Best Nick Goellner Podcasts (2025)

1
The Home of MFG: Uniting Events, Podcasts, and Tools for the Manufacturing Nation, 463 31:27

1h ago31:27

31:27

What if every trade show, manufacturing podcast, and business resource you needed was just a few clicks away? That’s the vision behind The Home of MFG, a new online hub created by Chris Stevens—a manufacturing leader who got tired of fragmented information and decided to build a centralized, open-access platform for the industry. In this episode, w…

1
Preparing for a Merger: Hard Decisions to Preserve Legacy in the Fab Shop | Part 1 35:04

1d ago35:04

35:04

In this episode of MakingSparks, we dive what went into a first-of-its-kind merger between two 5th generation Metal Fabrication shops: NIX® Industrial and Huncilman Sheet Metal. Hosts Casey and Matthew sit down with Parker Huncilman to unpack the strategic, emotional, and operational decisions that made this merger a win for both sides. From growth…

1
Meet MAESTRO: How Hexagon is Turning Quality Into a Power Play, 462 44:49

2d ago44:49

44:49

If inspection is the bottleneck in your shop, you’re not alone—and this episode might just be your blueprint for breaking through it. We sat down with the team behind MAESTRO, the latest release from Hexagon’s Manufacturing Intelligence division, to explore how a complete reinvention of the coordinate measuring machine (CMM) is shifting quality con…

1
Personal Guarantees & Loan Covenants: How to Not Get Burned, Ep #17 57:21

7d ago57:21

57:21

Most of us would never machine a part without checking the tolerances first — so why do so many shop owners sign off on financing agreements without understanding the performance “tolerances” our banks are quietly measuring us against? In this episode of Buy the Numbers, commercial banker Danny O’Keefe returns to break down two terms that sound lik…

1
Machines Are Just the Start (How to Build a Shop That Lasts), 461 1:14:51

10d ago1:14:51

1:14:51

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

13d 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
Navigating the New Tariff Terrain: What Manufacturers Need to Know Now, Ep #16 41:26

15d ago41:26

41:26

Tariffs aren’t just a line item buried in your supply chain—they’re a fast-moving, often misunderstood force that could have a massive impact on your profitability, pricing, and even your global strategy. In this eye-opening episode of Buy the Numbers, Jennifer Clement and Leslie Boyd from CLA join me for a masterclass in tariff mitigation strategi…

1
How To Turn Influence into Metal Fabrication Sales 38:54

16d ago38:54

38:54

Jake LeGrand joins us to talk about the grind, the grit, and the growth — both in the shop and online. By day, he’s an architectural engineer. By night, he’s building a brand with a welding torch and a sketchpad. With over 19,000 followers and clients finding him through Instagram DMs, Jake is living proof that showing your work can turn into real …

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

18d 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
Funding Your Dream Shop: Creative Ownership Strategies You Haven’t Heard Yet, 460 1:04:42

17d 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

20d 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

20d 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

19d 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
Culture’s Not a Beer Fridge: Rethinking Leadership in Manufacturing, Ep #15 55:11

22d ago55:11

55:11

If you're still thinking of culture in your manufacturing shop as a side dish instead of the main course, you're already behind. In this episode of Buy the Numbers, I sat down with Jim Mayer to unpack what shop culture really looks like on the floor—and why we need to start talking about it differently. This isn't about breakroom ping-pong tables o…

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

24d 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

29d 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
How to Reach the Next Generation in Trades 41:54

29d ago41:54

41:54

Nush Ahmed, better known as 'Miss Swiss' joins us to discuss her journey in the machining world, her massive growth through social media, and how she is encouraging the next generation to give the Manufacturing Industry a shot. From massive growth on LinkedIn to creating a community where hundreds of women in trades interact & encourage each other,…

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

1M 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
The Art and Science of Buying Machines: How to Choose the Right Equipment (And When), Ep #14 53:17

1M ago53:17

53:17

This conversation will transform how you think about machine tool investments. Keith Granno, a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience in the machine tool industry, offers invaluable insights on the delicate balance between machine selection and long-term profitability. From choosing the right machines to understanding when it's time …

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
What Fuels the World's Largest Metal Fabrication Projects 45:25

1M ago45:25

45:25

In this episode of MakingSparks, we sit down with John King, owner of JK Welding, whose story of grit, perseverance, and passion for the trade embodies the spirit of metal fabrication. From starting as a janitor in a welding shop to running a thriving Texas-based business known for tackling massive, unique projects—like the world’s largest wind chi…

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

2M 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
Scaling Success: Managing Growth Through Data and Culture, Ep #13 1:00:09

2M ago1:00:09

1:00:09

In today’s episode of Buy the Numbers, we’re diving into the key metrics that help a company scale successfully. Growth can be both exhilarating and overwhelming, especially when you’re managing multiple locations and divisions. How do you ensure that each part of your business is operating smoothly while also keeping a strong grip on the culture a…

