Manufacturing Culture Podcast
Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Jim Mayer

Overview
Episodes

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Manufacturing is about more than products—it’s about people. On The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, I sit down with leaders, innovators, and everyday heroes to uncover the stories behind their journeys in the industry. We talk about where they started, how they’ve grown, and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way. Each episode brings a unique perspective—some practical, some inspiring, and all rooted in the human side of manufacturing. From lessons learned on the shop floor to big ideas shaping the future, it’s all about the people who make it happen. Because at the heart of every company are the people who work there, and every person has a story.

Recent Episodes

Data, Frontlines, and Culture: Vince Sassano’s Journey
NOV 21, 2024
Data, Frontlines, and Culture: Vince Sassano’s Journey
<p>In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Vince Sassano, CEO of Strategic Performance Company, Inc., about his extensive experience in the manufacturing industry. They discuss the evolution of manufacturing culture, the importance of data-driven management, and the need for effective communication on the plant floor. Vince shares insights on empowering frontline workers, the challenges of integrating technology, and the significance of understanding operational problems. The conversation emphasizes the importance of culture in manufacturing and offers valuable advice for newcomers in the industry.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Vince Sassano has over 30 years of experience in manufacturing.</li><li>The culture of manufacturing has evolved from old management styles to data-driven approaches.</li><li>Empowering frontline workers is crucial for success in manufacturing.</li><li>Technology has become more affordable, making it accessible for manufacturers.</li><li>Effective communication is key to solving operational problems.</li><li>Data trustworthiness is a significant challenge in manufacturing.</li><li>Understanding the needs of the plant floor is essential for technology integration.</li><li>Culture in manufacturing means every employee matters and has a role to play.</li><li>Newcomers should not be afraid to identify and propose solutions to problems.</li><li>Leadership should focus on helping employees help themselves.</li></ul>
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55 MIN
Welding is STEM: Demi Knight Clark on Third Spaces and Trade Tech
NOV 14, 2024
Welding is STEM: Demi Knight Clark on Third Spaces and Trade Tech
<p>In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Demi Knight Clark, a trailblazer in the construction industry, about her journey from the trades to leadership roles. They discuss the importance of empowering women in trades, the legacy of female pioneers, and the need for more skilled workers. Demi emphasizes the significance of third spaces for community building and the evolution of trade tech, highlighting how these changes can inspire the next generation to pursue careers in skilled trades.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Demi Knight Clark is a trailblazer in the construction industry.</li><li>Empowering women in trades is crucial for diversity.</li><li>The legacy of female pioneers in trades inspires future generations.</li><li>Welding is a viable and lucrative career path.</li><li>We need to inspire the next generation to consider skilled trades.</li><li>Third spaces are essential for community building and connection.</li><li>Trade tech is evolving and offers new opportunities for women.</li><li>The narrative around trades needs to change to attract more talent.</li><li>Career transitioners can find fulfillment in skilled trades.</li><li>Exploring hands-on classes can lead to new career paths.</li></ul>
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51 MIN
A Story of Grit and Grace: Ashleigh Walters’ Leadership Journe
NOV 12, 2024
A Story of Grit and Grace: Ashleigh Walters’ Leadership Journe
<p>In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Ashleigh Walters, former president and current chairwoman of Onex, about her transformative leadership journey. Ashleigh shares her experiences redefining Onex's culture, transitioning to employee ownership, and the importance of storytelling in manufacturing. She emphasizes the need for a people-first approach, the significance of community impact, and the challenges of developing future leaders in the industry. Ashleigh also discusses her book, 'Leading with Grit and Grace,' and her commitment to empowering others in their leadership journeys.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Ashleigh transformed Onex into a people-first organization.</li><li>Cultural change is essential before any other improvements can be made.</li><li>Storytelling is crucial for attracting new talent to manufacturing.</li><li>Employee ownership can ensure the longevity of a company in its community.</li><li>Leaders should empower their teams to solve problems.</li><li>Hiring for cultural fit is as important as skills.</li><li>Leadership styles can evolve through experience and necessity.</li><li>Succession planning should start early and involve trusted advisors.</li><li>Training and development are fundamental for future leaders.</li><li>Creating thriving communities is the responsibility of manufacturers.</li></ul>
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49 MIN
Leading with Purpose: Yushiro Kato on Culture, Innovation, and the Future of Manufacturing
NOV 1, 2024
Leading with Purpose: Yushiro Kato on Culture, Innovation, and the Future of Manufacturing
<p>In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Yushiro Kato, the CEO of CADDi, who shares his inspiring journey from a young entrepreneur in Japan to leading a transformative company in the manufacturing industry. Yushiro discusses his early ventures, the pivotal decision to leave McKinsey, and the evolution of CADDi from a manufacturing platform to a comprehensive data-driven solution. He emphasizes the importance of understanding customer pain points, fostering a strong company culture, and the role of AI in the future of manufacturing. Yushiro's insights on leadership, values, and innovation provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders alike.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Yushiro Kato's journey reflects hard work and thoughtful leadership.</li><li>Understanding customer pain points is crucial for innovation.</li><li>Company culture should align with core values.</li><li>Success is defined beyond monetary gains.</li><li>AI has the potential to revolutionize manufacturing processes.</li><li>Fostering talent is essential for product evolution.</li><li>Cultural influences shape leadership styles.</li><li>The importance of hands-on experience in manufacturing.</li><li>Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success.</li><li>Building a supportive infrastructure is vital for growth.</li></ul>
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49 MIN
Cracking the Code: Jason Anthoine on What Employees Really Want
OCT 24, 2024
Cracking the Code: Jason Anthoine on What Employees Really Want
<p>In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Jason Anthoine, a veteran in employee engagement and internal communication. Jason shares his journey from a small town in Georgia to working with major corporations like GE and Coca-Cola, emphasizing the importance of understanding and improving workplace culture. The conversation explores the challenges of communicating effectively in large organizations, the evolution of employee engagement strategies, and the critical role of leadership in fostering a positive work environment. Jason also discusses his initiatives, including the 'What Employees Want' research project and the Connect conference, to bridge the gap between employees and management. The episode concludes with insights on the future of internal communications and the significance of a 'what if' mindset in driving change.</p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Jason's passion for employee engagement began in childhood.</li><li>Cultural challenges in large organizations often stem from scale and complexity.</li><li>Effective communication requires a personal touch, especially in large firms.</li><li>The evolution of employee engagement reflects changing workplace dynamics.</li><li>Leadership plays a crucial role in fostering a positive workplace culture.</li><li>Cohesion and Audacity focus on improving employee experiences.</li><li>The Connect conference was created to fill a gap in internal communications training.</li><li>The 'What Employees Want' initiative emphasizes employee feedback.</li><li>Riding Shotgun is a storycast sharing lessons from Jason's career.</li><li>The future of internal communications will prioritize human connection over technology.</li></ul>
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55 MIN