In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Darryl Gratrix, who shares his insights on manufacturing culture, leadership, and the importance of attracting the next generation to skilled trades. Darryl discusses his career path in tool and die, the transition to leadership, and the cultural turnaround he has experienced in his workplace. He emphasizes the need for collaboration in the industry and the importance of promoting skilled trades to younger generations. The conversation also touches on the future of the industry and the initiatives being taken to enhance training and apprenticeship programs.

• Treat others the way you want to be treated.
• Darryl's career path was unconventional; he didn't grow up in trades.
• Leadership requires a different skill set than technical expertise.
• Cultural turnaround is essential for a thriving workplace.
• Attracting the next generation to skilled trades is crucial.
• Virtual reality training can engage younger audiences.
• Collaboration among companies can enhance the industry.
• Government support is increasing for skilled trades training.
• Perception of trades needs to change to attract talent.
• Darryl is passionate about promoting the skilled trades.

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
• 04:16 Understanding Culture in Manufacturing
• 08:18 Darryl's Journey into Tool and Die
• 12:14 Transitioning to Leadership
• 15:14 Cultural Turnarounds in the Workplace
• 19:08 Hiring for Culture and Skills
• 19:59 Building Career Pathways for Young Machinists
• 21:36 Perceptions of the Trade and Community Engagement
• 23:04 Innovative Approaches to Attracting Youth
• 24:45 Challenges in the Skilled Trades
• 26:10 The Value of Skilled Trades in Today's Economy
• 27:39 Government Support and Future Opportunities
• 30:53 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades
• 34:04 Personal and Professional Growth in the Industry

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Join us for an inspiring conversation with Marcus Sheanshang, CEO of JBM Packaging, as he shares his journey from working on the shop floor at age 11 to leading a company that embraces second chances. Discover how Marcus transformed a labor strategy into a purpose-driven mission, providing opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals and reshaping company culture.

Marcus's early experiences in the family business and his path to leadership. The development and impact of the Fair Chance program at JBM. Insights into building a culture of collaboration and learning. The importance of aligning company values with personal growth and community impact.

• Every business has a culture, whether intentional or not.
• Collaboration and support are key to a positive workplace culture.
• Transitioning from family business to leadership can be challenging.
• Experiences outside the family business can provide valuable insights.
• Effective communication is crucial in leadership roles.
• Asking questions is a strength, not a weakness.
• Purpose-driven programs can enhance employee engagement.
• The Fair Chance program has transformed JBM's workforce.
• Building trust with employees is essential for success.
• Investing in community and employee well-being is beneficial for business.

• 00:00 Introduction to Marcus Sheanshang
• 03:51 Defining Culture in Business
• 05:59 Marcus's Journey in the Family Business
• 08:51 Early Experiences on the Shop Floor
• 11:25 Transitioning to CEO
• 13:36 Doubts and Leadership Challenges
• 15:58 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture
• 21:19 Operationalizing Core Values
• 24:21 Reinvigorating Company Culture
• 30:27 Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance
• 31:37 The Genesis of the Fair Chance Program
• 33:41 Building Bridges: From Prisons to Employment
• 35:15 Transforming Perspectives on Rehabilitation
• 38:43 Establishing Trust with Fair Chance Employees
• 40:09 Support Systems for Successful Reintegration
• 43:57 Criteria for Inclusion in the Fair Chance Program
• 45:17 Training and Development for Fair Chance Employees
• 49:47 Vision for the Future: A Sustainable and Inclusive Workplace
• 01:03:13 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture
• 01:04:09 Leadership and Second Chances

Don't miss this episode! Hit the subscribe button and turn on notifications to stay updated with more inspiring stories from industry leaders. Visit themfgconnector.com for more episodes and connect with us on social media.

Planning to attend MEDevice Boston?

Join 1,500+ medtech professionals and 200+ suppliers at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, Sept 30 – Oct 1. From the Innovation Showcase to hands-on workshops and expert-led sessions, this event is built to move your projects forward.

Learn more and register: MEDeviceBoston.com

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Craig Coyle, a former Apache pilot and now a leadership consultant. They discuss the importance of culture in organizations, the challenges of transitioning from military to civilian life, and the need for effective leadership in manufacturing. Craig shares his insights on how to create a positive work environment that inspires employees and the significance of community in both military and civilian settings. He emphasizes the importance of treating leadership as a profession and the need for continuous development and support among leaders.

