Best MakingChips Podcasts (2025)

1
Is Coaching the Key to Lights-Out Success? Ep #16 53:01

7d ago53:01

53:01

What happens when cutting-edge CAM automation meets boots-on-the-ground manufacturing know-how? You get an eye-opening conversation that will challenge the way you think about the future of your shop—and your role in it. In this episode of Lights Out, we sit down with David Vuyk, a guy who’s walked every inch of the shop floor and now finds himself…

1
Machines Are Just the Start (How to Build a Shop That Lasts), 461 1:17:46

4d ago1:17:46

1:17:46

If you’re in the trenches of manufacturing like we are—running a shop, growing a business, or even dreaming of starting your own—this episode is going to hit home. We’re diving deep into the real challenges and choices that come with equipping a machine shop. It’s not just about what machine to buy; it’s about how to make smart, future-proof decisi…

1
Funding Your Dream Shop: Creative Ownership Strategies You Haven’t Heard Yet, 460 1:04:42

11d ago1:04:42

1:04:42

Dreaming of owning your own machine shop but hitting a wall when it comes to the money? You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not out of options. In this episode of MakingChips’ Machine Shop MBA series, host Mike Payne sits down with Jon Hughes, Principal and CFO Consultant at CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), to unpack what it really takes to fund a manu…

1
The Quiet Cut That's Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing 35:09

14d ago35:09

35:09

Most small manufacturers don’t realize they’re being quietly supported by one of the most impactful public-private partnerships in the country. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) has long been the hidden backbone behind training programs, grant facilitation, process improvements, and critical tech upgrades for shops across the U.S. But r…

1
The Quiet Cut That's Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing 35:09

13d ago35:09

35:09

Most small manufacturers don’t realize they’re being quietly supported by one of the most impactful public-private partnerships in the country. The Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) has long been the hidden backbone behind training programs, grant facilitation, process improvements, and critical tech upgrades for shops across the U.S. But r…

1
The Legal + Financial Stuff No One Warns You About When Starting a Machine Shop, 459 41:13

18d ago41:13

41:13

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 we…

1
The Juice-to-Squeeze Ratio: Why Time Freedom Isn’t Optional for Shop Owners, Ep #15 47:30

24d ago47:30

47:30

What if the real sign of a thriving machine shop isn’t how hard the lights are on—but how confidently you can turn them off? In this episode of Lights Out, we sit back down with Ryan Bankel of Imago Manufacturing to get into the guts of how a high-performing shop can run with minimal human presence and still crank out quality parts. This isn't abou…

1
Shop Formation 101: Entity Types, Tax Traps, and Long-Term Strategy, 458 39:51

25d ago39:51

39:51

In this episode of the Machine Shop MBA series, we go beyond vision boards and get into the meat and potatoes of launching your shop legally—with the right entity type and structure to support your short and long-term goals. Whether you’re looking to stay solo, bring on partners, or position for future investment or acquisition, your business forma…

1
Breaking Boundaries: Building the Entrepreneurial Mindset, 457 40:46

1M ago40:46

40:46

In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the entrepreneurial mindset, drawing inspiration from three of the most influential figures in modern business: Titan Gilroy, Elon Musk, and Steve Jobs. Through clips from these legendary leaders, we explore the grit, vision, and resilience required to launch and grow a business in the challenging world …

1
Automation: The Key to Time Freedom in Machining, Ep #14 41:46

1M ago41:46

41:46

Have you ever felt like the traditional path of working harder to get ahead isn't the answer? In this episode, Ryan Bankel, founder of Imago Precision Machining, shares the story of how he built his business from the ground up. What started in a garage has grown into a company with a strong focus on sustainability and automation. Ryan talks about h…

1
Machine Shop MBA: How to Become a Top Shop with Brent Donaldson, 456 47:20

1M ago47:20

47:20

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 t…

1
Introducing Machine Shop Growth: Scaling Success with Kirk Phelps and Mike Fritz, 455 44:17

2M ago44:17

44:17

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 acquisition…

1
Unpacking Real-World Applications of AI in Manufacturing with Bryce Barnes, 454 52:43

2M ago52:43

52:43

In this episode of MakingChips, we dive into the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is revolutionizing the manufacturing industry. Special guest Bryce Barnes, a manufacturing AI consultant, shares his expertise and insights on how AI is transforming both the shop floor and business operations. As a former mechanical engineer turned AI…

1
Cybersecurity Requirements for DoD Contractors: A Deep Dive into CMMC with Jacob Horne, 453 1:11:02

2M ago1:11:02

1:11:02

In this episode of MakingChips, we take a deep-dive into the complexities of cybersecurity requirements for manufacturers working with the Department of Defense (DoD) with expert Jacob Horne. Jacob, the Chief Cybersecurity Evangelist at Summit 7, brings a wealth of knowledge to the conversation, especially as it relates to the Cybersecurity Maturit…

1
The AI Revolution: Rethinking Automation with Al Whatmough, Ep #13 38:32

2M ago38:32

38:32

In this episode of Lights Out, we’re joined by a true innovator in the manufacturing space, Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath. Al brings a wealth of experience from his time at Autodesk and his leadership at Toolpath, where he’s driving the next wave of automation in CNC machining. Together, we dive into the revolutionary role that AI is playing in res…

1
How Mike Nager is Closing the Awareness Gap with Kid’s Books on Manufacturing, 452 30:12

2M ago30:12

30:12

We’re always looking for ways to build greater awareness of manufacturing, and we believe the conversation needs to start at an earlier age. That’s why we’re excited to speak with people like Michael (Mike) Nager, who shares our passion for bridging the gap. Mike is a passionate advocate for raising awareness about manufacturing through children’s …

1
Hire MFG Leaders: Revolutionizing Recruiting for Manufacturers, 451 40:24

3M ago40:24

40:24

The biggest problem in manufacturing today? Finding and retaining the right talent. Labor shortages aren’t just about filling positions; it’s about finding people who will truly thrive in your company culture and help drive long-term growth. But how do you accomplish that? Trevor O'Malley and Myles Rickerd bring a fresh perspective to talent acquis…

1
Why AI Isn’t the Answer for Quoting: The Risks of Using ChatGPT in Manufacturing, 450 35:53

3M ago35:53

35:53

In manufacturing, speed matters—especially when it comes to quoting. If you can’t turn around quotes quickly and accurately, your customers will move on to someone who can. But should you leverage AI, like ChatGPT, to make the quoting process easier? In this episode of MakingChips, we’re tackling a hot topic: the risks and limitations of using larg…

1
Make the Right Chips, Do the Right Work, Ep #12 39:51

3M ago39:51

39:51

Are robots really taking over human jobs, or is it the other way around? In this eye-opening episode of Lights Out, hosts Nick and Kaleb sit down with automation expert Max Falcone to challenge one of the biggest misconceptions in manufacturing: that automation replaces workers. Instead, they argue that too many people are still stuck performing te…

1
The Business of MakingChips: From Shop Floor to CEO, 449 29:17

3M ago29:17

29:17

Many machinists dream of owning their own shop. But there’s a big difference between being great at making chips and being great at running a business—just like a skilled operator isn’t automatically a great manager. That’s why we’re launching a new series—think of it as a MasterClass on starting, running, and growing a successful machine shop. Bus…

1
How Systems and Processes Can Transform Your Shop's Revenue, 448 54:07

3M ago54:07

54:07

What’s the secret to scaling a manufacturing business? For Mike, it all started with a growing passion for manufacturing, a desire to learn, and the decision to implement ProShop ERP. In this episode of MakingChips, Paul and Mike share their origin stories and dive into the transformative power of systems, processes, and ProShop. Mike’s journey beg…

1
The Throughput Mindset: How Automation and Culture Drive Success, Ep #11 48:35

3M ago48:35

48:35

What separates the best shops from the crowd? It’s not just the technology they use—it’s the way they think. The top manufacturing leaders aren’t content with operators who say, ‘I run a mill,’ or ‘She programs machines.’ Instead, they cultivate a culture where everyone is focused on one goal: increasing throughput. By aligning your people, resourc…

1
Precision Under Pressure: How Machinists Empower First Responders, 447 28:03

3M ago28:03

28:03

Watching the wildfires spread in Los Angeles is both heartbreaking and sobering. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unspeakable tragedy. We’re also reminded of the bravery and dedication of first responders—firefighters on the ground and pilots flying “super scoopers” to drop water where it’s needed most. But behind every h…

1
A MakingChips Farewell to the OG: Jason Zenger, #446 37:19

4M ago37:19

37:19

After nearly a decade of shaping MakingChips—spending close to 25% of his life on this journey—Jason Zenger is saying goodbye to the podcast that transformed the manufacturing space. As one of the original trailblazers, Jason helped create a platform that built community, sparked essential conversations, and made manufacturing more approachable as …

1
How to Build a Kick-Ass Culture with Beau Groover, 445 54:31

4M ago54:31

54:31

What does it take to build a truly exceptional culture in your manufacturing business? In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Beau Groover, a seasoned coach with decades of experience in lean implementation, continuous improvement, and leadership. From his early days as an Inventory Control Manager to overseeing 21 plants as Director of M…

1
New Year, New Goals: Aligning Metrics, Leadership, and Life, 444 38:58

4M ago38:58

38:58

The world is divided when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. Some argue that if you’re committed to change, you should take action anytime—not just at the start of the year. But the new year is also a natural time for reflection, a chance to evaluate where you’ve been and map out where you’re going, in both business and life. In this episode of Ma…

