Explore every episode of the podcast Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #103 Supporting Government Programs with Digital Engineering | 30 Sep 2025 | 00:40:02 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Steve Nichols, head of Razorleaf Government Solutions, to explore how digital engineering is transforming government contracts and supply chains. From DOD digital engineering requirements to data rights and risk management, they unpack what contractors—especially small businesses—need to know to stay competitive. The conversation covers:
🎧 Listen now and learn how to integrate digital engineering best practices into your government program strategy. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #102: The Hidden Challenges when Retiring Systems | 23 Sep 2025 | 00:46:17 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Mark Borcher from Razorleaf Government Solutions to tackle a rarely discussed but critical topic: retiring legacy business systems. Mark brings nearly two decades of experience in engineering, system integration, and enterprise transformation, and he shares what really goes into shutting down old PLM, ERP, CRM, and supply chain systems—and moving organizations onto modern platforms. From outdated DOS-based tools to massive migrations involving hundreds of systems, Mark explains the technical, organizational, and people-related obstacles that can derail a system retirement—and how to overcome them. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Whether you’re sunsetting a small PDM tool or migrating hundreds of interconnected legacy systems, this conversation will help you understand the hidden challenges—and how to get ahead of them. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #101 - Digital Product Software Series: CONTACT Software Elements | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:47:33 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we sit down with Frank Patz-Brockmann, Chief Product & Technology Officer at CONTACT Software, to explore one of the most mature yet under-the-radar platforms in the PLM space. Frank shares how CONTACT Software—best known in Germany but lesser-known in North America—has evolved from its early days as "CIM Database" into the highly modular and extensible platform now known as CONTACT Elements. We cover:
Key takeaway: 🔗 Learn more: contact-software.com 📩 Questions or feedback? Email us at podcast@raiseleaf.com or leave a comment wherever you listen. 🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review—every click helps spread the word. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #100: Celebrating 100 Episodes: Acronym Smackdown | 09 Sep 2025 | 00:46:17 | |
In this special 100th episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, the team celebrates with a twist—turning the show into a game of acronym bingo! Host Juliann welcomes back Jennifer Ferello, alongside Jonathan Scott and Eric Doubell, for a fast-paced contest to identify 100 acronyms from the world of digital engineering, PLM, and beyond. Expect laughter, a few stumpers, plenty of partial credit, and who will be ultimately crowned the “King/Queen of PLM.” The crew reflects on the fun (and occasional frustration) of decoding acronyms while celebrating the milestone with listeners who made it all possible. 👑 Acronyms, banter, and bingo—what better way to mark 100 episodes? Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #99: The AI Revolution in Digital Engineering | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:41:56 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with AI expert Alex Bruskin to cut through the hype and explore the real impact of artificial intelligence on the world of digital engineering. From the history of AI and its convergence of compute power, algorithms, and data — to practical, high-value use cases in PLM, CAD, MBSE, and manufacturing — Alex explains where AI truly adds value, where human oversight is essential, and how organizations can prepare their data for successful adoption. Whether you’re curious about AI-driven data enrichment, smarter migration projects, or bridging the gap between engineering documentation and manufacturing, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable examples. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Links & Resources:
Enjoyed this episode? Follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, rate the show in your favorite podcast app, and share it with a colleague who’s exploring AI in engineering. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #98: Digital Product Series – Who is CONTACT Software | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:41:59 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we kick off our Digital Product Series with a deep dive into CONTACT Software—a company that has been shaping the digital engineering space for over 30 years but remains relatively unknown in North America. Our guest, Dimitri Baumtrok, Head of International Sales at CONTACT Software, joins Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott to share the company’s story, its global expansion, and its unique definition of digital engineering. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Dimitri also shares how CONTACT works closely with customers to co-develop solutions, ensuring their platform evolves alongside real-world needs. If you’ve been curious about lesser-known players in the digital engineering space—or want to understand how CONTACT Elements stacks up against big-name PLM and MES providers—this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in to discover why CONTACT Software might just be digital engineering’s best-kept secret. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #97 :The State of AI in Today’s PLM Solutions | 19 Aug 2025 | 00:41:57 | |
In this forward-looking episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with PLM authority Michael “Fino” Finocchiaro to unpack how AI, emerging startups, and evolving technologies are transforming the Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) landscape. From industry giants like Dassault Systèmes, Siemens, and PTC to disruptive newcomers, the conversation covers current innovations, potential disruptors, and bold predictions—touching on everything from digital threads and agentic AI to quantum computing’s role in engineering. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
