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Latest Episodes:

[Re-Release] Automation = Opportunity: How Robots Create More Careers Jun 10, 2026

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Jake Hall, The Manufacturing Millennial, is back in the feed — and this conversation is just as relevant as ever. Jake breaks down why outdated perceptions of manufacturing are holding the industry back, how robots are saving jobs rather than replacing them, and what companies can do to attract the next generation of talent.

Originally released August 2025.

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The Economic Trends Every Business Should Watch May 27, 2026

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In this episode, we break down economic trends shaping businesses with economist Lauren Saidel-Baker. From inflation and labor shortages to AI and productivity, she shares what companies should really be watching over the next few years and why growth alone doesn’t guarantee success.

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[EXHIBITOR EDITION] The Human Advantage: Why Trade Shows Matter May 20, 2026

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In this special Exhibitor Edition episode, we sit down with Chief Editor of Packaging World, Matt Reynolds, and Director of Custom Research at PMMI, Rebecca Marquez, to explore why trade shows matter in an AI-driven world, and how businesses are balancing automation, workforce challenges, sustainability pressures, and ROI in a rapidly changing market.

Your Employees Are Leaving—Here’s Why May 13, 2026

Show notes

Losing great people isn’t just about pay. Ultimately, it’s about leadership, culture, and connection. We sit down with Jim Weber to see what REALLY drives employees to stay or go so, listen in and hear how leaders can build a workplace people don’t want to leave.

Shifting Perceptions of “Dirty Jobs” with Mike Rowe Apr 29, 2026

Show notes

Mike Rowe, best known for Dirty Jobs, joins the podcast to talk about why so many skilled trade careers are still misunderstood. He shares why he thinks perception, not opportunity, is the real barrier and why telling better, more honest stories about these careers matters.

The Real Reason You Are Losing Customers Apr 15, 2026

Show notes

In this week's episode, Lisa Apolinski from PhatKat Consulting breaks down how suppliers can build trust and stand out by creating value-driven, story-based content that reduces risk, cost, and time. We also cover how AI is reshaping buyer decisions and why authentic expertise matters more than ever.

[EXHIBITOR EDITION] How AI is Transforming Trade Shows Apr 08, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, Jessica Lawshe from PMMI and Don Kline from Map Your Show explain how AI-powered tools are making it easier for buyers to find the right exhibitors and navigate trade shows. We also cover how exhibitors can use tools like Sales Accelerator and strong online listings to better connect with the right audience and drive results.

Where Manufacturing Careers Really Begin Apr 01, 2026

Show notes

Where do careers in manufacturing really begin for women? In this episode, Meaghan Ziemba shares why the path often starts long before college or a first job, shaped by early exposure, encouragement, and what young girls are (and aren’t) shown. She breaks down who plays a role in that journey and what needs to change to help more women see manufacturing as a path from the start.

The Workforce Crisis You Can’t Ignore Mar 18, 2026

Show notes

Festo joins us to talk about how they’re working with PMMI to tackle the manufacturing workforce challenge through training and certifications. We also break down why the skills gap might not be what it seems, and how it connects to the pace of new technology in the industry.

Are Your Competitors Out-Marketing You? Mar 04, 2026

Show notes

In our 200th episode, we talk with Manufacturing Happy Hour host Chris Luecke about what authentic marketing looks like for manufacturers today. We cover how small teams can create consistent, meaningful content without overcomplicating it and why platforms like LinkedIn still matter. The episode also explores how digital engagement can lead to stronger real-world connections.

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