to grow into leadership roles you once dreamed about. As Saint-Gobain North America's SVP and General Counsel, she reflects on navigating increasing complexity in the world of law, embracing Gen AI responsibly, and balancing risk without burning out teams or budgets.

La-Toya leaves listeners with a practical career tool: four key questions to assess learning, growth, contribution, and community. Her advice on delegation and investing in your own well-being is essential listening for anyone striving for sustainable career success.

Disclaimer

In this episode of The Think Factory, Alexis Bovalino, HR Director at Burgatory Bar, shares how a people-first mindset and a culture of transparency helped their restaurant group not just survive the pandemic—but come out stronger. From raising wages during COVID to promoting over 75% of managers from within, Alexis reveals how empathy, curiosity, and accountability fuel their leadership style and employee loyalty.

Alexis discusses the challenges of managing a five-generation workforce and how Burgatory uses values like mutual respect and charitable assumptions to bridge generational gaps. She stresses the importance of financial literacy and career growth fo...

In a candid conversation, La-Toya Hackney shares her professional journey and what it means to grow into leadership roles you once dreamed about. As Saint-Gobain North America's SVP and General Counsel, she reflects on navigating increasing complexity in the world of law, embracing Gen AI responsibly, and balancing risk without burning out teams or budgets.

La-Toya leaves listeners with a practical career tool: four key questions to assess learning, growth, contribution, and community. Her advice on delegation and investing in your own well-being is essential listening for anyone striving for sustainable career success.

Disclaimer

Think print is dead? Think again. In this episode of The Think Factory, we chat with Gene Plotkin, Vice President of Sales at Mimeo, a company that has been quietly transforming the print and packaging world for the past 25 years. Mimeo has built a business model that serves over 3,000 customers, from big pharmaceutical companies to smaller, emerging businesses, all by providing high-quality print solutions with incredible speed and service.

Gene explains how Mimeo has managed to not only survive but thrive by combining innovative technology with real, old-fashioned customer service. Mimeo can deliver custom print jobs faster...

On this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, we chat with Adrienne Fudge, the powerhouse behind 40 Dreams Catering and Cooking Thyme — a cooking school with heart. Adrienne shares how her team creates joyful, hands-on culinary experiences for everything from corporate events to kids’ birthday parties. Whether it’s a team-building pasta night or a bridal shower with a gourmet twist, her goal is simple: bring people together through food and fun — and it all starts at 40Dreams.com.

But this isn’t just about great meals and good times. Adrienne opens up about the deeper mission: serving meals that...

On this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Marco Gonzalez sits down with John Fudge, Executive VP of USA Funding, to talk about how his firm has transformed SBA lending. With over 35 years in the game, John explains how USA Funding bridges the gap between borrowers and banks by customizing loan packages and matching them with the right lenders—generating over $400 million in annual volume. Built on hustle, grit, and a network of trusted referrals, the company stands out for doing the hard work others avoid.

John also shares insights on today’s business climate, the retu...

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, Chris Santomassimo chats with Greg and Halie from Flex Technology Group (Flex TG) to unpack how organizations are reimagining their print operations. Whether it's high-quality marketing materials, expanding into wide-format, or even embroidery, Flex’s OEM-agnostic approach helps tailor solutions that truly align with each client’s goals.

Greg and Halie's conversation also highlights a major industry shift: the rise of inkjet technology. With quality now rivaling traditional offset and costs continuing to drop, inkjet is projected to handle a quarter of all print volume by 2028. Flex Technology Group is h...

In this episode of The Think Factory, Susan Kleiner sits down with Sharon Diamondstein, Director of Congregational Learning at the Jewish Center of Princeton to discuss the vibrant and inclusive community their center has built.

As the Director, Sharon creates innovative programs that blend religious education with real-world applications. With a diverse range of programs from religious education to social activities, the Jewish Center of Princeton offers something for everyone—whether it’s a cooking class, holiday celebration, or educational event. Their approach emphasizes authenticity, encouraging students to explore their own connection to Judaism while fostering a supp...

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, our host Chris Santomassimo speaks with Tim Murphy, President of Printware LLC, about the evolution of the printing industry and the rise of inkjet.

From tactile engagement to lasting impressions, Tim shares stories that highlight how print—especially direct mail—is still a highly effective customer touchpoint. The conversation dives into user experience, the evolution of packaging, and how personalization in print can spark action. It's a compelling discussion on how something as simple as an envelope can be the gateway to powerful brand storytelling.

Disclaimer

In this episode of the Think Factory podcast, host Marco Gonzalez chats with Colonel Antonio Martinez, U.S. Army Reservist and CEO of Renaissance Global Services (RGS), a veteran-owned firm specializing in project and construction management. Colonel Martinez shares how his military background shapes RGS’s hands-on, mission-driven approach, empowering teams to make decisions that keep projects moving and clients happy. He highlights a standout success — leading the complex consolidation of Bristol-Myers Squibb’s labs without disrupting operations — and explains how RGS grew from a small veteran-owned startup into an award-winning player.

Martinez also addresses potential challenges on the h...

In this episode of The Think Factory, Gia Lacqua opens up about her personal journey from corporate burnout to discovering her true calling. She shares how years of chronic stress and the pressure to constantly achieve led her to a breaking point, ultimately realizing that she had been chasing someone else’s definition of success. Gia dives into the importance of listening to your intuition, unlearning unhealthy habits, and redefining success on your own terms.

She also highlights the widespread struggles of high-achieving women, backed by her recent national research study, which found that many women feel pr...

On this episode of The Think Factory, we're pulling back the curtain on one of the most underestimated drivers of success in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) world: logistics. Andrew Lynch, President of Zipline Logistics, joins us to share real-world lessons on why making sure your product is on the shelf every time your customer shows up is what sets the winners apart from the rest.

Whether you’re a brand founder, a retail seller, or just someone curious about how products make it from idea to aisle, this conversation with Andrew is full of insights. We di...

What do jello shots, bagel earrings, and Hanukkah pajamas have in common? Amy Kritzer Becker! In this episode of the ThinkFactory podcast, host Susan Kleiner chats with Amy—Jewish food blogger, entrepreneur, and co-owner of ModernTribe.com about her inspiring and unconventional career journey.

Amy shares how she got her start with What Jew Wanna Eat, a blog she launched during a personal and professional reset. At a time when content creation wasn’t yet considered a business, she carved out a niche by blending Jewish tradition with creativity and humor. Her path was anything but linear, but...

In this episode of the Think Factory podcast, we’re chatting with Gilad Segev, a business advisor with experience in various industries. Gilad specializes in helping small and medium-sized companies scale through strategic partnerships with multinational corporations.

Gilad shares his unique journey from law to business development, explaining how his "Collaborate for Success" method helps companies leverage collaborations—not just for financial growth but to unlock new markets, enhance credibility, and accelerate innovation. He also emphasizes the importance of thinking globally, especially in uncertain time. Gilad’s advice is clear: no matter the size of your company, there’...

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Chris Santomasimo visits NextGen Label Group in Syracuse, NY — a 100% employee-owned company making big moves in the world of packaging and labels.

CEO Dan Rosenbaum and HR leader Jessica McCarthy share how NextGen came together from three legacy companies and built something bigger than the sum of its parts. They get into everything from the new 15-color hybrid press that helps customers experiment and scale faster, to their RFID label capabilities, shrink sleeve tech, and even a resealable label that replaces plastic lids and helps products stay fresher, longer.

In this episode, Carin Laniak, President of Excelsus Solutions, shares her journey from the production floor to leading a thriving print company. She also shares her experience stepping into a leadership role at a company her father helped build, motivated by his legacy and later reflecting on how things changed after his retirement.

Carin talks about how Excelsus has stepped up its marketing game—something the company hadn’t really focused on before. After working with the Economic Gardening program, they began to rethink their approach, from strengthening their online presence to joining industry associations and identifying new...

In this episode of The Think Factory, host Susan Kleiner welcomes Jen Jimenez, a dedicated arts advocate and fundraiser, to discuss how the National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) is revolutionizing vocal education. They explore the power of affinity groups in creating support networks for voice teachers across different career stages and backgrounds. Jen also highlights the National Student Auditions (NSA), where young singers showcase their talent in classical, musical theater, and commercial music, often launching careers on Broadway and beyond.

Jen shares her own journey—from running a thriving independent music studio to leading fundraising ef...

In this thought-provoking episode of Think Factory’s Podcast Alka Bahal welcomes Jennifer Eccles for an in-depth discussion on the role of genetic counseling in modern reproductive medicine. As genetic testing becomes more advanced and widely available, Jennifer highlights the ethical and emotional complexities that come with helping patients make informed choices. From IVF clinics across the globe to the growing integration of AI, this conversation explores the delicate balance between technological innovation and the deeply human experience of fertility treatment.

Beyond the science, Jennifer and Alka explore the human side of genetic counseling, from the comfort an...

In this episode of The Think Factory Podcast, host Chris Santomassimo speaks with Pat McGrew, an expert in print industry strategy and education. Pat shares updates on Girls Who Print, a nonprofit focused on mentorship and professional growth. She explains how the organization is expanding globally, connecting professionals across industries and career stages. Pat also highlights key learning resources like Print University, WhatTheyThink.com, and Inkish.tv, which offer valuable training for newcomers and seasoned professionals alike.

The discussion also covers Printing United Orlando 2025, one of the industry’s biggest events. Pat details the addition of the En...

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal speaks with Taryn, a former therapist turned leadership expert, about the evolving workplace and the importance of psychological safety. They discuss how younger generations, particularly Gen Z, face increasing mental health challenges such as anxiety and ADHD, requiring leaders to cultivate emotionally intelligent, adaptive work environments. As digital-first employees struggle with traditional communication methods like phone calls, organizations must invest in leadership training to bridge generational gaps effectively.

Drawing from her years as a therapist, Taryn shares the profound impact of empathy and active li...

In this episode, Chris Santomassimo visits Supermarket Italy, a family-run business that’s become a go-to destination for international foods and gourmet ingredients. Chris sits down with Jacqueline and Gio Quattrone to talk about how the business started, how it's grown, and what makes their customer service so personal—even as the company has scaled in a big way.

From packing boxes by hand to managing a team of mostly women (many of whom have grown into leadership roles), the Quattrones share what it takes to run a company that still feels like a small business at hear...

On this episode of The Think Factory, we sit down with Tracey-Anne to explore what it really takes to build a strong, future-ready workforce. She reveals why hiring skilled technicians isn’t just about their mechanical know-how—it’s about critical thinking, adaptability, and long-term investment. Losing talent is costly, and Tracey-Anne shares how companies can recruit and retain employees who align with their values while also ensuring proper training and career development.

But a thriving workplace isn’t just about skills—it’s about culture. Tracey-Anne discusses the growing importance of mental health awareness, diversity, and inclusion in...

Join us as we chat with Jim Minadeo, President of Zero Surge, about their unique approach to surge protection. In a market where many companies chase short-term gains, Zero Surge remains focused on providing long-lasting, reliable products that don't need replacing. Jim explains how their growth strategy centers on Value Added Resellers (VARs) and OEM partnerships, allowing them to penetrate high-end markets such as luxury yachts and upscale residential projects. He also discusses the challenges the company faces, including rising supplier costs due to new tariffs, and how they navigate the complexities of corporate payments. Tune in to hear...

On this episode of Think Factory Podcast, we dive into the high-energy world of New York real estate with our guest, Andrew Marson, who shares firsthand experiences from both residential and commercial markets. Andrew explains how Manhattan’s market has bounced back post-COVID and how interest rates are reshaping buying trends. He also discusses B6 Real Estate’s unique brokerage model, the role of AI and tech in the industry, and the evolving landscape of property transactions. Wrapping up, he offers valuable career advice for young professionals: keep going, keep learning, and believe in the work you’re putting in—eve...

In this episode of The Think Factory, Alec Faber, President and CEO of Diversified Labels Digital Printing, sits down face-to-face with Chris Santomassimo to discuss the evolution of his family business. Originally focused on automobile-related products, the company transitioned into the label printing industry, carving out a strong presence and reputation for speed, quality, and reliability. Alec shares how Diversified Labels expanded beyond its automotive niche, making a bold move to bring printing operations in-house, which allowed them to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and deliver high-quality, serialized labels with faster turnaround times.

Alec also dives into how...

In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, host Alka Bahal sits down with Kim Vogt, Director of Human Resources at J. Josephson, to discuss the unique HR challenges in manufacturing. Kim shares insights on recruiting in an industry where skilled workers are scarce, the importance of hiring for attitude over experience, and how J. Josephson’s robust training program helps employees grow from entry-level to leadership roles.

She also dives into the struggle to attract gender diversity on the factory floor, the need for bilingual HR staff to connect with a culturally diverse workforce, and the scarcity of...

Join us for an insightful conversation with Erin Mills, founder and CEO of Strat House, as she shares her journey of building a thriving experiential marketing agency while maintaining a strong commitment to family. Discover how she transformed her vision into reality, creating a business that allows her to be present for her children without compromising on success. Erin opens up about the challenges of scaling her company, the lessons she’s learned, and how she continues to navigate the delicate balance between entrepreneurship and personal fulfillment.

In this episode, we also explore the evolving landscape of li...

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Dr. Maria Rodriguez, founder of CARE Counseling Center, discusses her mission to provide culturally responsive mental health care to immigrant families. Drawing from her own experience immigrating from the Dominican Republic, she highlights the importance of language and cultural awareness in therapy. She also addresses the growing demand for telehealth services, particularly among families fearing deportation, and shares insights into the challenges immigrant children face in today’s political climate.

Dr. Rodriguez also talks about her book, From Chaos to Clarity: Transforming Pain Into Purpose, which she wrote together wi...