In this episode of the Germinate Podcast, Joe Sampson sits down with longtime friend and manufacturing leader Todd Miller, President of Myers Spring, a third-generation spring manufacturer based in Indiana. Todd shares the powerful story behind the company’s growth, what it takes to build lasting customer relationships, and how the values of integrity, consistency, and trust have helped Myers Spring become a staple supplier in industries like agriculture, automotive, and more.
Todd also reflects on his experience working at Honda, how Japanese manufacturing philosophy influenced his leadership, and why organizations like FEMA are vital for connecting with the ag equipment community. This episode is packed with insights on family business legacy, navigating trade challenges, and the secret to building a reputation that lasts.
💡 Key Takeaways
The power of consistency and relationships in business growth
How Myers Spring scaled through strategic risk and reinvestment
Lessons from Japanese manufacturing culture applied to American business
Importance of supplier dependability in today’s economic climate
Navigating uncertainty: tariffs, trade, and exchange rates in 2025
The value of industry associations like FEMA and EMDA
Embracing leadership transitions in a multigenerational family business
🧠 Notable Quote
[00:51] – History of Myers Spring & family legacy
[04:41] – Pivot from corporate to family business
[10:05] – Lessons from Honda & Japanese manufacturing
[14:28] – People-first philosophy and leadership
[20:36] – How Myers Spring became a FEMA staple
[24:25] – Tariffs, exchange rates, and global trade insights
[28:22] – What makes a great supplier in 2025
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