Manufacturing Culture Podcast

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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

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08 April 2025

You Can’t Build Culture Without Empathy

Show Notes:

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer sits down with Clare Epstein, General Manager, Commercial at Vector Solutions, for a raw and grounded conversation on what it really takes to lead in manufacturing today.

Clare shares how her path—from urban planning to safety tech leadership—was anything but linear. She opens up about the hard lessons that shaped her leadership style, why empathy isn’t optional, and how treating safety like a checklist is costing companies more than they realize.

This is a story about learning to lead with humility, listening more than talking, and doing the real work of building culture from the inside out.

Whether you’re in operations, safety, HR, or the C-suite, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership—and remind you what matters most.

Key Takeaways:

  • Safety isn’t compliance—it’s culture.
  • Empathy is a learned leadership skill, not a personality trait.
  • A strong safety culture drives retention, engagement, and performance.
  • Leaders must model the behavior they expect—especially when things get hard.
  • Technology is a powerful tool, but it can’t replace human connection.
  • Training should meet workers where they are: mobile, fast, and relevant.
  • The future of manufacturing depends on leaders who prioritize people.
  • Grace—for yourself and others—matters more than you think.

Chapters:

  • 00:00 – Why Safety Isn’t Just About Rules
  • 02:50 – Clare’s Unexpected Path to Manufacturing Leadership
  • 06:12 – What Culture Means (and Why It’s Hard to Build)
  • 09:05 – From Urban Planning to EHS Software
  • 13:40 – The Evolution of a Leadership Style
  • 17:00 – Lessons in Empathy and Accountability
  • 20:00 – What Most Leaders Get Wrong About Safety
  • 23:50 – Technology’s Role in Safety (and Its Limits)
  • 26:57 – Turnover, Training, and Meeting Workers Where They Are
  • 30:15 – Apprenticeship Models and Generational Shifts
  • 32:00 – Outdated Mindsets That Still Hurt Manufacturing
  • 33:12 – What Keeps Clare Going (And What She’s Proud Of)
  • 36:41 – What the Future of Safety Training Looks Like
  • 41:01 – The One Thing She Wishes She’d Done Sooner
  • 42:35 – Final Thoughts and a Challenge to Leaders Everywhere

Stay Connected:

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40:08

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02 April 2025

Stephanie Chrystal, ANCA’s Female Machinist of the Year: She Won the Award—But It Was Her Team That Made History

Episode Summary

When Stephanie Chrystal walked into her first machine shop, she had no idea she’d one day be named ANCA’s Female Machinist of the Year. But according to her, the real story isn’t about the award—it’s about the team behind it.

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer sits down with Stephanie, a geometric grinding specialist at Sandvik Coromant, whose leadership helped grow a small, post-COVID crew into a record-breaking, high-performing team. Together, they dig into how she landed in machining almost by accident, why she believes true leadership starts with empathy, and what it means to build a culture where everyone plays a role and no one is left behind.

From tinkering on cars to training new machinists, Stephanie’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t need a title to lead—just a commitment to your people.

Top Takeaways

  • Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about action. Stephanie never asked to lead, she just stepped up when her team needed her most.
  • Culture thrives when everyone has a role. Whether you’re an operator or upper management, shared success depends on teamwork.
  • Work-life balance isn’t a buzzword—it’s how you build long-term productivity and morale.
  • Asking questions is a leadership skill. Stephanie empowers her team by making curiosity safe.
  • Recognition is great—but team success is greater. Stephanie may have won the award, but she insists the spotlight belongs to everyone.
  • Manufacturing needs more leaders who care about people as much as performance.

Chapters

  • 00:00 – A Precision Shop and a Powerful Leader
  • 02:49 – Stephanie Chrystal: Culture Starts with the Team
  • 06:14 – From Best Buy to Machining: An Unexpected Career Path
  • 08:48 – Discovering Her Passion for Grinding and Problem-Solving
  • 10:47 – COVID, Consolidation, and a Skeleton Crew
  • 12:40 – Tripling the Team and Building Momentum
  • 15:23 – Life Outside the Shop: Coaching, Disc Golf, and the Outdoors
  • 17:00 – Winning the ANCA Female Machinist Award
  • 18:34 – Why She Believes the Team Deserves the Credit
  • 21:14 – Overcoming Bias and Proving Herself in the Shop
  • 23:29 – Advice for Anyone Who Doesn’t Think They “Fit” in Manufacturing
  • 24:58 – The Future of Manufacturing: Technology and Human Craft
  • 27:46 – What Needs to Change in Manufacturing Culture
  • 29:32 – Final Reflections and How to Connect with Stephanie

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35:20

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26 March 2025

Beyond the Deal

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer sits down with Bill Ross—a private equity investor who’s chosen a different path. After two decades in traditional deal-making, Bill stepped away from the short-term mindset that defines much of his industry to take a more personal, hands-on approach to building businesses.

Bill opens up about his journey from rural New York to the world of private equity, and why he believes real value in manufacturing comes from understanding people—not just profit. He shares the story behind his investment in AutoTool, a robotics integrator in Columbus, Ohio, and what it’s really like to help a founder-led company transition into its next chapter.