• Culture is a result and a lag measure of organizational health.
• Leadership is not just about hard work; it's about inspiring others.
• The military experience teaches valuable lessons about pressure and leadership.
• Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging, especially in finding community.
• Manufacturing has a unique opportunity to create positive change in people's lives.
• Effective leadership requires understanding and developing relationships.
• Organizations must focus on higher levels of Maslow's hierarchy to retain talent.
• Leadership should be treated as a profession with proper training and development.
• Community and support are crucial for leaders to succeed.
• The future of manufacturing depends on creating environments that inspire and engage employees.

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
• 05:55 Understanding Culture
• 08:03 Early Life and Background
• 10:19 Choosing West Point
• 11:49 Military Experience and Leadership
• 19:41 Transitioning to Civilian Life
• 22:59 Finding Community in Manufacturing
• 24:10 Building Community in Manufacturing
• 25:17 The Birth of Operation Lead
• 26:12 Challenges in Military and Manufacturing
• 29:21 Understanding Labor as a Commodity
• 31:37 Tapping into Maslow's Hierarchy
• 33:21 The Gap in Leadership Development
• 35:12 Leadership as a Profession
• 39:57 The Importance of Internal Culture
• 42:24 Opportunities in Manufacturing
• 44:12 Encouragement for New Leaders

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer sits down with Lori Highby, a digital marketing strategist, educator, and founder of Keystone Click, to explore the stories manufacturers aren’t telling.They unpack what culture really means inside an organization, why storytelling is manufacturers’ biggest missed opportunity, and how AI is changing, not replacing, the creative process. Lori shares her journey from a night school marketing student to agency owner, her values around lifelong learning, and what it means to lead with clarity.From founding a business during a recession to building a team around education, trust, and curiosity, Lori brings sharp insight to the intersection of manufacturing, marketing, and human-centered leadership.

• Culture is a collective energy and vibe within an organization.
• Lori's journey began with a passion for art and sociology.
• Education is a core value for Lori and her organization.
• Integrity and creativity are essential in business.
• AI should be seen as a tool to enhance creativity, not replace it.
• Storytelling is crucial for manufacturers to differentiate themselves.
• Community involvement is a priority for Lori and her team.
• Digital marketing can significantly impact manufacturing sales.
• Personal hobbies provide mental clarity and focus.
• Mentorship and paying it forward are important values for Lori.

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers
• 05:08 Understanding Culture in Organizations
• 06:11 Lori's Journey into Marketing and Manufacturing
• 10:34 Starting a Business During a Recession
• 12:44 Core Values and Organizational Culture
• 15:10 The Role of AI in Creativity and Education
• 18:37 Leveraging AI in Education and Workforce
• 19:28 The Importance of Future Thinking
• 21:16 The Drive to Teach and Share Knowledge
• 22:47 Helping Businesses of All Sizes
• 24:01 Impactful Marketing Success Stories
• 31:45 AI's Role in Shaping Industry Culture
• 33:19 The Future of Marketing in Manufacturing
• 34:53 Understanding the Customer Journey with AI

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Tyler Marshall shares his journey from the seafood industry to consulting in manufacturing. He discusses the importance of culture in organizations, the challenges faced in food manufacturing, and the evolving landscape of leadership in the industry. Tyler emphasizes the need for alignment between employees and organizational goals, the impact of automation, and the future of manufacturing as it adapts to new technologies and workforce dynamics.

• Culture starts with alignment of values.
• The seafood industry presents unique challenges.
• Self-sufficiency is crucial in remote operations.
• Leadership requires being present on the shop floor.
• Change management is essential for successful automation.
• The future of manufacturing will focus on workforce development.
• Emotional intelligence is key in leadership roles.
• Attracting talent requires understanding their needs.
• Automation should not solely focus on cost-cutting.
• Continuous improvement is vital for success.

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker Fun
• 05:43 Defining Culture in Manufacturing
• 09:30 Early Influences and Career Beginnings
• 13:42 Adventures in the Alaskan Seafood Industry
• 17:42 Transitioning to Broader Manufacturing Challenges
• 21:26 Lessons Learned and Unlearning Myths
• 24:59 Current Role and Company Overview
• 26:43 The Importance of Leadership in Manufacturing
• 29:51 Balancing Automation with Human Presence
• 31:43 Change Management and Employee Involvement
• 34:56 Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace
• 36:14 Future Trends in Manufacturing
• 39:26 Leveraging Data for Workforce Improvement
• 41:41 The Need for Continuous Learning and Adaptation

What does it take to rewrite your story—and help others do the same?