1
Looking Back, Moving Forward: Our Top MakingChips Moments of 2024, 443 57:43

4M ago57:43

57:43

In this special episode of MakingChips, we reflect on our favorite moments of 2024—the ones that made us laugh, the ones that brought a tear to our eyes, and the ones that remind us why we’re so proud to be part of the manufacturing community. We dive into the topics that matter most: How to transfer tribal knowledge to the next generation. Why imp…

1
Why Customer Service Outsells Sales, 442 48:20

5M ago48:20

48:20

Customer service in manufacturing is often seen as a pain point rather than a differentiator. We’ve all experienced the frustrations of dealing with companies like Comcast—impossible cancellations, endless transfers, and the feeling of being treated as just another number. Unfortunately, too many manufacturing shops still operate with a similar “yo…

1
Business Moves at the Speed of Trust with Wade Anderson, Ep #10 39:32

5M ago39:32

39:32

In this episode of Lights Out, Wade Anderson, VP of Engineering and Automation at Okuma delivers a compelling look at how automation is transforming the manufacturing landscape. Along with Steve DeGrasse, the East Coast Regional Sales Director at Hennig, we uncover why tomorrow’s machine tools will require rethinking—like side-door access for robot…

1
From Conflict to Courage: Marlene Chism’s Guide to Transforming Workplace Conflict (Part 2) 37:49

5M ago37:49

37:49

In part two of our conversation with Marlene Chism, we dive deeper into the intricacies of navigating workplace conflict and cultivating emotional resilience. Marlene shares actionable strategies for overcoming internal and external conflicts by aligning with your core values and taking personal responsibility for your reactions. She highlights the…

1
No-Drama Leadership: Marlene Chism’s Guide to Transforming Workplace Conflict (Part 1), 440 39:17

5M ago39:17

39:17

How do you break free from dysfunctional workplace dynamics and create real transformation? Marlene Chism, a former factory worker turned HR consultant and coach, shares her journey from the shop floor to becoming an expert in conflict management. After 21 years at Kraft Foods, Marlene realized she wanted more. When she started taking college class…

1
#ThankAMachinist, 439 34:20

5M ago34:20

34:20

Today, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the hardest-working and most impactful people in the world: machinists. These skilled professionals are behind nearly everything we touch, from the medical devices that save lives to the cutting-edge aerospace components that explore the final frontier. Machinists are the unsung heroes who take ideas from…

1
Chip and Coolant Management for Machining Automation with Blaser Swisslube and Hennig, Ep #9 40:23

6M ago40:23

40:23

In this episode of Lights Out, we explore how cutting-edge coolant technology is transforming manufacturing by enabling efficiency, stability, and sustainability. Tiffany Bryson and Christopher Porsch of Blaser emphasize the need for a repeatable, reliable process, noting that automation hinges on stable coolant systems. Scott Cooley, with Hennig, …

1
Are You Even Prepared to Run a Lights Out Shop? Ep #8 41:53

6M ago41:53

41:53

What do you need to know before you launch automation in your shop? What would be signs that you’re not ready to automate? If you’re launching the process, how can you use your ERP/MRP to the fullest? Even the smallest mistakes—like not having a process in place to deal with the chips your machines are creating while running lights out—can be costl…

1
Connecting Advanced Machining Strategies to Business Results Part 2 26:10

6M ago26:10

26:10

Here’s our controversial take: We believe that “automated” is more important than “operated”. It’s a stance that scares a lot of operators—but it shouldn’t. In this episode of MakingChips, Mike Payne and Kaleb Mertz return to dive into part loading and pallet loading, a mixed vs fixed mindset, and why predictive is better than reactive. We’ll conne…

1
Connecting Advanced Machining Strategies to Business Results Part 1 28:48

6M ago28:48

28:48

Machine monitoring can give us insights into our machines that can and should change how we’re operating. The end goal is to drive better business results. But how should monitoring be paired with advanced business strategies to help you achieve those results? Mike Payne, Kaleb Mertz and I connect the dots in this episode of MakingChips. Because if…

1
A Samurai's Journey to Automation, Ep #5 46:25

6M ago46:25

46:25

Can small shops begin to automate their processes? Where do they start with automation? In this episode of MakingChips, the CNC Samurai, Steve Courchane, returns to share his passion for automation. He lays out his 3M process and how it changes the way you view automation. Because if you’re not modeling, making, or measuring—you’re not MakingChips.…

1
How to Prioritize Flexibility when You Invest in Automation, Ep #4 36:09

6M ago36:09

36:09

POV: You’ve decided to start the process of implementing automation in your machine shop—but it isn’t as easy as flipping a switch. It’s a process that consists of failing forward and learning from every mistake. Tom Schroeder—the Executive Vice President at PBC Linear—joins us in this episode of Lights Out to share how to prioritize flexibility wh…

