Manufacturers Alliance Podcast

Build high-performing HR teams that drive real business impact. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Dale Fruehauf to explore what HR leaders must focus on to shape successful teams, and how manufacturers should prioritize HR roles. Dale shares his secret to attracting top HR talent, strategies for recognizing and rewarding HR team members, ways to leverage “alumni” for advocacy, and insights on how HR can use AI to stay competitive.   Whether you're growing your HR function or refining it, you'll find practical takeaways for Building High-Performing HR Teams.

What does it take to stay coachable at the highest levels of leadership? In this episode, Steve Murray, Manufacturing Executive, shares powerful lessons on remaining open to feedback, recognizing blind spots, and prioritizing personal growth throughout your career. Whether you're leading a team or aspiring to the next level, you'll gain actionable insights on how coachability can transform your leadership impact and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Strategic Leader Certification

Sustaining 5S is the hardest step—but it's also the most important. In this episode, Gary Olson, Operational Excellence Leader, shares expert insights on why 5S often fails and how manufacturers can create a culture where organization and efficiency become second nature. Learn how leadership commitment, daily habits, and employee engagement can drive long-term success with 5S. Tune in for actionable strategies to make 5S stick in your facility. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Lean Practitioner Certification Visual Management & 5S Workshop

Mistake-proofing is key to reducing defects, improving efficiency, and ensuring quality in manufacturing. In this episode, George Murray, General Manager at Celestica, shares proven strategies for preventing errors, standardizing work, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Learn how data-driven decision-making, simple mistake-proofing solutions, and team engagement can drive lasting operational excellence. Whether you're tackling process inefficiencies or aiming for zero defects, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Webinar: Mistake-Proof Your Process Learn Mistake-Proofing Principles in the Lean Practitioner Certification

Wondering how to develop a strong manufacturing workforce? In this episode, Mike Franz, Founder & CEO of Shop Floor Coffee, shares Shop Floor Coffee's plans to encourage workforce development as well as actionable strategies for attracting, training, and retaining top talent. Learn how manufacturers can engage the next generation, leverage industry partnerships, and build a sustainable talent pipeline. Whether you're facing hiring challenges or looking to strengthen your team, this conversation will provide valuable insights to help you develop a skilled and motivated workforce.  Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Support Workforce Development with ShopFloor Coffee Develop Your Workforce with Digital Courses

Process mapping is a powerful tool for improving efficiency in manufacturing. Rebecca Jasper, Supply Chain and Operations Executive, shares how to map workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and create alignment across teams. Whether you're working to reduce waste, improve lead times, or enhance collaboration, these strategies will help you implement process mapping effectively. Get practical steps to refine your processes and achieve better results. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Lean Practitioner Certification  

Running a successful Kaizen event requires more than just gathering a team—it's about strategic planning, leadership support, and long-term sustainment. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Robert Dewane, Sr. OpEx Change Agent at Trane Technologies, to uncover the essential elements of impactful Kaizen events. Discover how to secure top-down buy-in, engage the right stakeholders, and implement changes that last. Whether you're new to Kaizen or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and examples to help you eliminate waste and drive continuous improvement.  Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Robert's Kaizen Leader Standard Work Lean Practitioner Certification

Want to improve your one-on-one meetings? In this episode, Dan Powley, Senior Production Manager at Intricon Corporation, shares proven strategies for structuring impactful one-on-ones that drive engagement, alignment, and accountability. Learn how to create meaningful conversations, set clear expectations, and ensure follow-through. Whether you lead a small team or a large workforce, these insights will help you strengthen relationships, develop employees, and improve overall team performance through best in class one-on-ones.  Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Supervision Fundamentals Certification Free Download: Effective One-on-Ones Meeting Template

Effective Root Cause Analysis (RCA) goes beyond surface-level fixes to drive lasting improvements. In this episode, Helen Swanson, VP of Quality & Engineering at Sportech Inc., shares insights on defining problems, eliminating bias, and using RCA tools like the three-legged 5 Why to prevent recurring issues. Learn how to collect reliable data, engage cross-functional teams, and implement mistake-proofing strategies that create real change in manufacturing.  Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Professional Yellow Belt Certification 6 Sigma Problem-Solving Bundle - Free Download Root Cause Analysis Workshop  

Learn from Christine Olson, Marketing Manager at Midwest Rubber, as she outlines how manufacturers can integrate marketing to bridge the gap between technical processes and customer relationships. Gain practical strategies to align marketing with operations, utilize customer feedback for continuous improvement, and craft compelling stories that emphasize quality and expertise. This episode delivers actionable takeaways to drive collaboration, enhance processes, and build stronger customer connections. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo Have a question or topic you'd like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here! Podcast Resources: Sales & Marketing Peer Group  

