On this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Joe Bockerstette, the leader behind Business Enterprise Mapping, a Phoenix-based consultancy renowned for helping manufacturers rapidly document workflows, identify bottlenecks, and implement impactful change. With four decades of experience in operations and supply chain management—including senior roles at PwC and private equity—Joe shares the proven strategies that separate good manufacturers from great ones.

Key Topics Covered:

- What Sets High-Performers Apart: Discover why synchronizing supply to demand and aligning internal processes with customer needs is the foundation of manufacturing excellence.

- Red Clouds vs. Quick Wins: Learn how to identify operational bottlenecks (“red clouds”), categorize them for action, and prioritize quick wins that can be solved in less than 90 days.

- Process Mapping for Impact: Understand how process mapping can directly enhance customer value and streamline departmental workflows through a unique, education-driven methodology.

- Getting Buy-In From Teams: Strategies for engaging even the most change-resistant employees and fostering effective workshops where frontline teams contribute real solutions.

- Mistakes to Avoid in Lean Initiatives: Why managers often miss the mark by zooming in on details without looking at the whole system, and how to refocus efforts for greater impact.

- Tech’s True Role: Insights into how automation and data tools help—and when they complicate—workflow improvement.

- One Metric Manufacturers Ignore: Why measuring the accuracy, completeness, and timeliness (“ACT”) of key deliverables can drive results where it matters most.

- Balancing Efficiency With Culture: Practical advice on maintaining a strong company culture while driving performance and staying compliant.

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Map the Process, Not Just the Issues: Start improvement efforts by mapping your workflows holistically. Focus on how each process delivers value to the customer and supports upstream/downstream requirements.

2. Prioritize Quick Wins to Build Momentum: Identify red clouds that can be solved without senior-level approval or major budget and tackle these first to show rapid progress.

3. Involve Frontline Teams Early: Use workshops and collaborative sessions, not just interviews, to engage your staff and source powerful insights and buy-in from day one.

4. Don’t Automate Before Simplifying: Clean up your foundational processes before introducing new tech—automation only amplifies existing problems when processes aren’t robust.

5. Measure What Matters: Use the ACT metric (Accurate, Complete, Timely) to assess non-product deliverables like specs and handoffs—they’re critical to smooth operations and customer satisfaction.

6. Balance Efficiency and Responsibility: Pursue both operational excellence and a supportive culture; treat people well, ensure compliance, and leverage your assets wisely.

Connect with Joe Bockerstette:

- Website: businessmapping.com

- Email: joe@businessmapping.com

- LinkedIn: Joe Bockerstette

Ready to drive performance and customer value in your manufacturing operation? Tune in and get the tools and strategies to make your next workflow transformation a success!

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, Lisa Ryan sits down with Chris Hallberg, a veteran entrepreneur, business coach, and the original "Business Sergeant." As one of Colorado's first EOS Implementers, Chris has helped more than a hundred companies transform chaotic teams into aligned, accountable, and energized organizations. Together, they unpack the secrets behind building a powerful culture and resilient performance—whether on the shop floor or in the boardroom.

What You’ll Learn:

- What EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) is and how to use it as the “operating system for your business”

- How to identify when leadership, not the market, is your biggest roadblock

- The “Business Sergeant” approach—combining military discipline and team accountability with entrepreneurial creativity

- Tactical steps to boost engagement and select unicorn team members by design, not accident

- Why selection and intentional hiring are more important than trying to “fix” team members

- Building processes that reduce daily interruptions and make onboarding (and execution) seamless

- How to leverage AI as a low-risk, high-return way to enhance your team’s effectiveness

- Tips for doubling down on accountability—celebrating top performers and addressing underperformance head-on

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Clarify and Cascade Your Vision:

Create a simple, two-page business plan (like the Vision Traction Organizer) that answers: Who are we? Why do we exist? What makes us unique? Use it to align every employee or help them self-select out if they don’t fit.

2. Get the Right People in the Right Seats:

Focus your recruitment on people who *want* the job, *get* the job, and have the *capacity* to do the job. Use intentional selection processes (including pre-interview personality assessments) to build an all-in team.

3.Make Engagem ent Measurable:

Implement clear performance metrics and create an environment where great contributors are recognized—and those who aren’t, are held accountable.

4. Borrow Military-Level Discipline, Not Rigidity:

Foster personal responsibility and a team-first mindset, but keep space for initiative, creativity, and individual strengths.

5. Operationalize Processes with AI:

Use AI-powered platforms to centralize SOPs, policies, and team knowledge so everyone gets instant, accurate answers—freeing leaders from repetitive interruptions.

6. Commit to Continuous Improvement:

Set quarterly rocks (major priorities) and get everyone in a “90-day world” rhythm to maintain focus and momentum.

7. Invest in Unicorn Retention:

Put real effort—and budget—towards keeping and rewarding your all-star performers. Retention happens in the same place accountability lives.

Connect with Chris Hallberg:

- Email: chris@goexpand.com

- Online Course & Resources: Business Sergeant

- LinkedIn: (Make sure to connect there as mentioned in the episode!)

Favorite Quote: “Great doesn’t happen on accident. Be intentional, commit to finding, onboarding, and developing the best humans—and create a system where greatness can thrive.” — Chris Hallberg

Building a Legacy of Quality and Creativity in Manufacturing with David Socha

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan chats with David Socha, CEO of Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company. David shares how he built a family business focused on creativity, ethics, and global adaptability in the world of plush toys. Whether you're a manufacturing leader, entrepreneur, or curious about business culture, this episode is full of practical advice and actionable steps.

Key Takeaways You Can Use:

1. Consistency Is Key

- David credits showing up every day and looking beyond daily setbacks as crucial to long-term success in manufacturing. If you’re managing a team or a business, build routines that keep you and your employees focused on the bigger picture, not just the day-to-day challenges.

2. Focus on Quality Over Quantity

- For manufacturers in crowded markets, David’s advice is simple: Make great, unique products. Don’t just copy trends; put effort into improving your product and set higher standards. Customers and employees notice the difference.

3. Legacy Through Family Culture

- David involves his family at every stage of the business—from warehouse work to creative brainstorming. He believes exposing children to the business early increases the chance of generational succession. For other family-owned companies: get your kids involved in small, meaningful ways.

4. Ethical Manufacturing Matters

- David’s company visits every manufacturing site, builds long-term relationships, and chooses partners who share their values. If you outsource, audit your suppliers and don’t compromise on ethics for lower costs.

5. Global Adaptability

- Trends in toys (and other products) now travel fast worldwide. Manufacturers must track global influences and adapt quickly. David’s team keeps a close watch on rising trends from places like Asia and pivots accordingly.

6. Employee Engagement and Purpose

- Today’s workforce wants to be part of something meaningful—they’re not interested in making throwaway goods. If you want to attract and retain talent, communicate your business’s larger purpose and invest in product improvements that employees can be proud of.

7. Resilience in the Face of Challenges

- From supply chain disruptions to market shifts, David explains how deep, long-term partnerships with suppliers help weather storms. Invest time in building trusted relationships with your vendors and partners—find allies who share your long-term vision.

Action Steps for Listeners:

- Audit your supplier relationships and visit their facilities where possible.

- Review your product line—where can you raise the standard or add unique value?

- Bring team members or family into business brainstorming sessions; fresh perspectives spark innovation.

- Develop a “bigger purpose” message for your employees to help foster pride and retention.

- Track rising trends, especially from international markets, and stay agile in your planning.

Connect with David Socha:

- Email: david@plush.com

- LinkedIn: Search “David Socha Toy Company”

- Website: https://plush.com

Listen, learn, and start building a legacy of quality and ethics in your manufacturing business.