Machine Shop Growth

You don’t need more machines.You need to stop wasting capacity.In this episode, Kirk Phelps breaks down why most shops misdiagnose growth problems and how operations—not sales—ultimately decide profitability. We dive deep into OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness) and explain how availability, performance, and quality reveal hidden capacity, wasted margin, and smarter paths to growth.Learn how to:See where capacity is leaking inside your shopStop defaulting to “more people, more machines”Use OEE to guide smarter planning, budgeting, and reinvestmentGrow your bottom line before chasing top-line revenueIf you’re tired of being busy without getting ahead—and want a shop that’s profitable, disciplined, and intentional—this episode is for you.Subscribe to our new 2026 format: ✅ Sales & Marketing (1st & 3rd Tuesdays) ✅ Operations & Engineering (2nd & 4th Tuesdays) ✅ Bonus joint episodes on 5th TuesdaysIf this episode helps, please leave a quick review—it helps more shop owners find the show.

2026 isn’t about staying busy—it’s about winning on purpose.In this episode, Mike Fritz breaks down a simple, proven framework to grow your shop using Top Line, Bottom Line, and People. Learn how to clarify who your shop really is, cut loser parts, focus on winner work, and pull the lowest-effort, highest-impact levers for growth.If you want to break through plateaus like the $2M ceiling and build a shop that’s profitable, scalable, and intentional—this episode is for you.Subscribe to our new 2026 format: ✅ Sales/Marketing (1st & 3rd Tuesdays) ✅ Operations/Engineering (2nd & 4th Tuesdays) ✅ Bonus joint episodes on 5th TuesdaysIf this episode helps, please leave a quick review—it helps more shop owners find the show.

Paul Van Metre, founder of ProShop ERP and a former machine shop owner, shares insights on transforming shop efficiency through effective ERP systems. He reveals how his software originated from a need to tame chaos and streamline workflows. The conversation dives into improving profitability by identifying unprofitable jobs and maximizing company value at exit. Paul emphasizes the importance of data for continuous improvement and avoiding common growth mistakes. Discover how a robust ERP can elevate every aspect of your business.

What if your next big customer came with a whole shop attached?In this episode, Mike Fritz sits down with Mike Payne—shop owner, dealmaker, and host of By the Numbers- to pull back the curtain on how real machine shops grow through acquisitions.From understanding what makes a deal worth it to financing it without millions in the bank. This episode reveals the real-world strategies behind building an empire, one acquisition at a time.Tune in to learn how to avoid costly mistakes, find the right opportunities, and structure deals that actually make money.

Need a new operator yesterday? Or wondering if a recruiter’s worth the 20% fee?In today’s episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on the messy, costly, and sometimes surprising world of hiring in machine shops. From sifting through 100+ job board resumes to building career ladders that keep people around, Mike and Kirk break down what really works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to finding good people.If you’ve ever asked, ‘Where do I even start?’… this episode might just change how you think about hiring.”

Hiring can make or break your shop’s growth, but how do you know when it’s the right move? 👀In this episode, Mike and Kirk share their playbook for spotting the signs that it’s time to hire… and the costly mistakes to avoid if you pull the trigger too early. Should you automate first? Push more overtime? Promote from within? Or make that big hire now?Listen in before you post that job ad—you might be looking at the problem all wrong.

Nush Ahmed, a quality inspector and passionate advocate for young talent in manufacturing, joins the conversation to share her insights on engaging the next generation. She emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in the industry, focusing on inclusivity and mentorship for women. Nush discusses the role of social media in inspiring young professionals and the importance of hands-on experience. The talk also highlights ways to break stereotypes and cultivate a dynamic workplace culture that fosters curiosity and growth for all employees.

Greg Knox from Knox Manufacturing Solutions shares his extensive expertise in the machinery industry. He addresses the crucial timing for investments in new equipment—before securing orders or after. The discussion highlights the differences between conservative and entrepreneurial approaches to machinery buying. Greg emphasizes strategic investments for enhanced capabilities, the significance of automation, and the importance of people and culture in driving growth. Insightful real-world examples reveal how to break through plateaus and improve margins.

Hank Westerkamp, Chief Sales Officer, shares his insights on boosting machine shop visibility and unique positioning in a competitive market. Alongside him, Steve Mazza, Chief Revenue Officer, unveils strategies for prioritizing sales growth and robust customer follow-up. They delve into the misconceptions about new customers, the power of systematic follow-ups, and how effective quoting can impact revenue. Both guests emphasize relationship-building as the cornerstone of sustainable business growth, making a compelling case for smart engagement and strategic marketing.

Discover how to transform your machine shop's bottom line by identifying profit leaks. Dive into strategies for managing tooling costs and optimizing workforce efficiency, which can lead to significant savings. Learn the importance of data tracking and how it can boost production efficiency. External audits are highlighted as a key tool to uncover hidden issues. Embrace a growth mindset as you assess your processes for sustained success in the competitive landscape of manufacturing.