Made in America with Ari Santiago

This episode takes you through the history of the construction industry and its resistance to industrialization, and brings you to modern-day manufacturing of modular construction. While everything else in our modern world is manufactured…construction has had a tough time making the transition.   Roger Krulak, President and Founder of FullStack Modular, talks with Ari about the incredible need for more development and how it will take every kind of construction technique to keep up…including the consistent and quick model of manufactured or industrialized construction using modular building processes.   FullStack Modular is working to prove that modular construction is no longer boxy and boring - it can fit all needs and allows architects to do work creatively.   Industrialized construction enables higher productivity, more consistent quality, and a dependable supply chain.   Roger Krulak, FullStack Modular Website: https://www.fullstackmodular.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fullst

Rose Sisters Chips is an up-and-coming snack that has been beating the odds and growing at a quick pace.   This week Ari talks to Jonathan Marcus, President of Rose Sisters Brands and discovers the origin of their family's chip recipe, the story of getting started, and how they moved from co-packing to self-manufacturing.   Starting at zero, Rose Sisters Brands began with no knowledge of food manufacturing, but took a crash course, first at Rutgers University and then through life experience with the own co-packer.   They quickly learned what they needed and felt they could do It more efficiently themselves. Now they are working through automating their processes - one step at a time.   A fun and lively discussion that also touches on automation, marketing, distribution, and customer feedback.   Jonathan Marcus, Rose Sisters Brands Website: https://www.rosesisterschips.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosesisterschips/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosesisterschips/ Jonathan's Link

This episode is all about the journey… a personal journey, a company journey, and a Lean journey.   This week Ari talks to Carleton Birk, President of Birk Manufacturing, a leading manufacturer of innovative thermal heating elements. After Carleton took over as President, just 2 years ago, the company went through massive growth that challenged their systems and processes.   Luckily they were prepared! Not only had they recently acquired a new building, but they were well on their way with their Lean journey. This meant that their processes and procedures could handle the stretch and pull of growth.   They also have a great team that has been empowered to speak up and take ownership - which is so important not only to efficiency, but also for recruitment and retention.   Top that off with the personal journey of a new, young leader and it's a great episode!   Carleton's favorite business books: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Stephen Covey ; Good to Great, James C. Collins   Carleton Bir

Back on the podcast after 4 years, Marietta Lee, the newly-named CEO of The Lee Company, has a lot to talk about!   The Lee Company is now a 3rd generation family- business that is a leading innovator in miniature precision fluid controls. Simultaneous with transitioning to a new CEO, The Lee Company also reached their 75th anniversary.   On this episode, Ari and Marietta talk about her preparation for taking on the role and what she expects for the future. But they also cover much of what's happened since 2019 when Marietta first joined us on the podcast - a new internal training program, additional recruitment techniques, improved benefits, company growth and acquisitions.   There's a lot to learn in this episode about successful leadership transitions, scaling up, recruiting and retaining employees, and so much more!   Marietta's favorite new business app: Headway   Marietta Lee, The Lee Company Website: https://www.theleeco.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-lee-company/ YouT

Coming back after losing 80-90% of your business sounds impossible, but ProMold Plastics proved it can be done!   ProMold Plastics is a 55+ year old company specializing in custom injection molding and mold making.   Lorella Struzzi, co-owner, tells Ari about the origins of ProMold Plastics, but they really dive in to learn from the hard years after 2010, when ProMold's largest customer suddenly and unexpectedly decided to end their long-term, healthy business relationship despite the massive investments that ProMold had recently made to grow with their customer.   Sometimes the greatest challenges bring out the best in people…and the best ideas. This episode is filled with incredibly valuable lessons learned and the risks ProMold took to stabilize the business and get back on their feet!    Lorella Struzzi, ProMold Plastics Website: http://www.promoldplastics.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/promold-plastics/ Lorella's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorella-struzzi-7842a94a/

