Fully Threaded Radio

Laurence Claus is a widely known and respected fastener engineer, trainer, writer and mentor. With a career in fasteners that began on the manufacturing side, and spanning over 30 years, he continues his work today with the Fastener Training Institute, the Industrial Fasteners Institute and through his company NNI Training & Consulting. His writing appears in American Fastener Journal, Fastener Technology International, Distributors Link and others. Laurence Claus was inducted into the Fastener Industry Hall of Fame in 2025. Run time: 51:31

The fastener industry reports brisk sales, but optimism is slipping. Why is this happening? Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer joins news editor Mike McNulty to mull over the confusing FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (52:05). Industry legend, Mr. Bruce Darling, is remembered during a heartfelt conversation with Stelfast purchasing manager, Jim Jordan (1:35:36). IFI chairman Larry Spelman speaks from the recent fall conference in Louisville (15:25). On the Fastener Training Minute, guru Carmen Vertullo talks torque to yield fastening (1:25:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa: buy vs. lease? (35:31) and Parker Jensen of Atlas Distribution and the NFBBQA (39:47). Brian and Eric point out that you don't need a moon roof on a lunar rover. Run time: 02:12:36

Tough Nutters George "GHIII" Hunt of Brighton Best, Bobby "Tater Tot" Wegner of Beacon Fasteners, Bob "GQ" Baer from Abbott-Interfast, and BTM Manufacturing president Jake "Valdez" Davis put on their jerseys to relive highlights of the dirtiest fastener networking event of 2025.  Run time: 47:07

Tough Nutters George "GHIII" Hunt of Brighton Best, Bobby "Tater Tot" Wegner of Beacon Fasteners, Bob "GQ" Baer from Abbott-Interfast, and BTM Manufacturing president Jake "Valdez" Davis put on their jerseys to relive highlights of the dirtiest fastener networking event of 2025.  Run time: 47:07

Floor interviews from the International Fastener Expo 2025, the largest fastener industry event of the year. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey traveled to Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas to get in on all the action. Golf results, break out sessions, Fastener Hall of Fame, special events and more.  Run time: 01:04:18

Floor interviews from the International Fastener Expo 2025, the largest fastener industry event of the year. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey traveled to Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas to get in on all the action. Golf results, break out sessions, Fastener Hall of Fame, special events and more. Run time: 01:04:18

Atlas Distribution Services president Scott Camp remembers legendary Fastenal founder, Bob Kierlin.  Scott explains how he came to travel with Mr. Kierlin during the early stage of his career, observing and learning lessons he carries with him as he builds his own company today.  Bob Kierlin was known for his practicality, common sense and efficiency. Scott Camp shares his accounts of their time together which validate Bob Kierlin's stellar reputation and explain why he was so successful in business and in life.  Run time: 35:59

Atlas Distribution Services president Scott Camp remembers legendary Fastenal founder, Bob Kierlin. Scott explains how he came to travel with Mr. Kierlin during the early stage of his career, observing and learning lessons he carries with him as he builds his own company today. Bob Kierlin was known for his practicality, common sense and efficiency. Scott Camp shares his accounts of their time together which validate Bob Kierlin's stellar reputation and explain why he was so successful in business and in life. Run time: 35:59

Thinking hard about tariffs, AI tech, reshoring and keeping stock on the shelves, the fastener industry heads to Vegas for its largest annual conference of the year.  Director of strategic sourcing for Würth Industry USA, Brian Schommer explains the critical role of sourcing and the reboot of the Würth Knowing podcast (14:11).  Young Fastener Professional of the Year, Tim Vath of LSG shares his formula for success (37:49). On the Fastener News Report, Hans Fuller of Canadian distributor Fuller Metric joins Mike McNulty to compare notes on the surprising FDI numbers (47:39). Marco Rodriguez of Cresa discloses the 5 hottest markets for industrial warehouse space (1:20:14). Carmen Vertullo talks ASTM A193 B7 on the Fastener Training Minute (1:27:14). PLUS: Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy talks AI from the Applied AI for Distributors conference (1:38:35).  Brian and Eric ignore irritating bird noises and think about their new AI-enabled Scrubber. Run time: 02:00:58

