U.S. Manufacturing Today

Data-Driven Revolution: Unpacking Microfactories and Modern Manufacturing with Errol Rodericks

In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, hosted by Matt Horine, the focus is on the critical role data plays in the reindustrialization of American industry. Matt is joined by Errol Rodericks, Product Marketing Director at Denodo, a leader in data virtualization and logical data management. The discussion covers the rise of microfactories, driven by demand volatility, product variation, sustainability, reshoring, and AI. They explore how modern data infrastructure is essential for operational agility and real-time responsiveness in manufacturing. Key topics include the significance of transient data, challenges with legacy data systems, and the benefits of a logical data management framework. Errol also shares insights on preparing for AI automation and digital twins, emphasizing the need for real-time, trusted data to remain competitive in the evolving manufacturing landscape.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today00:16 The Importance of Data in Modern Manufacturing00:36 Guest Introduction: Errol Rodericks01:37 Understanding Microfactories02:50 The Five Forces Driving Microfactory Adoption04:48 Data Challenges in Modern Manufacturing06:53 The Role of AI in Microfactories16:57 Logical Data Management Explained25:50 Real-World Applications of Transient Data32:22 Preparing for the Future of Smart Manufacturing38:07 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysLinksErrol on LinkedInDenodo⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠

From Mail Order to Mega Trends: Revolutionizing Toys with David Socha

In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, host Matt Horine chats with David Socha, CEO of the Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company. David shares his journey into the toy and collectibles business, starting from his childhood love for toys and progressing through his entrepreneurial ventures. They discuss the company's commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and ethical manufacturing. David also provides his perspective on the challenges and trends in the toy manufacturing industry, including the impact of globalization, the shift towards customization, and the importance of maintaining high safety standards. The conversation delves into the role of creativity in manufacturing and the potential of automation and AI to improve the industry. David concludes by sharing his optimistic vision for the future of US consumer goods manufacturing and the evolution of his company. Listeners can learn more about Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company at plush.com.Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:46 David Socha's Journey into the Toy Industry02:22 Building a Legacy in Toy Manufacturing03:58 Challenges and Trends in US Manufacturing07:13 Globalization and Manufacturing Realities10:17 Adapting to Market Changes and Trends21:10 Balancing Creativity and Efficiency22:44 Future of Toy Manufacturing24:34 Optimism for US Manufacturing26:36 Conclusion and Contact InformationLinksDavid on LinkedInPlush / Beverly Hills Teddy Bear⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠

Reindustrialization and Manufacturing Visibility with Tony Gunn

In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, the podcast powered by Verayble, host Matt Horine features Tony Gunn, CEO of TGM Global and creator of the Worldwide Machinist brand. Tony shares his journey from nearly becoming a professional soccer player to entering the manufacturing industry at age 20, eventually evolving into a global advocate for machinists and the manufacturing sector. The discussion covers Tony's unconventional path, the importance of storytelling in manufacturing, and the need for the US to reclaim its leadership in the industry through technology, culture, education, and awareness. Tony provides insights on the significance of fearless decision-making, gratitude, hard work, and positivity. The episode also touches on the challenges and opportunities of reshoring, the critical role of professional associations, and advice for the next generation of manufacturers. Stay tuned for Tony's autobiography, set for release in Q1 2026.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today00:15 Meet Tony Gunn: A Global Voice in Manufacturing01:30 Tony's Unconventional Journey to Manufacturing03:54 From Machinist to Media: Tony's Career Evolution05:09 The Importance of Manufacturing08:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Manufacturing13:58 Global Perspectives on Manufacturing20:15 The Consumerism Shift and Its Impact22:51 Traits of Successful Manufacturing Organizations26:22 The Rapid Pace of Technological Advancement27:19 Generational Shifts in the Workforce28:44 The Reality of Reshoring in US Manufacturing30:17 Challenges and Opportunities in Global Manufacturing36:08 Inspiring the Next Generation of Manufacturers37:09 Personal Growth Through Adversity42:38 The Importance of Associations and Networking44:21 Future Plans and Global Travels47:07 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLinksTony on LinkedInTony's WebsiteThe Worldwide Machinist⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠

Casting a New Future: Alcon Industries and the Resurgence of US Manufacturing with Chad Woods

In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, our host Matt Horine talks with Chad Woods, Director of Operations at Alcon Industries, a Cleveland-based metals manufacturer. Alcon Industries has been a trusted name in specialty alloys and nickel-based castings for over 50 years. Chad discusses Alcon's recent innovations, including a more flexible workforce and the adoption of new technologies, that have enabled the company to reduce lead times and outperform competitors in quality and precision. He also highlights the importance of reshoring, the role of labor flexibility, and the company’s unique capabilities in casting various metals, including centrifugal casting. This episode provides an in-depth look at how Alcon is staying competitive domestically and contributing to the broader reindustrialization effort in the US.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today01:06 Meet Chad Woods: A Journey in Metals Manufacturing02:15 The Ohio Advantage: Reshoring and Reindustrialization03:16 Alcon Industries: Core Business and Unique Processes05:12 Operational Excellence: Reducing Lead Times and Flexibility09:04 Centrifugal Casting: Expanding Capabilities13:29 The Broader Industrial Picture: Reshoring and Competitiveness15:32 Conclusion and Future OutlookLinksChad on LinkedInAlcon Industries⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠⁠

Navigating Legacy and Innovation in Manufacturing with Jake Grossman of EZPZ Brands

In this episode of U.S. Manufacturing Today, our host Matt Horine speaks with Jake Grossman, the leader of Fibematics and Founder of EZPZ Brands. With over 60 years of family history in manufacturing in Philadelphia, Jake offers a unique perspective on managing trade policies, maintaining a multi-generational business, and building resilient supply chains. He shares the story behind Fibematics and EZPZ Brands, the importance of balancing tradition with innovation, and effective strategies for navigating tariffs and supply chain challenges. The discussion also covers the significance of strong supplier relationships, the resilience of the non-woven products industry, and the goals and challenges for EZPZ's future growth, focusing on sustainability and automation. Join us as Jake Grossman provides valuable insights and advice for small to mid-sized manufacturers.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to US Manufacturing Today00:15 Meet Jake Grossman: Leading Fibematics and EZPZ Brands01:03 The Origin Story of Fibematics02:16 Balancing Tradition and Innovation03:02 Navigating Tariffs and Trade Policies05:13 Strategies for Supply Chain Resilience08:51 Exploring Non-Woven Wiping Products16:04 The Launch of EZPZ Brands18:40 Sustainability and Future Growth20:22 Maintaining Family-Owned Business Values22:20 Advice for Family-Owned Manufacturers23:30 Conclusion and Where to Learn MoreLinksJake on LinkedInEZPZ BrandsFibematics⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Navigating Trump 2.0 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Revitalizing US Manufacturing⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign Up on the Veryable Platform ⁠