Iowa Business Podcast
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From Entrepreneurial Vision to Employee Ownership: The Story of Stellar Industries (Part 2)
In this follow-up episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we continue our conversation with Dave Zrostlik, CEO of Stellar Industries. In the first episode, we explored the remarkable legacy of Frances Zrostlik and his pioneering role in shaping Garner, Iowa’s economic landscape. Now, we take a closer look at how that legacy has evolved through…
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From Entrepreneurial Vision to Employee Ownership: The Story of Stellar Industries (Part 1)
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with Dave Zrostlik, CEO of Stellar Industries, to explore the legacy of his father, Frances Zrostlik, a pioneer whose entrepreneurial spirit fueled the economic growth of Garner, Iowa. Frances, the founder of Iowa Mold Tool, IMT Transport, and Stellar Industries, was more than just…
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Young Workers in Manufacturing Roles: Opportunity or Risk
In today’s podcast, Leisa Fox welcomed Nick Ott, an Employment and Labor attorney from Iowa Manufacturing Podcast Sponsor BrownWinick, to discuss the recent waivers granted by Iowa Workforce Development. These waivers allow 16- and 17-year-olds to perform high-risk work, despite existing federal restrictions. Nick provided an in-depth analysis of the interaction between state and federal…
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Critical EHS Strategies: Insights from Linden Terpstra
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we sit down with EHS expert Linden Terpstra to discuss essential practices for environmental, health, and safety compliance in manufacturing. Linden shares her extensive knowledge on navigating EHS complexities and emphasizes the value of best practice sharing peer groups, allowing manufacturers to learn from each other’s experiences.…
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Making the Most of Phase Three with Mary Andringa and Jerry Foster
In this episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, we explore the three distinct phases of life: Foundation, Framework, and Finish. The Foundation phase, encompassing the first 25 years, is where our values and character are shaped. During the Framework phase, we experience personal growth and often face self-imposed pressure for immediate success. Our guest, Mary…
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Optimization through A Deep Understanding of Process AND People
In this enlightening episode of The Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox delves into the intersection of people and processes—the critical nexus where true operational magic happens. With a multitude of systems designed to analyze and optimize both the human and procedural aspects of business, understanding how these two facets interconnect is essential for achieving…
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Texas Firm Challenges FTC’s Non-Compete Ban
In this crucial episode of The Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, host Leisa Fox dives into the complex and contentious issue of non-compete agreements with two expert guests, Dani Smid and Julie Solis-Alvarado from BrownWinick Law Firm. With the FTC’s recent ban on non-compete agreements set to take effect on September 4th, 2024, the landscape for employers…
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Build Retention Strategies by Focusing on Followership
In the latest episode of the Iowa Manufacturing Podcast, Leisa Fox interviews Mike Wagner of White Rabbit Group, an ardent lifelong learner with a passion for fostering better leadership and followership. Mike’s enthusiasm is contagious, much like the “Connected Leaders” practice he’s championing across Iowa. Early in the episode, Mike highlights the disparity in literature…
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The Dancer’s Theater: Founder Jessie Schnack’s vision inspires Iowa’s Youth
Jessie Schnack came to Johnston Iowa 3 years ago with the love of the arts in her soul and a vision in her mind. Knowing that she wanted to take her talents in the realm of dance to the youth of Iowa, she made a decision: Bring the arts to life for children with dance…
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The Key to Building True, Genuine Diversity and Inclusion
Leisa talks to Amner Martinez, founder of Infinite Resources recruiting How do you flip your recruiting efforts on their head? Target a whole new demographic. Leisa interviews Amner Martinez, Founder of Infinite Resources, a recruiting firm that is truly creating a community of diversity and inclusion in Iowa. An immigrant growing up in Perry, Amner…