The Think Factory Podcast

The Think Factory Podcast

by The Think Factory

Management Marketing

Valerie Chianuri, General Counsel and Head of People, nTop

In this episode of The Think Factory podcast, Alka Bahal sits down with Valerie Chianuri—General Counsel, Head of People, and wearer of many hats at NTOP, a computational design startup reshaping advanced manufacturing with AI. With refreshing honesty, she opens up about navigating chaos in startups, bridging cross-generational communication, and why being a "roll-up-your-sleeves" leader is often the secret to building resilient teams. Valerie also reflects on lessons from her immigrant upbringing, her growth into government relations, and what keeps her up at night—hint: it’s more than just her cat. Disclaimer

Jonah Fink, President, Net2Phone

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 remote employers and teams, improving productivity. Disclaimer

Rich Vaill, President, Custom Marketing Solutions, LLC

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 next chapter or a civilian eager to support those who served, this conversation offers insight, practical advice, and a call to action. Disclaimer

Paul Yater, CIO and Head of HR, 84 Lumber Company

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 Yater likening AI to a kitchen microwave. Yater’s story is a case study in courage, capability, and the power of transferable skills across business domains. Disclaimer

Erik Norman, President, swissQprint America

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 give clients a platform that grows with their business, stays dependable, and in the words of one satisfied customer "this device just takes a load off my shoulders." Tune in to hear more about swissQprint America's vibrant mark in the print and packing industry. Disclaimer

Paul Hudson, Owner & CEO, Hudson Printing

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 compelling listen for brand leaders, marketers, and anyone curious about how traditional print can still lead innovation in a digital-first world. Disclaimer

Barbara Mosquera, MSW, LCSW (Founder), TrainEmotions Counseling

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. Disclaimer

Kevin Heslin, President, and Ian Heslin, Vice President, Seaway Printing

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 down wasn't how to run a press, but how the business actually makes--and loses--money, emphasizing the critical need to understand where value is created within the business. Disclaimer

Courtney Balderas-Jacob, Owner & Chief Operations and Strategy Officer, Evolve Human Optimization Labs

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 to build a better culture, Courtney offers fresh, practical ways to make wellness part of the everyday experience. Disclaimer

Darryl Stratton, HR Director, Alpine Ocean

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 supporting a broad range of clients, from government agencies to utilities and offshore projects. Beyond industry insights, Darryl also offers a candid view of his leadership style, influenced by his military background. Disclaimer

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