Monthly Manufacturing Podcast Roundup: March 2025
The manufacturing industry is full of innovative problem solvers—it makes sense that there are tons of podcasts out there covering everything from fixing broken machinery to growing your business. But with so many options, finding the best ones can be a challenge.
Our team sifted through a variety of episodes released over the past month and curated this list of insightful conversations happening in the manufacturing world. Check out our list below to see which episodes catch your interest and are worth adding to your playlist for your next commute:
1. The Job Shop Show with Cody Lee
In this episode, host Jay Jacobs sits down with Cody Lee, a 29-year-old entrepreneur who took over Everyday Technologies, a metal fabrication shop in Western Ohio, established in 1928. Cody shares the details of his journey into business ownership, from evaluating and purchasing the company to the challenges of leading the business with his wife. He discusses how leadership roles evolve post-acquisition, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in defining your career path. Learn tactical advice for reinventing your career through careful decision-making and strategic planning.
Why you should listen: This episode offers insights into what it takes to acquire and lead a business, including the real-world hurdles (and triumphs) of managing a legacy company in 2025. A must-listen for manufacturing leaders thinking about scaling or transitioning leadership.
2. MakingChips: Cybersecurity Requirements for DoD Contractors: A Deep Dive into CMMC with Jacob Horne
In this episode, the MakingChips team dives deep into the complexities of cybersecurity requirements for manufacturers working with the Department of Defense (DoD). Expert Jacob Horne, the Chief Cybersecurity Evangelist at Summit 7, breaks down the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) and how manufacturers can prepare for compliance as the regulations evolve. Jacob explains the origins of CMMC, its importance, and how it is designed to safeguard sensitive data for defense contractors.
Why you should listen: If your shop works with the DoD or is considering entering that market, understanding CMMC is essential. Jacob’s expertise offers a step-by-step guide to navigating the certification process, helping you avoid compliance pitfalls and positioning your business for success as the rules tighten. This episode is a must-listen to stay ahead of the curve on cybersecurity requirements.
3. Manufacturing Happy Hour: The State of Automation Halfway Through the Decade
In this live-recorded episode from the 2025 A3 Business Forum, hosts Chris Luecke and Jake Hall (aka The Manufacturing Millennial) chat with five industry leaders about the current state of automation in manufacturing. They discuss advancements in robotics, AI, machine vision, and more. The episode offers expert predictions for the future of automation, with an emphasis on integrating new technologies and the importance of workforce collaboration.
Why you should listen: With automation continuing to reshape manufacturing, this episode is packed with insights on where the industry is headed. From robotics to Industry 4.0, these experts offer valuable advice on how manufacturers can harness automation to improve efficiency and stay competitive.
4. The Fabricator Podcast: Becoming a Jack of All Trades with Chris Zeppieri of Make Everything
Chris Zeppieri, the founder of Make Everything, joins The Fabricator Podcast to share his journey from construction worker to successful business owner and popular YouTube personality. Chris talks about the power of social media and digital marketing in growing his business and brand, as well as his love for creating how-to videos and educating people on working with their hands.
Why you should listen: This episode is a must-listen for any manufacturer or shop owner interested in expanding their brand through digital platforms. Chris offers practical advice on using YouTube and social media to connect with customers, grow your business, and showcase your expertise.
5. Next-Gen Metal Fab Podcast: The Wide Spectrum of Business Models in Sheet Metal Fabrication
This episode of the newly-launched Next Gen Metal Fab podcast explores the potential for symbiotic relationships between different types of sheet metal fabrication businesses, and a shift towards optimizing the entire production flow rather than just machine productivity. Key takeaways included software being critical to helping you improve efficiency, facilitating scaling up or down while maintaining a lean staff, and speeding up front-office processes like quoting and programming. The discussion highlights the wide spectrum of business models, from turnkey, vertically integrated approaches to horizontal expansion across many industries.
Why you should listen: Walk away with an understanding of how different business models can thrive in the metal fabrication industry, and learn how leveraging automation and software are critical for driving efficiency and optimizing your workflows.
The manufacturing industry is evolving so rapidly that it can feel overwhelming to stay informed. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, explore new technologies, or adapt to industry shifts, check back each month for our podcast round-ups and stay up to speed (hands free).
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