Industrial activity producing goods for sale using labor and machines
POPULARITY
Categories
60 episodes with manufacturers
57 episodes with manufacturers
64 episodes with manufacturers
49 episodes with manufacturers
49 episodes with manufacturers
40 episodes with manufacturers
28 episodes with manufacturers
32 episodes with manufacturers
24 episodes with manufacturers
46 episodes with manufacturers
48 episodes with manufacturers
11 episodes with manufacturers
23 episodes with manufacturers
15 episodes with manufacturers
10 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
14 episodes with manufacturers
24 episodes with manufacturers
27 episodes with manufacturers
14 episodes with manufacturers
11 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
10 episodes with manufacturers
15 episodes with manufacturers
12 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
14 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
12 episodes with manufacturers
13 episodes with manufacturers
14 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
12 episodes with manufacturers
11 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
12 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
9 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
13 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
9 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
13 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
9 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
9 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
7 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
13 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
8 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
6 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
5 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
16 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
3 episodes with manufacturers
2 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
4 episodes with manufacturers
The New Appliance Ecosystem: Translating Value, Technology, and Human-Centric Design The modern appliance conversation has shifted beyond features and price into something far more consequential: value, usability, and human-centered design. Designers, manufacturers, showrooms, and independent testing labs now operate as an interconnected ecosystem guiding consumers through increasingly complex decisions. The future of appliance specification belongs to those who can translate technology into meaningful, intuitive, lifestyle-driven solutions. Featuring insights from Nicole Papantoniou of the Good Housekeeping Institute, Jeff Sweet of Sub-Zero Group Inc., and Christa Mallinger of AJ Madison, this conversation explores how appliances have evolved from commodities into lifestyle infrastructure—and why education, not persuasion, defines the next era. KBIS Podcast Studio Resources: KBIS AJ Madison NKBA LUXE Interiors + Design SubZero, Wolf & Cove SKS | Signature Kitchen Suite Hearth & Home Technologies Kitchen365 Green Forrest Cabinetry Midea The appliance industry has entered a human-centric phase, where performance, intuitive use, and real lifestyle benefit outweigh raw features or price alone. Designers act as translators of lifestyle, manufacturers as problem-solvers, and showrooms as educators—collectively helping consumers navigate increasingly sophisticated choices. Panelists discussed the shift from feature-driven sales toward performance-driven value, emphasizing longevity, ease of use, and frictionless integration into daily life. They also explored the growing role of education, testing standards, showroom partnerships, and post-installation support in helping consumers fully realize the value of their investment. Technology remains central, but its success depends entirely on reducing friction—not adding novelty. The conversation revealed that the future of appliances lies not in more technology, but in better technology—technology that disappears into the experience. The Appliance Ecosystem Is Interdependent Designers interpret lifestyle and aesthetic needs. Manufacturers engineer performance-driven solutions. Showrooms educate and guide decision-making. Independent testing organizations validate performance and usability. Value Has Replaced Price as the Primary Decision Driver Consumers rarely regret investing more in appliances. Longevity, performance, and service support define value. Sustainability increasingly aligns with durability. Human-Centric Design Is the New Standard Appliances must be intuitive without relying on manuals. UX consistency across appliances improves adoption. Technology must solve real problems—not create new friction. Education Is More Important Than Selling Many consumers buy appliances only once every 10–15 years. Showrooms and testing labs bridge the knowledge gap. Post-installation education helps unlock full product potential. Appliances Are Expanding Beyond the Kitchen Refrigeration, coffee systems, and specialty appliances now appear throughout the home. Multi-kitchen and multi-generational design is driving specification complexity. Flexibility and modular integration are essential. Technology Adoption Depends on Familiarity and Trust Induction adoption accelerates when paired with familiar controls. Consumers embrace technology that feels intuitive and beneficial. Novelty alone does not guarantee long-term value. The modern appliance is no longer just a tool. It's infrastructure. At KBIS, where the industry gathers annually to define its future, a clear shift has emerged. Appliances are no longer judged solely by features or price, but by how effectively they integrate into human behavior. The question is no longer, “What does it do?” but rather, “What does it enable?” This shift has elevated the importance of collaboration across the appliance ecosystem. Designers serve as translators, interpreting the client's lifestyle into functional requirements. Manufacturers act as problem-solvers, engineering solutions grounded in real user needs. Showrooms and retailers bridge the gap between technology and understanding, while independent testing organizations validate claims and ensure products deliver on their promises. This ecosystem exists because appliance decisions have become more consequential—and more complex. Unlike consumer electronics, appliances are purchased infrequently. A homeowner may go fifteen years between purchases. During that time, the category evolves dramatically. Induction replaces gas. Steam ovens expand culinary capability. Refrigeration becomes modular, flexible, and architectural. Appliances no longer exist solely in kitchens, but in offices, bedrooms, outdoor spaces, and wellness areas. With that expansion comes responsibility. Technology must reduce friction, not create it. Christa, Nicole and Jeff all emphasized that human-centric design now drives product development. Appliances must be intuitive enough to operate without instruction, consistent enough to feel familiar, and purposeful enough to justify their presence. Technology for its own sake has limited value. Technology that removes mental load, improves performance, or enhances daily living defines the future. This is where education becomes critical. Showrooms no longer simply display products; they contextualize them. Independent testing organizations evaluate not only performance, but usability, cleanability, and intuitive function. Manufacturers increasingly provide post-installation support, recognizing that the real product experience begins after installation, not at purchase. Value, therefore, is no longer measured in features alone. It is measured in longevity. In reliability. In the confidence that a product will perform consistently over time. In the reduction of friction between intention and outcome. Perhaps most importantly, appliances have become emotional infrastructure. They support gathering, creativity, ritual, and identity. They enable the modern kitchen to function not just as a place of preparation, but as a center of living. The future of appliances will not be defined by how advanced they are. It will be defined by how invisible they become—seamlessly enabling life without demanding attention. And those who understand that distinction—designers, manufacturers, and educators alike—will define the next generation of the built environment.
We are pleased to share this Special Edition with Jay Timmons, President and CEO of the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM). Jay has led NAM since 2011 and first joined the organization in 2005 as Executive Vice President. As the leading voice for U.S. manufacturers, NAM sits at the center of policy, economic, and workforce issues shaping American industry today. The NAM team is currently in Houston as part of its State of Manufacturing Tour, traveling across New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Wisconsin, Texas, and Arizona, to spotlight the policies and conditions needed for the U.S. to compete and win in a global economy. We were thrilled to host Jay and hear his perspective on domestic manufacturing, the evolving regulatory and trade landscape, supply chain resilience, energy policy, and the future of U.S. competitiveness in an increasingly complex global environment. In our conversation, Jay outlines what he's hearing from manufacturers on NAM's State of Manufacturing Tour, starting with energy. Manufacturers consume roughly 30% of U.S. energy, and Jay emphasizes why affordable, reliable supply and delivery infrastructure are foundational to competitiveness. We discuss tax policy and why Jay views the 2017 reforms as “rocket fuel” for manufacturing investment, hiring, and wage growth, along with the importance of durable, codified provisions that give companies the certainty to deploy long-cycle capital. We cover the workforce gap (~433,000 open manufacturing jobs today and a projected 2 million by 2033), digging into what's working on the ground, from community college partnerships to the modern return of shop class and continuous upskilling. Jay makes the case for bipartisan, skills-oriented immigration reform to support economic growth. We explore permitting and legal reform, where he emphasizes that manufacturing thrives on certainty and calls for a coordinated federal process that delivers faster “yes or no” decisions with guardrails to prevent endless litigation. On trade, we touch on tariff uncertainty, the importance of renewing and strengthening USMCA (particularly addressing transshipment), and the strategic value of North American supply chains, especially given the sizeable percent of manufacturers' customers reside outside U.S. borders. We discuss AI and supply chain realities, why Jay sees AI as additive and a multiplier for productivity, and how even running at full capacity, the U.S. can only produce about 84% of what it needs today, driving NAM's proposal for a “speed pass” to import critical inputs duty-free as domestic capacity scales. We also examine the broader manufacturing multiplier effect, the U.S.-China competitive dynamic, and why policy stability ultimately determines whether the U.S. can compete and win. It was a wide-ranging and insightful discussion and we're grateful to Jay and his team for carving out time to stop by during a busy tour. For further reading, NAM's AI & Energy Dominance Roadmap is linked here. Mike Bradley kicked off the show with a quick update, noting that broader equity markets were down modestly on the day as all eyes were focused on NVIDIA's quarterly results. NVIDIA surpassed expectations and delivered solid forward guidance, but the stock was underperforming given that investors are growing wary it can sustain this explosive revenue growth beyond the next couple of years. Thank you to Leslie Beyer for connecting us with Jay and his team. And thanks to you all for your support and friendship!
Big things are always happening in Arizona with manufacturing, why has our state become so successful at creating manufacturing jobs and investments? We asked the experts.
IEC 60601 has been central to medical electrical equipment safety for decades. From the prescriptive approach of the 2nd edition to the risk-based philosophy introduced in the 3rd edition, the standard has continuously evolved to address technological and regulatory complexity.Now, the upcoming 4th edition represents more than an amendment — it signals a structural transformation.This article explores:The Evolution of IEC 60601• Key shifts from the 2nd to the 3rd edition• Why risk management became central• What lessons shaped today's safety philosophyWhat the 4th Edition Brings• A major rewrite rather than incremental updates• The introduction of “atomic requirements”• Structural clarity for manufacturers, test labs, and regulators• Emerging technical considerations (digitalization, AI, cybersecurity, home use)Impact on Existing Devices• Will re-testing be required?• How to assess validity of existing test reports• Transition strategies with notified bodiesIntegration into Design & Documentation• Embedding IEC 60601 into risk management from day one• Required updates in risk files, EMC documentation, labeling, and usability engineering• Practical advice for SMEs with limited resourcesThe Future of IEC 60601• Greater harmonization with ISO 14971 and IEC 62304• Alignment with digital and AI regulatory frameworks• The long-term outlook for medical electrical safetyFor manufacturers, the message is clear:IEC 60601 is not just a testing standard — it is a design and risk management framework that must be integrated early and strategically.Who is Monir El Azzouzi? Monir El Azzouzi is the founder and CEO of Easy Medical Device a Consulting firm that is supporting Medical Device manufacturers for any Quality and Regulatory affairs activities all over the world. Monir can help you to create your Quality Management System, Technical Documentation or he can also take care of your Clinical Evaluation, Clinical Investigation through his team or partners. Easy Medical Device can also become your Authorized Representative and Independent Importer Service provider for EU, UK and Switzerland. Monir has around 16 years of experience within the Medical Device industry working for small businesses and also big corporate companies. He has now supported around 100 clients to remain compliant on the market. His passion to the Medical Device filed pushed him to create educative contents like, blog, podcast, YouTube videos, LinkedIn Lives where he invites guests who are sharing educative information to his audience. Visit easymedicaldevice.com to know more. If you need help implementing QMSR or preparing your teams for FDA inspections, contact: info@easymedicaldevice.com If you are located outside the EU/UK/Switzerland and need an Authorized Representative (and possibly an Importer), we can support you as well.LinkLeo Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leoeisnersafetyconsultants/Social Media to followMonir El Azzouzi Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/melazzouziTwitter: https://twitter.com/elazzouzimPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/easymedicaldeviceInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/easymedicaldeviceThis podcast is powered by Podcastics, the easiest platform to create and publish your podcast.
Manufacturers are working to create chocolate alternatives that don't rely on cocoa amidst volatility in supply for the product.
Team NEO 2025 Performance & Impact Annual ReportThe headline numbers from Team NEO's new 2025 jobs report include nearly 3,000 new jobs, more than $450 million in capital investments, and 92 business investments across Northeast Ohio. The report also highlights the rollout of the JobsOhio Relocation Incentive Program, which offers businesses up to $15,000 for making successful hires in certain industries, with a focus on STEM and technical roles. There's also the expansion of LayerZero, a manufacturer for power systems like data centers. The company is opening a new facility in Portage County that expects to create 535 new jobs. At the same time, new federal trade policies could affect Northeast Ohio's economic outlook. A 10% U.S. tariff on most global imports took effect Tuesday, despite President Donald Trump's earlier pledge to set the rate at 15%. And findings from the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland say that tariffs are contributing to price increases across Ohio and parts of Pennsylvania, Kentucky and West Virginia. Manufacturers and retailers add that their products cost more to make, so consumers are paying more. On Thursday's the “Sound of Ideas,” Team NEO CEO Matt Dolan joins the program to discuss what the report's findings mean for Northeast Ohioans and the state economy. Guest:- Matt Dolan, CEO, Team NEO 2026 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame NomineesLater in the hour, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Nominees are here, and we'll discuss who made the cut. Of this year's 17 nominees, 10 are appearing on the ballot for the first time. Here are the nominees:- The Black Crowes- Jeff Buckley- Mariah Carey- Phil Collins- Melissa Etheridge- Lauryn Hill- Billy Idol- INXS- Iron Maiden- Joy Division/New Order- New Edition- Oasis- P!NK- Sade- Shakira- Luther Vandross- Wu-Tang Clan Guest:- Kabir Bhatia, Senior Arts Reporter, Ideastream Public Media ShuffleTo close the program, we'll hear a new installment of "Shuffle." Akron musician Brett Auerbach once drove 15 hours for a 30-minute gig. It was a gamble that helped launch his band, Rye Valley, onto national tours. This week, Ideastream Public Media's Amanda Rabinowitz talked with Auerbach about the journey, and how it led him to create a space for other songwriters in Northeast Ohio. Guests:- Amanda Rabinowitz, Host, Ideastream Public Media- Brett Auerbach, Musician, Rye Valley
CPG companies are facing a day of reckoning due to tariffs. Aldi is dealing with a meatball recall. And health-focused consumers are reading more labels.
