Movers & Makers

Are we about to see the biggest manufacturing boom since World War II?  Manufacturing is experiencing its biggest transformation in decades, driven by AI breakthroughs and unprecedented government incentives. Greg Smyth and Will Drewery, co-founders of Diagon.ai, join Blake Menezes to dissect Microsoft's massive $120 billion annual CapEx commitment and a wave of new factory announcements totaling over $12 billion. What's driving this surge? "Business confidence is returning as the tariff situation stabilizes and GDP rebounds to 3%," explains Greg. The conversation explores Jensen Huang's provocative concept of "two factories for every factory" - one producing physical goods, the other manufacturing intelligence through AI. Will emphasizes the productivity imperative: "Companies won't be able to compete without AI integration in strategic industries." They break down three critical provisions in recent manufacturing legislation that could save companies millions through equipment expensing and advanced manufacturing credits. The hosts also preview Albus, their AI procurement assistant that's revolutionizing how manufacturers source equipment by acting as "the most capable technical procurement person you could add to your team."   In This Episode:    (00:00) Introduction to manufacturing tax benefits and Microsoft earnings surge   (03:06) Factory announcements discussion and GDP growth analysis   (08:05) Jensen Huang's AI manufacturing vision and data center factories   (15:40) One Big Beautiful Bill tax provisions for manufacturers   (20:04) Diagon's AI procurement platform Albus development and capabilities   (29:31) Hot takes on economic growth and startup ecosystem revival  Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!    Guest Bio  Patrick McGee is a Financial Times journalist and author of "Apple in China," examining how Apple became dependent on Chinese manufacturing infrastructure. As the Financial Times' Apple beat reporter from 2019-2023, McGee covered global supply chain dynamics and US-China trade relationships. His investigative work earned him the San Francisco Press Club Award in 2023. "Apple in China" has been recognized by The Economist as one of 2025's top 40 books and named a most anticipated title by major publications.  About the Show  The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show covers factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.  Resources:   Publications/Articles Mentioned: The Economist magazine, Barry Weiss's Honestly podcast, Wall Street Journal article on Tesla's Optimist robot development with Chinese suppliers, "Breakneck" by Dan Wang (upcoming book), "Abundance" by Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson, Andy Grove's 2010 essay on manufacturing and innovation  Book:

Why does Apple invest $55 billion annually in Chinese manufacturing while US factories struggle to source equipment?Patrick McGee, Financial Times journalist and author of "Apple in China," reveals the manufacturing reality behind Apple's $55 billion annual investment in Chinese factories. This episode explores critical equipment procurement challenges, automation strategies, and reshoring decisions facing manufacturing executives in 2025. Drawing from Tesla's Shanghai factory experience and Apple's supply chain dominance, McGee discusses why 350 million Chinese workers create unmatched manufacturing capacity. The conversation examines China's "invisible hand" industrial policy that enables overnight factory construction, comparing it to America's regulatory environment that can delay equipment installations for years. McGee challenges assumptions about humanoid robots as manufacturing solutions, questioning whether importing Chinese-made robots truly addresses US industrial competitiveness. For procurement managers and plant directors planning 2025 capital expenditures, this discussion provides essential insights into global equipment sourcing, supplier relationships, and the geopolitical forces reshaping manufacturing investment strategies. In This Episode:  (00:00) Introduction of guest Patrick McGee, Financial Times author and "Apple in China" insights (01:46) Trade war dynamics, tariffs impact on Apple's China sourcing strategy and India expansion (06:57) Apple's consumer market strategy versus manufacturing location decisions and $70 billion China business (15:33) China speed manufacturing advantages, migrant workforce reality, and 350 million worker capacity (23:31) Tesla Shanghai factory experience, supplier expertise, and PhD-level tool and die engineers (33:02) Humanoid robots debate as manufacturing labor solution versus importing Chinese automation (42:48) Tesla and SpaceX success stories in American manufacturing and automation possibilities (48:21) Apple's $55 billion investment model, future funding sources, and consumer-backed growth (56:22) Jony Ive and Sam Altman collaboration: manufacturing implications and AI hardware future Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!   Guest Bio Patrick McGee is a Financial Times journalist and author of "Apple in China," examining how Apple became dependent on Chinese manufacturing infrastructure. As the Financial Times' Apple beat reporter from 2019-2023, McGee covered global supply chain dynamics and US-China trade relationships. His investigative work earned him the San Francisco Press Club Award in 2023. "Apple in China" has been recognized by The Economist as one of 2025's top 40 books and named a most anticipated title by major publications. About the Show The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future o...