In this unforgettable episode, Jim Mayer sits down with HR Huntsman: speaker, strategist, and founder of Leader’s Edge. From a turbulent childhood in the New Mexico desert to building global humanitarian projects and mentoring the next generation of leaders, HR’s journey is a masterclass in intentional transformation.

You’ll hear how a single conversation reshaped his definition of success, why mindset matters more than circumstances, and how real leadership means empowering others—not commanding them. Along the way, HR delivers raw insights on creative conflict, workplace culture, and what it takes to architect a future worth building.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead with more purpose, create a culture people believe in, or leave a legacy that actually means something—this episode is for you.

• Culture is how your people feel about work on Sunday.
• HR's childhood shaped his desire to change the world.
• Success is not the goal; being useful is.
• Leadership is about empowering others, not commanding them.
• Investing in young leaders is crucial for future success.
• Work is a noble endeavor that should be respected.
• Creative conflict is essential for innovation.
• You can architect your own future intentionally.
• Public speaking is a privilege to inspire others.
• Mindset is key to personal transformation.

• 00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker Fun
• 07:22 Defining Culture in the Workplace
• 09:46 HR's Early Life and Influences
• 15:04 The Impact of John Simmons
• 18:38 Evolution of Leadership Philosophy
• 20:52 Creating Leaders Edge Program
• 24:19 Influential Leaders and Mentors
• 25:19 The Essence of Leadership
• 26:58 The Impact of Public Speaking
• 28:40 Mindset and Personal Transformation
• 34:56 Architecting a New Future
• 38:38 The Future of Leadership in Manufacturing
• 45:36 Creative Conflict and Workplace Dynamics

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer talks with leadership coach Nicki Straza about what it takes to create workplaces where people feel safe, trusted, and able to contribute. Nicki draws from more than 25 years of experience in manufacturing, trades, nonprofits, and mental health.

The conversation covers how culture is shaped by the small choices leaders make every day, the importance of seeing employees as individuals, and how resilience grows when people feel supported. Nicki shares lessons from her own career about staying in organizations as culture shifted, and what she learned about power, trust, and the conditions that help people thrive.

They also discuss the challenges of generational differences, the risks of losing knowledge as experienced workers leave, and how mentorship and co-creation help teams build lasting cultures.

• Resilience grows when leaders create conditions of trust and safety.
• Culture is shaped by everyday interactions, not slogans or policies.
• Leaders need to see their employees as individuals, not just as resources.
• Generational gaps can create tension, but also opportunities for learning and mentorship.
• Knowledge transfer is essential as experienced workers retire.
• Real change happens when leaders and employees co-create their environment.

• 00:00 — Cold open
• 01:00 — Welcome
• 03:00 — What culture looks like in practice
• 05:30 — Generational differences and shared understanding
• 08:00 — Co-creation and shared responsibility
• 10:45 — The role of mentorship in building trust
• 13:20 — Nicki’s early jobs and lessons about leadership
• 23:00 — When mission and culture start to drift apart
• 25:30 — The connection between culture and mental health
• 28:45 — What resilience means at work
• 30:20 — Why Nicki stayed when others left
• 36:45 — Helping leaders reclaim their power in healthy ways
• 39:15 — Building environments where people can thrive
• 41:00 — The value of personal contribution
• 43:00 — Helping others see their potential

In this conversation, Jim Mayer and Jeremiah Llewellyn explore the intersection of manufacturing culture, technology, and personal growth. They discuss the importance of embracing imperfection in progress, defining work culture, and the challenges Jeremiah faced growing up deaf. Jeremiah shares his journey into technology, education, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his career path. The discussion also touches on the significance of creativity in technology, the future of manufacturing, and the importance of internship programs in shaping the next generation of leaders.

• It's better to show up imperfectly than not at all.
• Culture is built by those who show up.
• Overcoming personal challenges can lead to unique perspectives.
• Hands-on experience in technology can spark passion.
• Education systems can greatly influence career paths.
• The job market can be tough, especially during crises.
• Half-assing can sometimes be better than procrastinating.
• Creativity plays a crucial role in technology and marketing.
• Focusing on people can differentiate companies in manufacturing.
• Internship programs can have a significant community impact.

