How Manufacturers Improve Podcast

Welcome to How Manufacturers Improve, a Manufacturers Alliance podcast, where we help everyone who works in manufacturing become a better leader and problem solver so all manufacturers can remain competitive.

Teaching People to See Waste 09/16/2025

Teaching People to See Waste Learn how to teach manufacturing teams to identify the 8 forms of waste. Discover why culture beats training and practical tools for waste walks that drive real, continuous improvement results. Manufacturing leaders don’t have to figure it out alone. and tap into workshops, tools, and a network of peers who are ready to share what works. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/38169065

Anything is Possible, Everything is Not 09/02/2025

Anything is Possible, Everything is Not Learn how manufacturing leaders balance ambitious goals with limited resources without burning out their teams. Discover prioritization strategies and resource management techniques. Transform your top performers into confident, capable supervisors. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/37894545

Launching Lean in Spanish Digital Courses 08/19/2025

Launching Lean in Spanish Digital Courses Discover how manufacturers are solving the lean training gap for Spanish-speaking teams. Learn why authentic, practitioner-led courses outperform scripted content in developing real problem solvers. Turn your best problem solvers into confident improvement leaders. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/37800860

A Roadmap to Operational Excellence 08/05/2025

A Roadmap to Operational Excellence Learn the 8-step roadmap that helped cut costs in half and achieve operational excellence. Discover how to create purpose-driven teams, implement tier meetings, and engage frontline problem solvers. Do you have team members ready to lead improvement projects with data-driven precision? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/37580905

Top Quality Tools 07/22/2025

Top Quality Tools Learn the essential quality tools every manufacturer needs, including control charts, Pareto analysis, and root cause methods. Discover how to distinguish between normal and special cause variation. Do you have team members who need problem-solving and continuous improvement skills? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/37421910

Adapting Your Leadership Style 07/08/2025

Adapting Your Leadership Style Manufacturing leaders who adapt their leadership style see greater team engagement and results. In this episode, Richele Butler, the VP of HR at Japs-Olson Company, shares proven strategies for understanding individual team member preferences, reading non-verbal cues, and creating effective communication approaches. Learn how to focus on what you can control, group similar styles together, and build trust through style adaptation. Do you have team members who need leadership training? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/37256900

Delegate and Elevate Performance 06/24/2025

Delegate and Elevate Performance Manufacturing leaders often struggle with delegation, but mastering this skill is critical for leadership growth and organizational success. In this episode, Jennifer Schwan, Vice President of Operations at CDI Curbs, shares proven strategies for effective delegation. Learn how to identify your "why" for delegating, build trust through alignment rather than process control, and shift your perspective from personal achievement to team development. Podcast Resources: Digital Course: Podcast: Listen to Certification: Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/36918165

Building High-Performing HR Teams 06/10/2025

Building High-Performing HR Teams Build high-performing HR teams that drive real business impact. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Dale Fruehauf to explore what HR leaders must focus on to shape successful teams, and how manufacturers should prioritize HR roles. Dale shares his secret to attracting top HR talent, strategies for recognizing and rewarding HR team members, ways to leverage “alumni” for advocacy, and insights on how HR can use AI to stay competitive. Whether you're growing your HR function or refining it, you'll find practical takeaways for Building High-Performing HR Teams. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/36669470

Staying Coachable as an Executive 05/27/2025

Staying Coachable as an Executive What does it take to stay coachable at the highest levels of leadership? In this episode, Steve Murray, Manufacturing Executive, shares powerful lessons on remaining open to feedback, recognizing blind spots, and prioritizing personal growth throughout your career. Whether you're leading a team or aspiring to the next level, you'll gain actionable insights on how coachability can transform your leadership impact and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/36134105

5S That Sticks 05/13/2025

5S That Sticks Sustaining 5S is the hardest step—but it’s also the most important. In this episode, Gary Olson, Operational Excellence Leader, shares expert insights on why 5S often fails and how manufacturers can create a culture where organization and efficiency become second nature. Learn how leadership commitment, daily habits, and employee engagement can drive long-term success with 5S. Tune in for actionable strategies to make 5S stick in your facility. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/36131380

