

Manufacturing Culture Podcast
Jim Mayer
Manufacturing is more than the products we make; it’s the people who make the parts. On The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, I sit down with leaders, innovators, and everyday heroes to uncover the stories behind their journeys in the industry. We talk about where they started, how they’ve grown, and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way.
Each episode brings a unique perspective; some practical, some inspiring, and all rooted in the human side of manufacturing. From lessons learned on the shop floor to big ideas shaping the future, it’s all about the people who make it happen.
Because at the heart of every company are the people who work there, and every person has a story.
Each episode brings a unique perspective; some practical, some inspiring, and all rooted in the human side of manufacturing. From lessons learned on the shop floor to big ideas shaping the future, it’s all about the people who make it happen.
Because at the heart of every company are the people who work there, and every person has a story.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 25, 2024 • 1h 19min
Neuroscience Meets Manufacturing: Using the BTFA Model at GKN Aerospace
In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer explores the intersection of culture and neuroscience, focusing on BTFA and its impact at GKN Aerospace. The guests include David Bovis, creator of the BTFA model; Levent Turk, who has extensive experience in Lean Transformations; and Edwin van den Berg, the VP of the Lean Academy at GKN Aerospace.
The episode emphasizes the role of leadership in shaping company culture, particularly in manufacturing. The guests discuss how BTFA, by understanding and managing human behaviors, can transform culture and engage employees, enhancing performance and success in the manufacturing industry. They stress the importance of balancing logic with emotional understanding and how leadership styles significantly impact team success and company culture. The success of BTFA at GKN Aerospace is a testament to its effectiveness in bridging gaps in understanding people, processes, and systems within the manufacturing sector.
Key Takeaways
Introduction of the BTFA model (Believe, Think, Feel, Act) in manufacturing culture
Individual journeys and experiences of the guests in the manufacturing industry
Impact of neuroscience on understanding human behavior and its influence on company culture
Role of leadership in shaping and forming company culture
Implementation of the BTFA model in lean leadership and change management
Challenges and successes in implementing the BTFA model in manufacturing organizations
Importance of understanding servant leadership and the brain's role in driving successful change
Recommendations for fostering a deeper understanding of human behavior and change management in the manufacturing industry
Emphasis on the significance of language, beliefs, and emotions in shaping company culture
Chapters
David Bovis' Journey (00:00:01) David Bovis discusses his 37-year journey in the manufacturing industry, from hands-on roles to shaping manufacturing culture and strategy.
Levent Turk's Journey (00:02:53) Levent Turk shares his 37-year career at Toyota, lean transformation roles at leading automotive OEMs, and his pursuit of creating a high-performance culture.
Edwin van den Berg's Journey (00:04:17) Edwin van den Berg describes his 26-year career development from chief design engineer to lean methodology involvement at Royal Philips and leadership at GKN Aerospace.
Introduction to BTFA Model (00:23:11) David Bovis explains the BTFA model, emphasizing its role in bringing knowledge around the people piece up to the same level as processes and systems in the manufacturing industry.
Neuroscience and BTFA Model (00:24:27) Explanation of how neuroscience has filled the gap in understanding human behavior, leading to the development of the BTFA model.
Believe, Think, Feel, Act (00:26:13) Detailed explanation of the BTFA model and its components: believe, think, feel, and act, and how they influence behavior.
Leadership and Company Culture (00:35:13) Discussion on the vital role of leadership in shaping and forming company culture, especially in the manufacturing industry.
Impact of BTFA at GKN (00:47:14) Explanation of the impact of the BTFA model on the culture at GKN, including the before and after scenario and the overall impact of BTFA.
Believe, Think, Feel, Act (00:47:29) Introduction to the BTFA model and its impact on leadership mindset and change management in manufacturing.
Implementing Lean Operating Model (00:48:22) Using the PDCA approach and discussing the success and failure of change management programs.
Behavioral Based Safety (00:50:39) Using BTFA to address safety culture and behavioral changes in manufacturing.
