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Manufacturing Unscripted

Manufacturing Unscripted

Manufacturing Unscripted is a podcast dedicated to exploring the latest innovations, technologies, and trends shaping the future of manufacturing. Hosted by Peter Parsons, the show brings together industry experts to discuss automation, robotics, smart manufacturing, and the challenges and opportunities facing today’s manufacturers.

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  • 26 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 45 min
  • English

Episodes 26

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  • November 2 · 49 min

    Why Communication Makes or Breaks Manufacturing Projects | Chandler Cogan, VRSI

    Peter Parsons sits down with Chandler Cogan, project manager at Variation Reduction Solutions, Inc. (VRSI), to talk about what it takes to keep manufacturing projects moving. Chandler shares how he went from installing inline metrology systems on the plant floor to managing best fit applicationson automotive body lines. He explains why good planning cuts implementation time and why transparency between vendors, integrators, and customers mattersmore than playing your cards close to your chest. The conversation also covers knowing when and how toescalate an issue, getting customers to trust a system before buy-off, and focusing people on the data that actually matters to them. They also get into why the best engineer isn’t always the right pick for project management. Chandler closes with stories from third shift installs and the underrated fieldengineer skill of knowing a good restaurant in a city you may never see again. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fullyelectric servo presses for manufacturing. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LAjlZgmHasI @Chandler Cogan @peter parsons @promess @Variation Reduction Solutions, Inc. (VRSI)

  • October 19 · 45 min

    From the Shop Floor to Sales Engineer: Triston Stone on Solving Manufacturing Challenges

    Peter Parsons sits down with Triston Stone, a sales engineer at Promess Incorporated, to talk about his path from final assembly to press build to applications engineering and now sales, all within a few years. Triston shares what it was like to finally see the systems he built running inside massive assembly lines, why Promess approaches sales as an engineering company first, and how custom solutions like the radial crimper came to life. They also get into the sheer scale of manufacturing (washing machines and ketchup caps included), the growing demand for data and Industry 4.0, whether AI will ever replace application or sales engineers, and the biggest lesson from the sales team’s book club so far.

  • October 5 · 35 min

    IMTS 2026 Recap: Interviews with Igus, SteelHead, EDM Performance Accessories and Ahaus

    Peter is on the road this week, so Lauren Rall and Matthew Rall are stepping in to host a special IMTS 2026 recap episode of Manufacturing Unscripted. While Peter walked the show floor in Chicago, he sat down with a few of the people and companies making an impact in manufacturing today, and Lauren and Matthew are bringing those conversations back to the studio. In this episode, you'll hear four interviews recorded live at IMTS 2026. Jacob Sanchez of igus talks about what they brought to the show, Brent Pietila of SteelHead shares how their team is helping job shops run smarter, Tyler Gendusa of EDM Performance Accessories gives a look at what's new in the EDM space, and Jeremy Isaacs of Ahaus talks through what he's seeing across the industry. Between clips, Lauren and Matthew share their own takeaways and talk about what these conversations say about where manufacturing is headed. If you couldn't make it to IMTS this year, or just want to catch up on what people were talking about, this episode is a great place to start. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing.

  • September 21 · 41 min

    Why Most Software Teams Struggle to Ship (And How AI Changes That) | Thanos Diacakis

    Software teams don't fail because they're not smart. Theyfail because nobody ever taught them how to actually ship. In this episode, Peter sits down with Thanos Diacakis, chief troublemaker and software effectiveness coach at Cosmic Teacups, to dig into why so many software teams struggle to get products out the door, even when they know their industry inside and out. Thanos has spent almost 30 years in software, from earlystartups to leading Uber's bikes and scooters team to running his own consulting practice today. He and Peter talk through why teams reach for long term planning before they've even mastered short term execution, why "specialization" can quietly wreck a team's ability to ship, and how AI is changing what's actually possible when it comes to speed, safety, andrewriting old codebases without blowing everything up. They also get into how manufacturing environments handle the tension between moving fast and staying safe, why bad habits stick around long after anyone remembers the reason for them, and what Thanos thinks the future actually looks like for software jobs in the age of AI. Whether you're managinga software team or just trying to figure out why your company does things the way it does, this one's worth a listen. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fullyelectric servo presses for manufacturing.

  • September 7 · 32 min

    The Truth About Manufacturing Careers (Part 2) | IACMI's Mike Kubacki and Elliot Keas

    Peter Parsons wraps up his two part conversation with Mike Kubacki and Elliot Keas of IACMI, digging into the perception problem manufacturing still faces with parents and students alike. Elliot and Mike talk through why so many people still picture manufacturing as dangerous and dirty, and how technology and innovation have reshaped what these environments actually look like today. The conversation also covers the different tiers of skill development in a modern facility, why apprenticeships matter for knowledge transfer, and how IACMI is partnering with veterans groups and job boards to connect people directly with industry. Mike and Elliot close things out by sharing their 10 year vision for the program, from expanding westward to building industry confidence in US manufacturing for the long term. If you missed part one, check out our previous episode for the full conversation. Learn more: IACMI.org MetalForAmerica.org americascuttingedge.org Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing.

  • August 24 · 34 min

    Closing the Manufacturing Skills Gap with IACMI's Mike Kubacki and Elliot Keas (Part 1)

    Peter Parsons sits down with Mike Kubacki and Elliot Keas of IACMI, the Institute for Advanced Composites Manufacturing and Innovation, to talk about how they're building the next generation of the manufacturing workforce. Mike directs the METAL program and Elliot directs the ACE program, and together they break down how these initiatives connect academia, industry, and government to close the skills gap in advanced manufacturing. They dig into the K through 12 outreach efforts getting kids hands-on with sand casting and machining before they ever set foot in a factory, why foundries have declined 40 percent over the past 20 years and what that means for national defense, and the career paths (apprenticeships, boot camps, internships) that can lead to a six figure salary without a four year degree. Mike and Elliot also share their own winding paths into manufacturing, from wire bonding microelectronics for space and defense projects to leading 600,000 square feet of manufacturing operations. This is part one of a two part conversation. Join us next episode as we continue the discussion with Mike and Elliot. Learn more: IACMI.org MetalForAmerica.org americascuttingedge.org

  • August 10 · 46 min

    AI Is Changing Manufacturing Faster Than You Think | Len Ward, Commexis

    Peter Parsons sits down with Len Ward, Managing Partner of Commexis, for a wide ranging conversation on AI in manufacturing. Len traces his path from Wall Street to digital marketing to leading a company that helps businesses shift from a "search and retrieve" mindset to a "solve my problem" one. They dig into why B2B manufacturers are actually ahead of the curve on AI adoption, the rise of the "AI pilot" role inside factories, and why the best AI hires often come from within your own team rather than an outside resume. Len also shares his take on which jobs are safest from AI disruption (hint: anything tactile, like nursing or skilled trades), where he sees the biggest upside for AI in healthcare, and why he thinks the next wave of two to five person companies could disrupt entire industries. This one covers a lot of ground: AI blueprints, business bottlenecks, the coming shakeup in company size and structure, and what it really means to build an "AI first" company instead of just bolting AI onto old processes.

  • July 13 · 38 min

    Automate 2026 with John Krause Pt. I

    Promess Sales Manager, John Krause, joins Peter to review and discuss the Automate Trade Show in Chicago Illinois. Peter and John talk about various aspects of trade shows and how the Automate Trade Show went this year and what they were excited to see.Peter also interviewed multiple vendors in their booths discussing what they brought to the show. John and Peter watch and discuss the products on display.

  • June 29 · 51 min

    Mike Weller - Verizon Business

    On this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host PeterParsons sits down with Michael Weller, who leads the global manufacturing practice at Verizon Business, to unpack how private cellular networks are reshaping the factory floor. Michael makes the case that private 5G occupies a"middle lane" between rigid, expensive wired connections and best-effort Wi-Fi giving manufacturers a deterministic, flexible network purpose-built for the explosion of IoT sensors, AGVs, scanners, and AI usecases headed their way. The conversation goes well beyond connectivity. Michael andPeter dig into "innovation in a drawer" (the good ideas manufacturers shelve over infrastructure fears), why dead zones leave expensive tablets gathering dust, where AI actually lives on the plant floor today, the hiddencompute and edge questions most AI projects ignore, and how a more connected, visual environment can help manufacturers retain Gen Z workers who learn verydifferently than the generations before them. There's even a sustainability angle: every million linear feet of copper cabling contains roughly 13 tons of copper that private wireless can take out of the equation. A practical, jargon-light look at what it actually takes tomodernize a plant—and why the next five to seven years may make private cellular feel less like a novelty and more like a necessity. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fullyelectric servo presses for manufacturing. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/laOpUbps-Y0 @Michael Weller @Verizon Business @peter parsons @promess

  • June 15 · 50 min

    Juha Pitkanen - Solar Foods 

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Juha Pitkänen, co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of Solar Foods, to talk about a protein literally made out of thin air. Juha explains how Solar Foods uses CO2, hydrogen, and renewable electricity to grow a microorganism that becomes Solein, a yellow protein powder already approved in Singapore and the US. A fascinating look at food production without agriculture, the regulatory road ahead, and where this technology could go next. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing.   Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/1SnyF_Bev_Y @ Juha-Pekka Pitkänen @Solar Foods @peter parsons    @promess  

  • June 1 · 42 min

    Anoop Mohan — Augury

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Anoop Mohan, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Augury, to talk about how AI is reshaping the factory floor. Anoop shares how Augury became a leader in machine health, what's fundamentally changed in AI over the last few years, and why the next wave isn't just about predicting machine failures, but giving every persona in a plant a smarter way to work. A great listen for anyone trying to figure out where AI actually fits in manufacturing. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing.   Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/UTXeghqPO5o @Anoop Mohan  @Augury  @peter parsons    @promess  

  • May 18 · 1 hr

    Greg Lynn - Piaggio Fast Forward

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, Peter sits down with Greg Lynn, CEO and co-founder of Piaggio Fast Forward, to talk about building robots that move with people, not around them or instead of them. Greg shares how his background in architecture shapes PFF's human-centered approach, why "pedestrian etiquette" is core to their technology, and how robots like Kilo are helping manufacturers boost efficiency without overhauling their facilities or workforce. A fascinating look at the future of human-robot collaboration. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing. Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqVlN6kOeNk @Greg Lynn @Piaggio Fast Forward @peter parsons @promess

  • May 4 · 41 min

    Doug Longenecker – NKST

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, Peter sits down with Doug Longenecker, founder of NKST, to talk about what really happens when strategy meets the shop floor. Doug shares how his hybrid consultancy-agency approach helps manufacturers close the gap between big-picture plans and day-to-day execution and why so many companies struggle to bridge that divide. The conversation also dives into AI: the hype, the wild west of vendors, and why companies need solid data, governance, and human checkpoints before chasing efficiency at all costs. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing. Listen Now: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/manufacturing-unscripted @Doug Longenecker @NKST @peter parsons @promess

  • April 22 · 42 min

    Congresswoman Haley Stevens

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons sits down with Congresswoman Haley Stevens, Representative of Michigan’s 11th District and one of the nation’s leading champions for manufacturing. From her early roots growing up around heavy equipment in Michigan to her pivotal role on the Obama administration’s Automotive Rescue Task Force, Congresswoman Stevens shares a first‑hand account of what it takes to protect and grow America’s manufacturing economy. The conversation explores the historic auto rescue of General Motors and Chrysler and why saving the broader supply chain, not just the OEMs, was critical to Michigan’s economic survival. Stevens offers behind‑the‑scenes insight into the challenges of stabilizing an industry during the Great Recession and how that experience shaped her lifelong commitment to industrial policy. Looking to the present and future, Stevens discusses the legislation she has helped pass to strengthen domestic manufacturing, including workforce development initiatives, STEM education, the CHIPS and Science Act, advanced manufacturing R&D, supply‑chain resiliency, and critical minerals policy. She also shares why bipartisan cooperation is often strongest around manufacturing issues and how policymakers can better partner with job creators on the shop floor. The episode wraps with a forward‑looking discussion on emerging technologies such as AI, quantum computing, advanced materials, sustainability, and recycling, and why manufacturing innovation remains at the heart of economic growth, national security, and opportunity. Above all, Stevens delivers a clear message to manufacturers of all sizes: your work matters, it is valued, and Michigan will continue helping lead the future of American manufacturing. Sponsored by Promess Inc., the leading provider of fully electric servo presses for manufacturing. Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Uq9lf2JfsKE

  • April 6 · 41 min

    Baily Dotson – Promess Inc.

    Fellow Promess applications engineer Baily Dotson joins Peter on the podcast this week. Peter and Baily discuss their job as applications engineers and the difficulties of explaining their jobs to people outside of the manufacturing industry. They also talk about workplace culture and Promess’ culture in particular. Peter and Baily finish the conversation with lessons they’ve learned along their journey as engineers. @promess @Baily Dotson @peter parsons Watch on Youtube:https://youtu.be/f5rJ8VwRvSQ #ManufacturingUnscripted # #PromessInc #ApplicationsEngineer#CareerGrowth #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast #CustomerFirst #Engineering #ManufacturingInnovation

  • March 23 · 1 hr 2 min

    Ben Carlson - Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons talks with Ben Carlson, Founder and CEO of Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy. Ben shares how Mach 1 trains students to be truly day‑one ready for manufacturing jobs through hands-on learning—building, repairing, and troubleshooting real machines just as they would on the shop floor. Mach 1’s culture is built on loyalty, integrity, and hard work. Students range from recent high school graduates to employees sent by their companies to upskill. Everyone leaves with real-world experience and the confidence to step directly into a manufacturing career. With a 100% job placement rate, Mach 1 shows what’s possible when students get practical training and the right mindset. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/gfL1A3Yu2tA @peter parsons @ben carlson @Mach 1 Mechatronics Academy @Promess #ManufacturingUnscripted #ManufacturingCareers #Mach1Mechatronics #SkillsTraining #WorkforceDevelopment #ManufacturingJobs #Mechatronics #TechnicalTraining #Upskilling #FutureOfManufacturing #DayOneReady

  • March 9 · 1 hr 2 min

    Jonathan Hard – H2L Solutions

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons dives into the world of cybersecurity with Jonathon Hard, Founder, President, and CEO of H2L Solutions. Jonathon shares how he built H2L from the ground up, driven by determination and a refusal to fail, and how the company now helps protect critical systems across government and industrial environments. He talks openly about the challenges that shaped H2L’s growth, including the frustration many customers feel when faced with strict cybersecurity requirements and tight compliance deadlines. Jonathon also breaks down the true cost of cybersecurity — not just financially, but in time, resources, and organizational change — when navigating government regulations and industry standards. This episode offers an honest look at what it takes to tackle complex cyber challenges while building a mission-driven company with long-term resilience. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/pe0sYgx_MUI @peter parsons @Jonathan H. @H2L Solutions Inc. @Promess #ManufacturingUnscripted #Cybersecurity #IndustrialSecurity #H2LSolutions #ManufacturingIT #ComplianceStandards #CMMC #SmartManufacturing #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast #DefenseIndustry

  • February 23 · 58 min

    Amir Haramaty – aiOla

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons is joined by Amir Haramaty, Co-Founder and President of aiOla, to talk about how voice-driven AI is changing the way manufacturers collect and use data on the shop floor. Amir explains how aiOla turns everyday speech into structured, usable data — essentially giving manufacturing systems the ability to “listen.” By capturing information in real time and fitting directly into existing workflows, the technology helps eliminate manual data entry, shorten process times, and improve overall efficiency without disrupting operations. The conversation also explores how aiOla adapts to each company’s specific processes and has already delivered measurable results across a wide range of real-world applications. Peter and Amir wrap up by discussing the importance of using accurate data to support better decision-making and manage risk in today’s fast-moving manufacturing environments. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p91Pdm70N30 @peter parsons @Amir Haramaty @aiOla @Promess #ManufacturingUnscripted #VoiceAI #aiOla #AIinManufacturing #SmartManufacturing #DigitalTransformation #ManufacturingTechnology #Industry40 #ShopFloorInnovation #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast

  • February 9 · 38 min

    Chris McMahon – ANDRITZ Schuler North America

    In this episode of Manufacturing Unscripted, host Peter Parsons welcomes back Chris McMahon, Sales Manager at ANDRITZ Schuler North America in Canton, Michigan, to talk about what’s new at Schuler — including the company’s recent transition to ANDRITZ Schuler and the installation of their third hydroforming press. Chris explains Schuler’s role as a press manufacturer, hydroforming specialist, and tooling supplier, and why hydroforming remains a powerful solution for creating complex, high-strength parts with strong consistency and repeatability. He also shares some of the tradeoffs manufacturers need to consider, including longer cycle times and higher upfront costs. The conversation also touches on Chris’s experience selling both parts and dies, how Schuler supports customers across the full production process, and what he’s seeing in the market right now. While he’s encouraged by new vehicle programs and growing product activity, he also shares thoughtful concerns about how suppliers will navigate the changing manufacturing landscape. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KWCcIW5ksu0 @peter parsons @Chris McMahon @ANDRITZ Schuler North America @Promess #ManufacturingUnscripted #Hydroforming #ANDRITZSchuler #MetalForming #ManufacturingTechnology #AutomotiveManufacturing #ToolingAndDies #ManufacturingTrends #PeterParsons #ManufacturingPodcast

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