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Patrick Daly Interlinks Podcast

An Entrepreneurial Dream Made Reality

In this episode of the Interlinks podcast I talk to Keith Smith, President and CEO of Vonco Products, LLC located in Trevor Wisconsin in US. Vonco is a contract manufacturing company or CMO operating in the strategically critical medical devices sector with signicant business both inside and outside the US.


Keith is an industrial engineer by profession and an entrepreneur by vocation with 25 years of industry experience with a fascinating story of learning and adaptation, some of it through pain and disappointment, to tell. He acquired Vonco in 2012 having had a life’s dream to own his own company.


Prior to this and from 2005 Keith was General Manager of Carbonless Rolls and Security Papers for Appleton Papers, the largest division of that $1BN paper company.


Keith also helps other aspiring entrepreneurs, through one-on-one coaching, to reconcile some of the competing challenges that the entrepreneurial life presents to people and he contrasts what he calls the Path of Force with the Path of Power which we will explore with him in our conversation today together with his insights into some of the challenges and opportunities facing exporting manufacturers in the US today.

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  • Miracle or Mirage? Unpacking Spain’s Economic Performance

    35:41|
    In this episode of Interlinks, I’m joined by Oriol Lopez, business consultant based in Barcelona, and Miguel Diaz, former banker and CEO of ZALIA Logistics Park in Asturias. Together, we dig deep into what’s being hailed as the Spanish economic miracle.Spain has outpaced its European peers in growth and recovery—but is it all it seems?We explore what’s driving this momentum: from booming tourism and EU recovery funds to immigration, labour market shifts, and the role of public finances.Is this growth sustainable? What hidden risks lie beneath the surface? And what lessons can business leaders and policymakers in other countries learn from Spain’s recent trajectory?If you’re a manufacturing or distribution leader navigating global turbulence, tune in to connect the macro shifts to the micro decisions that matter.📈 Strategy meets reality—right here on Interlinks.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist™╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Global Supply Chain Choke Points: Why They Matter and What Businesses Can Do

    29:03|
    Welcome to this solo episode of Interlinks. I'm your host, Patrick Daly, The Macro-to-Micro Strategist ™ and in this episode I am going to take you on a voyage to some of the most important maritime chokepoints around the world that are essential to how modern economies work and to the supply chains support them.We’re diving into a topic that doesn’t always make headlines but has massive consequences for global trade and business: escalating threats to the key maritime choke points.We’ll explore the four most critical global chokepoints—the Strait of Hormuz, Bab el-Mandab, the Panama Canal, and the Straits of Malacca and Singapore—and unpack why they matter so much to international supply chains.I’ll explain the specific risks each one presents, from geopolitical tensions to climate-related disruption, and more importantly, what practical steps businesses can take to prepare for these challenges.If you're involved in manufacturing, logistics, supply chain management, or global strategy, this episode will help you think more clearly about where the real bottlenecks are—and how to build resilience into your operations.So join me as we zoom out to the global map, and then zoom back in on what smart companies can do at the ground level to navigate these high-risk zones.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Building Global IT Solutions from a Warzone – Oleksandr Petryk, CEO of Dinamicka Development

    26:45|
    In this episode of Interlinks, I speak with Oleksandr Petryk, CEO of Dinamicka Development, a software company based in Kyiv, Ukraine, that delivers end-to-end IT solutions for international clients, including custom ERP systems for the logistics sector.We discuss Oleksandr’s entrepreneurial journey from Microsoft-certified trainer to tech founder, and the strategic thinking behind Dinamicka Development’s evolution into a product-driven business. Oleksandr also shares how his team has navigated the extraordinary challenge of running a global business from a country at war—maintaining operations, safeguarding clients, and adapting quickly under pressure.We delve into the impact of AI on software development, the nuances of international business culture, and how a strong internal company culture can drive performance and resilience—even in the toughest times.The main topics we touch on include:Operating a global business from a warzoneCustom ERP and CRM solutions for logisticsTransition from services to product-oriented businessCross-cultural business practices and team trainingPractical use of AI in developmentWhether you're in tech, logistics, or international business, this episode offers practical insights and an inspiring story of innovation and grit under extreme circumstances. YOu can check out Dinamicka Development's services here Dinamicka | Bespoke Software Development CompanyPatrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Tariffs, Trade Wars & the Tug of Global Supply Chains: Manufacturing in the Crosshairs

