In this episode, I interview Jarrett Morgan of Possum Solutions about his unique journey from Steadicam operator to running a business creating custom cinema camera accessories. Jarrett shares his evolution, offering insights into the intricacies of running a machining business while having another job. We also discuss the influence of streaming services on the film/media industry, humorous and instructive machine maintenance anecdotes, and Jarrett’s quest for organization. Check out Jarrett's I...
Aug 02, 2024•1 hr 52 min
In this episode, Chris and I delve into our latest projects and experiences from the past weeks, including Chris's extensive travels tackling various machining challenges across multiple states. We cover topics like material shortages, fusion design, and complex surfacing projects for knife handles. We also discuss the nuances of machine tool programming, organizing tool cribs, and having extra hands in the workshop. Additionally, we explore workflows, tool setups, and balancing quick turnaround...
Jul 26, 2024•2 hr 4 min
Ethan and I catch up after his week at Proteum as our first "intern"! We talk about projects he accomplished, things he learned, and ways Proteum can get better. We talk about the RIT Formula SAE team's recent victory and lessons gained over the years. Check out Ethan's IG @e.patane515 ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast
Jul 05, 2024•1 hr 26 min
In this episode of Within Tolerance, Zap and I dive deep into our latest machining projects, touching on everything from material shortages to software complications. We investigate the real potential of AI in automating tasks in machining and weigh the hype against the reality. Additionally, we discuss managing diverse machinist personalities and provide insights on employee management and onboarding. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the ...
Jun 21, 2024•1 hr 36 min
This week I am joined by Justin Brouillette from PDXCNC to explore his journey from architecture school to running Portland CNC. We discuss the challenges in custom furniture making, delve into CNC router specifics, and highlight standout features. Justin shares his approach to product development and the role of 3D printing in industrial products. He also discusses his unique strategies for marketing CNC accessories, including the use of ChatGPT. (This description brought to you in part by Chat...
Jun 14, 2024•1 hr 43 min
In this episode, Chris and I delve into our latest projects and experiences in the last couple weeks. Chris recounts a problematic project involving heat-treated 4140 steel in Delaware and the trials of Camplete for Mill Turns. I talk about updates on the shop's air system improvements and a potential new CMM purchase, emphasizing the ever-evolving nature of manufacturing technology. We also chat about tool longevity, efficient CNC machining, and the advantages and pitfalls of interchangeable to...
May 31, 2024•1 hr 40 min
I am incredibly excited to have Al Whatmough back this week to discuss his recent move over to Toolpath Labs as CEO! Al and I talk about making the decision to leave Autodesk, how to successfully enter a new team, improving machinist productivity, and more! Check out Al's IG @al.whatmough and Toolpath Labs @toolpathlabs or https://www.toolpath.com/ ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
May 17, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Chris joins me this week to talk shop, answer your questions and all from the new Proteum Podcast Studio! We share updates on work progress, shop layout enhancements, equipment acquisitions, and the cost-effectiveness of machining tools. We chat about best and worst customer experiences, dealing with stress, and more! Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
May 01, 2024•2 hr
This week I'm joined by Nushrat Ahmed. Nush shares her journey into manufacturing, emphasizing continuous learning, finding her network, and perseverance. She discusses career progression, education in the industry, and addresses diversity challenges, especially for women. Nush also explores strategies for success, recommends podcasts, and reflects on personal growth through activities like crocheting. Don't miss her inspiring story and valuable insights. Check out Nush's IG @nushratah ---------...
