Wendy also introduces an important new resource for Iowa employers: the Work-Based Learning Business Playbook, available September 1, 2026. Designed as a practical guide for businesses, the Playbook walks employers through using work-based learning as a talent development strategy, Iowa’s WBL framework, connecting with learners at every stage, designing a WBL strategy and creating high-quality experiences. It also tackles practical issues employers need to understand, including liability and hazardous occupations for students under 18 and Iowa’s Career and Technical Education system. The goal is to help businesses address workforce shortages, develop the next generation of talent, strengthen their communities and achieve measurable ROI from work-based learning. Employers interested in the Playbook or partnering with iJAG can contact Wendy Mihm-Herold directly at wendy.mihm-herold@ijag.org.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

These meals are designed to do more than fill a belly. Their nutritional content helps children grow, learn and thrive—feeding minds as well as bodies. Debby also shares how listeners can join the mission by signing up for Meals from the Heartland’s volunteer events coming up in September.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Guests:

• Daniel Doderer, economist and senior consultant, ITR Economics

• Brad Jungling, vice president of operations, LDJ Manufacturing Inc.

• Lori Mason, president, Seneca Foundry Co.

• Ton Stam, co-founder, Chocolaterie Stam

Presenting sponsor: ⁨Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Throughout the conversation, one theme rose above all others: an unwavering focus on the customer. Whether investing in new equipment, embracing emerging technologies, streamlining operations, or expanding capabilities, every decision is filtered through a single question—how does this better serve the customer? Rather than viewing technology as a replacement for people, Universal Printing sees it as a way to deliver greater quality, faster turnaround, and more innovative solutions. Their story is a reminder that longevity isn't achieved by resisting change, but by continually reinventing your business while staying true to the relationships and values that built it in the first place.

Presenting Sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

In this episode, Leisa talks with Jake Oakland about how his 16 years at John Deere helped shape his leadership perspective, from developing people to learning and applying worldwide best practices in pursuit of a best-in-class team in Perry. There is a powerful parallel between Jake’s own evolution as a leader and Percival’s evolution as a company. Percival is flourishing because of the foundation Gary Wheelock built and the fresh perspective Jake brings to its next chapter, showing how legacy and new leadership can work together to strengthen culture, drive performance and position an Iowa manufacturer for the future.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield ‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

But this conversation is about much more than technology. Dan talks about the importance of communication, employee input and bringing people along when a major operational change reshapes how work gets done. We explore how the system has reduced physical strain, improved picking accuracy, strengthened the customer experience and dramatically impacted turnover. It is a compelling look at what happens when an Iowa company pairs automation with thoughtful change management, using technology not simply to increase efficiency, but to create a safer, more sustainable workplace and a stronger operation for the future.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

That same customer-first mindset is evident in Thunder Creek Equipment. Built by listening closely to contractors, farmers, and fleet operators, Thunder Creek has continually evolved to solve real-world challenges in the field. As customer needs changed, so did the company—expanding from innovative fuel and service trailers into truck-mounted solutions that bring even greater flexibility to job sites. Throughout the conversation, one theme rises above all others: technical skills can be taught, but character cannot. Ben and Brad explain why they prioritize culture fit before skill fit, believing the right people—those who embrace the company's values and purpose—are the foundation for innovation, exceptional customer service, and long-term success.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Register for Manufacturing Forecast event: https://www.madeiniowabr.com/manufacturing-forecast-event

The conversation also looks ahead as Beth shares how Iowa Workforce Development prepares for a transition to a new administration and what that kind of leadership change means for maintaining momentum in a fast-moving workforce environment. From automation and upskilling to demographic pressures and global competition, this is a conversation about far more than one grant program. It is about how Iowa takes the lessons of COVID, the groundwork laid through Industry 4.0 and the opportunities created through AMP’D to build a workforce strategy capable of competing in the future.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Register for Manufacturing Forecast event: https://www.madeiniowabr.com/manufacturing-forecast-event

