Connect with Katie Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiesmithwildpath/On this episode of the Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa dives into the evolving landscape of manufacturing marketing with Katie Smith, founder of "Follow the Wild Path" and seasoned fractional CMO. This episode dissects the intersection of AI technology, CRM systems, and strategic marketing within the manufacturing sector, providing invaluable insights for business leaders and marketing professionals.Show Highlights:1. Importance of Targeted Content in Conferences:Discover howtailored marketing contentcan significantly enhance engagement at industry conferences. Katie emphasizes the role of adaptive strategies that cater to specific audience segments.2. Integration of AI and CRM in Marketing:Explore thecutting-edge integrationof AI with CRM tools to boost customer acquisition and streamline engagement processes. The conversation reveals how these technologies can simplify lead categorization and optimize workflow efficiency.3. Strategic Marketing Insights:Learn how data serves as amap rather than a manipulator, driving marketing strategies focused on conversion rates rather than mere traffic metrics. This approach ensures robust sales pipeline management and improved candidate qualification.4. Balancing Long-term and Short-term Marketing Goals:Katie discusses theunique challengesthat manufacturing companies face, such as budget constraints. She shares actionable tips on identifying low-hanging fruits, implementing strategic reminders, and minimizing decision-making friction.5. Resource Management and Lean Marketing Teams:Gain insights into operatinglean marketing teamseffectively and strategically use external agencies to complement internal efforts.6. Understanding Evolving Consumer Behavior and Trust:Delve into trends such asconsumer skepticismand the growing demand for transparency. Katie highlights the importance of building trust in an era where information is easily accessible, and competition is intense.7. Role and Benefits of a Fractional CMO:Discover the strategic role of afractional Chief Marketing Officeraligning marketing with broader business goals, especially for small to medium-sized manufacturers. Their integration within the company offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness.8. Digital Transformation in Manufacturing Marketing:Analyze how theshift to digital platformsis influencing marketing strategies, underscoring the need for adaptable and customer-focused approaches to stay competitive.9. AI's Role in Creative and Data-Driven Marketing:Understand how AI is not onlystreamlining processesbut also enhancing creativity by reducing biases and freeing up marketers for more strategic tasks. The episode stresses verifying AI-generated content to maintain its human-centric essence.Lessons Learned:Customizing marketing strategies and building customer personas centered on their needs and worries is important.Aligning marketing strategies with long-term business goals for sustainable growth.Leveraging AI and CRM for improved operational efficiency and enhanced customer experiences.Fun Facts:Katie Smith began her career as an outdoor guide, bringing a unique perspective to her marketing strategies.The episode emphasizes the transformational role of marketing—not just as a support function but as a key player in driving innovation and business growth within the manufacturing sector.To explore marketing dynamics in the manufacturing industry in-depth, tune in and learn how to harness AI's potential, manage resources efficiently, and forge authentic connections with your audience. Engage with Katie Smith through her website at followthewildpath.com or connect with her on LinkedIn to explore more exciting opportunities in the sector.Keywords: Manufacturing Marketing, AI in Marketing, CRM Tools, Fractional CMO, Consumer Trust and Transparency, Data-Driven Marketing, Lean Marketing Team, Targeted Content, Digital Transformation, Conversion Rate Optimization.

