Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

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In the fast paced world of manufacturing, how do you stand out as a leader and help your organization rise above the competition?

In this episode, Mark Levy, differentiation expert and TEDx speaker, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Mark explains how finding your big idea helps leaders strengthen culture, improve employee engagement, and communicate values with clarity. You will learn practical strategies to differentiate your organization, build trust, and inspire teams through authentic leadership and compelling storytelling.

2:18 – To inspire your organization, articulate your values and missions in clear, engaging, and memorable ways

3:44 – When making a claim or sharing information, back it up with stories and facts to make it memorable and relatable

10:22 – To help your team learn your organization's key values, keep a sheet with facts and stories that highlight your organization's strengths, mission, values, and other key facts

12:17 – In manufacturing, we often overlook successes in favor of focusing on problem-solving

26:11 – As a leader, communicate in a way that ensures your team members feel valued and integral to your organization's success

27:00 – Consider staring your meetings by sharing proud moments and highlighting recent successes

Connect with Mark Levy

Watch Mark's Tedx Talk

Visit his website

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

In manufacturing, it is easy to get stuck inside the four walls of your organization. But looking beyond your industry can unlock powerful insights to strengthen leadership, improve culture, and better support your team.

In this episode, Dr. Renee Thompson, CEO and Founder of the Healthy Workforce Institute, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, workplace culture, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Renee draws from her work addressing bullying and incivility in healthcare to explain how kindness, respect, and professionalism improve trust building and accountability. You will learn practical strategies to create a more inclusive workplace, strengthen communication skills, and build manufacturing cultures where people feel valued, connected, and motivated to perform.

4:14 – In the workplace, bullying and negative relationships can occur between coworkers, as well as between bosses and employees

5:34 – As a leader, it's important to equip yourself with the skills needed to address bullying and incivility

7:57 – There are many psychological barriers that can lead to challenges or inaction when faced with problematic workplace behavior

9:30 – Scripting is a way to effectively handle difficult conversations

12:27 – Learn the difference between overt bullying and subtle, more convert bullying, and find the strategies for dealing with both types of behavior

16:40 – Even though all industries are different, strategies for addressing bullying and incivility can still be applied across different industries

Connect with Dr. Renee Thompson

Learn more about Healthy Workforce Institute

Find her on LinkedIn

Connect on Facebook and Instagram

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!c

When teams are aligned, productivity rises, morale improves, and workplaces become healthier. When teams are misaligned, leaders often face higher turnover and challenges attracting and retaining talent.

In this episode, Mark Kenny, speaker, consultant, and author of The Hippo Solution, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, team alignment, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Mark explains how communication skills, trust building, and authentic leadership strengthen teamwork and manufacturing culture. You will learn practical strategies to improve collaboration, reduce turnover, and create environments where people feel connected, motivated, and committed to shared results.

3:04 – There are some key differences between functional and misaligned teams

5:11 – When your team is disconnected, it can lead to issues like high turnover or struggles to recruit new talent

6:16 – As a leader, you play a critical role in setting the tone for your entire organization

8:07 – To strengthen your team, learn to look for dysfunctional team dynamics

10:17 – Connection, cohesion, and clarity are the pillars of a well-functioning team

14:47 – With more clarity and structure, you can improve your team's functionality

18:39 – Improving your culture can be transformational for your team

24:31 – To find the best solutions, stay curious and build deeper connections within your team

Connect with Mark Kenny

Visit his website

Connect on LinkedIn

More on The Six Types of Working Genius

More on American Icon: Alan Mullaly and the Fight to Save Ford Motor Company

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

In this episode, Monica Rothgery, former Taco Bell general manager and former chief operating officer of KFC US, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, frontline leadership, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Drawing from her book Lessons from the Drive Thru, Monica explains how curiosity, vulnerability, and authentic leadership strengthen trust building and accountability. You will learn practical strategies to improve communication skills, support your team, and create manufacturing cultures where people feel valued, connected, and motivated to perform.

2:00 – Frontlines leaders often feel the need to jump in and fix problems themselves, rather than letting their team figure it out

4:00 – Shift your mindset to emphasize coaching and supporting, not micromanaging

7:00 – Practice servant leadership through supporting and recognizing your team

13:00 – Instead of just providing instructions, look for ways to observe and provide feedback

15:00 – When problems occur, have deep and curious conversations to find the root of the issue

19:00 – Training is often seen as the problem, but a lack of support can also lead to performance issues

22:00 – All employees are unique and have different standards, so be curious to find out the kind of support and recognition they need

Connect with Monica Rothgery

Buy her book

Visit her website

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

In manufacturing, productivity and mindfulness are closely connected. A more intentional leadership approach can improve team performance, reduce burnout, and create a healthier workplace.

In this episode, Sarah Ohanesian, keynote speaker and productivity consultant, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, productivity, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Sarah explains how communication skills, growth mindset, and intentional time management help leaders reduce stress and strengthen trust building on the shop floor. You will learn practical strategies to improve focus, support workforce retention, and build a manufacturing culture where people feel energized and motivated to perform.

2:36 – There is a difference between busyness and productivity

4:20 – You can improve your productivity with practices like setting daily intentions or saving time for end-of-day reflection and planning

12:10 – Follow Sarah's COAT framework to clarify, organize, act, and take time

17:10 – To save time and be more productive, figure out which tasks are the most important and set clear priorities

18:32 – If you have a to-do list, keep it in a single, trusted location

18:40 – Be intentional with your schedule and time and don't be afraid to say no to requests

21:14 – Allowing time to rest plays a key role in creating sustainable, long-term productivity

Connect with Sarah Ohanesian

Visit her website

Connect on LinkedIn and Instagram

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

There is power in your people. When manufacturing leaders learn how to harness that power, they can transform culture, performance, and retention.

In this episode, Hugh Hornsby, Vice President of Everflow Supplies, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, employee engagement, and workforce development for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Drawing from his experience turning around struggling businesses and overcoming a life changing head injury, Hugh explains how gratitude, hiring strategy, and authentic leadership strengthen trust building and accountability. You will learn practical ways to improve your recruitment approach, unlock hidden talent, and build a manufacturing culture where people feel valued and motivated to perform.

2:27 – Everyone has a unique gift, which you can find by overcoming labels and looking for their personal potential

5:52 – Reframe the way you see others and yourself

6:25 – With a more progressive mindset, you can find more potential in both others and yourself

11:21 – If you invest in your team, they'll invest in your organization

14:13 – Hire for personality and to find the right cultural fit, not just because someone has a strong resume

15:35 – The hiring process should be curious, not transactional and restrictive

19:30 – Overcome your terror barrier

24:47 – Every day, find time for a gratitude check

27:00 – To transform your team, start by looking at the story you tell yourself

Connect with Hugh Hornsby

Learn more about Everflow Supplies

Connect on LinkedIn

Read my book review of Think and Grow Rich

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

What is the secret to retaining your team members and creating an organization where people love to work? DigiKey, an electronic component manufacturer in Thief River Falls, Minnesota, offers powerful lessons, and Shane Zutz, Vice President of Human Resources, shares the insights behind their success.

In this episode, Shane discusses manufacturing leadership, workforce retention, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

He highlights the importance of curiosity, empathy, and leadership presence, and shares practical strategies to strengthen trust building, improve communication skills, and increase accountability. You will learn how intentional leadership behaviors create stronger connections and build manufacturing cultures where people are motivated to stay and perform at their best.

5:12 – Building a better organization starts with being present and making personal connections

8:13 – If your organization is in a small community, making personal connections is extremely important

9:00 – To find curious ways to engage your team, one strategy is to create a list of questions to ask

13:30 - With a strong foundation, you'll be better equipped to tackle challenges or crises

15:11 - There is a lot of value in simple gestures, like greeting your team in the morning

18:12 - Personalization goes a long way

22:41 Show care and concern for your team members

Connect with Shane Zutz

Learn more about Digikey

Connect with Shane on LinkedIn and reach out to get added to his newsletter

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks for tuning it to another episode of Mindfulness Manufacturing! To learn more about Trevor Blondeel and Manufacturing Greatness, please visit our website or contact Trevor here.

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

Are your team members houseplants or trees? It may sound unusual, but understanding the difference can help manufacturing leaders improve retention, strengthen engagement, and build stronger teams.

In this episode, Cara Silletto, founder and Chief Retention Officer of Magnet Culture, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, employee engagement, and workforce retention for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Cara explains how emotional intelligence, communication skills, and trust building help leaders better support their people. You will learn practical strategies to reduce turnover, improve accountability, and create manufacturing cultures where employees feel valued, motivated, and committed to long term success.

2:49 – Some team members are trees, who stay with your company for a long time, while others are houseplants who needs more attention and support

3:23 – To retain your team members, understand the differences between your tree and houseplant employees

5:46 – With a diverse team, you need to approach different team members based on their different needs

8:10 – When you treat employees well, they are more likely to stay with your company

10:14 – Retaining your team members and providing support means adapting as a leader

12:47 – To retain employees, put a stronger emphasis on training, mentoring, and supporting your new hires from their first day

16:39 – Younger team members are more likely to bring their whole selves to work

24:02 – Leaders and managers should use continuous learning to improve their skills and gain a stronger understanding of their roles

25:47 – With a diverse team, you can't use the same rewards and recognitions for all employees

26:53 – To understand your team better, practice curiosity and active listening

Connect with Cara Silletto

Connect on LinkedIn

Learn more about Magnet Culture

Find special resources from Magnet Vault

Thanks for Listening!

Thanks for tuning it to another episode of Mindfulness Manufacturing! To learn more about Trevor Blondeel and Manufacturing Greatness, please visit our website or contact Trevor here.

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

We all love giving advice. But when advice becomes your default as a manufacturing leader, it can crush curiosity, create disconnect, and limit team performance.

In this episode, bestselling author Michael Bungay Stanier shares insights on manufacturing leadership, communication skills, and growth mindset for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Michael explains how leaders can move beyond the advice trap by building curiosity, improving employee engagement, and strengthening trust. You will learn practical habits to support authentic leadership, encourage problem solving, and create manufacturing cultures where teams feel empowered, connected, and accountable.

2:17 – With more curiosity, you can engage your people, boost morale and retention, and create a thriving organization

3:31 – Slow down in your rush to provide immediate advice

4:16 – As a leader, shift away from making advice your default response

5:13 – With curiosity, you can become a more strategic leader

6:11 – Defaulting to giving advice is often an ingrained habit

6:48 – When you start being more curious, you let others shine

7:17 – Curiosity can also strengthen your relationship with your family and others outside of work

8:40 – Forming new curiosity habits can take time and practice

9:47 - If you always give answers and advice, your team can become over-dependent, more disconnected, and less productive

10:48 – Through more curiosity, you and your team can find the purpose of your work

12:22 – While practicing curiosity and other new skills, approach it with patience and grace for yourself

13:28 – Be specific and deliberate in building your coaching habit

14:13 – Your team are your allies

15:19 – Instead of answering right away, stay in a place of curiosity a little bit longer

16:53 – Ask curious questions to find the root cause of issues within your team

18:48 – Asking questions can be more effective than giving advice

20: 11 – Your job isn't to come up with the best answer, but to help your team come up with the right answer

21:42 – To practice curiosity, pay attention to your body language

Connect with Michael Bungay Stanier

Visit his website and download chapter one of The Coaching Habit

Learn more about Box of Crayons

Read my book reports of The Coaching Habit

Welcome to Manufacturing Greatness with Trevor Blondeel, where we work with organizations to manufacture greatness by leveraging resources you already have to achieve greater retention, productivity, and profits. To learn more, visit www.manufacturinggreatness.com and click here to subscribe to Trevor's monthly newsletter.

Now, let's jump in!

What does it really take to launch a new manufacturing plant? A successful greenfield site is about more than equipment and facilities. It also depends on how leaders hire, communicate, and set the tone for their teams.

In this episode, Daniel Knecht, Solar Project Director at NSG Group, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, team development, and strategic thinking for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.

Dan draws from his experience launching a greenfield site to explain how communication skills, trust building, and authentic leadership shape culture from day one. You will learn practical strategies to support your workforce, improve daily leadership behaviors, and drive long term performance during periods of growth and change.

4:04 – While manufacturing requires many technical skills, it's still all about people and connection

4:55 – If you're a technically minded person, you might need to shift your behavior to form stronger connections and learn to lead through others

5:22 – At a new plant, choosing and building a new team is an important part of the process

6:13 – As a leader, you want to hire a team who can respectfully challenge you, not just people who think exactly like you

7:27 – Changing how you show up for your team starts with authenticity and vulnerability

9:45 – Show up for your team with action, not just words

10:23 – Even with a large team, you can form great connections through intention and curiosity

12:54 – At a new plant, it's imperative to set the right tone

14:38 – Manage your emotions and use patience to navigate challenges and connect with your team

19:09 – How you show up in a moment of adversity says a lot about you as a leader

20:05 – You lead how you're led, so be aware of behaviors you might have picked up from others

20:40 – Take responsibility for your role as a leader in your organization

21:53 – Hire the right people and invest in them

23:20 – You can't successfully address every issue your team brings to you, but you can approach the issue with an open mind

24:14 – To get a better understanding of the pulse of your floor, create a safe space for your team

Connect with Daniel Knecht

Find him on LinkedIn

Learn more about NSG