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The Best of the BBI with Chuck Culpepper of the Washington Post, Cats' Pause founder Oscar Combs and UK commit Matt Ponatoski...
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
Best of the BBI with radio personality Tony Cruise; (19:00) UK beat writer Ryan Black of the Courier-Journal and (39:00) UK football network radio analyst Jeff Piecoro in the garage with DG...
DG taking some time off - it's the Best of the BBI with UK hoops assistant Cody Fueger; (19:00) thoroughbred trainer Kenny McPeek; (31:00) retired jockey Robbie Albarado; (39:00) ex-Cat Van Hiles talks football; (59:00) Louisville-based writer Tim Sullivan talks Cats/Cards...
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
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
Gurus, what if one of the most overlooked causes of hospital harm—and cost—was also one of the most preventable? Meet Martin Burns, CEO of Bruin Biometrics, a leader in predictive diagnostics aiming to retire outdated wound care models. From the battlefields of hospital-acquired conditions to the boardrooms of investors, Martin is on a mission to reimagine pressure injury prevention through biology-based strategies, AI-driven insights, and a handheld device that can detect damage before it breaks the skin. In this episode, we dive into: How Martin transitioned from Deloitte consultant to startup CEO Why prevention still struggles to gain traction in a treatment-focused system The five-step “Formulas” strategy that propelled BBI toward becoming the new standard of care And why real innovation starts with listening—not just to data, but to patients and providers This isn't just about better tech—it's about creating healthcare systems that don't wait for harm to act. You will love the insights that Martin brings in this episode.
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
Best of the BBI (jury duty, don't you know) with Mark Pope, (19:00) new Wildcat Reece Potter, (39:00) Kenny Rice of NBC Sports and (59:00) Keith Farmer of BBN Tonight and WLEX
We examine UK's bid to the NCAA baseball tournament; then BEST OF the BBI with Mark Pope, Sean Woods, Merion Haskins and Anthony White
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
Welcome to another week full of valuable insights for transportation folks, and DJ Shirley of Baker Brothers Installations joins us to share what we should know about the warehousing industry! DJ discusses his time at TQL learning sales processes, the subsequent challenges he faced while attempting to start a brokerage, an overview of the rack integration business and its full-cycle solutions for warehouse needs, the growing trend towards used racking materials as a cost-saving measure, and the industry's safety concerns and rising lead times due to tariffs! This episode further explores project implementation processes and potential opportunities for freight brokers in warehousing projects. Be sure to listen to our conversation! About DJ Shirley DJ comes to BBI as a proven leader with extensive experience in both inside & outside sales along with operations. With a career that has predominantly been in the Third Party Logistics arena he has built numerous books of business by utilizing cold outreach accompanied by outbound marketing campaigns. In order to maintain efficiency DJ has adopted the mindset that every client relationship is a partnership which results in the details coming standard. Connect with DJ Website: https://bakerbrothersinstallations.com/ Email: djshirley@bakerbrothersinstallations.com
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
Breaking News! The 2025 TOR Title Sponsor DTM Powersports is now a House of Brands offering KTM, Husqvarna & GASGAS ! Full interview with co-owner and GM, Arret Dobson. Arret and his brother/co-owner Emory are the masterminds behind DTM. We also finally meet Chris, aka BBI with the FYI, and some how Women's Pro champ Emily Miller snuck in this one! This place knocked my socks off, absolutely beautiful dealership FULL of the things we all love…Bikes and Gear! I am privileged that they gave me a tour and honored that they wanted to announce their new dealer status with KTM here on the VOT podcast! Give it a listen, and get down to DTM, don't forget to mention the podcast! Stay tuned for full YouTube edit of the interview from Jonathan Miller @j_m_media_
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
John and Eric from BBI stop by and hang out with the Rush Crew to discuss the Giants 2025 season.
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
It's a special edition of the BBI as we look back on 2024: a shocking announcement from John Calipari; (20:00) the choice of successor was almost as surprising; (35:00) ex-Cats enthusiastically endorse Mark Pope; (39:00) UK baseball makes a historic run to Omaha; (51:00) another SEC title for the Volleyball Wildcats and the football Wildcats pull off one of the biggest upsets of the season but not much more; (1:01:00) Mark Pope's team produces a pair of impressive comebacks as the year concludes...
It's the best of the BBI with ESPN's Jimmy Dykes, (20:00) Hall of Fame coach Keith Madison, (39:00) Cats' Pause GM Darrell Bird and more...
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
It's a special edition of the BBI as we look back on an up-and-down football season, our broadcasts featuring a different "celebrity monologue" that opened each game.
It's awards time on the UK campus; (6:00) NFL QB and coaching moves in college football.; (19:00) Unforgettable Guard Sean Woods; ex-Cat Jay Shidler likes what he sees in this UK bkb team; (58:00) West End Bureau Chief Gary Moore + you should always play it safe, when there's a monster on the loose...
His teammates weren't surprised by Lamont Butler's performance vs UofL; (7:00) Bill Belichick already is lobbying for media coverage at UNC; (19:00) WKYT's Brian Milam on Ky HS basketball; (39:00) Ky HS legend J.R. Vanhoose on his alma mater, Marshall, forced to drop from its bowl game because of portal defections; (58:00) Hunter Mitchell wraps the UK volleyball season and a reminder - it's good to keep up with the jokes, son...