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
How to Fix Your Quoting Process Before it Kills Your Shop 42:47

2M ago42:47

42:47

Most fabrication shops struggle with quoting—whether it’s using outdated spreadsheets, clunky ERP systems, or just not having the time to do it right. In this episode, we sit down with Jason Ray, CEO and co-founder of Paperless Parts, to talk about how modern software can make quoting faster, more accurate, and actually help your shop make more mon…

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
Banking Secrets for Manufacturers: How to Secure the Cash You Need, Ep #12 48:52

2M ago48:52

48:52

How do you secure the cash you need to run your manufacturing business? In this episode of Buy the Numbers, I sit down with Dan O'Keefe, Senior Vice President at Busey Bank, to explore the crucial steps in securing a line of credit for your business. If you’re a manufacturer looking for financing, this episode is packed with essential advice on how…

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
How Weld.com is Bringing Welding Education Online 34:43

2M ago34:43

34:43

In this episode, Casey and Matthew sit down with Beau Wigington from Weld.com to explore how digital content is reshaping welding education and career growth. Beau shares his journey from being a musician to becoming a full-time content creator in the welding industry. They dive into the impact of social media, YouTube, and online learning in makin…

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
Diving into R&D Credits, Entity Selection, and the Work Opportunity Credit, Ep #11 31:27

3M ago31:27

31:27

What if you could save thousands on your taxes with a few strategic changes to your business? In this episode, Nick Romanelli and Dylan Valentyn from Clifton Larson Allen share key tax strategies that many manufacturers overlook. We dive into the R&D tax credit, showing how manufacturers—whether small job shops or larger factories—can qualify by in…

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
Unlocking Tax Savings: Essential Strategies You Can Implement Immediately, Ep #10 32:56

3M ago32:56

32:56

What can you do to impact your tax liability for 2024? With tax season right around the corner, manufacturers are faced with the crucial task of optimizing their tax strategies to both reduce liabilities and unlock future growth potential. In part one of a two-part series, I sat down with tax experts Dylan Valentyn and Nick Romanelli from CliftonLa…

1
How to Streamline Metal Sales 18:19

3M ago18:19

18:19

In this episode, Matthew and Casey sit down with Lee from Bryzos to dive into how the company is reshaping the steel pricing landscape and offering innovative solutions to fabricators. They dive into the word of instant pricing and streamlined procurement in the metal industry. Episode Highlights: [00:00:07] Lee explains how Bryzos is transforming …

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
Build Smarter: How to Scale Your Shop Beyond $2 Million, Ep #9 36:34

3M ago36:34

36:34

Many manufacturing businesses hit a plateau around $2 million in revenue, and breaking through that ceiling can feel overwhelming. According to Paul Van Metre, it’s not just about working harder—it’s about building systems that work harder for you. In this episode, Paul, a manufacturing entrepreneur and co-founder of ProShop ERP, uncovers why so ma…

1
How to Leverage Conferences and Tradeshows to Grow Your Fabrication Business 28:40

3M ago28:40

28:40

In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Nick Goellner and Mike Payne to explore the value of conferences like FABTECH for driving business growth, building relationships, and planning for the future of metal fabrication. 🎙 Episode Highlights: [0:28] Why building relationships at FABTECH is more …

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

4M 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

4M 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
Manufacturing Grants Made Simple: Expert Tips from Micki Vandeloo, Ep #8 47:36

4M ago47:36

47:36

Did you know you could be leaving tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars on the table every year? Most manufacturers don’t realize the incredible potential of grants to fund new projects, invest in equipment, and upskill their workforce. In this episode of Buy the Numbers, we’re breaking down everything you need to know about manufacturing g…

1
Crafting Metal and Breaking Barriers with Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stork 45:46

4M ago45:46

45:46

In this special FABTECH edition of Making Sparks, Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with two incredible guests, Barbie the Welder and Sarah Stotk, to dive into the artistry, resilience, and transformative power of welding. 🎙 Episode Highlights: 🔹 [2:00] Meet Barbie and Sarah, two trailblazing welding artists turning raw metal into breathtaking…

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
Josh McKain’s Data-Driven Framework to Align Goals and Accountability, Ep #7 37:36

4M ago37:36

37:36

On this episode of Buy the Numbers, I sit down with Josh McKain to talk about his 3.5-step framework—the process he uses to help companies turn their goals into results. Josh shares how he starts every project by aligning teams, often uncovering surprising gaps in understanding. From there, his framework guides teams through assessing their capacit…

1
The People Behind the Sparks 21:57

4M ago21:57

21:57

In this special FabTech edition episode, we sat down with Jim Mayer, Founder of the Manufacturing Connector, and Mike Payne, Owner at Hill Manufacturing and the host of Buy the Numbers, to discuss the real driving force behind the industry: its people. From leadership lessons to celebrating the collaborative spirit of the industry, this episode div…

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Nick Goellner Podcasts

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