Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders
MakingChips LLC
Manufacturing is tough—but you don't have to go it alone. If you're leading a manufacturing business, you face constant pressure: staying competitive, adopting new tech, managing people, and driving growth. MakingChips helps you tackle those challenges head-on.
Since 2014, we've been equipping manufacturing leaders with the knowledge and inspiration they need to succeed. With hundreds of episodes and over a million downloads, MakingChips is a top resource for the metalworking nation—covering leadership, operations, technology, and workforce development.
If making chips is part of your daily grind, this is your podcast. Join hosts Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, and Paul Van Metre for real talk on the issues that matter most.
Since 2014, we've been equipping manufacturing leaders with the knowledge and inspiration they need to succeed. With hundreds of episodes and over a million downloads, MakingChips is a top resource for the metalworking nation—covering leadership, operations, technology, and workforce development.
If making chips is part of your daily grind, this is your podcast. Join hosts Nick Goellner, Mike Payne, and Paul Van Metre for real talk on the issues that matter most.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 5, 2017 • 30min
MC124: Representing Manufacturing Leaders at the White House
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are excited to welcome back Patricia Miller - CEO of Matrix 4, to the MakingChips Podcast. On today's episode we hear about Patricia's visit to the White House on behalf of the National Association of Manufacturers. Patricia was seated directly next to President Trump as the group discussed efforts to boost manufacturing in the United States. In manufacturing news, we discuss Brennan Investment Group's plans to turn 85 acres in Elk Grove Village, IL into a $1 Billion Technology Park. Episode Outline:[00:01] - GFMC 2017 [02:28] - Manufacturing News [05:03] - Call In with Pat McGibbon [10:03] - Welcome Back Patricia! [13:04] - The Invitation [16:30] - Delivering The Message [19:01] - The Level of Security [21:04] - Press Coverage [22:40] - Representing Manufacturing [24:10] - Trump's Message [28:02] - IMTS 2018 Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register Today! Manufacturing News TMA - Technology & Manufacturing Association NAM - National Association of Manufacturers Patricia Miller | LinkedInIMTS 2018 We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Sep 26, 2017 • 38min
MC123: New Ideas For Hiring in the Manufacturing Industry w/ Rich Hoster
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are coming to you LIVE from the Valley Industrial Association's Manufacturer's Collaboration Conference in Sugar Grove, Illinois. On today's episode of MakingChips, we answer the question: What is a chaplet? - Hint, it's used in castings. We welcome Rich Hoster, President at Smith and Richardson Inc. Rich takes us through some of the strategies that Smith and Richardson uses to help mitigate the skilled labor shortage. We'll also hear about the company's efforts to teach students about manufacturing, and Rich gives us some information on Smith and Richardson's facility in Jiangsu, China. In Manufacturing News, we talk about how a manufacturing alliance in Dayton, Ohio is providing opportunities for residents to begin a new career in manufacturing. Episode Outline:[00:01] - GFMC 2017 [03:15] - The Story of MakingChips [06:27] - Manufacturing News [13:30] - Welcome Rich Hoster [15:48] - History of Smith and Richardson [18:45] - Mitigating the Skilled Labor Shortage [23:06] - Echo Pulse Index & Behavioral Survey [25:45] - Manufacturing Students [29:40] - Facility in China [33:44] - The Value Of Networking Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register Today! Apple Rubber - "6 Manufacturing Podcasts" IMTS Manufacturing News MakingChips TV| Interviewing Tips for a Manufacturing Job Dayton Region Manufacturers Association Rich Hoster | LinkedIn TMA | Board of Directors Valley Industrial Association We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Sep 21, 2017 • 47min
MC122: How GT Automation Uses Xometry to Increase Sales
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are broadcasting remotely from a Xometry Vendor Partner, GT Automation Group in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Today we welcome Steve Gildea, President at GT Automation and Michael Dickson, VP of Customer and Partner Success at Xometry to the MakingChips Podcast, as they give us a deeper dive into the Xometry brand. We'll hear about the impact that Xometry has had on GT Automation as Steve walks us through the process that Xometry provides GT Automation to view and accept work. Michael explains the benefits of the Xometry Partner Network, and shares some insight as to what sets Xometry apart from the competition. In manufacturing news, we discuss 4 Keys to Boosting Workplace Culture in Manufacturing. Episode Outline:[00:01] - GFMC 2017 [03:00] - What's New with Jim & Jason? [05:17] - Manufacturing News [11:19] - New Orleans [12:51] - Introducing Xometry [18:43] - Welcome Michael Dickson [20:45] - Xometry's Algorithm [24:00] - Welcome Steve Gildea [26:00] - The Job Process and Partner Network [32:50] - Shipping and Payment [34:56] - Farming Out Work [38:45] - Variety of Work [41:26] - The Xometry Difference Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register Today! Xometry: CNC Machining Services & 3D Printing Services GT Automation Group Manufacturing News Michael Dickson | LinkedInLeave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Sep 13, 2017 • 37min
