Cast Polymer Radio

On this episode, Marty Johnson, VP of Product and Technical Fellow at 3D Systems, joins the show to take a clear-eyed look at additive manufacturing materials—what they can do, what they can't, and what engineers should realistically expect when composites and filled materials enter the 3D-printing conversation.

On this episode, we feature a previous interview with Derek Hill, VP of Syn-Mar Products, Inc. In this interview, Derek shares how he's built a meaningful social media presence for their family-owned business using a smartphone, a $6-per-month editing app, and about an hour a day.

On this episode, we'll play an interview with Jerry Pilman and Louis Gibson, the owners of Artistic Marble in Huntsville Alabama. These two, along with their partner BJ purchased the company over a year ago, and with it inherited more than just manufacturing equipment and a customer list. They gained a team with decades of combined experience and a legacy dating back to 1992, when founder Kenneth Lane first established the company. Their story was featured in the latest issue of Cast Polymer Connection.   

On this episode, copywriter Bill Mueller joins the podcast again to talk about "24 Ways to Tell a Story in an Email Without Telling a Story". Bill has been writing story-based emails and email sequences since 2005. His emails have sold millions in digital and physical products, coaching programs, and more in just about every market.  His approach over the years has been simple: People love stories; therefore, use stories to communicate and sell. 

On this episode, Jennifer Towner joins the show to discuss "The Buzz" and other events taking place in 2026. 

On this episode, Daniel Murphy, founder of Alcove Media, joins the podcast. His company helps companies turn trade shows from expensive branding exercises into measurable revenue engines. Daniel works closely with technology companies that invest heavily in expos but struggle to connect booth traffic to real sales outcomes. Daniel breaks down why most trade shows fail to deliver ROI, how a lack of strategy quietly bleeds marketing budgets, and what it takes to generate qualified leads, engagement, and follow-through that converts. You can learn more by visiting https://tradeshowsecrets.com. 

On this episode, designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt joins the show to share some design trends of 2026. Elizabeth has an extensive background in the remodeling industry, as the lead designer for a highly regarded Design-Build firm in Denver, and will be moderating a panel at KBIS in February.   

Artificial Intellegence is changing how online content is discovered and presented through AI-powered search. On this episode, copywriter Scott McKelvey joins us to talk about creating content that shows up in AI-generated answers, summaries, and overviews. You can learn more about Scott and read some of his work by visiting https://www.scottmckelvey.com.

On this episode, Rob Glenn of Forza joins the show. In business since 1979, Forza is a family-owned adhesive, sealant & specialty tape manufacturer based in the US. They supply the global industry with superior, high-performing, customized products. You can learn more by visiting https://forzabuilt.com. 

On this episode, Brittany Greer, executive director of Rosie Riveters, joins the podcast. Their organization works very closely with the manufacturing industry with a particular focus on preparing the workforce of tomorrow. Brittany is a guest writer for The AI Journal and we'll be discussing their work in preparing the the gneration of workers with the skills needed to succeed alongside AI. 

On this episode, Cindy Squires talks about Composites Evolution, an event taking place October 22-23 in Knoxville, TN. A major shift is underway in open molding and the companies that prepare now will lead the future. This event will join leading manufacturers, suppliers, and technical experts to explore practical, profitable solutions to the EPA's styrene regulations. This focused, forward-looking conference will show you how to turn compliance into a competitive advantage – boosting efficiency, improving processes, and unlocking new market opportunities. You can learn more about it by visiting https://acmanet.org/event/composites-evolution/

On this episode, Cindy Squires and Rebekah Stacha join the show to discuss CAMX 2025, taking place in just over a week in sunny Orlando, FL (September 8-11). CAMX is the largest, most comprehensive composites and advanced materials event in North America. It offers a robust education program and an expansive exhibit hall with hundreds of manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers. You can still register by visiting https://www.thecamx.org. 

On this episode, Joseph Salzman joins the podcast to talk about his background in the industry. He founded Cultured Marble of Tucson in 2018 following his service in the US Army.  You can check out their website at https://culturedmarbleoftucson.com. 

On this episode, Lisa Ryan discusses lessons on transforming workplace culture from her most recent book Gear Up for Greatness. This book presents a timely framework for business leaders grappling with workforce challenges that have become increasingly critical in our industry. As manufacturers face persistent labor shortages, rising turnover costs, and the need to attract skilled technicians, Ryan's gratitude-based approach offers practical solutions rooted in proven business psychology. You can learn more about Lisa at https://lisaryanspeaks.com, and grab your copy at https://amzn.to/4l2wV3l. 

