Automotive Insiders

With growth stalled across the automotive supply chain, Redzone President Ken Fisher explains why suppliers can no longer count on rising OEM volume to protect their margins. Ken and host Jason Stein dig into why the fastest path to profitability right now runs through the frontline — not the capital budget.

Jennifer Dukarski of Butzel joins host Jason Stein to break down AI's legal landmines for automotive suppliers — and previews Butzel's September 17 "Ts & Cs Update”

BEV market share has slid from 10% to 6% in just a few quarters; hybrids are picking up the slack, and the regulatory ground keeps shifting under everyone's feet. Ian Smith of UL Solutions joins the program to break down what it actually takes to validate and certify a vehicle — battery, charger, fluids and all — when nobody's sure which powertrain wins next.

On the latest Automotive Insiders, Matthew Smith, President and CEO of 3C Software, breaks down why suppliers who build their own bottom-up cost model — rather than reacting to whatever number a customer offers — walk into negotiations with real leverage. He and host Jason Stein follow that discipline into today's tariff-driven pricing environment, where suppliers who can reprice in hours instead of weeks are the ones winning the bids, the others lose.

On the latest Automotive Insiders, Greg Urban of Greenwich Capital breaks down the forces reshaping automotive M&A and what suppliers need to know to prepare for the next wave of deals.

Recorded live at the MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers Southern Supplier Summit in Greenville, S.C., Jason Stein sits down with Danielle Momany of MEMA OE and Tim Morris of Tohoom to discuss shifting production forecasts, supplier profitability, RFQ strategy, commercial issue management, and the tools suppliers need to navigate an increasingly volatile automotive landscape.

Tariffs. EV program delays. Contract disputes. Workforce shortages. For automotive suppliers, the challenges aren't arriving one at a time—they're colliding all at once. Today, we're joined by David DeVine of Butzel to discuss how suppliers can navigate one of the most complex operating environments the industry has faced in years.

Tariffs and supply chain disruption aren’t going away—but they can be leveraged. Mary Buchzeiger, CEO of Lucerne International, explains how suppliers can unlock cash flow, improve control, and turn volatility into opportunity.

Forget AI hype—most suppliers don’t need smarter tools, they need better workflows. William Crane of OrbAid breaks down why “CLAW” may be the real key to turning AI into results.

Automotive manufacturers are still managing billions in direct spend through email and spreadsheets. Spencer Penn, co-founder and CEO of Lightsource.ai, explains how aligning engineering, procurement, and suppliers at the BOM level can unlock speed, efficiency, and cost savings.

The next competitive advantage for suppliers may come down to geography. Tony Hayes of IDA Ireland breaks down why Ireland is emerging as a strategic location for automotive, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing.

Today’s vehicles are as much software platforms as they are machines — and that’s changing everything for suppliers. Partners Vanessa Miller and Nicholas Ellis of Foley & Lardner LLP break down how IP, data, and AI are reshaping contracts, risk, and ownership in the automotive industry.

Automotive suppliers are facing rising costs, shifting tariffs, and contracts that weren’t built for today’s reality. Foley & Lardner LLP partners Nicholas Ellis and Vanessa Miller explain how suppliers can protect margins, find leverage, and rethink their approach in a volatile market.

AI in automotive is no longer a concept—it’s a competitive advantage, but only if you know where to apply it. On this episode of Automotive Insiders, Ajay Chawla, CEO of OnTrac AI, breaks down how OEMs, suppliers, and fleet operators are turning AI into real-world results—and why adoption is now the missing link.

M&A activity among automotive suppliers is back—but the deals are more complex than ever. With tariff-driven risk and distressed transactions, Jennifer Dudley of Warner Norcross + Judd breaks down what’s really happening behind the scenes—and what buyers and sellers need to know now.

Rivian is in scale mode and, in part 2 of our interview, Chief Operations Officer Javier Varela joins Automotive Insiders to describe the landscape for the brand and the market in the future.

What does it take to scale an EV startup into a global manufacturer—without losing its DNA? Rivian Chief Operations Officer Javier Varela joins Automotive Insiders for a candid, two-part deep dive into leadership, production, and the future of the brand.

Manufacturers have no shortage of cost-saving ideas — the real challenge is execution and proving the financial impact. On this episode of Automotive Insiders, Amarish Kapadia of MiNDCAN explains how the Profit+ platform is helping manufacturers turn hundreds of improvement initiatives into measurable profit.

Jonathan Lane, VP of Solutions at Redzone from QAD, joins Automotive Insiders to explain how technology isn’t replacing the workforce — it’s redefining it. From AI-assisted inspection to real-time plant-floor collaboration, he breaks down the tools suppliers must prioritize now to stay competitive over the next decade.

David Oakley of GlobalData is our guest on Automotive Insiders as we break down the macro forces reshaping supplier strategy in 2026 -- from tariffs and affordability pressure to the rise of a multi-powertrain future.

In this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein sits down with Jason Versical of Campfire Interactive and Joe McCarthy of Cover 4 PM to unpack how unifying commercial planning with program execution is reshaping profitability for suppliers.

Machine learning is transforming production — but culture determines whether transformation sticks. Martinrea CEO Pat D’Eramo reveals how people and technology are advancing together.

The Automotive News PACE Awards have long been a gold standard for supplier innovation—but what do judges really value most? Jason Stein sits down with Douglas Ober, head of PACE judging, to reveal how credibility, customer adoption, and clear storytelling define today’s top automotive breakthroughs.

From AI in the cockpit to autonomous trucking, from agentic AI in factories to the challenge of earning public trust in technology — in part two of this episode, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein sits down with Paul Thomas, President of Bosch in North America for an exploration of what’s to come.

At CES 2026, Bosch made a clear statement: the future of mobility isn’t just electric — it’s intelligent. In part one of this episode of Automotive Insiders, Jason Stein sits down with Paul Thomas, President of Bosch in North America, to explore the transformation to a software- and AI-driven technology platform — and what that means for the industry.

For more than 40 years, Bill Long has helped shape the voice and future of the supplier community. In this special episode, the retiring MEMA President and CEO reflects on his legacy and the next chapter for the industry he championed.

Automotive procurement teams are stuck in endless firefighting and AI is offering a way out. Arkestro’s Head of Automotive, Ron Collman, reveals how smarter sourcing decisions are already transforming cost, risk, and speed.

Suppliers are sitting on billions in stranded capital and AI is finally unlocking it. Infor’s Peter Maithel explains how smarter factories create a measurable competitive edge.

As a USMCA renegotiation looms, suppliers face critical choices about where future programs belong. Arthur D. Little reveals the factors that will determine whether North America remains a winning manufacturing hub.

Suppliers are facing unprecedented complexity — and the old tools can’t keep up. Tohoom joins Automotive Insiders to explain how digitized commercial intelligence is becoming a new competitive advantage.

AI has transformed automotive manufacturing — now it’s poised to reinvent how vehicles are sold. Jonas Wagner, partner and managing director, of AlixPartners explains why the next growth engine will be customer-facing AI.

Sustainability reporting is becoming a maze for auto suppliers. With conflicting state laws, global standards, and unclear federal direction, where do you even start? In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Jason Stein talks with Steptoe & Johnson’s Randy Whitlatch about how suppliers can stay compliant and credible amid a rapidly fragmenting regulatory landscape.

Trade tensions, shifting tariffs, and rising costs are rewriting the rules for automakers in 2025. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Jason Stein and Global Data’s David Oakley explore how policy decisions are shaping vehicle prices and the road ahead for the U.S. auto market.

Electrification is transforming the automotive landscape — and sustainability is now at the heart of every battery breakthrough. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Jason Stein talks with Mitsubishi Chemical Group’s Matt Orlando about how innovation, transparency and circular design are powering a cleaner, more sustainable battery future.

The EV transition hinges on the battery supply chain — but tariffs, trade policy, and shifting incentives are adding new complexities. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Jason Stein talks with Gabrielle Aversa of S&P Global Mobility about how these pressures are affecting automakers, reshaping strategies, and influencing consumer adoption of electric vehicles.

As the industry reshapes around electrification, trade shifts and new technologies, a strong and diverse supplier base has never mattered more. MEMA’s Collin Shaw and Steve Horaney join Jason Stein to discuss how suppliers can grow, connect, and seize opportunity — including what to expect at the upcoming Supplier Business Connection event this November.

ZF’s Chassis 2.0 is redefining how braking, steering, and suspension systems work — replacing traditional mechanics with intelligent, software-driven solutions. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, ZF’s Ramiro Gutierrez joins Jason Stein to discuss how Steer-by-Wire and Brake-by-Wire are moving mainstream, and why the chassis may hold the key to unlocking the full potential of tomorrow’s software-defined vehicles.

In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Arthur D. Little Partners Jörn Buss and Frank McCleary preview a landmark study which is set to debut at the MEMA OE Suppliers Annual Conference. It highlights solvable barriers, supply chain resilience, and strategies suppliers can act on today. Listen now for insights shaping the next era of U.S. manufacturing.

Costs, labor, and global competition are reshaping the backbone of auto manufacturing. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Wipfli’s Laurie Harbour breaks down the challenges, opportunities, and what’s ahead at the MEMA/Wipfli 2025 Tooling and Supply Update.

Global trade uncertainty continues to shape the automotive industry. In our latest Automotive Insiders episode, Jeffrey Richardson of Miller Canfield unpacks the U.S.–China negotiations, the ripple effects of tariffs, and what USMCA means for suppliers. Get timely insights on compliance challenges, industry advocacy, and how leaders can prepare for the next round of trade talks.

Supplier disputes are on the rise — and the stakes have never been higher. In this episode of Automotive Insiders, Adam Ratliff of Warner Norcross + Judd explains why litigation is surging, how new legal rulings are changing the game, and what steps you can take to protect your business before it’s too late.

On this episode of Automotive Insiders, Butzel’s Mitch Zajac breaks down the legal implications in today’s supply chain — from volume fluctuations and tariffs to force majeure clauses and sustainability mandates.

Accuride CEO Kent Jones joins Automotive Insiders to talk EVs, durability, smart coatings — and why the road ahead is built on lighter, tougher, more connected wheels..

What does the future of commercial vehicles look like in a world of electrification, AI, and shifting regulations? Allison Transmission’s John Coll and MEMA’s Collin Shaw join Automotive Insiders to break down the transformation already underway.

Can North America stay competitive without long-term investment certainty? Michael Robinet of S&P Global joins Automotive Insiders to reveal what’s at stake for suppliers in an era of policy, tariff and EV whiplash.

Is the EV revolution hitting the brakes? Dykema Senior Counsel Jay Logel joins Automotive Insiders to break down what shifting policies mean for suppliers on the front lines.

Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein interviews Amarish Kapadia, Global Head of Sales & Product Strategy at MiNDCAN, to discuss how software can tackle cost, programs, sustainability, and CRM. It’s a platform designed by practitioners to eliminate manual processes, but what does that actually mean?

Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to Mark Wakefield about AlixPartners’ 2025 Global Automotive Outlook, the consulting firm’s annual in-depth industry analysis. Automotive companies must pursue a wholesale transformation of their operations if they hope to survive the existential level of disruptions currently affecting the industry, including tariffs and other geopolitical actions, less-than-expected electric-vehicle sales, the continued rise of many hyper-competitive Chinese auto c...

From raw material shortages to labor strikes and global conflicts, suppliers are getting squeezed. What contract provisions are most critical right now to help suppliers protect themselves against unforeseen disruptions? Warner Norcross + Judd Partner Homayune Ghaussi sits down with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein to talk supply chain disruption, pricing and inflation pressure and cross-border challenges.

Matthew Smith, President and CEO of 3C Software, talks to Automotive Insider host Jason Stein about cost management strategies for suppliers, including the challenges of dealing with the current environment. This podcast is the third in a three-part series from the MEMA OE South Carolina Regional Meeting.

In part two of our three-part series from the MEMA OE South Carolina Regional Meeting, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein interviews David Clayton, Executive Director, CU-ICAR, to talk about the expansion of the campus, its investment in the industry and the opportunities for suppliers.

Automotive Insiders takes the podcast on the road this week to talk investment in South Carolina’s growing automotive ecosystem. In part one of a three-part series from the MEMA OE South Carolina Regional Meeting, host Jason Stein sits down with Troy Cales, President of JTEKT North America, to discuss South Carolina as a strategic focus.

The semiconductor and software-defined vehicle space is changing at a lightning pace. Where are the next frontiers and what opportunities could emerge in the technology race? Mark Ng of Texas Instruments joins Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein to discuss the key questions and answers.

Whether the issue is ICE vs. EVs, tariffs or the desire for more growth, the headwinds in the space are numerous for suppliers. What’s the best way to chart a path in an uncertain future? Brad Hehl, EY-Parthenon’s auto mobility practice leader, talks about resiliency and reshaping supplier business with host Jason Stein.

What are the goals and objectives on sustainability and where are the challenges. On this Earth Day, we take a closer look from the MEMA perspective and the supplier view with guests Bryan Russell, Senior Director of the MEMA Center for Sustainability, and Heather Pishalski, Executive Director of Sustainability at American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM)

What are the trade tools being used in the tariff decisions and what is the planning that needs to occur in order to lower costs and reduce risk? Mark Ludwig, national leader of RSM’s trade and tariff advisory services, joins Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein to discuss best practices on tariffs and answers key questions.

Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks with Katie Crysler, associate attorney at Warner Norcross and Judd, about the implications of product liability and how it is an increasing concern for suppliers. How can suppliers mitigate the risk of product liability claims and reduce their level of liability exposure?

Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks with Nick Schaefer of Automated Logistics Systems about the implications of tariffs on the logistics side of the industry. What are logistics companies seeing in response to tariffs? What are the best tactics and strategies for companies managing logistics, specifically to tackle supply chain issues? We explore it all.

Automotive Insiders launches a new program called “Spotlight Series” where host Jason Stein sits down with a MEMA Board Member to discuss the topics of the day. Collin Shaw, President of MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers, and Jennifer Slater, President and CEO of STRATTEC, are our guests to talk traffic, trade policies and global economic shifts.

As the industry marches closer to a tariff deadline, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to Michael Robinet is Vice President of Forecast Strategy at S&P Global Mobility. They talk about the April 2 deadline, USMCA renegotiation and the chances for EV adoption in a changing world.

Suppliers which are looking for a pathway on sustainability have much to consider, including environmental, social and governance issues. In this episode, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to Mitch Zajac, shareholder at Butzel, about compliance programs, customer terms and best practices.

The threat of cybersecurity touches every area of the supply base. How to combat it in a world of dangerous activity? Just ahead of a MEMA event on Feb. 19, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to Gene Price and Matt Schantz, partners at Frost Brown Todd, about protecting your business against the threat.

On the eve of possible tariffs, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to Alejandro Gomez and Vanessa Miller, partners at Foley & Lardner LLP, about the impact of trade policies and what suppliers can do strategically to protect themselves.

We kick off the year in a prelude to CES by talking to Sonatus Chief Marketing Officer Dr. John Heinlein about the future of the software-defined vehicle. What’s the future and where are the opportunities?

From the MEMA Annual Conference, host Jason Stein interviews Rajaey Kased President, Control Devices Division at Stoneridge, to talk about China, tariffs and propulsion systems.

In the second part of our interview at the MEMA Annual Conference, SAP’s Bill Newman and Rich Wilkins talk with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein about the evolution of artificial intelligence in the industry.

In an interview at the MEMA Annual Conference, SAP’s Bill Newman and Rich Wilkins talk with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein about the state of the industry in the aftermath of the November elections.

Immigration, employment, and labor are front and center in so many discussions today and the options for suppliers can be a bit complex. Sarah Bileti, senior counsel at Warner Norcross + Judd LLP, shares her experience and best advice with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein.

Host Jason Stein sits down with Joe LaRussa, owner of Supremo Consulting and the expert in residence at the Industry 4.0 Accelerator. Joe breaks down all of the issues related to the Industry 4.0 Accelerator and how to help shortcut the difficult process of categorizing, comparing, and contrasting all the available solutions.

Ahead of the MEMA Annual Conference, host Jason Stein interviews Pat D’Eramo, CEO of Martinrea International, to discuss trade, policy, tariffs and the implications of the next USMCA.

Innovation in battery technology is driving a reduction in emissions, improving efficiency, and advancing the transition to electric vehicles, helping automakers meet stringent regulatory requirements and consumer demands for greener options. What’s next in the space? Zeeshan Qadri of Litens sits down with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein to talk about what’s coming.

The EPA’s Clean Trucks Plan comes into play in January 2027 and there are significant implications for suppliers. Diego Depetris of Bain & Company is a guest on Automotive Insiders where he outlines the implications for all sides of the industry with host Jason Stein.

Where are the opportunities to find cost optimization in the IT space? In this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews RSM’s David Brassor who outlines the benefits of application rationalization so that a firm can win on cost but preserve its ability to perform at its highest level.

In this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein talks to Laurie Hoose of Plante Moran, about the role of ESG in planning and preparing for changing regulations. We talk Scope 3 emissions, increasing disclosure requests and product carbon footprints.

To participate in M&A or not? Dan Bonucchi, Partner at Warner Norcross + Judd and co-chair of the firm’s Mergers & Acquisitions Practice Group, talks with host Jason Stein about the current climate, the unknowns and the questions to consider.

Collin Shaw, President of MEMA’s Original Equipment Suppliers group, sits down with host Jason Stein to discuss the latest findings in the supper barometer.

In this two-part discussion of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein talks about the concept of material breach as well as navigating stalemates. Two experts – Jim Bruno and David DeVine of Butzel, outline the various pathways behind both scenarios.

The automotive ecosystem is expanding rapidly around software-defined vehicles. But what’s the route to achieve scale? And where is progress really being made? On this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Andreas Heim, Vice President of Design, Process and Technology Engineering for the Automotive Business Group at Flex.

On this week’s episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Anthony Murphy of Plex by Rockwell Automation to discuss major trends in manufacturing positions, including hiring, retention and finding the right kind of skilled workers for the future.

Discussing the trends around connectivity, including over-the-air updates, data logging and remote commands. Have we only scratched the surface – and how could breakthroughs occur? In this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Steve Schwinke, Vice President Customer Engagement and Global Trade Compliance Officer, at Sibros.

On this week’s episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Ivy Nguyen, to talk about the industry’s transition to software defined vehicles and the potential obstacles and opportunities for traditional companies as well as start-ups.

Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Peter Maithel and Ken Royce of Infor, on timeliness, positions and implications of the current industry. Also under discussion: cyberattacks, the software defined vehicle and margin compression. Where does the industry stand during this time of massive transition?

In this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein talks to Brian Martensen, Product Manager, Plex Quality Management System, about the importance of maintaining a culture of quality, viewing data as the new capital and we get an update on Control Plan documents.

Circular packaging can offer not just a solution, but an opportunity to also ensure leaner and more resilient supply chain operations. On this episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Patrick Mahoney, Director of Automotive North America for CHEP.

