The Automotive Leaders Podcast Jan Griffiths

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter
Watch the full video on YouTube - click here
In this solo episode, Jan Griffiths reflects on the recent developments in the automotive industry and takes a moment to revisit a series of episodes dedicated to strike-related content, featuring key providers and experts offering insights on risk management, operational perspectives, collaborative agreements, and the legal aspects of the automotive landscape.
Transitioning to her experience at the MEMA conference, Jan shares her personal growth in aligning with her values and embodying authentic leadership. The highlight of the conference was an interaction with Stephen Covey. Jan also recaps her participation in the Reuters conference, where she introduced Marques McCammon, President of Karma Automotive. Impressed by Karma's mission-driven approach and authentic leadership, Jan expresses enthusiasm for the company's future in the luxury EV market.
As season four concludes, Jan sheds light on the evolution of Gravitas Detroit, providing details about the company's development and direction. Jan announces the upcoming website revision, the release of her book, and the podcast's sponsorship opportunities in 2024. Jan looks forward to returning for season five in December, continuing to promote authentic leadership in the automotive industry.
Themes discussed in this episode:
End of the UAW strikeInsights from key providers and expertsPersonal experiences and growthDiversity, Equity, and InclusionUpdates on the business End of seasonPlans and preparation for the future
Featured: Jan Griffiths
What she does: Jan is the founder and CEO of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.
Mentioned in this episode:
Podcast episode with Tor Hough and Sig Huber of ELM AnalyticsPodcast episode with Thomas Kowal, President of Seraph North AmericaPodcast episode with Kate Vitasek, Expert in collaborative negotiationsPodcast episode with Daniel Rustmann, Co-Chair of the Global Automotive Practice at Butzel LongSolo episode, “My Love Hate Relationship with Shawn Fain.”MEMA Conferencea...

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here
In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, host Jan Griffiths engages in a conversation with Daniel Rustmann, an industry expert with over 30 years of legal experience in supplier-related matters. They explore the unique challenges the automotive supply chain faces during and post-UAW strike.
Daniel, a co-chair of the global automotive practice at Butzel Long, provides valuable insights into the legal and contractual aspects influencing the ability to restart operations swiftly. He emphasizes that while contractual obligations often favor OEMs, a cooperative approach may be more effective in resolving disputes. The discussion also highlights the intricate interconnectivity within the automotive supply chain, emphasizing the importance of aligning terms and conditions to ensure a seamless flow of expectations.
The significance of proactive risk assessment and open communication within the supply chain is evident throughout the conversation. Maintaining healthy supplier relationships, keeping in touch with employees, and fostering positivity are key takeaways. This episode underscores that, while legal considerations are crucial, a collaborative approach, coupled with positive leadership, holds the key to overcoming challenges and transforming the automotive industry in the face of adversity.
Themes discussed in this episode:
UAW Strike and supply chain challengesSwift restart of operationsContractual and legal considerationsCommunication and collaborationRisk assessment and preparednessLeadership and positivityOpportunities for transformation
Featured Guest: Daniel Rustmann
What he does: Daniel Rustmann is the Co-Chair of the Global Automotive Practice at Butzel Long; he is highly respected in the automotive industry for his work in the supply base.
On leadership: “Every time we face a serious challenge, that also comes with a serious opportunity. And this is an opportunity for people to step up and show their leadership and show their poise, show their creativity, show their grit to be able to get through the situation like we always do like the industry always recovers.”
Mentioned in this episode:
UAW Strike: Preparing for a Successful Industry Restart, episode with Thomas Kowal, President of Seraph North AmericaMEMA - Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (formerly OESA)FMEA - Failure Modes and Effects Analysis
Episode Highlights:
[00:01:26] Legal Challenges and Swift Startup Post-UAW Strike: Explores the legal and operational hurdles in the automotive supply chain post-UAW strike, focusing on the need for swift startup and effective communication across tiers.
[00:07:41] Contractual Preparations for Supply Chain Recovery: Critical aspects of supplier contracts are discussed. Dan advises suppliers to...

Watch the full video on YouTube - click here
In this solo episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths addresses the ongoing UAW strike, focusing on the president of the UAW, Mr. Shawn Fain. Jan begins by acknowledging the positive aspects of Fain's leadership, including his early communication and his personal connection to build a strong sense of community among union members.
However, the tone of the episode shifts as Jan expresses her concerns about Fain's aggressive negotiation tactics. She criticizes what she sees as a return to old-school power plays and threats. Jan points out that the automotive industry is in a period of transformation, and Fain's tactics risk damaging the industry's future. Jan also cites industry experts Sandy Munro and John McElroy, who offer different perspectives on the situation. Furthermore, Jan underscores Bill Ford's collaborative approach and vision for the industry, opposing Fain's adversarial stance, and stresses the importance of all stakeholders uniting to steer the industry through transformation, expressing her frustration with Fain's "us vs. them" mentality.
In conclusion, Jan calls on Shawn Fain to reconsider his approach, urging him to prioritize the industry's long-term interests, engage in meaningful dialogue, and work towards a mutually beneficial resolution for all parties involved in the automotive industry.
Themes discussed in this episode:
UAW strike and leadershipNegotiation tacticsThe need for a more collaborative approachThe rhetorical use of emotionsPreparation for industry transformationReaching a mutually beneficial deal

Featured Guest: Jan Griffiths
What she does: Jan is the founder of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:
Episode with Kate Vitasek about collaborative negotiations.Sandy Munro’s YouTube videoBYD and VinFastMary Barra, CEO of General MotorsJohn McElroy’s YouTube video. "Share the Pain, Fain"Episode 100th of Automotive Leaders Podcast with John McElroy

p...

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter
Watch the full video on YouTube - click here
In this Automotive Leaders Podcast episode, host Jan Griffiths and Thomas Kowal, the president of Seraph North America, discuss the current state of the automotive supply base during the UAW strike. They begin the episode by exploring MEMA's statistics, shedding light on concerns about layoffs, financial viability, and restart times, emphasizing the importance of understanding the strike's impact on the supply base across various timeframes.
The conversation shifts to the importance of conserving cash, including labor reduction and inventory optimization. They also address the potential challenges that could arise when trying to restart production after supply chain disruptions. Stressing the significance of working on rapid ROI projects, finding ways to collaborate with consulting firms when financial constraints exist, and building relationships with OEMs.
Thomas shares practical advice on how to prepare for the production restart, including conducting startup FMEA, analyzing logistics, and improving communication with suppliers. He suggests creating a startup plan and involving the workforce to ensure a smooth transition when production resumes. The episode concludes with insights into evolving automotive dynamics, adaptability, and leadership's role in a positive workplace.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Impact of the ongoing UAW StrikeStrategies for cash conservationOutline of potential short-term to long-term scenarios for suppliersDecision-making for CEOsThe importance of proactive preparationRole of leadership during restartThe new normal of the auto industry

Featured Guest: Thomas Kowal
What he does: Thomas is the President of Seraph North America. His areas of expertise include operations, business development, project and team management.
On leadership: “I recommend the plant office people, when you start back up again, get out on that shop floor, be with the people, solve the problem for them, take this as an opportunity to rebuild the relationship with the workforce.”

Mentioned in this episode:
IHS Markit LTD / S&P GlobalPublished Document by MEMA OEE - Overall Equipment EffectivenessFMEA - Failure Mode and Effects Analysis

p...

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter
Watch the full video on YouTube - click here
The Vested Way eBooks
In this latest episode of the Automotive Leaders podcast, host Jan Griffiths engages in a compelling conversation with Kate Vitasek, a renowned expert in the realm of collaborative, win-win business agreements. The episode explores the pressing issue of labor strikes within the automotive industry, with a particular focus on the ongoing dispute between the UAW and OEMs. Jan and Kate challenge the conventional power-based negotiation strategies prevalent in the industry and advocate for a transformative shift towards collaborative negotiation methods.
Kate shares her well-established approach to crafting vested agreements that cultivate trust, transparency, and the alignment of interests between negotiating parties. Through real-world examples and success stories, the conversation highlights the immense potential for positive change within the automotive sector. It calls on industry leaders to break away from adversarial relationships, urging them to embrace a culture of collaboration. This shift not only holds the promise of driving innovation and cost savings but also ensures a win-win outcome for all stakeholders. This episode serves as a compelling call to action for the automotive industry, inspiring leaders to revamp their negotiation practices and forge healthier, long-term relationships.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Labor strikes in the automotive industryConventional power-based negotiationThe need for a transformative approachCollaborative negotiation principlesThe potential for positive changeSustainability and Responsibility
Featured Guest: Kate Visatek
What she does: An accomplished author and educator, Kate is a leading authority in strategic partnerships. She also heads research at the University of Tennessee and specializes in the Vested® business model. With experience at major corporations like P&G and Microsoft, Kate provides executive training and coaching, empowering organizations to excel in strategic collaborations and foster innovation.
On leadership: “Don't treat your suppliers or union employees as "us versus them", you're competing against other companies. So, beat the market with your suppliers, beat the market with your employees.”
Mentioned in this episode:
MEMA (Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association)Graduate and Executive Education ProgramJohn Nash, Nash EquilibriumVested: How P&G, McDonald's, and Microsoft are redefining winning in business relationships.a href="https://www.islandhealth.ca/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

Sign up for The Automotive Leaders Letter
In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, host Jan Griffiths addresses the ongoing UAW strike and its impact on the industry. She begins by acknowledging the chaos and media coverage surrounding the strike, with jabs being exchanged between OEMs, the UAW, and even politicians getting involved. Jan emphasizes that the strike's repercussions extend beyond just the OEMs and Tier Ones, affecting smaller businesses like hers that rely on the automotive industry for their livelihood. 
Jan outlines her plans for upcoming episodes, focusing on bringing in a turnaround company to offer insights on surviving the strike and preparing for the industry's restart. She also discusses the aggressive negotiation tactics prevalent in the industry and teases an upcoming interview with an expert in collaborative negotiations who will shed light on changing negotiation models. Additionally, Jan encourages listeners to explore another podcast she co-hosts, "Auto Supply Chain Prophets," which delves into supply chain topics within the automotive sector. She concludes by inviting listeners to share their favorite podcasts and reassures them that the automotive industry's resilience will see it through the challenges posed by the strike.
Themes discussed in this episode:
Impact of the UAW StrikeRepercussions Beyond OEMsSurvival StrategiesPreparation for Industry RestartNegotiation Tactics
Featured Guest: Jan Griffiths
What she does: Jan is the founder and CEO of Gravitas Detroit, an organization dedicated to cultivating authentic leadership in the automotive industry by providing courses, workshops, speaking events, and more. She is also the host of The Automotive Leaders Podcast.

Mentioned in this episode:
Auto Supply Chain ProphetsPreparing for Post-Strike Success in Automotive Supply Chains with Bill HurlesQAD and QuistemAutolineMorning JoeSmartlessTen Percent Happier

Episode Highlights:
[00:00:57] UAW Strike Impact: Jan discusses the ongoing UAW strike and its extensive impact on the automotive industry, shedding light on how it reaches beyond OEMs to affect Tier Ones and smaller businesses, offering a more comprehensive view of the crisis.
[00:02:28] Survival Strategies: Jan outlines plans to...