Podcasts about Machine shop

Some shop owners are born into machining. Others stumble into it through YouTube, side jobs, and a little bit of "sure, I think we can fit that D11 dozer cylinder on the mill." Leighton Hill's story has a little bit of all of it. In this episode of MakingChips, we continue our Gen CNC series with Leighton Hill of Hillco, a young shop owner from the Kansas City area who grew up around manual machines, learned CNC through hands-on experimentation, and is now building a real business from nights, weekends, Facebook groups, local relationships, and whatever work comes through the door. Leighton shares how his dad's hobby shop sparked his interest in machining, why he originally had no interest in CNC, and how a used Hurco mill changed the direction of his life. From a cramped two-car garage to a 40x60 shop, he's been slowly turning a family passion into a serious business opportunity. We dig into the realities of starting small: pricing jobs without overcomplicating it, finding work through word of mouth, learning from YouTube, quoting overflow work, considering job boards, and deciding when it makes sense to invest in new equipment. Leighton also talks about his goal of going full-time, possibly moving into a larger shared shop, and eventually building a small team around production and aerospace work. Because if you're not learning, quoting, building relationships, and making chips, you're not making money. Segments (0:00) How a Facebook machinist group unexpectedly led to a real customer (0:35) Introducing Leighton Hill of Hillco and the Gen CNC series (2:16) Leighton's journey from manual machining to learning CNC (7:02) Starting Hillco as a side business and building momentum (8:55) Expanding into job shop work and growing into a 40x60 shop (10:20) Why we love the quality of SMW Autoblok's workholding  (11:06) Hillco's current machine lineup and capabilities (13:10) Learning machining through YouTube, mentors, and hands-on experience (16:40) Finding early work through word of mouth, neighbors, and Facebook groups (18:19) Considering job boards and overflow work as a learning opportunity (21:13) How Leighton approaches pricing, quoting, and simple job estimating (23:46) Exploring AI-assisted quoting and CAM tools like Toolpath (29:02) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders (and why you should use it) (30:34) Starting the LLC with low overhead and support from family (32:12) Thinking through ROI before investing in a CNC lathe (33:26) Leighton's goal to take Hillco full-time within the next year (36:35) Taking on any work early, then learning what to specialize in (37:27) Why walk-in repair work can lead to long-term production customers (41:54) Get a free report of sales opportunities in your area from FacturMFG.com/chips (43:00) Advice for young machinists who want to get started (44:55) Leighton's five-to-ten-year vision for Hillco (47:19) Building credibility with a website, Google profile, and customer reviews Resources mentioned on this episode Why we love the quality of SMW Autoblok's workholding  Why we created Hire MFG Leaders (and why you should use it) Get a free report of sales opportunities in your area from FacturMFG.com/chips TITANS of CNC Toolpath CloudNC Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Calvo is back for round two — this time we're diving deep into the Lamborghini Huracan platform, new business ventures, an update on the drag and drive car, TX2K recap, and much more. T ake your build up a whole new level with 6XD Gearbox: https://6xdgearbox.com Code "Minnoxide5" for 5% off High Performance Academy: https://hpcdmy.co/Minnoxide Use code "MINNOX" for 55% off ANY course Use Code "MINVIP" for $300 of the MINVIP Package Tuned By Shawn: https://www.tunedbyshawn.com Code "Minnoxide" for 5% off! Ship With Sure Thing Logistics: https://www.surethinglogistics.net MORE BIGGER Turbo T-Shirts:  https://www.minnoxide.com/products/more-bigger-t-shirt 00:00 Getting Into Lamborghinis/R8 Platform and How the Performante Build Started 8:42 Viper vs. Lambo Engine Complexity 15:13 Industry Collaboration, Tony at T1, AMS, and Sheepy 20:24 Dave's Performante Build: First Passes, Issues, and Promising Results 23:33 Hart's Turbos and the Turbo Insights 27:51 Using Your Own Car as the Guinea Pig, R&D Philosophy 30:24 The Future Of Calvo Motorsports 36:24 The Machine Shop, Capabilities and In-House Control 44:26 Fabricio's Billet Block Viper 1:10:17 Drag & Drive Viper Update 1:19:25 2JZ Engine's, Customer Vetting & Mechanical Sympathy 1:28:49 Anti-Lag Abuse, Customer Education, and the True Cost of Breaking Your Car 1:47:53 Lamborghini Market, Underground's 260 Record, Half Mile Speed Reality Check

How much does deburring really affect the quality, reliability, and performance of your parts?In this episode of Race Industry Now, host Joe Castello (WFO Radio) sits down with Nick Prohl, Marketing & Sales at SHAVIV, for an in-depth technical discussion on precision deburring and why it remains one of the most important yet overlooked steps in the manufacturing process.Whether you're machining engine components, fabricating chassis parts, producing aerospace components, building race cars, or operating a machine shop, proper deburring can dramatically improve part fitment, assembly efficiency, safety, durability, and overall product quality.Topics covered include:✅ Deburring fundamentals and best practices✅ How burrs impact quality, reliability, and performance✅ Deburring tools for holes, edges, tubing, and sheet metal✅ High-Speed Steel, Cobalt, Carbide, TiN-Coated, and Diamond blades✅ Countersinking techniques and hole finishing✅ Deburring stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, plastics, and composites✅ Specialized tools for fabrication and manufacturing environments✅ Improving productivity while maintaining dimensional accuracy✅ Common deburring mistakes and how to avoid themSHAVIV demonstrates several innovative deburring solutions designed to help manufacturers, race teams, engine builders, fabricators, and machine shops achieve cleaner edges, safer parts, and more consistent results.Whether you're working in motorsports, performance automotive, aerospace, industrial manufacturing, CNC machining, or fabrication, this webinar provides valuable insights into a critical finishing process that directly impacts product quality and long-term reliability.

Pepper and Woody from C.O.C. came on to discuss their latest albums, Good God/Baad Man. It's an all-out guitar assault, and I recommend it! I had to ask them about the Live Volume album, which was recorded on April 20th, 2001, at the local concert theater, Harpos. We discuss the recording of the album. The initial process for the record began about 3 years ago. The boys were jamming guitars, drinking beers, and were off and running. Peper said they wanted to "cause a stink". LOL The guys said it was a fun record to make. Woody referred to it as easier than other albums. "We didn't have to answer to anyone", Pepper said. We also talked about the tour they did with Metallica in 1997. When they played here at the Palace of Auburn Hills. At one of those shows, James Hetfield joined them on stage. Ted Nugent also joined Metallica on stage, as the guys recalled that too. As I record this podcast, the band is playing The Machine Shop on Tuesday, May 12th. They have a lot of shows coming up in support of the new album, including tons of U.K. gigs throughout the month of June. A huge Thank You to Pep and Woody for calling in!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does the next generation of manufacturing ownership really look like? In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Mason Nicholas, a 21-year-old shop owner who's building his business one machine, one customer, and one sleepless night at a time. His journey didn't start with a formal apprenticeship or engineering degree. It started with motorcycles, model cars, a 3D printer, and a curiosity about how things are made. Mason walks through the unconventional path that led him into machining, from teaching himself CAD during COVID to interning in multiple shops while still in high school. Along the way, he learned programming, fixturing, production workflows, and the realities of shop life. That hands-on exposure eventually turned into entrepreneurial ambition, and before long he was running parts at night on a CNC knee mill, chasing work, and learning the business the hard way. The conversation dives deep into the realities of starting a shop young. Mason shares how he bootstrapped his first Haas, balanced customer work with learning, and navigated common early mistakes like chasing low-margin work and trying to be everything to everyone. The hosts also unpack the importance of niching down, building cash reserves, and choosing a long-term strategy instead of chasing short-term revenue. Looking ahead, Mason outlines his vision for building a specialized aerospace and defense shop, investing in five-axis capability, and eventually creating a talent pipeline to bring new people into manufacturing. It's an honest conversation about ambition, discipline, and what it takes to turn passion into a sustainable manufacturing business. Segments (0:00) Mason Nicholas and his unconventional path into manufacturing (3:54) Learning machining through high school programs and internships (6:52) Running parts at night, landing his first customers, and early job costing mistakes (9:57) Buying his first Haas and officially launching the business (11:33) Leaving his job and committing to entrepreneurship (14:45) Check out the Hennig WorkFlow Automated Pallet Delivery System (15:35) What his one-man shop looks like today (19:19) First IMTS experience and seeing the industry's scale (20:34) Head to the DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits event (21:33) Bootstrapping growth and reinvesting into tooling and equipment (23:14) Deciding when to buy the next machine (25:09) Paperless Parts is built for shops preparing for CMMC Level II  (26:58) One-man shop realities and five-year growth vision (29:10) Creating a future talent pipeline and second shop concept (31:31) Technology, certifications, and preparing for aerospace work (33:16) Lights-out machining and maximizing spindle uptime (36:44) Cash flow discipline and managing capital-intensive growth (42:49) Advice for new shop owners on niching down Resources mentioned on this episode Cherry Creek Innovation Campus Hennig WorkFlow Automated Pallet Delivery System Head to the DN Solutions Manufacturing Without Limits event Verdant Commercial Capital Paperless Parts is built for shops preparing for CMMC Level II  Nathan Bourgeois - Owner at Ouroboros Space and Defense Mace MFG Connect with Mason on LinkedIn   Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Check out Tweak: https://www.tweakuk.com/He has one quote on his Instagram. "We do a bit of welding."But without that bit of welding, the entire automotive YouTube scene would grind to a halt.Bob from the Machine Shop is the man behind the fixes you never see coming. The Irishman who sold everything he owned, rode to England in the snow with £70 in his pocket, knocked on Mat Armstrong's door without knowing who he was, and ended up in Miami rebuilding a multi-million pound Bugatti Chiron — a car he openly admits he has no interest in.In this episode Bob sits down for the most in depth conversation he's ever had on camera. We get into how he really met Mat Armstrong, what it was actually like to work on the Bugatti with Matteo Rimac saying it couldn't be done in a workshop, the £38,000 tax debt he went public about, why he hates working on cars despite being the man every automotive YouTuber calls when things go wrong, and the thing he deals with every single morning that nobody talks about.This one is different. Don't skip it.Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for more exciting content about your favourite shows and celebrities. Hit the bell icon to stay updated on all our latest episodes

Don't get to the end of this year wishing you had taken action to change your business and your life.Click here to schedule a free discovery call for your business: https://geni.us/IFORABEDon't miss an upcoming event with The Institute: https://geni.us/InstituteEvents2026Shop-Ware gives you the tools to provide your shop with everything needed to become optimally profitable.Click here to schedule a free demo: https://info.shop-ware.com/profitabilityTransform your shop's marketing with the best in the automotive industry, Shop Marketing Pros!Get a free audit of your shop's current marketing by clicking here: https://geni.us/ShopMarketingProsShop owners, are you ready to simplify your business operations? Meet 360 Payments, your one-stop solution for effortless payment processing.Imagine this—no more juggling receipts, staplers, or endless paperwork. With 360 Payments, you get everything integrated into a single, sleek digital platform.Simplify payments. Streamline operations. Check out 360payments.com today!In this episode, Lucas and David are joined by David Veldman, who shares his personal journey coping with the recent loss of his father and its impact on his direction and motivation in the automotive repair business. The conversation explores how major life events, such as grief or health struggles, can affect business owners, especially those without strong support systems or sustainable operations. David Roman provides a contrasting perspective, emphasizing the importance of shifting focus toward the next generation and building a business that can survive without constant owner involvement.00:00 "Grieving Without a Rudder"10:05 "Finding Aim Through Adversity"12:08 "Finding Direction and Motivation"17:14 "Dad's Varied Career Path"24:37 Machine Shop Succession Challenges30:13 "The Box That Changed Me"34:50 Efficient Flywheel Machining Strategy39:58 "Importance of Knowledge and Processes"47:09 "Pay Taxes Like an Employee"51:14 "Tax Payment Delays Explained"57:40 "Sad Start, Weird Ending"01:03:03 Lakeside Anniversary Offer01:04:49 "Possible Marijuana Overdose"

Hans Keisler from Motor Control Technology joins the podcast to talk about his path through the machining trade — from working at Lockheed to building his own aerospace-focused machine shop.We get into what it's really like working in a union shop, the differences between big aerospace companies and small job shops, and what it takes to go from a one-man operation to hiring employees.Hans also shares the reality of chasing aerospace and defense work — certifications, compliance, IT requirements, and all the behind-the-scenes work that most machinists never see.It's an honest conversation about building a shop, navigating the industry, and trying to make cool hardware that ends up on some pretty serious projects.

