The Think Factory Podcast

The Think Factory Podcast

by The Think Factory

Management Marketing

Coni Lefferts, President of Creative Packaging Solutions Corporation

In this episode, packaging expert Connie Lefferts shares how decades in the industry have shown her that great packaging can make or break a brand. From discovering the power of packaging through a cookie-company rethink in the ’90s to guiding today’s emerging brands through materials, engineering, design, and market positioning, she offers a masterclass in how the right container elevates a product’s value, presence, and consumer appeal. Connie breaks down the psychology behind what catches a buyer’s eye, the impact of digital printing and small-run capabilities, and why early market research is essential for founders. Her insights reveal why thoughtful packaging isn’t just a finishing touch, it’s a strategic driver of growth and often the catalyst for acquisition-worthy success. Disclaimer

Christopher Foster, VP, New Business Development, Modern Postcard

What if your next great marketing breakthrough arrived in the mailbox? Modern Postcard’s Chris Foster sits down with host Chris Santomassimo to discuss how automation, analytics, and good old-fashioned print are combining to create smarter, more human marketing. Together, they trace how direct mail has gone from static postcard to dynamic, data-powered touchpoint. Foster shares real-world examples—from home service pros reaching entire neighborhoods overnight to national brands using automated triggers for anniversaries and new homeowners—all while keeping campaigns privacy-compliant and measurable. Undoubtedly, Modern has become more than a printer—it’s a data company that happens to print. The result is a powerful case for why physical mail still drives modern marketing success. Disclaimer

Brian Franz, Vice President, Envision-3

At Envision-3, Vice President Brian Franz sees print not as a fading medium, but as a flexible, powerful force that bridges design and technology. In this episode, he talks about how Envision 3 uses print’s tactile value and precision to help brands stand out while keeping production efficient through smart automation. From custom packaging to high-touch direct mail, Brian shows how craftsmanship and curiosity keep print relevant in a digital-first world. He and host Chris Santomassimo dig into why adaptability, authenticity, and humor are key to sustaining success in both business and life. Disclaimer

Teddy Gedamu, Founder & CEO of Tenasol Technologies

In this episode of The Think Factory, host Susan Kleiner sits down with Teddy Gedamu, founder and CEO of Tenasol, a health tech company leading the charge in AI-powered data transformation. Teddy discusses how Tenasol’s mission—to turn the chaos of health data into clarity—grew from a deep personal connection to the word tena, meaning “health.” From major partnerships with national health plans to innovations that streamline operations and improve care outcomes, Teddy reveals what it takes to drive impact in one of the most regulated industries in the world. His insights on grit, ethics, and leadership offer a grounded look at the real work behind healthcare innovation. Disclaimer

Edward Russnow, President, MAC Products Inc.

In this episode of The Think Factory, Chris Santomassimo talks with Ed Russnow, President of MAC Products Inc., a family-owned New Jersey manufacturer marking 60 years in business. Russnow shares how the company grew from a catalog parts supplier into a solutions-driven engineering firm with the trademark motto “We don’t do easy.” He highlights how MAC Products invests in people—through immigrant workforce development, ESL programs, and automation that upskills employees—while staying rooted in family values and long-term commitment to local manufacturing. The result is a culture built on problem-solving, innovation, and pride in sustaining a multigenerational legacy. Disclaimer

Tim Moore, Vice President, Head of Legal & Compliance, Corium

In this episode of The Think Factory’s Workplace Podcast, Alka Bahal speaks with Timothy Moore, Vice President and Head of Legal and Compliance at Corium, about his career journey and leadership philosophy. Tim shares how his path from public service and private practice led him to in-house counsel, where a pivotal secondment at Pfizer sparked his passion for supporting businesses from the inside. He reflects on one of his proudest professional achievements—writing the brief that convinced the Florida Supreme Court to adopt a new hearsay exception—an accomplishment that continues to impact victims’ rights today. The conversation also turns to a discussion on leadership, where Tim emphasizes that true leadership is an evolving journey rather than a fixed destination. He describes his approach as “modular leadership,” adapting to the needs of the moment while grounding himself in genuineness, curiosity, and humility. Disclaimer

Matt Kulp, EVP and Managing Partner, St. Onge

How do you stay motivated in consulting for 25+ years while the world shifts from VHS tapes to AI and automation? On this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Alka Bahal chats with Matt Kulp of St. Onge Company about the future of supply chain—why consulting is more about clarity than answers, how to solve instead of sell, and why labor shortages and automation are reshaping the field. Matt also shares timeless career advice: show up, work hard, network, and keep a growth mindset. If you want to hear what keeps an industry leader up at night—and why he still loves the work—don’t miss this conversation. Disclaimer

Roslyn Dashiell, CEO and Executive Director, PEI Kids

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Susan Kleiner sits down with Roslyn Dashiell, CEO of PEI Kids, a nonprofit protecting child survivors of abuse and violence in Mercer County, NJ. Roslyn shares her journey from corporate marketing to nonprofit leadership, where she applies business savvy to sustain programs that change lives. She discusses PEI Kids’ 40-year impact—counseling, prevention education, and juvenile intervention—along with her leadership style, staff wellness priorities, and the vital role of community partnerships. Roslyn also looks ahead, envisioning PEI Kids as a model for child safety and support nationwide. Disclaimer

Racami & Printfluencers Podcast, SVP, Katelin Shanks

In this special ThinkFactory x Printfluencers crossover, podcast hosts Katelin Shanks (RACAMI) and Chris Santomassimo (OGC Solutions) dive into the hidden risks and emerging opportunities shaping the print and packaging world. From the dangers of bad data and the risks of unregulated usage to AI’s potential in workflow automation, Caitlin and Chris share candid insights from both the tech and legal sides of the industry. They dig into how companies can turn risk into opportunity through workflow visibility, smart data management, and niche legal expertise — and why Printing United Expo 2025 will be the place to see it all unfold. Disclaimer

Dave Lewis, President, SnailWorks

On this episode of The Think Factory podcast, host Chris Santomassimo welcomes Dave Lewis, President of SnailWorks, for an inside look at how mail tracking data is transforming the way organizations manage campaigns. With decades in the mailing industry, Dave shares how SnailWorks tracks millions of mail pieces each year, helping clients ensure delivery, meet compliance deadlines, and coordinate marketing and call center operations more effectively. Dave also unpacks the bigger picture—postal service slowdowns, ongoing rate hikes, and shifting regulations—while pointing to the resilience of direct mail as a trusted, high-ROI channel. From personalized printing and QR code integration to new postal promotions, he explains why mail continues to hold its ground against digital alternatives and what businesses should expect in the months ahead. Disclaimer

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