Leadership in Manufacturing

In this episode, Bruce Kellar, Senior Vice President of Sales at Sager Electronics, shares what four decades in the electronics industry have taught him about leadership, belief, and building trust. From the early days of GPS and Bluetooth to today’s AI-driven landscape, Bruce has seen the industry evolve — and led teams through every wave of change.Hosted by Sannah Vinding on the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, this conversation dives into how belief becomes the bridge between strategy and success, why communication and listening are core to earning trust, and how integrity and adaptability define strong leadership.Bruce also shares personal stories from his early sales career, including one unforgettable lesson in accountability that shaped how he leads today.Whether you’re leading a sales team, managing through disruption, or developing your leadership style, this episode delivers practical insights for staying grounded and guiding others through change.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How belief connects strategy, trust, and performance• Why clear communication and listening build stronger teams• How to lead with integrity and adaptability through disruption• What it means to motivate people who truly believe in the mission• Why mentorship and consistency create long-term success⸻This Podcast episode is sponsored by Sager Electronics🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of manufacturing, distribution, and electronics.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders one conversation at a time. Each episode delivers actionable strategies to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in today’s dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode, Amy Anahory, CEO of MicroPower Direct, shares her journey of stepping into her family’s power electronics business and leading it through industry disruption, growth, and change. With a background in political science and marketing, Amy proves that leadership is not about having all the technical answers, it is about trust, flexibility, and curiosity.Hosted by Sannah Vinding on the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, this conversation explores what it takes to modernize a family business, build resilience in lean teams, and lead with honesty even during uncertainty.Amy opens up about how motherhood shaped her leadership style, the lessons she learned from her father, and why admitting what you don’t know is actually a strength. She also shares how pushing herself out of her comfort zone, from networking to industry events, has made her a stronger and more confident leader.Whether you are leading a family business, running lean teams, or looking to grow as a leader in manufacturing, this episode is full of practical insights you can apply right away.In this episode, you’ll learn:How family business leadership teaches resilience and adaptabilityWhy trust and flexibility are essential for lean teamsWhat makes admitting “I don’t know” a sign of strong leadershipHow curiosity drives growth and innovationWhy stepping outside your comfort zone is key to becoming a better leader⸻🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of manufacturing and engineering.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders one conversation at a time. Each episode delivers actionable strategies to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in today’s dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode, Andreas Brockmann, Apprenticeship Coordinator at UNITED GRINDING North America, shares how a four-year apprenticeship program is preparing the next generation of manufacturing leaders. With more than 30 years of experience in engineering and training, Andreas explains why apprenticeships are more than just technical education, they are long-term investments in people, culture, and leadership.Hosted by Sannah Vinding on the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, this conversation explores how mentorship, culture shifts, and workforce development are shaping the future of manufacturing.Andreas takes us inside the process of building apprenticeship programs across the U.S., the lessons he’s learned about gaining management buy-in, and why mentorship is the most powerful form of leadership. He also shares a moving story of a former apprentice who reached out 20 years later, proving the lifelong impact of guidance and mentorship.Whether you are leading teams, developing workforce programs, or thinking about the future of your company, this episode offers practical insights you can put into action right away.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why apprenticeships are a long-term investment, not a cost• How to start a program without overcomplicating it• The role mentorship plays in developing leaders at every level• How apprenticeships bring culture shifts and fresh energy to teams• Why listening and curiosity are essential leadership skills⸻🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of manufacturing and engineering.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders one conversation at a time. Each episode delivers actionable strategies to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in today’s dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode, Charles Johnson, Lead Trainer and Technical Engineer at Lynxspring, Inc. and host of the It’s a Controls Problem podcast, shares how one leadership mistake reshaped his entire approach to leading technical teams.Hosted by Sannah Vinding on the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, this conversation explores how active listening and humility transform leadership in manufacturing, building automation, and controls.Charles takes us through his journey from engineer to trainer, revealing why listening — not just hearing — is the skill that builds trust, drives collaboration, and accelerates growth. He explains how he fosters a learning culture for technicians and integrators, why checking your ego at the door is critical, and the daily habits that keep him sharp in a fast-changing technical environment.From leading mixed-skill engineering teams to bridging the gap between technical detail and clear communication, Charles offers a candid look at what real leadership looks like in practice. He also shares insights on teaching, mentorship, and why humility is the foundation of strong collaboration.Whether you are managing engineers, guiding cross-functional projects, or stepping into your first leadership role, this episode delivers practical leadership lessons you can apply right away.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How active listening can reshape your leadership style• Why humility and curiosity are critical for collaboration• What it takes to build a learning culture across mixed-skill teams• How to balance technical expertise with effective communication• The daily habits that keep leaders sharp in fast-changing industries⸻🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of manufacturing and engineering.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders — one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics, distribution, and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient strategies to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in today’s dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this bonus episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding reconnects with Jacob Baldwin, Director of Corporate Marketing at UNITED GRINDING North America, to dive deeper into the power of authentic storytelling in manufacturing marketing.Jacob shares why marketing in manufacturing is uniquely challenging - from long sales cycles and complex buying committees to the need for tailored messaging for multiple decision-makers. He explains how UNITED GRINDING’s Unstoppable Grit campaign turned real customer experiences into compelling stories that build trust, create emotional connections, and deliver value for both the brand and the customer.You’ll hear how authentic, customer-driven storytelling can become a competitive advantage in even the most technical B2B environments, and how these stories can be repurposed into a powerful, evergreen marketing asset.In this episode, you’ll learn:• What makes marketing in manufacturing different from other industries• How authentic storytelling builds stronger emotional connections than any sales pitch• Why the Unstoppable Grit campaign elevated customer voices to a national stage• How customer stories benefit both the brand and the client• Ways to turn real customer experiences into lasting marketing assetsWhether you’re in B2B marketing, leading a manufacturing team, or simply looking for ways to make your brand more human, this episode offers actionable ideas you can put into practice right away.