1
How a Prototyping Shop is Shattering the Status Quo with Automation, Ep #3 45:00

6M ago45:00

45:00

Are you embracing automation in your shop? Or are you hesitating because you’re unsure how to implement it so that you’re making the best use of your time and money? Brian Kippen—the owner and CEO of KAD Models & Prototypes—reframes how you can use automation. In this episode of MakingChips, Brian Kippen, Steve DeGrasse, and I share how you can app…

1
Automation 101 with Chris Luecke Manufacturing Happy Hour, Ep #2 48:38

6M ago48:38

48:38

Automation continues to be a popular and divisive topic in the manufacturing world. Automation is important for attracting and retaining young talent and growing your business. So we’ve been working hard to highlight the importance of automation—and where you can dive in—with our Lights Out series. Chris Luecke—the host of Manufacturing Happy Hour—…

1
Training Machinists with an Automation Mindset with Titan Gilroy, Ep #1 39:39

6M ago39:39

39:39

Lights out manufacturing isn’t only a large topic of conversation but it’s also the way of the future. Shops around the world are embracing automation. Are you? If you haven’t become part of the automation conversation, don’t miss our first lights-out-focused episode with Special guest Titan Gilroy. He shares how automation has progressed, the mind…

1
How Will a Trump Presidency Impact Manufacturing? 438 43:19

5M ago43:19

43:19

Election years cause a lot of upheaval in the world of manufacturing. Industry spending can often see a sharp decrease, which can negatively impact many shops. The general indecision leading up to an election impacts almost every sub-genre in manufacturing, from medical devices to aerospace, oil & gas to firearms. The election is over and Trump has…

1
How to Win Production Work, 437 41:02

6M ago41:02

41:02

Are you ready to take your manufacturing business to the next level with production work? This episode of MakingChips dives into the top five benefits of production work and the essential steps to position your shop as a full-service production-ready operation. Imagine the stability and growth potential when a substantial portion of your monthly re…

1
How Can We Champion Manufacturing? with Terry Iverson (Part 2), 436 32:29

6M ago32:29

32:29

In this MakingChips episode, Terry discusses the transformative power of mentoring in manufacturing, especially the importance of reverse mentoring. He shares how younger, tech-savvy workers can help Baby Boomers adapt to new technologies, creating a reciprocal learning relationship. This approach combines the strengths of both generations, enhanci…

1
How Can We Champion Manufacturing? with Terry Iverson (Part 1), 435 32:57

6M ago32:57

32:57

On this episode of MakingChips, Jason dives into a conversation with Terry Iverson about his book, “Finding America's Greatest Champion: Building Prosperity Through Manufacturing, Mentoring and the Awesome Responsibility of Parenting.” Through initiatives like CHAMPION Now!®, Iverson strives to change public perceptions about manufacturing. He advo…

1
How the Skilled Careers Coalition is Bridging the Manufacturing Skills Gap, 434 50:32

6M ago50:32

50:32

“How do we connect today’s youth with the skilled careers of tomorrow?” This is the challenge the Skilled Careers Coalition is determined to solve. Manufacturing is at a crossroads. Long-time business owners are retiring without successors, shutting down operations entirely. Skilled operators are stepping away, leaving a void without replacements. …

1
Automation Begins Before Machining with Toolpath Part II, 433 22:44

7M ago22:44

22:44

In this episode of MakingChips, Al Whatmough explores how AI and automation are transforming the manufacturing industry—not by replacing people, but by empowering them to focus on higher-value work. Al shares insights from IMTS and introduces the concept of Human-Aided Manufacturing (HAM), where AI handles routine tasks, freeing machinists to make …

1
Automation Begins Before Machining with Toolpath, Part 1 25:00

7M ago25:00

25:00

How does a machinist from Canada end up leading a California tech startup? In Episode #432 of MakingChips, Al Whatmough shares his unique journey—from the shop floor to becoming the CEO of Toolpath, a company dedicated to improving machining through smart software solutions. Al’s path is shaped by personal challenges, faith, and a passion for build…

1
Top Technology Takeaways From IMTS 2024, 431 28:28

7M ago28:28

28:28

IMTS is where manufacturing's cutting-edge technology takes center stage, and this year was no exception. IMTS 2024 brought the future to the forefront, showcasing the most advanced solutions in the industry. In this episode of MakingChips, Nush Ahmed and Chris Luecke join Paul, Nick, and Mike to dive into the game-changing technologies that caught…

1
How the Mexican Manufacturing Industry Can help you Grow Your American Business, 430 42:49

7M ago42:49

42:49

Why would an American company want to consider expanding operations to Mexico? With more experienced engineers retiring and a decreasing number of new blood entering the manufacturing workforce, Mexico has become a viable option for operations. But is the process worth the potential hassle? Today’s guest is the Senior Director of Latin America for …

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