Shows
Leadership in ManufacturingHow Do You Know You’re a Good Leader? Real Answers from Real LeadersIn this special episode, host Sannah Vinding revisits a powerful conversation from Episode 100 — where six respected voices in the manufacturing and distribution space answer one deceptively simple question: How do you know if you’re a good leader?Guests featured in this episode include:Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsTobi Cornell: President - Kruvand Associates, Manufacturer's Rep, Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)Maryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager ElectronicsShane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKeyRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic Sale...
2025-07-2935 min
Supply Chain ConnectMaster Distribution Model Serves as Leading Indicator for State of Electronic Component Distribution IndustryCEO of Waldom Electronics, Don Akery, joins the show to discuss the state of the electronic component distribution industry, as the company’s master distribution model grants particular insight and access into the current state of the industry as well as where it may be headed. Akery covers the impact of tariffs, technological integration into operations and more in this perceptive conversation.
Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!
2025-06-2326 min
WE Lead | Voices of InnovationWE Live: Leading Forward: Building Sustainable, Profitable, and Unified OrganizationsAt the intersection of innovation, leadership, and responsibility, this powerful WE Live conversation brings together influential voices from the tech and manufacturing sectors to explore how mission-aligned companies are shaping a future where profitability and purpose go hand in hand.Featuring:Jackie Mattox: Founder and CEO, WE UnitedJay Sebastian: Senior Director & ECO of Human Resources and General Affairs, TDKAnne Taylor: Senior Vice President, VishayAndjela Pasi: Global Director of Marketing, WaldomTogether, these leaders unpack the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility, starting with the shift from Affirmative Action and traditional DE&I toward more...
2025-06-171h 00
Waldom WiredCrouzet Global Channel Director, Robert Derringer Recounts His Unique Journey from Waldom to CrouzetJoin us for an insightful conversation with Robert Derringer, Director - Global Channel at Crouzet, as he shares his unique journey from Waldom to Crouzet, highlighting his steadfast belief in Waldom’s neutral distribution model and its sustainability impact. Gain a compelling perspective from someone who has experienced both sides of the equation!
2024-12-1219 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE104. Why Electronics Lead the Future! Join host Sannah Vinding and special guests:Tobi Cornell: President at Kruvand Associates, Inc.Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic SalesDive deep into the dynamic world of electronics and discover what makes it so exciting and integral to our daily lives.In this episode, you will uncover:The Thrill of Innovation: Explore how the electronics industry places professionals at the forefront of groundbreaking technologies and developments, from AI advancements to the rise of...
2024-12-0314 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE103, Why Is Feedback So Important In Leadership?In Episode 103, join host Sannah Vinding and guests Walter Tobin, CEO of the ERA, Don Akery, CEO of Waldom Electronics, and Shane Zutz, VP of HR at DigiKey, as they delve into the nuances of leadership feedback in the manufacturing and distribution industry. Listen in to uncover valuable insights on leading through feedback, both direct and indirect, and fostering an open communication environment.In this episode, you will learn:Recognizing Indirect Feedback: Learn techniques to sense feedback in everyday interactions and how to respond effectively even when it's not vocalized.Developing Open Communication: Dive into strategies...
2024-11-1911 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE102: How to Evaluate and Enhance Your Leadership Skills Join host Sannah Vinding and a panel of industry experts as they delve into the core values that shape effective leadership.Guests:Tobi Cornell: President at Kruvand Associates, Inc.Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsShane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKeyRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic SalesMaryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager ElectronicsYou will learn:The Importance of Personal Connections: Understand why human connections and relationships are crucial for effective leadership and...
2024-11-0525 min
Waldom WiredPEI-Genesis Chairman and CEO, Steven Fisher Shares Insights About the Future of AIDon't miss the latest episode featuring Steven Fisher, President, Chairman and CEO of PEI-Genesis, and Chris Fetner, VP of Supplier Management at Waldom. Steven shares insights from his remarkable 50-year career in the electronics industry, discussing everything from the evolution of PEI Genesis to the future of AI and the power of human relationships.
