Connect with Scott Peters: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottpeters74/

In this inspiring episode of The Manufacturers’ Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with Scott Peters, a third-generation plastics and mold making expert who has spent nearly five decades shaping not just molds, but mindsets. As the founder of Molded Marketing and a lifelong advocate for the skilled trades, Scott brings a blend of technical expertise, leadership insight, and heartfelt storytelling to the conversation. Together, Lisa and Scott explore the dramatic transformation of mold making—from the “dungeon days” of manual processes to today’s precision-driven world of CNC machines and wire EDM technology. Scott shares how innovations like EDM, once unimaginable, now define modern tooling—and how this shift opens the door for younger, tech-savvy professionals to see manufacturing as a rewarding, purpose-driven career.

Scott and Lisa discuss why the old narratives around manufacturing no longer serve us, and how reframing the industry as a force for good can help attract a more diverse and motivated workforce. Scott emphasizes that mission-driven messaging—how manufacturing saves lives, supports families, and powers everyday life—is far more effective than focusing on pay or promotions. He shares his passion for storytelling as a recruitment tool, highlighting how manufacturers can use impact-focused narratives to inspire students, parents, and career changers alike.

The episode also dives into gender equity and DEI in the trades. Scott talks about the growing presence and leadership of women in mold making and manufacturing, from apprentices on the shop floor to owners and executives. He points to the work being done through organizations like SPE’s “Women Making the Mold” series and the Women in Manufacturing association, encouraging listeners to create inclusive workplaces where respect, equal pay, and equal opportunity are non-negotiables.

Education and workforce development take center stage as well. Scott champions early engagement with vocational and technical schools, urging manufacturers to participate in curriculum design, mentorship programs, and plant tours. He highlights initiatives like the SPE Foundation’s PlastiVan program, which brings hands-on science and plastics education to students across the country. His message is clear: if you want great people, you have to grow them—and that means teaching the basics first. Foundational mechanical knowledge, strong work ethic, and curiosity must come before CAD/CAM and digital tools.

Lisa and Scott also explore how safety and communication are at the heart of great culture. From his global experiences—including lessons learned in Chinese manufacturing environments—Scott shares real-life examples of how leadership presence and proactive plant engagement can prevent accidents, build trust, and create safer, more connected teams. He advocates for peer-led safety walks and on-the-floor conversations as a powerful, low-cost strategy to build accountability and ownership across the team.

Finally, the conversation wraps with a focus on retention. Scott urges manufacturers to eliminate repetitive, mindless tasks and instead challenge team members to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully. He explains why trainability and enthusiasm often outweigh experience alone—and how consistent, specific recognition can create a culture where people want to stay. One of the episode’s key messages: “If you want to keep your people, make them feel seen.”

This episode is a masterclass in modern manufacturing leadership—from tools and technology to culture and communication. Whether you’re a shop owner, HR leader, plant supervisor, or workforce educator, Scott’s wisdom and warmth offer practical, proven strategies to help you shape a more sustainable, inclusive, and energized future for...

In this enlightening episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Dean Wegner, founder and CEO of Authentically American. Dean shares his journey from a West Point graduate and Army veteran to an entrepreneur passionate about creating American jobs through his 100% American-made apparel brand. Explore the strategic insights Dean gained from his corporate experiences at Procter & Gamble and Mars and how they shaped his mission-driven leadership approach today.

Key Themes and Lessons Learned:

1. Commitment to American Manufacturing and Job Creation:

• Dean Wegner is on a mission to revitalize American manufacturing by producing high-quality apparel made entirely in the U.S. He aims to create jobs and support the American worker, moving away from the industry's reliance on cheap overseas labor.

1. Entrepreneurial Journey and Strategies:

• Dean transitioned from an Army officer to a corporate executive at Fortune 500 companies before embarking on his entrepreneurial journey. He stresses the importance of understanding your industry and the power of branding and marketing.

1. Balancing Mission and Profitability:

• Authentically American adheres to a direct-to-consumer business model, inspired by successful examples like Dell and Southwest. This approach helps maintain competitive pricing by cutting out the middleman, ensuring high-quality American-made products remain affordable.

