cast polymer industry

270: ACMA’s Certified Composites Technician Program: What’s New and What’s Next

On this episode, Kyle Jordan joins the show to share some updates on the ACMA’s Certified Composites Technician programs. Kyle is Director of Certifications with the ACMA. He’ll be discussing some of the new digital training options launched over the last couple of months, including those for CCT recertification.  You can learn more about these CCT…

Read More

269: Discussing the Strait of Hormuz Conflict and Supply Chain Disruptions with Dawn Hersey, PhD.

The closure of the Strait of Hormuz is sending shockwaves through global supply chains—particularly across petrochemicals, resins, and other composite manufacturing materials. Joining the podcast this week is Dawn Hersey, Ph.D., a combat veteran and subject matter expert in resilience, stability, and conflict. She owns Ferndon Consulting, an Intelligence firm. Her expertise is in international conflict, geopolitical…

Read More

267: What to Post on Social Media When You’re Trying to Grow a Real Brand

On this episode, we feature a previous interview with Derek Hill, VP of Syn-Mar Products, Inc. In this interview, Derek shares how he’s built a meaningful social media presence for their family-owned business using a smartphone, a $6-per-month editing app, and about an hour a day. This is a simple, consistent strategy that any of our cast polymer…

Read More

262: Discussing Kitchen and Bath Design Trends Ahead of KBIS 2026 with Designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt

On this episode, designer Elizabeth Lord-Levitt joins the show to share some of the biggest kitchen and bath design trends of 2026.  Elizabeth has an extensive background in the remodeling industry, as the lead designer for a highly regarded Design-Build firm in Denver, and will be moderating a panel at KBIS in February. 

Read More

255: Transforming Workplace Culture Through “The 6 Gears of Grategy”

On this episode, Lisa Ryan discusses lessons on transforming workplace culture from her most recent book Gear Up for Greatness. This book presents a timely framework for business leaders grappling with workforce challenges that have become increasingly critical in our industry. As manufacturers face persistent labor shortages, rising turnover costs, and the need to attract skilled…

Read More

254: From Chaos to Control: How Systems Maximize Profits and Business Value

On this episode, Jim Custer of Corporate Business Solutions joins the podcast to discuss the importance of systems. Jim works with small business owners to identify and fix profit leaks, helping them maximize value, improve efficiency, and free up time for what truly matters.  His company offers a broad array of services, furnishing analytical, consulting,…

Read More

252: Recapping the Composites Fly-In with Dan Neumann

On this episode, Dan Neumann joins the podcast to discuss last week’s Composites Fly-In in Washington, DC. This event provided a unique setting for members of the Composites/ Cast Polymer industry to meet with Members of Congress and agency leadership and educate them on the importance and capabilities of these materials. 

Read More

249: Uncovering the Hidden Drivers Behind Consumer Decisions, Biases, and Social influences

On this episode, we’ll be discussing the hidden drivers of consumer choice with guest expert Nika Kabiri. She has spent 25+ years studying decision-making, with 15 of those in consumer insights. She has taught Decision Science at the University of Washington, and her expertise in decision-making has been featured in the Wall Street Journal, the…

Read More

248: Discussing the Buzz 2025 with Jennifer Towner

On this episode, Jennifer Towner provides a highlight of our mid-year networking event, organized annually by the ICPA. It takes place next week, April 3-4, and allows ICPA members to connect over two days, engaging in strategic discussions, exploring business solutions, and participating in fun social activities.

Read More

247: ACMA Launches New Interactive Composites Manual

On this episode, Kyle Jordan discusses the release of the new Basic Composites Manual, now available in an enhanced, interactive Digital Edition. This latest update also includes a refined logo for the Certified Composites Technician (CCT) program, reflecting the program’s refreshed content and commitment to excellence. The new Digital Edition offers a highly engaging and…

Read More