Buying a machine shop from the outside can sound intimidating. For Nik and Aaron of Mahler Machining, it was also an opportunity. In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, Paul sits down with the two partners who acquired a precision machining business in Vancouver, British Columbia after spending nearly a decade in corporate finance and private equity. Instead of continuing to advise businesses from the outside, they decided to own and operate one themselves. Their search led them to manufacturing, and ultimately to Mahler Machining, a shop they believed had the foundation to grow into something much larger. What makes this conversation especially valuable is the playbook they share for buying a machine shop the right way. From structuring the deal with the retiring owners, to spending their entire first year on the shop floor learning the business, to intentionally investing in culture, systems, and leadership, Nik and Aaron walk through how they approached the transition. Their story shows how disciplined operators from outside the industry can successfully step into manufacturing ownership while earning the trust of the team already in place. Since acquiring the business, they've implemented major operational improvements, including adding a third shift, investing in new equipment, building a formal sales engine, implementing ERP, and even completing a tuck-in acquisition of another small shop. The result has been consistent growth while laying the groundwork for entry into aerospace and defense markets. For anyone thinking about buying a machine shop, scaling one beyond the typical owner-operator ceiling, or preparing their own shop for acquisition someday, this episode provides a rare behind-the-scenes look at how thoughtful operators approach the process. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:51) Paul introduces Nik and Aaron from Mahler Machining and explains why their acquisition story matters for the future of the industry (3:29) Growing up together, careers in corporate finance, and the decision to pursue business ownership (6:25) Why manufacturing and precision machining stood out as the right industry to enter (9:50) Structuring the acquisition and navigating the transition (12:25) Why we love SMW Autoblok for workholding (13:12) Learning the business, early operational improvements, and plans for long-term growth (19:21) Why diversification across industries and customers is critical to reduce risk (21:30) Building a disciplined sales engine using CRM, metrics, and persistence (23:58) Developing machinists through partnerships with technical colleges and apprenticeship programs (27:31) Shifting company culture toward learning, psychological safety, and clearly defined core values (31:23) Operational improvements including quality control upgrades and stronger sales efforts (34:47) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) (35:28) Managing change and helping employees adapt to ERP implementation (38:35) Recruiting challenges and building the next generation of machinists (41:20) The unforgettable first day of ownership… (42:32) Investing ahead of growth and building a leadership team for scale (47:12) Integrating employees after acquiring another shop (48:21) Advice for future buyers: go slow in year one so you can move faster later (49:26) Why they remain bullish on the long-term future of precision machining (53:47) Join us at IMTS 2026 in Chicago!  Resources & People Mentioned The Gap and the Gain SMW Autoblok Join us at IMTS 2026 in Chicago!  CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Connect with Nik and Aaron with Mahler Machining Mahler Machine Nik Paukkunen Aaron Kennedy Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify

Taking over a family machine shop is never just a business decision. It's personal. In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Nubia Perez of Gretna Machine Shop to talk about what it really means to carry a founder's legacy forward while finding the courage to lead in your own way. Nubia shares the origin story of Gretna Machine Shop, founded by her father after immigrating to the U.S. with little more than a suitcase and a trade. What began in a small garage evolved into a respected Houston-based precision machining company serving oil and gas, aerospace, and defense. But the journey wasn't linear, and it wasn't easy. After her father's health declined and he passed away shortly after Nubia joined the business, she was left to navigate leadership without the long runway many second-generation owners get. For nearly a decade, she focused on administration, growth initiatives, and diversification, without fully stepping into the role of CEO. Those years, which she candidly refers to as "the dark years," revealed a hard truth: the business didn't just need management, it needed vision. This conversation explores Nubia's transformation from reluctant successor to confident leader. We talk about imposter syndrome, EOS, values-based leadership, mindful manufacturing, and how culture changes when the stress comes from the work instead of the people. It's an honest, human story about growth, grief, responsibility, and learning to lead as yourself — not as a replica of the generation before you. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Why separating people from problems changes how teams handle stress (0:55) Introducing Nubia Perez and Gretna Machine Shop (3:01) A snapshot of Gretna today, including industries served and ownership structure (3:53) Gretna's founding and the early days in Houston (6:43) Nubia's career outside manufacturing and resisting the family business (7:51) Joining the shop, starting an MBA, and losing her father months later (10:43) Why you should check out the SMW Autoblok catalog (11:58) Growing up around the shop and parental expectations (13:36) Learning to love manufacturing and seeing the shop as a place of opportunity (17:27) The "dark years" after taking over without clear leadership or vision (18:26) Moving facilities and early efforts to professionalize the business (21:01) Realizing the business needed a true CEO, not just administrators (24:01) Stepping into leadership through observation, listening, and learning (25:47) How her father's health shaped Gretna's culture and focus on wellness (28:49) Mark your calendars and come see us at IMTS 2026! (29:45) Hiring, firing, and promoting based on values, not just performance (32:47) Diversifying beyond oil and gas into aerospace and defense (37:00) Using feedback loops to learn from both failures and wins (41:16) Lean thinking, operational waste, and continuous improvement in practice (44:07) Using EOS scorecards and Level 10 meetings to drive accountability (46:27) Turning metrics and root cause analysis into real action (48:42) How to get ProShop's guide to help you achieve on-time delivery  (50:11) Workforce development challenges and investing in apprenticeships (54:03) Building culture through shared routines and leadership team trust (57:28) Embracing authentic leadership and letting go of imposter syndrome (1:03:46) How to connect with Gretna Machine Shop and Nubia Perez Resources & People Mentioned Capital IDEA Houston NTMA  SMW Autoblok catalog IMTS 2026 ProShop's on-time delivery guide  Connect with Nubia Perez Connect on LinkedIn Gretna Machine Shop Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Reaching 100 episodes is more than a milestone. It's a moment to step back and recognize what's been built together. In this special compilation episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I reflect on the most powerful ideas, lessons, and human stories that emerged from the first 99 conversations with shop owners and manufacturing leaders across the industry. When this podcast started, I thought we were chasing a simple question: what makes great shops great? What became clear over time is that we weren't really talking about machines or parts at all. We were talking about responsibility, sacrifice, leadership, and the human soul of the American economy. Over these episodes, we've heard from owners who sold their homes to save their businesses, leaders who risked everything to protect their teams, and families who carried legacies forward through loss and adversity. This episode brings together those lessons into a set of foundational pillars that show up again and again in successful shops. The power of process. The importance of culture and core values. The strategic advantage of planning. And the discipline required to build a business that doesn't rely entirely on its owner. These aren't theories. They're lived experiences shared by people who have felt the weight of ownership firsthand. You'll also hear moments of generosity, resilience, and community that rarely make it into business playbooks. Stories of competitors helping competitors, leaders choosing people over profit, and shop owners who understand that a rising tide truly lifts all boats. Together, these stories form something bigger than a highlight reel. They represent a body of collective wisdom. This episode isn't a finish line. It's a marker. A thank-you to the guests who trusted me with their stories, and to the listeners who show up every week to learn, reflect, and grow. Here are some of the best ideas from the first 99 episodes of Machine Shop Mastery. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... Compelling question or topic, written to elicit curiosity  (3:30) Scott Shortess: Process as the foundation of operational excellence (5:30) Dave Capkovitz: Trusting the process more than your gut (7:00) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders (7:25) Introducing Pillar #2: Culture and core values (8:19) Culture as something practiced daily, not written on a wall (9:35) Using values to guide hard people decisions (12:58) How culture, values, and people drive the success of a business (16:19) Why strong culture carries teams through adversity (16:53) Introducing Pillar #3: Planning as a strategic advantage (17:24) The cost of poor planning on the shop floor (21:19) Investing in planning and engineering to unlock throughput (23:49) "Sharpen the axe" thinking and why preparation pays off (25:39) Get a free custom report from Factur for real opportunities in your industry (26:43) Introducing Pillar #4: Building a business that doesn't depend on the owner (27:19) Running a shop as if it will one day be sold (29:58) Why many shops struggle with succession and exit readiness (32:08) Delegation, trust, and letting leaders emerge (40:15) Stories of sacrifice, resilience, and personal cost behind success (45:30) The human moments that drive manufacturing onward (50:11) Final reflections on leadership, legacy, and responsibility (51:36) Join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor workshop Resources & People Mentioned 1. Process is King! Serving Clients Through Process Improvements with Scott Shortess 4. The Power of Investing in People - Lessons from Jamie Spitzer 9. Going All-In on Community Engagement and Workforce Development 15. A Masterclass In Machine Shop Ownership with Aneesa Muthana 19. Building a World-Class Shop with Brad Keselowski 22. Vision and Values-Based Leadership with Eric and John from KMM Group 28. How to Delegate Yourself Out of a Job with David Hannah 35. Steep Learning Curve of a Successful Machine Shop with Dave Capkovitz 39. Caring Your Way to Success with Kody Guidry 42. Making Precision Moves in Building a Highly Successful Machine Shop 58. How to Find, Buy, & Grow a Shop with Mike Fritz Get a free custom report from Factur for real opportunities in your industry Use Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire Join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor workshop Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Hey everyone! Today we sat with Alberto of Munoz Performance Heads. Alberto has a very funny social media account called @SBmachineShop. I recently started see more and more of his content and I became intrigued. Come to find out that Alberto actually inherited San Bernardino Machine Shop from his father who passed away from cancer. His brother was set to be the next in line to keep SB Machine Shop running but his untimely passing left Alberto next in line to keep the shop running. He took an unfortunate set of events and managed to create something special where the likes of Bisimoto and Sheepey Race work with him and his machine shop to this day. I am very grateful to have Alberto share his story with me and I am inspired by what he has created. Please makes sure to show him some love. Thank you, Alberto! Guest: @SBmachineShop Host: @Frank_Downstar Supported by: @Downstar @Downstar_Skate ​ Downstarinc.com HyperURL.co/Downstar @DowntimeWithDownstar

