Manufacturers Alliance Podcast

The Manufacturers Alliance podcast, hosted by Kirby Sneen.

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Latest Episodes

Delegate and Elevate Performance

Delegate and Elevate Performance

Manufacturing leaders often struggle with delegation, but mastering this skill is critical for leadership growth and organizational success. In this episode, Jennifer Schwan, Vice President of Operations at CDI Curbs, shares proven strategies for effective delegation. Learn how to identify your "why" for delegating, build trust through alignment rather than process control, and shift your perspective from personal achievement to team development. 

Podcast Resources:

  1. Digital Course: Watch The Role of the Leader: Trust - What Builds It & What Destroys It 
  2. Podcast: Listen to “Best in Class One-on-One’s” with Dan Powley
  3. Certification: Supervision Fundamentals 

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Attend an upcoming Webinar as our guest!

 

 

Building High-Performing HR Teams

Building High-Performing HR Teams

Build high-performing HR teams that drive real business impact. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Dale Fruehauf to explore what HR leaders must focus on to shape successful teams, and how manufacturers should prioritize HR roles. Dale shares his secret to attracting top HR talent, strategies for recognizing and rewarding HR team members, ways to leverage “alumni” for advocacy, and insights on how HR can use AI to stay competitive.

 

Whether you're growing your HR function or refining it, you'll find practical takeaways for Building High-Performing HR Teams.

Staying Coachable as an Executive

Staying Coachable as an Executive

What does it take to stay coachable at the highest levels of leadership? In this episode, Steve Murray, Manufacturing Executive, shares powerful lessons on remaining open to feedback, recognizing blind spots, and prioritizing personal growth throughout your career. Whether you're leading a team or aspiring to the next level, you'll gain actionable insights on how coachability can transform your leadership impact and drive continuous improvement in manufacturing.

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

Strategic Leader Certification

5S That Sticks

5S That Sticks

Sustaining 5S is the hardest step—but it’s also the most important. In this episode, Gary Olson, Operational Excellence Leader, shares expert insights on why 5S often fails and how manufacturers can create a culture where organization and efficiency become second nature. Learn how leadership commitment, daily habits, and employee engagement can drive long-term success with 5S. Tune in for actionable strategies to make 5S stick in your facility.

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

The Power of Mistake Proofing

The Power of Mistake Proofing

Mistake-proofing is key to reducing defects, improving efficiency, and ensuring quality in manufacturing. In this episode, George Murray, General Manager at Celestica, shares proven strategies for preventing errors, standardizing work, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. Learn how data-driven decision-making, simple mistake-proofing solutions, and team engagement can drive lasting operational excellence. Whether you're tackling process inefficiencies or aiming for zero defects, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways.

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

Building Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce

Building Tomorrow's Manufacturing Workforce

Wondering how to develop a strong manufacturing workforce? In this episode, Mike Franz, Founder & CEO of Shop Floor Coffee, shares Shop Floor Coffee’s plans to encourage workforce development as well as actionable strategies for attracting, training, and retaining top talent. Learn how manufacturers can engage the next generation, leverage industry partnerships, and build a sustainable talent pipeline. Whether you're facing hiring challenges or looking to strengthen your team, this conversation will provide valuable insights to help you develop a skilled and motivated workforce. 

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

Transformation through Process Mapping

Transformation through Process Mapping

Process mapping is a powerful tool for improving efficiency in manufacturing. Rebecca Jasper, Supply Chain and Operations Executive, shares how to map workflows, eliminate inefficiencies, and create alignment across teams. Whether you're working to reduce waste, improve lead times, or enhance collaboration, these strategies will help you implement process mapping effectively. Get practical steps to refine your processes and achieve better results.

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

 

Keys to a Successful Kaizen Event

Keys to a Successful Kaizen Event

Running a successful Kaizen event requires more than just gathering a team—it's about strategic planning, leadership support, and long-term sustainment. In this episode, Kirby Sneen sits down with Robert Dewane, Sr. OpEx Change Agent at Trane Technologies, to uncover the essential elements of impactful Kaizen events. Discover how to secure top-down buy-in, engage the right stakeholders, and implement changes that last. Whether you're new to Kaizen or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is packed with practical ideas and examples to help you eliminate waste and drive continuous improvement. 

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

Best in Class One-On-Ones

Best in Class One-On-Ones

Want to improve your one-on-one meetings? In this episode, Dan Powley, Senior Production Manager at Intricon Corporation, shares proven strategies for structuring impactful one-on-ones that drive engagement, alignment, and accountability. Learn how to create meaningful conversations, set clear expectations, and ensure follow-through. Whether you lead a small team or a large workforce, these insights will help you strengthen relationships, develop employees, and improve overall team performance through best in class one-on-ones. 

Not a Manufacturers Alliance member? Request a Demo

Have a question or topic you’d like featured in a future podcast episode? Ask Here!

Podcast Resources:

Bio of Manufacturers Alliance Podcast

The Manufacturers Alliance podcast, hosted by Kirby Sneen, is a platform dedicated to supporting professionals working in the manufacturing industry to enhance their leadership skills and problem-solving abilities. With the aim of fostering competitiveness among manufacturers, the podcast provides valuable insights and practical advice to help individuals in the manufacturing sector thrive.

By featuring expert interviews, industry insights, and success stories, the podcast equips listeners with the knowledge and tools they need to excel in their roles and contribute to the overall success of their manufacturing organizations. 

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