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<rss version="2.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"><channel><title>The Operations Science Podcast</title><description><![CDATA[<p><strong style="background-color: transparent;">The Operations Science Podcast: Authentic Leadership Stories from Operations and Project Leaders</strong></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent;">Welcome to </span><em style="background-color: transparent;">The Operations Science Podcast</em><span style="background-color: transparent;">, the premier destination for authentic, in-depth conversations with operations and project leaders who share real-life stories of their career triumphs, setbacks, and the invaluable insights gained along the way. Hosted with a passion for uncovering the strategies and mental frameworks that drive success, this podcast is a must-listen for executives, managers, and aspiring leaders in industries such as general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies, and diagnostic labs. With a focus on leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, each episode delivers actionable takeaways to help you navigate the complexities of modern business landscapes.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent;">What to Expect from The Operations Science Podcast</strong></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent;">Our guests include C-level executives, VPs of operations and supply chain, directors, managers, and thought leaders from trade associations, industry groups, and standards organizations. These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of experience in leadership, decision-making, and execution, offering unique perspectives on operational challenges like rapid change, uncertainty, innovation, evolving workforce expectations, talent development, and organizational culture. Whether you're a forward-thinking executive or a continuous improvement enthusiast, this podcast provides a platform to learn from the best in the field.</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent;">Each episode dives deep into the personal journeys of high-performance leaders, exploring their successes, failures, and comebacks. From building high-performance teams to driving strategic transformation and maintaining clarity under pressure, our guests share the mental tools, frameworks, and strategies that have enabled them to lead with confidence, resilience, and foresight. This isn’t just another business podcast—it’s a forum for high-level executives to openly discuss the real challenges of operational management and the mental fitness required to thrive at the top.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Why Listen to The Operations Science Podcast?</strong></p><p><br></p><ul><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Authentic Storytelling</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Hear real-life stories from operations and project leaders who have navigated the highs and lows of leadership in dynamic industries.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Actionable Insights</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Gain practical strategies for overcoming operational challenges, fostering innovation, and building resilient teams.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Diverse Perspectives</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Learn from a wide range of guests, including C-suite executives, industry group leaders, and continuous improvement experts.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Inspiration for Growth</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Discover how top leaders adapt to change, inspire their teams, and make high-stakes decisions with clarity and confidence.</span></li><li><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Industry-Specific Focus</strong><span style="background-color: transparent;">: Explore winning practices and leading trends in general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, MRO, and diagnostic labs.</span></li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent;">Who Should Listen?</strong></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent;">This podcast is designed for:</span></p><p><br></p><ul><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">C-level executives and VPs of operations/supply chain seeking to sharpen their leadership skills</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Directors and managers in operations, project management, or continuous improvement roles</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Professionals in general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, MRO, and diagnostic labs</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Aspiring leaders looking to learn from the experiences of seasoned executives</span></li><li><span style="background-color: transparent;">Members of trade associations, industry groups, and standards organizations interested in industry trends and winning practices</span></li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong style="background-color: transparent;">How to Listen</strong></p><p><br></p><p><em style="background-color: transparent;">The Operations Science Podcast</em><span style="background-color: transparent;"> is available on major platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more. Subscribe today to get notified about new episodes and gain access to a growing library of leadership insights. Follow us on LinkedIn and other social media platforms for daily short-form video clips that deliver quick, actionable tips from our guests.</span></p><p><br></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/Gwl01E5gJ.jpg"></itunes:image><language>en-us</language><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Management"></itunes:category></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Business"><itunes:category text="Careers"></itunes:category></itunes:category><itunes:category text="Education"><itunes:category text="Self-Improvement"></itunes:category></itunes:category><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><itunes:author>Ed Pound</itunes:author><link></link><itunes:owner><itunes:name>Nick Uresin</itunes:name><itunes:email>nuresin@argometrix.com</itunes:email></itunes:owner><itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type><copyright>Copyright 2025 | All Rights Reserved</copyright><item><title>How to Manage Global Medical Device Projects | Diana Dimitrova Interview</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/IRqMtrMLq/media/4JIPlrSaB.mp3" length="46953871" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">IRqMtrMLq</guid><pubDate>Wed, 21 Jan 2026 19:00:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>1932</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Managing global medical device projects is no small feat—especially when teams span multiple time zones and cultures. In this episode of the </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Operations Science Podcast</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, host Ed Pound interviews </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Diana Dimitrova</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, Senior Project Manager, who shares her proven strategies for leading complex programs that bring life-changing drug delivery devices to market.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Discover how Diana:</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✅ Coordinates cross-functional teams across Denmark, China, India, Europe, and the U.S.