Shift in Leadership Mindset (00:52:42) Transformation of leadership beliefs and mindset towards effective change management.
Psychological Aspects of Change Management (00:58:58) Discussion on the psychological impact of change and the role of BTFA in addressing it.
Challenges in Implementing BTFA (01:03:22) Challenges faced in implementing BTFA and changing the language and mindset in the manufacturing industry.
BTFA as a Common Language (01:08:03) BTFA as a common language for business and culture, similar to the universality of mathematics.
Learning through Animation (01:11:14) Encouraging manufacturers to embrace animation for learning and discussing emotions and beliefs.
Know Thyself (01:12:05) Understanding oneself through neuroscience to enhance personal and professional growth.
Choosing Emotions (01:14:15) Empowering oneself to choose emotions and understanding the brain's workings through the BTFA model.
Guest LinkedIn Profiles:
David Bovis
Levent Turk
Edwin van den Berg
BTFA from Dux in a Roe
A big shoutout to Speroni, the leader in tool management systems. Their dedication to precision and innovation in the manufacturing industry is unparalleled. Speroni is not just a sponsor; they are integral to advancing manufacturing excellence. Their support allows us to bring these valuable insights and discussions to you.
We're also thrilled to welcome our new partner, ShopFloor Coffee. More than just a coffee brand, ShopFloor Coffee is a cause-driven business dedicated to supporting workforce development efforts. A portion of their proceeds goes towards apprenticeships and scholarships in Advanced Manufacturing, making every sip count towards a brighter future for the industry.
And here's something exciting for our listeners! Use the promo code "SkillUpAZ" to get 10% off your order at ShopFloor Coffee. Not only do you get a great deal on your coffee, but you also contribute to supporting apprenticeships and scholarships in Advanced Manufacturing. It's a win-win – enjoy fantastic coffee while helping to skill up the next generation of manufacturing professionals.

Jan 18, 2024 • 1h 1min
Leading with Clarity: Jim Vaselopulos on Timing, Culture, and the Power of Values in Manufacturing
In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Jim Vasilopoulos, founder and CEO of Rafty Advisors and author of the book 'Clarity.' They discuss the importance of leadership, culture, and soft skills in organizations. Jim Vasilopoulos shares his journey in manufacturing and IT, and how he helps companies navigate complex challenges and improve their performance. He emphasizes the need for leaders to have an open mind, be open to change, and seize opportunities. They also discuss the role of leaders in shaping company culture and the challenges of measuring the impact of soft skills and culture in organizations. Finally, they explore the importance of managing the talent ecosystem and investing in training and development. In this conversation, Jim Vaselopulos discusses the importance of timing and sequencing in achieving success. He shares personal experiences of leaving organizations due to a lack of patience and understanding of timing. He emphasizes the need to do things in the right order and at the right time to have a disproportionate impact on business. Jim also highlights the importance of curiosity, listening, and living your values in changing organizational culture.
Takeaways
Leaders should have an open mind, be open to change, and seize opportunities.
Culture is a symptom of other problems and can be a measure of the health of an organization.
Hiring for values is as important as hiring for skills.
Leadership is about balancing different dynamics and managing a balance between various aspects of the job.
Companies should invest in managing their talent ecosystem and collaborate with educational institutions to develop the skills and values needed in the workforce. Timing and sequencing are crucial for success. Doing things in the right order and at the right time can have a disproportionate impact on business.
Leadership should be curious and ask questions to engage employees and solve problems. Good listening starts with curiosity.
To change culture internally, leaders should live their values and ensure their actions align with their words.
Patience is the truest form of confidence. Waiting for the right time to take action can lead to greater success.
