The Principal Charity Classic just set a new fundraising record—and in this episode, we reveal why that matters to Iowa's business and manufacturing leaders. Jo Christine Miles and Ken McCullum share how the tournament leverages corporate power, strategic philanthropy, and community partnerships to uplift youth and strengthen Iowa's future workforce.

This is more than a golf tournament—it's a model of how business leadership can shape the state's social infrastructure. Whether you're in manufacturing, healthcare, education, or economic development, this episode shows how investing in nonprofit strength fuels talent development, civic pride, and long-term economic health.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/principal-charity-classic-workforce

Iowa's workforce is expected to shrink by 240,000 people by 2030, posing a significant threat to the state's manufacturing economy. In this episode, Dawn Ealy from CIRAS joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to share how her team is equipping manufacturers to face this challenge head-on. From retention strategies to recruiting Gen Z and crafting age-inclusive leadership approaches, Dawn offers practical guidance grounded in Iowa's current workforce realities.

We also dive into CIRAS's change management expertise, including the 7 essential concepts of organizational change. Whether your business is undergoing transformation or preparing for the future, Dawn's insights will help you navigate resistance, earn leadership buy-in, and lead change that sticks. This conversation is a must-listen for any Iowa manufacturer ready to treat workforce strategy not as an HR function—but as a core driver of business success.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/retaining-older-workers-past-retirement

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Todd Shores of Creative Planning breaks down the benefits of the Fractional CFO model, especially for manufacturers navigating uncertainty, staff turnover, or growth. Rather than relying on a single in-house person, companies gain a full team of experts with deep knowledge in finance, HR, ERP, AI, and operational strategy.

Todd also shares how manufacturers are leveraging fractional services to implement more intelligent systems—from real-time reporting tools to ERP modernization—and why partnering with a trusted external team can boost both resilience and performance. Whether you're managing complexity or preparing for expansion, this conversation offers compelling reasons to rethink your finance function as a growth engine—not just a back-office task.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/from-financial-chaos-to-peace

In this powerful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ian Roberts, Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, as he shares his compelling leadership journey and vision for the future of education in Iowa's largest school district. With responsibility for over 31,000 students and 72 aging school buildings, Dr. Roberts discusses the challenges and opportunities ahead, including a $51 million bond referendum on the horizon. He shares how his leadership team embraces change to create environments where all children can thrive and be "well"—academically, emotionally, and physically—in a rapidly evolving world.

We're also joined by Frank Kelly, economist and founder of Fulcrum Macro Advisors, who brings a global lens to the conversation. Kelly dives into geopolitical and economic pressures shaping our future, from energy markets to semiconductors, and explores how LGPs (legal government policies) impact health crises like addiction and the fight against global narcotics cartels. With insights on Russia, China, and a shifting Middle East, Kelly links today's challenges with America's upcoming 250th birthday in 2026, echoing Marilyn Monroe: "Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together." This is a conversation about readiness—for our schools, economy, and global role in the next American chapter.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/olympic-champion-and-global-economist-in-iowa

In this insightful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, digital marketing strategist Sachin Sehgal delves into the parallels between SEO and real estate, emphasizing the importance of owning and optimizing your digital "property" to drive sustainable growth. He discusses NFC's acquisition of Bond Branding, highlighting how strategic branding and digital presence are pivotal in today's market.

Sachin shares actionable, measurable strategies for organically enhancing your online footprint, drawing from his success with clients like Fresh Fit Meals. His approach focuses on simplicity and effectiveness, making it accessible for businesses at any stage.

A passionate advocate for startups, Sachin introduces his book, From Start-Up to Scale-Up, which outlines a seven-step process to elevate marketing efforts. Whether you're building a marketing team or initiating your marketing journey, his insights offer valuable guidance.

Explore the book: From Start-Up to Scale-Up on Amazon Contact Sachin at [email protected]

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/growth-strategies-with-sachin-sehga

Allen Patton, of Patton Benefits, joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to unveil a game-changing AI tool that's disrupting the way manufacturers approach health insurance. His platform uses artificial intelligence to quote plans faster and more precisely, resulting in average savings of 20–30% for companies. Allen walks us through how the system works, the type of data it leverages, and why it's a smarter approach compared to traditional quoting methods.

We also dive into how manufacturers, particularly in Iowa, are well-positioned to take advantage of this tool amid rising healthcare costs and workforce challenges. Allen offers a compelling look at how AI can drive both cost savings and strategic advantage, and he shares actionable advice for leaders considering this innovative approach to employee benefits.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/allen-patton-ai-health-insurance-iowa

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Anderson, founder and owner of Fresh Fit Meals. Aaron shares his remarkable journey from stepping into the company's operations to ultimately seizing the opportunity to purchase the business during a pivotal moment. He discusses how he knew the timing was right, what critical lessons he's learned as an entrepreneur, the key resources he's tapped into along the way, and the aspects he would approach differently if given the chance. His candid insights offer a valuable look into the mindset and decision-making processes behind successfully taking ownership of a growing business.

Looking ahead, Aaron lays out his exciting plans for the future of Fresh Fit Meals, focusing on expanding their reach and enhancing their impact on healthy lifestyles across Iowa and beyond. His vision, resilience, and practical advice make this conversation an inspiring listen for anyone involved in business leadership, food manufacturing, or entrepreneurial ventures. Tune in to meet Aaron Anderson and hear how Fresh Fit Meals is building momentum for the next chapter of growth and innovation.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/aaron-anderson-fresh-fit-meals

Jeff Kappen brings a sharp perspective to this episode, challenging conventional thinking around manufacturing strategy in America. From the viability of reindustrialization to the true cost of maximizing consumption, he pushes us to ask better questions. We discuss the evolving role of global supply chains, how geopolitical disruptions like tariffs create strategic ripple effects, and why businesses need a firm grasp of the entire value chain to remain resilient.

Kappen also unpacks how AI, workforce readiness, and national policy intersect — especially in a state like Iowa that's rich with manufacturing talent but often under-leveraged. Through Bâton Global's Insight-Innovation-Integration-Impact framework, he offers a path forward for manufacturers seeking clarity and momentum in the face of constant change.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/jeff-kappen-tariffs-reindustrialization-supply-chain

What do cyber attacks, wild weather, and your factory's machinery breakdown all have in common? They're risks that could stop production in its tracks—and too often, manufacturers aren't as prepared as they think. In this episode, EMC Insurance executives Josh August and Mark Campbell share what's keeping risk professionals up at night and what your team should be doing right now to protect your business.

With insight from decades in the industry and a direct line to what's happening on the ground, Josh and Mark break down the hardening market, the hidden gaps in traditional coverage, and how EMC is adapting to serve manufacturers in a changing world. From cyber to storms, you'll walk away better informed—and ready to ask smarter questions at your next insurance renewal.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/josh-august-and-mark-campbell-iowa-insurance-market-emc

Senator Sarah Trone Garriott joins Leisa for an insightful conversation about Iowa's legislative climate, from the nuances of school vouchers and budget priorities to the deeper challenges of ensuring effective governance in a fast-changing state. With a deep respect for public service and a commitment to listening across the aisle, Trone Garriott outlines the importance of transparency, balance of power, and sustainable decision-making.

She also shares a personal side—how she envisioned Iowa before moving from Virginia, and how her perspective has evolved through public service and life in Waukee. This episode bridges policy, community, and the human side of governance in a way that's accessible and relevant to all Iowans.

Find this show on your favorite app: https://iowapodcast.com/iowa-legislature-2025-sarah-trone-garriott