Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Podcast by Jim Mayer

Manufacturing Culture Podcast

Manufacturing is about more than products—it’s about people. 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.

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Latest episodes

27 August 2025

Why the Factory Floor Deserves Better Than Palo Alto: Renan Devilliers on shop floor dignity, tech arrogance, and building tools that work for the people who use them

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Renan Devilliers, co-founder of OSS Ventures. Renan shares his unique journey from a military upbringing to becoming a leader in the manufacturing technology industry. He discusses the importance of organizational culture, his experiences at McKinsey, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives him. Renan emphasizes the need for innovation in manufacturing, the mission-driven approach of OSS Ventures, and the core values that guide their work. He also explores the future of manufacturing, the impact of technology, and the opportunities available within the industry.

Takeaways

Culture is what gets people to thrive or leave an organization.
Renan grew up moving frequently due to his father's military career.
He transitioned from a career in violin to mathematics and consulting.
Renan discovered his passion for manufacturing while at McKinsey.
OSS Ventures aims to revolutionize manufacturing through technology.
The future of manufacturing will involve gigafactories and small factories.
Renan believes in paying shop floor workers as well as tech workers.
OSS Ventures has a mission-driven approach from day one.
Values are crucial for guiding company culture and decision-making.
Renan emphasizes the importance of listening to shop floor workers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Renan de Villiers
01:55 Defining Organizational Culture
02:41 Renan's Unique Background and Education
04:40 Career Path: From McKinsey to Manufacturing
08:35 Discovering the Entrepreneurial Spirit
09:51 The Allure of Manufacturing
11:50 OSS Ventures: Revolutionizing Manufacturing Tech
14:05 The Future of Manufacturing and Reshoring
16:42 Personal Growth and Leadership in Startups
18:11 Mission-Driven Approach at OSS Ventures
19:20 Core Values and Their Impact
24:48 Staying True to Values in Business
30:53 Beliefs Guiding OSS Ventures
35:10 The Future Landscape of Manufacturing
37:59 Opportunities at OSS Ventures
40:02 Embracing Change in Manufacturing

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45:40

25 August 2025

“They’ll Eat You Alive.”: Jenny Drescher & Ellen Feldman Ornato on Flipping Power and Facing Resistance in Manufacturing

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer engages with Ellen Feldman-Ornato and Jenny Drescher to explore the intricacies of organizational culture, personal journeys, and the importance of behavioral change in the workplace. They discuss the significance of defining culture, the challenges of implementing change, and the impact of generational dynamics on workplace behavior. The conversation also highlights the birth of the Boulder Company, their podcast initiative, and the importance of humor and lightness in navigating workplace challenges.

Takeaways

Culture is essential and should be considered table stakes for any organization.
Good culture varies from organization to organization, but respect and positive behaviors are key.
Behavioral change requires time, practice, and accountability among team members.
Consultants must engage deeply with clients to foster real change, not just surface-level fixes.
Generational differences impact workplace dynamics and behaviors significantly.
Humor can be a powerful tool in navigating workplace challenges and fostering connection.
The Boulder Company was born from a shared passion for applied improvisation and culture work.
Effective communication is crucial for a thriving workplace culture.
People need to focus on personal growth and deeper understanding rather than just accumulating knowledge.
The podcast aims to elevate the voices of women in manufacturing and promote the industry as a viable career path.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers
04:25 Defining Culture in Organizations
07:40 Personal Journeys and Early Experiences
12:36 The Birth of the Boulder Company
16:42 Behavioral Change and Effective Training
21:56 The Evolution of Manufacturing Support
23:34 Embracing Uniqueness and Personal Growth
25:40 Going Deeper in Leadership Skills
28:21 The Reality of Behavioral Change in Organizations
31:05 Finding the Right Fit in Consulting
33:12 Vetting Clients for Effective Change
35:54 Generational Dynamics in the Workplace
39:20 Highlighting Women in Manufacturing
41:46 Lightening Up in the Workplace
47:13 Building Trust and Connection

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49:24

12 August 2025

The Long Game of Culture Change: Darryl Gratrix on Leadership, Outreach, and the Next Generation of Tradespeople

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Darryl Gratrix, who shares his insights on manufacturing culture, leadership, and the importance of attracting the next generation to skilled trades. Darryl discusses his career path in tool and die, the transition to leadership, and the cultural turnaround he has experienced in his workplace. He emphasizes the need for collaboration in the industry and the importance of promoting skilled trades to younger generations. The conversation also touches on the future of the industry and the initiatives being taken to enhance training and apprenticeship programs.

Takeaways

Treat others the way you want to be treated.
Darryl's career path was unconventional; he didn't grow up in trades.
Leadership requires a different skill set than technical expertise.
Cultural turnaround is essential for a thriving workplace.
Attracting the next generation to skilled trades is crucial.
Virtual reality training can engage younger audiences.
Collaboration among companies can enhance the industry.
Government support is increasing for skilled trades training.
Perception of trades needs to change to attract talent.
Darryl is passionate about promoting the skilled trades.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
04:16 Understanding Culture in Manufacturing
08:18 Darryl's Journey into Tool and Die
12:14 Transitioning to Leadership
15:14 Cultural Turnarounds in the Workplace
19:08 Hiring for Culture and Skills
19:59 Building Career Pathways for Young Machinists
21:36 Perceptions of the Trade and Community Engagement
23:04 Innovative Approaches to Attracting Youth
24:45 Challenges in the Skilled Trades
26:10 The Value of Skilled Trades in Today's Economy
27:39 Government Support and Future Opportunities
30:53 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades
34:04 Personal and Professional Growth in the Industry

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48:18

05 August 2025

What Happens When You Hire People Most Companies Won’t: Marcus Sheanshang on Second Chance as Culture

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Marcus Sheanshang, CEO of JBM Packaging, as he shares his journey from working on the shop floor at age 11 to leading a company that embraces second chances. Discover how Marcus transformed a labor strategy into a purpose-driven mission, providing opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals and reshaping company culture.