Connect with Jason KrugerLinkedIn: Jason Kruger at Citrin CoopermanEmail: jkruger@citrincooperman.comWebsite: citrincooperman.comIn this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with Jason Kruger, a partner at Citrin Cooperman. Jason shares his expertise in empowering manufacturers with real-time financial insights to bolster profitability and streamline operations. The discussion dives deep into financial management, exploring the importance of accurate accounting, cash flow management, and leveraging outsourced financial services. Jason offers invaluable advice on navigating the financial complexities of the manufacturing industry, providing listeners with practical strategies to ensure long-term success.Key Themes and Topics:Importance of Real-Time Financial Insights:Understanding the power of real-time financial data for making informed strategic decisions in manufacturing.Outsourcing Financial Management:Exploring how fractional CFOs and controllers can offer cost-effective, high-level financial expertise without the overheads of a full-time hire.Cash Flow Management:The critical role of managing cash flows, especially in inventory-heavy industries like manufacturing, is to avoid cash shortages.Financial Metrics for Success:Identifying the key financial metrics that manufacturers should focus on to ensure long-term growth and sustainability.Navigating Growth Challenges:How manufacturers can overcome the financial complexities of rapid growth, utilizing systems for accurate inventory tracking and financial reporting.Lessons Learned:Outsourcing as a Strategy:Outsourced financial management can help manufacturers access top-tier financial expertise while managing costs.Communication is Key:Maintaining strong communication channels, especially with remote teams, is crucial for effective collaboration and achieving financial goals.Proactive Cash Management:Keeping a close eye on cash flows and inventory can prevent financial pitfalls and enable businesses to capitalize on growth opportunities.Fun Facts:Jason Kruger started a company during the 2008 financial crisis, which has since evolved into a key division within Citrin Cooperman, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.Host Lisa Ryan compares manufacturing finance to the popular TV show Shark Tank, highlighting the crucial role of understanding financial metrics in pitching to any investor—even a shark!Keywords: Manufacturers Network Podcast, Jason Kruger, financial insights for manufacturers, Citrin Cooperman, real-time financial data, outsourced financial management, cash flow in manufacturing, inventory management, manufacturing finance, financial metrics, fractional CFO, optimizing manufacturing profitability, manufacturing growth challenges, financial reporting systems.Connect with Jason Kruger:LinkedIn: Jason Kruger at Citrin CoopermanEmail: jkruger@citrencooperman.comWebsite: citrencooperman.com#ManufacturersNetworkPodcast #JasonKruger #FinancialInsightsForManufacturers #CitrinCooperman #RealTimeFinancialData #OutsourcedFinancialManagement #CashFlowInManufacturing #InventoryManagement #ManufacturingFinance #FinancialMetrics #FractionalCFO #OptimizingProfitability #GrowthChallenges #FinancialReportingSystems

Connect with Adam Honig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhonig/In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Adam Honig, the founder of Spiro AI, to discuss innovative approaches in the manufacturing sales process using AI-driven CRM solutions. Adam shares his journey of turning past failures into technological innovations that significantly benefit the manufacturing industry. He focuses on how Spiro AI is transforming traditional CRM practices, addressing common manufacturing challenges, and enhancing sales efficiency.Key Themes:Innovative CRM Solutions:Adam Honig highlights the need for a transformation in the CRM industry, especially within manufacturing. He introduces Spiro AI as an "anti-CRM" solution that automates data entry and improves sales processes through AI technology.AI and Sales Efficiency:Discussing the implementation of AI, Adam explains how technology can help in analyzing sales data, generating insights, and reducing the time spent on non-customer-facing activities, ultimately allowing sales teams to focus more on customer interaction.Manufacturing Challenges and Solutions:The episode addresses common misconceptions manufacturers have about sales and technology investment. Adam points out that many businesses believe their products sell themselves and emphasize embracing modern sales strategies and technologies.Cultural and Generational Shifts:The conversation touches on the changes in manufacturing business culture, noting how AI and advanced technologies can attract younger talent and foster a more innovative work environment.Data-Driven Decisions:Adam emphasizes the role of data in making informed business decisions and how AI can provide valuable insights without manual data entry, ultimately aiding in better customer relationship management and forecasting.Lessons Learned:Embracing AI in CRM systems can significantly streamline sales processes and enhance customer relationships in the manufacturing sector.Reducing internal administrative tasks through AI allows sales teams to focus more on their primary goal: increasing customer interactions and driving sales.Understanding the value of the product line and effectively communicating it to customers can prevent lost sales opportunities.Fun Facts:Adam's venture into AI-focused CRM solutions was inspired by the movie "Her," where an AI assistant provided seamless support to the protagonist.Despite some manufacturers' initial resistance to CRM, embracing an AI-driven system can lead to surprising and significant improvements in efficiency and growth.