2024-10-2418 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE101: What Values Guide You As A LeaderJoin host Sannah Vinding and a panel of industry experts as they delve into the core values that shape effective leadership in the electronics component industry. This special episode features :Shane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKeyRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic SalesTobi Cornell: President at Kruvand Associates, Inc.Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsMaryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager ElectronicsWalter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)sharing their unique perspectives on what drives their leadership styles.In this...
2024-10-2226 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE100, How Do You Know if You Are a Good Leader?🎧 Discover the essential qualities that define a great leader in manufacturing in this insightful interview!Join host Sannah Vinding and an incredible lineup of guests, including;Don Akery: Chief Executive Officer at Waldom ElectronicsTobi Cornell: President at Kruvand Associates, Inc.Walter Tobin: CEO/EVP at Electronics Representatives Association (ERA)Maryellen Stack; Director of Marketing Communications at Sager ElectronicsShane Zutz: Vice President of Human Resources at DigiKeyRob Brunson: Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Wallace Electronic Salesas they dive into the heart of the electronics sector and discuss what fuels their passion for the industry. On...
2024-10-0834 min
Waldom WiredSchaffner President, Ken Bellero, Explores Emerging Trends and Schaffner's EvolutionTune in to the insightful conversation with Ken Bellero, President of Schaffner, now a part on TE Connectivity. With 24 years at Schaffner and 40 years in the electronics industry, Ken shares his unique perspective on the company's evolution, the critical role of the rep model, the recent acquisition by TE Connectivity, and emerging trends in EMI filters. Don't miss out!
2024-08-2915 min
Waldom WiredECIA CEO, David Loftus, Discusses the Impact of AIIn this insightful interview, David Loftus, CEO of ECIA, discusses key topics shaping our industry, including the impact of AI, navigating geopolitical challenges, and the role of sustainability practices. Learn how ECIA is working towards bringing companies together, influencing federal policies, and optimizing industry practices through data and collaboration.
2024-07-2621 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE94, Advice for Industry Leaders: Reflecting on Career Lessons and Growth StrategiesIn this exciting episode of the Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast, host Sannah Vinding interviews four remarkable guests: Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer of Waldom Electronics; Holly Good, Senior Distribution Manager - North America at Knowles Precision Devices; Eric Slatten, President and CEO of ECS Inc International; and Michael Knight, President and CEO of Endries International Inc.
This episode is a special recap filled with valuable career lessons and advice, compiling the most insightful moments from previous conversations into an enlightening and cohesive episode. Each guest reflects on the pivotal career advice they would give their younger selves, offering wisdom and...
2024-07-1615 min
Waldom WiredKnowles Senior Distribution Manager, Holly Good, On Advancing Towards Carbon NeutralityTune in as Waldom and Cornell Dubilier celebrate a decade of partnership and discuss the transformative impact of Knowles Corporation’s recent acquisition. Discover how we’re making a significant impact by keeping products out of landfills and advancing towards carbon neutrality and sustainable practices with our Green Stock program.
2024-07-1108 minSupply Chain ConnectSustainability in the Electronics Distribution Industry | Don Akery - Waldom ElectronicsWhat is being done on the sustainability front in the electronics distribution industry? In this episode, Don Akery, CEO of Waldom Electronics, shares the sustainability initiatives that his company is driving forward with. From planting trees for every order placed to installing enough solar panels on its American facilities to reach a point of not having to purchase any electricity, Waldom is striving for a greener future.
Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!
2024-06-1718 min
Waldom WiredLIM Podcast Founder, Sannah Vinding, Advocates for Innovation in the Electronics IndustryJoin us as Waldom, sits down with Sannah Vinding, Founder of Leadership in Manufacturing, an expert in product development and B2B marketing with over two decades of experience in the consumer electronics industry. Recognized for steering the Leadership in Manufacturing podcast into the top ten electronics podcasts of 2024, Sannah shares her inspiring journey from an engineer to an innovation leader. Tune in for a deep dive into innovative practices and the importance of embracing change.
