Advertise on podcast: Built In The Bluegrass

Big news for Kentucky manufacturing 👇 The precision cover glass made by Corning Incorporated right here in Harrodsburg has officially advanced to the Final Four in the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky tournament. This isn’t just another product—it’s the kind of innovation that quietly powers the technology we use every single day. From smartphones to advanced displays, this glass represents: ✅ World-class engineering ✅ High-skilled Kentucky jobs ✅ Global impact from a local community I recently had the chance to spotlight this incredible operation and see firsthand the level of precision and pride behind what they’re building. Let’s show some support for a company that’s putting Kentucky on the map in advanced manufacturing. 🔁 Share to spread the word 🗳️ And don’t forget to vote!  https://coolestthingky.com/cast-your-vote/ #KentuckyProud #Manufacturing #Innovation #MadeInUSA #EconomicDevelopment #Corning #BluegrassBusiness Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

🔥 Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky Spotlight 🔥 In this episode, we sit down with Wells Bullard, CEO of Bullard, to highlight one of the most innovative pieces of safety gear made right here in Kentucky — the Adaptix Helmet.  We dive into:  ✅ The story behind Bullard and its deep Kentucky roots  ✅ What makes the Adaptix Helmet a game-changer in safety innovation  ✅ How cutting-edge design is improving protection for workers across industries Kentucky isn’t just about tradition — it’s about innovation, manufacturing excellence, and products that make a real impact.  The Adaptix Helmet is proof of that.  👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more “Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky” spotlights! #KentuckyMade #Manufacturing #Innovation #Bullard #Adaptix #SafetyFirst #MadeInUSA #Entrepreneurship Watch the full spotlight here!https://youtu.be/itnlthu94N0 Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

In this episode, Tommy sits down with Wes Morin, Vice President of Operations at AquiSense, a Kentucky-based water technology company recently named Small Manufacturer of the Year by the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers (KAM). AquiSense is a global leader in UV-LED water disinfection technology, designing and manufacturing systems that help provide safe, clean water across residential, commercial, industrial, and humanitarian applications. AquiSense earned the KAM Small Manufacturer of the Year Award for its innovation, operational excellence, and impact in the water technology space. Under Wes’s operational leadership, the company has successfully scaled advanced manufacturing processes while maintaining quality, efficiency, and a culture of continuous improvement. From product development to production execution, AquiSense has demonstrated how a small manufacturer can compete — and lead — on a global stage. Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

Tyler earned the 2025 Manufacturing Employee of the Year Award after leading one of WaterStep’s most critical manufacturing efforts to date: A million-dollar contract required WaterStep to build 28 mobile water treatment systems (WoW Cart) in just 90 days. Failure wasn’t an option — communities around the world were depending on this equipment for clean, safe drinking water. Tyler stepped up in a huge way: Reengineered the entire production process Developed a clear plan and structure for his team Delivered all 28 units on time, saving the contract Ensured thousands of people received access to safe water But what made Tyler truly stand out wasn’t just the systems he built — it was the team he built. WaterStep’s manufacturing team is largely made up of volunteers, many with little or no factory experience. Tyler trained, encouraged, and inspired them, and when crunch time hit, those volunteers stayed late, worked weekends, and believed in the mission because Tyler helped them see their impact. Check out WaterStep's social: LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

In this episode, I sit down with Justin Falck, Marketing & Communications Manager at Fives Machining Systems, Inc., to explore the cutting-edge technology behind the Cincinnati Robotic Viper—a high-speed automation system redefining what’s possible in advanced manufacturing. 🤖⚙️  Justin shares how the Robotic Viper is designed to boost efficiency, precision, and flexibility on the shop floor, and why it represents a major step forward for U.S.-based manufacturing.  Whether you're in the industry or just love hearing about smart innovation made right here in Kentucky, this episode delivers a powerful look into the future of automation.  🎧 Give it a listen—you’ll come away impressed by both the tech and the team behind it.  Subscribe: @Fives_Group @builtinthebluegrass   Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

This week, we’re highlighting a finalist that’s making a real difference—custom prescription eyeglasses for veterans, proudly made by PDS Optical. 🇺🇸👓 I had the pleasure of talking with Sean Loosen, CEO of PDS Optical, about how their team combines innovation, precision, and purpose to serve those who’ve served us. From Kentucky to VA clinics across the country, their eyewear is changing lives one pair at a time. As part of the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky tournament, PDS Optical is a standout example of how manufacturing and mission can go hand in hand. 🎧 Tune in to hear the story behind the frames—and the heart behind the business. #CoolestThingMadeInKentucky #VeteranSupport #MadeInKentucky #PDSEyewear #PDSOptical #SeanLoosen #Podcast #InnovationWithPurpose #VeteransCare #KentuckyManufacturing Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

We’re shining a spotlight on one of the top contenders from the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky tournament this year—Brown-Forman's Woodford Reserve Double Double Oaked! 🥃🔥  In this spotlight, I sit down with Elizabeth McCall, Master Distiller at Woodford Reserve, to talk about what makes Double Double Oaked such a standout in the world of bourbon. From the unique double-barreling process to the creativity and craft behind it, Elizabeth gives us an inside look at how this fan-favorite was born. Whether you’re a bourbon lover, a fan of Kentucky-made excellence, or just love a good origin story—this one’s for you. 🔗 Listen & Subscribe: https://youtu.be/HvwX07NWtO4   Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

In this Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky spotlight, we’re featuring National Band & Tag Company and their innovative Paw Finders Tag—a game-changer for lost pet recovery! 🐶🐱 The Paw Finders Tag helps reunite lost pets with their owners using a simple yet effective QR code system, providing instant contact information to anyone who finds a missing pet. 🏡🐾 Join us as we dive into the story behind National Band & Tag, their legacy of innovation, and why the Paw Finders Tag is one of the coolest things made in Kentucky! 🔗 Listen & Subscribe: https://youtu.be/Yf_KITnJvTo #BuiltInTheBluegrass #NationalBandAndTag #PawFinders #CoolestThingMadeInKY #PetSafety #LostPetRecovery #QRCodeTechnology #MadeInKentucky #Innovation Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

🌊💧 Built in the Bluegrass is back with another Spotlight, featuring WaterStep and its life-changing WoW Cart – a participant in the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky Tournament! 🏆 The WoW Cart (Water on Wheels) is revolutionizing access to clean water, bringing safe drinking water and sanitation to communities in need around the world.  In this spotlight, we dive into WaterStep’s mission, the innovation behind the WoW Cart, and the incredible impact it’s making.  💙 Listen now to hear how this Kentucky-made product is saving lives and shaping the future of clean water solutions. 📢 Don’t forget to support WaterStep in the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky Tournament!  🔗 Vote for WaterStep: https://coolestthingky.com/cast-your-vote/  🔗 Listen & Subscribe: builtinthebluegrass.com  #BuiltInTheBluegrass #WaterStep #WoWCart #CoolestThingMadeInKY #CleanWater #MadeInKentucky #Innovation Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

Welcome to another episode of Built in the Bluegrass, where we highlight the most innovative and exciting products made right here in Kentucky! 🔵🏆 In this episode, we sit down with Beltways, a standout competitor in the Coolest Thing Made in Kentucky Tournament. We dive into their story, the impact of their product, and what makes them a game-changer in their industry. 📢 Don’t forget to cast your vote and support Kentucky-made innovation! 🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more episodes featuring the best of Kentucky manufacturing! 🔗 Vote for Beltways: https://coolestthingky.com/cast-your-vote/   #BuiltInTheBluegrass #Beltways #CoolestThingMadeInKY #MadeInKentucky #Podcast Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

🔦 Coolest Thing Made in KY Spotlight: Armag Corporation & Their EMP Shielded Generator Shelters In an increasingly uncertain world, protecting critical infrastructure from electromagnetic threats is more important than ever. That’s where Armag Corporation steps in, designing and manufacturing EMP Shielded Generator Shelters and HEMP Shielded ISO Containers that set the standard for durability, security, and compliance.  ✅ Shielded Generator Shelters – Built for efficiency and safety, these shelters ensure proper airflow, cooling, and HEMP protection while offering easy maintenance access.  ✅ HEMP Shielded ISO Containers – Designed for mobility, these transportable solutions meet MIL-STD-188-125-1A or -2 standards and CSC certification, making them battle-ready in 10ft, 20ft, or 40ft sizes.  Proudly built in the Bluegrass, Armag is helping secure mission-critical operations across industries.  Go vote! https://coolestthingky.com/  #BuiltInTheBluegrass #EMPProtection #ArmagCorporation #ResilientInfrastructure Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

In this episode of Built In the Bluegrass, we’re diving into the world of cybersecurity with Rich Connor, President of LockStock Cybersecurity & Analytics. With the increasing threat of digital vulnerabilities, LockStock is on the front lines, providing cutting-edge security solutions to businesses big and small. Join us as we chat with Rich about how they’re helping companies navigate the ever-evolving cybersecurity landscape, their approach to risk management, and what every entrepreneur needs to know to keep their business safe in the digital age. Tune in for insights on protecting your digital assets and securing a safer future—right here in the Bluegrass State. Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

Discover the forefront of sustainability with OrganiLock, a pioneering company redefining eco-friendly solutions. Join us as we delve into their innovative soil feeding and waste management systems, crafted to revolutionize environmental conservation. From inception to global impact, uncover OrganiLock's journey and the transformative power of their technology in fostering a greener tomorrow. Whether you're an environmental enthusiast or curious about sustainable living, this episode offers insights into the future of innovation and environmental stewardship. Tune in to explore how OrganiLock is unlocking sustainable solutions for a brighter, more eco-conscious future. Don't forget to visit OrganiLocks Website or find Organilock on any of their socials facebook.com/organilock twitter.com/organilock instagram.com/organilock youtube.com/organilock Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

Join us in this episode as we delve into the fascinating world of Bourbon Barrel Foods with the visionary entrepreneur and founder, Matt Jamie. From humble beginnings in Louisville, Kentucky, Matt embarked on a culinary journey that would lead him to create an empire built on the rich heritage of bourbon and the art of barrel aging. Discover the secrets behind the distinct flavors that define Bourbon Barrel Foods’ signature products, from small-batch soy sauce to handcrafted sorghum and beyond. Matt shares his insights into the meticulous process of selecting and aging barrels, and how this tradition infuses depth and complexity into every culinary creation. But it's not just about the products; it's about the stories behind them. Uncover the tales of collaboration with local artisans and distilleries that breathe life into each bottle. Learn how Matt's passion for sustainability and community engagement shapes every aspect of his business, from sourcing ingredients to supporting local farmers. Join us as we explore the intersection of tradition and innovation, and how Bourbon Barrel Foods continues to push the boundaries of flavor while honoring its roots. Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply curious about the alchemy of barrel aging, this episode offers a tantalizing glimpse into a world where craftsmanship meets culinary excellence. Follow the BBF Socials Bourbon Barrel Foods Facebook Instagram Youtube Pintrest Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com

Join us for an exciting new episode featuring SpanTech’s Co-CEO, Tiffany Somerville. Established by her father, James “Bud” Layne, in his garage in 1978, SpanTech is now co-led by Tiffany Somerville and her sister, Lisa Held. Based in Glascow, KY, SpanTech specializes in custom conveyors designed to navigate any obstruction in your production process. With their patented modular conveyor chain design, SpanTech delivers tailored solutions to meet your productivity needs. Be sure to visit https://spantechconveyors.com/ to view their products and reach out to Tiffany’s team if you need their services.  Visit their Socials Facebook Twitter (X) LinkedIn Youtube Find all Built In The Bluegrass links here https://linktr.ee/builtinthebluegrass  We want to take a moment to thank our partner – the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers. For over 100 years, KAM has served our state’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, workforce development, education, and training, as well as cost-saving benefits for members. Fighting for manufacturers is what KAM does best, representing the industry in both Frankfort and Washington, D.C. Whether it’s advocacy, offering shipping discounts, or group health insurance, KAM has its members covered. Learn more and become a member by visiting www.kam.us.com