Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Podcast by Jim Mayer

Manufacturing Culture Podcast

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.

Latest episodes

20 January 2026

My Digital Twin: Mark Vanderwarf

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Mark Vanderwarf, a business growth strategist and sustainability advocate. They discuss the importance of sustainability in manufacturing, the role of culture in business, and the need for a skilled workforce. Mark shares his early experiences that shaped his views on growth and sustainability, emphasizing the need for a mindset shift towards investing in people. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology and AI on the industry, the intersection of sustainability and the middle class, and the importance of balancing technological advancements with environmental considerations. Mark concludes with a call to action for individuals to take personal responsibility and contribute positively to their communities.

Takeaways

Sustainability is essential for the future of manufacturing.
Culture defines the identity and purpose of a company.
Investing in people leads to better business outcomes.
The manufacturing industry faces a skilled labor shortage.
Mindset shifts are crucial for embracing sustainability.
Technology and AI can enhance efficiency in manufacturing.
Sustainability is linked to rebuilding the middle class.
Balancing technological needs with environmental sustainability is vital.
Time management is a key factor in business success.
Personal responsibility and community contribution are important for change.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mark Van Der Werf
07:09 Defining Culture in Manufacturing
08:18 Early Experiences Shaping Growth and Sustainability
13:54 The Need for a New Exchange in Manufacturing
17:11 The Skilled Labor Dilemma
21:39 Abundance vs. Scarcity Mentality
26:37 Investing in People for Future Success
28:37 Reframing Sustainability in Manufacturing
36:06 The Role of Technology in Empowering Workers
41:31 AI's Impact on Business Efficiency
45:49 Sustainability and the Middle Class
50:21 Balancing AI Needs with Sustainability
54:39 Mindset Shifts for a Better Future

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55:53

15 January 2026

The Shift to Root Cause Medicine: Dr. Erica Armstrong's Journey

Summary

In this conversation, Dr. Erica Armstrong discusses her journey from traditional healthcare to founding Root Functional Medicine, a virtual clinic focused on treating root causes of chronic diseases. She emphasizes the importance of nutrition, the role of dietitians, and the need for a new approach to healthcare that prioritizes employee wellness and addresses the underlying issues affecting the American workforce. Dr. Armstrong also shares insights on the future of healthcare in America and the potential for functional medicine to become mainstream.

Takeaways

Dr. Erica Armstrong is transforming healthcare by focusing on root causes.
Root Functional Medicine aims to treat chronic diseases effectively.
Nutrition plays a crucial role in overall health and wellness.
The healthcare system often overlooks the importance of diet and lifestyle.
Functional medicine provides a more personalized approach to health.
Early detection and prevention can significantly reduce healthcare costs.
Employee wellness programs can enhance workplace culture and productivity.
Access to functional medicine can empower patients to take control of their health.
The integration of technology in healthcare can improve patient outcomes.
Healthcare reform is essential for rebuilding the middle class.

Chapters

00:00 Revolutionizing Healthcare: Dr. Erica Armstrong's Journey
09:07 The Shift to Root Cause Medicine
18:23 The Role of Nutrition in Health
27:28 Functional Medicine: A New Approach
36:15 The Future of Healthcare in America

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39:11

06 January 2026

Speed, Precision, and Culture in Manufacturing

In this live panel discussion on the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer engages with four industry experts from diverse backgrounds in manufacturing, robotics, and semiconductors. The conversation explores their personal journeys, definitions of culture in manufacturing, the importance of speed and precision, and how to engage the next generation in the industry. The panelists share insights on current roles, challenges in the semiconductor industry, and the need for a cultural shift to attract young talent. The session concludes with audience questions addressing misconceptions in the industry and the importance of education and hands-on experience.

Takeaways

The importance of culture in manufacturing is about infusing values into the workforce.

Personal journeys in manufacturing often involve unique paths and experiences.

Speed and precision are critical in the semiconductor industry, impacting production and quality.

Engaging the next generation requires innovative approaches and hands-on experiences.

The semiconductor industry is facing a talent shortage that needs to be addressed.

AI and technology are reshaping the manufacturing landscape, leading to new opportunities.

Trade programs in schools are essential for fostering interest in manufacturing careers.

Misconceptions about the industry can hinder recruitment and understanding of roles.

Collaboration and teamwork are vital for success in manufacturing environments.

The future of manufacturing will rely on a diverse range of skills and backgrounds.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Panel and Icebreaker

06:43 Defining Culture in Manufacturing

10:09 Personal Journeys in Manufacturing

16:15 Current Roles and Responsibilities

24:59 Speed and Precision in Manufacturing

33:36 Engaging the Next Generation in Manufacturing

44:31 Audience Q&A and Misconceptions in the Industry

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52:33

23 December 2025

Craftsmanship and Family: The Country Craft Journey

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Elvin Hurst, the founder of Country Craft, who shares his journey from a farmer to a successful entrepreneur in the cabinetry industry. Elvin discusses the challenges of maintaining craftsmanship in a changing workforce, the importance of family values in business, and the evolution of Country Craft over the years. He reflects on the support he received from his family and community, the impact of technology on craftsmanship, and his hopes for the future of the business as it transitions to the next generation.

