The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe 435: Josh Smith & Bayard Winthrop—Shut Up and Make It!
May 6, 2025
Join bladesmith Josh Smith, founder of the Montana Knife Company, and Bayard Winthrop, CEO of American Giant, as they delve into the importance of U.S. manufacturing. They discuss thriving in a turbulent economy, tackle the skills gap in trades, and highlight the community's role in supporting domestic products. Their insights on the ethical dilemmas of global trade versus American craftsmanship are eye-opening, emphasizing resilience and moral responsibility in business practices.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
U.S.-Made Products Thrive Amid Tariffs
- Companies relying on foreign supply chains panic during tariffs hikes and order halts.
- Montana Knife Company thrives because they manufacture entirely in the U.S., unaffected by tariffs.
Manufacturing as National Security
- American manufacturing capability counts as national security.
- Factories can pivot quickly to produce military or critical parts when needed.
Steel Industry’s Decline and Risks
- Crucible Steel, a major U.S. knife steel supplier, went bankrupt and was bought by a Swedish company.
- This raises concerns about relying on foreign steel for both quality and national security.