We've kicked off a lot of years on MakingChips, but never quite like this. To start 2026, we decided to try something completely different. Instead of bringing on a shop owner, a technology provider, or an industry expert, Mike and Paul invited three artificial intelligence chatbots to join the conversation. No prep calls. No talking points. Just live questions and real-time answers from Miles (from Sesame), Gemini, and ChatGPT. The result was equal parts fascinating, funny, and just a little bit eerie. In this episode, we explore what happens when you ask AI the same kinds of questions we ask manufacturing leaders every week. What should machine shops focus on in 2026? How do you increase throughput? Where is growth coming from? And can a chatbot actually understand culture, leadership, and systems inside a machine shop? Along the way, we react in real time to the different personalities and strengths of each tool. Miles sounds uncannily human and leans hard into people and culture. Gemini delivers concise, structured answers around automation and data. ChatGPT takes a broader strategic view of markets, customers, and growth opportunities. Each one brings something different to the table, and none of them sound quite the same. This episode isn't about replacing human judgment or experience. It's about curiosity. It's about new tools. And it's about kicking off the year with a reminder that learning, experimentation, and asking better questions still matter, whether those questions are aimed at a peer, a mentor, or an AI. If you're looking for a lighthearted but thought-provoking way to start 2026, this one's for you. Segments (0:00) Kicking off the episode and setting up a very different kind of guest (1:22) Why we decided to interview AI to start the year (2:50) Asking Miles: the top three things machine shops should do to succeed (4:55) How Factur can generate new opportunities for your shop (6:00) Reacting to AI advice on people, data, and flexibility (7:13) Digging deeper with Miles on culture, mission, and core values (11:50) Bringing on Gemini and asking about maximizing throughput in 2026 (13:20) Automation, machine monitoring, and practical first steps (15:21) AI search, discoverability, and how customers may find shops in the future (16:21) Why you need to join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop (18:29) Real-world experiences with machine monitoring and productivity gains (19:38) Bringing in ChatGPT to talk sales growth and new markets (22:36) Growth sectors and what may accelerate in the years ahead (24:11) Practical strategies for breaking into new customers and markets (27:19) Reflecting on how far AI tools have come in just a few years (28:36) Letting AI summarize lessons from decades of machine shop conversations (32:15) Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for outside processing (33:30) Reacting to AI-generated insights on people, process, and growth (34:08) Final takeaways and why curiosity still matters Resources mentioned on this episode Get a free report about the opportunities available to you at Facturmfg.com/chips Join us at the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop MakingChips Interviews ChatGPT about Manufacturing Leadership, 342 Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for outside processing Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

As we close out 2025, we're wrapping up more than just a year. This episode marks the conclusion of the Machine Shop MBA series, a collaboration with CLA and Modern Machine Shop built around insights from the Top Shops benchmarking program. What started as a practical exploration of shop metrics ends with a much bigger question: what truly separates shops that survive from shops that endure? For this final chapter, we're joined again by Brent Donaldson of Modern Machine Shop, who helped kick off the series earlier in the year. Drawing from hundreds of shop visits and years of benchmarking data, Brent helps us connect the dots across operations, finance, leadership, and strategy. Together, we reflect on a clear shift happening across manufacturing: moving away from pure "rise and grind" thinking and toward intentionally designed systems. Throughout the episode, we revisit five deceptively simple questions pulled directly from the Top Shops survey. These questions challenge assumptions and expose where real opportunity lives. From RFQ response time and revenue per employee to reinvestment discipline, standardized scheduling, and succession planning, each one reinforces a central theme we've explored all year. Rather than chasing the next machine or relying on one big customer, the most resilient shops we see are building repeatable processes, measuring what matters, and reducing dependence on tribal knowledge. This conversation serves as both a reflection on what we've learned through the Machine Shop MBA series and a call to action as we head into 2026. If there's one takeaway we hope sticks, it's this: the shops that last aren't just collections of people and equipment. They are systems. Designed on purpose. Improved on purpose. And built to outlast any one individual. Segments (0:00) Wrapping up 2025 and closing out the Machine Shop MBA series (0:36) Why we created the series and partnered with CLA and Modern Machine Shop (2:25) Why you need to head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop (4:34) The shift from viewing shops as machines and people to viewing them as systems (7:52) Moving from survival mode to disciplined, systems-based thinking (12:33) Top Shops Question #1: RFQ response time as a competitive advantage (15:55) Top Shops Question #2: Revenue per employee as a true efficiency metric (17:15) What's Your Method? The unique financing process with Methods Machine Tools (26:47) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) (27:37) How automation, workholding, and systems increase output per person (32:16) Top Shops Question #3: Reinvesting in equipment, software, and training (36:50) Why consistent reinvestment beats sporadic big spending (37:51) Top Shops Question #4: Standardized scheduling versus tribal knowledge (40:22) How poor systems create stress and constant firefighting (43:05) Top Shops Question #5: Leadership and ownership transition planning (46:01) The Top Shops 2026 Benchmarking survey opens February 1st, 2026 (47:27) How benchmarking accelerates maturity and reveals real gaps (48:19) How we use the Top Shops survey as part of annual strategic planning (49:19) Looking ahead to 2026 and continued collaboration (50:00) Why we love the SMW Autoblok catalog and quality (51:11) Final call to action and why benchmarking matters Resources mentioned on this episode Why you need to head to the 2026 IMTS Exhibitor Workshop What's Your Method? The financing process with Methods Machine Tools The Top Shops 2026 Benchmarking survey opens February 1st, 2026 Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog and quality Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Some conversations stay with you long after you hit "stop" on the recorder—and my time with Gabe Draper is absolutely one of them. I've known Gabe for years, but I never fully understood the depth of the journey he endured as he attempted to take over, stabilize, and ultimately shut down the family machine shop. His story isn't just informative; it's gut-wrenching, enlightening, and, ultimately, incredibly redemptive. In this episode, Gabe walks me through the emotional roller coaster of trying to save a failing shop, the painful impact of relying too heavily on one industry, and the personal toll that comes with missing payroll, laying off loyal teammates, and breaking the news to family. He opens up about the lowest day of his life—standing in a bank beside his pregnant wife, signing loan documents just to keep the lights on. It's raw. It's honest. And it's a reality far too many shops live too close to. But this isn't a story of defeat. Gabe's experience became the crucible that forged his passion for helping job shops grow. Today, he's the CEO of Factur, a company dedicated to solving the exact problem that led to his shop's collapse: the lack of consistent, proactive sales. The contrast between where he's been and where he's landed is powerful, and it's a reminder that failure—while brutal—can become one of our greatest teachers. My hope in sharing Gabe's story is simple: to help other shop owners avoid the same painful outcomes, especially when the warning signs are subtle. This episode is a cautionary tale, a leadership lesson, and, ultimately, a story of resilience. I'm grateful Gabe trusted this community enough to tell it.  You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:54) Paul sets the stage: why Gabe's story matters (2:51) Gabe introduces himself and shares his manufacturing lineage (5:55) Taking over the struggling family shop (7:02) Check out the SMW catalog for effective workholding (7:45) Chasing revenue and landing major oil & gas work (10:00) Attempting DIY automation to keep up with demand (11:17) Six years of financial strain and missed payroll (13:25) Raising money and carrying the weight of debt (15:03) Slow diversification and overexposure to oil & gas (17:01) Closing the shop and the personal and professional impact (21:21) Managers launching their own shop using Gabe's equipment (23:11) The birth of Gabe's son and preparing for what becomes a disastrous auction (26:05) Facing investors, vendors, and friends with honesty (27:30) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders — and why you should use it (27:57) Selling for other shops out of necessity — the seed for Factur (29:12) How Gabe learned to sell and the fundamentals of shop sales (32:42) Why every shop must look credible online (34:07) Maximizing current customers and referrals (35:10) Networking outside the shop to drive growth (37:45) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (38:23) Why you must always sell — especially when busy (42:04) The "valley of death" between $5M–$10M (43:58) The essential role of manufacturing (46:46) The three-legged stool: operations, finance, sales Resources & People Mentioned Check out the SMW catalog for effective workholding Why we created Hire MFG Leaders — and why you should use it Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Connect with Gabe Draper Facturmfg.com Gabe@facturmfg.com Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Buying a machine shop is never simple — and for Matt Fortner, it was a leap into the unknown. Coming from backgrounds in plumbing, industrial fittings, product development, and even scrap metal buying, Matt felt a pull to get back to "building something real." That pull led him to Progress Machining in Muskegon, Michigan — a shop he became the fifth person to attempt purchasing. Once inside, Matt quickly realized how much transformation the business needed. The shop was filled with aging machines, tribal knowledge, and 60 tons of accumulated scrap and unused tooling. Setups stretched to 12 hours, processes were inconsistent, and workflow relied heavily on memory. But instead of being overwhelmed, Matt leaned on his lean training, curiosity, and sheer persistence. He started running SMED events, reorganizing tools, improving fixtures, standardizing processes, and slowly bringing the shop into a more modern, efficient operation. In this episode, Matt shares the candid story of acquiring and rebuilding a legacy shop — from financing challenges and navigating the previous owner's quirks, to learning machining concepts from scratch, to discovering the stark difference between profit and cashflow. His journey is honest, relatable, and full of practical lessons for anyone considering buying a shop or transforming the one they lead today. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (1:04) Paul opens the episode and introduces guest Matt Fortner (2:58) Matt shares how MakingChips impacted him (5:17) Matt's background and career trajectory  (9:59) Why Matt chose to buy a machine shop (13:18) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA (14:00) How Matt found Progress Machining and his first walkthrough (15:43) Financing the purchase — ROBS program, SBA loan, personal collateral (18:00) The previous owner's negotiation stories and getting the deal closed (22:10) Shop size at purchase and the early financial picture (22:58) Hidden operational problems, decades of disorganization, aging machines, and tribal knowledge (24:56) Lean principles, 5S, and uncovering the shop's physical layout (27:27) Why we love Verdant Commercial Capital for financing  (28:20) Lack of process, preventative maintenance, and organizational structure (29:56) Job costing, categorizing expenses, professionalizing accounting (31:20) Starting to eliminate outdated machines and processes (33:01) Deep dive into SMED — mapping a 12-hour setup step-by-step (36:39) Quadrant model of technical knowledge and removing tribal barriers (40:36) Workholding Wisdom: Is setup reduction a buzzword?  (51:14) How Matt learned machining concepts as a non-machinist (52:54) Setup reduction principles and universal best practices (55:30) Buying new equipment to replace maintenance-heavy machines (59:56) Cashflow vs profitability lessons during equipment purchases (1:02:35) Big wins — consolidating operations into fewer setups with automation (1:03:16) Paul reinforces the importance of understanding cashflow in shop ownership  (1:04:36) Check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire  (1:05:04) How Matt tackles workforce development and hiring (1:05:50) How an MEP program helped Matt tackle a difficult problem (1:08:46) Matt's biggest piece of advice for shop owners (1:11:43) Defining company values and whether they evolve over time Resources & People Mentioned Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Why we love Verdant Commercial Capital for financing  Workholding Wisdom brought to you by SMW Autoblok Check out Hire MFG Leaders for your next hire  Connect with Matt Fortner Connect on LinkedIn Progress Machining  Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify

This week on the Roach Koach Podcast its the big preview of the 2025 edition Louisville Loves Nu-Metal/Emo night at Headliners Music Hall in Louisville, KY. Lorin sits down with Zack and Brian of the newly christened LLP Events to talk all about the upcoming show. The guys talk about keeping the show fresh, the future of the franchise, partnering with Danny Wimmer Productions, and also announce the host of Nu-Metal Night. Who could it be? Also, Lorin and Matt talk Matt's Boots on the Ground experience at Primer 55 at The Machine Shop, the possibility of a B-sides episode, excitement for the new My Ticket Home album, and of course Rippers for Roaches 2.Take a listen!Louisville Loves Nu-Metal and Louisville Loves Emo are taking place Friday December 5th and Saturday December 6th 2025 at Headliners in Louisville KY. Get your tickets today!The Crack, the Butt Rock Bracket is here on the Roach Koach Patreon! Subscribe today! Rate, review, and follow Roach Koach on Apple Podcasts and Spotify! We'd appreciate it! Questions about the show? Have album recommendations? Just want to say hi? We'd love to hear from you! Contact the show @RoachKoach on Twitter, Roach Koach on Facebook , Roach Koach on Instagram, or send an email to RoachKoachPodcast at Gmail. Follow the show on Youtube and TikTok! Find every episode of Roach Koach and order your Roach Koach T-shirt at Roach Koach dot com.

Dear Reader, In this Thanksgiving season, I just wanted to take a moment to express gratitude I've been feeling for three people here on Substack that I admire, and who have helped me to connect with a bunch of you.Carson Ellis Carson is a busy artist / illustrator and children's book author, but when I asked her for her take on Substack almost two years ago she emailed back the same day with a 600 word email. At some point between then and now she added Soundwalk to the recommendations that appear in the sidebar of her newsletter, Slowpoke. In the interim nearly one in five of my subscribers found me through her! That knocked my socks off. It's a testament to the naturally curious people that gravitate to her and her amazing work. Three cheers for Carson Ellis!Rowen Brooke I was immediately curious about Rowen's fast-growing newsletter, Field Notes, from its title. Her posts relate her observations, challenges and insights in pursuit of becoming both a regenerative flower farmer & florist and aspiring naturalist. Her recent posts indicate a measured advance toward the latter, given the sensory detail emerging in her writing. Rowen's past recommendation of Soundwalk points to nearly one in ten subscribers finding me through Field Notes. Thanks Rowen! Colin Meloy Colin is the frontman for The Decemberists, the author of many books, and is married to Carson Ellis. You'd be forgiven for thinking he couldn't possibly sound like his writing in real life, given his ability to weave in some impressive and uncommon vocabulary words in his newsletter, Colin Meloy's Machine Shop, but I'm here to tell you that he does. He writes like he talks, folks. Colin slipped Soundwalk into a little list he worked up for the official guest-authored compendium The Substack Post halfway through 2024. I recollect my subscriber count jumped by well over 100 overnight! A generous inclusion, to be sure. Thanks Meloy! It really underscores how meaningful word-of-mouth is to someone like me. If you're reading this and found me through a recommendation, feel free to let me know with a ‘like' or comment below. On to this week's soundwalk. Last week I shared a recording made at Natural Bridges in Washington, a site with two rock bridges spanning a rock-jumbled ravine. The bridges were the remnants of a lava tube cave ceiling, created 12,000 to 18,000 years ago. A few miles away, another complex of lava tubes known as Guler Ice Cave(s) remain intact. These caves, once commercialized for their ability keep ice and preserve harvested crops by one Christian Guler, are easily accessed today, though exploring them extensively requires crawling through cold, dark, tight passages. My recording is centered on the main cave mouth that is pictured above. Once again you hear that marvelous wind in the pines (which appeared in the previous two recordings) juxtaposed against a constellation of drips, plinks and plops in the foreground. My composition pulls from complimentary instrument voices: the sweep of a dobro-derived synth pads; the resonance of low end stringed instruments; the percussive twinkle of a Dulcitone celeste; the shimmer of a percolating “swarm” synth pad. It's all designed to mirror the tonality of the cave entrance environment.Strains of Pine Siskin and Dark-eyed Junco filter in. This is a short, textural audio postcard. I hope you enjoy it. Ice Cave is available under the artist name Listening Spot on all streaming platforms today Friday, November 21st, 2025. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit chadcrouch.substack.com/subscribe

When you've poured 46 years of your life into building a thriving precision machine shop—one that grew from a one-man garage to 50 employees, world-class equipment, and top-tier aerospace customers—you don't expect it to end with burnout. In this deeply candid episode, I sit down with Cody Sisson, a lifelong machinist who built a remarkable business through decades of grit, innovation, and commitment to excellence—only to watch it collapse under the weight of exhaustion, health crises, and a perfect storm of setbacks. Cody opens up about the early days of his shop, the thrill of landing major accounts like Honeywell and Hewlett-Packard, and the pride he took in caring for both his people and his customers. But he also shares the hidden cost of relentless drive—the long hours, delegation gone wrong, and emotional fatigue that slowly drained his passion for the work he once loved. This conversation isn't just about loss—it's about lessons. Cody now dedicates his time to helping other shop owners recognize the warning signs of burnout and put systems in place before it's too late. His honesty offers a powerful reminder that even the strongest leaders can fall when they ignore their own limits. If you've ever felt stretched thin as a shop owner or wondered what happens when the drive that built your business turns into the very thing that destroys it, this episode is one you can't afford to miss. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:52) The rise and fall of Cody's 46-year-old aerospace machine shop (3:13) Cody's trajectory from fascination with engines to building his own machine shop (9:37) Cody took the leap and started his own shop with just a few manual machines (10:44) Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner (13:37) Landing his first major customers and growing through word-of-mouth and persistence (16:07) Surviving the 1983 recession and pivoting to new industries (18:14) Buying an abandoned farm and rebuilding the business from scratch (18:50) Rapid growth to 50 employees and early adoption of CNC technology (23:05) Embracing concurrent engineering and “dying on the sword” for customers (25:35) Building a culture where employees loved to work—and introducing a 4-day workweek (26:57) Implementing DCD (later Epicor) ERP and custom shop-floor tracking in 1994 (29:02) Meet me at the EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event! (33:00) Lessons from hiring the wrong leaders and trusting too easily (38:56) Buying and renovating a dream facility and investing in new equipment (41:16) Living through a quarter-million-dollar mill-run mistake  (42:51) Navigating bankruptcy and a double cancer diagnosis  (44:25) Catastrophic misquotes and lost margins that sealed the company's fate (46:28) The decision to shut down—and organizing a job fair to protect his employees (47:43) Processing the grief of losing a business you've built your entire life (49:02) Cody's reflections on burnout, fear, and the mental toll of ownership (50:30) How Cody is helping other shop owners recognize and prevent burnout (59:30) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina Resources & People Mentioned Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner Get a discount for EBITDA Growth Systems Double Your Value Event: DYV25MC Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina Connect with Cody Sisson Sisson Performance Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Finance doesn't have to be a mystery—it can be your greatest advantage. In this episode of the Machine Shop MBA series, we sit down with Jon Hughes, Erik Skie, and Mike Estes from CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) to unpack the financial principles that separate high-performing shops from those that just get by. Together, they dig into how manufacturers can transform their accounting systems from mere compliance tools into strategic assets that fuel growth. From understanding capacity and pricing to mastering forecasting and job costing, this conversation bridges the gap between the shop floor and the balance sheet. CLA's experts explain why simplicity often beats complexity, how to avoid “bad business” when chasing volume, and why aligning cost structure with capacity utilization is the secret to consistent profitability. They also explore how automation and advanced equipment investments change the financial equation, why separating costing from pricing is essential, and how the best-run shops use forecasting not just to plan—but to learn. Whether you're running a $3M job shop or a $30M operation, this episode gives you the tools to make smarter financial decisions and build long-term resilience. Segments (1:03) Recapping Nick's trip to EMO in Germany (1:52) Meet the guests: Jon Hughes, Erik Skie, and Mike Estes from CLA (4:38) Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA (7:06) Keep it simple: Capacity vs. demand (the key to unlocking consistent profitability) (9:19) Why labor is effectively a fixed cost in modern manufacturing (12:21) When increasing capacity is a smart risk and when it's not (15:08) Activity-based costing and why not all machines should share the same rate (16:38) Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for outside processing (17:47) How to price automation and capture its true value (20:30) Separating cost from price & matching pricing strategy to niche and capacity (25:06) The danger of underutilized automation and inflated rates (27:09) How customer communication improves quoting accuracy and margins (28:38) The “death spiral” of bad quoting assumptions (30:57) Understanding your cost structure vs. chasing perfect accuracy (32:46) Material-heavy jobs, overhead allocation, and avoiding double-dipping (35:25) Demystifying EDM technology with Methods Machine Tools Bill Burba (49:17) Forecasting and budgeting: why they matter beyond the numbers (52:35) Linking your business model to your P&L for smarter decision-making (54:23) How to use forecasting to test your assumptions (56:05) Killing unprofitable jobs (“deselecting customers”) and improving mix (1:01:10) Meet us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC Resources mentioned on this episode Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA Why we love Phoenix Heat Treating for outside processing Get more information about EDM technology from Methods Machine Tools Business Model Canvas Meet us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

