A Practical Podcast
For results-driven manufacturers that want to become even better leaders and problem solvers anytime anywhere.
Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast epsiode? Ask Here!
Apple
SpotifyTop Takeaways of 2024
Kirby Sneen, Jeremy Blake, and Monica Smith
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #138
This week, Kirby Sneen, Jeremy Blake, and Monica Smith share their favorite episodes from the year, biggest lessons learned in 2024, and what you can look forward to from the Manufacturers Alliance in 2025!
How To Speed up Lean Using Data You Already Have
Vivek Saxena
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #137
Vivek Saxena, Founder & CEO of Factory Twin walks you through how his small manufacturing clients are leveraging the data already in their systems to drive process improvement and get better results. Learn why the current way of practicing lean is slow, the barriers to going digital, and how you can speed up the pace of improvement.
How to Reduce Conflict by Improving Collaboration
Jody O'Neil
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #136
Silos, poor listening skills, and even cultural differences can be some of the bigger challenges any leader in manufacturing faces when trying to get everyone on the same page. In this episode, Jody O’Neil shares how to foster a collaborative environment to counter these challenges and reduce potential conflict in the workplace.
Manufacturing’s Outlook
Laurie Harbour
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #135.5
Industry expert Laurie Harbour, partner with Wipfli, delves into the outlook of manufacturing. In this episode, Laurie shares key insights on the current instability in the industry, emerging trends to watch, and the barriers manufacturers must overcome to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.
Removing Variation From Your Process
Matt Evans
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #135
Matt Evans, Quality Manager at Unimatic Precision Machining, shares practical strategies for removing variation from your processes. Learn about mistake-proofing, leveraging control charts, and creating accurate standards to improve consistency and overall quality.
The Top 5 Problems CI Leaders Face
Bob Dummer
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #134
Gain insights on how to overcome continuous improvement challenges so that you can effectively manage improvements. Explore the top 5 challenges CI leaders face, including resistance to change, sustainment, and access to data.
Unleashing the Power of Problem-Solving
Eugene Arrington
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #133.5
In this bonus episode, we’re sharing a replay of one of your favorites, featuring Eugene Arrington. Learn how to overcome fire fighting, make time for problem-solving, and overcome the tendency to jump to conclusions.
Sustaining Six Sigma Improvements
Matthew Yost
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #133
In this episode, Mathew Yost shares what it takes to sustain Six Sigma improvements for lasting success. He breaks down how metrics, tracking, management support, culture, standard work, and training have helped his team maintain the gains from Six Sigma projects. Gain practical insights and strategies to ensure your process improvements endure.
Translating Lean Into Front Office Improvements
Sarah Hartung
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #132.5
In this episode, Sarah Hartung joins Kirby Sneen to explore how lean principles can be effectively applied in the office setting. Discover practical strategies for creating a lean enterprise, streamlining your business systems, and avoiding the pitfalls of sub-optimization.
Celebrating Continuous Improvement
Nick Wenner, Mark Luger, & Pete Barboni
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #132
In this episode, we are celebrating three manufacturers for their commitment to developing a culture of continuous improvement and their willingness to share their experiences with their peers. Learn about the biggest accomplishments, lessons learned, and current initiatives of Pallet Service Corporation, Intek Plastics, and LubeTech, all of which are aimed at creating a better future for everyone at their companies.