Thinking hard about tariffs, AI tech, reshoring and keeping stock on the shelves, the fastener industry heads to Vegas for its largest annual conference of the year.  Director of strategic sourcing for Würth Industry USA, Brian Schommer explains the critical role of sourcing and the reboot of the Würth Knowing podcast (14:11).  Young Fastener Professional of the Year, Tim Vath of LSG shares his formula for success (37:49). On the Fastener News Report, Hans Fuller of Canadian distributor Fuller Metric joins Mike McNulty to compare notes on the surprising FDI numbers (47:39). Marco Rodriguez of Cresa discloses the 5 hottest markets for industrial warehouse space (1:20:14). Carmen Vertullo talks ASTM A193 B7 on the Fastener Training Minute (1:27:14). PLUS: Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy talks AI from the Applied AI for Distributors conference (1:38:35).  Brian and Eric ignore irritating bird noises and think about their new AI-enabled Scrubber. Run time: 02:00:58

Midwest Fastener Association table top show floor interviews featuring the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey with Rick and Morgan Rudolph, Tom Blakely, Heidi Voltrauer, Josh Winkler, Tom Buddenbohn, Mallory Nichols, Matt Delawder, Sid Hirsch, Jill Coar, Luke Radtke, TJ Munson, Mike McNulty and many more. PLUS: Golf results including winner of the coveted FTR award. Run time: 55:49

Midwest Fastener Association table top show floor interviews featuring the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey with Rick and Morgan Rudolph, Tom Blakely, Heidi Voltrauer, Josh Winkler, Tom Buddenbohn, Mallory Nichols, Matt Delawder, Sid Hirsch, Jill Coar, Luke Radtke, TJ Munson, Mike McNulty and many more. PLUS: Golf results including winner of the coveted FTR award. Run time: 55:49

Fastener veteran, metric legend of the midwest, Mr. Rich Cavoto of Metric and Multistandard shares his experiences dealing with tariff confusion (1:36:00). AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin joins newsman Mike McNulty to question the shocking spike in the FLI on the Fastener News Report (48:42). Joanne Bialas celebrates International Fasteners 30 years in business (39:37). Ali Gonzalez and Kerry Tyler of Emerald preview this year's IFE (18:56). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo looks at hydrogen embrittlement testing (1:19:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa explains what to look for in a build to suit commercial lease (15:18). Brian and Eric remember dial-up AOL as they experiment with Chat GPT 5. Run time: 02:08:07

Fastener veteran, metric legend of the midwest, Mr. Rich Cavoto of Metric and Multistandard shares his experiences dealing with tariff confusion (1:36:00). AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin joins newsman Mike McNulty to question the shocking spike in the FLI on the Fastener News Report (48:42). Joanne Bialas celebrates International Fasteners 30 years in business (39:37). Ali Gonzalez and Kerry Tyler of Emerald preview this year's IFE (18:56). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo looks at hydrogen embrittlement testing (1:19:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa explains what to look for in a build to suit commercial lease (15:18). Brian and Eric remember dial-up AOL as they experiment with Chat GPT 5. Run time: 02:08:07

With tariff talk deadlines looming, Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco VP and part-time Highlander Jason Baines provides an update on where things stand. He also explains his entry into the realm of Scottish hammer throwing, how Canada could address some of its challenges right now, and the therapeutic aspect of raising chickens.  Run time: 39:08

With tariff talk deadlines looming, Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco VP and part-time Highlander Jason Baines provides an update on where things stand. He also explains his entry into the realm of Scottish hammer throwing, how Canada could address some of its challenges right now, and the therapeutic aspect of raising chickens. Run time: 39:08

MW Components VP of sales, Kara Bosse sees the exciting side of the fastener sales game as she works to make manufacturing an attractive career for the next generation (8:07). Meanwhile, pitmaster Rob "Big Country" Reynolds of INxSQL Software explains how his ERP platform has expanded to support fastener manufacturing as well as distribution (1:40:25). On the Fastener News Report, Baird analyst Dave Manthey joins senior editor Mike McNulty to examine the latest surge of the FDI reading (50:23).  Carmen Vertullo highlights conical spring washers on The Fastener Training Minute (1:26:20). PLUS: Ed Smith of Würth Industry USA takes the lead at the NFDA (40:10). Southwest gets Eric to the southwest, but high and dry. Run time: 02:10:10

MW Components VP of sales, Kara Bosse sees the exciting side of the fastener sales game as she works to make manufacturing an attractive career for the next generation (8:07). Meanwhile, pitmaster Rob "Big Country" Reynolds of INxSQL Software explains how his ERP platform has expanded to support fastener manufacturing as well as distribution (1:40:25). On the Fastener News Report, Baird analyst Dave Manthey joins senior editor Mike McNulty to examine the latest surge of the FDI reading (50:23).  Carmen Vertullo highlights conical spring washers on The Fastener Training Minute (1:26:20). PLUS: Ed Smith of Würth Industry USA takes the lead at the NFDA (40:10). Southwest gets Eric to the southwest, but high and dry. Run time: 02:10:10

