PODCAST · business
Color Bar
by Sandy Alexander, Inc.
Color Bar brings you insightful and casual conversations with top marketers, industry experts, and print industry leaders who are shaping the future of print marketing. Hosted by Sandy Alexander, we dive into the hottest trends, cutting-edge strategies, and real-world success stories in print and beyond. Whether you’re a brand looking to amplify your messaging, a marketing pro eager to stay ahead, or an industry leader exploring the latest innovations, this podcast delivers engaging discussions on how print continues to evolve in the digital age.
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Don’t Ignore the Elephant in the Room: AI is Reshaping Print with Harrison Bailey from Smart Elephant
In this episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Harrison Bailey, founder of Smart Elephant, to discuss how AI, automation, and next-generation talent are reshaping the print and marketing industries.Broadcasting from Vietnam while traveling across Asia, Harrison shares how businesses around the world are facing many of the same challenges — and opportunities — when it comes to adopting AI. From workflow automation and AI-powered quoting tools to GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and AI-driven customer experiences, this conversation explores the practical ways companies can become more efficient, innovative, and competitive.The episode also dives into Smart Elephant’s unique university partnership model, connecting top-performing students specializing in AI, software engineering, and data analytics with real-world business challenges.Whether you’re curious about AI, trying to understand where the industry is headed, or looking for ways to future-proof your business, this episode delivers fresh insight, practical examples, and an inspiring perspective on the future of work.Guest: Harrison Bailey, Founder of Smart Elephant
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Meet Direct Mail’s “Thoughtful Overachiever” Era with AJ Layo from Sylvamo
In this episode of Color Bar, we’re joined by AJ Layo of Sylvamo for a conversation that redefines what’s possible in direct mail when the entire ecosystem works together.From paper mills to printers, technology partners to USPS, AJ shares how true collaboration is transforming direct mail into a smarter, more measurable, and more impactful channel. We dive into Sylvamo’s investment in innovation—from their “Intelligent Paper” initiative bringing AI into direct mail, to their efforts educating brands on how to better leverage USPS promotions to drive efficiency and ROI.This episode also explores how the role of paper has evolved—from an afterthought to a strategic decision—and why sustainability, data, and performance can (and should) coexist.One of our favorite moments? AJ describes direct mail as a “thoughtful overachiever”—and honestly, it couldn’t be more accurate when done right.If you're thinking about how to create direct mail that performs, proves its value, and stands out in today’s landscape, this conversation is a must-listen.
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Evolving Through Personalization: Leadership and the Power of the Pivot
This episode of Color Bar is about more than personalization—it’s about pressure, pivots, and what it really takes to evolve.Our guest, Rich Askam, a pioneer in print personalization joins us. Rich and his team were the force behind Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” campaign, where they hand-produced 1.6 million personalized bottles in just three months. But behind that success is a story many in the print and marketing world will recognize.Rich shares what it felt like stepping into a family business—balancing legacy with the need for change—and the difficult reality that sometimes, in order to move forward, you have to let go of what came before.“You’ve got to clear the runway sometimes to let another plane take off.” From shutting down a long-standing business to rebuilding from nearly zero, Rich walks through the moments that defined his career—and the mindset that helped him navigate them.This episode explores: The emotional weight of leading a family-owned business Why businesses don’t fail overnight—they fade when they stop changing The fear of pivoting vs. the opportunity inside it How necessity drives innovation and creativity Why personalization is still underutilized—even today The balance between AI, technology, and human creativity Rich also shares insights into his upcoming book, Your Name Here, and his personalized children’s series, You Are the Star.A conversation about embracing change, thinking differently, and why the most defining moments in business often come when everything feels uncertain.
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Burnout isn't a Badge of Honor - How the Next Generation of Talent Is Changing our Perspective!