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.
It's a special edition of the BBI with the Chain Gang - Gold Glove winner Doug Flynn, UK Hall of Fame baseball coach Keith Madison, and UK Sports Network radio voice Darren Headrick joining DG in the garage to talk about Doug's pal and former teammate, Pete Rose. We also talk UK football and basketball, as well as music. As always, a lot of laughs and a lot of fun.
Ohtani's incredible, record-setting performance; Mark Stoops has seen improvement since the season opener; (18:00) Tom Leach/Jeff Piecoro preview UK-OU; (24:00) NFL Hall of Famer and ex-UK Dermontti Dawson on what he's seen in the Wildcats this season; (39:00) Courier-Journale beat writer Ryan Black joins us in the garage and (1:05:00) Heroes, Fools & Flakes as comedian Nikki Glaser makes an appearance both on Amazon Prime NFL coverage and the BBI...
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
080824 Thursday BEST OF DG on vacation so it's the Best of the BBI: why root for the Packers? (12:00) sportscaster Rob Bromley; (20:00) Shaq on The Joker; (30:00) Chuck on Caitlin Clark; (38:00) ex-UK OL Max Godby has gear for you; (1:00:00) LEX18's Kinsey Lee…
080624 Tuesday BEST OF DG on vacation so it's the Best of the BBI: former UK staffer, now Hall of Fame broadcaster Debbie Antonelli; (19:00) Ryan Black of the Courier-Journal; (38:00) UK Sports Network's Jeff Piecoro; (1:01:00) WLAP's Billy Rutledge on “Bogeys with Billy…”
080524 Monday BEST OF DG on vacation so it's the Best of the BBI; ex-Cat Josh Allen changes his name; (19:00) UK RHP Robert Hogan; (38:00) the TV/radio calls on the massive home run by Reds rookie Rece Hinds; (1:01:00) rx to OSU coach Mike Gundy's handling of a player DUI; (1:09:00) 1-on-1 w UK freshman Trent Noah…
Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay start the episode off by giving a quick statement on the BBI (11:27). Then, they talk about the passing of Florida rapper Julio Foolio, the aftermath, and the violence that affects youth in today's climate (22:39). Last, they talk about DJ LA Eyekon's comments about Mexican representation in rap (40:58) and the new batch of Trumpisms (55:10). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
This week Antoinette is joined by the Around the Way Curl Curmmunity's most requested guest, larger-than-life media personality, Van Lathan Jr. We begin by examining biracial identity with a breakdown of Van's newly formed Biracial Bureau of Investigation- the BBI & by discussing why he has declared himself the king of Antoinette & Shanti's hometown.For Politics as Usual, we deep dive into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Trump's recent 34 felony conviction, and the role of voting in our current political landscape.For Pop Culture, we focus solely on Van. He details a recent situation that required him to self-audit & publicly course-correct and delves into his personal reflections on how he, and society as a whole value masculinity & femininity. We end with our rapid-fire questions and a brief discussion on Black moms of biracial children mattering. Join us.Follow Van:IG: https://www.instagram.com/vanlathan/?hl=en X: https://x.com/VanLathanWatch Higher Learning Pod: https://www.youtube.com/@UCd-kgpmHsANRWOEuxiHyomg Listen to Midnight Boys pod: https://www.theringer.com/the-midnight-boys Buy Van's Book- Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation from your fave Black bookstore: https://bookshop.org/p/books/fat-crazy-and-tired-tales-from-the-trenches-of-transformation-van-lathan/18722943?ean=9780306923722 Listen to Van's book: Fat, Crazy, and Tired: Tales from the Trenches of Transformation: https://open.spotify.com/show/7CmdVSpUKGnjRNElc5tnxH?si=1920927d189a4af0 Watch his film Two Distance Strangers here: https://www.netflix.com/watch/81447229?trackId=14277281&tctx=-97%2C-97%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C%2C81447229%2CVideo%3A81447229%2C Contact Around the Way Curls:Follow us on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz6aYqKi7g-kZvFFWaxT2gQ Hotline: (215) 948-2780Discord: https://discord.gg/PjVjBBQuEmail: aroundthewaycurls@gmail.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/aroundthewaycurls for exclusive videos & bonus content00:00 The BBI: Exploring Biracial Identity06:09 Debating Zionism: Responsible Discourse and Understanding27:38 The Complexities of the US-Israel Relationship50:16 Trump's Legal Issues and Our Approach Voting01:03:28 Foreign Policy Realities and Political Decision-Making01:05:50 The Value of Women in Society01:38:37 The Importance of Accountability01:40:38 Exploring Masculinity and Self-Care01:45:00 Rapid Fire QuestionsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay start the show by talking about how they celebrated Mother's Day and how it was a huge day for the BBI (09:29). Then, they discuss the sizable student walk out during Jerry Seinfeld's Duke University commencement speech (15:01), before Van addresses the sentencing of his cousin and former basketball player, Glen Davis (50:27). Hosts: Van Lathan and Rachel Lindsay Producer: Ashleigh Smith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices