Clear Impact Podcast

Clear Impact Podcast

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Clear Impact Podcast episodes

  • Episode 240: Building Trust: MI Windows and Doors Approach to Windows, Dealers, and Homeowners

    What does it take to build real trust between a national window manufacturer, its dealers, and homeowners? In this episode, Sherri Connor sits down with Kenyon Browning of MITER Brands to reveal how a “business is always personal” mindset shapes everything from dealer partnerships to product innovation. Listeners will uncover how MITER Brands delivers regionally tailored, impact-resistant window and door solutions while supporting dealers and communities with world-class education, proactive service, and a people-first culture.

    What You’ll Learn
    • Why MITER Brands invests in dealer education, workforce development, and lifetime support
    • How to match window and door solutions to regional climate, code requirements, and homeowner needs
    • The impact of strong partnerships and transparent communication on customer satisfaction
    • How MI Windows and Doors and the MITER Foundation create long-term value for dealers and communities
    • The essential metrics and decision points for choosing the right windows
    • Episode Highlights

      04:30 – Kenyon Browning explains the “business is always personal” philosophy

      08:22 – The homeowner journey: from research to installation
      12:55 – Regional differences in window preferences and building codes
      16:40 – Why proper installation matters for performance and compliance
      19:05 – MITER Brands University: raising the bar for dealer education
      20:35 – Community impact through the MITER Foundation
      24:48 – Final thoughts on building trust and delivering value

      Meet the Guest

      Kenyon Browning is a Senior Sales Representative at MITER Brands, serving North Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas production builders. He is known for his commitment to dealer success and advancing the window and door industry through education and partnership.

      Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned
      • MITER Brands University (dealer training platform)
      • The MITER Foundation (corporate responsibility and philanthropy)
      • “Business is always personal” (MITER DNA statement)
      • Regional and climate-specific product selection frameworks
      • Lifetime Glass Warranty
      • Closing Insight & Call to Action

        “When you focus on relationships, education, and proactive support, everyone wins—dealers, homeowners, and the community.”

        Subscribe for insightful episodes, and visit miterbrands.com to discover more about MITER Brands’ commitment to dealer success and innovation.

        27 min
      • Episode 239: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know About Window Replacement and Dealer Selection

        Are you thinking about replacing your windows but feeling overwhelmed by choices and project details? In this episode of Clear Impact, host Sherri Connor sits down with Cormac Smith, Head of Sales at Sunrise Windows, to demystify the window replacement process and help you make confident decisions for your home. You’ll discover what matters most when choosing a window company, how to plan your project, and why integrity and customer experience drive lasting value.

        What You’ll Learn

        • How to identify which windows need replacement—and why phasing your project is a smart move.
        • The most reliable way to select a trustworthy window dealer using referrals, not just online reviews.
        • What to expect during in-home appointments and how to prepare for a seamless experience.
        • The step-by-step process from quote to installation, including tips for managing lead times and permits.
        • Why keeping records and registering warranties can save you money and stress in the long run.
        • Episode Highlights

          01:14 – Why window replacement feels overwhelming for homeowners

          04:35 – Common signs it’s time to replace your windows
          07:12 – The importance of referrals and how to find a reputable dealer
          10:50 – Setting expectations for in-home appointments and quotes
          13:22 – How lead times, permits, and scheduling impact your project
          15:45 – The installation process: what happens and how long it takes
          18:09 – Post-installation tips: inspecting your windows and keeping records
          19:40 – Integrity as the foundation of trust in home improvement

          Meet the Guest

          Cormac Smith brings over 25 years of expertise in building materials and vinyl replacement windows. He leads the Sunrise Collection sales team and manages a $15 million territory across the Midwest and East Coast, helping dealers deliver exceptional homeowner experiences.

          Closing Insights

          “Integrity means doing what you say you’ll do, when you say you’ll do it. That’s how trust is built in home improvement.”

          Subscribe to Clear Impact for more expert insights.

          21 min
        • Episode 238: Why Window Replacement Is the Smartest Home Upgrade: Insights from MITER Brands

          Looking to boost your home’s value, comfort, and energy savings? This episode of The Clear Impact Podcast explores why replacing your windows is one of the smartest investments a homeowner can make. Host Sherri Connor sits down with industry expert Joe Mills to unpack the science, style, and real-world benefits of modern replacement windows—backed by MITER Brands’ people-first approach and relentless pursuit of quality.