What if we’ve been measuring success all wrong?In this episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Allie Watt to explore how the next generation of talent is redefining what it means to succeed—and what that means for leaders across industries.Allie offers a candid, grounded perspective shaped by real experience: this generation isn’t less committed—they’re committed differently. They’re not driven by hours logged or burnout endured. They’re driven by impact, clarity, and purpose.They want to understand the why behind the work. They expect a seat at the table. And they recognize that without a clear definition of what “winning” looks like, success becomes nearly impossible to achieve.This conversation challenges long-held assumptions about performance, leadership, and culture. It highlights a broader shift—from effort to outcomes, from hierarchy to collaboration, and from grind to intentionality.For organizations looking to attract, retain, and unlock the full potential of the next generation, the message is clear: this isn’t a trend to watch—it’s a transformation to lead.Because the future of work isn’t coming.It’s already here.
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Beyond the Campaign: The Evolution of Brand Activation with Denise Costello
What makes a brand activation actually work? In this episode of Color Bar, Denise Costello joins Betsy & Kim to discuss the shift from one-time campaigns to connected brand experiences that drive memory, engagement, and long-term impact. They cover experiential marketing, pop-ups, influencer strategies, execution pitfalls, and why the best brand moments start with a clear intention.
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Color Bar: Web-to-Print Is Dead. Long Live Smart Print.
In this episode of Color Bar, hosts Betsy Davis and Kim Opdyke welcome Chris Minn, CEO of Digital Ink, joining us live from the UAE, for a global perspective on where the print industry is headed—and why it’s time to retire the phrase “web-to-print.”Chris challenges legacy thinking and makes the case that print’s future isn’t about storefronts or ordering portals—it’s about workflow, automation, AI, and integration. The conversation explores how data, robotics, and intelligent production systems are reshaping manufacturing floors and enabling true print-on-demand at scale.Together, the group discusses:Why “web-to-print” no longer reflects realityHow AI and automation are streamlining productionThe role of data in smarter decision-makingAdapting to evolving customer expectations across global marketsThe message is clear: print companies that embrace technology, collaboration, and innovation won’t just survive—they’ll lead.
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Color Bar: Finding the Voice of Direct Mail with AI
In this episode of Color Bar, we’re joined by Dave Rosendahl of MindFire to explore the future of direct mail—and how AI is helping it finally find its voice.Betsy Davis, Kim Opdyke and Dave Rosendahl dig into how data, automation, and AI-powered experiences are transforming direct mail from a static channel into an interactive, measurable, and deeply personal marketing engine.The group announces a new Sandy Alexander + MindFire partnership, highlighting innovations like personalized QR codes, AI-driven conversations, and real-time engagement tracking that seamlessly connect print and digital. They unpack smarter campaign planning, early collaboration between partners, postal incentives that reduce costs, and how AI is reshaping how marketers think about attribution and performance.The conversation also takes a thoughtful turn, touching on mental health awareness in the print and marketing industries—and why people matter just as much as technology.The episode wraps with an invitation to join upcoming campaigns and educational events, leaving listeners with a clear message:direct mail isn’t just alive—it’s interactive, intelligent, and measurable like never before.🎧 Tune in to hear how AI is changing the way direct mail speaks, listens, and connects.
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Elevate, Educate, Empower: How the WiRL Summit and Community Are Transforming Women’s Leadership in the Restaurant Industry
In this episode of Color Bar, Betsy & Kim sit down with Satyne Doner, Senior Editor of Women in Restaurant Leadership (WiRL), to explore how community, mentorship, and authenticity are reshaping leadership in the restaurant industry.The conversation dives into the mission behind WiRL, what makes the upcoming WiRL Summit different from traditional industry events, and why creating space for real connection matters now more than ever. Satyne shares insights on elevating women leaders, navigating career growth in a fast-paced industry, and the power of showing up as your full self at every stage of leadership.Whether you’re an emerging leader or a seasoned executive, this episode offers thoughtful perspective—and practical takeaways—on building confidence, advocating for yourself, and leading with purpose.
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Live in Color: Creativity, Culture & Conscious Leadership with Francis McMahon
In Part Two of our conversation with Francis McMahon, we explore the future of leadership, culture, and creativity in print. Francis shares why the next generation of talent wants harmony — to be seen as humans, not just employees — and why health, wellness, and burnout can no longer be treated as weaknesses.We discuss building culture from a place of caring, surrounding yourself with smart people, and putting the right people in the right seats. Francis also weighs in on AI with an emphatic “Yes. Yes. Yes.” — and how it enables leaders to be more strategic and thoughtful.We close with what it means to Live in Color: breaking through creative layers, knowing when to lead and when to follow, and letting creativity out.