How does a 170 year old pharmaceutical company reinvent itself over and over again to remain relevant in our ever-changing world?   Find out today with Jeff Davis, president and CEO of Sheffield Pharmaceuticals, a manufacturer and supplier of store brand over-the-counter (OTC) creams, ointments, toothpastes, nasal products and first aid products that have been made in the USA since 1850.   Jeff talks to Ari about making the right investments and taking the risks. But, even more valuable, Jeff admits that not all risks panned out. Sometimes a wrong turn teaches a valuable lesson that you can learn and grow from.   Jeff and Ari discuss scaling the business through automation and how a little bit of good timing helped them make it through Covid.   Jeff's favorite business book: The Hard Thing about Hard Things, Ben Horowitz   Jeff Davis, Sheffield Pharmaceuticals Website: https://www.sheffieldpharma.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SheffieldPharmaceuticals YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@S

Meghan West knew at a young age she wanted to join her Dad and the team at Mastercam. Now she's the president and CEO, bringing solutions and services to the manufacturing world with advanced software.    This episode is a wide-spanning journey that starts with the company's origins and Meghan's early days. We learn about Meghan's entrance into the company after her degree and how she had to find a role where she could be of most value to the organization.       Meghan discovered an interest an aptitude for putting structure in place as the company continued its substantial growth. Ari and Meghan discussed the limits of bureaucracy and strategic frameworks.   Finally Ari and Meghan talk about how Mastercam listens to its customers, but also tries to stay one step ahead…anticipating future needs.   Meghan's favorite business book: No Ego: How Leaders Can Cut the Cost of Workplace Drama, End Entitlement, and Drive Big Results, Cy Wakeman   Meghan West, Mastercam Website: https://www.mastercam.com/

Pete Hoffman is a third generation leader and president at Orange Research, a leader in filtration, level and flow monitoring. He is following in the footsteps of his grandfather and father, but bringing his own digital twist.   It's not a surprise that Pete went to school originally for Information Technology, as he aims to digitally transform Orange Research, starting with a new ERP system and then leveraging it to achieve to much more. Pete is also starting his company's journey into Additive Manufacturing and is excited about its potential.    Throughout this episode, Pete talks about the people and organizations who have helped him and the company to get where it is now. Whether family members, exceptional employees, outstanding consultants, or the organizations that make up the CT manufacturing community, Pete leverages his relationships to bring success to Orange Research.   Pete's favorite business books: Good to Great, Jim Collins Traction, Gino Wickman   Pete Hoffman, Orange Research Web

Bob Zukowski joins Ari for this episode to discuss his manufacturing journey and how he founded Custom Sleep Technology. As the name would indicate, they make custom made sleep products designed specifically for the body of their customer, so they get restful, healthful sleep.   Bob has a real passion for the materials, design, technology and even marketing of his product, and he talks to Ari about how they all come together.   Bob talks through the patent process he took on at the start of the business. He then discusses the switch from outsourcing to self-fabrication after the retirement of his initial fabricator. After that, marketing the product took the forefront and Bob explains the use of SEO, online advertising, and affiliate marketing to bring the product to the market.   Finally, Bob talks about the technology he is currently innovating to create a phenomenal service, which he hopes to use either to franchise, or to leverage with retail partners.   There's so much innovation going on in man

In this 4th anniversary episode of the Made in America podcast, we are joined by John Bourdeaux, CEO of AdvanceCT. AdvanceCT is a private organization that partners with Connecticut state economic development to expand current CT businesses, attract new businesses, market the state, and provide the research needed to successfully accomplish those goals.   John's enthusiasm for the state and the work of his organization is palpable. He talks about the importance of CT manufacturing companies reaching out to AdvanceCT if they have not yet taken advantage of the programs the state offers for growth and development. AdvanceCT will help them navigate what is available to support their organization.   John talks to Ari about AdvanceCT's 60% focus on expanding opportunities for existing CT businesses and 40% focus on attracting new ones. He speaks in depth about how CT attracts new business and gives concrete examples of CT's competitive advantages that would make even the most skeptical business owner reconsid

