The Manufacturers Network

In this insightful episode, Lisa Ryan welcomes Dr. Joshua Tarbutton—Chairman and Chief Innovator at Bravo Team, an engineering firm specializing in custom automation solutions for manufacturers facing tough challenges. The conversation tracks Joshua Tarbutton's journey from childhood curiosity with Light Brights and exposure to structural engineering via his father, through military service, academia, and ultimately into entrepreneurship and innovation in manufacturing.The episode tackles the urgent push for automation in manufacturing, driven by rising costs, supply chain instability, and workforce challenges. Joshua Tarbutton reflects on how fear and control can impede leadership decisions, and points out the importance of moving beyond blame and understanding the deeper social and economic forces at play.A major theme is reskilling the workforce in response to automation. Joshua Tarbutton highlights the pressures at the lower end of the labor pool—jobs that are tough to automate and have high turnover—and notes the necessity of upskilling those in roles most likely to be displaced by technology. He emphasizes a need for earlier cultivation of manufacturing interest and skills in young people, advocating for more proactive outreach beyond "manufacturing month."For companies lacking robust R&D departments, Joshua Tarbutton suggests an experiment-focused, risk-decreasing approach—start small, test hypotheses, and find the right experts to guide implementation. He cautions leaders to seek out genuinely knowledgeable advisors rather than relying solely on titles.AI and large language models are discussed as powerful tools for manufacturers at every scale. Joshua Tarbutton sees AI as both a knowledge accelerator and a supportive "smart friend," especially for leadership looking to execute better and maintain margins.Both speakers explore workplace culture, emphasizing that even in an automated world, people and teams remain the heart of innovation. Creating environments where it's safe to fail and learn, and supporting open, honest communication across teams and departments, are crucial for successful transformation.Joshua Tarbutton closes by outlining Bravo Team's approach: solving tough, high-value problems for clients through clever engineering and collaboration, supporting innovation from machine design to full product development.Actionable Takeaways for ListenersAutomate Strategically: Don't rush into automation out of fear—carefully assess timing, ROI, and reskill your workforce to maximize benefit and minimize disruption.Invest in People Early: Start cultivating interest and skill in manufacturing at a young age. Partner with schools and programs for real hands-on exposure beyond industry holidays.De-Risk Innovation: Before committing big budgets, run small, targeted experiments to prove out new ideas. This minimizes financial and technical risk in automation and R&D projects.Find the Right Experts: The right solutions depend on the right people, not just credentials. Seek out advisors and partners who prioritize transparency and a proven track record.Leverage AI for Competitive Edge: Use AI and language models to access knowledge, troubleshoot challenges, and support leadership decisions. Treat AI as a resource for innovation and execution.Prioritize Workplace Culture: Foster psychological safety for your teams to test, fail, and learn. Support open communication between financial and technical roles to keep projects aligned and teams motivated.Ownership and Honest Conversations: Break down silos and create space for honest dialogue around budgets, strategy, and goals—even if this means rethinking how information is shared across your organization.Maintain Clarity in Project Management: Set clear definitions of success and checkpoints for teams. Celebrate progress and create regular "vistas" so employees feel recognized and motivated.Connect with Bravo TeamWant to learn more or see if Bravo Team can help your business tackle tough challenges? Visit Bravo Team Tech for videos and case studies, check out Joshua Tarbutton's personal website, or explore innovations like BravoWalk, the team's engineered dog collar solution.For more episodes, insights, and actionable strategies, stay tuned to the Manufacturers Network Podcast with Lisa Ryan.

Manufacturing’s next big leap won’t come from machines, it’ll come from mindset. In this episode of The Manufacturers Network, Lisa Ryan talks with Vince Sassano, President of Strategic Performance Company and creator of Proto Track, about how manufacturers can build trust in data, connect generations, and drive meaningful change on the shop floor.With more than 30 years at the intersection of technology and operations, Vince explains how AI, automation, and analytics only work when people do. He shares what happens when leaders stop treating digital transformation like a software install and start treating it like a human one.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why the real barrier to AI adoption isn’t tech—it’s fear of losing control.How generational mindsets shape how fast teams adapt to change.What it takes to move from a 10% gain in productivity to 30%—and why that leap starts with culture.The difference between data and trusted data, and why both matter.How to connect culture to hard metrics like throughput, retention, and profit.Why turnover is now a more critical KPI than margin.Action Steps for Manufacturers:Lead with people. Culture drives capability; tech follows.Clarify KPIs. Make sure everyone—from operators to execs—knows what success looks like.Build trust in data. Transparency beats dashboards.Invest in cross-training. Multi-skilled teams adapt faster than machines.Reframe “productivity.” Faster isn’t better unless it’s smarter.Listen now to learn why the future of manufacturing belongs to leaders who combine data discipline with human courage.

In this episode, Lisa Ryan sits down with Moustafa Moursy, founder of Push Analytics and a top-tier HubSpot agency partner, to break down what’s really holding manufacturers back from operational excellence, and how to fix it. Drawing on his hands-on manufacturing background and expertise in sales and project management, Moustafa Moursy reveals the most common process traps, why data-driven operations matter, and how aligning tools with culture can give your business a serious edge.Key Topics Covered:- Why manufacturing companies must treat their business processes like their product lines—with clear inputs, outputs, and controls- The real culprit behind ineffective sales processes (hint: it’s not just paperwork or CRM overload!)- How to strike the perfect balance between over-complicating and under-complicating systems, especially for sales teams- The importance of stakeholder involvement when designing or revamping business processes- Ways successful manufacturers build robust supply and value chain relationships- The most overlooked opportunities for digital transformation in manufacturing- How manufacturers routinely leave money on the table—and simple strategies to capture it- Why culture, not just technology, is crucial for real transformationActionable Takeaways:1. Map Your Processes First: Don’t jump straight to adopting new tools; start by zooming out and mapping your current workflows, obstacles, and business goals.2. Engage Key Stakeholders: Involve the people actually using the system, especially sales reps, in the design and refinement of your processes to drive buy-in and better results.3. Find Your CRM Sweet Spot: Focus on the CRM features that directly support your goals—instead of chasing 100% utilization, identify the tools your team really needs.4. Follow Up Relentlessly: Make quoting and order follow-up a non-negotiable habit; most revenue leaks happen because opportunities fall between the cracks.5. Build Process-Centric Culture: Remember, the best technology won’t help unless your team is trained, supported, and committed to continuous process improvement.6. Connect Sales and Production: Create seamless handoffs between sales and post-sales/project management to prevent friction and ensure great customer experiences.Resources & Contact:To learn more or connect with Moustafa MoursyResources & Contact:To learn more or connect with Moustafa Moursy and the Push Analytics team, email hello@pushanalytics.com and mention The Manufacturers Network Podcast.Tune in and discover how process alignment and smart technology adoption can drive your manufacturing business forward—one actionable step at a time!and the Push Analytics team, email hello@pushanalytics.com and mention The Manufacturers Network Podcast.

