People in Production Podcast with Ryan Nelson
Join host Ryan Nelson as he explores the DNA of thriving manufacturing operations. As founder of Circle of 5, Ryan delves deep into how successful organizations build high-performing teams and create empowering cultures that drive excellence.
Each episode features dynamic conversations with manufacturing leaders and cross-industry innovators, uncovering strategies for talent development, organizational growth, and future-focused leadership. Whether you're a manufacturing executive, team leader, or passionate about building strong workplace cultures, this podcast delivers practical insights to transform your organization.
The Kansas City Chapter of NTMA and Circle of 5 present this exclusive series starting January 2025. Subscribe now to learn how today's visionaries are reshaping the future of manufacturing and organizational excellence.
Episodes
17 episodes
Local Power, Real Partnerships
What if the most valuable tool on your shop floor isn’t a machine, but trust? We sit down with Katherine O’Toole of the Kansas City NTMA to unpack how humility, human-powered networking, and a smart partnership with the Missouri Association of ...
Episode 16 - Katherine O'Toole: What's Ahead for KCNTMA
Catherine O'Toole from Kansas City NTMA joins us to discuss upcoming events designed to strengthen the Midwest manufacturing community through intentional networking and collaboration.• April 24-25: Joint Chapter Summit with St. Louis N...
Episode 15 - Ian Reel (Part 2) - Classroom to CNC: When Your Side Hustle Becomes Your Empire
From purchasing his first CNC machine with no prior experience to building a successful manufacturing business with 14 machines and 10 employees, Ian shares his journey of calculated risk-taking and growth.• Starting with a small 1,500 ...
.png)
Episode 14 - Ian Reel (Part 1) When One Good Idea Changes Everything: A Manufacturer's Journey
Ian Reel from Kaw Valley Precision shares his non-traditional journey from industrial arts teacher to manufacturing entrepreneur, revealing how he strategically built his business while mitigating risks. As a former industrial arts teacher, he ...
Episode 13 - Leveraging Your NTMA Membership: A Kansas City and St. Louis Collaboration
Manufacturing leaders from the Kansas City and St. Louis chapters of the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA) discuss how their organization creates value for members and fosters collaboration across regional boundaries. The conver...
Episode 12 - Katherine O'Toole Previews March 2025 and Beyond
This episode brings to light the dynamic happenings within the Kansas City manufacturing community. As we discuss the future events lined up, you'll get a look into the collaborative energy driving the chapter. • Recap of February ...
Episode 11 - Brandon Worrell (Part 2) From Digital Frontiers to Factory Floors
This episode covers the inspiring journey of a tech entrepreneur transitioning to the manufacturing sector, sharing valuable insights about entrepreneurship through acquisition, business readiness, and the vital role of communication. Listeners...
Episode 9 - Brandon Worrell (Part 1): Transforming Tradition to Precision in Manufacturing
The episode dives into the transformative journey of KCSP Machine, highlighting the company’s rebranding from Kansas City Screw Products to a modern precision machining entity. We discuss operational strategies, workplace culture, and the impor...
.png)
Episode 8 - Katherine O'Toole: February Preview for KCNTMA
This episode highlights the exciting initiatives at the Kansas City chapter of NTMA for 2025, focusing on community building, empowerment through events like She Leads, and collaborative opportunities with the Missouri Association of Manufactur...
Episode 7 - Ryan Borgerding: From Machines to People The Future of Manufacturing (Part 2)
The conversation revolves around the critical need for manufacturing companies to shift their focus from hiring for immediate needs toward investing in employees' long-term careers. By recognizing the value of character over traditional skills,...
Episode 6 - Ryan Borgerding: Discovering Passion in Staffing and Transforming Apprenticeships (Part 1)
Discover how Jarboe Employment Group is revolutionizing the staffing industry by prioritizing people over profit. Ryan Borgerding shares his unique journey, the core values of their business model, and the importance of building relationships i...
Episode 5: Part 2 - Workforce Development and Overcome Failure - Brandon Herring
Brandon's interview reveals a transformative approach towards workforce development, focusing on reentry programs for incarcerated individuals in manufacturing. He emphasizes the importance of soft skills and collaboration, showcasing the poten...
.png)
Episode 4: Building Lasting Partnerships in Manufacturing with Brandon Herring
The episode explores the vital relationship between sales and production within the manufacturing industry through the insights of Brandon Herring from Zephyr Products. Key discussions include the importance of collaboration, knowing when to sa...
.png)
Fred Stipkovits - Part 2: Leading through Listening in Manufacturing
Leadership today transcends mere management techniques; it thrives on genuine connections and understanding your team's needs. Fred Stipkovits with UltraTech Aerospace shares invaluable insights on the power of listening, the importance of auth...
.png)
Fred Stipkovits - Part 1: Industry Networks and Developing Your Own Leadership
The episode centers on leadership insights from Fred Stipkovits of Ultratech Aerospace, where he discusses the importance of networking, trust-building, and empowering teams. Fred emphasizes collaboration over competition to create a thriving m...
.png)
Katherine O'Toole: Building a Network for Manufacturing Success in KC
This episode features a rich conversation with Katherine O'Toole, the Executive Director of the Kansas City chapter of the NTMA , exploring her journey from education to manufacturing leadership. Key topics include workforce development, networ...
Manufacturing Intelligence: Leading People in Production - Preview
Here's a sneak peak on two of our first interviews for the Manufacturing Intelligence Podcast. Check it out!The first episode with Katherine O'Toole will release on January 1! The 2nd and 3rd episodes will be a 2-part series with ...