Canadian election upset; Chinese competition, Impact of Tariffs on Canadian Manufacturers. Darryl Gratrix an advocate for trade apprenticeships and a 20+ year tool and die professional works as the the production manager for MPC Components. His insight into trade relations between the U.S. and Canada and in generating interest with the next generation of manufacturing gives U.S. manufacturers some insight into the solutions for our labor shortage. We discuss the booming automotive manufacturing industry in Canada, the impact of Trump tariffs on Canadian manufacturers, and how we're going to staff operations for newly on-shored jobs.

In this episode of Manufacturing Insiders, Nate interviews Bryan Smith from JLT Sales, who shares insights into the woodworking manufacturing industry, the legacy of James L. Taylor Manufacturing, and effective sales strategies. Bryan discusses the importance of customer service, the impact of market trends on sales, and the role of trade shows in generating leads. He emphasizes the need for product knowledge and the value of engaging with customers through videos and demonstrations.

Description: Navigating tariffs, developing cosmetic products from the ground up, sales strategies and more. This episode with Kayla Childress the Director of Sales for a global cosmetic product manufacturer has it all! Kayla shares what types of partnerships they are looking for in the U.S. and discusses the keys to a successful partnership with brands. Who should listen:

- Owners & CEOs thinking about hiring their first sales professional

- Contract manufacturers who want to learn what's working in business development

- Anyone interested in developing a beauty or cosmetic product

- Anyone interested in the nuanced impacts of tariffs on U.S. manufacturers

- Those interested in learning about work/life balance and maintaining a positive outlook

Host Nate Wheeler ends discussion with some recommendations for Naturich to grow even more quickly. For more information about lead generation and digital marketing for manufacturers visit weCreate.com

Jeff Alexander of Alexander Manufacturing/The Woodhaven - a 4th generation manufacturer shares the success secrets any contract manufacturer should hear if they are interested in scaling into developing and manufacturing their own product. Host Nate Wheeler adds value to the conversation by sharing insights into strategies that could help The Woodhaven address even more market than the $10 Million it already does. The Woodhaven is a firewood rack system design to keep wood dry and off the ground. Originally a CNC machine shop and fabrication shop, Alexander MFG diversified into a product developer before moving completely into the B2C market. You'll hear strategies on choosing the right product idea, developing that idea, testing the market, and how to digitally market your product. Please like and subscribe to our channel to help us help manufacturers become more successful!

Phil Kerner has been interviewed by CNN, the BBC, and other international media outlets on the state of manufacturing in the U.S. in the light of tariffs, aging workforce, and declining domestic production. He's been in the tool and die trade for over 40 years and is passionate about transferring knowledge from his generation to the next. In this podcast we dig deep into the strategies the U.S. needs to employ to bring the work here, and how we'll find the talent necessary to produce the goods. We talk about a plan for the state of Pennsylvania to grow their manufacturing sector, and what they'll need to do to get the next generation trained.

The most successful contract manufacturers in many cases have developed their own product and sell it online as a side business. Aaron Kiko a second generation manufacturer with SJK Machine tells the story of how they came up with an idea for a product, developed it, marketed it through a partnership with weCreate and turned it into a multi-million dollar business. If you own a contract manufacturing company and you've thought about developing your own product, you'll gain vital insight from this conversation. Their product Safe-T-Support eliminates the risk of overhead door accidents in commercial applications. This is a risk that every business with an overhead door is exposed to, which is why their product is selling like hotcakes in industries like automotive, pharmaceutical and more. Visit Safe-T-Support.com for more information.

You'll be glued to the your seat listening! We dive into the issues with Tariffs, big tech, China, and then take a close look at state budgets and how to create a thriving state economy. Learn how the leaks in the dam are about to burst with an extreme trade deficit and a failing education system. This is the message small business owners need our legislators to hear. If you're interested in learning more about the case studies we discussed, check out: https://www.paul.senate.gov/?s=festivus And if you're interested in being a guest on the podcast, visit: https://www.wecreate.com/manufacturin... Guests are Mike and Steve Kraus - Owners of Allegheny Wood Works (America's Premium Solid Wood Door Manufacturers)

In this conversation, John Meighan, President of Lake Erie Rubber, discusses his journey owning a manufacturing company. He emphasizes the importance of trust in business relationships, the challenges of starting a new company versus investing in established businesses, and the need for effective marketing strategies in the manufacturing sector. John also highlights the significance of employee engagement and the role of technology in enhancing manufacturing processes. The conversation touches on economic development in Pennsylvania and the potential for growth in the manufacturing industry.