As the market for EVs and ICE vehicles continues to evolve, we turn our focus to quality improvements and the needs of the industry. Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein interviews Belcan special advisor Michael Held to talk about product engineering, quality, and manufacturing on ICE and EVs.

Host Jason Stein sits down with Deloitte’s Stavros Stefanis and Kevin Prendeville on Automotive Insiders to discuss the complexity, efficiency and changing nature of engineering in the supplier world. Where are the gaps? Where are the opportunities?

On this week’s episode of Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein interviews Ambrose Conroy, CEO and Founder of Seraph Consulting, on the challenges associated with trade and tariffs, a shift in powertrain, and the gap in workforce and manufacturing culture.

During a live recording of Automotive Insiders at the MEMA/SCAC 2024 South Carolina Regional Meeting, BMW Manufacturing’s Paul Sinanian and James Richter of South Carolina Manufacturers Alliance talk about how training is changing the landscape in the region.

During a live recording of Automotive Insiders at the MEMA/SCAC 2024 South Carolina Regional Meeting, Yaron Saghiv, Chief Marketing Officer of UV-EYE, explains the change occurring in the industry in the field of automated inspections. What’s the feedback from dealers and OEMs? And how is it changing the world?

With a shift to less carbon-intensive production methods in the U.S. steel market, where are the advantages and opportunities? Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks steel sustainability with Michael Fitzgerald, Vice President Development Metals at Argus.

Part 2: Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a movement within the industry built around the necessary changes that need to be made – a change where meeting society’s need for mobility produces nothing but a positive impact on humanity and the environment. In Part 2 of this 2-part series, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks sustainability with John Chalifoux, Chief Sustainability Officer, MEMA and COO, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers; and Mike Troupos, Vice President, Foresight Manage...

Part 1: Finding solutions in a journey to sustainability The sustainability journey is picking up speed and the opportunities are open for an industry in transition. In Part 1 of this 2-part series, Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks sustainability with John Chalifoux, Chief Sustainability Officer, MEMA and COO, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers; and Mike Troupos, Vice President, Foresight Management.

Nana Danso, Rivian’s director of learning and development, outlines the automaker’s plan to encourage young workers to learn a skilled trade and chart a career in the auto industry. He tells Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein that the sky is the limit for those pointed in the right direction. How is Rivian approaching the shortage of skilled workers? By showing them the way.

Joe McCabe, President and CEO of AutoForecast Solutions dispels some myths about the future of automotive production and provides a supplier reality check on the state of consumer demand, pricing, and electrification. Where are the barriers and where are the opportunities? He tells Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein.

Valeo is using South by Southwest 2024 in Austin, Texas to debut a world first: Valeo Racer, a new extended reality in-car gaming experience for passengers – demonstrating one way ADAS sensors and software can reimagine the interior experience. On Automotive Insiders, host Jason Stein talks to Valeo’s Jeff Shay about why SXSW was the perfect stage for the launch.

Suppliers who are facing difficult situations, regardless of the circumstances, should follow this playbook to deal with financial issues and chart a new path forward. Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein talks to A.J. Webb of Frost Brown Todd about strategies for suppliers in a state of distress.

With increased design flexibility, improved strength and advanced durability, Hydroforming could change the way suppliers think of manufacturing and design. In this first episode of 2024, Schuler North America’s Chris McMahon shares the Hydroforming story with Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein. What can be learned and how will the industry respond?

China is a multi-modal issue for automotive suppliers with uncertainties and risks in commercial operations and the supply chain. Bain executives Prashant Iyer and Rob Pick talk to Automotive Insiders host Jason Stein about China and its changing nature.

How does Honda view its relationship with its suppliers and where will the market turn going into the new year? Mike Lapham, vice president of procurement for Honda Development & Manufacturing of America, shares his view with Automotive Insider host Jason Stein and co-host Bill Newman of SAP.