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In this episode of Off The Clock, Shawn Gervais and Marshall Hill dive into the rapidly evolving world of AI and emerging tech — and what it really means for detailing businesses heading into 2026.They unpack the hidden side of AI, including the environmental impact of massive data centers, while exploring why engagement, authenticity, and emotion now matter more than ever in video marketing. The conversation highlights how tools like Meta glasses are changing content creation by enabling true hands-free, first-person storytelling that builds trust with customers.Shawn and Marshall also discuss how AI can streamline business operations, remove friction, and free up time — without losing the human touch that makes great brands stand out. From creative holiday marketing ideas to upcoming industry contests and innovations, this episode is packed with practical insights detailers can actually use to stay ahead.If you're wondering how to balance technology, authenticity, and smart growth in the next phase of your business, this episode lays it out clearly.AI is changing everything — but authenticity still wins.In this episode of Off The Clock, we break down Meta glasses, AI marketing, and what detailers need to focus on in 2026 to stay ahead.
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
FM100.3 host Rebecca Cressman interviews Mark Lach, Creative Producer of TITANIC: The Exhibition, now open in Salt Lake City just in time for the holidays. The exhibition is in Sandy, Utah, just north of The Shops at South Town giving visitors a chance to see real artifacts from the legendary ship, walk through beautifully recreated rooms, and even visit the Titanic wreck site through immersive virtual reality. Perfect for families during the holiday season, the exhibition also highlights Utah’s unique connections to the Titanic story. Open for a limited time, this unforgettable experience is now boarding—book passage at titanicexhibition.com.
The news of Texas covered today includes:Our Lone Star story of the day: What's going on with free speech in the City of Dallas? Dallas police arrested, or detained, street preachers preaching the Gospel on public property, outside the American Airlines Center.Our Lone Star story of the day is sponsored by Allied Compliance Services providing the best service in DOT, business and personal drug and alcohol testing since 1995.On a short week report, the Texas oil & gas rig count grew again.Abilene's growth and key position on I-20 near the Metroplex nets Bass Pro Shops as anchor tenant of an $80 million retail development. (I think I may have credited this story to the DMN but is was in the Houston Chronicle.)Here's a bonus story for you: Dallas CEO ventures into Ukrainian warzones.Listen on the radio, or station stream, at 5pm Central. Click for our radio and streaming affiliates.www.PrattonTexas.com
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Dog Marketing, NAPA TRACS, Today's Class, KUKUI, and Pit Crew Loyalty Watch Full Video Episode Recorded live at AAPEX 2025, this episode features Tara Topel, the new president of Vehicle Service Experts (VSE), and Missy Stephens, Community Engagement Manager for the Auto Care Association. The discussion highlights the rebranding of the Auto Care Association's Car Care Professionals Network (CCPN) to VSE, reflecting the broader industry that includes heavy-duty vehicles. Key initiatives include: Resource Hub:An online center covering topics from shop coaching to ADAS best practices.Industry Relevance:Translating Auto Care market data into actionable insights for shop planning.Best Practices:The VSE council, currently 10–12 members, aims to grow to 15–20, compiling guidance on apprenticeships, ADAS, and more. The episode also covers the Right to Repair movement. The association needs real-world examples where shops lacked access to data or support, to counter Congress's claims. Shop owners can submit stories via a QR code on the Auto Care website and are encouraged to share their experiences by hosting legislators. Get involved, share your experiences, and take an active role in shaping the policies that affect your shop and the entire industry. https://www.autocare.org/networking-and-development/communities/car-care-professionals-network https://www.repairact.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Shop Dog Marketing Shop Dog Marketing at Shop Dog Marketing.com. "Want to see your auto repair shop thrive? Let Shop Dog Marketing be your guide. Our customer-first approach, combined with AI-driven creative content, ensures top rankings. Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Thanks to our Partner, KUKUI Stop juggling multiple marketing tools. KUKUI's integrated platform delivers 4x better website conversions, automated follow-up, and real-time ROI tracking. Get industry-leading customer support with KUKUI at https://www.kukui.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Pit Crew Loyalty You're probably tired of chasing new customers who never return. We understand. Pit Crew Loyalty ends the...
Liz Ackerman is the General Manager of The Shops at Farmington Valley. She talks about a record shopping year and what to expect in the coming days.
CEO Heiko Schäfer gibt im Kassenzone-Interview Einblicke in die strategische Ausrichtung: von D2C-Expansion und stationären Stores über neue Produktsegmente wie Trailrunning und Kinderbekleidung bis hin zu nachhaltigen Materialien wie recycelten Kletterseilen. Heiko erklärt, warum Mammut konsequent auf Performance statt Streetwear setzt, wie die Marke ihre Community über Social Media und Kampagnen wie „Mammut Kind of Summer“ aktiviert und welche Rolle ausgewählte Kollaborationen für glaubwürdiges Wachstum spielen. Wo liegen die größten Wachstumspotenziale für Mammut? Im Gespräch geht es um internationale Märkte, den Ausbau der Footwear-Kategorie und ein neues Loyalty-Programm, das die Bindung zur Outdoor-Community weiter stärken soll. Das Gespräch im Überblick: (2:13) Wachstum im Outdoor-Markt (8:48) Mammut als Bergsportmarke (16:22) Stationäre Shops und D2C: Mammuts Vertriebskanäle (23:27) Sortimentserweiterung und Nachhaltigkeit (28:48) Kollaborationen und Social Media: Mammuts Marketingstrategien (40:16) Wachstumshypothesen für die Zukunft
Join us for part 1 of our year-end conversation with Justin Lawrence (Oklahoma Shirt Company) and Stephen as they share their annual planning rituals, team bonus strategies, and the business metrics that transformed their shops. From implementing Traction EOS to discovering that 30% of revenue comes from email marketing, this episode is packed with actionable insights for print shop owners.