This conversation goes far beyond financials—it’s about culture, legacy, leadership, and what it means to build something that lasts. Whether you're a founder, an operator, or someone navigating the future of automation and supply chain innovation, this episode will leave you thinking deeply about how we define success in manufacturing—and who we build it for.

Takeaways:

  • The best deals aren’t just financial—they’re personal. Bill shares why long-term relationships and cultural alignment matter more than spreadsheets.
  • Culture isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s built on trust, clarity, and a commitment to doing things right—even when it’s hard.
  • Transitioning from founder-led businesses takes humility. Success often means helping founders stay involved and honoring what they’ve built.
  • Leadership isn’t about control. Bill talks about the power of a “quiet ego” and knowing when to step back and let others lead.
  • Automation and sustainability aren’t buzzwords. They’re the backbone of a competitive, resilient manufacturing industry.
  • Private equity can be a force for good—if it’s done right. Bill breaks down how hands-on partnerships can create lasting value.
  • Failure is part of the journey. Bill reflects on tough calls, missed opportunities, and how those moments made him a better leader.

Chapters:

  • 00:00 Building a Lasting Legacy in Manufacturing
  • 03:30 The Journey of Bill Ross: From Investor to Operator
  • 07:20 Defining Culture: A Personal Perspective
  • 13:40 The Path to Private Equity: Bill's Story
  • 19:04 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship
  • 20:15 A Hands-On Approach to Private Equity
  • 23:17 The AutoTool Story: Quality and Innovation
  • 29:01 Traits of Successful Founder-Led Companies
  • 29:05 The Role of Founders in Business Transitions
  • 30:22 Leadership Lessons from Experience
  • 35:08 Learning from Failures
  • 38:43 The Future of Automation in Manufacturing
  • 41:09 Challenges in Innovation and Sustainability
  • 43:42 Motivation and Personal Mission46:16 Humanizing Private Equity

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53:41

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12 March 2025

Happiness Isn't a Destination

Summary

In the Manufacturing Culture Podcast episode, host Jim Mayer speaks with Janelle McGrath, CEO of MarketVeep, about the importance of happiness in business and workplace culture. Janelle shares her journey as an entrepreneur, her unique approach to fostering a positive work environment, and her innovative practices at MarketVeep, including a dedicated wellness day for employees. The conversation also touches on the future of manufacturing, leadership, and the evolving role of technology in the workplace. In this conversation, Jennelle shares her insights on happiness, the importance of community, and the journey of personal and professional growth. She discusses her podcast, 'Boundless Life', and how it aims to spread happiness by showcasing diverse life experiences. Jennelle emphasizes the significance of travel, especially for children, and how it broadens their perspectives. The discussion also delves into marketing strategies for manufacturers, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of building a supportive community. Jennelle's journey reflects a commitment to creating a legacy that encourages individuals to live their happiest lives, regardless of their professional roles.

Takeaways

  • Happiness should be at the core of business culture.
  • Company culture is more than perks; it's about genuine happiness.
  • Value alignment between employees and organization leads to fulfillment.
  • Innovative workplace initiatives can enhance employee well-being.
  • Community and collaboration are vital in the manufacturing industry.
  • Personal branding is becoming increasingly important in marketing.
  • Leadership requires adaptability and a focus on human-centric approaches.
  • Finding your people can lead to a supportive and inclusive environment.
  • Life is too short to settle; pursue what makes you happy.
  • The journey of happiness is ongoing and requires constant reflection.

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Happiness-Driven Business Model
  • 08:43 Defining Culture Through Happiness
  • 18:08 Janelle's Entrepreneurial Journey
  • 26:16 Innovative Workplace Practices
  • 35:06 The Future of Manufacturing and Leadership
  • 36:23 Exploring Boundless Life
  • 41:04 Navigating Doubts and Finding Support
  • 46:42 Leadership Lessons and Team Dynamics
  • 51:56 Building a Legacy in Manufacturing
  • 55:55 Advice for the Next Generation

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59:39

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04 March 2025

Challenging Sacred Truths

What happens when we stop accepting “the way things have always been done” and start questioning the sacred truths of manufacturing? In this episode, host Jim Mayer sits down with Joe Hungerman, a continuous improvement leader who has built his career on curiosity, reinvention, and challenging conventional wisdom.

Joe’s path from supply chain management to technology was anything but traditional. Along the way, he explored psychology, education, and leadership—building a unique perspective on why company culture is the real driver of improvement and how technology can empower people rather than replace them.

In this conversation, Jim and Joe discuss:

  • The myths holding manufacturing back—and why questioning them is the key to progress.
  • Why company culture isn’t just a leadership talking point—it’s the foundation of every organization.
  • How psychology and education influence problem-solving, leadership, and workplace culture.
  • The role of technology in democratizing continuous improvement and why Joe’s new venture, See/Eye, is focused on making these tools accessible to all.

This episode is for anyone who’s ever looked at a process, a policy, or even a leadership approach and thought, “There has to be a better way.”