MWFA FSTNR Week '25 is right around the corner, that means it's time to start prepping for fastener mud racing! Team leaders Bob "GQ" Baer of Abbott-Interfast, Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Bobby "Tater Tot" Wegner of Beacon Fasteners set the stage for another memorable year.  Once again, they hope to avoid electrocution, dehydration, excessive grass stains, and of course, hydrogen embrittlement, and they want you to join the team today! Run time: 25:06

MWFA FSTNR Week '25 is right around the corner, that means it's time to start prepping for fastener mud racing! Team leaders Bob "GQ" Baer of Abbott-Interfast, Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Bobby "Tater Tot" Wegner of Beacon Fasteners set the stage for another memorable year.  Once again, they hope to avoid electrocution, dehydration, excessive grass stains, and of course, hydrogen embrittlement, and they want you to join the team today! Run time: 25:06

In this episode, Eric Dudas of FCH Sourcing Network is joined by Fastenal veteran turned homesteader Sam Aldinger and ERP code-slinger Anders Green of ALOX4 to dive deep into the evolving world of fastener sourcing, exploring why it's still very much an art—despite rising interest in AI, B2B e-ecommerce and automation. They discuss the complexity of matching vague inquiries to real-world parts, the limitations of current tech solutions, and how tools like FCH SourceFinder and the "Scrubber" are paving the way. It's a candid, forward-looking conversation on the digital future of industrial sourcing.  Run time: 01:15:18

In this episode, Eric Dudas of FCH Sourcing Network is joined by Fastenal veteran turned homesteader Sam Aldinger and ERP code-slinger Anders Green of ALOX4 to dive deep into the evolving world of fastener sourcing, exploring why it's still very much an art—despite rising interest in AI, B2B e-ecommerce and automation. They discuss the complexity of matching vague inquiries to real-world parts, the limitations of current tech solutions, and how tools like FCH SourceFinder and the “Scrubber” are paving the way. It's a candid, forward-looking conversation on the digital future of industrial sourcing.Run time: 01:15:18

With a long view on the fastener industry and numerous careers to reflect on, Distributor's Link Magazine publisher Mr. Leo Coar recounts the launch of his flagship businesses and shares thoughts on a range of topics. From the shift away from domestic manufacturing and rise of the master importers, to the early days of the fastener shows, to the impact of AI tech on fastener distribution, a true legend of the industry tells it like it was, and the way he sees it in the days ahead. Run time: 47:31

With a long view on the fastener industry and numerous careers to reflect on, Distributor's Link Magazine publisher Mr. Leo Coar recounts the launch of his flagship businesses and shares thoughts on a range of topics. From the shift away from domestic manufacturing and rise of the master importers, to the early days of the fastener shows, to the impact of AI tech on fastener distribution, a true legend of the industry tells it like it was, and the way he sees it in the days ahead. Run time: 47:31

The fastener market may be going nuts, but marketing pros Rosa Hearn of BBI and Joe Shoemaker of AFC Industries keep a steady hand while getting the right messaging to the industry (1:07:11). Würth Industry USA managing director Chapman Revercomb joins senior news editor Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to read into the latest FDI rally (21:12). Perigee Manufacturing CEO Michael Topolewski breaks down the fall out from the recent SPS fire (11:45).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo presents the most important training topic EVAH! (57:13) Summer is kicking off, so Brian and Eric crave BBQ, as always.  FNR musical interlude: "Dead Man Theme" by N. Young cover. Run time: 01:47:56

The fastener market may be going nuts, but marketing pros Rosa Hearn of BBI and Joe Shoemaker of AFC Industries keep a steady hand while getting the right messaging to the industry (1:07:11). Würth Industry USA managing director Chapman Revercomb joins senior news editor Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to read into the latest FDI rally (21:12). Perigee Manufacturing CEO Michael Topolewski breaks down the fall out from the recent SPS fire (11:45). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo presents the most important training topic EVAH! (57:13) Summer is kicking off, so Brian and Eric crave BBQ, as always. FNR musical interlude: “Dead Man Theme” by N. Young cover. Run time: 01:47:56

Fastener Fair USA in Nashville was a big success with strong traffic, numerous education and networking opportunities, Nascar simulator competition and a down home after hours event. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey gathered reactions and commentary from show attendees from across the industry, including Josh Winkler, Louis Speedon, GHIII, Heidi Volltrauer, Tim Vath, Kim Penland, Bob Chiricosta, Henning Cybulski, John "Cool Hand" Butler and many more. Run time: 01:08:27