Gain insights from manufacturing leaders, Steve Zweber, VP of Global Print Manufacturing, Operations & Distribution at Thomson Reuters, and Russ Soukup, President and CEO of Advanced Volumetric Metrics on economic trends, AI, recruiting, and retention. Together, they share their perspectives on economic trends, the evolving role of AI in manufacturing, strategies for recruiting and retaining top talent, and implementing operational excellence across teams. From navigating labor shortages to leveraging AI for efficiency and innovation, this episode offers actionable insights for manufacturers aiming to stay competitive in today's fast-paced industry. This conversation is packed with strategic ideas you can implement in your organization. Podcast Resources: • Peer Groups - Find Your Peer Group to start benchmarking, networking, and learning best practices alongside fellow manufacturers • 5 Behaviors Sabotaging Senior Leadership Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Struggling with unproductive meetings that waste time and fail to move your team forward? Learn Facilitation Skills from One of the Best with Bob Dummer, an experienced manufacturing leader. In this episode, Bob shares actionable tips to help you facilitate meetings that drive engagement, encourage participation, and lead to clear decisions and action steps. Learn how to overcome common challenges like getting stuck in analysis paralysis, managing off-track discussions, and ensuring everyone has a voice. Transform your meetings into a powerful tool for achieving your goals. Podcast Resources: • Peer Groups • Toastmasters International Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

This week, Kirby Sneen, Jeremy Blake, and Monica Smith share their favorite episodes from the year, biggest lessons learned in 2024, and what you can look forward to from the Manufacturers Alliance in 2025!

Vivek Saxena, Founder & CEO of Factory Twin walks you through how his small manufacturing clients are leveraging the data already in their systems to drive process improvement and get better results. Learn why the current way of practicing lean is slow, the barriers to going digital, and how you can speed up the pace of improvement.  Visit FactoryTwin Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Silos, poor listening skills, and even cultural differences can be some of the bigger challenges any leader in manufacturing faces when trying to get everyone on the same page. In this episode, Jody O'Neil shares how to foster a collaborative environment to counter these challenges and reduce potential conflict in the workplace.  Download the Leaders Guide

Industry expert Laurie Harbour, partner with Wipfli, delves into the outlook of manufacturing. In this episode, Laurie shares key insights on the current instability in the industry, emerging trends to watch, and the barriers manufacturers must overcome to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Matt Evans, Quality Manager at Unimatic Precision Machining, shares practical strategies for removing variation from your processes. Learn about mistake-proofing, leveraging control charts, and creating accurate standards to improve consistency and overall quality. Download the Leaders Guide Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Gain insights on how to overcome continuous improvement challenges so that you can effectively manage improvements. In this episode, Bob Dummer explores the top 5 challenges CI leaders face, including resistance to change, sustainment, and access to data. Download the Leaders Guide

In this bonus episode, we're sharing a replay of one of your favorites, featuring Eugene Arrington. Learn how to overcome fire fighting, make time for problem-solving, and overcome the tendency to jump to conclusions. Download the Leaders Guide

In this episode, Mathew Yost shares what it takes to sustain Six Sigma improvements for lasting success. He breaks down how metrics, tracking, management support, culture, standard work, and training have helped his team maintain the gains from Six Sigma projects. Gain practical insights and strategies to ensure your process improvements endure. Download the Leaders Guide

In this episode, Sarah Hartung joins Kirby Sneen to explore how lean principles can be effectively applied in the office setting. Discover practical strategies for creating a lean enterprise, streamlining your business systems, and avoiding the pitfalls of sub-optimization.  Download the Leaders Guide

In this episode, we are celebrating three manufacturers for their commitment to developing a culture of continuous improvement and their willingness to share their experiences with their peers. Learn about the biggest accomplishments, lessons learned, and current initiatives of Pallet Service Corporation, Intek Plastics, and LubeTech, all of which are aimed at creating a better future for everyone at their companies.

In this episode, Kirby delves into three critical behaviors that are sabotaging leadership potential. Listen to learn these barriers to leadership potential and effective strategies to overcome them. Download the Leaders Guide

In this episode, Michael Muilenburg and Kirby Sneen dive into the key characteristics that set professional problem solvers apart. Learn from Michael's experiences, discover common pitfalls to avoid, and learn the traits you need to succeed. Download the Leaders Guide

In this episode, learn how to improve your process capability. Nick Cristan shares the importance of producing repeatable results, how to utilize metrics and language to communicate with your team, and how to get people involved in solving a problem.     Download the Leaders Guide

Join Monica Smith and Abby Vork as they interview Kirby Sneen on Trends in Training. From the rise of AI to the move toward microlearning, learn what's trending and how to improve and benefit from emerging changes.  

In this episode, learn how to delegate well to accomplish more and empower team members to grow their skills. Matt Dillon shares insights on communication, approach, and avoiding micromanagement when delegating.  Download the Leaders Guide

Learn how to implement Kanban in your shop to start seeing better flow. In this episode, Crystal Selchow and Kirby Sneen discuss how to get started with kanban, deal with change management, and understand kanban size. 

In this episode, learn how you can effectively balance leading with working together. Alec Theros shares his insights on motivation for becoming a leader, navigating conflict successfully, building trust with a team, and more.  DOWNLOAD THE LEADERS GUIDE

In this episode, Kirby Sneen and Kacinda Ruiz dive into how to create value stream maps. Discover practical tips and real-world insights on creating and optimizing value stream maps to identify hidden inefficiencies and drive strategic improvements. DOWLOAD THE LEADERS GUIDE

In this episode, learn how to have tough conversations with confidence. Kirby Sneen shares his insights on navigating what could be nerve-wracking moments, whether it's giving performance feedback, letting someone go, or addressing a sensitive issue. Download the Leaders Guide

Join Kirby Sneen and Jeremy Blake as they discuss keys to successful Green Belt Projects. With years of experience and thousands of projects reviewed, they've learned what truly works—and what doesn't. Whether you're battling constraints like limited time, lack of support, or shifting priorities, this episode will give you guidance. Tune in to discover the essential inputs needed for a great 6 Sigma project and learn how to steer clear of common pitfalls.  Download the Leaders Guide

More and more manufacturers are popping up new plants in countries around the globe in order to remain competitive, as we've seen this happen we got curious about how you manage them all effectively and how you might manage the cultural, regulatory, and logistical differences? In this episode, Kirby talks with Arvind Sharma, a global manufacturing leader for major manufacturers here in MN and beyond on the topic of global operations strategy.  Download the Leaders Guide

If you've ever wondered how to talk to your kids about your job or are looking for an easy way to support more kids learning about manufacturing your going to love this conversation. Keep listening and I promise you'll feel equipped to talk to anyone about your profession in manufacturing. www.makepublishing.com Promo code: ma10

Everyone needs a plan to prevent or be prepared to deescalate conflict. For all kinds of practical tips and real world experience on how you can learn how to deal with conflict enjoy this conversation with HR leader Jessica Lyons. Download the Leaders Guide

If you want to improve performance and feel great about it along the way your going to appreciate this conversation with Scott Helgeson and Andrew Maruska with Chart Industries. They will walk you through their 6 Sigma projects and how they helped improve quality and communication. Download the Leaders Guide

On today's episode, Sarah Lampert shares what it takes to successfully drive workforce development, get your leadership team on the same page, and overcome challenges HR leaders face so they have a worforce that's ready for the future.  Download the Leader's Guide

If you're interested in faith-based leadership principles and want to incorporate them into your leadership style so that you can helps others make an eternal impact, you're going to love this episode. We've invited the President and COO of Cold Spring Granite, Greg Flint to talk about these principles and how he has applied them, so you can too!   Download the Leader's Guide

If you're an executive and you're not sure what your role should be in creating a culture of Continuous Improvement, you're going to love today's conversation with Todd Roth!  Download the Leader's Guide

For those of you who have struggled with using Lean tools, or who have felt like they have done more harm than good, today's guest Matt Colby is going to help you learn what you can do to use Lean systems to increase engagement, solve problems, and get real business results! Download the Leader's Guide    Thank you to our episode sponsor, Wipfli. They are the firm whose perspective can change everything for your business. Learn more at https://www.wipfli.com/manufacturing  

Every December we bring together a couple hundred leaders from our 15 different Peer Groups. On this week's episode, you get to hear the executive perspectives panel from that meeting, featuring Heather Stewart the President of ILLUME, and Jon Lundthe VP of Operations at Twin City Fan. Enjoy our conversation as we discuss leadership and workforce development.   Request a Peer Group Invitation

For those of you who have struggled to develop a team that works really well together, you're going to love this episode.   This week we're talking with Jason Postelli, the Program Manager of Operational Excellence for Abbott. He shares what he's done to develop high-caliber teams throughout his career, so that you can, too!   Download the Leader's Guide