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 04:24 Defining Culture in the Workplace
• 09:50 Overcoming Early Challenges
• 14:54 Educational Journey and Career Path
• 19:37 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
• 23:15 Diverse Professional Interests
• 29:11 Challenging Marketing Norms
• 37:16 Innovative Internship Programs

In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Nelson Bruton, who shares insights on the importance of removing friction in the B2B buying process through conversational marketing. They discuss the significance of workplace culture, personal influences, and the evolution of digital marketing. Nelson reflects on his journey, the lessons learned about success and leadership, and the impact of generating substantial revenue for clients. In this conversation, Jim Mayer and Nelson Bruton discuss the importance of building relationships in business, the power of perseverance and self-investment, and the unique aspects of the manufacturing community. They explore the role of AI in live chat solutions and how human interaction remains crucial in the industrial space. The discussion emphasizes the need for authenticity and the value of connecting with others to drive business success.

• Live chat is crucial for capturing potential customers.
• 97% of website visitors leave without taking action.
• Workplace culture is about the energy exchanged between employees and the company.
• Personal experiences shape professional outlooks.
• The internet's evolution has transformed marketing strategies.
• Success requires a balance between high energy and calmness.
• Responding rather than reacting is key in leadership.
• Building relationships leads to better business outcomes.
• Niche marketing can yield better results than broad approaches.
• High average sales make it easier to demonstrate ROI. 94% retention rate is impressive for any company.
• Authenticity is key in building relationships.
• Self-investment leads to continuous improvement.
• People prefer human interaction over chatbots.
• Live chat can significantly increase sales inquiries.
• Manufacturing is a diverse and vast industry.
• Niche markets exist within the manufacturing sector.
• AI can enhance but not replace human chat solutions.
• Websites should offer chat as a communication option.
• Building a brand is an ongoing mission.

• 00:00 Introduction and Event Highlights
• 03:05 Removing Friction in B2B Buying Processes
• 05:56 Defining Culture in the Workplace
• 09:05 Personal Journey and Influences
• 12:07 Career Path and Early Experiences
• 14:49 Evolution of Digital Marketing
• 18:03 Lessons on Success and Leadership
• 20:54 Impact of Generated Revenue for Clients
• 21:48 Building Relationships in Business
• 24:34 The Power of Perseverance and Self-Investment
• 26:59 Understanding the Manufacturing Community
• 30:08 Niche Markets in Manufacturing
• 34:14 The Role of AI in Live Chat Solutions
• 39:45 Conclusion and Future Collaborations

In this episode of The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, host Jim Mayer sits down with Josh McKain, founder of Henry Rose Consulting, to explore the power of collaboration, leadership, and culture in modern manufacturing.

From his unexpected journey from public accounting into the manufacturing world, to building a business focused on organizational alignment, Josh shares the real-world lessons that shaped his leadership philosophy. They dive into the human side of operations — from tackling turnover and hiring proactively, to creating environments where employees stay, grow, and thrive.

Josh also opens up about the risks of entrepreneurship, the role of mentorship, and his newest venture: writing a children’s book. This conversation is packed with practical takeaways for leaders at any level who want to build stronger teams and a better future for the industry.

• Collaboration isn’t just a soft skill — it’s how real work gets done.
• Strong cultures lead to lower turnover and higher engagement.
• Hiring should be proactive and aligned with company values.
• Organizational health is the foundation for long-term success.
• Leadership is shaped by both mentorship and personal experience.
• A growth mindset helps leaders navigate uncertainty and change.
• The cost of poor culture is often hidden — until it shows up in results.
• The future of manufacturing depends on how we lead today.

• 00:00 – Introduction to The Manufacturing Culture Podcast
•  01:10 – Josh McKain's Journey: From Accounting to Manufacturing
•  03:04 – Defining Culture in the Workplace
•  04:32 – Early Career Lessons and Transition into Manufacturing
•  07:58 – What Drives Employee Engagement
•  09:02 – Mentorship and Its Lasting Impact
•  10:42 – How Positive Leadership Experiences Shape Culture
•  14:58 – Proactive Hiring vs. Hiring in Crisis
•  17:13 – The Real Cost of Turnover in Manufacturing
•  19:41 – What Parenting Taught Josh About Leadership
•  25:26 – Advice for People Starting in the Industry
•  27:13 – Launching Henry Rose Consulting
•  27:41 – Risk, Fear, and the Leap into Entrepreneurship
•  31:39 – Business Development and Building Trust
•  32:37 – Team Alignment and the Importance of Vision
•  35:21 – Culture as a Competitive Advantage
•  41:21 – Employee Engagement and Leadership That Works
•  43:53 – Josh’s Take on the Future of U.S. Manufacturing
•  47:50 – A Lighthearted Close: Josh’s Children’s Book Journey