Connect with Kerim Kfuri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerimkfuri/This episode features Karim Khafuri, the innovative CEO of the Atlas Network. Known for his strategic expertise in logistics and business strategies, Karim shares his journey from an entrepreneurial youth in a multicultural household to becoming a global supply chain solutions leader.Key Highlights:Entrepreneurial Mindset & Global Influence: From an early age, Karim's entrepreneurial spirit and multicultural background shaped his innovative business and supply chain management approach. Learn how his global experiences have influenced his career trajectory.Alibaba's Influence on Atlas Network: Dive into how a trip to Asia and exposure to Alibaba's global trade model inspired Karim to launch the first US-based verified supplier on Alibaba. Understand the critical role of reliability improvements like control processes and sourcing protocols.Supply Chain Challenges and Trends: Discover the uncontrollable factors facing modern supply chains, including pandemics and political shifts, and the importance of agility and contingency planning. Explore the advantages global sourcing offers in terms of resource access and cost benefits.Karim Khafuri's Strategic Approach: A lesson in risk management and forward-thinking. Karim discusses the importance of overstocking as a strategy against shortfalls, training teams to anticipate factory issues, and treating each production cycle as a new venture to ensure quality and innovation.Sustainable Packaging Innovations: Learn about the innovative technology of rightsizing and cubing in packaging, creating custom boxes on-demand to minimize waste and shipping costs and reduce the carbon footprint.Key Insights from "Supply Chain Ups and Downs": Discover Karim's book, which offers 13 chapters on the supply chain industry's challenges and dynamics. Topics include AI, sustainability, and contemporary industry transformations, making it a must-read for students and professionals alike.Role of Technology in Supply Chains: Technology is revolutionizing inventory and logistics with tools like AI and SaaS platforms, ensuring transparency and efficiency. Karim elaborates on how these advancements and 3D printing have optimized product development timelines.Fun Facts:Karim’s business journey was notably influenced by his visit to Asia and the then-nascent Alibaba platform.Atlas Network became the first US-based verified supplier on Alibaba, paving the way for safer participation in global markets.Karim speaks three languages fluently, reflecting his rich cultural background and contributing to his global business perspective.Lessons Learned:Adaptability Is Key:Businesses must be prepared for unforeseen global events with flexible strategies.Importance of Quality Control:Always assume potential lapses in manufacturing quality, and stay proactive in safeguarding product integrity.Balancing Cost, Quality, and Speed:Effective supply chain management requires maintaining equilibrium among these critical factors to avoid compromising any aspect.Leveraging Technology for Resilience:Implementing advanced tools can significantly enhance supply chain reliability and efficiency.For more expertise, connect with Karim Khafuri via his website at kerimkfuri.com or the Atlas Network at theatlasnetwork.com. Follow him on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.Tune in to gain valuable insights into the dynamic world of supply chains and learn how to navigate its complexities with foresight and resilience.Keywords: Supply Chain Management, Risk Mitigation, Business Strategy, Logistics Solutions, Global Sourcing, Sustainability, Technology in Supply Chains, AI in Logistics, Packaging Innovations, Alibaba Verified Supplier, Multilingual Entrepreneur, Resilience Planning, Contingency Strategy, Modern Supply Chain Trends.