Is your business built to survive the holidays, or are you just hoping for the best?In this episode of Off The Clock, Shawn and Marshall strip away the holiday veneer to have a raw conversation about the state of the industry. From the nostalgia of Christmas past to the cold reality of dealership contracts, we explore why "relationships" are the only currency that matters in 2026.We also dive deep into the psychology of competition—why trash talk is necessary, how to weaponize criticism to fuel your growth, and why your "haters" are actually your biggest marketing asset. Finally, we look at the future: how AI is changing the game for content creation and why refusing to adapt is a death sentence for your brand.In this episode, we cover:The Dealership Dynamic: Why they undervalue detailers and how to fix it.Weaponizing Criticism: Why you should love your haters (and how to use them).The AI Pivot: How to use Artificial Intelligence to clone yourself and scale.The Holiday Hustle: Balancing family traditions with end-of-year business survival.Listen now to future-proof your mindset for the New Year.
Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledCalifornia auto repair shop owners, there's a new regulation that almost flew under the radar, and if you're doing any kind of digital advertising, you'll want to hit play on this one.In this episode, Brian Walker sits down with Dave Kusa, president of ASCCA, to break down recent changes from the Bureau of Automotive Repair (BAR) that affect how you advertise your shop, especially when it comes to your phone number and license info. Spoiler: that tracking number you've been using to measure ad performance? It's not necessarily a problem... but there are some key things you need to know to stay compliant and avoid issues down the line.They also talk about how this regulation came about, what ASCCA did to advocate for shop owners, and what to expect moving forward. Plus, if you've ever wondered why joining an association like ASCCA really matters, this is a perfect example of how that involvement pays off.If you're marketing a shop in California, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this is one you can't afford to miss. Listen now and keep your shop out of trouble.Show Notes with TimestampsPodcast Network Introduction (00:00:00) Brief announcement of the Automotive Repair Podcast Network.Episode Introduction & Sponsors (00:00:10) Host Brian Walker introduces the episode, guest Dave Kusa, and thanks sponsors Shop Boss and App Fueled.Guest Introduction & ASCCA Overview (00:01:01) Dave Kusa introduces himself, his shop, and his role as ASCCA president and Government Affairs Committee chair.ASCCA's Role in Regulatory Issues (00:02:18) Discussion of ASCCA's involvement with the BAR advisory group and regulatory processes.Background on New BAR Advertising Rules (00:03:41) Explanation of how the new BAR advertising rules, especially phone number requirements, came to ASCCA's attention.Origin of Mobile Auto Repair Regulations (00:04:36) Details on how mobile repair regulations led to broader advertising requirements for all shops.Tracking Numbers & Industry Response (00:06:23) Concerns about tracking numbers, ASCCA's advocacy, and BAR's clarification on acceptable phone number practices.Current Compliance Recommendations (00:08:06) Advice on displaying registered phone numbers and ARD license on websites and digital marketing.Unresolved Issues & Awaiting Written Guidance (00:09:00) Pending clarity on Google My Business, Facebook, and the need for written BAR guidance.Best Practices & Consumer Protection (00:09:49) Benefits of displaying ARD numbers for legitimacy and consumer verification.Sponsor Messages (00:10:11) Promotional messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.BAR's Enforcement Approach & Dynamic Number Insertion (00:12:03) Discussion of BAR's grace...
Werbung:In dieser Folge bewerbe ich die Produkte der Marken mit denen ich über das Jahr zusammen gearbeitet habe.Ich bitte um freundliche Beachtung.2025 - was ein Jahr oder?Dieses Jahr hat mich in so vielen Dingen nach vorne gebracht, aber vor allem in Kollaborationen und Kontakten zu Shops, Herstellern und Designern.Heute möchte ich mit euch auf das Jahr zurückblicken, die 12 Monate, 12 Messer Challenge, die Kollaborationen, Highlights und unter welchem Titel ich 2025 zusammenfassen würde.Was hat euch in 2025 besonders bewegt?Was es bei mir war erfahrt ihr heute!Viel Spaß!Links:Pena Knives: https://www.instagram.com/penaknives/MK Messer: https://www.instagram.com/mk_messer/Messerdepot: https://www.instagram.com/messerdepot/Tuya Knives: https://www.instagram.com/tuyaknives/Andi1878: https://www.instagram.com/andi1878/Writing Turning Flipping: https://www.instagram.com/writingturningflipping/Schneidwerk Harz: https://www.instagram.com/schneidwerkharz/Benchmade: https://www.instagram.com/benchmadeknifecompany/Hog House Knives: https://www.instagram.com/hoghouseknives/Urban EDC: https://www.instagram.com/urbanedcsupply/Spartan Blades: https://www.instagram.com/spartanblades1/SPK Unlimited: https://www.instagram.com/alexsteingraber/Anso of Denmark: https://www.instagram.com/anso_of_denmark/Spyderco: https://www.instagram.com/spyderco_inc/
"Buying Local" has become important for many consumers, but there's a shortage of local butcher shop facilities and skilled employees.
