Industrial Talk Media

Scott MacKenzie hosts the Industrial Talk Podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their innovations. He introduces Dan Joe Barry from Configit, discussing their advanced value-added solution for manufacturing. Configit's technology, developed over 25 years, addresses the complexity of configuring products with numerous options. They use virtual tabulation, a type of AI, to compile valid configurations, ensuring accuracy and efficiency. Dan Joe emphasizes the importance of aligning data from various systems like ERP and CRM. Configit's solution helps manufacturers manage product configurations, reducing errors and improving customer satisfaction. Scott also mentions his upcoming e-book and the Boston Med Device Conference.

Action Items
[ ] Reach out to Dan Joe Barry on LinkedIn to learn more about Configit's solution.
[ ] Check Configit's website for more information on their technology and approach.
Outline
Introduction and Overview of Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
Scott highlights the current industrial renaissance, describing it as a frothy and energetic period.
Scott mentions the upcoming e-book, which will summarize conversations with industry leaders and address pain points and solutions.
Scott promotes the Boston Med Device Conference, scheduled for September 30 to October 1, and encourages listeners to attend.
Introduction of Dan Joe Barry and Configit
Scott introduces Dan Joe Barry, the guest for the episode, and emphasizes the importance of his company, Configit.
Dan Joe Barry is introduced as Dan Joe, and Scott advises listeners to refer to him as such.
Scott describes Configit's advanced value-added solution, which is particularly beneficial for the manufacturing industry.
Dan Joe Barry joins the conversation, and Scott thanks him for his time and insights.
Dan Joe Barry's Background and Personal Life
Dan Joe Barry shares his background, mentioning that he moved from Ireland to Denmark in 1991 and has been living there since.
Dan Joe talks about his family, including his Danish wife and two daughters in their 20s.
Scott and Dan Joe discuss the differences in Guinness and Carlsberg between Ireland and Denmark, highlighting the impact of local water on beer quality.
Dan Joe shares an anecdote about a Guinness supply chain issue, illustrating the challenges of managing global demand.
Configit's History and Purpose
Dan Joe explains the history of Configit, which has been focused on product configuration for 25 years.
He describes the complexity of managing product configurations, especially for complex products like cars, pumps, and valves.
Dan Joe explains the concept of configure-to-order (CTO) business models and their advantages.
He highlights the challenges of managing product configurations using traditional methods like Excel sheets and the benefits of Configit's approach.
Configit's Technology and Implementation
Dan Joe introduces the concept of configuration lifecycle management and the importance of aligning information from different systems.
He explains how Configit's virtual tabulation technology compiles all valid configurations into a lookup file, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Dan Joe discusses the implementation process, including importing information from existing systems and building integrations for synchronization.
He emphasizes the importance of having a comprehensive product model that includes all relevant options and rules.
AI and Configit's Future
Scott and Dan Joe discuss the role of AI in Configit's technology, with Dan Joe explaining the differences between Gen AI and neuro-symbolic AI.
Dan Joe highlights the predictability and accuracy of Configit's AI, which is designed to ensure valid configurations.
He mentions the ASCO pilot project, which uses AI to build product models quickly and efficiently.
Dan Joe shares his vision for the future of AI in manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of combining different AI technologies to achieve better results.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Scott wraps up the conversation, expressing his admiration for Configit's solution and its potential to add value to the manufacturing industry.
Dan Joe provides his contact information, encouraging listeners to reach out to him on LinkedIn or through Configit's website.
Scott reiterates the importance of Configit's solution and encourages listeners to explore the company's website for more information.
The episode concludes with Scott thanking Dan Joe and listeners for their time and interest in the Industrial Talk Podcast.

DAN JOE BARRY'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danjoebarry/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/configit/
Company Website: https://configit.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to David Moncur and Jordan Manalili with Moncur about "Branding for success".

David Moncur and Jordan Manalili from Moncur, a branding agency, discussed challenges in the power generation industry at the PowerGen conference in Dallas. They highlighted the difficulty companies face in differentiating their products, often commoditized due to similarities. David emphasized the importance of strategic messaging and branding to avoid commoditization and maintain pricing. Jordan introduced their Brand Framework, which helps companies communicate effectively by aligning their messaging with client needs. They stressed the value of proactive branding and strategic planning to stay relevant and competitive in the rapidly evolving industry.