Apr 22, 2024•54 min
Jason and Chris are back this week! Chris talks about working like a mad man to finish up a project, visiting me, and his current trip to LA. Jason shares his funding journey, new X2 products, and new machinery. We all chat about motivating people, effective planning, 3d printing and more! Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting and Jason's IG @jason_x2devgroup ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
Apr 12, 2024•2 hr 49 min
Zach is back this week and we chat all about fixing Kerns, adding a swiss lathe to his shop, and all the changes his business has gone through since the last time on the show. Listen in to hear the incredible modifications and fixes Zach has done to his machines, and hear how this skill scored him a job. Check out Zach's IG @zachsmiami ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
Apr 02, 2024•1 hr
This week I'm joined by Uriel and Kyle from Arda Cards! Any of my listeners who have been following along Uriel and Austere Manufacturing's journey will know of his application of lean principles to optimize his business. In this effort he uses Kanban cards, and this lead to him developing Arda Cards with Kyle. We chat about lean principles, ordering headaches, and how Arda has made Kanban cards easy. Check out Arda Cards IG @arda.cards Check out Austere's IG @austere_manufacturing -------------...
Mar 21, 2024•1 hr 22 min
Chris joins me this week to catch up on a whirlwind of a past couple weeks! Chris talks about success with lathe probing, and a change of coasts. I talk all things Hermle C250 and new shop. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast
Mar 13, 2024•1 hr 35 min
In this episode of Within Tolerance, Graham Francis joins me to discuss Lights Out Mfg. Graham shares his journey from childhood fascination to mechanical engineer, detailing his experiences at King Machine, transitioning to sales, and partnering with Rapid Design Solutions. We delve into their automation solutions for machine shops, including integrating robots for machine tending and specializing in machine loading systems. Graham highlights the role of automation in upskilling employees, prev...
Mar 04, 2024•1 hr 29 min
This week I am joined by everyone's favorite Selway Sr. Apps Engineer, James Meyette alongside Chris Zappettini. James discusses his journey in manufacturing, from machinist to applications engineer, touching on experiences with companies like Cummins, Mori Seiki, and MasterCAM. He also dives into his role at Selway, sharing experiences in applications engineering, customer interactions, and resolving technical issues. We talk about tool measurement systems, the MX330 PC-10's capabilities, equip...
Feb 26, 2024•2 hr 4 min
Chris talks about his whirlwind last couple weeks wrapping up his shop move and his success with gear hobbing. I share the new machine we bought, talk about my new experience at Hermle training, and thoughts on Heidenhain. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast
Feb 10, 2024•1 hr 37 min
I am joined by a familiar name with a new company this week. Many of you may recognize Jonathan Hornell-Kennedy from @coreprintpatterns and his previous episode (81), but this week Jonathan is back to talk all about his new company @frameworkbikes . We talk about his path into bike making, carbon fiber filament winding machines, machining frame components, testing them and more! Check out Frameworks' IG @frameworkbikes ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreo...
Feb 02, 2024•1 hr 16 min
This week I have Zap back to give updates, and answer listener questions. Zap gives an update on his personal and work life. He talks about his recent trip to New York where gear hobbing on lathes yielded great results. He emphasizes the value of automation and we share our dream machines. We both discuss marketing strategies and the importance of soft skills. I also dive into the trials of getting the new shop ready to move in. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting --------------------------------...
Jan 26, 2024•1 hr 53 min
This episode I am joined by Shawn Conour, the president of Conour MFG. We discuss his company's patented racking arm valve, the machining process involved, and our experiences in the machining industry. We also touch on the challenges of running a machine shop, the exciting projects we're working on, power grid reliability, gun building, tool research, and more! Check out Shawn's Youtube Channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqijBq9JDSo Check out Shawn's IG @Conour_MFG ------------------...
Jan 19, 2024•1 hr 41 min
In this episode, I'm joined by Kenny Urban, the machine shop supervisor at Meyer Tool and Manufacturing. Kenny discusses his passion for getting kids involved in manufacturing and highlights their facility's specialties in cryogenic assemblies. We delve into the benefits of Hurco machines and the importance of programming and CAM software. Kenny also shares his journey into manufacturing. We address listener questions, discuss the challenges of machining titanium, and touch on 5-axis machining. ...
Jan 12, 2024•51 min
This episode I have a conversation with Michael Gimbel of Gimbel Automation. Michael shares the journey of his company and how they transitioned from contract manufacturing to engineering consulting and eventually to adding Gimbel Automation. We talk about spindle gripping best practices, solutions for programming them, the product offerings from Gimbel Automation and more! Check out Gimbel's IG @gimbelautomation ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/...
Jan 05, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Recorded earlier this year, the long awaited episode with Keaton from Swift Universal is here! Keaton shares his story, from starting a small shop while attending college all the way up to his recent purchase of a Kern HD. Keaton shares his experience with growing a business, SBIR grants, and more! Check out Swift's IG @swift_universal ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
Dec 21, 2023•1 hr 38 min
Ethan Patane is back this week to talk about a year of mentorship and instruction. Ethan gives me his "Seven Things to Forget" to be a better mentor, we talk about how to bring more people into manufacturing, and things he looks at when evaluating potential employers. Head over to impact.rit.edu/project/40222 to help the RIT FSAE team on their new build! Check out Ethan's IG @e.patane515 ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
Dec 07, 2023•1 hr 5 min
Easton is back this week to talk about his whirlwind year full of work, machine acquisitions, and adding to the Moria Manufacturing team. Other big news is Proteum found a new shop! I share lessons learned from the search and eventual signing of the lease. Easton and I also talk about dealing with stress, work-life balance, and the mental toll of shop ownership. Check out Easton's IG @moria_manufacturing ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintol...
Nov 27, 2023•2 hr 51 min
Ever struggle to enact change at your company? This month's book club book is for you then! I am joined this week by Alex Kern and Chris Zappettini to discuss "Leading Change" by John Kotter. We all discuss how to start change, successes and failures in changes, and more! Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting Check out Alex's IG @chiefbub ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast
Nov 17, 2023•2 hr 28 min
This week I am joined by Ledyard McFadden, the owner of LHM Engineering, a one-man, five-axis contract manufacturing shop in Boston specializing in medical equipment, robotics, and semiconductor projects. Ledyard also co-founded Tahr Equipment, an outdoors equipment manufacturer. Ledyard shares his manufacturing journey, starting with his experience working with the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and his decision to focus on Baja SAE racing in college. He talks about his time as the manufactur...
Nov 03, 2023•1 hr 58 min
Tim Paul joins me this week with some fantastic stories and lessons. Tim shares his manufacturing journey and highlights the importance of continuous learning, networking, finding the right tools, and overcoming imposter syndrome for professional growth and success in the industry. We reflect on our own experiences and emphasize the value of relationships and seizing opportunities. Check out Tim's IG @oneeartim ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/wi...
Oct 20, 2023•2 hr 31 min
Warning: This Episode has a fair bit of death and medical trauma. If that's not your thing skip from about 3:04:30 - 3:33:00 Chris Zappettini and Jason Peterson join me this week in my longest episode yet, sharing personal struggles and professional experiences. Chris updates us on the last month or so since he's been on the podcast. Jason walks us through his backstory in manufacturing, dying multiple times, and his attitude of continual perseverance no matter what. Jack Welch Episode of BtB - ...
Oct 12, 2023•4 hr 3 min
Joe Roggenbuck and I discuss his recent business challenges and successes, the pros and cons of working alone versus managing employees, tooling on a lathe, the search for a new workshop, and the importance of investing in employees. We also touch on shop projects, hiring and training employees, and the value of having the right tools. Check out Joe's IG @cobraframebuilding ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast
Sep 27, 2023•1 hr 48 min
Garrett Wade joins Dylan to share his story into manufacturing, his background in high-end automotive photography, and how his continual learning led him into making gorgeous parts. We also dive into his successes with his UMC500, a new machine that was just installed, and plans for workholding and tooling for 5 axis. Check out Garrett's IG @garrettwade ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast...
Sep 15, 2023•1 hr 36 min
