Podcasts about manufacturers

Many manufacturers are taking the wrong approach to artificial intelligence, picking the wrong implementation partners, and in general, not preparing their data effectively.In this interview, Aaron Lober - VP of Marketing at CADDi - is going to share what AI can realistically do for a manufacturing company and how to properly prepare for an AI implementation.

What does it take to navigate tariffs, rate cuts, and AI disruption all at once?Hosts Kevin Brown and Tom Burton break down the week's headlines that matter most to manufacturers and distributors, from the U.S. government shutdown and Fed policy to the emerging reality of AI‑driven decision‑making and agentic commerce. Discover why contextual intelligence is now a core leadership skill and how data strategy can turn economic uncertainty into competitive advantage. What You'll Learn:Why the shutdown's “fix” is really a delay until January 31, and how prediction markets like Polymarket quantify that risk The truth about tariffs and refund rumors, and why smart pricing beats policy guessworkWhat the Fed's next decision means for capital, lending, and distribution growth plans How AI‑enabled CRM and customer intelligence platforms deliver clarity from chaos Why leaders who blend economic awareness + data fluency will own the next decade of wholesale innovation Episode Highlights:03 : 12 –  The shutdown “ends”… or does it? Budget reset and political realities behind the deal 16 : 40 –  Prediction markets vs. traditional polls: how Polymarket nailed its forecast 31 : 25 –  Rate‑cut drama: inside the Fed meeting math and the Burton Market prediction 48 : 07 –  Tariff talk decoded, methodology matters more than headlines01 : 03 : 14 – Refunds or fantasy? Legal complexity of tariff paybacks explained01 : 14 : 58 –  AI and contextual intelligence: from theory to tool sets inside LeadSmart Channel Cloud™ 01 : 28 : 47 –  Final takeaways, leadership, data literacy, and the new rules of economic resilience Meet the Hosts:Kevin Brown and Tom Burton are co‑founders of LeadSmart Technologies, creators of LeadSmart Channel Cloud™, an AI‑enabled Customer Intelligence and Smart CRM platform purpose‑built for manufacturers and distributors. They bring decades of experience in distribution operations, software engineering, and data strategy to help leaders turn siloed information into growth insight.Tools & Frameworks Mentioned:LeadSmart Channel Cloud™ — Unified AI CRM for distributors & manufacturers Context Engineering — Aligning AI systems with business intent Agentic Commerce — Autonomous AI workflows for B2B transactions Prediction Markets (Polymarket) — Crowdsourced economic signal analysis Customer Intelligence Framework — Transforming ERP and CRM data into actionable insight Closing Insight:“AI doesn't replace relationships, it reinforces them by removing friction.” — Kevin Brown Leave a Review: Help us grow by sharing your thoughts on the show.Learn more about the LeadSmart AI B2B Sales Platform: https://www.leadsmarttech.com/ Join the conversation each week on LinkedIn Live.Want even more insight to the stories we discuss each week? Subscribe to the Around The Horn Newsletter.You can also hear the podcast and other excellent content on our YouTube Channel.Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or TikTok.

Industrial AI software heavyweight IFS chose its New York show to debut virtual agents equipped with 50 skills that autonomously manage high-volume tasks. For this episode of the Great Question podcast, Smart Industry's Scott Achelpohl and Plant Services' Tom Wilk were there to chat about the product, IFS Loops, with its CEO, Somya Kapoor.  

Stephen Grootes speaks to Wendy Knowler about the uncertainty surrounding electric vehicle sales in South Africa, noting that while Naamsa reports 3,251 units sold over the past five years, 1,257 of them last year, Chinese manufacturer BYD does not disclose its figures, and questioning whether it’s reasonable to expect local manufacturers to keep battery components in stock to avoid long delays for customers needing replacements. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Georgia Foundation for Agriculture is offering $66,000 worth of scholarships in 2026 in support of students studying for careers in ag-related fields, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturer's monthly "Flash Report" shows October sales for all tractors in the U.S. were down 20% from the same month last year.

With stagnating cotton prices, California growers planted fewer acres this year than almost any time in the past century, and the Association of Equipment Manufacturer's monthly "Flash Report" shows October sales for all tractors in the U.S. were down 20% from the same month last year.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Wendy Knowler about the uncertainty surrounding electric vehicle sales in South Africa, noting that while Naamsa reports 3,251 units sold over the past five years, 1,257 of them last year, Chinese manufacturer BYD does not disclose its figures, and questioning whether it’s reasonable to expect local manufacturers to keep battery components in stock to avoid long delays for customers needing replacements. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tiruppur, Tamil Nadu, India's knitwear capital, has long depended on massive U.S. orders that shaped its factories, products, and growth. But when the Trump administration imposed a 50% tariff on Indian garment imports, the town's export engine received a long-pending shock. Turns out, the crisis became a turning point. Manufacturers are now scrambling for discounts, shifting production to Sri Lanka and Kenya, reorienting toward Europe, and overhauling product lines from mass-market basics to intricate boutique styles. Amid layoffs, automation, and global diversification, Tiruppur's exporters are discovering something surprising.This shock may be exactly the push the industry needed to evolve.Tune in.Daybreak is produced from the newsroom of The Ken, India's first subscriber-only business news platform. Subscribe for more exclusive, deeply-reported, and analytical business stories. Join The Ken as a Podcast Producer and work with India's most ambitious storytellers! We're creating a podcast about India's biggest companies, with each episode backed by weeks of deep research. You'll lead the workflows that turn that research into exceptional narratives and bring the show to listeners around the world. Join us to help shape something exceptional. Check out the details and apply here. 

In this episode of On the Record, brought to you by Associated Equipment Distributors, we get a market update from Curt Blades, senior vice president of AEM. In the Technology Corner, Noah Newman catches up with Paul Welbig, director of precision technology for New Holland, for a conversation about the latest outlook for autonomy in agriculture. Also in this episode, Tennessee dealer Tim Brannon sheds some light on how livestock customers are failing compared to their row-crop counterparts and the latest Ag Economy Barometer highlights how farmers may spend government payments.

Sustainability goals are everywhere in manufacturing; net-zero by 2030, carbon neutral by 2035. While many manufacturers have set ambitious targets, the gap between goals and execution remains a challenge, especially when sustainability projects compete with production priorities for capital.Eric Spink and Shiva Subramanya from Veregy join the show to talk about energy transition and what it looks like in practice. Energy used to be just another line item and the cost of doing business, now it's tied to resilience, sustainability, and a company's long-term strategy.One key insight from the conversation was how the equipment on the perimeter of your manufacturing floor (think compressed air systems, boilers, refrigeration, and HVAC) consumes 60-80% of your plant's total energy.But manufacturers typically don't have expertise in these support utilities, which is why they get overlooked for efficiency opportunities.We dive into real projects, including a five-plant dairy operation where AI can predict steam demand based on production data. Plus, how performance contracting allows manufacturers to fund these projects using energy savings rather than tying up capital.In this episode, find out:Why energy has evolved from an expense to a strategic priorityHow perimeter equipment consumes 60-80% of plant energy but often receives the least attentionWhy sustainability projects typically compete with production priorities for budgetHow performance contracting uses energy savings to fund improvements without capital investmentThe low-hanging fruit in most plants, such as compressed air leaks, lighting upgrades, and controls optimizationWhat happens when you connect production data with utility systems using AI and advanced controlsReal examples from dairy processing that delivered significant energy savingsEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“Traditionally, manufacturing companies have relied on their own capital to implement sustainability projects. But they always compete with productivity goals. With performance contractors, companies can now use the savings from energy reductions and put their capital elsewhere but still implement energy efficiency projects.” - Eric Spink“Upgrading control systems by putting in PLC-based controls, and adding instrumentation and metering really allows all these systems to consume a lot less energy. Historically these have yielded very high paybacks, between one and a half and two years in many cases.” - Eric Spink“Having a sustainability goal is important, but having a sustainability plan is key. The sustainability plan needs to include how the organization is going to implement it and how it's going to be funded year-on-year.” - Shiva SubramanyaLinks & mentions:Veregy, an award-winning decarbonization company providing turnkey engineering and construction services to reduce energy costs through efficiency upgrades, smart building technology, EV infrastructure, and clean energy solutions.Skillwork, a premier staffing agency providing skilled industrial technicians on a contract basis to augment facility teams across 30+ states for elevated impact and decreased downtime.Fortinet, securing the world's largest enterprises, service...

