In this episode of Color Bar, hosts Betsy Davis and Kim Opdyke sit down with Andy Fetherman, President & CEO of Müller Martini North America, for one of the most energizing — and unexpectedly moving — conversations.

Andy has spent over 35 years in the print industry, starting as a press-side technician (yes, he fell for the "box of halftone dots" trick too) and working his way to leading one of the most storied finishing companies in the world. He joined us to talk about the Müller Martini and Hunkeler merger, what it means for print partners, and how the theme "Better Together Than Apart" became more than a slogan — it became a culture.

Together, the group digs into:

• How Andy landed his first job by knowing what a halftone dot was — and nothing else
• The Müller Martini + Hunkeler merger and what a seamless 18-month transition actually looks like
• Attracting the next generation of talent with flexible schedules and open cultures
• AI in the workplace
• Managing with your heart, not your numbers
• And the story of his son Michael that will stop you in your tracks

This one hits differently. Don't miss it.

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

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.