Fully Threaded Radio

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

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

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

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

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 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

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

The new fastener year begins with dramatic headlines, Fastener Technology International editor in chief Mike McNulty breaks the stories and welcomes Huyett CEO Tim O'Keeffe to look at complete 2024 FDI numbers plus the outlook for the year ahead on the Fastener News Report. EXTRA: Start Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. explains the latest huge LSG acquisition. On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo looks at risk mitigation in structural bolt tensioning. Plus, Fastener Fair USA show manager Blanca Delgado preview the upcoming event in Nashville. Brian and Eric often work independently, but sometimes they join forces, and when they do, it can mean fastener podcast gold.  Run time: 01:19:51

Tis the season to reveal new fastener association officers, as industry veteran rep Robert Rundle of R. W. Rundle Associates takes the lead at the MFDA (8:36).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo explains a critical aspect of plating (18:30). Plus, the next winner of the IronClad Gloves Out of The Rut contest. CHRISTMAS BONUS: J. R. Prahl's "The Gift" redux edition (43:55).  Run time: 49:01

The FDI brings a lump of coal to fastener industry, but Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. and Fastener Technology International senior news editor Mike McNulty remain positive, despite mixed feelings over probable new tariffs, on the Fastener News Report (20:23). Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich takes more fastener limelight at this year's Fastenal Expo (14:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cressa presents an update on the over land trucking situation (58:02). Brian and Eric teach a new AI old tricks.  Run time: 01:10:34

Premium fastener provider J. Lanfranco sends mining industry veteran Steve Roebuck on a mission to dig up new business from an international market (11:20). On the Fastener Training Minute, thread educator Carmen Vertullo discusses a classic question involving nylon insert locknuts (22:50). PLUS: The first winner of the "Out of the Rut" IronClad gloves contest! Brian and Eric hone their skills and their platform. Run time: 49:28

Fastener industry optimism keeps the latest FDI numbers strong as AFC VP of sales John Kovatch joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (19:55). There's more good news for fastener mud racers as Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing announces dates for next year's huge MWFA event (7:15). PLUS: Brian and Eric launch the new IronClad gloves "Out of the Rut" contest. Run time: 53:30

Jo Morris of Desert Distribution and TJ McFarland of Brikksen travel far afield in their fastener endeavors, jamming in as much fun as good business will allow (4:28). Thread guru Carmen Vertullo discusses thread stripping on the Fastener Training Minute (21:26). Run time: 01:01:33

Digital fastener data is like footprints that leave a long lasting imprint.  So says JR Prahl of mega-industrial supplier OneMonroe (45:19). On the Fastener News Report, senior fastener newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel to discuss the soaring FDI readings from the most recent report (10:18). Brian and Eric set a new fastener data course of their own while trying out a new, "tighter" format. Run time: 01:16:14

Würth EVP Larry Stevens shares his thoughts as he guides the world's largest industrial supplier toward global integration and connectivity. From simple midwest beginnings, he spent 16 years building the business in Asia before returning to the U.S. to focus on directing the company's vast collection of companies towards a more unified growth course. During this wide-ranging conversation, Larry shares many experiences, including his reactions to some of the more "exotic" cuisines he was presented in the east, and his unexpected feelings upon returning to the west.  He also looks to the future of a more globalized world, where technologies such as AI and additive manufacturing are changing the way business will be done.

Don "The Amazing" Shan joins Brian and Eric for semi-comprehensive IFE '24 coverage, featuring Larry Stevens, Jo Morris, Marcel Goebel, Wayne Wishnew, Lisa Sanderson, Jake Glaser, John Gaudette, Mike Robinson and many more!  An important name was added to the wall this year, and the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey was there.  Plus, Earnest CEO Kirk Zehnder joins industry newsman Mike McNulty to dissect the stunning FDI report on the Fastener News Report (1:09:55). Newly inducted Fastener Hall of Famer Carmen Vertullo gazes into the future of fastener materials on the latest Fastener Training Minute (1:37:18).  Run time: 02:42:22

