In this candid episode of Industrial Storytellers, your host Jim Mayer sits down with guest co-host Phil Lewis, and industry “knuckleheads” Mike Payne and Nick Goellner of the Making Chips podcast network. The quartet dives deep into the human side of the trades, sharing stories about unconventional hiring strategies (“fog a mirror, get a job”), the “E-Myth” of promoting your best technician to a leadership role, and the power of second chances in the manufacturing world. You’ll hear about Mike’s personal redemption story, the hilarious tale of Nick’s scholarship fund, and how Phil’s background as a “computer nerd” led to his work with the “digital factory”. Get ready for a shift full of laughs, stories, and a little bit of industrial magic.

Key Takeaways

• The Human Element in Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry is portrayed as a place of second chances, where people can find a fresh start regardless of their past. This is exemplified by the story of Kevin, a young man who was given a chance to prove his potential and went on to have a successful career.
• Leadership and Hiring: A major theme is the misconception that a great technician automatically makes a great leader. The discussion emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between technical skills and leadership abilities when promoting employees.
• Unconventional Hiring: The guests share a “no-holds-barred” approach to hiring, including the “fog a mirror, get a job” method, highlighting that sometimes giving an opportunity to a passionate individual is more valuable than focusing solely on experience.
• The “Digital Factory”: The episode touches on the concept of the “digital factory,” with Phil’s background as a “computer nerd” highlighting how technology and data are becoming increasingly crucial for improving productivity and efficiency in manufacturing.
• Culture Over Profit: The conversation underscores that a strong company culture is the foundation for success, even more so than short-term profitability. The hosts discuss the challenges of maintaining a positive culture in a rapidly changing industry.

Chapter Markers

• 00:00 – Intro & Banter
• 01:00 – Introducing the Hosts & the Show
• 02:00 – The Setting: Hexagon Live Global
• 03:00 – Meeting Mike Payne & Nick Goellner
• 05:00 – What is Making Chips?
• 07:00 – The Making Chips Network of Podcasts
• 10:00 – Paul Van Mater & The Naming Gag
• 11:00 – The E-Myth and Leadership
• 12:00 – The “Fog a Mirror, Get a Job” Strategy
• 13:00 – Mike’s Story of Hiring Kevin
• 15:00 – The Icebreaker Questions
• 22:00 – How Manufacturing Changes Lives
• 26:00 – Technology’s Role in the Industry
• 30:00 – The Power of Storytelling
• 35:00 – The Role of Private Equity in Manufacturing
• 41:00 – Nick’s Scholarship Story
• 46:00 – Mike’s “Redemption” Story
• 50:00 – The Responsibility of Profitability
• 59:00 – Innovation and Cost
• 1:07:00 – The Challenge of “Culture”
• 1:12:00 – Final Thoughts and Karaoke Songs