Advertise on podcast: HIRED! The Podcast With Travis Miller

What does it really take to start an automation company with no safety net? In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller talks with James Butler about the leap from employee to founder, the risks behind starting Bridger Automation, and how leadership, hiring, and decision making change when it’s your business on the line. // ABOUT OUR GUEST James Butler is the President and Founder of Bridger Automation, specializing in warehouse automation, conveyor controls, electrical integration, and WCS software. He brings hands-on experience from electrical work to software integration and commissioning, with a focus on building practical, scalable automation solutions. // CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ⏵ James Butler ⏵ Bridger Automation _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #leadership #entrepreneurship #sales #engineering #careerdevelopment #hiring #automation #warehouseautomation #manufacturing

Does technical expertise guarantee leadership success? For Anthony Leo, President of IPR Robotics, the path from engineer to the C-Suite meant unlearning the need to be the smartest person in the room. In the Season 5 premiere of HIRED!, host Travis Miller uncovers the real traits that drive career growth. We break down the "Assumption Model" that kills deals, the interview red flag that ends the process immediately, and why curiosity beats knowledge. Plus, blunt advice for today's market. Stop waiting for perfect conditions and execute. // ABOUT OUR GUEST Anthony Leo is the President of IPR Robotics. With over a decade of leadership in venture-backed robotic startups, he brings extensive experience taking emerging technologies to market. A Metro-Detroit native, Anthony combines deep manufacturing knowledge with innovative strategies to drive growth for integration partners and end users. // CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ⏵ Anthony Leo ⏵ IPR Robotics _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #leadership #sales #engineering #robotics #manufacturing #careerdevelopment #hiring #automation

Is the "skills gap" real, or is it just the story we've been told to believe? In our first-ever on-location episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller travels to the U.S. headquarters of ABB Robotics to find out. He sits down with Christelle Keefer, Global Segment Manager for Education at ABB, to investigate the surprising truth about retraining our workforce for the age of automation, who is truly responsible for building the next generation of talent, and how quickly it can actually be done. This conversation provides a practical roadmap for any leader trying to solve the labor shortage and for any professional looking to make their career future-proof. We debunk the myth that upskilling takes years, explore why industry must partner with education, and reveal what individuals can do to become indispensable in a crowded job market. // ABOUT OUR GUEST Christelle Keefer is a trailblazer at the intersection of robotics and education. As the Global Segment Manager for Education at ABB, she leads the charge in developing innovative curricula and global partnerships to prepare the workforce for the future of automation. In recognition of her impact, the International Federation of Robotics named her one of the "10 Women Shaping the Future of Robotics." Christelle also helps guide the industry through her work on the A3 Robotics Technology Strategy Board. // CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST ⏵ Christelle Keefer ⏵ ABB Robotics _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #skillsgap #automation #futureofwork #manufacturing #robotics #workforcedevelopment  #leadership

Why do so many CRM systems fail even with the best tools in place? In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller sits down with Brian Gardner—founder of SalesProcess360 and author of CRM for CEO—to explore why CRM adoption often falls flat and what leadership can do to change that. From managing resistant sales stars to turning CRM into a company-wide advantage, Brian shares practical insights that help teams move beyond data entry and into real sales strategy. If you’re leading a team, scaling a business, or just tired of your CRM underperforming, this conversation delivers what you need to hear. Brian is a veteran of the industrial sales world, having moved from inside sales to VP of sales before founding and selling his own CRM company. Through SalesProcess360, he now coaches industrial distributors, reps, and manufacturers on aligning CRM with process, culture, and growth. He’s the author of ROI from CRM and CEO for CRM, and holds a degree in Industrial Technology from LSU. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Brian Gardner ⏵ SalesProcess360 ⏵ CEO for CRM _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #crmsoftware #salestips #b2bsales #salesstrategy #digitalsales #industrialtech #crm

Is the robotics industry as advanced as we think? In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, Travis Miller talks with Ken Macken, CEO & Founder of Workr Labs, about why robotics hasn’t evolved as fast as expected—and what’s holding it back. From legacy software to the scarcity of talent, Ken unpacks the hidden challenges slowing real progress. He also shares a bold vision for the future: one where automation is intuitive, accessible, and woven into the workforce in smarter ways. Whether you’re a robotics professional, hiring manager, or just automation-curious, this one’s worth a listen. Ken Macken is the CEO and Founder of Workr Labs. With over two decades in manufacturing and automation, he’s focused on redefining human-machine collaboration and making robotics more accessible to the people who need it most. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Ken Macken ⏵ Workr Labs _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #robotics #automation #ai #futureofwork #manufacturing #innovation #techpodcast #engineering #expertinterviews #robottechnology

The future of robotics isn’t about talent gaps. It’s about the leaders building smarter teams and opening more doors. Jesica Chavez joins HIRED! The Podcast to share how robotics companies can scale by focusing on people first. From factory floors in Mexico to leadership roles in the U.S., Jesica brings a global view on scaling startups, building diverse teams, and the leadership lessons robotics companies still need to learn. If you care about the future of robotics, this one is for you. Jesica Chavez is a dynamic leader in robotics, boasting over 20 years of experience in Customer Success and Marketing. With a background in Industrial Engineering and currently pursuing her MBA, she has worked across various sectors, including manufacturing, SaaS, and robotics. She founded Robo Success, a specialized agency dedicated to helping robotics companies accelerate growth and effectively navigate their go-to-market strategies. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Jesica Chavez ⏵ RoboSuccess _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #robotics #technology #engineering #automation #innovation #futuretech #AI

What happens when you’re not afraid to fail? In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller sits down with Jim Shaw, President & Co-Founder of Zion Solutions Group, a fast-growing force in supply chain automation and systems integration. Jim Shaw is a senior leader with over 25 years in the supply chain industry, specializing in operations, systems integration, material handling, and logistics. Known for driving innovation and creating engaged, high-performance cultures, Jim is the visionary behind Zion Solutions Group—dedicated to delivering sustainable value through bold leadership and lasting partnerships. In this conversation, Jim unpacks what it means to build a company without fear, how culture-first leadership attracts top talent, and why focusing on “good people and good partners” is the future of business. Whether you’re building a team, a startup, or a legacy, this one hits deep. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Jim Shaw ⏵ Zion Solutions Group _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify ##SupplyChain #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #Startup #Automation #TeamBuilding #ZionSolutionsGroup #FearlessFounders #Hiring

The world of manufacturing is changing fast — and staying relevant means evolving just as quickly. In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, Chris Stevens (PMO Business Excellence Manager at Abbott) joins Travis Miller to talk about what it really takes to thrive in an industry where technology, talent, and timelines are constantly shifting. Chris also shares the story behind his passion project, The Home of Manufacturing, a centralized, free resource created to amplify voices and connect the fragmented corners of the manufacturing world. Whether you’re on the shop floor or in the boardroom, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone thinking about future-proofing their career. Chris Stevens is a manufacturing leader with a career built entirely in the industry, currently serving as PMO Business Excellence Manager at Abbott. With two engineering degrees and parts he’s helped produce used on all seven continents — and even in space — Chris brings deep technical and operational insight to every conversation. He’s also the founder of The Home of Manufacturing, a platform connecting voices and events across the sector, and the host of the upcoming podcast Manufacturing Nation. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Chris Stevens ⏵ The Home of MFG _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #manufacturingleadership #industrialinnovation #smartfactory #hiringtrends #futureofwork #upskilling #manufacturingpodcast #careerstrategy #AIandManufacturing #techcareers #ai #manufacturing #industrialautomation

The automation industry isn’t just changing—it’s being rebuilt by the people who refuse to wait for permission. On this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller sits down with Nikki Gonzales, a leader reshaping the field by showing up, speaking out, and creating the kind of industry she wants to work in. Recently hired as Director of Business Development at Weintek USA, Nikki brings years of industry insight, a passion for making automation more accessible, and a proven track record of building real community—from launching the podcast Automation Ladies to co-founding the grassroots event OT SCADA CON. _________________________________________________ Connect with: ⏵ Nikki Gonzales ⏵ Weintek USA ⏵ Automation Ladies ⏵ OT SCADA CON _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #automationindustry #automation #industrialautomation #womeninstem #automationpocast #OTSCADACON #AutomationLadies #stem #careergrowth #techcommunity