David Ellefson and his Kings of Thrash are making three stops in Michigan. October 23rd at the Venue Events Center in Cadillac, MI., followed by a stop at the Machine Shop in Flint the next day, then The Token Lounge on the 25th.We obviously had to discuss the passing of Ace Frehley. As many know, David is a huge KISS fan. He spoke about some memories he had with the Spaceman over the years. Ironically enough, he has never been to Cadillac, which just celebrated the 50th anniversary of the visit from KISS in 1975."Ace Frehley's passing was on the level of Eddie Van Halen's passing. I mean, different players, but they made us want to be musicians." David said. "Not only musicians, but rockstars!" Isn't that the truth?He said he didn't know Ace that well, but well enough. "You know, so Ace and I became friends, not close friends. I mean, we have each other's cell phone. I'd usually text him every year for his birthday. And me and Frank Bello would text him because he played a solo on our Altitudes and Attitude record."David speaks to the tour, the numerous gigs he has coming up, including the Monsters of Rock Cruise, where he'll play with Jeff Scott Soto, and tons more!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this powerful and deeply candid conversation, I sat down with Mark Heston, who first appeared on Episode 51 to share his story of buying and rebuilding an aerospace machine shop specializing in landing-gear components. At that time, the business was on an upward trajectory — improving culture, repricing work, and investing in growth. But behind the scenes, hidden challenges were forming that would ultimately lead to an unexpected and difficult ending. In this follow-up episode, Mark opens up about what happened next—the liquidity crisis, the missteps in financial due diligence, and the sequence of events that forced him and his partners to file for bankruptcy and sell the company through a Chapter 11 restructuring. He speaks with transparency about what went wrong, what he learned, and what he wishes every buyer, seller, and operator in manufacturing would know before it's too late. Together, we explore critical lessons in capitalization, cash-flow management, financial literacy, and the danger of relying on inaccurate numbers. Mark emphasizes the difference between profitability and liquidity—how a shop can look successful on paper but suffocate in reality when cash conversion cycles stretch too far. He also shares why “trust but verify” should be every acquirer's mantra when reviewing a seller's books. This is not a story of failure. It's a story of brutal honesty, hard-earned wisdom, and resilience. For anyone buying, running, or selling a machine shop, this episode is required listening. It's a reminder that the toughest conversations often teach the most valuable lessons. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:53) revisiting Mark's original episode and the shop's turnaround story (3:47) Buying a $7–8 million aerospace landing-gear machine shop in New Jersey (5:06) The dark, difficult realities of machine shop ownership (6:13) Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog to leverage RASRAM  (7:38) The two biggest challenges: Unreliable financial data and under-capitalization (9:45) Liquidity vs. profitability — “cash is oxygen” for any machine shop (13:25) Doing due diligence right: Stress-testing scenarios and working capital needs (15:40) The danger of leverage (and when debt turns into a liability) (17:11) The importance of hiring a trained eye to validate what you're seeing (19:08) Focus on the fixing the balance sheet before anything else (22:19) Customer cancellations, Boeing delays, and a bad material batch (25:08) How one wrong material spec halted production (27:17) Don't let outside processing keep you awake at night (30:01) Why attention to detail in inspection and receiving matter (32:05) Capitalization and line-of-credit lessons (34:36) Growth, pricing decisions, and the danger of being too cautious (36:30) Job costing challenges and why small shops often fly blind (39:20) When small-business financials mislead (tax tactics and poor data)  (41:21) The sale, Chapter 11 process, restructuring and new ownership  (44:21) Employee retention and operations continuing (44:47) Workholding Wisdom: SMW Autoblok's flexible, automation-ready workholding (51:10) A reminder why cashflow is king in any market—even thriving ones (55:42) What to think about (and do) if you're planning on selling your business (1:01:26) Make sure you're not emotionally attached to buying a business  (1:07:00) Why we created Hire MFG Leaders to help you find your next leaders Resources & People Mentioned Episode #11 Episode #51 with Mark Episode #64 with Jereme Rodgers Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog to leverage RASRAM  Get the transparency you need from outside processors at Phoenix Heat Treating Use Hire MFG Leaders to help you find your next leaders Connect with Mark Heston Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

Scott Mackenzie hosts the Industrial Talk Podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their innovations. He emphasizes the importance of amplifying voices in manufacturing, particularly in attracting and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Scott discusses the need for a resilient business culture and the role of people in driving success. Arthur Field, a guest on the podcast, shares his journey from machinist to sales and now to promoting manufacturing through videos and podcasts. He highlights the impact of consistent communication and the importance of trust in building successful manufacturing businesses. Both Scott and Arthur stress the necessity of education, collaboration, and innovation in the industry. Action Items [ ] Subscribe to the Machine Shop Tech Talk podcast [ ] Explore the resources and stories shared by Arthur and MTDCNC to learn about successful manufacturing companies and technology solutions [ ] Connect with Arthur Field on LinkedIn Outline Introduction and Purpose of Industrial Talk Podcast Scott Mackenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations. Scott highlights the importance of amplifying voices in the industry and celebrating the contributions of individuals. The podcast aims to inspire the next generation of industrial leaders by sharing stories and insights from industry influencers. Scott sets the stage for the conversation with Arthur Field, the voice behind Machine Shop Tech Talk. Challenges and Opportunities in Modern Manufacturing Scott discusses the current economic boom in the industry and the need to bring more manufacturing back to the forefront. He emphasizes the importance of people in the industry, despite advancements in automation. Scott talks about the need for a resilient business culture and the importance of inspiring young professionals to join the industry. He challenges listeners to inspire the next generation and invest in education from an early age. Introduction of Arthur Field and His Background Scott introduces Arthur Field, the guest for the episode, and highlights his contributions to the industry. Arthur shares his journey from starting in an assembly plant to becoming a machinist and eventually moving into sales. He discusses the challenges of entering the sales market during a downturn and the importance of perseverance. Arthur talks about his current role with MTD CNC and his passion for helping high-level shops succeed. The Role of MTD CNC and Its Impact on the Industry Arthur explains the origins of MTD CNC, which started as Machine Tools Direct to provide better information about machine tools in the UK. He discusses the importance of awareness in manufacturing and how MTD CNC helps shops make informed decisions. Arthur shares success stories of shops that have benefited from the information provided by MTD CNC. He emphasizes the need for trust and effective communication in the industry. The Importance of Video and Podcasting in Industry Communication Arthur explains his transition from direct sales to creating videos and podcasts to reach a larger audience. He discusses the challenges of traveling to meet shop owners and the limitations of physical presence. Arthur highlights the benefits of video content in breaking down barriers and providing quick, actionable information. He shares his experiences with teaching first aid and public speaking to improve his communication skills. The...

In this special MakingChips Machine Shop MBA episode, we sit down with Peter Doyle—CEO of Hirsch Precision—to unpack what it takes to grow and transform a machine shop with purpose. From his roots as an Air Force officer to leading a former Top Shops award winner, Peter has blended strategy, structure, and heart into a roadmap any shop leader can learn from. Peter shares why strategic vision is more than a slogan on a wall. He explains how his team at Hirsch Precision focuses on high-mix, low-volume work, invests heavily in sales and marketing, and positions themselves as partners to engineers—not just parts suppliers. This shift has generated a steady stream of new business opportunities while maintaining the discipline required for regulated industries like aerospace and medical. Throughout the conversation, Peter emphasizes the importance of deliberate decisions: building customer-centric processes, developing leaders, hiring wisely, and implementing technology and certifications that align with their mission to “improve quality of life through precision manufacturing solutions.” For machine shop owners, managers, and future leaders, this episode is a blueprint for balancing risk with reward—how to create a strategic growth vision, win the right customers, and build a resilient team ready for the next decade of manufacturing innovation. Segments (2:42) Peter's career journey from Air Force officer to Deloitte consultant to manufacturing leader (4:32) Lessons from Top Shops benchmarking—how to interpret the data and use it to guide strategy (5:53) Defining strategic growth: vision, customer focus, structure, agility, and leadership development (9:04) Building a sales and marketing engine—brand refresh, website upgrade, CRM adoption, and content strategy (10:57) Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC!  (11:53) Deciding to purchase and expand the business—risk appetite, growth targets, and new facility (14:15) Aligning the team with a growth vision (overcoming skepticism and making decisive calls) (15:32) Hiring experienced business development talent and shifting from craft focus to customer experience (19:30) Implementing HubSpot CRM, learning to be externally focused, and building scalable marketing systems (23:00) The difference between doing sales and managing sales—lessons in leadership at the customer interface (27:00) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (27:40) Moving beyond the buyer—how Peter built relationships with engineers and C-suite leaders (30:00) Choosing industries and customers that inspire—medical devices, surgical robotics, aerospace, and more (36:20) Translating customer-centric thinking into technology investments and equipment decisions (39:46) Balancing machine tool brand standardization with flexibility and innovation (42:40) Leadership evolution—learning to delegate, empower, and coach for high performance (45:31) SMART goals and performance management—aligning individual metrics with company-wide strategy (47:56) Closing reflections on creating a strategic growth vision and inspiring the next generation of shop leaders (49:19) Why you need to join us at MTForecast Resources mentioned on this episode  Peter's episode on Machine Shop Mastery Join us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC! Discount code: MAK20 Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)  Why you need to join us at MTForecast  Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The Slamfest Podcast brings the premier rock concert pregaming experience from the parking lot to the podcasting airwaves. Episode 275 - Brad saw a 2010's hard rock band for the third time, but the first time in a headlining slot.  He saw Dorothy at the Machine Shop in Flint, MI on 9/16/25.  For the Band on the Bill Spotlight, he dives into Dorothy's most recent release, The Way, and ranks the tracks from 10 to 1.  After a Slamfest Tip of the Week, he is faced with a "Which Side are you On?" Side 1 or Side 2 from Dorothy's fourth studio album, The Way, from 2025.Music in this episode by:DorothyBon JoviMotorheadBlack SabbathKissOzzyVisit the Slamfest Podcast online at: https://slamfest-podcast.simplecast.comRequest to join the Slamfest Podcast private Facebook page here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/slamfestpodcastE-mail us at : slamfestpodcast@gmail.com