The conversation takes listeners behind the curtain of Kreg's product development process, where teams carefully studied the industry's leading competitors, deconstructed products, conducted extensive life-cycle and load testing, and identified opportunities to deliver premium performance at an attainable price point. Jerry explains how thoughtful engineering, intentional design choices, and relentless testing allowed Kreg to create tools that feel professional without carrying a professional-level price tag. It's a fascinating look at innovation, customer obsession, and how an Iowa company is challenging industry giants by putting high-quality solutions into the hands of everyday makers.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Register for Manufacturing Forecast event: https://www.madeiniowabr.com/manufacturing-forecast-event

Mary discusses the importance of treating the whole person, not just the disease, and explains how the organization creates opportunities for survivors to rebuild confidence physically, emotionally, and mentally. From mountain climbs to community support initiatives, the impact reaches far beyond Iowa and continues to inspire cancer survivors around the world. It’s a conversation about resilience, perspective, and the power of surrounding people with encouragement during some of life’s hardest moments.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield‬ https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

One of the most important themes from the conversation was balance. Greer encouraged businesses to be optimistic about the possibilities AI creates, while also recognizing that not all “AI experts” are equal. His advice was simple: do the smell test first. Look for practical experience, operational understanding, and measurable outcomes rather than hype. Used wisely, AI is becoming a transformational tool for organizations looking to improve performance, scalability, and decision-making.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨‪Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

At the same time, Hormel isn’t standing still. John shares how the company has been strategically rolling out AI capabilities since 2009 to better predict demand and optimize production planning—ensuring the right products are made at the right time without waste. That forward-thinking approach extends to product innovation as well, from advancements in pasteurization techniques to consumer-friendly solutions like oven-ready bacon that goes straight from package to pan-free cooking. It’s a balance of precision and progress—where legacy brands stay relevant by continuously evolving how they operate and what they deliver.

Presenting sponsor: ⁨ ⁨@wellmarkbcbs⁩  https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

What truly sets Paul Mueller apart, though, is its commitment to open-book management, inspired by The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack. Amy explains how this level of transparency—sharing financials, teaching employees how the business runs, and giving them a stake in the outcome—creates a culture of ownership across the organization. When employees understand how their daily decisions impact the bottom line, trust deepens, innovation accelerates, and productivity follows. It transforms the workforce from task-doers into problem-solvers who are actively engaged in the company’s success. In an industry facing constant pressure from supply chain shifts and evolving customer demands, that culture of accountability and shared purpose is a powerful competitive advantage.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

A key driver of that culture is Altec’s commitment to real-time communication across the organization. Employees are empowered with clear, accessible ways to report safety concerns, flag engineering challenges, and raise HR questions without delay. That immediacy removes bottlenecks in problem-solving and ensures issues are addressed before they escalate. More importantly, it builds trust—employees know their voices are heard and acted upon. The result is a more engaged workforce, faster innovation cycles, and stronger retention. In an industry where speed, safety, and precision all matter, this kind of open communication isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive advantage.

The episode also looks ahead to what could be one of the most exciting years in tournament history. With Iowa native Zach Johnson now eligible for the Champions Tour, anticipation is building for an unforgettable week at Wakonda. Ken and Alex share the vision, energy, and momentum behind this milestone year while highlighting the tournament’s continued commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for Iowa youth. From economic impact to charitable giving to world-class golf, this year’s Principal Charity Classic is shaping up to be a celebration of legacy, community, and possibility.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

The conversation also explores the evolving opportunities within manufacturing and supply chain careers, particularly for younger generations who may not fully understand the innovation and long-term potential within the industry. Rapp shares how recent tariff changes have unexpectedly created positive momentum for Auto-Jet by strengthening domestic manufacturing demand and opening new opportunities for American producers. It’s an insightful discussion about adaptability, workforce development, and why Iowa manufacturers continue to play a critical role in the national economy.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

The episode also highlighted the changing landscape of construction and development across Iowa. Mike reflected on the importance of adaptability, communication, and investing in people at every level of the organization. From attracting younger talent into the trades to navigating economic shifts and evolving customer expectations, the discussion reinforced that successful companies are built intentionally over time. It’s a thoughtful conversation about leadership, culture, and building organizations designed to last.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

