Your host, Ryan Weiss, talks with the Member Engagement of Illinois Manufacturers'​ Association, Maria Moran. Maria's journey to the IMA is fascinating, starting from her days as a respiratory therapist, which she humorously notes was "before it was cool." Her transition into the manufacturing space and dive into lean methodology showcases a career built on improving processes and fostering efficiency. This background fuels her daily enthusiasm for her role at the IMA, where she feels she's providing the most holistic support to manufacturers she's ever offered.

The IMA serves as a critical voice for manufacturers in Springfield, engaging in lobbying efforts that have tangible impacts on the sector. Maria highlighted the IMA's role during the COVID-19 pandemic as a prime example of their work, from defining essential businesses to advising on vaccine distribution. The association's ability to review over 8,000 pieces of legislation last session alone is a testament to their dedication to understanding and influencing laws that affect manufacturers.

To learn more about Maria's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Ryan's work? Check out his website at https://www.epsoptics.com/.

Your host, Ryan Weiss, talks with the Chief Growth Officer of NaviStone, Ted Bray. Ted's philosophy is simple yet profound: it's all about people, teams, alignment, and achievement. His passion for working with amazing people to accomplish amazing things is what drives him. This ethos was evident from his days playing basketball, where the joy came not from winning championships but from being part of a team and contributing to a collective goal. It's a mindset that has seamlessly transitioned into his professional life.

At NaviStone, Ted leads a team responsible for driving the organization's growth. NaviStone specializes in understanding digital audiences for B2C businesses. They excel at audience analytics, identifying prospects likely to make a purchase, and facilitating meaningful interactions between clients and their customers.

To learn more about Ted's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Ryan's work? Check out his website at https://www.epsoptics.com/.

Your host, Ryan Weiss, talks with the Co-Founder and Principal of PTIS Global, Brian Wagner. Mentorship is a powerful tool, and Ryan has been incredibly fortunate to have Brian as his mentor. His expertise in packaging, business, and strategy has been invaluable to Ryan's growth. Reflecting on their relationship, Ryan is reminded of a mentoring weekend that was pivotal in his career. Brian introduced Ryan to concepts that have since become the cornerstone of his professional philosophy.

Brian delved into the future of packaging and the challenges that the industry faces. At the heart of driving innovation lies the importance of people and processes. It's not just about the materials or the technology; it's about how to harness the collective strengths and diverse perspectives of those around us to push boundaries and create something truly revolutionary.

Brian shared his philosophy of not judging others but rather embracing the diversity of thought. This approach has been a game-changer in problem-solving, as it allows for a multitude of solutions to emerge from different perspectives. He encouraged us to pay it forward, a sentiment held dear as we continue to grow and connect with others in the industry.

To learn more about Brian's work, click HERE and HERE.

Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply HERE.

Want to learn more about Ryan's work? Check out his website at https://www.epsoptics.com/.