Fastener industry 50 year veteran and Goebel Fasteners national sales manager Sam Underwood explains what makes a great distributor (14:29). Will Snyder of WTC Business Technology Services on the fallout from the Cloudstrike internet outage snafu (1:29:54). Birmingham Fastener & Supply CEO Brad Tinney joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to review the sudden dip in the FDI (42:09). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo puts a pi R squared equation to use (1:14:12). Eric tries to convince Brian to hand out more pens. Run time: 02:04:46

Fastener Fair USA show manager and fastener friend Mr. Bob Chiricosta of RX Expositions is the winner of this year's Form, Fit & Function Award, presented by the Naperville Fastener Association (the most  non-exclusive of all the fastener associations). PLUS: Bob "GQ" Baer and Jake "Valdez" Davis preview this year's FSTNR Week '24. Run time: 24:21

Dramatic headlines abound across the country and around the world. This episode of Fully Threaded Radio avoids all of that, as Eurolink FSS president Craig Penland (15:44) and technologist Anders Green  (2:00:31) provide various and informative takes on the industrial fastener industry from completely different angles. Huyett CEO Tim "Iron Butt" O'Keeffe joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (1:05:56). Never hard up for topics, thread educator Carmen Vertullo compares macro and micro hardness testing on the Fastener Training Minute (1:44:48). International Fastener Expo show manager Morgan Wilson previews this year's big show in Vegas (53:23). EXCLUSIVE BONUS: Bob "GQ" Baer and the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey report from the first Naperville Fastener Association event of the season (39:13). Hosts Brian and Eric consider the lack of fasteners in Olmec heads. Run time: 02:44:14

It's more fastener industry squawking as 30 year veteran Al Bate of All America Threaded Products flies in to discuss European distribution models, fastener head hunting and an exciting new threaded rod offering (1:37:49).  Reporting from a high speed rail car, YFP star Parker Jensen of Atlas Distribution reports on the recent Taiwan International Fastener Show (21:49). AFC Industries VP of sales John Kovatch sits in with newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to unpack the startling FDI reading for May (1:00:11). Jake "Valdez" Davis and Francesca Lewis of the MWFA preview this year's FSTNR Week (39:43). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo looks at coatings for lock washers (1:28:23). RETRO BONUS from Ep. 161: GHIII of Brighton Best launches the era of fastener mud racing! (15:38) Brian and Eric wonder if an under reported headline will cause the economy to lay an egg. Run time: 02:28:41

The biggest fastener industry event of the spring, Fastener Fair USA '24 rocked Cleveland, was a huge success and a boatload of fun!  The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey hit the show floor with her mic in hand: Jason Baines, Lee Parker, Bob Chiricosta, Mallory Nichols, John "Cool Hand" Butler, Hans Fuller, Lonni Kieffer, Boris Elbaum, Marty Nolan, Kevin Chavis, Henning Cybulski, Jake "Valdez" Davis, Dustin Henderson and many more! Run time: 53:27

Fastener journeyman Don "The Amazing" Shan sees growth opportunities in value added strategies (1:39:05). Meanwhile, Brighton Best and Parker Fasteners have teamed up to provide American made product to the market, as Rosa Hearn and Matt Boyd explain (13:18).   Endries International CEO Michael Knight and Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty discuss growth in the spring as they reflect on a buoyant new FDI on the Fastener News Report (57:11).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo examines blind rivet testing (1:31:09). BONUS: Würth Additive CEO AJ Strandquist details an all new digital inventory program, along with a major surprise announcement by the NFDA (41:44). Brian and Eric look back at their first podcast, and agree they've enjoyed being here.  Run time: 02:27:50

The good old days of the fastener industry are right now, as Jim Derry and Adam Derry of Field Fastener grow their successful family business and learn along the way (1:35:13). Industry pundit, Bob "GQ" Baer asks senior Baird analyst David Manthey to explain the inventory component of the FDI (25:22). On the Fastener News Report, Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. sits in with Mike McNulty to review the encouraging numbers (50:44).  Industry educator Carmen Vertullo speaks on the PPAP process on the Fastener Training Minute (1:22:16). PLUS: Fastener Fair USA show manager Blanca Delgado previews this year's May event in Cleveland (39:37). Brian and Eric keep things predominantly fastener related, hardly mention hydrogen embrittlement at all, and agree that it's good to be part of the fastener industry. Run time: 02:18:55