Is friend-shoring the real future of American manufacturing strategy?  Discover why American manufacturing's future looks nothing like its past. Host Blake Menezes sits down with Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth to reveal the hidden realities behind factory announcements, reshoring strategies, and the $4 billion facilities making headlines. Will shares firsthand experience purchasing 10,000+ robotic arms at Tesla while Greg breaks down why traditional reshoring fails economically.  The conversation reveals the shocking reality that 70% of equipment in "American" factories still comes from overseas, plus insider stories from Tesla's inherited Toyota facility. From finding decade-old lunchboxes to navigating environmental permits, Will explains the true economics of retrofit versus greenfield manufacturing. Greg argues reshoring needs a complete rebrand, introducing friend-shoring as the strategic alternative that actually works economically. In This Episode:   00:00) Greg's Canadian ski-themed birthday party discussion  (02:48) Vibe coding with Will's Tesla robotics experience  (06:48) Greg's perspective on AI abstraction in factory design  (15:48) Reshoring needs a rebrand, friend-shoring versus traditional approaches  (26:54) New factory announcements, Emirates Aluminum and GM Buffalo  (33:41) Will explains new versus retrofit facilities, Tesla Fremont case study  (38:13) Hot takes segment and AI tools discussion  Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!    About the show:   The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.  About the hosts:   Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace.  Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At Tesla, he spent 4 years negotiating $200M contracts, leading the develop...

Did you know 70% of American factory investment immediately flows overseas?  In this thought-provoking episode of Movers and Makers, Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth join Blake Menezes to explore critical manufacturing decisions facing industry leaders in 2025. The conversation reveals a startling reality: when American companies invest in new factories, approximately 70% of that capital flows overseas to purchase manufacturing equipment. "No one knows that 70% gets wired overseas almost immediately," notes Greg, highlighting this hidden dynamic that shapes everything from innovation capabilities to strategic independence. Will adds, "Our ability to make future-facing products is only going to be limited by the toolset of tools that we have to make those things."  Against a backdrop of economic uncertainty and what Greg calls "decision paralysis," the discussion delves into why long-term thinking is essential for manufacturing success. The team explores battery manufacturing as a case study, examining how specialized equipment capabilities ultimately limit product innovation potential. Will's hot take? "Companies willing to take a bold stance on a long-term vision that is strategic and well-informed are going to do exceedingly well over the next few years." Whether you're procuring equipment, planning factory expansion, or interested in industrial strategy, this episode provides actionable insights on positioning for tomorrow's manufacturing success.   In This Episode:   (00:00) Opening thoughts on future-facing manufacturing tools  (01:11) Introduction to PMI numbers and manufacturing decline  (04:12) Understanding factory investments during economic uncertainty  (07:31) Long-term versus short-term thinking for manufacturers  (09:34) Battery manufacturing supply chain insights and challenges  (14:45) How Diagon helps de-risk equipment procurement decisions  Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!  About the show:   The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.  About the hosts:   Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace.   ...

Will new US tariffs trigger major manufacturing reshoring or just higher consumer prices? In this episode of Movers and Makers, Will Drewery and Greg Smyth welcome Jack Slagle, a trade policy expert who previously led export control programs at Tesla, Mitsubishi, and Restoration Hardware. The timing couldn't be more relevant, as the conversation dives into the recent "Liberation Day" announcement of reciprocal tariffs by the Trump administration. Jack breaks down the motivations behind these tariffs, explaining how they target the trade deficit rather than matching other countries' existing barriers. "Other countries have just as many tools in their boxes," Jack warns, describing how the international community is already forming new alliances in response. The discussion explores regional implications across Asia, Europe, and beyond, with particular focus on semiconductor supply chains and manufacturing strategy. Could Taiwan's 32% tariff be designed to accelerate TSMC's expansion in Arizona? Will Southeast Asian nations align with China or capitulate to US demands? Jack offers a surprising recommendation: "I would immediately send a lot of these powers back to Congress." He argues that executive trade actions, which can be "done and undone in 48 hours," create an unstable investment climate that undermines the very manufacturing reshoring the administration hopes to achieve. For manufacturers and supply chain leaders, this episode provides crucial context for navigating what Jack calls "a highly dynamic environment."Jack Slagle is a seasoned expert in international trade policy, export controls, and global supply chain compliance. With an educational background in international security, Jack brings a unique geopolitical perspective to complex trade issues. His impressive career includes leading trade compliance programs at major multinational corporations including Tesla, Mitsubishi, and Restoration Hardware. Currently working as an independent consultant, Jack helps businesses navigate the increasingly complex landscape of tariffs, export controls, and international trade regulations. His expertise spans understanding both the technical aspects of tariff implementation and the broader geopolitical implications of trade policy. Jack's analysis is particularly valuable during this period of unprecedented change in global trade relationships and manufacturing strategyIn This Episode:   (00:00) Introduction of Jack Slagle, export controls expert from Tesla, discussing the recent "Liberation Day" tariff announcements and their global implications  (04:32) Understanding how reciprocal tariffs were calculated based on trade deficits rather than matching existing barriers, and what this means for international trade  (14:21) Regional impacts across Asia as countries form new alliances, with focus on China, Taiwan, and semiconductor supply chains  (27:22) India and European Union responses to US tariff policy, including potential revival of Boeing-Airbus disputes and new trading blocs  (38:04) Recommendations for more stable trade policy through congressional oversight rather than executive action, creating a more predictable business environment  Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!    About the show:   The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smy...

Can manufacturing really become 'sexy' again for the next generation, and what surprising strategies might actually work? In this compelling episode, we explore manufacturing leadership and innovation through the lens of Karla Trotman, President and CEO of Electro Soft, the largest black and women-owned electronics contract manufacturing firm in the US. Drawing from her experience transitioning from corporate roles at companies like Gap and Ikea to leading her family's manufacturing business, Trotman discusses the challenges and opportunities in modern manufacturing, particularly in high-mix, low-volume electronics production for defense and industrial applications. You’ll hear a deep dive into critical industry topics including domestic manufacturing capabilities, workforce development challenges, and the importance of diversity in manufacturing leadership. Trotman, author of "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous: Building the Vibrant Future of Manufacturing," shares valuable insights on transforming manufacturing's image, developing the next generation of manufacturing talent, and managing family business succession while maintaining authenticity in leadership.Karla Trotman is the President and CEO of Electro Soft, Inc. (ESI), the largest black and women-owned electronics contract manufacturing firm in the United States. Following successful roles in supply chain and logistics at Gap, Ikea, and Honeywell, she took over her family's manufacturing business, transforming it through innovative marketing and operational strategies. A graduate of Penn State and Drexel University, Trotman is also the author of "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous: Building the Vibrant Future of Manufacturing," where she addresses the challenges and opportunities in modern manufacturing while advocating for industry transformation.In This Episode:   (00:00) Karla Trotman's journey from corporate America to leading Electro Soft, and her  unique perspective on family business and breaking manufacturing stereotypes  (14:00) Electro Soft’s ongoing competitiveness in domestic manufacturing through high-mix low-volume production while addressing critical supply chain challenges and reshoring opportunities  (26:16) "Dark, Dirty and Dangerous" and how Trotman is working to transform manufacturing's image from an outdated stereotype to an innovative career path for future generations  (34:50) Authentic leadership and diversity in manufacturing - Trotman discusses navigating traditionally homogeneous spaces while staying true to her identity  (56:38) Practical advice for family business succession planning and preparing the next generation of leaders through early exposure, financial literacy, and creating meaningful connections within family business networks  Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!   About the show:   The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.   About the hosts:...

In this illuminating conversation with Dr. William Chueh, we explore the complex intersection of energy demands, AI technology, and sustainable solutions. From his early inspiration at Caltech to his current role in shaping future leaders in sustainability, Dr. Chueh shares insights on the evolving energy landscape. The discussion spans the unpredictable energy demands of AI, the critical role of universities in long-term research, and the pressing need to diversify battery technologies while avoiding single-technology dependence. The episode delves deep into the challenges and opportunities in battery manufacturing, comparing the rapid innovation cycles of the semiconductor industry with the slower progression in energy transition. Dr. Chueh emphasizes the importance of both incremental improvements and breakthrough innovations while highlighting the need for scalable manufacturing techniques. The conversation concludes with valuable advice for young researchers and entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of maintaining a holistic view while working toward global sustainability solutions. Dr. William Chueh is the Director of Stanford’s Precourt Institute for Energy and an Associate Professor of Materials Science & Engineering at Stanford University. His research focuses on energy storage, conversion, and battery materials. As a Co-Founder of Mitra Chem, he works on accelerating the development of advanced battery technologies. Dr. Chueh is recognized for his contributions to sustainable energy solutions and bridging academia with industry innovation. In This Episode:   (00:00) Dr. William Chueh shares his early inspiration from a Caltech teacher and journey into energy and sustainability, diverse career paths Dr. Chueh's students take in sustainability and related fields (04:48) How universities pioneer high-risk, long-term research projects in energy technology (12:15) Supplementing current power sources to power AI, exciting tech breakthroughs in energy sectors, how academic research and industrial applications work together to advance energy technology, AI's dual role as both an energy consumer and potential solution provider (22:03) The evolution in battery technology, from incremental improvements to major breakthroughs, various battery chemistries and the importance of technological diversification, how different market segments require unique battery solutions (31:28) Challenges in modernizing battery manufacturing processes, innovation cycles in semiconductor and energy transition industries (38:05) Maintaining focus on the bigger picture while working on specific sustainability solutions, advice for ambitious entrepreneurs Share with someone who would benefit, like, and subscribe to hear all our future episodes!   About the show: The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.   About the hosts: Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq...

How could a potential new Trump administration reshape international trade policies and impact the global battery manufacturing supply chain? In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of battery manufacturing amidst the ever-evolving global political landscape. How will President Trump’s return reshape the industry? We explore Canada's significant role in the battery supply chain and how U.S. policies are influencing its political and economic strategies. We’ll analyze Elon Musk's approaches to navigating these political waves, the transition from nickel-based to iron-based batteries, and the critical influence of China in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production. We also delve into the impact of U.S.-China trade tensions, including recent export bans on crucial materials and their potential effects on the U.S. battery supply chain. Gain insights into the investment dynamics within the industry, the influence of the Inflation Reduction Act, and the possible shifts in policy under different administrations. In This Episode: (00:00) Supply chain impacts and policy projections, potential shifts under a new Trump administration, and how U.S. policies might influence Canada's political landscape and natural resource management (10:00) Elon Musk's strategic responses to the political landscape (17:59) China's role in lithium iron phosphate battery production and the impact of U.S.-China trade tensions on the U.S. battery supply chain (34:00) Investment dynamics in battery manufacturing, emphasizing the influence of the Inflation Reduction Act, DOE grants, and potential policy shifts under different administrations (36:00) Forward-looking perspective on the battery industry, the importance of staying informed about geopolitical developments, and a teaser for upcoming episodesShare with someone who would benefit, like, and subscribe to listen to all of our future episodes!   About the show: The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.   About the hosts: Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace. Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At...

