The Manufacturing Employer

Eric Gassaway, a globally recognized sustainability and ESG leader, joins The Manufacturing Employer to explore how sustainability drives workplace culture. With experience shaping strategies for Fortune 100 companies and building enterprise-level sustainability initiatives, Eric shares why sustainability is more than a box-checking exercise — it’s a culture engine that improves morale and aligns employees around a shared purpose.

Steve Cadigan, renowned expert on the future of work and author of "Workquake," joins The Manufacturing Employer to tackle some of the biggest workforce challenges facing manufacturers. He shares insights from his experience at LinkedIn and across the industrial sector, covering strategies for retention, skills gaps, union dynamics and adapting to AI on the factory floor.

Host Jon Franko details six learnings and quotes from guests throughout 2026 that he's going to carry into the new year.

Diane Ferrera, Director of Human Resources at AccuRounds, joins The Manufacturing Employer to share how a people-first culture and commitment to learning have shaped the company’s success. With nearly 30 years of HR experience, Diane discusses building AccuRounds’ HR function from the ground up, fostering a workplace centered on respect, transparency and continuous development. She explores how AccuRounds invests in employee growth, community partnerships and workforce development, proving that a strong culture is the foundation for operational excellence and long-term retention.

Celeste Warren, renowned DEI expert and author of "The Truth About Equity," joins The Manufacturing Employer to demystify equity in the workplace and explain why it’s essential for manufacturing organizations today. Celeste shares actionable frameworks like the "rocks and fence" analogy, addresses misconceptions about meritocracy and discusses how equity improves team performance and business outcomes.

Dr. Gretchen Gagle, executive consultant and advocate for women in industry, joins The Manufacturing Employer to share lessons from her 40-year career in manufacturing, engineering, construction and energy. She explores the importance of inclusivity in driving growth and unpacks the “concrete ceiling” that women face in male-dominated fields. Gretchen highlights strategies for grounded self-leadership, building strong relationships, and fostering psychological safety for innovation. She also introduces her book, "Building Women: A Blueprint for Women Thriving in Construction," offering guidance for both men and women navigating industrial careers.

Scott Gates, President of Awake Window & Door Co., joins The Manufacturing Employer to discuss his innovative hiring model that employs formerly incarcerated individuals. Scott shares how this approach has grown Awake into a $30 million business while providing second chances and rebuilding lives. The conversation also explores the competitive advantages of this hiring strategy, including access to untapped talent and high employee retention.

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.