Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Jim Mayer
  • 5.0 (15)
  • PERSONAL JOURNALS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Manufacturing is more than the products we make; it’s the people who make the parts. 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.

  1. 2D AGO

    Chuck Coxhead | Different Beats Better

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Chuck Coxhead about the importance of evolving manufacturing practices and company culture. They discuss the need for leaders to abandon outdated thinking, the significance of differentiation in a commoditized market, and the transformative changes in business practices post-2020. Chuck shares his journey in the RF cable assembly industry, emphasizing the importance of customer experience and the buyer's journey. The conversation also touches on empowering frontline workers, achieving alignment across departments, and the future of differentiation in the industry. Takeaways Manufacturing leaders must abandon pre-2000 thinking.Culture is about how employees feel in the workplace.Differentiation is key in a commoditized market.Customer experience can set a company apart.The buyer's journey has changed significantly.Companies must adapt to new market realities post-2020.E-commerce can revolutionize the buying process.Frontline workers play a crucial role in company success.Alignment across departments is essential for growth.Trust and accountability are vital in leadership. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Manufacturing Culture Podcast01:52 Understanding Culture in the Workplace07:53 Chuck's Origin Story and Career Path11:08 The Shift from Pre-2000 Thinking16:45 Transformative Changes in Business Post-202022:39 Revolutionizing the Buyer’s Journey25:24 Applying the Framework to Job Shops30:07 Empowering Frontline Workers34:11 Achieving Alignment Across Departments36:30 Creating Systems for Bold Growth41:34 The RF Frontiers Podcast43:52 Future of Differentiation in Industry46:35 Final Thoughts and Advice

    50 min

  2. FEB 10

    George Pesansky | Excellence Without Burning People Out

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with George Pesansky, a global authority on operational excellence. They discuss the importance of workplace culture, the need for systems over people in problem-solving, and the leadership gaps in manufacturing. George shares insights from his extensive experience in various work cultures and his transition to nonprofit work, emphasizing the value of donating talent. The conversation also touches on performance improvement, preventing employee burnout, and the future of work, highlighting the significance of respect and trust in the workplace. Takeaways Culture represents the norms in a workplace.Understanding workplace culture is crucial for success.Problems are often system problems, not people problems.Leadership gaps exist in manufacturing due to poor promotion practices.Cultural differences impact how work is done.Transitioning to nonprofit work can be fulfilling and impactful.Identifying performance issues requires understanding the system.Super performance focuses on celebrating wins, not just fixing failures.Performance reviews should focus on extending periods of success.Creating a respectful work environment is essential for employee retention. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Operational Excellence04:09 Understanding Culture in the Workplace05:47 Leadership Gaps in Manufacturing12:39 Cultural Differences Across Regions14:31 Transitioning to Nonprofit Work17:11 Identifying Performance Issues20:31 Defining Super Performance vs. Hustle Culture26:08 The Prison of Expectations31:13 Operational Excellence and Employee Empowerment36:02 Rebuilding Trust Through Excellence39:47 The Value of Donating Talent45:17 Envisioning the Future of Work

    50 min

  3. FEB 3

    Andrew Johnson | Changing Systems Without Losing People

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer speaks with Andrew Johnson about the intricacies of manufacturing culture, the importance of authenticity in leadership, and lessons learned from early-career failures. They discuss the dynamics of family businesses, the challenges of innovation, and the evolution of ShelfAware as a digital inventory management platform. The conversation also touches on change management in the manufacturing sector and the future of American manufacturing, highlighting the need for innovation and a return to the trades. Takeaways Most supply chain conversations focus on systems, margins, and speed.Culture in a work context is all about authenticity.Failures in early career can lead to valuable lessons.Family dynamics can complicate business operations.Innovation requires clear communication and employee buy-in.The evolution of ShelfAware was driven by customer needs.Change management is crucial in the manufacturing sector.American manufacturing is on the brink of a renaissance.Investing in trades can provide job stability and fulfillment.Innovation must focus on creating better, stronger products. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Family Business Dynamics05:04 Understanding Culture in Manufacturing07:17 Lessons from Early Career Failures13:12 Rebuilding Culture After Setbacks15:29 Influences from Family Business Leadership17:56 Navigating Family Dynamics in Business21:32 Evolution from O-Rings to ShelfAware28:15 Change Management in Industrial Settings29:56 Innovation vs. Tradition in Manufacturing34:18 The Role of Leadership in Change Management37:09 The Renaissance of American Manufacturing37:36 Heavy Tech: A New Venture in Manufacturing47:12 Rebuilding American Manufacturing: Challenges and Opportunities

    57 min

  4. JAN 20

    My Digital Twin: Mark Vanderwarf

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Mark Vanderwarf, a business growth strategist and sustainability advocate. They discuss the importance of sustainability in manufacturing, the role of culture in business, and the need for a skilled workforce. Mark shares his early experiences that shaped his views on growth and sustainability, emphasizing the need for a mindset shift towards investing in people. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and AI on the industry, the intersection of sustainability and the middle class, and the importance of balancing technological advancements with environmental considerations. Mark concludes with a call to action for individuals to take personal responsibility and contribute positively to their communities. Takeaways Sustainability is essential for the future of manufacturing.Culture defines the identity and purpose of a company.Investing in people leads to better business outcomes.The manufacturing industry faces a skilled labor shortage.Mindset shifts are crucial for embracing sustainability.Technology and AI can enhance efficiency in manufacturing.Sustainability is linked to rebuilding the middle class.Balancing technological needs with environmental sustainability is vital.Time management is a key factor in business success.Personal responsibility and community contribution are important for change. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Van Der Werf07:09 Defining Culture in Manufacturing08:18 Early Experiences Shaping Growth and Sustainability13:54 The Need for a New Exchange in Manufacturing17:11 The Skilled Labor Dilemma21:39 Abundance vs. Scarcity Mentality26:37 Investing in People for Future Success28:37 Reframing Sustainability in Manufacturing36:06 The Role of Technology in Empowering Workers41:31 AI's Impact on Business Efficiency45:49 Sustainability and the Middle Class50:21 Balancing AI Needs with Sustainability54:39 Mindset Shifts for a Better Future

    56 min

  5. JAN 15

    The Shift to Root Cause Medicine: Dr. Erica Armstrong's Journey

    Summary In this conversation, Dr. Erica Armstrong discusses her journey from traditional healthcare to founding Root Functional Medicine, a virtual clinic focused on treating root causes of chronic diseases. She emphasizes the importance of nutrition, the role of dietitians, and the need for a new approach to healthcare that prioritizes employee wellness and addresses the underlying issues affecting the American workforce. Dr. Armstrong also shares insights on the future of healthcare in America and the potential for functional medicine to become mainstream. Takeaways Dr. Erica Armstrong is transforming healthcare by focusing on root causes.Root Functional Medicine aims to treat chronic diseases effectively.Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness.The healthcare system often overlooks the importance of diet and lifestyle.Functional medicine provides a more personalized approach to health.Early detection and prevention can significantly reduce healthcare costs.Employee wellness programs can enhance workplace culture and productivity.Access to functional medicine can empower patients to take control of their health.The integration of technology in healthcare can improve patient outcomes.Healthcare reform is essential for rebuilding the middle class. Chapters 00:00 Revolutionizing Healthcare: Dr. Erica Armstrong's Journey09:07 The Shift to Root Cause Medicine18:23 The Role of Nutrition in Health27:28 Functional Medicine: A New Approach36:15 The Future of Healthcare in America