On this episode, Jim Custer of Corporate Business Solutions, joins the podcast to discuss the importance of systems. Jim works with small business owners to identify and fix profit leaks, helping them maximize value, improve efficiency, and free up time for what truly matters.  His company offers a broad array of services, furnishing analytical, consulting and strategic tax planning for small business owners. 

This episode features an interview with Tato Corcoran, owner of Brandt Molded Marble. She shares some great lessons on the benefits of networking outside of our trade and how conversations with business leaders in other industries can lead to positive changes in your business.  This interview has been featured in the latest summer edition of Cast Polymer Connection. You can read the latest issue at https://castpolymer.com/CPCsummer25.   

On this episode, Dan Neumann joins the podcast to discuss last week's Composites Fly-In in Washington, DC. This event provided a unique setting for members of our industry to meet with Members of Congress and agency leadership and educate them on the capabilities of composite materials. 

On this episode, we feature an interview with Derek DeGeest, our POLYCON 2025 keynote speaker. He'll share his thoughts about automation and advanced robotic technology in the composites industry.  Derek is the president at DeGeest Corporation, a leading resource for manufacturers looking for excellence in automation and finishing. They've been helping manufacturers solve problems since 1976. You can learn more about their company at https://degeestcorp.com.

On this episode, we'll feature an interview with Phil Jones, author of Exactly What to Say on the show to discuss the magic words for influence and impact. Phil entered the world of business at the tender age of 14. With nothing more than a bucket and sponge, he went from single-handedly washing cars at weekends to hiring a fleet of friends working on his behalf, resulting in him earning more than his teachers by the time he was 15. Soon after, at just 18, Phil was offered the role of Sales Manager at fashion retailer Debenhams – making him the youngest Sales Manager in the company's history. Since then, Phil has made it his life's work to completely demystify the sales process and bring both simplicity and integrity to a world that is often full of big egos and even bigger lies. With this as Phil's core mission, he has gone on to deliver over 2,500 presentations in 57 countries across five continents, training more than two million people to learn how to have more influence, confidence, and control when steering their conversations. You can check out his book at https://exactlywhattosay.com/books. 

In this episode, we'll be discussing the hidden drivers of consumer choice with guest expert Nika Kabiri. She has spent 25+ years studying decision-making, with 15 of those in consumer insights. She has taught Decision Science at the University of Washington, and her expertise in decision-making has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time, Forbes, Inc., Fast Company, MarketQuest, Gizmodo, and more. 

On this episode, Jennifer Towner provides a highlight of our mid-year networking event organized annually by the ICPA. The event provides the opportunity for ICPA members to connect over two days, engaging in strategic discussions, exploring business solutions, and participating in fun social activities.

On this episode, Kyle Jordan discusses the release of the new Basic Composites Manual, now available in an enhanced, interactive Digital Edition. This latest update also includes a refined logo for the Certified Composites Technician (CCT) program, reflecting the program's refreshed content and commitment to excellence. The new Digital Edition offers a highly engaging and user-friendly experience with interactive modules and digital enhancements. Designed with learners in mind, the platform is accessible 24/7 from any device, allowing participants to study at their own pace and from anywhere in the world. You can check out Module 1 for free at www.compositesweekly.com/module1. 

On this episode, Kyle Jordan and Jeff Austad join the podcast to discuss the upcoming Certified Composites Technician Instructor Course on June 4-5 in Kansas City, MO at Polynt Composites Application Center.  This 2.5-day, Certified Composites Technician Instructor Course is an opportunity for current CCT certified individuals to become qualified instructors. The course will combine classroom training techniques with hands-on exercises in a composites manufacturing facility to reinforce and show practical ways to deliver instruction. Space is limited. This course has a maximum registration of 16 candidates.   You can learn more at https://acmanet.org/education/certified-composites-technician-program/instructor-course/

On this episode, we feature an interview with Louisa Lewandowski and Kim Heinzen. They are the new owners of American Bluegrass Marble, a family-owned and operated business since 1978. Louisa and Kim bought the business back in June of 2024 and will share what attracted them to this kind of company. American Bluegrass Marble will be featured in the upcoming issue of Cast Polymer Connection.  You can check out their website at https://www.americanbluegrassmarble.com. 

On this episode, Louisa Lewandowski and Kim Rietze Heinzen join the podcast for a interview. They are the new owners of American Bluegrass Marble, a company that has a rich tradition of making high-quality marble products since 1978. 

On this episode, we'll discuss some exciting news in the world of closed mold technology. McCLARIN Composites has begun a development partnership with ExxonMobil's Proxxima business aimed at accelerating the growth of high-speed closed-mold composite manufacturing. For mold manufacturers in our industry, this is a huge step in the adoption of RTM processes.  Mike Gromacki, CEO of McClarin Composites, and Simon Holmes, Vice President of Sales Marketing at Materia/ ExxonMobil join the show to discuss this new partnership and the unique advantages of Proxxima resin.