If this episode was helpful, follow Razorleaf’s Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, share it with your PLM team, and rate/review in your podcast app. Tell us what you’re testing next: agents, RAG search, or cloud PDM? Drop a comment and we may feature your question in a future episode. Want more like this? Subscribe and get new episodes the moment they drop. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #96: MBSE Unveiled: What’s Next for System Design | 12 Aug 2025 | 00:41:05 | |
In Part 2 of our conversation with MBSE expert David Long, we dive deeper into the evolution of model-based systems engineering, tracing its roots, tool development, and growing relevance across industries. You’ll hear how MBSE emerged as a way to improve communication between disciplines, especially between systems and software engineers, and why it's becoming an indispensable part of modern engineering practices. We explore:
Whether you're a seasoned systems engineer or just learning about digital engineering, this episode offers an insightful look into the tools, standards, and thought leaders shaping the future. 🛠️ MBSE Tools & Platforms:
📚 Thought Leaders & Trainers:
🧪 Standards Bodies:
📩 Contact & Subscribe: Have questions for David or our hosts? Leave a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. 👉 Be sure to subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or watch full episodes on YouTube. 🔗 YouTube: Razorleaf YouTube Channel Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #95: Bridging Hardware and Software: The Future of Product Development | 05 Aug 2025 | 00:41:06 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Fernando Valera, Chief Technology Officer at Visure Solutions, to tackle one of the most complex challenges in modern product development: aligning hardware and software lifecycles through integrated requirements engineering. With decades of experience in requirements management, Fernando offers deep insight into how PLM (Product Lifecycle Management), ALM (Application Lifecycle Management), and MBSE (Model-Based Systems Engineering) can come together to create smarter, faster, and safer product development cycles. The conversation also explores how AI is transforming requirements processes and what the future holds for digital engineering. 🔍 Topics Covered:
🧠 Key Quotes: “AI can now do 80% of what a requirements engineer does—but it’s the boring 80%.” 👤 Guest Bio: 📩 Got Questions? ✅ Don’t forget to like and subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or watch the full episode on YouTube. 🎧 Stay sharp, and see you in the next episode! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #94: Navigating Digital Engineering in Government | 29 Jul 2025 | 00:37:56 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Steve Nichols, head of the Public Sector and Defense Group at Razorleaf. Together, they unpack the foundational steps government agencies need to take to successfully implement digital engineering (DE) practices—whether you're in the Department of Defense, NASA, Homeland Security, or any other federal agency managing complex systems. Steve outlines six key components for digital engineering success:
The conversation dives into practical approaches for getting started, even if you're not at the beginning of an acquisition cycle. From digitizing artifacts and improving basic workflows to developing a “digital first” mindset, Steve explains why success starts with clear strategy, small wins, and a vision for long-term sustainability. 💡 Key takeaways: 📍 Whether you’re supporting legacy programs or launching new initiatives, this episode offers a clear roadmap for navigating digital engineering in government. 👉 Got questions or want to join the conversation? Drop us a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com.
Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #93: Unpacking Digital Twins: Myths and Misconceptions | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:43:17 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by David Ewing, Director of Mission Integration at SAIC and architect of the award-winning Ready One digital engineering platform. Together, they tackle the myths and misconceptions surrounding digital twins. They explore the difference between digital models and true digital twins, the importance of having a physical counterpart, and why configuration management is crucial for maintaining a digital thread. Dave emphasizes that a digital twin isn’t just a model—it’s a living representation that evolves alongside its physical asset, incorporating real-time data and changes over time. The conversation also covers:
David also shares a few laughs with the hosts, poking fun at the overuse of buzzwords and “digital trophies,” and stressing the importance of context, scalability, and ethics in digital engineering. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of what a digital twin is (and isn’t), where AI fits in, and how to start building toward a truly connected, model-based future. If you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to like this episode and subscribe to Stay Sharp on your favorite podcast platform or on YouTube. Got questions or feedback for the hosts? Drop a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Until next time—stay sharp. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| 92: Unpacking Digital Twin Series: MBSE | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:37:40 | |
In this foundational episode, we kick off a two-part conversation with renowned MBSE thought leader David Long, former president of INCOSE and long-time advocate for model-based systems engineering. Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott explore the role MBSE plays in enabling Digital Twins, especially in early lifecycle phases, and clarify how MBSE supports—not replaces—high-fidelity simulation and engineering tools. We cover:
David also introduces the idea of MBSE acting as the “connective tissue” that unifies disciplines—not a high-fidelity replacement tool, but a crucial framework for clarity, collaboration, and continuous evolution.
📘 MBSE & Digital Twin Concepts:
🧠 Simulation, Modeling & Architecture:
📩 Contact & Subscribe: 🎧 Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #91 : Unpacking Digital Twins Series: Simulation | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:42:46 | |
How do simulations truly integrate into the world of digital twins—and what role do surrogate models and AI play in driving smarter design? In this episode, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue the Digital Twin Series with a deep dive into simulation, featuring guest expert Shawn Freeman from Vias3D. With over 30 years of experience in CAE and simulation-driven product development, Shawn helps demystify how traditional CAE, surrogate modeling, and emerging technologies like AI are transforming how we design, manufacture, and operate products. 🔍 Topics covered:
🎧 Whether you're designing consumer products or managing aircraft performance, this episode gives you a comprehensive look at how simulation fits into the digital twin ecosystem. 👉 Got questions or comments? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com or comment on our latest post. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #90: Unleashing Unstructured Data: AI’s Manufacturing Revolution | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:42:27 | |
In this episode, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by Patrick Harrigan, VP of Partnerships at Caddi, to explore the transformative role of AI in unlocking the potential of unstructured data in manufacturing. While most conversations in digital engineering focus on structured data—PLM, ERP, and CAD—this episode dives deep into the massive (and often untapped) world of unstructured data: paper documents, legacy drawings, tribal knowledge, and more.
🔧 Key Insight: AI isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool for surfacing decades of buried knowledge and connecting data silos across the digital thread. Whether it’s improving design reuse, surfacing legacy quality fixes, or simply saving engineers from being “librarians,” the potential is vast. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform or watch on YouTube. Stay Sharp—and stay curious. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #89: 25 Years of Razorleaf: Pioneering Digital Engineering | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:33:50 | |
In this special 25th anniversary episode, we’re taking a trip down memory lane with Razorleaf’s CEO and co-founder, Eric Doubell. Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Eric to reflect on the pivotal moments, lessons learned, and guiding values that shaped Razorleaf’s journey from a scrappy startup to a global digital engineering leader. 💡 In this episode, we cover:
🔥 Whether you’re an entrepreneur, PLM expert, digital engineering leader, or longtime Razorleaf partner, this episode offers insight into building a resilient, values-driven company in a rapidly changing tech world. 📩 Have a question for Eric or the team?
Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #88: Virtual Twins: Revolutionizing Manufacturing Processes | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:31:24 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we go beyond the product digital twin and dive into the transformative world of virtual twins for manufacturing processes. Juliann and Jonathan are joined by Kevin Sullivan of Dassault Systèmes to explore how leading manufacturers are using process twins to simulate, optimize, and future-proof their factory operations. You’ll learn: ✅ The difference between digital twins and virtual twins Topics Discussed:
Resources Contact: 📌 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #87 Digital Twin Use Cases | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:44:49 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott welcome back Dr. Patrick Hillberg for his fourth appearance on the show. A professor and thought leader in PLM, systems thinking, and digital transformation, Dr. Hillberg joins the conversation to explore powerful and practical use cases for digital twins across industries. From Hollywood film sets and football fields to harbor cranes, commercial airliners, and collapsed buildings, this episode dives into how digital twins—and more importantly, digital threads—are being used to simulate, diagnose, and even prevent catastrophic events. 🔍 Highlights from the Episode:
Dr. Hillberg also walks us through the six foundational pillars of product lifecycle management, originally laid out by Michael Grieves, and reframes them as essential elements of a functioning digital twin ecosystem. Whether you're an engineer, innovator, or executive, this episode challenges you to rethink how you capture, use, and respond to real-time data—and how digital twins can be your most valuable asset in designing for safety, efficiency, and accountability. 🎧 Tune in to hear:
👉 Got a question for Patrick? Want to suggest a future topic? Leave us a comment or send an email to podcast@razorleaf.com. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #86 Unpacking Digital Twin Series: MES IIOT | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:39:41 | |
What really goes into building a digital twin that delivers value? In this episode, Juliann and Jonathan welcome industry veteran Dan Miklovic to unpack how digital twins are evolving to encompass not just the product, but the process that creates it. With over 50 years in manufacturing—from the plant floor to analyst firms like Gartner—Dan brings unparalleled insight into what it takes to build accurate, actionable digital twins in today’s fast-moving industrial landscape. You’ll learn:
Whether you work with engineered-to-order products or high-volume manufacturing, this conversation will change how you think about digital twins—from static snapshots to living, breathing models of your operation. 🔧 Topics Covered:
📨 Have a question for Dan or the Razorleaf team? 📺 Watch on YouTube or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Until next time—work hard, and stay sharp. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #85 Software Digital Twins Boosting Reliability Through DevOps | 27 May 2025 | 00:34:48 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott continue their Digital Twin series—this time focusing on software digital twins. While hardware digital twins often dominate the conversation, software-based twins are playing an increasingly vital role in modern engineering and manufacturing. Juliann and Jonathan break down what software digital twins actually are (hint: it’s not always straightforward), where they live in the tech ecosystem, and how they power everything from simulation and testing to configuration management and DevOps pipelines. They also explore how these twins are used differently depending on whether software is the product or part of a larger physical system—like a smart refrigerator or a modern aircraft. You’ll learn about:
Key Quote: 💡 Want to join the conversation or request a follow-up episode? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com or leave a comment wherever you listen. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #84: CIMdata PLM Roadmap May 2025 Recap | 20 May 2025 | 00:22:04 | |
In this episode, Juliann and Jonathan dive into insights from the CIMdata PLM Roadmap and PDT Conference, held May 7–8 in Tysons Corner, VA. With this year’s theme—“PLM’s Integral Role in Digital Transformation: From Strategy to Execution”—they reflect on the event’s most powerful takeaways and presentations that explore how PLM can evolve from a tech initiative to an enterprise-wide business enabler. 💡 What you'll learn in this episode:
Whether you're an engineering leader, IT professional, or digital transformation strategist, this recap offers practical frameworks and honest reflections to help your PLM strategy drive real business outcomes. 🔗 Resources & Mentions:
📍Next stop: PLM Roadmap Europe – November in Paris – Learn more at cimdata.com Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #83: Sustainability in PLM: A Pathway Forward | 13 May 2025 | 00:39:47 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by renowned PLM thought leader and sustainability advocate, Jos Voskuil, co-founder of the PLM Green Global Alliance.