2024-04-1122 min
Waldom WiredERA's CEO, Walter Tobin, Navigates Industry ChallengesJoin Walter Tobin, CEO of the Electronics Representatives Association (ERA), and Waldom, for insights into the industry's future and strategies to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. They discuss ERA's educational initiatives and address the evolving role of distributors, focusing on Waldom's pivotal position in smoothing out supply chain dynamics. Tobin also discusses global expansion, supply chain challenges and Waldom's crucial role in navigating them.
2024-03-2222 min
Waldom WiredFarnell's Global Category Director Industrial, Simon Meadmore Delves into Industry InsightsJoin Simon Meadmore, Farnell's Global Category Director Industrial and Andjela Pasi, Waldom's Director of Global Marketing, as they delve into the industry outlook and Farnell's strategic partnership with Waldom. Listen to their discussion about the spirit of collaboration, and exciting prospects and trends shaping the electronics industry in 2024.
2024-03-1307 min
Waldom WiredTE's VP Global Sales, Sean Miller Discusses Sustainable Partnership with WaldomTune in as Sean Miller, TE's VP Global Sales and Chris Fetner, Waldom's VP Strategic Partnerships, discuss the 13-year partnership. From shared sustainability missions to navigating market challenges post-pandemic, the duo shares insights. Explore the success of Waldom's excess solutions, saving billions of components from landfills, and discover how the collaboration with TE goes beyond sustainability to drive customer acquisition and profitable growth. A must-listen for industry enthusiasts!
2024-02-2712 min
Waldom WiredRS's VP, Frank Cantwell, Explores the RS & Waldom Partnership EvolutionExplore the distribution landscape with Frank Cantwell, VP of Product and Supplier Management for RS in the Americas, as he discusses the 15-year partnership between RS and Waldom. Gain insights into the strategic changes, supply chain hurdles, and discover the tactics for optimizing surplus inventory, expanding into international markets, and embracing sustainability. Join us for an informative conversation on Waldom's significant contribution to RS's global success.
2024-02-1613 min
Waldom WiredWE's CEO, Jackie Mattox, Propels the Progress of Women in LeadershipExplore the journey of Women in Electronics with Jackie Mattox, Founder, President and CEO in this special episode. Gain insights from WE's data-driven approach, navigating challenges faced by women in leadership, and recognizing their distinct strengths. Learn about the collaborative efforts breaking gender barriers and WE's future plans. Join a conversation that challenges norms and contributes to progress in the tech industry.
2024-02-1620 min
Waldom WiredMolex's VP, Fred Bell, Reveals Million Dollar Partnership Secrets!Explore the pulse of the electronics market with Fred Bell, Molex's VP, and Graham Kilshaw, Lectrix's CEO. Discover the impactful Molex-Waldom partnership, highlighting Long Tail and Excess Inventory Solutions.
Hear how Waldom, Molex's oldest distributor, secures millions of wins, with its unique products and solutions. Join the discussion on resilience, innovation, and the power of strategic partnership collaborations shaping the tech landscape in 2024.
2024-02-1314 min
Leadership in ManufacturingE80, Embracing Technology and Innovation in Electronic Component DistributionIn this episode of the Mind the Innovation Leadership podcast, our host Sannah Vinding speaks with Don Akery, the CEO of Waldom Electronics, about the challenges and opportunities in the electronic component distribution industry. They discuss the impact of current industry trends on Waldom, including excess inventory and slowed demand. Don shares insights on the leadership and communication strategies he implements at Waldom. He also reveals his passion for the industry and offers valuable advice for individuals looking to excel in the manufacturing field. Don also talks about the innovative use of avatars in communication and the importance of building...
