Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

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 decisions that keep your business agile and competitive.  We walk through what it really takes to get started, from the very first piece of equipment to building an infrastructure that can handle growth. It’s a real-world conversation on budgets, strategy, and how to stretch your dollar without cutting corners that matter. We talk openly about our own experiences—the good, the bad, and the costly. Whether it’s figuring out if we should buy new or used, or realizing after the fact that we didn’t budget for tooling, coolant, or the right chip conveyor, we’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to.  We even get into the nitty-gritty of power and air requirements, something that can seriously bottleneck your operation if overlooked. It’s not glamorous, but it’s the kind of stuff that makes or breaks a shop’s ability to deliver and grow. What’s great about this episode is that it’s not just our perspective. We brought in Keith Granno, a guy who’s been around the block more times than most in machinery sales. While we focus on what we’ve learned from running our own shops, Keith gives a broader view—what he’s seen work across hundreds of different businesses.  He’s sold everything from entry-level mills to million-dollar systems, so he knows what it takes at every level. Together, we cover how to think about versatility, automation, and preparing for the jobs we don’t even have yet. If you want to set your shop up for long-term success, this episode is your blueprint. Segments (0:00) Introduction of guest Keith Granno and the range of machines he’s sold (0:33) Take the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops survey (7:27) Starting a machine shop: budget machines vs. high-end equipment (12:39) Importance of having a known customer or diving in without one (16:44) Choosing niche equipment based on market demand and local gaps (18:22) New vs. used machinery: depreciation, risks, and inspections (23:13) The value of machine inspections and warranty limitations for used machines (26:43) Common mistakes in buying machines: budgeting beyond the machine itself (28:51) Aligning machine purchases with business vision (31:35) Key factors when selecting machines: size, tooling, automation, spindle specs (36:31) The role of sales reps in ensuring proper machine specs (37:25) Learn how to grow your top and bottom line with CLA (40:35) Infrastructure deep dive: power requirements, costs, and real-world constraints (45:55) Air systems in a shop: compressors, tanks, dryers, and why they matter (50:48) Considerations for tooling, fixtures and workholding  (1:01:07) Keith’s thoughts on shop layout and efficiency (1:07:54) The importance of MEP programs to manufacturing  (1:11:12) How to get connect with Keith & TITANS of CNC (1:12:42) Find a salesperson you trust to help you build out your shop (1:16:14) Why you should check out the Buy the Numbers podcast Resources mentioned on this episode The Art and Science of Buying Machines Take the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops survey The Quiet Cut That’s Loudly Threatening Small Manufacturing Connect with Keith on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 manufacturing business in today’s economy. Too many would-be shop owners assume they need a mountain of cash sitting in the bank before they can even begin. But what if we told you that buying an existing shop—yes, even one with tired machines and outdated systems—could actually be less risky than starting from scratch? What if seller financing, SBA loans, or creative capital stacks could unlock the dream faster than you thought? This isn’t just about borrowing money—it’s about funding your future wisely. From assessing your own personal runway to building a mixed financing strategy that includes banks, lines of credit, equipment lenders, and even friends and family, this conversation goes deep. Mike and Jon cover the practical tools every owner should use (hint: you’ll want to Google “13-week cash flow”) and how to present a rock-solid financial plan that banks will actually take seriously. If you're wondering how to turn your machining expertise into a business that’s not only viable—but scalable—this is the episode to hit play on. Because if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money… but if you can’t fund the shop, you can’t make chips either. Segments (00:00) Why funding is the next step in your Machine Shop MBA journey (0:21) Learn how to grow your top and bottom line with CLA (1:36) Introducing Jon Hughes and his role helping manufacturers at CLA (3:49) The two big funding buckets: operations and equipment (08:18) The case for buying a shop over building from scratch (12:16) Seller financing explained: benefits, risks, and how it works (19:12) The reality of personal capital—and when