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Print is Life! Why We're at the Beginning - Not the End!
To open Color Bar in 2026, we welcome a true architect of modern print culture — Francis McMahon. Across a remarkable career at Kodak, HP, Canon, and now Tecnau, Francis didn’t just help advance print technology — he helped build the communities that power our industry. From the creation of DSCOOP and thINK to the Digital Advisory Councils at HP and Canon, Francis opened doors that brought leaders together, sparked collaboration, and shaped how we learn, connect, and grow as an industry.In this conversation, Francis shares why he believes “print is life” — and why we are standing at the beginning of print’s next chapter, not the end. We explore the leadership influences that shaped him, his thoughtful and values-driven approach to leading teams, and the reflective moment when he recognized it was time to embrace a new chapter in his professional journey.That transition led to new doors, new energy, and a new beginning at Tecnau — and along the way, powerful lessons about trust, reinvention, and staying true to what inspires you.This episode is about leadership, community, and belief — and why the future of print has never been more alive.
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Color Bar: Building the Bench How the Next Generation Is Reshaping the Future of Print
The future of print isn’t just about technology — it’s about people.In this Color Bar conversation, Betsy Davis sits down with Peter van Teeseling of Dscoop to explore one of the most critical topics facing our industry today: how we attract, retain, engage, and inspire the next generation of talent.Together, they reflect on early career uncertainty, the power of mentorship, and the responsibility today’s leaders carry in creating workplaces where emerging talent feels seen, supported, and empowered to grow. From redefining career paths to embracing fresh perspectives and evolving leadership expectations, this episode dives into what it truly takes to build a strong, sustainable talent pipeline for the future of print.Because the next generation isn’t just joining our industry — they’re shaping it.
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Color Bar Crossover: From Vision to Variable: How Sandy Alexander Brings Personalization to Life
🎙 This episode flips the script.In this special Color Bar crossover, Betsy Davis steps to the other side of the mic as she’s interviewed by industry icon Deborah Corn for a candid, wide-ranging conversation on the power of personalization, print, and brand experience.Betsy shares how Sandy Alexander helps some of the world’s most iconic retail, dining, entertainment, and lifestyle brands bring marketing to life—through expertly executed print, smart data strategies, and technology platforms like XMpie that enable personalization at scale without losing the magic.Together, Betsy and Deborah dig into how brands can turn data into meaningful moments, why personalization is no longer optional, and how the right mix of technology, craftsmanship, and partnership creates marketing that truly connects with consumers—whether it’s in-store, in-hand, or in-home.Expect insights, real-world examples, and a fresh perspective as Color Bar’s co-host takes the interview seat and pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to deliver personalized experiences that perform.✨ Bold ideas. Smart tech. Personal connections.
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“Stamped in Gold: The Story Behind Tiny Tags" with Founder and CEO Melissa Clayton
In this episode of Color Bar, Betsy and Kim sit down with the incomparable Melissa Clayton, founder and CEO of Tiny Tags—the beloved personalized jewelry brand worn by moms, icons, and everyday heroes. Melissa opens up about her path from CPA and stay-at-home mom to visionary entrepreneur, sharing the real, behind-the-scenes story of what it takes to build a brand with heart.From bootstrapping and bold pivots to authentic storytelling and building a fiercely loyal community, Melissa brings equal parts wisdom and warmth to every topic. We dig into product innovation, organic growth strategies, retail partnerships, and why cheering on other women in business is not just a value—but a superpower.Packed with inspiration, hard-won lessons, and Melissa’s signature honesty, this episode is a must-listen for anyone dreaming big, building something meaningful, or searching for the courage to stay true to their mission.
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The Power of the "Intermission" with MGM Resorts Chief Sales Officer - Stephanie Glanzer
🎙️ In this episode of Color Bar, Betsy and Kim sit down with the radiant Stephanie Glaser — Chief Sales Officer at MGM Resorts — for a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and real.With nearly three decades in hospitality, Stephanie opens up about her journey of leadership, personal branding, and well-being — and how MGM is redefining workplace culture with its innovative sabbatical program, “The Intermission.”From giving yourself grace to finding balance and modeling authenticity as a leader, this episode is a masterclass in holistic growth — with plenty of laughs, wisdom, and aha moments along the way.Tune in to be inspired to hit your own intermission — and come back stronger, more centered, and ready to shine.
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The Mailbox You Can’t Turn Off — Postal Promotions - Performance - Power of Phygital!
In this episode of Color Bar, hosts Betsy Davis and Kim Opdyke dive into the evolution of direct mail with two industry powerhouses — Chris Lien, EVP of Postal Affairs at BCC Software, and David Rosendahl, Co-Founder and President of MindFire Inc.Together, they unpack how technology, automation, and real-time tracking are turning traditional mail into a smart, data-driven powerhouse that marketers can finally measure, optimize, and integrate seamlessly with digital campaigns.From 2026 USPS promotions and catalog creativity to the truth that the mailbox is the one channel you can’t turn off, this episode explores how direct mail is reclaiming its spot in the modern marketing mix — delivering performance, personalization, and a serious dose of phygital power.If you thought mail was old school, think again — this is where print meets predictive.
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Unleashing Innovation: Transforming Pet Retail Through Emotional Connections with Mel Bishop of Pet Supermarket
In this episode of "Color Bar," Betsy & Kim welcome Mel Bishop, Director of In-Store Marketing for Pet Supermarket. Mel shares insights on the unique, emotional nature of pet retail, emphasizing the importance of customer experience, innovative in-store events, and personalized service. The discussion covers holiday planning, the evolving use of technology like QR codes, and the power of collaboration and continuous improvement. They also explore loyalty programs, highlighting the need for aspirational rewards and authentic engagement to build lasting customer loyalty in a competitive retail landscape.
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From Potholes to Pop-Ups: Unleashing Creativity in Brand Storytelling with Kat Tushim of AMP Agency
In this episode of Color Bar, we welcome back Kat Tushim, Executive Creative Director, for a conversation all about “Looking Left”—taking unexpected, fresh approaches to marketing challenges.Kat takes us inside bold campaigns for 360 Chicago, Kum & Go, BF Goodrich, and more, sharing how “looking left” fuels creativity, disrupts the ordinary, and unlocks cross-industry inspiration. From immersive retail experiences and holiday storytelling to AI-driven personalization, Kat breaks down what it takes to connect with evolving consumer expectations and deliver brand moments that stick.Listeners will hear candid insights on mentorship through her work with True Chicago, how to reimagine campaigns with personality and purpose, and why authenticity always wins. This is a practical, inspiring episode packed with strategies for marketers who want to create experiences that are not just seen—but felt and remembered.
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“The Future Is Experiential: Wendy Moodie on Creativity, Tech, and Brand Integrity”
In this episode, hosts Betsy Davis and Kim Opdyke sit down with Wendy Moodie, co-founder of one of today’s most innovative event production companies. Wendy pulls back the curtain on her journey designing immersive, can’t-miss brand experiences across entertainment, retail, travel, and beyond.The conversation dives into:How experiential marketing has evolved from flashy activations to authentic, story-driven engagementWhy brand integrity is non-negotiable when creating environments that wow and lastThe game-changing role of technology in transforming spaces into living, breathing experiencesWendy also shares her take on the rise of pop-up culture, how brands can spark massive amplification through social media, and what companies should know before stepping into immersive marketing.The episode wraps with a bold look ahead at future trends—and Wendy’s call for brands to lean into creativity, courage, and innovation as they reimagine how to connect with their audiences.
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“Great Minds Print Alike” with Helen Smith of Precision Proco
Helen Smith, Head of Marketing at Precision Proco, joins Color Bar to talk about relaunching their podcast Great Minds Print Alike—and why sometimes the bravest move is simply to Stop Overthinking and Take Action! Check out the podcast here: Great Minds Print Alike We dig into the impact of AI on business and marketing strategies—how we can still show up authentically, while weaving AI into the creative process to spark ideas, accelerate execution, and free up time for what matters most: strategy and human connection.Helen also shares what happened when she fully unplugged on vacation—how stepping away recharged her creativity and gave her team the chance to grow. It became a powerful example of engaging the next generation of talent in our industry and empowering them with real responsibility. As Helen put it best:“There is nothing more motivational than trust.”We wrap by reimagining B2B demand generation—shifting away from being purely sales-driven and leaning into marketing-led, playful, multi-channel approaches. And Helen reminds us of a truth every marketer should hold onto:“It’s not always about selling a product—it’s about selling a feeling.” If you’re a B2B marketer or a business leader, this episode is packed with real conversation and real opportunities—both personally and for your business.
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Curing the Busy Brain: Dr. Romie on Wellness, Leadership, and Hope at Work
Cure our busy brains and bring hope back into our businesses! In this episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Dr. Romie Mushtaq, neurologist, mindfulness expert, author of The Busy Brain Cure, and Chief Wellness Officer of Great Wolf Lodge Resorts.Together, we explore:What it really means to be a Chief Wellness Officer and why more companies should consider this transformative role.How to begin creating a culture of wellness inside organizations.Practical ways to connect wellness across five generations in the workplace.How leaders can lead authentically while curing their own busy brains.Dr. Romie also shares her personal daily morning practice—Hydrate. Pray. Meditate.—and simple, actionable steps for leaders:Start your day with 30 minutes of no phone, quiet reflection, hydration, stretching, etc. Digital Detox! Practice empathetic listening.Be someone’s hope holder.Take the Busy Brain Test today at www.drromie.com and check out her book The Busy Brain Cure to begin igniting hope in yourself and your organization.
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Why Not Me? Why Not Now? – Kecia Hielscher on Bold Moves, Green Lights & Growing Formulary 55
On this episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Kecia Hielscher, CEO of Formulary 55, to talk about the leap from the corporate world to becoming your own boss—and how staying true to your intentions of freedom and flexibility can lead to remarkable success. Inspired by the “green lights” philosophy from Matthew McConaughey’s book, Kecia shares how she built and scaled her luxury bath and body brand, from product development to finding the right channels—online, in-store, and wholesale. We explore the real-world marketing lessons she’s learned, including how Sandy Alexander supported her catalog and trade show booth for expansion into new markets. Throughout the conversation, Kecia challenges aspiring entrepreneurs to ask themselves: “Why not me? Why not now?” and reminds us all to be bold, trust your gut, and follow your own green lights.
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Beyond the Mirror: The Story of Caire Beauty with Founders Lorrie King & Celeste Lee
In this inspiring episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Lorrie King and Celeste Lee, the visionary co-founders of Caire Beauty—a science-forward skincare brand created specifically for women aged 40 to 65.We unpack their journey from startup to standout, exploring everything from the intentionality behind the brand name ("I care") to the challenges and triumphs of launching a brand in today’s evolving beauty landscape. From building direct-to-consumer traction to embracing retail and pop-up activations, Caire is redefining how beauty brands connect with women in midlife.We also dive into how AI is shaping the omni-channel experience, the rise of subscription models, and why loyalty now goes far beyond points—it’s about purpose.This isn’t just skincare. It’s self-care. It’s a movement.Tune in to hear how Caire is helping women care more boldly—for their skin, their confidence, and themselves. MAKE SURE TO USE THE SPECIAL PROMO OFFER FOR SANDY ALEXANDER - www.cairebeauty.com and use promo - SANDY20 #ColorBarPodcast #CaireBeauty #FoundersStory #BeautyIndustry #Omnichannel #WomenOver40 #BrandWithPurpose #SkincareReimagined
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Retail Glow-Up: Reinventing the In-Store Experience with Logitech & Response Marketing
In this episode of Color Bar, we're joined by Carolyn Walker, CEO of Response Marketing, and Irma Sandoval, Head of Channel Marketing at Logitech, for a conversation that’s all about the retail glow-up. The duo takes us behind the scenes of a transformational moment with Best Buy, where a decade-long evolution in category management led to a powerful in-store reinvention. Irma shares Logitech’s three guiding pillars—Invite, Inspire, Irresistible—and how they aim to elevate the brand to icon status. We unpack what’s working (and what’s not) in modern in-store engagement, including a candid look at QR codes and why marketers need to think beyond the scan. Plus, hear what created a line-around-the-block moment at the flagship Micro Center store in Silicon Valley. For any channel marketer or brand team looking to push creative and strategic boundaries in retail, this is a must-listen episode.
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Color Bar with Carolyn Walker: “Butts in Seats”—Redefining the Dining Experience
In this episode, we’re diving into the restaurant industry’s ultimate goal: getting butts in seats—and keeping them coming back. Joining us is Carolyn Walker, CEO of Response and a progressive force in marketing, known for pushing boundaries and reimagining the guest experience.We explore what it takes to create a truly memorable dining experience—from the menu and the music to the bathroom and the website. Carolyn unpacks how every brand touchpoint matters and how scaling that “local favorite” feeling across hundreds (or thousands) of locations is the real challenge—and opportunity—for today’s restaurant brands.We also discuss:How personalization is shaping modern dining expectationsWhy immersive moments are the new loyalty programThe powerful role AI is playing—not just in marketing, but in restaurant operationsIf you're in the business of getting guests to return, this conversation is a must-listen.
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Shaping Space: The Art of In-Store Creativity with Sean Sager Set + Stage Creative
In this episode of Color Bar, we sit down with Sean Sager, Principal and Creative Director at Set + Stage Creative, to explore the bold, brilliant world of in-store experiences and 3D executions. From oversized props that stop you in your tracks to subtle design details that shape shopper behavior, Sean shares how creativity and strategy collide to craft unforgettable retail moments.We dive into how sustainability plays a growing role in these physical builds, with a focus on repurposing materials and designing for longevity. Sean also unpacks how emerging technology—from digital design tools to new fabrication methods—is expanding what's possible without expanding the budget. And of course, we explore the challenge of pushing creative boundaries while staying true to a brand’s voice and values.Whether you’re a marketer, a creative director, or just fascinated by how physical spaces influence consumer behavior, this conversation is packed with inspiration and behind-the-scenes insight.
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Leading Through the Now: Women Shaping the Future of Retail & Hospitality - with Jennifer DiPasquale
“Leading Through the Now: Women Shaping the Future of Retail & Hospitality” In this episode of Color Bar, we’re joined by Jennifer DiPasquale, Co-Founder and President of Women in Retail and Women Leading Travel & Hospitality—two powerful communities elevating and connecting the voices of women across industries.Together, we dive into the real-world challenges and bold strategies women leaders are navigating right now—from managing margin pressure and dynamic pricing strategies to embracing AI-powered personalization and redesigning the role of the physical store. We talk about the cautious consumer mindset, the evolving demands of talent attraction and retention, and the rise of reverse mentorship as a powerful leadership tool.This conversation is an honest, insight-packed look at what’s keeping leaders up at night—and how they’re finding creative, collaborative ways forward with strong teams and even stronger vision through the communities of Women In Retail and Women Leading Travel & Hospitality.
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Building the Brand: How Union Cycle Turned Identity into Experience
What does it *really* take to build a brand from scratch?In our latest *Color Bar* episode, we sit down with Jennifer and Brian Keita—founders of Union Cycle & Strength—to explore the emotional, strategic, and the very real journey of launching a fitness brand from the ground up.It started with a logo… but became so much more.From scent machines and lighting choices to apparel design and social strategy, every detail of Union was created with intention—to foster community, unity, and a brand experience that feels like home.We talk about:• The power of brand identity to make an idea “real”•Creating word-of-mouth with limited resources•How merchandise becomes marketing•The challenge of getting people in the door•And why staying true to your vision is key as you scale up Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or just love a good brand story—this one's packed with insight and inspiration. Watch or listen here: \[Insert YouTube or podcast link]Got a favorite example of a brand that nailed community-building? Drop it in the comments
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It is cheating if AI helped?