Stories and analogies are memorable and effective in conveying messages.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:24Jim Vasilopoulos' Background and Book Introduction
08:50Rafty Advisors and Lessons Learned
13:00Overview of the Book 'Clarity'
17:30Diagnosing and Treating Symptoms in Business
20:53The Role of Leaders in Shaping Company Culture
26:13Measuring the Impact of Soft Skills and Culture
38:46Common Cultural Challenges in Organizations
43:01Managing the Talent Ecosystem
45:13Timing and Sequencing
46:08Disillusionment and Leadership
49:24Doing Things in the Right Order
50:22The Importance of Timing
52:24Changing Culture Internally
55:56Living Your Values
57:26Podcast and Book Plug

Jan 11, 2024 • 1h 22min
Diversity, Automation, and the Power of Connections: A Chat with Nikki Gonzales
Summary
In this episode, Nikki Gonzales shares her journey in the manufacturing industry and her transition to startup culture. She discusses the challenges and changes in the industry, particularly in relation to the role of women. Nikki also talks about the factors influencing the increase of women in manufacturing and the importance of diversity and inclusion. She shares her experience using LinkedIn for personal branding and building relationships in the industry. In this conversation, Nikki Gonzales discusses the challenges women face in the industry, her role at QuoteBeam, and how the platform can affect company culture. She emphasizes the importance of building relationships and being authentic in business. Nikki also shares insights on finding happiness in your career and the need for a cultural fit in the workplace.
Takeaways
The manufacturing industry is undergoing significant changes, with a focus on automation and optimization.
There is a growing recognition of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry, particularly in increasing the representation of women.
LinkedIn is a valuable platform for personal branding and building professional relationships in the manufacturing industry.
Engaging with others on LinkedIn and providing value can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities. Women often face challenges and discrimination in the industry, but building relationships and finding a supportive community can help overcome these obstacles.
QuoteBeam is a platform that aims to streamline the procurement process for industrial automation parts, connecting distributors, manufacturers, and buyers.
Changing company culture is essential for growth and success, and it requires a shift in mindset and a focus on collaboration and efficiency.
Balancing personal values and business goals is crucial for finding fulfillment in your career and building authentic relationships.
If you're unhappy in your current job, it's important to assess your own mindset and consider finding a company that aligns with your values and goals.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
03:39Cultural Journey in the Manufacturing Industry
11:01Transition to Startup Culture
15:14Challenges and Changes in the Manufacturing Industry
22:13The Role of Women in Manufacturing
27:17Factors Influencing the Increase of Women in Manufacturing
33:32Using LinkedIn for Personal Branding
39:11Engaging on LinkedIn and Building Relationships
41:10Challenges for Women in the Industry
46:36Introduction to QuoteBeam
59:07Changing Culture in the Industry
01:08:14Balancing Personal Values and Business Goals
01:15:00Finding Happiness in Your Career
01:19:24Summary and Closing

Jan 4, 2024 • 1h 21min
Leading with Depth: Adrian Koehler's Journey to Transformative Leadership
Adrian Koehler, a founder and senior partner at Take New Ground, shares his journey and expertise in leadership, culture, and transformation. He discusses his background growing up in a small town in Illinois and his passion for sports and competition. Adrian emphasizes the importance of curiosity and empathy in understanding different perspectives. He also shares his experience in nursing and pediatric intensive care and his involvement in activism and philanthropy. Adrian's work in community building and his impact through the Ready for Life program are highlighted. In this part of the conversation, Adrian Koehler discusses the importance of shifting from a victim mindset to a responsible one, especially for imprisoned individuals. He shares the impact of leadership training in prison and how it helps inmates find purpose and dignity. Adrian also discusses his transition to coaching and leadership challenges in high-profile organizations. He explains his coaching process and the role of emotional intelligence in shaping and maintaining a healthy company culture. In this episode, Adrian Koehler discusses the importance of accessing dynamic range and becoming emotionally aware. He emphasizes the need to befriend sorrow and suffering to empathize with others. Adrian also encourages listeners to explore the depth of life and take a fresh look at areas they may be avoiding. He invites them to seek help and play to win, reminding them that miracles can happen. The episode concludes with a call to share the insights gained and continue the journey towards excellent company culture.
