LOS ANGELES — Ever wondered how to build a brand, a business, or just a better mousetrap? A new podcast called The Art of Manufacturing has your answers. The first episodes, hosted by tech entrepreneur Krisztina “Z” Holly, were launched on iTunes today.

MIT-trained host Z (and a rotating cast of guests) guide listeners deep into the factories, studios and minds of the world’s most captivating entrepreneurs. Every Thursday, new episodes can be found on iTunes here: http://bit.ly/theartofmfg.

“What do goat farms, ex-prisoners, and alien invasions have to do with manufacturing? Tune into the podcast to find out!” Z said. “The world of manufacturing is a fascinating place, and I’m excited to share some of the best stories and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.”

The podcast was inspired by Z’s experience as LA Mayor Garcetti’s first Entrepreneur-in-Residence. Manufacturing in Los Angeles employs over 500,000 people—more than four times as many as the area’s film and television industries combined. A recent study (http://makeitinla.org/study) found that nearly 3,000 manufacturing start-ups were founded in Los Angeles in the last three years alone; as the country’s top manufacturing center, the city is ripe with potential for innovators. The podcast explores stories from L.A. and beyond.

In one episode Z, who founded innovation centers at both MIT and USC and has advised numerous organizations including the Obama administration, introduces listeners to the godfather of urban streetwear, Karl Kani, in a tell-all interview about his 27 year quest for an enduring brand. In another, Z and guest Kabira Stokes—who is dealing with a dire situation at her electronics recycling company—discuss social entrepreneurship and why she hires ex-offenders.

Fans of the podcast can connect with Z and the podcast on Twitter (@wemakeitinla) or Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/makeitinla) to provide feedback and ideas for episodes.

To listen to the podcast, visit http://bit.ly/theartofmfg

About “The Art of Manufacturing” Podcast

Based in Los Angeles, The Art of Manufacturing is a weekly podcast that serves listeners interested in business, entrepreneurship and product design. Hosted by engineer and entrepreneur Krisztina “Z” Holly, it is a project of MAKE IT IN LA, the new initiative by Mayor Eric Garcetti to increase, support and inspire manufacturing in the city. On the podcast, Z uses her extensive experience in startups and innovation, plus the knowledge she built as the mayor’s first Entrepreneur-in-Residence, to delve into the world of entrepreneurs trying to “make it” with their next big idea. The podcast is released every Thursday and available for subscription on iTunes.

 

Special thanks to:

Peter Brandenburg – sound engineering

Mimi Evans – content management

Espree Devora of WeAreLATech and Harry Duran of Fullcast.co for additional guidance on podcast production