In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Mike White, the founder of Secchi, an employee engagement software company. They discuss the role of data-driven decision-making in unlocking the workforce's potential and improving company culture. Mike shares his journey in HR and how he founded Secchi to address the challenges frontline supervisors face. They also explore the impact of industry on company culture and the importance of leadership in shaping it. The conversation highlights the role of AI in simplifying performance reviews and reducing administrative tasks in manufacturing. Finally, they discuss strategies for reducing turnover and implementing changes to impact company culture positively. In this conversation, Jim and Mike discuss the importance of building a solid company culture. They explore topics such as generational change, building relationships, creating paradigm shifts, values and mission, and the meaning of work. The conversation highlights the impact of culture on employees' lives and the importance of caring for others. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into creating a positive and meaningful work environment in the manufacturing industry.   Takeaways Data-driven decision-making can unlock the potential of the workforce and improve company culture.Frontline supervisors play a crucial role in a company's success and need tools to navigate their responsibilities effectively.Simplifying performance reviews with AI can make the process easier for both supervisors and employees.Company culture can vary within industries and even within different departments of the same company.Reducing turnover requires a strategic approach that addresses the root causes and engages employees.AI has the potential to automate administrative tasks and improve efficiency in manufacturing.Implementing changes to company culture requires listening to employees, addressing their concerns, and taking action. Building a strong company culture can lead to generational change and positively impact employees' lives.Creating relationships and fostering a sense of community at work can significantly contribute to building a solid culture.Volunteer projects and involving families in work activities can help create a paradigm shift and change colleagues' perceptions.The right values, mission, and caring about others are essential for building a positive culture.Work can be meaningful and transformative, and focusing on the work itself can significantly impact individuals and the company as a whole. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout01:27Introduction of Guest: Mike White03:20Secchi: Providing Guidance for Frontline Supervisors06:09Simplifying Performance Reviews with Secchi08:43Making Performance Reviews Easier with AI10:33Mike White's Journey to Founding Secchi13:44The Impact of Company Culture on Employee Engagement16:46The Influence of Industry on Company Culture18:33The Variability of Culture within Companies20:17The Role of Leadership in Shaping Company Culture22:21The Importance of Frontline Leaders in Company Culture24:34Overcoming Resistance to Using Data in Manufacturing34:40Reducing Turnover in Manufacturing39:55The Role of AI in Manufacturing and Company Culture45:11Using Data to Develop Strategic Strategies47:24The Impact of AI on Administrative Jobs in Manufacturing52:02Implementing Changes to Impact Company Culture53:24Generational Change and Impact54:20Building Culture through Relationships55:33Creating Paradigm Shifts56:02Values, Mission, and Caring56:59Perseverance and Work as Meaning58:08Summary A special thanks to our sponsor, Speroni, for their support in bringing this insightful discussion to you. Stay connected with Mike White and learn more about Secchi: Mike White's LinkedInSecchi Website

In this insightful episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer engages in a fascinating conversation with Matt Kownick, the visionary owner of Left Hand Engineering. They discuss the evolving culture and significant changes within the manufacturing industry, focusing on equipment utilization, the impact of automation, and foresight into the future of manufacturing. Matt Kownick shares the proactive approach of Left Hand Engineering in educating employees about business operations and emphasizes the critical importance of preparing for the era of automation. He also discusses the necessity of transparency in manufacturing processes and envisions how AI and machine learning will likely transform office jobs. Additionally, the conversation takes a personal turn as Kownick shares his journey, passion for water skiing and beer, and unique experiences at various trade shows. We extend our gratitude to Speroni for sponsoring this episode and supporting the exploration of these vital topics in manufacturing. For more insights into Matt Kownick’s philosophy, visit Left Hand Engineering's website and connect with Matt on LinkedIn. Tune in to this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast for an enlightening experience that bridges the gap between personal passions and professional advancements in the manufacturing world.

In this captivating episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer sits down with the esteemed Terry Iverson, the visionary former President and CEO of Iverson and Company. Terry delves into his remarkable journey through the manufacturing landscape, shedding light on the transformative culture of Iverson and Company and the pivotal role of values in hiring practices. Terry opens up about his strategic decision to sell the company and passionately discusses his involvement with CHAMPION Now!, an initiative dedicated to reshaping the narrative around manufacturing careers. He also gives us an insider's view of his influential books that challenge and change perceptions in the manufacturing realm. The conversation takes a deeper dive into the crucial topics of diversity and technology in the manufacturing sector. Terry shares insights about his innovative initiative, Camp CHAMP, which ignites a passion for manufacturing among students, introducing them to the field in an engaging and hands-on manner. This episode is not just a journey through Terry's illustrious career but also a profound exploration of the vital role of manufacturing in today's world and the urgent need for inclusivity within the industry. A special thank you to our sponsor, Speroni, for their support in bringing this enlightening conversation to our listeners. Discover Terry Iverson and his groundbreaking work by visiting his website and connecting with him on LinkedIn. Tune in for an episode that's as educational as it is inspiring, underscoring the undeniable importance of manufacturing and the collective effort required to drive the industry forward.

Get ready for an electrifying journey on the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, brought to you by the fantastic team at Speroni! This episode, hosted by the ever-curious and engaging Jim Mayer, features a powerhouse of the manufacturing world – Ryan Kuhlenbeck, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Pico MES. In a world where digital technology is rapidly transforming the manufacturing landscape, Ryan stands at the forefront, navigating through challenges and leading the charge toward a brighter, more connected future. He shares his riveting story from his early days in automotive manufacturing to spearheading Pico MES, a beacon of innovation in digital manufacturing technology. Dive deep into the heart of what makes Pico MES tick – from its mission to bridge the digital divide for small to midsize manufacturers to the transformative company culture that propels them forward. Ryan's insights into their unique hiring process, the embrace of technological evolution, and the power of cultural shifts will leave you inspired and ready to think differently about the manufacturing world. The episode crescendos with Ryan's invaluable advice on the art of continuous improvement and the strategic importance of laying solid foundations for lasting benefits in the manufacturing industry. A must-listen for those eager to catch a glimpse of manufacturing's future, where culture and technology intertwine to create something truly spectacular! Sponsored by Speroni: Leaders in tool presetting and measuring systems. Connect with Ryan Kuhlenbeck on LinkedIn

In this all-star episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer invites you to step up to the plate with guest Chris Caves. From knocking it out of the park in minor league baseball to hitting home runs in the insurance industry, Chris brings a unique perspective to teamwork and leadership. Together, they dig deep into the playbook to reveal the hidden strategies that make a manufacturing team championship-worthy. From mentorship and interdependence to crystal-clear communication, Chris shares the invaluable lessons his sports background bestowed on him. But that's not all—discover how these principles can revolutionize intergenerational collaboration and cultivate a caring, supportive work environment. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers actionable insights you can apply directly to your team, ensuring you're always playing at the top of your game. A special shoutout to our fantastic sponsor, Speroni. They're the real MVPs behind this episode, ensuring we bring you quality content that inspires and motivates. Want to connect with Chris? Find out more about his game-changing approaches and connect with him on LinkedIn. So, grab your glove, dust off those cleats, and get ready to be inspired. Trust us—you won't want to miss this one!

Get ready for an exhilarating ride into the world of startups, manufacturing, and ground-breaking innovation! In today's episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer sits down with Laura Teicher, the dynamic force behind FORGE's awe-inspiring mission. Have you ever wondered what it takes to bring a hard tech idea from prototype to market? Laura spills the secrets! With FORGE's laser-focused support, over 700 startups in sectors like climate tech, medical devices, and robotics have experienced transformative growth. Listen in as Laura demystifies how FORGE zeroes in on startups that are the 'right fit' and supercharges them through strategic partnerships with manufacturers. We'll also delve into FORGE's remarkable synergy with Greentown Labs, its unique collaborations with top-tier universities, and the pioneering impact metrics that keep them at the cutting edge. Today's episode is generously sponsored by Speroni. To learn more about their incredible offerings, visit Speroni's website. 🔗 Connect with Laura Teicher: FORGE's WebsiteLaura Teicher's LinkedIn Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation that's set to turbocharge your understanding of hard tech startups' journey from inception to impact. Share the episode with friends who'll love it as much as you do, and don't forget to rate and review us!

