Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders

Mike Payne, a manufacturing leader, and Paul Van Mader, a quality management expert, dive into the crucial role of customer service in the manufacturing world. They discuss how outdated practices can alienate customers and emphasize the transformative power of investing in transparent communication and robust systems. With tools like ProShop ERP, they highlight the shift from aggressive sales tactics to prioritizing customer relationships, noting that exceptional service is essential for business growth and customer loyalty in today's competitive landscape.

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 importance of emotional regulation, urging leaders to interpret feelings like anger and frustration as signals to pause and regain control rather than react impulsively. By taking ownership of our emotional responses and openly addressing missteps, we can build stronger, more transparent relationships. Marlene also explores how clarity—whether in defining values, addressing workplace drama, or preparing for difficult conversations—is the key to effective leadership. She introduces her “Blueprint for Difficult Conversations,” emphasizing preparation, accountability, and clarity to guide meaningful dialogue.  Through thought-provoking examples, including her visual framework of a boat, island, and shark, Marlene challenges leaders to refocus on outcomes rather than obstacles. This episode equips you with the tools to move from conflict to courage, fostering a culture of alignment, respect, and proactive problem-solving. Segments [0:29] How to get 50% off MasterClass [3:08] Emotional regulation in the workplace [6:50] Navigating internal conflict  [10:52] Using core values to navigate conflict  [15:05] Cultivating self-awareness in the workplace  [16:10] Moving from conflict to courage  [19:09] Don’t allow “Power of Attorney” [20:07] Use Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating [24:18] See the possibility in your people [25:03] Learn more about Marlene’s coaching and training [28:56] Dialing down on the importance of clarity  [32:28] How to connect with Marlene [36:08] Book a discover call with ProShop ERP Resources mentioned on this episode No-Drama Leadership: How Enlightened Leaders Transform Culture in the Workplace From Conflict To Courage with Marlene Chism Connect with Marlene on LinkedIn Marlene’s website  Get 50% off MasterClass Use Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating Book a discover call with ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 classes, she discovered the Karpman Drama Triangle—a tool for understanding the roles of victim, persecutor, and rescuer—and it changed how she approached relationships and leadership. In this episode, Marlene shares powerful insights and memorable stories, including a surprising lesson about boundaries and assumptions from a coworker. Whether you're leading a team or navigating workplace challenges, Marlene’s practical wisdom will inspire you to see conflict—and yourself—in a new way. Join us to learn how shifting your mindset can transform your relationships and workplace. Segments [0:20] Check out the Manufacturing Transformed podcast! [1:28] Check out our other MakingChips podcasts! [3:56] The importance of self-awareness [8:43] From manufacturing to conflict consulting [16:24] We have to humanize our workforce [19:58] The Karpman Drama Triangle [21:12] Get the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning [27:50] Anything transformative is about self-development [32:54] Marlene’s most memorable story from the shop floor [38:28] Listen and subscribe to “Buy the Numbers”  Resources mentioned on this episode The Manufacturing Transformed podcast! Get the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning The Team Success Podcast No-Drama Leadership: How Enlightened Leaders Transform Culture in the Workplace From Conflict To Courage with Marlene Chism Connect with Marlene on LinkedIn Marlene’s coaching website  Karpman Drama Triangle Mike Ruge MakingSparks Buy the Numbers Lights Out Machine Shop Mastery Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 concept to reality, crafting the parts that power industries, enhance daily life, and drive innovation. Without them, the technology, tools, and conveniences we rely on wouldn’t exist.  This episode is dedicated to saying a big thank you to machinists everywhere. Join the conversation online with #ThankAMachinist to celebrate their incredible contributions. Without them, we wouldn’t be MakingChips and we wouldn’t be making money. — Paul Van Metre Segments [2:16] Gift Masterclass for the Holidays! [5:15] How can we make manufacturing mainstream? [8:23] Manufacturing News: Military Contractors [10:41] The guys play a game: Connecting manufacturing with hobbies [16:25] Let’s use the hashtag: #ThankAMachinist [18:20] Check out Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting! [19:11] Paul’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [22:13] Jason’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [25:14] Mike’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [29:24] Nothing in the modern world exists without machinists [32:41] Manage your cutting tools with ProShop  Resources mentioned on this episode Check out Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting! Get 50% off your Masterclass subscription Book a discovery call with ProShop ERP Military Contractors Are in Nearly Every Small Town in the United States Matthew Lindsay on LinkedIn Josh Hacko with NH Micro on LinkedIn Greg McArthur with NTL Industries  Jacob Sanchez Nate A Nush Ahmed Tony Gunn Thomas Nathan Chris Luecke John Guimond Josh McKain Jean Davis Thomas Smith Const Ivanov Gary Keel with Trillium Machine Nick and Tanner Preece of Preece Machining and Assembly James and Sean Cerven with Cerven Solutions  Nathan Bourgeois of Ouroboros Space and Defense Naked Prosthetics Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

The podcast dives into how election years stir up uncertainty in manufacturing. With Trump back in office, hosts discuss potential impacts on various sectors like medical devices and aerospace. Regulations, trade policies, and tariffs are all on the table as they navigate the complex manufacturing landscape. The conversation also touches on the importance of quality management systems and bipartisan cooperation in fostering industry growth. Expect insights on adapting to political shifts and leveraging potential tax reforms.

