The Think Factory Podcast

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...

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 prin...

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 s...

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....

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 Hali...

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...

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 experien...

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 mov...

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, unle...

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’...

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 prof...

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 compani...

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-co...

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...

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 S...

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 glob...

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 re...

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, adaptiv...

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 ma...

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 al...

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...

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 o...

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. Ale...

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-...

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 challe...