Action Items
[ ] Reach out to David Moncur on LinkedIn to discuss Moncur's branding and messaging services.
[ ] Connect with Jordan Manalili on LinkedIn to learn more about Moncur's process for translating technical information into compelling messaging.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
Scott welcomes David and Jordan, highlighting their roles and the company they represent, Moncur.
Scott mentions the conference location, Power Gen in Dallas, Texas, and the purpose of the event.
David and Jordan provide brief introductions about their roles and backgrounds.
David's Background and Company Overview
David explains his role as the principal of Moncur, a branding agency headquartered in Southfield, Detroit metro area.
He shares his career specialization in marketing, strategic messaging, and branding, with a team of 40.
David discusses the company's focus on construction, engineering, manufacturing, and tech SaaS sectors.
Scott and David talk about the challenges faced by power generation companies and the importance of differentiation.
Challenges in Power Generation and Strategic Messaging
David identifies common challenges faced by B2B companies in the power generation sector, such as differentiation and broader awareness.
Jordan adds that strategic messaging is a significant issue for many companies, as they struggle to communicate their unique value proposition.
Scott and Jordan discuss the problem of commoditization in the industry and the need for effective messaging to avoid it.
David emphasizes the importance of differentiation and specialization to maintain pricing and market position.
Brand Framework and Strategic Messaging Process
Jordan introduces the concept of Brand Framework and strategic messaging, which helps companies communicate effectively.
He explains the challenge of translating technical jargon into client-friendly language.
Jordan highlights the importance of understanding both the company's strengths and the client's pain points to create a compelling message.
Scott and Jordan discuss the process of shifting messaging to avoid commoditization and achieve premium positioning.
Proactive vs. Reactive Branding Strategies
David advises companies to invest in branding proactively rather than waiting for problems to arise.
He explains that a strong brand helps attract top talent and maintain a competitive edge.
Scott and David discuss the importance of planning ahead and investing in brand strategy to avoid costly mistakes.
Jordan shares examples of companies that have benefited from their branding efforts and the positive impact on their business.
Advocating for Clients and Overcoming Communication Barriers
Jordan talks about advocating for clients and helping them see the value in effective communication.
He explains that many clients are passionate about their work but struggle to communicate it effectively.
Jordan emphasizes the importance of proactive branding and strategic messaging to overcome these challenges.
David adds that a well-executed brand strategy makes it easier for companies to communicate their value proposition.
The Role of Technology and Future Trends in Branding
Scott asks David about the impact of technology and future trends on branding in the manufacturing sector.
David highlights the importance of being present and engaging in industry dialogues to stay relevant.
He explains that companies need to develop a clear communication strategy and brand assets before going public.
David emphasizes the role of a strong brand in attracting top talent and maintaining a competitive edge.

DAVID MONCUR'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmoncur/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moncur/
Company Website: https://www.thinkmoncur.com/
JORDAN MANALILI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-manalili-4932b716a/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Robert Brooks with Neara and Brian Reed with Osmose about "Technology and Pole Inspection".

Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast from Distribute Tech in Dallas, highlighting the importance of data management in the utility sector. Guests Robert Brook and Brian Reed from Neara and Osmose, respectively, discuss their partnership to enhance utility data integration and decision-making. NIRA's platform creates a digital network model using various data sets, including LiDAR and GIS, to simulate asset performance under different conditions. Osmose provides detailed asset records and preservative treatments to ensure data accuracy. The collaboration aims to improve strategic resiliency plans by prioritizing asset upgrades and optimizing investment strategies.