Most companies are wasting money on marketing that doesn’t work—chasing the wrong audience, burning budgets on ineffective strategies, and missing the biggest opportunity right in front of them. In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller sits down with Eddie Saunders Jr., founder of Speak Friend, to expose the biggest marketing mistakes and reveal how to cut waste, use AI to get ahead, and engage the 95% of potential customers most brands ignore. Eddie also shares his unconventional journey from industrial marketing to MMA fight announcing and explains why curiosity and empathy are game-changers in business. If you’re ready to fix your marketing and stop wasting money, this episode is a must-listen. Eddie is a passionate thought leader in the world of Industrial Content Strategy & Demand Generation. With 15+ years of battle-tested experience in the field, he has proven himself to be an innovative and strategic thinker, consistently challenging what's "normal" in the industry. As an Industrial Marketing speaker, quirky content creator, and Founder / CEO of Speak Friend, he has built a reputation for his ability to create compelling and effective marketing campaigns that use data to drive results in the modern landscape. His expertise spans a wide range of areas, including branding, digital marketing, social media, and more! _________________________________________________ Connect with Eddie & Speak Friend ⏵ LinkedIn ⏵ Speak Friend ⏵ Instagram _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? ⏵ Apple Podcasts ⏵ Audible ⏵ Spotify #marketingstrategy #digitalmarketing #industrialmarketing #b2bmarketing #marketingmistakes #aimarketing #brandstrategy #businessgrowth #contentmarketing #salesandmarketing #customerengagement #entrepreneurmindset

Season 4 of HIRED! The Podcast kicks off with a powerful conversation between host Travis Miller and Bryan Howard, CEO of Peoplyst and author of The Vanguard Edge. In this episode, Bryan shares actionable insights on building resilient, high-performing teams and creating a culture that thrives in the face of change. Bryan dives into his framework for resilience, exploring the importance of mindset, team strength, and adaptability. Learn how to evaluate your team, hire for growth, and foster connections in today’s hybrid work environment. Whether you’re a leader looking to strengthen your team or a professional seeking your next opportunity, this episode is packed with practical takeaways. Bryan Howard is the CEO of Peoplyst and an expert in human performance with over 20 years of experience in leadership development and organizational growth. Known for his “5 G’s of Success,” Bryan specializes in creating people-centric solutions and driving teams to achieve their full potential. He is also the author of The Vanguard Edge, a guide to building resilient, adaptable teams. _________________________________________________ Connect with Bryan Howard & Peoplyst Bryan Howard - https://bit.ly/49bu57R Peoplyst - https://peoplyst.com/ _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/3vLWiNX Audible - https://adbl.co/3vJfOu7 Spotify - https://spoti.fi/3xJFQzm #leadership #careerdevelopment #teambuilding #businesspodcast #entrepreneurship #businessgrowth #successtips #careeradvice #careeradvancement #jobsearch

In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, host Travis Miller sits down with James Ellis, a top expert in employer branding, for a lively conversation packed with hot takes and real, actionable insights. This isn’t your typical discussion—Ellis breaks down exactly how businesses can stand out by focusing on what makes them unique as employers and why authenticity is key in attracting the right talent. Ellis dives deep into how employees can actively shape a brand and gives concrete strategies for small businesses to leverage their culture to connect with top candidates. With no fluff, just straight talk, Ellis shares practical advice that listeners can put to work right away to elevate their employer brand and hiring efforts. James Ellis is the principal of Employer Brand Labs, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and host of The Talent Cast podcast. With nearly a decade of experience, he’s helped dozens of companies craft unique and compelling employer brands. His mission? To provide real, no-nonsense advice that helps businesses rethink how they hire and build stronger, more authentic brands. _________________________________________________ Connect with James Ellis & Employer Brand Labs James Ellis Employer Brand Labs The Talent Cast _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify #employerbranding #recruitmentstrategies #hiringtips #hrpodcast #workculture #businessbranding #careeradvice #jobmarket #talentacquisition

In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, Travis Miller sits down with Kim Blomquist, Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at mHUB, Chicago’s leading manufacturing incubator. Kim sheds light on mHUB’s role in nurturing early-stage startups, particularly in the fields of climate and energy, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing. From prototyping labs to a comprehensive mentor network, mHUB equips these startups with the tools they need to scale, secure funding, and prove their business models in a competitive landscape. Kim also discusses the critical challenges startups face, including proving market demand and acquiring talent. She emphasizes mHUB’s commitment to workforce development, reshoring, and building a skilled talent pool to drive economic growth. The episode provides valuable insights into how mHUB is shaping the future of manufacturing and innovation, both locally and nationally. Kim Blomquist is the Senior Director of Marketing and Communications at mHUB, where she leads the organization’s national strategy at the intersection of tech and manufacturing. Her team is behind major events like the HardTech Summit and the Fourth Revolution Awards. Kim played a pivotal role in mHUB’s $50M acquisition and renovation of a historic facility in Chicago. She also oversees mHUB’s annual and investor reports and serves on a marketing advisory council for manufacturing workforce development. _________________________________________________ Connect with the Kim Blomquist & mHUB Kim Blomquist mHUB _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify #podcast #manufacturing #startup #techindustry #reshoring #robotics #mHUB #innovation

In this episode of HIRED! The Podcast, Travis Miller is joined by Cathy Rinne, President and CEO of Flex-Line Automation, alongside her daughter Lauren Van De Mark, Sales and Marketing Manager, marketing intern Isaiah Roth, and Customer Service Specialist Cayla Sibley. Together, they explore the nuances of talent acquisition in manufacturing and automation, offering valuable insights into the importance of evaluating candidates beyond technical skills and rebranding the industry to attract fresh talent. The conversation delves into the dynamics of running a family business, including leadership styles, communication, and generational management approaches. Listen in as the Flex-Line team shares their personal experiences on navigating succession planning and the significance of exposing students to industry processes early on. Cathy Rinne, co-founder, President and CEO of Flex-Line Automation, Inc. based in Chester, IL, brings a wealth of business strategy and innovation to the forefront from her nearly forty years in the automation industry. Instrumental in positioning Flex-Line as an industry leader in cutting-edge automation solutions, Cathy's visionary leadership is a driving force, shaping not just a company, but an industry’s future. Lauren Van De Mark is the Sales and Marketing Manager at Flex-Line Automation Inc. Raised on a farm in Southern Illinois, she developed a strong work ethic and adaptable skills early on. She earned her MBA from Mississippi State University and is passionate about solving problems and delivering exceptional customer service. In addition to her role in manufacturing and automation, Lauren is active in industry groups and enjoys promoting Southern Illinois. She also lives on a cattle farm with her husband and animals, and recently, Flex-Line was featured on “World’s Greatest” TV and “The Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid.” Cayla Sibley joined Flex-Line Automation, Inc. in 2024 as a Customer Service Specialist, leveraging her extensive experience from St. Nicholas Brewing Company, where she advanced from waitress to Event Coordinator. Her background in the food service industry honed her organizational skills, time management, and customer service. At Flex-Line, Cayla brings her positive attitude to learning the technical aspects of conveyor and robotic integration, ensuring top-tier service for customers. Isaiah Roth is a marketing student at SIU Carbondale with a strong work ethic and a background in food service, currently serving as a shift lead at Dairy Queen. At Flex-Line Automation, Inc., he gained marketing experience and explored automation technologies as an intern. Isaiah was named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Randolph County StartUP program for his business, Roth Studios, specializing in photography and design. As a freshman, he’s excited to join the Marching Salukis and expand his skills. _________________________________________________ Connect with the Flex-Line Automation Tea Cathy Rinne Lauren Van De Mark Cayla Sibley Isaiah Roth Flex-Line Automation _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify #familybusiness  #genz  #careeradvice #businesstips #generations  #professionaldevelopment #future #manufacturing  #automation #robotics

Join us in this insightful episode of HIRED! The Podcast, hosted by Travis Miller, as we dive into the world of transitioning from technical roles to sales with Karine Leblanc, who is “Not Your Typical Engineer™”. Author of How to Be Human in a Technical World, Karine shares her journey and emphasizes the critical role of soft skills, especially communication and interpersonal skills. This conversation explores hiring and managing individuals with low emotional intelligence (EQ), offering strategies for effective communication and relationship building. Karine and Travis discuss empathy, navigating conflicts, and the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace. They share practical tips for managing emotions, providing feedback, and fostering collaboration. Meet Karine Leblanc, a dynamic engineer, bestselling author, and international speaker. As a VP of Sales, she has crafted winning sales teams with her engineering, coaching, and relationship-building skills. With a mechanical engineering degree from Montreal’s Ecole de Technologie Superieure and multiple certifications, Karine is a powerhouse. She’s a John Maxwell coach, DISC-certified consultant, Genos emotional intelligence practitioner, and eSpeakers certified virtual presenter. Karine has served on ASHRAE’s board, earning numerous accolades, including the ASHRAE Distinguished Service Award. She’s also Past-President of the National Speaker Association Los Angeles Chapter and an Amazon-published author. _________________________________________________ Connect with Karine Leblanc LinkedIn Website How to Be Human in a Technical World _________________________________________________ Want to stream our podcast on another platform? Apple Podcasts Audible Spotify HIRED The Podcast Homepage #softskills #emotionalintelligence #salestips #careeradvice #businesstips #communicationskills #professionaldevelopment #empathy #manufacturing  #automation #robotics