2024-01-0227 min
Real Talk With Rob TaviGreen Distribution & Electronics Industry Innovation | RealTalk Rob Tavi Ft Don Akery, CEO, Waldom ElectronicsOverview:
In this insightful episode, Rob Tavi welcomes Don Akery, the CEO of Waldom Electronics, a company renowned for its electronic components redistribution system and services like excess inventory management and network optimization. Founded in 1947, Waldom Electronics is a private company headquartered in Rockford, IL, with a significant presence in the electronics supply chain sector.
Key Topics Discussed:
Leadership and Thought Leadership: Don Akery shares his insights on leadership and thought leadership within the electronics distribution industry that is embracing technology to empower innovation. With his extensive experience in the sector, including previous roles at TTI Americas, Arrow Electronics, and othe...
2023-12-2037 min
EMSNOWAndjela Pasi, EMEA Director of Sales and Marketing, Waldom ElectronicsExcess inventory is a challenge for the industry right now. Master distributor Waldom Electronics works with distributors to repurpose this excess, which will help EMS and the entire ecosystem. Andjela Pasi, EMEA Director of Sales and Marketing, explains exactly how Waldom receives excess inventory from distributors to ensure the highest quality and integrity of the components, and also to prevent this excess from ending up in landfills. They discuss the sustainability aspect of these efforts, which increasingly matters to companies addressing environmental concerns. This is a detailed glimpse into how distributors add value to the channel through material management.
2023-11-1421 minSupply Chain ConnectExecutive Perspectives: Don Akery - Waldom ElectronicsDon Akery, CEO of Waldom Electronics, joins us in this Executive Perspectives episode to break down the master distributor model and what it means for electronic component distributors and their end customers, as well as the substantial environmental benefits Waldom’s excess inventory model provides.
Visit us online at SupplyChainConnect.com!
2023-07-1724 minEMSNOWUp Close with Chris Fetner, Waldom Electronics on Component Supply Chain EfficienciesEric learns more about Waldom Electronics’ unique business model as the ‘distributors’ distributor’. Chris Fetner, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships explains how Waldom’s relationships with over 2500 distributors around the globe enable the company to develop programs to bring new efficiencies to the component channel that benefit the EMS customer. Eric learns about one such program – Minimum Order Quantities (MOQ) Reduction Program – that’s getting a lot of attention.To subscribe to EMSNOW Daily Newsletter, go to www.emsnow.com/subscribe
2023-06-0922 min
Women in Electronics RadioDon Akery Leader in Highlight PodcastIn this episode of the "Leader in Highlight" podcast series, Jackie Mattox, the Founder and CEO of Women in Electronics, speaks with Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer at Waldom Electronics.Support the show
2023-05-1535 min
WE Lead | Voices of InnovationDon Akery Leader in Highlight PodcastIn this episode of the "Leader in Highlight" podcast series, Jackie Mattox, the Founder and CEO of Women in Electronics, speaks with Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer at Waldom Electronics.Support the show
2023-05-1535 minEMSNOWWaldom Electronics’ Dan Heinen, Global Director Of Quality On Inventory OverhangWaldom Electronics is a ‘Master Distributor’, meaning they work with manufacturers and distributors, to, among other services, help alleviate inventory overhang especially in periods of supply chain disruptions, such as the industry has experienced in the past few years. In this conversation with EMSNOW’s Eric Miscoll, Dan Heinen, Waldom Electronics’ Global Director of Quality explains the details of how Waldom helps the authorized channel balance inventory while ensuring only the highest quality genuine components are sold by their network of over 2500 distributors.
2023-03-2319 minEMSNOWEMSNOW Up Close: Don Akery, CEO Waldom ElectronicsEric learns about Waldom Electronics’ unique business model from its new CEO Don Akery. Waldom Electronics calls itself the ‘distributors’ distributor,’ which means they add value to the authorized channel by taking in excess inventory from suppliers and authorized distributors; inspecting, restocking, and making that inventory available to distributors to enable them to sell parts that may be in short supply. It’s a fascinating discussion of a set of valuable ‘behind the scenes’ inventory services that benefit the EMS industry by making fully vetted components available through the authorized distribution channel.