The Supreme Court had tough questions for the Trump administration about the legality of tariffs imposed on almost every U.S. trading partner, and Trump administration still intends to roll out up to $12 billion for farmers struggling because of tariffs.

The Supreme Court had tough questions for the Trump administration about the legality of tariffs imposed on almost every U.S. trading partner, and Trump administration still intends to roll out up to $12 billion for farmers struggling because of tariffs.

t's the Halloween Special of the Torque Up Podcast and this one hits close to home.Will, Jay and Jimbo sit down for an unfiltered talk about what's really haunting the trade. From burnout and stress to AI, TikTok and the future of UK wholesalers – this episode dives deep into the issues every electrician, manufacturer and wholesaler is facing right now.

If you've ever tried to cook pasta at home, you'll know the struggle - one minute it's undercooked and chewy, the next minute it has disintegrated into a sticky mush. If you've ever attempted to cook gluten-free pasta, your experience has probably been even worse. So is there an idea way to cook pasta and does gluten-free pasta need different treatment? New research published in the journal Food Hydrocolloids used some of the most advanced research tools on the planet to look deep inside pasta as it cooks to find out. Using powerful beams of X-rays and neutrons from particle accelerator facilities usually reserved for studying materials, medicines and magnetic particle, they were able to figure out how to make better spaghetti. The researchers took regular and gluten-free pasta and used X-rays and neutrons to see how the pasta's internal structure changed during cooking, specifically the behaviour of gluten and starch. They even used heavy water (which contains a different form of hydrogen) to make one ingredient invisible at a time. This way, they could isolate and study gluten and starch separately. In regular pasta, gluten forms a strong internal framework which holds everything in place even when the pasta is boiling and swelling. This is why: Regular spaghetti stays firm. It doesn't fall apart easily. It digests more slowly (lower glycaemic index). In gluten-free pasta, there is no gluten scaffold. That means: The starch granules swell and collapse more easily. The pasta can turn mushy faster. It breaks down more quickly in digestion. Manufacturers try to replace gluten with processed starches, but the study showed these substitutes are much less stable, especially when overcooked. Most of us add salt to pasta water because it tastes better, but the research found it also strengthens pasta's internal structure. The perfect amount of salt was found to be 7 grams (1.5 teaspoons) of salt per litre of water. Salt helps gluten hold its shape and protects the starch granules so the pasta stays firm. More salt is not better When the researchers doubled the amount of salt, the pasta broke down faster. What did the scientists determine as the ideal cooking method for pasta? For regular pasta: Add 7 g of salt per litre of water and boil for 10 minutes For gluten-free pasta: Add 7 g of salt per litre and boil for 11 minutes Gluten-free pasta is simply less forgiving and even two extra minutes or too much salt can turn it into mush. This research isn't just about perfecting dinner. Understanding how pasta breaks down at the microscopic level can help food scientists design better gluten-free pasta that: Holds its shape better. Feels more like wheat pasta. Doesn't spike blood sugar as quickly. And more broadly, the study shows how cutting-edge scientific tools, normally used to study batteries, magnets and biological molecules are now being used to understand everyday foods. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of Component Connection, SBCA's Director of Business Development, Abby Langenberg, is joined by Executive Director Jess Lohse to talk about what component manufacturers can do to stay proactive and resilient in a shifting housing market. From developing new business and promoting components locally to diversifying offerings and learning from peers, this conversation breaks down real-world strategies manufacturers can use to keep growing — even when demand slows. Whether you're a seasoned CM or new to the industry, you'll come away with fresh ideas for building a stronger, more adaptable business.

Andy Cam and Todd Glister talk about their approach to getting materials, products, tools, boilers and heat pumps needed for jobs. They talk about the ways they go about it and how they've changed methods over the years. Pointy Plumber joins the discussion and shares his approach as well.

Manufacturers understand the skills gap: every day they recognize that do not have enough people or enough of the right people to execute the difficult and sometimes dirty, often dangerous tasks like pouring and forming molten materials, grinding or machining parts, treating and handling those parts, welding and finishing components and systems, etc. It's more than a practical problem. It's an economic and institutional crisis. The Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship and Learning program (METAL) established by the Dept. of Defense in 2024 is moving fast to resolve it, setting up and coordinating practical training in critical disciplines for metal casting and metal forging processes at seven universities, and drawing in fresh minds who ensure that knowledge and practical understanding continue to be available to engineers and investors in the decades ahead of us. Mike Kubacki, project coordinator for METAL describes the program and its progress.

In recent years, advancements in implant technology have prioritized patient safety and comfort. Manufacturers have introduced more cohesive silicone gels, improved shell designs, and enhanced surface textures to minimize complications. These innovations aim to provide more natural-looking results and ensure long-term durability while addressing previous concerns associated with older implants.In this episode we hear about the current state of implants, as well as whether there is still concern about Breast Implant Illness or possible malignancy, from Aesthetic Society president, Dr. Tracy Pfeifer. Listen to find out what you need to know!

This panel was recorded September 18, 2025.⁠⁠⁠⁠ We hope you'll join us live in the future to ask your own questions and participate in the attendee chat! See similar events on demand and read other free MedTech resources at ⁠RQMplus.com⁠.Manufacturers often focus on MDR or IVDR and miss cross-cutting EU laws that impact CE marking, technical documentation, quality systems, and reporting. As a result, devices may be delayed, blocked from the market, or recalled, and manufacturers may suffer legal penalties and reputational harm.In this RQM+ Live! panel discussion, experts from BSI, Brabners, and RQM+ map how sectoral, horizontal, and national requirements fit together, how notified bodies assess them, and how to build an evidence-based path to EU market access.We cover practical implications of recent and emerging regulations, including:Batteries Regulation (EU) 2023/1542AI Act (EU) 2024/1689Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (EU) 2025/40European Health Data Space Regulation (EU) 2025/327You'll learn:About the market surveillance regulation (EU) 2019/1020 and EU Blue Guide.How to identify all applicable legislation for your product and verify coverage.What notified bodies expect to see and the typical level of scrutiny.How to structure your compliance register, QMS updates, and regulatory reporting.Transition timelines and planning tactics to avoid last-minute surprises.Who should listen: Regulatory, quality, clinical, legal, and product leaders responsible for EU market access for medical devices and IVDs.Panelists and moderator:Greg Griffin, PhD, MRSE – Technical Specialist, BSIClaire Burrows – Regulatory Partner, BrabnersChris Parr, PMP – Principal, RQM+Jaishankar Kutty, PhD – Vice President of Regulatory Affairs, Reimbursement, & Market Access, RQM+ (Moderator)--

FELIPE MASSA AND THE 2008 CHAMPIONSHIP NOW IN COURT!…WHO KNEW AND, WHO DIDN'T KNOW? WILL LCH BE FORCED TO HAND OVER 2008 GOODIES?...HOW COULD PIASTRI DROP OFF SO BADLY? COMPARED TO LANDO NORRIS! AND, THIS WEEK'S NASIR HAMEED CORNER WE GET NOSTALGIC WITH A LOOK BACK TO 2016...GP2 ENGINE AAAHHHH.... Felipe Massa's Legal Case: In 2023, Massa filed a lawsuit against the FIA (International Automobile Federation) and F1's governing body, arguing that the manipulation of the 2008 race — which he believes cost him the championship — was not only unfair but should have been investigated more thoroughly at the time. Key points in Massa's case include: Fraud and Misconduct: Massa alleges that the events surrounding the Singapore Grand Prix in 2008 were fraudulent and misrepresented to the public, and that this directly affected the outcome of the championship. Potential Victory: He claims that, had the safety car period not occurred due to the orchestrated crash, he would have won the race and the title. Timing: Massa's case is built on the assertion that new evidence (like testimonies from insiders and other facts) has come to light, suggesting that the true extent of the manipulation wasn't fully revealed or dealt with at the time. Why Now? Massa's legal action comes years after the original events, with the key question being why the case is being pursued so late in the day. Some speculate that Massa might have been waiting for the right legal grounds or new evidence to surface, or simply for a change in the FIA's leadership and its handling of such cases. Current Status: As of late 2023, the case was ongoing, with Massa and his legal team looking to secure compensation or possibly even a re-opening of the 2008 season's results. Massa has hinted that he might be seeking justice more than just financial recompense. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for F1 and how the sport handles cases of team manipulation, race fixing, or other forms of cheating. It also raises questions about accountability within F1 and the FIA regarding race conduct. Massa's lawsuit is likely to be a long and complex legal battle, given the intricacies of sports law and the FIA's position in the motorsport world. How sweep it is: Porsche takes all three IMSA titles. At the end of the day, you can't talk about a history of racing without a history of winning. After a season of sweat, heat, trading paint and swapping drivers, Porsche Penske Motorsport has taken all three 2025 IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship titles: Drivers', Teams', and Manufacturers'. No race—and no championship—is a given until the checkered flag drops. Yet after finding victory lane in the first four races of the season, there was definitely something in the air around Porsche Penske Motorsport. And with victories secured at Daytona, Sebring, Long Beach, and Monterey, the 963 was cementing its status as another legendary Porsche endurance racer. A string of strong finishes followed, all of them in the face of intense competition—which is exactly how racing should be. Because it's in the heat of the moment that you learn the lessons that make you better. All of them culminating at Petit Le Mans at Road Atlanta, where the whole Porsche Penske Motorsport crew took what they'd learned and made it official: they're the champs. JAK CRAWFORD CONFIRMED AS ASTON MARTIN ARAMCO THIRD DRIVER FOR 2026 AMRTC, Silverstone, 28 October 2025: The Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team has announced that Young Driver Jak Crawford will become the team's Third Driver for the 2026 Formula One season. The role sees Jak act as the team's reserve driver at all races next season. The 20-year-old, who joined the team's Young Driver Development Programme in 2024, has accumulated over 2,000km in Formula One machinery. Most recently, he made his Grand Prix weekend debut at the Mexico City Grand Prix, driving Lance Stroll's AMR25 during FP1. Throughout 2025, Jak has been a constant presence in the simulator at the AMR Technology Campus in Silverstone, providing valuable technical feedback that has supported both race operations with the AMR25 and development work on the 2026 challenger, the AMR26.  Jak is currently competing in his third Formula 2 season, where he sits second in the Drivers' Championship. The series heads to Qatar next month for the first of the final two rounds.  Jak Crawford, Young Driver, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team: “I'm incredibly proud to be confirmed as the Third Driver for 2026. It's a huge moment in my journey with Aston Martin Aramco and a big motivation to keep learning and contributing. Over the past two seasons, I've learned so much from being in the Formula 1 environment, both at the factory and trackside. I'll be doing everything I can to support the team and continue developing as a driver.” Andy Cowell, CEO and Team Principal, Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team: “It is great to see Jak progress to become our Third Driver for 2026. Over the past two years, he has shown his value as a key member of our driver squad and built up a valuable bank of experience and test mileage. Jak has impressed in the simulator, having completed regular sessions at the AMR Technology Campus to support our race operations and car development. Jak's performances in Formula 2 have also been outstanding, and we are excited to continue supporting his growth as he takes on a bigger role.  

Originally loaded October 13th, reloaded October 31st. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes back Pavan Muzumdar, Chief Operating Officer for Automation Alley & Project DIAMOnD CEO, Troy, MI, for a Project DIAMOnD Marketplace discussion. There were several questions Jeffrey wanted to find out from Pavan in this conversation: 1. The big picture: Pavan, for those who may not be familiar, in a few sentences can you explain what Project DIAMOnD is and how it's changing the way manufacturing happens here in Michigan? 2. From network to marketplace: Automation Alley recently launched the Project DIAMOnD Marketplace. Tell us what this new peer-to-peer platform does and why it's such a major milestone for distributed manufacturing. 3. Impact so far: The Project DIAMOnD network has already completed more than 50,000 3D print jobs. What kinds of parts are being produced, and what does that volume tell us about the potential of this model? 4. Empowering small manufacturers: A big part of Project DIAMOnD's mission is giving small and medium-sized manufacturers access to digital transformation technology. How does the marketplace make it easier for those smaller companies to compete, even if they don't own a 3D printer themselves? 5. Security and collaboration: You've emphasized that the marketplace protects intellectual property while enabling collaboration across hundreds of Michigan manufacturers. How does that balance work in practice? 6. Michigan's leadership role: Governor Whitmer and multiple county executives have endorsed Project DIAMOnD's statewide expansion. Why is Michigan uniquely positioned to lead the country in distributed manufacturing? 7. Call to action – getting involved: For the businesses listening, whether they want to have parts printed or join the network – how can they get involved with the Project DIAMOnD Marketplace, and what kind of opportunities does it open up for them? Automation Alley's Project DIAMOnD Launches Peer-to-Peer Marketplace for Distributed 3D Printing The marketplace builds on the success of 50,000+ 3D print jobs, showcasing the power of distributed manufacturing in Michigan TROY, Mich. – Sept. 25, 2025 – Project DIAMOnD, the nation's largest distributed 3D printing network led by Automation Alley and funded by Oakland County, has launched its new additive manufacturing marketplace – a secure, peer-to-peer platform where companies can submit 3D printing jobs at scale, and participating small manufacturers across Michigan can fulfill those jobs collaboratively. How it works: Companies that want to print at scale via the Project DIAMOnD Marketplace can reach out to contact@projectdiamond.org. Manufacturers interested in joining the network to receive a free 3D printer and training can apply through the “Join” form at www.projectdiamond.org. The marketplace is designed to protect the intellectual property of designers while giving them access to the full power of the distributed network. Jobs can be produced at higher volumes and faster speeds without requiring companies to purchase their own equipment. In fact, designers don't need to own a 3D printer at all to benefit from the network. They can simply submit their designs and have them securely manufactured at scale by participating Project DIAMOnD members. About Project DIAMOnD Project DIAMOnD (Distributed Independent and Agile Manufacturing on Demand) is creating the nation's largest connected 3D printing network, enabling small and medium-sized manufacturers and tech companies to access Industry 4.0 tools, diversify production capabilities, and respond rapidly to market demands. Funded by Oakland County in Phase 2 and powered by Automation Alley, the program provides participating businesses with grant-funded 3D printers, training, and access to a secure digital marketplace for on-demand production.

One of the challenges we face in Australia is getting more homegrown medtech products purchased and used by local hospitals and health services. MTPConnect's Pathway to Market – Medtech Capability Uplift Program has been supporting ten market-ready Victorian medtech manufacturers to position themselves competitively for local health procurement opportunities. The recent Australian Medtech Manufacturing Alliance (AMMA) Medtech Showcase profiled Victorian-made products and innovations from 25 local manufacturers spanning surgical care and diagnostics to hospital consumables and equipment. From a new nasal swab designed for children to smart bedding systems for aged care and healthcare sectors, the lineup was impressive.The Showcase highlighted ‘Better Health Made Here' – and the MTPConnect Podcast was on the ground talking to companies involved, including those taking part in the Pathway to Market program - Ventora Medical's Edward Buijs,  Rhinomed's Michael Johnson, Dentalife's Tom Stray, Sleeptite's Cameron van den Dungen and Certius Medical's Tim Stewart - as well as local leaders Care Essentials' Helen Skazas and Lindo's Robert Gangi. The Pathway to Market program is an initiative of the Australian Medtech Manufacturing Alliance (AMMA), delivered by MTPConnect in partnership with BioMelbourne Network and supported by the Victorian Government. Applications for the 2026 Pathway to Market program will open towards the end of 2025. 

In this episode, Ann Wyatt and Kevin Bowers discuss the current challenges facing the manufacturing industry, particularly the impact of tariffs and other economic factors during the fourth quarter of 2025. They explore the importance of data collection through surveys, the implications of Section 232 tariffs, and the ongoing job losses in manufacturing. The conversation emphasizes the need for small manufacturers to engage with their representatives and utilize available resources to navigate these challenges. Additionally, they provide insights into the economic outlook for the manufacturing sector and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset amidst uncertainty. If you're wondering how you can successfully navigate all of the political and economic shifts happening and need resources to do so, this episode is up your alley!In This Episode:-00:00: Workforce 4.0 Introduction-00:30: Welcoming Kevin Bowers From AMT On Workforce 4.0-08:35: The Role of Automation in Manufacturing-11:30: Job Losses and Workforce Challenges-14:15: Financial Resources and Support for Manufacturers-16:53: Future Projections for Manufacturing-19:13: Community Engagement and Advocacy-21:47: Navigating Economic Uncertainty-24:10: Conclusion and Key TakeawaysMore About Kevin Bowers:Kevin is the association's Vice President of Research: With over 20 years of experience in manufacturing across sales, operations, training, and support, he understands all aspects of our members' businesses. He also led research for industrial equipment and field services at the Technology & Services Industry Association, where they focused on benchmarking, advisory, and consulting to improve members' business outcomes. Kevin's deep-rooted industry knowledge and technical expertise, combined with his experience in actionable research, make him uniquely qualified to take our Research and Consulting team at AMT to the next level. He also serves on the board of NIMS (National Institute for Metalworking Skills). Kevin graduated from the University of Illinois with a degree in Japanese and spent several years living and working in Japan.

Small Business Economy Steady; AI Remains a 'Toy'. Gene Marks reports on the small business economy, noting steady activity among machine parts manufacturers, often preparing for an "onshoring boom." Construction and housing are holding steady but anticipate a future boom as interest rates decline. Tariffs have a muted impact, often absorbed or passed on as separate invoice line items for transparency. Marks demonstrates that AI, despite its advances, is not ready for prime-time business use, failing to accurately generate a requested image of a Yorkshire Terrier hitting a home run.

Small Business Economy Steady; AI Remains a 'Toy'. Gene Marks reports on the small business economy, noting steady activity among machine parts manufacturers, often preparing for an "onshoring boom." Construction and housing are holding steady but anticipate a future boom as interest rates decline. Tariffs have a muted impact, often absorbed or passed on as separate invoice line items for transparency. Marks demonstrates that AI, despite its advances, is not ready for prime-time business use, failing to accurately generate a requested image of a Yorkshire Terrier hitting a home run.

This week, Greg Shugar, owner of Beau Ties, a men's accessories business, explains how the tariffs have the potential to destroy the very businesses they are supposed to protect. As Shugar points out, President Trump has said all along that if you make it here, you won't have to pay the tariffs. Well, Beau Ties makes it here -- but it has to import fabric from overseas because the silk fabric it needs is simply not produced here. And those imports are being taxed at a very high rate. At the moment, Shugar is waiting to hear whether Trump will indeed, as he has threatened, slap an additional 100-percent tariff on imports from China, which Shugar says could force him to shut down. The threat alone means that he can't make plans two weeks out -- let alone start thinking about next year.

Originally uploaded October 3, reloaded October 20th. Jeffrey Mosher welcomes Laketa L. Henderson, SBA Michigan District Director, Detroit, MI. In October, we will celebrate Manufacturing Month. Earlier this year, SBA launched the Made in American Manufacturing Initiative. Tell me about some of the SBA initiatives announced *this month* to support small manufacturers – which make up 98 percent of all manufacturers? SBA Launches First-Ever Loan Program Dedicated to American Manufacturers | U.S. Small Business Administration SBA Waives Loan Fees for Small Manufacturers in Fiscal Year 2026 | U.S. Small Business Administration Currently, SBA is accepting nominations for National Small Business Week 2026 awards. This is an annual celebration held in May, but the deadline for the awards in December. Tell me about the different National & State-level awards that are up for grabs and what is the process/criteria to get nominated? Register Now for SBA's “How to Submit a Winning Packet” webinar about award nomination process on Oct. 8, 2025. You have a whole team of SBA staff in Michigan, who are available to help small businesses. Tell me about your team and how a small business owners can contact SBA in Michigan? For more information, visit the Michigan District Office: https://www.sba.gov/district/michigan » Visit MBN website: www.michiganbusinessnetwork.com/ » Subscribe to MBN's YouTube: www.youtube.com/@MichiganbusinessnetworkMBN » Like MBN: www.facebook.com/mibiznetwork » Follow MBN: twitter.com/MIBizNetwork/ » MBN Instagram: www.instagram.com/mibiznetwork/

Host Frank Sohn welcomes Marc de Mey of Merkato Group—the team behind Merkato CPQ and brands Quootz, CPQ Belgium, Sell It Easy, CPQing Solutions, and DOK.legal. Marc shares his path from aircraft mechanics to CPQ leadership and explains how Merkato's low-code/no-code, API-first, headless architecture helps manufacturers move from complex requirements to accurate quotes fast. We compare hands-off vs. hands-on implementation models across the group, and why an external ecosystem of Merkato experts accelerates adoption. You'll hear practical integration patterns with Salesforce, SAP, Epicor, Infor, Odoo, Zoho and CAD tools like PTC Creo and Solidworks. We also cover three buying drivers—capturing hard product knowledge, creating a single source of truth that eliminates double entry, and delivering modern visualization. Best for manufacturers, OEMs, distributors, and EPCs (50–1000 employees), primarily in Europe but with global reach.

