Welcome back to previous guest Kathy Miller! Kathy is a member of the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame and has held leadership roles at General Motors, Delphi, and Rolls-Royce. She is also the co-author of Steel Toes and Stilettos and the author of a new book, MORE Is Better, which introduces practical frameworks for frontline plant leaders. She’s an expert in blending academic research with real-word stories, and it’s always great to hear her insights!

In this episode,  Kathy draws on both her manufacturing experience and her master’s degree in applied positive psychology to discuss the pressure and demands faced by modern manufacturing leaders. She also shares practical tools and frameworks today’s leaders can use in their own plants to strengthen culture, boost engagement, and drive operational excellence without adding any extra layers of complexity.

1:22 – Representation and diversity strengthens manufacturing culture
3:02 – Positive psychology research is a valuable tool for frontline supervisors, plant managers, and shop floor leadership teams
5:03 – Strengthen manufacturing relationships through creative safety leadership and by supporting accountability without blame
7:22 – Authenticity improves team engagement and manufacturing retention, especially in high-stress environments
08:20 – Transitioning teams from command-and-control to inclusive lean leadership is essential for creating a continuous improvement culture
12:36 – Helping employees find meaning boosts employee engagement and manufacturing retention.
15:56 – Putting curiosity over compliances helps leaders avoid punitive approaches and improves performance conversations on the floor
21:15 – Creating psychological safety encourages employees to speak up early, which fuels continuous improvement culture and operational excellence
22:56 – Finding a balance between realistic optimism and toxic positivity is essential for credible manufacturing communication and decision-making
24:41 – Relationships are the core foundation of manufacturing teamwork
26:22 – Your mindset shapes manufacturing relationships and every interaction on the plant floor
28:37 – Active listening is one of the most effective tools for better coaching in manufacturing.

Connect with Kathy Miller
Visit her website and check out the MORE Mentor resources 
Connect on LinkedIn 
Buy MORE Is Better
Listen to her previous podcast episode 

Check out this episode!