The Operations Science Podcast

What does operational excellence look like when the product you manufacture directly impacts a person’s dignity and quality of life?

In this conversation, Mindaugas Valkavicius shares what it takes to lead 200+ frontline operators in a high-sensitivity environment—where safety, quality, and service aren’t abstract metrics, but daily commitments.

From ramping up capacity during the pandemic to consolidating production across b...

Global supply chains don’t fail all at once. They bend, stretch, and quietly test every assumption you’ve made about planning, inventory, and timing.

In this conversation on the Operation Science Podcast, Vitoria Vellani shares what it actually looks like to manage demand planning and import operations in Brazil—where long lead times, currency swings, port congestion, and seasonal demand collide.

From importing luggage across...

When a deeply entrenched operating habit jeopardizes $14–15B in revenue, you don’t get a second chance to get it right.

This conversation with former Intel manufacturing leader Zane Rakes reveals how a shift in perspective—powered by Operation Science—transformed one of the most complex production environments on earth: semiconductor manufacturing.

From “bear traps” of runaway WIP to a trim, predictable factory capable of cutt...

Managing global medical device projects is no small feat—especially when teams span multiple time zones and cultures. In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound interviews Diana Dimitrova, Senior Project Manager, who shares her proven strategies for leading complex programs that bring life-changing drug delivery devices to market.

Discover how Diana:

✅ Coordinates cross-functional teams across Denmark, Chin...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound speaks with Ricardo Monge, a seasoned program manager specializing in medical device manufacturing. Ricardo shares his experiences orchestrating complex, multimillion-dollar project transfers across borders—merging technical rigor with human influence.

You’ll learn:

✔ How to balance strategic timelines with tactical operations

✔ Best practices for managing scope c...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with Oscar Sroor, a global operations leader based in Bordeaux, France, to explore what it really takes to achieve sustainable operational excellence.

With experience spanning manufacturing, medical devices, FMCG, and global supply chains, Oscar shares his journey from classic lean initiatives to leading large-scale business transformations. The conver...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound sits down with Stefano Relli, an international leader in continuous improvement at a global precision optical lens manufacturer.

Together, they break down the real-world challenges of running a make-to-order, high-variability production system and how balancing a push-pull system can transform flow, efficiency, and customer responsiveness.

Stefano shares how his mul...

In this episode of The Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with Santiago Camacho, a global supply chain leader with over two decades of experience in manufacturing and operations. Currently spearheading the setup of a new Greenfield site in Portugal for Coloplast, Santiago shares a candid look at the realities of modern supply chain leadership.

From balancing demand forecasts and managing production capacity t...

In this episode of Operation Science, host Ed Pound sits down with Silindile Sitole, a leader in supply chain and operations who ensures millions of lenses travel seamlessly from Asia to Africa.

From navigating time zone gaps and language barriers to optimizing freight methods and managing over 50,000 SKUs, Silindile shares her journey of resilience, precision, and leadership in one of Africa’s most complex supply networks.

You’l...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with logistics veteran Juan Maldonado from Karl Storz, a global leader in medical device manufacturing. With over 25 years in the field, Juan takes us through the evolution of logistics, from paper-based processes to data-driven operations powered by technology and automation.

They dive into the challenges of balancing customization vs. standardization...

Welcome to the Operations Science Podcast! In this episode, host Ed Pound welcomes Lisa Elles, a trailblazer in the shipbuilding and ship repair industry. With over 30 years of experience, Lisa discusses the challenges and triumphs of the maritime sector, shedding light on the Lean Shipbuilding model and its transformative impact.

From the historical significance of Liberty ships to the potential of AI in ship design, this episo...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound interviews Sanjay Huprikar, Chief Global Officer of the Global Electronics Association. They delve into the complexities of global trade policies, tariffs, and their impact on electronics manufacturers. Sanjay shares insights into the evolution of the association, its expanded focus on advocacy, training, and industry standards, and the importance of supply chain resi...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound interviews Mark Gray, a thought leader in continuous improvement and lean thinking. Mark shares insights from his extensive experience across industries, the importance of learning from mistakes, and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of psychological safety. Learn about the integration of lean principles with statistical process control, the impact of moti...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed Pound engages in a deep conversation with Brian Kendig, a seasoned leader in manufacturing transformations currently at Ford Motor Company. Brian shares insights from his extensive career in various industries, including manufacturing, medical devices, aerospace, and more. They discuss pivotal topics such as key lessons in driving transformation, the importance of culture a...

In this insightful episode of the Operations Science Podcast, we’re joined by Blaine Alderks, Head of Product Development at Windings, to explore the evolving world of high-performance electromechanical systems. Blaine shares lessons from over a decade in aerospace and defense, highlighting how agile product development, effective capacity planning, and cross-functional collaboration have transformed workflows at Windings.

We al...

Join Ed Pound as he sits down with Frankie Swindell, Operations Manager at Flexon (Ingersoll Rand), for an in-depth conversation about managing operations in the critical medical device manufacturing sector. Discover how a seasoned operations leader navigates global supply chains, tariff challenges, and the transition from private equity to public company ownership.

Tune in inside:

Tariff impact strategies, supply chain resilience,...

In this episode of The Operations Science Podcast, your host Ed Pound welcomes Rahul Teotia, a seasoned executive with vast global experience in leading supply chain and operations functions across various industries. Rahul shares his invaluable insights on building high-performing teams, navigating digital transformations, and simplifying complex processes to achieve significant impacts. This conversation is packed with actionable...

In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Ed sits down with Mike McBride, the leader of Delta Tech Ops, Delta Air Lines’ maintenance, repair, and overhaul powerhouse. Together, they explore the monumental operational challenges faced during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, including grounding and maintaining a fleet of over 900 aircraft, navigating supply chain chaos, and rebuilding a workforce after significant attri...

Welcome to the premiere episode of the Operations Science Podcast, where we dive into the art and science of operational excellence to help you transform the way you work! Hosted by industry veteran Ed Pound, this episode unveils the power of Operations Science—a first-principles approach to boosting efficiency, productivity, and success across all industries, from manufacturing and healthcare to aerospace, software development, an...