Modern robotic picking is moving beyond neat rows and perfect lighting conditions. In this Automate 2025 conversation, Vlad and Dave sit down with Kevin Wu from Siemens to explore how Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro is tackling the messy reality of warehouses and factories. They discuss how the new edge architecture with the Simatic IPC BX 59 A and an NVIDIA GPU lifts pick rates to well over one thousand picks per hour, why multiple suction patterns matter for stability on large or flexible items, how camera agnostic support opens the door to new vision hardware, and why transparent objects are no longer a limitation in many applications.This episode also dives into digital thread and digital twin workflows using Siemens Process Simulate. These tools allow teams to test new products and layouts virtually before any hardware changes are made, helping reduce commissioning risk and shorten the path to production. The discussion highlights an on-booth demonstration that combines a robot with a secondary camera and a vision language model to identify products and read packaging details such as expiration dates. It is a clear example of how multimodal AI can complement traditional industrial vision systems.A major theme throughout this conversation is resilience. In real operations, products are rarely placed perfectly. Pallets shift, orientations vary, and lighting changes throughout the day. Traditional rules-based vision systems often struggle when small variances accumulate. Kevin explains how model-free 3D picking localizes unknown objects in clutter, selects stable suction patterns based on measured dimensions, and keeps production moving without forcing operators to maintain perfect alignment.For manufacturers in consumer packaged goods and medical devices, this is a meaningful advancement. It enables greater product variety and frequent SKU changes while maintaining engineering control. The difference is that the picking logic adapts to what the system sees rather than expecting the environment to remain static.We also talk about practical evaluation and proof of concept. Siemens runs application testing at its Berkeley, California lab where customers can send sample parts for quick feasibility checks. A short video of their parts being picked can provide the confidence needed to move forward with a pilot project while minimizing cost and risk. For quality inspection and defect detection, Siemens also offers an Inspector station capable of learning from as few as twenty samples to identify defects in real time.The discussion closes by looking at the future of digital manufacturing. Digital thread tools make it possible to simulate robots from multiple brands, test new configurations, and evaluate throughput virtually. Combined with edge AI and NVIDIA vision language technology, this creates faster experimentation cycles, improved reliability, and measurable gains in uptime and throughput.Kevin's key message is clear. Manufacturers do not need to replace existing automation to explore the benefits of AI. Start with one process, validate performance, and build from there.Timestamps 00:00 Welcome and why real-world picking matters 00:40 Introduction to Pick AI Pro and new throughput capabilities 01:30 Multi suction patterns for stable handling of large items 02:20 Camera agnostic approach and transparent object handling 03:30 Selecting components for high-temperature environments 04:15 Use cases in consumer packaged goods and medical applications 06:45 Digital twin and digital thread with Siemens Process Simulate 08:30 Feasibility testing and customer demos at the Siemens lab 10:30 Vision language model for product identification and labeling 12:10 Evaluating with real parts and rapid testing cycles 14:20 Siemens Inspector for defect detection and visual inspection 15:40 Key takeaways and future outlookReferences and Resources Mentioned Siemens Simatic Robot Pick AI Overview https://www.siemens.com/global/en/products/automation/topic-areas/tia/future-topics/simatic-robotics-ai.htmlSiemens Press Release on Simatic Robot Pick AI Pro https://press.siemens.com/global/en/pressrelease/siemens-presents-future-intralogistics-simatic-robot-pick-ai-pro-enables-machineSiemens Simatic IPC BX 59 A Industrial Edge Device with NVIDIA GPU https://www.automationworld.com/products/data/product/55287446/siemens-ag-siemens-simatic-ipc-bx-59a-industrial-edge-deviceSiemens IPC BX 59 A Operating Instructions https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/attachments/109972660/ipcbx56a_and_ipcbx59a_operating_instructions_enUS_en-US.pdfUniversal Robots Example with Simatic Robot Pick AI https://support.industry.siemens.com/cs/document/109822788/simatic-robot-pick-ai-with-universal-robots-ur5Zivid Transparent Object Imaging Information https://www.zivid.com/zivid-omni-engine-transparency https://blog.zivid.com/zivid-omni-engineSiemens Digital Thread Overview and Tecnomatix Process Simulate https://www.sw.siemens.com/en-US/digital-thread/ https://plm.sw.siemens.com/en-US/tecnomatix/NVIDIA Vision Language Model Resources https://docs.nvidia.com/nim/vision-language-models/latest/introduction.html https://developer.nvidia.com/blog/vision-language-model-prompt-engineering-guide-for-image-and-video-understanding/Hosts Vlad Romanov is an electrical engineer and manufacturing consultant who leads Joltek and co-hosts the Manufacturing Hub Podcast. He focuses on practical strategies for SCADA, MES, and data-driven operations. Learn more at https://www.joltek.comYouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6JpBeS_6JhUwfGF8RgLCIQDave Griffith is a manufacturing consultant and long-time co-host of Manufacturing Hub. He helps teams align operations, engineering, and leadership around the projects that move the needle in real production environments.Guest Kevin Wu from Siemens discusses Robot Pick AI Pro and related digital thread workflows across robotics and vision. Learn more about Siemens automation and software at https://www.siemens.com https://www.sw.siemens.com

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox talks with Alex Parker, Eide Bailly's Director of Tax Legislative Affairs, about what's really happening in Washington as the government shutdown stretches on. With years of experience as a journalist covering tax and policy at the Capitol, Alex explains how we got here, what's at stake, and which services could be disrupted if the gridlock continues. He also explores Iowa's growing role as an energy cornucopia, breaking down the incentives and opportunities tied to the One Big Beautiful Bill (OB3). His combination of insider knowledge and plainspoken insight makes complex legislative issues understandable and actionable for manufacturers across Iowa. Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/alex-parker

AP's Lisa Dwyer reports on meetings between Ukrainian officials and U.S. weapons manufacturers.

Renaud breaks down this week's one-two punch in the U.S.–China trade saga: Beijing's new export controls on key rare-earth minerals (notably neodymium for high-strength magnets) and the White House's counter-threat of a 100% tariff on made-in-China imports from November 1. He unpacks the “small yard, high fence” strategy, how China is now mirroring U.S. tools (FDPR-style controls, personnel restrictions, licensing), and what this means for your supply chain in the next few weeks.   Episode Sections: 00:00:26 The headline: China's new export controls on rare-earth minerals (incl. neodymium)  00:01:45 U.S. response: proposed 100% tariff on made-in-China goods from Nov 1 (leverage & deadline)  00:02:46 China says it will reciprocate; deadlock + market jitters  00:03:07 Mixed signals on X; why near-term headlines may whipsaw  00:04:59 WSJ angle: “learn the barbarians' tools” — China's smarter countermeasures  00:05:11 “Small yard, high fence”: narrowing the choke points (semis, EVs, batteries)  00:07:05 Example #1: U.S. FDPR vs. China's mineral-origin export controls (mirroring)  00:07:48 Example #2: Restricting people — U.S. persons in CN semis vs. CN nationals in rare-earth chain  00:08:15 Example #3: Licensing regimes for dual-use tech — copy-and-invert  00:09:16 Takeaways for importers: don't overreact, prep playbooks before Nov 1   Work with us Design, industrialization, inspections, audits, CM, and 3PL across Asia → Sofeast Group: https://www.sofeast.com/   Related content... How China's new rare earth export controls work (Reuters) China's rare-earths power move jolted Trump but was years in the making (WaPo) China's New Rare Earth and Magnet Restrictions Threaten U.S. Defense Supply Chains (CSIS) Trump announces extra 100% tariff on Chinese goods starting next month (CBS) China warns US of retaliation over Trump's 100% tariffs threat (The Guardian) Foxconn sees limited impact from China rare earths curbs for now (Reuters) ASML plays down Chinese tool stockpiling, impact of rare earth restrictions (Reuters) Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedIn Contact us via Sofeast's contact page Subscribe to our YouTube channel Prefer Facebook? Check us out on FB

Joe's Premium Subscription: www.standardgrain.comGrain Markets and Other Stuff Links-Apple PodcastsSpotifyTikTokYouTubeFutures and options trading involves risk of loss and is not suitable for everyone.

