In this episode of the Automotive Leaders Podcast, Jan Griffiths sits down with Congresswoman Haley Stevens, often called the “manufacturing geek,” to discuss the growing impact of government policy on automotive leadership.
From the lessons of the 2008–2009 auto rescue to the CHIPS and Science Act, rare earth minerals, tariffs, and global competition, this conversation explores how policy decisions are influencing supply chains, innovation, and the global competitiveness of the U.S. auto industry.
Stevens shares why she visits manufacturers across Michigan nearly every week, what she learned during the auto bailout, and why issues like semiconductor production, critical minerals, and trade policy are now central to the future of automotive manufacturing.
If you lead in the automotive industry today, understanding policy is no longer optional.
Episode Highlights
[00:30] Why Policy Now Matters for Automotive Leaders
[03:12] Manufacturing Mondays and Staying Connected to the Shop Floor
[05:47] Lessons from the 2008–2009 Auto Rescue
[08:47] Rebuilding America’s Semiconductor Industry
[10:03] The Critical Minerals Supply Chain Risk
[12:21] USMCA and North American Trade Stability
[15:02] The Impact of Tariff Volatility on Manufacturers
[15:39] The Growing Competitive Threat from Chinese Automakers
[16:30] What Automotive Leaders Should Expect from Washington
Subscribe to the Automotive Leaders Podcast for more conversations with the leaders shaping the future of the automotive industry. ➡️ https://theautomotiveleaderspodcast.com/
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