In this episode, we welcome Brian White, the new VP of HR and Corporate Strategy at Polo Custom Products. Brian shares his unique insights into how HR can foster innovation and contribute to the manufacturing industry. Discussing his background, Brian highlights his passion as an HR professional and the pride he has observed in Poloโs employees. We touch on topics ranging from employee engagement and well-being to leveraging technology and data for HR decisions. Brian's experiences at Payless Shoes and Auburn Washburn School District bring a fresh perspective to Polo's strategy. The episode also explores practical examples of employee pride, skill development, and collaboration that underscore Poloโs team-oriented culture and continuous improvement initiatives. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the critical role HR plays in manufacturing and how it aligns with overall business strategy.00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:04 Meet Brian White: New VP of HR and Corporate Strategy02:39 Insights on Manufacturing and Employee Pride06:50 The Role of HR in Fostering Innovation09:42 Talent Acquisition and Employer Branding20:42 Company Culture and Employee Well-being27:03 HR Technology and Data-Driven Decisions31:31 Skill Development and Training37:40 Strategic Planning and Future Growth42:12 The Impact of Technology and AI on HR45:41 Conclusion and FarewellResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.
Today we recap some of the best lessons we've learned on our journey through manufacturing and innovation. In this episode, we revisit the importance of building a strong company culture with insights from our CEO, Kent Lammers. We'll also discuss talent development strategies from Alan Frost, and explore crucial cybersecurity precautions with Rob Ward. Finally, we will tie everything together with an in-depth look at our manufacturing processes that we learned from Greg Brown, our plant manager in Mississippi. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone in supply chain, product development, customer service, and beyond.00:00 Introduction to Inspiring Innovation Podcast01:54 Highlighting Key Lessons from Past Episodes02:04 The Importance of Company Culture05:15 Wellness Initiatives and Employee Engagement05:54 Customer Insights and Plant Tours12:05 Developing a Strong Workforce14:36 Protecting Your Business from Hackers17:01 Manufacturing Processes and Quality Assurance21:09 Conclusion and Encouragement to EngageResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.
Bridging Product Development and SalesIn this episode of Inspiring Innovation, we sit down with Ellen Kershke, a technical expert turned sales professional at Polo. Ellen shares her unique experiences and how her background in product development has benefited her current role in sales. We discuss the crossover between these fields and how it has helped Polo better serve its customers. Ellen shares stories from trade shows, strategies for managing customer relationships, and the importance of communication and understanding technical details. She also highlights the unexpected ways her product development expertise has enhanced her sales efforts, allowing her to provide tailored solutions and more effectively navigate customer issues. Tune in to learn about the critical factors in maintaining strong customer relationships, recent trends in the medical market, and the value of solution-oriented thinking in manufacturing.00:00 Introduction to Inspiring Innovation00:59 Meet Ellen Kershke: From Product Development to Sales01:46 The Anaheim Trade Show Experience04:10 Misconceptions Between Sales and Product Development07:16 Influence of Product Development on Sales Approach08:56 Polo's Unique Design Process10:29 Lessons from Product Development Applied to Sales13:23 Maintaining Strong Customer Relationships26:48 Trends in the Medical Market27:55 Final Thoughts and Wrap-UpResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.
In the second episode of our Happy Hour series, we enjoy a lively conversation with Brian Weber, the Chief Operating Officer of Polo Custom Products. Brian reflects on the company's 75-year legacy and the anticipation of future milestones. He shares insightful manufacturing stories, the impact of Polo's products out in the real world, and humorous personal anecdotes, including an early career embarrassment that turned into a lasting success. We discuss the importance of company culture, maintaining employee satisfaction, and making calculated business decisions. Cheers to more inspiring conversations and the continued success of Polo Custom Products!00:00 Introduction to the Happy Hour Podcast01:11 Reflecting on 75 Years of Polo02:22 Pride in Polo's Products03:04 Balancing Class and Fun03:47 Describing Polo with Movie Titles04:58 Corporate Culture at Polo05:35 Customer Stories and Product Impact06:53 Embarrassing Mistakes and Lessons Learned09:29 Superpowers and Logistics10:56 Pandemic Challenges and Strategic Decisions14:35 Acknowledging Leadership and Team Efforts16:14 Conclusion and Call to ActionResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.
In this episode of Inspiring Innovation, we welcome back Brian Weber, our first repeat guest and the Chief Operating Officer of Polo Custom Products. Inspired by the Manufacturing Happy Hour podcast, we have a casual and fun discussion over some Busch Light, where Brian shares intriguing manufacturing stories and notable achievements. We delve into the significant success of scaling a medical product across multiple locations, and the complex logistical endeavor of moving production to the Dominican Republic. We also touch on unique product requests, the value of offshore manufacturing partners, and the heroic efforts of Polo employees during the pandemic. Join us for this special two-part episode, packed with insights and reflections on innovation in the manufacturing industry.00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:03 Special Guest: Brian Weber02:07 Manufacturing Success Stories05:16 Unique Product Requests09:14 Navigating Global Manufacturing Challenges19:56 Heroes of Polo Custom Products24:09 Lessons and Mentorship29:35 Pandemic Innovations and Challenges33:59 Debunking Myths in Custom Manufacturing38:48 Conclusion and Teaser for Part TwoResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.
In this episode of Inspiring Innovation, I am thrilled to welcome Monica Pyles, a Customer Success Manager at Polo. Monica shares her incredible journey from a traumatic childhood and seven and a half years of incarceration to securing employment and thriving in a corporate role at Polo. We dive into the challenges she faced during reintegration, her remarkable personal growth, and the significant impact of second chance hiring. Monica also discusses how her past experiences have enhanced her professional skills and her ongoing efforts to support other women transitioning back into society. Additionally, we highlight Polo's proactive involvement in these life-changing initiatives and discuss the broader societal benefits of second chance hiring. Don't miss this powerful and inspiring episode!00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:10 Meet Monica Pyles: A Journey of Resilience02:44 Overcoming Challenges Post-Incarceration04:13 Professional Growth and Skills Development06:02 The Importance of Second Chance Hiring08:53 Supporting Women Transitioning from Incarceration27:50 Polo's Involvement and Community Support32:42 Advice for Rebuilding Life and Career34:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.ย This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.ย For more information visit ictpod.net
In todayโs episode of 'Inspiring Innovation', we delve into the crucial topic of cost savings and reduction techniques in the manufacturing sector. Our special guest, Rod Holter, brings his extensive background in aviation, quality engineering, and his transition into private equity, to the table, now flourishing as a franchise owner of Schooley Mitchell. We cover Rod's impressive career trajectory, from his early days at big names like Piper Aircraft and Cessna to his strategic move into private equity and, finally, his venture into the cost reduction consulting world with Schooley Mitchell. Rod shares valuable insights into effective strategies for negotiating better deals and leveraging data to understand cost categories, underlining the importance of being open to external consulting help for optimizing operational costs. He discusses the significant impact that saving on overhead costs can have on a companyโs bottom line and future growth. This episode is packed with anecdotes, practical advice, and Rod's personal experiences in navigating cost savings across different industries, making it a must-listen for anyone in the supply chain, engineering, or anyone involved in the manufacturing sector looking to discover untapped areas for savings and reinvestment opportunities.00:00 Welcome to Inspiring Innovation: Focus on Manufacturing and Cost Reduction01:01 Meet Rod Holter: From Aviation to Private Equity01:37 Rod's Journey Through the Aviation Industry06:05 Transitioning from Manufacturing to Private Equity10:10 The Schooley Mitchell Franchise: A New Venture12:49 Exploring Cost Reduction Strategies with Schooley Mitchell18:23 The Challenges of Negotiating Vendor Pricing19:58 Leveraging Savings for Business Growth25:57 Navigating the Post-COVID Business Landscape34:19 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Schooley MitchellResources:Rod Holter on LinkedInSchooley MitchellA Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.ย This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.ย For more information visit ictpod.net
In this enlightening episode of Inspiring Innovation, I had the pleasure of hosting Greg Brown, the seasoned Plant Manager of Polo Custom Products in Louisville, Mississippi. Greg's extensive background in manufacturing, paired with a disciplined leadership style honed in the military, has significantly contributed to the Louisville facility's success. This facility stands out for its vast square footage, comprehensive capabilities, and exceptional team spirit. During our conversation, Greg provided a fascinating overview of the facility's main manufacturing processes, including sewing, RF operation, and forming, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and precision ingrained in every step from raw material intake to final product delivery. He proudly shared the proactive measures taken to ensure product quality and consistency, meeting ISO certification standards and customizing training programs for new hires, thereby fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Greg also discussed the tactical approaches to navigating the challenges of supply chain disruptions and maintaining on-time delivery records, underscoring the importance of adaptability and resourceful problem-solving in today's competitive landscape. Looking ahead, we explored future goals for the facility, focusing on efficiency optimization and embracing technological advancements to stay ahead in the manufacturing sector. It was truly inspiring to learn how the Louisville team's dedication and innovative strategies have set a high standard in custom manufacturing, serving a diverse range of industries with unparalleled expertise and commitment. Tune in to gain valuable insights from one of the industry's leading voices on spearheading innovation and driving success in manufacturing.00:00 Welcome to Inspiring Innovation: Meet Greg Brown01:51 Deep Dive into Manufacturing Processes at Louisville05:28 Ensuring Quality and Consistency in Manufacturing09:01 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges and Meeting Deadlines11:59 Addressing Diverse Industry Needs and Challenges13:59 Evolving Manufacturing Processes and Equipment Upgrades16:36 Investing in Employee Training and Development20:47 Cultivating a Strong Workplace Culture and Community23:51 Quality Control and Assurance Strategies27:28 Optimizing Efficiency and Productivity in Manufacturing30:56 Future Goals and Staying Competitive in the Industry32:51 Wrapping Up: Insights and Future DirectionsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.ย This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.ย For more information visit ictpod.net
In this engaging episode of Inspiring Innovation, we have the privilege of speaking with Command Sergeant Major Stephen Blake, a distinguished veteran of the United States Army and a champion of leadership, project management, and manufacturing in the military sector. Blake shares his invaluable journey, detailing his rise through the ranks to become a Command Sergeant Major, overseeing global networks and advising on critical personnel matters including maintenance, logistics, and training. Post-retirement, his commitment to serving has seamlessly transitioned to supporting the veteran community and contributing his expertise to Polo Custom Products. Throughout our conversation, Blake imparts lessons on leadership, emphasizing the importance of being adaptable, communicative, and trustworthy. He delves into the complexities of managing projects in the manufacturing industry, especially those catering to military technical specifications, and underscores the significance of maintaining quality and fostering pride among team members. His insights extend to the strategic management of multidisciplinary teams and the challenges of meeting stringent military standards. Blake's reflections on his career, the value of trust in leadership, and the profound responsibility of caring for America's sons and daughters are both inspiring and grounding. Join us in this episode as we explore the nuances of innovation and leadership through the experienced lens of a revered military leader and industry expert.00:49 Guest Introduction: Command Sergeant Major Stephen Blake02:10 Journey to Becoming a Command Sergeant Major03:00 Inspiration and Challenges in Military Career05:36 Leadership Styles and Their Application in Manufacturing07:05 Critical Success Factors for Manufacturing Projects09:36 Managing and Aligning Multidisciplinary Teams12:09 Challenges in Meeting Military Technical Specifications15:19 Project Management Strategies for Successful Delivery21:06 Supply Chain Management for Military Grade Products23:12 Ensuring Quality in Manufacturing Process25:58 Role and Lessons as a Command Sergeant Major28:44 Closing Remarks and ReflectionsResources:A Triple Play for Industrial OEMs - Polo Custom ProductsLearn more about Polo Custom ProductsPolo Custom Product designs, engineers, and manufactures custom products for OEMs in the medical, fire & safety, and defense industries. Polo Custom Products has experts on staff to globally source and procure your specialty formulation materials. Our experts in quality assurance test and ensure all custom products meet standards and your requirements.ย This show is part of the ICT Podcast Network.ย For more information visit ictpod.net