Matt Granados, founder and CEO of LifePulse Inc., joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss how organizations can fix people problems by addressing underlying system issues. Matt challenges conventional approaches to workplace culture, arguing that sustainable solutions come from equipping individuals to solve their own problems rather than implementing quick fixes. The conversation explores how manufacturing leaders can create more effective, fulfilling work environments by focusing on root causes rather than symptoms. Matt emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and continuous growth in building high-performing teams.

Mark Reich, author of Managing on Purpose and senior lean coach at the Lean Enterprise Institute, joins The Manufacturing Employer to explore how lean thinking can improve customer value, quality and employee development across various industries. Mark also talks about his new book, "Managing on Purpose," which offers practical guidance on implementing Hoshin Kanri for strategic alignment and execution. The conversation touches on the challenges of balancing profit, cost and quality, while emphasizing the critical role of HR in fostering organizational capability and employee engagement.

Chris Luecke, host of Manufacturing Hour, joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss the evolving landscape of manufacturing. He shares how automation and AI are reshaping the industry, debunking fears of job loss and highlighting new opportunities. Chris emphasizes the importance of storytelling in manufacturing, both for external marketing and internal culture-building. He details the transformation of manufacturing facilities from "dull, dirty and dangerous" to clean, safe and inclusive environments.

Myles Rickerd and Trevor O'Malley, founders of Hire MFG Leaders, join The Manufacturing Employer to share their targeted approach to recruiting in the manufacturing space. They discuss how deep industry focus helps them align talent with company culture, while also addressing compensation, work-life balance and the evolving benefits landscape. Trevor and Miles emphasize genuine care in the recruiting process and highlight how continuous learning keeps them, and their candidates, one step ahead.

Dave Garrison, co-founder of Garrison Growth, joins The Manufacturing Employer to unpack the “buy-in crisis” driving employee disengagement. He explores root causes like shifting post-pandemic priorities and generational changes, and he explains why perks and bonuses no longer cut it. Drawing from his book "The Buy-In Advantage," Dave shares practical strategies for building trust, fostering purpose and creating a culture where people feel truly involved.

Brett Hoogeveen, co-founder of Better Culture, joins The Manufacturing Employer to share how manufacturers can build stronger workplaces through employee-led culture. He introduces the 20 Tenets of Culture—simple, behavior-driven principles like being coachable and celebrating coworkers—that drive performance and retention. Brett explains how to spot toxic behaviors early, measure cultural progress and empower frontline workers to lead from the ground up with a practical, systematic approach.

Matt Meltzer, Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Meltzer Hellrung, joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss the role of immigration law in supporting a strong manufacturing workforce. Matt shares practical insights on navigating visa options for skilled workers, staying compliant amid shifting policies and building a sense of security for foreign-born employees. He explores the value immigrant workers bring to the industry, the risks of missteps in documentation, and how employers can prepare for audits and site visits. Through it all, Matt emphasizes the human impact behind the policies and why supporting immigrant employees is both a moral and strategic imperative.

Matt Temple and Doug Simms, executives at Sonus Benefits, join The Manufacturing Employer to discuss how manufacturers can make healthcare plans a competitive advantage. They explore strategies and creative solutions to rising pharmacy costs—all aimed at improving culture, retention and employee well-being.

Luke Wittenbraker, Sales & Marketing Director at Mactech On-Site, joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss the importance of celebrating safety and building a culture that supports it. With more than 1,210 days without a recordable incident, Luke shares insights on fostering a culture of safety in high-risk environments emphasizing the role of leadership, consistent communication and employee empowerment in creating a workplace where safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Todd Warner, President of MyWorkChoice, joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss the importance of flexibility in helping manufacturers solve challenges in recruitment, retention and absenteeism. With more than 35 years of experience in staffing, Todd shares insights on addressing high turnover rates and worker dissatisfaction, particularly in entry-level manufacturing roles.