Takeaways
Curiosity and empathy are essential in understanding and honoring different perspectives.Engaging in in-depth and sincere conversations can lead to personal growth and connection.Leadership involves building community trust and empowering others.Making a positive impact often requires stepping outside comfort zones and taking risks. Accessing emotional range allows for a deeper connection with others.Becoming emotionally aware is the first step towards emotional intelligence.Befriending sorrow and suffering enables empathy towards others.Exploring the depth of life leads to a greater appreciation for its beauty and challenges.Asking for help is essential for personal growth and transformation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship01:19 Adrian Kahler's Background and Expertise04:38 Adrian's Journey and Childhood08:00 Sports and Competitive Mindset11:16 Curiosity and Empathy13:46 Desire for Depth and Sincerity18:18 Transition to Nursing and Pediatric Intensive Care21:39 Passion for Helping Marginalized People25:24 Transition to Leadership and Community Building29:16 Engagement in Activism and Philanthropy34:42 Impact of Ready for Life Program34:47 Shifting from a victim mindset to a responsible mindset36:10 Finding purpose and dignity in prison37:31 Creating a vision for life after prison38:25 The impact of leadership training in prison40:13 Transitioning to coaching42:25 Challenges of leadership in high-profile organizations45:26 The process of coaching and leadership development52:41 Identifying leadership aspects that impact company culture58:28 Changing the leadership dynamic in small organizations01:01:40 Navigating leadership dynamics in family-owned businesses01:08:08 Leadership in small manufacturing organizations01:10:16 The role of emotional intelligence in leadership and company culture01:10:22 Accessing Emotional Range01:11:45 Becoming Emotionally Aware01:12:57 Befriending Sorrow and Suffering01:14:11 Empathizing with Others01:15:06 Exploring the Depth of Life01:17:49 Creating a Miraculous Year01:18:31 Asking for Help

Dec 28, 2023 • 29min
From Lessons Learned in Szn 1 to New Frontiers in Szn 2: The Manufacturing Culture Podcast Journey
Summary
In this end-of-year special episode, host Jim Mayer recaps the first season of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast and shares highlights, reflections, and key takeaways. He starts by introducing himself and his background in the manufacturing industry. Then, he discusses impactful episodes and quotes from the season, emphasizing the importance of culture, leadership, and communication in manufacturing. Jim also provides a preview of the upcoming second season, which will focus on specific themes each month. He concludes by mentioning upcoming events and thanking the listeners for their support.
Takeaways
Building a positive culture in manufacturing is crucial for success.
Clear communication and organizational structure are essential for a thriving workplace culture.
Leadership plays a key role in driving and shaping company culture.
Valuing personal attributes and creating a supportive environment are important in the hiring process.
Creating a culture that values each person and promotes well-being and growth leads to success.
Listening to and learning from those on the front lines is valuable for driving change.
Company culture is built on the alignment of organizational values and employee values.
Innovation, resilience, and inclusivity are important aspects of manufacturing culture.
Creating a culture of innovation and growth requires active shaping and nurturing.
Kindness, respect, and letting people be themselves contribute to a positive workplace culture.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Recap of Season 1
04:03 Highlighting Impactful Episodes
12:07 Memorable Quotes
16:23 Key Takeaways
19:42 Preview of Season 2
25:57 Upcoming Events
28:09 Closing Remarks

Dec 21, 2023 • 58min
From Unsheltered to Unstoppable: Zach Carlin's Journey to Success
In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Zach Carlin, a versatile entrepreneur and business consultant. Zach shares his journey from being a professional athlete to flipping gyms and scaling small to medium-sized businesses. He emphasizes the importance of failure and learning from it, as well as the role of leadership in shaping company culture. Zach highlights the need for leaders to be champions of the culture and align their values with the organization's values. He also discusses the differences in company culture across industries and the impact of leadership on creating a positive and successful culture. In this conversation, Zach Carlin shares insights and strategies for nurturing culture and leadership in the manufacturing industry. He emphasizes the importance of defining values and collaboration, as well as fostering innovation and creativity in traditional organizations. Zach also discusses how technology can be utilized to enhance organizational culture. He provides advice on making sustainable changes to company culture and shares three initiatives that leaders can implement. The conversation concludes with parting knowledge bombs and a summary of the key takeaways.
