a BROADcast for Manufacturers

Stacia Hobson, co-owner of Image Industries Inc, began her career in the family business upon graduating college. Although her plan was never to work for the business let alone own it, she was the key driver in transforming the business from 100% distribution to 100% manufacturing.

Today, she runs operations for her family’s multimillion-dollar manufacturing business serving nine distinct vertical markets.

Stacia is acutely aware of what it takes to succeed as a woman in a male-dominated, blue-collar industry. She is passionate and proud to be in manufacturing as she feels that it is the backbone of the USA.

Connect with Stacia!

www.staciahobson.com 

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

Highlights

00:00 Introduction and Kitchen Adventures

01:04 Favorite Spices Discussion

03:30 Guest Introduction: Stacia Hobson

04:36 Challenges as a Woman in Manufacturing

13:28 Promoting Women in the Workplace

22:12 Addressing Racial Tensions in the Workplace

29:29 I Just Learned That: Fun Facts and Insights

35:10 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

Prashanth Sharma is the CTO at ThoughtFocus and leads the technology function across all business lines and customer engagements. With over 22 years of industry experience, Prashanth is spearheading the next wave of technology growth at ThoughtFocus, motivating teams to exceed customer expectations.

Connect with Prashanth!

www.thoughtfocus.com

LinkedIn

Highlights

00:00 National Donut Day Fun

01:49 Introducing Our Guest: Prashanthh Sharma

03:02 Hardware vs. Software Evolution in Manufacturing

05:43 The Role of Robotics in Manufacturing

08:20 Sustainability and Technology

11:13 Shifting Business Models in Manufacturing

24:11 Fun Facts and Personal Insights

28:26 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

Trevor Blondeel founded Manufacturing Greatness. He has 25 years of experience leading manufacturing plants and is the host of the podcast Mindfulness Manufacturing.

He works with organizations as a speaker, advisor, and coach to connect the top to the shop. In his spare time, he serves as the president for the Kentucky/Indiana National Speakers Association chapter.

Connect with Trevor!

Manufacturing Greatness

trevorblondeel.com

LinkedIn

Instagram

Mindfulness Manufacturing Podcast

Highlights

00:36 Introduction and Recent TV Shows

02:49 Guest Introduction: Trevor Blondeel

03:49 Mindfulness in Manufacturing

06:13 Connecting Leadership and Teams

08:44 Personal Growth and Vulnerability

16:10 Morning Routines and Habits

18:35 Fun Facts and Learnings

24:05 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

Jaclyn Kolodziej, Client Growth Services Specialist at the Illinois Manufacturing Excellence Center (IMEC), has worked on over 220 marketing projects over the past two years.

With a diverse background in various manufacturing sectors, Jaclyn has amassed a wealth of experience driving progress and innovation through marketing. Her unwavering goal has always been to propel momentum by executing marketing projects and crafting strategic growth plans for manufacturers.

Jaclyn blends her passion for achieving tangible results with her expertise in marketing playing a pivotal role in assisting manufacturers across Illinois to enhance their top-line growth. Leveraging a robust business development and marketing background, Jaclyn excels in identifying growth opportunities and meticulously constructing roadmaps for success.

Connect with Jaclyn!

LinkedIn

imec.org

[email protected]

IMEC LinkedIn 

Highlights

00:00 Benefits of Mushroom Elixirs

02:10 Introducing Our Guest: Jaclyn Kolodziej

03:22 What is IMEC?

06:29 Marketing Trends in Manufacturing

11:45 The Importance of Marketing for Manufacturers

15:27 Tips for Manufacturers on Marketing

19:58 Fun Facts and Personal Insights

20:59 I Just Learned That Segment

27:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

Rachel is an author and journalist (trained as an architect) with more than 15 years of publishing experience. Her first book, "Into the Raging Sea," about the 2015 sinking of the American cargo ship El Faro, was a NYT Notable Book and winner of the Maine Literary Award. Her second book, "Making It in America," about the American manufacturing revival, came out in January 2024.

She has a passion for uncovering and developing compelling tales about politics, work, design, and urban planning that engage and inspire audiences across different mediums and genres. She has produced dozens of long-form articles and provocative essays, several of which have received national recognition and awards, including the CRMA for Excellence in Civic Journalism and the CRMA for Essays/Commentary/Criticism.

Connect with Rachel!

www.rachelslade.net 

LinkedIn

Instagram

Making It in America: The Almost Impossible Quest to Manufacture in the U.S.A. (And How It Got That Way)

Links

Turn empty offices into little factories  

Against trendbait

Highlights

00:00 Introduction and Personal Failures

01:20 Overcoming Challenges in the Workplace

02:49 The Importance of Embracing Failure

03:30 Discovering a Love for Physical Activity

04:02 Introducing Our Special Guest: Rachel Slade

05:55 Rachel Slade's Journey and Works

06:56 The American Shipping Industry and Labor History

09:06 The Impact of the Pandemic on Manufacturing

16:47 The Apparel Industry and Immigrant Labor

23:30 The Role of Immigrants in American Manufacturing

27:43 The Knowledge Economy and Manufacturing

30:30 I Just Learned That: Fun Facts and Insights

39:50 Book Recommendations and Closing Remarks

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

In 2013, Barbara founded Positively-Funded. She has engaged with manufacturers, facilitating their strategic growth planning: beta testing, opening new markets, product launches, and creating key industry partnerships. 

Highlights

00:00 Travel Stories and Favorite Destinations

03:28 Introducing Barbara Pennell Jaynes

04:56 Business Development vs. Traditional Marketing

06:04 The Importance of Real-World Feedback

08:44 Beta Testing and Storytelling in Manufacturing

12:08 The Value of Manufacturing Facility Tours

14:14 LinkedIn Strategies and Weird Facts

21:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Barbara!

LinkedIn

www.positively-funded.com

[email protected] 

Facebook

(303)993-7124

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

This special episode, partially recorded live at the Women in Manufacturing (WiM) Southern Wisconsin Chapter event 'From Mic to Merlot' on May 15, 2024, at Wollersheim Winery, delves into the experiences and impact of WiM. The hosts share their excitement about the event and interview Andrea Virsnieks, President of WiM Southern Wisconsin, who provides insights into the organization’s mission, history, and her personal journey in reviving the chapter. The episode also features interviews with several WiM members discussing the importance of networking, the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the manufacturing industry, and the sense of community within WiM. Listeners are encouraged to explore WiM and its resources to join a supportive and inspiring network.

Learn More About WiM

WiM 

WiM Southern Wisconsin Chapter

Become a Member Today

WiM Southern Wisconsin LinkedIn

Andrea Virsnieks is a Principal at CLA, where she specializes in serving the manufacturing industry, working with both privately held and private equity-owned companies. With a wealth of experience in assurance, auditing, consulting, and due diligence services, Andrea provides strategic insight and innovative solutions that drive growth and profitability for her clients. Her deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within the manufacturing sector has made her a trusted advisor.

Andrea is known for her collaborative leadership style and her ability to build and maintain strong relationships with clients and business owners. She is committed to staying current with industry trends and regulations, ensuring that she delivers the most relevant and effective guidance.

Beyond her professional work, Andrea is actively involved with the Southern Wisconsin chapter of Women in Manufacturing (WiM). As the Chair on the Board, she dedicates her time to supporting, promoting, and inspiring women in the manufacturing industry. WiM is a national organization that empowers women through networking, education, and career development opportunities.

In her role at CLA and through her work with WiM, Andrea continues to make a significant impact on the manufacturing industry and the professional growth of women within the field.

Featuring WiM members Jennifer Black, Ariana Carney, Michele David, Maegan Miller, Loretta Mulberry, Debbie Shilling, Rachel Walter and Tori Wood.

Highlights

00:00 Live at Women in Manufacturing Event: A Phenomenal Experience

01:59 Special Guest: Andrea Virsnieks, President of WiM Wisconsin

02:51 The Revival and Mission of WiM: Andrea's Journey

08:20 Expanding WiM: Growth, Goals, and Membership Insights

10:38 Event Attendees Share Their WiM Stories

15:30 Reflecting on Women's Roles in Manufacturing

18:54 Generational Perspectives on Women in Manufacturing

21:39 Wrapping Up: The Bright Future of WiM

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Chris brings more than 20 years of experience in B2B digital marketing strategy, lead generation, and marketing consultancy for manufacturing firms. An author and entrepreneur, Chris is the founder and CEO of G8P and SyncShow.

Having witnessed the pain and frustration caused by ineffective marketing, Chris and his team developed the Great 8 Pillars to transform the marketing department from a corporate expense into a profit center. He has helped hundreds of companies scale through world-class marketing best practices.

Chris’ perspective on marketing operations transcends tactical methodologies and focuses on people, strategies, systems, and software to move the needle.

Today, Chris’ focus remains on helping B2B manufacturing companies scale through his companies, consulting, and speaking.

Highlights

00:00 Kicking Off with Favorite Holidays Discussion

01:48 Introducing Today's Guest: Chris Peer

03:28 Unveiling the Great Eight Pillars of Marketing

06:12 Deep Dive into Goals and Value Proposition

07:57 Exploring the Certification Program for Marketers

12:00 B2B vs B2C Marketing Insights

14:32 Learning Segment: AI, Shipping Strategies, and Oysters

19:19 Wrapping Up with Contact Information and Offers

Connect with Chris!

LinkedIn

G8P

SyncShow

Great Eight Pillar Certification Course

Use code SyncShow for 50% off

The Great 8 Pillars: ROI-Driven Marketing for Manufacturing Companies

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn!

In this special 50th episode, Erin, Lori and Kris reflect on their podcast journey, celebrating the diverse and enlightening conversations they've had with various guests from the manufacturing industry. They reminisce about starting the podcast, how it's evolved, and the personal growth and gratification they've experienced along the way. Highlighting their favorite episodes, they discuss poignant moments with guests like Nicole Donnelly and Nicki Vo, share valuable insights on manufacturing, digital transformation, women in STEM, and the importance of veterans in the workforce. The episode emphasizes the value of authenticity, diverse opinions, and the unique perspectives each host brings to the table. It concludes with a note of gratitude to their listeners and an invitation for feedback and guest suggestions, encouraging everyone to 'go make something awesome.'

00:00 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey of Connections and Conversations

01:15 Reflecting on the Podcasting Journey: Insights and Surprises

05:51 Highlighting Favorite Episodes: Diverse Conversations in Manufacturing

11:37 Empowering Women in STEM and Beyond: Stories of Resilience and Innovation

15:03 Exploring the Impact of Women in History and Manufacturing

28:41 Veterans in Manufacturing: Bridging Skills and Opportunities

32:35 Authentic Conversations and Diverse Perspectives: The Essence of Our Show

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn for web-based solutions to your complex business problems!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!

Jeff started out writing software and then went to law school because he played softball with a bunch of lawyers and thought their work was interesting.

Then he got lucky and joined Coca-Cola and had the opportunity to move to Hong Kong. He spent 7 years there, focusing mainly on China and Korea. Jeff moved to Seattle to join Getty Images. Eventually, he had the opportunity to set up Getty Images’ business in Latin America. After he and his then-biz-partner sold that company to Getty Images, his current business partner convinced him to co-found SC Tech.

What are some of the advantages of not having a clearly aligned background in your current work? And what are some of the things that create obstacles or challenges? 

Every time I go into a customer facility, I'm a little bit on my back foot. When you go to this nondescript building open the door and it's like opening a Christmas present because you never know what's going to be in there.  

Technology, I don't understand all the details. It's much more of a user perspective because I just don't understand those details. And at this point, I'm not going to pretend like I'm going to get in there and figure it out. But you go into these buildings and you're like I don't know what I was expecting. But typically, this is not what I was expecting. And it's just so interesting. And I have a lot of known unknowns, but I have to go in with curiosity.

I have to go in and ask the expansive questions and ask follow up questions because I don't understand. But that really helps me understand. Can we help this business solve some problems, some pain point that they have? And if so, how are we going to do that in a way that works for them? Because I understand their business from their perspective, as opposed to bringing a lot of preconceptions.

What customers do you really enjoy working with the most?  

It's like that’s passionate about their business and says, “Oh, it's thermal treatment of metal products.”

You're not going to go to a party and people are going to say, “Oh, that is the coolest thing I've ever heard of in my life.” But there's so many ins and outs of each business. There's so many different products being manufactured, and there are different stages of how they build up these products from different suppliers. And each one is interesting in its own way. You're open to being interested in and curious about how this stuff works. And it's so much fun to talk to somebody who's passionate, whether it's a business that they just joined or they bought it or it's a family business or whatever. It's pretty exciting to go in and talk to people who really love what they're doing.

And I maybe one of the benefits of the pandemic and supply chain mess is more focus on how much fun and how interesting supply chain and manufacturing can be. There's a lot of press about how much fun it is to work at Google and you can play ping pong and all that stuff. That's nice in a way, but really so many people would get a lot more satisfaction of [manufacturing]. I'm using my hands, I'm using my brain and I'm making something. And it's not a trivial process. There's a lot that goes into it, and I think we've ignored that for a while. And hopefully that's turning a corner.

And so much more… 

Connect with Jeff!

LinkedIn

SC Tech

(720)432-5001

Connect with the broads!

Connect with Erin on LinkedIn for web-based solutions to your complex business problems!

Connect with Lori on LinkedIn and visit www.keystoneclick.com for your strategic digital marketing needs!  

Connect with Kris on LinkedIn and visit www.genalpha.com for OEM and aftermarket digital solutions!