    29:04|
    In this episode of Interlinks, I’m joined once again by two of my expert colleagues from the Global Supply Chain Think Tank in the U.S.: Lisa Anderson, President of LMA Consulting in Los Angeles, and Diane Garcia, President of Lorraine Consulting in Phoenix. Both are highly experienced consultants working at the coalface of U.S. manufacturing and supply chain strategy.Together, we explore the real-world implications of recent tariff policy shifts and trade tensions, particularly between the U.S., China, and the EU, and what they mean for businesses trying to navigate a constantly evolving global landscape.We discuss what’s happening on the ground in American manufacturing, including tactical compliance moves, major capital investment announcements, and longer-term strategic shifts—or the lack thereof.🔍 In this episode, we cover:The surge in manufacturing investment announcements in the U.S.—what’s real, what’s delayed, and what’s still uncertainHow companies are tactically responding to tariff-related compliance and supply chain realignmentThe impact of disrupted shipping flows and tariff-driven inventory surges on logistics networksSigns of a potential recession in manufacturing versus booming logistics activityThe role of labour shortages and the challenges of reshoring amid shrinking talent poolsThe growing push for automation, digitisation, and advanced technologies as countermeasuresThe importance of robust Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP) in managing complexityThe visibility gap in global supply chains, especially around second-tier suppliersThe broader geopolitical context of trade negotiations, national security concerns, and “friendshoring”This conversation provides timely insights into how manufacturing industry is adapting to a shifting global order—and where the biggest risks and opportunities lie heading into 2026.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • The Evolution of Irish Road Transport – With Jarlath Sweeney of Fleet Transport

    29:05|
    🎙️ Episode Title: The Evolution of Irish Road Transport – With Jarlath Sweeney of Fleet Transport📌 Episode Description:In this episode of Interlinks, I speak with Jarlath Sweeney, owner and editor of Fleet Transport Ireland, the country's leading publication group for the transport and commercial vehicle sector.Jarlath shares the remarkable story of his journey from a family haulage business in County Mayo to becoming a key figure in Irish transport media. We explore the past, present, and future of Ireland’s road transport sector—from the legacy of local hauliers to the increasing role of sustainability, intermodal logistics, and digital transformation.We also discuss:🚛 The role of the transport sector in Ireland’s export economy🔋 The transition to electric and alternative fuels like HVO🌍 EU policy impacts and the Irish response🛤️ The growing potential of rail freight and intermodal solutions👷 Labour shortages, costs, and decarbonisation challengesJarlath brings decades of experience and a unique perspective from the heart of the industry. Whether you’re in logistics, manufacturing, policymaking, or just curious about how goods move across Ireland and beyond—this episode is a must-listen.🔗 Listen now and join the conversation on Reddit at r/InterlinksPodcast📲 Follow me on TikTok: @thesupplychainadvisor🎧 Find more episodes on Acast, Spotify, Apple Podcasts and all major platforms.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Adapting Supply Chains in a Disrupted Global Landscape

    29:03|
    🎙️ Episode Title:Adapting Supply Chains in a Disrupted Global Landscape🧑‍💼 Guest:Howard Knott, Project Director at the Irish Exporters Association and columnist at Fleet Transport Magazine.📦 Episode Overview:In this episode of Interlinks, I speak with Howard Knott—veteran logistics expert and commentator—about the evolving realities of global supply chains and their significance for Ireland’s export-driven economy. With decades of experience in maritime logistics, rail freight, and industry advocacy, Howard shares a seasoned perspective on how Irish and international businesses are adapting to unprecedented global disruption.We explore the long arc of change from the 1970s—when containerization and EU integration began transforming Irish trade—through to today’s volatile environment shaped by:U.S. tariffs and trade uncertainty⚓ Port congestion and capacity challenges in Europe🚄 The revival of rail freight in Ireland🚢 Post-Brexit shifts in shipping patterns via Holyhead and Rosslare🌍 Rethinking supply chain resilience in response to geopolitical shocksHoward notes:“People don’t become comfortable doing things the way they always did anymore. That’s a good thing.”and“Rail freight offers environmental and economic advantages—and it’s becoming fashionable again.”🔊 Listen now to hear how strategic adaptability is shaping the next phase of supply chain management in Ireland and beyond.🧵 Continue the conversation on Reddit: r/InterlinksPodcast🎥 Follow for insights on TikTok: @thesupplychainadvisor
  • Leadership, Policy, and Business Impact in a Shifting U.S. Landscape