In this episode of China Manufacturing Decoded, host Adrian is joined by Vera Roldan, head of the design department at Sofeast, to unpack how industrial design links user needs, aesthetics, and manufacturability. Vera outlines the practical workflow: research, mood boards, sketches, 3D CAD, renders, and tight collaboration with engineering and suppliers; plus why bringing design in early prevents costly rework. They cover differences between electronics and home goods, balancing looks with cost, the rise of sustainability, and why startups must not skip prototyping or user testing.   Episode Sections: 00:00:12 — Introducing Vera & the topic 00:01:49 — Why industrial design matters (beyond looks) 00:02:58 — Example: simplifying complexity & “design as insurance” 00:05:02 — Getting started with an ID team: what to share in your brief 00:07:50 — ID is consultative: research, sketches, 3D CAD, renders, handover 00:10:42 — Electronics vs home goods: different constraints 00:12:40 — Pitfalls of bringing design in late (rework, fit issues, cost) 00:16:27 — Designers × engineers × suppliers: prototype feedback loops 00:18:50 — What you should receive at the end of ID (deliverables) 00:20:06 — Why hire a pro ID team vs doing it in-house 00:21:27 — Balancing aesthetics and cost 00:23:23 — Startups: don't skip prototyping/user testing 00:24:41 — Sustainability trends & competitive advantage 00:25:41 — #1 thing for first-time creators: test with real users 00:26:50 — Vera's favourite design stage 00:27:46 — Success story: UX focus transformed the outcome 00:28:56 — Wrapping up   Related content... Get help from Sofeast's design team with your product: Industrial Design Support 3 Product Design Approaches And Their Pros & Cons For Made-In-China Products What Is The Industrial Design Process For New Electro-Mechanical Products? [Podcast] Avoid Sending Immature Product Designs to a Chinese Manufacturer! AI Product Design: How to use AI early during Industrial Design (Examples) 3 Unmissable Product Design Optimizations Design Reviews: An Important Step Before New Product Launches Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedIn Contact us via Sofeast's contact page Subscribe to our YouTube channel Prefer Facebook? Check us out on FB

Manufacturers are operating in a world where insurance markets are anything but stable, and the stakes have never been higher. In this episode, Risk Management Consultant Katie Hensley joins host Leisa Fox to demystify the shifting Property & Casualty landscape. From the shrinking property market to nuclear liability verdicts, Katie explains how manufacturers can adapt, update valuations, manage open recommendations, and strengthen communication to protect themselves against emerging risks. The conversation ranges from property, business interruption, and E&O, to workers' compensation, fleet, cyber, and management liability. Katie emphasizes proactive risk management, smarter use of data, and a team-based approach to claims and compliance. Whether you're a business owner, risk manager, or operations leader, you'll leave this episode with actionable insights to help your company weather today's insurance challenges while positioning for tomorrow's opportunities. Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/katie-hensley   

Well, Google Home welcomed Gemini into it's doors and many of you had lots of passionate reactions. Mishaal Rahman, Jason Howell and Ron Richards are here to process those emotions plus all the other Android related news and happenings from the week that was.Note: Time codes subject to change depending on dynamic ad insertion by the distributor00:03:40 - NEWSFinally, Gemini gets added to Google Home along with new hardware and lots of changes.Listen to our exclusive interview with Anish Katukaran, Chief Product Officer of Google HomeNothing takes a step forward with AI and vibe coding, kind of, with Nothing OS 4.0 BetaThe Supreme Court won't save Google (yet) from their battle with Epic GamesPatron Pick: Details on how Google's App Verification system will work00:39:38 - HARDWARERumors and renders aplenty about the Samsung Galaxy S26 PlusMore rumors that the Samsung Android XR headset will be shipping to Korea on October 22!No rumors here, just facts that the Samsung Galaxy Z series is a hit!Who needs a USB Cable with their phone? Manufacturers might be thinking you don't!00:55:26 - APPSComputer Control may be coming from Google to let LLMs automate and use your appsGoogle removes the ICE Reporting app Red Dot from the Play StorePour one out for the last subscription option for unlimited photos storage in Google Photos01:08:46 - FEEDBACKDavid reacts to our Google Home interview with his displeasure and lack of trust in GoogleAdam writes in with his frustration over disabling the Google Home BriefMatt wants to know where Spoken Notifications are on his Pixel Buds!??! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Send us a textManufacturing leaders are encouraged to prioritize building trust in their data as a foundational step toward successful AI adoption, as outlined in a discussion featuring experts Michael Mendoza and Dr. Michael Green. The episode highlights a data maturity framework progressing from visibility to generative AI, emphasizes the importance of clean and reliable data, showcases Lippert Components' $2.1 million savings through trusted data and AI, identifies traits of leading manufacturers, and offers practical advice on aligning data initiatives with business objectives to foster a data-driven culture and drive innovation.global.hitachi-solutions.com

It's been five years since Wendy Covey, CEO and Co-Founder of TREW Marketing, and Joe Sullivan, Founder of Gorilla 76, first joined Manufacturing Happy Hour, back when everyone was scrambling to figure out digital marketing during the pandemic.We sit down with them to explore which marketing fundamentals still deliver results and what new tactics manufacturers can't afford to ignore. The core truth hasn't changed: your best content still comes from extracting knowledge from industry experts. But where that content needs to live? That's completely different.PR is making a comeback, or as Wendy calls it, “the second coming of PR” while Joe shares how manufacturers can build knowledge bases from existing content to feed AI tools the right way.Both agree that becoming the best resource for your audience beats trying to game the system every time. And with showing up in ChatGPT becoming both more important and more challenging, manufacturers need to think beyond their own websites to build credibility across digital platforms.In this episode, find out:Why the best content still comes from extracting knowledge from industry expertsWhich timeless marketing strategies still deliver resultsThe surprising resurgence of PR and why engineers are starting to trust it more than everHow showing up in ChatGPT is getting harder, and what actually worksThe patience problem among industrial marketers and why ROI questions after 3 months miss the pointHow manufacturers are successfully using community-driven marketingWhat to look forward to at the Industrial Marketing Summit 2026 and why attendees keep coming backEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“With generative search, they're placing more value in third-party placements. So it's still the idea of being a topical authority, but you can't just do it on your website. You need to be a topical authority in industry publications, Reddit, YouTube, and all these other sources.” - Wendy Covey“Whether it's Google or ChatGPT, they're trying to display the best information and the most helpful possible information. It's just getting packaged up differently. And how do you make sure you're part of what shows up? You build credibility for yourself.” - Joe Sullivan“A lot of digital strategies have evolved but are still tried and true. So that's educating your audience, and publishing content on a regular cadence. Knowing your audience and building a strong value proposition that speaks to their pain points.” - Wendy CoveyLinks & mentions:Industrial Marketing Summit 2026, an annual three-day gathering where manufacturing and industrial marketers connect to share practical insights, learn emerging strategies, and build community with peers facing similar challengesTREW Marketing, partners with B2B technical companies to establish strong marketing foundations, create engaging content strategies, and accelerate growth through research-backed campaigns tailored for engineering audiencesGorilla 76, an industrial marketing agency that helps B2B companies in the manufacturing ecosystem grow through outcome-focused marketing programs built specifically for industrial markets Make sure to visit

In this conversation, Erik and Ethan Giffin discuss the intricacies of e-commerce, focusing on the e-commerce maturity checklist, the challenges of digital transformation for manufacturers and distributors, and the importance of retention marketing. They also touch on Ethan's journey in writing a book about B2B e-commerce and the significance of Industry 4.0 in modern business practices.TakeawaysE-commerce maturity checklist helps assess digital readiness.Manufacturers are increasingly seeking digital transformation.Retention marketing is crucial for B2B success.Leadership buy-in is essential for digital initiatives.Incremental changes can lead to significant improvements.Understanding customer behavior is key to e-commerce success.Industry 4.0 is reshaping manufacturing and distribution.Collaboration across departments enhances project outcomes.Ethan's book aims to guide manufacturers in e-commerce.Building relationships is vital for digital sales. Chapters00:00 Understanding E-commerce Maturity and Its Importance01:43 The E-commerce Maturity Checklist Explained04:12 Challenges in Digital Transformation for Manufacturers06:58 Retention Marketing vs. Growth Marketing09:21 Incremental Changes for Digital Success11:48 The Role of Leadership in E-commerce Transformation14:30 The Future of E-commerce and Industry 4.017:14 Ethan's Journey and Upcoming Book Release

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing manufacturing, but not in the way most people think. While traditional AI responds to prompts, AI agents represent something far more powerful – autonomous programs that learn, adapt, and make decisions independently in real-time. These intelligent systems are transforming how factories operate in an era defined by supply chain volatility, labor shortages, and rapidly changing market demands.The predictive capabilities of AI agents offer a fundamental shift from reactive to anticipatory operations. By simultaneously analyzing data from sensors, drives, PLCs, ERP systems, and quality control mechanisms, these agents create a comprehensive view of factory operations, uncovering patterns that signal potential issues days or weeks before they occur. Manufacturers implementing these systems report remarkable results – up to 78% reduction in unplanned downtime, 45% decrease in maintenance costs, and equipment lifespans extended by more than three years.When paired with digital twin technology, AI agents can simulate thousands of production scenarios in hours rather than months, optimizing configurations for maximum efficiency. Quality control systems achieve near-perfect defect detection rates while supply chains become more resilient through AI-powered forecasting and dynamic adjustment. The factory of the future isn't just automated – it's autonomous, continuously learning and optimizing itself.At EECO, we're committed to walking beside you through this technological transformation. Our team can help you explore how AI agents might integrate with your existing systems, providing the expertise and partnership mindset needed to turn these possibilities into practical realities. The future of manufacturing belongs to those who anticipate tomorrow's opportunities rather than react to yesterday's challenges. Keep Asking Why...Read our latest article on Industrial Manufacturing herehttps://eecoonline.com/inspire/predictive_AIOnline Account Registration:Video Explanation of Registering for an AccountRegister for an AccountOther Resources to help with your journey:Installed Asset Analysis SupportSystem Planning SupportSchedule your Visit to a Lab in North or South CarolinaSchedule your Visit to a Lab in VirginiaSubmit your questions and feedback to: podcast@eecoaskwhy.comFollow EECO on LinkedInHost: Chris Grainger

With 40 million electric bikes worldwide, we need Upway's marketplace to refurbish and resell them at scale.

It's been over a year since we've talked about cybersecurity on Manufacturing Happy Hour, and with AI changing the game completely, we're overdue for a refresh. Around 80-85% of the global industry doesn't have basic defense at the edge of their networks; that's a sobering statistic.Felipe Sabino Costa, Senior Product Manager for Networking and Cybersecurity at Moxa, joins the show to break down why Operational Technology (OT) security matters more than ever. Manufacturers need to transmit massive amounts of data for AI and predictive analytics, but they're working with 15–20-year-old infrastructure that wasn't built for this.The good news is, Felipe shares practical frameworks like NIST and IEC 62443 (which he compares to nutrition labels) that help manufacturers build security into their operations. The key takeaway? There's no silver bullet; it's about building layers of defense and finding the right partners.In this episode, find out:Why OT data has shifted from historical logging to real-time predictive powerThe bandwidth issue hitting intelligent transportation systems and semiconductor manufacturingHow AI enables attackers to adapt their attacks in real-timeWhy 80-85% of global industry lacks protectionFelipe's nutrition label analogy for understanding security certificationsThe difference between thinking your air-gapped and actually being air-gappedWhy defense requires multiple layers of securityFelipe's outlook on the future of OT networksEnjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“We used to be air-gapped or isolated. And many of the companies, they still think that they are, but they are not anymore. To be really air-gapped, I shouldn't have any way to send data.”“Give and take, 80% of the global industry, including the US, does not have these specific layers of defense. They have some defense, but they have nearly zero protection close to the process itself.”“There is no silver bullet. We are seeing this shift right from how we used to do security. A strategy should be way more sophisticated.”Links & mentions:OT Network Security: Investment & Segmentation Strategies, a webinar that addresses the financial and operational risks posed by cyber threats while offering hands-on guidance for OT network security Futureproof Industrial Networks, a website shares how to design and implement a robust, secure, and efficient network infrastructure that can meet the demands of modern industrial environments and optimize operational processesMoxa, delivering the reliable and secure connectivity foundation that advanced analytics and AI depend on, with solutions in edge connectivity, industrial computing, and network infrastructure Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.

Send us a textThe metal building industry stands at a pivotal crossroads, and those who fail to recognize the shifting landscape may soon find themselves struggling to survive. In this candid, no-holds-barred conversation, we peel back the curtain on what's really happening with marketing in the metal building space.Facebook Marketplace, once the golden ticket for metal building dealers, is rapidly losing effectiveness. We share our firsthand experience watching costs climb while lead quality plummets – a dangerous combination that's forcing smart businesses to pivot their strategies. "If you're not transitioning toward organic SEO or a fully functioning website, you better have a backup plan," we warn, speaking from years of trial and error.The transition isn't easy. We discuss the uncomfortable reality of temporarily losing lead volume while building sustainable marketing infrastructure. This digital transformation requires patience – our SEO journey took 18 months before bearing significant fruit – but the rewards are undeniable: qualified leads arriving 24/7 without constant advertising spend.Beyond marketing channels, we explore how customer expectations are evolving. Manufacturers offering permitting packages (like Carolina Carports) are gaining market share by addressing pain points that traditional dealers often ignore. Quality and reputation matter more than ever in an increasingly sophisticated marketplace where buyers research extensively before making decisions.We also tackle the thorny subject of marketing companies, sharing our experiences with firms that promised the moon but delivered disappointment. "Their job isn't to score you points or get you sales – their job is to sell you marketing," we explain, while highlighting how industry-specific partners like Shed Geek Marketing understand the unique challenges metal building businesses face.Whether you're a seasoned dealer or just starting out, this episode provides actionable insights on navigating the changing metal building landscape. The race to the bottom is being challenged, and those who position themselves strategically now will thrive while others struggle to keep pace.For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.Would you like to receive our weekly newsletter?  Sign up here.Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at info@shedgeek.com.This episodes Sponsors:Studio Sponsor: J Money LLCMobenoIdentigrow

New tariffs are set to target furnishings and pharmaceuticals. Greg and guest host Morgan Lyon-Cotti talk to trade attorney Michelle Schulz, Trade Attorney, Founder and Managing Partner, Schulz Trade Law PLLC Dallas, who gave them a perspective on what exactly this may mean for American consumers as well as manufacturers.

Shoot us a Text.Episode #1154: Ford gets creative to close Q3 with a subprime rate push on F-150s. New Jersey locks in fair pay for techs doing recall work. And Chick-fil-A jumps into the specialty drink race with a fresh new concept.Show Notes with links:Ford is making a bold push to close Q3 strong by offering promotional interest rates to subprime borrowers—an unusual but calculated move that underscores growing affordability challenges in the new vehicle market.The deal, ending this month, allows buyers with credit scores below 620 to access the same low rates typically reserved for prime borrowers.Ford is targeting this incentive to move more F-150 pickups, which now range from $39K to nearly $80K.With average monthly payments nearing $750 and interest rates at 6.4%, the brand sees affordability as a top barrier to closing deals.Extended terms of 72–84 months are increasingly common, and Ford's finance arm says only 3–4% of its 2024 loans qualify as “higher risk.”“We wanted to provide the opportunity to those with credit ratings that may not be perfect,” a Ford spokesperson said. “This could help offset rising monthly payments.”New legislation in New Jersey is giving dealership service departments a major boost—ensuring fair pay for recall and warranty work while holding automakers more accountable.The “Motor Vehicle Open Recall Notice and Fair Compensation Act” takes effect April 2026.Manufacturers must reimburse at retail labor rates, not discounted warranty rates.Automakers must also pay 1.5% monthly of book value for any “stop sale” or “do not drive” recall units sitting on lots.Illinois saw an annual $249M increase in warranty payouts after passing similar legislation.“This legislation represents a critical step forward… and ensures that automakers fairly compensate those who fix their mistakes,” said NJ CAR President Laura Perrotta.Chick-fil-A is entering the specialty drink wars with a new concept called Daybright, a standalone beverage-focused brand launching near Atlanta later this fall.Daybright will feature smoothies, cold-pressed juices, and specialty coffees—no chicken sandwiches here.Operated by Chick-fil-A's innovation arm, Red Wagon Ventures, the concept joins earlier spin-offs like Little Blue Menu and Pennycake.The new brand enters a booming beverage space already being chased by McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Wendy's.Competitors like 7 Brew and Dutch Bros have seen triple-digit growth as Gen Z flocks to drink-first concepts.0:00 Intro with Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier1:07 Huge Launch Announcement at MoreThanCars.com2:20 ASOTU Edge Webinar TODAY at 2PM on Cost-Cutting3:10 Ford Offers Low Rates To Sub-Prime Buyers5:29 New Jersey MandJoin Paul J Daly and Kyle Mountsier every morning for the Automotive State of the Union podcast as they connect the dots across car dealerships, retail trends, emerging tech like AI, and cultural shifts—bringing clarity, speed, and people-first insight to automotive leaders navigating a rapidly changing industry.Get the Daily Push Back email at https://www.asotu.com/ JOIN the conversation on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asotu/

Tariffs are shaking up the powersports industry — but how deep does the impact go? In this episode of GarageCast, we sit down with Christy Lacruelle and Scott Schloegel from the Motorcycle Industry Council to unpack the real costs of tariffs, from skyrocketing prices to supply chain challenges. With insights on policy, advocacy, and the uncertain road ahead, this is a must-listen for every dealer and industry pro navigating today's turbulent market.

Manufacturers know that automation is table stakes in 2025, and yet it's still a bit of an afterthought for some. You'd think something that can make or break a facility would be everyone's number one priority. And as you'll hear in this episode, overlooking automation can sometimes have disastrous consequences. In this episode, we sit down with Cassy Gardner and Chris Schleich from E Tech Group over virtual Pellegrinos to unpack a real-world case study. They were called in to revive a mothballed solar facility where the owners had accidentally destroyed critical automation infrastructure during demolition. Cut wiring, severed connections, damaged systems... all the stuff they didn't realize was essential until it was gone. The two walk us through everything from why Front-End Engineering and Design (FEED) studies matter (even when you're racing against the clock) to how “humble confidence” became their project philosophy. You'll hear about oversized electrical panels, “pit bull” project managers, and why sometimes the best sales strategy is just showing up when you say you will. In this episode, find out: Why automation often becomes an afterthought in capital projects, and the surprising impact that has How automation may be a small slice of the spend, but determines how the plant runs The most common pitfall manufacturers face when it comes to automation planning What a FEED study is, and why it's essential in fast-paced projects How "humble confidence" and "tenacious politeness" became guiding principles for E Tech What happens when demolition destroys critical wiring and IO connections and how a hazardous monitoring partner failed mid-project Lessons any manufacturer can apply whether that's running a project with 45 people or just five Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going! Tweetable Quotes: “Typically, in a large capital project, the automation budget is around 10%. But it's a really critical 10% that you need to invest to have the manufacturing work the way you want to work.” – Cassy Gardner “Automation relative to mechanical, electrical process, etc. has an outsized impact.”– Chris Schleich “Always start earlier than you think you need to start. If you can engage a partner who is an expert in automation, you will set yourself up for a foundation of success.” – Cassy Gardner Links & mentions: E Tech Group, one of the largest engineering and systems integration companies in the US, providing automation, control and information systems Make sure to visit http://manufacturinghappyhour.com for detailed show notes and a full list of resources mentioned in this episode. Stay Innovative, Stay Thirsty.

This week's episode Kenzie sits down for a solo podcast episode to celebrate the second birthday for her home brand, Friend of Mine. She's sharing how she started the brand, how much it costs, how to find manufacturers, how to build community and so much more. Hope you enjoy!!

On today's Top News in 10, we cover: A brutal attack on a Charlotte, North Carolina train is met with media silence. Trump warns foreign manufacturers after a major illegal immigration raid at a Hyundai facility in Georgia. Senate Majority Leader John Thune prepares to go nuclear over a huge swath of Trump nominees. Keep Up With The Daily Signal Sign up for our email newsletters:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.dailysignal.com/email⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠     Subscribe to our other shows:  The Tony Kinnett Cast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/7AFk8xjiOOBEynVg3JiN6g⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  The Signal Sitdown: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL2026390376⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   Problematic Women:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL7765680741⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   Victor Davis Hanson: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://megaphone.link/THEDAILYSIGNAL9809784327⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠   Follow The Daily Signal:  X:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/intent/user?screen_name=DailySignal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.instagram.com/thedailysignal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://www.facebook.com/TheDailySignalNews/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  Truth Social:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ https://truthsocial.com/@DailySignal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  YouTube:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/dailysignal?sub_confirmation=1⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠    Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform and never miss an episode. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kian Golzari is one of the world's leading experts in sourcing and product manufacturing—developing over 2,500 products and visiting 500+ factories. In this episode, he shares how to go from idea to product without getting burned by bad suppliers or poor-quality manufacturing. Whether you're working with Alibaba or building a custom product from scratch—this is your playbook. What you'll learn: • How to vet suppliers and avoid common sourcing mistakes • His exact 3-step product development system • How to approach factories like a pro (even if it's your first product) • Why negotiation is more about positioning than price • What he's learned from working with the NBA, UN & billion-dollar brands • His best tips for working with Chinese manufacturers in 2025 and beyond If you're creating a physical product or want to improve your margins—this episode will save you time, money, and a ton of headaches. Foundr Community Offers Want 1-on-1 mentorship to launch or scale your brand faster? Apply for eCommerce coaching: → Starting your ecom biz? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ → Already selling and want to scale? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Want all-access to step-by-step training from 7, 8 & 9-figure founders? Start your Foundr+ $1 trial today → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Omnisend | Get 50% off your first 3 months of email and SMS marketing with Omnisend with the code FOUNDR50. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get started. Connect With Nathan Chan Instagram → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Connect With Kian Golzari Instagram → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube → Click Here Follow Foundr for More Business Growth Strategies YouTube → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Website → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcast → ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Click here