Why is 2025 shaping up to be a promising year for the battery industry, and how are companies positioning themselves for success in this burgeoning market? In this episode, Greg and Will dive into the key takeaways from the Advanced Automotive Battery Conference, offering a fresh perspective on the evolving battery industry. While the electric vehicle market remains a major focus, they explore the growing potential of energy storage solutions for utilities, despite political uncertainties and fluctuating EV demand. The episode highlights the contrasting fortunes of battery manufacturers, from Northvolt's financial struggles to the success stories of Lyten and Morrow, which are securing significant funding for growth. A central theme of the discussion is Diagon's strategic pivot and $4.3M raise in 2024. Will shares how the company transitioned from a complex procurement software model to a more streamlined marketplace approach, directly addressing customer needs and positioning itself for greater success. The episode looks ahead with optimism, emphasizing the promising outlook for the battery industry in 2025. With a focus on supporting customers and collaborating with industry experts, Diagon is poised to thrive as the manufacturing landscape continues to evolve.   In This Episode: (00:00) Comprehensive analysis of insights from the Advanced Automotive Battery Conference in Las Vegas, optimism in the energy storage sector despite challenges in electric vehicle demand, Northvolt, Lyten and Morrow (14:09) Strategic pivots for startups, successful pivot from complex software to a marketplace model (22:05) Using a Super Mario analogy, solving business challenges step-by-step to uncover new opportunities, especially in the battery industry (26:00) Economic outlook and positive economic indicators for 2025, focus on growth opportunities, older companies entering the battery market Share with someone who would benefit, like and subscribe to hear all of our future episodes!   About the show: The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.   About the hosts: Will Drewery Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, an equipment marketplace focused on serving the battery industry. With a background in equipment procurement, Will's career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq in 2009, followed by significant experience at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also gained valuable tech expertise working with Social Construct and Astra. In February 2024, Will successfully led Diagon through a pivot from a procurement software model to its current marketplace focus, raising $4.3M in Series A funding. His mission is to simplify the complex processes of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries, particularly in batteries and aerospace. Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at E...

In this inaugural episode of the *Movers and Makers* podcast, hosts Greg Smyth and Will Drewery, co-founders of Diagon.ai, dive into the founding story of Diagon, sharing their unique experiences from Tesla and their time working in Russia and Iraq. Greg and Will discuss their vision for revitalizing American manufacturing, touching on the topics of venture capital, the importance of founder intuition, and the need for re-industrialization in the face of political and supply chain hurdles. They also introduce the three core themes for upcoming episodes of the podcast: factory-building strategies, deep dives into manufacturing processes, and valuable market insights. This episode sets the stage for future discussions on the cutting-edge of manufacturing innovation.   In This Episode: (00:00) Introduction to Movers and Makers podcast, origin stories, San Fransisco event (02:55) Impactful experiences at Tesla, and in Russia and Iraq  (09:30) Greg’s Russia story, Will’s Fallujah story (14:30) Naming inspiration for Diagon from Harry Potter, motivation for starting the company, angel investing (23:06) Venture capital - challenges and issues (28:23) Understanding the total addressable market (TAM) in manufacturing  (31:25) Role of founder intuition in recognizing opportunities, rising technology and the Mom test, re-industrialization - carrots vs. sticks (38:50) Challenges of tariffs, political regimes, and supply chain disruptions  (41:37) Future episode themes, manufacturing processes, technology, current events, and market insights (47:58) Closing thoughts   About the show: The Movers and Makers podcast, powered by Diagon.ai, explores the future of manufacturing and supply chain innovation. Hosted by Diagon co-founders Will Drewery and Greg Smyth, the show will cover factory-building strategies, manufacturing processes, and market insights. With expertise from Diagon, a leader in reshoring and streamlining manufacturing equipment procurement, the podcast offers valuable perspectives for engineers, executives, and enthusiasts, aiming to optimize supply chains and drive efficiency in the industry.   About the hosts: Will Drewery is the founder and CEO of Diagon, a procurement marketplace for manufacturing equipment. With a background in equipment buying, Will’s career began as a DOD contractor in Iraq (2009), followed by his work at Tesla (2012-2018), where he built and led the equipment procurement team. He also has deep tech experience with Social Construct and Astra. Will's career has focused on simplifying the complex process of sourcing, financing, and managing machinery for high-tech industries like batteries and aerospace, leading him to create Diagon. Greg Smyth is a co-founder and current VP of Supply Chain for Diagon, as well as a venture partner and podcast host. Greg has extensive experience in engineering, supply chain management, and investment. Originally from Newfoundland, Canada, Greg worked at ExxonMobil for 8 years before moving to Silicon Valley in 2016. At Tesla, he spent 4 years negotiating contracts, leading the development of self-driving hardware, and managing full life cycle commodity procurement—from raw materials to recycling. Greg is also an angel investor who continues to drive Diagon’s growth and success.   Resources: Diagon.ai