Every machine shop leader knows you can buy the best equipment, implement cutting-edge automation, and have bulletproof processes—but without the right team and culture, growth will stall. In this episode of MakingChips Machine Shop MBA, we talk with Matt Wardle, President of JD Machine, about how he transformed a small Utah shop into a 210-person powerhouse by prioritizing people and culture over everything else. Matt's story shows what happens when leadership takes workforce development seriously. From his early days as a 10-person shop owner watching competitors poach his talent, to becoming a two-time Top Shops winner recognized for HR and culture, Matt has built a system for attracting, training, and retaining the kind of people who make growth possible. We dive deep into JD Machine's unique approach to workforce development: Department of Labor-approved apprenticeship programs, high school counselor outreach, profit-sharing models, mentorship incentives, and cultural rituals like celebrating apprenticeship completions with a “Masters Jacket.” The result? A company that not only keeps top talent but grows its own leaders from within. If you've ever wondered how to build a resilient shop culture where employees feel invested, customers trust your team, and growth becomes sustainable, this conversation delivers the blueprint. Matt shows that “winning” in manufacturing isn't just about throughput or margins—it's about building people who build the business. Segments (0:58) Introducing Matt Wardle of JD Machine: from 10 employees to a 210-person operation (4:30) Early lessons in retention and the shift from poaching talent to building a pipeline (7:44) Why you should register and see us at AMT's MTForecast (11:41) Community outreach: hosting school counselors, sponsoring robotics, and changing perceptions (17:10) Open houses, virtual field trips, and branding your shop to future employees (15:00) Mentorship structure, incentives for trainers, and celebrating completions with the “Masters Jacket” (19:20) Tracking the right metrics: turnover, reviews, skill increases, and retention as KPIs (22:58) Apprenticeship program design: 8,000 hours, Department of Labor approval, and clear pay raises (27:57) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (28:32) How small shops can scale their workforce systems over time (30:18) Building your own curriculum: Tooling U, NTMA U, Titans of CNC, and customizing courses (31:50) Encouraging on-the-job learning during machine cycle times (34:10) Mentorship structure and incentives for experienced machinists training apprentices (36:05) Recruiting under-18 students through legislative partnerships and state risk management (37:52) How NTMA chapters create collaboration and make SkillsUSA more impactful (39:35) Balancing competitive pay with margins and long-term stability (43:58) Profit-sharing and open-book management to drive engagement and retention (44:44) Lessons learned from losing good employees and being proactive about retention (49:55) Matt's closing thoughts: people who align with your core values become your greatest asset  (51:40) The countdown is on: See us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC Resources mentioned on this episode JD Machine Connect with Matt on LinkedIn Why you should check out AMT's MTForecast Matt's episode on Machine Shop Mastery (all about culture) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) The countdown is on: See us at Top Shops 2025 in Charlotte, NC (code MAK20 for 20% off) Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The Slamfest Podcast brings the premier rock concert pregaming experience from the parking lot to the podcasting airwaves. Episode 271 - Brad saw a legendary New Wave of British Heavy Metal band for the first time - he saw Saxon and Fozzy on 9/20/13 at The Machine Shop in Flint, MI. He welcomes fellow podcasters, Kevin W. from the Inobscuria Podcast, Steven M. from Growin' Up Rock Podcast and Steve W. from the Podder than Hell Podcast to discuss this show and Saxon's discography.  For the band on the bill spotlight, they all participate in a Saxon song draft taking songs from their first seven albums of the 80's - Wheels of Steel, from 1980 through Rock the Nations, from 1986.  After a Slamfest Tip of the Week, they are faced with a "Which Side are you On?" Side 1 or Side 2 from Saxon's twentieth studio album, Sacrifice from 2013.Music in this episode by:FozzySaxonMotorheadBlack SabbathKissOzzyVisit the Slamfest Podcast online at: https://slamfest-podcast.simplecast.comRequest to join the Slamfest Podcast private Facebook page here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/slamfestpodcastE-mail us at : slamfestpodcast@gmail.comVisit Steven Michael at Growin' Up Rock:https://growinuprock.com/https://www.facebook.com/growinuprockVisit Kevin Williams from the Inobscuria Podcast at:https://inobscuria.com/https://www.facebook.com/InObscuriahttps://twitter.com/inobscuriaVisit Steve and Podder than Hell Podcast at:https://www.facebook.com/PTHpodcasthttps://station5174.libsyn.com/Visit Kevin Williams from the Inobscuria Podcast at:https://inobscuria.com/https://www.facebook.com/InObscuriahttps://twitter.com/inobscuria

In the 127th episode of Taps and Patience, hosts AJ and Harrison discuss a variety of topics, including new machinery at Harrison's shop, upcoming automation solutions, and the status of production orders. They also touch on the challenges of teaching and the evolution of AJ's teaching style to better accommodate students of varying speeds and skill levels. The conversation shifts to book recommendations, where they share a range of both business and fiction titles, emphasizing the importance of learning and self-improvement in their respective fields.

Inventory and materials management may not sound glamorous, but for us—and for any thriving shop—it's the difference between healthy cashflow and a financial chokehold. In this Machine Shop MBA conversation, we break down how smart inventory practices—both physical and digital—can free up space, cut costs, and improve delivery performance. From raw materials and finished goods to WIP and cutting tools, we share the financial, operational, and workflow implications of what you keep on the shelf (and what you shouldn't). You'll hear real-world examples of vendor-managed material programs, strategies for keeping traceability without burying yourself in admin work, and ways we've turned “dead” stock into real cash. We also dig into why inventory accuracy matters beyond just making parts—touching on tax implications, property valuations, and how inventory missteps can kill the value of your business in a sale. And if you've ever lost hours hunting for the right cutter or fixture, our storage and tracking advice might change the way you think about tooling forever. This episode isn't about counting nuts and bolts—it's about building an inventory strategy that supports your cashflow, your team's efficiency, and your long-term profitability. Segments (0:24) Paperless Parts: Quoting made simple, profitable, and powerful (3:09) Why inventory is “sneaky important” for cashflow, workflow, and profitability (4:00) Common categories: raw materials, finished goods, consumables, and workholding (6:30) “Part stock” vs. catalogued vs hybrid strategies (7:58) Calculating the real cost of capital when buying material in bulk (10:45) Consolidating material sizes to reduce stock complexity (13:07) Physical storage, traceability, and avoiding costly scrap from lost certs (15:07) Labeling and marking best practices—from PO numbers to color codes (19:05) Storage layouts that save space and speed up retrieval (22:28) FIFO, LIFO, and how inventory accounting can impact your taxes (24:07) Why you need to check out the SMW Autoblok Catalogue  (24:50) Why WIP can matter for accurate financials and business valuation (29:24) Cycle counting vs. painful year-end full inventory counts (33:26) Real-world wins from knowing exactly what's on your shelves (36:10) Avoiding the trap of overbuilding and obsolete finished goods (39:09) Using contracts and order commitments to protect yourself from rev changes (42:02) Inventory strategies for cutting tools—your most critical shop consumable (45:11) The value of having the right tool at the right time vs. lowest cost (49:45) Why random storage beats “organized” by type for cutting tools (52:19) Fixture storage, location tracking, and purging rarely used setups (54:39) How reviewing inventory can generate sales and free up cash (57:35) Key takeaways for building a smart, profitable inventory strategy  (58:42) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Resources mentioned on this episode Tooling and the Demon of Chaos Unlocking Tax Savings: Essential Strategies You Can Implement Immediately Paperless Parts: Quoting made simple, profitable, and powerful Why you need to check out the SMW Autoblok Catalogue  Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What happens when two people with a shared vision for community, craftsmanship, and legacy decide to take the leap into shop ownership? For Scott and his wife, the answer is Delaware Metals. In this inspiring conversation, Scott Bruneau shares how he and his wife purchased a decades-old, well-run machine shop—not as a quick flip, but as a long-term investment in American manufacturing, their team, and their community.  With over 20 years in the industry himself, Scott knew the road ahead would be demanding. But armed with a clear “why,” a strong culture-first mindset, and a willingness to learn from both successes and mistakes, he's been steering Delaware Metals into new markets, upgrading capabilities, and building a younger, highly skilled workforce. We cover everything from the buying process and financing tips, to shop layout improvements, training strategies, and the reality of recruiting in today's tight labor market. Scott also opens up about the importance of open-book leadership—sharing the numbers, empowering the team, and making sure everyone understands their role in the shop's growth. Whether you're dreaming about buying your first shop, preparing to sell yours, or simply looking for leadership inspiration, Scott's story is packed with actionable wisdom. This is about buying a machine shop for all the right reasons—and building a business that lasts. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Preserving legacy knowledge after a veteran retires (0:21) Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off  (1:254) Learn about Scott Bruneau and Delaware Metals (6:30) Shop snapshot: size, equipment, and niche in small, precise, handheld parts (8:35) Relationship with the previous owner, his exit, and the strong foundation they inherited (10:02) Certifications, ERP transition, equipment investments, and workflow reorganization (11:57) Diversifying the customer base and expanding into aerospace with industry partners (15:14) Building a team of subject matter experts and fostering a culture of shared knowledge (19:46) Recruiting strategies, lean manufacturing introduction, and reorganization into cells with cross-training (25:33) Quality management approach and gaining team buy-in for process improvements (30:14) Check out SMW Autoblok's massive catalog at SMWAutoblok.com (31:27) Closing the gap between office and shop floor through visible, hands-on leadership (34:21) Lessons from the buying process: financing, due diligence, and structuring the deal (40:21) Transparency with the team on costs, profitability, and impact on benefits (42:06) Career development through reviews, training opportunities, and goal setting (44:59) Biggest challenges: recruiting, assessing technical skills, and hiring for culture fit (49:06) Bringing in younger talent, mentorship, and patience in skill development  (54:17) Real-life example: Software experience versus machining experience  (56:37) The big decisions that are moving the company forward  (1:01:16) Future proof your shop by listening to Lights Out Resources & People Mentioned Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off  Check out SMW Autoblok's massive catalog Connect with Scott Bruneau Delaware Metals Connect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

The Slamfest Podcast brings the premier rock concert pregaming experience from the parking lot to the podcasting airwaves. Episode 269 - Brad saw Y&T for the second and final time, as of today, on 4/18/14 at The Machine Shop in Flint, MI.  For the band on the bill spotlight, he chooses 2 fav's and 1 least fav off their core studio albums, Earthshaker, from 1981 through Ten, from 1990.  The twist is the 2 fav's have to be deep cuts off those albums.  After a Slamfest Tip of the Week, he is faced with a "Which Side are you On?" Side 1 or Side 2 from Y&T's first live album, "Open Fire" from 1985.Music in this episode by:Y&TBon JoviMotorheadBlack SabbathKissOzzyVisit the Slamfest Podcast online at: https://slamfest-podcast.simplecast.comRequest to join the Slamfest Podcast private Facebook page here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/slamfestpodcastE-mail us at : slamfestpodcast@gmail.com

In this minisode, Jen walks you through her step-by-step process for prepping a large-scale wedding—featuring a $15,000 event at The Machine Shop with a jaw-dropping 60-foot hanging floral installation. From calculating square footage to choosing the right mechanics, ordering product, and budgeting for fun flower finds, Jen shares the exact systems she uses to keep big wedding weeks stress-free.Whether you're designing your first large install or scaling your floral business, this episode is packed with real-world insight and time-saving tips. Learn how Jen prepares her team, plans her floral recipes, and sets herself up for a smooth, successful event—all while keeping her sanity intact.What You'll Learn:How to break down a complex install by square footageThe floral mechanics Jen uses (and why she skips paddle cages)How to stay within budget while still adding creative flairWhat's on her pre-wedding prep checklistHow to use systems to avoid wedding week chaosMentioned in This Episode:Holex for product orderingFloral CEO Mastermind: floralceo.com/mastermind

Early this morning, between 2 and 3 am, the Senate approved cuts to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting including NPR and PBS as well as member stations including WITF. The Senate vote was 51-to-48. Pennsylvania's senators voted along party lines. With a yes vote, Republican David McCormick voted to rescind funding for public broadcasting as well as foreign aid. Democrat John Fetterman voted against the bill. Earlier this week, Fetterman told the Philadelphia Inquirer the cuts undermine the very values of family and education Republicans claim to champion. Fetterman cited Fred Rogers, a Pittsburgh icon, who taught generations of American children about kindness and empathy through his PBS program "Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood." Here’s the next step for the legislation: The Senate's approval of the cuts tees up a final vote in the House, which approved an earlier version last month. For the proposed rescissions to kick in, the bill would need to be signed into law by midnight Friday. Here’s a closer look at the financial implications of the bill. The legislation would claw back nearly $1.1 billion from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting which represents the full amount it’s due to receive during the next two budget years. The corporation distributes more than 70% of that money to more than 1500 locally-operated public television and radio stations including WITF based in Harrisburg but serving a 19-county area of Central Pennsylvania. Ron Hetrick, President and CEO of WITF's parent organization Pennon calls today's decision "disappointing," while encouraging those passionate about public media to contact their elected representatives today. Hetrick adds that "In these moments of uncertainty, we remain unwavering in our mission to ensure our organization continues to serve as a trusted source of information and connection for our community." Now turning to another breaking story we’re following this morning: Vice President JD Vance touted the One Big Beautiful Bill Wednesday, making a stop in northeast Pennsylvania, at a Machine Shop in West Pittston. Vance praised President Donald Trump for retooling the economy in favor of American workers. Meantime, Around 50 people protested the Trump administration's immigration policies, education and healthcare cuts during Vice President JD Vance’s visit to Luzerne County on Wednesday. Support WITF: https://www.witf.org/support/give-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most shop owners get comfortable after 50 years. John Griner gets uncomfortable on purpose. John has been making screw machine parts since 1979 while starting countless other businesses, which he refers to as “hobbies.” As a machinery dealer, I've bought and sold equipment from John over the years. He's always a tough negotiator and always [...]

This week, we're talking machines! One of the most critical steps in building our duck calls begins in the machine shop. Every call we make passes through one of our four HAAS     machine—starting as a solid rod of acrylic and ending as a precision-cut duck call blank. Spence is joined by Daniel, Jay, and Russ—our three machinists who help keep the Rolling Thunder world turning. The guys dive into the machines they run, how they use them to craft our calls, and share their backgrounds and experiences working with large CNC equipment.

In the latest episode of "Taps and Patients," AJ and Jacob discuss various topics related to their machining and teaching experiences, including the challenges of standardizing tool setups in their shops and the importance of critical thinking skills in education. They share insights on using tools and technologies, like instant online quoting systems, and the impact of artificial intelligence on content creation and problem-solving within the manufacturing sector. Additionally, they mention upcoming events like Fabtech and IMTS, emphasizing the significance of networking and learning opportunities within the machining community.Toolpath:https://app.toolpath.com/sign-up?affiliate=180301HuffTools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

Ever quote a job thinking "this is way too high" only to get the PO 3 minutes later? Or watch your shop go from "super busy and packed all the time to nothing" when your main customer disappears? They've all been there.Join Patrick, Cameron, and Bradley on the Impractical Machinist Podcast as they dive into a lightning round of questions from Instagram fans. Get insights on how to diversify your machining business, where to invest in quality measurement tools, and the pros and cons of tool rentals. Learn how to handle the challenges of quoting jobs and keeping customer satisfaction high.Chapters:00:00 Intro 07:43 Borrowing Tools from Other Shops?14:20 Lightning Round: Ball Mill Finishing Question20:11 How to Diversify Your Machining Business33:42 When to Say No to a Job & How to Handle It42:42 Old vs New CNC Machines (80s-90s vs Today)59:08 Measuring Tools: Where to Spend & Where to Save1:14:16 Tip of the day1:18:47 Outro

Send us a textIn this episode, Andy Thompson discussed his journey from machinist to expert in GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing). He highlighted the importance of understanding GD&T for effective design, manufacturing, and quality control. Thompson shared examples of how GD&T improved manufacturing processes, such as aerospace parts and defense contracts. He emphasized the need for early identification of manufacturing processes and the benefits of collaborative design. Thompson also discussed the value of networking and continuous learning in the engineering field, advocating for more engagement and communication within the engineering community.Main Topics:Transition from machinist to engineering professionalFundamentals of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)Practical applications of GD&T in manufacturingCollaborative design processesImportance of communication in engineeringAbout the guest: Andy Thompson, P.E., is a seasoned mechanical and manufacturing engineer with over 20 years of experience, beginning as a CNC operator and advancing to manager of structural engineering at Northrop Grumman. He is an expert in GD&T, holding ASME Y14.5 Senior Level certification, and emphasizes design for manufacturability, assembly, and inspection. Andy is also an active mentor and contributor to the engineering community, combining hands-on expertise with strategic leadership to drive innovation and quality across the field.Links:Andy Thompson LinkedInClick here to learn more about simulation solutions from Simutech Group.

The Slamfest Podcast brings the premier rock concert pregaming experience from the parking lot to the podcasting airwaves. Episode 261 - Brad saw his seventh real time show of 2025...and this time he saw a band live for the third time, but hadn't seen them live since 2013.  He saw Black Stone Cherry on 5/29/25 at the Machine Shop in Flint, MI.  He welcomes back Bill Algee from the Ages of Rock podcast to recap this show and talk about Black Stone Cherry.. For the Band on the Bill Spotlight, they both create a 20-song Black Stone Cherry compilation drawing from their first seven studio albums - the self-titled through The Human Condition.  They also talk about five of Black Stone Cherry's cover songs.  After a Slamfest Tip of the Week, they are faced with a "Which Side are you On?" Side 1 or Side 2 from Black Stone Cherry's eighth studio album, Screamin' At the Sky, from 2023.Music in this episode by:Black Stone CherryBon JoviMotorheadBlack SabbathKissOzzyVisit the Slamfest Podcast online at: https://slamfest-podcast.simplecast.comRequest to join the Slamfest Podcast private Facebook page here:https://www.facebook.com/groups/slamfestpodcastE-mail us at : slamfestpodcast@gmail.comVisit Bill Algee at the Ages of Rock Podcasthttp://www.agesofrock.com/https://www.facebook.com/agesofrockpodcast

Send us a textIn this episode, Aaron Moncur interviews Mihir Shah, an engineer-turned-entrepreneur who shares insights from his diverse career spanning Tesla, Inspect AR, and now Tomai Engineering. Mihir discusses his journey through engineering, startup growth, investment strategies, and the importance of first principles thinking.Main Topics:Engineering career pathFirst principles thinking in businessDesign for manufacturability (DFM)Startup and acquisition experiencesHardware FYI newsletterInvestment strategies with Shaw VenturesAbout the guest: Mihir Shah is an engineer and entrepreneur with a diverse background in hardware design, startup leadership, and industrial investment. He holds electrical engineering degrees from Santa Clara University and the University of Pennsylvania. His early work included roles at Tesla and Axon. In 2018, he co-founded inspectAR, an AR tool for PCB debugging, acquired by Cadence in 2020.He currently serves as President of TOMI Engineering, a CNC machining and assembly company serving the aerospace, defense, and medical industries, where he drives growth through investments in talent and technology. Mihir is also a Principal at Shah Capital Ventures, a family investment firm with holdings in industrial businesses like Summit Interconnect and Royal Circuits.Additionally, he co-founded Hardware FYI, a growing platform with over 12,000 subscribers that supports hardware engineers through resources like newsletters, job boards, and interview guides. His broad expertise makes him well-suited to speak on engineering leadership, startups, and the future of hardware.Links:Mihir Shah - LinkedInTOMI Engineering WebsiteHardware FYI Website 

Most people who dream of launching a manufacturing business obsess over machines, processes, and parts. But here's the thing: that dream can die before a single spindle turns—if you miss a few less-glamorous (but absolutely critical) steps on the front end. Legal structure? Tax setup? Insurance? Naming your shop? These early decisions carry more weight than most first-timers realize. In this episode of MakingChips, we pick up where part one left off and get granular with the real-life process of starting your shop the right way. Guests Brad Boettcher and Nick Vargosko of CLA return to walk us through the practical decisions you'll face—how to choose (and register) your business entity, why the wrong name could haunt you, what documents you actually need before making parts, and how to build a business that's ready for growth, not just survival. If you've ever thought “I'll figure that stuff out later,” you'll want to hear the cautionary tales in this episode—plus the steps that will keep you out of trouble, off your state's audit list, and firmly in control of your own success. We also unpack how to structure ownership if you've got a business partner (especially if it's family), and why your garage may not cut it forever, even if you love the rent. This one's for the aspiring owners, the side hustlers-turned-founders, and anyone helping someone else start a shop from scratch. Whether you're building your dream or advising someone else on theirs, it's time to get real about what it takes to launch smart—and stay that way. Segments (0:10) Intro to Part 2 with CLA and why they had to split the conversation (0:48) Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey (02:22) Recap of Part 1: entity types, startup missteps, and choosing the wrong structure (4:21) Choose a business name that doesn't pigeonhole you (so you don't have to rebrand) (12:09) State registration: what paperwork and filings are really needed (12:12) Legal structure & governance: operating agreements and partnership dos and don'ts (15:33) Getting your EIN and opening a bank account (18:04) State tax registration, permits, and the overlooked W-9 (19:16) Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (21:15) Opening a business bank account and choosing financial software (23:04) Go beyond “budget”: When to spend the money (26:11) Business insurance: what's essential at launch, what can wait (28:11) Facility considerations: licenses, permits, and where you'll actually make parts (30:27) Leasing vs. buying your shop space (with a cautionary tale) (33:04) Why many owners keep their real estate separate from the business (33:58) Tax differences between leasing and buying your facility (35:37) Labor market considerations: where you build affects who you can hire (36:43) Wrap-up: who this episode is for, and why it's worth sharing (39:56) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast Resources mentioned on this episode Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen Nick.Vargosko@CLAConnect.com Connect with Nick Vargosko on LinkedIn Connect with Brad Boettcher on LinkedIn ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