to tap family, home equity, or personal loans (24:58) Bank loans vs. SBA loans: how they differ and when to choose each (31:40) Why you need to take the Modern Machine Shop Top Shop survey (33:23) What can and can’t be financed—especially when it comes to equipment vs. working capital (35:18) Determining how much working capital you really need (39:54) Cash flow crunches: how a 13-week forecast can keep you afloat (46:32) Planning for the unexpected: best-case, worst-case, and baseline budgets (49:20) What a blended funding structure could look like (54:35) Using equipment financing and lines of credit creatively (57:20) Final takeaways + the importance of building your financial advisor network (1:03:00) Why you have to check out the Machine Shop Mastery podcast Resources mentioned on this episode Learn how to grow your top and bottom line with CLA 7(a) loans through the SBA Take the Modern Machine Shop Top Shop survey Connect with Mike to get a 13-week cashflow sheet Connect with Jon Hughes at CLA Jon.Hughes@CLAConnection.com Smart Money Moves: Equipment Financing Tips with Ty Willis, Ep #5 The Cashflow Advantage: Why the Right Banker Makes All the Difference, Ep #6 Banking Secrets for Manufacturers: How to Secure the Cash You Need, Ep #12 Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 recent Federal decisions to defund these programs—without clear communication or reasoning—have sparked confusion and alarm among industry insiders. In this episode, a passionate roundtable of manufacturers and advocates reveals just how deeply the MEPs have shaped their businesses, supported workforce development, and opened doors to opportunity they couldn’t have accessed alone. From AR-integrated quoting tools to automation investment guidance, these stories show a clear economic impact that extends far beyond individual shops—right into the health of local communities and the national manufacturing strategy. If you're just hearing about MEPs now, you're not alone—but you are at risk. This conversation lays out what’s at stake, why it matters, and what you can do right now to help save a resource that quietly powers tens of thousands of manufacturers nationwide.   YouTube: https://youtu.be/WNjevmTNUu4 VideoAsk: https://www.videoask.com/fiyvfkcdd

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 weight than most first-timers realize. In this episode of MakingChips, we pick up where part one left off and get granular with the real-life process of starting your shop the right way. Guests Brad Boettcher and Nick Vargosko of CLA return to walk us through the practical decisions you’ll face—how to choose (and register) your business entity, why the wrong name could haunt you, what documents you actually need before making parts, and how to build a business that’s ready for growth, not just survival. If you’ve ever thought “I’ll figure that stuff out later,” you’ll want to hear the cautionary tales in this episode—plus the steps that will keep you out of trouble, off your state’s audit list, and firmly in control of your own success. We also unpack how to structure ownership if you’ve got a business partner (especially if it’s family), and why your garage may not cut it forever, even if you love the rent. This one’s for the aspiring owners, the side hustlers-turned-founders, and anyone helping someone else start a shop from scratch. Whether you’re building your dream or advising someone else on theirs, it’s time to get real about what it takes to launch smart—and stay that way. Segments (0:10) Intro to Part 2 with CLA and why they had to split the conversation (0:48) Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey (02:22) Recap of Part 1: entity types, startup missteps, and choosing the wrong structure (4:21) Choose a business name that doesn’t pigeonhole you (so you don’t have to rebrand) (12:09) State registration: what paperwork and filings are really needed (12:12) Legal structure & governance: operating agreements and partnership dos and don'ts (15:33) Getting your EIN and opening a bank account (18:04) State tax registration, permits, and the overlooked W-9 (19:16) Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen (21:15) Opening a business bank account and choosing financial software (23:04) Go beyond “budget”: When to spend the money (26:11) Business insurance: what’s essential at launch, what can wait (28:11) Facility considerations: licenses, permits, and where you’ll actually make parts (30:27) Leasing vs. buying your shop space (with a cautionary tale) (33:04) Why many owners keep their real estate separate from the business (33:58) Tax differences between leasing and buying your facility (35:37) Labor market considerations: where you build affects who you can hire (36:43) Wrap-up: who this episode is for, and why it’s worth sharing (39:56) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast Resources mentioned on this episode Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Grow your top and bottom-line with CliftonLarsonAllen Nick.Vargosko@CLAConnect.com Connect with Nick Vargosko on LinkedIn Connect with Brad Boettcher on LinkedIn ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 formation choice can be the foundation—or the friction—of your growth.  