Takeaways

Elvin Hurst's journey began with a table saw that his wife gifted him.
Country Craft started in a garage and grew into a large facility.
The company's motto is to provide quality at a fair price.
Finding skilled craftsmen is a challenge in today's workforce.
Family values play a crucial role in the business's success.
Elvin's children now run the company, continuing the legacy.
Technology has been embraced while maintaining craftsmanship.
Support from family and community was vital in the early days.
The importance of staying positive during economic challenges.
Elvin hopes for a future where his grandchildren can take over the business.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
02:49 The Birth of Country Craft
05:30 Challenges in Craftsmanship and Workforce
08:15 Navigating Economic Challenges
10:43 Family Business Dynamics
13:29 Memorable Moments and Values
16:12 Future Concerns and Legacy

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18:47

16 December 2025

We Undersell What We Do w/ Danny Gonzales

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer speaks with Danny Gonzales, a media expert in the manufacturing sector. They discuss the importance of storytelling and digital marketing in changing perceptions of manufacturing, the impact of AI on content creation, and the need for a strong organizational culture. Danny shares his journey into the industry, the challenges manufacturers face in marketing, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of manufacturing and the opportunities for growth through effective communication and engagement.

Takeaways

Manufacturing is often perceived negatively, but it has a lot of creativity and innovation.
Storytelling can change the perception of manufacturing and highlight its impact.
Many manufacturers are unaware of the positive effects they have on the world.
AI is democratizing content creation, making it accessible to all companies.
A strong organizational culture is essential for attracting and retaining talent.
Marketing strategies often lack a clear direction and understanding of the customer.
Vulnerability in leadership can build trust and improve company culture.
Internal and external communications should align to reflect company values.
The manufacturing industry needs to overcome outdated narratives to attract new talent.
Knowledge transfer from experienced workers to younger generations is crucial for the industry's future.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Manufacturing Culture Podcast
01:13 The Excitement of Industrial Marketing Summit
03:07 Danny Gonzalez's Unique Perspective on Life
06:53 Defining Culture in the Manufacturing Context
09:19 Danny's Journey from Accounting to Video Production
12:08 The Wonder of Manufacturing Facilities
14:09 Overcoming Negative Perceptions in Manufacturing
17:41 The Importance of Authentic Storytelling
19:50 The Shift in Manufacturing Narratives
21:29 The Role of AI in Content Creation
24:06 The Rise of Generative AI in Marketing
26:38 Authenticity in AI-Driven Storytelling
28:17 Balancing Human and AI Content
32:43 Common Pitfalls in Industrial Marketing
34:39 Leveraging Company Culture in Storytelling
39:12 Vulnerability and Transparency in Manufacturing
40:57 Future Success Metrics for Industrial Marketing

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47:12

09 December 2025

Apprenticeships, Paychecks and the Next Generation of Makers

Scott Peters on Trades, Talent and the Culture Shift Manufacturing Can’t Avoid

Scott Peters is one of those guests who reminds you why the industry still matters. He came up in the late seventies, learned the trade before CNC was common, built model-kit molds that ended up on Kmart shelves, moved into medical devices where your mistakes affect real lives, and eventually ran a 300-person plant in Guangzhou where “yes-boss culture” smashed into his belief that people should think for themselves.

This conversation isn’t polished. It’s real. Offshoring. Apprenticeships. Pay. Responsibility. Pride. And the uncomfortable truth that young people won’t line up for jobs that pay less than McDonald’s.

Scott argues that culture isn’t a slogan. It’s whether people feel safe enough to tell you you’re wrong and proud enough to stand beside the work they produce. If you care about the future of plastics, the trades or the next generation coming up behind us, this one is worth the time.

What you’ll hear

Scott’s jump from the Marines to an apprentice mold maker after his mother spotted a classifieds ad and pushed him toward it.

What mold shops looked like in the late seventies and early eighties when CAD wasn’t an option and everything ran on skill, graphite smudges and problem solving.

Why seeing his designs turn into products on store shelves changed how he viewed responsibility and pride in the trade.

How managing a Chinese plant forced him to break top-down culture and build a team willing to challenge him instead of nodding along.

Why he thinks shops are losing young talent to Amazon warehouses and fast food, and how transparent pay ladders used to keep apprentices motivated for years.

The generational damage caused by offshoring and why communities still don’t trust manufacturing jobs even as the work returns.

How to build culture that works on the floor instead of in HR decks: respect, honesty, disagreement and shared ownership of deadlines.

Where to listen

Available on all platforms. Search “Manufacturing Culture Podcast.”

#manufacturingculture #manufacturing #trades #skilledtrades #plastics #injectionmolding #moldmaking #manufacturingjobs #engineering #operations #leadership

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