Most conversations about work-life balance start with the wrong question.
We assume the goal is to limit work, to keep it from taking too much of our lives. So we optimize for time, energy, and boundaries, all while treating work as something to manage or escape.
In this solo episode, Brandon challenges that premise. He steps back to ask a more fundamental question:
What is work actually for?
Brandon explores how work can serve as both a platform for growth and a vehicle for contribution. It's one of the few arenas where we can test our capabilities, develop judgment, and apply our gifts in ways that genuinely help others.
He shares why fulfillment doesn’t come from balance or hours worked, but from alignment — integrating work, family, and personal development into a single system aimed at growth, love, and service.
This isn’t a prescription. It’s an exploration into what it means to live and work well.
Why “work-life balance” starts from the wrong assumption
Defining the real problem: what role work plays in a life well lived
How work creates the feedback loops that drive capability and maturity
The connection between growth, love, and contribution
How alignment replaces balance as the goal
Why work is something to steward, not escape
“Work isn’t something to balance against life. It’s one of the primary ways we learn how to live it.”
If this episode sparks reflection — or disagreement — Brandon would love to hear from you.
Reach out on LinkedIn or at buildingbetterpod.com.
Building Better with Brandon Bartneck explores what it means to build. Better companies, better systems, and better lives. Through conversations and reflections, Brandon digs into the principles that drive growth, purpose, and meaningful work.
What does it take to build a business that isn’t just profitable today, but valuable, resilient, and meaningful over the long term?
In this episode, I sit down with Scott Snider, President of the Exit Planning Institute (EPI). Scott and his team work with advisors across the country to help business owners align their business, personal, and financial goals—not just to prepare for a future exit, but to live better as an owner right now.
We cover:
Why exit planning is less about a transaction and more about designing a good life.
The generational differences in how Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials think about success, meaning, and legacy.
Why 75% of owners regret selling their business—and how to avoid being one of them.
The “four Cs” of decentralizing a business beyond the founder: human, customer, structural, and cultural capital.
How to find and lean into your company’s true competitive advantage.
The range of exit paths—from PE firms and ETA (entrepreneurship through acquisition) to employee buyouts and family transitions.
Scott also shares his own leadership journey scaling EPI, and the lessons he’s drawn from reshaping culture, vision, and values inside his own company.
If you’re a founder, executive, or advisor navigating questions of value, succession, and legacy—this one is worth your time.
Resources Mentioned:
Exit Planning Institute: earncepa.com
Owner Readiness research: ownerreadiness.com
In this episode, I’m joined by Ali Kashani, Co-Founder and CEO of Serve Robotics. Serve is pioneering autonomous sidewalk delivery at scale—with hundreds of robots already operating in major U.S. cities and thousands more on the way.
Ali and I dive into the complexity of autonomy: the technical challenges, the economics, the regulatory and consumer adoption hurdles, and the leadership required to make sense of it all. He shares how Serve is approaching innovation, why their technology and go-to-market path is unique, and what it takes to attract, empower, and retain world-class talent in such a fast-moving space.
We also talk about the bigger picture—why last-mile delivery has lagged so far behind other logistics revolutions, and why the sidewalk may hold the key to a generational leap in productivity and sustainability.
About Ali KashaniAli Kashani is the Co-Founder and CEO of Serve Robotics, the leading autonomous sidewalk delivery company. He previously co-founded and led robotics efforts at Postmates, which was later acquired by Uber, before spinning out Serve as an independent company in 2021. Under Ali’s leadership, Serve has scaled to one of the largest fleets of urban delivery robots in the world and became a publicly traded company in 2023. Ali is a repeat entrepreneur with a deep background in AI and robotics, and he has been a leading voice on the future of autonomy, urban mobility, and responsible AI deployment.
Connect with Ali
LinkedIn: Ali Kashani
Serve Robotics: serverobotics.com
Connect with Me
LinkedIn: Brandon Bartneck
PJ Wallbank Springs: pjws.com
Edison Manufacturing & Engineering: edison-mfg.com
In this episode, I’m joined by Drew Allen, President & CEO of Grace Technologies. Grace is a family business built on innovation in electrical safety and predictive maintenance, and Drew has carried that forward—shaping the company into a leader in industrial technology and workplace safety.