1. Harnessing National Media for Brand Growth:

• Dean shares how national media exposure catalyzes brand awareness and sales but emphasizes the need for sustained marketing efforts to maintain growth momentum.

1. Employee and Customer Engagement:

• Authentically American boosts customer and employee loyalty by staying true to its values. Dean’s commitment to donating 10% of profits to veterans and first responders is a testament to the brand’s purpose-driven ethos.

Fun Fact:

• Authentically American incorporates innovative designs, such as sweat-activated T-shirts, which reveal new messages as you perspire, a nod to their creativity and unique market appeal.

Connect with Dean Wegner:

Visit Authentically American's website at authenticallyamerican.us to learn more about Dean Wegner or explore its range of premium American-made apparel. You can also connect with Dean on LinkedIn to stay updated on his journey and insights into American manufacturing.

Connect with Ivan Madera on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-madera-b63b018/

In this episode, we dive deep into aerospace additive manufacturing with guest Ivan Madera. Ivan is a seasoned entrepreneur and expert in advanced manufacturing, boasting over 25 years of experience in the industry. Get ready to explore the key challenges, emerging technologies, and strategies that are shaping the future of manufacturing.

Key Themes:

1. Advanced Manufacturing and 3D Printing: Ivan Madera shares insights into the rapid evolution and growing interest in advanced manufacturing technologies, particularly focusing on the aerospace and defense sectors. Learn about the critical role of 3D printing in the industry and how it has progressed over the past decade.
2. AI and Robotics in Manufacturing: Discover how artificial intelligence and robotics transform manufacturing processes. Ivan discusses the impact of AI in augmenting human capabilities, providing recommendations, and optimizing efficiencies in production lines.
3. Onshoring and Nearshoring Strategies: Understand the current trends in onshoring and nearshoring and their significance in ensuring a resilient supply chain. Ivan highlights the shift from nearshore strategies to focus more on onshore manufacturing, emphasizing its importance for improving productivity and reducing dependency on foreign partners.
4. Bridging the Talent Gap: With a retiring workforce lacking skilled talent, Ivan addresses the vital need to upskill the new engineers. Listen to strategies for transferring decades of experience to younger employees and the importance of mentorship programs in retaining talent.
5. Technology Adoption Challenges: Ivan illuminates the barriers organizations face when adopting emerging technologies, including resistance to change and the necessity of strong leadership and clear communication to facilitate successful implementation.

Lessons Learned:

• Integrating AI in manufacturing isn't about replacing jobs but enhancing productivity by allowing employees to focus on more critical tasks.
• Creating a development path for young engineers can significantly increase employee retention and build a strong leadership pipeline.
• Leveraging advanced technologies like AI can help traditional manufacturing enterprises modernize and boost efficiency.

Fun Facts:

• Ivan describes AI-augmented engineers as "super engineers," equipped with years of industry knowledge through advanced data analysis.
• The average tenure for employees at Ivan's previous company was an impressive three and a half years, showcasing the effectiveness of strong training and mentorship.

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your network. Stay connected with us for more exciting episodes exploring the world of manufacturing.

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with Meaghan Ziemba, an industrial tech writer, brand storyteller, and the dynamic force behind Mavens of Manufacturing. With a BA and MA in professional and technical writing, Meaghan shares her journey into the manufacturing industry and her passion for empowering women within this sector.

Key Themes:

1. Journey into Manufacturing:

• Meaghan Ziemba discusses her unconventional path into the manufacturing sector, highlighted by her early challenges with college education and discovering her niche in professional and technical writing. Her experiences have shaped her career, leading her to become a prominent voice in promoting women in engineering and manufacturing.

1. Mavens of Manufacturing:

• The inspiration and growth of Mavens of Manufacturing, a live video broadcast, is explored. Meaghan has interviewed over 90 women, from the shop floor to the C-suite, and even original Rosie the Riveters, bringing visibility to women's contributions in the field.