On this episode, Dan Neumann of the ACMA joins us again for our final podcast of 2024. We'll be discussing the effect of the incoming administration's policies on composite manufacturers in the US.  Listeners who want to stay up to date with regulations and other policy concerns, and are not a member of the ACMA can join at https://acmanet.org.

This episode features an interview with Darren Suggs, co-owner of Marble Masters. Darren was this year's Royce Newsom Pioneer Award Winner, becoming the 9th recipient of this honor. He and his brother purchased their business during the summer of 1980 and have been at it ever since.  

On this episode, we feature an interview with Aleasha Bahr. She is founder of the Black Sheep Sales Method™ and hosts a podcast called Sales is NOT a Dirty Word. Aleasha has over 15 years of experience customizing sales strategies to your personality, audience, and service. Her methods empower business owners to effortlessly convert up to 80% of their leads without pressure, pitching or pretending to be someone else.  You can learn more about Aleasha by visiting https://aleashabahr.com/blacksheep.

On this episode, I feature an interview with Maurice Conti. He is among the architects of cutting-edge emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence, immersive reality (AR/VR/XR), advanced robotics and manufacturing, and technology for sustainability.  Maurice was also the keynote speaker at CAMX 2024 this year. 

On this episode, Paul Fayad joins the podcast. He is the co-author of a new book called Shaping a Winning Team: A Leader's Guide to Hiring, Assessing and Developing the People You Need to Succeed. Companies and organizations cost themselves more than a quarter of their annual earnings with each bad hire. They rely on failed interview processes and fallible intuition of individual managers when they bring in staff, develop training programs, and promote from within. Despite good intentions, they set their people up for failure, while at the same time damaging morale and missing opportunities for higher-quality performance. In this new book, Paul provides leadership methods to help you accentuate the strengths of your people as you hire, assess, and manage your most important assets.  Paul is the cofounder of Positive Leader and ELM Learning. He has focused on organizational behavior through more than four decades of founding and holding executive positions with numerous companies. He has consulted with corporations, school systems, and health-care facilities to establish programs based on positive leadership skills. He has lectured at universities and college business schools in the United States, Canada, and Hong Kong. He has also cofounded and stayed active with foundations around the world that help children.  

On this epsiode, Karl Wadensten joins me to discuss lean manufacturing and the "science of vibration". Karl is the president and CEO of VIBCO Vibrators with offices in Rhode Island and Canada, and licensors in the United Kingdom and Australia. VIBCO serves over 360,000 customers worldwide. Karl was also our keynote speaker at POLYCON 2024. 

On this episode, Drew Simmons of Magnum Venus Products (MVP) discusses their latest automated spray technology. It's not your typical robot. There is no programming required! This technology is designed to simplify the automation process. You can learn more about it at https://www.mvpind.com/product/self-learning-robotic-system. 

On this episode, Chris Hurdleston & Kay Rehberg join me to discuss some upcoming changes with ACS. ACS International is a leading supplier of raw materials for composite industries such as cast polymer, solid surface (counter tops and more), and fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP). You can find them at https://www.acsinternational.com.

ACS International Products, a leading supplier of raw materials for the cast polymer, solid surface composites, epoxy flooring and building materials industries, will officially transition to Dorfner USA by the end of this year. This transition marks an important milestone for the company, as Dorfner USA will further expand its' operations across North America.  On this episode, Mirko Mondan, CEO of Dorfner joins the podcast to discuss what this means for our industry.  You can learn more by visiting https://www.dorfner.com/en. 

On this episode, Kyle Jordan and Rob Germann join me to discuss the ACMA's work with the US Army Corps of Engineers on a personalized training program located at Creative Composites Group's facility up in Dayton, OH. The training is based off the CCT VIP program, and they'll discuss how it is being used and how the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is leveraging composite materials and the CCT program in future projects.

On this episode, we share a past interview with Scott MacKenzie of MacKenzie Vault, Inc. His company has a rich history and goes back to Scott's great-grandfather, John Mackenzie who made funeral coaches and caskets in the late 1800s. Today, MacKenzie Vault is proud to be a trusted name for cultured marble, granite, onyx, and stone-tone cremation urns. You can learn more about their company by visiting https://www.mackenzievault.com.

On this episode, Josh Shires, CEO of Fyous joins me to discuss their latest technology for tooling. It's called Polymorphic Moulding, an automated rapid shapeshifting molding technology that allows users to create accurate molds for tooling and will reduce time to market for a huge array of products. Their technology uses 28,000 digitally controlled pins to create a shape from a 3D CAD shape in less than 20 minutes, achieving zero waste and enabling parts production 14 times faster than 3D printing.

On this episode Nick Castelucci and Dave Palenchar join the podcast to give us an update on Prestige Tooling, a custom composite mold shop. These guys have a great team who've built their lives around making the best quality composite molds that money can buy. On any given day they're making solid surface molds, cultured marble and molds, and thermoforming molds. You can learn more about them by visiting https://prestigetooling.com.

On this episode, Marilyn LaVergne joins me on the podcast to discuss sustainability trends in Kitchen and Bath Design. Marilyn holds a B.A. in Mass Media Arts from Hampton University and has earned a Certificate of Interior Design from Parsons School of Design in New York City. She has over 12 years of experience in Kitchen & Bath design and has a growing enthusiasm for delivering sustainable design solutions to current client projects.  

On this episode, I discuss a brand new book that every business owner, sales professional, or marketer should be reading. The title is Made You Look: How to Use Brain Science to Attract Attention and Persuade Others. In it, Carmen Simon, a cognitive neuroscientist uses advanced technologies to study where people look, for how long, what type of attention leads to memories, and what keeps the brain coming back for more, to determine the effectiveness of sales pitches, marketing materials, training videos, and other business content. I'll also share some news about the new digital Cast Polymer Connection magazine coming out in October! 

On this episode, we'll feature an interview with Markus Buehler, McAfee Professor of Engineering at MIT.  He'll be discussing how they are using AI & machine learning to create stronger materials.  For engineers developing new materials, there are billions of different possibilities to sort through. Lab tests & detailed computer simulations to determine their exact properties can take hours, and even days for each variation. Now, a new artificial intelligence-based approach developed at MIT could reduce that to milliseconds! 

On this episode, I feature an interview with Daniel Den. He's the co-author of the new book Ideas That Influence. His book aims to help business owners discover successful marketing ideas that break through the noise of the 9,999 ads their customers are exposed to every single day. You can learn more by visiting https://www.bigideasbox.com.

On this episode, I feature an interview with Pravin Luthada, CEO of Addcomposites. He'll be discussing AFP (automated fiber placement) technology and its applications for composite manufacturers. 

On this episode, we feature an interview with Vanessa Bohns. She is the author of the bestselling book You Have More Influence Than You Think. In her book, Vanessa draws from her research to illustrate why we fail to recognize the influence we have, and how that lack of awareness can lead us to miss opportunities or accidentally misuse our power. Vanessa is a social psychologist and professor of organizational behavior at Cornell University. She holds a PhD in psychology from Columbia University and an AB from Brown University. Her writing has appeared in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, and other outlets, and her research has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Economist. 

On this episode, ACMA consultant Andrew Pokelwaldt joins me to discuss some key technologies driving Industry 4.0. Industry 4.0, often referred to as the fourth industrial revolution, represents a seismic shift in the way manufacturing and production processes are managed.  With the advent of smart factories, the integration of cyber-physical systems, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and artificial intelligence, we are witnessing unprecedented levels of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies.

On this episode, Jesse Henry, CEO of Heartland joins the podcast to discuss how their company is helping the composites industry with sustainable feedstock materials. Heartland is a material science company that provides manufacturers with a sustainable source of additives like fillers, reinforcements, & mineral extenders to enhance products they already make. They work with local farmers to produce natural fiber materials, enabling manufacturers to create more sustainable products. You can learn more by visiting their website at https://www.heartland.io.   

On this episode, I feature a recent interview with Stephanie Scheller Stephanie is the author of a recent book Marketing That Works for Small Business Budgets [Beyond Social Media]. She'll talk about how she grew her business on a $0/month marketing budget during the pandemic.   

On this episode, John Schweitzer and Kyle Jordan of the ACMA join me to discuss a couple of topics. John will be discussing the ACMA's Composites Sustainability Conference coming up June 4-6 in Denver, CO. You can learn more about this event by visiting https://acma-org.my.site.com/csft24.  Kyle Jordan will be discussing the CCT Instructor Course that took place last week in Kansas City, and explain why it's so important, and what the new instructors can do with the designation. 

On this episode Blair Robbins joins me on the show to discuss the closure of the Port of Baltimore, and whether it will impact supply chains. Blair is a partner in the Transportation and Logistics Group at EisnerAmper, and has nearly 30 years of experience helping companies cope with supply chain issues, and challenges in inventory management due to disruptions from the pandemic to infrastructure damage and natural, disasters, labor shortages and terrorism/sea piracy. With the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, The Port of Baltimore is now closed with over 40 vessels stuck, and ships that were headed into port being rerouted. It is not known how long clearing the passage will take, but Blair will share his thoughts on how it will affect supply chains.