The Think Factory Podcast

In this episode of the Think Factory Podcast, Danny Sweem, CEO of M&R Printing Equipment, shares the remarkable story of a company that has spent more than four decades shaping the apparel decoration industry. From its beginnings as a screen-printing equipment manufacturer to its evolution into a global leader in digital printing technologies, Danny discusses how M&R has remained at the forefront of innovation while staying committed to exceptional quality, service, and long-term customer relationships. He also reflects on his own career journey through retail, manufacturing, distribution, and international markets, and how those experiences prepared him to lead the company through a rapidly changing industry.Danny explores the future of apparel decoration, including the growing role of digital printing, automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence in meeting the demands of modern production. He explains how evolving consumer expectations, shorter production runs, and faster delivery timelines are reshaping the industry, while traditional screen printing continues to thrive for large-scale and specialty applications. Throughout the conversation, Danny highlights M&R’s dedication to innovation, craftsmanship, and helping businesses of every size succeed in an increasingly dynamic marketplace.Disclaimer

This episode takes a deep dive into how AI-powered software is transforming the printing and packaging industries, moving far beyond buzzwords into real-world productivity, creativity, and efficiency gains. The conversation explores how EngView Systems has been building AI-driven, parametric design tools for decades, enabling packaging manufacturers, designers, and printers to reduce errors, shorten turnaround times, and automate complex structural design tasks that once took hours or days.Kris also discusses how AI, automation, and connected workflows are reshaping everything from cost estimation and sustainability to virtual prototyping, augmented reality, and short-run production. From smarter material optimization to safer, more efficient factory floors, this episode offers a forward-looking view of how embracing intelligent software can help companies stay competitive, profitable, and ready for what’s next.Disclaimer

In this episode, Oscar Perez, CFO of global design firm Snøhetta, offers an inside look at how the company blends architecture, landscape, interiors, and product design to create people-centered spaces around the world—from a groundbreaking presidential library in the North Dakota badlands to a border-bridging children’s museum in El Paso. He reflects on his non-linear career path, the importance of collaborative leadership in creative environments, and the challenges of guiding an international organization through uncertainty, cultural differences, and the post-COVID shift in how teams work.Oscar also shares insights on financial stewardship in a design-driven firm, empowering teams to innovate responsibly, and the evolving balance between personal and professional life as leaders navigate constant change.Disclaimer

In this episode, Ironmark president Matt Marzullo shares how the company has evolved from a traditional print operation into a tech-enabled, omni-channel marketing powerhouse. He discusses Ironmark’s growth through 18 acquisitions, the development of a national footprint, and the talent-driven culture that keeps former owners actively contributing years after joining the organization.Matt breaks down how predictive analytics, AI, and proprietary software are transforming campaign strategy—driving attributable ROI, smarter targeting, and seamless integration between digital and print. He also reflects on industry consolidation, the resurgence of print within modern marketing, and why Ironmark’s collaborative, people-first culture remains its greatest advantage.Disclaimer