- Illinois lawmakers' assault on the Second Amendment continues...now, they're targeting gun makers. The proposal would fine manufacturers based on how many times their guns are used in crimes. - We don't know much about the young man killed by police when he breeched Mar-A-Lago's perimeter. Let's get into what we know and what is - apparently - fake news that spread online.- It's officially candidate filing season. St Louis County Councilman Dennis Hancock talks about what issues are important in the county and what some of the platforms to expect could be.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Managing product complexity has become increasingly critical as customers demand greater customisation. Manufacturers face the challenge of connecting disparate data systems effectively. In this episode of Tech Transformed, host Christina Stathopoulos and Laura Beckwith, Director of Product Management at Configit, discuss the complexities of managing product data in manufacturing, focusing on the concept of the digital thread. They explore the challenges manufacturers face in connecting disparate data systems, the importance of customisation, and how a Configuration Lifecycle Management (CLM) approach can provide a reliable foundation for digital threads. Understanding the Digital ThreadThe digital thread represents the traceability of all decisions and information regarding a product from its inception and throughout its lifecycle. According to Laura Beckwith, the digital thread allows manufacturers to trace decisions made during the requirements stage through to engineering and ultimately to manufacturing and service. This traceability is not just about having data; it's also about ensuring that various teams and systems can access the right information to facilitate informed decision-making.Challenges in Implementing the Digital ThreadDespite the promise that digital threads hold, manufacturers face significant challenges in connecting data from multiple systems. Beckwith highlights the example of a smartphone, which undergoes various phases from design to manufacturing. Each phase involves distinct software systems—like CAD for design and ERP for manufacturing—many of which do not communicate well with one another. This lack of integration often leads to inefficiencies, such as manual data entry and miscommunication between teams.The Impact of Customisation on ComplexityAs customisation becomes the norm, the complexity of managing product data increases exponentially. Beckwith notes that while smartphones may have limited customisations, products like cars offer vast configurability. For instance, when configuring a car, consumers can choose from an extensive array of options. Behind the scenes, however, manufacturers must manage numerous engineering constraints and compliance regulations. This is where the digital thread becomes essential, enabling manufacturers to track and manage these complex configurations effectively.The Role of Configuration Lifecycle Management (CLM)The upcoming CLM Summit 2026 will focus on mastering customisation complexity and building a reliable data foundation for configurable products. Beckwith explains that a scalable CLM approach is crucial for establishing a reliable digital thread. It ensures that all product configurations, such as the combination of seat heating and memory seats in a car, are tracked accurately. This not only aids in the manufacturing process but also enhances customer service by allowing manufacturers to address issues based on specific configurations.More broadly, the digital thread provides manufacturers with a framework for managing the growing complexity of modern product development. By enabling seamless communication between data systems and implementing effective CLM practices, organisations can better align engineering, manufacturing, and service functions. For more information visit: https://configit.com/TakeawaysThe digital thread provides traceability of product...
Chris Holman welcomes back Tom Kelly, President & CEO, Automation Alley, Troy, MI. This time around is their Integr8 2026 discussion: Welcome back Tom, briefly remind the Michigan business community what Integr8 is and how it has evolved? From a business leader's perspective, what makes the 2026 Integr8 Series different from other manufacturing or tech events? How should manufacturers think about balancing technology investments with workforce readiness as AI and automation accelerate? Which of the 2026 roundtable topics do you think will have the most immediate impact on Michigan manufacturers' bottom lines? What practical takeaways can small and midsize manufacturers expect from the Integr8 playbooks and discussions? For companies considering sponsorship or participation, what's the real business value of being part of these roundtable conversations? » 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/ Automation Alley announces 2026 Integr8 Roundtable Series focused on the technologies redefining manufacturing Six curated roundtables will explore AI, data, automation and global manufacturing trends – with workforce transformation integrated across all topics TROY, Mich., 2025 – Automation Alley, Michigan's Digital Transformation Insight Center, today announced its 2026 Integr8 Series featuring six thought-provoking roundtables focused on the technologies, strategies and global forces shaping the future of digital transformation. 2026 Integr8 Roundtable Series Each roundtable will generate a companion playbook summarizing key insights and strategies from the discussion. The 2026 series includes: February – Vibe Manufacturing: Where AI Meets Additive Exploring the convergence of artificial intelligence and additive manufacturing and how “Vibe Manufacturing” is shaping the next generation of production. March – Industrial Intelligence: Making Data Work on the Factory Floor Examining how manufacturers can move from data overload to actionable insight through smarter, connected systems. April – The Next Industrial Workforce: What Jobs Will the Future Demand? Addressing how AI and automation are transforming the nature of work and what it means for future talent pipelines. May – Trade, Tariffs & Tension: Manufacturing in a Fractured Global Economy Discussing how manufacturers can remain agile and competitive amid shifting trade dynamics and geopolitical uncertainty. August – Automation in the Real World: Aligning Supply Chain & Strategy Highlighting how companies are successfully integrating automation across complex multi-tiered supply chains. September – Digital Defense: Cybersecurity Strategies for Small and Midsize Manufacturers Focusing on practical, scalable approaches to protect connected factories from evolving cyber threats. Roundtable participation will be limited so that attendees are better able to participate in meaningful discussions. Manufacturers of all sizes as well as companies within the technology, government, academia and professional services industries are encouraged to request an invitation to be considered. Companies can find the full agenda with full descriptions of each roundtable and request an invitation at https://integr8series.com/. Sponsorship Opportunities Available The 2026 Integr8 Series offers a unique opportunity for companies to showcase their thought leadership and elevate their brand visibility among manufacturing and technology leaders. Exclusive sponsorship opportunities are available for each roundtable, providing sponsors with direct engagement with key decision-makers and positioning their organizations as leaders in digital transformation. Visit https://integr8series.com/sponsorship/ or contact Automation Alley at sponsorships@automationalley.com.
In This Episode of Business Lunch: Roland Frasier breaks down simple, practical ways to grow by buying the right businesses.He explains the difference between horizontal integration (buying competitors to grow fast) and vertical integration (buying suppliers, distributors, affiliates, or outsourced partners to capture more profit). He also talks about using acquisitions to add recurring revenue and smooth out seasonal cash flow, plus how buying intellectual property can spark innovation and create a competitive edge.The core message: identify where money is leaking in your supply chain or distribution, find who owns it, and consider acquiring them.Chapters:00:00 Introduction 00:23 Vertical Integration Overview 00:47 Horizontal vs. Vertical Integration 01:31 Acquiring Suppliers and Manufacturers 04:30 Supply Chain Diversification 05:27 Acquiring Distributors and Retailers 06:44 Distribution for Digital Products 08:18 Recurring Revenue Strategy 09:27 Finding Recurring Revenue Opportunities 12:03 Intellectual Property Acquisitions 13:24 Benefits of IP Acquisition 14:01 Finding Intellectual Property 15:32 Conclusion 15:34 OutroConnect with me on social:TikTok: Check out my TikTok HereInstagram: Check out my Instagram HereFacebook: Check out my Facebook HereLinkedIn: Check out my LinkedIn HereSubscribe to my YouTube
Former Prince Andrew Arrested, Faces Life In Prison Over Epstein Ties! US Military Buildup Signals Strike On Iran, Trump Says We'll “Find Out” In Next 10 Days! Plus, Trump Signs EO Granting Roundup Manufacturers Total Liability Protection
The Racing Roundtable features NASCAR Roundtable Publisher Tyler Jones (@TylerJonesLive), The Racing Experts Founder Dominic Aragon (@DominicAragon), and ARCA Menards Series Driver Matt Kemp (@KempRacing5).(0:30-35:05) Daytona 500 Recap: Tyler Reddick's first Daytona 500 win, 23XI Racing has their moment with Michael Jordan, fuel saving, and lack of controversy in Daytona.(35:05-47:05) Atlanta Race Preview.(47:05-1:07:00) News and Notes: Jimmie Johnson announces his final race will be the 2027 Daytona 500, Manufacturers content with current setup and what it means for Dodge moving to the Cup Series, as well as Atlanta Odds and Picks.For more NASCAR coverage, checkout NASCAR Roundtable: https://roundtable.io/sports/nascar and The Racing Experts: https://theracingexperts.com/
County alleges unlawful price inflation.
Manufacturers do not have a data problem. They have an execution gap. The dashboards exist. The reports are generated. The KPIs are reviewed. Yet too often, action stalls between insight and impact. In this episode, Jan Griffiths and Tom Roberts sit down with Zack Sosebee, SVP of Operations & Customer Success at Redzone, to explore what changes when data moves beyond visibility and into the hands of the people closest to the work.Zack shares a clear and practical vision of the connected workforce. Not as another layer of software. Not as another reporting system. But as a system of action. By giving frontline operators simple, real-time visibility through red, yellow, and green performance signals, manufacturers create clarity in the moment decisions are being made. That clarity builds accountability. And accountability drives results.What makes this approach powerful is its simplicity. Instead of overwhelming teams with endless metrics, Redzone focuses on a few meaningful signals that operators can influence hour by hour. When teams see performance in real time, they respond in real time. Maintenance is called sooner. Problems are escalated faster. Peer-to-peer competition becomes a positive force. Execution accelerates because ownership shifts to the frontline.But technology alone does not transform a factory. Coaching does. Zack explains how culture change happens when leaders reinforce new behaviors, close feedback loops, and respond quickly to issues raised by operators. When a long-tenured employee logs a safety concern and sees it fixed the same day, trust is built. When a retiring expert captures knowledge that strengthens the next generation, pride returns to the shop floor. These are not software wins. They are human wins.This conversation is a reminder that digital transformation is not about collecting more data. It is about empowering people to act with confidence and clarity. When operators think like supervisors and supervisors think like leaders, performance improves. More importantly, culture evolves. And in today's manufacturing environment, the companies that win will be the ones that move from reporting yesterday to deciding what happens next.Themes Discussed in This EpisodeWhat “connected workforce” really means in manufacturingWhy digital transformation often stalls at dashboardsOverall Equipment Effectiveness explained in simple termsRed, yellow, green real-time visibility on the shop floorCoaching vs training in culture changeTurning skeptics into championsEliminating paper logs and manual downtime reportingUsing simplicity to accelerate adoptionTechnology as an enabler of ownership, not oversightEmpowering operators to think like leadersFeatured GuestName: Zack SosebeeTitle: SVP Operations & Customer Success, RedzoneAbout: Zack is Senior VP of Operations & Customer Success at
Join us for an exciting LIVE Coffee Conversations at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, sponsored by SRS Distribution, where a panel of manufacturers, distributors and service providers will dive into the biggest trends shaping the roofing landscape this year. From sustainability innovations and emerging technologies to workforce challenges and economic impacts, this engaging session will provide actionable insights to help contractors, suppliers and professionals stay ahead in an evolving market. Join us for this great Coffee Conversations LIVE from Las Vegas, Nevada on January 21, at 2 p.m. PT! Learn more at RoofersCoffeeShop.com! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/ Are you a contractor looking for resources? Become an R-Club Member today! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rcs-club-sign-up Sign up for the Week in Roofing! https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/sign-up Follow Us! https://www.facebook.com/rooferscoffeeshop/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooferscoffeeshop-com https://x.com/RoofCoffeeShop https://www.instagram.com/rooferscoffeeshop/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAQTC5U3FL9M-_wcRiEEyvw https://www.pinterest.com/rcscom/ https://www.tiktok.com/@rooferscoffeeshop https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/rss #RoofersCoffeeShop #MetalCoffeeShop #AskARoofer #CoatingsCoffeeShop #RoofingProfessionals #RoofingContractors #RoofingIndustry
Our guest on this week's episode is Lisa DeNight, managing director and head of North American Industrial Research for Newmark. Before a company can manufacture and distribute a product, they need the proper building designed to house their operations. That is where the industrial real estate market comes in. Like the home real estate market there are ebbs and flows depending on the economy and other factors. But there are signs for hope in the industrial real estate market in 2026, as our guest shares the latest industry trends and research.This week The National Association of Manufacturers shared new research that shows that the lack of spending on our nation's infrastructure is affecting manufacturing across the country. NAM says that highway congestion and delays in freight carrying finished goods are having big impacts on our economy and that there is a need to invest further in our crumbling infrastructure. They suggest where to focus attention this year.Research released this week tracks a turning point in supply chain strategy as organizations start to prioritize speed of execution as their main source of competitive advantage these days. That's according to research from supply chain software provider Infios. The company surveyed 100 U.S.-based supply chain leaders and found that nearly 80% said fast, dynamic execution—rather than planning or visibility alone—is their best competitive weapon in today's volatile marketplace.Supply Chain Xchange also offers a podcast series called Supply Chain in the Fast Lane. It is co-produced with the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals. A new series is now available on Top Threats to our Supply Chains. It covers topics including Geopolitical Risks, Economic Instability, Cybersecurity Risks, Threats to energy and electric grids; Supplier Risks, and Transportation Disruptions Go to your favorite podcast platform to subscribe and to listen to past and future episodes. The podcast is also available at www.thescxchange.com.Articles and resources mentioned in this episode:NewmarkNAM asks Congress for greater infrastructure spending Supply chain trade groups cheer congressional progress on infrastructure billReport: Speed and connection create supply chain advantageVisit DC VelocityVisit Supply Chain XchangeListen to CSCMP and Supply Chain Xchange's Supply Chain in the Fast Lane podcastSend feedback about this podcast to podcast@agilebme.comThis podcast episode is sponsored by: WernerOther linksAbout DC VELOCITYSubscribe to DC VELOCITYSign up for our FREE newslettersAdvertise with DC VELOCITY
eChem Expo, recently acquired by Chemical Processing's parent company EndeavorB2B, returns April 7-9, 2026, in Kingsport, Tennessee. Conference Director Damon Shackelford discusses the event's evolution from a regional gathering to a comprehensive three-part experience featuring an expo floor with nearly 200 vendors, professional conference sessions and technical seminars. This year's theme, "Energizing Growth and Resilience in a Competitive Landscape," addresses critical industry challenges including workforce development, AI integration, operational excellence and safety. New for 2026: inspector recertification credits meeting API guidelines. The market-led conference builds content through 100-plus stakeholder interviews with major manufacturers like Eastman Chemical, BAE Systems and BWXT, offering affordable professional development within driving distance for attendees from Cincinnati to Atlanta.
What happens when you drop an LLM on top of five ERPs and a decade of M&A? Aaron Sheehan and analyst Heather Hershey map the practical path: B2B use cases that work, risks that don't, and why chunk-by-chunk modernization beats “robot, take the wheel.”Highlights01:06 – Welcome back and introducing Heather Hershey03:35 – Defining AI, LLMs, and RAG 09:30 – Why probabilistic AI makes ops teams nervous 11:58 – Is LLM an overkill compared to ‘boring' machine learning and rule-based systems?15:19 – The real blocker: fragmented data across ERPs and other systems19:40 – The strangler pattern: modernize in chunks instead of ripping everything out21:13 – Why commerce platforms become the orchestration layer for AI/NLP24:37 – If you had $100K for AI: where to spend it 27:27 – Prisoner's dilemma: agentic shopping and the disintermediation trap34:53 – Agentic commerce predictions for B2B 40:30 – Are people replacing Google with LLMs?
Andrew Johnston, vice president and general manager, industrials, for Divert, Inc, discusses where food waste appears in food manufacturing, the role of anaerobic digestion, and how to build a culture of waste reduction.
Stablecoins hit $50 trillion in transaction volume, surpassing Visa and MasterCard combined. Tedd Huff, CEO of fintech advisory firm Voalyre and founder of Fintech Confidential, sits down with Keith VanderLeast, General Manager of Americas at BVNK, at FinTech Nerd Con in Miami to unpack what's really happening as blockchain-based payments reshape cross-border infrastructure.The numbers tell a story that's hard to ignore. By the end of October 2025, stablecoin transaction volumes hit somewhere between $46 trillion and $50 trillion. BVNK alone processes about $20 billion in total volume, with the Americas business making up roughly a third of that amount. This isn't about speculative crypto trading anymore. The conversation has shifted to real payment infrastructure that moves money across borders 24/7 without the friction that's plagued traditional rails for decades.Stablecoins offer instant settlement around the clock, transparency that traditional banking can't match, and costs that make high-ticket cross-border transactions actually viable. Banks and payment companies are moving from pilot programs to actual implementation.Payouts have gained more traction early on because companies prefer to test the waters by pushing payments out rather than accepting them in. The gig economy has become a major beneficiary. Companies can now pay workers anywhere in the world without routing through legacy banking systems that charge hefty fees and take days to settle.The compliance conversation gets interesting when you compare on-chain monitoring to traditional banking. With blockchain-based payments, every transaction leaves a permanent record. You can see where funds originated, every wallet they touched along the way, and where they end up.Visa and MasterCard have been testing stablecoin settlements for their issuers and acquirers, primarily in European markets where regulatory clarity arrived sooner. For companies doing high volumes of original credit transactions on weekends, the ability to pre-fund with stablecoins eliminates the need for expensive lines of credit.One surprise in the market comes from the reverse flow. Manufacturers in Latin America want to pay their US suppliers using stablecoins. BVNK converts those stablecoin payments to dollars and pays out through traditional rails.KEY TAKEAWAYS:1️⃣ Train compliance teams on blockchain monitoring tools before piloting stablecoin payments because BSA-AML frameworks work differently on-chain.2️⃣ Calculate what you spend on lines of credit just to pre-fund weekend settlement accounts and compare that against stablecoin settlement costs.3️⃣ Set up ongoing monitoring using tools that track transactions after they exit your custody to catch compliance issues before they become problems.4️⃣ Build infrastructure to accept payments from unexpected directions like Latin America to US and convert to traditional rails on the receiving end.5️⃣ Use smart contracts to handle escrow requirements in lending situations instead of relying on intermediaries.LINKSGuestKeith VanderLeastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keithvanderleest/BVNK Profile: https://bvnk.com/about-usCompanyBVNKWebsite: https://bvnk.com/LinkedIn:
Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Feb. 4, include: Nebraska manufacturers report higher costs after President Trump's 2025 tariffs took effect, federal and state officials criticize UNL student government proposal calling for divestment from weapons manufacturers tied to Israel, seven candidates enter race for Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District as Democrats target potential flip, Gov. Jim Pillen appoints former Husker Joel Makovicka to University of Nebraska Board of Regents, Nebraska Game and Parks tracks spike in suspected avian flu cases among wild birds, U.S. Drought Monitor team adds NASA scientists to author group.
What does it take to lead treasury at a global manufacturing powerhouse known for constant expansion?In this episode, we uncover the operational discipline, strategic thinking, and career moves that shaped Bert Jameson's path to becoming Vice President and Corporate Treasurer at Ingersoll Rand.Bert Jameson is the Vice President and Corporate Treasurer at Ingersoll Rand. With a career that spans high-impact roles at Cargill, Buffalo Wild Wings, and Winnebago, Bert has built treasury functions from scratch, led billion-dollar bond issuances, and helped guide complex M&A transactions - all while staying grounded in the fundamentals of financial leadership.In this conversation, Bert walks through his journey from accounting and tax into the world of treasury, sharing how key career moves, mentorship, and adaptability shaped his rise to leadership.He reveals how treasury operates at the heart of business growth and explains the systems and mindset that allow him to support global operations and fast-paced corporate development.What We Cover in This Episode:How Bert pivoted from tax to treasury through initiative and educationThe skillsets he developed on Cargill's corporate treasury advisory teamEarly exposure to valuations, deal structuring, and bond issuanceMoving from big food and hospitality brands into cyclical manufacturingBuilding a treasury function from the ground up at Buffalo Wild WingsSupporting global operations through a scalable treasury playbookThe role of treasury in M&A - from pre-close due diligence to post-close integrationBert's “Three Pillars of Treasury” frameworkThe cautious role AI is beginning to play in cash forecasting and operationsThe importance of being a mentor and strategic career plannerYou can connect with Bert Jameson on LinkedIn.---
Skilled labor shortages continue to top the list of barriers to manufacturing growth. In Episode 2 of Advanced Manufacturing Live, we examined how manufacturers are responding—through apprenticeships, partnerships with educators, veteran hiring initiatives and hands-on training centers.
The Builder Circle by Pratik: The Hardware Startup Success Podcast
Peter Russo, entrepreneur and hardware mentor who has founded and sold multiple companies, shares decades of hard-won wisdom on working with contract manufacturers. With 15+ brands created, 2,000+ SKUs launched, and $250M in retail sales under his belt, Peter reveals the strategies, pitfalls, and creative approaches that separate successful hardware partnerships from costly disasters.What You'll Learn:• How to structure contracts that protect your IP while enabling collaboration • The cultural fit factors that make or break CM relationships • Why startups are "crappy customers" and how to overcome it with storytelling • Exclusivity negotiation strategies that work for both parties • Exit planning from day one: ensuring you can transition suppliers when needed • How to avoid being trapped by tooling, know-how, or single-source dependencies • The power of treating suppliers as partners, not vendorsEpisode Sponsors:Jiga - Professional hardware sourcing with direct access to vetted manufacturers and reliable capacity from prototype through production. Communicate directly with machinists, maintain supplier relationships, and get consistently reliable quality. Visit jiga.ioOnshape - The only cloud-native product development platform combining professional-grade CAD with built-in PDM and real-time collaboration tools. Through the Onshape Startup Program, eligible hardware startups receive free access to Onshape Professional for one year, including integrated CAM. Apply at onshapepro/the-builder-circleConnect & Learn More:• Follow the show's Substack for hardware tools, frameworks, and tips: https://substack.com/@thebuildercircle • Reach out to our LinkedIn Page if you have topics you'd like us to deep dive!DISCLAIMER Creators of this show are independent and not affiliated with or endorsed by any other company. All views expressed are solely those of the guests. Content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or any professional advice. Listeners are responsible for their own decisions and should consult qualified professionals. By listening, you agree we are not liable for any outcomes.
Are U.S. manufacturers mortgaging their future to cut costs? New research from EFESO Management Consultants suggests that many U.S. manufacturers may be undermining their long-term competitiveness through short-sighted cost-cutting strategies driven by tariffs, rising energy costs, and ongoing market pressures. Chuck Deise, Senior Partner at EFESO, joins the podcast to share insights from EFESO's newly published research, in which out of 150 large ($5 billion in revenue) and middle-market ($500M to $5B) manufacturers surveyed, 79 percent said delaying capital investments is important to their cost takeout efforts this year. However, nearly half (44 percent) expressed concern that this will increase costs by reducing operational agility and scalability. The conversation examines the pressures influencing today's decisions, how cost-cutting strategies differ by company size, and what a “healthy” cost-takeout strategy should look like in the year ahead.Sponsored By:
This podcast explores how the Inflation Reduction Act's (IRA) drug price negotiation program is reshaping the relationship between CMS, drug manufacturers, and providers. We'll explore what the proposed IRA implementation framework means for our healthcare system, highlighting the financial, legal, and transparency implications for pharmacies and patients. The information presented during the podcast reflects solely the opinions of the presenter. The information and materials are not, and are not intended as, a comprehensive source of drug information on this topic. The contents of the podcast have not been reviewed by ASHP, and should neither be interpreted as the official policies of ASHP, nor an endorsement of any product(s), nor should they be considered as a substitute for the professional judgment of the pharmacist or physician.
The SME Media editorial team breaks down the February issue, exploring how AI, automation, apprenticeships, and workforce development are coming together to close manufacturing's skills gap.
A new law in Washington gives people the “Right to Repair” cellphones, computers, and appliances. Manufacturers must provide repair shops with the parts, tools, and instructions to fix digital electronics. One of the goals of the law is to prevent waste. To learn more, we spoke with Adrian Tan, who's policy and market development manager with King County’s Recycling and Environmental Services. We can only make Seattle Now because listeners support us. Tap here to make a gift and keep Seattle Now in your feed. Got questions about local news or story ideas to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at seattlenow@kuow.org, leave us a voicemail at (206) 616-6746 or leave us feedback online.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chips are the new oil. And that's not just a catchy line, it's the lens through which national security, supply chain strategy, and trillion-dollar investments are being made right now. With a hundred-plus fabs going up globally and the industry sprinting toward a trillion dollars by 2032, the semiconductor boom isn't coming. It's here.This episode comes to you from SEMICON West 2025 in Phoenix, with guests joining from HARTING Technology Group and Rockwell Automation. Jeffrey Miller and Danielle Collins kick things off with a semiconductor primer for folks who aren't living and breathing this space every day. Danielle's been in the industry since her first SEMICON in 1999, seen the shift from 200 to 300-millimeter wafers, and watched manufacturing go local while R&D went global.Anuj Mahendru joins Chris on the show floor to dig into the challenges facing legacy and digital fabs, from worker productivity and material movement challenges to why copy exact is finally loosening its grip on this industry. This is part one of a two-part semiconductor series, so stay tuned for the bonus episode dropping right after this one.In this episode, find out:Why chips have become a national security priority on par with oilWhat's driving the trillion-dollar march toward 2032How legacy fabs are solving material movement problems they didn't planned forWhy the semiconductor industry was doing AI long before it was a buzzwordWhat equipment manufacturers mean by "do more with less"Why copy exact is starting to crack post-COVIDHow sustainability shifted from compliance checkbox to business imperativeWhat it takes to become a trusted partner in an industry that's famously risk-averseEnjoying 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:“Manufacturing is being localized, while R&D is being globalized. R&D has moved from being concentrated in Northern California and the Boston area to regions like India, Asia and Japan.” - Danielle Collins“The semiconductor industry is defined by data economics, and it's the currency of conversations. Successful partners that will lead the way will be companies who can speak the language of operational data.” - Jeffrey Miller“Before semiconductor and chips, it was oil. Now chips have become the new oil. After and during COVID, the world came to the realization that there needs to be resiliency of the supply chain. From a geopolitical standpoint people see semiconductors at the front end of national security and self-sufficiency.” - Anuj MahendruLinks & mentions:HARTING Technology Group, a leading global provider of industrial connectivity solutions enabling the transmission of...