Takeaways
Defining values and collaboration is crucial for organizational culture.
Fostering innovation and creativity in traditional organizations requires creating space for employees to provide feedback and improve processes.
Utilizing technology effectively can enhance organizational culture and minimize mistakes.
Sustainable changes to company culture require hiring for culture fit, defining core values, and providing space for constructive conflict.
Initiatives to change company culture include personal development, defining core values, and creating space for creativity and constructive conflict.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
03:10Zach's Journey and Overcoming Challenges
08:58Flipping Gyms and Business Growth
15:07Passion for Small to Medium-Sized Businesses
20:41Impact of Leadership on Company Culture
26:28Differences in Company Culture Across Industries
31:15Leadership's Impact on Company Culture
36:13Defining Values and Collaboration
38:17Fostering Innovation and Creativity in Traditional Organizations
40:18Utilizing Technology to Enhance Organizational Culture
43:27Sustainable Changes to Company Culture
48:28Initiatives to Change Company Culture
53:51Parting Knowledge Bombs
55:13Summary and Conclusion

Dec 14, 2023 • 1h 8min
The Rosie Riveters STEM Revolution: How Brittany Greer is Redefining STEM Education
In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Brittany Greer, the executive director and founder of Rosie Riveters, a STEM program for young girls. Brittany shares her background working with the World Association of Nuclear Operators and how she identified the gap in STEM programming for young girls. She explains how she founded Rosie Riveters and the challenges of implementing STEM education. Brittany emphasizes the importance of data and problem-solving skills in addressing the retention of women in STEM. She also discusses the role of STEM education in shaping future careers and shares success stories from the Rosie Riveters program. Brittany Greer, the Executive Director of Rosie Riveters, discusses the power of productive struggle in STEM education and how it builds confidence and empowers young girls. She emphasizes the importance of continued engagement and creating opportunities for girls to explore STEM fields. Brittany also addresses the challenges of math education and the need to change the perception of math as difficult or intimidating. She highlights the impact of public-private partnerships in expanding access to STEM education and resources. Brittany encourages individuals to get involved locally and support organizations like Rosie Riveters. Overall, Rosie Riveters aims to inspire change and inclusivity in the manufacturing industry.
Takeaways
A productive struggle is a powerful tool in STEM education as it builds confidence and empowers young girls.
Continued engagement and creating opportunities for girls to explore STEM fields are crucial for their success.
The perception of math as difficult or intimidating needs to be changed to encourage more girls to pursue STEM.
Public-private partnerships play a significant role in expanding access to STEM education and resources.
Individuals can get involved locally by supporting organizations like Rosie Riveters and promoting inclusivity in the manufacturing industry.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
00:55Introduction of Guest: Brittany Greer
03:33Brittany's Background and Work with the World Association of Nuclear Operators
06:08Identifying the Gap in STEM Programming for Young Girls
09:05Founding Rosie Riveters and the First Program
13:36The Importance of Data and Problem Solving
17:27The Role of STEM Education in Shaping Future Careers
20:23Challenges in Implementing STEM Education
25:39Explaining the Rosie Riveters Program
31:55Educating Parents and Providing Career Pathways
35:39Success Stories of the Rosie Riveters Program
37:50The Power of Productive Struggle
39:03Empowering Confidence and Value
39:33Continued Engagement and Opportunities
41:39The Challenges of Math Education
43:29Changing the Perception of Math
45:33Building Confidence and Innovation
51:25Public-Private Partnerships
58:15Getting Involved Locally
01:00:03Overview of Rosie Riveters' Programs
01:03:42Inspiring Change and Inclusivity
Connect with Brittany on LinkedIn or visit the Rosie Riveter's website.
A massive thank you to our sponsor, Speroni, for not only enabling this podcast but also for fostering the education of future manufacturers!

Dec 7, 2023 • 1h 7min
Beyond the Basics w/ Lonnie Wilson: Mastering the Learning Maturity Model in Manufacturing
In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer interviews Lonnie Wilson, a lean manufacturing expert and founder of Quality Consultants. Lonnie shares his journey from working at Chevron to starting his consulting firm specializing in cultural change. He emphasizes the importance of respect for people and creating a learning culture in the manufacturing industry. Lonnie also discusses the learning model maturity cycle and the danger zone of pseudo-competence. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for continuous improvement and the role of leadership in driving cultural transformation. Lonnie explains the learning model and the importance of understanding the theory before applying it. He discusses the danger zone where managers often get stuck and the need for them to go through the journey of learning. Lonnie emphasizes the importance of applying the theory and creating standards to gain understanding. He also highlights the role of management in creating a learning culture and the power of unconscious competence. Lonnie concludes by discussing the awareness spectrum and the simplicity on the other side of complexity.
Takeaways
Cultural change in the manufacturing industry requires leadership commitment and modeling of desired behaviors.
Creating a learning culture is essential for continuous improvement and staying ahead of the competition.
The learning model maturity cycle consists of unconscious incompetence, conscious incompetence, conscious competence, and unconscious competence.
The danger zone of pseudo-competence is a critical area where individuals may believe they are competent but lack the necessary knowledge and skills.
Awareness is key in learning and decision-making, allowing individuals to make informed choices and consider potential outcomes. Understanding the theory is crucial before applying it in practice.
Managers often get stuck in the danger zone and need to go through the journey of learning.
Applying the theory and creating standards are essential for gaining understanding.
Management is critical in creating a learning culture and driving cultural transformation.
Unconscious competence is the ultimate level of mastery.
The awareness spectrum and the simplicity on the other side of complexity are essential concepts to consider in cultural transformation.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Background
03:08Lonnie's Journey from Chevron to Quality Consultants
11:10Approach to Cultural Change in the Manufacturing Industry
18:39Learning Model Maturity Cycle
27:31Creating a Learning Culture
36:16The Danger Zone: Pseudo Competence
41:28The Importance of Awareness in Learning
42:57Understanding the Theory
43:27The Danger Zone
44:36The Incipient Awareness
45:33The Make or Break Point
46:32Applying the Theory
47:31Creating Standards
48:08The Initiative Mantra
48:59The Problem-Solving Mantra
49:41Sustaining the Standard
50:11Opportunities in the Boardroom
51:11Understanding in Different Environments
52:09Unconscious Competence
53:43The Willie Mays Syndrome
55:37The Awareness Spectrum
57:04The Awareness Paradox
57:35The Simplicity on the Other Side of Complexity
59:04Cultivating a Culture of Learning
01:00:40The Operational Definition of Culture
01:04:07The Managers as the Solution
01:05:31Distinguishing Intellectual Knowledge from Applicable Understanding
01:06:16The Awareness Paradox
01:07:32The Journey of Cultural Transformation
Connect with Lonnie on LinkedIn or on his website.
Special mention to Speroni for their innovative solutions in precision manufacturing, which align perfectly with the themes of continuous improvement and excellence discussed in this episode.