The Power of Mistake Proofing 04/29/2025

The Power of Mistake Proofing Mistake-proofing is key to reducing defects, improving efficiency, and ensuring quality in manufacturing. In this episode, George Murray, General Manager at Celestica, shares proven strategies for preventing errors, standardizing work, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Learn how data-driven decision-making, simple mistake-proofing solutions, and team engagement can drive lasting operational excellence. Whether you're tackling process inefficiencies or aiming for zero defects, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: Webinar: Learn Mistake-Proofing Principles in the /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35749010

Building Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce 04/15/2025

Building Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce Wondering how to develop a strong manufacturing workforce? In this episode, Mike Franz, Founder & CEO of Shop Floor Coffee, shares Shop Floor Coffee’s plans to encourage workforce development as well as actionable strategies for attracting, training, and retaining top talent. Learn how manufacturers can engage the next generation, leverage industry partnerships, and build a sustainable talent pipeline. Whether you're facing hiring challenges or looking to strengthen your team, this conversation will provide valuable insights to help you develop a skilled and motivated workforce. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: Support Workforce Development with Develop Your Workforce with /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35748485

Transformation through Process Mapping 04/01/2025

Transformation through Process Mapping Process mapping is a powerful tool for improving efficiency in manufacturing. Rebecca Jasper, Supply Chain and Operations Executive, shares how to map workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and create alignment across teams. Whether you're working to reduce waste, improve lead times, or enhance collaboration, these strategies will help you implement process mapping effectively. Get practical steps to refine your processes and achieve better results. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35747790

Keys to a Successful Kaizen Event 03/18/2025

Keys to a Successful Kaizen Event Running a successful Kaizen event requires more than just gathering a team—it's about strategic planning, leadership support, and long-term sustainment. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Robert Dewane, Sr. OpEx Change Agent at Trane Technologies, to uncover the essential elements of impactful Kaizen events. Discover how to secure top-down buy-in, engage the right stakeholders, and implement changes that last. Whether you're new to Kaizen or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and examples to help you eliminate waste and drive continuous improvement. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35316835

Best in Class One-On-Ones 03/04/2025

Best in Class One-On-Ones Want to improve your one-on-one meetings? In this episode, Dan Powley, Senior Production Manager at Intricon Corporation, shares proven strategies for structuring impactful one-on-ones that drive engagement, alignment, and accountability. Learn how to create meaningful conversations, set clear expectations, and ensure follow-through. Whether you lead a small team or a large workforce, these insights will help you strengthen relationships, develop employees, and improve overall team performance through best in class one-on-ones. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: Free Download: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35354415

Fix Problems, Not Just Symptoms with RCA 02/18/2025

Fix Problems, Not Just Symptoms with RCA Effective Root Cause Analysis (RCA) goes beyond surface-level fixes to drive lasting improvements. In this episode, Helen Swanson, VP of Quality & Engineering at Sportech Inc., shares insights on defining problems, eliminating bias, and using RCA tools like the three-legged 5 Why to prevent recurring issues. Learn how to collect reliable data, engage cross-functional teams, and implement mistake-proofing strategies that create real change in manufacturing. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: - Free Download /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35271950

Marketing's Role in Manufacturing 02/04/2025

Marketing's Role in Manufacturing Learn from Christine Olson, Marketing Manager at Midwest Rubber, as she outlines how manufacturers can integrate marketing to bridge the gap between technical processes and customer relationships. Gain practical strategies to align marketing with operations, utilize customer feedback for continuous improvement, and craft compelling stories that emphasize quality and expertise. This episode delivers actionable takeaways to drive collaboration, enhance processes, and build stronger customer connections. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Podcast Resources: /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/35051110

Shaping Culture, Talent, and Strategy 01/21/2025

Shaping Culture, Talent, and Strategy Gain insights from manufacturing leaders, Steve Zweber, VP of Global Print Manufacturing, Operations & Distribution at Thomson Reuters, and Russ Soukup, President and CEO of Advanced Volumetric Metrics on economic trends, AI, recruiting, and retention. Together, they share their perspectives on economic trends, the evolving role of AI in manufacturing, strategies for recruiting and retaining top talent, and implementing operational excellence across teams. From navigating labor shortages to leveraging AI for efficiency and innovation, this episode offers actionable insights for manufacturers aiming to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced industry. This conversation is packed with strategic ideas you can implement in your organization. Podcast Resources: • - Find Your Peer Group to start benchmarking, networking, and learning best practices alongside fellow manufacturers • Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/34886435

Facilitation Skills from One of the Best 01/07/2025

Facilitation Skills from One of the Best Struggling with unproductive meetings that waste time and fail to move your team forward? Learn Facilitation Skills from One of the Best with Bob Dummer, an experienced manufacturing leader. In this episode, Bob shares actionable tips to help you facilitate meetings that drive engagement, encourage participation, and lead to clear decisions and action steps. Learn how to overcome common challenges like getting stuck in analysis paralysis, managing off-track discussions, and ensuring everyone has a voice. Transform your meetings into a powerful tool for achieving your goals. Podcast Resources: • • Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/34701485

Top Takeaways of 2024 12/17/2024

Top Takeaways of 2024 This week, Kirby Sneen, Jeremy Blake, and Monica Smith share their favorite episodes from the year, biggest lessons learned in 2024, and what you can look forward to from the Manufacturers Alliance in 2025! /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/34429460

How to Speed Up Lean Using Data You Already Have 12/10/2024

How to Speed Up Lean Using Data You Already Have Vivek Saxena, Founder & CEO of Factory Twin walks you through how his small manufacturing clients are leveraging the data already in their systems to drive process improvement and get better results. Learn why the current way of practicing lean is slow, the barriers to going digital, and how you can speed up the pace of improvement. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33854337

How to Reduce Conflict by Improving Collaboration 11/26/2024

How to Reduce Conflict by Improving Collaboration Silos, poor listening skills, and even cultural differences can be some of the bigger challenges any leader in manufacturing faces when trying to get everyone on the same page. In this episode, Jody O'Neil shares how to foster a collaborative environment to counter these challenges and reduce potential conflict in the workplace. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33379877

Manufacturing's Outlook 11/19/2024

Manufacturing's Outlook Industry expert Laurie Harbour, partner with Wipfli, delves into the outlook of manufacturing. In this episode, Laurie shares key insights on the current instability in the industry, emerging trends to watch, and the barriers manufacturers must overcome to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33851352

Removing Variation From Your Process 11/12/2024

Removing Variation From Your Process Matt Evans, Quality Manager at Unimatic Precision Machining, shares practical strategies for removing variation from your processes. Learn about mistake-proofing, leveraging control charts, and creating accurate standards to improve consistency and overall quality. Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33833307

The Top 5 Problems CI Leaders Face 10/29/2024

The Top 5 Problems CI Leaders Face Gain insights on how to overcome continuous improvement challenges so that you can effectively manage improvements. In this episode, Bob Dummer explores the top 5 challenges CI leaders face, including resistance to change, sustainment, and access to data. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33377512

Unleashing the Power of Problem Solving 10/22/2024

Unleashing the Power of Problem Solving In this bonus episode, we're sharing a replay of one of your favorites, featuring Eugene Arrington. Learn how to overcome fire fighting, make time for problem-solving, and overcome the tendency to jump to conclusions. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33376852

Sustaining Six Sigma Improvements 10/15/2024

Sustaining Six Sigma Improvements In this episode, Mathew Yost shares what it takes to sustain Six Sigma improvements for lasting success. He breaks down how metrics, tracking, management support, culture, standard work, and training have helped his team maintain the gains from Six Sigma projects. Gain practical insights and strategies to ensure your process improvements endure. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33263082

Translating Lean into Front Office Improvements 10/08/2024

Translating Lean into Front Office Improvements In this episode, Sarah Hartung joins Kirby Sneen to explore how lean principles can be effectively applied in the office setting. Discover practical strategies for creating a lean enterprise, streamlining your business systems, and avoiding the pitfalls of sub-optimization. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33261702

Celebrating Continuous Improvement 10/01/2024

Celebrating Continuous Improvement In this episode, we are celebrating three manufacturers for their commitment to developing a culture of continuous improvement and their willingness to share their experiences with their peers. Learn about the biggest accomplishments, lessons learned, and current initiatives of Pallet Service Corporation, Intek Plastics, and LubeTech, all of which are aimed at creating a better future for everyone at their companies. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33091102

3 Behaviors that Sabotage Your Leadership Potential 09/17/2024

3 Behaviors that Sabotage Your Leadership Potential In this episode, Kirby delves into three critical behaviors that are sabotaging leadership potential. Listen to learn these barriers to leadership potential and effective strategies to overcome them. /episode/index/show/mapodcast/id/33007747

How Manufacturers Improve Podcast

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