2023-02-0746 min
WE Lead | Voices of InnovationDon Akery Leader in Highlight InterviewHear from Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer of Waldom Electronics, as he chats with WE Founder and CEO, Jackie Mattox in 2023’s first episode of the WE “Leader in Highlight” Podcast Series. Don describes his position as CEO at Waldom Electronics, sharing that leading from the top has always been a career aspiration. He explains the unique value proposition Waldom Electronics has to offer the industry and what he hopes to accomplish as a leader. "Making tough decisions comes with the territory", and Don touches on his process and the discipline it takes to make those tough calls in a time...
2023-01-2735 minWomen in Electronics RadioDon Akery Leader in Highlight InterviewHear from Don Akery, Chief Executive Officer of Waldom Electronics, as he chats with WE Founder and CEO, Jackie Mattox in 2023’s first episode of the WE “Leader in Highlight” Podcast Series. Don describes his position as CEO at Waldom Electronics, sharing that leading from the top has always been a career aspiration. He explains the unique value proposition Waldom Electronics has to offer the industry and what he hopes to accomplish as a leader. "Making tough decisions comes with the territory", and Don touches on his process and the discipline it takes to make those tough calls in a timely...
2023-01-2735 minWE Lead | Voices of InnovationWednesdays with WE: Europe Team Plans for SuccessWE Founder and President, Jackie Mattox, chats with the WE European Division Leaders, Ruth Gray/Arrow Electronics; Kate Ziecina/Arrow Electronics and Elena Davidovska/Waldom Electronics regarding WE's global launch in Europe. The team discusses their excitement to unite the industry in Europe, both women and men, with an essential ingredient of inclusiveness as the key to success. Support the show
2020-09-1412 min
Women in Electronics RadioWednesdays with WE: Europe Team Plans for SuccessWE Founder and President, Jackie Mattox, chats with the WE European Division Leaders, Ruth Gray/Arrow Electronics; Kate Ziecina/Arrow Electronics and Elena Davidovska/Waldom Electronics regarding WE's global launch in Europe. The team discusses their excitement to unite the industry in Europe, both women and men, with an essential ingredient of inclusiveness as the key to success. Support the show (http://www.womeninelectronics.com)
2020-09-1412 min
CEO Coaching International PodcastThe Perfect Way to Onboard a Senior ExecGuest: Jamil Nizam is the CEO of Waldom Electronics and Chris Lauret is the COO. Jamil is also an entrepreneur coaching client at CEO Coaching International. Episode in a Tweet: A first-class onboarding process will make a BIG first impression on your new team member. Quick Background: Most companies have it backward. They celebrate when someone leaves the company instead of when they join. On today's show, Jamil Nizam explains how his first-class onboarding process eased new COO Chris Lauret into his responsibilities while also giving him a new perspective on just what...
2020-09-0133 minWomen in Electronics RadioWEdnesdays with WE - Global Launch in EuropeWomen in Electronics (WE) Founder and President Jackie Mattox chats with Ruth Gray (Arrow Electronics & A.E. Petche) and Elena Davidovska (Waldom Electronics EMEA) about the upcoming events to launch the WE program in Europe. Ruth and Elena talk about the benefits of a program like WE in Europe, including women supporting other women, mentorship, and the need for industry talent recruitment in the industry. Support the show (http://www.womeninelectronics.com)
2020-09-0109 minWE Lead | Voices of InnovationWEdnesdays with WE - Global Launch in EuropeWomen in Electronics (WE) Founder and President Jackie Mattox chats with Ruth Gray (Arrow Electronics & A.E. Petche) and Elena Davidovska (Waldom Electronics EMEA) about the upcoming events to launch the WE program in Europe. Ruth and Elena talk about the benefits of a program like WE in Europe, including women supporting other women, mentorship, and the need for industry talent recruitment in the industry. Support the show
2020-09-0109 min