In this episode, Eric Dudas of FCH Sourcing Network is joined by Fastenal veteran turned homesteader Sam Aldinger and ERP code-slinger Anders Green of ALOX4 to dive deep into the evolving world of fastener sourcing, exploring why it's still very much an art—despite rising interest in AI, B2B e-ecommerce and automation. They discuss the complexity of matching vague inquiries to real-world parts, the limitations of current tech solutions, and how tools like FCH SourceFinder and the "Scrubber" are ...
Jun 30, 2025•1 hr 15 min•Season 2025Ep. 218
With a long view on the fastener industry and numerous careers to reflect on, Distributor's Link Magazine publisher Mr. Leo Coar recounts the launch of his flagship businesses and shares thoughts on a range of topics. From the shift away from domestic manufacturing and rise of the master importers, to the early days of the fastener shows, to the impact of AI tech on fastener distribution, a true legend of the industry tells it like it was, and the way he sees it in the days ahead. Run time: 47:3...
Jun 24, 2025•48 min•Season 2025Ep. 217
The fastener market may be going nuts, but marketing pros Rosa Hearn of BBI and Joe Shoemaker of AFC Industries keep a steady hand while getting the right messaging to the industry (1:07:11). Würth Industry USA managing director Chapman Revercomb joins senior news editor Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to read into the latest FDI rally (21:12). Perigee Manufacturing CEO Michael Topolewski breaks down the fall out from the recent SPS fire (11:45). On the Fastener Training Minute , Carmen...
Jun 12, 2025•1 hr 48 min•Season 2025Ep. 216
Fastener Fair USA in Nashville was a big success with strong traffic, numerous education and networking opportunities, Nascar simulator competition and a down home after hours event. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey gathered reactions and commentary from show attendees from across the industry, including Josh Winkler, Louis Speedon, GHIII, Heidi Volltrauer, Tim Vath, Kim Penland, Bob Chiricosta, Henning Cybulski, John "Cool Hand" Butler and many more. Run time: 01:08:27
Jun 04, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 2025Ep. 216
The screw turns as the industry heads to Nashville for its annual spring jamboree. NCFA Distributor Social attendees, Gary Graham , Justine Urban , Morgan Wilson speak with the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey . On the Fastener Training Minute , thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains new structural bolt standard changes that could impact hydrogen embrittlement. PLUS: Who actually won the FTR award at this year's MWFA Still Screwed Up Open ? Run time: 34:30...
May 26, 2025•35 min•Season 2025Ep. 215
With over 20 years at Fastenal, Sam Aldinger makes the jump into homesteading, balancing a blend of animal husbandry, podcasting and digital business coaching all while managing a fulfilling family life. The discussion touches on the importance of data in fastener distribution and manufacturing, selecting the correct B2B commerce platform, networking into farm communities, the culture at Fastenal, and sheep psychology. Run time: 51.55
May 24, 2025•52 min•Season 2025Ep. 214
The fastener industry reacts to the new tariffs as the impacts begin to take shape. Field Fastener president Adam Derry joins Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty to sort out the tanking FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (21:16). Returning from Stuttgart, Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich checks in with his read (12:55). Plus, John "Cool Hand" Butler of Martin Supply shares news of the largest charity bed build yet (1:54). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertull...
May 08, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Season 2025Ep. 214
The world's largest dedicated fastener show, Fastener Fair Global , took place in Stuttgart, Germany and Eurolink Fastener Supply Service founder and president Craig Penland was there. He reviews this year's show as well as some of his adventures exploring various locations in Europe. He also shares a surprising take on the European view of the tariffs. Run time: 33:51
Apr 15, 2025•34 min•Season 2025Ep. 214
Despite shifting tariff pronouncements, the fastener industry records another strong month as Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins newsman Mike McNulty explain on the Fastener News Report (28:33). Meanwhile, Rick Perkhaus of Fastener Specialties Manufacturing confronts an issue facing many small to mid-sized family operations (8:37). On the Fastener Training Minute , industry guru Carmen Vertullo discusses the fine points of mixing small lots when sending parts for plating (1:07:19...