Sustainability is no longer a side concern—it’s becoming a central factor in product innovation and compliance. And while regulations are often the spark, digital transformation is the fuel that helps companies prepare, respond, and lead. 📩 Got questions or feedback? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com or drop a comment wherever you listen. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #82: PLM at Scale: The Digital Engineering Journey | 06 May 2025 | 00:46:05 | |
Hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Bob Maffia of BAE Systems to unpack what it really takes to manage large-scale PLM systems. From supporting thousands of users to navigating digital engineering, Bob shares practical lessons from the front lines.
📩 Get in Touch Have a question or want to connect with Bob? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com
Subscribe on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube—and as always, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #81: COExperience 2025 Recap | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:26:10 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by Michael Craffey and Kip Speck from Razorleaf to unpack the highlights from COExperience 2025, held in Reno, Nevada. COExperience—originally the CATIA Operators Exchange—is one of the largest gatherings in the PLM community, showcasing the latest in Dassault Systèmes’ 3DEXPERIENCE platform. Takeaways:
👉 Get Involved: Interested in volunteering with COExperience? Visit www.coe.org or email coe@coe.org. 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Subscribe on your favorite podcast app or watch on YouTube. Don’t forget to like and share this episode if you enjoyed it! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #80: Digital Twins Unlocked: PDM’s Version Power | 22 Apr 2025 | 00:31:21 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp, Jonathan and Juliann continue their deep dive into the world of digital twins—this time focusing on the hardware component and how Product Data Management (PDM) systems provide the backbone for version control, configuration management, and more. Together, they unpack:
Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #79: Agentic AI: Rewiring Digital Workflows | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:45:59 | |
In this future-focused episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, co-hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with special guest Rob Ferrone—product data expert and founder of Quick Release—to unpack Agentic AI and its disruptive role in the world of digital engineering. 🔧 What You'll Learn:
💡 Rob also shares insight into what it takes to prepare your digital engineering environment to harness the power of agentic AI, and what organizations can do now to make progress—without getting lost in the hype. Whether you're just beginning to explore AI or you're knee-deep in experimentation, this episode will help you reframe what's possible and prepare for what's next. 💬 Got thoughts or questions about agentic AI or digital engineering? Drop us a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Until next time—stay sharp. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #78: Recap of Aras ACE 2025 | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:17:43 | |
In this special episode of Stay Sharp, Jonathan and Juliann are joined by Milan Obradovic to unpack the biggest takeaways from the ARAS ACE 2025 event in Boston—celebrating ARAS’ 25th anniversary as a disruptor in the PLM space. From reflections on the early days of ARAS to its current momentum in innovation, the team dives into key developments including:
Milan also shares behind-the-scenes highlights from his experience at the event, including engaging demos and how ARAS is making PLM more accessible and powerful through intelligent tools. Whether you're deep in the PLM world or just curious about the future of digital engineering, this recap is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. 📌 Resources & Mentions:
👍 Like this episode? Until next time, stay sharp. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #77 : Mastering the Digital Twin Terrain | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:34:32 | |
Welcome to the launch of a special Digital Twin series on Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering! In this foundational episode, co-hosts Juliann and Jonathan break down the ever-confusing world of digital twins, virtual twins, digital models, and more. They kick things off by asking a core question: What is the real purpose of a digital twin in your organization? From there, they explore the language, use cases, and business impact of digital twins—from product design to factory optimization—and even get into some fun terminology debates (looking at you, “digital shadow” and “digital surrogate”). Whether you’re brand new to the topic or deep into digital engineering, this episode helps level-set your understanding for what's to come in the series. 🧩 Topics Covered:
🔗 Key Quote: “You have to start with the purpose—what are you trying to do with your digital twin? That drives everything.”📌 Resources & Mentions:
📣 Join the Conversation: Have a question or a term you’d like the hosts to unpack in a future episode? Drop a comment or send an email to: podcast@razorleaf.com Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #76 Decoding Product Structures in PLM | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:40:12 | |
In this episode, we take a deep dive into the geeky world of product structures in PLM systems. Joining us is Michael Welti, General Manager of Razorleaf UK, who brings over 24 years of experience working with Dassault Systèmes products and various PLM platforms. Michael helps us unravel the complexities of data models, schema structures, and the evolution of Dassault's Unified Product Structure (UPS) in 3DEXPERIENCE.
