Iowa Manufacturing Podcast
by Iowa Manufacturing Podcast
Manufacturing is Iowa's most innovative, creative, and productive sector. Delivering the lion's share of Iowa's GDP, the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast tells the story of our state's economic heroes. Hosted by Leisa Fox, subscribe for a weekly deep dive with leaders in manufacturing, those who support them, and leaders who empower their infrastructure. Guests include Iowa Economic Development Authority Director, Debbie Durham. Gentry Collins, CEO of American Free Enterprise Chamber of Commerce, and BJ Spyksma, CEO of Aplos, and many others.Fox has a long history of developing collaborative business relationships and networks in Iowa. During her time at the Iowa Association of Business and Industry, she led their revenue efforts, increasing membership by 30% and more than doubling revenues. Most recently she ran Youth Emergency Service & Shelter where she guided them through a merger with another agency and worked herself out of a job. Today, she runs Fox Growth Strategies, a boutique fr
Episodes
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Building Auto-Jet and Beyond: John Rapp on Entrepreneurship
John Rapp, President of Auto-Jet Muffler Corporation, joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to share his entrepreneurial journey and the principles that guide his decision-making. From launching ventures to building synergies with his sister company, Heartland Harness, John explains how…
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Forging the Future: How Seneca Foundry Blends Tradition, Technology, and Teamwork
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox sits down with Lori Mason and Steph Kruger of Seneca Foundry—two leaders shaping one of Iowa's most resilient manufacturing companies. They discuss the foundry's evolution amid industry consolidation, agricultural downturns, and...
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Automation for All: Inside the Mind of a Student Innovator
On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox welcomes University of Iowa engineering student and entrepreneur Keegan Fogarty, founder of General Robotics. His groundbreaking simulation software could revolutionize how smaller manufacturers approach automation — simplifying...
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From Code to Culture: Tim Gifford on Innovation and Impact
This week, Leisa Fox welcomes Tim Gifford, Co-Founder of Lean TECHniques, to discuss how the company's people-first approach to innovation has positioned it as a trusted partner in business transformation. From humble beginnings to a nationally respected consultancy, Lean TECHniques has helped...
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Shutdown and Showdown: What D.C.'s Gridlock Means for Iowa Manufacturers
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox talks with Alex Parker, Eide Bailly's Director of Tax Legislative Affairs, about what's really happening in Washington as the government shutdown stretches on. With years of experience as a journalist covering tax and policy at the...
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Nuclear Verdicts, Cyber Threats, and Market Shifts: The Future of Insurance for Iowa Manufacturers
Manufacturers are operating in a world where insurance markets are anything but stable, and the stakes have never been higher. In this episode, Risk Management Consultant Katie Hensley joins host Leisa Fox to demystify the shifting Property & Casualty landscape. From the shrinking property market...
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Explained with Eide Bailly's Tax Experts
On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa Fox welcomes Eide Bailly's Emma Brock and Jim Donovan to break down the One Big Beautiful Bill (OB3) and what it really means for manufacturers. Together, they tackle the myths and misconceptions surrounding tax changes, uncover…
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Simplifying Complexity: Data, Process, and Strategy
This week's Iowa Manufacturing Podcast explores how manufacturers can cut through the noise of endless measurements to focus on what truly drives performance. Guest Jason Greer of Peel Business Design explains that while data is powerful, too much of it can distract and overwhelm. By narrowing...
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Innovation, Leadership, and the Future of Iowa Manufacturing
This week, Leisa Fox and EOS Implementer Loraine Hardin reflect on three significant events that highlight the momentum of Iowa's business and manufacturing community: the Traction Table, the CBJ Manufacturing Conference, and the Manufacturing Masterminds tour at Seneca Foundry. Together, they...