Action Items
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Discuss the process of keeping the digital network model up-to-date as utility assets change over time.
[ ] @Scott MacKenzie - Follow up with Brian Reed on LinkedIn to learn more about Osmose's pole inspection and maintenance services.
[ ] Explore the Neara platform and its capabilities further.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations.
Scott thanks the listeners for joining and highlights the importance of industry professionals in solving global problems.
The podcast is sponsored by Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software, encouraging listeners to visit siemens.com for more information.
Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, describing it as a massive event for utilities and other related industries.
Introduction of Guests and Event Overview
Scott introduces the guests, Robert Brook and Brian Reed, and mentions their roles in the industry.
Robert and Brian discuss the importance of data management in the utility sector and the significance of the Distribute Tech event.
Scott shares a personal anecdote about using Osmose services during his utility days, highlighting the reliability of their inspections.
Robert and Brian provide background information about their companies, Neara and Osmose, and their respective roles within them.
Neara and Osmose Partnership and Data Integration
Brian explains the partnership between Neara and Osmose, focusing on the challenges utilities face in managing data across different departments.
The partnership aims to consolidate data into a single source, enhancing risk-based decision-making for utilities.
Robert describes Neara's platform, which builds a digital network model using various data sets, including LiDAR and GIS information.
The platform provides a highly accurate and engineering-based relationship between assets, enabling better decision-making for utilities.
Use Cases and Practical Applications
Brian provides a use case for the partnership, focusing on strategic resiliency plans for Texas utilities.
The platform helps utilities prioritize assets for upgrades, considering factors like wind loads and storm conditions.
Scott inquires about the practical aspects of using the platform, including how utilities can access and interpret the data.
Brian explains the self-service capabilities of the platform, allowing utilities to perform simulations and prioritize circuits and structures.
Data Management and Platform Capabilities
Robert discusses the scalability of the Neara platform, which can handle large-scale data analysis across millions of assets.
The platform offers a visual and interactive environment, combining GIS-style visuals with tabular outputs for easy communication.
Scott asks about the platform's ability to handle different types of assets, including distribution and transmission poles.
Robert explains the platform's flexibility in simulating various scenarios, such as wind conditions and vegetation management.
Ensuring Data Accuracy and Currency
Scott raises concerns about keeping the data current, given the dynamic nature of utility assets.
Brian emphasizes the importance of proactive data capture and regular inspections to maintain the accuracy of the model.
Robert highlights the role of Osmose in providing detailed asset records and historical data, ensuring the platform's data is accurate and up-to-date.
The discussion touches on the importance of change management and coordination within utilities to ensure the model remains current.
Pole Inspection and Maintenance Practices

ROBERT BROOK'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbrook/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/neara/
Company Website: https://neara.com/

BRIAN REED'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-reed-0324a06/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/osmose/
Company Website: https://www.osmose.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Xcelerate 2025 and talking to Samantha LeSesne, Implementation and Services Director at Fluke Reliability about "Process Mapping, Successful Implementations".

Scott MacKenzie hosts the Industrial Talk Podcast, celebrating industrial professionals and their innovations. At the Accelerate 2025 event in Austin, Texas, sponsored by Fluke Reliability, he interviews Samantha LeSesne, who discusses her journey from teaching to her current role as Implementation and Service Director at Fluke. Samantha emphasizes the importance of process mapping, both internally and for customers, to identify gaps and improve efficiency. She highlights the need for customization in EAM (Enterprise Asset Management) solutions to meet specific customer needs. Samantha also touches on the role of AI in enhancing EAM, stressing the balance between technology and practical, on-the-floor applications.

Action Items
[ ] Connect with Samantha LeSesne Fluke on LinkedIn to discuss processes and solutions.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industrial professionals and their innovations.
Scott welcomes listeners to the podcast, highlighting the event Accelerate 2025 in Austin, Texas, sponsored by Fluke Reliability.
Scott provides information on how to find Fluke Reliability online, encouraging listeners to visit their website for asset management solutions.
Scott introduces Samantha, the guest for the episode, and asks her to pronounce her last name, which she spells out as "LeSesne."
Samantha's Background and Role at Fluke
Samantha shares her background, mentioning her experience as a teacher in New York City and her transition to working with Fluke eight years ago.
She discusses her roles in product marketing, product management, and her current position as the implementation and service director for EAM.
Samantha explains her responsibilities, including working with teams and customers to ensure the successful implementation of EAM solutions.
Scott and Samantha discuss the importance of understanding and addressing customer needs to make EAM solutions effective.
Understanding Processes and Mapping
Samantha explains the concept of a process, using a visual example of moving from point A to point B.
She emphasizes the importance of simplifying processes to make them more effective and less complicated.
Samantha discusses the importance of aligning processes with customer goals and timelines to avoid frustration and ensure successful implementation.
Scott and Samantha talk about the importance of mapping current and future states of processes to identify gaps and improve efficiency.
Implementation and Customization of EAM Solutions
Samantha describes her two core teams: the implementation team and the product specialist team.
The implementation team focuses on getting customers up and running with EAM solutions, while the product specialist team handles customization and integration with other systems.
Samantha highlights the importance of customization to meet the unique needs of different sites within a company.
Scott and Samantha discuss the challenges of standardizing EAM solutions while accommodating individual site requirements.
The Role of AI and Data in EAM
Samantha discusses the potential of AI in enhancing EAM solutions, emphasizing the need for AI to analyze large amounts of data.
She explains how AI can help technicians and maintenance managers make better decisions by providing actionable insights from data.
Samantha highlights the importance of balancing AI capabilities with human judgment to ensure practical and effective solutions.
Scott and Samantha discuss the rapid advancements in AI and the need for continuous adaptation to stay ahead in the industry.
Future of EAM and AI Integration
Samantha shares her vision for the future of EAM, emphasizing the role of AI in improving efficiency and decision-making.
She discusses the importance of capturing practical insights from the floor to develop AI solutions that address real-world challenges.
Samantha highlights the need for collaboration between AI developers and maintenance professionals to create practical and effective solutions.
Scott and Samantha discuss the importance of focusing on practical applications of AI to ensure its successful integration into EAM solutions.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Scott wraps up the conversation by emphasizing the importance of process mapping and understanding customer needs.