In this episode, the team dives deep into the critical, yet often overlooked, process of legally forming a manufacturing business. The hosts, alongside experts Nick Vargosko and Brad Boettcher from CliftonLarsonAllen, break down the most important steps in choosing the right legal entity, from sole proprietorship to S-corporation and LLCs. They also touch on how these decisions will impact your long-term goals, including potential exits and tax benefits. Why does the structure of your business matter? It’s all about protecting your personal assets, optimizing your tax strategy, and setting your business up for future growth or eventual sale. The team discusses real-world examples and offers insights into what business owners often miss when it comes to entity selection. With the right foundation, your machine shop can thrive, but getting it wrong early could mean expensive and painful mistakes down the road. Tune in as we walk you through the legal nuts and bolts of starting your shop, with expert advice on how to build a business that can scale and survive. If you're planning on making chips, don't miss this critical episode that could shape the future of your manufacturing business. Segments (0:00) Introduction to Episode 2 of the Machine Shop MBA series (1:12) Learn how you can grow your top and bottom-line with CLA (3:50) Introducing Nick Vargosko and Brad Boettcher (5:39) The importance of long-term thinking in business formation (10:02) Overview of what a Sole Proprietorship is (12:02) Breaking down LLCs and the different election options (15:30) LLC vs Sole Proprietorship: Which one should you choose? (16:35) Why you need to complete the Top Shops survey (18:14) What to do if you chose the wrong structure (19:07) The difference between S-Corps and C-Corps (28:02) When to choose a partnership (and why it might offer flexibility) (29:47) What do you need to do to change your structure?  (31:32) Horror stories when things have gone wrong (38:01) Why you need to check out Buy the Numbers Resources mentioned on this episode CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect with Nick Vargosko on LinkedIn Connect with Brad Boettcher on LinkedIn Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 of manufacturing. As we share our experiences and reflect on the realities of entrepreneurship, you’ll gain a firsthand look at the mindset necessary to succeed—if you dare to take the plunge.  This episode is essential for anyone considering starting their own shop or those who want to understand the raw, unfiltered truth behind the entrepreneurial journey. The discussion isn’t just motivational; it’s practical, offering insights into what it takes to thrive in an industry where failure is common, but resilience and a solid vision can make all the difference.  From Titan’s relentless drive to Elon Musk’s brutal honesty about the pain of entrepreneurship, and Jobs’ revolutionary approach to business, this episode covers the essentials that go beyond strategy—delving into the mental toughness and perseverance needed to push through the toughest challenges. You’ll also hear personal stories from the hosts about their own journeys, highlighting the importance of a strong support system and the willingness to ask difficult questions. Whether you're just starting out or already running a business, this episode offers invaluable lessons from some of the brightest minds in entrepreneurship. Segments (0:00) The importance of mindset and affirmations in entrepreneurship (0:44) Take the Modern Machine Shops Top Shop Survey (3:57) The harsh realities of starting a business and why it’s not for everyone (4:49) What’s the mindset of an entrepreneur, and why is it critical? (7:55) Grit: Titan Gilroy’s approach to resilience and vision in business (10:34) Being an entrepreneur means solving the hardest problems in your business (14:14) Entrepreneurs need to embrace humility and be willing to ask for help (15:40) The importance of building a team around you and having a support network (17:45) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) (18:25) Sometimes a business needs a purpose that’s beyond you (20:19) Elon Musk’s brutally honest perspective on the hardships of starting a company (28:23) Steve Jobs’ philosophy on business and challenging the status quo (31:51) The power of differentiation—what makes you disruptive?  (34:41) What can you learn that’s critical to the mindset of an entrepreneur?  (37:03) Take the Top Shops Survey and allow it to change your mindset Resources mentioned on this episode Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)  Titan Gilroy Elon Musk Clip Steve Jobs Clip Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 that reveals everything from machine utilization to employee engagement. The Top Shops survey isn’t just another tool; it’s a blueprint for success. By comparing your shop to the industry’s top performers, you’ll uncover where you’re excelling and, just as importantly, where you can level up. The data is real, actionable, and tailored to your shop’s unique performance. This series will equip you with the insights and strategies needed to push your shop to the top. We dive deep into the key performance indicators (KPIs) that distinguish high-performing shops from the rest. Whether it’s tracking financial metrics like profit margins and revenue per employee, or operational benchmarks such as first-pass quality yield and machine uptime, the Top Shops program provides a comprehensive look at what it really takes to run a successful, high-performing shop. We’ve seen firsthand how filling out the survey has led to tangible improvements in our own businesses. Now, we’re sharing those lessons with you. In each episode, we’ll break down KPIs, share practical strategies, and provide expert advice that you can apply to your own shop right away. If you’re ready to optimize your operations, build a winning team, and increase your profitability, this series is for you. Don’t miss out—tune in and start applying these proven strategies today. The road to becoming a top shop starts here! Segments (0:15) Take the Modern Machine Shops Top Shop Survey (1:46) The case for non-standard education  (4:16) Introducing Brent Donaldson from Modern Machine Shop (5:00) The importance of benchmarking your shop (9:22) The origin of the Top Shops program (and how it works) (16:10) KPIs that top shops track and how they set themselves apart (23:04) Why you need to invest in ProShop ERP (24:41) The key metrics that define a top shop (33:37) The importance of having a leadership team to track KPIs (36:35) What’s next in the Machine Shop MBA series?  (41:41) The Top Shops conference at the NASCAR Hall of Fame (46:06) Make sure you check out the Lights Out podcast! Resources mentioned on this episode Take The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 acquisitions (M&A), they’ve successfully expanded their operations, acquiring multiple shops and driving growth in ways that many shop owners overlook. Kirk and Mike share their proven approach to growth, where strategic acquisitions are just the beginning. They dive into the importance of cultivating a growth culture that influences every facet of the business—sales, marketing, leadership, and operations. This mindset shift is crucial for shops looking to not only increase revenue but also improve efficiency and team empowerment. What makes this episode even more exciting is that Kirk and Mike are bringing their expertise to the MakingChips family! Their new podcast, Machine Shop Growth, is now part of our lineup. Tune in to get actionable insights on how to scale your shop, improve leadership, and make smarter decisions in sales and marketing. If you’re ready to unlock growth in your machine shop, this episode—and their podcast—will provide the tools and strategies you need to elevate your business to the next level. Don't miss out! Segments (0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest introductions (0:30) Why you need to invest in ProShop ERP (2:43) Introducing Mike Fritz, Kirk Phelps, and Machine Shop Growth (7:40) The importance of understanding your unique selling proposition (USP) (9:44) The two-sided approach of the Machine Shop Growth podcast (12:00) The three legs to the stool of growth (13:50) Discussing dormant customers and how to win back business (17:27) The value of quarterly customer success meetings and the difference it makes (19:17) Content marketing strategies that resonate with customers (21:34) Why you need to check out the MakingSparks podcast (27:48) Building a growth culture within your business (29:43) The importance of vertical integration and pricing, quality, and lead times (41:00) The synergy of podcast collaborations within the industry (42:53) Why you should complete the Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Mike Fritz Connect with Kirk Phelps Machine Shop Growth Podcast Never Split the Difference Mike Fritz on Machine Shop Mastery (Part 1 and Part 2) Kirk Phelps on Machine Shop Mastery  Mike Fritz on Buy the Numbers The Modern Machine Shop Top Shops Survey Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 specialist, Bryce explains how manufacturers can leverage technology, such as machine learning and AI-driven CAM solutions, to increase efficiency and reduce costs. The conversation uncovers practical, real-world applications of AI, from CNC programming assistance to streamlining back-office tasks like quoting and project management. Bryce also brings his unique perspective as someone who grew up in manufacturing, now guiding companies through the complexities of implementing AI in a practical way. This episode offers valuable insights into how AI can help manufacturers, especially smaller shops, optimize their processes. Bryce discusses the potential of AI to assist in CNC programming, improve quality control, and enhance customer relationship management. This is a must-listen for any manufacturing leader who is looking to understand how AI can be applied practically to save time and increase profitability. Segments (0:25) Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP (1:58) Overview of the MFG Meeting and Bryce’s keynote (4:48) Bryce's transition from mechanical engineering to AI in manufacturing (8:38) How AI is already being used in manufacturing without shop owners realizing it (11:30) How AI can assist with CNC programming and upskilling novice workers (13:53) AI’s role in the quoting process and business operations (16:58) Addressing security concerns with using AI in manufacturing businesses (21:23) The importance of fine-tuning AI models for specific business needs (26:50) Why you need to check out the Buy the Numbers podcast (29:20) Do you need a comprehensive understanding of prompt engineering? (31:07) Practical advice for manufacturing leaders to adopt AI in their businesses (45:30) The hilarious shortcomings of generative AI (such as ChatGPT)  (48:20) Limitless CNC’s suggestion engine for CNC programming  Resources mentioned on this episode Connect with Bryce Barnes on LinkedIn Limitless CNC Toolpath CloudNC AMT NTMA Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). His deep dive into the CMMC program offers invaluable insights for manufacturers navigating the rapidly changing landscape of DoD regulations. Jacob takes us through the origins and evolution of CMMC, explaining how its implementation is designed to ensure defense contractors meet stringent cybersecurity standards to protect sensitive data.  He clarifies the importance of CMMC certification for manufacturers who supply to the DoD, breaking down how companies can prepare for the upcoming requirements. This is a crucial discussion for anyone in the manufacturing sector who plans to continue or start working with the DoD. Why should you listen to this episode? If you're a manufacturer handling government contracts or are considering entering that space, understanding CMMC is no longer optional. Jacob's expertise offers a roadmap for compliance, helping you avoid costly delays and penalties. The conversation explores practical steps to align your business with the required standards, ensuring you're not left behind as the regulations tighten in 2025. Jacob breaks down the technicalities of CMMC in a way that’s both approachable and actionable. He shares real-world examples of how businesses are already navigating the process, shedding light on the obstacles ahead and how to overcome them. Whether you’re already engaged with defense contracts or looking to position your company for future opportunities, this episode will arm you with the knowledge to take the next step toward CMMC compliance. This is a crucial episode that can help safeguard your business’s future in an increasingly regulated market. Segments (0:28) Check out Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating  (1:51) Jacob’s background in cybersecurity (6:06) Why CMMC was implemented and how it aims to prevent cyber threats (15:04) The announcement of CMMC 2.0 + the rule-making process (17:28) The basic requirements of cybersecurity/CMMC (19:48) The challenges manufacturers face when implementing cybersecurity requirements (23:03) The importance of securing the supply chain and how it relates to CMMC compliance (25:30) Understanding the role of waivers and exceptions in the certification process (30:12) Dissecting the reasons why CMMC is not going away (33:31) How to get ahead in the CMMC certification process and avoid falling behind (35:34) Why you need to check out the Lights Out podcast (36:49) The process of going from “zero” to assessment ready  (39:02) How many manufacturers need to get level 2 certification?  (45:53) The connection between CMMC and quality management systems like NADCAP (50:18) Potential costs behind CMMC certification and long-term financial implications (54:03) The role of mergers and acquisitions in the changing cybersecurity landscape (56:49) Controlled and classified information vs controlled unclassified information (CUI) (1:05:33) Dissecting some of the gray areas left to interpretation  Resources mentioned on this episode Check out Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Program The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Rule  Sum IT Up Podcast Cyber AB CMMC Assessing and Certification  Nadcap® NARA Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube