Episodes

  • Nick Haase with MaintainX

    Nick Haase with MaintainX
    Jan 31 2025
    Scott MacKenzie hosts Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX, to discuss their mobile-first, frontline-friendly maintenance management software. MaintainX addresses the inefficiencies of traditional desktop-based CMMS systems by offering a mobile platform that streamlines workflows, reduces downtime, and integrates AI for predictive maintenance. Haas highlights the importance of capturing and digitizing data for AI tools to function effectively. He emphasizes the need for a solid data foundation and gradual AI integration. Maintain X aims to enhance efficiency, safety, and the onboarding of new workforce generations, leveraging IoT and AI to provide real-time insights and automate maintenance tasks. Action Items
    • [ ] Connect with Nick Haase on LinkedIn or Twitter to discuss MaintainX further.
    • [ ] Visit the MaintainX website at getmaintainx.com to learn more about the platform.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends.
    • Scott welcomes listeners and highlights the importance of industrial professionals in changing lives and the world.
    • Scott expresses gratitude to listeners for their support and introduces the guest, Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX.
    • Scott mentions Nick's previous appearances on the show and his active participation in industry events.

    Promotion of Podcasting and Industrial Talk
    • Scott discusses the benefits of having a podcast for industry professionals, emphasizing its role in opening doors and creating opportunities.
    • Scott shares his personal experience with podcasting and how it helped his maintenance company succeed.
    • Scott encourages listeners to consider starting a podcast and offers to help them get started with Industrial Talk.
    • Scott highlights the importance of attention over marketing and how a podcast can leverage content to bring about opportunities.

    Introduction of Nick Haas and MaintainX
    • Nick Haas joins the conversation, reflecting on his previous appearance on the show and the changes in the industry since then.
    • Scott and Nick discuss the evolution of MaintainX, a mobile-first frontline maintenance management software.
    • Nick explains the gap in the market for mobile-friendly CMMS systems and how MaintainX addresses this need.
    • Nick describes the initial challenges and the importance of capturing data digitally for AI integration.

    MaintainX Workflow and Benefits
    • Nick outlines the basic workflow of MaintainX, starting with technicians receiving alerts and accessing contextual information on their devices.
    • Nick emphasizes the efficiency gains from having work instructions and parts lists readily available on the technician's tablet.
    • Nick explains how MaintainX helps save time by reducing the need for technicians to go back and forth to supply rooms.
    • Nick highlights the potential for predictive maintenance and AI integration to further enhance the platform's capabilities.

    AI Integration and Predictive Maintenance
    • Nick discusses the importance of having a solid data foundation for AI tools to be effective.
    • MaintainX offers an AI procedure generator to help build workflows and save time.
    • Nick explains how MaintainX can use AI to generate work orders based on sensor data and predictive alerts.
    • Nick emphasizes the importance of user-friendly interfaces and the goal of making technology a co-pilot for users.

    Challenges and Future of AI in Maintenance
    • Nick acknowledges the challenges of change management and the skepticism towards new...
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    40 mins
  • Meelad Nikpourian with Accruent

    Meelad Nikpourian with Accruent
    Jan 29 2025
    Industrial Talk is onsite at Accruent Insights and talking to Meelad Nikpourian, Vice President, Commercial Software and Strategy at Accruent about "Innovative suite of solution focused on success". Scott MacKenzie and Meelad discuss the Accruent Insights conference in San Antonio, highlighting Accruent's global customer base and recent acquisitions, including a full SaaS EDMS product from Australia. Meelad, VP of Commercial Operations, explains Accruent's strategy to simplify the buying process and integrate solutions, emphasizing the importance of customer insights. They discuss the integration of Accruent's EDMS with Service Channel, enhancing retail maintenance and predicting asset degradation. Meelad notes the significant financial impact of food spoilage and the potential for insurance integration. Looking ahead, Meelad sees Accruent becoming more global and innovative, with a focus on customer-driven solutions. Action Items
    • [ ] Explore the potential insurance benefits for customers by integrating Accruent's asset monitoring data.
    • [ ] Follow up on expanding Accruent's global reach and customer use cases across different markets.
    • [ ] Connect with Melan on LinkedIn to discuss further opportunities.

    Outline Accruent Insights Conference Overview
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
    • Scott mentions the current event at Accruent Insights in San Antonio, Texas, emphasizing the problem-solving atmosphere.
    • Scott and Meelad discuss the success of the conference and the importance of customer insights in driving solutions.
    • Meelad mentions the new leadership under Richard Lurick and the global reach of Accruent's customer base.

    Introduction of Speaker 2 and Role
    • Meelad introduces himself as the Vice President of Commercial Operations and Strategy at Accruent.
    • He explains his role in working closely with global go-to-market teams, marketing, sales, and product leaders.
    • Meelad emphasizes the importance of providing a seamless experience for both prospects and customers throughout the buying cycle.
    • He describes the conversion process from lead capture to nurturing and handing over to account executives.

    Challenges in the Buying Process
    • Scott and Meelad discuss the increasing complexity of the buying process with more stakeholders involved.
    • Meelad highlights Accruent's efforts to reduce complexity by making the buying process easier and integrating solutions.
    • They talk about the importance of providing combined packages that add more value to customers.
    • Meelad clarifies that Accruent still caters to single-point solutions and the importance of integrations with external products.

    Integration and Customization of Solutions
    • Meelad explains the integration of Accruent's solutions with leading CMS and EDMS products.
    • He emphasizes the importance of providing a holistic solution for customers, regardless of their portfolio.
    • Scott and Meelad discuss the potential for adding value by integrating existing products with new solutions.
    • Meelad mentions the bi-directional integration with Service Channel, a leading CMS for the retail space.

    Retail Use Case and AI Capabilities
    • Meelad provides a detailed use case for a grocery store using Accruent's solutions to monitor and predict
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    20 mins
  • Ed Marsh with Ed Marsh Consulting

    Ed Marsh with Ed Marsh Consulting
    Jan 27 2025
    Industrial Talk is onsite at FABTECH and talking to Ed Marsh, Founder of Ed Marsh Consulting about "Real Tactical Solutions for Manufacturing Success". Scott MacKenzie and Ed Marsh discuss the importance of edutainment and "cool content" in manufacturing sales and marketing. Ed emphasizes that traditional marketing methods are no longer effective, and companies need to create trust through engaging, passive content like videos and podcasts. He suggests focusing on topics that address known and unknown issues for businesses, such as employee retention and innovative benefits like on-site childcare. Ed highlights the need for top-down leadership to adopt these strategies and stresses the long-term nature of building trust. He also mentions the inefficiency of trade show leads and the importance of video content in capturing attention. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Ed Marsh to learn more about his "cool content" and "edutainment" approach.
    • [ ] Explore creating video and audio content that focuses on topics important to your customers' businesses, rather than just your own products and services.
    • [ ] Consider how the board of directors can be involved in overseeing the company's marketing and sales strategies.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome to Fabtech
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and welcomes Ed Marsh, highlighting his contributions to the industry.
    • Scott mentions the location of the podcast at Fabtech in Orlando, Florida, and the involvement of PMA.
    • Ed Marsh joins the conversation, mentioning he arrived in the morning and was informed about the need for a hard hat and work boots.
    • Scott and Ed engage in a light-hearted exchange about Ed's famous bronze handout and their previous meeting at the Orlando Convention Center.

    Ed Marsh's Background and Consulting Business
    • Ed shares his background, including his time in the army and transition to the packaging machinery business.
    • He explains his consulting business, which helps industrial manufacturers, particularly capital equipment companies, improve their sales processes.
    • Ed emphasizes the contrast between well-documented back-end processes and ad hoc marketing and sales efforts.
    • He discusses the importance of applying rigorous process engineering and continuous improvement mindsets to the front-end of the business.

    The Concept of Edutainment and Cool Content
    • Ed introduces the concept of edutainment, which combines education and entertainment to create engaging content that can be consumed passively.
    • He explains the shift in consumer behavior, where people no longer read articles but consume video and audio content while doing other activities.
    • Ed highlights the challenge of getting the first meeting with potential clients and the role of edutainment in building trust.
    • He introduces the idea of "cool content," which focuses on known unknowns and unknown unknowns, addressing topics that are important to the audience but may not be immediately obvious.

    Challenges and Strategies for Implementing Cool Content
    • Scott and Ed discuss the challenges of getting companies to focus on cool content and the importance of top-down leadership.
    • Ed explains that only a small percentage of companies will adopt new strategies, and the key is to identify leaders within those companies.
    • They discuss the evolving role of boards of directors...
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    21 mins
  • Clint Padgett with Project Success

    Clint Padgett with Project Success
    Jan 24 2025
    Scott MacKenzie promotes the benefits of podcasting for business and emphasizes the importance of project management and leadership. Clint Padgett, founder and CEO of Project Success, Inc., discusses the challenges of project management, particularly the misconceptions around agile methodologies and the necessity of detailed planning. He highlights the importance of executive support, team collaboration, and the need for a balanced approach to project detail. Padgett also stresses the significance of conversations and relationships in project success and the necessity of adapting to changes. He offers his company's services for project management training and support. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Clint Padgett to discuss project management support for your organization.
    • [ ] Review your company's project portfolio and identify opportunities to improve planning and resource allocation.
    • [ ] Implement collaborative planning sessions to build alignment and accountability among project team members.

    Outline Introduction and Podcast Promotion
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its global reach and celebration of industrial professionals.
    • Scott promotes the benefits of podcasting for business, urging companies to leverage this platform for marketing.
    • He mentions his series on leveraging podcasting for business and offers help to those who are struggling with their podcast's traction.
    • Scott highlights upcoming events, including the MD&M event in Anaheim, and encourages listeners to connect with him at these events.

    Introduction of Clint Padgett
    • Scott introduces Clint Padgett, founder and CEO of Project Success, Inc., and sets the stage for a discussion on project management and leadership.
    • Clint confirms his participation and mentions his own podcast, "The Conversation with Clint Padgett," on Forbes Books Radio.
    • Scott invites Clint to share his background, leading Clint to recount his journey from the Navy to Georgia Tech, Duke University, and his career at Coca-Cola and Project Success, Inc.

    Discussion on PMP Certification
    • Scott inquires about the relevance of PMP certification in today's industry.
    • Clint explains that while PMP certification can be beneficial for pride, job searches, or salary negotiations, it does not necessarily reflect one's qualifications.
    • Clint emphasizes that project management roles focus more on real-life experience and problem-solving skills rather than just passing a test.

    Challenges in Project Management
    • Clint discusses the misconception that agile methodologies can deliver faster, cheaper, and higher-quality results.
    • He explains the interrelation of time, cost, and quality, noting that faster delivery often means compromising quality or spending more money.
    • Scott and Clint agree that agile should remain in the software development space rather than being applied broadly across industries.

    Importance of Executive Sponsorship and Planning
    • Scott and Clint discuss the importance of executive sponsorship in project success.
    • Clint highlights the need for detailed planning, especially for long-term projects, to understand the ripple effects of delays.
    • They emphasize the importance of conversations and collaboration in project management to ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities.

    Balancing Detail and Flexibility in Project Planning
    • Clint explains the balance between detailed planning for near-term tasks and less detailed planning for long-term tasks.
    • He stresses the importance of having a plan that allows for flexibility and...
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    31 mins
  • Technology for Effective Event Planning

    Technology for Effective Event Planning
    Jan 22 2025
    Industrial Talk is onsite at Accruent Insights and talking to Kate Fleming, Brittany Thompson and Tina Reagan with the Missouri's University System about "Deploying Technology for Effective Event Planning". Scott MacKenzie hosts a podcast discussing the University of Missouri's transition to a new event management software (EMS) and advanced space intelligence (ASI) system. Kate, Brittany, and Tina from the University of Missouri detail how the new system will streamline processes, save time, and improve efficiency. The current system is outdated and siloed, leading to inefficiencies in booking and managing events. The new EMS will centralize operations, provide better data, and enhance customer service. The transition is expected to take 6-8 months, with a focus on training and data import. The ASI system will help with space utilization and planning, aiding in future building design and event management. Action Items
    • [ ] Implement the EMS system within the next 2-3 months
    • [ ] Provide training to campus departments on the new EMS system
    • [ ] Explore the capabilities of the ASI system and provide feedback to Accruent to improve the product for higher education use
    • [ ] Involve the event management team in the design and planning of new campus buildings to ensure appropriate event spaces are included
    • [ ] Utilize the data and reporting capabilities of the EMS and ASI systems to make data-driven decisions about campus event space needs

    Outline Introduction and Event Context
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and its focus on industrial innovations and trends.
    • The podcast is broadcasting from the site of the event, though there is some confusion about the location.
    • Scott introduces the three guests: Kate, Brittany, and Tina from the University of Missouri.
    • The event is described as a great opportunity for networking and problem-solving in higher education.

    Guest Introductions and Backgrounds
    • Kate shares her background, having been at the University of Missouri for over 15 years and playing a key role in configuring their event management software (EMS).
    • Kate's work on EMS led to a significant increase in revenue for the university.
    • Brittany discusses her background, including her military family and her roles at the University of Missouri, including her current position as Director of Events and Hospitality Management.
    • Tina provides a brief background, mentioning her role in managing operations at Missouri S&T and her involvement in the transition to the new event management system.

    Current Systems and Challenges
    • Kate explains the current system used at the University of Missouri, which is not user-friendly and does not provide a centralized approach to event management.
    • The new system, EMS, is described as a comprehensive tool that includes communication, pricing, and booking features, making it easier for clients to use.
    • The current system does not allow for live availability checks, leading to inefficiencies and time-consuming processes.
    • The new system is expected to save significant time and improve the overall user experience.

    Transition to New System
    • Brittany and Tina discuss the transition to the new EMS system, which will centralize all event-related processes and improve efficiency.
    • The new system will allow clients to book events online, reducing the need for...
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    30 mins
  • Maria Pardo and Andres Artigas with Integra Tecnologia

    Maria Pardo and Andres Artigas with Integra Tecnologia
    Jan 21 2025
    Industrial Talk is onsite at IoT Solutions World Congress and talking to Maria Mateo Pardo and Andres Mallada Artigas with Integra Tecnologia about "Solutions for smart cities and smart resorts". Scott MacKenzie hosts a podcast episode from the IoT Solutions World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, featuring Andres Malara and Maria Interact from Integra. They discuss the concept of a "smart ski resort," which involves integrating IoT and AI technologies to enhance efficiency and user experience across various resort facilities, including gondolas and lodging. The smart solutions aim to optimize energy consumption, improve safety with SOS buttons, and provide real-time insights for better decision-making. The project in Formula saved 30% energy by managing gondola speeds based on passenger numbers. Contact details for Integra are provided for those interested in learning more. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Andres to learn more about the smart ski resort solution.
    • [ ] Reach out to Maria to discuss IoT technology applications for smart ski resorts.

    Outline Introduction to the Podcast and Event
    • Scott MacKenzie welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the focus on industry innovations and professionals.
    • Scott thanks the listeners for their support and highlights the importance of industrial professionals in solving global problems.
    • The podcast is broadcasting from the IoT Solutions World Congress in Barcelona, Spain, showcasing the event's significance and the caliber of professionals attending.
    • Scott encourages listeners to mark their calendars for next year's event, describing it as a must-attend for industry enthusiasts.

    Introduction of Guests Andres and Maria
    • Scott introduces Andres and Maria, who are in the "hot seat" to discuss smart ski resorts.
    • Andres and Maria have previously showcased a smart vehicle at the event, and this year they have a smart gondola in their booth.
    • Scott asks Maria to provide a background on herself, and she shares her experience as a project manager in IoT and her current role as a Data Service Specialist.
    • Andres introduces himself as the technical lead project manager in IoT at Integra, with a background in telecommunications.

    Explanation of Smart Ski Resorts
    • Andres explains that a smart ski resort involves connecting all parts of the resort, including restaurants and hotels, to enhance efficiency and user experience.
    • Maria adds that smart technology can help optimize gondola speeds based on the number of people, improving efficiency and user experience.
    • Andres emphasizes the importance of insights over just data, explaining how monitoring various variables can lead to better decision-making.
    • The discussion highlights the broader impact of smart technology on the resort's efficiency and sustainability, reducing environmental impact.

    Deployment and Benefits of Smart Solutions
    • Andres discusses the challenges of deploying smart solutions in ski resorts, including the need for wireless technology to cover large areas.
    • Maria explains the timeline for deploying a smart solution, estimating it takes three to four months to set up the network and install sensors.
    • Andres shares that the first project was implemented in a ski resort in Formula, saving 30% energy compared to the previous year.
    • The savings are attributed to optimized gondola speeds and other...
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    16 mins
  • Brian Brzinski with AMMS Consulting

    Brian Brzinski with AMMS Consulting
    Jan 17 2025
    Industrial Talk is onsite at Accruent Insights and talking to Brian Brzinski, Founder/CEO at AMSS Consulting about "Digital Transformation and need for Qualified Sherpas for the Journey". Scott MacKenzie interviews Brian Brzinski, CEO of Advanced Management Systems and Services (AMSS), at the Insight event in San Antonio, Texas. Brzinski discusses his journey from a steel mill laborer to founding AMSS 14 years ago, which provides consulting services to manufacturers and facility managers. He emphasizes the importance of pragmatic approaches to AI and IoT implementation, helping clients optimize their systems without unnecessary expenditure. Brzinski also highlights the challenges of staffing and training in the industry, offering solutions like six-month trial periods for staffing. He concludes by discussing the future of AI in automating decision-making processes and the necessity of cybersecurity in digital transformation. Action Items
    • [ ] Connect with Brian Brzinski on LinkedIn.
    • [ ] Reach out to AMSS through their website at AMSSconsulting.com or by emailing Brian directly at B.brzinski@AMSSconsulting.com
    • [ ] Participate in AMSS's monthly roundtable discussions to hear from industry experts.

    Outline Introduction and Welcome
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and its focus on industry professionals.
    • Scott thanks the listeners for their support and highlights the importance of industry professionals.
    • The podcast is broadcasting live from the Insight event in San Antonio, Texas.
    • Scott introduces Brian Brzinski, the founder of Advanced Management Systems and Services, and sets the stage for the discussion.

    Brian Brzinski's Background
    • Brian shares his background, starting as a laborer in a steel mill in 1994.
    • He worked his way up to a journeyman electrician and then to a director in a $5 billion company.
    • Brian founded his consulting firm 14 years ago to support manufacturers and facility managers.
    • His firm has worked with clients like Blue Apron and GE Appliances, focusing on continuous improvement and pragmatic approaches.

    The Aha Moment and Company Vision
    • Brian discusses the aha moment that led him to start his consulting firm.
    • He noticed a gap in communication between technical and upper management levels.
    • Brian's firm helps clients optimize their processes and make them actionable.
    • The focus is on tailoring solutions to specific needs rather than a shotgun approach.

    Digital Transformation and AI
    • Scott and Brian discuss the importance of digital transformation and AI in manufacturing.
    • Brian explains how his firm helps clients optimize their AI and IoT systems.
    • The goal is to avoid buying unnecessary sensors and to ensure data is actionable.
    • Brian emphasizes the importance of training AI to be more efficient and effective.

    Staffing and Training Challenges
    • Brian highlights the challenges of staffing and training in the industry.
    • His firm offers a six-month trial period for staffing, with a guarantee to replace employees if they don't work out.
    • Training is offered in various formats, including on-site and online webinars.
    • The focus is on making training relevant to specific roles and needs within the organization.

    Cybersecurity and Cloud Solutions
    • Scott...
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    20 mins
  • Robin Daniels and Andy Roberts with Zensai

    Robin Daniels and Andy Roberts with Zensai
    Jan 15 2025
    Scott MacKenzie hosts a podcast discussing the Human Success Platform from Zensai with guests Robin Daniels and Andy Roberts. The platform aims to address the 70% employee dissatisfaction rate by focusing on continuous learning, high-performance culture, and employee engagement. Key features include weekly check-ins, AI-driven feedback, and seamless integration with Microsoft Teams. The platform allows for flexible goal setting, AI-generated training courses, and real-time performance tracking. Implementation is quick, typically taking a few days, and the platform supports both compliance and development training. The goal is to enhance employee satisfaction, retention, and overall organizational success. Action Items
    • [ ] Reach out to Robin Daniels (robin@sensei.com) or Andy Roberts (LinkedIn) to learn more about the Zensai Human Success Platform.
    • [ ] Explore the Zensai platform and its features, such as the weekly check-ins and AI-powered learning content creation.
    • [ ] Consider implementing the Zensai platform to improve employee engagement, retention, and alignment with company goals within your organization.

    Outline Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast
    • Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on industrial innovations and trends.
    • Scott mentions the podcast's goal to highlight industrial professionals and their contributions.
    • The episode is part of a webcast series, specifically focusing on the Human Success Platform from Sensei.
    • Scott introduces the guests, Robin Daniels and Andy Roberts, and sets the stage for discussing the platform.

    Overview of the Human Success Platform
    • Scott describes the Human Success Platform as a solution to ensure employees are aligned and productive.
    • The platform aims to make employees smarter, stronger, and faster, especially in a rapidly changing world.
    • Scott shares a personal note about becoming a grandfather and his excitement about it.
    • Scott promotes the importance of having a podcast for digital marketing and encourages listeners to consider starting one.

    Introduction of Robin and Andy
    • Scott welcomes Robin and Andy to the podcast and mentions their roles at Sensei.
    • Robin introduces himself as the Chief Business Officer at Sensei and explains the motivation behind the Human Success Platform.
    • Robin highlights the issue of employee dissatisfaction and the need for continuous learning and skill development.
    • Andy introduces himself as the EVP of Product and explains his previous role in founding Weekly 10, which contributed to the platform's development.

    Core Principles of the Human Success Platform
    • Robin outlines the three core principles of the platform: continuous learning, high performance culture, and employee engagement.
    • The platform provides tools for continuous learning, goal setting, and performance tracking.
    • Robin emphasizes the importance of clarity in goals and the need for regular check-ins to ensure alignment.
    • The platform aims to create a sense of belonging and purpose among employees, leading to better performance and retention.

    Weekly Check-Ins and AI Integration
    • Andy explains the concept of weekly check-ins and their importance in providing real-time feedback and insights.
    • The platform uses AI to guide managers in providing effective feedback and support.
    • Weekly check-ins are designed to be reflective and qualitative, encouraging employees to share their experiences and challenges.
    • The platform also includes peer-to-peer recognition, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

    ...
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    52 mins