Willkommen zum letzten AI und Automation Update des Jahres, kurz vor Weihnachten! Die letzten Wochen waren super stressig, aber ich freue mich, heute mit Thomas über die rasanten Entwicklungen in der KI zu sprechen. Dieses Jahr war echt der Wahnsinn und wir blicken heute noch einmal zurück und geben einen Ausblick auf das, was uns erwartet. Ein großes Thema, das wir direkt zu Beginn ansprechen, ist die Frage, ob der KI-Hype vorbei ist. Meine These: Ja, er ist vorbei! Wir sprechen nicht mehr über Hype, sondern über Industrialisierung. KI wird jetzt wirklich genutzt und findet überall Anwendung, vom privaten Bereich bis hin zu Banken und Shops. Es geht nicht mehr um das Staunen, sondern um Effizienz und Produktivität. Wir sprechen auch über die Regulierung durch den EU AI Act, der dieses Jahr gestartet ist. Das ist nicht nur eine neue Regelung, sondern beinhaltet auch eine Schulungspflicht für Mitarbeiter, die KI nutzen. Es ist wichtig, die Funktionsweise, ethische Grundlagen und Risiken zu verstehen – Stichwort Prompt Injection! Gleichzeitig fragen wir uns, wie sich die Regulierung weiterentwickelt und ob sie Innovationen hemmt. In der Versicherungswelt sehen wir, dass das Schadensmanagement die "Low Hanging Fruit" ist, wenn es um KI-Anwendungen geht. Viele Versicherer nutzen KI hier bereits, um unstrukturierte Daten zu verarbeiten und Prozesse zu optimieren. Aber es gibt noch so viel mehr Potenzial in anderen Bereichen, und ich frage mich, warum die Branche nicht mutiger ist, diese zu erkunden. Ein zentrales Thema für das kommende Jahr ist meiner Meinung nach die "Agentic AI". Wir sind vom einfachen Chat über komplexe Prompts hin zu KI-Agenten gekommen, die selbstständig Aufgaben zerlegen, Pläne erstellen und mit uns in Dialog treten können. Das wird unsere Arbeitsweise grundlegend verändern, und ich gebe ein Beispiel aus der Softwareentwicklung, um das greifbar zu machen. Zuletzt diskutieren wir, dass viele Herausforderungen, die wir jetzt mit KI erleben – wie das Thema Mindset, Experimentierfreude und das schnelle Anpassen an neue Technologien – gar nicht so neu sind. Sie erinnern an frühere Trends wie Agilität oder Design Thinking, aber die Geschwindigkeit und die technologische Komplexität sind diesmal viel höher. Links in dieser Ausgabe Zur Homepage von Jonas Piela Zum LinkedIn-Profil von Jonas Piela Zum LinkedIn-Profil von Thomas Fröhlich Whitepaper: KI verantwortungsvoll einsetzen Das Einzige, was riskanter ist als KI, ist sie zu ignorieren. Ladet euch jetzt das Whitepaper von Thoughtworks herunter und setzt KI verantwortungsvoll ein.
He started machining at 12 — and after working in over 1,000 companies, he's still learning.In this episode, Donnie talks about what decades in machining across countless shops actually teaches you — and why experience isn't just about time on the clock. From growing up in his dad's shop to walking into unfamiliar machines with no perfect setup, he shares how perspective changes once you stop seeing the industry from only one place.The conversation gets into real shop realities: solving problems with whatever tooling and machines are on hand, why machinists argue online (and why both sides are often right), calling BS on tool and software marketing, and what it's really like being an applications engineer who has to make things work under pressure.No theory. No ideal conditions. Just real-world machining.If you've ever thought, “That wouldn't work in my shop,” this episode explains why that might be true — and why it might still work somewhere else.
Richard Guiney, CEO of Dublin Town, discusses the festive footfall in the capital this December. Eddie Mullins, Owner of Fitzgerald Menswear in Cork City, discusses the festive season in Munster's main city
Tadgh Kearney, of Tadgh Kearney Jewellers in Limerick, and Vinny Browne, Manager of Charlie Byrne's Bookshop in Galway, discuss the uptick in business since the start of December.
Some episodes are planned. Others are produced. And then there are episodes like this one—where the setting, the people, and the moment all collide into something memorable. For the 500th episode of MakingChips, the team gathered once again At the Boring Bar for an unfiltered, bourbon-fueled roundtable with leaders from across the manufacturing ecosystem. Recorded live at Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions during the Top Shops Conference in Charlotte, this special annual episode brings together shop owners, executives, advisors, and industry partners for the kinds of conversations that usually happen after the microphones are turned off. The drinks are poured, the guardrails come down, and the real stories start to flow. What emerges is an honest discussion about what truly separates top-performing shops from the rest. Not hype. Not buzzwords. But culture, systems, communication, and the discipline to do the hard things consistently—especially when cash flow is tight, customers are demanding, and complexity is rising. From benchmarking through the Top Shops survey to navigating OEM power dynamics, cash flow strain, customer communication, and the maturity of manufacturing as an industry, this conversation reflects how far the industry has come—and how far it still needs to go. Along the way, there are laughs, sharp takes, personal stories, and more than a few lessons earned the hard way. This is At the Boring Bar. And for Episode 500, it's exactly where the MakingChips conversation belongs. Segments (0:00) Setting the scene at Roush Yates Manufacturing Solutions during Top Shops (1:47) Introductions from shop leaders, OEMs, advisors, and industry partners (6:14) What actually separates Top Shops from the middle of the pack (10:15) Core values, culture, and leadership maturity (15:57) IMTS, trade shows, and the pressure to bring something new (22:06) Marketing, differentiation, and industry buzzwords (26:00) AI, automation, and separating real value from hype (31:51) Cash flow realities and long payment terms (37:15) OEM power dynamics and positioning as a second source (45:57) Communication as a competitive advantage (55:40) Systems, standards, and operational discipline (1:02:10) Data visibility, professionalism, and rising expectations (1:12:45) Scaling culture, teams, and leadership (1:26:45) Developing people and building trust (1:37:15) Industry maturity and cross-industry learning (1:47:45) Final reflections from At the Boring Bar Resources mentioned on this episode CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Top Shops IMTS 2026 Methods Machine Tools Connect With the Guests/Hosts Isaac Burton Jason Davis Nick Goellner Mike Payne Paul Van Metre Jamie Marzilli Leslie Boyd Jon Star Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
In dieser Folge des Onlineshop Geflüster Podcasts sprechen wir darüber, wie du deine Werbeanzeigen in der Feiertagssaison strategisch clever steuerst – ohne in Stress oder Panik-Modus zu verfallen. Du erfährst, welche Kampagnen du jetzt priorisieren solltest, wie du mit steigenden CPMs und schwankender Performance umgehst und worauf du achten musst, um trotz Feiertagstrubel profitabel zu bleiben. Viel Spaß beim Anhören! Dein Berend. __________ Mache den ersten Schritt und buche dir eine kostenlose SHOPANALYSE: https://www.berend-heins.de/termin Wenn du sofort tiefer einsteigen willst: Hol dir mit unserem Onlinekurs die kugelsichere Komplettanleitung für profitable Meta Ads im eCommerce.
Gareth, Justin, and Michael at Skewed and Reviewed look at the latest entertainment news from moviegoing, Video, Games, and More. 00:00 Gen-Z at the movies 12:21 Universal AI movie Soulmate 19:18 WB Gaming news 28:19 World War Z game
In this episode, Hailey shares all the holiday cheer happening across Wisconsin counties! From north to south, communities are lighting up with festive downtown celebrations and unique shopping experiences you won't want to miss. Gather your family and friends, and make this season one to remember with a little holiday magic in every corner of the state!The Bobber is brought to you by Something Special from Wisconsin: https://www.somethingspecialwi.com/Read the blog here: https://discoverwisconsin.com/holiday-cheer-in-wisconsin-counties-downtown-celebrations-shopping-experiences/Oneida County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/oneida-county/; Lights of the Northwoods: https://lightsofthenorthwoods.org/; Rhinelander: https://www.rhinelanderwi.us/; Rock County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/rock-county/; Rotary Botanical Gardens Holiday Light Show: https://www.rotarybotanicalgardens.org/holiday-light-show; Janesville: https://www.janesvillewi.gov/; Ozaukee County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/ozaukee-county/; The Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement: https://www.cedarcreeksettlement.com/; Cedarburg: https://www.cityofcedarburg.wi.gov/; Waukesha County: https://www.wicounties.org/counties/waukesha-county/; German Christmas Market: https://germanchristmasmarket.org/The Bobber: https://discoverwisconsin.com/the-bobber-blog/The Cabin Podcast: https://the-cabin.simplecast.com. Follow on social @thecabinpodShop Discover Wisconsin: shop.discoverwisconsin.com. Follow on social @shopdiscoverwisconsinDiscover Wisconsin: https://discoverwisconsin.com/. Follow on social @discoverwisconsinDiscover Mediaworks: https://discovermediaworks.com/. Follow on social @discovermediaworksWisconsin Counties Association: https://www.wicounties.org/
Ford's CEO says 5,000 technician jobs are sitting open—and that's just the beginning. In this episode of Ratchet+Wrench Radio, Christine Schaffran talks with Repairify's Chief Transformation Officer, Keith Crerar, about the skills shortage, the rise of ADAS complexity, and the real-world technology helping shops stay ahead. From AI to change management to technician training, Keith breaks down what shop owners must do now to stay competitive—and safe.
n this episode, we explore how print shop owners can apply "Unreasonable Hospitality" principles from Will Guidara's acclaimed book to transform ordinary transactions into extraordinary customer experiences. Learn why emotional connection matters as much as perfect execution, and discover practical ways to stand out in a competitive industry.
As a beer enthusiast, bottle shops have always played an important role in my life. They were there when I first got into beer in a big way, supplying me with hard to find bottles imported from the United States, or new releases from some of the most exciting new breweries in the UK. It was through them that I also met some of my most valued friends and peers, including Jen Ferguson and Glenn Williams of South London's Hop Burns and Black, who gave me one of my first breaks as a beer writer with a monthly column published on their website. When we launched Pellicle in 2019, they were there to sponsor us for our first two years. Looking back, we probably wouldn't have made it through those first 24 months without their support. Then there's Phill and Steph Palgrave-Elliott of Caps and Taps in Tufnell Park. Not only did they give me my first ever gig as a freelance photographer, but like Jen and Glenn they became wonderful pals, and are also long time supporters of the magazine. It's through both of their shops that I gleaned a deep perspective of how important bottle shops once were within the beer ecosystem. Here is where you came when you wanted to support local and independent, or when you wanted to find the latest fussed-over cans, or simply something delicious from a brewery you were yet to discover. But things have changed a lot since those early days of craft beer—the early 2010s when everything felt shiny and new. Breweries came and went, some sold out, some focused on shifting units in national supermarket chains, and—after the pandemic—most of them started shipping direct to their customers. The role of the bottle shop shouldn't have changed, but the industry changed around them, forcing them to pivot and adapt. Some became bars, some focused on online retail, others simply weren't able to compete, and closed their doors forever.Without them, however, we probably would have the vibrant selection of independent breweries we're blessed with today. In this episode of The Pellicle Podcast I'm joined by the owners of three different UK bottleshops: Krishan Rajput of Stirchley Wines in Birmingham, Sam Parker of Keg Cask and Bottle in Prestwich, Manchester, plus Rosie and Greg Start, who run R&G's Beer Vault in both Macclesfield and Congleton. Together we chew through the last few years in beer, and discuss the importance of bottle shops. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the 2025 Salford Beer Festival. Huge thanks to organiser Jim Cullen for inviting us down to host this chat. We're able to produce The Pellicle Podcast directly thanks to our Patreon subscribers, and our sponsors Get ‘Er Brewed. If you're enjoying this podcast, or the weekly articles we publish, please consider taking out a monthly subscription for less than the price of a pint a month.
Back in January, we discussed the most powerful people in Chicago. But a lot has changed since then…or has it? TV host Brandon Pope and the Tribune's A.D. Quig are back to discuss how political power has shifted across Chicagoland and who might emerge as power players in 2026. Want some more City Cast Chicago news? Then make sure to sign up for our Hey Chicago newsletter. Follow us @citycastchicago You can also text us or leave a voicemail at: 773 780-0246 Learn more about the sponsors of this Dec. 15 episode: The Shops at North Bridge Joffrey Ballet Aura Frames – Get $35 off the Carver Mat frame with Promo Code CITYCAST Become a member of City Cast Chicago. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info HERE
What happens when a machine shop does everything right operationally but still feels exposed when markets shift, customers pull back, or one industry cools overnight? In this episode of MakingChips, the conversation turns squarely toward one of the most uncomfortable and misunderstood areas of manufacturing leadership: proactive sales and diversification. We're joined by Gabe Draper, founder of Factur, and Alan Hartmann, CEO of Hartmann's Inc., a multi-generation Texas manufacturer. Gabe shares a raw and honest origin story that starts with growing up in a manufacturing family, fighting to save a struggling shop, riding the oil and gas rollercoaster, and ultimately losing nearly everything when the downturn hit. That experience became the catalyst for building Factur, a company designed to help shops avoid reactive, last-minute sales cycles by intentionally filling their pipeline. Alan brings the perspective of a well-run, highly capable shop that realized success alone wasn't protection. With major customers concentrated in just a few industries, Hartmann's needed diversification, not because business was slow, but because resilience matters. Through their partnership with Factur, Alan explains how proactive sales, clearer positioning, and market intelligence led to rapid customer growth, industry expansion, and the confidence to invest in new capabilities. We unpack the difference between scarcity and abundance mindsets, why most shops accidentally commoditize themselves, and how sales, operations, and finance must work together as equal legs of the stool. From aerospace and medical to space flight and Swiss machining, this episode offers a candid look at how manufacturers can stop waiting for the phone to ring and start taking control of their future. Segments (0:00) Holiday banter and introducing guests Gabe Draper and Alan Hartmann (4:32) Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) (5:09) Gabe Draper's origin story and what led to founding Factur (10:53) The danger of customer and industry concentration (13:55) Alan Hartmann's multi-generation shop story and long-term customer relationships (18:22) Reactive vs proactive sales and why diversification matters (22:31) Breaking down Factur's full sales funnel (26:03) Why technical "hunters" outperform generalist sales roles (28:16) "What's Your Method": Aerospace Success with Zach from Methods (34:50) Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog for your workholding (36:04) Choosing the right sales and marketing services with Factur (40:02) Scarcity vs abundance mindset in shop growth (42:58) Using sales insights to justify equipment investments (46:05) How one new customer quickly became a top account (48:37) Managing risk across aerospace, medical, and space markets (51:11) Filling your capacity with the right work first (55:30) Sales specialization as shops scale (56:22) How manufacturers can engage Factur for market intelligence (1:00:13) Talent challenges and Hire MFG Leaders Resources mentioned on this episode Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Methods Machine Tools Check out the SMW Autoblok catalog for your workholding Get your free market intel report at https://facturmfg.com/chips/ Hire your next leader using our recruiting service—Hire MFG Leaders Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports on a change ahead at National Park gift shops.
Behind a sea of road cones, diggers and traffic chaos businesses on a busy Auckland road are crying out for help. Shop owners in the suburb of Grey Lynn say they've been struggling to stay afloat since a year long roadwork project began on Great North Road. With access often cut off and shops hidden from view one business is surviving off loans while another says times are the toughest it's been in 23 years including during Covid. They keep being told the work is about to wrap up but with multiple delays already some fear the end could be a long way off. Evie Richardson reports.
