In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, Catherine Ripley and Doug Seites reflect on their journey over the past year, celebrating milestones, achievements, and the importance of clarity in their operations. They discuss the significance of community engagement, the awards received, and the operational changes that have set the stage for future growth. Looking ahead to 2026, they emphasize the role of technology in transforming business practices while maintaining a human touch. This conversation highlights the importance of reflection, goal-setting, and the excitement for what lies ahead.

Chapters

00:00 Celebrating a Year of Symplicity Conversations

02:54 Reflections on Clarity and Growth

06:01 Achievements and Milestones of 2025

08:49 The Impact of New Beginnings

12:01 Awards and Recognition

15:01 Building a Stronger Team

18:13 Digital Transformation and Women in Technology

23:41 From Screen to Stage: The Amazon Prime Experience

24:48 Creating Impactful Spaces: The Role of Office Design

26:31 Community Engagement: Awards and Events that Matter

28:44 Tech Week Triumph: Hosting a Successful Event

30:31 Reflecting on Achievements: A Year in Review

36:14 Looking Ahead: Goals for the 20th Anniversary

39:00 Understanding Symplicity: Our Mission and Services

45:43 Exciting Future: Technology and Customer Experience

In this episode of Symplicity Conversations, we sit down with Peter Hungerford as he steps into his new role as the Vice President of Manufacturing at The Right Place. We discuss the transformation of the manufacturing sector in West Michigan, exploring the vital role small and mid-sized manufacturers play in economic resilience.
Discover how collaboration, technology, and strategic planning are reshaping the industry amidst disruption. Plus, gain insights into the importance of community connections and continuous learning for thriving in today's fast-paced environment. Don't miss this engaging discussion on building a robust manufacturing ecosystem for the future. Subscribe for more inspiring conversations on leadership, technology, and community building.

Chapters

(00:00) Lonely at the Top: Power, Pressure, and Grace
(00:31) Meet Peter Hungerford & His New Role at The Right Place
(02:00) Career Journey: From Y2K Consulting to Manufacturing Executive
(06:29) Why Small & Mid-Size Manufacturers Power Local Economies
(13:21) Regional Collaboration and Tapping Local EDCs
(15:20) Supply Chain Shocks, Tech Disruption, and Robotics
(18:13) What a Healthy Manufacturing Ecosystem Really Looks Like
(23:42) Barriers to Transformation: Capital, Knowledge, and Time
(33:07) Strategy, Metrics, and Turning Disruption into Opportunity
(40:13) Learning From Mistakes, Building Your Village, and Final Advice

Join us for this episode of Symplicity Conversations as we reminisce about TechWeek Grand Rapids with Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place, and Erin Stewart from Symplicity Communications.
Discover the incredible growth and community-driven energy behind this tech event and how it's shaping the future of innovation in West Michigan.
From standout moments like Steve Wozniak’s keynote to the integration of AI and data analytics, we explore what makes TechWeek a unique platform for connection and inspiration. We also discuss the impact of technology on various industries, the importance of networking, and how Grand Rapids continues to balance growth with community values.
Don't miss out on insights and future plans that highlight the city’s growing tech scene. Subscribe, leave a review, and stay connected for more inspiring conversations!

Chapters

(00:26) Welcome, Guests, and “When Women Support Each Other”
(01:30) How Tech Week Grand Rapids Started and Exploded in Four Years
(05:30) Simplicity’s Data & Analytics Event and Community Energy
(06:30) Steve Wozniak Keynote and the Human Side of Innovation
(13:25) Top Themes: AI, Cybersecurity, Health, and Tech in Manufacturing
(18:20) Every Company Is a Tech Company: Boards, Strategy, and Revenue
(21:15) Students, Networking, and Showing Up to Build Your Career
(26:10) Big Projects Reshaping Grand Rapids: Amphitheater, Stadium, Microsoft, Manufacturing
(35:56) Lessons From Rapid Growth, Peer Learning, and the Future of Tech Week