As new manufacturers step into ownership, one challenge shows up faster than almost any other: building a team. Before you can scale production, invest in automation, or grow revenue, you need people — and not just any people, but a workforce that can grow with the business. That's where this conversation fits. In this episode, MakingChips is sharing a powerful discussion from Manufacturing Executive, where host Joe Sullivan sits down with John Loyack, Vice President of Economic Development for the North Carolina Community College System. Together, they explore what happens when workforce development is treated as critical infrastructure — the same way we think about roads, utilities, and power. Using North Carolina as a real-world example, John explains how long-term investment in education, customized training, and public–private collaboration has helped manufacturers start, scale, and stay competitive. These systems didn't appear overnight. They were built intentionally, with the understanding that skilled people are foundational to economic growth. The conversation digs into how workforce ecosystems actually function behind the scenes, from customized training programs to leadership development and upskilling. It also highlights why one-size-fits-all solutions rarely work, and how manufacturers can better engage with state and regional resources to support their teams. As you listen, consider this episode a wide-angle view of what it takes to build a manufacturing business that lasts. For aspiring shop owners and young entrepreneurs, it offers context that often gets overlooked early on — but makes all the difference long term. Segments (0:00) Why we're sharing a Manufacturing Executive episode (1:49) Why workforce should be treated as critical infrastructure (3:58) Joe introduces John Loyack and North Carolina's manufacturing strategy (10:33) Defining what "workforce as infrastructure" really means (13:42) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders: culture-first recruiting for manufacturers (14:20) How NC EDGE and customized workforce training programs work (20:51) Gorilla76 — revenue-focused industrial marketing (22:44) Leadership development as part of workforce strategy (25:27) Factur: Building consistent sales pipelines for manufacturers (30:59) Where manufacturers can learn more about NC EDGE (32:00) IMTS Exhibitor Workshop dates and registration details Resources mentioned on this episode Workforce as Critical Infrastructure: Following North Carolina's Model Connect with John Loyack on LinkedIn Why we created Hire MFG Leaders: culture-first recruiting for manufacturers Gorilla76 — revenue-focused industrial marketing Factur: Building consistent sales pipelines for manufacturers Why you should join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
Episode 5073: Kennedy's Plan To Bankrupt Vaccine Manufacturers
It is the week that the firearms industry loves to hate: SHOT Show week. As Brent Wheat prepares to pack his bags for Las Vegas and Roy Huntington happily stays home, the duo dives deep into the reality of the world's largest shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade show. Far from just a display of new products, SHOT Show is a massive logistical beast where the actual business of buying and selling takes place behind closed doors, strictly off-limits to direct consumer sales. In this episode, Brent and Roy explore the evolution of the show, specifically focusing on the shifting landscape of media coverage. They discuss the "cleanup" of credentials that reduced the flood of non-serious bloggers, the rise and fall of "trash-talking" influencers, and why manufacturers are returning to long-term relationships with trusted storytellers over frantic viral moments. Whether you are an industry insider or a shooting enthusiast curious about how the sausage is made, this episode pulls back the curtain on the chaotic 14-mile walks and 15-hour days that define SHOT Show. Key Takeaways • The SHOT Show is the 8th largest trade show in the U.S., designed strictly for manufacturers to sell to distributors and dealers, not consumers. • The industry has cracked down on media credentials to reduce the number of hobbyist bloggers and influencers clogging up the show floor. • Manufacturers are shifting marketing strategies away from creators who rely on negativity and algorithms, favoring long-term professional relationships. • The 'frantic' style of covering every single new product release is diluting audiences, leading content creators to focus more on storytelling. • The physical toll of the show is immense, often requiring attendees to walk over 14 miles a day while navigating thousands of exhibitors. • Professionalism matters: Dressing and acting like a business professional significantly impacts access and success at industry events. --- The Guns Podcast is presented by TangoDown. TangoDown® has been a leader in firearms parts and accessories for over two decades. From upgrades for everyday carry firearms to rifle accessories, TangoDown® has something for each firearm enthusiast. To learn more and shop the diverse product line, visit https://tangodown.com -- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week! Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us
When demand spikes, some manufacturers end up scrambling - which means they also end up paying overtime costs and missing deadlines. Others handle the surge without breaking a sweat. The difference is capacity planning, which is really just matching what you can actually produce with what customers are asking for. It's simpler than what most people think. You can learn more in this episode or read about it on our blog For more information about the MRPeasy software, visit our website: mrpeasy.com
Interview withStefan Gleason, CEO of Money Metals ExchangeNick Smart, Director & CEO of ValOre MetalsRecording date: 7th January 2026Platinum group elements have emerged from years of undervaluation into what industry executives describe as a fundamental supply-demand inflection point. The second half of 2025 witnessed platinum prices nearly double, driven by structural changes across industrial, jewelry, and investment demand against severely constrained supply. For investors seeking precious metals exposure with distinct fundamentals from gold, the platinum story presents a compelling case rooted in geological scarcity, industrial necessity, and market imbalances forecast to persist through 2030.The supply challenge stems from extreme geological concentration combined with economic realities. While platinum occurs in earth's crust at similar abundance to gold—a few parts per billion—concentrated economic deposits are far scarcer. Global primary platinum production totals just 6 million ounces annually versus 120-130 million ounces for gold. More critically, 90% of platinum reserves sit within South Africa's Bushveld Complex, where aging deep-level underground mines face rising costs and operational difficulties. Outside South Africa, platinum production occurs primarily as a mining byproduct, meaning supply cannot respond to price signals. As Stefan Gleason, CEO of Money Metals Exchange notes, even prices ten times higher won't trigger meaningful supply responses given massive underinvestment and geopolitical constraints.Demand dynamics have shifted dramatically across three sectors. Industrial demand is strengthening contrary to earlier electric vehicle projections, with 75% of new US vehicles remaining internal combustion engines while hybrids—which consume more platinum and palladium than conventional engines—represent the fastest-growing automotive segment globally. Major manufacturers like Ford and Volkswagen are shifting production lines toward hybrids due to superior profit margins and customer acceptance. Nick Smart, CEO of ValOre Metals and a 21-year Anglo American veteran, emphasizes this durability stems from infrastructure limitations and automotive economics.The jewelry sector presents another growth vector as gold reaches twice platinum's price—a relationship inverted only in the past decade. Manufacturers and consumers in India and China are shifting to platinum for cost relief while maintaining luxury appeal, with platinum offering white gold substitution at less than half gold's cost. Investment demand, while currently small at roughly 1% of precious metals sales, is maturing rapidly. China has opened platinum hedging markets, creating what Gleason describes as "a three-way pull" between London shortages, US inventory builds, and new Chinese infrastructure.Physical market stress signals are acute. Above-ground inventories have fallen below six months of supply—what Gleason characterizes as "totally unsustainable." London financing shortages have driven lease rates to 12-15% annualized, creating cascading effects across refineries, users, and producers. The entire above-ground platinum supply could be absorbed with just $6 billion in capital.Looking forward, market forecasts project persistent deficits of approximately 700,000 ounces annually through 2030 against total production of 6 million ounces, even accounting for all known development projects. Ivanhoe's Platreef Mine represents the only recently commissioned PGE project, taking decades to reach its 300,000-ounce phase one capacity. Smart acknowledges the difficulty: "It's very difficult to see how that deficit gets bridged."For investors, the investment thesis centers on structural supply-demand arithmetic rather than speculative narratives. The combination of geological concentration, years of underinvestment, resilient automotive demand, jewelry substitution, and emerging investment infrastructure creates conditions for sustained revaluation. Recommended allocation strategies include 1-2% of precious metals holdings through physical platinum for long-term holding or mining equities focused on projects outside South Africa for geographical diversification.Learn more: https://cruxinvestor.comSign up for Crux Investor: https://cruxinvestor.com
Welcome to Season 11 of Workforce 4.0 and this week we are ringing the new year in with a bang as host Ann Wyatt speaks with Carolyn Lee, President and Executive Director or the Manufacturing Institute. This week, Carolyn and Ann discuss the current state of the manufacturing workforce, the impact of technology, and the importance of bridging the skills gap. They also share experiences and the powerful impact that the FAME program has been as a successful model for workforce development in many states across the US. Additionally, Ann asks Carolyn about current hiring trends, and the need for effective frontline leadership and the expectations of younger workers. As a featured recent keynote discussion leader during Schneider Electric's 2025 Innovation Summit, North America, this is our second installment highlighting and celebrating the road forward to building the manufacturing workforce.In This Episode:-00:00: Introduction To Workforce 4.0-00:30: Welcoming Carolyn Lee From The Manufacturing Institute To Workforce 4.0-04:16: Preparing The Workforce For The People/Technology Convergence-09:08: Exploring Where The Real Skills Gap Lies-11:35: What Real FAME Looks Like: A Model for Workforce Development-16:40: Examining Real Time Manufacturing Hiring Trends-20:19: The Importance of Empowering Frontline Leadership-25:03: Breaking Down The Impact In Positive Culture And Productivity-32:41: The New Data On The Manufacturing Skills Gap-37:37: Carolyn's Final Thoughts And Point Of Contact-39:17: Workforce 4.0 OutroMore About Carolyn: Carolyn Lee is the president and executive director of the Manufacturing Institute, the 501(c)3 nonprofit workforce development and education affiliate of the National Association of Manufacturers. Ms. Lee leads the MI in its goal of building a resilient manufacturing workforce prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the future. She was named to the leadership role at the MI in 2017, and during her leadership tenure, the MI has grown significantly, evolving for scaled impact nationwide across the manufacturing industry. She led the MI as it developed new programs, initiatives and events, including taking stewardship from Toyota of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education in 2019 and growing its reach; inaugurating the annual MI Workforce Summit; launching the 35×30 mentorship initiative for women and young girls; expanding the MI's Heroes MAKE America initiative; working with the NAM to develop Creators Wanted—the manufacturing industry's largest national workforce development and education campaign; and partnering with organizations such as Stand Together Trust to create the MI's second chance hiring initiative.Through implementing groundbreaking programs, convening industry leaders and conducting innovative research, the MI furthers individual opportunity, community prosperity and a more competitive manufacturing industry. The MI is a trusted adviser to manufacturers, equipping them with solutions to address the toughest workforce issues. To learn more about Carolyn connect with her here.
It's the fifth anniversary of the Capitol Riot. As Trump part two has been in power for a year and he's begun a new era of American empire, we're re-posting our take on this defining moment in American history. From the 2021 episode: And we thought 2020 was bumpy. In this rush episode, we talk about the shocks happening in the liberal democratic capitalist system. How the ruling class is destabilized by Trump and the far right actions at Capitol Hill this week, and how they are responding to maintain order and their own power as quickly as possible. Last week, we saw organized by war criminal and former Veep and Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney(!) all ten living Secretaries of Defense to call on Trump and officials in the military establishment to ensure an orderly transition of power (he didn't). We saw the National Association of Manufacturers, a notorious anti-worker anti-liberal Democratic institution, issue a statement calling for the swift enactment of the 25th Amendment of Donald Trump over inciting riots at the Capitol. And we saw lots more anger and outrage in the political and corporate spheres aimed at Trump and his supporters. Between the crises of COVID-19, a crashing economy, the climate crisis, a growing far right clearly willing to use deadly violence and these shocks to the system, there are many forces vying for what kind of world is next for us. As the great Gil Scott-Heron told us, “America leads the world in shocks. Unfortunately, America does not lead the world in deciphering the cause of shock.” That's what Green and Red Podcast will be doing. -----------
Podcast: Automation World Gets Your Questions Answered (LS 25 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Why Manufacturers Can't Delay Industrial CybersecurityPub date: 2025-12-23Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationA look at how manufacturers are fighting ransomware and supply chain threats with AI-powered defenses, OT-IT collaboration, and new industrial cybersecurity technologies. Access the source documents for this podcast by visiting this podcast on the Automation Word site at https://www.automationworld.com/55338375The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Automation World, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.
In the first lawsuit of its kind, the city of San Francisco is suing 11 of the nation's top food companies, saying they sell ultra-processed food knowing they are harmful to health. By some estimates, more than 60% of food consumed in the U.S. is ultra-processed. John Yang speaks with Ashley Gearhardt, a University of Michigan psychology professor who studies addiction, to learn more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
In the first lawsuit of its kind, the city of San Francisco is suing 11 of the nation's top food companies, saying they sell ultra-processed food knowing they are harmful to health. By some estimates, more than 60% of food consumed in the U.S. is ultra-processed. John Yang speaks with Ashley Gearhardt, a University of Michigan psychology professor who studies addiction, to learn more. PBS News is supported by - https://www.pbs.org/newshour/about/funders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy
In this episode, Tommy sits down with Wes Morin, Vice President of Operations at AquiSense, a Kentucky-based water technology company recently named Small Manufacturer of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM).AquiSense is a global leader in UV-LED water disinfection technology, designing and manufacturing systems that help provide safe, clean water across residential, commercial, industrial, and humanitarian applications.AquiSense earned the KAM Small Manufacturer of the Year Award for its innovation, operational excellence, and impact in the water technology space. Under Wes's operational leadership, the company has successfully scaled advanced manufacturing processes while maintaining quality, efficiency, and a culture of continuous improvement.From product development to production execution, AquiSense has demonstrated how a small manufacturer can compete — and lead — on a global stage. Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state's manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it's advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com
In this episode of The Milk Check, Ted Jacoby III welcomes Lloyd Metzger and TJ Jacoby of Valley Queen Cheese Company for a deep dive into the science, functionality and future of dairy proteins. The conversation starts at the molecular level – the difference between casein and whey – and builds toward the real-world implications for product developers, processors and nutrition brands. We cover: Why casein is built to carry calcium (and whey isn’t) How heat and pH change protein behavior Fast versus slow digestion and why both matter The role of whey protein in muscle maintenance, aging and GLP-1 nutrition What pro cream really is and why its value may be underestimated Why cellular agriculture is more niche than threat If you work in dairy, food formulation or nutrition, this is a protein conversation worth digesting. Got questions? We'd love to hear them. Submit below, and we might answer it on the show. Ask The Milk Check TMC-Intro-final[00:00:00]Ted Jacoby III: Hi everybody, and thank you for joining us today for this very special recording of the Milk Check Podcast. Today, our topic is: what is the future of dairy proteins? And we have two very special guests. The first is Lloyd Metzger, VP of Quality and Technical Services for Valley Queen Cheese Company, and formerly Professor of Dairy Science at South Dakota State University. And the second, particularly special to me, is my son TJ Jacoby, Whey Technologist for Valley Queen. A South Dakota State graduate. Someone who has been interested in dairy proteins since his first biology class in high school. Guys, thank you for joining us today and welcome to The Milk Check. Lloyd Metzger: Glad to be here. TJ Jacoby: Good to be on, Dad. Ted Jacoby III: It’s December 18th, 2025. Milk production in the US is up 4%. Milk production in Europe is up something similar. Milk production in New Zealand is up. Milk production in Argentina is up. We are definitely in an [00:01:00] environment today where the supply of milk and dairy is overwhelming demand, at least for the moment. Cheese prices are near historical lows. Butter prices are near historical lows. Nonfat milk, skim milk powder prices are on the low end of the range. This market is a market that feels heavy, and I think most people out there would say, it almost feels like even though we’re at lows, we may actually go lower before we go higher. And yet, on the other hand, there are whey proteins, Josh, if I’m not mistaken, whey proteins just hit historical highs. Josh White: Maybe the highest prices we’ve ever seen for whey protein isolate and WPC 80. Ted Jacoby III: So, we have an environment where the demand on the protein side is extremely strong, and the trends on protein consumption are extremely strong and really feel like they’re gonna be around for quite some time. We’ve got baby boomers retiring and whether it’s because of GLP-1s or it’s just a general knowledge and understanding of what human nutritional needs are as people age, they know that they need more protein in their [00:02:00] diet. So, it begs the question: what is going on with dairy proteins and whey proteins and how is this going to evolve in such a unique market where demand is so strong for protein right now? And so, I’m gonna ask the question first. What’s the difference at a molecular level between whey proteins and milk proteins? Because when we’re in an environment like we are now, where you’ve got the demand really, really high, you also have a market that’s gonna start looking for alternatives, simply because prices are so high. What is the difference between milk proteins in general and whey protein specifically? Lloyd Metzger: It’s important to talk about from a functional perspective how the proteins are different. I’m sure we’ll get into the nutritional differences between those proteins as well. It’s important to understand what’s driving those differences in functional characteristics. And it’s really all about calcium. The casein system is designed to carry calcium. The whey protein system is not designed to carry calcium. That differentiates the two groups of [00:03:00] proteins and makes their properties very different. TJ Jacoby: I’ll explain it like this. Milk proteins, there’s two classes of proteins, right? There’s casein and then there’s whey. The casein is used to make cheese, and then the whey protein is what comes off. So, the whey protein is everything that is not used to make cheese. So, the reason why casein proteins works so well for cheese because those proteins like to fall together in these spheres, they like to stick to one another. They like to stick to one another ’cause they have certain groups that latch onto the calcium and then they bridge with phosphate. When they do, they have multiple proteins, different types of casein proteins that bridge together with phosphate and then based on their repulsion forces, they stick together. Calcium and phosphates really help it stick when we make cheese. The outside of that casein, micelle, that ball, when we make cheese, that outside is stripped off, it becomes hydrophobic, and that causes those spheres to stick together. That’s a huge functional property of casein. Whey [00:04:00] protein is the opposite. Whey protein is really hydrophillic. It’s very polar. So, they like to float around in solution and stay floating around in solution. And they don’t like casein. It likes to stay separate from casein. And so, when you make cheese, it readily is released into the whey stream because it likes to stick with the water. In the same way, those kind of stick together with these sulfur groups. But when you heat it up, they unfold. And when they unfold, now there’s certain reactions that can take place. So, those are the two major differences between casein and whey. Lloyd, what did I miss? Lloyd Metzger: I would try to simplify it a little bit. The difference between casein and whey protein is casein is what’s trapped when we make cheese. And whey protein is the soluble protein that’s left over in the water phase of cheese. Cheese making is a dehydration process. We concentrate the fat and protein that’s in milk, the casein version of protein in milk. But you gotta look at the properties of those two [00:05:00] systems and the groups of protein. So, the casein protein is actually really stable to heat, but it is not stable to pH. So, casein will always coagulate at low pH. So, you lower the pH of milk, you get a yogurt-like product. That’s all the casein that’s coming out of the system. Whey proteins don’t mind a low pH, and they’ll stay soluble at a wide range of pH. But now, when you get to temperature, the complete opposite happens. Casein can handle super high temperatures and be very stable. Whey proteins can not handle high temperature at all, they start to gel. I think it’s important to look at the two different groups. Now you get into the functional differences between those two and the very different properties you have between those. Lloyd Metzger: That’s why you get all these products that are very different from each other. Why cheese is so much different than whey protein. And then you have these dairy products that are a combination that have the two together. So like when we make yogurt, we end up with the two products together and get this property that’s partway in between the two proteins. Ted Jacoby III: [00:06:00] Based on what you’re describing, when we’re talking about milk proteins, MPC 80, for example, there’s a higher level of calcium, I take it in milk proteins than compared to whey proteins. Is that true? Lloyd Metzger: Absolutely, but let’s remind everybody: milk protein is both casein and whey protein together at the normal ratio that’s in milk. So, of the protein, 80% is casein, 20% is whey protein. So, when you say milk protein, you’re actually meaning 80% casein and 20% whey protein. Now, when we talk about cheese or casein, we’re basically a hundred percent casein and 0% whey protein. Now, when we talk about whey protein, we’re essentially a 100% whey protein, no casein except for one fragment of casein that actually gets solubilized, as TJ described, and now actually becomes part of whey protein. Something that a lot of people don’t understand is that about 15% of what we call whey protein is actually a piece of casein that gets lost in the whey and now gets [00:07:00] captured and harvested in the whey protein manufacture process. But again, it’s important to remember milk protein is a 80 / 20 combination of casein and whey protein together. So, when you’re talking about milk protein, you’re actually talking about whey protein and casein together. Ted Jacoby III: It’s funny, I just learned something never really quite had my head around, and that’s that 80 / 20 ratio, that 80% of all the protein in milk is actually either alpha or beta casein. Correct? Lloyd Metzger: There’s actually four different casein fractions that are involved that make up that 80% of the total protein. Ted Jacoby III: Okay. The casein molecule isn’t really any bigger than most of the whey protein molecules, but they tend to clump together in those micelles. And so, they act as one big humongous mass compared to whey proteins. Correct? TJ Jacoby: Whey proteins may be collected like in pairs like two at a time, but casein proteins, there’s hundreds, right? Lloyd, that will just clump together. Thousands. TJ Jacoby: So, these spheres are absolutely massive protein complexes, but in fact there are a lot of little individual [00:08:00] proteins that make it up and they’re all bridged together with calcium and phosphate. Lloyd Metzger: It’s a packaging system that was designed to package up calcium and phosphorus. So, the whole casein system was designed by nature as a delivery vehicle for calcium and phosphorus, because calcium is not soluble by itself. Calcium phosphate is essentially rock. It’s the material that makes up eggshells. Think, think about a ground up eggshell that calcium phosphate complex is not soluble and it will sink to the bottom of your container of milk if you didn’t have the protein complex to hold it in solution. The analogy I use is it’s basically a kidney stone. Think about how much fun milking a cow would be if all the calcium and phosphorus was in the form of a kidney stone as you’re trying to milk the cow. All that calcium and phosphorus can be solubilized with the casein system and put it into solution and then make it so you can deliver that in a nutritional product. Ted Jacoby III: That makes perfect sense. That’s really cool. I think you guys also already touched on the differences in solubility as you were [00:09:00] describing the different proteins. But there’s differences in digestibility as well. What’s the source of that difference? TJ Jacoby: I’ll take this one. Returning back to the infant stage, I feel like we could set this up in light of why nature created these proteins. Dairy is the fundamental human food for infants. You have babies that can live up to a year off of just their mother’s milk. All the proteins that are found in there, those building blocks to grow an infant, can be boiled down to those two protein streams: whey protein and casein protein. The purpose of the casein protein for the infants is it’s fast acting. It’ll go right into the gut, and the gut is full of enzymes, but also really, really low pH, so low that it actually causes even those whey proteins to unfold. And It allows the stomach enzymes to break it up super, super fast and be absorbed. It’s considered one of the most bioavailable proteins known to man. It’s designed for that, that’s why nature created whey protein. Well, whey protein itself is also very nutritious. It has one of the highest concentrations of [00:10:00] essential amino acid, and the second highest known to man of branch-chain amino acids. That means it doesn’t have to be processed through the liver before it can be used by the human body. If your body’s actively using and consuming protein whey protein’s really good because it can be absorbed into your system and go right to the muscles. 33% of your muscle is branched chain amino acid. That’s what’s getting broken down while you’re working out. And then in the elderly, that’s what’s getting broken down that’s causing some muscle degeneration. Whey protein can help fortify that very quickly. However, all protein that is consumed in the body could also easily be processed through the liver with time. And so, if you have time, that’s where the casein comes into play. The casein, when it hits that acidic environment in the gut, it immediately clumps together. It actually creates cheese curds in the gut. And the reason why that’s so important is it slows down digestion so that slowly over time, that will be absorbed into the system. So it’s not [00:11:00] like a rush of energy right after the baby eats and then it goes away right away. Instead, it slows it down. The casein itself also likes to trap other nutrients. The casein in the gut will house the fat and the vitamins and the nutrients so that it’s slowly absorbed over the course of the next few hours before the baby’s next feeding. Ted Jacoby III: As a result of those digestibility differences, what are the differences in the amino acid profiles between casein and whey proteins? The body’s gonna need to break down most of that casein in order to absorb it. When the body breaks down that casein, what are the differences in the way that it absorbs some of those amino acid profiles and short-chain protein strands from the casein versus what’s readily bioavailable from the whey proteins? TJ Jacoby: Casein does not have the same percentage of those essential amino acids. It’s not as high, but it’s designed to be slow absorbing. Protein itself, it almost doesn’t matter the amino acid structure, as long as your body has enough of those vitamins and nutrients to absorb and to restructure it to [00:12:00] a different protein within the liver — that’s what your body needs. Most of us, the protein doesn’t have to be fast-acting. It’s not like our muscles are actively breaking down all the time. It can slowly be absorbed, be processed through the liver, and then used for almost any other function as long as we have all the vitamins and minerals that we need. Lloyd Metzger: Part of this huge shift we’re seeing in demand for protein, especially whey protein, this started 25, 30 years ago with bodybuilders and wanting to build muscle mass. And the realization that TJ mentioned: branch-chain amino acids are very important if you wanna rapidly put muscle mass on. It is also very important if you’re elderly or if you have sarcopenia where you’re starting to lose muscle mass. In those nutritional states, it’s really important to have high-level branch-chain amino acids, so you can put muscle on. Or if you’re on a GLP-1 medication where you’re not gonna be able to eat very much, you need a very efficient source of protein to build muscle mass. So there’s certain nutritional states where it is important to have branch-chain amino acids [00:13:00] and be able to get those from a protein like whey protein that has ’em at a very high level. But for the normal person, it’s not really all that relevant. You could get the protein you need from any protein that provides all the essential amino acids. Now, most plant proteins don’t do that. We’re talking about the difference between casein and whey protein. Both of them are an order of magnitude higher in nutritional quality than plant proteins because they have all the essential amino acids. And to TJ’s point, as long as you have the essential amino acids, the body can produce the non-essential amino acids from those essentials. Essential ones are amino acids the body can’t produce. You have to have those in the food you’re consuming to be able to produce the components you need. Josh White: We’ve got listeners from the dairy side of the equation and listeners from the utilization side that are making different products. And some of those customers are currently faced with the reality that a part of the equation for their adoption of whey proteins as an ingredient has shifted. The competition level’s very [00:14:00] high. They’re having more difficulty accessing some of it. And the price has changed quite a bit. And I think that when you’re talking about these products going into CPG applications as a lower inclusion rate ingredient, but with a lot of label power, being able to put whey protein, for instance, on that label, there’s several of them out there that are struggling to determine what the functional differences might be between the various dairy proteins. And what I’m afraid that is happening is some of these companies that are on the lower end of the value scale and can’t afford to keep up with all of the great products that are demanding whey protein or even milk protein, are gonnastart exploring alternatives outside of our space. and I think that we don’t want that, right? And what we’re seeing is this popularity of whey protein is driving a lot of customers for R&D projects to be asking us specifically for whey protein. And so help us understand what applications might make sense to use one, the other, or both. Lloyd Metzger: It completely depends on the product that [00:15:00] you’re after and the characteristics of the product that you want. Something like a beverage can go two different directions. So, if you’re gonna retort the beverage and put a lot of heat on it, you can’t do that with most whey proteins. They’re gonna gel. The most comparable protein to whey protein would be an egg protein. And everybody understands what happens when you heat eggs; they turn into a gel. So, whey proteins will happily do that. If you have a high enough concentration and you expose them to enough heat. Casein actually helps to protect whey protein from that coagulation. A lot of these high-protein beverages, they’re oftentimes a combination of casein and whey protein. They might alter the ratio a little bit from the 80 / 20. They might bump the whey protein up a little bit and have a 60 / 40 casein to whey protein. And so you’ll see ranges in that ratio of casein to whey protein, depending on the characteristics of the product that you’re actually after. The heat is a big piece of that. And then we go to pH as a big piece of what changes the functionality of casein to whey protein and makes you [00:16:00] change those ratios. Yogurt is another great example. You’ve got these super, super high-protein yogurts and a lot of cases they fortified with quite a bit of whey protein to be able to have more protein and still have the characteristics that you want in that product. In the protein bars, there’s all kinds of whey proteins there. In that application, you actually don’t even solubilize the protein. There’s hardly any water in that bar. It’s really almost a dry protein that has a plasticizer with it, some carbohydrates that actually make that edible. You’re almost eating a dry product. There’s a lot of food chemistry that goes into which product category you’re putting it in. There’s not this straight fast rule that you use whey proteins in this, you use casein and that. It depends on what food chemistry you use and how you put the blend together and then what processing you couple with that to get the characteristic that you’re actually