The Quality Hub

In this episode of the Survive and Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis is joined by Scott Dawson of Core Business Solutions and Jeanne Perron of IMEC to explore how small manufacturers can regain control of their cost structures and supplier strategies. Jeanne introduces the concept of the “silent slide,” where suppliers fail to pass on cost savings, and emphasizes the importance of using commodity price indices to negotiate fair pricing and avoid overpaying. The conversation covers practical steps for identifying key suppliers, preparing data-driven negotiations, planning for tariff volatility, and leveraging resources like IMEC and the nationwide MEP network to build resilient, informed supplier relationships.   Helpful Resources: Contact Jeanne: 847-337-2224 or email jperron@imec.org How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented [https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented] For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015] Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com [info@thecoresolution.com] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources [https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources] ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting]

In this episode of the Survive and Thrive series on the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis speaks with Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, and Dennis Gilbert, President of IMC Pennsylvania MEP, about applying risk-based thinking in times of uncertainty. They explore how small businesses can navigate disruption through agile strategic planning, open team engagement, and reframing risk as opportunity. Drawing on real-world insights and lessons from past crises like COVID-19, the conversation offers practical tools such as SWOT analysis and heat mapping, and emphasizes the importance of short-term actions, inclusive dialogue, and the courage to pivot quickly in a changing landscape.   Helpful Resources: Contact Dennis: (570) 329-3200 or email info@IMCpa.com [info@IMCpa.com] How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented [https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented] For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015] Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com [info@thecoresolution.com] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources [https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources] ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting]

In the kickoff episode of the Survive and Thrive series on The Quality Hub: Chatting with ISO Experts, host Xavier Francis and Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, introduce a timely new podcast focused on helping small businesses navigate today’s economic uncertainty. With insights drawn from real-world challenges—like shifting federal policies, supply chain issues, and market disruptions—the series offers practical, bite-sized strategies from experts in MEPs, Apex Accelerators, and beyond. Designed for business owners, managers, and contractors alike, each episode delivers actionable steps to help organizations stay resilient, make smart decisions, and thrive in a time of rapid change.   Helpful Resources: How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented [https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented] For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015] Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com [info@thecoresolution.com] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources [https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources] ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting]

In this episode of The Quality Hub, host Xavier Francis continues his discussion with Kevin Franklin, Chief Product Officer at LRQA, and Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions. Join them as they take a deep dive into the critical role of ISO 42001 in navigating AI risks and establishing trust in AI systems. The conversation demystifies common misconceptions about ISO 42001, highlighting its relevance not just for developers, but for all businesses leveraging AI—big and small. The episode explores the standard’s potential to dismantle the AI “black box,” foster accountability, and create a competitive advantage by demonstrating responsible AI use. The discussion underscores the urgency of addressing AI governance as AI rapidly permeates both business and daily life, emphasizing that effective oversight is not a bureaucratic hurdle, but a vital part of shaping a trusted, innovative future.   Helpful Resources: More About ISO 42001: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-42001-certification [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-42001-certification] Why ISO 42001 Certification Matters: https://www.thecoresolution.com/why-grammarlys-iso-42001-certification-matters [https://www.thecoresolution.com/why-grammarlys-iso-42001-certification-matters] How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented [https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented] For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015] Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com [info@thecoresolution.com] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources [https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources] ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting]

In this episode of the Quality Hub podcast, host Xavier Francis speaks with Kevin Franklin, Chief Product Officer at LRQA, and Scott Dawson, President of Core Business Solutions, to delve into the timely and crucial topic of AI risk management and governance. AI is here and not going away, and understanding the increasing importance of ISO 42001, a new standard designed to provide businesses—whether large or small is paramount. 42001 has a structured approach to responsibly integrating and governing AI technologies. Kevin and Scott share insights on how ISO 42001 helps organizations anticipate and navigate evolving risks, build trust, enhance accountability, and prepare for regulatory changes, offering a roadmap for businesses of all sizes to effectively manage AI-driven challenges.   Helpful Resources: More About ISO 42001: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-42001-certification [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-42001-certification] Why ISO 42001 Certification Matters: https://www.thecoresolution.com/why-grammarlys-iso-42001-certification-matters [https://www.thecoresolution.com/why-grammarlys-iso-42001-certification-matters] How is ISO 9001 Implemented?:  https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented [https://www.thecoresolution.com/how-is-iso-9001-implemented] For All Things ISO 9001:2015: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015 [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-9001-2015] Contact us at 866.354.0300 or email us at info@thecoresolution.com [info@thecoresolution.com] A Plethora of Articles: https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources [https://www.thecoresolution.com/free-learning-resources] ISO 9001 Consulting: https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting [https://www.thecoresolution.com/iso-consulting]