Color Bar
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.
Color Bar
Meet Direct Mail’s “Thoughtful Overachiever” Era with AJ Layo from Sylvamo
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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.