Growing up in a big manufacturing family, Rishabh Agarwal, CEO of Peer Robotics, got an early look at the challenges manufacturers are facing. Now he's working to solve them - one robotic solution at a time.   Peer Robotics builds robots that solve some of the most simple, yet time and labor consuming tasks - moving materials around your shop floor. Rishabh's solutions aim to free up employees to do their most valuable work.   Best yet, the solutions are simple enough for any employee to implement - you don't need an expensive consultant or engineer spending hours to program and reprogram these robots. Simple solutions for complex problems will change the face of manufacturing.   Rishabh also talks to Ari about the Connecticut ecosystem and how it lead to starting his company here. They talk about the importance of embracing i4.0 technology and how it will help overcome labor shortages and improve quality.   Rishabh's favorite business books: The E Myth: Why Most Businesses Don't Work and What to D

Tushar Shah is the new President of Airex Rubber, having purchased the rubber parts business just a little over a year ago in 2022. He owns and operates the 80 year old business with his wife, Hetal, who handles everything outside of operations, while Tushar runs the operations side of the business.     Ari talks to Tushar about the process of purchasing the formerly multi-generational, family-owned manufacturing business. It all started with a simple google search and then moved on, slowly but surely, from there. They discuss the transition, the employees, and making big changes in small increments.   Tushar tells Ari all about the incredible growth potential he foresees with customers who want shorter lead times and better customer service.   Tushar has an incredibly positive outlook on his new business venture and has the focus, determination, and structured approach that will make it happen!    Tushar Shah, Airex Rubber Website: https://airexrubber.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/compa

Summer is upon us! As we all spend more time outdoors, we often think about how our actions affect the environment now and into the future. But it may surprise you how many of our manufacturing guests CONSTANTLY have sustainability and environmental impact on their minds.   This "Best of" episode highlights just some of the manufacturers we have spoken to about their initiatives that make an impact on the world around us.   We chose companies that talk about their sustainable products or services; the ways they have improved their processes to reduce environmental impact; and a few companies who have been developing a sustainable and environmentally responsible business in all areas.   I hope you are inspired by this episode to think about the impact your business is making on the environment and to look into ways to reduce that impact now and into the future.   Highlighted manufacturers in order of appearance: Jonathan Fife, Bright Feeds Denis Gagnon, Excel Dryer Don Droppo, Curtis Packaging Tim B

Joe Mullally is the Senior Vice President of Defibtech, a medical device manufacturer of life-saving Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs).  In this episode, Joe and Ari discuss the mission of Defibtech and the importance of the AED. Joe tells Ari about the educational and legislative work the company does to promote the use of the device in public spaces.  Joe also talks about what it means to be an FDA class 3 medical device manufacturer and their plans to promote their newest product, an automated chest compression device.   Finally Joe talks about their acquisition by the Japanese medical device manufacturer, Nihon Kohden, their employee and patient-centric mindset and its positive effects on the company.  Joe's favorite books: Malcolm Gladwell, 'Blink', 'Talking to Strangers'    Joe Mullally, Defibtech Website: https://www.defibtech.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/defibtech/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/defibtech.llc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8vb9zcK

Ed Gilchrest is the President of Gyre9 a growing product design firm that also engineers and manufactures products for its customers.    In this episode, Ed and Ari dive deep into the fascinating world of product design and development. Ed describes it as "Mythbusters" every day, which sounds like a pretty fun way to work!  Ed describes why manufacturers might want to use an outside design firm and why it's helpful to use one that also manufacturers products. (Hint: not all design firms 'get' manufacturing.)   Then Ari and Ed really dive into the product solution and brainstorming process - which is both very structured and highly creative at the same time.   Finally, Ed talks about the company's work manufacturing EV chargers and mobile power sources and how that fits into the overall structure of the company.    There's a lot to learn in this episode.   Ed's favorite book: Traction, Gino Wickman    Ed Gilchrest, Gyre9 Website: http://www.gyre9.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gyre

Beverlee Dacey is the second generation leader of Amodex Products, manufacturers of an ink and stain remover that is soap based (the only one of its kind) and even recommended by the makers of Sharpie!   Throughout this episode, Beverlee shares heart-felt stories from the business, her customers, and her family. Her positive approach to business and life permeates the episode.   Beverlee discusses the major shift the company had to take in order to stay afloat. She discusses her approach to customer service that puts customer needs at the forefront. And, she speaks about her children, all four, who now each have big roles in the company to move it into the future.   Behind Beverlee's fun, lively demeanor is a super-smart business woman that isn't afraid to take risks and make big changes to save a product she believes truly helps people.    Beverlee Dacey, Amodex Products Website: https://amodexusa.com/ Facebook: https://facebook.com/Amodex Twitter: https://twitter.com/Amodex Instagram: https://i

This week, we are joined by Kim Bowen, CEO of Specialty Cable Corporation, a cabling manufacturer specializing in wire that can withstand extreme hot and cold temperatures. Their wires are engineered and manufactured in all sizes from baby heart monitors to airplane power cables.   Kim and Ari talk about Kim's interesting background starting at a technical high school for electrician training, moving on to accounting roles and then becoming a Director of Manufacturing before finally taking on the role of CEO.   Kim offers insights into the company's history, their successful methods for long-term employee retention, how to maintain relevance in an older market, and why leveraging technology is vital to small manufacturers.   We also learn the secret to a successful leadership transition.   UConn program discussed in this podcast: https://www.ims.uconn.edu/iap/   Kim Bowen, Specialty Cable Corporation Company Website: https://www.specialtycable.com/ Company Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peopl

In this episode, Ari swaps stories with Capri Brighenti, President & CEO of Miller Foods, a pet food manufacturer known for its Oma's Pride brand of raw pet food.   Capri tells Ari the incredible story of the company's evolution from egg delivery to turkey farm to pet food manufacturer in the span of 3 generations. She talks about the challenges they faced after her grandparents passed and her mother and aunt immediately lost their biggest customer. They learned the importance of diversification while serendipitously landing on their next great idea - raw pet food.   Capri talks about the importance of technology in the growth of their business and explains how they stay connected with their customers in this online world.   Finally, Capri shares her secret to staying focused - her "Word of the Year."   Capri's Favorite business books: Traction, Gino Wickman Progress over Perfection, Emma Norris   Capri Brighenti, Miller Foods Company Website: https://omaspride.com/ Company Instagram: https:

If you're uncertain about what i4.0 is, what it means for manufacturers and how you can leverage i4.0 technology to improve your outcomes, you're going to want to listen to this episode.   Brian Romano, Director of Technology Development at Arthur G. Russell (AGR) talks to Ari about i4.0 technology. Then they dive into how AGR is leveraging the i4.0 systems built into their machines (sensors, data collection and analytics) to provide a remote support program to their customers.   This support program has become more important due to the workforce shortage - AGR is filling in for its customers to help them with their vital machine maintenance.     Brian also talks to Ari about bringing the younger generation into manufacturing and what companies like AGR are doing to support schools and programs. Marketing a manufacturing career is so important!     Brian Romano, Arthur G. Russell Company Company Website: https://www.arthurgrussell.com/ Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/arthur-g--ru

We love a good manufacturing start-up story and this one is filled with ups and downs! In this episode, Ari talks to Milton & Goose Founder & CEO, Shari Raymond. Milton & Goose is a high-end children's toy manufacturer that makes heirloom-quality wooden play kitchens.   Shari and Ari talk about all the struggles that starting and growing a new business can bring - from the initial design to contract manufacturing to marketing to  bringing manufacturing in-house and becoming a full-fledged CT manufacturing business.   Shari talks of learning through mistakes…an important concept that entrepreneurs know well. She also talks about how to avoid the overwhelm of everything that needs to happen - "Think about what is right in front of you, what you have to work on right in that moment"   This is an inspiring story of taking an idea to bringing it to action.   Shari's favorite book: Building a Storybrand by Donald Miller   Shari Raymond, Milton & Goose Company Website: https://miltonandgoo