1. Challenges and Opportunities for Women in Manufacturing:

• Meaghan highlights women's common obstacles, such as a lack of awareness and representation in STEM fields. She emphasizes the need for better education and outreach to young women, parents, and community leaders about the diverse opportunities available in manufacturing.

1. Mentorship and Community Building:

• The episode delves into the importance of mentorship and its crucial role in retaining women in the sector. Meaghan shares insights from the Men as Allies conference by Women in Manufacturing and discusses how men can effectively support and mentor women in these industries.

1. Innovative Programs and Initiatives:

• The podcast examines programs promoting diversity and inclusivity, such as robotics teams and SkillsUSA. Meaghan also discusses companies' efforts to create flexible work environments and develop hybrid work models.

1. Future Aspirations:

• Meaghan reveals her plans to write a book on manufacturing culture, targeting the dream gap and inspiring the younger generation to see manufacturing as a viable career path.

Lessons Learned:

• The significance of diverse representation in manufacturing, and how bringing together varied perspectives can drive innovation.
• It is important to educate all community stakeholders—including parents and guidance counselors—about the potential careers in manufacturing and engineering.
• Flexible work schedules and inclusive company cultures can improve employee retention and satisfaction.

Fun Facts:

• Meaghan's first assignment in technical writing was to write instructions for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, highlighting how different interpretations can arise from simple tasks.
• Meaghan's community initiatives have led high school students to visit large trade shows like IMTS to promote young talent, sparking interest in manufacturing careers.

Keywords:

• Women in Manufacturing
• Manufacturing Careers
• Mavens of Manufacturing
• Industrial Tech Writing
• STEM Education
• Mentorship in Manufacturing
• Diversity and Inclusion
• Work-Life Balance in Manufacturing
• Manufacturing Innovation

Join Lisa Ryan and Meaghan Ziemba for an engaging conversation that brings to light the critical role of women in manufacturing and the innovative paths forged in the industry. Don't miss out on valuable insights and actionable advice for...

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan welcomes Dr. Amy Climer, an expert in fostering organizational creativity and innovation. Amy, author of "Deliberate Creative Teams," shares her research-backed strategies to help manufacturing companies enhance their creative processes. Dive into a discussion about incorporating creativity in manufacturing, the role of leadership in innovation, and practical techniques for fostering a creative environment on the shop floor.

Key Themes:

1. Defining Creativity in Manufacturing:

• Amy defines creativity as "novelty that is valuable," emphasizing the importance of fresh, innovative ideas that bring tangible benefits to organizations.

1. Importance of Creativity in Manufacturing:

• Amy discusses how creativity helps prevent stagnation, encourages innovation, and ensures manufacturers remain competitive in a rapidly changing market landscape.

1. Fostering Creativity:

• Clear Shared Purpose:
• Teams need a unified purpose to drive creative efforts towards meaningful goals.
• Strong Team Dynamics:
• Effective communication, trust, and balanced conflict are essential for fostering a creative team environment.
• Creative Process Awareness:
• Understanding and implementing a creative process, like the Creative Problem Solving methodology, is critical in generating and developing innovative ideas.

1. Lessons Learned from Real-World Examples:

• Amy shares a manufacturing company case study that improved efficiency and spurred innovation by implementing structured creativity sessions, generating over a thousand ideas.

1. Role of Leadership in Innovation:

• Leaders set the tone for creativity by role modeling, encouraging idea sharing, and creating a supportive environment for innovative thinking.

1. Implementing Creativity in Structured Environments:

• Amy offers practical strategies for integrating creativity within daily operations, including regular ideation sessions and structured feedback mechanisms.

Fun Facts:

• The term "Creative Abrasion," mentioned by Amy, originates from Jerry Hirschberg's work at Nissan in the 1980s, highlighting the productive clash of different cultural and creative perspectives.
• Amy refers to the ingenious use of a 3D printer to maintain an obsolete machine as an example of creativity leading to unexpected problem-solving.

Lessons Learned:

• Deliberate creativity requires an intentional and structured approach to be effectively harnessed within organizations.
• Encouraging and valuing employee input can lead to significant cost savings and process improvements.

Connect with Dr. Amy Climer:

• Website:
• climerconsulting.com
• LinkedIn:
• Amy Climer on LinkedIn
• Book: "Deliberate Creative Teams, How to Lead for Innovative Results" available on major book platforms.

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan is joined by Drew Allen, the President and CEO of Grace Technologies. Grace Technologies is renowned for its advancements in electrical safety and predictive maintenance. Under Drew's leadership, it has been recognized as one of Iowa's top workplaces for five consecutive years. Drew shares his rich family legacy of innovation and his experience leading a manufacturing company at the forefront of industrial technology. This episode is brimming with insights into workforce development, leadership strategies, advancements in manufacturing, and the future trends shaping the industry.

Key Themes & Lessons Learned:

1. Heritage of Innovation:

• Drew Allen's family has a storied history in invention and innovation, tracing back to Samuel Morse, inventor of Morse code and the telegraph. This legacy of creativity and enterprise has significantly influenced Drew's career and his approach to leadership at Grace Technologies.

1. Leadership & Workplace Excellence:

• Grace Technologies' success as a top workplace is rooted in genuine care for employees and a high-performance culture. Drew emphasizes creating an environment where team members feel valued and are encouraged to take the initiative, reflecting the philosophy that happy employees drive company success.

1. Workforce Development & Retention:

• The importance of selection bias in hiring is highlighted; prioritizing quick action, innovation, and execution. Flexibility, cleanliness, and safety in the workplace are also pivotal in retaining skilled talent in a manufacturing setting.

1. Technological Advancements:

• Advancements in IIoT (Industrial Internet of Things) and AI are reshaping manufacturing environments. Despite the data influx, many industrial machines still lack adequate monitoring, and Drew sees significant potential in more facilities adopting sensors and analytic systems for operational efficiency.

1. Safety Innovations:

• There's a shift from reactive safety measures to proactive strategies, including wearable technology to prevent electrical hazards. Designing safety into systems from the start enhances worker safety and symbolizes the company's commitment to employee well-being.

1. Maple Studios & Supporting Startups:

• Maple Studios, founded by Drew, is dedicated to nurturing industrial startups by providing valuable resources and mentorship, promoting innovation and sustainability in manufacturing.

1. International Insights & Competition:

• Drawing on his extensive international experience, Drew discusses how countries like China are leveraging automation and rapid iteration cycles, advocating for a quicker adaptation and innovation approach in U.S. manufacturing.

1. Future of Manufacturing:

• Drew envisions a future driven by digital power control, enhancing efficiency and safety in power distribution systems. This shift and increasing automation pose new opportunities and challenges for the manufacturing sector.

Fun Facts:

• Drew Allen's family legacy includes Samuel Morse, the inventor of Morse code, indicating a longstanding tradition of innovation.
• Grace Technologies is the only manufacturer in the small business category to be recognized as one of Iowa's top workplaces five years in a row.
• The company emphasizes a "high-performance team" culture over the "family" analogy to promote excellence and professional growth.

Connect with...

Connect with Marshall on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marshalllebovits/

In this episode of The Manufacturers Network Podcast, host Lisa Ryan sits down with industry expert Marshall Lebovitz, President of Asset Based Funding Solutions. Marshall shares his wealth of knowledge gained from 35 years of experience in lending, offering valuable insights into how manufacturers can optimize their working capital.

Key Themes & Topics:

1. Understanding Working Capital:

• Marshall defines working capital as a measure of a company's ability to meet its short-term obligations. He discusses the critical role of efficiently managing receivables and inventory in enhancing enterprise value.

1. Misconceptions in Business Financing:

• Marshall addresses common misconceptions, emphasizing that options exist beyond traditional bank loans, such as SBA loans and USDA loans, and private credit options, such as asset-based lending.

1. Improving Cash Flow Strategies:

• Key strategies include managing receivables and inventory regularly, maintaining strong credit and collections protocols, and leveraging real-time inventory reporting systems.

