Podcasts about Manufacturing

At 17 years old, Michael King bought a brand-new CNC machine despite never having seen one in person. With no formal trade school background or apprenticeship, he relied on years of self-directed learning, curiosity, and a steady stream of YouTube machining content to take the leap. He sectioned off space in his dad's warehouse, installed a Haas DM2, and started figuring it out in real time. What began as a personal interest in building things quickly turned into real production work. A stainless steel contract gave him early traction. A used Swiss machine that arrived broken forced him to learn diagnostics and hand-code thousands of lines of G-code. Over time, one machine became several, including a dual-spindle lathe and a five-axis Matsura, forming the foundation of what is now The Monk Works. In this episode of MakingChips Generation CNC, we talk through how Michael has approached growth with unusual discipline. He's kept overhead low, relied entirely on word-of-mouth instead of advertising, and leaned heavily into technology from day one. Rather than scaling by adding headcount immediately, he's focused on automation, standardized tooling, and building systems that allow the business to operate beyond what he can personally track in his head. The conversation also explores how he thinks about cash flow, process maturity, quality, and long-term sustainability. At just 20 years old, married with two kids, Michael is already navigating the tension between capacity and structure, ambition and patience. His story challenges the idea that manufacturing has a high barrier to entry while reinforcing that longevity still depends on discipline and intentional decision-making. Segments (0:00) Buying a brand-new Haas DM2 at 17 (before ever seeing a CNC machine in person) (1:24) RC planes, 3D printing, Fusion 360, and discovering machining through YouTube (6:24) The YouTube channels that shaped Michael's journey (8:27) Paperless Parts: secure AI-powered quoting built for manufacturers (9:42) Landing the first year-long stainless contract and realizing the machine had more capacity (11:00) How Michael learned business fundamentals from his dad (12:21) Becoming a firefighter, HVAC tech, drone pilot, and getting married (13:38) The $5,000 "working" Swiss machine and the lessons that followed (16:39) The Monk Works brand story: small, fast, agile, and intentionally different (18:58) IMTS 2026: Why getting out of the shop and into the show matters (20:07) Financing growth: bootstrapping under an established family business (21:44) Homeschooling, self-directed learning, and defining meaningful work (22:38) Faith, diligence, and quality as a leadership philosophy (23:52) Realizing systems must scale before workload does (25:35) Building his business entirely through word-of-mouth (26:52) Launching proprietary titanium suppressor accessories alongside contract work (28:00) Certifications, ERP systems, and preparing for higher-regulated industries (29:47) Embracing paperless workflows, CAM, automation, and standardized tooling (33:09) Adding automation to unlock capacity without adding labor (35:50) SMW Autoblok, RASRAM, and the seven habits of highly effective workholding (37:50) Advice for young entrepreneurs: low overhead, low risk, and just start Resources mentioned on this episode The Munkworks Connect with Michael on LinkedIn TITANS of CNC NYC CNC John Grimsmo Adam Savage Hacksmith Industries Donnie Hinske Paperless Parts Join us at IMTS 2026 SMW Autoblok Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Summary In this episode, Jason Wong shares his entrepreneurial journey from immigrant roots to building Packing Duck, a innovative packaging manufacturing platform. Discover how he leveraged social media, strategic factory investments, and AI technology to disrupt traditional manufacturing and sourcing industries. Keywords Entrepreneurship, Packaging Industry, E-commerce, Manufacturing, AI Technology, Business Growth, Sourcing, Content Marketing, Small Business, Innovation Key  topics Jason Wong's background and entrepreneurial journey Pivot from e-commerce to packaging manufacturing Leveraging social media and content marketing Innovating with AI and factory partnerships Scaling through technology and factory standards Key  frameworks Factory Standardization Model AI-Driven Manufacturing Platform Action  items Follow Packing Duck on Instagram @duck Connect with Jason Wong on LinkedIn Titles From Immigrant to Industry Disruptor: Jason Wong's Packaging Revolution How Packing Duck Is Changing the Packaging Game with AI and Global Factories Sound bites "Work hard, create value from age eight" "Everyone overpays for packaging by 40%" "Lost 30 million followers overnight on Tumblr" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Packaging Business 08:04 Building Relationships and Sourcing in China 15:56 Innovative Marketing Strategies for Packaging 23:57 Going All In: The Decision to Leave School 30:22 Organizational Structure: Managing a Growing Business 36:44 Overcoming Challenges: The Reality of Entrepreneurship 41:58 Pivoting to Packaging: A Strategic Shift 48:40 The Future of Business: Embracing Technology and AI Resources Packing Duck Website - https://packingduck.com Jason Wong on LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/jasonwong Guest links LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/jasonwong

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Send a textDaniel Gledhill is a seasoned manufacturing and engineering leader whose career bridges high-risk industrial operations and precision-driven medical device manufacturing. Daniel leads engineering teams responsible for multiple production areas supporting transcatheter heart valve delivery systems—products where quality, reliability, and patient safety are absolutely critical.Daniel's journey to medical devices began in heavy industry, where he worked as a process, chemical, and metallurgical engineer at Rio Tinto, including leadership roles at copper smelters overseeing sulfuric acid plants, powerhouses, and byproduct operations. These early roles shaped his systems-level thinking, comfort with complex processes, and respect for disciplined operations—skills that would later translate powerfully into regulated medical manufacturing environments.Over nearly ten years at Edwards Lifesciences, Daniel has progressed from manufacturing management into senior engineering leadership, guiding teams through scale-up, process improvement, cross-functional collaboration, and organizational change. His work sits at the intersection of engineering, manufacturing, quality, and leadership—where decisions directly impact both operational performance and patient outcomes.Daniel holds a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Utah, along with an MBA from the University of Utah's David Eccles School of Business. This combination of technical and business education informs his balanced approach to leadership—one that values data, people, and long-term system health over short-term wins.In this conversation, we explore what it really means to lead engineering teams in medical device manufacturing, how leadership expectations evolve as engineers move into management, and what lessons from heavy industry can sharpen execution in highly regulated, patient-critical environments.LINKS:Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-gledhill-a6155237/Guest website: https://www.edwards.com/  Aaron Moncur, hostDownload the Essential Guide to Designing Test Fixtures: https://pipelinemedialab.beehiiv.com/test-fixture Subscribe to the show to get notified so you don't miss new episodes every Friday.The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us Watch the show on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TeamPipelineus