Apr 10, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Season 2025Ep. 213
Endries CEO Michael Knight reacts to the latest tariffs and shares thoughts on what they mean for the fastener industry. Run time: 21:16
Apr 04, 2025•21 min•Season 2025Ep. 213
Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco Fastener Systems supplies premium fasteners to industries on both sides of the border. VP Jason Baines discusses his approach working with partners across the supply chain, shares thoughts on changing political conditions, and looks for the best in everyone involved. Run time: 22:55
Mar 27, 2025•23 min•Season 2025Ep. 213
Pac-West Fastener Association spring conference floor interviews and coverage, including Paul Vittori, George Martinez, Darlene Collis, Carl Spackman, Michael Chen, Jake "Valdez" Davis, Christian Reich and Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham. PLUS: Golf tourney winners. Run time: 27:42
Mar 21, 2025•28 min•Season 2025Ep. 213
The fastener industry powers ahead amid unsettling tariff news, cyber warfare and sky high egg prices. Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel joins newsman Mike McNulty to sift through the surprising FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (29:22). From his new operating base in Malaysia, Würth EVP Asia-Pacific Dee Ward shares a very different viewpoint, as he drives growth while patiently waiting for baseball season to begin (8:58). On the Fastener Training Minute , Carmen Vertullo cautions...
Mar 11, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Season 2025Ep. 212
FTR co-host Brian Musker shares two stories from his recent adventures outside of the FCH data lab (15:32). Fastener industry guru Carmen Vertullo explains lot traceability and why you should be on good terms with your test lab (28:19). WTC Managed IT Services senior consultant Will Snyder provides an important Microsoft security tip all distributors should understand (10:05). PLUS: What happened at the NFDA web conference on the new tariffs. Run time: 53:35...
Feb 21, 2025•54 min•Season 2025Ep. 211
As he rides into the sunset, Steve "The Sasco Man" Dunham stops by to take stock in a fastener career well spent (9:08). On the Fastener News Report , Mike McNulty welcomes Würth Industry USA COO Jeff Schmitt to read into sinking FDI numbers, plus major strategic announcements from Würth (35:16). Carmen Vertullo explains proper nut lubrication for structural applications on the Fastener Training Minute (1:13:18). Following the MFDA economic meeting, Brian and Eric consider safe asset classes bef...
Feb 12, 2025•1 hr 30 min•Season 2025Ep. 210
Skidmore-Wilhelm expert and proprietor Mr. John O'Brien and industry guru Carmen Vertullo delve deeply into the applications, uses and origins of tension bolting's most unique and essential tool. Discover simple yet effective lubricating techniques, little known but deadly hazards of improper bolt tensioning, and exclusive training opportunities during this wide reaching conversation. PLUS: Mysterious K-factor talk aplenty! Run time: 01:23:40
Jan 24, 2025•1 hr 24 min
The new fastener year begins with dramatic headlines, Fastener Technology International editor in chief Mike McNulty breaks the stories and welcomes Huyett CEO Tim O'Keeffe to look at complete 2024 FDI numbers plus the outlook for the year ahead on the Fastener News Report . EXTRA: Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. explains the latest huge LSG acquisition. On the Fastener Training Minute , thread guru Carmen Vertullo looks at risk mitigation in structural bolt tensioning. Plus, Fastener F...
Jan 17, 2025•1 hr 20 min•Season 2025Ep. 208
Tis the season to reveal new fastener association officers, as industry veteran rep Robert Rundle of R. W. Rundle Associates takes the lead at the MFDA (8:36). On the Fastener Training Minute , Carmen Vertullo explains a critical aspect of plating (18:30). Plus, the next winner of the IronClad Gloves Out of The Rut contest. CHRISTMAS BONUS: J. R. Prahl's " The Gift " redux edition (43:55). Run time: 49:01
Dec 21, 2024•49 min•Season 2024Ep. 207
The FDI brings a lump of coal to the fastener industry, but Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. and Fastener Technology International senior news editor Mike McNulty remain positive, despite mixed feelings over probable new tariffs, on the Fastener News Report (20:23). Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich takes more fastener limelight at this year's Fastenal Expo (14:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cressa presents an update on the over land trucking situation (58:02). Brian and Eric teach a n...
