People in Production Podcast with Ryan Nelson

Circle of 5
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Join host Ryan Nelson as he explores the DNA of thriving manufacturing operations. As founder of Circle of 5, Ryan delves deep into how successful organizations build high-performing teams and create empowering cultures that drive excellence. Each episode features dynamic conversations with manufacturing leaders and cross-industry innovators, uncovering strategies for talent development, organizational growth, and future-focused leadership. Whether you're a manufacturing executive, team leader, or passionate about building strong workplace cultures, this podcast delivers practical insights to transform your organization. The Kansas City Chapter of NTMA and Circle of 5 present this exclusive series starting January 2025. Subscribe now to learn how today's visionaries are reshaping the future of manufacturing and organizational excellence.

  1. Local Power, Real Partnerships

    10/01/2025

    Local Power, Real Partnerships

    What if the most valuable tool on your shop floor isn’t a machine, but trust? We sit down with Katherine O’Toole of the Kansas City NTMA to unpack how humility, human-powered networking, and a smart partnership with the Missouri Association of Manufacturers sparked a new kind of regional expo—one that actually shortens supply chains, surfaces hidden capabilities, and helps local OEMs meet local suppliers. Katherine brings a grounded, no-frills perspective shaped by growing up in a family tool-and-die shop. She shares why owning the “connector” role beats chasing perfection, and how the “Who Not How” mindset transformed event planning from a solo grind into a high-impact collaboration. We get into the nuts and bolts of the Kansas City Manufacturing Expo: a kickoff with NTMA’s national president Roger Atkins, two rounds of targeted breakouts for HR, purchasing, engineering, cybersecurity, and leadership, and an expo floor designed for real conversations, not just scans and swag. Small and midsize manufacturers learn to differentiate beyond capability lists, while OEMs discover the speed and clarity of working with suppliers they can visit over lunch instead of flying across time zones. You’ll hear why abundance beats competition, how local partnerships let shops bid bigger jobs together, and what it looks like to build a culture where people don’t just tolerate each other—they trust each other. Expect practical insights you can use immediately: preparing your booth, clarifying your specialty, walking the floor with a sourcing plan, and turning introductions into purchase orders. It’s a blueprint for resilient, regional manufacturing that values people, proximity, and shared wins. If you’re ready to meet the partners who will move your work faster and smarter, join us. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who needs a stronger local bench, and leave a quick review to help more builders find the show. Expo Website: https://www.mamstrong.org/kc-mfg-expo-and-conference Registration:  https://portal.mamstrong.org/eventDetail?id=a0yPo000007tANhIAM Ryan's LinkedIn:  https://linkedin.com/in/circleof5

    22 min
  2. Episode 16 - Katherine O'Toole: What's Ahead for KCNTMA

    04/11/2025

    Episode 16 - Katherine O'Toole: What's Ahead for KCNTMA

    Catherine O'Toole from Kansas City NTMA joins us to discuss upcoming events designed to strengthen the Midwest manufacturing community through intentional networking and collaboration. • April 24-25: Joint Chapter Summit with St. Louis NTMA featuring company introductions, economist Chris Kuehl, shop tours, and networking opportunities • BattleBots KC competition showcasing 26 teams from 16 schools with 250+ students participating • Women's Manufacturing Day bringing 50 female students together with 25 industry mentors • Annual golf tournament funding workforce development initiatives (nearly sold out with 33 teams) • Economic update with DC insider Omar Nashashibi coming May 28 • Collaborative Manufacturing Expo with Missouri Association of Manufacturers planned for October 28-29 Join us for these events to build relationships, grow your regional network, and be part of strengthening the Midwest manufacturing footprint. As Catherine says, "We are stronger together."

    24 min
  3. Episode 15 - Ian Reel (Part 2) - Classroom to CNC: When Your Side Hustle Becomes Your Empire

    03/19/2025

    Episode 15 - Ian Reel (Part 2) - Classroom to CNC: When Your Side Hustle Becomes Your Empire

    From purchasing his first CNC machine with no prior experience to building a successful manufacturing business with 14 machines and 10 employees, Ian shares his journey of calculated risk-taking and growth. • Starting with a small 1,500 square foot facility and expanding to a 14,000 square foot building • Learning the complex world of CNC machining through manufacturer support and networking • Creating systems to replicate knowledge and remove himself from day-to-day operations • Finding significant company growth during 2020 when many businesses struggled • Building a professional network through NTMA to overcome the isolation of entrepreneurship • Developing effective hiring practices through trial and error • Balancing business growth with family life and keeping work stress away from home • Manufacturing's biggest threat: young people not knowing the trade exists

    29 min
  4. Episode 14 - Ian Reel (Part 1) When One Good Idea Changes Everything: A Manufacturer's Journey

    03/12/2025

    Episode 14 - Ian Reel (Part 1) When One Good Idea Changes Everything: A Manufacturer's Journey

    Ian Reel from Kaw Valley Precision shares his non-traditional journey from industrial arts teacher to manufacturing entrepreneur, revealing how he strategically built his business while mitigating risks. As a former industrial arts teacher, he discusses the challenges facing industrial education programs in schools and the strategic approach he took in testing market demand before fully committing to manufacturing. • Kaw Valley Precision specializes in aftermarket firearm parts with diversification into automotive, locks, oil and gas, electronics, injection molding, and food industries • Ian's background includes growing up around his father's production woodworking business and earning a degree in industrial arts education • Industrial arts programs in schools are facing challenges • Ian identified underserved markets in the firearms industry • He developed his first product by leveraging his network of manufacturing connections • Rather than immediately investing in equipment, he subcontracted manufacturing for four years while teaching • The business grew to approximately 15 products before Ian took the leap to purchase CNC equipment • Ian emphasizes the importance of family support when starting a business, calling it a team decision • His approach demonstrates how to test market acceptance before making major capital investments • Now serving on the KCNTMA board, Ian is committed to addressing the manufacturing skills gap Get involved with KCNTMA and the upcoming Bots KC event in late April to see students engaged in robotics competitions and help support the next generation of manufacturing talent.

    27 min

  5. 03/06/2025

    Episode 13 - Leveraging Your NTMA Membership: A Kansas City and St. Louis Collaboration

    Manufacturing leaders from the Kansas City and St. Louis chapters of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) discuss how their organization creates value for members and fosters collaboration across regional boundaries. The conversation explores both national and local benefits of NTMA membership while highlighting upcoming initiatives to strengthen manufacturing throughout Missouri. • NTMA operates on national and local levels with three key pillars: networking, learning, and advocacy • National membership provides critical lobbying in Washington DC, industry benchmarking reports, and conferences that connect manufacturers across the country • Local chapters focus on workforce development through apprenticeship programs and educational opportunities • Both Kansas City and St. Louis chapters emphasize relationship-building and breaking down competitive barriers • Joint Business Summit planned between chapters to keep manufacturing business local through strategic partnerships • Presidents of both chapters have 40+ year company involvement with NTMA, demonstrating long-term value • "She Leads: Women Driving Manufacturing" initiative supports female leadership in the industry in Kansas City • NTMA membership benefits owners transitioning businesses by establishing valuable industry relationships • Associate members (vendors/suppliers) are encouraged to build genuine relationships rather than directly selling • Upcoming Manufacturing Expo will showcase regional capabilities to OEMs and potential customers Register for the Joint Chapter Business Summit happening this April in Kansas City to connect with manufacturers across Missouri and explore partnership opportunities.

    54 min

  6. 03/04/2025

    Episode 12 - Katherine O'Toole Previews March 2025 and Beyond

    This episode brings to light the dynamic happenings within the Kansas City manufacturing community. As we discuss the future events lined up, you'll get a look into the collaborative energy driving the chapter.  • Recap of February activities, including the brew night and networking success  • Insights from the Missouri Association Manufacturers Tradeshow and Conference and shared experiences  • Announcement of the joint chapter event and its significance  • Highlights of the She Leads meeting and its focus on empowering women in manufacturing  • Encouragement for member engagement and the value of authentic connections  Check out the Webinar on "Getting the Most out of Your NTMA Membership" Live on 3/6/25 @ 3:00 PM (CST) - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aNmqDLn_Jp8 Register for Ryan's webinar - "Why Your Leadership Funnel Is Broken: Stop Fishing in a Pond You Never Stocked" - https://meeting.zoho.com/meeting/register?sessionId=1071061220

    27 min

  7. 02/18/2025

    Episode 11 - Brandon Worrell (Part 2) From Digital Frontiers to Factory Floors

    This episode covers the inspiring journey of a tech entrepreneur transitioning to the manufacturing sector, sharing valuable insights about entrepreneurship through acquisition, business readiness, and the vital role of communication. Listeners will gain practical tips on preparing for a successful business sale and fostering a thriving workplace culture.  • Exploring the transition from technology to manufacturing  • Importance of mentorship and personal background in career decisions  • Understanding the seller's perspective in the exit strategy process  • Key factors buyers consider when evaluating a business  • The need for clean financial records and separation of personal/business finances  • Critical steps for preparing a business for sale  • Insights on talent management within the manufacturing industry  • The significance of communication in leadership decisions  • Ways to run a sellable business for long-term viability

    28 min
  8. Episode 9 - Brandon Worrell (Part 1): Transforming Tradition to Precision in Manufacturing

    02/12/2025

    Episode 9 - Brandon Worrell (Part 1): Transforming Tradition to Precision in Manufacturing

    The episode dives into the transformative journey of KCSP Machine, highlighting the company’s rebranding from Kansas City Screw Products to a modern precision machining entity. We discuss operational strategies, workplace culture, and the importance of networking within the manufacturing sector. Here are some of the topics Brandon shares his wisdom on. • Importance of rebranding for modern manufacturing  • Overview of precision machining services  • Ideal clients and regional versus national partnerships  • Handling varying production needs: short-run and long-run  • Consultation with engineers and print-to-part approach  • Integrating long-term employees with new talent  • Emphasis on communication and company culture  • Emotional intelligence in leadership and management  • Building relationships through community engagement  • Future aspirations and continued growth through networking

    27 min
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About

Join host Ryan Nelson as he explores the DNA of thriving manufacturing operations. As founder of Circle of 5, Ryan delves deep into how successful organizations build high-performing teams and create empowering cultures that drive excellence. Each episode features dynamic conversations with manufacturing leaders and cross-industry innovators, uncovering strategies for talent development, organizational growth, and future-focused leadership. Whether you're a manufacturing executive, team leader, or passionate about building strong workplace cultures, this podcast delivers practical insights to transform your organization. The Kansas City Chapter of NTMA and Circle of 5 present this exclusive series starting January 2025. Subscribe now to learn how today's visionaries are reshaping the future of manufacturing and organizational excellence.

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