Fastener Fair USA in Nashville was a big success with strong traffic, numerous education and networking opportunities, Nascar simulator competition and a down home after hours event. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey gathered reactions and commentary from show attendees from across the industry, including Josh Winkler, Louis Speedon, GHIII, Heidi Volltrauer, Tim Vath, Kim Penland, Bob Chiricosta, Henning Cybulski, John "Cool Hand" Butler and many more. Run time: 01:08:27

The screw turns as the industry heads to Nashville for its annual spring jamboree.  NCFA Distributor Social attendees, Gary Graham, Justine Urban, Morgan Wilson speak with the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey. On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains new structural bolt standard changes that could impact hydrogen embrittlement. PLUS: Who actually won the FTR award at this year's MWFA Still Screwed Up Open?  Run time: 34:30

The screw turns as the industry heads to Nashville for its annual spring jamboree.  NCFA Distributor Social attendees, Gary Graham, Justine Urban, Morgan Wilson speak with the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey. On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains new structural bolt standard changes that could impact hydrogen embrittlement. PLUS: Who actually won the FTR award at this year's MWFA Still Screwed Up Open?  Run time: 34:30

With over 20 years at Fastenal, Sam Aldinger makes the jump into homesteading, balancing a blend of animal husbandry, podcasting and digital business coaching all while managing a fulfilling family life.  The discussion touches on the importance of data in fastener distribution and manufacturing, selecting the correct B2B commerce platform, networking into farm communities, the culture at Fastenal, and sheep psychology. Run time: 51.55

With over 20 years at Fastenal, Sam Aldinger makes the jump into homesteading, balancing a blend of animal husbandry, podcasting and digital business coaching all while managing a fulfilling family life.  The discussion touches on the importance of data in fastener distribution and manufacturing, selecting the correct B2B commerce platform, networking into farm communities, the culture at Fastenal, and sheep psychology. Run time: 51.55

The fastener industry reacts to the new tariffs as the impacts begin to take shape.  Field Fastener president Adam Derry joins Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty to sort out the tanking FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (21:16).  Returning from Stuttgart, Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich checks in with his read (12:55).  Plus, John "Cool Hand" Butler of Martin Supply shares news of the largest charity bed build yet (1:54).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo talks electro-plating alloy socket set screws (59:50). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez presents the quarterly commercial real estate report (52:23).  Eric is back from the pit, on the way to Nashville.  Close theme: Robert Earl Keen, "Barbeque", 1996. Run time: 01:07:38

The fastener industry reacts to the new tariffs as the impacts begin to take shape.  Field Fastener president Adam Derry joins Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty to sort out the tanking FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (21:16).  Returning from Stuttgart, Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich checks in with his read (12:55).  Plus, John "Cool Hand" Butler of Martin Supply shares news of the largest charity bed build yet (1:54).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo talks electro-plating alloy socket set screws (59:50). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez presents the quarterly commercial real estate report (52:23).  Eric is back from the pit, on the way to Nashville.  Close theme: Robert Earl Keen, "Barbeque", 1996. Run time: 01:07:38

The world's largest dedicated fastener show, Fastener Fair Global, took place in Stuttgart, Germany and Eurolink Fastener Supply Service founder and president Craig Penland was there.  He reviews this year's show as well as some of his adventures exploring various locations in Europe. He also shares a surprising take on the European view of the tariffs.  Run time: 33:51

The world's largest dedicated fastener show, Fastener Fair Global, took place in Stuttgart, Germany and Eurolink Fastener Supply Service founder and president Craig Penland was there.  He reviews this year's show as well as some of his adventures exploring various locations in Europe. He also shares a surprising take on the European view of the tariffs.  Run time: 33:51

Despite shifting tariff pronouncements, the fastener industry records another strong month as Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins newsman Mike McNulty explain on the Fastener News Report (28:33). Meanwhile, Rick Perkhaus of Fastener Specialties Manufacturing confronts an issue facing many small to mid-sized family operations (8:37).  On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo discusses the fine points of mixing small lots when sending parts for plating (1:07:19).  Brian and Eric note an attractive aspect of European fastener shows.  Musical cameo @ 1:04:55 The Meters - "Doodle-Oop" 1971.  Run time: 01:16:20

Despite shifting tariff pronouncements, the fastener industry records another strong month as Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins newsman Mike McNulty explain on the Fastener News Report (28:33). Meanwhile, Rick Perkhaus of Fastener Specialties Manufacturing confronts an issue facing many small to mid-sized family operations (8:37).  On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo discusses the fine points of mixing small lots when sending parts for plating (1:07:19).  Brian and Eric note an attractive aspect of European fastener shows.  Musical cameo @ 1:04:55 The Meters - "Doodle-Oop" 1971.  Run time: 01:16:20