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 revenue is already secured by repeat clients. We also cover the transition steps to shift your shop’s branding, approach to prototyping, and pricing strategy. From rebranding your business as a production powerhouse to splitting your shop’s workflow to accommodate both prototype and production divisions, we’re discussing how to reshape your operations for higher volume success.  Hear firsthand insights on building trust with customers and the importance of a solid Quality Management System (QMS) in securing and retaining high-stakes production contracts. Listen in to learn how targeting the right customers and building robust, repeatable processes can create a competitive advantage that fuels both profitability and growth. Because if you’re not consistently MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM! Segments [1:10] Book a discovery call ProShop ERP [3:03] Manufacturing Leadership Spotlight [8:39] How do you win production work? [10:22] 5 benefits of production work [17:15] Step #1: Communicate that you’re a full-service manufacturer [21:46] Check out Paperless Parts for your quoting and estimating needs [23:01] Step #2: Continue to offer prototyping services [26:43] Step #3: Quote to win the higher volumes [31:14] Step #4: Sell your QMS/BMS [38:50] Step #5: Target the right customers Resources mentioned on this episode Book a discovery call with ProShop ERP Paperless Parts Brian Olson Mitch Olson Olson Custom Designs 4 Generations of Machining Legacy with Denny Smith Jason Premo’s LinkedIn post about prototyping Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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, enhancing collaboration and knowledge transfer within organizations. Terry also introduces Camp CHAMP, a hands-on program for middle and high school students that teaches manufacturing principles through activities like CNC milling and laser engraving. High school mentors guide younger participants, who gain practical skills and complete projects to take home. Terry hopes to expand Camp CHAMP nationwide with easy-to-implement kits that make it accessible for communities across the U.S. Learn how you as a manufacturing leader can play a role in bridging the gap between generations in this episode of MakingChips! Because if future generations aren’t MakingChips, no one is making money…BAM! Segments [1:05] Check out ProShop’s podcast, “Manufacturing Transformed” [1:34] How mentoring—and reverse mentoring—can change the game [6:44] Inspiring Champions in Advanced Manufacturing [11:24] What is Camp CHAMP? How does it inspire middle and high schoolers? [14:42] Future-proof your business with NetSuite by Oracle [18:14] The future of the manufacturing industry [23:46] The role of parenting to the future of manufacturing [25:41] Learn more about camp CHAMP Resources mentioned on this episode Finding America's Greatest Champion CHAMPION Now! Check out ProShop’s podcast, “Manufacturing Transformed” Get a Camp CHAMP Kit Inspiring Champions in Advanced Manufacturing (Student Edition) Inspiring Champions in Advanced Manufacturing (Parent Edition) Nush Ahmed Drew Crowe Steven Courchane IMEC NetSuite by Oracle’s Guide to AI’s Guide to AI Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

Terry Iverson, President of Iverson and Company and advocate for the manufacturing industry, talks about his book, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and changing public perceptions through initiatives like CHAMPION Now!® He passionately argues that the future of manufacturing relies on the next generation of skilled workers. The conversation also touches on practical strategies for efficient setup processes in precision machining and the therapeutic benefits of writing, showcasing Iverson's commitment to fostering a thriving manufacturing community.

“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. Shops are struggling to keep up as talent drains at an alarming pace. Mark Hedstrom, Executive Director of the Skilled Careers Coalition, explains their mission: to close the skills gap by inspiring the next generation and linking them to fulfilling careers. It’s more than just promoting jobs—it's about helping young people find purpose through skilled work. Learn how the Coalition is driving change—and how manufacturing leaders like you can play a role—in this episode of MakingChips. Segments [0:37] Listen to the Manufacturing Transformed podcast! [1:43] Introducing Mark and the Skilled Careers Coalition [7:01] Why the term “coalition” is significant [16:53] What attracted Mark to the skilled trades industry [21:58] How the SCC is bridging the skills gap [27:11] Download the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning [30:43] The importance of connecting and converting [34:17] Collective impact and coalition building with organizations [36:23] Recruiting and retaining skilled talent  [37:40] Connecting students to opportunities in their own backyard [42:50] How to get involved with the Skilled Careers Coalition [48:31] Use Paperless Parts to quote smarter, faster, and more consistently [49:23] Subscribe and listen to the MakingSparks podcast! Resources mentioned on this episode Skills Jam on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram  Skilledcareers.org 2.1 Million Manufacturing Jobs Could Go Unfilled by 2030 The CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning Check out Paperless Parts Subscribe and listen to the MakingSparks podcast! Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube

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 smarter decisions.  They also discuss shifting compensation models toward productivity-based metrics and how automation unlocks new growth opportunities. Tune in to learn how embracing AI can set your team free to innovate and thrive.  Segments [1:19] Learn more about Toolpath and their value proposition [6:53] Bringing AI and CNC together  [9:19] How Toolpath can make a shop better [13:51] Check out the manufacturing transformed podcast [14:21] How Toolpath influences the programming process  [16:31] Why our job is to increase human productivity [19:58] Have the courage to make yourself irrelevant  [21:45] Lights Out is launching soon!  Resources mentioned on this episode Toolpath Connect with Al Whatmough ModuleWorks Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube