435: Josh Smith & Bayard Winthrop—Shut Up and Make It!
May 6, 2025
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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.
The episode highlights the urgent need for America to revive domestic manufacturing to address economic vulnerabilities and supply chain challenges.
A significant skills gap in America threatens national security, with millions of open jobs in manufacturing requiring trained labor and vocational education.
The discussion emphasizes the benefits of prioritizing quality in American-made products, fostering community growth and job stability through superior craftsmanship.
Deep dives
Encouraging American Manufacturing
The episode emphasizes the need for America to focus on domestic manufacturing as a solution to economic and supply chain issues. The hosts argue that there are many frustrations with the current state of production being overseas, with a sentiment that calls for simply shutting up and making things in America. They highlight the complications that come with this, including the impact of tariffs and the challenges of reviving manufacturing in the face of cheap foreign labor. Ultimately, the discussion underscores the potential for growth in American-made products to reinvigorate the economy.
Addressing the Skills Gap
A pressing concern presented is the skills gap in America, particularly in industries that require trained labor, such as shipbuilding and manufacturing. There are approximately 7.6 million open jobs that need filling, many of which do not require a four-year degree, yet there remains a shortage of skilled workers. The hosts discuss how this issue poses a threat to national security, especially as it relates to manufacturing critical equipment for defense. There is a significant opportunity for individuals to learn these in-demand skills and secure stable careers offering competitive pay.
The State of Supply Chains
The hosts delve into the complexities of current supply chains and how they are affected by geopolitical pressures and economic shifts. They note that while some companies are thriving by keeping their production local, many industry friends face challenges due to rising costs and tariffs on imported goods. The discussion also reflects on how companies that pivot to domestic manufacturing can avoid the tumult that comes with overseas dependencies. Overall, this aspect highlights the need for businesses to adapt to a changing landscape while ensuring stable supply chains.
The Impact of Tariffs on Industry
The podcast explores the implications of tariffs set by the government on goods produced overseas, sharing anecdotes from industries impacted by these changes. Higher tariffs can significantly increase the cost of goods, making it difficult for businesses that rely on imports to maintain viability. In stark contrast, companies like Montana Knife Company, which produce goods domestically, find themselves somewhat insulated from these economic disruptions. This situation raises questions about the sustainability of supporting tariffs if they compromise the financial viability of local competitors.
The Role of American Manufacturing in National Security
A compelling argument for the importance of American manufacturing as it relates to national security is presented in the episode. The hosts argue that the ability to produce critical goods domestically is paramount, especially in times of crisis or conflict. There is concern that heightened dependency on foreign manufacturing can leave the country vulnerable, particularly when it comes to essential items like military equipment and medical supplies. This perspective fosters a broader conversation on the significance of reigniting American production to safeguard national interests.
Championing Quality and Community Investments
The episode praises companies that choose to prioritize quality over cost, emphasizing that American-made products often come with superior craftsmanship and labor ethics. By focusing on quality, companies can create more stable jobs and contribute positively to their local economies. The host shares success stories of small manufacturers that have expanded due to the support of their communities and highlights how these businesses not only produce goods but also foster community growth. This interconnectedness illustrates the reciprocal benefits of investing in, and promoting, American manufacturing.
Amid the tariff wars, Mike sits down with two men whose businesses are NOT affected by foreign supply chains. Josh is a master bladesmith and founder of the Montana Knife Company, and Bayard is founder and CEO of American Giant. Both men are uniquely positioned to discuss the benefits and pitfalls of making products entirely in the United States.