Dec 13, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Season 2024Ep. 207
Premium fastener provider J. Lanfranco sends mining industry veteran Steve Roebuck on a mission to dig up new business from an international market (11:20). On the Fastener Training Minute , thread educator Carmen Vertullo discusses a classic question involving nylon insert locknuts (22:50). PLUS: The first winner of the "Out of the Rut" IronClad gloves contest! Brian and Eric hone their skills and their platform. Run time: 49:28
Dec 03, 2024•49 min•Season 2024Ep. 206
Fastener industry optimism keeps the latest FDI numbers strong as AFC VP of sales John Kovatch joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (19:55). There's more good news for fastener mud racers as Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing announces dates for next year's huge MWFA event (7:15). PLUS: Brian and Eric launch the new IronClad gloves "Out of the Rut" contest. Run time: 53:30
Nov 20, 2024•53 min•Season 2024Ep. 206
Jo Morris of Desert Distribution and TJ McFarland of Brikksen travel far afield in their fastener endeavors, jamming in as much fun as good business will allow (4:28). Thread guru Carmen Vertullo discusses thread stripping on the Fastener Training Minute (21:26). Run time: 01:01:33
Oct 30, 2024•1 hr 2 min•Season 2024Ep. 205
Digital fastener data is like footprints that leave a long lasting imprint. So says JR Prahl of mega-industrial supplier OneMonroe (45:19). On the Fastener News Report , senior fastener newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel to discuss the soaring FDI readings from the most recent report (10:18). Brian and Eric set a new fastener data course of their own while trying out a new, "tighter" format. Run time: 01:16:14
Oct 24, 2024•1 hr 16 min•Season 2024Ep. 205
Würth EVP Larry Stevens shares his thoughts as he guides the world's largest industrial supplier toward global integration and connectivity. From simple midwest beginnings, he spent 16 years building the business in Asia before returning to the U.S. to focus on directing the company's vast collection of companies towards a more unified growth course. During this wide-ranging conversation, Larry shares many experiences, including his reactions to some of the more "exotic" cuisines he was presente...
Oct 09, 2024•1 hr 13 min•Season 2024Ep. 205
Don "The Amazing" Shan joins Brian and Eric for semi-comprehensive IFE '24 coverage, featuring Larry Stevens, Jo Morris, Marcel Goebel, Wayne Wishnew, Lisa Sanderson, Jake Glaser, John Gaudette, Mike Robinson and many more! An important name was added to the wall this year, and the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey was there. Plus, Earnest CEO Kirk Zehnder joins industry newsman Mike McNulty to dissect the stunning FDI report on the Fastener News Report (1:09:55). Newly inducted Fastener Hall of ...
Sep 20, 2024•2 hr 42 min•Season 2024Ep. 204
Fastener industry 50 year veteran and Goebel Fasteners national sales manager Sam Underwood explains what makes a great distributor (14:29). Will Snyder of WTC Business Technology Services on the fallout from the Cloudstrike internet outage snafu (1:29:54). Birmingham Fastener & Supply CEO Brad Tinney joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to review the sudden dip in the FDI (42:09). On the Fastener Training Minute , Carmen Vertullo puts a pi R squared equation to use (1:14:12). Eric...
Aug 16, 2024•2 hr 5 min•Season 2024Ep. 203
Fastener Fair USA show manager and fastener friend Mr. Bob Chiricosta of RX Expositions is the winner of this year's Form, Fit & Function Award , presented by the Naperville Fastener Association (the most non-exclusive of all the fastener associations). PLUS: Bob "GQ" Baer and Jake "Valdez" Davis preview this year's FSTNR Week '24. Run time: 24:21
Aug 05, 2024•24 min•Season 2024Ep. 203
Dramatic headlines abound across the country and around the world. This episode of Fully Threaded Radio avoids all of that, as Eurolink FSS president Craig Penland (15:44) and technologist Anders Green (2:00:31) provide various and informative takes on the industrial fastener industry from completely different angles. Huyett CEO Tim "Iron Butt" O'Keeffe joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (1:05:56). Never hard up for topics, thread educator Carmen Vertullo compares macro and m...
Jul 20, 2024•2 hr 44 min•Season 2024Ep. 202
It's more fastener industry squawking as 30 year veteran Al Bate of All America Threaded Products flies in to discuss European distribution models, fastener head hunting and an exciting new threaded rod offering (1:37:49). Reporting from a high speed rail car, YFP star Parker Jensen of Atlas Distribution reports on the recent Taiwan International Fastener Show (21:49). AFC Industries VP of sales John Kovatch sits in with newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to unpack the startling FD...
Jun 20, 2024•2 hr 29 min•Season 2024Ep. 201
The biggest fastener industry event of the spring, Fastener Fair USA '24 rocked Cleveland, was a huge success and a boatload of fun! The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey hit the show floor with her mic in hand: Jason Baines, Lee Parker, Bob Chiricosta, Mallory Nichols, John "Cool Hand" Butler, Hans Fuller, Lonni Kieffer, Boris Elbaum, Marty Nolan, Kevin Chavis, Henning Cybulski, Jake "Valdez" Davis, Dustin Henderson and many more! Run time: 53:27
May 31, 2024•53 min•Season 2024Ep. 201
