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

Jul 7, 2016 • 44min
MC074: How Digitization Will Affect Manufacturing with Jeff Rizzie
How is digital manufacturing going to affect the modern machine shop? On this episode of MakingChips, we are joined by Jeff Rizzie, Senior Manager of Business Development at Sandvik Coromant. Jeff talks with us about the next phase of digital manufacturing and what changes we can expect to see in the future in terms of process improvement and efficiency. He also shares some key steps to help you start digitizing in your manufacturing shop. In manufacturing news, we talk about open-book management and what one firm is doing to help implement that system. Also discussed is the highly anticipated Mastermind Series and Workshop, as well as the upcoming IMTS 2016. Episode Structure: [01:35] - Audio/Video [02:45] - Manufacturing News [07:53] - Mastermind Series and Workshop [11:11] - What's Going On at ZENGERS [14:55] - Welcome Jeff Rizzie [16:30] - What Is the Future of Manufacturing? [21:45] - Process vs Discreet Manufacturing [24:40] - Key Steps to Start Digitizing [29:01] - Extracting Information from a CNC [31:38] - Process Improvements / Efficiency [37:05] - Sensors and Extra Technology [41:20] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News The Great Game of Business Theory of Constraints Jeff Rizzie | LinkedIn Sandvik Coromant IMTS 2016 We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Jun 28, 2016 • 40min
MC073: Manufacturing Culture with Cassie Haupers
We are happy to announce that this is the first episode of MakingChips shot entirely with video. We want to thank Chuck Shroeder and IMTS for coming to our studio and making all of us look good. Video segments of this episode are soon to come. On this episode of MakingChips, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Cassie Haupers, Vice President at Swiss Precision Machining. SPM is an ISO 9001:2008 certified company that serves many different industries including: medical, dental, aerospace and automotive and fiber optics industries. Growing up in the manufacturing world, Cassie wants to continue her family tradition and build the business for the next generation. Topics of discussion in this week's episode include: Cassie's history and background with SPM, SPM's expansion into a new facility, driving and defining company culture, overcoming bumps in the road, succession planning, communicating your vision to your company, women in manufacturing, and working with family. Episode Structure: [02:30] - Manufacturing News [05:40] - Mastermind Series [07:23] - IMTS 2016 [08:16] - Introducing Cassie Haupers [10:15] - Cassie's Progression at SPM [10:40] - What is Swiss Precision Machining? [14:18] - Driving the Culture at SPM [17:15] - Proving Yourself [19:57] - A Fresh Start [25:36] - Roadblocks and Challenges of Moving the Company [31:20] - Women in Manufacturing [32:45] - Background in IT [35:09] - Working With Family [37:15] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News IMTS 2016 Cassie Haupers | We Are Innovative | IMTS 2016 Video Swiss Precision Machining | SPM We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Jun 22, 2016 • 27min
MC072: Analyzing the Performance of the Manufacturing Sector with Senior Economist Bill Strauss (Part 2)
On part 2 of this episode of MakingChips, we continue our discussion with Bill Strauss, Senior Economist at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. Topics discussed in this episode include the world economy, energy prices and their impact on manufacturing, borrowing and loans, education, growth rate, future economic trends, and the millennial generation. Episode Structure: [01:30] - Manufacturing Renaissance [03:35] - Energy Production and Manufacturing [06:05] - "The Good Old Days" [07:30] - The Two Ways to Economic Growth [10:45] - Educated Workforce [15:00] - Gradual Improvement [16:15] - Quick Fire Questions for Bill [18:40] - A Glimpse into the Future [21:55] - Millennial Generation's Effect on Manufacturing [23:45] - Conclusion of Episode We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Jun 15, 2016 • 34min
MC071: Analyzing the Performance of the Manufacturing Sector with Senior Economist Bill Strauss (Part 1)
On part 1 of this 2 part episode, we have a conversation with Bill Strauss. Bill is a senior economist and economic advisor in the economic research department at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago. His research papers include analysis of the manufacturing sector, the automotive sector, the Midwest regional economy, the trade-weighted dollar, business cycles and Federal Reserve payments operations. Bill shares his experience working with the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago and how it relates to manufacturing. We also discuss the highly anticipated MakingChips Mastermind and Workshop series, Jim shares his experience working with SkillScout, and we discuss the future of automation in Manufacturing News. Episode Structure: [03:20] - Manufacturing News [06:10] - MakingChips Events [07:30] - MakingChips Workshop [08:28] - IMTS 2016 Registration [10:22] - SkillScout at CARR Machine [13:45] - Introducing Bill Strauss [15:30] - Bill's Role at the Federal Reserve [17:58] - The Rust Belt [19:15] - The 12 Cities [20:33] - Specializing in Manufacturing [21:20] - Explaining the Federal Reserve [24:15] - Board of Directors / Advisory Council [26:25] - The Media [28:30] - Investing in Performance [31:15] - Foreseeing the Future of Manufacturing [32:25] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Jim & Jason's Favorite Chicago Restaurants Manufacturing News IMTS 2016 Bill Strauss | LinkedIn We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Jun 8, 2016 • 40min
