Career Episodes

Sal sits down with Ron Angelo, President & CEO of the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology (CCAT), for a thoughtful conversation about agility, relevance, and what it takes to thrive in an era of nonstop technological change. Ron shares what’s fueling CCAT’s rapid growth and why adaptability now matters more than rigid long-term planning as the U.S. industrial base evolves. Drawing on his own journey across four careers, he explains what staying relevant really looks like in real time—and ...

Sal is joined by Cathy Awwad, President & CEO of the Northwest Regional Workforce Investment Board (NRWIB), to explore what it takes to build a future-ready workforce across 41 diverse communities. From addressing critical skills gaps in sectors like IT, manufacturing, and healthcare to partnering with local businesses to align training with real-world demands, Cathy shares how NRWIB goes beyond job placement to support long-term career growth. They dive into the importance of soft skills, leade...

Sal is joined by Douglas Johnson, President at Marion Manufacturing Company, Inc., to unpack what it really takes to transition a company to a younger, energized workforce. From overcoming technology gaps and generational communication challenges to rethinking hiring around attitude and curiosity instead of just skills, our guest shares lessons learned through COVID and beyond. We dive into how coaching strengthened leadership and family dynamics, why letting younger employees make mistakes help...

Sal is joined by Chris DiPentima, President and CEO of CBIA, for a candid conversation about leadership, legacy, and the future of Connecticut business. Chris shares his winding journey from Boston College to manufacturing to heading one of the oldest business organizations in the country—older than even the U.S. Chamber. He opens up about his family’s roots in both manufacturing and law, and why he’s committed to staying in Connecticut to drive local solutions. Chris and Sal discuss how small b...

In this episode of One Pour Problems, Sal Marino sits down with Brett Greene, President (and self-proclaimed Head Coach) of Willington Nameplate, to talk about career pivots, leadership, and personal growth. Brett shares his transition from finance to manufacturing operations, how he learned the ropes of machining, and the mentors who shaped his path.They dive into navigating uncertainty, finding purpose after setbacks, and the importance of putting the right people in the right roles. From overcoming the “Sunday scaries” to embracing discomfort as a path to growth, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone rethinking their career or leadership style.Perfect for listeners searching for:career pivots, leadership development, manufacturing operations, mentorship lessons, small business culture, navigating change in business

In this episode of One Pour Problems, Sal Marino sits down with Paul Lavoie, Connecticut’s Chief Manufacturing Officer, to discuss how technology and workforce development are reshaping the manufacturing landscape. As automation and AI redefine traditional roles, Paul explains how the industry can adapt through innovation, training, and a renewed focus on employee retention.From improving job quality to debunking myths around automation, this conversation highlights how manufacturers can stay competitive while creating meaningful career paths. Paul also dives into the importance of upskilling, safety improvements, and how state-funded programs can support long-term growth.Perfect for listeners interested in:Manufacturing workforce developmentAI and automation in industryHiring and retention strategiesManufacturing innovationUpskilling and job training programsBusiness strategy in regulated industries

In this episode of One Pour Problems, Sal Marino sits down with Brian Montanari, President & CEO of HABCO Industries, to unpack how AI is transforming regulated industries—and what leaders need to do to keep up. Over a pour of Whistlepig, Brian shares how AI is being implemented in real-world manufacturing, why leadership still matters in a tech-driven world, and how to retain top talent amid rapid change.Whether you’re a CEO, team leader, or just navigating AI in your own business, this episode delivers actionable strategies on innovation, compliance, and creating a clear leadership framework to scale successfully.Perfect for listeners interested in:AI in regulated industriesTalent retention and leadership strategyInnovation and digital transformationBuilding a scalable company cultureManufacturing and aerospace business growth

In this episode of One Pour Problems, Sal Marino sits down with Bryn Tindall, Founder and CEO of Rebellion Group, to explore how businesses can build impactful brands without blowing the budget. From billboard strategy to post-pandemic relationship building, Bryn shares real-world marketing insights that resonate with today’s business leaders.They also discuss the mental health side of entrepreneurship—including managing anxiety—and why great branding is about much more than just a logo. Whether you're running a startup or scaling a business, this episode offers both inspiration and practical takeaways.Perfect for listeners interested in:budget branding strategies, billboard marketing, small business growth, post-COVID business dynamics, entrepreneur mindset, leadership under pressure