Overview

The conversation features Salim Jaffer, a strategic account manager at Mobius Institute, discussing his extensive experience in the industry, particularly in reliability and root cause analysis (RCA). He highlights his background with companies like Bentley Nevada, GE, Baker Hughes, and Emerson, and his current role in developing partnerships and training in the Gulf Coast region. Jaffer emphasizes the importance of RCA, the need for a cultural shift towards reliability, and the role of data in predictive maintenance. He also promotes Mobius Institute's professional training programs, which cover various aspects of asset management and reliability, including vibration analysis, lube oil analysis, and ultrasound training.

Outline

Fluke Xcelerate Event Overview

• Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, sponsored by Fluke, highlighting the Xcelerate event.
• The event focused on reliability, predictive maintenance tools, and AI diagnostics.
• Scott emphasizes the importance of real-world strategies for teams to use today.
• Fluke is praised for their contributions to smarter, faster, and reliable operations.

Introduction to the Podcast and Salim Jaffer

• Scott reiterates the podcast's mission to celebrate industry professionals and their contributions.
• The event, Xcelerate, is being held in Austin, Texas, and is sponsored by Fluke.
• Salim Jaffer is introduced as the guest, representing Mobius Institute and other organizations.

Salim Jaffer's Background and Experience

• Salim Jaffer shares his extensive experience in the industry, including 30+ years with various companies.
• He details his time with Bentley Nevada, GE, Baker Hughes, and Emerson, focusing on reliability solutions.
• Salim is currently a strategic account manager for Mobius Institute, covering the Gulf Coast region.
• He discusses his role in developing partnerships and representing the Mobius Institute brand.

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) and Human Nature

• Salim explains his three-hour session on root cause analysis (RCA) at the Xcelerate event.
• He emphasizes the importance of RCA and shares personal anecdotes about his instinctive problem-solving nature.
• The conversation touches on the challenges of human nature in plant operations and the need for a collective approach to reliability.
• Salim highlights the importance of training and cultural change to foster a shared responsibility for reliability.

Challenges in Plant Operations and Reliability Culture

• Salim discusses the common issue of plant managers claiming everything is fine, despite obvious problems.
• He shares examples of hidden issues, such as broken sensors and improperly set-up equipment.
• The conversation explores the need for a culture where everyone understands and supports reliability efforts.
• Salim mentions the General Electric (GE) culture change training and its effectiveness in fostering a shared responsibility for reliability.

The Role of Technology and Data in Reliability

• Salim and Scott discuss the evolving role of technology, particularly AI, in predictive maintenance.
• Salim shares his experience with AI and neural networks in the early 2000s, emphasizing the importance of data.
• The conversation highlights the need for clean data and the challenges of working with historical data.
• Salim promotes Mobius Institute's training programs, which include hands-on experience with data and tools.

Mobius Institute's Training and Certification Programs

• Salim provides an overview of Mobius Institute's professional training programs.
• The training covers various aspects of reliability, including vibration analysis, lube oil analysis, and ultrasound.
• Salim emphasizes the importance of the Asset Reliability Professional (ARP) program, which is certified by ISO.
• The ARP program offers training at different levels, from entry to leadership, focusing on improving reliability through systematic methodologies.

Conclusion and Contact Information

• Salim reiterates the importance of education and continuous improvement in the field of reliability.
• He encourages listeners to reach out to him via LinkedIn for further discussions.
• Scott Mackenzie wraps up the podcast, highlighting the importance of human connection and storytelling in the industrial field.
• The podcast concludes with a reminder to visit Mobius Institute's website for more information and to stay tuned for future episodes.

Overview

Jake and Nolan from Green River Distilleries discussed their implementation of Fluke's Xcelerate system. Green River, the 10th oldest distillery in Kentucky, employs around 50 people across 28 acres plus two warehousing sites. They introduced Xcelerate in 2021, initially underutilized, but significantly improved its use in 2023. They highlighted a 50% increase in preventative maintenance, extending asset life, and reducing reactive maintenance. They plan to integrate Ignition software for real-time data and AI for predictive analytics. Contact details for Jake and Nolan are available for those interested in their insights and strategies.

Outline

Introduction and Welcome to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott welcomes listeners to the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing the importance of innovation, collaboration, and solving today's problems.
• The podcast is broadcasted from Xcelerate, sponsored by Fluke, and aims to provide insights on reliability, asset management, and maintenance.
• Scott introduces Jacob and Nolan from Green River Distilleries, who will discuss their implementation of Xcelerate.

Background of Green River Distilleries

• Jacob shares his background, mentioning his three years as a maintenance manager and his experience in various roles before that.
• Nolan has been with Green River for five years, starting as a senior and now serving as the maintenance supervisor.
• Green River Distilleries employs around 50 people and operates on a 28-acre main site, with additional warehousing facilities of 60 and 50 acres.
• The distillery uses natural water from four wells for cooling and maintaining the quality of their products.

