Be Your F*ing Self: The No-BS Journey of Joni Cunningham
In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Joni Cunningham shares her unique journey from growing up in Alaska to becoming a pivotal figure in the manufacturing industry. She discusses the importance of workplace culture, effective leadership, and the challenges of communication. Joni emphasizes the need for authenticity and connection in both personal and professional realms, while also highlighting the role of women in manufacturing and the significance of engaging youth in the industry. The conversation is filled with insights on innovation, personal growth, and the future of manufacturing.TakeawaysCulture is an environment where you're helping and lifting others.Leaders should never be the smartest person in the room.Delegation is crucial for effective leadership.Communication is key to building trust and relationships.Growing up in Alaska provided a unique perspective on life.Personal experiences shape our professional paths.Women have a vital role in the manufacturing industry.Engaging youth is essential for the future of manufacturing.Innovation in technology can significantly improve efficiency.Being authentic attracts the right people into your life.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joni Cunningham and the Podcast02:21 Defining Culture in the Workplace05:13 Leadership and Delegation Challenges08:04 Personal Growth Through Communication10:29 Growing Up in Alaska: A Unique Perspective13:31 Career Journey: From Healthcare to Manufacturing16:13 The Importance of Connection in Manufacturing19:00 Navigating the Challenges of Parenthood21:56 The Role of Women in Manufacturing24:35 Innovations in Manufacturing Technology27:13 The Future of Manufacturing and Youth Engagement29:36 Final Thoughts and AuthenticityMake sure to register for MEDevice Boston today!
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Why the Factory Floor Deserves Better Than Palo Alto: Renan Devilliers on shop floor dignity, tech arrogance, and building tools that work for the people who use them
In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture podcast, Jim Mayer interviews Renan Devilliers, co-founder of OSS Ventures. Renan shares his unique journey from a military upbringing to becoming a leader in the manufacturing technology industry. He discusses the importance of organizational culture, his experiences at McKinsey, and the entrepreneurial spirit that drives him. Renan emphasizes the need for innovation in manufacturing, the mission-driven approach of OSS Ventures, and the core values that guide their work. He also explores the future of manufacturing, the impact of technology, and the opportunities available within the industry.TakeawaysCulture is what gets people to thrive or leave an organization.Renan grew up moving frequently due to his father's military career.He transitioned from a career in violin to mathematics and consulting.Renan discovered his passion for manufacturing while at McKinsey.OSS Ventures aims to revolutionize manufacturing through technology.The future of manufacturing will involve gigafactories and small factories.Renan believes in paying shop floor workers as well as tech workers.OSS Ventures has a mission-driven approach from day one.Values are crucial for guiding company culture and decision-making.Renan emphasizes the importance of listening to shop floor workers.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Renan de Villiers01:55 Defining Organizational Culture02:41 Renan's Unique Background and Education04:40 Career Path: From McKinsey to Manufacturing08:35 Discovering the Entrepreneurial Spirit09:51 The Allure of Manufacturing11:50 OSS Ventures: Revolutionizing Manufacturing Tech14:05 The Future of Manufacturing and Reshoring16:42 Personal Growth and Leadership in Startups18:11 Mission-Driven Approach at OSS Ventures19:20 Core Values and Their Impact24:48 Staying True to Values in Business30:53 Beliefs Guiding OSS Ventures35:10 The Future Landscape of Manufacturing37:59 Opportunities at OSS Ventures40:02 Embracing Change in ManufacturingDon't forget to register for MEDevice Boston!
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“They’ll Eat You Alive.”: Jenny Drescher & Ellen Feldman Ornato on Flipping Power and Facing Resistance in Manufacturing
In this episode of the Manufacturing Culture Podcast, Jim Mayer engages with Ellen Feldman-Ornato and Jenny Drescher to explore the intricacies of organizational culture, personal journeys, and the importance of behavioral change in the workplace. They discuss the significance of defining culture, the challenges of implementing change, and the impact of generational dynamics on workplace behavior. The conversation also highlights the birth of the Boulder Company, their podcast initiative, and the importance of humor and lightness in navigating workplace challenges.TakeawaysCulture is essential and should be considered table stakes for any organization.Good culture varies from organization to organization, but respect and positive behaviors are key.Behavioral change requires time, practice, and accountability among team members.Consultants must engage deeply with clients to foster real change, not just surface-level fixes.Generational differences impact workplace dynamics and behaviors significantly.Humor can be a powerful tool in navigating workplace challenges and fostering connection.The Boulder Company was born from a shared passion for applied improvisation and culture work.Effective communication is crucial for a thriving workplace culture.People need to focus on personal growth and deeper understanding rather than just accumulating knowledge.The podcast aims to elevate the voices of women in manufacturing and promote the industry as a viable career path.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Icebreakers04:25 Defining Culture in Organizations07:40 Personal Journeys and Early Experiences12:36 The Birth of the Boulder Company16:42 Behavioral Change and Effective Training21:56 The Evolution of Manufacturing Support23:34 Embracing Uniqueness and Personal Growth25:40 Going Deeper in Leadership Skills28:21 The Reality of Behavioral Change in Organizations31:05 Finding the Right Fit in Consulting33:12 Vetting Clients for Effective Change35:54 Generational Dynamics in the Workplace39:20 Highlighting Women in Manufacturing41:46 Lightening Up in the Workplace47:13 Building Trust and ConnectionDon't forget to check out MEDevice Boston and join the fun!
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The Long Game of Culture Change: Darryl Gratrix on Leadership, Outreach, and the Next Generation of Tradespeople
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.TakeawaysTreat 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. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker04:16 Understanding Culture in Manufacturing08:18 Darryl's Journey into Tool and Die12:14 Transitioning to Leadership15:14 Cultural Turnarounds in the Workplace19:08 Hiring for Culture and Skills19:59 Building Career Pathways for Young Machinists21:36 Perceptions of the Trade and Community Engagement23:04 Innovative Approaches to Attracting Youth24:45 Challenges in the Skilled Trades26:10 The Value of Skilled Trades in Today's Economy27:39 Government Support and Future Opportunities30:53 Changing Perceptions of Skilled Trades34:04 Personal and Professional Growth in the IndustryDon't forget to check out MEDevice Boston!
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What Happens When You Hire People Most Companies Won’t: Marcus Sheanshang on Second Chance as Culture
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.Key Highlights: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.TakeawaysEvery 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.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Marcus Sheanshang03:51 Defining Culture in Business05:59 Marcus's Journey in the Family Business08:51 Early Experiences on the Shop Floor11:25 Transitioning to CEO13:36 Doubts and Leadership Challenges15:58 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture21:19 Operationalizing Core Values24:21 Reinvigorating Company Culture30:27 Enhancing Employee Engagement and Performance31:37 The Genesis of the Fair Chance Program33:41 Building Bridges: From Prisons to Employment35:15 Transforming Perspectives on Rehabilitation38:43 Establishing Trust with Fair Chance Employees40:09 Support Systems for Successful Reintegration43:57 Criteria for Inclusion in the Fair Chance Program45:17 Training and Development for Fair Chance Employees49:47 Vision for the Future: A Sustainable and Inclusive Workplace01:03:13 Building a Purpose-Driven Culture01:04:09 Leadership and Second ChancesDon'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
Manufacturing is about more than products—it’s about people. On The Manufacturing Culture Podcast, I sit down with leaders, innovators, and everyday heroes to uncover the stories behind their journeys in the industry. We talk about where they started, how they’ve grown, and the challenges they’ve overcome along the way.
Each episode brings a unique perspective—some practical, some inspiring, and all rooted in the human side of manufacturing. From lessons learned on the shop floor to big ideas shaping the future, it’s all about the people who make it happen.
Because at the heart of every company are the people who work there, and every person has a story.
South Africa