          What You’ll Learn

          • Why window replacement offers one of the highest returns on investment for homeowners
          • How modern window technology delivers superior energy efficiency and sound reduction
          • What drives homeowners to upgrade: from builder-grade problems to design inspiration
          • When to schedule window installation for the best deals and smoother experience
          • The role of MITER Brands University and its dealer education in supporting smarter consumer choices
          • Episode Highlights

            02:15 – The financial case for window replacement

            05:08 – Joe Mills shares his journey from retail sales to industry leadership
            07:40 – Exploring the difference between builder-grade and high-performance windows
            10:25 – How new window designs improve energy efficiency and comfort
            12:55 – Sound reduction and lifestyle upgrades with modern windows
            14:10 – Insurance incentives, tax credits, and the evolving landscape of energy rebates
            15:35 – MITER Brands’ personal approach: “Business is always personal”
            16:45 – Final thoughts on timing and maximizing value

            Meet the Guest

            Joe Mills brings over 30 years of experience in the window industry and currently serves as a sales, marketing, and brand ambassador for Sunrise Windows & Doors, a MITER Brands company. His insights connect technical expertise with real-world homeowner needs.

            Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

            • MITER Brands University: Dealer training
            • Cost vs. Value Report: Annual industry benchmark for home improvement ROI
            • Low-E Glass, Dual-Pane Windows, Vinyl and Fiberglass Frames: Key product features for energy and sound performance
            • Closing Insight & Call to Action

              “Business is always personal.”

              Upgrade your home with confidence—choose windows that deliver lasting comfort, performance, and value.
              Subscribe for future insights or visit MITER Brands University to learn more about making smart window and door decisions.

              18 min
            • Episode 237: Carbonite Collection: Revolutionizing Vinyl Window Color Technology

              Discover how MI’s Carbonite Collection is reshaping vinyl window color technology and transforming home design. This episode of the Clear Impact Podcast explores the evolution of paint, laminate, and capstock finishes, and why modern homeowners, builders, and window and door dealers are demanding black, energy-efficient windows. You’ll learn how MITER Brands leverages its passion for innovation, operational excellence, and a people-first culture to deliver products that stand out in both performance and style.

              What You’ll Learn

              • The differences between paint, laminate, and capstock color technologies for vinyl windows
              • How MI’s Carbonite Collection meets market demand for black-on-black window aesthetics
              • Why energy efficiency and market demand are central to MITER Brands’ product strategy
              • What guiding principles drive innovation and customer value at MITER Brands
              • Episode Highlights

                02:10 – Robert Jumper describes the evolution of MI’s product portfolio

                06:25 – Jason Wilton explains the benefits of paint, laminate, and capstock finishes
                09:40 – How the Carbonite Collection delivers modern, black window options
                15:30 – Insights on energy-efficient glazing and thermal performance
                17:50 – Why a people-first culture shapes every product decision
                20:00 – Closing thoughts on customer education and partnership

                Meet the Guests

                Robert Jumper is the product manager for MI and Sunrise branded products, leading modernization efforts in color technology and product strategy.

                Jason Wilton heads product management for MITER Brands, bringing years of experience in sales and product leadership across the window and door industry.

                • Carbonite Collection
                • AAMA-certified paint processes
                • Capstock, laminate, and paint technologies
                • People-First Culture framework
                • “We have a passion for windows and doors, and guiding principles shape every decision.”

                  Visit MITER Brands University to learn more, subscribe for future insights, and discover how innovative window technology can elevate your next project.

                  21 min
                • Episode 236: How to Protect Your Coastal Home - Hurricane Preparedness with the NHC

                  How can coastal homeowners truly protect their properties and gain peace of mind before a storm strikes? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, we share critical insights on coastal safety and storm protection to help you safeguard your home. Listeners will learn actionable property preparation steps, methods to separate trusted scientific data from viral social media hype, and how upcoming changes to the National Hurricane Center forecast cone will improve your seasonal safety planning.

                  What You’ll Learn

                  • The first-order action steps every coastal homeowner must take before hurricane season begins on June 1st.
                  • How to filter out manipulative online hype by tracking verified data from local National Weather Service offices.
                  • The way the National Hurricane Center is utilizing Google DeepMind AI models to upgrade forecasting tools.
                  • Why storm surge evacuation planning means finding a safe zone nearby rather than fleeing the entire state.
                  • Episode Highlights

                    • 01:15 – John Cangialosi shares his 20-year journey from surface analysis to senior hurricane specialist.
                    • 02:40 – Essential physical safety strategies for coastal residents and hurricane zone buyers.
                    • 04:12 – The psychological and structural advantages of upgrading to impact-resistant windows and doors.
                    • 05:35 – How to identify a trusted source and overcome digital media information fatigue.
                    • 07:10 – Critical forecasting timelines and why early 7-day projections carry high tracking errors.
                    • 08:42 – Big updates for 2026 including Hawaii storm surge warnings and integrated warning maps.
                    • 09:55 – The math behind the new experimental cone and how it fixes directional and timing errors.
                    • 11:15 – Inside the National Hurricane Center multi-tiered emergency backup infrastructure.
                    • Meet the Guest

                      John Cangialosi is a Senior Hurricane Specialist at the National Hurricane Center. He has spent two decades tracking powerful tropical storms, managing high-impact operational meteorology, and educating the public on structural safety and seasonal preparedness.

                      Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

                      • The 90th Percentile Experimental Cone: A new secondary forecasting graphic introduced for the 2026 season to better account for storm arrival timing and directional tracking errors.
                      • Weekly Camping Framework: A practical method to prepare residential properties for a week-long loss of standard power and utilities.
                      • Closing Insights

                        True home safety is built on a foundation of operational excellence, trusted data, and proactive structural preparation. We are proud to build a safer, more resilient coastal community together. Subscribe for future insights from the Clear Impact Podcast to become a more informed consumer of window and door products.

                        24 min
                      • Episode 235: Listening for Innovation: MITER Brands’ Approach to Manufacturing Excellence

                        Where do the best manufacturing ideas come from, and how is MITER Brands transforming innovation in windows and doors? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, host Sherri Connor sits down with Jason Wolfgang, a leader in manufacturing and innovation, to explore how MITER harnesses team expertise, integrated automation, and forward-thinking strategies to deliver industry-leading products. Listeners will gain valuable insight into how a humble, people-first culture drives operational excellence and future growth.

                        What You’ll Learn

                        • How MITER Brands listens to frontline team members to spark innovation and drive manufacturing improvements.
                        • What integrated automation means for quality, efficiency, and workforce experience in window and door production.
                        • How MITER is adopting global trends and energy efficiency from European markets to stay ahead in product design.
                        • Why humble leadership and cross-functional collaboration are key to successful integration and culture change.
                        • What “We listen twice as much as we talk” means for MITER’s operational philosophy.
                        • Episode Highlights

                          02:15 – Jason Wolfgang’s journey from welding engineering to manufacturing leadership
                          03:40 – MITER’s integration and culture change: learning from each brand
                          05:10 – Advancements in automation and product design strategies
                          06:50 – The C700 automation system and team member experience
                          08:20 – Lessons from European fenestration industry and energy efficiency trends
                          09:45 – MITER DNA: humble leadership and active listening
                          10:55 – Closing thoughts on operational excellence and team engagement

                          Meet the Guest

                          Jason Wolfgang is a manufacturing and innovation leader at MITER Brands, with extensive experience in regional leadership, automation, and product development.

                          Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

                          • C700 integrated automation system
                          • “We listen twice as much as we talk” (MITER DNA)
                          • Cross-functional collaboration platforms
                          • Closing Insight & Call to Action

                            “The best solutions come from listening to those that are actively engaged and leaning in, creating value.”

                            Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more industry insights, and visit MITER Brands University to stay informed on the latest in window and door innovation.

                            12 min
                          • Episode 234: We Are Florida: Local Manufacturing, Team Culture, and Operational Excellence at PGT Windows and Doors

                            What does it take to build Florida’s manufacturing identity and deliver impact-rated windows with unmatched speed and quality? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, host Sherri Connor sits down with Chris Davis, Vice President of Operations at PGT, to explore MITER Brands’ unique approach to operational excellence, people-first culture, and pioneering impact-resistant products. Listeners will discover how PGT’s “We Are Florida” campaign is more than marketing—it’s a commitment to local manufacturing, workforce growth, and customer care that sets new standards for the industry.

                            What You’ll Learn

                            • How MITER Brands integrates acquired businesses and transforms plant culture for operational excellence.
                            • The benefits of pioneering impact-resistant windows and doors engineered for HVHZ zones.
                            • Why insourcing glass production will reduce lead times and help dealers and homeowners finish projects faster.
                            • The importance of exceptional training, workforce development, and local community engagement in Florida’s manufacturing sector.
                            • What “We Are Florida” means for building relationships with customers, suppliers, and local talent.
                            • Episode Highlights

                              02:10 – Chris Davis shares his journey from the Pacific Northwest to Florida and his new leadership role

                              04:30 – Integration of CGI, PGT Commercial, Sparta, and Scout lines explained
                              06:55 – Culture change and leadership buy-in drive operational improvements
                              09:20 – Lead time sheet overhaul and customer-facing metrics
                              11:45 – Pembroke Pines glass plant: timeline, impact, and insourcing plans
                              13:30 – Retaining and relocating team members from Hialeah and Medley plants
                              15:00 – “We Are Florida” campaign and its meaning for local manufacturing
                              16:10 – Facility upgrades, parking improvements, and team benefits

                              Meet the Guest

                              Chris Davis is Vice President of Operations for PGT and MITER Brands’ Florida division. With ten years at MITER, he brings deep experience in manufacturing leadership and is passionate about building local teams and delivering industry-leading products.

                              Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

                              • Lead time sheet for operational transparency
                              • Integration framework for acquired businesses
                              • Single quoting platform (coming soon)
                              • “We Are Florida” campaign as a driver of local identity and differentiation
                              • Closing Insight & Call to Action

                                “Being based right here where our customers are installing the windows and doors is everything.”

                                Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more industry insights, and visit MITER Brands University to learn how you can grow your knowledge and impact in the window and door sector.

                                17 min
                              • Episode 233: Operational Alignment at MITER Brands: PGT War Room Insights

                                How do leading manufacturers achieve operational excellence in Florida’s demanding climate? In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, host Sherri Connor and guest Chris Ruff share how PGT, part of MITER Brands, uses daily alignment, standardization, and a “people-first” culture to deliver impact-resistant windows and doors engineered for hurricane preparedness. Listeners will discover practical strategies for improving performance, building trust, and creating customer experiences that stand out.

                                What You’ll Learn

                                • How MITER Brands’ daily “war room” meeting creates cross-functional alignment and accountability
                                • What impact-resistant windows and doors mean for Florida homeowners and dealers
                                • The power of standardization and continuous improvement in manufacturing and dealer operations
                                • The role of MITER DNA in shaping culture, leadership, and customer relationships
                                • Actionable tips for dealers to measure, train, and enhance their own operations
                                • Episode Highlights

                                  01:30 – Introduction to the PGT “war room” meeting

                                  04:12 – Using performance metrics and whiteboards to drive results
                                  07:10 – MITER DNA: humility, confidence, and a people-first mindset
                                  10:05 – Standardization and its impact on on-time, in-full delivery
                                  13:40 – Connecting operational excellence to customer experience
                                  15:55 – Closing insights and next steps

                                  Meet the Guest

                                  Chris Ruff is Senior Director of Operations at MITER Brands, overseeing manufacturing and commercial operations in Florida. With over 30 years of industry experience, Chris is committed to operational excellence and building a culture anchored by MITER DNA.

                                  Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned

                                  • Daily “war room” meeting
                                  • Leader standard work
                                  • On-Time, In-Full (OTIF) metrics
                                  • MITER DNA (branded cultural framework)
                                  • Dealer training and support
                                  • Closing Insight & Call to Action

                                    “Experience is everything—every detail, every day. Accountability helps us improve and deliver for our customers.”

                                    Subscribe for future insights, and visit our website to learn more about PGT’s impact-resistant windows and doors engineered for Florida and all coastal regions.

                                    18 min
                                  • Episode 232: The Future of Multifamily Construction and Window Performance in the Western U.S.

                                    What does it take to deliver high-performance window and door solutions for multifamily construction projects across the Western United States?

                                    In this episode of the Clear Impact Podcast, host Sherri Connor sits down with Jacob Whitman, Multifamily Business Development Manager at MITER Brands, to explore how Milgard, Western Window Systems, and Anlin support builders, architects, developers, and dealer partners in one of the fastest-growing segments of the construction industry. From mixed-use developments and affordable housing to retrofit apartment renovations and hospitality projects, Jake shares how specification support, dealer relationships, local manufacturing, and product innovation help construction teams reduce risk and improve project outcomes.

                                    Whether you work in construction, architecture, property development, or the window and door industry, this episode offers valuable insight into multifamily building trends, energy code requirements, sound performance standards, and the importance of long-term partnerships.

                                    What You’ll Learn
                                    • How multifamily construction projects are evolving across California, Arizona, Oregon, Washington, and the Western U.S.
                                    • Why architects and developers rely on detailed window specifications for energy efficiency, sound control, and structural performance
                                    • How Milgard’s Tuscany Series and other product lines support multifamily and commercial construction
                                    • What “value engineering” means in large-scale building projects and how it helps balance performance with budget goals
                                    • Why dealer partnerships, local manufacturing, and customer experience are critical in the window and door industry
                                    • How MITER Brands approaches continuous improvement, innovation, and relationship-driven growth
                                    • Episode Highlights (Timestamps)

                                      01:45 – Jake Whitman shares his background growing up around construction and job sites in Southern California

                                      05:18 – What qualifies as a multifamily construction project and why the market is growing rapidly

                                      08:07 – The rise of mixed-use developments, assisted living communities, and retrofit apartment renovations

                                      11:12 – How architects specify windows and doors for structural, energy, and sound performance requirements

                                      14:46 – Why multifamily projects require advanced testing, documentation, and code compliance

                                      17:22 – How value engineering helps builders reduce costs while maintaining project performance

                                      20:05 – Why the Milgard V400 Tuscany Series remains a leading solution for multifamily construction

                                      23:11 – Jake explains why local manufacturing, dealer relationships, and customer support create long-term success

                                      25:12 – MITER DNA, grit, and the mindset behind “We are comfortable being uncomfortable”

                                      Meet the Guest

                                      Jacob Whitman is the Multifamily Business Development Manager for MITER Brands across the Western United States. He works closely with builders, architects, developers, and dealer partners to support multifamily, commercial, and retrofit construction projects using products from Milgard, Western Window Systems, and Anlin.

                                      Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned
                                      • Multifamily specification support
                                      • Value engineering (VE)
                                      • Dealer training and support
                                      • Mixed-use podium construction
                                      • Strip and reclad renovation projects
                                      • Energy code compliance and Title 24 considerations
                                      • Sound transmission and structural performance requirements
                                      • MITER DNA principles and leadership culture
                                      • Closing Insight

                                        “Talent is fleeting and luck runs out. Grit is chosen.”

                                        Jake Whitman shares why resilience, long-term relationships, and continuous improvement continue to shape the future of multifamily construction and customer experience at MITER Brands.

                                        Subscribe to the Clear Impact Podcast for more conversations about window and door innovation, construction trends, dealer partnerships, and building solutions that create lasting impact.

                                        28 min
                                      • Episode 231: Inside MITER Brands: Giving Back Through Windows, Doors, and Community
                                        Quick Summary

                                        How do you build a company culture where giving back is part of everyday life? In this episode of The Clear Impact Podcast, host Sherri Connor talks with Amanda Klinger, Program Manager of the MITER Foundation, to uncover how MITER Brands is raising the bar on community impact and people-first leadership. Listeners will hear how the foundation’s work supports cancer support and research, children’s wellbeing, hero support, and strong communities—while also discovering actionable ways to get involved.

                                        Whether you’re a window and door dealer, industry professional, or community member, this episode reveals how philanthropy, operational excellence, and volunteer opportunities are shaping the future of MITER Brands and its broader community.

                                        What You’ll Learn
                                        • How the MITER Foundation channels 100% of donations directly to vetted causes through operational efficiency and transparent oversight.
                                        • The four pillars guiding MITER Brands’ giving: Community Outreach, Hero Support, Children’s Wellbeing, and Cancer Support.
                                        • Why “Volunteer Time Off” is a game-changer for employee engagement and local impact.
                                        • Ways dealers, employees, and community members can partner with local outreach committees or support charitable initiatives.
                                        • Episode Highlights

                                          01:15 – The origin story of the MITER Foundation’s philanthropic journey

                                          04:42 – How local outreach committees drive direct community impact
                                          09:20 – The four pillars of MITER Brands’ giving strategy
                                          12:05 – What “Volunteer Time Off” means for employees and the community
                                          15:50 – Amanda’s personal journey from finance to foundation leadership
                                          18:18 – How MITER Brands supports ongoing education and community involvement
                                          20:00 – Actionable steps for getting involved or joining a local committee
                                          22:45 – Closing insights on purpose-driven leadership and people-first culture

                                          Meet the Guest

                                          Amanda Klinger is the full-time program manager of the MITER Foundation and a 13-year veteran of MITER Brands. She brings passion, operational expertise, and a commitment to building a culture of giving and community impact.

                                          Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned
                                          • MITER Foundation’s Four Pillars: Community Outreach, Hero Support, Children’s Wellbeing, Cancer Support
                                          • Volunteer Time Off (VTO) initiative for employees
                                          • Closing Insight or CTA

                                            “Giving back isn’t just a box to check—it’s woven into our culture.”

                                            Discover how you can be part of a people-first movement in the window and door industry. Visit miterfoundation.org, reach out to your local committee, or subscribe for future insights on community impact and operational excellence.e, or subscribe for future insights on community impact and operational excellence.

                                            24 min

                                          About Clear Impact Podcast

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                                          As the manufacturing leader in the fenestration industry, we are bringing our expertise to you. Listen to learn more about windows and doors, the components, running a successful business, and other…

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