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in a competitive sector.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this special episode, host Sannah Vinding revisits a powerful conversation from Episode 100 — where six respected voices in the manufacturing and distribution space answer one deceptively simple question: How do you know if you’re a good leader?Guests featured in this episode include:Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsTobi Cornell: President - Kruvand Associates, Manufacturer's Rep, Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)Maryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager ElectronicsShane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKeyRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic SalesTogether, they offer honest, experience-driven reflections on what leadership truly looks like.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why great leadership is often measured by the success and growth of your teamHow to foster a culture where people feel safe to fail, learn, and leadThe subtle, non-verbal signs that reveal whether you’re leading effectivelyHow trust, authenticity, and listening are core leadership practicesWhy fear-based leadership damages creativity and motivation Practical, real-world strategies for building strong, empowered teamsListen now and explore what real leadership means in the manufacturing industry.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🌐 Learn morehttps://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Jacob Baldwin, Director of Corporate Marketing at UNITED GRINDING North America, to explore how marketing becomes a strategic growth engine in the manufacturing industry.Jacob shares how modern marketing teams can drive real business outcomes by aligning closely with sales, engineering, and operations. He explains why treating marketing as a service-oriented partner, rather than a support function, is key to unlocking value in complex B2B environments.From executing large-scale events to crafting customer-centered campaigns like Unstoppable Grit, Jacob offers a grounded look at what works—and what to rethink—in industrial marketing. He also opens up about learning through feedback, navigating internal communication, and staying intentional in the face of digital transformation and evolving tech.Whether you’re leading a marketing team or building cross-functional partnerships, this episode offers actionable insights to lead with clarity, strategy, and purpose.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why strategic alignment makes marketing a true business partner• How to lead cross-functional projects with empathy and structure• What makes B2B storytelling work in technical industries• How to create better communication through repetition and context• Why feedback loops and reflection improve future executionWhether you’re new to industrial marketing or looking to elevate your leadership style, this episode delivers practical, real-world advice from inside one of the industry’s leading organizations.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in a dynamic sector.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 Learn more about the show:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Ben Hamilton, Marketing Manager at NorComp, to explore what it really means to lead without a title and how emotional intelligence, listening, and collaboration are shaping modern leadership in the manufacturing sector.Ben shares how his leadership style has evolved over the past five years, from working independently to collaborating across sister companies within the EDAC Group. He explains how building trust through transparent communication, practicing active listening, and embracing shared ownership can drive meaningful change regardless of your role or job title.From managing cross-functional collaboration to improving the customer experience through curiosity and clarity, Ben offers honest, practical insights for professionals looking to lead with purpose, empathy, and consistency.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why leadership is a skill you build, not a title you’re given• How active listening strengthens teams and relationships• What emotional intelligence looks like in fast-moving environments• How cross-company collaboration fuels innovation and growth• Why optimism, ownership, and small acts of support make a big impactWhether you’re early in your career or a seasoned pro, this episode offers relatable takeaways for leading with influence and intention in the manufacturing and electronics space.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.At Leadership in Manufacturing, we are shaping the next generation of leaders one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted industry voices and offers relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 For more information about the show, visit:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Heather Fulara, Vice President of Interconnect, Electromechanical & Industrial Automation at DigiKey, to explore how leaders can turn industry trends into strategic action—and why trust, transparency, and curiosity are essential to making it work.Heather shares how her leadership has evolved through years of supplier collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and leading high-performing teams across a global organization. She explains how listening deeply, acting with intention, and staying open to feedback have shaped how she leads in today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment.From making data more actionable to encouraging innovation through AI, Heather offers thoughtful insights on what it takes to align teams, build strong partnerships, and stay ahead of the curve.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to translate trends into supplier-focused strategiesWhy consistency and follow-through build lasting trustHow to lead with data without getting overwhelmedThe role of curiosity in driving innovation and adaptabilityWhy feedback is one of a leader’s most powerful toolsWhether you work directly with suppliers, lead a growing team, or want to sharpen your leadership in a changing industry, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you lead with clarity and confidence.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 For more information about the show, visit:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/This episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing podcast is created in partnership with oemsecrets.com.If you need top-quality electronic components, oemsecrets.com is a comparison engine giving buyers and engineers access to over 50 million parts from 140+ authorized distributors. It’s fast and easy. Upload your Bill of Materials for instant price and availability comparisons – check it out today!

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Joshua Nix, Director of Supply Management at Mouser Electronics, to explore how leadership evolves when you move from managing tasks to empowering people—and why staying grounded is key at every stage.Joshua shares his journey from manager to director and the mindset shifts that came with it. He explains how asking better questions, listening with intention, and trusting your team can transform how you lead and how your team performs.From building habits of continuous learning to giving team members real ownership, Joshua offers honest insights for leaders who want to grow without losing what makes them effective.In this episode, you’ll learn:• How leadership changes as you move into more strategic roles• Why asking the right questions leads to better decisions• How to empower team members based on their strengths• The importance of consistent learning in a fast-paced industry• Why great leaders listen more than they speakWhether you’re stepping into a leadership role or refining your style, this episode offers practical takeaways to help you lead with purpose and confidence in the electronics and distribution space.🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!🌐 For more information about the show, visit:https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/This episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing podcast is created in partnership with oemsecrets.com.If you need top-quality electronic components, oemsecrets.com is a comparison engine giving buyers and engineers access to over 50 million parts from 140+ authorized distributors. It’s fast and easy. Upload your Bill of Materials for instant price and availability comparisons – check it out today!