Key Highlights:

Marcus's early experiences in the family business and his path to leadership. The development and impact of the Fair Chance program at JBM. Insights into building a culture of collaboration and learning. The importance of aligning company values with personal growth and community impact.

Takeaways

Every business has a culture, whether intentional or not.
Collaboration and support are key to a positive workplace culture.
Transitioning from family business to leadership can be challenging.
Experiences outside the family business can provide valuable insights.
Effective communication is crucial in leadership roles.
Asking questions is a strength, not a weakness.
Purpose-driven programs can enhance employee engagement.
The Fair Chance program has transformed JBM's workforce.
Building trust with employees is essential for success.
Investing in community and employee well-being is beneficial for business.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Marcus Sheanshang
03:51 Defining Culture in Business
05:59 Marcus's Journey in the Family Business
08:51 Early Experiences on the Shop Floor
11:25 Transitioning to CEO
13:36 Doubts and Leadership Challenges
15:58 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture
21:19 Operationalizing Core Values
24:21 Reinvigorating Company Culture
30:27 Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance
31:37 The Genesis of the Fair Chance Program
33:41 Building Bridges: From Prisons to Employment
35:15 Transforming Perspectives on Rehabilitation
38:43 Establishing Trust with Fair Chance Employees
40:09 Support Systems for Successful Reintegration
43:57 Criteria for Inclusion in the Fair Chance Program
45:17 Training and Development for Fair Chance Employees
49:47 Vision for the Future: A Sustainable and Inclusive Workplace
01:03:13 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture
01:04:09 Leadership and Second Chances

Don't miss this episode! Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications to stay updated with more inspiring stories from industry leaders. Visit themfgconnector.com for more episodes and connect with us on social media.

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01:06:39

29 July 2025

Promoted But Never Trained: Craig Coyle on the Leadership Crisis in Manufacturing

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Craig Coyle, a former Apache pilot and now a leadership consultant. They discuss the importance of culture in organizations, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and the need for effective leadership in manufacturing. Craig shares his insights on how to create a positive work environment that inspires employees and the significance of community in both military and civilian settings. He emphasizes the importance of treating leadership as a profession and the need for continuous development and support among leaders.

Takeaways

Culture is a result and a lag measure of organizational health.
Leadership is not just about hard work; it's about inspiring others.
The military experience teaches valuable lessons about pressure and leadership.
Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging, especially in finding community.
Manufacturing has a unique opportunity to create positive change in people's lives.
Effective leadership requires understanding and developing relationships.
Organizations must focus on higher levels of Maslow's hierarchy to retain talent.
Leadership should be treated as a profession with proper training and development.
Community and support are crucial for leaders to succeed.
The future of manufacturing depends on creating environments that inspire and engage employees.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
05:55 Understanding Culture
08:03 Early Life and Background
10:19 Choosing West Point
11:49 Military Experience and Leadership
19:41 Transitioning to Civilian Life
22:59 Finding Community in Manufacturing
24:10 Building Community in Manufacturing
25:17 The Birth of Operation Lead
26:12 Challenges in Military and Manufacturing
29:21 Understanding Labor as a Commodity
31:37 Tapping into Maslow's Hierarchy
33:21 The Gap in Leadership Development
35:12 Leadership as a Profession
39:57 The Importance of Internal Culture
42:24 Opportunities in Manufacturing
44:12 Encouragement for New Leaders

00:00

53:21

28 July 2025

What Story Are You Not Telling? Lori Highby on Culture, AI, and the Future of Manufacturing Marketing

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer sits down with Lori Highby, a digital marketing strategist, educator, and founder of Keystone Click, to explore the stories manufacturers aren’t telling.They unpack what culture really means inside an organization, why storytelling is manufacturers’ biggest missed opportunity, and how AI is changing, not replacing, the creative process. Lori shares her journey from a night school marketing student to agency owner, her values around lifelong learning, and what it means to lead with clarity.From founding a business during a recession to building a team around education, trust, and curiosity, Lori brings sharp insight to the intersection of manufacturing, marketing, and human-centered leadership.

Takeaways

Culture is a collective energy and vibe within an organization.
Lori's journey began with a passion for art and sociology.
Education is a core value for Lori and her organization.
Integrity and creativity are essential in business.
AI should be seen as a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it.
Storytelling is crucial for manufacturers to differentiate themselves.
Community involvement is a priority for Lori and her team.
Digital marketing can significantly impact manufacturing sales.
Personal hobbies provide mental clarity and focus.
Mentorship and paying it forward are important values for Lori.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers
05:08 Understanding Culture in Organizations
06:11 Lori's Journey into Marketing and Manufacturing
10:34 Starting a Business During a Recession
12:44 Core Values and Organizational Culture
15:10 The Role of AI in Creativity and Education
18:37 Leveraging AI in Education and Workforce
19:28 The Importance of Future Thinking
21:16 The Drive to Teach and Share Knowledge
22:47 Helping Businesses of All Sizes
24:01 Impactful Marketing Success Stories
31:45 AI's Role in Shaping Industry Culture
33:19 The Future of Marketing in Manufacturing
34:53 Understanding the Customer Journey with AI

00:00

43:20