In the heart of North Carolina's legendary boatbuilding community, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Alex Sarris of Quick USA during the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026 to discuss the people, traditions, and technology shaping the future of American boatbuilding. Together, they explore the craftsmanship, family legacy, and working waterfronts that continue to define one of America's premier custom sportfishing boatbuilding regions. Alex also shares how Quick USA supports builders and refit yards with innovative marine lighting, windlasses, thrusters, stabilizers, and other essential onboard systems. The conversation highlights why the future of American boatbuilding remains bright, driven by skilled craftspeople, strong partnerships, and a passion for excellence.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Filmed at the Dare County Boat Builders Tournament 2026, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Aaron Sutten of West Marine Pro to explore the supply chain, logistics, and commercial services that help keep boat builders, repair shops, and marine technicians working without costly delays. Aaron explains how West Marine Pro supports marine professionals with specialized pricing, nationwide inventory access, delivery solutions, and digital tools designed for the demands of the industry. They also discuss the tournament's mission to support boatbuilding families through scholarships while celebrating North Carolina's rich boatbuilding heritage. Finally, they examine the future of American boatbuilding, the growing need for skilled tradespeople, and why investing in the next generation is critical to the industry's success.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Behind every reliable vessel is a supply chain built on experience, relationships, and people who know what it takes to keep boats moving. In this special standalone episode of The Wards Way Podcast, Host Kristina Hebert sits down with longtime Wards Marine Electric teammate Willie Soles to explore his journey with the company since 1999 and the evolution of marine electrical supply in a rapidly changing industry. From warehouse expansion and global sourcing challenges to connected boat systems, inventory decisions, and the future of parts distribution, Willie shares the behind-the-scenes expertise required to support today’s builders, technicians, and boat owners. This employee spotlight highlights the people, processes, and commitment to service that have helped Wards Marine Electric power the marine industry for more than 75 years.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Milan Sangulin, director of the Biograd Boat Show, to explore how a small Croatian town of just 5,000 residents became home to one of Europe’s most successful international boat shows and a major gateway to the world’s yacht charter industry. Milan shares the show’s remarkable growth from a modest open house in 1999 to a record-setting event that has thrived through economic downturns and the pandemic by prioritizing exhibitor partnerships, simple logistics, and meaningful networking opportunities. Kristina and Milan also discuss the unique atmosphere that blends business with a festival-like experience, where Croatia’s renowned hospitality and vibrant nightlife become an extension of the show itself, fostering lasting relationships long after the exhibition halls close. They conclude with a look at the future of marine events, including expanded B2B opportunities, enhanced meeting programs, and technology designed to connect exhibitors and attendees more effectively year-round.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Anne Dunbar, Executive Director of IBEX, and Mary Vallen, Show Director, to explore why the International BoatBuilders Exhibition and Conference has become one of the marine industry’s most important B2B events. They discuss how IBEX brings together more than 700 exhibitors, technical education, and industry experts to address real-world challenges in boatbuilding, manufacturing, certification, and emerging technologies. Kristina, Anne, and Mary examine how AI, robotics, and connected systems are beginning to reshape marine design, production, and onboard experiences, while helping industry professionals separate practical innovation from hype. The conversation also highlights the broader issues affecting boating’s future, including water access, environmental stewardship, and the industry’s role in supporting smart, sustainable regulations.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert sits down with Patricia Becker (Metstrade Exhibition Manager) and Sarah Wallbank (August Race and Co-Chair of the ICOMIA/IFBSO Diversity Committee) at the ICOMIA IFBSO Congress in Washington, D.C., to explore what truly attracts new talent to boating and marine industry careers. Their conversation highlights why workforce development must begin long before university, emphasizing early exposure to maritime opportunities, hands-on STEM education, and visible role models who inspire the next generation. Kristina and her guests also discuss practical recruitment strategies, including student-focused trade show programs, mentorship initiatives, and removing socioeconomic barriers that limit access to marine careers. The episode concludes with a look at the Global Women’s Walk supporting Room to Read, upcoming diversity initiatives at Metstrade and Boot Düsseldorf, and what it will take to build a stronger, more inclusive future for the boating industry.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

Host Kristina Hebert talks with Petros Michelidakis, Director of Boating and Watersport Events at Messe Düsseldorf GmbH, from the ICOMIA IFBSO Congress in Washington, D.C., about how Boot Düsseldorf became the world’s largest indoor boat show and a global winter destination for boating and watersports enthusiasts. He shares the strategy behind creating a seamless visitor experience through 17 well-organized halls, digital planning tools, B2B matchmaking, and hands-on attractions that turn attendees into active participants. The conversation also explores the resilience of the marine leisure industry through economic and global challenges and why getting people on the water remains vital for connection, freedom, and wellbeing. Host Kristina Hebert and Michelidakis also discuss sustainability initiatives such as the Ocean Tribute Award and Love Your Ocean, highlighting Boot Düsseldorf’s commitment to ocean conservation and environmental education.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75

From the ICOMIA and IFBSO Congress in Washington, DC, Host Kristina Hebert talks with NMMA President and CEO Frank Hugelmeyer about the true scale of the recreational boating industry and its impact on the U.S. economy, jobs, and communities. Frank explains how NMMA drives growth through advocacy, standards and certifications, major boat shows, and Discover Boating, while addressing key challenges such as workforce development, trade, regulations, and water access. The conversation also explores boating’s connection to health, wellness, family life, and the growing challenge of finding time to get on the water in an increasingly overscheduled world. Finally, they discuss NMMA’s nonpartisan advocacy approach and how global collaboration through ICOMIA helps advance industry standards, best practices, and ocean stewardship worldwide.

Wards Marine Electric
https://www.wardsmarine.com/

Wards Way YouTube Channel
https://www.youtube.com/@WardsWay75