Georgia Manufacturing Summit Presenting Sponsor- Walden Mergers and Acquisitions

Every manufacturer is focused on improving performance—but are you maximizing the value of your business? In this interview, Jason Moss, Founder & CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, sits down with John S. Phillips from Walden Mergers & Acquisitions, a Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Georgia Manufacturing Summit, to discuss how they help manufacturers plan for growth, acquisitions, succession, and long-term success. They also preview their educational breakout session: Manufacturing A Better Bottom Line This session will explore practical strategies manufacturers can use to strengthen profitability, increase business value, and position their companies for future opportunities. Whether you're planning for the next five years or the next generation of ownership, you'll gain valuable insights from this conversation. Watch the interview, then stop by the Walden Mergers & Acquisitions booth #25 at the Summit to meet John, AJ A., and Samantha Jones to continue the discussion. Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices.   Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com   The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance.   To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Technology is changing manufacturing faster than ever. The question is: Which technologies should you actually be paying attention to? In this short interview, Jason Moss, Founder & CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance, sits down with Reeves Smith from Leapfrog Services, a Manufacturing Growth Partner Presenting Sponsor of the 2026 Georgia Manufacturing Summit, to discuss how they're helping manufacturers improve cybersecurity, strengthen their IT infrastructure, and prepare for what's next. They also preview their Summit breakout session: Technology To Track in Manufacturing You'll get a glimpse of the trends and innovations they'll cover during their educational session and why every manufacturing leader should have these technologies on their radar. Leapfrog Services is also the host of our monthly Coffee and Connections networking event, demonstrating their year-round commitment to helping Georgia manufacturers build relationships and grow stronger businesses. Watch the interview, then be sure to visit the Leapfrog Services booth at the Summit to continue the conversation with Reeves. Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices.   Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com   The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance.   To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Episode Summary This episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features an Industry Insights interview with Brian Wages of Specialty Tax Group.   In this interview, we discussed all things TAXES.  -How to reduce your tax bill as a manufacturer -Credits and Deductions -Tax savings opportunities, specifically for manufacturers in GA   About Specialty Tax Group Tax Credits, Incentives, & Deductions focusing on 4 key services:  • Cost Segregation • Research & Development Tax Credits • State-Specific Tax Credits for Job Creation, Investment, & Training on Software, Equipment, & Technology (SC/GA/TN) • 179D Energy Efficient Commercial Building Deduction   For more information, visit https://www.specialtytaxgroup.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Episode SummaryThis episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Parker Hendricks of Radin Dynamics. In this interview, we discussed Parker's unique journey from actor, to a successful car saleman, to a seasoned business development leader at Radin Dynamics. It was very clear to me that Parker's main focus is to create a streamlined process and accelerate growth. Radin Dynamics offers customized CRM solutions built on Microsoft Dynamics 365. Beyond his work at Radin Dynamics, Parker is a master at networking and seems to have a connection to anyone you could possibly think of! About Radin DynamicsRadin Dynamics specializes in collaborative business development to deliver tailored, AI-powered CRM solutions that empower scaling organizations to enhance efficiency and accelerate growth. Contributions focus on leveraging Microsoft Dynamics 365 to streamline operations and enable data-driven decision-making, ensuring alignment with client goals and fostering long-term success. For more information, visit https://radindynamics.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Member Spotlight - HLB Gross Collins Episode SummaryThis episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Laura Madajewski of HLB Gross Collins.In this interview, we discussed how Laura is the Manufacturing, Distribution & Supply Chain Practice Leader at HLB Gross Collins. She has had over 19 years of experience in public accounting. As you can hear in our interview, Laura is extremely knowledgeable about this industry, keeps up to date on what is happening in the manufacturing world to stay ahead of the game for her clients to help them with current and future needs, and thrives on assisting manufacturers to grow their businesses. We also discuss the importance of having a reliable and trustworthy accountant in your corner. Laura can most likely help you with any of your needs in this department, or she is sure to have a strong relationship with someone who can point you in the right direction to help you.  About HLB Gross CollinsHLB Gross Collins, P.C. is one of Atlanta's premier CPA firms specializing in manufacturing and distribution. We offer in-depth expertise in the industry and we understand that effective accounting processes are critical in managing operational aspects of these businesses such as inventory control, supply chain management, and cash flow. As one of Atlanta's Top 25 certified public accounting and consulting firms, we provide targeted expertise to some of the Southeast's most prominent individuals and businesses. For nearly fifty years we have worked to help clients increase profitability. For more information, visit http://www.hlbgrosscollins.com Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Member Spotlight -13 Oaks Creative This episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Jason Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview of Nathan McGill of 13 Oaks Creative. In this interview, Jason Moss and Nathan McGill discuss 15 years of friendship and their journey to help support and grow manufacturing in Georgia. They discuss "The American Made Movie" documentary, GMA history, and plans for the future at 13 Oaks Creative and GMA. Industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com About NathanNathaniel Thomas McGill is a Georgia native, husband to Christy, and father of two daughters. As the director and producer of the Academy-qualifying documentaryAmerican Made Movie, McGill helped spark a national conversation about revitalizing U.S. manufacturing and the importance of “Made in USA” labeling. The film was featured on Fox & Friends, praised by the Los Angeles Times for its “effective micro-macro approach,” and highlighted by outlets like the Huffington Post and Bloomberg for its role in inspiring a new wave of American-made pride.After taking a hiatus to focus on publishing and hyper-local storytelling, McGill founded 13 Oaks Creative, a storytelling and marketing agency serving healthcare organizations, home-service businesses, and entertainment industry clients. His work bridges creativity and community—amplifying local voices while driving measurable results.An advocate for substance-abuse recovery and author of two books in the last five years, McGill continues to explore stories of redemption, resilience, and purpose. Across more than 17 feature films and several television projects, his consistent mission has been to champion the people who build, fix, and create the world around us. For more information, visit https://13oakscreative.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Member Spotlight -Georgia Manufacturing Alliance Episode SummaryThis episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Jason Moss of Georgia Manufacturing Alliance.In this interview, we discussed how a Ford Factory plant tour as a first grader helped Jason create what is now known as the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA). Jason is the CEO of GMA, and founded the alliance in 2008. We dig into THE event of 2026... The Summit! We also dive into Jason's new book, Manufacturing YOUR Network. You will hear some of my (Kenzie's) story, and how GMA has transformed my mind about manufacturing. Most importantly, for viewers watching the interview, there is a special guest appearance you DON'T want to miss! For those listening to the interview on our podcast, you will have to excuse the baby talk at the beginning of the episode, and go watch the interview ASAP! About GMAThe Georgia Manufacturing Alliance (GMA) is a membership-based industry organization founded in 2008 to support Georgia's manufacturing community. We provide monthly plant tours, educational sessions, trade shows, and unique networking opportunities designed to help make profitable business connections for our members. The Georgia Manufacturing Online Directory, Georgia Manufacturing Summit, Georgia Manufacturing Calendar, and BuyfromGA.com website are additional resources produced by GMA. For more information, visit https://www.georgiamanufacturingalliance.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Member Spotlight -Grab Innovations and ServicesEpisode Summary This episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Roger Grabman of Grab Innovations and Services.In this interview, we discussed how Roger's company, Grab Innovations and Services, came about. Grab Innovations and Services is a licensed professional engineering firm specializing in production equipment and related safety issues. Roger can help with machinery design, fixture and workstation design and even plant layouts. He audits for safety and OSHA compliance and writes technical documents. Some of his work you would recognize; warning labels on equipment or user manuals. Roger has been a part of GMA for many years. He continues to be an excellent resource for GMA members, leveraging vast areas of expertise and the drive to support GA manufacturing.  About Grab Innovations and Services Manufacturers need ingenuity and expertise to innovate and solve problems. Grab uses creativity, know-how, and follow through to identify issues and opportunities and provide engineered solutions. Safety & OSHA Compliance Audits – Hazard Assessment (ANSI B11.0, ANSI B11.1, ANSI B11.2, ANSI B11.3, ANSI B11.19, ANSI B155.1, ISO 12100), Abatement Assistance, PSHSR, Arc Flash Hazard Assessments. Product Design and Production Equipment: design, improvements, Manufacturing Documentation and Tech Writing: manuals, procedures, work instructions, CAD services, plant layout. Experienced with food production, plastics, consumer products, glass production, parts assembly, indexing and synchronous cam driven machines. Grab has a Georgia Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors certificate of authorization(a legal requirement to provide engineering services). For more information, visit https://www.grabinnovations.com/.  Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Member Spotlight- Reeves Smith of LeapfrogEpisode Summary This episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Reeves Smith of Leapfrog. We discussed the importance of having a trustworthy and efficient IT team on your side as a manufacturer. Reeves explained that as your company grows, so should your technology, and that's what Leapfrog Services can provide. You'll also hear how Leapfrog serves manufacturers in Georgia to overcome cybersecurity risks, allowing them to avoid production disruptions, and how they are helping their customers learn more about and utilize AI within their companies. About LeapfrogLeapfrog Services, an innovative Managed IT and Security Services company headquartered in Atlanta, has been providing industry leading, technology-driven business solutions to small and mid-sized manufacturing clients across Georgia for over 25 years. Leapfrog delivers a wide range of secure, reliable, scalable and high performing IT solutions and services, including cloud, cybersecurity, infrastructure and application management, and IT support services. The company is uniquely qualified to deliver CyberRisk (SM) programs that go beyond IT security to support clients with a full enterprise risk management program addressing the full spectrum of risks associated with people, processes and facilities.   To learn more, visit https://leapfrogservices.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com

Episode Summary This episode for the Manufacturing News Network (MNN), hosted by Kenzie Moss, features a Member Spotlight interview with Russell Dunlap of Buchalter.  We had a great time discussing how important it is to have a trustworthy attorney on your side as a manufacturer. Russ gave a lot of insight into what it means to be an Intellectual Property Attorney and Registered Patent Attorney. We also got into detail about the process and importance of getting a patent as an inventor.  Russ Dunlap About BuchalterBuchalter is a full-service business law firm that has been teaming with clients for nine decades, providing legal counsel at all stages of their growth and evolution, and helping them meet the many legal challenges and decisions they face. Our clients are engaged in a diverse global economy governed by complex laws and regulations, and they trust us as advisers and business partners because we are involved in their world. They rely on our forward-thinking to help them resolve problems before they arise. At Buchalter, we practice in that spirit. Our founding principle—providing our clients with the best business solutions—continues to lead us. We value each client relationship, recognizing that their success is our success. Our overarching goal—getting the best results for the client in a timely manner with sensitivity to cost—has engendered client loyalty, and the firm has grown from that loyalty. Our lawyers are accessible, resourceful, skillful and adept at responding to change. Our technological capabilities keep case law and rule changes at our fingertips and client communications current, enabling us to create efficient, superior outcomes. Buchalter is consistently ranked among the leading law firms by Chambers and Partners, Best Lawyers, The Daily Journal and the Los Angeles Business Journal. It is also ranked among the leading firms nationally by American Legal Media and the National Law Journal. Buchalter’s commitment to reflecting and enhancing the rich diversity of the clients and communities in which we practice is more than nine decades strong. The firm’s diversity of attorneys and staff provides clients with a greater array of creative talent and alternative thinking, benefiting all.  To learn more, visit https://www.buchalter.com/ Manufacturing News Network (MNN) is where industry leaders share manufacturing and business best practices. Enjoy being part of the most well-connected community of manufacturing industry leaders in the country - www.JoinGMATODAY.com The Manufacturing News Network is a podcast hosted by Jason Moss, CEO of the Georgia Manufacturing Alliance. To learn more about the podcast program visit http://www.manufacturingnewsnetwork.com