It's a rare day that veteran cold-header Mr. Charlie Kerr of Kerr-Lakeside doesn't serve up some tasty industry commentary, and his latest appearance is no exception (1:32:27). More on the medium rare side, Southwestern Fastener Association president Brad Burel of Advance Components previews the upcoming  SFA spring conference and a trip to the stock yards (16:04). On the Fastener News Report, Fastenal CFO Holden Lewis and threaded newsman Mike McNulty put the sauce on the latest FDI, and Marco Rodriguez of Mohr Partners reports on commercial leasing trends (46:07). Plus, Carmen Vertullo provides three recipes for checking bolted assembly tightness on the Fastener Training Minute (1:25:34). Brian and Eric need to grill the industry for ideas on the perfect RFQ, but instead linger predominantly on BBQ.  Run time: 02:29:23

Elite fastener mud racers Bob "GQ" Baer, Jake "Valdez" Davis, and GH3 break a shocking development pertaining to the 2024 Rugged Nut event scheduled ahead of this year's MWFA FSTNR week.  How will this news impact the growing tradition, and what does it mean for the future of fastener mud racing?  Run time: 16:33

Infrastructure projects create huge demand for fasteners once they work their way to the market. The always affable Jason Baines of premium locknut provider J. Lanfranco knows how to provide the parts, as well as a few nut jokes (1:33:20). Meanwhile, domestic manufacturing benefits by the need to re-shore parts, as  Atlanta Rod sales manager Chris McCaffrey explains (17:34). He also tells the tale of an unlikely travel companion. On the Fastener News Report, Brighton Best International president Jun Xu offers his evaluation of the latest FDI, with his signature confidence and pragmatism, as he joins intrepid screw biz reporter Mike McNulty (50:34).  On this edition of the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo addresses the age old question of where to torque a bolt (1:22:53). Brian and Eric fearlessly resume normal air travel and get rewarded with a down home Texas brisket. Run time: 02:20:56

The new year begins with high flying headlines as Würth Industries all star Mr. Dee Ward receives big news that has him taking to the skies (19:14).  Fastener forecasters Jo Morris of the Fastener Training Institute and Jake "Valdez" Davis, CFS of BTM Manufacturing discuss their recent training week experience in lieu of actually prognosticating on the coming year (1:33:56).  On the Fastener News Report,  Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer joins news editor Mike McNulty with complete FDI data for last year along with a look ahead (53:26).  Industry guru  Carmen Vertullo presents the Fastener Training Minute, this time discussing the risky business that is the fastener game (1:28:23).  PLUS: Everyone's fastener friend, Star Stainless manager Mike Robinson makes two big announcements (40:57).  Brian and Eric will continue to travel by air, but probably won't be sitting near the emergency exit. Run time: 02:30:24

As the world moves towards more complex and sometimes risky technologies, successful fastener entrepreneurs like Scott Camp of Atlas Distribution Services rely on strong fundamentals and organic development to grow (1:46:24). Meanwhile, tech-based fastener businesses forge ahead, as BoltWise co-founder Cole Weiler looks for ways to match distributor challenges with AI-based solutions (26:15). AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin joins news editor Mike McNulty to evaluate strengthening FDI numbers, and Marco Rodriguez delivers a commercial property update on the Fastener News Report (1:00:41).  PLUS: Christian Reich of Goebel Fasteners is one of the newest Certified Fastener Specialists in the industry (53:18). On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo looks at tamper-proof screws (1:37:09). Brian and Eric wonder who actually writes the news. Run time: 02:43:15

In a world of blurred history and uncertain truths, it's perfectly clear that Lindfast Solutions Group VP of Quality Darlene Collis is advancing the fastener industry with her work at ASTM and other standards organizations (1:45:18).  Likewise, Würth Revcar CEO Chapman Revercomb and the Würth Group are raising the bar with their newest automated facilities and processes (22:55).  Pac-West president Hans Fuller joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to explain the latest uptick of the FDI (55:11). PLUS: Rosa Hearn of Brighton Best International extends an invitation to the complimentary NFDA webinar on AI (45:21). On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo enlightens the subject of blind rivets (1:33:29). Brian and Eric wonder what Ed McMahon was really doing all those years ago. Run time: 02:30:28

Sometimes the end is the beginning. In the case of a fateful but long forgotten mission to Columbus, the fastener industry revived a dormant tradition. The conclusion of the brief FDI rally may be another story, as newsman Mike McNulty and Baird analyst Quinn Fredrickson explain on the Fastener News Report (50:30).  Brighton Best International event planner extraordinaire Rosa Hearn and Parker Fasteners sales boss Matt Boyd announce an exciting new partnership (1:33:29). At the end of his mud racing career, Eurolink Fastener Supply Service president Craig Penland shares info on new red tape for distributors coming out of the EU as he looks ahead to grandly opening his new distribution facility (32:32). On the Fastener Training Minute, thread wizard Carmen Vertullo describes the risks of socket screw plating.  PLUS: IFE '23 discussion and reactions (1:21:31). BONUS CAMEOS: Marty Nolan, Andy Pels, more. Seeing it as something more than just another brick in the wall, Brian and Eric reflect on their journey in the fastener industry.  Run time: 02:26:34

The fastener industry climbs back as Endries CEO Michael Knight joins newsman Mike McNulty to unpack the dramatic FDI rebound on an epic Fastener News Report (49:34).  Conjuring solutions is no trick for Don "The Amazing" Shan as he sets off on a spellbinding new venture (17:02).  The "Bolts N Hose" podcast cracks open the fastener media mix as  Patriot Bolt operators Bryce Oliveira and Kris Kolb explain (1:34:59). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo and George Munoz of Ababa Bolt talk cutting taps (1:25:05).  PLUS: Charlie Kerr of Kerr Lakeside spins the UAW strike (43:24). Brian looks for the perfect cracker and Eric bids farewell to a legend. Run time: 02:22:12

MWFA FSTNR Week highlights and floor interviews including Christian Reich, Don "The Amazing" Shan, Nick Penney, Ashely Parker, Jeremy Gethmann, Andres Green, Nancy Rich, Jake "Valdez" Davis and more. Golf results and FTR award update. PLUS: The promised AI for Distribution Conference promo code, and is it really time to say goodbye? Run time: 40:03

Chris Nissen of Aspen Fasteners traces amazing changes in the fastener industry during his long tenure as a family owned importer turned digital seller(1:34:57).  Newsman Mike McNulty and Frank "Balboa" Devito of Brighton Best discuss the latest FDI numbers that have many sensing something unpleasant in the air, on the Fastener News Report (41:20). John "Cool Hand" Butler rides shotgun on the Fastener Training Minute with Carmen Vertullo during part 2 of his series on tapping (1:20:24). PLUS: Real estate advisor and long-time fastener pro, Marco Rodriguez explains the current state of commercial leasing and warehouse space (20:21). Brian and Eric look for ways to clear the air.  Run time: 02:27:05

S.W. Anderson president Jim Dagnan dives into his tenure at the head of the  NFDA as new trends and looming technologies challenge the fastener industry (1:19:07).  Baird senior analyst David Manthey joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to evaluate the straining FDI and the rise of re-shoring (41:32).  Brighton Best International regional manager George Martinez previews the upcoming Pac-West fall conference (18:36).  On the Fastener Training Minute, veteran educator Carmen Vertullo launches a new series on thread tapping (1:11:04). PLUS: IFE manager Morgan Wilson talks golf and this year's Vegas show (32:46).  Brian off-shores himself while Eric warns against drinking the water. Run time: 01:54:45

