In this episode, Charles Johnson, Lead Trainer and Technical Engineer at Lynxspring, Inc. and host of the It’s a Controls Problem podcast, shares how one leadership mistake reshaped his entire approach to leading technical teams.

Hosted by Sannah Vinding on the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, this conversation explores how active listening and humility transform leadership in manufacturing, building automation, and controls.

Charles takes us through his journey from engineer to trainer, revealing why listening — not just hearing — is the skill that builds trust, drives collaboration, and accelerates growth. He explains how he fosters a learning culture for technicians and integrators, why checking your ego at the door is critical, and the daily habits that keep him sharp in a fast-changing technical environment.

From leading mixed-skill engineering teams to bridging the gap between technical detail and clear communication, Charles offers a candid look at what real leadership looks like in practice. He also shares insights on teaching, mentorship, and why humility is the foundation of strong collaboration.

Whether you are managing engineers, guiding cross-functional projects, or stepping into your first leadership role, this episode delivers practical leadership lessons you can apply right away.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How active listening can reshape your leadership style

• Why humility and curiosity are critical for collaboration

• What it takes to build a learning culture across mixed-skill teams

• How to balance technical expertise with effective communication

• The daily habits that keep leaders sharp in fast-changing industries

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🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of manufacturing and engineering.

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders — one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics, distribution, and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient strategies to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in today’s dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 Learn more about the show:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this bonus episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding reconnects with Jacob Baldwin, Director of Corporate Marketing at UNITED GRINDING North America, to dive deeper into the power of authentic storytelling in manufacturing marketing.

Jacob shares why marketing in manufacturing is uniquely challenging - from long sales cycles and complex buying committees to the need for tailored messaging for multiple decision-makers. He explains how UNITED GRINDING’s Unstoppable Grit campaign turned real customer experiences into compelling stories that build trust, create emotional connections, and deliver value for both the brand and the customer.

You’ll hear how authentic, customer-driven storytelling can become a competitive advantage in even the most technical B2B environments, and how these stories can be repurposed into a powerful, evergreen marketing asset.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What makes marketing in manufacturing different from other industries

• How authentic storytelling builds stronger emotional connections than any sales pitch

• Why the Unstoppable Grit campaign elevated customer voices to a national stage

• How customer stories benefit both the brand and the client

• Ways to turn real customer experiences into lasting marketing assets

Whether you’re in B2B marketing, leading a manufacturing team, or simply looking for ways to make your brand more human, this episode offers actionable ideas you can put into practice right away.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in a competitive sector.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 Learn more about the show:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this special episode, host Sannah Vinding revisits a powerful conversation from Episode 100 — where six respected voices in the manufacturing and distribution space answer one deceptively simple question: How do you know if you’re a good leader?

Guests featured in this episode include:

• Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom Electronics
• Tobi Cornell: President - Kruvand Associates, Manufacturer's Rep,
• Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)
• Maryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager Electronics
• Shane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKey
• Rob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic Sales

Together, they offer honest, experience-driven reflections on what leadership truly looks like.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why great leadership is often measured by the success and growth of your team
• How to foster a culture where people feel safe to fail, learn, and lead
• The subtle, non-verbal signs that reveal whether you’re leading effectively
• How trust, authenticity, and listening are core leadership practices
• Why fear-based leadership damages creativity and motivation
• Practical, real-world strategies for building strong, empowered teams

Listen now and explore what real leadership means in the manufacturing industry.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🌐 Learn more

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Jacob Baldwin, Director of Corporate Marketing at UNITED GRINDING North America, to explore how marketing becomes a strategic growth engine in the manufacturing industry.

Jacob shares how modern marketing teams can drive real business outcomes by aligning closely with sales, engineering, and operations. He explains why treating marketing as a service-oriented partner, rather than a support function, is key to unlocking value in complex B2B environments.

From executing large-scale events to crafting customer-centered campaigns like Unstoppable Grit, Jacob offers a grounded look at what works—and what to rethink—in industrial marketing. He also opens up about learning through feedback, navigating internal communication, and staying intentional in the face of digital transformation and evolving tech.

Whether you’re leading a marketing team or building cross-functional partnerships, this episode offers actionable insights to lead with clarity, strategy, and purpose.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why strategic alignment makes marketing a true business partner

• How to lead cross-functional projects with empathy and structure

• What makes B2B storytelling work in technical industries

• How to create better communication through repetition and context

• Why feedback loops and reflection improve future execution

Whether you’re new to industrial marketing or looking to elevate your leadership style, this episode delivers practical, real-world advice from inside one of the industry’s leading organizations.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Each episode brings relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and grow your influence in a dynamic sector.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 Learn more about the show:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Ben Hamilton, Marketing Manager at NorComp, to explore what it really means to lead without a title and how emotional intelligence, listening, and collaboration are shaping modern leadership in the manufacturing sector.

Ben shares how his leadership style has evolved over the past five years, from working independently to collaborating across sister companies within the EDAC Group. He explains how building trust through transparent communication, practicing active listening, and embracing shared ownership can drive meaningful change regardless of your role or job title.

From managing cross-functional collaboration to improving the customer experience through curiosity and clarity, Ben offers honest, practical insights for professionals looking to lead with purpose, empathy, and consistency.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why leadership is a skill you build, not a title you’re given

• How active listening strengthens teams and relationships

• What emotional intelligence looks like in fast-moving environments

• How cross-company collaboration fuels innovation and growth

• Why optimism, ownership, and small acts of support make a big impact

Whether you’re early in your career or a seasoned pro, this episode offers relatable takeaways for leading with influence and intention in the manufacturing and electronics space.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we are shaping the next generation of leaders one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.

Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted industry voices and offers relatable, time-efficient insights to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Heather Fulara, Vice President of Interconnect, Electromechanical & Industrial Automation at DigiKey, to explore how leaders can turn industry trends into strategic action—and why trust, transparency, and curiosity are essential to making it work.

Heather shares how her leadership has evolved through years of supplier collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and leading high-performing teams across a global organization. She explains how listening deeply, acting with intention, and staying open to feedback have shaped how she leads in today’s fast-paced manufacturing environment.

From making data more actionable to encouraging innovation through AI, Heather offers thoughtful insights on what it takes to align teams, build strong partnerships, and stay ahead of the curve.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to translate trends into supplier-focused strategies
• Why consistency and follow-through build lasting trust
• How to lead with data without getting overwhelmed
• The role of curiosity in driving innovation and adaptability
• Why feedback is one of a leader’s most powerful tools

Whether you work directly with suppliers, lead a growing team, or want to sharpen your leadership in a changing industry, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you lead with clarity and confidence.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.

Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

This episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing podcast is created in partnership with oemsecrets.com.

If you need top-quality electronic components, oemsecrets.com is a comparison engine giving buyers and engineers access to over 50 million parts from 140+ authorized distributors. It’s fast and easy. Upload your Bill of Materials for instant price and availability comparisons – check it out today!

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Joshua Nix, Director of Supply Management at Mouser Electronics, to explore how leadership evolves when you move from managing tasks to empowering people—and why staying grounded is key at every stage.

Joshua shares his journey from manager to director and the mindset shifts that came with it. He explains how asking better questions, listening with intention, and trusting your team can transform how you lead and how your team performs.

From building habits of continuous learning to giving team members real ownership, Joshua offers honest insights for leaders who want to grow without losing what makes them effective.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How leadership changes as you move into more strategic roles

• Why asking the right questions leads to better decisions

• How to empower team members based on their strengths

• The importance of consistent learning in a fast-paced industry

• Why great leaders listen more than they speak

Whether you’re stepping into a leadership role or refining your style, this episode offers practical takeaways to help you lead with purpose and confidence in the electronics and distribution space.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.

Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

This episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing podcast is created in partnership with oemsecrets.com.

If you need top-quality electronic components, oemsecrets.com is a comparison engine giving buyers and engineers access to over 50 million parts from 140+ authorized distributors. It’s fast and easy. Upload your Bill of Materials for instant price and availability comparisons – check it out today!

In this episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding is joined by Mark Burr-Lonnon, President of EDAC Group, to explore how cultural awareness and clear communication can transform global leadership in the electronics industry.

Mark shares lessons from over four decades of international experience—leading teams across Asia, Europe, and the Americas—and explains why trust, empathy, and adaptability are essential leadership skills in today’s global business landscape.

From reshaping office spaces to reflect cultural norms to building loyalty through active listening, Mark offers candid stories and practical insights for anyone managing across borders.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How cultural sensitivity builds stronger, more cohesive teams

• Why overcommunication is key to managing across time zones

• The importance of building trust in multicultural environments

• How to identify strengths and build high-performing global teams

• What today’s leaders need to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry

Whether you’re leading international teams or looking to sharpen your leadership edge, this conversation offers valuable tools to lead with impact in the electronics and manufacturing sectors.

🎧 Subscribe and follow for more leadership insights from real voices shaping the future of our industry.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.

Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

What does it take to grow as a confident, strategic sales leader in a dynamic industry?

In Episode 115, host Sannah Vinding sits down with Jessica Knight, Vice President of Sales, Americas at Harwin, to explore how mentorship, active listening, and team empowerment are transforming leadership in the electronics space.

With deep experience leading sales teams across the Americas, Jessica shares why mentorship matters at every stage of your career—and how clear communication and inclusive leadership help teams thrive, even during market uncertainty.

⸻

You’ll learn:

• Why mentorship is a game-changer for leadership growth

• How to lead with confidence—even in challenging markets

• What it takes to build a transparent and motivated sales team

• How to listen more effectively and coach with intention

• Why finding the right mentor (and being one) matters

Episode 115 – Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast

⸻

At Leadership in Manufacturing, we’re shaping the next generation of leaders—one conversation at a time.

This podcast delivers actionable leadership insights tailored for professionals in electronics and manufacturing who are ready to lead with impact.

Future-ready leaders start by building today’s skills.

Each episode brings real-world advice from trusted executives and offers relatable, time-efficient insights—straight from the source—to help you lead smarter, communicate better, and stay ahead in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get leadership insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/

What does it take to lead operational excellence at scale?

In Episode 114, host Sannah Vinding talks with Pete Shopp, Senior Vice President of Business Operations at Mouser Electronics, about why a continuous improvement mindset is essential for driving progress in the electronics industry.

With nearly 30 years at Mouser, Pete shares how small, incremental improvements have led to big wins—and how staying connected to day-to-day operations helps leaders make smarter decisions.

You’ll learn:

• How small changes can drive big results

• Why visibility into operations matters for leadership

• How cross-functional collaboration fuels innovation

• How real-world experiences can ground leadership and spark improvement

• How a culture of continuous improvement drives innovation and accountability

Whether you’re leading a team or building strategy, this episode offers real-world insights to help you lead smarter in a dynamic industry.

📥 Join 2,400+ professionals who get weekly leadership tips and insights straight to their inbox:

👉 Subscribe to the Newsletter

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the podcast!

🌐 For more information about the show, visit:

https://leadershipinmanufacturing.com/hello/