Mary Portas is a retail expert who has built her career on instinct, creativity and a drive to do things differently.She redefined Britain's shopping culture in the 1990s, transforming Harvey Nichols from a tired department store into the ultimate shopping destination and later, became a household name through her hit TV series, Mary, Queen of Shops.I first met Mary a few months ago and she completely blew me away. What I didn't know then were the circumstances that pushed her into retail in the first place. By 19, Mary had lost both her parents and found herself homeless, suddenly responsible for supporting herself and her younger brother. What began as a search for a ‘proper' job turned into the beginning of an extraordinary career.We cover:Losing both her parents by the age of 19Becoming homeless and finding her unexpected start in retailHer game-changing years at Harvey Nichols and the magic behind her iconic shop windowsHow her brother, Lawrence, became the biological father of her sonThe significant loves of Mary's lifeIn this conversation, Mary reminded me that identity isn't inherited, it's created. And sometimes it's only after losing everything that you learn how to build a life that feels like home.Mary Portas is Great Company.If you enjoyed the show, you can also follow us: Instagram- @greatcompanypodcastTikTok - @greatcompanypodcast And if you've got thoughts, questions and comments, you can email us at: greatcompany@jampotproductions.co.uk THE CREDITS Executive Producer: Jemima RathboneProducer: Helen BurkeAssistant Producer: Issy Weeks-HankinsEditor: Dan KingVideo: Jake Ji & Josh BennettSocial Media: Laura Coughlan Great Company is an original podcast from JamPot Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the Omaha Places podcast, hosts Cahner and Delaney share their experiences at Midwest Fest, Frosty Nights at Falconwood Park, and Christmas at Union Station, highlighting the festive atmosphere and community spirit. The conversation also includes shoutouts to local businesses like Certified Transmission and Mad Hatter Auto Repair, as well as upcoming openings in 2026. They wrap up with a discussion of events happening in Omaha during the holiday season, encouraging listeners to support local businesses and enjoy the festive offerings. Events: Physicians Mutual Omaha Symphony Christmas Celebration: https://omahaplaces.com/event/physicians-mutual-omaha-symphony-christmas-celebration/ Holiday Stroll in Little Bohemia: https://omahaplaces.com/event/holiday-stroll-2/ Holiday Lights Tour starting at Crescent Moon https://omahaplaces.com/event/holiday-lights-tour/ Jingle Jam in Olde Towne Elkhorn https://omahaplaces.com/event/jingle-jam/ |Instagram | |TikTok| | Youtube | | Subscribe to our newsletter| |Visit our website| This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat ONE Network by going to Hurrdat ONE Website or visit Hurrdat ONE YouTube Channel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Most shop owners think their biggest challenges are parts, staffing, or car count. According to David Boyd, CEO of Call Inbound, the real problems often hide in places you cannot see: dropped calls, unclear expectations, and communication gaps that quietly drain revenue every single day.In this episode of Maximum Octane, Kim Hickey and Jason Patel sit down with David to unpack the communication failures that start at the front counter and ripple through the entire shop. David brings the perspective of a Six Sigma master black belt and a decade of experience working inside independent repair shops, helping owners refine their processes and eliminate the costly friction that arises from miscommunication.They delve into the real reasons customers become frustrated, the expectations advisors often overlook, and why shops lose business even when the phone is ringing. David also explains how modern communication tools, call recording, and smart data integration help advisors stay consistent, protect the customer experience, and earn trust at every touchpoint. If you want fewer dropped balls, fewer comebacks, and fewer disappointed customers, this episode lays out the blueprint.Tune in to episode 132 of Maximum Octane to learn how better communication can transform your shop's efficiency, reputation, and bottom line.Episode Takeaways:3:10 How David's Six Sigma background shaped his approach to communication5:30 The perception gap between what owners think customers want and what they actually expect9:40 Why voice communication is still the backbone of the shop experience11:10 The number one miscommunication that leads to customer frustration14:00 How digital tools give advisors instant context that builds trust17:20 Why every shop needs call recording as a diagnostic tool19:10 How to use recordings for training instead of confrontation24:40 The first 15 seconds of a call determine an entire relationship28:20 What shops must know about data security and vendor trust31:00 How AI reduces review time and improves advisor consistency33:40 Why training only works when you can measure progressConnect with David Boyd:LinkedInCall Inbound websiteFollow Call Inbound on InstagramLet's connect:WebsiteLinkedInFacebookEmail: info@maximumoctane.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For many retail staff around the country, Stephen's Day is just another workday.Is this necessary or excessive? Can the post-Christmas sales wait?Andrea is joined by listeners to discuss.
Send us a textIn this episode of The Riley Black Project, John and Crystal sit down with Laniey & Alex of Hialeah Fine Jewelry for a raw, funny, and inspiring conversation about building a business, raising a family, and navigating entrepreneurship as a couple — all while welcoming a brand new baby into the mix.
Send us a textFrom Flat Tires to Fast Fixes: How FleetRevive is Transforming Fleet ServicesWelcome to the Trucking Risk and Insurance Podcast! In this episode, host Chris Harris sits down with Dandre Urquhart, founder of FleetRevive, to discuss how technology is revolutionizing roadside assistance and fleet management for the trucking industry. Learn how FleetRevive streamlines emergency repairs, improves communication, and helps both trucking companies and service providers save time, money, and stress.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro00:39 – What to Expect in This Episode01:04 – Sponsor Message01:44 – Official Podcast Welcome01:53 – Meet Dandre Urquhart & FleetRevive01:59 – What is FleetRevive?02:04 – The App's Origin Story02:20 – The Problem with Traditional Answering Services03:14 – Real-World Example: Getting the Wrong Info03:39 – How FleetRevive Works (Photo Requirement)05:09 – Saving Time and Money for Drivers and Shops07:12 – Real-Time Communication and Tracking08:43 – Preventing Scams and Disputes10:11 – 24/7 Service and Coverage11:42 – Benefits for Drivers, Shops, and Service Providers14:01 – Who Can Join FleetRevive?15:01 – Vetting Service Providers and Trucking Companies16:25 – Final Thoughts & How to Get in Touch16:45 – Thank You & OutroGuest Info:Dandre Urquhart, Founder of FleetReviveLearn more: https://www.fleetrevive.ca/hello@fleetrevive.comConnect with the Host:Chris Harris, Safety Dawg905 973 7056Subscribe for more episodes on trucking safety, risk, and innovation!