Get ready for an electrifying episode that will shift your perspective on what's possible, both in the manufacturing world and in life. We're honored to feature Dr. Ivan Rosenberg, a trailblazing pioneer in reimagining the talent landscape with his game-changing initiative, the Uniquely Abled Project. Ivan dives deep into how he's transformed the employment landscape for individuals with autism, making the impossible not just possible but extraordinary. Forget what you think you know about limitations—here, we're all about untapped potential and world-changing visions. A massive shoutout to Speroni, our fantastic sponsor, for making this enlightening conversation possible. Speroni, like us, believes in challenging the status quo and taking innovation to the next level. Connect with Dr. Ivan Rosenberg on LinkedIn and learn more about the Uniquely Abled Project on their website. This episode is a treasure trove of insights that will inspire you to reconsider your views on talent and ability. From groundbreaking training methods to cultivating workplaces that don't just include but celebrate every individual's unique abilities, this is more than a conversation—it's a call to action. You'll also discover the broader impact of the Uniquely Abled Project as it begins its exciting journey of expanding its reach to diverse diagnoses and vocations. Don't miss this life-altering episode. The future is not just inclusive; it's innovative. Here's to building it together!

Get ready for an electrifying conversation that dives deep into the future of manufacturing! This episode features none other than Steven Antalics, Chief of Staff at the cutting-edge startup Industrial Next. We're going way beyond the nuts and bolts of your typical factory; Steven opens up about how they're using mind-blowing robotics and smart automation to literally reshape how we think about production. But that's just scratching the surface. Ever wondered how you navigate the cultural waters when your team is scattered across different time zones? Steven shares personal insights from the trenches on managing a global team and creating a culture that sings in harmony, from San Francisco to Geneva. We'll also tackle the big, gnarly questions haunting the industry—Is automation taking our jobs? How do we retrain our skilled labor force? And can robots help make the manufacturing scene more diverse and inclusive? Steven gives us a backstage pass to Industrial Next's playbook on how to challenge the status quo while embracing ethical and humane practices. From the first gear to the last line of code, this episode is all about how innovation and human ingenuity come together to build a brighter, more inclusive future. Don't miss this game-changing dialogue—packed with fresh perspectives, heartening real-world stories, and actionable strategies for any forward-thinking professional!

Get ready for a rollercoaster of inspiration with Jacob Sanchez, the Gen Z powerhouse taking manufacturing by storm! In this electric episode, your host Jim Mayer dives deep with Jacob, who stumbled into manufacturing by pure fate. With his eyes set on cooking class, destiny had other plans and hurled him straight into an engineering class in high school. Jacob didn't just adapt—he thrived. As a founding member of Titans of CNC Academy, he became a programming and machining virtuoso. His talent knows no bounds, conquering realms from aerospace to medical tech. Fast-forward to today, he's an industry analyst, a content creation dynamo, and a rallying voice for Gen Z in manufacturing. But that's not all; this episode tackles burning topics like mental health, building a thriving company culture, and bridging the generational gaps that challenge our industry. This electrifying episode is brought to you by Speroni, pioneers in delivering state-of-the-art tool lmanagement systems. They're as committed as we are to propelling the industry into the future. Don't miss out on Jacob's transformational insights! Tune in and ignite your passion for manufacturing!

In this electrifying episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Joey Hovsepyan, the visionary founder behind Emmet. Joey is on a mission to revolutionize the way metal distribution works in the manufacturing industry. But hold on—it's not just about materials; it's about a cultural transformation! Journey with us as Joey peels back the layers on his unique career path, from entrepreneurial hustles as a kid to steering the course of Emmet. Get ready to be captivated by his keen insights into the ever-changing landscape of company culture, shaped by his work across diverse fields and industries. In this unmissable conversation, we explore: The future-forward vision for EmmetJoey's knack for cultivating a vibrant company cultureThe game-changing power of proper employee incentivesThe seismic shift from gig economy ventures to a stable yet disruptive manufacturing platformThe indispensable role of technology in fueling Emmet's vision and the broader manufacturing scene Don't miss this chance to dive deep into the mind of a leader poised to disrupt the status quo and usher in a new era of manufacturing culture. So grab a seat, tune in, and get ready to rethink everything you know about manufacturing!

Ready to get your gears turning? Strap in for an electrifying ride as host Jim picks the brain of Nicole Donnelly, the dynamo behind DMG Digital. This isn't your run-of-the-mill marketing talk—Nicole is on a mission to accelerate small manufacturers into the digital age, and she's got the street cred to back it up. With years spent hands-on in small business manufacturing and managing accounts for growing businesses, she's the go-to expert you've been waiting for. Dive into her unique strategy of interviewing subject matter experts within the industry—yes, right from the factory floor to the C-suite—for content that's as authentic as it gets. The conversation turns unflinchingly honest as they tackle the gritty challenges of evolving culture and driving change in the manufacturing realm. Get ready to rethink change management as they discuss why every department, no matter how 'insignificant,' holds the key to success. Have you ever struggled with perfectionism as a leader? Nicole shares a game-changing decision that revolutionized her team's culture and spurred them toward shared responsibility. She explains why humility and vulnerability aren't buzzwords but pillars of transformative leadership. Worried about sales and marketing living in silos? Nicole dishes on her ideal clients for a marketing transformation journey and breaks down why sales and marketing are better together—way better. Don't miss the exclusive peek into her podcast, 'Tales of Misadventure,' where the narratives of resilient entrepreneurs take center stage. From the role of AI to the power of unique branding, Nicole doesn't shy away from the trends shaking the foundations of marketing and culture. And because let's face it, we've all goofed up—Nicole dishes on why your failures aren't setbacks; they're your secret weapon. Get set to be awestruck and maybe, just maybe, see your world a little differently. Trust us, this is the audio adrenaline shot you didn't know you needed!

Step into the electrifying world of trade shows with this week's Manufacturing Culture Podcast! Host Jim Mayer talks shop with Elizabeth Lein and Jay Partington, the masterminds behind the upcoming Wisconsin Manufacturing Technology Show 2023. Dive into the intricate choreography of event planning as Elizabeth reveals how her hospitality chops are elevating the trade show experience. Jay, an industry titan, takes us down memory lane while explaining the evolution and enduring importance of trade shows in shaping the future of manufacturing. But we're not just talking shop; we're exploring innovation. Find out how WIMTS 2023 is spotlighting advancements in robotics and automation that could very well change the game for manufacturers everywhere. Discover how these events are more than just a spectacle—they're a rich tapestry of networking, knowledge sharing, and eye-opening seminars designed to bridge the skills gap in the industry. If you've ever wondered what fuels the buzz and innovation at a major industry event, or if you're looking to get the most out of your trade show experience, this episode is your golden ticket. Tune in and be inspired! Connect with the Show and Guests WIMTS Website: https://www.wimts.com/Email Elizabeth: elizabeth@epishows.comPhone: 262-367-5500LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wisconsin-manufacturing-technology-show/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WIMTSSHOW/

Join us in a compelling new episode of Manufacturing Culture, where host Jim Mayer sits down with Nate Ankrum, President of Genuine Machine Products. This isn't your average chat about company culture; this is a deep dive into a transformational journey that resonates from the shop floor all the way to the U.S. Military's most critical missions. Nate is a third-generation manufacturing pro who's fought through the trenches to transform Genuine Machine's culture from good to great. He shares the gritty, real-world challenges he's navigated—from open communication to decoding behavioral types—spilling the secrets that have not only empowered his employees but also elevated the company's mission of serving America's defense. Don't miss this eye-opening episode filled with practical insights, heartwarming stories, and a dash of patriotic pride. Whether you're a manufacturing veteran or a newcomer, you'll walk away with a new understanding of what it means to build a culture that's truly 'Made in America, For America.' If you're ready to up your game in manufacturing leadership or just looking to be inspired by someone who truly understands the nuts and bolts of both company culture and patriotic duty, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. So sit back, hit play, and let Nate Ankrum's blueprint for cultural excellence inspire you today!

Join Jim as he sails into the fascinating world of manufacturing culture with Corey Dickens, a seasoned sailor turned Solutions Consultant at Brightly, a Siemens company. In this riveting episode, Corey draws from his blend of military and industrial maintenance experience to dissect the cultural crossroads between tradition and modernity in the manufacturing landscape. Listen as Corey uncovers the pressing challenges the military and manufacturing sectors face, where honoring the time-tested norms must be balanced with evolving workforce demands. Discover the pivotal role of empathy, respect, and positive culture in retaining valuable employees and fostering an environment where innovation thrives. Dive into Corey's insights on how Brightly seamlessly infuses cultural values into their cutting-edge products and solutions, accentuating collaboration and open communication. From hackathons to handling resistance in technology adoption, Corey sheds light on the nimbleness required in today's rapidly transforming industrial world. Wrapping up with a profound discussion on 'extreme ownership' and the universal significance of human respect, this episode is an inspiring exploration of the cultural complexities and the uncharted territories of the manufacturing industry. Whether you're a military enthusiast, manufacturing professional, or a curious listener, this journey with Corey promises to enrich your perspective on leadership, innovation, and the timeless essence of culture. Tune in and let Corey's narrative inspire you to bridge the traditional with the contemporary and lead with empathy and excellence in your professional endeavors.

In this captivating episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer takes listeners on an educational tour through the fascinating world of student-run manufacturing businesses. Joining Jim are Craig Cegielski of Cardinal Manufacturing and Chris Townsend of Eagle Manufacturing, who unveil their innovative educational approaches. Here's what you can expect: Discussion of Their Respective Student-Run Manufacturing Businesses: Craig and Chris reveal the inner workings of their successful programs, Cardinal Manufacturing and Eagle Manufacturing, providing unique insights into their creation, growth, and overall operation. Models and Skills Provided by Their Programs: Learn how these visionary teachers offer an incredible hands-on learning environment, equipping students with essential manufacturing skills and the adaptability and problem-solving capabilities that the industry demands. Importance of Teaching Employability Skills: Our guests highlight their programs' crucial role in teaching real-world skills, marrying traditional education with tangible experiences that prepare students for the workforce. Challenges Faced in Building and Establishing Their Programs: Craig and Chris candidly share the hurdles they've overcome to create and grow their unique educational models, painting a picture of persistence and innovation. Setting High Expectations for Students and Building a Positive Culture: Discover how both instructors set the bar high, cultivating a culture that fosters achievement, teamwork, and a sense of purpose within their student-run businesses. Roles and Responsibilities of Students in Their Businesses: Gain insights into how students take on roles that mimic real-world jobs, transforming classrooms into thriving microcosms of the manufacturing world. Impact of Student-Run Businesses on Students' Futures and Entrepreneurial Spirit: Learn how these programs are not just about grades or projects; they're launch pads for future success, instilling an entrepreneurial spirit that follows students long after graduation. Promotion of Their Programs and Available Resources: Craig and Chris share how they have championed their programs locally and nationally, creating a ripple effect that inspires others in education. Advice for Starting Student-Run Manufacturing Businesses: If this episode ignites a spark, don't miss the expert advice on how to start a similar program in your school or community. This episode is not just a behind-the-scenes look at an education model; it's a blueprint for the future, a rallying cry for innovation, and a testament to the power of hands-on, student-centered learning. Whether you're an educator, a parent, or simply someone passionate about the future of manufacturing, this episode offers an inspiring glimpse into what education could be. Join us in exploring the future today!

In this riveting episode, Jim Mayer sits down with Charlie Hushek, the General Manager of Phoenix Heat Treating, to unearth the world of heat treating in metal processing. Charlie opens the door to this critical yet often overlooked industry and shares how it plays a pivotal role in shaping the metals we use daily. From discussing the various challenges and innovations in the heat treating industry to investigating the adoption of digitalization and ERP systems for job tracking and quality control, Charlie reveals the cutting-edge techniques that drive Phoenix Heat Treating. He talks about their customer-facing approach and the implementation of real-time job tracking, allowing unprecedented transparency and collaboration with clients. This leads to a rich discussion on balancing innovation with the limitations intrinsic to the heat-treating process and how Phoenix Heat Treating continually evolves to meet these challenges. Charlie emphasizes the importance of company culture, continuous improvement, and how the evolution of the company's vision, mission, and values plays a central role in shaping a vibrant work environment. The episode examines new management strategies like introducing the "performance snapshot" approach for performance reviews, outcome-based roles and responsibilities, and a keen focus on core values. It also uncovers how Phoenix Heat Treating identifies and nurtures leaders while managing the multi-generational workforce dynamics. Charlie shares the importance of continuous improvement of leadership skills through asking questions and seeking different perspectives. A thread running throughout the conversation is the company's relentless pursuit of excellence in all areas of its business. Witness the fusion of creativity and technology at WIMTS 2023! Discover a dazzling array of breakthroughs from additive manufacturing to robotics, machining centers to welding. Explore the endless possibilities of the future and the role you can play in shaping it. Don't miss your chance to be at the forefront of innovation. Register now at www.wimts.com. Together, let's turn dreams into realities!

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, join host Jim Mayer as he welcomes Phil Johnson, CEO of the Master of Business Leadership program. Phil's remarkable journey starts from his humble upbringing in a small Canadian town and leads him to become a leading figure in emotional intelligence across the globe. Phil unpacks emotional intelligence's critical role in our fast-paced, ever-evolving world, highlighting its contrasts with intellectual intelligence. He explains the strong connection between emotional intelligence and accountability, a concept that's key to effective leadership. We also explore the intriguing concept of the "five monkeys," which illustrates the importance of elevating our consciousness to inspire transformative change. Discover the two primary motivators for change - pain and passion, as Phil discusses the courage required to step out of the comfort zone and confront ego fear. In an era where business landscapes are getting more complex, Phil emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence within the corporate world, focusing on the manufacturing industry. He provides insightful tips on incorporating emotional intelligence into hiring processes and how creating a more open environment can foster collaboration and positive energy in the workplace. The episode concludes with a stimulating discussion on how Phil's work on emotional intelligence is revolutionizing leadership practices within the manufacturing industry. His narrative is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of understanding our emotional dynamics. Whether in the manufacturing industry or any other sector, this episode is a goldmine for anyone seeking to understand the transformative power of emotional intelligence. Tune in to be inspired and enlightened!

In this riveting episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, we welcome Emily Wilkins, the marketing superhero disrupting the manufacturing industry with her unique approach. Founder and CEO of Marketing Metal, Emily made it her mission to reimagine the marketing landscape for small manufacturing shops, emphasizing the role of culture in driving growth and satisfaction. Hear the inspiring story of how Emily worked with Peters Heat Trading to create a powerful tagline that encapsulates their ethos, a testament to her philosophy of intertwining a company's values with its marketing strategies. She also delves into how she involves employees in the marketing process, fostering a vibrant culture while simultaneously strengthening marketing outcomes. In an industry where leadership is paramount, Emily highlights the importance of positive and proactive direction from the top. She reveals her secrets to building marketing strategies that align with a company's core values and culture and boost its appeal to potential customers and employees. Throughout the conversation, Emily's commitment to understanding each company's unique character shines through. She underscores the importance of listening, asking probing questions, and getting beneath the surface to discover what truly makes each job shop unique. By showcasing a job shop's personality, approach to work, and deeply-held values, Emily illustrates how differentiation in the manufacturing sector is about far more than just a company's products or services. As she guides us through the art of attracting the right customers and employees through targeted marketing efforts, you'll be inspired to see your own business through a new lens. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to reshape their marketing strategy, redefine their company culture, and, ultimately, transform their business success.

Get ready for episode 28! We had the pleasure of interviewing the incredible Kris Harrington, the CEO of GenAlpha Technologies. Kris is a true trailblazer in the manufacturing industry, and she's here to share her secrets to success and revolutionize how we think about business! From the moment Kris starts speaking, you'll be captivated by her infectious energy and passion for all things tech-savvy. She's breaking barriers left and right, transforming the way OEMs conduct business and service their equipment and parts online. It's like she's waving a magic wand and making manufacturing dreams come true! But Kris doesn't stop there. She's also a fierce advocate for women in the industry, and she's here to talk about the importance of mentorship programs and the need for visibility and representation. She's paving the way for future generations of women to conquer the manufacturing world, one innovation at a time. And let's not forget about the evolution of the industry itself! Kris dives into the exciting world of digitalization and how it's shaping the future of manufacturing. She spills the beans on employee well-being, responding to failures gracefully, and fostering a culture of feedback that will make your workplace feel like a party every day. By the end of this episode, you'll be on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting what's next for the manufacturing industry. Kris and our host, Jim Mayer, wrap things up by reminding us of the importance of a positive and enjoyable workplace culture. Because let's face it, anything is possible when work feels like a dance party! So grab your headphones, turn up the volume, and get ready to be inspired by Kris Harrington and her electrifying journey in the manufacturing industry. This episode will leave you feeling motivated, empowered, and ready to conquer the world! Let's dive in!

In episode 27 of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, we are thrilled to introduce our guest, John Buglino, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Optessa. John's impressive journey from New York Community Bancorp to becoming a marketing powerhouse at Optessa offers a wealth of insights. This episode delves into the profound influence of company culture on a business's growth, John's exceptional ability in demand and lead generation, B2B marketing, and the art of cultivating meaningful relationships. Beyond his professional accomplishments, you'll get a glimpse into John's role as a professional dad and his relentless pursuit of impactful connections. As we explore the world of AI-driven solutions in manufacturing, prepare to be enlightened by John's unique perspectives. Buckle up for a journey filled with innovation, marketing marvels, and relationship-building insights in this not-to-be-missed episode!