    33:06|
    🎙️ Episode Title: Leadership, Policy, and Business Impact in a Shifting U.S. Landscape🧑‍💼 Guest:Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks – President & CEO of TransLeadership, Inc., executive leadership advisor, and author of Lead Yourself First: The Senior Leader’s Guide to Engaging Your People for Greater Performance and Impact. With over 30 years' experience advising values-based and Christian executives in secular corporate settings, Dr. Wilson-Starks brings unique insight into the intersection of leadership, culture, and policy.🗣️ What We Talked About:In this thought-provoking episode of Interlinks, Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks returns to share her expert analysis on the evolving landscape of U.S. domestic policy and its implications for business leaders. We discuss:The impact of immigration policy shifts on key industries and supply chainsThe rollback of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and corporate responseThe effects of federal downsizing on workforce stability and public servicesTrade policy turbulence, tariffs, and what it means for global supply chain planning💡 This is a must-listen for business leaders, strategists, and supply chain professionals navigating today’s complex geopolitical environment.🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Acast, and all major platforms.🗨️ Join the conversation on Reddit at r/InterlinksPodcast 🛠️🎥 Follow me on TikTok for more supply chain insights: @thesupplychainadvisor 🎯Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Strategic Connections Between Ireland and Portugal

    16:19|
    In this episode of Interlinks, Patrick Daly explores the deepening strategic, economic, and cultural ties between Ireland and Portugal. Speaking from Lisbon, Patrick delves into the historical and contemporary links that bind these two Atlantic-facing nations—from shared maritime histories and religious connections to modern trade, logistics, and geopolitical cooperation.As global supply chains shift and regional resilience becomes more important, Ireland and Portugal are emerging as vital partners in the EU’s Atlantic Arc. Patrick highlights growing trade flows, new short-sea shipping routes, and collaborative opportunities in sectors like renewable energy, marine protection, and supply chain integration.With case studies from companies such as Garland Logistics and Toga Group, this episode shines a light on the evolving Ireland-Portugal axis and what it could mean for businesses, governments, and consumers alike.Tune in to learn how two small nations on Europe’s western edge are forging powerful connections for the 21st century and beyond.Join the discussion on Reddit here: https://www.reddit.com/r/InterlinksPodcast/comments/1khnlw9/discussion_strategic_connections_between_ireland/Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽
  • Trump, Tariffs, and Trade Wars: Views from Europe, America, and Australia

    22:26|
    In this episode of Interlinks, host Patrick Daly in Dublin, Ireland is joined by two expert guests from opposite sides of the globe: Art Koch, President of Arthur Koch Management Consultants in Miami, Florida, and David Ogilvie, Principal at David Ogilvie Consulting in Brisbane, Australia.Together, they explore the impact of the Trump administration’s sweeping tariff policies and the resulting uncertainty in global trade. As seasoned supply chain consultants representing Europe, America, and Australia, the panel shares valuable insights into how businesses are responding both tactically and strategically to these developments.From shifts in sourcing strategies to the re-evaluation of risk and resilience, this discussion provides a global perspective on the challenges and adaptations facing today’s interconnected supply chains.Patrick Daly★ The Macro-to-Micro Strategist╽ Turning Global Turbulence into Operational Clarity ╽ Helping Business Leaders Build Resilient, Profitable Supply Chains ╽ Multilingual Trusted Advisor ╽ Call/WhatsApp ☎️ +353868116030 ╽