Prefabrication does not fail because of technology. It fails because of systems and culture. In this episode of Prefab, Unfiltered, recorded live at Advancing Prefabrication, Todd Weyandt sits down with Jim Wallner to explore what it really takes to scale prefabrication inside an electrical contractor. Moving work into a shop is not the same as building a manufacturing operation. Scaling prefab requires systems, realistic goals, inventory discipline, and field trust. Without those foundations, even the best intentions can create resistance and friction. This conversation dives into the operational realities of industrialized construction, how to avoid forcing prefab onto crews, and why sometimes the right strategic decision is to say no. If you are involved in prefabrication, modular construction, electrical contracting, or manufacturing-based construction delivery, this episode offers a grounded and practical perspective on what actually works.   You'll Learn Why forcing prefabrication creates field resistance The difference between construction thinking and manufacturing thinking How to set achievable prefab goals When not to fabricate and why that discipline matters How grassroots shop training builds long-term adoption What systems are required to scale industrialized construction   Meet Our Guest Jim Wallner began his career in sales and manufacturing before transitioning into the electrical trade at Staff Electric. He later shifted his focus toward growing and systematizing the company's fabrication operations. With experience on both the manufacturing and field sides of the business, Jim brings a practical and disciplined perspective to scaling prefabrication inside a real-world contracting environment. His approach centers on achievable goals, strong systems, and earning buy-in through results.   Todd Takes You Cannot Force Prefabrication. Prefab adoption must be earned. When leadership mandates fabrication without proving value to the field, resistance grows. Prefabrication scales when it consistently makes installation easier and more predictable. Manufacturing Thinking Requires Systems. Construction rewards speed. Manufacturing rewards discipline. Scaling prefabrication requires documentation, inventory management, realistic production planning, and repeatable workflows. Without systems, efficiency does not appear. Sometimes the Right Answer Is No. Not every project should be fabricated. Strategic discipline means knowing when prefab adds value and when it introduces unnecessary risk. Scaling prefab is about doing the right work in the shop, not simply doing more work there.  More Resources Thanks for listening! Please be sure to leave a rating and/or review and follow up our social accounts. Bridging the Gap Website Bridging the Gap LinkedIn Bridging the Gap Instagram Bridging the Gap YouTube Todd's LinkedIn Jim's LinkedIn Staff Electric's Website   Thank you to our sponsors! Graitec North America Graitec North America LinkedIn Autodesk's Website  

On this latest episode, Lisa Anderson, President of LMA Consulting Group joins the podcast. Lisa is one of the most respected voices in manufacturing strategy, supply chain transformation, and SIOP. She's the author of a recently released book titled AI & Advanced Technologies in Manufacturing, where she explores how manufacturers are using AI and advanced analytics to drive real, […] The post Where AI Is Actually Delivering Value in Manufacturing Supply Chains first appeared on Composites Weekly. The post Where AI Is Actually Delivering Value in Manufacturing Supply Chains appeared first on Composites Weekly.

In This Episode AI is powerful—but without structured processes and reliable data, it cannot deliver meaningful results. In this episode, Adi Klevit interviews Bryan DeBois about how artificial intelligence is transforming manufacturing and industrial systems. Bryan explains why the excitement around generative AI often overlooks the unique realities of plant-floor operations, where errors can have serious consequences. In high-stakes environments like manufacturing, organizations must carefully choose the right type of AI for the job. Adi and Bryan discuss the difference between generative AI, predictive models, and autonomous AI systems. Bryan shares how manufacturers can use predictive analytics to forecast product quality, optimize set points, and improve operational performance. These models are designed to solve operational problems rather than simply generate information. The conversation also highlights a critical systems principle: AI only works when businesses have already documented their processes and established strong data collection practices. Bryan explains how companies capture expert knowledge through a process called "machine teaching," allowing AI systems to learn from experienced operators and apply that expertise to improve future performance.  

In Episode 318 of China Manufacturing Decoded from Sofeast, Adrian hosts and is joined by CEO Renaud and Supply Chain Management dept. Head, Kate, to examine how the escalating Iran conflict is already affecting, and could further disrupt, manufacturing and supply chains tied to China. The conversation covers the geopolitical context, immediate market reactions, and practical implications for buyers, suppliers and logistics managers. Key takeaways for importers and manufacturers: expect higher material and freight costs, allow extra time for shipments, budget potential additional US$3–4k per container today, consider delaying non-urgent shipments where possible, and monitor the situation closely for rapid changes to insurance and routing. Renaud and Kate emphasize that impacts are likely to scale with the duration of the disruption and that more updates may be needed as the situation develops.   Episode Sections: 00:29 – Introduction to the Iran Conflict 00:58 – Impact on Manufacturing Costs 06:02 – Uncertainty in the Global Market 07:01 – Shipping and Logistics 07:32 – Rising Insurance Costs 11:16 – Freight Cost Implications 12:35 – Shipping Delays and Bottlenecks 14:30 – Effects on Transit Times 15:55 – Preparing for Future Challenges   Related content… US and Israel launch attack on Iran (CNN) IRGC says Iran in ‘complete control' of Strait of Hormuz amid Trump threats (Al Jazeera) Oil and gas prices surge as Iran war disrupts Middle Eastern output (Reuters) Chinese refiners begin run cuts as Iran war tightens oil supply (Reuters) Don't worry about the Iran conflict's impact on oil prices—yet (Atlantic Council) Carriers rush to impose war risk surcharges as Middle East crisis deepens (Lloyd's List) The Red Sea Crisis (Impacts on global shipping and the case for international co-operation) (International Transport Forum)   This episode is brought to you by The Sofeast Group and includes links in the show notes to our blog posts and resources, and recommended books. For help with manufacturing in Asia, inspections, auditing, new product development, contract manufacturing, 3PL warehousing and fulfillment, visit sofeast.com.    Get in touch with us Connect with us on LinkedIn Contact us via Sofeast's contact page Subscribe to our YouTube channel Prefer Facebook? Check us out on FB

In this episode, we are joined by Craig Nicol, Founder and CEO of Graphene Manufacturing Group (GMG). Craig provides a comprehensive update on the company's transition from development to commercial scale, highlighting the recent update on the Gen 2.0 Graphene Manufacturing Technology plant. Craig also discusses the expansion of their global sales team, and the real-world performance testing of their flagship products. Key Discussion Points: The Gen2 Production Leap: Craig explains how the new facility will increase capacity to 10 tons of graphene per annum using the same natural gas input as current operations. High-Performance Partnerships: A look into the collaboration with Tickford Racing, where GMG's G® Lubricant and THERMAL-XR® are being put to the ultimate test in the Australian Supercars series. Commercial Revenue & Sales Strategy: With over 15 sales professionals now active globally, the company is focused on converting a growing pipeline of test orders into major commercial contracts. Thermal-XR & Data Center Opportunities: An update on the EPA approval process in the U.S. and the massive potential for graphene coatings to reduce energy consumption in data centers. Graphene Aluminum-Ion Batteries: Craig explains the competitive edge of GMG's battery technology vs solid-state batteries.   Please keep the questions coming! Email me at Fleck@kereport.com. Click here to visit the GMG website to learn more about the Company.    ------------------- For more market commentary & interview summaries, subscribe to our Substacks:  The KE Report: https://kereport.substack.com/  Shad's resource market commentary: https://excelsiorprosperity.substack.com/ Investment Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or investment product. Investing in equities, commodities, really everything involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Do your own research and consult a licensed financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Guests and hosts may own shares in companies mentioned.

The February jobs report isn't out until Friday. Still, experts are all but certain the manufacturing sector will have lost jobs compared to last year. In this episode, a weak single-family housing market and chaotic tariff policy prevent U.S. manufacturers from bouncing back. Plus: Hiring managers don't trust resumes in the era of AI, Americans are spending less of their income on food than ever before, and a sparse snow season in Colorado stresses all sorts of businesses.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

The February jobs report isn't out until Friday. Still, experts are all but certain the manufacturing sector will have lost jobs compared to last year. In this episode, a weak single-family housing market and chaotic tariff policy prevent U.S. manufacturers from bouncing back. Plus: Hiring managers don't trust resumes in the era of AI, Americans are spending less of their income on food than ever before, and a sparse snow season in Colorado stresses all sorts of businesses.Every story has an economic angle. Want some in your inbox? Subscribe to our daily or weekly newsletter.Marketplace is more than a radio show. Check out our original reporting and financial literacy content at marketplace.org — and consider making an investment in our future.

If you had told Jan a year ago she would bring a member of Congress onto this show, she would have said you were crazy.But this isn't about politics.It's about survival.It's about supply chains, tariffs, China, semiconductors, and the reality that policy decisions now move faster than most production lines.In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths sits down with Congresswoman Haley Stevens, often called the “manufacturing geek,” for a direct conversation about industrial policy, public-private partnership, national security, and what automotive leaders should expect from Washington.Whether we like it or not, policy volatility is now a leadership variable.Themes Discussed in this EpisodeWhy Manufacturing Mondays keep policymakers grounded in shop-floor realityLessons from the 2008–2009 auto rescue and bipartisan public-private partnershipThe Chips and Science Act and reshoring semiconductor productionChina's 95% dominance in rare earth processing and why it mattersCritical minerals, battery recycling, and national competitivenessTariff volatility and the cost of policy uncertaintyUSMCA review, Canada relationships, and North American stabilityThe Chinese OEM threat and rule-based trade enforcementWhat automotive leaders can expect from policymakers moving forward

Patrick McKenzie (patio11) deconstructs the "original sin" of payments: building a global financial substrate on shared secrets that were distributed promiscuously to function. He examines the multi-decade game of Whack-a-Mole played by the industry to balance the "optimal amount of fraud" against the catastrophic conversion hit of high-friction security. From the physical failure of terminal buttons to the smartphone finally solving the lifecycle problem of cryptographic tokens, Patrick explores the technical and social reasons why we've moved from "something you know" to the "continuity of access" provided by the device in your pocket.–Full transcript available here: www.complexsystemspodcast.com/secondary-auth/–Presenting Sponsors: Mercury & GranolaIf you have more interesting hobbies than managing your money, Mercury Personal is built for you. It allows you to automate movement between accounts—allocating paychecks and tax prep the moment they hit—with a sensible permissions model for partners or accountants. It works the way tech people expect banking to work. Go to mercury.com/personal to experience banking built by the same folks Patrick trusts for his business. If meetings consistently leave you with hazy action items and lost context, Granola handles the transcription so you can actually participate and gives you searchable notes afterward. Try it free at granola.ai/complexsystems with code COMPLEXSYSTEMS–Links:Emily Sands on Complex Systems: https://www.complexsystemspodcast.com/episodes/the-past-present-and-future-of-ai-with-stripe/ –Timestamps:(00:00) Intro(01:32) Publishing the shared secret… again(03:39) Manufacturing shared secrets at scale(07:51) Something you own, take one(10:10) Sponsors: Mercury | Granola(13:48) Something you own, take two(18:26) Something you own, take three(21:24) One other semi-successful method: positive pay(24:45) Wrap

In this episode, the founders of Basil share how they spotted an opportunity in India's school essentials space and built a design-led brand trusted by over 1.5 lakh families.After careers at Uber and Amazon, they set out to solve a simple but overlooked problem. Kids' essentials did not have to be boring, low-quality, or purely functional.We discuss• Identifying whitespace in consumer categories• Designing for both children and parents• Marketplace-led growth• Building operational depth in hardware• Lessons for founders building in D2CThis is a must-watch episode for entrepreneurs, founders, and anyone building consumer brands.Timestamps:00:00 – Introduction02:00 – Founders' Backgrounds03:00 – Inspiration Behind Basil04:20 – Explaining Basil to Kids06:00 – Why Start a Startup07:00 – Early Product Challenges08:30 – Market Response & Pricing Insights11:40 – Design-First Philosophy13:00 – Manufacturing & Scaling19:57 – Who Really Buys: Kids vs Parents22:56 – Designing Products for Children25:10 – Smart Product Design for Organic Growth31:05 – Building a Brand That Can't Be Copied35:09 – Power of User Observation40:13 – Amazon-Inspired Processes45:21 – India's ₹60,000 Crore Kids Market45:23 – Building Consumer Love51:28 – Closing Thoughts

In this episode of Manufacturing Hub, Vlad and Dave sit down with Travis Cox and Kevin McCluskey from Inductive Automation to unpack what was actually proven at ProveIt and why it matters for teams trying to modernize plants without building a fragile mess of point to point integrations. If you have ever looked at a shiny demo and wondered what the real architecture looks like, how it scales beyond a single line, and what it takes to roll out across multiple sites without turning every change into a high risk event, this conversation is for you.Travis and Kevin walk through their ProveIt Enterprise B build and the thinking behind it. The core idea is simple but powerful: treat the factory like a system that needs a shared digital infrastructure, built on open standards, where data is contextualized and reusable. They break down how they used Ignition Edge close to PLCs for resiliency, local HMIs, and disciplined data modeling, then moved data through MQTT into a Unified Namespace so multiple applications can consume the same trusted signals and context. This is the difference between “we can connect to anything” and “we can scale without rewriting everything every time the business changes.” Open standards show up repeatedly in the conversation because ProveIt is specifically designed to force interoperability and practical implementation tradeoffs. Inductive Automation has also written about ProveIt as a place where MQTT, OPC UA, and SQL show up as real foundations rather than slogans.From there, the episode gets into the part that should make both OT and IT teams pay attention: modern deployment practices applied to industrial applications. Kevin outlines a clear maturity path from a single designer workflow to version control, then to containerized deployments, and finally to full GitOps style promotion across dev, staging, and production using tools like Argo CD, Helm, Kubernetes, and release promotion concepts that look like what the software world has used for years. Argo CD is explicitly built around Git repositories as the source of truth for desired state, which is exactly why it fits this style of deployment. The live portion of the conversation demonstrates how fast this can get when the infrastructure is treated as code: they spin up a brand new “site four” by submitting a form, generating a pull request, merging it, and letting the pipeline do the rest.Timestamps00:00 Welcome back and why this ProveIt recap matters01:35 Meet Travis Cox and Kevin McCluskey from Inductive Automation03:10 What ProveIt is and the key vendor questions it forces05:20 Enterprise B architecture overview from PLC to Edge to site to enterprise07:30 HMI walkthrough across liquid processing, filling, packaging, palletizing09:05 Why deploy Ignition Edge instead of only a centralized site gateway12:05 Design once, reuse everywhere and what that means for scaling quickly14:35 On prem realities versus cloud infrastructure in the ProveIt environment17:10 MCP, n8n workflows, and bringing live operational context into AI20:40 i3X style API access to models, history, and alarms for interoperability23:15 GitHub, Docker Compose, Helm, Kubernetes, Argo CD, Cargo and GitOps promotion36:55 Spinning up a new site live and what it changes for multi site rolloutsAbout the hostsVlad Romanov is an electrical engineer and MBA who has spent over a decade building and modernizing manufacturing systems across industrial automation, controls, and plant operations. Through Joltek, Vlad works with manufacturers to assess current state OT foundations, reduce modernization risk, improve reliability, and build internal capability through practical training and standards that stick.Dave Griffith co hosts Manufacturing Hub and brings a practitioner lens focused on what works on the plant floor, how architectures survive real constraints, and how industrial teams can modernize without breaking production.About the guestsTravis Cox is Chief Technology Evangelist at Inductive Automation and has spent over two decades helping customers and partners design scalable architectures, apply best practices, and deliver real solutions with Ignition.Kevin McCluskey is Chief Technology Architect at Inductive Automation and works with organizations on architecture decisions, platform direction, and enabling the next generation of industrial applications.Learn more about Joltekhttps://www.joltek.com/serviceshttps://www.joltek.com/book-a-modernization-consultation

We sit down with Dave Evans, CEO of Misumi America and founder of Fictiv, to unpack findings from the 11th Annual State of Manufacturing and Supply Chain Report.

Industrial manufacturing finance is complex by nature. Multiple ERPs, acquisitions, intercompany activity, and heavy Excel reliance can make it difficult for leaders to gain clear visibility into performance. In this episode, we explore how modern finance teams are turning that complexity into clarity using a unified CPM platform. Through three real-world transformation stories from the industrial manufacturing sector, we break down how finance leaders solved critical challenges around working capital visibility, post-acquisition carve-outs, and operational reporting. You'll hear how organizations used OneStream to establish a single source of truth, introduce structured workflows, and give executives the transparency they need to confidently answer questions about cash flow, receivables, and business performance. If you're a CFO, Controller, or FP&A leader navigating the realities of manufacturing finance, this episode highlights what it takes to build an "ironclad" finance function, one that replaces fragmented processes with visibility, accountability, and faster decision-making.

A quarterly check-in with the National Federation of Independent Businesses finds optimism in many industry sectors, led by Manufacturing. Host Gene Marks says he's hearing the same things when he speaks at association events. On the not-so-rosy side, almost 70% of HR leaders expressed concern over a lack of data to make effective decisions on raises and promotions – citing fragmented systems and manual entry. OpenAI ready to release another gadget: a smart speaker with a speaker that could change the way we make purchases. Listen to the podcast. Additional Resources Meet Paychex: https://bit.ly/3VtM6bs DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

The Transformation Ground Control podcast covers a number of topics important to digital and business transformation. This episode covers the following topics and interviews:   Mastercard AI Payment Demo, Q&A (Darian Chwialkowski, Third Stage Consulting) Inside the Mission Control AI War Room Why Employees Are Quietly Resisting AI We also cover a number of other relevant topics related to digital and business transformation throughout the show.  

March 4, 2026- We talk about tariff ambiguity, emissions restrictions and energy demands with Randy Wolken, president and CEO of MACNY, the Manufacturers Association.

Getting a product into Walmart isn't just a “great product” problem. It's a buyer problem, a packaging problem, and an inventory cash-flow problem.In this episode of Founder Talk, Alex Sheridan sits down with Joe Barron, founder of Gray Matters Games—a family-owned business that designs and publishes family and adult party games sold in thousands of stores worldwide. Joe shares what it really takes to go from a single idea to national retail shelves, including how his team has scaled into major retailers, what they learned the hard way, and why retail is “pressure right out of the gate.”It's a grounded conversation about entrepreneurship, scaling a business, and making better founder decisions when the stakes are real.Q&A-Style Takeaways00:00:00 Introduction00:06:08 How should founders set expectations with friends-and-family investors?A: Align on the real payoff timeline upfront (often at a sale), keep communication tight, and avoid structures that force early cash payouts in a capital-hungry business.00:09:23 What does board game manufacturing look like—and what is MOQ?A: Manufacturing is spec-driven down to materials and colour. MOQ (minimum order quantity) often starts around 1,500–3,000 units, so founders must plan demand, cash, and storage early.00:11:01 What gross margin target makes a physical product business viable?A: Joe targets strong gross margins and uses a simple pricing rule of thumb: MSRP should be roughly 5x cost of goods to leave room for retail and distribution economics.00:14:47 How do you describe a product in 10 seconds so it actually sells?A: Lead with the features and benefits people instantly “get,” not the detailed mechanics. If it can't be explained fast, customers and retailers tune out.00:18:11 How do founders actually get in front of Walmart or Target buyers?A: Find the category buyer through trade shows and relationships, then build a distribution path that helps you show up prepared—because access alone doesn't win the shelf.00:26:40 Is influencer marketing worth it for consumer products—and what's the right approach?A: Yes, when it's relationship-based and volume-based. Launch with a wide creator set, let creators create, then turn proven organic winners into paid ads.00:41:33 What can go wrong with a big retail launch—and how do founders avoid cash trouble?A: Early retail mistakes (packaging, pricing, forecasting) can trigger over-ordering and cash stress. If the first product underperforms, buyers may not want the next one.Watch the full episode to hear the complete conversation and the real-world founder lessons behind getting a product onto major retail shelves.

Welcome How Winning Manufacturers Put Historical Data At The Center Of Their Business Transformation American manufacturing has been on a negative trajectory for the last half century. In the last 20 years alone, 30% of Americas small and midsized manufacturers have been absorbed by larger competitors or gone out of business. Trade policy alone isn't enough to save the American Manufacturer. To dominate the 21st century, American Manufacturers need to innovate faster than ever before. Fortunately a fresh crop of leading innovators in this new AI-powered era is beginning to emerge. We're here to bring you their stories. Consolidating components purchasing across a global supply chain. Speeding up DFM to get products to market faster. Enforcing reuse to avoid unnecessary duplication and carrying costs. These are just a few of the success stories that CADDi customers have pioneered over the last year. We're here to deep dive some of these for you. The CADDi team will get under the hood on approaches used by our top customers so you can deploy them in your own business. Don't miss this chance to grab the AI-enabled playbooks that are making companies like, Subaru, Kawasaki, Dairy Conveyor Corp, Denso, Ebara, and others so successful at improving QCD Brought to you by: CADDi  SPEAKERS: Aaron Lober VP of Marketing CADDi Aaron Lober is an accomplished marketing executive with a foundation in product marketing at companies like Procore Technologies, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Blameless (acquired by FireHydrant). He holds an MBA from Pepperdine Graziadio Business School. Chris Cope VP of Engineering CADDi Chris Cope is a seasoned technology leader with expertise in SRE, AI, Architecture and Security. Formerly with Xometry and Laconia, Chris excels in optimizing production workflows and spearheading automation projects. He is known for driving innovation and scaling teams to enhance operational efficiency and earned a Masters in Computer Science from DePaul University. Patrick Harrigan VP of Partnerships CADDi Patrick Harrigan, VP of Partnerships at CADDi, formerly of Hexagon AB and Tulip Interfaces, fosters a partner network to expand CADDi's AI platform, driving operational efficiency, cost reduction, and knowledge democratization. Visit https://advancedmanufacturing.org/webinars for more webinars and an interactive experience with visuals.

In this episode of the Cape Coffee Beans Podcast, I interview Henlo van der Westhuizen about his South African espresso-machine manufacturing startup. We talk about how Henlo got started and his unique approach to designing coffee equipment.You can learn more about Henlo's espresso machines on our website.

Officers from a UK medicine regulator raided two sites in February during an ongoing investigation into a criminal network that manufactures and distributes unlicensed weight-loss medicines, also known as “skinny jabs.”The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) stated that the operation, which targeted farm and residential properties in Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire, resulted in the seizure of nearly 2,000 doses of unauthorized weight-loss medicines, including retatrutide, tirzepatide and peptide products. The agency added that officers also confiscated manufacturing equipment, suspected pharmaceutical ingredients, packaging and commercial vehicles. #MHRA #WeightLossDrugs #SkinnyJabs #IllegalMedicines #DrugSafety #PublicHealth #Tirzepatide #Retatrutide #GLP1 #PharmaceuticalCrime #HealthcareNews #MedicalRegulation #CounterfeitDrugs #FDA #UKNews #DrugEnforcement #HealthRisks #RegulatoryAction #LawEnforcement #MedicineSafety

One Half of the Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show, New York Times bestselling author and former CIA officer Buck Sexton joins Lisa to break down the escalating conflict with Iran, the strategic realities behind “Operation Epic Fury,” and what regime change would actually require. Drawing from his time in the CIA’s Iraq office after the WMD intelligence failure, Buck explains why wars in the Middle East are never simple—and why Iran presents unique challenges. Is there a viable ground partner inside Iran? Can air power alone force regime change? And how does jihadist ideology impact internal power struggles within the regime? Buck also details the tactical intelligence successes under President Trump—from joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran’s nuclear program to high-level capture operations—and why he believes renewed American resolve has reshaped global deterrence. Then the conversation shifts to his New York Times bestselling book, Manufacturing Delusion. Buck outlines how radical movements—whether jihadist, communist, or modern leftist—use psychological tactics like public confession, identity coercion, and collective pressure to enforce ideological conformity. How do these methods compare to Stalinist regimes? What role does social media play in amplifying modern-day mass delusion? And why are moral binaries of “oppressor vs. victim” so effective at mobilizing movements? This episode covers: The real strategic stakes of the Iran conflict Lessons from Iraq, Libya, and Afghanistan Why regime durability often surprises policymakers How radical ideologies build loyalty and suppress dissent The dangers of mass delusion in the digital age Purchase Buck's NEW Book HERESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Adrienne Zepeda, VP, Growth Portfolio Lead at Informa Markets about "Manufacturing, a community built on connections". The conversation highlights the success and impact of the MD&M West event, organized by Informa. Adrienne Zepeda, Vice President at Informa, discusses the event's significance, noting over 12,000 attendees and the extensive planning involved, starting two to four weeks post-event. Adrienne emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, leveraging feedback from exhibitors and attendees, and planning events up to two years in advance. Despite challenges, such as COVID-19, the event maintained its schedule, showcasing innovative technologies and fostering human connections. Adrienne's role involves overseeing six events, including MD&M West, and ensuring the success of each event through meticulous planning and collaboration. Outline MD&M West Event Overview and Introduction Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, highlighting the event's focus on medtech automation, packaging, plastics, and design.Scott emphasizes the importance of attending MD&M West, describing it as a significant event for manufacturers solving market challenges.Scott mentions the involvement of Informa in organizing MD&M West and introduces Adrienne Zepeda, a professional from Informa, to discuss the event's details. Adrienne Zepeda's Role and Event Planning Scott and Adrienne discuss the scale of MD&M West, with over 12,000 attendees and still one more day to go.Adrienne explains the extensive planning involved in organizing the event, starting as early as two to four weeks after the current event.Adrienne shares his background, mentioning his role as Vice President at Informa, overseeing six events, including MD&M West.Adrienne describes the cross-collaborative nature of his team, involving sales, operations, digital marketing, and event technology teams, totaling around 50 to 60 people. Measuring Success and Event Impact Adrienne measures success through feedback from exhibitors and attendees, such as increased booth activity and lead generation.Adrienne highlights the importance of creating experiences that resonate with attendees and provide value throughout the year.Scott and Adrienne discuss the challenges and rewards of organizing such a large-scale event, including the need for continuous planning and improvement.Adrienne shares his personal motivation for organizing the event, focusing on the impact on the industry and the lives of people. Impact of COVID-19 and Event Adaptation Scott inquires about the impact of COVID-19 on MD&M West and the industry's resilience.Adrienne explains that the need for manufacturing products remained constant during the pandemic, allowing the event to continue with some adjustments.The event schedule was adjusted to accommodate the changing circumstances, with shows held in February 2020, August 2021, and April 2022.Adrienne emphasizes the importance of maintaining human connections and the unique value of in-person events. Innovation and Technology at MD&M West Scott and Adrienne discuss the rapid pace of innovation and technology in the manufacturing industry.Adrienne shares his fascination with the industry's continuous advancements and the impact of new technologies on manufacturing processes.Scott highlights specific examples of innovative products and technologies showcased at MD&M West, such as the magnetic maintenance device.The conversation touches on the importance of maintaining a forward-thinking approach to stay ahead of industry trends. Future Plans and Industry Trends Scott asks about Adrienne's plans for the next year and the future of MD&M West.Adrienne expresses excitement about bringing the industry together again and incorporating feedback from surveys and advisory boards into future planning.The discussion includes the importance of adapting to changing industry needs and maintaining a focus on creating valuable experiences for attendees and exhibitors.Scott and Adrienne reflect on the significance of the event in fostering connections and driving innovation in the manufacturing industry. Final Thoughts and Contact Information Scott and Adrienne wrap up the conversation, expressing mutual appreciation for the work done at MD&M West.Adrienne provides contact information for those interested in participating in future events, including the MD&M West website and social media links.Scott encourages listeners to reach out to Adrienne and explore the various events organized by Informa.The episode concludes with a reminder of the importance of attending industry events to build meaningful connections and drive success. If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation. Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy! ADRIENNE ZEPEDA'S CONTACT INFORMATION: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriennezepeda/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/informamarketsmanufacturing/ Company Website: https://www.imeeventscalendar.com/ PODCAST VIDEO: https://youtu.be/fPwarC3Xo7g THE STRATEGIC REASON "WHY YOU NEED TO PODCAST": OTHER GREAT INDUSTRIAL RESOURCES: NEOM: https://www.neom.com/en-us Hexagon: https://hexagon.com/ Arduino: https://www.arduino.cc/ Fictiv: https://www.fictiv.com/ Hitachi Vantara: https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/home.html Industrial Marketing Solutions:  https://industrialtalk.com/industrial-marketing/ Industrial Academy: https://industrialtalk.com/industrial-academy/ Industrial Dojo: https://industrialtalk.com/industrial_dojo/ We the 15: https://www.wethe15.org/ YOUR INDUSTRIAL DIGITAL TOOLBOX: LifterLMS: Get One Month Free for $1 – https://lifterlms.com/ Active Campaign: Active Campaign Link Social Jukebox: https://www.socialjukebox.com/ Industrial Academy (One Month Free Access And One Free License For Future Industrial Leader): Business Beatitude the Book Do you desire a more joy-filled, deeply-enduring sense of accomplishment and success? Live your business the way you want to live with the BUSINESS BEATITUDES...The Bridge connecting sacrifice to success. YOU NEED THE BUSINESS BEATITUDES! TAP INTO YOUR INDUSTRIAL SOUL, RESERVE YOUR COPY NOW! BE BOLD. BE BRAVE. DARE GREATLY AND CHANGE THE WORLD. GET THE BUSINESS BEATITUDES! Reserve My Copy and My 25% Discount

How do you market a company that can't always show what it makes? In this episode of The Kula Ring, Alex Dove, Senior Marketing & Communications Specialist at August Electronics, shares her unconventional path from sales into manufacturing marketing. With a background in textiles, furniture, and drapery manufacturing, Alex brings both inside and outside sales experience to her role, blending data-driven thinking with deep relationship building. Alex explains how August Electronics, a low-to-mid volume contract electronics manufacturer based in Alberta, markets partnership over product in a horizontally aligned industry. She discusses navigating NDAs, marketing capabilities instead of finished goods, aligning marketing and sales around shared KPIs, and proving service through video and transparency. The conversation also explores long-term brand building vs. short-term revenue pressure, what sales often misunderstands about marketing, and why curiosity and operational knowledge are essential for success in manufacturing marketing.