On this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Joe Bockerstette, the leader behind Business Enterprise Mapping, a Phoenix-based consultancy renowned for helping manufacturers rapidly document workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement impactful change. With four decades of experience in operations and supply chain management—including senior roles at PwC and private equity—Joe shares the proven strategies that separate good manufacturers from great ones.Key Topics Covered:- What Sets High-Performers Apart: Discover why synchronizing supply to demand and aligning internal processes with customer needs is the foundation of manufacturing excellence.- Red Clouds vs. Quick Wins: Learn how to identify operational bottlenecks (“red clouds”), categorize them for action, and prioritize quick wins that can be solved in less than 90 days.- Process Mapping for Impact: Understand how process mapping can directly enhance customer value and streamline departmental workflows through a unique, education-driven methodology.- Getting Buy-In From Teams: Strategies for engaging even the most change-resistant employees and fostering effective workshops where frontline teams contribute real solutions.- Mistakes to Avoid in Lean Initiatives: Why managers often miss the mark by zooming in on details without looking at the whole system, and how to refocus efforts for greater impact.- Tech’s True Role: Insights into how automation and data tools help—and when they complicate—workflow improvement.- One Metric Manufacturers Ignore: Why measuring the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness (“ACT”) of key deliverables can drive results where it matters most.- Balancing Efficiency With Culture: Practical advice on maintaining a strong company culture while driving performance and staying compliant.Actionable Takeaways:1. Map the Process, Not Just the Issues: Start improvement efforts by mapping your workflows holistically. Focus on how each process delivers value to the customer and supports upstream/downstream requirements.2. Prioritize Quick Wins to Build Momentum: Identify red clouds that can be solved without senior-level approval or major budget and tackle these first to show rapid progress.3. Involve Frontline Teams Early: Use workshops and collaborative sessions, not just interviews, to engage your staff and source powerful insights and buy-in from day one.4. Don’t Automate Before Simplifying: Clean up your foundational processes before introducing new tech—automation only amplifies existing problems when processes aren’t robust.5. Measure What Matters: Use the ACT metric (Accurate, Complete, Timely) to assess non-product deliverables like specs and handoffs—they’re critical to smooth operations and customer satisfaction.6. Balance Efficiency and Responsibility: Pursue both operational excellence and a supportive culture; treat people well, ensure compliance, and leverage your assets wisely.Connect with Joe Bockerstette:- Website: businessmapping.com- Email: joe@businessmapping.com- LinkedIn: Joe BockerstetteReady to drive performance and customer value in your manufacturing operation? Tune in and get the tools and strategies to make your next workflow transformation a success!

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan sits down with Chris Hallberg, a veteran entrepreneur, business coach, and the original "Business Sergeant." As one of Colorado's first EOS Implementers, Chris has helped more than a hundred companies transform chaotic teams into aligned, accountable, and energized organizations. Together, they unpack the secrets behind building a powerful culture and resilient performance—whether on the shop floor or in the boardroom.What You’ll Learn:- What EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) is and how to use it as the “operating system for your business”- How to identify when leadership, not the market, is your biggest roadblock- The “Business Sergeant” approach—combining military discipline and team accountability with entrepreneurial creativity- Tactical steps to boost engagement and select unicorn team members by design, not accident- Why selection and intentional hiring are more important than trying to “fix” team members- Building processes that reduce daily interruptions and make onboarding (and execution) seamless- How to leverage AI as a low-risk, high-return way to enhance your team’s effectiveness- Tips for doubling down on accountability—celebrating top performers and addressing underperformance head-onActionable Takeaways:1. Clarify and Cascade Your Vision: Create a simple, two-page business plan (like the Vision Traction Organizer) that answers: Who are we? Why do we exist? What makes us unique? Use it to align every employee or help them self-select out if they don’t fit.2. Get the Right People in the Right Seats: Focus your recruitment on people who *want* the job, *get* the job, and have the *capacity* to do the job. Use intentional selection processes (including pre-interview personality assessments) to build an all-in team.3.Make Engagem ent Measurable: Implement clear performance metrics and create an environment where great contributors are recognized—and those who aren’t, are held accountable.4. Borrow Military-Level Discipline, Not Rigidity: Foster personal responsibility and a team-first mindset, but keep space for initiative, creativity, and individual strengths.5. Operationalize Processes with AI: Use AI-powered platforms to centralize SOPs, policies, and team knowledge so everyone gets instant, accurate answers—freeing leaders from repetitive interruptions.6. Commit to Continuous Improvement: Set quarterly rocks (major priorities) and get everyone in a “90-day world” rhythm to maintain focus and momentum.7. Invest in Unicorn Retention: Put real effort—and budget—towards keeping and rewarding your all-star performers. Retention happens in the same place accountability lives.Connect with Chris Hallberg: - Email: chris@goexpand.com - Online Course & Resources: Business Sergeant - LinkedIn: (Make sure to connect there as mentioned in the episode!)Favorite Quote: “Great doesn’t happen on accident. Be intentional, commit to finding, onboarding, and developing the best humans—and create a system where greatness can thrive.” — Chris Hallberg

Building a Legacy of Quality and Creativity in Manufacturing with David SochaIn this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan chats with David Socha, CEO of Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company. David shares how he built a family business focused on creativity, ethics, and global adaptability in the world of plush toys. Whether you're a manufacturing leader, entrepreneur, or curious about business culture, this episode is full of practical advice and actionable steps.Key Takeaways You Can Use:1. Consistency Is Key - David credits showing up every day and looking beyond daily setbacks as crucial to long-term success in manufacturing. If you’re managing a team or a business, build routines that keep you and your employees focused on the bigger picture, not just the day-to-day challenges.2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity - For manufacturers in crowded markets, David’s advice is simple: Make great, unique products. Don’t just copy trends; put effort into improving your product and set higher standards. Customers and employees notice the difference.3. Legacy Through Family Culture - David involves his family at every stage of the business—from warehouse work to creative brainstorming. He believes exposing children to the business early increases the chance of generational succession. For other family-owned companies: get your kids involved in small, meaningful ways.4. Ethical Manufacturing Matters - David’s company visits every manufacturing site, builds long-term relationships, and chooses partners who share their values. If you outsource, audit your suppliers and don’t compromise on ethics for lower costs.5. Global Adaptability - Trends in toys (and other products) now travel fast worldwide. Manufacturers must track global influences and adapt quickly. David’s team keeps a close watch on rising trends from places like Asia and pivots accordingly.6. Employee Engagement and Purpose - Today’s workforce wants to be part of something meaningful—they’re not interested in making throwaway goods. If you want to attract and retain talent, communicate your business’s larger purpose and invest in product improvements that employees can be proud of.7. Resilience in the Face of Challenges - From supply chain disruptions to market shifts, David explains how deep, long-term partnerships with suppliers help weather storms. Invest time in building trusted relationships with your vendors and partners—find allies who share your long-term vision.Action Steps for Listeners:- Audit your supplier relationships and visit their facilities where possible.- Review your product line—where can you raise the standard or add unique value?- Bring team members or family into business brainstorming sessions; fresh perspectives spark innovation.- Develop a “bigger purpose” message for your employees to help foster pride and retention.- Track rising trends, especially from international markets, and stay agile in your planning.Connect with David Socha:- Email: david@plush.com- LinkedIn: Search “David Socha Toy Company”- Website: https://plush.comListen, learn, and start building a legacy of quality and ethics in your manufacturing business.

Quick question, when's the last time your team truly celebrated a win? Not the "pizza in the breakroom" celebration. I mean real, meaningful recognition that made people feel proud and inspired them to keep going.Here's the truth: celebrating wins isn't just nice-to-have, it's fuel for your culture. When you do it right, your applause doesn't just pat people on the back. It keeps them engaged, loyal, and striving for excellence.------------------This episode is brought to you byGrategy, where we help manufacturing leaders create cultures people want to work in and nobody wants to leave. Through the Six Gears of Grategy®, we give leaders practical tools to strengthen their teams and drive results, from onboarding to recognition strategies that actually stick. Learn more at LisaRyanSpeaks.com.---------------------We celebrate the big wins, major milestones, huge contracts, and completed projects. And we definitely talk about problems when things go wrong. But what about the middle ground? The day-to-day excellence when people are quietly doing great work? That usually goes unnoticed.Here's what we're missing: countless moments worth celebrating. Catching a problem before it becomes a crisis. Finding a better way to do something. Consistently hitting deadlines. These small victories deserve recognition too.When you celebrate these moments, you're not just making someone feel good. You're reinforcing the behaviors you want to see more of. You're connecting employees back to the mission and reminding them why their work matters. That's what fuels pride, loyalty, and ongoing engagement.Busting the Myths:Myth #1:Recognition means big, formal programsTruth: Awards dinners and plaques have their place, but if that's the only time people hear"thank you," you're missing the most powerful driver of engagement: recognition in the moment.The best applause happens organically. When someone calls out a coworker during a shiftmeeting for jumping in to help. When a team lead thanks an operator right on the line for catching an error. These moments are specific, sincere, and tied directly to behaviors you want to see again.And recognition doesn't have to come from leadership alone. Peer-to-peer recognition is often more powerful because it comes from people who work alongside you every day and know exactly what it takes to do the job well.Myth #2: If people are doing their job, they don't need applauseTruth: There's a huge difference between doing your job and doing it well. If leaders only speak up when something goes wrong, employees start feeling like their best efforts don't matter.Recognition isn't coddling, it's reinforcing right behaviors, building morale, and keeping people motivated to give their best. And here's the kicker: it doesn't matter what generation someone belongs to. Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z, everyone wants to feel valued for their work.Four Strategies That Work Strategy 1: Be Specific, Not GenericA quick "good job" is fine, but it's vague. Instead, call out exactly what the person did and why it mattered. "You caught that defect before it left the plant, which saved us from a costly recall." Now they know their actions had real impact.Quick Action: In your next conversation, name the specific behavior and the result it created.Strategy 2: Make It TimelyRecognition loses its punch when it comes weeks later. I remember a colleague who won a trip to Hawaii. Her manager took three weeks to congratulate her. After she went on the trip, she left the company.Quick Action: Recognize someone within 24 hours of their achievement. Even a quick hallway conversation matters when the timing is right.Strategy 3: Celebrate Small Wins DailyNot every victory has to be monumental. Often, it's the everyday wins that keep teams motivated, hitting daily production goals, solving stubborn maintenance problems, and finding safer ways to complete processes.I worked with one company that created a simple "Win Wall" in their breakroom. Anytime someone accomplished something, they wrote it on a sticky note. Some were huge client wins. Others were as simple as "We finally fixed the forklift charger!" That wall became a daily reminder of progress and teamwork.Quick Action: End your next shift meeting by sharing one "win of the day" and inviting others to share theirs.Strategy 4: Make It InclusiveRecognition shouldn't only go to the loudest, most visible employees. Your most valuable contributions often come from people working quietly in the background, keeping things running smoothly.Track your recognition. Keep a simple list of employees' names and mark each time you acknowledge someone. You'll spot patterns and realize there are people you haven't recognized in weeks or months.Quick Action: Create a recognition log and use it for 30 days. Watch how your awareness of everyone's contributions increases.Recognition isn't just about making people feel good, though it does that. It's about creating a culture where excellence becomes the norm, where people feel seen and valued, and where your best performers want to stay and grow.When you make recognition a daily habit, something remarkable happens. Your team doesn't just work harder; they work with purpose. They don't just show up; they show up engaged. And they don't just stay because they have to, they stay because they want to be part of something bigger.That's the kind of culture that doesn't just survive in today's competitive market; it thrives. This show is for you, so tell me your biggest workforce challenge. Message me on LinkedIn or email me at Lisa@Grategy.com, and I may feature your question in a future episode.Thanks for joining me for this episode of The Manufacturers Network. I'm Lisa Ryan, reminding you that culture is not a perk; it's your strongest competitive advantage. See you next time.  

Welcome to The Manufacturers Network Podcast! In this insightful episode, Lisa Ryan sits down with Jason Rolland, Senior Vice President of Materials at Carbon Inc., to explore the rapidly evolving impact of additive manufacturing on how products are designed, produced, and scaled. Jason offers an insider’s view informed by years of expertise in polymer chemistry, entrepreneurship, and industrial material science.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How Additive Manufacturing EvolvedJason Rolland traces how 3D printing moved beyond prototyping, now enabling the production of finished parts with improved speed, precision, and material properties.-Key Innovations Driving Production ViabilityDiscover the breakthroughs in materials science, hardware speed, and software that allow for faster print times, better mechanical properties, and digital-driven production processes.- Breaking Down the Technology Not sure about acronyms like FDM or SLA? Jason explains the main categories of 3D printing in clear, simple language and describes their pros and cons.- Where Additive Manufacturing Makes the Biggest ImpactFrom footwear and sports equipment to medical devices and dental models, Jason shares real-world examples where 3D printing offers a competitive edge—especially for customized parts and foam replacements.