The conversation moves beyond business strategy into leadership, family, and identity. She shares how being AuDHD has shaped the way she approaches innovation, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, while also opening up about co-parenting and running a business alongside her former spouse—who also happens to be her first apprentice and master craftsman. From launching Iowa’s only Registered Apprenticeship program in upholstery to challenging the culture of “fast furniture” and advocating for a circular furniture economy, this episode is packed with insight about reinvention, unconventional leadership, and why the skilled trades may be one of the biggest opportunities of the next decade. The Made in Iowa podcast, a Des Moines Business Record product presented by Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield, from the Iowa Everywhere studio.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Joined by consultant Erin Rollenhagen, the conversation shifts to what it takes to evolve and scale a highly specialized business. Erin brings a strategic lens to leadership, growth, and positioning, highlighting the opportunities - and risks - that come with complexity in today’s built environments. Together, they reflect on Jim’s succession plan, the importance of developing talent in a technical field, and why this behind-the-scenes work offers meaningful, high-impact careers. It’s a conversation about legacy, precision, and the kind of Iowa-built business that quietly keeps the world running.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

A cornerstone of that culture is empowerment. Hines and Woods emphasize the importance of creating an environment where every employee feels responsible—and safe—to speak up: “If you see something, you say something.” That mindset has helped ALMACO earn recognition as one of only five companies in Iowa to achieve OSHA SHARP (Safety & Health Achievement Recognition Program) certification, a distinction that reflects not just compliance, but excellence. For ALMACO, safety isn’t a box to check—it’s a strategic advantage and a key driver of long-term success.

The company’s origin story is just as compelling as its impact. Founded by Gabe Glynn after a conversation with his father—who oversaw 1,800 employees in a high-risk environment—Makusafe was built to ease the burden of safety leadership. Today, it’s helping companies reduce costs, improve outcomes, and build stronger safety cultures rooted in awareness and prevention. This conversation is packed with practical insights for business leaders ready to move beyond compliance and into a smarter, more proactive way of protecting their people.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Renee spoke with reverence about the meticulous historic preservation of the 1939 theater — the painstaking collaboration with providers who were committed to honoring its roots while preparing it for the future. She described the “happy accident” that brought a large group of talented Americana employees into the fold at exactly the right moment, calling it one of the greatest blessings in the journey. From the incredible team and world-class talent on stage to the glow of the gorgeous marquee lighting up Ingersoll Avenue, you can feel it: this isn’t just a project. It’s a calling. And under Renee and Chris’s leadership, The Ingersoll is not only preserved — it’s alive.

Out of 700 to 800 businesses reviewed, only five or six make the cut. Once acquired, the work begins—professionalizing operations, installing scalable systems, building leadership infrastructure, and preparing the company for long-term sustainability. This isn’t about quick exits; it’s about disciplined transformation. When asked if he ever wants to keep the companies they acquire, John answered without hesitation: “YES!” But their mandate is clear—deliver strong returns for investors while leaving each company healthier, more valuable, and better positioned for the future. It’s a practical, powerful strategy for preserving America’s industrial backbone while creating measurable growth.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

Together, Megan and Jon unpack the power of relationships, the discipline of surrounding yourself with people smarter than you, and the courage required to scale a dream into a formidable player in the woodworking industry. Aronson’s signature “Claze” process — which isolates and enhances wood grain in a bold, graphic way — is redefining how we see and experience reclaimed hardwoods. This conversation is about craftsmanship, innovation, and the kind of partnership that turns vision into legacy.

Presenting sponsor: Wellmark https://wellmark.com/MadeinIowa

We also explore the importance of expanding year-round, nationwide access to E15 to support Iowa’s biofuels industry and the critical role international partnerships play through trade missions and growing export relationships. Secretary Naig highlights emerging opportunities for specialty crop producers and explains how the Iowa Farm Act and the Choose Iowa program are helping elevate locally produced food and farm products. When asked about his greatest accomplishment, Naig points to the momentum behind Choose Iowa—an initiative designed to make it easier for consumers to identify and support products grown and made in Iowa while creating new opportunities for farmers, food producers, and rural communities across the state.