Connect with Mikhail Taver: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mtaver/In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan chats with Mikhail Taver, the founder and managing partner of Taver Capital. The Delaware-based international venture capital firm is renowned for its specialization in funding artificial intelligence companies across the globe. Mikhail shares his journey from a budding investor at a young age to an AI enthusiast and expert. He brings profound insights into how AI has evolved over the years and the transformative potential it holds for the manufacturing industry.Key Themes and Topics:AI's Evolution and Impact:Mikhail's venture into AI, dating back to his university days at the University of Edinburgh where he encountered early AI concepts.The impact of AI's growth from a niche interest to a ubiquitous technology likened to "new electricity."AI in Manufacturing:Current status and future potential of AI in the manufacturing sector.Importance of adopting AI solutions in manufacturing to stay competitive.AI Implementation Strategies:Tips for manufacturers to prioritize AI adoption including starting small and involving the workforce for a smoother transition.The role of AI in improving processes like mineral discovery using NASA's satellite data and enhancing worker safety through computer vision.Challenges and Solutions:Overcoming the reluctance within the workforce due to AI adoption fears.Bridging the gap between startups and large corporations by employing interfaces or ambassadors.Lessons Learned:AI is a tool, not a universal solution; understanding its scope and limitations is crucial.The need for corporations to align with venture funds or consultants to manage the inherent risks of working with startups.Fun Facts:Mikhail first drew a neural network with a pencil and paper in 1999.He inadvertently pioneered AI's role in various industries after considering it a "mistake" to choose a niche that became mainstream.Lessons Learned:Manufacturers are urged to embrace AI not only as a tool for innovation but as a necessity to maintain competitiveness.Effective communication and education within organizations can mitigate fears associated with AI replacing jobs.Collaborations between startups and corporations require a shared understanding facilitated by informed liaisons or venture funds.SEO Keywords: Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing, AI Implementation, Industrial AI, Venture Capital in AI, AI Solutions for Manufacturers, Manufacturing Process Transformation, Digital Twins, Predictive Maintenance, AI Workforce Management, Startup Collaboration.Contact Information: For more insights from Mikhail Taver, connect with him on LinkedIn or reach out via email. Stay updated with the latest episodes of The Manufacturers Network Podcast by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect with Zack Oliva: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-oliva/Join Lisa Ryan, host of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, as she welcomes Zack Oliva, founder of Oliva Gibbs and Oliva Partners Management, LLC. Since 2013, Zack has been at the forefront of contract negotiations and asset transactions in the energy sector. He shares insights on navigating the complexities of the oil and gas industry, the importance of building sustainable relationships, and innovations in energy technology.Key Themes:Energy Sector Insight: Discover how Zack became involved in Ohio and Texas's oil and gas industry and his journey from law school to founding Oliva Gibbs.Understanding Utica Shale: Learn about the significance of Utica Shale in Ohio's natural gas boom and why it's pivotal for the energy sector.Fracking Explained: Zack demystifies hydraulic fracturing's role in extracting oil and gas and its evolution over the years in making drilling more economical.Legal Challenges: Understand the legal complexities Zack's firm deals with, from micro to macro scales, and how players in the industry manage these challenges.Relationships in Industry: Emphasis on the generational nature of the industry and how building and maintaining strong relationships can drive sustainable growth.Associations and Networking: The podcast highlights the importance of industry associations like the AAPL and conferences such as NAPE Expo and OTC for industry collaboration.Marketing and Communication: Zack provides insights into maintaining a consistent marketing strategy during industry fluctuations.Lessons Learned:The evolving oil and gas landscape requires staying ahead with technology and legal strategies.Building long-term, trust-based relationships in the industry is instrumental for sustained success.Legal foresight and pre-litigation strategies can mitigate risks and prevent costly disputes.Aligning company culture is crucial, especially during mergers and acquisitions, to ensure seamless integration and avoid failures.Renewable energy's intersection with traditional oil and gas operations exemplifies changing industry dynamics.Fun Facts:Zack moved to Houston to plunge into the energy hub despite never having been to Texas.The technology used in modern fracking involves steering a drill bore horizontally, akin to handling a lunar rover.Thousands of mineral owners can exist for a single plot of land, creating a complex web of negotiations for drilling rights.SEO Keywords:Energy sector, oil and gas, contract negotiations, shale boom, hydraulic fracturing, Utica Shale, Marcellus Shale, legal challenges, energy industry relationships, industry associations, renewable energy collaboration, marketing in the energy sector, corporate culture in mergers, oilfield services.

Connect with John Kevin Koehler at: https://www.kktool.net/Join us in this episode of "The Manufacturers Network Podcast" as we delve into the intricacies of automation integration and generational transitions in manufacturing. Our guest, John Kevin Koehler of KK Tool Company, shares his extensive experience in production, quality control, and logistics, emphasizing the importance of preserving legacy while embracing technological advancements.Key Themes and Lessons Learned:Automation Impact on Manufacturing:Discover how automation enhances consistency and quality rather than reducing cycle times.Learn about transitioning from monotonous tasks to quality assurance, facilitating worker empowerment and upskilling.Navigating Automation Adoption:Insights into overcoming challenges in adopting new technology and convincing stakeholders of automation's benefits.Emphasize a flexible approach to automation, viewing failures as learning opportunities and contributing to ROI.Generational Knowledge Preservation:Explore the impact of retiring baby boomers on industrial expertise and the importance of capturing "tribal knowledge."Understand strategies to ensure knowledge transfer from experienced workers to the new generation.Family Business Dynamics:The balancing act of integrating technology with traditional methods in a family-run business.Emphasis on creating a team-oriented workplace culture to manage diverse personalities and improve collaborations.Future Prospects in Manufacturing:Automation as a tool for addressing future production challenges and increasing competitiveness.Adapting to industry shifts with manageable growth strategies and cooperative rather than competitive industry models.Fun Facts:KK Tool Company is a legacy family business founded by John Kevin Koehler's father and grandfather in the early 1970s.John combines his educational background in computer science with his passion for manufacturing, creating innovative solutions like the "OnTrack" management system.Business Tips for Navigating Challenges:Foster a team environment over a "family" culture to harmonize diverse skill sets and manage conflict effectively.Retain talented employees by ensuring fair compensation and cultivating a work environment where employees feel valued and integral to the business's success.

Connect with Karla Trotman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlatrotman/In this insightful episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan is joined by Karla Trotman, President and CEO of Electrosoft, to discuss pivotal topics that are shaping the future of manufacturing. Karla shares her valuable insights on diversity and inclusion, generational wealth creation, and the evolving landscape of the manufacturing industry. Her journey from avoiding the family business to growing it into a successful venture inspires aspiring entrepreneurs. It highlights the role of small businesses in driving the economy.Key Themes:Hiring from Underrepresented Groups: Karla emphasizes the importance of actively recruiting Black, Brown, immigrant populations, and young women in manufacturing. She shares valuable strategies for reaching a diverse pool of candidates beyond traditional online job postings.Transportation Challenges and Solutions: The episode delves into issues such as the "last mile" transportation barrier and the innovative solutions some companies are adopting, such as subsidies and daily cash payments, to assist workers without personal transportation.Entrepreneurship and Generational Wealth: Karla advocates for entrepreneurship to achieve financial independence and generational wealth. The episode also explores opportunities to acquire businesses from retiring owners.Embracing Gen Z Workforce: A discussion on adapting to the unique work ethics and technological engagement of Gen Z employees, including the perception of their work habits and their positive impact on the workplace.Cultural Inclusion in the Workplace: Karla discusses the significance of allowing employees to express individuality through their personal style, fostering a relaxed and authentic company culture that leads to employee loyalty.Promoting Manufacturing Careers: Strategies to change perceptions about manufacturing as a career choice, especially among young adults and diverse communities, are explored. The conversation includes the role of marketing campaigns that reflect diversity.Lessons Learned:Building relationships with community organizations and schools is essential for effectively recruiting diverse job candidates.Flexibility in work hours and innovative transportation solutions can help overcome barriers for city dwellers.Future manufacturing leaders will reflect diversity, including more women, people of color, and immigrants.Engaging with younger generations in the workplace involves understanding their unique perspectives and leveraging their tech-savvy nature.Fun Facts:Karla's intriguing journey with Electrosoft began when her father started building cables at the kitchen table. The business has now celebrated its 38th anniversary.Her book, "Dark, Dirty, Dangerous," explores the future of manufacturing and is available on major retail platforms.The show touches on common misconceptions about U.S. electronics manufacturing and highlights how specific manufacturing processes remain domestic.

In the latest episode of the Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan engages with Jason Vanzin, the founder and CEO of Right Hand Technology Group. Renowned as a top-managed service provider globally, Right Hand Technology Group focuses on cybersecurity and compliance, specifically targeted at manufacturers. This episode dives deep into cybersecurity, revealing the challenges and solutions pertinent to the manufacturing industry.Jason Vanzin’s JourneyJason Vanzin’s enthralling journey into IT began in his teens when he purchased his first computer. Driven by a passion for technology, he pursued a degree in information systems management, eventually finding his niche in cybersecurity. His career spanned roles in large corporations like UPS and Nortel Networks to smaller IT companies, where he developed a passion for working directly with clients and small businesses. This path eventually led him to establish Right Hand Technology Group, focusing on delivering cybersecurity solutions to small and medium-sized manufacturers.The Dichotomy of IT and CybersecurityA critical topic discussed in the podcast is the distinct roles and responsibilities of IT and cybersecurity departments. Jason elucidates that while IT is centered around productivity and problem-solving, cybersecurity focuses on minimizing risk—sometimes at the cost of productivity. “It’s about risk management,” he explains, highlighting the often conflicting goals between IT and cybersecurity.Cybersecurity Challenges in ManufacturingThe misunderstanding of cybersecurity at the executive level and the assumption that IT will cover all cybersecurity needs are significant challenges in the manufacturing sector. Jason stresses that cybersecurity must be approached holistically through systematic frameworks like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Cybersecurity Framework and the Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). These frameworks help organizations assess and mitigate risks methodically.The Battle Against CybercrimeThe conversation shifts to cybercriminals' evolving tactics and the perpetual cat-and-mouse game between hackers and cybersecurity professionals. Vanzin underscores that cybersecurity frameworks force organizations to think systematically and constantly stay ahead of potential threats. “Cybersecurity isn’t about a single solution; it’s about continuous vigilance and education,” he asserts.Protecting the Supply ChainAn essential aspect of cybersecurity in manufacturing is safeguarding the supply chain. Jason emphasizes the importance of identifying critical suppliers and ensuring they adhere to robust cybersecurity standards. This can involve certifications like ISO 27001 or SOC 2 compliance, providing a benchmark for secure practices. He advises manufacturers to thoroughly evaluate their suppliers’ cybersecurity posture to ensure a secure supply chain.Training: The Frontline DefenseTraining employees is a cornerstone of any cybersecurity strategy. However, Vanzin notes that frequent and consistent training is crucial. Companies should implement regular phishing tests and cybersecurity training programs to keep employees vigilant. Despite the inclination to minimize disruptions, he advocates for a higher frequency of training exercises to prepare employees for real-world threats better.Best Practices for Responding to BreachesPreparation is key when responding to a cybersecurity breach. Jason stresses the importance of having an incident response plan and conducting regular tests to ensure readiness. Involving cyber insurance companies early in the event of a breach can also mitigate potential repercussions by establishing attorney-client privilege and ensuring a coordinated response.Leveraging Ethical HackersThe concept of 'ethical hackers, ' or professionals who test the security of an organization’s systems by attempting to breach them, is also discussed. These experts can identify vulnerabilities before malicious actors exploit them, providing invaluable insights and reinforcing cybersecurity defenses.The Role of AI in CybersecurityArtificial Intelligence (AI) has both augmented and challenged the cybersecurity landscape. While AI tools can enhance productivity and threat detection, they empower cybercriminals to craft more sophisticated attacks. Vanzin points out that defeating AI-driven threats will require innovative countermeasures and continuous adaptation by cybersecurity professionals.The Future of Cybersecurity and ComplianceAs the manufacturing industry advances, compliance standards like CMMC will become increasingly critical. Jason predicts these standards will extend beyond defense contracts, influencing the broader supply chain. Proactively adopting high cybersecurity standards can offer a competitive edge and demonstrate a commitment to security.The podcast concludes with Vanzin encouraging manufacturers to view cybersecurity as a necessity and strategic advantage. Companies looking to secure their operations can benefit from consulting with experts like those at Right Hand Technology Group, who offer tailored solutions that fit each business's unique needs. For more information, visit Right Hand Technology Group’s website or contact Jason Vanzin on LinkedIn.In today’s interconnected world, cybersecurity is an ever-evolving challenge that requires constant vigilance and adaptation. Manufacturers who stay ahead of the curve in cybersecurity can protect their operations and gain a competitive advantage in an increasingly digital marketplace. 