Oliver's monologue on a Monday.
RAGBRAI recently announced that Iowa's Community Bicycle Shops will be the Community Fund beneficiary for RAGBRAI LIII. Murph and AP are on to give you some insight into each of the chosen shops. Funds raised will be directed to 6 Community Bicycle Shops in Iowa: -The Iowa City Bike Library -The Street Collective in Des Moines -Chain Reaction Bike Hub in Cedar Rapids -Cedar Valley Bicycle Collective in Waterloo -We-Cycle in Ames -The Dubuque Bike Co-Op Find out more at: https://ragbrai.com/gives/ RAGBRAI: www.ragbrai.com Just Go Bike: ragbrai.com/justgobike/ Watch, or listen on our Just Go Bike YouTube channel. www.youtube.com/@JustGoBikePodcast Have a topic for a future episode? Message us at justgobikepodcast@gmail.com. Registration for RAGBRAI LIII is open! ragbrai.com/registration/
AP's Lisa Dwyer reports that the immigrant community in Kenner, Louisiana is taking a hit from a federal enforcement campaign.
Shops do it, bars do it and now time-stressed families are doing it! PJ talks to Denis McCarthy of folium.ie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Longtime St. Louis food writer Matt Sorrell's new book is a celebration of his favorite restaurants, bars and shops. Among the 80 selections are old standbys like the Hideaway and Crown Candy Kitchen, as well as newer arrivals like Kain Tayo and Balkan Treat Box. The book, “Matt's St. Louis Food Story,” highlights not just the food, but the atmosphere, history and character that have made each spot memorable.
Today, we discovered that there is a HUGE conflict happening between authentic and imitation barbers in North Dakota, and it turns out that both Josh and Katy's mothers are barbers.The fun continues on our social media pages!Jeremy, Katy & Josh Facebook: CLICK HERE Jeremy, Katy & Josh Instagram: CLICK HERE
The power of influencers and creators today is now proven to be traditional advertising, messaging, and calls to action in driving sales. Particularly those from Gen Z shoppers. It's no surprise these days that social media platform shops are selling so effectively. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
High street pubs, hotels and shops face “catastrophic” hikes in business rate bills that will force widespread closures and job losses, the Government has been warned. Less than a week after Rachel Reeves's Budget speech, thousands of business owners in the retail and hospitality sector have learned their bills will rise by tens of thousands of pounds from April next year as a result of a “broken business rate system". The damage is being done by a combination of huge increases in rateable values, and the end of 40% relief for the sectors most harmed by the pandemic lockdowns. The Standard's Business Correspondent Jonathan Prynn is here with the latest. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This week on Truth to Power, we bring you a community conversation about reducing single use disposable plastics in foodservice and the food safety codes that impact efforts to avoid disposables. This conversation was hosted by Beyond Plastics Louisville at their November 20th meeting, and it featured Alison Schleck, Environmental Health Supervisor for the Louisville Metro Public Health and Wellness Food Safety Program. Alison engaged in a rich dialogue with Beyond Plastics Louisville members about our food safety codes as they apply to reusable containers for food and drink. Learn more about Beyond Plastics Louisville at https://www.facebook.com/groups/beyondplasticslouky. Watch a recording of the evening at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SniWcZrwwA The next meeting of Beyond Plastics Louisville will be a dinner gathering on Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026 at 6pm at Mashup Food Hall in NuLu (750 E Jefferson St.). Join fellow plastic haters at this in-person gathering for dinner, followed by a discussion of the new book, The Problem with Plastic, by Beyond Plastic's founder, Judith Enck. These are some things we learned from our conversation with Alison: • The Food Safety Program oversees 4,600 food facilities in the Louisville metro area, with 17 inspectors and 2 supervisors. Most facilities have two inspections per year. • When restaurant customers dine in, they may bring reusable containers for their leftovers, as long as the restaurant staff do not handle the containers. For other carryouts, the kitchen cannot accept a customer's container. • For coffee shops, the vendor may prepare beverages and transfer into the customer's container, as long as the transfer is contamination free, with no direct contact. Shops, such as Starbucks, may choose whether or not they will allow customers to bring their containers. • Another option (used at some college campuses and in other locales) would be for a food service to provide food in a reusable container that the customer would return to the business or a third party service to be cleaned and sanitized before being reused. • Pam asked if the food safety code addressed possible chemical or microplastic contamination from plastic packaging, containers, or utensils. Alison said the food code standards require that food contact surfaces not allow “migration of deleterious substances' into food. The current code prevents contact with some metals such as lead, copper, or galvanized metal. Regarding concerns about PFAS, Alison said the code specifies that cooking surfaces with Perfluoroalkyl non-stick coatings may not be scratched. • Pam also asked about processes where food is cooked in plastic. These are currently allowed by the code. • Beatriz asked about the process for adopting or changing the KY food code. Who decides which federal code is followed? Alison answered that the KY Dept. for Public Health adopts the code. This department is under the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. • Beatriz also asked if the Metro Food Safety Program regulates food trucks. She has noticed that most food trucks seem to use Styrofoam containers. Food trucks are regulated and inspected, but Styrofoam is allowed by the code. • Arnita asked about educational resources for a friend who teaches fifth graders. Pam recommended programs from kNOw Waste Louisville. Both Pam and Shayla recommended the film Microplastic Madness. On Truth to Power each week, we gather people from around the community to discuss the state of the world, the nation, the state, and the city! It's a community conversation like you won't hear anywhere else! Truth to Power airs every Friday at 9pm, Saturday at 11am, and Sunday at 4pm on Louisville's grassroots, community radio station, Forward Radio 106.5fm WFMP and live streams at https://forwardradio.org
