The Manufacturing Shake-Up

If you're struggling to attract or retain… generally it comes down to something going on in the internal climate of the organization that is undermining your efforts. 
Workplace culture has an undeniable impact on morale, retention, and business success. 
In this episode, Jenny and Ellen dive deep into the influence of workplace culture on hiring, retention, and overall company success. They discuss: 
The dangers of toxic employees. 
The connection between culture and Connecticut’s workforce shortage. 
How companies build strong, positive cultures that attract and retain great employees. 
Practical strategies for improving employee engagement, including onboarding best practices and leadership development. 
If your company struggles with retention or is trying to attract top talent, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in to learn how to create a workplace where people want to stay! 
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Resource mentioned in this episode: 
Never Lose an Employee Again by Joey Coleman 
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You can find more Ellen and Jenny here:  Ellen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-feldman-ornato/  Jenny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bolderjenny/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-bolder-company/  Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ 
------- Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Paige Raffaele is redefining what it means to be a young woman in the manufacturing industry. Unlike generations before her, Paige hasn't absorbed the narrative that manufacturing was a hard place for women. Instead, she's been part of the new workplace – a space that has been welcoming to young women like her.  
In this episode, Jenny and Ellen chat with Paige about her journey from Abbott Technical High School to Naugatuck Valley Community College and into a full-time role as a Machine Operator and Programmer at East Branch Engineering. Along the way, she’s been supported by an incredible network of male family members, teachers, and colleagues who have seen her potential and helped her grow. 
Paige shares:  
How her hands-on curiosity led her to manufacturing 
The impact of male allies in her education and career path 
How keeping an open mind has helped her thrive 
The importance of learning many skills across the manufacturing floor 
The importance of speaking up, making mistakes, and learning from them 
Paige embodies a new generation of manufacturing professionals—curious, adaptable, and ready to take on challenges. Her story is an inspiration for young people considering a career in manufacturing, and for those already in the field looking to support the next wave of talent. 
Where you can find Paige:  Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/east-branch-engineering/  
------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

When you walk into your workplace, do you feel inspired and energized? Or does it feel like you've stepped back in time to 1965?  
This week on The Manufacturing Shake-Up, we sit down with Jennifer Gaggion, Industrial Interior Designer at Design Your Monday, to discuss how thoughtful design can revolutionize manufacturing spaces—boosting productivity, employee engagement, and even revenue. 
Jennifer explains why manufacturing and interior design go hand in hand, and how these 3 small, intentional changes can create a major impact: 
Integrate Your Brand Into Your Space – Whether it’s a bold feature wall, company colors, or strategic signage, your workspace should tell the story of who you are. 
Create Spaces for Collaboration – Encourage idea-sharing and teamwork by designing casual, welcoming spaces where employees can gather and connect. 
Keep It Clean and Organized – Outdated, cluttered, or dirty workspaces send the wrong message to employees and clients alike. Small efforts in tidiness go a long way in boosting morale and professionalism. 
Finally, Jennifer dives into how interior design plays a role in employee retention, workplace safety, and even customer perception. If you’re looking to hire and retain employees, you won’t want to miss this episode! 
Where you can find Jennifer:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gaggion-8065393/ Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-your-monday-llc/  
------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Sustainability in manufacturing isn’t just good for the planet—it’s smart business. In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Rene Parrinello, Corporate Sustainability Specialist at Legrand North and Central America, shares how small changes can create big impact. 
She shares the importance of documenting environmental impacts from raw material sourcing to end-of-life product disposal and how data-driven decisions can lead to cost savings, better efficiency, and a smaller carbon footprint. 
Did you even know this was a job you could do too!!
Rene, Ellen and Jenny discuss: 
✅ Sustainability as a business strategy—how reducing waste and energy use boosts profits 
✅ Starting small—even switching to reusable pallets or efficient lighting makes a difference 
✅ Curiosity as key driver—questioning business-as-usual leads to innovation 
✅ Why good sustainability leadership matters—clear communication and persistence drive change 
Listen in and get inspired to shake up your manufacturing journey - you can find a role in sustainability, or help to make your facility more sustainable - for the future AND the bottom line.
Where you can find Rene:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rene-parrinello/ Company: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legrand-north-america/  
------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

From early tinkering to a career turning cutting-edge ideas into real-world products, Hope Kavulich has always been driven by curiosity. Now in Product Realization at Synectic, she helps transform concepts—mostly medical devices—into manufacturable, life-changing products. 
In this episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Hope shares how early exposure to robotics and hands-on learning led her to mechanical engineering at Quinnipiac University. At QU, she helped launch a makerspace and taught others how to use their creativity to create and build things too. That passion for building and problem-solving now fuels her work, optimizing manufacturing processes and ensuring designs go from prototype to scalable production. 
Hope's story shows the value of STEM at a young age and the importance of following those early passions.
Where you can find Hope:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hopekavulich/ Company: https://synectic.net/   ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Alethea Schaeffer, Owner of Form-All Plastics and VP of Sales and Marketing at USHECO, is not only steering the ship of her family’s 60-year-old plastics manufacturing business, she’s also leading her own company through its next chapter of growth—all while balancing family life across two states. 
Alethea shares her journey of leadership, delegation, and cultural transformation. Discover her work in formalizing communication structures, implementing best practices, and fostering a team-oriented, workplace culture that drives innovation and success.  
Alethea also opens up about the personal side of leadership. She shares her morning routine, built around gratitude and prioritization, and reflects on how letting go of perfectionism and embracing delegation have empowered her to lead effectively across two businesses. 
Where you can find Alethea:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aletheas/ 
Companies:  
Form-All Plastics: https://www.form-all.com/ 
USHECO: https://www.usheco.com/ 
------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

What if life’s challenges weren’t roadblocks but stepping stones to something greater? This week, Jenny sits down with Raji Kompalli, VP of Research and Development at Laticrete, to explore the powerful mindset shifts that have propelled her remarkable career. 
Raji shares how her journey from a bench scientist to a leadership role was driven by persistence, adaptability, and embracing support systems. Her story includes a pivotal moment when a visa lottery rejection forced her to return to India, only to find a way back to the U.S. and build a thriving career. 
Key themes include: 
Reframing Challenges 
Adapting to new cultures 
The Leadership Mindset 
Discipline and Growth 
This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to navigate challenges, build a fulfilling career, and inspire others along the way. 
Tune in for insights, inspiration, and practical takeaways to shake up your approach to leadership and personal growth. 
Where you can find Raji:  Raji's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raji-rajeswari-kompalli-0890976b/  Company: https://www.laticrete.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

How do you find a workplace that truly fits? For Melissa Mazo, Manufacturing Engineer Manager at Straton Industries, the answer lay in meaningful conversations, a culture of respect, and the power of a clean manufacturing facility. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from a CT technical high school to leading in aerospace manufacturing, all while defying stereotypes and creating space for others to succeed. 
Melissa’s story begins with curiosity—learning how to create something tangible and meaningful as a teenager—and evolves into a career that blends technical mastery with leadership. Along the way, she overcame cultural and gender barriers, proving that women, particularly Latina women, have a powerful role to play in reshaping the manufacturing landscape. 
Tune in to hear Melissa’s insights, tips for identifying workplace cultures, and how her passion for “making things” has driven her career. Learn what the CT Technical Schools are doing to help build the workforce of tomorrow and why you should get involved in supporting them. 
Where you can find Melissa:  Melissa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamazo/  Company: https://straton.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

In this episode, Lena Geliga shares invaluable lessons about personal growth, effective communication, and learning through failure. Now Operations Manager at Hygrade Precision Technologies, Lena talks about her career journey starting in retail and now leading operations in a high-precision manufacturing environment.  
Lena’s story emphasizes the importance of asking questions and embracing mistakes as opportunities for growth. From setting boundaries to recognizing your value in the workplace, Lena’s insights can help you navigate a fulfilling career. 
Tune in for an engaging conversation packed with tips, inspiration, and shake-up factors that will help you transform your own path in manufacturing. 
Where you can find Lena:  
Lena's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lena-geliga-90b196123/  Company: https://www.hygrade.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Ever faced a moment where you knew you had to leap into the unknown to chase your dreams? In this episode, we talk to Kristen Tangarone, founder of KTJones Management Consulting, about the daring career pivots that shaped her journey. 
Kristen shares how she transitioned from 20 years in traditional manufacturing to spearheading operations in the emerging cannabis industry. Then most recently, she launched her own consulting business. Along the way, she reveals the leadership lessons she’s learned in navigating high-pressure environments, building team consistency, and adapting skills across industries. 
Ellen and Jenny discuss with Kristen the challenges and rewards of stepping out of her comfort zone to build a career that aligns with her passion. 
Where you can find Kristen:  
Kristen's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-tangarone/ ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Jaclyn Epstein, COO of MICA Corporation, shares how her leadership is inspired by her grandfather’s values of doing good and doing right.  
Jaclyn explains how the words 'care' and 'careful' perfectly describe manufacturing as they drive decision-making, quality, and trust in the workplace.  
She discusses how she tackles challenges through self-awareness and vulnerability. She also shares her tips on how to take on tough conversations.   
Her story highlights how embracing vulnerability, fostering trust, and aligning actions with values can inspire growth and create meaningful impact in any career. 
Where you can find Jaclyn:  
Jaclyn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaclyn-epstein-a938623b/   Company: https://mica-corp.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

As we enter a new year, many of us create ambitious lists of goals—but how do we move from writing them down to actually accomplishing them?  
In this practical episode, Jenny and Ellen have a conversation that walks you through the art of setting and achieving meaningful goals. They break it all down into an actionable 5-step process, making the often-daunting task of goal achievement feel manageable and exciting. 
Here’s what they cover: 
Choosing the goal  
Discovering your "Why" 
Measuring progress 
Defining actions and behaviors  
Embracing imperfection 
If you're looking to make 2025 your best year yet, this episode is packed with strategies to help you focus, grow, and shake things up in your personal and professional life. 
Do you want more of Ellen and Jenny? Their team at The Bolder Company can help support sessions like this and much more: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

How can success drive more success? By pulling it apart to discover what made that success happen!  
In manufacturing, we are no strangers to pulling apart problems, doing root-cause analysis or applying Lean and continuous improvement principles. But how often do we take a pause to recognize a 𝐰𝐢𝐧 and find out what steps made it happen? 
In this episode, Ellen and Jenny walk us through an exercise of narrowing down a big win into smaller parts and then pulling it further apart to discover what actions and behaviors enabled the success. 
This is a great exercise to close out the year on a positive note that will lead you to further success in the new year. You can do this exercise by yourself or grab a friend/coworker or even your whole team! 
Do you want more of Ellen and Jenny? Their team at The Bolder Company can help support sessions like this and much more: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

In this episode, Lisa Brown, Market Segment Director at Ensign Bickford Aerospace and Defense (EBAD), shares transformative insights on navigating career growth without falling into the social media comparison trap.  
Lisa discusses the importance of learning in your first year, using lateral moves to build diverse skills, and the value of mentorship and networking. She emphasizes self-reflection, realistic timelines, and focusing on personal growth rather than external validation.  
Whether you're starting out or seeking to level up, Lisa’s advice will help you approach your career with clarity and purpose. 
Where you can find Lisa:  
Lisa's LinkedIn ASSA ABLOY 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company Podcast executive production by Gael Communications Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions   

What does it mean to truly find your fit in the manufacturing world? 
For Mia Merrel, Director of Product Management at ASSA ABLOY, it’s about combining creativity, collaboration, and a fearless drive to learn.  
In this inspiring episode of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, Mia shares how she carved out her role, from seeking mentorship to launching innovative projects that transformed how her company communicates. 
This episode also dives into Mia’s leadership philosophy, exploring how she uses collaboration and creativity to build inclusive teams and innovative solutions. 
Finally, Mia shares valuable advice for listeners looking to develop their own passion projects and highlights the importance of addressing small problems to drive big organizational changes. 
Where you can find Mia:  
Mia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mia-merrel/  Company: https://www.assaabloy.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

On this episode with Jayme Coates, COO of Juniper Biomedical, Jayme shares some of her key career insights.  
Jayme talks to Ellen and Jenny about gaining inspiration from nature – both to clear her head AND in its simplicity. She's discovered that reducing complexity is often the key to solving really challenging problems.  
Jayme's background and experience also underlines why it's so important to keep an open mind, challenge your assumptions and stay curious. She talks about career choices she thought would be boring, but later discovered they absolutely fascinated her. 
Finally, Jayme concludes with some excellent advice to women working in technical fields...but you'll have to listen to hear that!  
Where you can find Jayme:  
Jayme's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaymecoates/  Company: https://www.juniperbiomedical.com/  ------- Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Kristina Pacheco's story challenges conventional ideas of who “belongs” in the manufacturing industry and proves that career paths may be a bit winding before finding the right one.  
 
When Kristina realized she didn't want to go into college debt, she started her journey to find a hands-on career. At first she landed on traditional female-dominated fields in the beauty industry before she realized those really weren't for her. Eventually she was introduced to the fields of welding and then machining, and she became hooked! 
 
When starting her first jobs, Kristina thought she had to change who she was...she dressed down and hid her personality. Over time—and with a surprising push from her younger sister—she realized that embracing her true self could help her find success and fulfillment on her own terms. Now, as an authentic, confident professional, Kristina brings her creativity and individuality to a role that she loves, while inspiring others around her. 
 
Where you can find Kristina:  
Kristina's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-pacheco-329b16187/ Company: https://kamatics.com/ 
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Amanda Wiriya's story is a testament to the power of listening, being transparent, and exploring your transferable skills.  
She began her career at Wepco Plastics as an Administrative Assistant, seeking stability and flexibility. But leaders at Wepco saw her potential and her ability to use skills derived from previous (non-manufacturing) roles, leading ultimately to her rise to the role of Vice President of Operations.  
Today, Amanda leads Wepco’s operational strategy, finances, and human resources, working closely with an all-male leadership team to foster an environment of transparency and growth. 
Amanda opens up about the unique challenges and advantages of being "the only" woman on her team —a journey that many women in manufacturing can relate to. She shares valuable insights into how she proceeded.  
We discover that Wepco has an incredible commitment to transparency, a practice of assuming “the process failed, not the person.” This supportive, process-focused approach drives innovation and morale. By consistently questioning assumptions and fostering open communication, Amanda has played a key role in shaping a culture that values each individual contributor. 
Where you can find Amanda:  
Amanda's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-wiriya-322545141/  Company: https://wepcoplastics.com/  
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Sit down with Beatriz Gutierrez, President & CEO of CONNSTEP, a leading force in Connecticut’s manufacturing ecosystem.  
Beatriz shares key moments from her career journey. She opens up about an early career situation where she doubted her readiness for a leadership role, only to realize later that she had underestimated her unique strengths. She reflects on our tendency, as women, to need to feel "overqualified" before taking a leap - a mindset she urges others to overcome. 
From Colombia to Connecticut, Beatriz has navigated male-dominated environments, leveraging her engineering and business skills while continuously learning. She discusses her experience leading CONNSTEP, helping Connecticut’s manufacturers thrive, and the importance of mentorship in her success. 
Her message: take risks, trust in your abilities, and embrace opportunities as they come—even if they feel outside your comfort zone. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or leading a team, Beatriz’s advice to "lead with courage, not fear" will inspire you to shake up your own path to success. 
Where you can find Beatriz: 
Beatriz's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beatrizgutierrez/  
Company: https://www.connstep.org/   
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Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/  

Catherine Pratt, Program Manager at HyAxiom, shares her inspiring journey in the world of sustainability. Charting a path through chemical engineering, she now leads projects that address one of the biggest global challenges—climate change. She takes her mission personally as both a professional and a parent. 
Catherine shares how her career evolved from individual contributor to leadership, and the mindset shifts that helped her get there. Along the way, we learn how Catherine’s transparent leadership style builds trust and ownership among her team, encouraging collaboration and innovation. 
Tune in for a conversation on aligning your career with a purpose—identifying the problems you want to solve and finding a way to contribute using your strengths. 
Where you can find Catherine: Catherine's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-pratt-0a88811b/  Company: https://hyaxiom.com/  ------- 
Podcast hosted by The Bolder Company: https://www.theboldercompany.com/ Podcast executive production by Gael Communications: https://www.gaelcommunications.com/ Podcast technical production by Miceli Productions: https://miceliproductions.com/