The Think Factory Podcast

The Think Factory Podcast

by The Think Factory
ManagementMarketing
Mark Cartier, Co-Founder of No Limits Café
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 self-advocacy, and how giving people the "dignity of risk" can help them grow beyond expectations. He also shares lessons from his transition from Wall Street to nonprofit leadership, why business leaders should not be afraid to embrace inclusive hiring, and how No Limits Cafe is expanding its mission through a new location at Rutgers University. The conversation offers a powerful look at how businesses can create opportunity, challenge assumptions, and build more inclusive workplaces.
Aug 25, 2026
25:10
Percy Dengler, Managing Director at Baumer hhs
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 sustainability in packaging, including changing regulations, CO2 costs, and the need to balance environmental responsibility with economic performance. Percy highlights Baumer HHS's latest innovation, Sugra, a 100% bio-based and biodegradable starch adhesive developed through collaboration with research institutions and industry partners. He shares how the company is working toward bringing the adhesive to market while maintaining the speed, quality, and efficiency customers expect from conventional solutions. The episode offers a look at how innovation, customer collaboration, and forward-thinking technology are shaping the future of sustainable packaging production.
Aug 20, 2026
26:12
Pam Brandon, CEO and Founder, AGE-u-cate
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 education to build empathy, improve communication, and give caregivers practical tools they can immediately apply. The conversation also examines the growing demand for dementia and geriatric care, workforce challenges, caregiver turnover, and emerging initiatives aimed at addressing these gaps. Pam challenges the misconception that a dementia diagnosis is the end of an active life, emphasizing the importance of connection, community, and helping people living with dementia maintain quality of life. She also shares lessons from her entrepreneurial journey and why collaboration—not competition—is essential to creating meaningful change in dementia care.
Aug 18, 2026
25:23
Dr. Judy Keen, Executive Director of the American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
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. Dr. Keen also discusses exciting developments in osteoporosis research, including regulatory advancements that are accelerating the development of new therapies, as well as the growing impact of AI on scientific discovery. She reflects on her career spanning academia, government, industry, and nonprofit leadership, highlighting the value of collaboration in driving medical innovation. Whether you're interested in healthcare, scientific research, or practical ways to maintain lifelong health, this episode offers valuable insights into the future of bone health and the science that supports it.
Aug 4, 2026
23:08
Tom Bandy, Founder & CEO of BandyWorks
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 the growing role of AI, changing consumer behaviors, food innovation, and the importance of creating exceptional customer experiences. Beyond technology, he emphasizes that great leadership, empowered employees, and genuine human connection remain the foundation of every successful business. Whether you're a retail operator, business leader, or entrepreneur looking to leverage data without losing sight of people, this conversation offers practical insights into building a smarter, more resilient organization.
Jul 30, 2026
33:23
Ryan Fox, Corrugated Market Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence
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 across North America. From the lasting effects of the pandemic to the growing influence of extended producer responsibility laws and advanced manufacturing technologies, he offers valuable insights into where the industry is headed and what business leaders should be preparing for as the packaging landscape continues to evolve. Disclaimer
Jul 23, 2026
41:02
Katie Jasmin, VP National Sales at Source One Digital
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. From managing high-pressure deadlines to building trust-based client relationships, she explains how resilience, problem-solving, and taking initiative can create lasting success. This conversation is packed with valuable lessons for emerging professionals, sales leaders, and anyone looking to grow their career through strong relationships and a commitment to lifelong learning. Disclaimer
Jul 9, 2026
42:36
Ken Coe, CFO, Humboldt Park Health
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 financial sustainability with community service, building resilient healthcare organizations, and creating meaningful change through mission-driven leadership. This conversation provides a compelling look at how thoughtful leadership can transform both healthcare systems and the communities they serve. Disclaimer
Jul 8, 2026
25:10
Will Jones, CEO, Thompson Child and Family Focus
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, leadership development, and Thompson’s mission to ensure every child has a safe and supportive home. Packed with insights on purpose-driven leadership, community impact, and solving meaningful problems, this episode offers valuable lessons for leaders in every industry. Disclaimer
Jul 7, 2026
35:01
Mark DeBoer, Senior Vice President Sales, Darwill
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 leadership. Mark also explores the critical role of data, personalization, and omnichannel marketing in today’s business environment. He discusses how organizations can improve marketing performance by combining direct mail with digital channels, leveraging data modeling to reach the right audiences, and creating measurable campaigns that drive results. Along the way, he highlights the importance of a growth mindset, collaboration, and continuous learning, while sharing how Darwill’s culture of innovation and community involvement helps the company stay ahead in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Disclaimer
Jul 2, 2026
27:12
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