Clear Impact Podcast

MITER Brands
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Management
  • Updated Daily

As the manufacturing leader in the fenestration industry, we are bringing our expertise to you. Listen to learn more about windows and doors, the components, running a successful business, and other related topics.

  1. 3d ago

    Episode 252: How One Family Turned Childhood Cancer Into a Mission to Help Others with Scott Van Almen

    What happens when a family facing childhood leukemia chooses to serve others in the middle of their own crisis? In this powerful episode of the Clear Impact Podcast from MITER Brands University, host Sherri Connor speaks with Scott Van Almen, founder of The InVINCEable Foundation, about his son Vince’s leukemia diagnosis, the emotional reality of pediatric cancer treatment, and how one family transformed fear and uncertainty into nationwide community impact. Scott shares how The InVINCEable Foundation now supports families across the United States through financial assistance, grief counseling, emotional support, and compassionate outreach. This conversation explores resilience, servant leadership, family advocacy, mental health, and the importance of people-first culture during life’s most difficult moments. Whether you are navigating hardship yourself, supporting a loved one, or looking for examples of meaningful community leadership, this episode offers perspective, empathy, and hope. --- What You’ll Learn ● What pediatric leukemia treatment really looks like for families over multiple years ● How Scott Van Almen and his family created The InVINCEable Foundation during Vince’s cancer journey ● Why emotional support and grief counseling are essential for families facing childhood cancer ● How MITER Foundation partnerships help expand community impact and nonprofit outreach ● Why service, empathy, and perspective can become anchors during uncertainty and fear --- Episode Highlights 01:15 – Scott shares the moment his family learned Vince had leukemia 02:49 – Why helping other families became part of the healing process 05:58 – How childhood cancer impacts parents, siblings, finances, and emotional health 08:12 – Vince’s remission, relapse, and second treatment journey 9:43  – How The InVINCEable Foundation has supported families across the United States 10:12 – The creation of InVINCEable Solace and grief counseling support for parents 12:18 – Scott explains how MITER Foundation and Jason Cecco became key supporters 18:04 – The role of empathy, perspective, and servant leadership during suffering 19:22 – Why Scott believes people are called to help others without expecting anything in return --- Meet the Guest Scott Van Almen is the founder of The InVINCEable Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting families navigating childhood cancer treatment across the United States. Inspired by his son Vince’s leukemia journey, Scott and his family have helped more than 100 families through financial support, emotional care, grief counseling, and community advocacy. --- Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned ● The InVINCEable Foundation ● InVINCEable Solace grief counseling initiative ● Pediatric cancer family support systems ● Community-based nonprofit outreach ● Compass...

  2. Sep 1

    Episode 251: From the Naval Academy to MITER Brands: Joe Person on Leadership, Service, and Community Impact

    What does military service teach about leadership, sacrifice, and purpose that lasts far beyond active duty? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast from MITER Brands University, host Sherri Connor speaks with MITER Brands CFO and Navy veteran Joe Person about patriotism, military leadership, veteran support, and the life-changing impact of serving something greater than yourself. Joe shares how growing up in a military family shaped his values, how 9/11 influenced his decision to serve, and why the MITER Foundation’s commitment to veterans, military families, and community outreach continues to inspire him today. Listeners will gain insight into leadership development, service-driven culture, and the role organizations can play in creating authentic community impact. What You’ll Learn How military service helps develop leadership, resilience, and accountability Why family influence and patriotism shaped Joe Person’s path to the Naval Academy and the U.S. Navy What it means to support veterans and active military members through the MITER Foundation How purpose-driven organizations create meaningful community impact Why exposing future generations to military values and servant leadership matters Episode Highlights 01:29 – Joe Person shares his role as a Naval Intelligence Officer in the U.S. Navy 02:03 – Growing up in a military family and learning leadership through service 03:40 – How the events of 9/11 strengthened Joe’s commitment to serving the country 04:25 – Why military service builds future leaders and strengthens communities 5:15 – Passing military values and patriotism to the next generation 6:04 – Joe’s first experience with the MITER Foundation and why it became a defining moment 6:38 – How the MITER Foundation supports veterans, military families, and community causes in meaningful ways Meet the Guest Joe Person is the Chief Financial Officer at MITER Brands and a U.S. Navy veteran who served as a Naval Intelligence Officer. His background in military leadership, national defense, and community service gives him a unique perspective on leadership, patriotism, and the importance of supporting veterans and military families. Tools, Frameworks, and Organizations Mentioned MITER Foundation MITER Brands University Clear Impact Podcast United States Naval Academy National Security Agency (NSA) Office of Naval Intelligence Veteran outreach and heroes support initiatives Leadership through service philosophy Closing Insight “The military provides such a great framework for the youth of our nation to develop into leaders of the future.” This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership begins with service, sacrifice, and a commitment to something greater than ourselves. Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more conversations on leadership, community impact, workforce development, and the people shaping the future at MITER Brands.

  3. Aug 25

    Episode 250: Shared Hope International, Online Safety, and Human Trafficking Awareness

    What are the real warning signs of human trafficking, and how can parents and communities recognize them before it is too late? In this special episode of the Clear Impact Podcast presented by MITER Brands University and supported by the MITER Foundation, host Sherri Connor sits down with Sue and Mike Thompson of Shared Hope International to discuss human trafficking awareness, online grooming, child safety, and community education efforts across Florida and nationwide. The conversation explores how traffickers use gaming apps, social media, and emotional manipulation to target vulnerable children, and why education, collaboration, and awareness matter more than ever. What You’ll Learn - How online grooming often begins through gaming apps and social media - The warning signs parents, teachers, and community leaders should recognize - Why Florida remains a high-risk area for trafficking activity - How Shared Hope International supports prevention, education, and survivor advocacy - Practical ways families can improve digital safety and awareness Episode Highlights 02:37 – How Mike and Sue Thompson became involved with Shared Hope International 4:04 – The beginning of Shared Hope International    08:01 – Why airports and major sporting events are connected to trafficking activity 10:24 – Behavior changes to watch out for 15:42 – The warning signs parents should watch for online 16:05 – Why gaming apps and chat platforms create risks for children 17:03 – Why education and awareness are the strongest prevention tools 19:52 – A real trafficking story involving a teenager in Venice, Florida 26:30 – Resources, reporting tools, and how to support Shared Hope International https://sharedhope.org/ https://www.miterfoundation.org/ To Report Suspicious Activity - text 233-733 or Call 888-733-7888 Meet the Guests Sue Thompson is a Florida Regional Coordinator for Shared Hope International and a dedicated advocate for human trafficking awareness, prevention, and community education. Mike Thompson is a Shared Hope International ambassador and MITER Brands employee at PGT, who works alongside anti-trafficking organizations to educate communities and support prevention initiatives throughout Florida. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned - Shared Hope International Ambassador Program - Human trafficking awareness education - Parent digital safety monitoring tools - Bark parental monitoring app - Community outreach and prevention training - The “Five Whys” communication technique Closing Insight “Education is the key.” That message sits at the center of this important conversation about protecting children, supporting communities, and increasing awareness around human tra...

  4. Aug 19

    Episode 249: The Future of Energy-Efficient Glazing with MITER Brands Engineering

    What does the future of energy-efficient windows and doors look like, and how are manufacturers preparing for the next generation of building performance standards? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, Sherri Connor sits down with Kevin Vilhauer, Vice President of Product Engineering at MITER Brands, to discuss California Title 24 energy codes, thermal performance, low-E glass technology, and the future of energy-efficient glazing. Kevin explains how MITER Brands and Western Architectural Openings are designing future-ready products that balance comfort, sustainability, customer experience, and long-term durability. Listeners will gain insight into how window and door dealers, architects, builders, and homeowners can better understand U-factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and the evolving standards shaping the future of residential construction. What You’ll Learn How California Title 24 impacts windows and doors What U-factor and SHGC mean for energy efficiency Why low-E glass and thermal performance matter in different climates How MITER Brands engineers products for future code requirements Why customer education and market feedback drive product innovation Episode Highlights 01:15 – Kevin Vilhauer explains his role in product engineering across MITER Brands 03:08 – What California Title 24 means for energy-efficient windows and doors 05:42 – Understanding U-factor and why lower numbers matter 07:36 – How SHGC impacts comfort and cooling performance 09:58 – Why California uses 16 climate zones for energy requirements 12:11 – How low-E glass coatings improve thermal performance 14:45 – Designing future-ready products for tomorrow’s energy codes 17:20 – The evolution of Western Architectural Openings and luxury product positioning 19:08 – Kevin shares his favorite MITER Brands DNA statement and leadership philosophy Meet the Guest Kevin Vilhauer is the Vice President of Product Engineering at MITER Brands. He works across multiple MITER Brands divisions including Western Architectural Openings, Milgard, MI, PGT, and Anlin, helping lead innovation in energy-efficient windows and doors, thermal performance, and future-focused product engineering. https://www.westernao.com/ Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned California Title 24 energy standards U-factor performance measurement Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) Low-E glass technology Triple glazing solutions New Product Development (NPD) Thermal performance engineering Energy-efficient glazing systems Closing Insight “Windows and doors have a very long product cycle life, so we want to make sure they’re future-proofed.” – Kevin Vilhauer This episode highlights how MITER Brands continues its relentless pursuit of 100% through customer education, operational excellence, and innovative engineering that supports long-term energy efficiency and homeowner comfort. Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more conversations about window and door innovation, building performance, and the future of the industry through MITER Brands University. Clear Impact Podcast MITER Brands University Western Architectural Openings energy-efficient windows and doors thermal performance low-E glass Title 24 energy-efficient glazing window and door dealers architects and builders luxury residential windows customer education operational excell...

  5. Aug 13

    Episode 248: How MITER Brands Supports Veterans Through Accessible Housing

    What happens when accessible housing restores not only independence for injured veterans, but also hope for entire families and communities? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast from MITER Brands University, host Sherri Connor speaks with retired U.S. Army Brigadier General Tom Landwermeyer from Homes For Our Troops about the mission to build specially adapted homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans. The conversation explores how adaptive home design, community volunteerism, and long-term nonprofit partnerships are helping veterans regain independence, dignity, and connection. Listeners will hear powerful stories about accessible living solutions, caregiver support, and the lasting impact of the partnership between MITER Brands, the MITER Foundation, and Homes For Our Troops. This episode highlights how people-first culture and community engagement can create meaningful change for veterans and their families nationwide. Episode Length: 26:52 --- What You’ll Learn - How specially adapted homes improve independence for severely injured veterans - Why accessible home design impacts caregivers, spouses, and children - How MITER Brands products support adaptive housing solutions - The role community volunteerism plays in rebuilding lives - Why corporate philanthropy and nonprofit partnerships matter for long-term impact --- Episode Highlights 02:10 – What is Homes For Our Troops and how does the organization support veterans? 05:12 – Why specially adapted homes are life-changing for injured veterans and families 08:34 – How MITER Brands became a long-term Homes For Our Troops partner 11:48 – Why accessible windows, doors, and locking systems matter in adaptive housing 15:02 – The emotional impact these homes have on spouses and children 18:41 – Stories of restored independence and dignity through adaptive home design 22:03 – How communities and volunteers help veterans rebuild their lives 24:56 – Ways listeners can support Homes For Our Troops nationwide --- Meet the Guest Brigadier General Tom Landwermeyer is a retired U.S. Army General and CEO with Homes For Our Troops, a national nonprofit organization that builds and donates specially adapted custom homes for severely injured post-9/11 veterans across the United States. https://www.hfotusa.org/ https://www.miterfoundation.org/ --- Tools, Frameworks, and Strategies Mentioned - Homes For Our Troops adaptive housing model - Accessible home design principles - Wheelchair-friendly home adaptations - Community volunteer engagement - MITER Foundation partnerships - Sliding window and accessible locking systems - Veteran caregiv...

  6. Aug 10

    Episode 247: Engineering Luxury Indoor-Outdoor Living with Western Architectural Openings

    What does it take to engineer a luxury aluminum door and window system that delivers both stunning design and market-leading thermal performance? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast from MITER Brands University, host Sherry Connor sits down with Richard Mazur, Director of Product Engineering at Western Architectural Openings, to explore the innovation behind the new Vantage product line. Richard shares how Western is developing energy-efficient aluminum systems, custom multi-point locking hardware, and next-generation thermal performance solutions designed for modern luxury homes, indoor-outdoor living, and evolving building code requirements. From custom engineering challenges to operational excellence and product innovation, this conversation offers valuable insight for window and door dealers, architects, builders, and anyone interested in the future of luxury residential design. Episode Length: 19:14 --- What You’ll Learn --- Episode Highlights 01:12 – Richard Mazur shares his engineering background and journey to Western Architectural Openings 03:08 – The origin of the Vantage product line and the push toward advanced thermal performance 05:41 – Why the engineering team created custom hardware and proprietary hinge systems 08:02 – Inside the development of Western’s new multi-point locking solution 10:27 – How California Title 24 requirements are influencing modern window and door design 12:18 – The challenge of balancing narrow sightlines with energy efficiency and large glass panels 14:06 – Western’s luxury brand evolution and focus on premium aluminum systems 17:02 – Richard explains his favorite MITER DNA statement: “We are comfortable with being uncomfortable.” --- Meet the Guest Richard Mazur is the Director of Product Engineering at Western Architectural Openings. He leads innovation initiatives focused on luxury aluminum window and door systems, thermal performance engineering, custom hardware development, and next-generation product design for modern residential architecture. https://www.westernao.com Tools, Frameworks, and Strategies Mentioned - Vantage Product Line - Multi-point locking systems - Thermal break technology - Energy-efficient glazing - Title 24 compliance standards - Narrow sightline aluminum systems - Luxury moving glass wall engineering - MITER DNA principles - Operational excellence and continuous improvement culture --- Closing Insight “We are comfortable with being uncomfortable.” That mindset continues to drive innovation across Western Architectural Openings and MITER Brands as teams push the boundaries of luxury aluminum design,...

  7. Jul 30

    Episode 246: Brian Leizerowicz on Rebranding Western Window Systems for Modern Architecture

    What does a rebrand really say about the future of a company? And how do you evolve a trusted name while staying true to the customers, products, and architectural vision that built the brand in the first place? In Episode 246 of the Clear Impact Podcast, Brian Leizerowicz from Western joins the conversation to discuss the transformation from Western Window Systems to Western Architectural Openings. This episode explores the strategy behind the new name, the thinking behind the updated logo and identity, and how the rebrand reflects the company’s evolution within modern architecture, indoor-outdoor living, and premium architectural openings. Listeners will gain insight into how architectural brands evolve, how naming impacts market positioning, and why design-forward companies continue adapting to meet the needs of architects, builders, dealers, and homeowners. What You’ll Learn - Why Western Window Systems rebranded to Western Architectural Openings - How the phrase “architectural openings” better represents modern design solutions - The role branding plays in architectural product positioning - How the updated logo reflects a cleaner and more contemporary identity - Why indoor-outdoor living continues shaping architectural design trends - How rebranding supports long-term growth and customer alignment Episode Highlights 02:59 – Why Western decided it was time for a rebrand 05:02 – The meaning behind the name “Western Architectural Openings” 05:45– How modern architecture influenced the brand evolution 06:50 – The strategy behind the new logo and visual identity 8:41 – Why architects and builders need broader architectural opening solutions 11:21 – The Vantage line offering and advantages 14:31 – The importance of innovation and duty of care 17:11 – Listening to our audience and meeting their needs 17:47 – Brian’s favorite MITER DNA statement Meet the Guest Brian Leizerowicz is a sales leader at Western Architectural Openings and plays a key role in understanding the customer needs and commitment to innovative design solutions for modern living spaces. https://www.westernao.com/ Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned Customer-focused branding alignmen Architectural openings strategy Indoor-outdoor living design philosophy Brand evolution and repositioning Modern architectural product integration Contemporary visual identity development Closing Insight A strong brand evolves alongside the people, products, and experiences it represents. Western Architectural Openings reflects a broader architectural vision and a continued focus on modern design, innovation, and customer experience. Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more conversations on architecture, innovation, branding, and industry transformation.

  8. Jul 20

    Episode 245: The Power of Partnership: MITER Brands, ABC Supply, and the Future of Building Products

    How do industry leaders like MITER Brands and ABC Supply set a new standard for reliability and partnership? In this episode, discover how a people-first culture, rigorous training, and a commitment to community impact drive better outcomes for dealers, contractors, and homeowners. Learn how MITER’s experience-led approach and ABC’s expansive network create lasting value in the window and door industry. What You’ll Learn Why relationship-driven partnerships matter and how MITER and ABC Supply achieve mutual success. How MITER Brands delivers 98.3% On-Time, In-Full performance through disciplined processes and a culture of continuous improvement. The impact of MITER Brands University in empowering dealers and contractors to provide exceptional service. How MITER’s hurricane-ready, impact-resistant windows and doors offer peace of mind and sound reduction for homeowners. How community giving and philanthropy strengthen both organizations and the industry at large. Episode Highlights 00:48 – Building a “business is personal” partnership 02:20 – How MITER Brands achieves industry-leading OTIF reliability 04:50 – Training and MITER Brands University: Raising the bar for dealers 07:40 – MITER DNA: Culture, humility, and continuous improvement 09:20 – Impact windows, hurricane preparedness, and sound reduction 11:10 – Philanthropy and community giving: The MITER Foundation and Homes for Our Troops 12:50 – Key takeaways and closing reflections Meet the Guest Rick Moyer is the National Account Manager for ABC Supply at MITER Brands, with more than 30 years in windows and doors and a passion for building strong, values-driven partnerships. Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned MITER DNA (humility, confidence, hard work, people-first culture) On-Time, In-Full (OTIF) delivery MITER Brands University Continuous Improvement Experience Is Everything MITER Foundation (community engagement) Dealer Training & Support Closing Insight or CTA “Every detail, every day—our focus on quality and service is what sets MITER Brands apart.” Want more insights from MITER Brands? Visit our website and subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for future episodes.

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About

As the manufacturing leader in the fenestration industry, we are bringing our expertise to you. Listen to learn more about windows and doors, the components, running a successful business, and other related topics.

Information

  • Creator
    MITER Brands
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    111
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2021
  • Show Website
    Clear Impact Podcast