In this episode of The Manufacturers' Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan interviews Lee Rector, a seasoned expert with nearly 25 years of experience in supply chain and warehousing across 40 countries. Lee is currently leading Embassy Data Logistics, pioneering innovations with *Warehouse Command*, a universal labor planning tool designed to make advanced metrics accessible to operations of all sizes.Key Takeaways:Lee’s Journey in Supply Chain and Warehousing: Lee shares insights into his extensive career, working with a wide range of companies, from Fortune 100s to family-run businesses. His desire to address operational technology inefficiencies led him to create more affordable and applicable solutions, including the Warehouse Command Labor Cost and Productivity Calculator. - Challenges in the Industry: Lee emphasizes the current labor shortage in North America, which affects both skilled and unskilled roles. Due to automation and AI integration, warehousing is seeing a shift from being labeled as unskilled labor to requiring technological and operational expertise.- The Experience Gap: One of the most critical challenges identified is the widening gap in experience between executives with over 25 years in the industry and the next level of management, which averages less than eight years of experience. Lee discusses how this affects operational efficiency, decision-making, and the growing reliance on technology.- The Role of Technology and Automation: The warehousing industry is evolving, with automation and AI playing pivotal roles. However, Lee points out that despite the buzz around automation, only 2% of North American warehouses currently use it. Automation is far more widespread in Europe, where labor and space costs are significantly higher. He also touches on the debate between assisted and assertive AI, predicting it will shape the future of warehousing.- Labor Shortages and Workforce Retention: Creativity is essential for retaining warehouse workers. Lee discusses various strategies companies use, including offering flexible work schedules, paid lunches, and clear paths for advancement. He highlights the importance of peer-to-peer recognition to maintain motivation and accountability, which can also help minimize the negative effects of favoritism and disengagement.Productivity vs. Activity: Lee explores the distinction between activity and productivity in the warehouse environment. Many organizations measure activity (units handled) but fail to track true productivity (the efficiency of labor against standardized benchmarks). He introduces the Warehouse Command Calculator as a tool to bridge this gap, offering a simple yet powerful way to measure operational efficiency.- The Importance of Planning for the Future: With a forecasted labor shortage of 4 million workers in warehousing and manufacturing by 2030, companies must adapt now to avoid operational disruptions. Lee discusses the need for strategic labor management, cost control, and the role of automation in filling the labor gap.- The Next Generation of Warehouse Professionals: As the warehousing industry evolves, Lee believes the next generation of professionals must balance their tech-savvy with a deep understanding of operations. He highlights that technology alone isn’t enough—knowing the fundamentals of warehousing operations is crucial to making technology work effectively.Final Thoughts:Lee stresses that companies must act now to address labor shortages, leverage automation, and build a sustainable operational strategy. His insights into the future of warehousing and supply chain management provide valuable lessons for any business looking to improve efficiency and stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry.For more insights from Lee, visit: (https://embassy.com). Embassy University offers free educational resources to help businesses improve operations without significant capital investments.Thank you for listening! Subscribe to The Manufacturers' Network Podcast for expert insights and strategies to improve your business operations.