Machine Shop Growth
Mike Fritz
The Machine Shop Growth Podcast gives a fresh perspective to help you grow your shop by focusing on 3 key factors - Sales, Marketing and Efficiency. For decades the machine shop industry was build on a “good-ol-boys” mentality and was full of great machinists and engineers that made great parts. What has been discovered is many of those amazing shops have plateaued or are starting to decline - because they didn’t put enough emphasis on getting more work and making more money with the work they had. On this podcast you will hear first hand advice from machine owners and mangers how they are getting more work and how they are making more money. Now let’s Grow Your Shop!
Episodes
Mentioned books
5 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 52min
Episode #15: The #1 Thing that can help ALL Areas of Shop Growth
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.
Nov 18, 2025 • 55min
Episode #14: How To Grow Your Shop Through Acquisition
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.
Oct 7, 2025 • 53min
Episode #13: How To Hire Good People
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.”
Sep 2, 2025 • 50min
Episode #12: How Do You Know When to Hire Someone
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.
Jul 22, 2025 • 52min
Episode #11: How To Get Younger People Involved In Manufacturing
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.
15 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 1h 17min
Episode #10: Is it time to buy a new machine?
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.
15 snips
Jun 3, 2025 • 1h 9min
Episode #9 : Growing Your Top Line—How to get more customers
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.
8 snips
May 20, 2025 • 50min
Episode #8: Growing Your Bottom Line
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.
6 snips
May 6, 2025 • 54min
Episode #7: Growing Your People
This episode explores the crucial role of team development in machine shop success. The hosts discuss cultivating a growth mindset to inspire innovation and the value of practical skills over traditional degrees. They emphasize the importance of recognizing employee potential and navigating career paths within the shop. The balance between workplace culture and compensation is examined, highlighting how both factors impact employee satisfaction. Strategies are shared for empowering growth and promoting from within, ultimately fostering a thriving work environment.
8 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 38min
Episode #6 : The Quiet Cut That’s Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing (Featuring Making Chips)
Discover the looming threat to Manufacturing Extension Partnership funding and its potential impact on small manufacturers. Hear personal anecdotes that highlight the vital role these programs play in boosting competitiveness. Explore economic effects like job creation and innovative solutions, including augmented reality technology. Learn about grant opportunities for manufacturers in Illinois and the community benefits of MEPs. This engaging discussion calls for unity and advocacy to ensure the future success of small manufacturing.
