Iowa Manufacturing Podcast

Allen Patton, of Patton Benefits, joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to unveil a game-changing AI tool that's disrupting the way manufacturers approach health insurance. His platform uses artificial intelligence to quote plans faster and more precisely, resulting in average savings of 20–30% for companies. Allen walks us through how the system works, the type of data it leverages, and why it's a...

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Aaron Anderson, founder and owner of Fresh Fit Meals. Aaron shares his remarkable journey from stepping into the company's operations to ultimately seizing the opportunity to purchase the business during a pivotal moment. He discusses how he knew the timing was right, what critical lessons he's learned as an entrepreneur, the key...

Jeff Kappen brings a sharp perspective to this episode, challenging conventional thinking around manufacturing strategy in America. From the viability of reindustrialization to the true cost of maximizing consumption, he pushes us to ask better questions. We discuss the evolving role of global supply chains, how geopolitical disruptions like tariffs create strategic ripple effects, and why busines...

What do cyber attacks, wild weather, and your factory's machinery breakdown all have in common? They're risks that could stop production in its tracks—and too often, manufacturers aren't as prepared as they think. In this episode, EMC Insurance executives Josh August and Mark Campbell share what's keeping risk professionals up at night and what your team should be doing right now to protect your b...

Senator Sarah Trone Garriott joins Leisa for an insightful conversation about Iowa's legislative climate, from the nuances of school vouchers and budget priorities to the deeper challenges of ensuring effective governance in a fast-changing state. With a deep respect for public service and a commitment to listening across the aisle, Trone Garriott outlines the importance of transparency, balance o...

When Rusty Rohe took over Dahl Air Conditioning and Heating a decade ago, he inherited a company with strong foundations, built in 1965. But he saw potential beyond traditional HVAC services. By relocating the business and expanding into ductwork manufacturing, Rusty positioned Dahl for long-term growth. Now, he's taking another bold step—wholesale distribution—supplying HVAC companies across Iowa...

Supply chain disruptions are one of the greatest risks facing manufacturers today, but with the right strategies, businesses can turn vulnerabilities into opportunities for growth. In this episode, supply chain experts Janice Marquardt and Marc Schneider share invaluable insights on how manufacturers can protect themselves from tariff abuse, sourcing issues, and logistical disruptions by leveragin...

In this insightful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa sits down with Kevin Schlueter and Stephen Smith of Reworc to explore the transformative power of data in shaping workplace culture and driving business success. Kevin and Stephen share how understanding how teams naturally work and collaborate reveals critical insights into workforce gaps and future needs. They emphasize the...

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, I sit down with Dan Topf from Topf Business Learning to explore how simulations and business games are transforming leadership development in manufacturing. Dan explains that while many leaders have strong technical skills, they often lack the business acumen needed to make strategic decisions—especially in uncertain times. Through interactive sim...

Athena GTX has been at the forefront of innovative medical technology since its founding in 2003, originally developing solutions for military applications. Today, the company serves a diverse range of industries, bringing cutting-edge patient monitoring systems to high-risk environments. Sean Mahoney, VP of Engineering and Regulatory Affairs, joins us to share an exclusive look at Athena GTX's ne...

The estate tax landscape is set to change dramatically at the end of 2025, impacting business transitions across industries. Bob Hodges, BrownWinick's Trust and Estate Tax practice lead, highlights the reduction of the Unified Credit from $13.9 million to approximately $7 million, significantly increasing estate tax liabilities for business owners. This shift could create substantial financial bur...

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox sits down with Jeremy Morris of SwipeJobs to explore how AI-driven recruitment is transforming the hiring process. By blending the efficiency of artificial intelligence with the personal touch needed for cultural alignment, SwipeJobs is revolutionizing workforce placement. Employers benefit from dramatically reduced hiring times, as...

On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Dani Smid, Partner at BrownWinick Law Firm, breaks down the latest employment law changes manufacturers need to prepare for under the new administration. She covers anticipated shifts in policies from the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), and Department of Labor (DOL), along with evolving DEI st...

As organizations adjust to changing political landscapes and workforce expectations, many are reconsidering their DEI strategies. While some past initiatives have led to unintended consequences—disengagement, frustration, or even backlash—true inclusion remains essential for building a productive and innovative workplace. In this episode, Sailu Timbo of Creative Planning shares actionable strategi...

Change is never easy, especially when it comes to an ERP transition. On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, John Moretz takes us behind the scenes of his team's journey to implement a new ERP system. From the nerve-wracking go-live moment to overcoming unexpected challenges, John shares how preparation, incremental learning, and a focus on communication helped his team embrace change a...

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Kerry Burns, owner of Mason Road Manufacturing, joins the show with his sons Jack and Jordan for an inspiring discussion about their family business. Kerry shares the origins of Mason Road, offering insights into the principles that have shaped its success. From hard work to a focus on quality, these foundational values continue to drive the compa...

In this episode (part 2) of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Kwizera Imani, a Project Engineer at Collins Aerospace. Born in a Tanzanian refugee camp, Imani's early life was defined by adversity but also by a deep sense of community, teamwork, and resilience. At just 15 years old, he arrived in the United States with a 3rd-grade reading level, facing immense chall...

In this episode (part 1) of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we explore the remarkable story of Kwizera Imani, a Project Engineer at Collins Aerospace. Born in a Tanzanian refugee camp, Imani's early life was defined by adversity but also by a deep sense of community, teamwork, and resilience. At just 15 years old, he arrived in the United States with a 3rd-grade reading level, facing immense chall...

In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa sits down with Chris Proskey, Chair of the Intellectual Property Practice at BrownWinick, to tackle the critical issues surrounding trademarks. From the iconic green and yellow of John Deere to the ongoing trademark battle between Drake University and DMACC over the use of a "block D," Chris sheds light on how businesses can navigate complex...

On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa interviews Eric Kress of the Central Iowa Workforce Development Board. Eric discusses how the board responded to the Tyson layoffs in Perry, Iowa, including their collaboration with federal, state, and local leaders. He outlines challenges in redeploying affected employees and shares how employers can play a crucial role in overcoming these...

On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa welcomes Troy Vincent of Navigate Wellbeing Solutions and Whitney Kolbe of Kemin for a deep dive into workplace wellness. They unpack the concept of Value on Investment (VOI) versus Return on Investment (ROI), exploring how wellness programs can drive both business success and employee wellbeing. Whitney details how Kemin's wellness initiati...

Levi Cermak of Elevator Spaces joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to discuss how co-warehousing has revolutionized Omaha's manufacturing scene—and how it's coming soon to Des Moines. With over 100 companies benefiting from services like warehousing, kitting, docking, and operational support, Elevator Spaces is creating more than logistics solutions; they're building thriving business communities...

The APEX program in Waukee is changing the game for manufacturing education by reimagining how students and parents perceive the industry. A simple yet powerful change—renaming the course Engineering Technology and Robotics (ETR)—has led to a threefold increase in student enrollment. Paired with innovative partnerships with local manufacturers and nonprofits, APEX is equipping students with skills...

Frivolous employment lawsuits are on the rise, thanks to pro-employee rules under the Biden administration, causing increased Employment Practices Liability Insurance (EPLI) claims and skyrocketing premiums. Dani Smid, Chair of the Employment Practice Group for BrownWinick, joins us to discuss these issues and the potential for sweeping changes in employment law under a Trump administration. With...

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Ben Coady of Pella Corporation, where we explore his career journey and the transformative role of robotics and automation in manufacturing. Since starting as a process engineer in 2011, Ben's role has expanded and evolved with Pella's growth and its adoption of new technologies. Through his experience, he shares how automation is not only reshaping operat...