2019 has been a wonderful year for my Leading the Factory Forward podcast. I have covered several topics to help leaders develop their skills and their teams as they work to move their businesses and their organizations forward. And I am very excited about the topics and the plans I have for the show in 2020!

 In 2019 I covered a number of topics as they related to leadership and manufacturing. A few of the most popular podcasts discussed topics such as how to take massive action on your great work and the seven types of manufacturing waste. I also did an episode on stepping away from the day-to-day work and focusing on growing your business. 

 As manufacturing leaders, we get so caught up in running the business that it is difficult to take a step back and focus on building the business. I also talked about developing new skills to improve your business. This is so important because it is the idea of intentionally learning how to build skills. I also talked about emotional intelligence. This was a very popular episode because having good skills necessary to interact effectively with people is just as important as being proficient in the financial details of your business. Another popular episode was the one focusing on the book Ten Powerful Things to Say to Your Kids. As leaders, we understand how important our relationships at home are. 

 I plan to carry forward the thought-provoking and informative topics of this podcast into 2020. I will begin with discussing the workforce and talent. The topics will include silver entrepreneurs: creating the mindset, creating your value proposition, building the skills needed, and creating an action plan to learn those skills. I will also get into understanding and speaking with Millennials, building apprenticeships, and discussing virtual talent. We will also explore a new book called Toyota Talent and ideas from this book.

 As the months pass, some shows will have interviews with knowledgeable experts on various topics such as podcasting and building virtual teams. I will also have more on emotional intelligence. I want to help leaders really develop these interpersonal skills. I will also explore new technologies including how we think about these, approaching technologies, and building the leadership skills needed with them. I’m also planning to discuss managing change not just for ourselves but also for the people with whom we live and work. 

 So, thank you for a wonderful year. I look forward to more thought-provoking and informative content as we move into 2020 and continue our work together Leading the Factory Forward!