In this Movie Show Digital Extra, Andy Farnsworth sits down (in a replica of a first-class cabin on Titanic) with Mark Lach, designer of Titanic: The Exhibition, a traveling, interactive and immersive experience where patrons can get a sense of what it was like on the doomed luxury liner, see real artifacts and get to know more about the real people who made the fateful voyage over 100 years ago. Lach talks about how the James Cameron 1997 film inspired some of the exhibit and the choices of what a visitor will experience, what he hoped for when he designed the layout, as well as the lesser-known links Utah has to Titanic. Titanic: The Exhibition is currently taking place at The Shops at South Town in Sandy. Tickets and more information about the exhibit can be found here. Listen to The Movie Show with Andy Farnsworth and Steve Salles on Fridays from 11am to 1pm on 102.7 FM & 1160 AM in Salt Lake City, streaming on kslnewsradio.com, or on the KSL NewsRadio App. Follow the show on Facebook at @TheMovieShow and join The Movie Show Club for exclusive perks! Text the word "Movie" to 57500 on the KSL Mountain Home Services Text Line. (Message and data rates may apply; Text STOP to cancel; Message frequency varies)
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Marc and Kim begin the day talking about cases dismissed against James Comey and Letitia James, which the Trump administration plans to appeal. Catherine Hanaway is cracking down on smoke shops. In Kim on a Whim: home owners insurance could spike over next couple of years.
Shops want faster workflows, fewer bottlenecks, and equipment that keeps technicians moving. On this episode of What's Treading, we set out to learn how well the new Road Force WalkAway tire balancer supports those goals during a visit to Hunter Engineering's headquarters. We wanted to see how much time a modern balancer can actually save and what that means for daily productivity inside a busy tire bay.Hunter's David Henry kicked things off by showing the biggest change: automatic inflation built directly into the balancer. Technicians can clamp the wheel, hook on the hose, and drop the hood, and the machine handles the rest. Henry explained that this feature frees up 45 to 90 seconds, which technicians can use to mount the next tire, prep weights, grab a tire from the rack, or keep another bay moving.The WalkAway still performs full Road Force diagnostics, measures spring rate, identifies stiff spots, and uses camera-based wheel measurement. But the team redesigned the hood and roller assembly to shrink the footprint by 4.5 inches to reclaim some space.Engineering Manager Nate Brower explained how the machine calculates time savings through pressure readings, volume calculations, and flow rate. It gives technicians a countdown that shows how long they have to complete other tasks. In testing, he said, pairing the Road Force WalkAway with Hunter's automated tire changers cut a four-tire job from 34 minutes to 19, which delivered a 44% time savings.The WalkAway also integrates with HunterNet, which lets multi-store operations track usage, roller drops, inflation habits, and technician performance.
(0:06:32): ESPN Bet gets divorce from Penn Gaming, ESPN makes new partnership with DraftKings.... (0:55:24): Ossi "Monarch" Ketola was banned from X and claims a rival casino company bribed them to do it.... (1:29:05): Report: Caesars will be phasing out the "Grand Bazaar Shops" behind Horseshoe, often used by WSOP players for quick meals on breaks.... (2:00:56): Wizard of Oz has saved the Las Vegas Sphere -- sort of.... (2:32:58): Do you live in an apartment/condo/townhome in Vegas? Then you might have been overcharged by NV Energy since 2002.... (2:47:15): Salt & Fin -- in the former Fiore location -- has closed at Harrah's Resort Southern California, and Druff talks about a battle he once had with that property which resulted in a major policy change.
Ole Miss is having one of its very best seasons in school history. Rebel fans can't even enjoy it, because sixth-year head coach Lane Kiffin refuses to say whether he's staying or leaving at season's end. Florida has been after Kiffin for weeks, while LSU has ramped up its pursuit of Kiffin in the last few days. Planes are being tracked and reports of an Ole Miss decision deadline (no later than the Egg Bowl) have made Kiffin and the Rebels the talk of the sport over their bye week.Our Sponsors:* Check out Underdog Fantasy and use my code CHAMPIONS for a great deal: https://underdogfantasy.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Watch the whole interview: https://chinauncensored.tv/programs/podcast-314 CCP-linked groups are taking advantage of legal loopholes—and law enforcement has no way to stop them. They're making more money than legit marijuana growers. Guest Steve Robinson of the Maine Wire explains why these Chinese groups are able to exploit the system better than anyone. Read more from the Maine Wire: https://www.themainewire.com/triad-weed/