In this special keynote spotlight episode of Problem Solved, IISE's Frank Reddy sits down with Dr. Mark Benden, researcher, inventor of nearly 30 patents, and longtime leader in ergonomics innovation. With more than four decades of experience across military service, industry, and academia, Dr. Benden has helped generate over $2.5 billion in economic impact through human-centered design and workplace innovation.In this conversation, he shares:How everyday frustration becomes inventionWhy “nuisance is the father of invention”How AI, motion capture, and wearables are transforming worker healthThe shift from injury response to real-time preventionAnd how to take ergonomic improvements from idea, to protection, to commercializationJoin us for this inside look at one of AEC's keynote voices. And don't miss Problem Solved LIVE on-site at AEC, where we'll be capturing insights from innovators shaping the future of ergonomics.Applied Ergonomics Conference sponsored by Applied Ergonomics SocietyLearn more about The Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers (IISE)Problem Solved on LinkedInProblem Solved on YouTubeProblem Solved on InstagramProblem Solved on TikTokProblem Solved Executive Producer: Elizabeth GrimesInterested in contributing to the podcast or sponsoring an episode? Email egrimes@iise.org

A 'Skip in your Step'! Why we can't resist Snacks. And the 'holy grail' in Manufacturing! That's what Paul is BuZzin' about today on The Daily BuZz!!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is China competing—or executing a long-term strategy to dominate global industry? In this episode of The China Desk, legendary CEO advisor Ram Charan joins Steve Yates to break down his book China's 90% Model: China Has America by the Throat — Here's How to Fight Back and Win. Charan argues that China's strategy is deliberate: build capacity to meet 90% of global demand, sell below marginal cost, subsidize exports, and destroy competitors across entire industries. Drawing on six decades advising global executives—including more than 50 Chinese companies—Charan explains how this model has hollowed out American manufacturing in sectors like solar, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and advanced materials. He describes why many CEOs understand the threat privately but hesitate to speak publicly, and why investors may be underestimating long-term risk. The conversation explores: How industrial dominance becomes national security leverage Why excess capacity and currency policy matter The strategic risk of supply chain choke points like magnets and critical inputs The need for a cabinet-level Department of Manufacturing and Technology Why economic security and national security are now inseparable Charan argues that America and its allies still possess overwhelming economic strength—but only if they coordinate industrial policy, rebuild manufacturing capacity, and communicate the stakes clearly to the public and business leaders alike. This is a high-level strategic conversation about economic warfare, industrial capacity, and what the next seven years could determine for the global balance of power. 00:00 — Introduction and Ram Charan's background 02:40 — What is China's 90% Model? 04:19 — Industrial dominance and strategic execution 05:18 — The origins of China's long-term strategy 08:19 — How to measure industry capture and market share 12:06 — Why CEOs stay silent and investor blind spots 14:11 — The October wake-up moment 16:22 — When companies must exit China 18:26 — Building an allied industrial coalition 21:44 — Economic security equals national security 23:17 — War-time leverage and supply chain choke points 25:21 — Proposal: Department of Manufacturing and Technology 27:35 — Seven-year strategy and public awareness 30:27 — Where to find the book and follow Ram Charan Watch Full-Length Interviews: https://www.youtube.com/@ChinaDeskFNW

ReCor Medical, Inc. v. Medtronic Ireland Manufacturing Unlimited Co.

Stephen Grootes speaks to Sean Capazorio, Aspen Group Chief Financial Officer about the group’s encouraging interim results and the strategic shifts shaping its next phase of growth. Driven by strong momentum in Commercial Pharmaceuticals and decisive action to reshape its Manufacturing platform, Aspen delivered steady execution in what it describes as a transitional first half, despite once-off restructuring costs and the absence of prior mRNA contract contributions. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join us for our weekly discussion of America’s favorite black rifle: The AR-15 ! This week the guys sit down with Austin from Sentry Manufacturing to discuss some of their innovative products and why charging handles matter so much.   Our Sponsors: Patriot Patch Co – https://patriotpatch.co/ VZ Grips – https://vzgrips.com/ code: AR15POD15 Klecker Tactical Use code AR15PODCAST […]

Join us for our weekly discussion of America's favorite black rifle: The AR-15 ! This week the guys sit down with Austin from Sentry Manufacturing to discuss some of their innovative products and why charging handles matter so much.   Our Sponsors: Patriot Patch Co – https://patriotpatch.co/ VZ Grips – https://vzgrips.com/ code: AR15POD15 Klecker Tactical Use code AR15PODCAST for 10% off at kleckertactical.com Shop Our Merch: https://ar-15-podcast.creator-spring.... Help the show by clicking through our affiliate links below. https://gideonoptics.com/?aff=78 Code: AR15PODCAST for 10% off and Free Shipping! Hard Head Veterans https://www.hardheadveterans.com?sca_... Faxon Firearms https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?t... – Faxon Firearms affiliate link Palmetto State Armory https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?t... – Palmetto State Armory affiliate link My Medic https://www.avantlink.com/click.php?t... Trigger Interactive https://triggerinteractive.com/?aff=7 Valiant Dynamics https://www.valiant-dynamics.com/ Code: AR15 Contact us! AR15podcast2.0@gmail.com Intagram: @ar15podcast2.0 Facebook: / ar15podcast

Stewart Alsop sits down with Ulises Martins on the Crazy Wisdom podcast to explore how artificial intelligence is fundamentally disrupting professional careers, labor markets, and the pace of human adaptation itself. They discuss everything from Dario Amodei's concept of "technological adolescence" to the possibility that we're approaching a point where AI advancement accelerates beyond our ability to keep up, touching on topics ranging from the economics of software development and the future of warfare to generational differences in how people will respond to AI-driven change. Martins emphasizes that while we may not be able to predict exactly what's coming, we need to dramatically increase our efforts to learn and adapt—potentially doubling the time we invest in understanding AI—because this isn't optional change, it's disruption happening at an unprecedented speed. Connect with Ulises on Linkedin to follow his work in AI and generative technology.Timestamps00:00 — Stewart introduces Ulysses Martins, framing the conversation around accelerationism and the future of work.05:00 — Ulises uses the parent-child analogy to argue humans will no longer play the dominant role as AI surpasses us.10:00 — Both agree learning AI is non-negotiable, urging listeners to double their investment in staying current.15:00 — Discussion shifts to software as media, the collapsing cost of building products, and the risk of big players like Anthropic making your idea obsolete overnight.20:00 — Ulises raises ecology vs. cosmic ambition, questioning whether humanity should aim for civilizational-scale goals like the Dyson sphere.25:00 — Stewart's ESP32 hardware project illustrates AI's current blind spots beyond software, while both predict physical-world AI will arrive as a byproduct of bigger industrial goals.30:00 — Tesla's birthplace in Croatia sparks a reflection on human genius as luck versus deliberate investment, invoking the Apollo program as a model.35:00 — The US-China AI race is compared to the Cold War Space Race, with interdependency acting as a brake on outright conflict.40:00 — Drone warfare and AI reframe military power, making troop size irrelevant and potentially reducing total war.45:00 — Agile methodology and generational shifts are linked, asking how Gen Z's values will shape the AI era globally.50:00 — Argentine vs. American Zoomers are contrasted, with millennial expectations versus Gen Z's pragmatism explored.55:00 — Ulises closes urging everyone to enjoy the ride, taking the infinite stream of change one episode at a time.Key Insights1. The Death of Traditional Career Paths: The concept of professional careers as we know them—starting as a junior and progressively advancing—is becoming obsolete due to AI's rapid advancement. This applies far beyond just software and SaaS companies, extending to all industries as robots and AI systems gain capabilities that fundamentally disrupt labor markets. The question isn't whether we'll adapt, but whether humans can adapt fast enough to keep pace with exponential technological change.2. The Acceleration Imperative: People must dramatically increase their investment in learning about AI immediately. Whatever time you were previously dedicating to staying current with technology needs to be doubled or tripled. This isn't optional—it's comparable to the necessity of basic education. Unlike previous technological transitions where you had years to learn new frameworks or tools, the current pace demands immediate, intensive engagement or you risk becoming irrelevant.3. Software as Media and the Collapse of Development Economics: Software has become media—easily reproducible and increasingly commoditized through AI assistance. The fundamental economics of software development are collapsing because if building software requires dramatically fewer development hours, the value and price of that software must necessarily decrease. Entrepreneurs need a new evaluation framework that assesses the risk of their ideas being replicated by AI or absorbed by major players like Anthropic or OpenAI.4. The Parent-Child Analogy for AI Development: Humanity's relationship with AI will inevitably mirror that of parents with increasingly capable children. Initially, we understand and control what AI does, but as it advances, it will surpass human capabilities in most domains. Just as parents cannot control fully grown adult children who exceed their abilities, humans will need to reconcile with creating something superior to ourselves. Attempting to permanently control such systems may be both impossible and potentially pathologic.5. The Kardashev Scale and Civilizational Ambitions: AI represents a civilizational-level technology that should redirect humanity toward grander goals like capturing stellar energy through Dyson spheres and expanding beyond our solar system. The competition between China and the United States over AI mirrors the Apollo program's space race but with higher stakes—potentially making traditional concepts like money less relevant if we successfully crack general intelligence. This requires thinking beyond planetary constraints.6. The Changing Nature of Warfare and Geopolitics: AI and autonomous weapons systems are fundamentally changing warfare by making human soldiers less relevant, similar to how nuclear weapons reduced the importance of conventional military force. This shift may actually reduce bloody civilian casualties in conflicts between major powers, as drone warfare and AI-driven systems create new equilibriums. The geopolitical map may fracture into more sovereign states and city-states as centralized control becomes less effective.7. Generational Adaptation and Unpredictability: Different generations will respond uniquely to AI disruption based on their values and experiences. Generation Z, having grown up during the pandemic without traditional expectations, may adapt differently than millennials who experienced unmet expectations. However, we must remain humble about our predictive abilities—we're not good at forecasting technological change or its timing. The best approach is maintaining openness, trying to understand developments as they unfold, and accepting that we cannot consume all information in an era of unlimited AI-generated content.