The world approaches a precarious intersection with the advent of super AI.  AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin shares his thoughts and describes how new tech tools are already in use in the fastener industry (1:26:19).  BTM Manufacturing president Jake "Valdez" Davis and Elios Coffee proprietor Dan Smith explain the mission of U-Bolt Blend coffee (16:42).  Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (50:47). Fastener Professional of the Year Carmen Vertullo knows how to reverse hydrogen embrittlement.  Find out when it makes sense on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:34). BONUS: From the Naperville Fastener Association, GHIII and Bob "GQ" Baer preview this year's Rugged Maniac mud race and invite new team members to join the fun (44:44). Brian and Eric present an award of their own, then help some chickens cross the road. Run time: 02:05:02

Highlights and floor interviews from this year's Fastener Fair USA in Nashville.  Featuring interviews by the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey with Rich Cavoto, Jen Kushnir,  Jun Xu, Bob Chiricosta, Lonni Kieffer, Itzela Vasquez, Tony Martinez, GHIII, Baron Yarborough, Bernie Longen, Craig Penland, Laura Vath, Parker Jensen and many more. PLUS: Golf results and what is TBRW anyway? Run time: 01:05:39

Marine Fasteners CEO Dee Ward and ERP platform founder Bob Reynolds of INxSQL Software view the fastener industry from completely different angles, and share their insights on improving customer satisfaction for continued success (1:24:18).  Parker Fasteners senior manager Matt Boyd reports on the legendary Aerospace Hardware Sales Association bash and explains the mil-spec martini (14:43).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes AFC Industries VP of Sales, John Kovatch to examine the brutal results of the most recent FDI report (48:45).   Industry guru Carmen Vertullo presents rotation capacity testing on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:29).  Thanks to the blessing of internal combustion, Brian and Eric head for Nashville. Run time: 02:07:49

Like a skilled sommelier, Threaded Fasteners CEO Billy Duren uncorks The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, a new podcast designed to inspire, instruct and inform budding leaders (1:36:26). With his nose for success in the fastener game, John "Cool Hand" Butler avoids any sediment build-up after his recent course change, and shares a pleasing pairing of aromatic announcements prompting a surprise guest to appear (16:36).  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty welcomes Martin Fastening Solutions EVP Marc Strandquist to sample the latest full-bodied FDI report on the Fastener News Report (59:24).  On the Fastener Training Minute, vintage fastener guru Carmen Vertullo explains how to handle go/no go gauge discrepancies (1:31:22). PLUS: Who took home the IronClad gloves from the Beaver Combat Glove Contest ?  (2:17:22) Brian and Eric realize life is mostly a long pour of plonk, but they're not complaining. Run time: 02:23:30

As the fastener market adapts to unsettled circumstances, Endries International president and CEO Michael Knight engineers a strategy for continued growth (1:44:56).  Distributors report mostly positive sales last month, as Brighton Best president Jun Xu and news editor Mike McNulty dissect the FDI (and question an iron-fisted Fed) on the Fastener News Report (58:30).  Mike Robinson leads the NCFA to another year of solid trade events as he drives business for Star Stainless and trains for the next mud race extravaganza (16:18).  On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo dispells a common misconception about black oxide coatings (1:35:25).  PLUS: The Beaver Combat Glove Contest! Brian and Eric have different ideas about the future, but remain unified in their quest for the perfect fit.  Run time: 02:32:00

IFI Director of Training and senior fastener consultant, Laurence Claus describes a key challenge facing all fastener companies, the standards process, and his approach to bringing perspective to the industry (1:43:17).  Great Lakes Fasteners COO Brian Potasiewicz explains his rapid climb up the fastener learning curve, and offers constructive criticism of FCH (22:18).  On the Fastener News Report, Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer joins newsman Mike McNulty to consider mixed FDI results (51:32). Carmen Vertullo talks structural bolts, coatings and hydrogen embrittlement on the Fastener Training Minute (1:30:40). PLUS: TJ McFarland prepares for golf in Nashville while expanding market share for Goebel Fasteners (43:52). Brian and Eric have their own reasons for feeling a little off, but it's not the end of the world. Run time: 02:37:48

