The Think Factory Podcast

The Think Factory Podcast

di The Think Factory

Amministrazione Marketing

Deepak Shrivastava, Founder and CEO, Sunrise AI

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 strategy that empowers teams to solve problems in innovative ways. Deepak also addresses the significance of mental health in the workplace, sharing how he actively models work-life balance. Disclaimer

Mark Whitehead, Co-Founder, NDAY Security

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 this enterprise-level security to small and mid-sized businesses — the doctor's offices, law firms, and boutique funds that often think they're too small to be a target. (Spoiler alert: if you’re online, you’re already on someone’s radar.) Disclaimer

Amy Zitelman, CEO and Co-Founder, Soom Foods

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 ship and a mother of three, Amy opens up about the daily teeter-totter between scaling a national brand and answering little voices saying, “Mommy, don’t go to work.” It’s an honest, inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and the sweet-and-savory hustle of building a brand from the ground up. Disclaimer

La-Toya Hackney, North America SVP and General Counsel, Saint-Gobain North America

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

Alexis Bovalino, HR Director, Burgatory Bar

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 for frontline workers and calls for greater compassion from employers in today’s shifting social landscape. Her vision for the future is big and deeply human: build a workplace where people feel safe, supported, and successful. Disclaimer

Gene Plotkin, VP of Sales, Mimeo

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 than many overseas suppliers, and they offer 24/7 support directly from their Memphis facility. There are no overseas call centers—just people who know the ins and outs of your order, whether it's selecting the right paper stock or ensuring FedEx delivers it right to your door on time. Gene also talks about Mimeo’s massive, football-field-sized facility, and the moment of pride he felt seeing the tangible, beautiful art of print come to life, all made right here in America. Disclaimer

Adrienne Fudge, Founder & CEO, 40Dreams Catering

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 promote health, especially for seniors. She shares a powerful story of a client whose health dramatically improved after switching back to 40 Dreams’ low-salt, no-sugar meals. For Adrienne, success isn’t just a full plate — it’s knowing that her food is helping people live better, longer lives. Disclaimer

John Fudge, Executive Vice President, USA Funding

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 return of lender fees, and how tools like Zoom have expanded their reach. Reflecting on his roots as an Eagle Scout, he credits early lessons in discipline and ambition for shaping his entrepreneurial drive. His message is simple: success comes from doing the tough stuff well—and doing it consistently. Disclaimer

Greg Joramo, Vice President of Sales, and Halie Howell, Social Media, PR, & Communications Manager at Flex Technology Group

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 helping customers navigate this transition, identifying where digital print makes the most sense—especially as labor shortages and the demand for agility grow. This episode offers a compelling look at how organizations can reduce costs, boost output, and even create new business opportunities through smarter print strategies. Disclaimer

Sharon Diamondstein, Director of Congregational Learning, The Jewish Center of Princeton

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 supportive community for families. Sharon also shares personal reflections on her career journey, including valuable advice she would give her younger self. She emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts and pushing past self-doubt. She talks about the universal experience of "imposter syndrome" and how everyone, regardless of their achievements, faces moments of uncertainty. Disclaimer

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