MC121: The Spitfire Takes Control w/ Stacia Hobson
Hello Metalworking Nation! Today on MakingChips we welcome back Stacia Hobson for the second half of our two part interview. On this episode we'll hear about how her father reacted to their confrontation. Stacia also shares with us how she was able to take control of the business, what she would do differently in hindsight, how Image Industries addresses the skilled labor shortage, and we'll hear a bit about her award winning Toastmaster's speech. Later on, we'll hear from Charlie Chesbrough, Senior Economist at Cox Automotive Inc., as he gives us a preview of what he'll be speaking about at this year's GFMC Conference in Atlanta, GA. Episode Outline: [00:01] - GFMC 2017 [02:10] - The Reaction [05:12] - Moving the Needle [07:24] - From Buyer to Manufacturer [10:32] - What Would You Do Differently? [13:15] - Finding Capable Workers [15:00] - Managing Price Instability [16:46] - Xometry [17:50] - Toastmasters Speech Contest [22:08] - Preparing For Recession [24:20] - Family Dynamic in Business [26:30] - Charlie Chesbrough Phone Interview Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register Today! Stacia Hobson | LinkedInImage Industries, Inc Xometry: CNC Machining Services & 3D Printing ServicesCharles Chesbrough | LinkedInLeave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Sep 6, 2017 • 46min
MC120: Under Fire in a Family Business w/ Stacia Hobson
Hello Metalworking Nation! On this two part episode of MakingChips, we welcome Stacia Hobson, Co-Owner of Image Industries, Inc to our remote studio at the TMA in Schaumburg, IL. Image Industries offers stud welding solutions for compact construction equipment to service the agricultural and construction markets. They are the industry leaders in manufacturing threaded fasteners & hydraulic ports for these businesses. Stacia runs us through the history of the company and gives us a brief overview of her day to day responsibilities. She also reveals the difficulties that came along with working in the family business, including butting heads with her hot tempered father. We'll also discuss Hurricane Harvey's destructive aftermath on the city of Houston, how it has impacted manufacturing, and what you can do to help. Later on, we'll jump on a phone call with Pat McGibbon, Vice President at AMT as we hear some more details on what's in store for the GFMC Conference in Atlanta, GA. Episode Outline: [00:01] - GFMC 2017 - Register Now! [03:30] - 200,000 Downloads [04:45] - What's New with Jason & Jim [08:20] - Hurricane Harvey [13:20] - Nonprofit Donations [16:30] - Xometry [17:30] - Introducing Stacia Hobson [18:45] - What Does Image Industries Do? [22:32] - What Is a Specialized Fastener? [29:00] - Platinum Status [32:45] - Stacy's Day to Day Responsibilities [34:45] - Joining the Family Business [37:00] - "Spit-Fired" [38:00] - Phone-in with Pat McGibbon Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register Today! Technology & Manufacturing Association Apple Rubber | 6 Manufacturing Podcasts Samaritan's Purse | Hurricane Harvey Relief Houston Food Bank Stacia Hobson | LinkedInImage Industries, Inc Xometry: CNC Machining Services & 3D Printing ServicesLeave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Aug 30, 2017 • 33min
MC119: Why Visionaries Need Integrators - Gaining "Traction" in Manufacturing
Hello Metalworking Nation! Two weeks ago we were joined by Patricia Miller and Will Scott of Matrix 4 as they introduced us to the roles of Visionary and Integrator. Today, we take a deeper dive into those roles as we learn how they have been implemented at Matrix 4. Patricia and Will share the impact that these vital roles have had on their company, as they equip and inspire you to effectively implement theses processes into your own business. We'll share with you the tools that helped Matrix 4, ZENGERS Industrial, and countless other businesses work to create freedom in their respective roles, while seeing their ultimate vision become a reality. Episode Outline: [00:01] - GFMC 2017 - Register Now! [03:37] - MakingChips Live - Valley Industrial [06:30] - Patricia's Role as the Visionary [07:30] - Will's Role as the Integrator [11:05] - Bringing on the Role [13:30] - Creating a Road Map [18:00] - What Kind of Leader Am I? [21:05] - Keep Achieving Goals [25:55] - Xometry [27:05] - The Effectiveness of the Integrator [30:30] - We Want To Hear From You Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register today! VIA Collaborative Conference 2017"Traction" - Get a Grip On Your Business EOS Worldwide Rocket Fuel for Your Business | Integrators & Visionaries Xometry: CNC Machining Services & 3D Printing Services Patricia Miller | LinkedIn Will Scott | LinkedInMatrix 4 Leave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Aug 22, 2017 • 34min
MC118: Considerations for Marketing Planning
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are excited to bring you another episode in our #MarketingForMakers series with Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology. Today we welcome back Julie Poulos (Vice President) and Kacey Keegan (Content Writer & Strategist) as they equip you with the key elements to consider when planning your marketing strategy. Topics on today's episode include: creating a campaign theme, developing and distributing content, showcasing your company culture, and determining a marketing budget. Episode Outline: [00:00] - GFMC 2017 Conference [03:40] - Welcome Back Julie & Kacey [04:50] - Campaign Concept [09:00] - Branding and Strategy Phase [10:30] - Frequently Asked Questions [11:50] - Case Study [15:40] - Showcasing Culture [20:30] - Providing Solutions [24:15] - P.R. Opportunities [26:43] - Tracking Leads and Budgeting [29:35] - Shifting Our Philosophy Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register today! Red Caffeine Marketing + Technology Red Caffeine | Blog: Key Considerations in Marketing Planning Red Caffeine | Content Marketing Planning Calendar Julie Poulos | LinkedIn Kacey Keegan | LinkedIn Leave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Aug 15, 2017 • 48min
MC117: Visionary and Integrator Relationships - One Model For Manufacturing Leaders
Hello Metalworking Nation! We are excited to bring back a former guest who's incredible journey over the last few years has seen her go from an industry "newbie" to a manufacturing "rockstar". Two years ago we introduced you to Patricia Miller of Matrix 4, who had recently left her career in marketing to take over her grandfather's failing manufacturing business. With a complete overhaul of the business, and the help of her partner Will Scott, Matrix 4 solidified a strong company culture that has turned a once dying company into a thriving success. Episode Outline: [02:50] - Manufacturing News [07:35] - News at Carr Machine [10:15] - News at ZENGERS [12:30] - Welcome Back Patricia Miller [19:54] - Competitive Edge [22:20] - Putting a Team in Place [24:38] - Welcome Will Scott [28:26] - L10 Meeting and the Daily Huddle [34:41] - OTOQET [38:30] - Family and Business [43:11] - Personal Relationships and Business [47:00] - MakingChips | iTunes Review Links Mentioned in this Episode: GFMC 2017 - Register today! EntreLeadership MissionU Manufacturing "News" MC026: 40 Year Old Manufacturing Startup with Patricia Miller of Matrix IV MC028: Advice through the eyes of a manufacturing newbie, with Patricia Miller Patricia Miller | LinkedIn Will Scott | LinkedInMatrix 4 Leave Us A Review on iTunes We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Aug 7, 2017 • 18min
MC116: Shifting Into Overdrive with Nicole Wolter - Overcoming Adversity (Part 2)
Hello Metalworking Nation! On today's episode, we bring you part two of our interview with Nicole Wolter, President of HM Manufacturing. Last week we heard about a dire situation within HM Manufacturing that rocked the family business to it's core. On this episode, Nicole shares how the company recovered, implementing new procedures and processes to help lift HM to where they are today. Episode Structure:[02:00] - e-Commerce[06:03] - Social Media[06:40] - Customer Terms in 2017[10:49] - TMA Education Foundation[16:00] - Dig A Little Deeper Links Mentioned in this Episode: HM Manufacturing Nicole Wolter | LinkedIn TMA Education Foundation Marketing For Makers Leave Us a Review We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Aug 2, 2017 • 40min
MC115: Shifting Gears at HM Manufacturing - When Crisis Strikes On The Shop Floor (Part 1)
Hello Metalworking Nation and greetings from our studio at the DMDII in Goose Island, Chicago. On this two part episode of MakingChips, we welcome back Nicole Wolter, President of HM Manufacturing Company. Nicole shares the captivating story of HM Manufacturing, a company that began with her father's passion for F1 racing. The downturn of the economy in 2008 proved to be the perfect time for Nicole to enter the family business, but as she would come to find out, things weren't quite what they seemed. Nicole's questioning of all aspects of the family business led her to a startling discovery that would turn an already dire situation into a full blown crisis. In manufacturing news, we talk about how Summer camps could be the start for the next generation's interest in the manufacturing industry. Episode Structure: [03:10] - 22,000 Downloads! [03:35] - Manufacturing News [08:30] - Half Fridays [09:45] - Process Driven Sales [13:20] - Welcome Nicole Wolter [14:40] - "Home Made" [18:05] - A Family Business [22:03] - Getting Fired [27:07] - Dire Situations with HM [29:30] - "Something is Happening" [35:01] - New Policies and Procedures Links Mentioned in this Episode:DMDII Manufacturing News HM Manufacturing Company Nicole Wolter | LinkedInSubscribe to MakingChips We Want to Hear From YOU, The Metalworking Nation: • Jim@makingchips.com • Jason@makingchips.com • Ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245