Endries CEO Michael Knight reacts to the latest tariffs and shares thoughts on what they mean for the fastener industry.  Run time: 21:16

Endries CEO Michael Knight reacts to the latest tariffs and shares thoughts on what they mean for the fastener industry.  Run time: 21:16

Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco Fastener Systems supplies premium fasteners to industries on both sides of the border.  VP Jason Baines discusses his approach working with partners across the supply chain, shares thoughts on changing political conditions, and looks for the best in everyone involved.  Run time: 22:55

Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco Fastener Systems supplies premium fasteners to industries on both sides of the border.  VP Jason Baines discusses his approach working with partners across the supply chain, shares thoughts on changing political conditions, and looks for the best in everyone involved.  Run time: 22:55

Pac-West Fastener Association spring conference floor interviews and coverage, including Paul Vittori, George Martinez, Darlene Collis, Carl Spackman, Michael Chen, Jake "Valdez" Davis, Christian Reich and Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham. PLUS: Golf tourney winners.  Run time: 27:42

Pac-West Fastener Association spring conference floor interviews and coverage, including Paul Vittori, George Martinez, Darlene Collis, Carl Spackman, Michael Chen, Jake "Valdez" Davis, Christian Reich and Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham. PLUS: Golf tourney winners.  Run time: 27:42

The fastener industry powers ahead amid unsettling tariff news, cyber warfare and sky high egg prices. Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel joins newsman Mike McNulty to sift through the surprising FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (29:22). From his new operating base in Malaysia, Würth EVP Asia-Pacific Dee Ward shares a very different viewpoint, as he drives growth while patiently waiting for baseball season to begin (8:58).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo cautions on a simple but critical difference in an important ASTM vs. ASME standard (1:01:23). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa presents his quarterly warehouse space leasing report. Brian and Eric watch for a black swan, and hope it will lay a few eggs.  Run time: 01:13:23

The fastener industry powers ahead amid unsettling tariff news, cyber warfare and sky high egg prices. Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel joins newsman Mike McNulty to sift through the surprising FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (29:22). From his new operating base in Malaysia, Würth EVP Asia-Pacific Dee Ward shares a very different viewpoint, as he drives growth while patiently waiting for baseball season to begin (8:58).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo cautions on a simple but critical difference in an important ASTM vs. ASME standard (1:01:23). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa presents his quarterly warehouse space leasing report. Brian and Eric watch for a black swan, and hope it will lay a few eggs.  Run time: 01:13:23

FTR co-host Brian Musker shares two stories from his recent adventures outside of the FCH data lab (15:32). Fastener industry guru Carmen Vertullo explains lot traceability and why you should be on good terms with your test lab (28:19). WTC Managed IT Services senior consultant Will Snyder provides an important Microsoft security tip all distributors should understand (10:05). PLUS: What happened at the NFDA web conference on the new tariffs.  Run time: 53:35

FTR co-host Brian Musker shares two stories from his recent adventures outside of the FCH data lab (15:32). Fastener industry guru Carmen Vertullo explains why you should be on good terms with your test lab (28:19). WTC Managed IT Services senior consultant Will Snyder provides an important Microsoft security tip all distributors should be aware of (10:05). PLUS: What happened at the NFDA web conference on the new tariffs.  Run time: 53:35

As he rides into the sunset, Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham stops by to take stock in a fastener career well spent (9:08).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes Würth Industry USA COO Jeff Schmitt to read into sinking FDI numbers, plus major strategic announcements from Würth (35:16). Carmen Vertullo explains proper nut lubrication for structural applications on the Fastener Training Minute (1:13:18).  Following the MFDA economic meeting, Brian and Eric consider safe asset classes before anything hits the fan. Run time: 01:29:37

As he rides into the sunset, Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham stops by to take stock in a fastener career well spent (9:08).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes Würth Industry USA COO Jeff Schmitt to read into sinking FDI numbers, plus major strategic announcements from Würth (35:16). Carmen Vertullo explains proper nut lubrication for structural applications on the Fastener Training Minute (1:13:18).  Following the MFDA economic meeting, Brian and Eric consider safe asset classes before anything hits the fan. Run time: 01:29:37

Skidmore-Wilhelm expert and proprietor Mr. John O'Brien and industry guru Carmen Vertullo delve deeply into the applications, uses and origins of tension bolting's most unique and essential tool.  Discover simple yet effective lubricating techniques, little known but deadly hazards of improper bolt tensioning, and exclusive training opportunities during this wide reaching conversation. PLUS: Mysterious K-factor talk aplenty! Run time: 01:23:40