MC070: Leadership, Action, and a British Accent - with Sean Holt
Today on MakingChips: We welcome a very special VIP guest to our show, Sean Holt - President for the Americas at Sandvik Coromant. Sean has more than twenty years of engineering, business development and management experience. He is currently responsible for Sandvik Coromant's organization in North and South America. Sean shares his background with us, his history with Sandvik, and weighs in on what he believes defines a great manufacturing leader. We also discuss the importance of communication, the future of cutting tools, and what we can do to change the perception of manufacturing. Jim and Jason talk about MakingChips' highly anticipated Mastermind Series & Workshop, and we share more information about the upcoming International Manufacturing Trade Show (IMTS 2016). Episode Structure: [02:40] - Manufacturing News - mitchell lace manufacturing [04:45] - What's New with Jason? [06:05] - MakingChips Mastermind Series [08:15] - IMTS 2016 [09:35] - News at ZENGERS [12:00] - Introducing Sean Holt [14:20] - Sean's Background [16:30] - What Defines a Great Manufacturing Leader? [19:15] - Diversifying Key Industries [23:33] - Communication is Critical [25:25] - Future of Cutting Tools [28:25] - Changing Perception of Manufacturing [30:57] - Engaging the Younger Generations [33:02] - Opportunities in the Future [35:15] - Utilizing Podcasts for Communication [38:00] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News IMTS 2016 Sandvik Coromant Sean Holt | LinkedIn We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Jun 1, 2016 • 45min
MC069: ASK MAKINGCHIPS: Do You Have the Right Classification? with Marc Alberico and Steve Lorenzini
We're all familiar with Murphy's Law; "Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong". We've talked about this extensively in a previous MakingChips episode on crisis management, but what can you do to make sure that your manufacturing company is covered in the event that something goes wrong? "It's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when." From equipment breakdowns, to customer and employee claims of injury, you need to be equipped with the knowledge of what kind of coverage you'll need for the challenges you face as a Manufacturing Leader. The reality is that many manufacturers have limited knowledge on the subject, and are often hesitant to reach out to their insurance agency. What can the metalworking nation learn from the insurance industry? On this episode of MakingChips, we talk about insurance and risk management with Marc Alberico and Steve Lorenzini of The Daniel and Henry Company. Marc and Steve share their extensive knowledge of risk solutions for the manufacturing industry and provide an answer to a MakingChips listener's question. In manufacturing news, we talk about the future of automation and it's business implications.. Jim and Jason share details of two very special MakingChips events as we look forward to IMTS 2016. Episode Structure: [03:25] - Manufacturing News [06:45] - Mastermind Series [08:05] - MakingChips at IMTS 2016 [09:35] - Introducing Steve and Marc [11:36] - Answering Rob Trout's Email [13:05] - How did this collaboration begin? [19:06] - OSHA Compliance [21:15] - Understanding the Depth of Your Business [24:38] - "The Sheep in Wolf's Clothing" [26:30] - Product Liability (Prototype vs Medical) [32:15] - Misclassified Areas [38:15] - When to Call the Insurance Company [40:40] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News IMTS 2016 The Daniel and Henry Company Contact Marc & Steve Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
May 26, 2016 • 41min
MC068: Innovation, Technology, and Milling Expertise with Troy Stashi
Today on MakingChips: We are coming to you from the Sandvik Coromant Headquarters located in Fair Lawn, New Jersey. On this episode, we have a conversation with special guest Troy Stashi, Industry & Application Specialist in Automotive/Milling at Sandvik Coromant. Troy shares his expertise on several different topics including milling, efficiency, and trends in machining. In manufacturing news, we talk about HP's cutting edge 3D printer. We also discuss our upcoming MakingChips events including our live broadcast from the floor of IMTS 2016. Episode Structure: [02:38] - Manufacturing News [05:15] - What's new with Jason? [06:15] - Mastermind and Workshop [09:22] - MakingChips at IMTS 2016 [11:05] - What's new with Jim? [12:38] - Welcome Troy Stashi of Sandvik Coromant [13:55] - Troy's History with Sandvik Coromant [16:26] - Solving The Most Common Problems [22:00] - Trends in Milling Cutters [26:15] - Programming [31:33] - Coolant vs. No Coolant [35:30] - Coating Technology [37:50] - Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News IMTS 2016 Troy Stashi | LinkedIn Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
May 18, 2016 • 37min
MC067: Doing Business with Friends
There is an old adage that has been floating around the business world for ages; "you should never do business with friends". If you've never worked together with your friend, it can be difficult to translate their skills from a social context into a business one. That doesn't mean that you should refuse to start a business relationship with friends and family. On this episode of MakingChips, we ask the question: can you have close relationships with vendors and clients? Jim and Jason discuss their personal experiences and lay out some hypothetical situations about doing business with friends. We also talk about the continued popularity of the retro movement and its effect on manufacturing. Also discussed is recent news with Tesla Motors, the MakingChips Mastermind & Workshop series, and IMTS 2016. Episode Structure: [00:09] - Episode Preview [02:35] - Manufacturing News 1 [06:10] - Manufacturing News 2 [09:45] - MakingChips Mastermind and Workshop [11:10] - IMTS 2016 Registration [12:50] - Sandvik Coromant [15:10] - "Doing Business with Friends" [20:04] - Honesty [25:00] - Unsuccessful Business with Friends [29:03] - Circling Back [34:04] - iTunes Review // Conclusion of Episode Mentioned in this Episode: Our FAVORITE Restaurants in Chicago Manufacturing News 1 Manufacturing News 2 IMTS 2016 Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
May 11, 2016 • 39min
MC066: A Community of Makers - The Catalyst for Catalyze with Bill Fienup
When it comes to starting up your own business, it isn't always easy finding the the right space for exploring, creating, and developing your new ideas. What if you could assemble a community of like-minded people in a place where you can share ideas, be inspired, and collaborate with other creators. "It started with four or five people, grew to 400, and now we've built a physical home for that community." - Bill Fienup On this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Bill Fienup, co-founder of Catalyze Chicago. Catalyze is a creative and collaborative workspace, equipping its members with state-of-the-art tools, industry mentorship, manufacturing support, and investment networks. With a focus towards business start-ups, Catalyze has become Chicago's premier center for product development and commercialization. Bill shares his brush with internet fame, his inspiration for building Catalyze, and why he believes a maker space like Catalyze should be in every community. We also preview IMTS 2016 and share some of what our listeners can expect from MakingChips at the event. Episode Structure: [00:07] - Episode Preview [02:45] - MakingChips Mastermind & Workshop [06:00] - IMTS 2016 [06:40] - MakingChips Studio [07:50] - Welcome Bill Fienup of Catalyze Chicago [09:00] - "Internet Famous" Story [10:20] - Patented Biopsy Needle [12:25] - The Formation of Catalyze [16:00] - How long has Catalyze been an organization? [18:51] - Benefits of Membership [22:45] - Membership Fee Structure [25:49] - Inspiration for Building Catalyze [26:40] - Investor Structure [28:55] - The Future of Catalyze [30:30] - Starting a Maker-Space in your Community Mentioned in this Episode: Our FAVORITE Restaurants in Chicago Heinz Automato IMTS 2016 Bill Fienup | LinkedIn Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear From You, The Metalworking Nation: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245
Apr 20, 2016 • 29min
MC065: Creating a Successful eBay Campaign for your Machine Tool
There are several options when it comes to selling one of your old machines. Some are more convenient than others, but might offer you less money than what you expected. With a little bit of added effort, you can get the most money out of your old machine. On this episode of MakingChips, Jim shares his steps for creating a successful eBay campaign. We also talk about the upcoming IMTS 2016, Chicago restaurants, and the problems the U.S. faces in manufacturing. Episode Outline: [00:07] - Episode Preview [03:15] - Manufacturing News [08:40] - IMTS 2016 [10:55] - Sandvik Coromant [13:05] - Selling Your Machine Using eBay [14:50] - Getting a Good Picture [17:30] - Fees [18:20] - Auction [19:40] - Buy it Now [23:15] - eBay vs Machine/Tool Dealer [25:15] - Skill Scout [26:20] - Episode Conclusion Mentioned in this Episode: Manufacturing News Article Our FAVORITE Restaurants in Chicago IMTS 2016 Sandvik Coromant Registration Metal Cutting Knowledge JIm's Office Manager Ad Ryan's Patreon Account We Want to Hear From You: jim@makingchips.com jason@makingchips.com ryan@makingchips.com Telephone: (312) 725-0245