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✅ Builds trust and bridges cultural differences for high-performing teams</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✅ Implements risk management and standardized processes to avoid costly delays</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✅ Leverages AI and digital twins to accelerate development and reduce costs</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✅ Balances speed, cost, scope, and patient safety without compromising quality</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Key Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Global project management in the medical device industry</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Cross-cultural collaboration and communication best practices</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Risk management and resource planning for large-scale programs</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">AI and digital transformation in product development</span></li><li><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Leadership insights: facilitation vs. top-down decision-making</span></li><li><br></li></ul><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Connect with Us:</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 🌐 Learn more at opscience.org</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 📌 Subscribe for more episodes on operational excellence</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 👍 Like, comment, and share if you found this helpful!</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> #OperationsScience #MedicalDevices #ProjectManagement #Leadership #AI #GlobalTeams #RiskManagement #OperationalExcellence</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/tX24SugT0.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>117</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Mastering Cross-Border Production Transfers: Project Management Lessons from the Front Lines</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/xH6PitoNd/media/s20oxERRB.mp3" length="57576734" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">xH6PitoNd</guid><pubDate>Wed, 07 Jan 2026 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2372</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">In this episode of the </span><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Operations Science Podcast</strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">, host Ed Pound speaks with Ricardo Monge, a seasoned program manager specializing in medical device manufacturing. Ricardo shares his experiences orchestrating complex, multimillion-dollar project transfers across borders—merging technical rigor with human influence.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">You’ll learn:</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✔ How to balance strategic timelines with tactical operations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✔ Best practices for managing scope creep and regulatory compliance</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✔ The role of AI as a supportive tool in project management</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> ✔ Why effective communication and cultural sensitivity matter</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Timestamps:</strong></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 00:48 Meet Our Guest: Ricardo Monge</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 02:32 Ricardo's Role and Project Management Insights</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 04:57 Challenges and Best Practices in Project Transfers</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 23:47 The Role of AI in Project Management</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 26:58 Regulatory and Compliance Considerations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 30:40 Effective Communication and Cultural Sensitivity</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 33:52 Personal Insights: Ricardo's Background and Interests</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> 38:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> #MedicalDevices #ProjectManagement #AIinBusiness #GlobalOperations #Leadership #Manufacturing #RiskManagement #PodcastEpisode #Innovation #OperationsScience</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/QHlRbkqJH.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>116</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Transforming Operations at Scale: Lessons from Manufacturing to Boardroom | Oscar Sroor</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/R5FDOFCy1/media/wG4HduAzX.mp3" length="70329036" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">R5FDOFCy1</guid><pubDate>Wed, 17 Dec 2025 09:49:51 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2904</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the <strong>Operations Science Podcast</strong>, host <strong>Edward Pound</strong> sits down with <strong>Oscar Sroor</strong>, a global operations leader based in Bordeaux, France, to explore what it really takes to achieve sustainable operational excellence.</p><p><br></p><p>With experience spanning <strong>manufacturing, medical devices, FMCG, and global supply chains</strong>, Oscar shares his journey from classic lean initiatives to leading <strong>large-scale business transformations</strong>. The conversation goes beyond tools and frameworks, focusing on <strong>structured thinking, scientific discipline, cultural adaptation, and systems-level improvement</strong>.</p><p><br></p><p>Key topics include:</p><ul><li>Why lean tools alone aren’t enough</li><li>How to standardize and improve tender processes</li><li>Scaling capacity without burning out teams</li><li>Optimizing distribution networks and ERP systems</li><li>Measuring cultural maturity in continuous improvement</li><li>The evolving role of AI, Industry 4.0, and Industry 5.0</li><li>Leading transformation across diverse European cultures</li></ul><p><br></p><p>This episode is essential listening for <strong>operations leaders, continuous improvement professionals, transformation leaders, and executives</strong> who want to move beyond surface-level optimization and build systems that truly perform.</p><p><br></p><p>Timestamps - </p><p>00:00 Trailer</p><p>00:47 Meet Our Guest: Oscar Sroor </p><p>01:31 Oscar's Continuous Improvement Journey </p><p>02:30 Explaining Operational Roles and Challenges </p><p>04:13 Transforming Business Processes </p><p>06:55 Standardizing Tender Processes </p><p>09:50 Measuring and Improving Tender Responses </p><p>15:31 Doubling Factory Capacity </p><p>17:37 Optimizing Distribution Networks </p><p>20:30 ERP Systems and Operational Decisions </p><p>27:16 Trainer Development and Kaizen Facilitation </p><p>28:41 Measuring Cultural Maturity in Lean Practices </p><p>29:39 Challenges in Training Facilitators </p><p>32:15 Communication and Cultural Adaptation in Europe </p><p>36:35 AI and Industry 4.0</p><p>41:58 Oscar Sroor's Journey and Influences </p><p>45:16 Balancing Work and Family Life </p><p>47:44 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action</p><p><br></p><p>#OperationsScience #OperationalExcellence #ContinuousImprovement #BusinessTransformation #LeanThinking #ProcessImprovement</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/88BEYQgj7.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode></item><item><title>The Hidden Complexity of Optical Lens Manufacturing | Operations Deep Dive with Stefano Relli</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/yEFFc1_X7/media/YaG9vUFx5.mp3" length="65671669" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">yEFFc1_X7</guid><pubDate>Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:14:36 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2709</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the <strong>Operations Science Podcast</strong>, host <strong>Ed Pound</strong> sits down with Stefano Relli, an international leader in continuous improvement at a global precision optical lens manufacturer.</p><p><br></p><p>Together, they break down the real-world challenges of running a <strong>make-to-order, high-variability production system</strong> and how balancing a <strong>push-pull system</strong> can transform flow, efficiency, and customer responsiveness.</p><p>Stefano shares how his multicultural leadership journey shaped his approach to operational excellence, people alignment, and driving change in high-precision environments. </p><p><br></p><p>From understanding the complexity of lens manufacturing to managing production capacity, optimizing equipment efficiency, and engaging both frontline teams and senior leadership, this episode dives deep into what it takes to run operations at scale.</p><p><br></p><p>Perfect for professionals in <strong>manufacturing, operations, Lean systems, continuous improvement, and supply chain</strong>, this conversation delivers practical insights backed by global experience.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Topics Covered:</strong></p><ul><li>Handling high-mix, make-to-order challenges</li><li>Implementing push-pull systems</li><li>Cultural intelligence in leadership</li><li>Aligning KPIs with operational goals</li><li>Managing variability and production capacity</li><li>Engaging teams in continuous improvement</li><li>The human side of operational transformation</li><li>Stefano’s personal passion for road cycling</li></ul><p><br></p><p>Timestamps - </p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast </p><p>00:49 Meet Stefano Relli: A Leader in Optical Lens Manufacturing </p><p>01:57 Stefano's Multicultural Journey and Its Impact on Leadership </p><p>08:24 Challenges of Make-to-Order Systems in Lens Manufacturing </p><p>12:46 Understanding the Lens Manufacturing Process </p><p>19:44 Implementing Push-Pull Systems for Operational Excellence </p><p>25:53 Ensuring Equipment Efficiency </p><p>26:42 Managing Production Capacity </p><p>28:31 Engaging Leadership in Continuous Improvement </p><p>34:20 Aligning People and Processes </p><p>35:26 Personal Journey and Influences </p><p>41:34 The Joy of Road Cycling </p><p>43:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</p><p><br></p><p>#OperationsScience</p><p>#ManufacturingExcellence</p><p>#ContinuousImprovement</p><p>#OpticalLensManufacturing</p><p>#LeanManufacturing</p><p>#MakeToOrder</p><p>#PushPullSystem</p><p>#OperationalExcellence</p><p>#SupplyChain</p><p>#LeadershipInManufacturing</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/6ZADYPhPu.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Building the Future of Operations: Santiago Camacho on Leadership and AI</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/cjITmlMoN/media/L2yfb4rhh.mp3" length="60043989" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">cjITmlMoN</guid><pubDate>Wed, 05 Nov 2025 22:21:05 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2476</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of The Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with Santiago Camacho, a global supply chain leader with over two decades of experience in manufacturing and operations. Currently spearheading the setup of a new Greenfield site in Portugal for Coloplast, Santiago shares a candid look at the realities of modern supply chain leadership.</p><p><br></p><p>From balancing demand forecasts and managing production capacity to integrating AI into planning systems, Santiago explores how technology and people intersect in shaping the future of operations. He also reflects on leadership lessons, cross-cultural experiences, and how resilience and adaptability define successful supply chain transformation.</p><p><br></p><p>Whether you’re an operations professional, manufacturing leader, or curious about the human side of global logistics, this episode delivers grounded insights and actionable takeaways.</p><p><br></p><p>Timestamps:</p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast&nbsp;</p><p>00:49 Meet Santiago Camacho: A Supply Chain Expert&nbsp;</p><p>02:03 Challenges in Modern Supply Chain Management&nbsp;</p><p>03:50 AI's Impact on Entry-Level Jobs&nbsp;</p><p>07:13 Building a New Greenfield Site in Portugal&nbsp;</p><p>14:50 Postponement Strategy in Supply Chain&nbsp;</p><p>17:12 Leadership Lessons from Santiago Camacho&nbsp;</p><p>21:23 Balancing Demand Forecasts and Capacity&nbsp;</p><p>28:52 Global Supply Chain Planning at Coloplast&nbsp;</p><p>34:57 Personal Insights: Santiago Camacho's Journey&nbsp;</p><p>39:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</p><p><br></p><p>#SupplyChain #OperationsScience #Leadership #Manufacturing #Coloplast #AIinOperations #GlobalSupplyChain #OperationsExcellence #GreenfieldProject #Logistics #SupplyChainInnovation #BusinessStrategy #IndustrialLeadership #SantiagoCamacho #EdPound #Podcast #OperationalExcellence</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/zdTtEvcYJ.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode></item><item><title>The Woman Powering Africa’s Optical Industry | Lessons in Supply Chain Leadership | Silindile Sitole</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/gDvTLFTQK/media/-HmcEq2_Q.mp3" length="63392038" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">gDvTLFTQK</guid><pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 20:40:35 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2614</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Operation Science, host Ed Pound sits down with Silindile Sitole, a leader in supply chain and operations who ensures millions of lenses travel seamlessly from Asia to Africa.</p><p>From navigating time zone gaps and language barriers to optimizing freight methods and managing over 50,000 SKUs, Silindile shares her journey of resilience, precision, and leadership in one of Africa’s most complex supply networks.</p><p><br></p><p>You’ll hear how her team adapted to port strikes, switched from air to sea freight for cost efficiency, and used data-driven systems like Microsoft D365 MRP to balance inventory across continents.</p><p>Silindile also opens up about mentoring new teams, aligning production with capacity, and her thoughts on the future role of AI in supply chain operations.</p><p><br></p><p>Whether you’re a manufacturing professional, operations leader, or just fascinated by how global logistics keep the world moving, this episode delivers deep operational insights and leadership lessons you can apply today.</p><p><br></p><p>🎧 Listen now to explore how great operations leaders turn complexity into clarity.</p><p><br></p><p>Timestamps -&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction by Ed Pound</p><p>01:05 Meet Silindile Sitole: Managing global lens supply chains</p><p>03:10 Challenges in working with Asian suppliers and time zones</p><p>06:40 Switching from air freight to sea freight: Why and how</p><p>10:15 Handling port strikes and emergency air shipments</p><p>13:05 Communication and customer management during backorders</p><p>16:30 Inside the polycarbonate lens production process</p><p>20:00 Role of data and MRP in managing 50,000 SKUs</p><p>24:40 Expanding operations to Mauritius</p><p>28:20 Training new teams and overcoming system differences</p><p>32:00 Key KPIs and weekly reporting for operational excellence</p><p>37:25 Managing capacity and forecasting with production teams</p><p>42:10 Collaboration between finance and supply chain teams</p><p>45:20 Thoughts on AI and the future of supply chain automation</p><p>49:15 Regulatory challenges, tariffs, and exporting to Africa</p><p>53:00 Lessons in leadership, trust, and operational agility</p><p>55:30 Closing thoughts: The future of efficiency in operations</p><p><br></p><p>#OperationScience #SupplyChainLeadership #LogisticsPodcast #ManufacturingExcellence #OperationsManagement #SupplyChainAfrica #IndustrialInnovation #OperationalExcellence #AIinOperations #ManufacturingPodcast #BusinessOperations #LeadershipInAction #SupplyChainInsights #LensManufacturing #EdPoundPodcast #OperationsStrategy</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/PreCxR1zv.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode></item><item><title>From Toyota to Karl Storz: Logistics Insights with Juan Maldonado </title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/vRfgFjdp1/media/Vn02bVook.mp3" length="64000404" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">vRfgFjdp1</guid><pubDate>Tue, 23 Sep 2025 21:52:46 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2637</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with logistics veteran Juan Maldonado from Karl Storz, a global leader in medical device manufacturing. With over 25 years in the field, Juan takes us through the evolution of logistics, from paper-based processes to data-driven operations powered by technology and automation.