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Bridging the 2030 Workforce Gap: A Roadmap for Iowa Manufacturers
The live CBJ Manufacturing Conference podcast brought together three leaders—Dawn Ealy, Steve Coleman, and Wendy Mihm-Herold—to map out strategies for addressing Iowa's looming workforce crisis. With 240,000 Baby Boomers set to retire by 2030, the conversation underscored the need for employers…
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Tariffs, Transparency, and Timely Decisions: A CFO's Playbook for Manufacturers
On this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa Fox welcomes Todd Shores, Virtual CFO with Creative Planning, to discuss how manufacturers can respond to the financial turbulence caused by expanded tariffs. Shores underscores the importance of transparency—encouraging leaders to openly...
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Closing Iowa's Workforce Gap with Work-Based Learning
In this episode, host Leisa Fox tackles one of Iowa's most urgent challenges: the looming workforce gap. With hundreds of thousands of jobs set to open in the next five years, the solution isn't abstract—it's work-based learning. Leaders from iJAG, ABI, MidAmerican Energy, and Kuder share how…
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Gold Standard Materials: Qore and QIRA Lead the Way in Iowa Manufacturing
Qore's new facility in Eddyville marks more than production—it's a statement: QIRA is the gold standard in bio-derived materials. Capable of replacing fossil-based inputs with renewable corn-sourced alternatives, QIRA stands as a drop-in replacement for traditional BDO and is already transforming...
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From Policy to Production: Tiny Homes Transforming Iowa Communities
The future of housing in Iowa is getting smaller—and smarter. In this conversation, Mike Stuart of Tiny Homes Iowa explains how his company is transforming the housing market with tiny homes that combine modern design, efficiency, and affordability. With the state's new legislation paving the way...
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From Short Runs to Smart Robots: Kinetic Technologies on the Future of Welding Automation
Robotics is no longer just for high-volume automotive lines. In this insightful conversation, Mark Barglof of Kinetic Technologies explains how advances in robotic welding are making automation accessible to manufacturers running short batches and tackling complex part geometries. With benefits...
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Beyond the Bonus: Rewarding What Works
Tanya Fish of ITA Group joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to share the power of personalized incentives and strategic recognition. From sales teams to distributor networks, she explains how behavior-based reward programs create stronger relationships, boost retention, and drive better business...
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Stop Wasting Marketing Dollars: A Data-Driven Approach
What if you could eliminate waste in your marketing budget and double down on what actually works? August and Alex Severn of Capitol Data Analytics join the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to explain how manufacturers can do exactly that. By using precise audience targeting and tracking the right...
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Search Generative Experiences: A New Reality for Industrial Marketing
Manufacturers are entering a new era of digital discovery—and it's powered by artificial intelligence. In this episode, Amanda Phillips of Anthologic breaks down the growing impact of Search Generative Experiences (SGE) and what it means for Iowa's industrial sector. With AI now summarizing and...
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Fueling Athletes with Frozen Gains: A New Face in Iowa Manufacturing
This episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast features Grant Veenstra, Founder of Frozen Gains, a high-protein gelato company born from personal necessity and entrepreneurial grit. What started as a high school athlete's search for a better-tasting alternative to chalky protein shakes is now a...
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Adapt or Fade: Why AI Is Now a Manufacturing Mandate
Artificial intelligence is no longer a buzzword—it's a competitive requirement. In this episode, Paul Gormley of CIRAS lays out a high-stakes roadmap for Iowa manufacturers. He challenges listeners to think differently about AI—not as a technology project, but as a strategic business decision…
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More Than Golf: A Blueprint for Corporate Impact in Iowa
The Principal Charity Classic just set a new fundraising record—and in this episode, we reveal why that matters to Iowa's business and manufacturing leaders. Jo Christine Miles and Ken McCullum share how the tournament leverages corporate power, strategic philanthropy, and community partnerships…
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Solving Iowa's Workforce Crisis: Strategies for Manufacturers
Iowa's workforce is expected to shrink by 240,000 people by 2030, posing a significant threat to the state's manufacturing economy. In this episode, Dawn Ealy from CIRAS joins the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast to share how her team is equipping manufacturers to face this challenge head-on. From...
