Improv, Emotional Intelligence, and Women in Manufacturing with Ellen and Jenny

Sal is joined by Ellen Feldman Ornato and Jenny Drescher, founders of The Bolder Company and co-hosts of The Manufacturing Shake-Up, for an insightful conversation on leadership, emotional intelligence, and driving meaningful change in manufacturing. Filmed on location at Torrison Stone & Garden in Durham, CT, Ellen and Jenny share how their unlikely start in improv comedy helped shape their approach to workplace development and communication. They reflect on their experiences as women in traditionally male-dominated industries, the challenges they’ve faced, and how the culture in manufacturing is evolving to better support diverse leadership. From turning training into real, lasting behavior change to helping organizations move beyond surface-level development, they explain what it takes to build stronger, more adaptable teams. They also explore the growing importance of emotional intelligence, offering practical ways leaders can recognize cultural barriers and create more connected, effective workplaces. Drawing on their journey as co-founders, Ellen and Jenny share how their partnership came together and why they believe the next big shift in manufacturing leadership will come from embracing bold, human-centered approaches.