🔹 Understanding Data Models in PLM – What are data models, schemas, and object models? Why do they matter?
📌 Learn more about Razorleaf’s PLM expertise: www.razorleaf.com 📧 Have questions or feedback? Want to join the discussion? 🎧 Subscribe & Stay Sharp! Until next time, Stay Sharp! 🚀 Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #75: Scaling PLM Worldwide: What Works, What Fails | 19 Mar 2025 | 00:39:03 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott sit down with Dan Eslinger, Global IT Program and Innovation Manager at BWI Group. Dan shares his hard-earned insights on managing a global PLM implementation, the challenges of aligning teams across multiple cultures and time zones, and the lessons learned along the way. Key Topics Covered:
Dan dives into the realities of rolling out enterprise systems across a global footprint. He also explores the role of AI in manufacturing, the need for change management, and why successful implementations hinge on getting people engaged and committed. Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or check us out on YouTube. 📩 Have questions or insights to share? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com – we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, Stay Sharp! 🎧 Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #74: Deconstructing PLM | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:30:02 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we take a fresh look at Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) through a unique lens—breaking it down into its core capabilities and exploring how it can be applied in unexpected ways. What happens when PLM is used beyond its traditional role in product design and manufacturing? Join us as we dive into these unconventional applications and rethink what PLM can really do.
Our special guest for this discussion is Steve Nichols, a key member of Razorleaf’s government division. Steve joins hosts Jonathan Scott and Julianne to discuss the broader implications of PLM capabilities and how organizations can leverage them in new and innovative ways.
📩 Have questions or insights to share? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com – we’d love to hear from you! Until next time, Stay Sharp! 🎧 Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #73: Tips for Selecting a PLM System | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:41:16 | |
Selecting the right Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) system is a crucial decision for engineering and manufacturing companies. In this episode, Juliann and Jonathan welcome Derek Neiding to discuss essential factors to consider when evaluating PLM systems. From common mistakes to integration challenges, this conversation will help you navigate the selection process with confidence.
✅ Involve the Right Stakeholders – PLM impacts multiple departments, not just engineering. Make sure sales, IT, service, and executives have a seat at the table. If you’re in the process of selecting or upgrading a PLM system, this episode will help you avoid common pitfalls and make a well-informed decision that benefits your entire organization.
📧 Have questions or insights to share? Email us at podcast@razorleaf.com 🔹 Stay sharp, and we’ll see you in the next episode! 🎧✨ Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #72: Unlocking the Power of the Digital Thread | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:35:15 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by Rob McAveney, Chief Technology Officer at ARAS, to explore the evolving landscape of the digital thread. They discuss why every company’s digital thread is unique, the role of adaptability in PLM systems, and how AI is shaping the future of connected data. The conversation unpacks key concepts like strong versus weak data links, forward and backward traceability, and how companies can leverage the digital thread for better decision-making.
🔹 Understanding the Digital Thread – What it is, why it matters, and how different companies implement it uniquely. The digital thread is a critical component for modern engineering and manufacturing, but its value is only as strong as the quality of the connections it maintains. Companies must ensure their digital thread is adaptable, accessible to the right people, and structured to support ongoing evolution. While AI can enhance the process, it cannot replace the need for structured, authoritative data. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Have questions about the digital thread? Leave a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Until next time—Stay Sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #71: Bridging MBSE and PLM: Overcoming Challenges in Digital Engineering | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:28:36 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott are joined by their colleague Pat Coulehan to discuss the intersection of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and Product Lifecycle Management (PLM). They explore the challenges of managing models and data across systems, the role of configuration management, and best practices for successful MBSE-PLM integration. Drawing insights from the defense sector, the conversation underscores the importance of clear standards, planning, and understanding tool limitations for optimal outcomes. Episode Highlights 🔹 What is MBSE and why does it matter? – How MBSE is shifting engineering away from documents and toward models. 🔹 The role of PLM in managing MBSE models – Why MBSE tools and PLM systems need to work together. 🔹 Challenges in integration – Understanding why PLM can manage MBSE files but struggles to interpret their internal structure. 🔹 Configuration Management and Change Control – The complexities of managing MBSE models within enterprise systems. 🔹 The importance of clear frameworks and standards – Why defining standards early is critical for successful implementation. 🔹 Best practices for MBSE and PLM integration – Steps to avoid common pitfalls and ensure a smooth workflow. Successfully integrating MBSE and PLM requires thoughtful planning, clear standards, and an understanding of system limitations. While MBSE introduces new ways to design and validate requirements, managing its data effectively alongside PLM remains a challenge. Companies should prioritize use cases, focus on authoritative sources of truth, and establish clear change management processes. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube. Have questions or insights about MBSE and PLM? Leave a comment or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. We’d love to hear from you! Until next time—Stay Sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #70: Farewell to Jen | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:25:16 | |
In this bittersweet episode of Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, we say goodbye to longtime co-host Jen Ferello as she steps away from the podcast. Joining hosts Jonathan Scott and Juliann Grant, Jen reflects on her journey with the show—sharing personal growth, memorable guests, and key lessons learned from the digital engineering space. Jen also gives a glimpse into her next chapter at Siemens, discussing her work with PLM components and the importance of high-quality data in digital engineering. Juliann officially steps into her new role as co-host, bringing fresh perspectives from her background in marketing and expresses gratitude for Jen's contributions and acknowledges the challenge of filling her shoes, given Jen's extensive experience in engineering and relationships in the field. The conversation shifts to the importance of data quality and challenges associated with AI in the digital industry. Get ready for a fun and nostalgic conversation, packed with behind-the-scenes stories, humorous moments, and even a few listener challenges (anyone remember gin, lipstick, and all things digital? 🤔). Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #69: Navigating the Digital Seas of Shipbuilding | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:31:53 | |
Welcome to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering, the podcast where we explore the tools, trends, and tactics driving digital transformation in product design and manufacturing. In this episode, co-hosts Juliann Grant and Jonathan Scott dive into the world of shipbuilding and digital transformation, joined by special guest Pat Coulehan. With over 30 years of experience in digital engineering, Pat shares firsthand insights from his five-year involvement in a major U.S. shipbuilding project. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🚢 Shipbuilding’s Digital Shift – How the industry is adopting digital tools to enhance design, manufacturing, and maintenance. Key Takeaways: ✅ Shipbuilding is a complex, multi-disciplinary industry that blends elements of aerospace and construction. Next Steps & Future Topics: During the conversation, Pat also touched on Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and its role in shipbuilding. Stay tuned for a future episode where we’ll take a deeper dive into MBSE and its impact on digital engineering! 📢 Join the Conversation! 🎧 Subscribe & Stay Sharp: Until next time—Stay Sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #68: Women in STEM | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:46:23 | |
Welcome to Stay Sharp in Digital Engineering In this episode, hosts Jonathan Scott and Jen Ferello are joined by Jennifer Herron, CEO of Action Engineering, and Helena Gutierrez, CEO of Share PLM, to discuss an inspiring topic: Women in STEM. Together, they explore the unique perspectives women bring to STEM fields, the challenges they face, and actionable strategies to create a more inclusive and diverse environment in the workplace. From navigating unconscious biases to redefining leadership with empathy and collaboration, this episode offers insightful conversations about breaking barriers, fostering innovation, and embracing diversity in engineering and technology. Episode Highlights Why Women in STEM Matter:
Challenges Faced by Women in STEM:
Strategies to Foster Diversity:
Mentorship and Leadership:
Women in STEM bring invaluable perspectives that strengthen teams and drive innovation. Through mentorship, proactive hiring, and inclusive leadership, we can work toward a more balanced and diverse future in engineering and technology. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Have your own story or insights about women in STEM? We’d love to hear them. Reach out to us at podcast@razorleaf.com or comment on our social media posts. Stay sharp, and we’ll see you next time! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #67: Pitfalls and Landmines in Migration | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:34:13 | |
Welcome to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your insider guide to all things digital in product manufacturing. In this episode, hosts Jonathan and Jen are joined by Michael Welti, a migration expert, to explore the common pitfalls of data migration and strategies to avoid them. From understanding source data and ensuring quality to the critical role of timing and rehearsals, this episode offers invaluable insights for smooth transitions during digital transformations. Summary of the Episode Michael Welti delves into the complexities of data migration, emphasizing preparation, intentionality, and thorough analysis to avoid costly mistakes. The discussion covers everything from knowing what data to migrate, addressing quality issues, rehearsing the process, and identifying latent issues that might arise long after the migration. Michael shares practical advice on planning, execution, and leveraging expertise to ensure a successful migration. Episode Highlights
Conclusion Data migration is a challenging but crucial step in digital transformation. Success lies in thorough preparation, understanding your systems, and leaning on expertise when needed. Michael’s advice underscores the importance of rehearsals, planning, and a “Goldilocks approach”—finding the balance between too much and too little preparation for your unique business needs. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Have a story about data migration? We’d love to hear your successes and lessons learned. Reach out at podcast@razorleaf.com or leave a comment on our posts. Stay Sharp, and we’ll see you next time! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #66: The Essential Components of DevOps Explained | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:40:19 | |
Welcome to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, your go-to podcast for all things digital in the world of products and manufacturing. In this episode, your hosts dive into the transformative world of DevOps with special guest Stephen Binstock, a seasoned solution architect and DevOps expert. Together, they unravel the intricacies of DevOps, its key components, and its game-changing impact on enterprise systems. Summary of the Episode Stephen Binstock sheds light on the often-misunderstood concept of DevOps, breaking it down into actionable insights for organizations striving for greater collaboration and efficiency in their digital systems. The conversation covers the fundamental aspects of DevOps—requirements definition, system traceability, and testing—and how these practices address common challenges like system misalignment and inefficient deployments. Whether you're new to DevOps or looking to refine your approach, this episode provides practical advice for incremental adoption and maximizing its benefits. Episode Highlights
