Heizer Render Munson OM Podcast

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May 2026

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Podcast by Heizer Render Munson OM Podcast

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May 25, 202614 min

OM Podcast #50: AI, the Workforce, and National Security

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessley interview Kyle Stephens, Senior Director at General Dynamics IT (GDIT), about how artificial intelligence is reshaping work in mission‑critical and national security environments. Kyle discusses how he uses AI to accelerate analysis and improve decision‑making, as well as the implications for workforce upskilling. The conversation also explores why AI security in defense goes far beyond cybersecurity and how AI is being deployed by both the U.S. and its adversaries.

May 3, 202615 min

OM Podcast #49: Reshoring Semiconductors

In this episode of the Heizer Render Munson OM Podcast, Barry Render speaks with Ron Piccolo, CEO of the Florida Semiconductor Engine, about why semiconductors have become a critical issue for U.S. competitiveness. Their conversation explores advanced semiconductor packaging, supply‑chain risk, and the role universities, industry, and government can play in reshoring key capabilities. Ron also shares how Florida is building a specialized ecosystem focused on high‑reliability applications in space, healthcare, and defense.

April 5, 202613 min

OM Podcast #48: Cold Storage, AI, and the Future of Industrial Facilities

In this episode of the OM Podcast, Barry Render and Misty Blessley speak with David Aschenbrand of Newmark about the evolving role of cold storage and temperature‑controlled facilities in today’s supply chains. The conversation explores facility design, labor challenges, automation and AI, and what the Cold Chain Index reveals about the future of operations management.

March 15, 202615 min

OM Podcast #47: Leadership and Continuous Improvement

In this episode, Barry Render interviews continuous improvement expert and author John Dyer to explore what real operational excellence looks like. John shares insights from 40+ years in manufacturing and consulting, discussing why continuous improvement efforts often stall, how leaders can transition from managers to coaches, and how AI will reshape team‑based problem solving. For a transcript of this podcast, visit the blog: https://operationsmanagementblog.com/category/podcast/

February 23, 202614 min

OM Podcast #46: Logistics, Circularity & Vertical Integration at East Penn Manufacturing

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessley interview Harry Ziff, VP of Corporate Logistics at East Penn Manufacturing, one of the world’s largest lead battery producers. Harry shares insights from his 37‑year supply chain career, discusses East Penn’s broad range of battery applications, and explains how the company’s deep vertical integration and closed‑loop recycling system create efficiency, sustainability, and competitive advantage. The conversation also explores East Penn’s private fleet strategy and the intentionality behind every operational decision.

February 1, 202612 min

OM Podcast #45: Inside University Purchasing

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessley talk with Donna Schweibenz, former Senior Director of Purchasing at Temple University, who brings more than 26 years of experience in higher‑education procurement. Donna shares what it takes to manage a centralized purchasing operation responsible for everything from scientific equipment and IT to construction projects and even medical cadavers. She offers insights into purchasing alliances, vendor management, compliance challenges, and why even simple purchases can become surprisingly complex in a university environment. A great listen for anyone interested in procurement, operations, or the behind‑the‑scenes work that keeps universities running.

January 12, 202612 min

OM Podcast #44: Inside the Cold Storage Industry with Dr. Anna Johnson

Barry Render and Misty Blessley talk with Dr. Anna Johnson, VP of Marketing and Commercial Strategy at U.S. Cold Storage, about the critical role of temperature-controlled logistics in the food supply chain. From sustainability initiatives to AI, robotics, and digital twins, this episode explores how technology and innovation are reshaping cold storage operations and creating new opportunities for the workforce.

December 7, 202515 min

OM Podcast #43: An Interview with Mike Rich, VP of Supply Chain at American Water

In this episode, Barry Render and Misty Blessly sit down with Mike Rich, Vice President of Supply Chain at American Water, the largest regulated water and wastewater utility in the U.S. Mike shares insights from his career journey—from inventory management at Home Depot to strategic sourcing at APS—and dives into the challenges and opportunities of leading supply chain operations in a critical utility industry. The conversation explores talent acquisition, negotiation strategies, and how AI technologies like Agentic AI and generative tools are transforming procurement practices.

November 9, 202515 min

OM Podcast #42: An Interview with Simpla Foods

Barry Render interviews Canadian entrepreneurs Katie Wookey and Ari Davis, co-founders of Simpla Foods, a plant-based yogurt company. They discuss co-packing, supplier relationships, sustainable packaging, and their growth strategy across Canada and into the U.S.

October 20, 202510 min

OM Podcast #41: An Interview with Jennifer Taylor from UHS

In this podcast Barry Render and co-host Misty Blessly interview Jennifer Taylor, Director of Contracts at Universal Health Services. Jennifer shares her journey from the Philadelphia Housing Authority to UHS, offering insights into healthcare procurement, tariff challenges, and how her team manages product allocations. She also discusses UHS’s innovative internship program and its role in building a pipeline of supply chain talent.