</p><p><br></p><p>They dive into the challenges of balancing customization vs. standardization, implementing new systems, and designing adaptable warehouse layouts. Juan emphasizes the role of employee engagement, inventory accuracy, and operational discipline in sustaining efficiency during growth.</p><p><br></p><p>Drawing from his experience at Toyota, Juan also shares lessons on continuous improvement, simplicity in operations, and the importance of Gemba. Whether you’re in logistics, supply chain management, or operations leadership, this conversation offers practical strategies and timeless principles to keep processes efficient, resilient, and people-focused.</p><p><br></p><p>Timestamps -&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast</p><p>00:49 Meet Juan Maldonado: Logistics Expert</p><p>02:02 Evolution of the Logistics Industry</p><p>03:08 Balancing Customization and Standardization</p><p>06:29 Importance of Gemba and Employee Engagement</p><p>10:34 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in Logistics</p><p>14:13 Managing Efficiency During Growth</p><p>16:14 Warehouse Layout and Adaptability</p><p>21:22 Technology and Automation in Warehousing</p><p>23:15 Inventory Accuracy and Final Thoughts</p><p>24:13 Evolution of Inventory Management</p><p>24:46 Daily Cycle Counts and System Integration</p><p>27:20 Best Practices for External Warehouses</p><p>31:22 Operational Discipline in Companies</p><p>33:16 Lessons from Working at Toyota</p><p>37:22 Personal Background and Career Journey</p><p>42:44 Conclusion and Podcast Wrap-Up</p><p><br></p><p>#Logistics #SupplyChain #WarehouseManagement #Automation #InventoryAccuracy #ContinuousImprovement #OperationsExcellence #ToyotaWay #EmployeeEngagement #Gemba #LogisticsPodcast #SupplyChainPodcast #OperationalDiscipline #LogisticsInnovation</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/W_6xlRkMv.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Revolutionizing Shipbuilding: A Journey with Lisa Elles | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 109</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/zC4Vld2F6/media/xuLCCqqMl.mp3" length="62342891" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">zC4Vld2F6</guid><pubDate>Wed, 10 Sep 2025 19:01:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2567</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Welcome to the Operations Science Podcast! In this episode, host </span>Ed Pound<span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"> welcomes Lisa Elles, a trailblazer in the shipbuilding and ship repair industry. With over 30 years of experience, Lisa discusses the challenges and triumphs of the maritime sector, shedding light on the Lean Shipbuilding model and its transformative impact. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">From the historical significance of Liberty ships to the potential of AI in ship design, this episode delves into the complexities and innovations driving the industry forward. Tune in to explore leadership secrets and operational excellence that could revolutionize your approach to operations.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">00:49 Meet Lisa Elles: Transforming the Shipbuilding Industry</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">02:25 Challenges and Innovations in Shipbuilding</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">04:57 Historical Insights: The Liberty Ships</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">08:14 The Decline and Future of US Shipbuilding</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">11:36 Lean Shipbuilding Model: Principles and Applications</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">18:10 Impact of Lean Shipbuilding on the Industry</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">30:55 The Role of AI in Ship Design and Production</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">35:32 </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Lisa Elles</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">: Personal Journey and Professional Insights</span></p><p><span style="background-color: transparent; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">41:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/GccfrXpk1.png"></itunes:image><itunes:season>1</itunes:season><itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode></item><item><title>The Global Electronics Scene | Sanjay Huprikar | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 108</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/XE3UZdtny/media/RQZFd55-Q.mp3" length="58527025" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">XE3UZdtny</guid><pubDate>Wed, 27 Aug 2025 15:20:17 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2410</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound interviews Sanjay Huprikar, Chief Global Officer of the Global Electronics Association. They delve into the complexities of global trade policies, tariffs, and their impact on electronics manufacturers. Sanjay shares insights into the evolution of the association, its expanded focus on advocacy, training, and industry standards, and the importance of supply chain resilience. They also discuss the growing influence of AI in manufacturing and the importance of lifelong learning and mentorship in the industry. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes from Sanjay's career and his passion for music, baseball, and world travel.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:49 Meet Sanjay Hooper Car: A Leader in Electronics Manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">01:50 Global Trade Policies and Their Impact on Electronics Manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">05:21 Challenges Facing the Electronics Industry</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">13:13 The Evolution of the Global Electronics Association</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">20:07 Training and Upskilling in Electronics Manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">22:49 Upskilling in Engineering: Opportunities and Challenges</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">24:10 The Excitement of Soldering Competitions</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">28:04 AI's Impact on the Electronics Industry</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">30:16 Advocacy and Industry Leadership</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">32:52 Personal Journey and Early Career</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">37:15 Hobbies and Personal Interests</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">38:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/aNvyE139t.jpg"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>108</itunes:episode></item><item><title>The Art of Learning from Mistakes | Mark Graban | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 107</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/1QG0XA-Uj/media/B1rfnrNdB.mp3" length="78540848" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">1QG0XA-Uj</guid><pubDate>Wed, 13 Aug 2025 18:51:18 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>3246</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound interviews Mark Gray, a thought leader in continuous improvement and lean thinking. Mark shares insights from his extensive experience across industries, the importance of learning from mistakes, and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of psychological safety. Learn about the integration of lean principles with statistical process control, the impact of motivational interviewing, and how AI could revolutionize improvement work. The conversation also delves into Mark's personal journey and early influences that shaped his career.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:00 Introduction to the Operations Science Podcast</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:56 Meet Our Esteemed Guest: Mark Gray</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">02:29 Mark Gray's Journey to Thought Leadership</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">05:36 The Inspiration Behind 'The Mistakes That Make Us'</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">08:59 Balancing Process and Innovation Mistakes</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">15:09 Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">17:58 Mark Gray's Favorite Mistakes</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">28:01 The Power of Saying It Out Loud</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">29:50 Switching Topics: Northwestern and Factory Physics</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">32:43 Applying Operation Science in Healthcare</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">34:11 Challenges in Healthcare Operations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">40:20 Integrating Lean and Other Methodologies</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">44:53 The Role of AI in Improvement Work</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">48:56 Personal Background and Influences</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">52:26 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/ShACkib6I.jpg"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>107</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Drive to Thrive: Operational Leadership | Brian Kendig | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 106</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/HnApfcwwh/media/TdZzFGFhZ.mp3" length="72011545" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">HnApfcwwh</guid><pubDate>Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2974</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound engages in a deep conversation with Brian Kendig, a seasoned leader in manufacturing transformations currently at Ford Motor Company. Brian shares insights from his extensive career in various industries, including manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, and more. They discuss pivotal topics such as key lessons in driving transformation, the importance of culture and continuous improvement, effective planning processes, and the intersections of lean, Six Sigma, and theory of constraints. Brian also touches on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence in operations and reflects on his personal journey and influences that shaped his career. This episode offers valuable takeaways for anyone involved in operations and leadership.</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">Key Topics:</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Operational transformation</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Culture and leadership</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Continuous improvement</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Planning and execution</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">-Lean philosophy</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Variability management</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">-Watermelon metrics</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- SIOP (Sales, Inventory &amp; Operations Planning)</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Communication cadence</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Performance visibility</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Problem diagnosis</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Goal setting</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- AI in manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Modern perception of manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Human-centered transformation</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Avoiding tool-based tribalism</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Immortal organizations</span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">Chapters:</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:00 Introduction to the Operation Science Podcast</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">01:19 Meet Brian Kenig: Transformational Leader at Ford</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">02:20 Key Lessons in Leading Transformations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">03:52 The Importance of Culture in Operations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">05:06 Balancing Tradition and Innovation</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">07:03 The Reality of Modern Manufacturing</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">13:23 The Role of Lean and Continuous Improvement</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">21:00 Planning and Execution in Operations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">25:50 Understanding Organizational Cadence</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">26:20 The Role of Frontline Leaders</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">26:54 Communication and Problem Solving</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">27:24 Assessing Organizational Health</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">29:38 Identifying and Addressing Problems</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">33:25 The Impact of Artificial Intelligence</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">39:51 The Value of Talent in Organizations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">42:42 Learning from Mistakes</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">44:55 Personal Journey and Career Advice</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">48:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/VbRaszlL9.png"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>106</itunes:episode></item><item><title>AI, Agility &amp; Aerospace | Blaine Alderks | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 105</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/7m9jBfoAL/media/Nycpd8wHX.mp3" length="79472375" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">7m9jBfoAL</guid><pubDate>Tue, 15 Jul 2025 21:16:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>3281</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">In this insightful episode of the Operations Science Podcast, we’re joined by Blaine Alderks, Head of Product Development at Windings, to explore the evolving world of high-performance electromechanical systems. Blaine shares lessons from over a decade in aerospace and defense, highlighting how agile product development, effective capacity planning, and cross-functional collaboration have transformed workflows at Windings. </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">We also dive deep into AI’s emerging role in engineering, how to manage rework and “tribal knowledge,” and the cultural nuances of engineering acquisitions. Whether you're a leader, engineer, or operations strategist, this conversation is packed with real-world takeaways on building reliable, mission-critical solutions while embracing change.  </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);"> Key Topics :</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Fail Fast Culture in Product Development  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Knowledge Transfer Post-Acquisition  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- AI in Engineering Workflows (Opportunities and Risks)  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Capacity and Lead Time Planning Using Operations Science  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Rework, Escapes, and Process Mapping  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- The Shift from Stage Gates to Milestone-Based Planning  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Engineering Empathy and Leadership  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Blaine’s Personal Journey in Aerospace and Leadership  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Integrating Manufacturing Feedback into Product Development  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">- Managing Virtual Work-in-Process and Commitment Reliability  </span></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">Chapters:  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">00:00 Introduction of Blaine Alderks from Windings </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">03:40 The Rise of Agile Product Development  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">09:20 Impacts of M&amp;A on Engineering Teams  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">14:10 AI in Product Design  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">22:00 Working with Legacy Systems &amp; Drawings   </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">26:30 Capacity Planning &amp; Lead Time Management  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">33:00 From Theory to Forecasting   </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">37:30 Rework &amp; Escape Tracking  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">42:10 Integrating Manufacturing Early  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">47:50 Milestones vs. Stage Gates  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">52:10 WIP Management &amp; Virtual Queues  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">56:00 Weekly Planning &amp; Commitment Reliability  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">1:00:30 Blaine’s Journey to Engineering  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">1:07:00 Leading with Empathy    </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">1:11:00 Life Outside Work  </span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">1:14:00 Final Thoughts &amp; Reflections</span></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/8RrIMzNQ7.png"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>105</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Medical Device Operations | Frankie Swindell | The Operations Science Podcast | Ep 104</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/HmGnymHJ2/media/_9gfS0UCb.mp3" length="49379372" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">HmGnymHJ2</guid><pubDate>Tue, 01 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>3086</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>Join Ed Pound as he sits down with Frankie Swindell, Operations Manager at Flexon (Ingersoll Rand), for an in-depth conversation about managing operations in the critical medical device manufacturing sector. Discover how a seasoned operations leader navigates global supply chains, tariff challenges, and the transition from private equity to public company ownership.</p><p>Tune in inside:</p><p>Tariff impact strategies, supply chain resilience, private equity to public transition, operations excellence frameworks, capacity management, inventory optimization, cross-functional leadership, coaching methodologies, AI implementation</p><p>Take away:</p><ul><li>Build supply chain resilience through dual-site operations and redundant capacity strategies</li><li>Understand operational differences between private equity and public company ownership models</li><li>Establish effective standard work frameworks while maintaining employee autonomy</li><li>Master cross-functional communication by learning to speak different departmental languages</li><li>Implement coaching-based leadership approaches that develop people rather than manage processes</li><li>Balance capacity utilization with variability management to optimize customer service</li><li>Create positive constraints to maximize productivity and work-life integration</li><li>Navigate complex customer relationships and supply chain partnerships</li></ul><p>Chapters:</p><p>00:00 Introduction - The Hidden Heroes of Medical Device Manufacturing</p><p>01:26 Current Tariff Challenges and Global Operations Strategy</p><p>08:09 Private Equity to Public Company Transition Impact</p><p>17:01 Operations Excellence and Standard Work Frameworks</p><p>26:20 Chess and Wrestling Coaching Influence on Leadership</p><p>35:04 Cross-Functional Communication and Finance Partnership</p><p>42:10 Customer Relations and Supply Chain Integration</p><p>48:16 Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing Operations</p><p>52:03 Personal Background and Entrepreneurial Journey</p><p>1:02:15 Family Life Lessons Applied to Operations Management</p><p>Quote of the show:</p><p>"Great coaches ask the questions to enable a good athlete or a good employee to solve their own problems"</p><p>Flexon manufactures critical rubber and silicone components found in brain shunts, pacemakers, and other life-saving medical devices. Under Frankie's leadership, the company manages operations across two sites with 190 employees, generating approximately 40 million dollars annually. His unique background combines ten years of manufacturing experience with competitive chess and wrestling coaching, bringing a distinctive perspective to operations management.</p><p>The conversation explores how global events like COVID-19 and tariff policies have shaped manufacturing strategies. Frankie shares insights on building resilient supply chains through geographic diversification and redundant capacity planning. The discussion reveals how operational excellence creates systems that adapt and thrive under uncertainty.</p><p>Listeners will gain practical insights into operations science principles in high-stakes medical device manufacturing, where precision directly impacts patient outcomes. The episode demonstrates how concepts like Theory of Constraints translate into real-world decisions affecting both performance and life-saving treatments.</p><p>Subscribe to The Operations Science Podcast for more insights from industry leaders applying scientific principles to solve operational challenges. Like this episode if you found value in Frankie's perspective on leadership and operations management.</p><p>#operationsmanagement #medicaldevicemanufacturing #supplychainresilience #leadershipcoaching #operationsscience #manufacturingexcellence #processimprovement #capacitymanagement #inventoryoptimization #crossfunctionalleadership #AIinmanufacturing #tariffstrategy #flexon #ingersollrand</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/CEVw6kRPR.png"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>104</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Global Operations Leadership with  | The Operations Science Podcast </title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/rIWEeiu0N/media/M2-QLBI9q.mp3" length="54109868" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">rIWEeiu0N</guid><pubDate>Fri, 20 Jun 2025 18:45:19 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>3382</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of The Operations Science Podcast, your host Ed Pound welcomes Rahul Teotia, a seasoned executive with vast global experience in leading supply chain and operations functions across various industries.&nbsp;Rahul shares his invaluable insights on building high-performing teams, navigating digital transformations, and simplifying complex processes to achieve significant impacts.&nbsp;This conversation is packed with actionable advice for any leader looking to drive operational excellence in a global context.</p><p><br></p><p>Tune in inside to learn about:</p><p><br></p><p>Building high-performing international teams.&nbsp;</p><p>The importance of listening and servant leadership.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Effective change management strategies.&nbsp;</p><p>The role of AI and automation in modern operations.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Simplifying complex processes for major impact.&nbsp;</p><p>Navigating cross-cultural challenges in global business.&nbsp;</p><p>Maintaining work-life balance in a demanding career.&nbsp;</p><p>Takeaways:</p><p><br></p><p>When stepping into a new leadership role, the first couple of months should be dedicated to listening to understand the company's strategy, culture, and business pain points before implementing changes.&nbsp;</p><p>Building trust with a new team is crucial; this can be fostered by meeting people face-to-face, involving them in decision-making, and appreciating their existing knowledge and contributions.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Successful change management hinges on identifying the "why" behind the change, structuring a dedicated team to lead the initiative, and managing stakeholders' expectations through clear and consistent communication.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>Technology and automation should be implemented to make people more effective and enable strategic decision-making, not just to replace them. It's vital to understand the process you want to improve before applying a technological solution.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Simplifying processes, such as centralizing purchasing for multiple sites, can lead to significant improvements in material availability and efficiency, even with complex legacy systems.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Living and working in different countries provides invaluable experience in managing cross-cultural relationships and adapting to new environments, a key skill for global leaders.&nbsp;</p><p>Chapters:</p><p>00:00 - Intro</p><p>02:05 - Best Practices for Forming High-Performing Teams</p><p>05:04 - Balancing Leadership Styles to Establish Trust</p><p>08:00 - The Impact of Cross-Cultural Experience</p><p>10:10 - Biggest Challenges in Supply Chain and Operations Leadership</p><p>12:34 - The Critical Role of Planning in Operations</p><p>16:02 - Evaluating the Trade-offs of Automation</p><p>19:15 - Simplifying Complex Processes for Major Impact</p><p>25:25 - Mastering the Art of Change Management</p><p>31:02 - Understanding Flow, Variability, and Capacity</p><p>33:05 - Opportunities and Challenges of AI in Operations</p><p>39:39 - Favorite Mistakes and Leadership Lessons</p><p>45:55 - Early Life and Path to Operations Leadership</p><p>49:31 - Maintaining Work-Life Balance</p><p>55:21 - Outro</p><p><br></p><p>Quote of the show:</p><p>"If you are working too late in the night, that means either you're not being productive and smart in what you do, or you have too much on your plate."&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p>Hashtags:</p><p>#OperationsScience #SupplyChain #Leadership #GlobalOperations #RahulTeotia #OperationalExcellence #ChangeManagement #TeamBuilding #DigitalTransformation #AIinBusiness #ProcessImprovement #LeanManufacturing #Podcast</p><p><br></p><p>For more on Thermo Fisher Scientific see</p><p><a href="https://corporate.thermofisher.com/us/en/index/newsroom/Our-stories.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://corporate.thermofisher.com/us/en/index/newsroom/Our-stories.html</a></p><p><br></p><p>If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your colleagues! Join the conversation and learn more at Opscience.org.</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/1mQMhaxiI.png"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>103</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Delta’s Post-Pandemic Comeback | Operations Science, AI, and Lean at Work -  Mike McBride - E #102</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/J0JQbSolJ/media/OlzwCw0tB.mp3" length="48665900" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">J0JQbSolJ</guid><pubDate>Wed, 04 Jun 2025 15:30:36 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>3042</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed sits down with Mike McBride, the leader of Delta Tech Ops, Delta Air Lines’ maintenance, repair, and overhaul powerhouse. Together, they explore the monumental operational challenges faced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, including grounding and maintaining a fleet of over 900 aircraft, navigating supply chain chaos, and rebuilding a workforce after significant attrition. Mike shares insights on how Delta Tech Ops not only stabilized its operations but transformed into an industry leader in efficiency and innovation.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">The discussion delves into the practical application of operational science and continuous improvement throughout the organization, from rethinking training approaches to leveraging artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and inventory forecasting. Hear real stories about team reinvention, shop-floor problem-solving, and why a strong foundation in operational science helped Delta Tech Ops become two to four times faster than competitors in engine turnaround time.</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">This episode is a compelling story of resilience, reinvention, and the science behind superb, sustained performance in airline operations. Whether you’re a professional in aviation, operations, or just fascinated by how big organizations adapt to seismic change, you’ll come away with valuable lessons and fresh perspectives.</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">Key Topics:</strong></p><p><br></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	Overcoming operational and supply chain chaos in post-pandemic aviation</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	Workforce transformation: Training and integrating a new generation of technicians</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	Rethinking shop-floor processes and stabilizing engine repair operations</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	The power of operational science in building a common language and framework for improvement</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	How AI-driven forecasting revolutionizes inventory management and reliability</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">•	Insights on leadership, problem-solving, and building a resilient team</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(13, 13, 13);">Tune in for an episode packed with real-world strategies and expert insights from the frontlines of airline operations!</span></p><p><br></p><p><strong>chapters </strong></p><p><br></p><ol><li>Introduction &amp; Guest Welcome</li><li>Navigating COVID-19: Initial Challenges</li><li>Workforce Reductions and Recovery</li><li>Parking and Maintaining Aircraft During the Pandemic</li><li>Rehiring and Training After COVID</li><li>Overcoming Supply Chain and Turn Time Issues</li><li>Stabilizing Operations Amid Chaos</li><li>Building a New Training and Production Model</li><li>Forecasting and AI-Driven Improvements</li><li>Reestablishing Continuous Improvement Culture</li><li>Operations Science Training at Delta Tech Ops</li><li>Measurable Results in Turnaround Time</li><li>The Impact of Operations Science on Problem Solving</li><li>AI and Data in Maintenance Operations</li><li>Mike McBride’s Career Path and Reflections</li><li>Closing Remarks and Takeaways</li></ol><p><br></p><p><strong>Quote of the show</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong><em>from ground level experience to executive leadership, from wrench turning to wide body strategy, this is a story of resilience, reinvention and the science behind superb sustained operations performance</em></strong></p><p>  </p><p><br></p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/R__S4Fkfm.png"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>102</itunes:episode></item><item><title>Secrets to Boost Efficiency and Effectiveness Across Industries</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/zgL91ksnh/media/DsMMBshLZ.mp3" length="41202476" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">zgL91ksnh</guid><pubDate>Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:01:59 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>2575</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p>Welcome to the premiere episode of the Operations Science Podcast, where we dive into the art and science of operational excellence to help you transform the way you work! Hosted by industry veteran Ed Pound, this episode unveils the power of Operations Science—a first-principles approach to boosting efficiency, productivity, and success across all industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to aerospace, software development, and beyond. Whether you're a nurse juggling patient overload, a project manager battling deadlines, or a plant manager tackling excess inventory, this podcast is your guide to mastering operations with practical, science-backed strategies.</p><p><br></p><p>In this episode, Ed introduces the vision behind Operations Science, explaining how it cuts through the confusion of competing methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, and Theory of Constraints. Learn how to apply fundamental laws of capacity, inventory, time, and variability to streamline processes and achieve exceptional results. We explore real-world challenges, like Delta Tech Ops’ post-COVID recovery, where Operations Science provided a framework to stabilize and rebuild their production system. Ed also shares his entrepreneurial journey, from oil rig construction to pioneering Operations Science, offering insights into leadership, resilience, and innovation.</p><p><br></p><p>Expect captivating stories of triumphs and failures from C-suite executives, plant managers, continuous improvement leaders, and project managers across diverse sectors. Discover actionable tips to enhance your operations, reduce chaos, and empower your team—no matter your role or industry. From healthcare to software development, Operations Science reveals universal principles that drive success.</p><p>Join us weekly for inspiring conversations with industry trailblazers who share their experiences, best practices, and lessons learned. Subscribe now to the Operations Science Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts, and don’t miss out on transforming your operations. Visit opscience.org to connect with the Operations Science Institute, share your insights, and join a community dedicated to operational excellence. Rate, review, and share this episode to help others discover the science of better work!</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Takeaways </strong></p><p><br></p><p>  &nbsp;Operations Science Defined: Operations Science is a first-principles approach to improving work effectiveness and efficiency across all industries, not just manufacturing. It focuses on fundamental laws of capacity, inventory, time, and variability to streamline processes.</p><p>&nbsp;Universal Applicability: The principles of Operations Science apply to diverse sectors, including healthcare (e.g., nurses managing patient loads), project management (e.g., handling delays), software development, aerospace, and construction, addressing both physical and knowledge-based work processes.</p><p>&nbsp;Cutting Through Confusion: Unlike competing methodologies like Lean, Six Sigma, or Theory of Constraints, Operations Science starts from basic scientific relationships, clarifying how to enhance existing continuous improvement efforts without replacing them.</p><p>&nbsp;Practical Solutions for Real Challenges: The podcast emphasizes actionable strategies for operational issues, such as stabilizing production systems post-crisis (e.g., Delta Tech Ops’ recovery after COVID) by providing a common framework for training and execution.</p><p>&nbsp;Learning from Success and Failure: The show will feature guests from various industries (C-suite executives, plant managers, continuous improvement leaders) sharing both triumphs and failures to provide valuable lessons for listeners.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Quote of the show</strong></p><p><br></p><p><strong><em>Operations Science is about how people can be more effective and more efficient in the work they do.</em></strong></p><p>  </p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/LVUfzlKD3.jpg"></itunes:image><itunes:episode>101</itunes:episode></item><item><title>The Operations Science Podcast</title><enclosure url="https://feeds.podetize.com/ep/N8Dm3xKFd/media/ahPTsPdV8.mp3" length="753068" type="audio/mpeg"></enclosure><guid isPermaLink="false">N8Dm3xKFd</guid><pubDate>Mon, 12 May 2025 18:07:19 GMT</pubDate><itunes:duration>47</itunes:duration><link></link><itunes:explicit>false</itunes:explicit><description><![CDATA[<p><br></p><p><strong>The Operations Science Podcast: Authentic Leadership Stories from Operations and Project Leaders</strong></p><p>Welcome to&nbsp;<em>The Operations Science Podcast</em>, the premier destination for authentic, in-depth conversations with operations and project leaders who share real-life stories of their career triumphs, setbacks, and the invaluable insights gained along the way. Hosted with a passion for uncovering the strategies and mental frameworks that drive success, this podcast is a must-listen for executives, managers, and aspiring leaders in industries such as general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) companies, and diagnostic labs. With a focus on leadership, operational excellence, and continuous improvement, each episode delivers actionable takeaways to help you navigate the complexities of modern business landscapes.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>What to Expect from The Operations Science Podcast</strong></p><p><br></p><p>Our guests include C-level executives, VPs of operations and supply chain, directors, managers, and thought leaders from trade associations, industry groups, and standards organizations. These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of experience in leadership, decision-making, and execution, offering unique perspectives on operational challenges like rapid change, uncertainty, innovation, evolving workforce expectations, talent development, and organizational culture. Whether you're a forward-thinking executive or a continuous improvement enthusiast, this podcast provides a platform to learn from the best in the field.</p><p>Each episode dives deep into the personal journeys of high-performance leaders, exploring their successes, failures, and comebacks. From building high-performance teams to driving strategic transformation and maintaining clarity under pressure, our guests share the mental tools, frameworks, and strategies that have enabled them to lead with confidence, resilience, and foresight. This isn’t just another business podcast—it’s a forum for high-level executives to openly discuss the real challenges of operational management and the mental fitness required to thrive at the top.</p><p><br></p><p><strong>Why Listen to The Operations Science Podcast?</strong></p><p><br></p><ul><li><strong>Authentic Storytelling</strong>: Hear real-life stories from operations and project leaders who have navigated the highs and lows of leadership in dynamic industries.</li><li><strong>Actionable Insights</strong>: Gain practical strategies for overcoming operational challenges, fostering innovation, and building resilient teams.</li><li><strong>Diverse Perspectives</strong>: Learn from a wide range of guests, including C-suite executives, industry group leaders, and continuous improvement experts.</li><li><strong>Inspiration for Growth</strong>: Discover how top leaders adapt to change, inspire their teams, and make high-stakes decisions with clarity and confidence.</li><li><strong>Industry-Specific Focus</strong>: Explore winning practices and leading trends in general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, MRO, and diagnostic labs.</li><li><br></li></ul><p><strong>Who Should Listen?</strong>This podcast is designed for:</p><p><br></p><ul><li>C-level executives and VPs of operations/supply chain seeking to sharpen their leadership skills</li><li>Directors and managers in operations, project management, or continuous improvement roles</li><li>Professionals in general manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, MRO, and diagnostic labs</li><li>Aspiring leaders looking to learn from the experiences of seasoned executives</li><li>Members of trade associations, industry groups, and standards organizations interested in industry trends and winning practices</li></ul><p><br></p><p><strong>How to Listen</strong></p><p><em>The Operations Science Podcast</em>&nbsp;is available on major platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more. Subscribe today to get notified about new episodes and gain access to a growing library of leadership insights. Follow us on LinkedIn and other social media platforms for daily short-form video clips that deliver quick, actionable tips from our guests.</p>]]></description><itunes:image href="https://feeds.podetize.com/4mu1hgki5.jpg"></itunes:image><itunes:episodeType>trailer</itunes:episodeType></item></channel></rss>