We cover a lot of ground in this conversation. Drew shares the story of Grace’s evolution from a single-product company to a broad portfolio serving the world’s most advanced manufacturers. We dig into his approach to innovation, leadership, and attracting top talent. And we explore the balance between listening to customers and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Drew also shares candid lessons from leading a family business, building high-performance teams, and staying deeply involved as a CEO while empowering his people to deliver.
This one blends product, culture, and leadership in a way that I think will resonate with anyone building and leading in manufacturing.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
How Grace Technologies grew from a single product to five complementary product lines
Why customer-driven innovation and quick iteration often beat “pure R&D”
The importance of purpose, selection bias, and A-players in building a great culture
Drew’s philosophy on leadership—balancing involvement with empowerment
How to attract and retain top talent by being specific about what makes your company unique
The role of energy infrastructure in U.S. competitiveness and industrial growth
About Drew Allen
Drew Allen is President & CEO of Grace Technologies Inc., a pioneer in electrical safety and predictive maintenance, consistently ranked as one of Iowa’s Top Workplaces. He also founded Maple Studios, the first venture studio in eastern Iowa, and serves on advisory boards for Atom Power, Proxxi, and YPO Iowa. Drew led the acquisition of Civionics Inc. (now Percēv) and received the National Association of Manufacturers’ Next-Generation Leadership Award in 2020.
Connect with Drew
LinkedIn: Drew Allen
Grace Technologies: graceport.com
Email: drewa@gracetechnologies.com
In this solo episode, Brandon unpacks a challenge he sees everywhere — in his own work, at PJ Wallbank Springs, and in the broader world of leadership and business. The tension between attention and depth.
It’s easy to get attention without substance. It’s also possible to have real substance without anyone noticing. But if you want to make a lasting impact, you need both. Brandon explores why that balance is so difficult to achieve, and why ignoring either side limits your reach and influence.
He shares an unexpected example from Lupe Fiasco’s Kick, Push — a song that works on the surface as a catchy, joyful story, but rewards the listener who digs deeper. It’s a case study in the “Trojan horse” approach: earning attention in a way that opens the door for real substance.
If you’re leading teams, building products, telling your company’s story, or simply trying to make your work matter, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how to bridge the gap between flash and foundation.
Topics Covered:
Why attention and depth often feel like they’re in conflict
How depth without visibility limits your impact
The “Trojan horse” concept and why it works
Lessons from Lupe Fiasco’s Kick, Push
Applying this balance in leadership, engineering, and business
Why earning attention isn’t self-promotion — it’s part of the work
Links & Resources:
Learn more about PJ Wallbank Springs: https://pjws.com
Learn more about Edison: https://edison-mfg.com
Show notes and full episodes: https://brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter
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The automotive aftermarket often flies under the radar—but it plays a major role in advancing engineering, manufacturing, and performance. In this episode, Mike Spagnola, President & CEO of SEMA and PRI, joins me to explore how the specialty automotive sector is driving innovation across ICE, hybrid, EV, hydrogen, and beyond.
We dive into how SEMA supports manufacturers with hands-on product development, CAD data, vehicle scanning, emissions testing, and ADAS calibration. Mike also shares his perspective on regulatory trends, technology-neutral advocacy, and what makes the SEMA Show such a powerful platform for connection and growth.
If you care about how products actually get developed—and how small and mid-size companies are building the future of transportation—this conversation is for you.
About Mike
Mike Spagnola is the President & CEO of SEMA (Specialty Equipment Market Association) and PRI (Performance Racing Industry). Before stepping into this leadership role, Mike built and sold multiple companies in the automotive aftermarket, led product development efforts, and served on SEMA’s board. He’s a hands-on car guy who understands the needs of manufacturers, retailers, regulators, and racers alike.
About SEMA
SEMA is a nonprofit trade association that supports over 7,000 member companies across the automotive aftermarket. From CAD access and regulatory guidance to emissions labs and the world-renowned SEMA Show, their mission is to help small and mid-sized companies grow and compete globally.