Nov 30, 2023 • 1h 1min
The Future of Feedback: Mike White's Innovative Strategies for Performance Reviews
In this episode, host Jim Mayer interviews Mike White, the founder of Secchi, an employee engagement software company. They discuss the role of data-driven decision-making in unlocking the workforce's potential and improving company culture. Mike shares his journey in HR and how he founded Secchi to address the challenges frontline supervisors face. They also explore the impact of industry on company culture and the importance of leadership in shaping it. The conversation highlights the role of AI in simplifying performance reviews and reducing administrative tasks in manufacturing. Finally, they discuss strategies for reducing turnover and implementing changes to impact company culture positively. In this conversation, Jim and Mike discuss the importance of building a solid company culture. They explore topics such as generational change, building relationships, creating paradigm shifts, values and mission, and the meaning of work. The conversation highlights the impact of culture on employees' lives and the importance of caring for others. Overall, the episode provides valuable insights into creating a positive and meaningful work environment in the manufacturing industry.
Takeaways
Data-driven decision-making can unlock the potential of the workforce and improve company culture.
Frontline supervisors play a crucial role in a company's success and need tools to navigate their responsibilities effectively.
Simplifying performance reviews with AI can make the process easier for both supervisors and employees.
Company culture can vary within industries and even within different departments of the same company.
Reducing turnover requires a strategic approach that addresses the root causes and engages employees.
AI has the potential to automate administrative tasks and improve efficiency in manufacturing.
Implementing changes to company culture requires listening to employees, addressing their concerns, and taking action. Building a strong company culture can lead to generational change and positively impact employees' lives.
Creating relationships and fostering a sense of community at work can significantly contribute to building a solid culture.
Volunteer projects and involving families in work activities can help create a paradigm shift and change colleagues' perceptions.
The right values, mission, and caring about others are essential for building a positive culture.
Work can be meaningful and transformative, and focusing on the work itself can significantly impact individuals and the company as a whole.
Chapters
00:00Introduction and Sponsor Shoutout
01:27Introduction of Guest: Mike White
03:20Secchi: Providing Guidance for Frontline Supervisors
06:09Simplifying Performance Reviews with Secchi
08:43Making Performance Reviews Easier with AI
10:33Mike White's Journey to Founding Secchi
13:44The Impact of Company Culture on Employee Engagement
16:46The Influence of Industry on Company Culture
18:33The Variability of Culture within Companies
20:17The Role of Leadership in Shaping Company Culture
22:21The Importance of Frontline Leaders in Company Culture
24:34Overcoming Resistance to Using Data in Manufacturing
34:40Reducing Turnover in Manufacturing
39:55The Role of AI in Manufacturing and Company Culture
45:11Using Data to Develop Strategic Strategies
47:24The Impact of AI on Administrative Jobs in Manufacturing
52:02Implementing Changes to Impact Company Culture
53:24Generational Change and Impact
54:20Building Culture through Relationships
55:33Creating Paradigm Shifts
56:02Values, Mission, and Caring
56:59Perseverance and Work as Meaning
58:08Summary
A special thanks to our sponsor, Speroni, for their support in bringing this insightful discussion to you.
Stay connected with Mike White and learn more about Secchi:
Mike White's LinkedIn
Secchi Website

Nov 23, 2023 • 48min
From IA to AI: Matt Kownick's Journey in Manufacturing
In this insightful episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer engages in a fascinating conversation with Matt Kownick, the visionary owner of Left Hand Engineering. They discuss the evolving culture and significant changes within the manufacturing industry, focusing on equipment utilization, the impact of automation, and foresight into the future of manufacturing.
Matt Kownick shares the proactive approach of Left Hand Engineering in educating employees about business operations and emphasizes the critical importance of preparing for the era of automation. He also discusses the necessity of transparency in manufacturing processes and envisions how AI and machine learning will likely transform office jobs.
Additionally, the conversation takes a personal turn as Kownick shares his journey, passion for water skiing and beer, and unique experiences at various trade shows.
We extend our gratitude to Speroni for sponsoring this episode and supporting the exploration of these vital topics in manufacturing.
For more insights into Matt Kownick’s philosophy, visit Left Hand Engineering's website and connect with Matt on LinkedIn.
Tune in to this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast for an enlightening experience that bridges the gap between personal passions and professional advancements in the manufacturing world.


