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What a great bunch of know-how Ed Marsh, founder of Ed Marsh Consulting, brings us in this episode! He discusses the importance of revenue growth in manufacturing and emphasizes the need for a systematic approach similar to manufacturing's continuous improvement, focusing on integrated steps and prioritizing efficiency. Ed highlights the disparity between advanced manufacturing processes and outdated marketing and sales strategies. He stresses the importance of board directors understanding modern revenue growth methods and the role of AI and digital tools in enhancing sales processes. He also tackles the challenges of balancing private equity expectations with long-term business sustainability and the necessity for companies to adapt to changing customer.

Here are the details:
04:00 - Revenue Growth and Marketing Challenges
08:15 - Continuous Improvement in Revenue Growth
14:45 - The Role of Executives and Boards
21:45 - Private Equity and Family Businesses
27:30 - Changing Mindset from Internal to Customer Focus

There's a whole lot more, too! Check out the whole thing.

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What a treat it was to have Patrick Anderson, founder of Anderson Economic Group, join us to discuss the economic impact of electric vehicle (EV) costs and tariffs on the automotive industry! Patrick always brings fresh, informed insights backed with oodles of research.

Patrick highlighted that EVs are more expensive than traditional vehicles, with real-world costs often exceeding initial projections. Anderson also noted the significant tariff costs on American-made cars, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000 per vehicle, which are affecting sales and job markets. He emphasized the importance of realistic market analysis and the potential for policy changes to impact EV subsidies. Additionally, he shared insights on the resurgence of internal combustion engine vehicles and the need for quality improvement in the industry.

Here are the highlights:
01:15 - Anderson Economic Group Overview
04:30 - Tariffs and Their Impact on the Auto Industry
06:30 - Used Cars and Tariff Uncertainty
15:00 - Cars Cost Cognitive Dissonance
24:30 - The General Motors Response to Market Realities - the EV transition that wasn't
32:30 - Chart: the Tariff Impact on Car Prices
38:15 - Final Thoughts and Music Recommendations

What a rich discussion this one was! Tune in for the whole thing - you'll be glad you did.

Links:

Patrick shared his music choices, starting with Led Zeppelin tribute band Zepparella. Here they are live doing "The Rain Song" and "Going to California:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9smvLgcTCfI

He also recommended the Neil Anderson Jazz Quintet's "M-199:" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0v2hUipyv8

Here's Patrick's company's site: https://www.andersoneconomicgroup.com/

Here's the GM press release about its new investment in ICE vehicles: https://investor.gm.com/news-releases/news-release-details/gm-invest-4-billion-its-us-manufacturing-plants

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Consumer packaged goods (CPG) companies as a whole have not been doing well lately. They're the ones that make your foods and beverages as well as other daily use items like toiletries and cleaning supplies.

But there are winners and losers in the mix. Peter McDonald, founding partner at McDonald's Strategy Partners, joined us to do a deep dive on which CPGs are doing well and which are struggling, and the reasons for all that.

Peter discusses the current state of the CPG industry and highlights the struggles of legacy companies due to decelerated population growth, reduced household income, and the rise of private label brands.

He praises companies like Coca-Cola, Unilever, and Nestle for their growth strategies, emphasizing their global exposure and innovation. He notes the success of emerging brands like Chobani and Fairlife, attributing it to their focus on consumer needs and innovation.

Peter also discusses the importance of value addition in manufacturing and the strategic decisions behind outsourcing.

It's a whole lot of good stuff. Check out the whole thing, and do leave your own ideas and questions in the comments section!