1. Choosing the Right Type of Funding:

• Marshall lays out important considerations, including the purpose of the funding, the term (short vs. long-term), the company's credit profile, and ownership structure.

1. Common Mistakes in Seeking Financing:

• Mistakes like delaying the search for funding, focusing only on the cheapest money, and not having accurate financial reports can hinder a company’s access to financing.

1. Building Relationships with Lenders:

• Even if current needs are met, businesses should maintain open lines with potential new lenders to safeguard against changes in market conditions or lender appetites.

1. Economic Trends and Impacts:

• With uncertainty in the current economic climate, businesses should be aware of trends in non-bank lending as a viable option amidst tightening bank credit.

1. Case Study: Leveraging Financing for Growth:

• Marshall shares a success story of a beverage manufacturer that leveraged asset-based financing to grow significantly and diversify its lender base.

1. Practical Steps for Business Owners:

• Business owners are advised to get their financial house in order, have forward-looking financial models, and thoroughly understand their financial standings.

Lessons Learned:

• Effective cash flow management can propel a business’s growth without diluting ownership.
• Exploring various financing options provides flexibility and security in challenging economic times.
• Building strong relationships with multiple lenders can offer strategic advantages.

Fun Fact: Marshall playfully attributes his gray and thinning hair to his extensive 35-year career in lending, showcasing his seasoned experience in the industry.

Connect with Marshall Lebovitz:

• LinkedIn:
• Marshall Lebovitz
• Email: marshall@funding911.com

For more episodes and insights, visit The Manufacturers Network Podcast and stay tuned for more expert discussions that help manufacturing businesses thrive.

Join host Lisa Ryan as she engages in a fascinating conversation with Jeff Borello, CEO and co-founder of Andromeda Technology Solutions. Jeff, with over thirty years of experience in the IT sector, delves into the journey of transforming Andromeda into a leading managed IT services provider specializing in the manufacturing industry. He shares expert insights on enhancing cybersecurity, overcoming IT challenges, and strategically leveraging IT to propel manufacturing businesses forward.

Key Themes:

1. Entrepreneurial Journey and Growth:

• Jeff shares the story of how he and his co-founders transitioned from working hard at another company to establishing their own IT and networking business from scratch.
• Emphasis on dedication and persistence in the early stages and the importance of gradual transition from full-time jobs to entrepreneurship.

1. Strategic Pivot to Specialization in Manufacturing:

• Insights into the decision-making process that led Andromeda to focus specifically on the manufacturing sector.
• Lessons learned from previously expanding into multiple business areas and then refocusing on core IT services.

1. Cybersecurity and IT Management:

• The critical importance of implementing robust cybersecurity measures in the manufacturing industry.
• Strategies for dealing with recurring IT challenges and the significance of addressing root causes to eliminate persistent issues.

1. Workplace Culture and Employee Engagement:

• Strategies for developing a strong workplace culture that attracts and retains talent.
• The role of continuous learning and adaptation in leadership and building a high-performing team.

1. The Role of IT as a Strategic Business Partner:

• Viewing IT investments as strategic advantages rather than mere expenses.
• Importance of long-term technological planning and finding the right IT partners to enhance manufacturing operations.

Lessons Learned:

• Persistence and adaptability are crucial for entrepreneurial success.
• Specializing in a specific niche can significantly enhance business growth and customer engagement.
• Cybersecurity should be a primary consideration in any technological change or adoption.
• Continuous learning and feedback are essential for building a dynamic and motivated workforce.
• Effective IT management requires recognizing it as a strategic driver of business growth.

Fun Facts:

• Jeff Borello once shared a table with Jack Stack, an influential figure in business strategy and transparency.
• Andromeda Technology Solutions has achieved impressive client retention, with technicians having an average tenure of seven years, well above industry norms.

Connect with Jeff Borello:

• LinkedIn:
• Jeff Borello on LinkedIn
• Website:
• Andromeda Technology Solutions
• Email: jeffb@wenetwork.com

Tune in to discover how strategic IT management and cybersecurity can elevate your manufacturing operation and secure your data in this ever-evolving digital landscape.