Who else is struggling to know the right moves in content development right now? With the explosion of marketing channels, it’s never been more complex — or more overwhelming — to craft the right content at the right time for both B2C and B2B audiences.In this episode, we unpack the challenges marketers face when juggling personalization, platform strategy, creative storytelling, and the rise of AI-powered tools. Does using AI feel like cheating? Can content still be authentic when a machine had a hand in writing it? And who can we trust to help us navigate this evolving content ecosystem?Tune in as we dig into the pressures for content development in a multi-channel, AI-influenced marketing world. Whether you’re a seasoned brand leader or just trying to keep your content calendar alive, this episode brings perspective, honesty, and maybe even a little feeling of you're not on an island alone.
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Marketing Goes to the Dogs (and Ferrets): How Pet Brands Are Going Human-Grade with Strategy - starring Fleetwood!
If you've listened to Color Bar, you know we are huge pet fans and Kim has a houseful with her furry babies, so on this episode of Color Bar, we’re diving into the booming world of pet marketing — and how brands are taking a page from the human playbook. Kim and Fleetwood go shopping for a first-hand look. From omni-channel strategies and localized in-store experiences to digital integrations and hyper-personalized direct mail, pet retailers and healthcare companies are going all-in to connect with today’s pet parents.We explore how national pet brands are customizing messaging at the store level, how tech is showing up in physical signage, and why treating pet owners like savvy consumers (because they are) is lifting response rates and building brand loyalty. Whether you’re in retail, healthcare, or marketing to humans or hounds — there’s something to learn from the way we’re all wagging toward more engaging experiences.
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On the Ball! Sales & Leadership Training with Marc Nudelberg
We talk marketing most of the time on Color Bar—but today, we’re diving into the world of sales and the essential connection between the two. Our guest is Marc Nudelburg, President of OnTheBall (OTB), a dynamic organization focused on helping sales leaders train smarter, connect differently, and grow with intention.Whether you’re a B2B sales leader, part of a sales team, or just looking to sharpen your edge, this episode is packed with insights, including:How to use social platforms to connect with the right people and grow your businessLeveraging tools like Sales Navigator, ZoomInfo, and video to break through the noiseBuilding your personal brand in an authentic wayBalancing AI-generated content with real human connectionWhy discipline and consistency are the true differentiators in sales successMarc shares actionable strategies, stories from the field, and a refreshing perspective on modern sales.👉 Want to go deeper? Connect with Marc on LinkedIn and schedule one of OTB’s famous “virtual coffees” to continue the conversation beyond the pod.
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Kim is heading to MEG! Marketing Executive Group @ National Restaurant Association Conference
This week, the Marketing Executives Group (MEG) event is taking place in Chicago, alongside the National Restaurant Association Show — and our very own Kim Opdyke is on the ground.In this episode, Kim shares firsthand insights into the key topics shaping conversations among dining industry marketers at MEG. From enhancing loyalty programs and leveraging AI in both marketing and operations, to launching new store openings and staying ahead of evolving trends — this episode covers it all.Tune in to get a pulse on what’s next in restaurant marketing.🔗 Learn more about MEG: https://restaurant.org/events-and-community/conferences/marketing-executives-group/
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Behind the Menu with Dinetec's Kim Opdyke!
We’re serving up a special episode of Color Bar with Kim Opdyke, who’s trading in her usual role as co-host to join us as the COO of DineTec, Sandy Alexander’s dedicated division for the dining industry.In this episode, Kim takes us behind the scenes of the technology powering one of the most important—and overlooked—marketing tools in the restaurant world: the menu. From data-driven menu optimization to the latest trends in loyalty programs and guest experience, we dive into how brands are working to get more "butts in seats" by creating meaningful, in-restaurant engagement.Kim’s passion for the dining space and the work DineTec is doing for leading restaurant brands comes through loud and clear—don’t miss this flavorful conversation!
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Let's Talk Shop...ping...with Patsy Koepke
Driving In-Store Traffic in a Digital-First WorldWith Back to School and Holiday shopping seasons fast approaching, retail brands are looking for new ways to connect with shoppers—and get them back into stores. On this episode of Color Bar, we’re joined by Patsy Koepke, Chief Revenue Officer at Sandy Alexander, to explore the latest trends shaping retail marketing strategies.From localizing creative and merging digital with physical signage, to the growing influence of Gen Alpha on in-store engagement, Patsy shares how forward-thinking brands are reinventing the retail experience. We also dive into the omni-channel revival, including the surprising comeback of the catalog as a powerful brand tool.If you're in retail marketing, you won’t want to miss this one.
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Going Global! Inside DSCOOP Edge 2025: Why You Need to Be There!
DSCOOP is more than an event — it’s a global community of HP Indigo Print Service Providers and partners driving the future of print. And this May 14–17, we’re headed to Long Beach, CA for DSCOOP Edge 2025!On this episode of Color Bar, we are joined by Betsy's fellow DSCOOP Global board members:Jon Bailey, CEO of Precision Proco (UK)Kelvin Gage, Global Head of Supply Chain for MRM (Sydney, Australia)Tune in as they talk about:The power of DSCOOP connections and how it can shape your business and your network. What’s in store for Long Beach 2025 — from cutting-edge conversations on AI’s impact on print, to the push for attracting young talent to the industryHow the community is embracing the idea of “print reinvented”If you’ve ever wondered what DSCOOP could mean for your business and personal network, this is your chance to find out.🎧 Listen in — and then register to join us in Long Beach! 👉 Register nowAnd when you’re there, be sure to find Betsy, Jon, and Kelvin to continue the conversation in person.See you in May!
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Data! Data! Data! AMP Analytic - Our Guest Phil Corbett
🎙️ Excited to welcome Phil Corbett from Analytic Marketing Partners (AMP Analytic) to Color Bar!Phil recently joined us as an expert panelist at our Glimpse Hyper Personalization event—catch the full session here.In this episode, we dive deep into the world of data-driven marketing. From Micro Modeling and "Super Variables" to Ultra Match and Conquest Marketing, Phil breaks down how smarter data strategies are transforming campaign performance. And of course, we talk about the powerful role direct mail continues to play when paired with next-level analytics.If you're into personalization, precision targeting, and marketing that actually moves the needle—you won't want to miss this one.You can also learn more about AMP Analytic at www.ampanalytic.com
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Inside Glimpse: Hyper-Personalization, AI, and Creating a Virtual Experience
In this episode, Kim and Betsy take you behind the scenes of Sandy Alexander’s first-ever virtual Glimpse event—an exploration of Hyper-Personalization and AI in marketing. Hear how we leveled up from a basic webinar to a full-scale live production with green screens, teleprompters, sound booths, and a panel of four incredible experts representing the agency, martech, data, and brand sides of the industry.We revisit key moments from the live event—how we used AI in our own marketing efforts, tackled the ever-relevant “creep factor,” and what the future looks like when data and creativity meet. Plus, we unpack the broader vision of Glimpse as more than an event: a community for marketers and thought leaders to connect, share, and shape the future of the industry.If you missed the live event, catch the full replay on our YouTube page: Watch here
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Welcome to Color Bar! Do different to get different!
Welcome to our first episode of Color Bar with your hosts Betsy Davis, CMO and Kim Opdyke, COO Dinetec of Sandy Alexander. Betsy & Kim will introduce the intention of Color Bar, give insights into another Sandy Alexander engagement platform, Glimpse and also share more about Sandy Alexander. This is just the beginning! Look for episodes every Tuesday at 5pm EST. Color Bar brings you insightful and casual conversations with top marketers, industry experts, and print industry leaders who are shaping the future of print marketing. Hosted by Sandy Alexander, we dive into the hottest trends, cutting-edge strategies, and real-world success stories in print and beyond. Whether you’re a brand looking to amplify your messaging, a marketing pro eager to stay ahead, or an industry leader exploring the latest innovations, this podcast delivers engaging discussions on how print continues to evolve in the digital age.
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Color Bar brings you insightful and casual conversations with top marketers, industry experts, and print industry leaders who are shaping the future of print marketing. Hosted by Sandy Alexander, we dive into the hottest trends, cutting-edge strategies, and real-world success stories in print and beyond. Whether you’re a brand looking to amplify your messaging, a marketing pro eager to stay ahead, or an industry leader exploring the latest innovations, this podcast delivers engaging discussions on how print continues to evolve in the digital age.
HOSTED BY
Sandy Alexander, Inc.
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