Challenges and Achievements at Green River Distilleries

• Jacob explains the history of Green River, which was revived by a group in 2015 and is now the 10th oldest distillery in Kentucky.
• Nolan discusses the initial challenges with the Xcelerate system, which was not fully utilized until Jacob's arrival in 2023.
• The implementation of Xcelerate has significantly improved preventative maintenance, making it the heartbeat of the maintenance department.
• Jacob emphasizes the importance of change management and getting buy-in from the team to effectively utilize the system.

Impact of Xcelerate on Maintenance and Production

• Nolan highlights the significant increase in preventative maintenance (PMS) and the daily use of the Xcelerate system.
• Jacob shares a success story about extending the life of a bearing from three to five weeks to two years through condition monitoring.
• The use of Xcelerate has led to better asset utilization and reduced reactive maintenance, leading to cost savings and improved productivity.
• Nolan discusses the implementation of good lubrication strategies, ensuring proper greasing at different speeds and RPMs.

Future Plans and AI Integration

• Jacob outlines the next steps, including integrating Ignition software with Xcelerate to provide real-time data and trigger work orders based on failure modes.
• The goal is to use AI to analyze data and identify top failure modes, allowing technicians to focus on solving problems efficiently.
• The integration of AI will help Green River Distilleries become more proactive and reduce downtime, ultimately improving overall efficiency.
• Nolan and Jacob provide their contact information for listeners interested in reaching out for advice or insights on their implementation journey.

Closing Remarks and Contact Information

• Scott thanks Nolan and Jacob for their flexibility and insights, emphasizing the importance of their work in the distillation industry.
• The podcast is broadcasted from Xcelerate 2026, sponsored by Fluke, and encourages listeners to visit fluke.com for more information.
• Scott highlights the success of Green River Distilleries and the importance of sharing their story to inspire others in the industry.
• Contact information for Nolan and Jacob is provided, inviting listeners to reach out for further discussions or site visits.

Overview

The Industrial Talk podcast, hosted by Scott Mackenzie, features Lee Morgan from Fluke discussing the company's new products and strategies at the Xcelerate event. Morgan highlights the interactive breakout sessions and the importance of customer feedback in product development. He introduces the new Rotaline Core and Rotaline Elite alignment tools, which include a built-in ROI calculator to demonstrate energy savings. The video replay feature allows for more accurate data collection. Fluke has streamlined its portfolio to two main products, offering flexibility and cost-effectiveness. The conversation also touches on the broader benefits of proper shaft alignment in terms of energy savings, reliability, and maintenance costs.

Outline

Fluke Xcelerate Event Overview

• Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting the Fluke Xcelerate event.
• The event featured high-energy keynotes, hands-on predictive maintenance tools, and breakthrough AI diagnostics.
• The event aimed to deliver real-world strategies for smarter, faster, and more reliable operations.
• Scott encourages listeners to visit fluke.com for more information.

Introduction to Lee Morgan and Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott celebrates industrial professionals, describing them as bold, brave, and innovative problem solvers.
• The podcast is recorded at the Fluke Xcelerate event, focusing on solving industrial problems.
• Scott introduces Lee Morgan from Fluke, who will discuss new products.

Lee Morgan's Experience at the Fluke Xcelerate Event

• lee shares his positive experience at the Fluke Xcelerate event, noting good engagement and interactive breakout sessions.
• The breakout sessions are designed to be interactive, allowing for customer feedback and learning.
• Lee emphasizes the importance of the Voice of Customer (VoC) in product development.
• The event helps Fluke understand customer problems and develop solutions to address them.

Innovation and Customer Feedback in Product Development

• Lee explains how Fluke gathers customer feedback through a “three wishes” approach.
• The company synthesizes customer feedback to develop new solutions that meet their needs.
• Lee introduces the new alignment portfolio, including the Rotaline Core and Rotaline Elite.
• The new products include a built-in ROI calculator to help customers justify the cost of alignment tools.

Energy Savings and Reliability Benefits of Alignment Tools

• Lee discusses the significant energy savings achieved through proper shaft alignment.
• Misaligned motors can cost up to $500 per year in energy alone, and proper alignment can prevent catastrophic failures.
• Scott and Lee discuss the broader costs associated with motor failures, including downtime and maintenance.
• The new alignment tools help customers demonstrate the ROI of their alignment services.

Video Replay Feature and Streamlined Portfolio

• Lee introduces the video replay feature, which allows users to review and correct inaccurate readings.
• The feature helps avoid delays in getting plants back online and saves additional costs.
• Fluke has streamlined its portfolio to two main products: the Rotaline Core and Rotaline Elite.
• The streamlined portfolio offers flexibility and cost-effectiveness, allowing customers to choose the features they need.

Condition Monitoring and Predictive Maintenance

• Lee explains the importance of condition monitoring and predictive maintenance in preventing failures.
• Fluke's condition monitoring portal can predict failures months in advance, allowing for timely maintenance.
• The portal provides data on vibration levels and potential faults, helping customers justify the cost of maintenance.
• Scott and Lee discuss the benefits of a comprehensive reliability program.

Fluke's Brand and Market Strategy

• Lee discusses the consolidation of Fluke's brands under the Fluke Condition Monitoring umbrella.
• The consolidation aims to simplify the customer experience and leverage Fluke's trusted brand.
• Scott appreciates the streamlined approach, noting the familiarity of the Fluke brand.
• The consolidation helps customers avoid confusion and trust in Fluke's products.