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Financial Clarity Without the Chaos: A Smarter Way Forward
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Todd Shores of Creative Planning breaks down the benefits of the Fractional CFO model, especially for manufacturers navigating uncertainty, staff turnover, or growth. Rather than relying on a single in-house person, companies gain a full team of...
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From Classrooms to Cartels: How Policy, Education & Energy Shape Global Well-Being
In this powerful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ian Roberts, Superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, as he shares his compelling leadership journey and vision for the future of education in Iowa's largest school district. With responsibility for over 31,000...
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NFC, SEO & Digital Real Estate: Growth Strategies with Sachin Sehgal
In this insightful episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, digital marketing strategist Sachin Sehgal delves into the parallels between SEO and real estate, emphasizing the importance of owning and optimizing your digital "property" to drive sustainable growth. He discusses NFC's acquisition…
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Harnessing AI to Control Health Insurance Cost
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%…
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Healthy Growth: The Entrepreneurial Story Behind Fresh Fit Meals
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...
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Reindustrialization & Reality: A Candid Look at America's Industrial Future
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...
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Hard Market, Hard Questions: Insurance Insights for Iowa Manufacturers
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…
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Balance, Vouchers & Government Realities: A Grounded Talk with Sen. Trone Garriott
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...
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Building Beyond the Basics: The Evolution of Dahl Air Conditioning and Heating
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...
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From Tariffs to Transparency: Protecting Your Supply Chain
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...
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Data-Driven Culture Shifts: Why Knowing How Your Team Works Matters
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...
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Navigating Uncertainty: How Business Games Build Strategic Thinking
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...
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From Battlefield to Breakthrough: How Athena GTX is Revolutionizing Medical Tech
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...
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The Clock is Ticking: Estate Tax Changes and Their Impact on Your Legacy
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...
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Bridging the Talent Gap: AI & Efficiency in Iowa Manufacturing Hiring
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…
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Navigating NLRB, EEOC & ICE: Legal Updates for Manufacturers
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),...
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Don't Throw the Baby out with the DEI Bath Water
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...
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Turning Chaos Into Opportunity: John Moretz with World Class Industries on Mastering ERP Change
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…
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Legacy and Innovation: The Burns Family Story at Mason Road Manufacturing
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…
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From Refugee Camp to Aerospace Engineer: Kwizera Imani's Inspiring Journey (Part 2)
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...
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From Refugee Camp to Aerospace Engineer: Kwizera Imani's Inspiring Journey (Part 1)
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...
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What's in a Name - Looming Deadline for USPTO
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...
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Workforce Response in Action: Navigating the Tyson Layoffs
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…
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Redefining Workplace Wellness: VOI vs. ROI in Action
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…
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How Co-Warehousing is Transforming Manufacturing
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,...
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From Advanced Manufacturing to ETR: Reimagining Careers in Waukee and Beyond
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...
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From Pro-Labor to Pro-Employer? What a Trump Administration Could Mean for Manufacturers
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...
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A Window into the Future: How Automation is Shaping Careers at Pella Corporations
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...
About this show
Manufacturing is Iowa's most innovative, creative, and productive sector. Delivering the lion's share of Iowa's GDP, the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast tells the story of our state's economic heroes. Hosted by Leisa Fox, subscribe for a weekly deep dive with leaders in manufacturing, those who support them, and leaders who empower their infrastructure. Guests include Iowa Economic Development Authority Director, Debbie Durham. Gentry Collins, CEO of American Free Enterprise Chamber of Commerce, and BJ Spyksma, CEO of Aplos, and many others.Fox has a long history of developing collaborative business relationships and networks in Iowa. During her time at the Iowa Association of Business and Industry, she led their revenue efforts, increasing membership by 30% and more than doubling revenues. Most recently she ran Youth Emergency Service & Shelter where she guided them through a merger with another agency and worked herself out of a job. Today, she runs Fox Growth Strategies, a boutique fr
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