The Today in Manufacturing Podcast is brought to you by the editors of Manufacturing.net and Industrial Equipment News (IEN).This week's episode is brought to you by Interpower. Why pay more for power cords when you don't have to? Made in the U.S.A., our cords are made from the best raw materials—and undergo rigorous testing. Need reliable power cords? Get them with no minimum orders. Why play cord roulette with imports?We're on a roll—tariff-free cords by Interpower®. Every week, we cover the three biggest stories in manufacturing, and the implications they have on the industry moving forward. This week:- Tennessee Volkswagen Workers Ratify First Union Contract- Rendering Facility Sued for 'Boiling Blood and Death' Odors Detected 10 Miles Away- Dead Vehicle Crowned America's New Cheapest CarIn Case You Missed It- Autodesk, U.S. Paralympian Partner to Advance Next-Gen Prosthetics- AI is Not Replacing Factory Workers, It's Elevating Them- Apple Ramps Plans to Make Mac Mini in TexasPlease make sure to like, subscribe and share the podcast. You could also help us out a lot by giving the podcast a positive review. Finally, to email the podcast, you can reach any of us at David, Jeff or Anna [at] ien.com, with “Email the Podcast” in the subject line.

Bitcoin (BTC) experienced a strong jump during the weekend as the U.S. and Israel killed the Supreme Leader of Iran and bombarded most of the country. War drums tend to be bullish for safe-haven assets. Although Bitcoin has not reacted as such lately, investors may turn to it if things get worse.~This episode is sponsored by BTCC~BTCC 10% Deposit Bonus! ➜ https://bit.ly/PBNBTCC00:00 Intro00:10 Sponsor: BTCC00:50 Market open02:15 This week03:30 Gold surges05:00 4-weeks05:30 Jake Tapper: The Big one is coming06:30 Anthony Scaramucci: capital boycott08:00 Manufacturing vs tourism10:30 Tom Lee: March could be an up month11:50 Tom Lee buys more ETH12:20 S&P never lost a war13:40 March returns14:00 Fed rate hike odds15:00 Trueflation cooked?16:40 Household debt#Crypto #bitcoin #Ethereum~WAR Panic! vs Crypto

A tornado tears through Bloomington, leading Andrew and Jay to discuss practical leadership during real-world emergencies. From there, the conversation shifts back to the shop floor: chip conveyors on Brother machines, production layout tradeoffs, palletized workholding vs. one-piece flow, and the realities of automation. They explore the pros and cons of high-density fixturing, robot-fed cells, and Okuma's compact MU-600V five-axis machine with part handoff capability.The second half moves into the accelerating world of AI in manufacturing. Jay shares how he's using Claude to rapidly build internal software tools, while Andrew talks through vibe-coded machine monitoring dashboards and real-time shop visibility systems. They wrestle with simplicity vs. data overload, operator-focused visual management, and what the next wave of AI-powered shop tools might look like.

Richard Epstein argues that tariffs reduce national productivity and cannot replace income taxes, as modern manufacturing requires significantly fewer workers than in the 1950s era. 4.1910 LA

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!

Lewis Weiss hosts another Manufacturing Round Table with economist Cliff Waldman and Chris Kuehl to compare the January Federal Reserve industrial production release and the ISM report. After a year-long manufacturing slump, they point to improving signals: manufacturing within industrial production rose 0.8% month over month with broad-based gains, and the ISM index climbed to 52.7, moving above the 50 expansion threshold. The discussion widens to global uncertainty affecting supply chains, shifting trade patterns as China routes production through other countries, and concern that U.S. policy risks damaging critical trade and supply-chain ties with Canada. They also highlight workforce shortages, demographics,  and unclear ROI from rapid AI investment.   00:00 Welcome and Agenda 01:45 Why These Reports Matter 02:22 Fed and ISM Show Uptick 03:24 Caution and Tariff Drag 04:54 Capital Spending on Hold 07:11 Global Uncertainty and Supply Chains 10:02 China Trade Shifts and Workarounds 13:28 Canada Risks and North America 17:48 Looking Ahead to 2026 19:05 Workforce Shortage and AI Hype 21:02 Training Pipelines and Demographics 27:24 Financing Manufacturing Startups 28:42 Wrap Up and Final Takeaways   Reports: January 2026 ISM® Manufacturing PMI® Report: https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/reports/ism-pmi-reports/pmi/january/ January Federal Reserve Statistical Release: https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/g17/current/g17.pdf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Industrial Talk is onsite at MD&M West and talking to Brandon Neer, Tait Stensrud and Matt Redden at Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. The Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, features a discussion with Brandon, Tait, and Matt from Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence. Brandon manages portable devices sales, Tait oversees stationary device measurement, and Matt focuses on production software. They discuss the importance of measurement in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and medical, emphasizing quality control and automation. Hexagon's solutions integrate AI to enhance efficiency and accuracy, reducing costs through automated processes. The team highlights the significant ROI from integrating quality into manufacturing, leveraging AI to assist programmers and improve production. Listeners are encouraged to connect with them on LinkedIn for more information. Outline MD&M West and News and Brews Introduction Scott introduces the episode of Industrial Talk, sponsored by MD&M West and News and Brews, highlighting the event's focus on medtech automation, packaging, plastics, and design.Scott reiterates the podcast's mission to celebrate industrial professionals and the solutions they bring to manufacturing.Scott mentions the importance of attending MD&M West to connect with industry leaders and discover innovative solutions. Introducing the Guests: Brandon, Tait, and Matt Scott introduces the three guests: Brandon, Tait, and Matt, and suggests using their first names for ease of conversation.Brandon shares his background, mentioning his 16 years with Hexagon and his role in managing the portable devices sales team.Tait introduces himself, stating his 26 years with Hexagon and his management of the stationary device measurement team in the southwest.Matt shares his experience, mentioning his three and a half years with Hexagon and his expertise in production software and CAD CAM solutions. Hexagon's Role in Manufacturing and Quality Control Brandon explains Hexagon's role in manufacturing intelligence, focusing on measurement, sensors, and software.Tait emphasizes the importance of quality control and measurement in critical industries like aerospace and medical devices.Matt discusses the role of production software in driving CNC machines and ensuring part quality.Scott shares a personal anecdote about his brother-in-law's CNC shop, highlighting the precision and quality of the manufactured parts. Future of Automation and ROI in Manufacturing Brandon discusses the future of automation in manufacturing, aiming for full cycle automation in inspection and reverse engineering.Tait highlights the significant ROI in automating quality control, reducing future rejects and costs.Matt explains how Hexagon integrates AI tools into production software, assisting in automating programming processes.The discussion touches on the importance of AI as an assistant to programmers, leveraging decades of data for high-confidence results. AI Integration in Hexagon's Solutions Matt elaborates on the integration of AI tools in production software, using partnerships with companies like Microsoft Copilot.Tait emphasizes the role of AI in assisting programmers and measuring features with high confidence.Brandon adds that AI can visualize geometric features in parts, driving programming accuracy.The conversation concludes with a discussion on the necessity of human interaction in manufacturing and the efficiency gains from AI tools. Contact Information and Closing Remarks Scott asks the guests how listeners can connect with them, suggesting LinkedIn as the best platform.The guests agree, mentioning their individual LinkedIn profiles and the Hexagon Manufacturing Intelligence page.Scott thanks the guests for their flexibility and participation, mentioning the importance of building a network in manufacturing.The episode concludes with a reminder to attend MD&M West and connect with the News and Brews crew for more insights and solutions. If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation. Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2026. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy! BRANDON NEER'S CONTACT INFORMATION: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonneer/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hexagon-manufacturing-intelligence/ Company Website: https://hexagon.com/company/divisions/manufacturing-intelligence TAIT STENSRUD'S CONTACT INFORMATION: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tait-12a366234/ MATT REDDEN'S CONTACT INFORMATION: Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattredden1/ PODCAST VIDEO: https://youtu.be/B4eLqv_zzWs THE STRATEGIC REASON "WHY YOU NEED TO PODCAST": OTHER GREAT INDUSTRIAL RESOURCES: NEOM: https://www.neom.com/en-us Hexagon: https://hexagon.com/ Arduino: https://www.arduino.cc/ Fictiv: https://www.fictiv.com/ Hitachi Vantara: https://www.hitachivantara.com/en-us/home.html Industrial Marketing Solutions:  https://industrialtalk.com/industrial-marketing/ Industrial Academy: https://industrialtalk.com/industrial-academy/ Industrial Dojo: https://industrialtalk.com/industrial_dojo/ We the 15: https://www.wethe15.org/ YOUR INDUSTRIAL DIGITAL TOOLBOX: LifterLMS: Get One Month Free for $1 – https://lifterlms.com/ Active Campaign: Active Campaign Link Social Jukebox: https://www.socialjukebox.com/ Industrial Academy (One Month Free Access And One Free License For Future Industrial Leader): Business Beatitude the Book Do you desire a more joy-filled, deeply-enduring sense of accomplishment and success? Live your business the way you want to live with the BUSINESS BEATITUDES...The Bridge connecting sacrifice to success. YOU NEED THE BUSINESS BEATITUDES! TAP INTO YOUR INDUSTRIAL SOUL, RESERVE YOUR COPY NOW! BE BOLD. BE BRAVE. DARE GREATLY AND CHANGE THE WORLD. GET THE BUSINESS BEATITUDES! Reserve My Copy and My 25% Discount

David Ray joins Dave (Jones) to talk about the history of electronics manufacturing and how he has built a high mix manufacturing business while regularly educating the public about how electronics work.

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter. Now, let's jump in! In manufacturing, most leaders don't struggle because they lack technical knowledge. They struggle because they're not connecting with their teams. When skill gaps widen, labor shortages grow, and hiring challenges persist, it's rarely an operations problem. It's a leadership and communication problem. That's exactly why I wrote Manufacturing Greatness, releasing May 11, 2027 with Page Two. This book is for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors who want high performing teams that stick around and consistently deliver results. Leaders who are ready to move beyond telling people what to do and start leading through curiosity, communication skills, and deeper conversations. Inside, you'll find practical tools to strengthen safety culture, improve employee engagement, support workforce retention, and build a workplace where teams work together, get results, and stay. Now I need your help. We've narrowed the subtitle down to five options, and I want the manufacturing community to weigh in. 1) How to Be More Productive with the People You Already Have 2) How Curious Leaders Strengthen Relationships to Improve Safety, Quality, and Productivity 3) How to Show Up, Clarify Expectations, and Instill Accountability to Streamline Your Operation 4) Three Conversations to Build High-Performing Teams that Work Together, Get Results, and Stick Around 5) Three Conversations to Build High-Performing Teams that Connect, Deliver, and Stick Around Email me at trevor@manufacturinggreatness.com and let you know about favorite subtitle option! 

Listen to a recap of the top stories of the day from 9to5Mac. 9to5Mac Daily is available on iTunes and Apple's Podcasts app, Stitcher, TuneIn, Google Play, or through our dedicated RSS feed for Overcast and other podcast players. Sponsored by BenQ: Check out BenQ's smarter displays made for how Mac users actually work and sign up for the giveaway here. New episodes of 9to5Mac Daily are recorded every weekday. Subscribe to our podcast in Apple Podcast or your favorite podcast player to guarantee new episodes are delivered as soon as they're available. Stories discussed in this episode: Apple announces plans to manufacture some new Macs in the United States this year Apple shares more details, photos, and video of US Mac mini plant iOS 26.4 beta 2: Here's what's new iOS 26.4 beta 2 adds support for testing encrypted RCS between iPhone and Android OpenAI's first Jony Ive device sounds like HomePod 2.0: report Listen & Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Overcast RSS Spotify TuneIn Google Podcasts Subscribe to support Chance directly with 9to5Mac Daily Plus and unlock: Ad-free versions of every episode Bonus content Catch up on 9to5Mac Daily episodes! Don't miss out on our other daily podcasts: Quick Charge 9to5Toys Daily Share your thoughts! Drop us a line at happyhour@9to5mac.com. You can also rate us in Apple Podcasts or recommend us in Overcast to help more people discover the show.

I just discovered how to make $100K+ per year in Ghana without even living there—and you can start with as little as $40K for 3-10X returns. This conversation with Ben changed everything I thought I knew about building wealth in Africa.Beachfront property for $40K that costs $500K in America? Business opportunities with minimal effort? This is the wealth-building strategy nobody's talking about. Watch until the end—this could change your financial future.

Gregory Zuckerman highlights Moderna's desperate struggle for funding and manufacturing equipment, which was finally resolved by a massive Wall Street investment during the pandemic's peak. 5

1. Stevenson-Yang 1: The Evolution of China's Economic Transformation. Anne Stevenson-Yang recounts her 1994 Xi'an visit, contrasting tattered manufacturing exhibits with the impoverished, stagnant office culture she witnessed during her 1985 arrival. Guest: Anne Stevenson-Yang.