Future Innovations and AI Integration

• Lee hints at future innovations, particularly the use of AI in product marketing and customer engagement.
• AI tools help customers choose the right products and understand their needs better.
• Scott praises Lee Morgan for his insights and the exciting developments at Fluke.
• The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to connect with Lee Morgan and explore Fluke's solutions.

Mark Pattison, a former NFL player and keynote speaker at Fluke's Xcelerate event, shared his journey of climbing Mount Everest and the Seven Summits. He discussed overcoming public speaking fears, dealing with snow blindness at 26,500 feet, and the challenges of high-altitude climbing. Pattison emphasized the importance of resilience, faith, and daily discipline. He also highlighted his new book, “Finding Your Summit,” and his involvement with Higher Ground, a nonprofit supporting military and first responders. Pattison's story underscored the human spirit's resilience and the transformative power of setting and achieving ambitious goals.

Outline

Fluke's Xcelerate Event Overview

• Scott introduces the Industrial Talk podcast, highlighting Fluke's Xcelerate event.
• The event featured high-energy keynotes, hands-on predictive maintenance tools, and breakthrough AI diagnostics.
• Real-world strategies for teams to use today were emphasized.
• Xcelerate proved to be a launch pad for smarter, faster, and more reliable operations.

Introduction to Industrial Talk Podcast

• Scott is dedicated to transferring industry innovations and trends while celebrating industry professionals.
• The podcast aims to highlight the men and women who keep the world moving.
• Scott encourages listeners to put on their hard hats and work boots for the discussion.

Mark Pattison's Keynote and Public Speaking

• Scott introduces Mark Pattison, the keynote speaker at the Xcelerate event.
• Mark shares his experience of overcoming the fear of public speaking.
• He recounts his story of climbing Mount Everest, facing snow blindness, and dealing with extreme conditions.
• Mark emphasizes the importance of delivering information and having a compelling story arc.

Challenges of Climbing Mount Everest

• Mark describes the extreme conditions on Mount Everest, including temperatures ranging from 90 to below zero.
• He explains the challenges of consuming calories and dealing with frozen food at high altitudes.
• Mark shares his personal experience of snow blindness and the impact it had on his climb.
• He discusses the logistics and details required to succeed in climbing the highest peaks.

Inspiration and Training for the Seven Summits

• Mark reveals that he first shared his plan to climb the Seven Summits with his high school friend, Hugh Millin.
• Hugh supported Mark's decision and even contributed to his new book, “Finding Your Summit.”
• Mark began training for the climb, starting with easier peaks like Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Elbrus.
• He moved to Sun Valley, Idaho, to train at higher altitudes, which helped him acclimate better for Everest.

Mark's Personal and Professional Transition

• Mark discusses his move from Manhattan Beach, California, to Sun Valley, Idaho, and its impact on his training.
• He shares a story about buying a house in Sun Valley and how it helped him prepare for high-altitude climbs.
• Mark recounts his experience of spending a night at high camp on Mount Everest without oxygen.
• He describes the importance of having a tent mate and the support he received from his team.

Mark's Faith and Resilience

• Mark talks about the role of faith and resilience in his climbs.
• He shares a story of a Russian climber who helped him get oxygen at the top of Mount Everest.
• Mark reflects on the importance of having faith in a system and the daily discipline required for success.
• He emphasizes the need to be process-driven rather than results-oriented.

Mark's Book and Public Speaking Career

• Mark discusses his book, “Finding Your Summit,” and its focus on building resilience and faith.
• He explains how the book draws from his personal experiences and the lessons he learned from climbing mountains.
• Mark shares his new podcast, also called “Finding Your Summit,” and its goal to inspire and motivate others.
• He talks about his upcoming event, Seven Summits Summit, which aims to bring together aspiring leaders and raise awareness for a nonprofit.

Mark's Nonprofit Work and Personal Impact

• Mark explains the mission of Higher Ground, a nonprofit that empowers military and first responders.
• He describes the various activities and programs Higher Ground offers to help these individuals regain confidence and adapt to life changes.
• Mark shares his personal connection to Higher Ground through his daughter, who has epilepsy.
• He discusses the importance of raising awareness and funds for organizations like Higher Ground.

Mark's NFL Film and Emmy Award

• Mark recounts the story of how the NFL approached him to create a film about his climb of Mount Everest.
• He describes the challenges of filming during the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions placed on the film crew.
• Mark shares the success of the film, which was nominated for Best Cinematography and Best Picture.
• He reflects on the impact of the film and how it helped raise awareness for his daughter's foundation, Millie's Everest.

Mark's Future Plans and Final Thoughts

• Mark talks about his desire to climb Mount Elbrus again and the lessons he learned from his previous climbs.
• He reflects on the importance of perseverance and the daily discipline required to achieve his goals.
• Mark shares his plans to continue public speaking and inspiring others through his book and podcast.
• He concludes by encouraging listeners to tell their stories and engage the next generation of leaders.