after. Josh White: Can we spend a minute or two talking about the acidified products? They’ve gained a lot of popularity. The market potential is quite large. Can we talk a bit about the [00:17:00] differences between the clear WPIs and our traditional products? Lloyd Metzger: I wanna clarify the question. Are you talking specifically about whey protein only in the clear whey protein beverages versus the normal whey protein beverages? Ted Jacoby III: Yes. Lloyd Metzger: We really start to get into the weeds because we’ve got different whey products. So we’ve got whey protein concentrate. And then that comes in various forms. WPC 34 or WPC 80 are the most common. The 80 and the 34 correspond to how much protein on a dry basis those two products have. And they have whey proteins in the normal ratio that would be in the starting whey. Then we get into a group of products called whey protein isolates. And whey protein isolates go through an additional manufacturing process that allows you to purify the protein further and they’ll have more than 90% protein on a dry basis. And you may start to alter the ratio of the various whey proteins that were present in the starting whey. Now, when [00:18:00] we get into the clear whey protein isolates, we really start to alter the ratio of the proteins that are in there. We’ll also start to change some of the mineral profile of the components that are in that product. And then when we use those isolates in a formulation, we gotta be careful about all the other ingredients ’cause they’re gonna have an impact on whether or not the product is actually clear and whether or not it can be stable to heat. So, you can actually make whey protein stable to heat by controlling the mineral profile and controlling some of the processing conditions. You’re now taking a category of dairy ingredient and you’re starting to use technology IP to be able to provide specific functional characteristics that aren’t normally part of that ingredient. All of these may be called the same thing, and the basic consumer has absolutely no idea what the differences between all these things are. And when they’re looking at a label, they’re probably looking for the word whey protein, and that’s all they’re looking for. Josh White: As we’ve seen the market tighten up, we’ve seen [00:19:00] more inquiries and exploration about the use of pro cream,also called WPPC, also called WPC 70, so many different names. Definitely, in our experience, there’s quite a uniqueness as we originate this product from different manufacturers. Perhaps we can talk a bit more about what this product is and how it differs from the other proteins in the complex. Lloyd Metzger: I talked about WPC 80. That’s just the normal whey protein that we concentrate out of whey. And then, I mentioned whey protein isolate. To convert WPC 80 to a whey protein isolate, you use a filtration step called microfiltration. And in that microfiltration step, you remove any protein that is interacting with fat and take that out of the system. So, if you start with a normal WPC 80 and we’re gonna change it into a WPI. We are gonna go through a microfiltration process and we’re gonna lose about 25% of the protein that was there and all of the fat that was there. And [00:20:00] we’re gonna make a WPI out of that. And that WPI is gonna have about 75% of the protein we started with. The protein that we harvest out of that is actually pro cream. pro cream is just a byproduct of converting WPC 80 into WPI, and it’s gonna have about 25% of the mass of the protein that you started with, and all of the fat that was in that starting WPC 80 material. So that’s why you see it called high-fat WPC 30, and if you dry that down, it’s about a WPC 60. You can take that and blend that with WPC 34. You can do all kinds of things with that ingredient. Manufacturers are always trying to find a home for that. ’cause you’ve got a very high value product that’s easy to market in WPI. Ted Jacoby III: Lloyd, that pro cream, our hunch is there’s a lot more value in that pro cream than the market currently has its head around. Lloyd Metzger: they’re the same proteins that are in WPI, they’re just interacting with a fat. Now the fat [00:21:00] is very unique in that there’s quite a bit of phospholipid fat in there. And so there’s a lot of literature and research being done on the potential health benefits for brain development of phospholipids for infants as well as elderly to help with memory retention and actually help to prevent some Alzheimer’s effects. So, you see some companies starting to market that component that they’ve isolated. I think there is a lot of potential value there. But we’re in the early stages of where that’s gonna go. And you have some companies leading the way that are producing very specialized pro cream type products that are being used in infant nutrition or elderly nutrition. TJ Jacoby: But Lloyd, how do those phospholipids affect the shelf life of pro cream? Lloyd Metzger: They don’t help. The phospholipids are unsaturated fats or partially unsaturated and unsaturated fats are very easy to oxidize, so if they’re not handled properly, you’ll get very stale and oxidized off flavors in the product. It’s something you gotta be careful of. Ted Jacoby III: Oxidized fats, [00:22:00] another way to call that. That’s rancid, right? Yes. Lloyd Metzger: On its way to rancid. Josh White: Another selling point that people will make of the benefits of pro cream are IgGs. Can you guys explain a bit more of what that is to the layman? Lloyd Metzger: So, immunoglobulin is a protein that’s also present in milk. It’s really high in colostrum. It’s at very low levels in milk about 72 hours after the cow was started milking, the levels drop way down, but there is still a low level there. Those immunoglobulins are a very large protein. So when you go through your WPI manufacturing process, they’re gonna partition with that fat and that protein portion that you’re capturing. So they’re gonna go in that pro cream. Looking at the composition of IgG in the different waste streams, you’ll find it’s elevated in that pro cream portion. Now I’d be a little concerned about what kind of shape that IgGs in because you’ve seen a lot of heat [00:23:00] and different manufacturing conditions through that process. So you’d really have to be careful about what kind of claims you’re making based on what kind of shape that IgGs in. Mm-hmm. TJ Jacoby: For an infant, those IgGs will go right into the bloodstream. It’s whole proteins, but for us, it actually has to break up the protein entirely before it can be absorbed into our system. So what kind of functional benefits does IgG bring for an adult? I’d be curious to see what that literature entails. Mike Brown (2): Over the last couple decades, DNA technology has been used more and more to produce valuable proteins, often for medical use like insulin. Are we gonna see a point with the cost benefit of that kind of technology we’ll reach where we can actually use that to produce these whey proteins rather than using a cow? Lloyd Metzger: There’s different levels of concern depending on the particular protein. An individual protein and an individual soluble protein like beta-lactoglobulin and alpha-lactalbumin that are in [00:24:00] whey, those have more potential to be produced in a fermentation type process. ’cause they’re an individual protein. You can over express it, you can get a lot of that produced. But when you get to the complexities of multiple proteins that are in whey, that’s when it really becomes uneconomical to do that from a fermentation standpoint. ’cause you’ve gotta produce all of those individually, try to put ’em together, then purify ’em. What people forget is how efficient the cow is. The cow is essentially a walking fermentation tank that feeds itself, controls its own temperature, cleans itself up. All you’ve gotta do is get the milk out of it. When you look at all the steps that go into the process and what it takes to produce it, it’s really hard to beat the efficiency of a cow. Ted Jacoby III: Lloyd, am I right in assuming that the threat of cellular agriculture to dairy would come in the development of specific protein chains and amino acids, but probably not in terms of the complete [00:25:00] protein profile that is delivered in milk proteins and whey proteins. Lloyd Metzger: Correct. And it would be the very high-end, expensive. So the lactoferrin. It would be your first one or some of the IgG, anything that is at low concentration and very high value. Because even if you did everything perfectly, you’re probably still talking $25 to $30 a pound in the manufacturer and isolation process. Well, we we’re really excited about $11 whey protein isolate. Right? You know, and that’s still half the price. Ted Jacoby III: Makes sense. Lloyd, TJ, this was an absolutely fantastic discussion. This was exactly what I wanted to get out of it. I can tell you I learned quite a bit today and I’m sure our listeners will too. Thank you so much for joining us. We really appreciate it. Lloyd Metzger: No problem. Happy to do it. TJ Jacoby: Truly special to be on today, Dad. I grew up listening to a lot of these podcasts, right? Now we’re here, now we’re on it together with you. So, no, it was truly special.[00:26:00]
You know what's right. But what do you do when every gatekeeper says no? In this episode, Drew Ann Long, inventor of Caroline's Cart, shares the story of refusing to let a necessary idea die. Her vision was simple—and radical: a shopping cart that makes the retail experience accessible for people with disabilities and mobility challenges. The industry pushed back. Manufacturers said no. Retailers avoided the conversation. Funding didn't show up. So she invested personally and kept advocating for a need others wouldn't acknowledge, and stayed the course anyway. Despite the special needs community being the world's largest minority group, products designed for their needs are lacking. This creates a barrier to access not only for them but for their families and caregivers. By introducing more inclusive products like Caroline's Cart, the world was opened for those with mobility challenges, autism and dementia. Success means believing in your cause and taking risks to make it happen no mater what. When the establishment tells you no, cultivate support in the community you want to serve. Innovation happens when you focus on the solution not the problem. Contact Drew Ann: https://www.drewannspeaks.com/ Donate to Caroline's Cause scholarship fund: https://www.carolinescause.com/carolines-cause/
“I think the next stage of American capitalism includes co-opetition." - Dutch RojasOn the last episode of Self-Funded with Spencer in 2025, Dutch Rojas joins the show to expose the financial "arbitrage" that he believes is destroying independent medical practices in America. Dutch explains how current CMS incentives allow hospitals to buy independent clinics and immediately charge 165% more for the exact same services, which is a practice that is crushing employers and patients alike.In this episode, Dutch lays out his bold vision for "Co-opetition”, a new playbook where independent practices, manufacturers, and even churches band together to leverage their collective buying power. We discuss why the traditional "HR-led" model of buying benefits is failing, why CFOs need to take the wheel, and his dream of creating a true "Healthcare Commodities Exchange" to normalize pricing.We also get personal about his journey from the Netherlands to the U.S., the importance of social media for building influence in DC, and why he believes the next 10 years will be defined by those who can master media.Tune in for a fascinating look at the future of independent medicine.Chapters:(00:00:00) What is "Co-opetition" in Healthcare? (00:01:00) How Hospital Arbitrage Kills Private Practices (00:06:40) Why Independent Doctors Don't Work Together (Yet) (00:14:00) The 165% Markup(00:29:40) The Dream of a Healthcare Commodities Exchange (00:41:00) Why HR Shouldn't Make Healthcare Decisions (00:49:00) Aggregating Buying Power: Churches & Manufacturers (00:57:00) The 4-Stage Plan to Fix HealthcareKey Links for Social:@SelfFunded on YouTube for video versions of the podcast and much more - https://www.youtube.com/@SelfFundedListen/watch on Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1TjmrMrkIj0qSmlwAIevKA?si=068a389925474f02Listen on Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/self-funded-with-spencer/id1566182286Follow Spencer on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-smith-self-funded/Follow Spencer on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/selffundedwithspencer/
A look at how manufacturers are fighting ransomware and supply chain threats with AI-powered defenses, OT-IT collaboration, and new industrial cybersecurity technologies. Access the source documents for this podcast by visiting this podcast on the Automation Word site at https://www.automationworld.com/55338375
Why does one moisturizer cost $15… while another sells for $65? The answer isn't as simple as it seems. In Episode 37 of Driving the Business: Beauty Brands & Entrepreneurship, I break down how contract manufacturers actually determine pricing and the behind-the-scenes factors most founders never see. From ingredients and packaging to labor, volume, and logistics, this episode walks you through what really drives cost. If you're already working with a manufacturer or thinking about launching a beauty brand, this is a must-listen. Clarity here can save you money, time, and a lot of frustration. Thanks for tuning in. Catch the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and iHeart. Make sure to like, comment, and subscribe so you don't miss what's coming next. Let's dive in.
VADA's Don Hall sat down for a candid, two-part interview on the threats facing the franchise system–from manufacturers like VW and Scout pushing for direct sales to the new political landscape in Richmond. In Part 1 Don delivers a message to dealers who think they can coast through 2026: "Manufacturers have made it clear... they would love to be able to take off certain vehicles and sell them direct. We need to care and we need to get engaged. This is a big deal. It's not going to go away."
Watch The X22 Report On Video No videos found (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:17532056201798502,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-9437-3289"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");pt> Click On Picture To See Larger PictureThe D’s have lost he narrative, they are trying to blame Trump for the affordability crisis, but he is turning it around on them. The autopen was used to bring Powell, Trump wants it investigated.The gold card has gone live, timing is everything. The affordability crisis is about the [CB]. The [DS] along with foreign gov have been trying to divide the people and the MAGA movement. It is not working, it crumbling and people are learning the truth once again. Trump sets the message and the direction of the midterms. The [DS] is struggling, they will not be able to overcome the economic factor in 2026. This will give the people the power to override anything the [DS] tries to do. Economy (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:18510697282300316,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-8599-9832"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="https://cdn2.decide.dev/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs"); “Democrats Know Their Constituents Can’t Read Charts. That’s Why…” Another attempted “gotcha moment” on X by Democrats backfired, revealing that their political strategists and whoever handles their social media accounts lack the most basic chart-reading skills. However, X users pointed out that these political operatives aren’t DEI fools; instead, they seem incapable of telling the truth. https://twitter.com/MajorityPAC/status/1998434136483410412?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1998434136483410412%7Ctwgr%5E1e2efe6a29f9c814decbe7c889387ccc40d1410c%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerohedge.com%2Fpolitical%2Fdemocrats-know-their-constituents-cant-read-charts-thats-why Just like eggs earlier this year and power bills this fall, Democrat operatives are seizing any opportunity to blame Trump for soaring prices that mainly occurred in the previous four years. X user ALX shows why context matters. Source: zerohedge.com https://twitter.com/StephenMoore/status/1998763870001991751?s=20 https://twitter.com/amuse/status/1998789965254144171?s=20 https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/1998830464321323091?s=20 into 2026. The Fed must do the right thing! https://twitter.com/amuse/status/1998841970559512878?s=20 to inject $40 billion per month into Treasury bill purchases beginning December 12. The combined policies strengthen liquidity, reduce borrowing costs, and ease credit strains that often stall growth. Bank of America says both stocks and crypto stand to gain as confidence rises. The Fed's actions confirm the resilience of Trump's expanding second term economy. https://twitter.com/Osint613/status/1999098794412319027?s=20 The post highlights a Wall Street Journal report on Ionic Rare Earths’ discovery of 16 rare earth and critical minerals in Utah’s Mill Creek area, including high-grade lithium and gallium, positioning it as the U.S.’s largest such reserve to reduce reliance on China, which controls 90% of global processing. An aerial image shows the arid Utah landscape near the Great Salt Lake with visible mining pits, underscoring the site’s remote, geologically rich Basin and Range province, where USGS surveys identified potential for 1.5 million tons of rare earth oxides https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/1998846082953130482?s=20 The Trump Gold Card program, launched via executive order in 2025, allows foreign nationals (primarily investors or those sponsored by corporations) to apply for a U.S. green card through expedited channels like EB-1(a) for extraordinary ability or EB-2 national interest waiver. It requires a nonrefundable $15,000 processing fee plus a “contribution” or “gift” of at least $1 million per individual (or $2 million via an employer sponsor), with additional amounts for dependents. The funds go to entities like the U.S. Department of Commerce, and applicants must prove a lawful source of money, similar to the EB-5 investor visa. The process involves filing a new Form I-140G, followed by consular processing abroad—no in-country adjustment of status is allowed—and approvals can happen in weeks, though backlogs from per-country caps (especially for Indian or Chinese nationals) may still cause delays for the actual green card. This program is separate from the H-1B visa system, which remains a temporary work visa for skilled professionals with issues like annual caps (85,000 visas, including 20,000 for advanced degree holders), a random lottery selection process, and criticisms of abuse (e.g., companies using it to displace U.S. workers or suppress wages via outsourcing firms). In fact, alongside the Gold Card, the Trump administration introduced a separate $100,000 one-time entry fee for H-1B applicants to deter such abuses and ensure only “the best and brightest” use it. https://twitter.com/TheRubberDuck79/status/1998791717752062345?s=20 Autopen. https://twitter.com/KobeissiLetter/status/1998407015756964343?s=20 to decide if it gets a floor vote. I hope they do the right thing. The Affordability Crisis Is Not a ‘Hoax.' It Is an Existential Threat to the American Dream. Recently, President Trump has been quoted as referring to the affordability crisis as a “Democrat scam,” “hoax,” and “con job.” Although I think Trump was likely trying to remind Americans that policies enacted when Democrats had total control of the federal government under the first two years of the Biden administration accelerated and exacerbated the affordability problem, it is dangerous for the president to use that type of language. Already, mainstream media reprobates are twisting Trump's words, leading people to believe that he is saying the affordability crisis does not exist. In proper context, Trump is not denying that middle- and lower-class Americans are struggling to make ends meet; rather, he is trying to assign blame and hang the affordability crisis on the Democrats. But even doing that is politically unwise. The American people are not nearly as concerned with pointing fault as they are with seeking immediately viable solutions to the untenable reality they face. For many Americans, the affordability crisis is so severe that they think the American dream is no longer within reach. In fact, only 22 percent of young Americans think they will be better off than their parents. Source: redstate.com Political/Rights https://twitter.com/TriciaOhio/status/1999146290584678721?s=20 https://twitter.com/seanmdav/status/1998819294658842681?s=20 https://twitter.com/DHSgov/status/1998773065870708813?s=20 https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1999144165213380788?s=20 We hope the headlines and social media likes are worth it. DHS: Legacy Media Report Leaves Out an Important Detail on ICE Purchasing Planes for Deportations The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed the agency has inked a deal for the purchase of six planes for nearly $140 million, which will aid Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in deportations, allowing them to bypass charter airlines. The Post report read: https://twitter.com/TriciaOhio/status/1998794208736411870?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1998794208736411870%7Ctwgr%5Ebd9d4a7f5e7443f5f0455bfbeb427e17d3fa2b05%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fredstate.com%2Fkatie-jerkovich%2F2025%2F12%2F10%2Fdhs-confirms-excellent-news-about-deportations-and-its-own-fleet-n2197015 flight patterns. President Trump and @Sec_Noem are committed to quickly and efficiently getting criminal illegal aliens OUT of our country. Source: redstate.com US To Ask Visitors For 5 Years Of Social Media History Under New Plan The United States is planning to require visitors from dozens of countries on the visa waiver program to provide up to five years of their social media history, according to a proposal from the US Customs and Border Protection posted to the Federal Register on Wednesday. Countries on the list include much of Europe, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Qatar, Israel, Chile and Brunei. Citizens or nationals of these countries have been allowed to freely travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. If the proposal is adopted, they’ll have to share their online footprint – something that immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applicants from different categories have been required to provide since 2019. The list also includes; Telephone numbers used in the last five years Email addresses used in the last 10 years IP addresses and metadata from electronically submitted photos Biometrics – including facial, fingerprint, DNA and Iris data Information about one’s family – including names, telephone numbers, dates of birth, places of birth and residences. The CBP proposal is open for a 60-day public comment period. ESTA – an automated system, costs $40 and is generally valid for two years. An ESTA holder can enter multiple times during that period. Source: zerohedge.com https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1998484877180604877?s=20 is part of the FBI's Joint Task Force Vulcan investigation out of @FBIHouston to locate, indict, and arrest members of MS-13 leadership “La Mesa.” Great work from @FBIOmaha and partners @HSI_HQ @DEAHQ and more – this admin is taking a whole of government approach to dismantling MS-13 and their presence within the country. DOGE https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1998810382576792048?s=20 https://twitter.com/pepesgrandma/status/1998428503759294519?s=20 EU High Level Group on combating hate speech and hate crime that wrote the 2016 Code of Conduct. The Code Conduct is a document agreed upon by social media companies for removing hate. The improved upon “Code of Conduct Plus” continues to be an important tool under the DSA: “On 20 January 2025, the revised Code of conduct on countering illegal hate speech online + (the ‘Code of conduct+') was integrated into the regulatory framework of the Digital Services Act (DSA), following a positive assessment from the Commission and the European Board for Digital Services. The Code of conduct+, which builds on the Code of Conduct adopted in 2016, strengthens the way online platforms deal with content deemed illegal hate speech according to EU law and Member States' laws. It facilitates compliance with and the effective enforcement of the DSA in this specific area.” This new Conduct Code+ was established as a “DSA Code of conduct”. This empowered civil society organisations to act as watchdogs. “Following its integration, adherence to the Code of conduct+ may be considered as an appropriate risk mitigation measure for signatories designated as Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Search Engines (VLOSEs) under the DSA.” “The DSA classifies platforms or search engines that have more than 45 million users per month in the EU as very large online platforms (VLOPs)” https://twitter.com/emd_worldwide/status/1998556257251152246?s=20 letter confirms the details of that action. And it arrives at a very appropriate moment. As we watch certain officials in Europe experiment with coercive fines, regulatory threats, and pressure campaigns aimed at shaping American political discourse, the Moraes precedent is worth remembering. The United States views foreign attempts to control U.S. speech as a human rights violation and a breach of sovereignty. Geopolitical https://twitter.com/RMistereggen/status/1998419619220996236?s=20 society destabilised? When a country must hand over cash to escape a policy that harms it, the structure stops looking like a union and starts looking like organized coercion. Let's call the EU what it is: its a mafia organisation. Abolish the EU. Unelected Brussels Bureaucrat Demands Trump ‘Show Respect' for EU, as US President Is Chosen ‘The Most Powerful Person in Europe' Trump is flexing his political and military muscles all over the world. Those who want respect, give respect. Trump has just been chosen as ‘the most powerful person in Europe'. ‘ Politico reported: “Top EU officials tried to set the record straight Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump denounced Europe as a ‘decaying' group of countries ruled by ‘weak' leaders. […] ‘I think they're weak', the Republican said, referring to the continent's presidents and prime ministers, adding, ‘I think they don't know what to do. Europe doesn't know what to do'.” “European Council President António Costa said Europe and the U.S. ‘must act as allies' — and urged the Republican leader to show ‘respect'. Costa is an unelected bureaucrat – he was not ‘elected', he was ‘appointed' by the same Globalist leaders that are polling 11% to 23% in their countries. Source: thegatewaypundit.com War/Peace https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1998980234763219052?s=20https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1999068890421195037?s=20 Impeccable. This clip emerged just as Maria Corina Machado, the woman Maduro has hunted for 16 months, escaped Venezuela and arrived in Oslo to accept the Nobel Peace Prize for fighting his dictatorship. His secret police surrounded the U.S. Embassy thinking she was inside. She slipped out of the country anyway. Her team risked their lives to get her on that plane. Meanwhile, Maduro is on stage crooning about peace. The irony writes itself. https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1998936856000397477?s=20 showed up in Norway anyway. The 58-year-old opposition leader arrived in Oslo Thursday and waved from the balcony of the Grand Hotel, free and defiant. The Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded her the prize for her fight against what it called a dictatorship. Maduro’s regime tried everything to stop this moment. It didn’t work. https://twitter.com/clashreport/status/1999068890421195037?s=20 freely in accordance with the regime. https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/1999065856580661500?s=20 https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/1998879421491483071?s=20 Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Coast Guard, with support from the Department of War, executed a seizure warrant for a crude oil tanker used to transport sanctioned oil from Venezuela and Iran.” “For multiple years, the oil tanker has been sanctioned by the United States due to its involvement in an illicit oil shipping network supporting foreign terrorist organizations. This seizure, completed off the coast of Venezuela, was conducted safely and securely—and our investigation alongside the Department of Homeland Security to prevent the transport of sanctioned oil continues.” https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1998895443347124514?s=20 https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1999140870516576385?s=20 6th no-confidence vote, Zhelezaykov said, “I hear the public's dissatisfaction and consider the protection of democracy my top priority,” choosing to step down. Protests erupted in November over a 2026 budget packed with tax hikes, higher social contributions, and bloated spending. Even after scrapping the budget, crowds demanded total regime change, early elections, and a crackdown on corruption, culminating in massive rallies yesterday across Sofia and beyond. This is a rare public uprising toppling a government in real-time! With Bulgaria set to join the eurozone on January 1, the collapse risks economic chaos, currency shifts, investor panic, while exposing deep rot (corruption scandals cost $3B yearly, per EU audits). Zhelezaykov's exit might spark a power vacuum, pitting pro-EU reformers against nationalist factions. https://twitter.com/sentdefender/status/1998875723931812291?s=20 https://twitter.com/MarioNawfal/status/1999099346676334925?s=20 Allegations that some staff members may have ties to Hamas, with zero indictments, no formal charges, and no due process. Washington, once UNRWA's biggest donor, froze funding in January 2024 after Israel accused roughly a dozen staff members of involvement in the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack that triggered the war. If the move goes through, it would effectively criminalize a major arm of humanitarian relief in Gaza and beyond. Although, it’s been noted that such sanctions would be highly unusual, since the U.S. is both a U.N. member and the host nation of the body that created the agency in 1949. Despite this, Trump previously reaffirmed that the U.S. would not fund UNRWA earlier this year. In October, Secretary of State Marco Rubio also referred to UNRWA as a subsidiary of Hamas: “UNRWA’s not going to play any role in it… The United Nations is here, we're seeing the work they're doing… They’re on the ground. We’re willing to work with them if they can make it work, but not UNRWA. UNRWA became a subsidiary of Hamas.” https://twitter.com/profstonge/status/1998824786022003044?s=20 billion they seized might well come up https://twitter.com/WallStreetMav/status/1998849819071353071?s=20 is going to demand their frozen assets be returned. I suspect the current people in power don't expect to be around or forced to deal with that problem when it arises. They just want their money laundering schemes to continue being funded. Short term planning by the EU. https://twitter.com/Reuters/status/1998991133033054636?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1998991133033054636%7Ctwgr%5E279dcf506be99c0c99616930f129b9a99fcd7bf2%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegatewaypundit.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fwatch-ukraine-strikes-another-oil-tanker-russian-shadow%2F https://twitter.com/disclosetv/status/1999118921564090787?s=20 Trump talks Ukraine peace deal with Macron, Merz and Starmer President Donald Trump held a conference call with French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday to discuss the war in Ukraine, a White House official said, as the U.S. president continues to push for an end to the conflict while expressing skepticism that Kyiv stands a chance of coming out ahead. Source: politico.com Zelenskyy Signals Openness to Elections After Trump Criticism President Donald Trump on Tuesday pressed Ukraine to hold a presidential election despite its war with Russia, prompting President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to say he is prepared to hold a vote within months if parliament and Western allies make it feasible. Zelenskyy responded, saying the decision is solely for Ukrainians. “This is a question for the people of Ukraine, not people from other states, with all due respect to our partners,” he said. Ukraine’s constitution bars elections under martial law, but Zelenskyy signaled he’s willing to hold one anyway and asked the U.S. and European partners for help securing a wartime vote. “Since this question is raised today by the president of the United States of America, our partners, I will answer very briefly: Look, I am ready for elections,” he said. “Then, in the next 60 to 90 days, Ukraine will be ready to hold the elections. I personally have the will and readiness for this.” Zelenskyy’s five-year term expired in May 2024. Source: newsmax.com Medical/False Flags FDA Reviewing Deaths Potentially Linked to COVID Shots The Food and Drug Administration is looking into whether COVID-19 vaccines were tied to any deaths, government officials announced this week. The FDA is “doing a thorough investigation, across multiple age groups, of deaths potentially related to COVID vaccines,” Andrew Nixon. a spokesman for the Department of Health and Human Services, said in a statement. Manufacturers report that the FDA is also reviewing the safety of RSV immunizations. COVID-19 vaccines were deployed in late 2020 under emergency use authorization. Less than a year later, the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine became the first to receive full FDA approval. Source: newsmax.com [DS] Agenda https://twitter.com/nicksortor/status/1998789285281968322?s=20 with all the other America-hating Somalis! https://twitter.com/amuse/status/1998806184846045404?s=20 BREAKING: Democrats Flip Miami – Eileen Higgins Wins Mayoral Runoff Election: Decision Desk Democrats flipped Miami Mayor's office on Tuesday. Higgins defeated Republican Emilio Gonzalez, a former Miami City Manager who served on Trump's DHS transition team. Higgins will be Miami's first Democrat mayor since 1997. Fox News reported: It took nearly 30 years, but Democrats finally broke their decades-long ballot box losing streak in Miami, Florida, the city known as the nation's “Gateway to Latin America.” Source: thegatewaypundit.com https://twitter.com/chad_mizelle/status/1998565231136747996?s=20 https://twitter.com/EricLDaugh/status/1998912315672977728?s=20 are: Jeff Van Drew, R-N.J., Nicole Malliotakis, R-N.Y., Nick LaLota, R-N.Y., Brian Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., Rob Bresnahan, R-Pa., Don Bacon, R-Neb., Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., Tom Kean, R-N.J., Ryan Mackenzie, R-Pa., Zach Nunn, R-Iowa, Chris Smith, R-N.J., Pete Stauber, R-Minn., and Mike Turner, R-Ohio. Full passage vote could happen Thursday. President Trump's Plan REVEALED: DC pipe bomb suspect obsessed with My Little Pony art, fan fic: report My Little Pony is a franchise marketed at young girls. An adult male fan of the toys are known as a “Brony,” a community that at its peak was large enough to hold annual conventions. Brian Cole Jr, the man charged with placing pipe bombs outside the Republican and Democratic National Committees' Washington, DC headquarters the evening before January 6, 2021, was reportedly a massive fan of the children's series “My Little Pony,” making fan art and fan fiction dedicated to the characters.Per the New York Post, Cole, 30, appeared to have gone by usernames including iDeltaVelocity, Bron1Delta, Delta1Forgotten, and Blue Velocity online. In one account on an online forum, Cole allegedly posted dozens of fan art pieces dedicated to the My Little Pony franchise. Many of the art pieces feature characters with light purple bodies and multicolored hair.In a Tumblr account associated with the username delta1forgotten, Cole allegedly wrote in response to another user's drawing of a My Little Pony character with a machine gun, “Eh… I'd give her an RPG [Rocket-Propelled Grenade]. What can I say? Explosions are COOL!!”My Little Pony is a franchise marketed at young girls. An adult male fan of the toys are known as a “Brony,” a community that at its peak was large enough to hold annual conventions. Assistant Professor of Psychology Dr Daniel Chadborn wrote in his book “Meet the Bronies: The Psychology of the Adult My Little Pony Fandom,” “The subculture of Bronies was very online and unique and attracted a lot of male fans, who were breaking gender norms, which attracted a lot of attention.”He noted that the subculture is generally not sexual, however, he is not surprised that some members within the community are troubled. “Someone who is disaffected is often going to look for spaces to engage in, for a sense of identity and belonging.”Cole also allegedly wrote fanfiction dedicated to the franchise, with one story marked as being an “adventure/horror” story featuring the characters Applejack and Applebloom Source: thepostmillenial.com Winning: Woke D.C. Police Chief Stepping Down Following Trump's Bold Moves to Federalize the DC Police Force and Send in National Guard https://twitter.com/MayorBowser/status/1997992364367884758?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1997992364367884758%7Ctwgr%5Edc94739b1880255ed9a381d0aefa9d1b2da25236%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.thegatewaypundit.com%2F2025%2F12%2Fwinning-woke-d-c-police-chief-stepping-down%2F ‘Righteous Anger’: Erika Kirk Shuts Down Insane Conspiracies Surrounding Her Husband’s Murder Erika Kirk appears to have possibly reached her breaking point as she addressed those insane conspiracies surrounding the murder of her husband, Charlie Kirk, and to say she didn’t hold back is a serious understatement. During her appearance on Wednesday on Fox News’ Outnumbered, Kirk was asked about the accusations and claims floated by podcasters like Candace Owens and others surrounding the assassination of the late co-founder of Turning Point USA, including speculation about where Charlie is buried. No rock will be unturned. I want justice for my husband, for myself, for my family more than anyone else out there. “My silence does not mean that I’m complacent,” Erika continued. “My silence does not mean that somehow Turning Point USA and all of the handpicked staff that loved my husband and that my husband loved them is somehow in on it. We are busy building.” Erika said she understands a lot of the noise is people trying to find answers to the horrific killing of her husband, and made it clear no “rock will be unturned. I want justice for my husband, for myself, for my family more than anyone else out there.” Kirk said she does have a breaking point, though, and it’s when influencers and others go after those she loves, like her family, her Turning Point USA family, and her Charlie Kirk Show family. “When you go after the people that I love, and you’re making hundreds and thousands of dollars every single episode, going after the people that I love because somehow they’re in on this… NO!” Erika said, as the host Harris Faulkner pointed out, she’d never seen Kirk like this before. “This is righteous anger because this is not okay, it’s not healthy,” she added. “This is a mind virus… but this is not okay. But just know your words are very powerful, and we are human.” “My team are not machines and they’re not robots, they are human,” Erika continued. “We have more death threats on our team and our side than I have ever seen. I have kidnapping threats. I have…you name it, we have it. And my poor team is exhausted, and every time they bring this back up, what are we supposed to do, relive that trauma all over again?” . Source: redstate.com https://twitter.com/WarClandestine/status/1998877640862904429?s=20 https://twitter.com/ElectionWiz/status/1998867607429292200?s=20 2846 Feb 21, 2019 12:02:07 PM EST Q !!mG7VJxZNCI ID: 6b73ac No. 5304336 Dz8HH2lWwAIQX5K.jpg-large.jpg https://twitter.com/JudahsTrumpets/status/1098604676621189122 Be ready for the ‘Q’, Anon(s). Eyes on increasing +each day. You are the NEWS NOW. Handle w/ care. Q 3628 Nov 25, 2019 12:05:46 PM EST Q !!mG7VJxZNCI ID: 000000 No. 7370121 https://twitter.com/Incarcerated_ET/status/1198990090757914625 Enemy of the People. You are the NEWS NOW. Facts matter. Q https://twitter.com/medeabenjamin/status/1998886707891155231?s=20 https://twitter.com/_johnnymaga/status/1999140426222088595?s=20 https://twitter.com/DataRepublican/status/1938072642374058297?s=20 Bejamin briefly – who had an interesting history of speaking to Chinese media. She co-founded Global Exchange with her husband, Kevin Danaher, which goes on a number of “Reality Trips” to various closed countries – Cuba, Venezuela, among others. If you’ve followed me long enough … you know that’s a big red flag. State-facilitated exchange trips are one of the most common “soft power” tools that countries have in exporting their ideology to others. https://twitter.com/AAGDhillon/status/1998429763744976927?s=20 Supreme Court OKs Trump's Firing Of Biden FTC Appointee The U.S. Supreme Court handed President Donald Trump a significant victory, ruling that he can remove Federal Trade Commission leader Rebecca Slaughter after months of legal challenges. Trump has sought to dismiss Slaughter, a Democrat appointed by former President Joe Biden, since March. The court also agreed to consider whether presidents may dismiss FTC commissioners without cause. In the meantime, Slaughter will not be allowed to remain in office. Source: conservativebrief.com https://twitter.com/amuse/status/1998163014336561437?s=20 https://twitter.com/mrddmia/status/1998237338678563300?s=20 Trump Sinks Anonymous Reports by Reaffirming Support for Hegseth, Noem Trump sunk the anonymous reports while fielding questions from the press during a roundtable with tech CEO in the Roosevelt Room on Wednesday. https://twitter.com/RapidResponse47/status/1998886540215472413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1998886540215472413%7Ctwgr%5Ec250eb4c9bce232b03b56224d33227964e8f8b05%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.breitbart.com%2Ft%2Fassets%2Fhtml%2Ftweet-5.html1998886540215472413 Trump's comments follow an Atlantic report that Trump “is starting to tire of the scandals surrounding Hegseth,” citing “an outside adviser to the White House and a former senior administration official.”They also come on the heels of an MS Now report, citing two anonymous sources, and claiming that “White House officials have grown frustrated with Kristi Noem's leadership of the Department of Homeland Security, leading to calls for a new secretary to more aggressively support key parts of the president's deportation agenda.” Source: breitbart.com https://twitter.com/AGPamBondi/status/1999130198906728645?s=20 https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1998453138857099684?s=20 primarily Nordic-German. Importing voters is a CERTAIN path to a single-party supermajority and has ALREADY happened at the state level in California and New York. It also explains why those states have BANNED VOTER ID in order to accelerate a permanent socialist supermajority, destroying any semblance of democracy. We stand on the precipice of disaster, an end to America. https://twitter.com/CynicalPublius/status/1998769742455435403?s=20 say stupid stuff like “I’m not voting in the mid-terms.” The Constitutional powers of the President are limited by design. Moreover, Trump faces unique challenges in an intransigent Deep State and an array of rogue judges, neither of which any other President has faced at this scale. Nevertheless, in less than a year Trump has kept more of his campaign promises than any other President since FDR. Some of you people need to wise up. There is no Government Fairy. It’s a hard slog, and we’re winning–unless YOU mess it up, Doomsters. Don’t mess it up. https://twitter.com/CynicalPublius/status/1998827695439004144?s=20 care, the GOP deserves it.” This is self-fulfilling prophecy. It suppresses voter enthusiasm, suppresses voter turn out, and creates exactly the barren ground that Leftists have come to expect from a conservative movement that seems determined to fail at every turn even when it is winning. *versus* 2. “I am so happy that we have made so much progress. Trump has done amazing things in a short period of time against unprecedented institutional resistance. We are winning and I can see the light at the end of the tunnel for the restoration of our Constitutional republic. Nevertheless, there is much to be done. President Trump and the true conservatives in Congress need our enthusiastic, vocal support. We must keep the pressure on the eGOP, the Democrats and the lying media. This is a tough battle, but we will win.” THAT my friends is a message of victory. It too becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy as it inspires the voting base yet does not ignore the work yet to be done. It’s winning. ————————— Allow me to paraphrase Napoleon Bonaparte: “In politics, the moral is to the physical as three is to one.” _________________________ In other words, why don’t you knock it off with them negative waves, Moriarity. https://twitter.com/Avis_Liberatum/status/1998829654241694036?s=20 https://twitter.com/MattMorseTV/status/1998541820285145219?s=20 and for America itself. In all fairness, the Democrats have been doing Redistricting for years, and continue to do so. Unfortunately, Indiana Senate “Leader” Rod Bray enjoys being the only person in the United States of America who is against Republicans picking up extra seats, in Indiana's case, two of them. He is putting every ounce of his limited strength into asking his soon to be very vulnerable friends to vote with him. By doing so, he is putting the Majority in the House of Representatives, Washington, D.C., at risk and, at the same time, putting anybody in Indiana who votes against this Redistricting, likewise, at risk. The people of Indiana don't want the Party of Sleepy Joe Biden, Kamala, Ilhan Omar, or the rest to succeed in Washington. Bray doesn't care. He's either a bad guy, or a very stupid one! In any event, he and a couple of his friends will partner with the Radical Left Democrats. They found some Republican “SUCKERS,” and they couldn't be happier that they did! Guys like Failed Senate Candidate Mitch Daniels, who I opposed in his Race against Senator Jim Banks, and Cam Savage, whoever that is, are fighting against the Republican Party, all the way. Bray and his friends are the favorite Republicans of Hakeem Jeffries, Crazy Nancy Pelosi, and Cryin' Chuck Schumer. Anybody that votes against Redistricting, and the SUCCESS of the Republican Party in D.C., will be, I am sure, met with a MAGA Primary in the Spring. If Republicans will not do what is necessary to save our Country, they will eventually lose everything to the Democrats. Rod Bray and his friends won't be in Politics for long, and I will do everything within my power to make sure that they will not hurt the Republican Party, and our Country, again. One of my favorite States, Indiana, will be the only State in the Union to turn the Republican Party down! Master Messenger: Trump Goes Full MAGA at Pennsylvania Rally, Hands GOP the 2026 Talking Points The master messenger is at it again, this time handing the GOP the 2026 midterm talking points directly. During a rally Tuesday evening in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, President Trump reminded both Republicans and Democrats of just how savvy a messenger he can be when energizing his base. He crushed former President Joe Biden and his administration for overseeing the runaway inflation we are still battling today. He discussed his efforts to bring higher wage jobs to American workers, not illegal aliens. He dismantled Obamacare, highlighting high costs and the trillions in taxpayer dollars given to insurance companies instead of the American people. President Trump went full MAGA. The message was clear: Republicans, take this message and run with it during the 2026 midterm election cycle. President Trump tore apart Obamacare. He is tired of insurance companies lining their pockets with Obamacare subsidies, and stated once again that he wants that money sent directly to the American people. Imagine being able to use your own money to purchase health insurance instead of those dollars going straight to the insurance companies? For Republicans in 2026, this is a smart policy that could excite the base in an election cycle where President Trump is not on the ballot. Healthcare across America, in many cases, is unaffordable and frustrating. This is certainly an area where the GOP can make up ground with sound policy ideas. President Trump has essentially closed our southern border by the sheer power he wields through the executive branch. The administration has now moved to tackle illegal immigration within our borders, in regards to both deportations and American jobs taken by illegal aliens. Since President Trump took office, 100 percent of all net job creation has gone to American citizens. That is an amazing statistic that every GOP House and Senate member should be touting on the campaign trail. Not for nothing, but President Trump is also clearly tired of immigrants coming to America who do not care to fully assimilate or share our values. President Trump also announced a permanent pause on third-world migration, “including from hellholes like Afghanistan, Haiti, Somalia, and many other countries.” This is a very smart and, frankly, important policy. During the recent off-year election cycle, many Americans learned for the first time how many third-world immigrants have infiltrated major American cities. This is a winning message and one the GOP should carry into 2026. Finally, the deadly drugs have got to stop flowing into this country. President Trump has taken lethal action that is sure to have every drug boat planning to bring drugs to America second-guessing that decision. For some Republicans who support Trump’s policy but have struggled to properly communicate the importance to their constituents, the president simplified the issue for the entire party. Source: redstate.com https://twitter.com/TheStormRedux/status/1998449163403419722?s=20 ALL THE INFORMATION.” LFG One thing I know is that the American public (outside of X) needs to understand how rigged and fake our elections are before we have another election in this country. (function(w,d,s,i){w.ldAdInit=w.ldAdInit||[];w.ldAdInit.push({slot:13499335648425062,size:[0, 0],id:"ld-7164-1323"});if(!d.getElementById(i)){var j=d.createElement(s),p=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0];j.async=true;j.src="//cdn2.customads.co/_js/ajs.js";j.id=i;p.parentNode.insertBefore(j,p);}})(window,document,"script","ld-ajs");
Forget the hyperscalers replacing tens of thousands of jobs. For manufacturers with 20 or 50 employees, AI isn't about cutting headcount, it's about finding ways to get ahead when you can't necessarily afford to scale your team. As Dr Richard Barnhouse, President and CEO of Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) puts it: figure out the things you hate to do and apply AI to that. This episode was recorded live at WCTC's Applied AI Lab, featuring a roundtable with Dr Barnhouse, Amanda Payne from the Waukesha County Business Alliance, Guido Mazza from ITER IDEA, and Caleb Bryant, a student pivoting into AI after 20 years in lending. The panel explores how small manufacturers are practically applying AI today, from eliminating scheduling headaches to streamlining quoting and contracts.Guido shares how one plastic manufacturer eliminated internal conflict by letting an algorithm handle shift scheduling across dozens of constraints, while Amanda reveals that 50% of Waukesha County businesses are already adopting or strategizing around AI; and over 90% of them have 50 or fewer employees. Caleb delivers one of the episode's sharpest lines: AI doesn't steal jobs, it steals tasks.In this episode, find out:Why even free ice cream for life won't get buy-in, but removing a universal pain point willHow a plastic manufacturer used AI to manage dozens of scheduling constraints and avoid internal conflictThe three common reactions people have to AI and why two of them stem from the same root causeWhat Dr. Barnhouse warns about AI early-adopters when vetting consultants and programsWhy the real ROI on some AI projects isn't money saved, but conflict avoidedWhy manufacturers are mostly implementing AI on the office side (quoting, contracts, and legal documents) for nowThe intersection of robotics, humanoids, and quantum computing that's coming faster than most realizeEnjoying 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:“Start with the basics. Think about your company's most repetitive or boring tasks and see if there's an AI solution that could be applicable. Then, you have to differentiate and decide what the benefits are between automation or an AI agent for those tasks.” - Guido Mazza“The easiest way to get started is identify a single pain point that everyone in the company can't stand, something so far down that not even the boss understands how it contributes to the bottom line. If you can mitigate that pain point, your team will understand how AI can help them focus on more important tasks.” - Dr Richard Barnhouse“There are usually three reactions to AI. People either embrace it, underestimate it or are intimidated by it. What AI does is breed creativity. And once you understand it a little bit more, you start to see all the different things it can be used for both in industry and your personal life.” - Caleb BryantLinks & mentions:Waukesha County Technical College, one of the region's leaders in workforce development, offering 170+ programs and customized employer training, including Wisconsin's first comprehensive AI training and a world-class Applied AI Lab.Waukesha County Business Alliance, a long-standing, member-driven organization advancing economic growth and strengthening the business environment in Waukesha County through advocacy, development, engagement, and growth.
Pastor Matt Chavez shares insights on how powerful word of mouth marketing can be as illustrated in both consumer experiences and biblical teachings, emphasizing the impact of personal testimonies in bringing transformative stories to life.
© 2020-2026 Ivy Podcast Discovery LLC