Key Topics:
What the automotive aftermarket actually is—and why it matters
SEMA Garages and how they help manufacturers develop, test, and certify products
Navigating CARB, EPA, and emissions compliance for performance parts
Why access to CAD data and pre-release vehicles is a game changer
What happens to ADAS systems when you modify ride height, tires, or wrap a car
How SEMA advocates for a technology-neutral approach (ICE, hybrid, EV, hydrogen)
Behind the scenes of the SEMA Show—and what success really looks like
The real impact of aftermarket innovation on the transportation ecosystem
Chapters:
Mike’s Background and Passion for the Industry
What SEMA Is and Who They Support
How the SEMA Garages Enable Product Development
Navigating Emissions Compliance and CARB Regulations
ADAS Technology, Vehicle Modification, and Future Standards
Protecting the Industry Through Advocacy and Education
The SEMA Show and What Makes It Work
Closing Reflections on Innovation, Community, and Impact
In this solo episode, Brandon reflects on a recurring theme in his work and leadership journey. The increasing presence of uncomfortable, ambiguous, and high-stakes problems. He explores how the most meaningful work often comes with the most discomfort, and why learning to sit with that tension is both necessary and worthwhile.
This isn’t a glorification of pain for its own sake. It’s about the real cost, and real opportunity, that comes with doing work that matters. Brandon draws parallels between leadership and parenting, discusses the danger of ego-driven ambition, and makes the case for a third path: learning to genuinely enjoy the discomfort that comes with deep, purposeful work.
If you're navigating difficult challenges, leading teams, or simply trying to do something meaningful with your career, this episode is for you.
Topics Covered:
The difference between technical problems and leadership problems
Why deeper impact often brings more ambiguity and pain
The trap of surface-level productivity
Ego-driven work vs. purpose-driven work
How parenting offers a model for enduring discomfort with joy
The mindset shift required to find meaning in difficult work
Why this tension sits at the core of leadership and contribution
Links & Resources:
Learn more about PJ Wallbank Springs: pjws.com
Learn more about Edison: edison-mfg.com
Show notes and full episodes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/262
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Welding isn’t just sparks and heat—it’s an essential (and often misunderstood) part of modern manufacturing. In this conversation, Ami Spira, General Manager of Civan Lasers USA, joins me to talk about the state of the art in welding technology and why laser welding is making such a big impact.
We cover how different welding methods work, what makes laser welding unique, and why Civan’s dynamic beam shaping enables new capabilities that weren’t possible before. We also dig into the engineering behind keyhole formation, melt pool control, and how to join dissimilar materials like aluminum and copper without compromising strength or conductivity. If you're designing or building physical products, there's a lot to take away here.
This isn’t surface-level talk. It’s a deep dive into the physics, materials science, and decision-making that go into modern manufacturing—and the cool engineering work that’s pushing it forward.
About Ami
Ami Spira is the General Manager of Civan Lasers USA. He’s been with the company for over seven years, previously leading marketing and business development efforts before taking on the US leadership role in early 2024. Ami’s background spans B2B photonics, law, and business, but what stands out is how clearly he understands both the technical and strategic side of building something meaningful.
About Civan Lasers
Civan Lasers is pioneering Dynamic Beam Laser (DBL) technology, making it possible to weld thick and complex materials with speed, precision, and control. Their high-power, single-mode lasers with programmable beam shaping are enabling new possibilities in manufacturing, from automotive to aerospace to additive.
Key Takeaways
Traditional welding methods (like arc welding and MIG/TIG) are still widely used, but they have limitations in precision and speed.
Laser welding uses a highly concentrated stream of photons to deliver fast, precise joins with minimal heat-affected zones.
Dynamic beam shaping allows engineers to tailor the weld geometry, reduce defects, and join dissimilar or difficult materials.
Laser welding is unlocking new possibilities for materials like high-strength aluminum, diecast alloys, and copper-aluminum connections.
The ability to control the melt pool and keyhole in real-time is critical for quality and repeatability.
Manufacturing and design go hand-in-hand. Engineers who understand welding limitations can design better, more efficient parts.
Advances in automation and AI are reshaping how welding processes are developed, optimized, and executed.
Real innovation doesn’t just happen in new product design—it’s alive and well in how we build things, too.
Chapters
Intro to Laser Welding and Civan's Role
Welding Basics: Arc, Friction, and Laser
Challenges of Material Properties and Dissimilar Joins
What Makes Dynamic Beam Shaping Unique
How Lasers Penetrate Thick Sections with Precision
Design for Manufacturing: Why Welding Considerations Matter
Diecasting, AI, and What’s Next for Welding Innovation
Reflections on the Role of Engineering in Building the Future
What’s the point of innovation?
In this solo episode, Brandon Bartneck reflects on what innovation actually means—and why the version we celebrate most (flashy tech, hype cycles, moonshots) often misses the point. Drawing from personal experience at Boeing, Bose, and multiple advanced tech sectors, Brandon shares why he’s now more energized leading engineering at a spring company than he’s ever been before.
This isn’t innovation theater. It’s real work, with real people, solving hard problems that actually matter.
Brandon breaks down his first-principles approach to innovation:• Make things better for people, especially operators• Advance the manufacturing ecosystem, particularly in overlooked small/mid-sized companies• Contribute to long-term economic value through a sustainable moat
Along the way, he explores the difference between adding technology vs. creating value, why simple gravity-fed solutions might beat flashy automation, and what real engineering fulfillment looks like in practice.
This is a grounded, honest take on innovation from someone who’s lived both ends of the spectrum—and now knows exactly where the magic really is.
Key Takeaways:
Innovation isn’t about headlines or hype. It’s about solving meaningful problems.
True innovation starts with knowing what you're optimizing for.
Real-world engineering constraints sharpen creativity and impact.
Flashy tech can be a distraction. Simpler, thoughtful solutions often win.
Innovation should create value for people, companies, and communities—not just press releases.
There’s deep fulfillment in solving problems others overlook.
Links & Resources:
Big innovation doesn’t always mean big headlines. Sometimes it looks like improving how 5.5 million students get to school every day.
In this episode of Building Better, Brandon Bartneck talks with Sean McCormack, Chief Information Officer at First Student. They dive into the challenges of routing 45,000 school buses, the role of AI and EVs in improving safety and sustainability, and why “user-centric design” means something very different when your user is a bus driver in the dark at 6am.
Sean brings a refreshing perspective on product development and leadership. He talks about real-world agile development—not the buzzword version—and what it means to test, learn, and iterate when people’s lives are at stake. They also explore the difference between flashy products and meaningful work, and how the most rewarding engineering problems often live in overlooked corners of our world.
About Sean McCormack
Sean McCormack is CIO at First Student, where he leads digital strategy, technical operations, and innovation. Prior to joining First Student, he served as VP of Engineering at W.W. Grainger and CTO at Harley-Davidson, where he launched connected vehicle programs and led product innovation. His background spans enterprise architecture, e-commerce, and systems integration across global organizations.
About First Student
First Student is the leading provider of K–12 transportation in North America. Every day, they help 5.5 million students get to school safely across 45,000 buses. Recognized as one of Fast Company’s 2025 Most Innovative Companies, First Student delivers a wide range of services including special needs transportation, route optimization, EV transition, fleet maintenance, and more.
Key Takeaways
Safety—not efficiency—is the top priority in school transportation
Technology like AI cameras and EVs are improving both safety and cost long term
Agile development and real-world testing are essential for effective product development
Listening to end users—especially drivers—is critical for designing tools that actually work
There’s massive opportunity in solving “unsexy” problems that others overlook
Links & Resources
Learn more: firststudentinc.com
Follow First Student: LinkedIn
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/seanmccormack
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In this solo episode, Brandon Bartnick explores the messy reality behind transparency and authenticity in leadership. These are buzzwords in many settings, but the day-to-day application is far more complex.
Drawing from recent experiences in a manufacturing and audit context, Brandon reflects on:
Why total transparency isn’t always helpful
The risks of encouraging issue-raising without accountability
The challenge of threading the needle between honest communication and effective execution
How well-intentioned leadership behaviors can unintentionally undermine the culture we’re trying to build
This episode is a reflection—not a conclusion. Brandon shares how he’s thinking about this tension in his current role, and how he’s trying to lead teams with both integrity and pragmatism.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartnick focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
Key Themes:
“Bad news first” only works if people feel safe telling the truth
A culture of transparency can easily tip into unproductive complaint cycles
Discernment is key: not all problems are worth escalating, but some absolutely are
How language and tone shape trust
What it means to model transparency as a leader without slowing down execution
Show Notes:brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/258
Listen to the Episode:
Electric bikes are more than a trend—they’re a key part of a more sustainable, accessible, and human transportation ecosystem. But the market is still early, and big challenges stand in the way: trust, affordability, infrastructure, and shifting consumer behavior.
In this episode, Brandon Bartneck talks with Marta Anadón, Head of US at Upway, the leading global platform for refurbished e-bikes. Marta shares her insights from building operations and logistics at Uber Eats, and how she’s now bringing that experience to help Upway grow in the US. The conversation covers what’s working, what’s not, and what it really takes to scale micromobility in a car-centric country.
They discuss consumer mindsets, the importance of ownership and trust in the secondhand market, and why e-bikes might hold the key to more livable, efficient cities.
About Marta Anadón:
Marta Anadón Rosinach is Head of US at Upway. She previously led Uber Eats across Europe and the US, bringing deep experience in operations, logistics, and marketplace growth. Marta holds degrees in Civil Engineering from Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya and in Management from HEC Paris. She’s passionate about the circular economy and the role of micromobility in building better cities.
About Upway:
Upway is the global leader in refurbished e-bikes. Operating in eight countries, Upway offers high-quality e-bikes from 200+ top brands—certified by professional mechanics and backed by a one-year warranty. Their mission: make sustainable mobility accessible to everyone. With a growing US presence, Upway is redefining how people move, how products are reused, and how cities adapt.
Key Takeaways:
E-bikes are an essential piece of the sustainable mobility puzzle.
The US market is still developing—but interest is growing.
Upway is solving for trust by owning inventory and certifying quality.
Safety and infrastructure are still holding many people back.
Most buyers are in the 35–50 age range, and increasingly in suburban areas.
Partnerships with local bike shops expand service and support.
Affordability is a key unlock—Upway prices are often ~60% of retail.
Marta’s leadership playbook emphasizes simplicity, speed, and staying close to the user.
Sound Bites:
"Our prices can be up to 60% of retail."
"We guarantee the products that we sell."
"The average age is probably around 35 to 50."
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Upway: upway.co
Explore AmbiSort: Upway US KTLA Feature
Follow Upway on LinkedIn: LinkedIn Page
Connect with Marta Anadón: Marta on LinkedIn
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/martaanadon
Connect with Building Better:
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In this solo episode, Brandon unpacks a powerful idea that keeps surfacing in his work and personal life: we can’t solve problems we don’t understand. And we can’t understand problems until we stop speaking in generalities and start getting specific.
The spark came from a bedtime story with his son—What Do You Do With a Problem? by Kobi Yamada—but the insight goes much deeper. Avoiding the problem makes it grow. Facing it, defining it, and breaking it down is what opens the door to real solutions.
Brandon explores how this principle shows up in manufacturing, leadership, strategy, communication, and day-to-day execution. From root cause analysis to structured methods like PDCA and A3, it all comes down to one thing: clear thinking.
About Building Better:
Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. The show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences.
Key Themes:
You can’t solve what you don’t understand
Specifics matter more than abstractions when it comes to problem definition
Ambiguity creates unnecessary complexity and anxiety
Systematic frameworks only work when grounded in clear thinking
Manufacturing lessons apply across leadership, strategy, and operations
Show Notes:
brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/256
Listen to the Episode:
In the world of logistics, automation is no longer a future concept—it’s happening now. But rolling out robotics in high-volume warehouse environments isn’t as simple as plugging in a machine and walking away.
In this episode of Building Better, Brandon sits down with Jim Liefer, CEO of Ambi Robotics, to talk about what it actually takes to build and deploy robotics solutions that work at scale. With more than 35 years of operational leadership experience at companies like UPS, Walmart, and Kindred AI, Jim brings a pragmatic lens to the promise and complexity of AI-driven automation.
They dig into the challenges of stacking, sorting, labor dynamics, and change management—and what it looks like to lead with humility while driving real impact.
About Jim Liefer:
Jim is the CEO of Ambi Robotics, where he’s responsible for leading the company’s vision and operations. He previously served as CEO of Kindred AI, COO of One Kings Lane, VP of Operations at Walmart.com, and VP of Technology at UPS. Throughout his career, Jim has focused on scaling systems, reducing cost-to-serve, and empowering frontline teams with better tools and processes.
About Ambi Robotics:
Ambi Robotics is an AI and robotics company developing advanced automation systems for ecommerce and logistics. The company’s solutions—including AmbiSort and AmbiStack—leverage simulation-to-reality (Sim2Real) technology and advanced AI foundation models to perform high-speed sorting and stacking in warehouse environments. Founded in 2018 and based in Berkeley, California, Ambi Robotics helps customers scale fulfillment operations while empowering human workers.
About Building Better:
Building Better with Brandon Bartnick focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. The show features real conversations about what leaders are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Ambi Robotics is solving real-world logistics challenges with robotics that work at scale
Trust and change management are essential to successful automation rollouts
Automation isn’t about replacing humans—it’s about removing repetitive tasks and letting people focus on higher value work
AI and machine learning enable robots to adapt to dynamic warehouse environments
Sustainable success depends on low cost to serve and solving specific problems
Links & Resources:
Company Website: ambirobotics.com
AmbiSort: ambirobotics.com/ambisort-a-series
AmbiStack: ambirobotics.com/ambistack
LinkedIn: Ambi Robotics
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/jimliefer
Listen to the Episode:
Strategic planning too often becomes an annual ritual that loses meaning as soon as the binders hit the shelf. Mark Reich is on a mission to change that.
In this episode of Building Better, Brandon Bartneck sits down with Mark Reich, author of Managing on Purpose and one of the foremost experts on hoshin kanri—a strategy deployment system rooted in the Toyota Production System.
Drawing on decades of leadership experience at Toyota and the Lean Enterprise Institute, Mark shares what it takes to build alignment, lead with intention, and empower your team to solve real problems. This conversation is for anyone trying to lead with clarity and drive sustainable change—especially in complex manufacturing and industrial environments.
Whether you’re new to lean or have been practicing for decades, you’ll walk away with powerful ideas and practical insights.
About Mark Reich:
Mark Reich spent 23 years at Toyota, including time in Japan and leading hoshin kanri for North America during a decade of major growth. As a senior coach and chief engineer at the Lean Enterprise Institute, Mark has worked with leaders across industries to implement lean thinking, solve real-world problems, and lead with purpose. He is the author of Managing on Purpose, a practical workbook designed to help organizations implement hoshin kanri and build stronger leadership systems.
About Managing on Purpose:
Published by the Lean Enterprise Institute, Managing on Purpose is a hands-on workbook for leaders seeking to align strategy with daily operations through hoshin kanri. The book includes real-world examples and a fictional case study from TrueMowers to help readers apply these principles in their own work.→ Buy the Book
About Building Better:
Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. The show features real conversations about what leaders are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences.
Key Takeaways:
Hoshin kanri is a practical system for turning strategy into action
Effective leaders align their organizations around a shared purpose
Structured problem-solving is essential to improvement
Engaging employees is key to sustainable success
Starting small—with a model cell—can drive meaningful change
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Managing on Purpose: Lean Enterprise Institute
Buy the book: Managing on Purpose
Connect with Mark Reich: LinkedIn
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/markreich
Listen to the Episode:
In this solo episode of Building Better, host Brandon Bartneck reflects on the first quarter of 2025. Drawing from recent episodes and his own evolving role leading engineering at PJ Wallbank Springs, Brandon shares the four themes that defined Q1: intentional innovation, operational leadership, learning and growth, and strategic problem-solving.
This quarter marked a shift in the show’s tone—toward practicality, execution, and leading where the rubber meets the road. Whether you're growing a hardware business, managing complex systems, or trying to lead more effectively, this episode offers real-world insights from the front lines.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
Key Themes from Q1 2025:
Intentionality in Innovation – Featuring lessons from guests like Ross Blum (Skyline Robotics), Tony Kinsman (Polaris), Xiaodi Hou (Bot Auto), Casey Freeburg (Orbis), and the FlexGen team
Operational Leadership – How leaders like Trevor Blondeel, Casey Freeburg, Tony Kinsman, and Xiaodi Hou are building real impact through thoughtful execution
Learning and Personal Growth – Insights from Brandon’s solo episodes on self-learning and doing hard things
Strategic Problem Solving – Highlighting Felix Leach and Nick Molden’s data-driven approach to vehicle sustainability as a standout example of practical, high-leverage thinking
Links & Resources:
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/q1reflection
Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn: Brandon Bartneck
Connect with Building Better:
Autonomous trucking has long promised a more efficient, scalable future for freight. But making it real requires more than bold ideas—it takes precision, discipline, and a deep understanding of operations.
In this episode of Building Better, Brandon Bartneck talks with Dr. Xiaodi Hou, founder and CEO of Bot Auto. They explore how Bot Auto is approaching Level 4 autonomous driving, the importance of cost per mile as a success metric, and what it means to build a lean, high-performing team in a complex industry.
Xiaodi shares how his leadership style has evolved, why collaboration is more powerful than competition, and why being realistic—and still optimistic—matters more than hype.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
About Bot Auto:Bot Auto is a Level 4 autonomous trucking company offering Transportation as a Service (TaaS) through its AI-driven autonomous truck fleet. Founded by Dr. Xiaodi Hou, Bot Auto combines visionary leadership, top-tier engineering talent, and industry expertise to revolutionize the transportation industry. Headquartered in Houston, Texas, the company aims to create lasting impact by expanding transportation capacity, integrating with existing freight networks, and addressing the driver shortage while minimizing disruption.
About Xiaodi Hou:Dr. Xiaodi Hou is the Founder and CEO of Bot Auto, and an internationally recognized expert in autonomous vehicles, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and computer vision. He holds a Ph.D. in Computation and Neural Systems from Caltech and a Bachelor's in Computer Science from Shanghai Jiao Tong University. Before founding Bot Auto, he co-founded TuSimple and served as CTO and CEO. His work has been featured in Wired, Forbes, and TechCrunch, and he has spoken at events such as Web Summit and Nvidia’s GTC.
Key Takeaways:
Bot Auto is building for long-term success in autonomous trucking, not short-term hype
Cost per mile (CPM) is a better metric than miles per intervention (MPI)
Operational execution is critical for scalable autonomy
The tech ecosystem is maturing, but real-world integration still requires nuance
A small, agile team with deep focus can outperform a larger one
Industry collaboration builds trust and accelerates progress
Public perception and trust are just as important as technical progress
Chapters:
Introduction to Bot Auto and Autonomous Trucking
The Vision Behind Bot Auto
Understanding the Ecosystem and Technology
Operational Challenges in Autonomous Driving
Organizational Structure and Team Dynamics
Cost Per Mile vs. Miles Per Intervention
Leadership Evolution and Industry Perspective
The Future of Autonomous Driving
Links & Resources:
Learn more about BOT Auto: Company Website
Connect with Xiaodi Hou: LinkedIn
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/xiaodihou
Connect with Building Better:
Polaris is at the forefront of innovation in powersports, with a portfolio that spans off-road vehicles, motorcycles, snowmobiles, boats, and more. But what does it take to lead technology development in such a dynamic industry?
In this episode of Building Better, Tony Kinsman, Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Off-Road Engineering at Polaris, shares insights on how Polaris approaches product development, innovation, and customer-driven design.
We discuss:
How Polaris balances cutting-edge technology with real-world customer needs
The evolving role of software, automation, and connectivity in powersports
How Polaris fosters a culture of innovation and continuous learning
The challenges of integrating new technology without losing the core riding experience
Tony’s journey from engineering intern to CTO is a great example of what’s possible when you combine technical expertise, strategic thinking, and a passion for the products you build.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
Key Takeaways:
Polaris’ innovation is customer-driven—technology is only valuable if it enhances the riding experience
Automation and connectivity are reshaping powersports but in ways that preserve the fun and control for riders
Systems engineering and software integration are now as critical as mechanical design
A strong culture of learning and adaptability is essential for staying ahead in a competitive industry
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Polaris and Tony Kinsman
05:22 – Polaris’ Core Mission and Customer Focus
06:31 – The Role of a CTO in Powersports Innovation
10:17 – How Polaris Identifies and Prioritizes New Technologies
15:05 – Balancing Comfort, Performance, and Cost in Vehicle Design
19:33 – Managing Complexity in Manufacturing and Supply Chain
23:28 – Building a Learning Culture at Polaris
26:52 – The Future of Technology in Powersports
31:51 – How Connectivity and Digital Displays Are Transforming the Riding Experience
36:47 – Balancing Innovation with Practicality
40:51 – Final Thoughts on the Future of Polaris and the Industry
About Tony Kinsman:Tony Kinsman is the Chief Technology Officer and Vice President of Off-Road Engineering at Polaris, where he leads product development and technology strategy across the company’s diverse lineup. Since joining Polaris in 2004, he has held multiple leadership roles in engineering and product development, playing a key role in the growth and evolution of Polaris' industry-leading products.
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Polaris: Company Website
Connect with Tony Kinsman: LinkedIn
Explore Polaris Technologies: RIDE COMMAND | DYNAMIX
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/tonykinsman
Connect with Building Better:Follow the podcast for more conversations on engineering, leadership, and technology:
This week, I’m exploring an idea that’s been on my mind a lot lately: what happens when we push ourselves through something hard?
Recently, I set a tough fitness goal, breaking 6:20 on a 2,000-meter row. I've trained for months. I prepped. Then, on test day, everything felt off. My body wasn’t cooperating, my mind was telling me to quit, and every part of me was screaming to stop. But I didn’t. And while I didn’t hit my goal, I walked away with something just as valuable: a deeper understanding of why these experiences matter.
This solo episode is me thinking out loud—about what these moments teach us, how they shape our confidence, and why going through difficult things in one area of life makes us more capable in everything else.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
Key Takeaways:
Self-confidence isn’t something you just have. It’s built through experience.
Pushing through something difficult is a skill, not just a mindset.
Discomfort in one area (like fitness) can prepare you for challenges in work, leadership, and life.
These lessons fade over time if we don’t keep testing ourselves.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction: Why This Topic Matters
02:20 – The 2K Row Test: A Real Challenge
07:08 – What I Learned From Pushing Through
09:34 – How Hard Physical Experiences Build Mental Resilience
11:33 – Raising Your Threshold for Discomfort
13:56 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways
Links & Resources:
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/hardthings
Connect with Building Better:
Rare earth elements are essential to electrification, decarbonization, and modern technology, yet only 1% of these materials are currently recycled globally. Cyclic Materials is changing that.
In this episode of Building Better, Ahmad Ghahreman, CEO of Cyclic Materials, shares how his company is pioneering rare earth element recycling to create a circular supply chain for critical materials. He discusses the challenges of recycling rare earth elements, the impact on sustainability, and how Cyclic Materials' proprietary technology significantly reduces carbon footprint.
The conversation covers the role of rare earth elements in clean energy, the business model behind recycling, and Ahmad’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship. With policies increasingly mandating the recycling of critical metals, this episode explores the future of sustainable materials and the innovations driving change.
About Building Better:Building Better with Brandon Bartneck focuses on the people, products, and companies creating a better tomorrow, often in the transportation and manufacturing sectors. Previously called the Future of Mobility podcast, the show features real, human conversations exploring what leaders and innovators are doing, why and how they’re doing it, and what we can learn from their experiences. Topics include manufacturing, production, assembly, autonomous driving, electric vehicles, hydrogen and fuel cells, leadership, and more.
About Cyclic Materials:Established in 2021, Cyclic Materials is a cleantech company creating a circular supply chain for rare earth elements (REEs) and other critical materials for supporting the clean energy transition. Through its innovative technology, the company economically, sustainably, and domestically transforms end-of-life products into valuable raw materials that are essential to the production of electric vehicles, wind turbines, and motors for the electronics we use in our daily lives.
In 2023, Cyclic Materials commissioned a commercial demonstration facility of the first stage of its process, MagCycle℠, which recovers rare earth magnets from end-of-life materials. In 2024, the company opened a second commercial demonstration facility in Kingston, Ontario, using its proprietary hydrometallurgical technology, REEPure℠, to produce Mixed Rare Earth Oxide. As global demand for REEs continues to rise, Cyclic Materials is scaling its technology across North America, Europe, and Asia.
Key Takeaways:
Cyclic Materials focuses on recycling rare earth elements to build a circular supply chain.
Only 1% of rare earth elements are currently recycled globally.
Electrification and decarbonization are driving the demand for rare earth elements.
Cyclic Materials' technology reduces carbon footprint by 63%.
The company operates on a spoke-and-hub model for recycling.
Rare earth magnets are found in various products, including electronics and vehicles.
Collection schemes for recycling are essential for material flow.
The recycling industry is evolving to include critical metals.
Cyclic Materials aims to provide cleaner, more sustainable materials.
Policies are increasingly mandating the recycling of critical metals.
About the Guest:Ahmad Ghahreman is a serial entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in cleantech and one of the world’s top hydrometallurgists. He has co-invented more than 20 patents and commercialized multiple technologies, focusing on transforming the rare earth elements market with sustainable, ethical solutions.
Links & Resources:
Learn more about Cyclic Materials: Company Website
Connect with Ahmad Ghahreman: LinkedIn
Show Notes: brandonbartneck.com/buildingbetter/ahmadghahreman
Connect with Building Better:Follow the podcast for more inspiring conversations:
