The Smart Factory Podcast: Powered by Catalyst Connection

Start with the Problem: Making AI Work in Manufacturing

AI can help manufacturers build software faster, automate manual processes and unlock value from the data they already have—but only when it solves the right problem. Jordan Saunders of NextLink Labs joins Matt Holjes to discuss how manufacturers...

Software That Fits: How AI Is Changing the Build vs. Buy Decision

AI is changing the economics of custom software. Sean joins Matt Holjes to explore how manufacturers can move beyond spreadsheets, whiteboards and disconnected systems by using AI to build practical tools around the way their teams actually work—and...

The ERP Reality Check: Leadership, Cost and AI

ERP implementations are expensive, complex and notoriously difficult to get right. But according to Mark Engleman, the biggest factor in success often isn’t the software—it’s leadership. Drawing on more than 30 years and 1,000 ERP projects, Mark...

Built to Pivot: Lessons from a Lifelong Entrepreneur

What does it take to repeatedly turn an idea into a successful business? Denise shares candid lessons from a career of launching, growing and selling companies across diverse industries. She discusses using data to identify market opportunities,...

A Legacy of Innovation, Safety, and Growth at SKC Inc.

For more than 60 years, SKC Inc. has developed innovative solutions that help protect workers from occupational and environmental hazards. In this episode, Todd Tommaney joins guest host Tom Reed to discuss SKC’s history, family-owned culture,...

Marketing Smarter with AI: Simulated Audiences for Manufacturing

Akaash Ramakrishnan of AdSkate explains how AI simulated audiences help manufacturers test marketing campaigns, improve messaging, and make smarter marketing investments before launch.

Built to Last: 100 Years of Innovation at Mancini's Bakery

What does it take to modernize a 100-year-old family business without losing what made it successful in the first place? Nick Mancini Hartner of Mancini's Bakery shares how the iconic Pittsburgh bakery is blending artisan breadmaking traditions with...

From Tribal Knowledge to AI: Practical Manufacturing Applications That Work

Artificial intelligence is creating new opportunities for manufacturers to improve productivity, preserve workforce knowledge, and streamline operations without major capital investments. In this episode, Adam Marsh of Ledge discusses how...

Built on People: Manufacturing Growth, Leadership, and National Security

From a two-car garage welding business to a manufacturing enterprise serving defense, energy, and data center markets, Bill Polacek shares the leadership principles, workforce strategies, and community commitment that fueled JWF Industries’ growth....

From the Mon Valley to Modern Manufacturing: DMI’s Growth Journey

In this episode of the Smart Factory Podcast, Petra Mitchell speaks with Doug Gudenburr about the evolution of DMI Companies and the operational decisions shaping modern manufacturing growth in southwestern Pennsylvania. Doug reflects on DMI’s...

Steel, Supply Chains, and the Future of Industrial Growth

The steel industry has shaped western Pennsylvania for generations. Now, a new chapter may be unfolding. In this episode of the Smart Factory Podcast, Petra Mitchell speaks with Doug Dunworth about the realities facing the steel industry today, from...

Built to Grow: Precision Manufacturing, Workforce Strategy, and Industrial Growth

Ralph Hardt shares how advanced manufacturers are scaling through workforce development, automation, continuous improvement, and strategic growth across energy and aerospace markets, including why employee referrals for new hires are one of the...

Cost vs. Price: Bringing Visibility to Manufacturing Supply Chains

Most manufacturers know what they pay. Far fewer understand what it actually costs. Daniela Osio, Founder and CEO of Dalinea, unpacks one of the biggest blind spots in manufacturing today: cost visibility across the supply chain.

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AI, Energy, and Change Management: Building the Next Generation of Smart Operations

Adam Bird of Emerson, shares how AI and automation are reshaping industrial operations and energy systems; and what it takes to lead change inside organizations adopting new technologies. Explore how AI is being applied inside real industrial control...

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Scaling Custom Manufacturing Requires Balancing Innovation, Workforce, and Women’s Engagement

Tricia Staible, President of Robinson Fans, shares what it takes to operate a custom-engineered manufacturing business serving heavy industry; and her passion for the She Builds initiative, which is expanding opportunities for women in manufacturing.

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Powering the AI Economy and Energy Infrastructure

Tricia Breeger, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Electric Power Products (MEPPI), shares how the next phase of manufacturing growth is being shaped by energy, infrastructure, and the rapid expansion of AI-driven demand.

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Why AI, Cloud, and Data Are Reshaping Manufacturing

Bob Evans, founder of Cloud Wars, breaks down what the rapid acceleration of cloud and AI actually means for manufacturers on the ground.

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