Premium locknut supplier J Lanfranco sees big opportunities appearing, as the cosmopolitan Jason Baines leads their North American push (1:47:01). Likewise, hard charger Matt Boyd is helping to guide Parker Fasteners forge ahead toward their vision of continued expansion and growth (28:28).  In contrast, the FDI took a dramatic hit to close the year just ended, and this time forward looking sentiment sagged as well.  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty discusses the details with Solution Industries GM Tim Vath on the Fastener News Report (1:09:46).  On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo talks salt spray testing for alloys. PLUS: Fastener Fair USA show manager Bob Chiricosta calls in from Nashville, site of the upcoming show (57:45).  Brian and Eric resolve to continue improving across the board, hopefully wearing new gloves. Run time: 02:36:03

Like a bobsled down a frozen precipice, the fastener industry streaks to the close of another blazing fast year. Fresh off the slopes, Mr. Charlie Kerr of Kerr Lakeside discovers a vexing industry development, and shares his approach to achieving top speed on skis (1:39:54).  Metric supplier Eurolink finishes the year with new beginnings, as CEO Craig Penland finds ways to expand during periods of upheaval (17:20).  The FDI changes direction as strong sales push a new rally, but will it last?  Senior news editor Mike McNulty welcomes AFC Industries VP of Sales John Kovatch to the Fastener News Report to discuss the unexpected uptick (56:46). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo teaches the fine art of monel passivation (1:26:28). BONUS: Scanwell Logistics analyst Chris Donnell explains why the train strike issue may still be an up hill battle (52:22).  Brian and Eric strive for seasonal jolliness even as all runs show black diamonds. Run time:  2:34:11

Selling fasteners begins by asking for the order, as Tim "Action" Jackson proved during an illustrious career in the thread game (1:30:37).  Newly appointed Marine Fasteners CEO Dee Ward asks his team for their best whenever he takes the field (15:31). Fastener newsman Mike McNulty asks about the decline of the FDI with Earnest CEO Kirk Zehnder on the Fastener News Report, then explains what it takes to stay happy during all economic circumstances (47:38). Carmen Vertullo breaks new ground as he discusses T & A as it pertains to stainless structural bolts on the Fastener Training Minute (1:19:01).  Meanwhile, Brian and Eric see the unfolding effects of applied modern monetary theory and wonder who is asking for what. Run time: 02:15:45

IFE is like no other show in the fastener industry, and this year's edition seemed a lot like "the good old days" without the carpeting.  The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey took her mic to the show floor and spoke to attendees from every part of the thread biz (9:34, 1:03:52).  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty presents the Fastener News Report and fires hard at the powers that should not be (37:24).  On the Fastener Training  Minute, industry educator Carmen Vertullo explains the facts of bolt stretching (50:10).  Plus: The FDI sinks & Trainageddon update!  Eric embraces the here and now as Brian galavants out west.  Run time: 01:36:07

Industry veteran Marc Strandquist announces a new mission with Sellside Group, helping fastener companies navigate the challenges of a market in flux.  David Kerr of Metal Resource Solutions warns of coming price hikes on European steel. Plus: Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing is quitting? Run time: 35:03

Has tragedy been narrowly averted or is the supply disruption train still racing down the track, set to impact business across the country? Scanwell Logistics freight forwarding expert Chris Donnell shares his view (16:31). On the other race front, Rugged Maniac team veterans Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing, Mike Robinson of Star Stainless and Brandi Bertoia of INxSQL Software recount their experience on the mud track, prefaced by Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer (1:38:55). Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty welcomes Baird analyst Quinn Fredrickson on the Fastener News Report to examine the highly unusual FDI results (1:01:15).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo explains the difference between drywall and wood screws. PLUS: International Fastener Expo manager Morgan Wilson reveals exciting details about the upcoming show in Vegas (46:30).  Brian and Eric wait patiently for their train, but at this point it's anyone's guess if it will arrive. Run time: 02:31:37