    39 min

  6. JAN 6

    Speed, Precision, and Culture in Manufacturing

    In this live panel discussion on the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer engages with four industry experts from diverse backgrounds in manufacturing, robotics, and semiconductors. The conversation explores their personal journeys, definitions of culture in manufacturing, the importance of speed and precision, and how to engage the next generation in the industry. The panelists share insights on current roles, challenges in the semiconductor industry, and the need for a cultural shift to attract young talent. The session concludes with audience questions addressing misconceptions in the industry and the importance of education and hands-on experience. Takeaways The importance of culture in manufacturing is about infusing values into the workforce. Personal journeys in manufacturing often involve unique paths and experiences. Speed and precision are critical in the semiconductor industry, impacting production and quality. Engaging the next generation requires innovative approaches and hands-on experiences. The semiconductor industry is facing a talent shortage that needs to be addressed. AI and technology are reshaping the manufacturing landscape, leading to new opportunities. Trade programs in schools are essential for fostering interest in manufacturing careers. Misconceptions about the industry can hinder recruitment and understanding of roles. Collaboration and teamwork are vital for success in manufacturing environments. The future of manufacturing will rely on a diverse range of skills and backgrounds. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Icebreaker 06:43 Defining Culture in Manufacturing 10:09 Personal Journeys in Manufacturing 16:15 Current Roles and Responsibilities 24:59 Speed and Precision in Manufacturing 33:36 Engaging the Next Generation in Manufacturing 44:31 Audience Q&A and Misconceptions in the Industry

    53 min

  7. 12/23/2025

    Craftsmanship and Family: The Country Craft Journey

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Elvin Hurst, the founder of Country Craft, who shares his journey from a farmer to a successful entrepreneur in the cabinetry industry. Elvin discusses the challenges of maintaining craftsmanship in a changing workforce, the importance of family values in business, and the evolution of Country Craft over the years. He reflects on the support he received from his family and community, the impact of technology on craftsmanship, and his hopes for the future of the business as it transitions to the next generation. Takeaways Elvin Hurst's journey began with a table saw that his wife gifted him.Country Craft started in a garage and grew into a large facility.The company's motto is to provide quality at a fair price.Finding skilled craftsmen is a challenge in today's workforce.Family values play a crucial role in the business's success.Elvin's children now run the company, continuing the legacy.Technology has been embraced while maintaining craftsmanship.Support from family and community was vital in the early days.The importance of staying positive during economic challenges.Elvin hopes for a future where his grandchildren can take over the business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background02:49 The Birth of Country Craft05:30 Challenges in Craftsmanship and Workforce08:15 Navigating Economic Challenges10:43 Family Business Dynamics13:29 Memorable Moments and Values16:12 Future Concerns and Legacy

    19 min

  8. 12/16/2025

    We Undersell What We Do w/ Danny Gonzales

    In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Danny Gonzales, a media expert in the manufacturing sector. They discuss the importance of storytelling and digital marketing in changing perceptions of manufacturing, the impact of AI on content creation, and the need for a strong organizational culture. Danny shares his journey into the industry, the challenges manufacturers face in marketing, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of manufacturing and the opportunities for growth through effective communication and engagement. TakeawaysManufacturing is often perceived negatively, but it has a lot of creativity and innovation.Storytelling can change the perception of manufacturing and highlight its impact.Many manufacturers are unaware of the positive effects they have on the world.AI is democratizing content creation, making it accessible to all companies.A strong organizational culture is essential for attracting and retaining talent.Marketing strategies often lack a clear direction and understanding of the customer.Vulnerability in leadership can build trust and improve company culture.Internal and external communications should align to reflect company values.The manufacturing industry needs to overcome outdated narratives to attract new talent.Knowledge transfer from experienced workers to younger generations is crucial for the industry's future. Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Culture Podcast01:13 The Excitement of Industrial Marketing Summit03:07 Danny Gonzalez's Unique Perspective on Life06:53 Defining Culture in the Manufacturing Context09:19 Danny's Journey from Accounting to Video Production12:08 The Wonder of Manufacturing Facilities14:09 Overcoming Negative Perceptions in Manufacturing17:41 The Importance of Authentic Storytelling19:50 The Shift in Manufacturing Narratives21:29 The Role of AI in Content Creation24:06 The Rise of Generative AI in Marketing26:38 Authenticity in AI-Driven Storytelling28:17 Balancing Human and AI Content32:43 Common Pitfalls in Industrial Marketing34:39 Leveraging Company Culture in Storytelling39:12 Vulnerability and Transparency in Manufacturing40:57 Future Success Metrics for Industrial Marketing

    47 min
See All (144)

Trailer

5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

Manufacturing is more than the products we make; it’s the people who make the parts. 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.

Information

You Might Also Like