A Practical Podcast

For results-driven manufacturers that want to become even better leaders and problem solvers anytime anywhere.

  • All
  • Continuous Improvement
  • HR Management
  • Leadership Development
  • Operations Management

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

3 Behaviors that Sabotage Leadership Potential

Kirby Sneen
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #131

In this episode, Kirby delves into three critical behaviors that are sabotaging leadership potential. Listen to learn these barriers to leadership potential and effective strategies to overcome them.

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Characteristics of a Professional Problem Solver

Michael Muilenburg
Manufacturers Alliance Podcast Ep. #130

In this episode, Michael Muilenburg and Kirby Sneen dive into the key characteristics that set professional problem solvers apart. Learn from Michael’s experiences, discover common pitfalls to avoid, and learn the essential traits you need to succeed.

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