Billie didn’t plan to become an inventor or retail entrepreneur. As a busy mom trying to pause a painting project when her daughter woke up from a nap, she grew tired of using plastic wrap and wasting brushes. After searching Amazon for a better solution — and realizing it didn’t exist — she decided to create one herself.

In this inspiring conversation, Billie explains how necessity sparked innovation, how she developed her product from scratch, and what it really takes to break into major retail stores. She also shares behind-the-scenes insight on funding a product-based business, navigating manufacturing, pitching to retailers, and scaling a brand from Iowa to a national audience.

Iowa’s future — including the strength of its manufacturing industry — depends on having clean, abundant water. Erin and Ann explain how Water Rocks! supports that future by fostering stewardship and curiosity across communities statewide. From classroom resources to statewide challenges, their work connects environmental science with everyday life and economic vitality. For more about their programs and how they’re inspiring the next generation of water leaders, visit https://www.waterrocks.org/.

Will also introduces listeners to Monks Brandy’s newest addition, The Liberty—a modern twist on the classic Sidecar and a refreshing summer-ready cocktail. As the brand begins to find its way into retail spaces across Iowa and beyond, this conversation offers a ground-floor look at an entrepreneur who proves that timing, experience, and courage matter more than age. It’s a story about trusting your instincts, building something meaningful, and pouring your past into a product designed for the future.

In Iowa, business is personal. It’s built on long-term relationships, earned trust, and doing what you say you’re going to do. Those values anchor Unison and show up in the buildings they design—spaces that reflect the people, missions, and communities they serve. Laura shares what it means to lead with intention, why bravery and trust go hand in hand, and how truly listening to clients results in buildings that are not only beautiful, but deeply representative of the organizations inside them. This conversation is a powerful reminder that when you design in unison with your clients, the results endure.

Under Loras’s leadership, Douglas Machine & Engineering has focused on expanding market segments, diversifying its customer base, and reorganizing internally to support long-term growth. By intentionally reducing reliance on any single sector—particularly the cyclical swings of agriculture—Loras has strengthened the company’s resilience and created a more stable, future-ready business. His story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to take a calculated risk, lead with purpose, and make a meaningful impact. Tune in to hear Loras’s inspiring journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

That responsibility shows up in uncompromising standards. What once passed as elite performance in defense manufacturing has been redefined. Endurance expectations have tripled, weapons are tested across brutal temperature extremes, and reliability isn’t optional—it’s assumed for decades of service in sand, mud, cold, heat, and chaos. LMT has scaled alongside those demands, growing from 85 employees in a cramped facility to 215 people in a state-of-the-art operation, supported by a strong Iowa workforce and a community that believed in what they were building. Today, their precision-made products serve nearly 40 countries around the world.

Yet what truly sets LMT apart isn’t just growth or global reach—it’s how they treat their customers. While larger competitors push one-size-fits-all solutions, LMT builds relationships through customization, flexibility, and service. They’ve never lost a military customer to a competitor. Even in an industry marked by volatility and uncertainty, the company’s north star remains clear. “Integrity is the foundation of our moral structure,” says COO and CFO Jim Jestile. Doing right by the customer. Doing right by employees. And ultimately, doing right by the soldiers who depend on them. That’s the heart of this Iowa success story—and why it’s worth listening to.

Riley shares insights into engineering, innovation, and the company’s long-term vision, highlighting how Electrical Power Products continues to evolve in a rapidly changing industry. Amanda brings the workforce perspective, candidly discussing the challenges of sustaining rapid growth while protecting a strong, people-first culture. Together, they illustrate how intentional leadership, investment in employees, and a commitment to quality have allowed the company to scale without losing its soul. This episode is a powerful reminder that Iowa manufacturing isn’t just about products—it’s about people, purpose, and powering the future.

A significant focus of the discussion centers on people and workforce development. Accumold leaders emphasize that their success is driven by culture, long employee tenure, and intentional career pathways—standing in stark contrast to national manufacturing turnover trends. The episode candidly addresses the challenges facing the skilled trades, including the aging workforce, skills gaps, and outdated perceptions among younger generations. Accumold’s response is proactive and hopeful, highlighted through programs like Accumold Scholars, Iowa Learns, and deep partnerships with schools such as DMACC. Together, these initiatives showcase manufacturing as a viable, future-proof career path offering strong wages, hands-on learning, educational support, and long-term opportunity—right here in Iowa.

Cramer highlights early success stories that demonstrate the real-world impact of these initiatives and emphasizes that collaboration with Iowa’s business community is essential to continued progress. He calls on business leaders to engage with workforce programs, share feedback, and partner in shaping solutions that meet evolving industry needs. By working together, Iowa’s public and private sectors can build a stronger workforce, drive innovation, and secure a prosperous future for communities across the state.

Julie also talks about the power of partnerships—how industry, education, and community can work together to make learning tangible, relevant, and inspiring. This conversation connects the dots between STEM education and Iowa’s long-term competitiveness, reminding us that the future workforce isn’t built overnight—it’s sparked early, nurtured intentionally, and strengthened when business and community step up together.

A key takeaway from this discussion is the value of building a relationship with a trusted facilities maintenance and mitigation partner before disaster strikes. Michele shares how Servpro’s partnerships with companies like TrueNorth create smoother claims processes, prioritized response times, and reduced long-term costs. The experts agree: when crisis hits — whether from water, fire, or storm damage — having the right number in your phone and the right plan in place can make all the difference. This episode is full of actionable insights for businesses, property managers, and anyone looking to stay one step ahead of risk.

Recorded after a tour of LifeServe’s state-of-the-art Johnston facility, this episode explores how Stacy and her team have embedded lean thinking, efficiency, and innovation into every corner of the organization—including bold investments in whole cell therapy manufacturing. This is a behind-the-scenes look at a forward-thinking nonprofit that is quite literally on the front lines of saving lives—and why donating locally with LifeServe makes all the difference.

As the renewable energy industry continues to expand across the Midwest, a new challenge has emerged — what happens to those massive wind turbine blades when their life cycle ends? Enter Nick Wylie and his team at Renewablade, innovators who are transforming a serious sustainability problem into an incredible opportunity.

Across the country, “windblade graveyards” have been filling up — acres of composite materials that are difficult, if not impossible, to recycle. Nick saw both the environmental cost and the untapped potential. Renewablade developed a breakthrough process that repurposes decommissioned wind turbine blades into durable, practical infrastructure solutions such as jersey barriers and retaining wall blocks.

These massive components, once destined for landfills, are now serving a second life — protecting roadways, stabilizing landscapes, and supporting communities. The result? A closed-loop, circular-economy solution that reduces waste, strengthens infrastructure, and redefines how we think about renewable energy’s full life cycle.

In this episode, Nick shares:

• The origins of Renewablade and how he identified this massive gap in renewable energy waste management.
  

• The technical and logistical challenges of cutting, transporting, and reshaping wind blades into usable products.
  

• How partnerships with cities, contractors, and energy companies are fueling a new green industry born right here in Iowa.
  

• The bigger vision: positioning Iowa as a national leader in sustainable materials innovation.
  

This conversation is a fascinating reminder that innovation doesn’t end with energy production — it continues with what we do next.

Nicole also highlights ABI’s Foundation programs, including Leadership Iowa, Leadership Iowa University, and Business Horizons, which prepare the next generation of business and civic leaders. Together, she and Leisa look ahead to the 2026 legislative session, where ABI will continue advocating for policies that drive business growth, innovation, and opportunity across the state.

We also take a deep dive into the history of THC legislation in Iowa and beyond, tracking its evolution from taboo to mainstream beverage innovation. David and Kayla speak candidly about the regulatory challenges and opportunities that come with pioneering a federally legal hemp product that delivers subtle, predictable THC + CBD effects. From farm bill nuances to retail rollout in Iowa and across the country, this episode brings listeners behind the scenes of how law, innovation and flavor converge in a brand built on purpose and place.