SAMANTHA LESESNE'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthalesesne/
Company LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/fluke-corporation/
Company Website: https://www.fluke.com/en-us

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Industrial Talk is onsite at DistribuTech 2025 and talking to Matt Burton, Vice President at Siemens Grid Software about "Grid solutions that improves resiliency and reliability".

Scott MacKenzie hosts an industrial podcast featuring Matt Burton, VP of Software Sales for Siemens' US and Mexico grid software. They discuss the shift from linear to non-linear power systems due to distributed energy resources (DER). Burton highlights the need for technology and change management to adapt to this new landscape. He emphasizes the importance of data management for efficiency and the role of regulatory bodies in facilitating these changes. Burton also notes the global nature of these challenges, with similar issues in Europe, Australia, and Asia. He concludes by discussing the potential for small modular reactors and the future of load growth and power conditioning.

Action Items
[ ] Attend the Distributech conference next year to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the power industry.
[ ] Reach out to Matt Burton at Siemens (matt.burton@siemens.com) to discuss grid software solutions.
Need
Data management: centralizing data to improve efficiency and reduce manual updates.
Managing distributed energy resources and their impact on the grid.
Addressing load growth, particularly from data centers and sensitive industries.
Dealing with aging infrastructure and orchestrating diverse assets.
Maintaining grid stability with increased renewable and inverter-based resources.
Ensuring power reliability for sensitive industries like chip manufacturing and data centers.
Sentiment
The tone was positive, discussing exciting developments in the power industry.
Matt expressed optimism about industry changes and technological advancements.
Scott described the event as "exciting" and "dazzling".

Outline
Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and innovations.
Scott thanks the listeners for joining and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
The podcast is sponsored by Siemens, specifically Siemens Smart Infrastructure and Grid Software.
Scott mentions the current broadcast location at Distribute Tech in Dallas, Texas, and encourages listeners to attend next year.
Introduction of Matt Burton from Siemens
Scott introduces Matt Burton, VP of Software Sales for US and Mexico Grid Software at Siemens.
Matt provides a brief introduction about his role and responsibilities at Siemens.
Scott and Matt engage in a light-hearted conversation about their physical activities and health.
Matt explains his involvement in various aspects of grid software, including transmission, distribution planning, and distributed energy resources.
Challenges and Changes in Grid Software
Scott discusses the linear nature of traditional power systems and the challenges of managing distributed energy resources (DER).
Matt explains the shift from centralized generation to distributed energy resources and the impact on the power grid.
Scott expresses concerns about the complexity of managing a non-linear power system and the need for technology solutions.
Matt emphasizes the importance of both technology and people in adapting to these changes.
Change Management and Regulatory Environment
Scott highlights the significant change management required in the power industry due to the dynamic nature of the current system.
Matt discusses the consulting practice at Siemens, which helps integrate software and power systems expertise.
Scott inquires about the regulatory environment and its role in driving change.
Matt explains the need for regulatory frameworks to support regional connections and transmission line build-outs.
Data Management and Efficiency
Scott and Matt discuss the importance of data management in driving efficiency in the power industry.
Matt explains the challenges of managing data across multiple teams and the benefits of centralized data management.
Scott emphasizes the need for reliable and clean power for consumers and manufacturers.
Matt mentions the role of regulatory agencies in keeping up with the rapid changes in the industry.
Load Growth and Technological Solutions
Scott and Matt discuss the significant load growth expected in the future and its impact on the power industry.
Matt explains the role of software and hardware in addressing the challenges of load growth.
Scott compares the traditional large generators to smaller, more efficient generators and the benefits of distributed generation.
Matt highlights the advancements in power conditioning devices and analytics to stabilize the grid.

MATT BURTON'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/burtonm/
Company Website: https://www.siemens.com/global/en/products/energy/grid-software.html

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