On this week's episode, we hope that you are inspired by Kirby Sneen and Brittany Bowling, as they share their favorite episode, and biggest takeaway from 2023!   This episode of the Manufacturers Alliance Podcast is sponsored by Wipfli, the firm whose perspective can change everything for your business. Learn more at www.wipfli.com/manufacturing

If you're an operations leader who has been wondering about the life of their equipment or when it's time to start looking at replacements, you're going to love today's episode. Our guest Simon Malinski is here from Bremer Bank to answer these questions and more!  Learn more about Bremer With bankers who know that in business, relationships matter more than ever. And understanding is everything. Find a Bremer Bank today at www.Bremer.com

Plans for improvement have become an expectation. The challenge for some is scaling up that plan to impact and include everyone across multiple site locations.   On today's episode Nate Aguilar shares his first-hand experience of how to develop a scalable improvement plan, reach your profit goals, and engage everyone in improvement.   Download the Leader's Guide    This episode of the Manufacturers Alliance Podcast is sponsored by The City of  Monticello. In Monticello Life is Good. Business is Great.  Find out more at www.ci.monticello.mn.us or by following us on social media @Monticello_MN.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/monticello_mn/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/monticello_mn YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Monticello_MN Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CityofMonticello LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/city-of-monticello-mn

Part of creating a culture of continuous improvement begins with developing people so that they fight less fires and work more towards identifying and addressing the root cause. The problem is that this takes more time, doesn't come naturally for a lot of people, requires discipline, and certainly can't be done in a conference room.   Enjoy this week's episode featuring Eugene Arrington, as he shares how he has overcome these issues and unleashed the power of problem solving so that you can, too!   Download the leader's Guide    Thank you to our sponsor: Blue Key Media specializes in helping manufacturing companies increase sales, recruit more efficiently, and cut through the noise with the power of video. Learn more at www.bluekeymedia.com

There is a lot that can be learned from someone else's mistakes, but only if people are willing to share, and not just sweep them under the rug. As a leader you need to figure out what behaviors you can model that are ideal and what systems and structures you need to put in place that will create a culture that encourages people to speak up!   Enjoy my conversation with Mark Graban as he shares about his new book, The Mistakes that Make Us.   Get the First Chapter & Enter to Win   This episode of the Manufacturers Alliance Podcast is sponsored by Blue Key Media. Blue Key Media specializes in helping manufacturing companies increase sales, recruit more efficiently, and cut through the noise with the power of video. Learn more at www.bluekeymedia.com

There are a lot of things to be learned by leaders on how to draw out different perspectives and respect people's ideas. Enjoy this week's conversation with Jim Doyle, as he shares how he has helped make it psychologically safe for teams to perform at their best!   Download the Leader's Guide https://mfrall.activehosted.com/f/261   This Podcast Episode was sponsored by Wipfli: The firm whose perspective can change everything for your business. Learn more at www.wipfli.com/manufacturing  

Have you ever wondered about how your small shop could take advantage of what the big industry players are doing to drive digital transformations and use AI or machine learning? You know using data to proactively make improvements is the way you want to go, but how do you get there?   Enjoy this week's conversation with Mo Abuali, Senior Director of Digital Strategy at Wipfli, as we discuss the process they have used to engage manufacturers to identify and eliminate bottlenecks all with Industry 4.0 technology.    Download the Leaders Guide >>>    Wipfli: The firm whose perspective can change everything for your business. Learn more at www.wipfli.com/manufacturing  

The reality is that once you have a role where you are leading people as a manager, director, or VP you will still face a handful of leadership issues. You may feel the tendency to micromanage, struggle to acquire resources or even ignore performance issues. Avoid these issues and enjoy my conversation with Matt Kanz and Kelly Hanson, our instructors for the Strategic Leader Certification, as they share what they have done to overcome these issues… so you can too   Download the leaders guide >>>    The Manufacturers Alliance Podcast is sponsored by Bremer Bank. With bankers who know that in business, relationships matter more than ever. And understanding is everything. Find a Bremer Bank today at www.Bremer.com 

In this week's episode, we talk with Brad Konik, CEO of Konik and Matt Kanz, SVP NA at Jack Links, as they share their leadership experience, how to avoid micromanaging, practical leadership tools, and some of the biggest surprises they faced going from manager to senior leader.  Download the Leaders Guide  >> Whether you're seeking a direct-hire or contract employee, Konik's technical talent network can quickly build a high-caliber team to meet your needs.  Contact them today at www.koniknetwork.com