- Barriers to Adoption & How to Overcome ThemFind out why manufacturers hesitate to adopt new technologies, and how issues of cost, awareness, and application fit can be addressed.- Evaluating If Additive Manufacturing Is Right for Your Business Get practical advice on the types of products best suited for 3D printing and the factors manufacturers should consider before making the transition.- Sustainability and Flexibility Benefits Learn how additive manufacturing supports supply chain resilience, reshoring, reduction in carbon footprint, and new approaches for cleaning, recycling, and using bio-based materials.- Getting Started Without Overinvesting Jason outlines Carbon’s partnership model, emphasizing collaboration over upfront equipment sales so manufacturers can test applications risk-free.Tangible Takeaways1. Focus on Product Application: Evaluate whether additive manufacturing will improve your product’s performance or unlock new design possibilities—don’t just jump in for the technology’s sake.2. Consider Customization and Complexity: Additive manufacturing thrives in producing complex, customized, or low-volume parts—especially when traditional tooling is cost-prohibitive or slow to adapt.3. Factor in Speed, Cost, and Flexibility: Digital production allows rapid switching between product types, making it ideal for nimble, local, and scalable manufacturing operations.4. Think Sustainability: Local production and material efficiency can lower the carbon footprint. Explore innovations in part cleaning and bio-based resins for further environmental benefits.5. Start with Collaboration: Instead of investing heavily upfront, partner with experienced additive manufacturers like Carbon to test the fit for your specific application.Ready to explore additive manufacturing for your business?** Reach out through Carbon’s website contact form to start a conversation with Jason and his team.---Tune in next time on The Manufacturers Network Podcast for more insights, strategies, and manufacturing success stories!

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan talks with Dag Calafell, a 25-year technology veteran helping global manufacturers modernize through Microsoft solutions. Dag shares how his early days as a developer at Parker Hannifin led him to his current role at MCA Connect, where he works with manufacturers to turn digital transformation into practical results.They dig into where AI and automation actually move the needle in manufacturing, the hesitation many leaders still feel about new technology, and how companies can connect plant-floor data with back-office systems. Dag and Lisa explore everything from AI-powered cost tracking and maintenance insights to how internal hackathons can fuel innovation and upskill teams.Key Takeaways:A strong data foundation is critical for any AI or automation success.AI and automation can ease workforce shortages and improve agility.How manufacturers are using AI for production costing, defect detection, and predictive maintenance.Treating AI initiatives like continuous improvement projects rather than one-time fixes.The power of cross-functional collaboration and shared learning in tech adoption.Why ROI timing matters more than having the newest technology.Memorable Moment: “AI doesn’t have to replace people, it can make the work we already do smarter. The key is treating it like continuous improvement, not a one-time project.” — Dag CalafellConnect with Dag Calafell: MCAConnect.comConnect with Lisa Ryan: LisaRyanSpeaks.com👉 LinkedIn: Lisa Ryan, CSP

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/asklisaryanHere's something I know to be true: Employees don't just want to work for a Paycheck — they want to work for a purpose. They want to be part of something bigger than themselves.And here's the good news: manufacturing companies are uniquely positioned to deliver exactly that. When you give back — to your employees, your community, and causes that align with your values — you're not just doing good in the world. You're building loyalty, pride, and a culture people fight to stay in.Today, we're talking about Acts of Service That Build Loyalty — how purpose-driven companies create stronger teams by making the world a better place.________________________________________This episode is brought to you by Grategy — where we help manufacturing leaders create cultures people want to work in and nobody wants to leave. Through the Six Gears of Grategy®, we give leaders practical tools to strengthen their teams and drive results — from onboarding to leadership development to purpose-driven culture strategies that inspire loyalty. Learn more at LisaRyanSpeaks.com.