It's been five years since COVID flipped manufacturing on its head. Back then, it was all about survival — keeping the doors open and the machines running.

Today, labor's tight, rates are high, and margins are thin. But the shops that made it? They're smarter, leaner, and tougher than ever.

In this episode, I'm breaking down how far we've come — from shutdowns and supply chain chaos to a new era of discipline, data, and leadership.