What if you could measure your shop's success against the industry's best—and discover exactly where you can improve? In this episode, we're launching a groundbreaking new series with Modern Machine Shop to help you do just that. We're joined by Brent Donaldson, who walks us through the powerful Top Shops program—a game-changing benchmarking tool that reveals everything from machine utilization to employee engagement. The Top Shops survey isn't just another tool; it's a blueprint for success. By comparing your shop to the industry's top performers, you'll uncover where you're excelling and, just as importantly, where you can level up. The data is real, actionable, and tailored to your shop's unique performance. This series will equip you with the insights and strategies needed to push your shop to the top. We dive deep into the key performance indicators (KPIs) that distinguish high-performing shops from the rest. Whether it's tracking financial metrics like profit margins and revenue per employee, or operational benchmarks such as first-pass quality yield and machine uptime, the Top Shops program provides a comprehensive look at what it really takes to run a successful, high-performing shop. We've seen firsthand how filling out the survey has led to tangible improvements in our own businesses. Now, we're sharing those lessons with you. In each episode, we'll break down KPIs, share practical strategies, and provide expert advice that you can apply to your own shop right away. If you're ready to optimize your operations, build a winning team, and increase your profitability, this series is for you. Don't miss out—tune in and start applying these proven strategies today. The road to becoming a top shop starts here! Segments (0:15) Take the Modern Machine Shops Top Shop Survey (1:46) The case for non-standard education  (4:16) Introducing Brent Donaldson from Modern Machine Shop (5:00) The importance of benchmarking your shop (9:22) The origin of the Top Shops program (and how it works) (16:10) KPIs that top shops track and how they set themselves apart (23:04) Why you need to invest in ProShop ERP (24:41) The key metrics that define a top shop (33:37) The importance of having a leadership team to track KPIs (36:35) What's next in the Machine Shop MBA series?  (41:41) The Top Shops conference at the NASCAR Hall of Fame (46:06) Make sure you check out the Lights Out podcast! Resources mentioned on this episode Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Ever wonder why some machine shops experience rapid, exponential growth while others hit a ceiling?  In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the strategies behind this growth with Kirk Phelps and Mike Fritz—two seasoned veterans in the machine shop industry who have cracked the code on scaling businesses. With a focus on mergers and acquisitions (M&A), they've successfully expanded their operations, acquiring multiple shops and driving growth in ways that many shop owners overlook. Kirk and Mike share their proven approach to growth, where strategic acquisitions are just the beginning. They dive into the importance of cultivating a growth culture that influences every facet of the business—sales, marketing, leadership, and operations. This mindset shift is crucial for shops looking to not only increase revenue but also improve efficiency and team empowerment. What makes this episode even more exciting is that Kirk and Mike are bringing their expertise to the MakingChips family! Their new podcast, Machine Shop Growth, is now part of our lineup. Tune in to get actionable insights on how to scale your shop, improve leadership, and make smarter decisions in sales and marketing. If you're ready to unlock growth in your machine shop, this episode—and their podcast—will provide the tools and strategies you need to elevate your business to the next level. Don't miss out! Segments (0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest introductions (0:30) Why you need to invest in ProShop ERP (2:43) Introducing Mike Fritz, Kirk Phelps, and Machine Shop Growth (7:40) The importance of understanding your unique selling proposition (USP) (9:44) The two-sided approach of the Machine Shop Growth podcast (12:00) The three legs to the stool of growth (13:50) Discussing dormant customers and how to win back business (17:27) The value of quarterly customer success meetings and the difference it makes (19:17) Content marketing strategies that resonate with customers (21:34) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast (27:48) Building a growth culture within your business (29:43) The importance of vertical integration and pricing, quality, and lead times (41:00) The synergy of podcast collaborations within the industry (42:53) Why you should complete the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Mike Fritz Connect with Kirk Phelps Machine Shop Growth Podcast Never Split the Difference Mike Fritz on Machine Shop Mastery (Part 1 and Part 2) Kirk Phelps on Machine Shop Mastery  Mike Fritz on Buy the Numbers The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

When like-minded entrepreneurs sit down to swap stories, advice, and connections, it's a major win for everyone. This is one of the great things about manufacturing because this industry thrives on collaboration, not just competition.In this episode, we hear from Russell Winter, Founder of US MFG, who's on a mission to connect entrepreneurs in the machine shop space together, while also acquiring shops from retiring owners that would have otherwise gone out of business. With the number of machine shops steadily declining, people like Russell are breathing new life into the space with technology and innovative ideas. Russell shares his story of how he got started, how he chooses whether to acquire a new shop, the red flags to watch out for, and the two main things he looks at when accessing a business. We hear more about his efforts to build bridges in the community and his thoughts on inspiring the next generation of manufacturing business owners. In this episode, find out:Russell shares an overview of how he buys machine shops and brings them together with softwareRetiring owners of machine shops who don't have a clear succession plan often close their doors for good unless someone like Russell steps inHow Russell decides which machine shops to acquire by looking at finances and culture to find red flags Why bringing people in with more experience is a huge part of succeeding in this space How Russell finds mentors and collaborates in his network Advice for entrepreneurs looking for business opportunities What led Russell to realize he needed to change the mission of US MFG to a more community-focused approach How do we create awareness in the next generation of manufacturing business ownership?The skills and knowledge we need to prepare young people for a future in manufacturing and business ownershipWhy shop classes in high schools are a growing trend and what this means for the industry How Russell's company teaches important skills like financial literacy through his shops Russell shares the first major project he remembers manufacturing Enjoying the show? Please leave us a review here. Even one sentence helps. It's feedback from Manufacturing All-Stars like you that keeps us going!Tweetable Quotes:“The cool part about these shop classes is their instructors are often very mutual and collaborative with the industry that's around the high school. They'll have a board of business owners saying, 'This is who we're looking to hire. Can you teach them more turning work or a specific software?'”“Something that I've worked on developing a lot more is a mindset of trust but verify as opposed to just trust. Going over things with a fine-toothed comb, actual financials, and setting clear expectations at the beginning really pays off.”“There's a saying: if you want investment, ask for advice. And if you want advice, ask for investment. People are always going to give you advice because there's something to improve on, and if you're willing to take it and learn and grow and actually put it into action, then they're like, 'Oh, I see an investment here.'” Links & mentions:US MFG partners with entrepreneurs to acquire, operate, and grow manufacturing companies within a collaborative networkSCORE Business Mentoring, providing free business advice for starting or growing a small business...

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Sherry Davies, who transitioned from a career in education to leading T.J. Davies Company, Inc., a veteran-founded, woman-owned manufacturer of retention knobs. Discover how her commitment to growth and innovation has propelled the company to new heights in the manufacturing industry.

In this episode, AI Jay and co-host Jonathan Friedl talk about the recent Modern Machine Shop article on Superior Joining Technologies.  We explore the incredible journey of a small garage shop that transformed into a leading aerospace supplier. Hear firsthand how innovation, technology, and perseverance fueled their rise in precision manufacturing.

What's better than talking to Dorothy? Talking to her on Valentine's Day! It was nice of the singer/songwriter to give me some time to talk about her upcoming album 'The Way'. The album comes out on March 14th, but the buzz is already building as she's released a few down-and-dirty blues-based rockers off of it. As far as the title is concerned, Dorothy said, "The name came to me, and I highlighted it when I was reading (the Bible). That's the title track, and that's the name of the album." She said that song is a beautiful ballad that ends the album. She spoke about how the album starts with the song "I Come Alive". She said she went off with her vocals. "Let me express myself!" she joked about the record's vocal beginning, sort of in a Pink Floyd-esque way. There is a story that goes through the album - Salvation. She spoke of getting saved in rehab. "Life imitates art, it's giving me a sense of purpose. It's made this musical journey a lot more meaningful." She said she hopes the album is uplifting for anyone who listens to it. In the end, the album is Rock! "We stayed true to being true. What's in the D.N.A.? Rock!" She went into the theme of some of the songs on the album. Dorothy On How She Got Slash To Play On The Record Guitar legend Slash appears on the song "Tombstone Town". How did that come about? She's known him for a while through producer Mike Clink. Dorothy sent him a bunch of tracks, but she really wanted him on this particular song. And, yes, she got him to wear his iconic hat in the video. It's always a treat to talk with Dorothy...she's one of my favorite people! You can see Dorothy live in concert in Michigan at the Machine Shop on April 22.

Chappell is trying to get ahead of future backlash, the Klum family is beautiful and Amy Schumer is hilarious on Fallon. Plus Amy Seeman and David Kisan join to tell us all about Fashion Fight Night taking place Feb 21st at Machine Shop in Minneapolis. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When you think about offshoring, restoring, or nearshoring, you're probably thinking about cost. Certainly, the cost of labor and energy is a primary deciding factor when it comes to offshoring, restoring, or neashoring decisions. But what about the hidden costs of offshoring? This is a subject our guest knows a lot about. John Gardner writes about the hidden costs of offshoring and the increasingly apparent benefits of nearshoring. He is the author of Manufacture Local: How to Make America the Manufacturing Superpower of the World.

Margaret E. Knight was an ingenious woman. She started tinkering with things when she was still just a tiny child, and the first invention that really improved the lives of those around her came about at the age of 12.  Research: “A Lady in a Machine Shop.” Woman's Journal, December 21, 1872. Accessed online: https://iiif.lib.harvard.edu/manifests/view/drs:48852547$409i Bedi, Joyce. “Margaret Knight.” Lemelson Center, Smithsonian. March 22, 2021. https://invention.si.edu/node/28532/p/609-margaret-knight Britannica, The Editors of Encyclopaedia. "Margaret E. Knight". Encyclopedia Britannica, 10 Feb. 2024, https://www.britannica.com/biography/Margaret-E-Knight “Gained Fame as Inventor.” The Boston Globe. Oct. 13, 1914. https://www.newspapers.com/image/430883835/?terms=%22margaret%20e.%20knight%22%20&match=1 “The Inspiring Story of Margaret E. Knight.” National Inventors Hall of Fame. https://www.invent.org/blog/inventors/margaret-e-knight-paper-pag Knight, M.E. “Clasp.” U.S. Patent Office. Oct. 14, 1884. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/1d/93/e6/029e560778fcd4/US306692.pdf Knight, Margaret E. “Bag Machine.” U.S. Patent Office. July 11, 1871. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/8b/67/0a/1fa1f5f32874bc/US116842.pdf Knight, M.E. “Improvement in Paper Bag Machine.” U.S. Patent Office. Oct. 28, 1879. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/bb/4b/1a/218335d174188c/US220925.pdf Knight, M.E. “Rotary Engine.” U.S. Patent Office. January 6, 1903. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/de/9a/87/cea123cb8ba55a/US717869.pdf Knight, M.E. “Skirt Protector.” U.S. Patent Office. Aug. 7, 1883. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/3a/cc/e8/cf6943b96a868f/US282646.pdf Knight, Margaret E. “Sole Cutting Machine.” U.S Patent Office. Sept. 16, 1890. https://patentimages.storage.googleapis.com/19/16/34/0c57840da89f4c/US436358.pdf “Margaret E. Knight, ‘Woman Edison,' Dead.” The Sun. Oct. 15, 1914. https://www.newspapers.com/image/145292345/?clipping_id=31861882 “Patent Model for Paper Bag Machine.” Smithsonian – National Museum of American History. https://www.si.edu/object/patent-model-paper-bag-machine%3Anmah_214303 “Patented By Women.” Pittsburgh Dispatch. April 10, 1892. https://www.newspapers.com/image/76571393/?terms=%22margaret%20e.%20knight%22%20&match=1 PETROSKI, HENRY. “The Evolution of the Grocery Bag.” The American Scholar, vol. 72, no. 4, 2003, pp. 99–111. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/41221195 Sisson, Mary, and Doris Simonis, ed. “Inventors and Inventions.” Marshall Cavendish. 2007. Smith, Ryan P. “Meet the Female Inventor Behind Mass-Market Paper Bags.” Smithsonian. March 15, 2018. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smithsonian-institution/meet-female-inventor-behind-mass-market-paper-bags-180968469/ “The Ames Manufacturing Company … “ Boston Evening Transcript. Oct. 17, 1873. https://www.newspapers.com/image/734890555/?terms=%22margaret%20e.%20knight%22%20&match=1 “Women As Inventors.” The Philadelphia Times. April 10, 1892. https://www.newspapers.com/image/52506300/?terms=%22margaret%20e.%20knight%22%20&match=1 “Women Who Are Inventors.” New York Times. October 19, 1913. https://timesmachine.nytimes.com/timesmachine/1913/10/19/100654443.pdf?pdf_redirect=true&ip=0 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.