DevOps is more than just a buzzword; it’s a powerful framework for streamlining processes and fostering collaboration in enterprise systems. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to refine your approach, incremental adoption can yield significant benefits for your organization. Stephen’s practical advice underscores the importance of open-mindedness and leveraging the right tools for your unique needs. If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share! Have a question or topic suggestion? Reach out to us at podcast@razorleaf.com or leave a comment on our social posts. We’re planning our topics for 2025, so we’d love to hear from you! Stay Sharp, and see you next time! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #65: What’s Coming in 2025 in Digital Engineering | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:44:32 | |
In this episode, hosts Jen Ferrello and Jonathan Scott discuss, with guest, Oleg Shilovitsky, an industry blogger and expert in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM), the transformative trends in digital products and manufacturing for 2025. They explore the impact of graph technology and artificial intelligence on product lifecycle management (PLM), emphasizing improved collaboration, real-time integration, and innovative engineering workflows. The conversation also addresses challenges related to generational tech shifts, modernizing workflows, and the necessary evolution of engineering practices.
Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #64: 2024 Trends that Shaped Digital Engineering and Manufacturing | 24 Dec 2024 | 00:40:05 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp, hosts Jen Ferello and Jonathan Scott are joined by Eric Doubell to recap a transformative year in digital engineering and manufacturing.
Listen as the hosts share their industry predictions for 2025. Share your observations, predictions, or questions on our social media channels or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Your feedback helps shape future episodes. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #63: From Paper to Pixels: Transforming Manufacturing with Digital Work Instructions | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:40:33 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp, hosts Jen Ferello and Jonathan Scott welcome back industry veteran Darrell Sabourin from iBase-t, to discuss the evolution of work instructions and process plans in manufacturing. Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #62: Integration Strategies for Manufacturing Success | 12 Dec 2024 | 00:35:27 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, our hosts welcome Rodney Coffey to discuss the intricacies of digital integration in manufacturing and product development. With over 20 years of experience, Rodney shares real-world insights on creating seamless connections between PLM, ERP, and other business systems to solve critical challenges. Key topics discussed:
Whether you’re a manufacturing engineer, IT professional, or PLM administrator, this episode provides actionable strategies to tackle the complexities of digital transformation and integration. What challenges do you face with integration and digital transformation? Share your thoughts or questions with us on social media or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Your feedback helps shape future episodes. Stay tuned for more expert discussions on PLM, data management, and digital transformation. Until next time, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #61: Critical Considerations in PLM Data Migration | 04 Dec 2024 | 00:41:42 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, hosts Jonathan and Jen welcome back Michael Welti from Razorleaf’s UK office to delve into the complexities of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) data migration. Building on their previous discussion, they explore the technical, business, and user-focused challenges of migrating digital product data. Key topics discussed:
Whether you’re a manufacturing engineer, data manager, or PLM administrator, this episode provides actionable advice on navigating the complexities of digital product data migration. What challenges do you face with your data migration projects? Share your thoughts or questions with us on social media or email us at podcast@razorleaf.com. Your feedback helps shape future episodes. Stay tuned for more expert discussions on PLM, data management, and digital transformation. Until next time, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #60: Securing Digital Environments Beyond Cybersecurity | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:37:24 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, host Jonathan Scott is joined by Steve Nichols, the Head of Razorleaf Government Solutions Division, to explore securing digital environments beyond traditional cybersecurity measures. Together, they discuss the nuances of protecting data within collaborative environments, emphasizing the balance between security and accessibility. Steve brings over 25 years of experience in technology, offering insights into compartmentalization, data marking, and the critical role of planning in building secure digital environments. This episode dives into best practices for securing sensitive digital information across suppliers, partners, and internal teams while maintaining efficient collaboration. Key topics discussed:
Whether you're in manufacturing, engineering, or digital program management, this episode provides actionable advice on protecting your data while fostering collaboration. What challenges do you face in securing your digital environments? Let us know your thoughts or questions by reaching out via social media or email at podcast@razorleaf.com. Your input helps shape future discussions. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on digital security and collaboration. Until next time, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #59: The Essentials of PLM Migration Explained | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:33:31 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, hosts Jen and Jonathan dive into the essentials of Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) migration. Joined by Michael Welti, Managing Director of Razorleaf UK, they unpack the complexities of data migration, emphasizing its technical and business aspects. Michael, a 20-year veteran in PLM, shares invaluable insights into the migration process, including the importance of thorough analysis, data cleansing, and user involvement. Together, the team breaks down the fundamentals of PLM migration using real-world examples and relatable analogies, ensuring listeners understand both the challenges and opportunities. Key topics discussed:
Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to PLM migration, this episode offers actionable advice to help you navigate the process effectively. We’d love to hear from you! What questions do you have about PLM migration? Reach out to us on social media or send an email to podcast@razorleaf.com. Your feedback helps shape future episodes. Stay tuned for more in-depth discussions on PLM migration. Until next time, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #58: Collective Learning for Project Teams | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:41:55 | |
In this insightful episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, hosts Jonathan and Jen welcome back Dr. Patrick Hilberg, professor at Oakland University, for an engaging discussion on the power of collective learning in project teams. Drawing on his extensive experience with PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) projects and his academic background, Dr. Hilberg shares his perspective on why fostering a learning environment within project teams is essential. They explore the value of agile and lean principles, the differences between waterfall and agile methodologies, and how creating space for team learning can transform project outcomes. Key Topics Covered:
This episode is packed with actionable insights for project managers, team leaders, and educators who want to embrace a collective learning mindset. By blending agile methodologies, lean principles, and open communication, teams can navigate complex projects more effectively and stay aligned on their goals. We’d love to hear your feedback, questions, or topics you’d like covered in future episodes! Reach out at podcast@razorleaf.com, or leave a comment on our post. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode if you found it helpful! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #57: Understanding the Cybersecurity Maturity Model | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:38:05 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, hosts Jen and Jonathan are joined by Steve Nichols, head of Razorleaf’s government practice, to break down the essentials of cybersecurity, particularly within the Department of Defense (DoD) and its Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Key Takeaways:
Steve emphasizes that implementing these cybersecurity measures doesn't have to be overwhelming. With resources readily available, businesses can begin with basic security steps and gradually build up their defenses. Whether your organization is part of the defense industrial base or not, adopting a structured cybersecurity approach can be a strategic move to safeguard your data and operations. Got Questions? Stay Sharp and Stay Secure! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #56: Flexible Integration in the Modern Digital Landscape | 29 Oct 2024 | 00:40:48 | |
In this episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, host Jonathan Scott talks with Tim Noce, Razorleaf’s Head of Products, about the ever-evolving landscape of integration in today’s digital business environments. They explore how businesses can leverage flexible integration solutions to build a robust digital thread, ensuring seamless data flow across systems. Key Topics Discussed:
“Integration isn’t just about moving data between systems; it’s about understanding the complexity and ensuring the data is processed efficiently.” “Flexible integration architecture is key to keeping up with changes in business needs, systems, and data.” If you want to learn how Razorleaf’s Clover platform can help your business manage complex data flows and ensure a seamless digital thread, this episode is for you! Connect with Razorleaf: Website: razorleaf.com Email: podcasts@razorleaf.com Make sure to subscribe to Stay Sharp with Razorleaf on your favorite podcast platform or YouTube to stay updated with the latest episodes. Until next time, stay sharp! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #55: The State of PLM 2024 | 22 Oct 2024 | 00:35:29 | |
In this episode of the Razorleaf Podcast, we dive into the latest trends and updates in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) for 2024. As the technology landscape rapidly evolves, companies are being forced to adapt their strategies to leverage new tools and methodologies. This discussion highlights key shifts in the PLM industry, emerging technologies, and how businesses can stay ahead of the curve.
Key Takeaways:
Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the Razorleaf Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform. Leave a review and share your thoughts with us! See you in the next episode! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||
| #54: Navigating PLM Complexity - Multi-System Strategies for Success | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:44:01 | |
#54: Navigating PLM Complexity: Multi-System Strategies for Success In this insightful episode of Stay Sharp with Razorleaf, co-hosts Jen and Jonathan dive deep into the intricacies of managing multiple Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) systems within an organization. They explore the reasons why a business might have multiple PLM systems and break down key patterns like federated systems, hub-and-spoke models, and peer-to-peer structures. Jonathan and Jen also discuss the pros and cons of maintaining flexibility, managing complexity, and how integrating these systems can impact business efficiency. They emphasize the importance of aligning digital strategies with business goals, especially during mergers and acquisitions. Key Takeaways:
Stay Sharp and Stay Connected: Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform, and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode! Music is considered “royalty-free” and discovered on Story Blocks. | |||