________________________________________Why This Matters More Than EverYears ago, "giving back" was an afterthought; something you did with leftover time and budget. But today's workforce has fundamentally different expectations. They want to work for organizations that stand for something beyond profit margins.I see this passion at every association meeting I keynote at. The event locations are full of people who are passionate about things that most people totally take for granted. They are also deeply committed to solving problems most of the world doesn't even know exist: technical challenges, industry innovations, breakthrough solutions. They're not just making products; they're making things that matter.The pandemic proved this point powerfully. Almost overnight, companies pivoted to produce masks, face shields, ventilator parts, hand sanitizer, whatever was needed. It didn't matter if it fit their business model; they stepped up because it was right. And employees felt it. They knew they were part of the solution, contributing to something that truly mattered.That sense of purpose stuck. And many employees are still looking for that feeling today.As Simon Sinek says, "People don't care what you do, they care why you do what you do." Employees are asking: What does this company believe in? Does my work matter beyond the product we make? Are we using our influence to make a difference?When the answer is yes, and when your actions match your words, that's when people feel a deep, emotional connection to your mission.And that connection creates loyalty you simply can't buy. ________________________________________Busting the MythsMyth #1: Purpose-driven culture is only for non-profitsManufacturing companies can have even more impact by tying their products, services, and profits to something meaningful. Take a packaging company. On the surface, it's boxes and pallets. But what if their mission includes using sustainable materials and helping customers hit environmental goals? Now they're not just "making boxes" — they're contributing to a cleaner planet.Or consider a tool-and-die shop sponsoring scholarships for local students in skilled trades. They're not just filling a talent pipeline — they're changing lives and giving young people a future in manufacturing.Manufacturing moves the needle because you're part of the infrastructure that keeps the world running.Myth #2: Acts of service have to be massive initiativesIt's not about writing big checks or launching high-profile campaigns. It's about creating authentic opportunities for employees to get involved. One client sets up monthly volunteer days at a local food bank - on company time. Another keeps a "community board" where employees can post service projects, and coworkers can pitch in.Sometimes it's even simpler: donating scrap materials to a vocational school for welding practice, or employees building a ramp for a coworker's family member.These smaller, personal efforts often have the biggest emotional impact. They show that service isn't corporate speak, it's embeddedin how you operate every day.________________________________________How to Lead with PurposeStrategy 1: Connect the Work to the MissionPeople need to know their job means more than cranking out widgets or meeting quotas. Yes, we make "things," but those things solve problems, improve lives, and sometimes save lives. When people know the why, they work harder, care more, and stick around longer.Quick Action: At your next team meeting, share a story about how your product made a real difference. Maybe it helped a customer hit a critical deadline or kept a community safe. Don't be afraid to inject personality: "We thought we were just shipping boxes, but it turns out we were shipping hope... in corrugated form."Strategy 2: Give Employees Opportunities to Serve TogetherRolling up your sleeves next to a coworker in a non-work setting changes everything. Whether assembling care packages, reading to kids, or sorting cans at a food bank, people connect differently. Those connections stick when they return to work.Quick Action: Organize at least one voluntary service day annually. Make it easy — clear schedules, arrange transportation, and feed people. More people show up when sandwiches are involved.Strategy 3: Align Acts of Service with Company ValuesRandom giving is good. Strategic giving that aligns with your mission and values? That resonates deeply with employees and customers. It's the difference between "We donated to something" and "We donated to something that reflects exactly who we are."Quick Action: Ask your team to nominate causes that connect with your company's values. Choose one or two to support together. When the cause comes from employees, you get instant buy-in.Strategy 4: Lead from the FrontWhen the boss is stacking boxes at the food drive or swinging a hammer on a Habitat build, it changes everything. It sends a clear message: "This isn't PR. This is who we are." Be there for the work, not just the photo op. Employees spot a "selfie-only" leader from a mile away.Quick Action: Show up ready to get your hands dirty at your next service event. Pro tip: don't wear your best shoes unless you want a permanent reminder of your service day.________________________________________Here's what I've learned after years of working with manufacturing leaders: Companies that lead with purpose don't just do well, they do good while doing well. They attract better talent, retain top performers longer, and create cultures that become magnetic.Your employees are already proud of what they make. When you show them how their work connects to a bigger mission and give them opportunities to serve that mission together — that pride transforms into something deeper: loyalty, purpose, and a sense of belonging that no competitor can steal.The world needs what you make. But more than that, it needs companies that make things AND make a difference. When you lead with purpose, you don't just build better products — you build better teams, stronger communities, and a legacy that matters.That's how you create a culture people don't just work in, it's one they believe in.Thanks for joining me for this episode of The Manufacturers Network. I’m Lisa Ryan, reminding you that culture is not a perk; it’s your strongest competitive advantage. We’ll see you next time.