Resources & Links:

  • Learn more at themfgconnector.com
  • Connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram
  • Check out The Manufacturing Connector on YouTube for insights on solving real manufacturing challenges.
  • Explore leadership and workplace culture on our new podcast, Work, But Make It Human.
  • Connect with Joe on Linkedin

How to Support the Show:

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a friend, rate, and review the podcast on your favorite platform—it helps us continue bringing you conversations that challenge the status quo in manufacturing.

Chapters

00:00 - Challenging Sacred Truths: Joe Hungerman’s Journey Begins

  • Jim introduces Joe Hungerman and his journey of reinvention.
  • The importance of curiosity in shaping a career across industries.

04:17 - Why Company Culture Is the Company

  • Joe shares why culture isn’t a side initiative—it defines everything.
  • How culture impacts trust, leadership, and improvement in manufacturing.

06:06 - Early Influences: Psychology, Problem-Solving, and Breaking the Mold

  • Joe’s early curiosity and how psychology shaped his problem-solving mindset.
  • How questioning “the way things are done” led him into continuous improvement.

08:28 - The Road to Reinvention: From Supply Chain to Technology

  • Joe’s experience in supply chain management and operations.
  • How discovering lean, Six Sigma, and Deming set the stage for his career evolution.

10:01 - Education vs. Real-World Learning: The Gaps No One Talks About

  • Joe’s perspective on higher education vs. hands-on experience.
  • Why education needs mentorship and real-world application to be effective.

15:09 - The Psychology of Business: Understanding People to Drive Change

  • How psychology and leadership intersect in problem-solving.
  • Why knowing how people think and work is critical for real transformation.

19:08 - Continuous Improvement as a Mindset, Not a Process

  • CI is more than a set of tools—it’s a way of thinking.
  • Why real improvement requires challenging outdated beliefs.

22:10 - From Supply Chain to Tech: The Moment Joe Knew It Was Time to Pivot

  • Joe’s transition into agile and technology.
  • The surprising connections between manufacturing principles and tech.

30:12 - The Birth of See/Eye: Making Continuous Improvement Accessible for Everyone

  • Why Joe launched See/Eye to democratize knowledge.
  • The barriers that keep organizations from truly embracing CI.

35:53 - The Lean Startup vs. Lean Manufacturing: Understanding the Difference

  • Why agile and lean manufacturing aren’t the same thing.
  • How startup culture is reshaping how we think about CI.

42:05 - Building a Culture That Supports Real Continuous Improvement

  • Why most companies fail at sustaining CI initiatives.
  • How leaders can create an environment where real improvement happens.

50:53 - Advice for Future Leaders: What Joe Wishes He Knew Sooner

  • Joe shares his biggest career lessons and advice for the next generation.
  • Why curiosity and questioning everything is the key to growth.

01:02:14 - Partnering with Education to Shape the Future of CI

  • Joe’s vision for partnering with universities and businesses to build better training.
  • Why mentorship and hands-on learning will define the next wave of CI.

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26 February 2025

Building a Legacy Where Few Get the Chance

Most people think inheriting a family business is a golden ticket. Karla Trotman knows better.

Her journey to leading Electro Soft, Inc. wasn’t about following in her father’s footsteps—it was about earning her place in an industry that wasn’t built for everyone.

From building her own e-commerce company from scratch to taking over the family business and fighting to close the wealth gap in manufacturing, Karla’s story is about legacy, leadership, and breaking barriers.

In this episode, Jim Mayer sits down with Karla for an unfiltered conversation about:

  • The reality of family business—why inheriting one doesn’t mean it’s yours to lead.
  • Her early years in manufacturing—from cutting wire as a kid to running the company.
  • The hard truth about ownership and generational wealth—and why minority-owned businesses face steeper challenges.
  • Why she left a successful corporate career to return to Electro Soft, Inc.
  • What manufacturing gets wrong about culture, leadership, and inclusion.
  • The power of building something bigger than yourself.

This episode is for you if:

  • You’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or leader navigating legacy and leadership.
  • You believe in building generational wealth and breaking barriers in business.
  • You want an inside look at how manufacturing is changing—and who’s leading the way.

Listen now and hear Karla’s powerful story.

Visit themfgconnector.com for more episodes.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to join the conversation.

Chapters

  • 00:00 – What It Really Takes to Build a Legacy
  • 03:05 – Culture Isn’t Perks—It’s the Foundation of Everything
  • 04:47 – From Cutting Wire as a Kid to CEO
  • 08:33 – Why She Left Corporate to Take Over the Family Business
  • 12:46 – Belly Button Boutique: The Side Hustle That Changed Everything
  • 16:55 – Family Business is a Responsibility, Not a Right
  • 18:33 – How to Build Generational Wealth in an Industry That Resists Change
  • 26:06 – Why Manufacturing’s Reputation is Holding It Back
  • 34:39 – Fixing Culture from the Inside Out
  • 37:20 – Diversity is More Than a Buzzword—It’s an Economic Imperative
  • 46:25 – No One is Going to Hand You Success—You Have to Build It
  • 54:16 – The Future of Manufacturing Belongs to Those Who Create It
  • 59:58 – One Final Truth About Leadership and Legacy

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01:11:18