Episodios

  • 85. Buying a Machine Shop for All the Right Reasons - Scott Bruneau from Delaware Metals
    Aug 13 2025
    What happens when two people with a shared vision for community, craftsmanship, and legacy decide to take the leap into shop ownership? For Scott and his wife, the answer is Delaware Metals. In this inspiring conversation, Scott Bruneau shares how he and his wife purchased a decades-old, well-run machine shop—not as a quick flip, but as a long-term investment in American manufacturing, their team, and their community. With over 20 years in the industry himself, Scott knew the road ahead would be demanding. But armed with a clear “why,” a strong culture-first mindset, and a willingness to learn from both successes and mistakes, he’s been steering Delaware Metals into new markets, upgrading capabilities, and building a younger, highly skilled workforce. We cover everything from the buying process and financing tips, to shop layout improvements, training strategies, and the reality of recruiting in today’s tight labor market. Scott also opens up about the importance of open-book leadership—sharing the numbers, empowering the team, and making sure everyone understands their role in the shop’s growth. Whether you’re dreaming about buying your first shop, preparing to sell yours, or simply looking for leadership inspiration, Scott’s story is packed with actionable wisdom. This is about buying a machine shop for all the right reasons—and building a business that lasts. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Preserving legacy knowledge after a veteran retires(0:21) Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off (1:254) Learn about Scott Bruneau and Delaware Metals(6:30) Shop snapshot: size, equipment, and niche in small, precise, handheld parts(8:35) Relationship with the previous owner, his exit, and the strong foundation they inherited(10:02) Certifications, ERP transition, equipment investments, and workflow reorganization(11:57) Diversifying the customer base and expanding into aerospace with industry partners(15:14) Building a team of subject matter experts and fostering a culture of shared knowledge(19:46) Recruiting strategies, lean manufacturing introduction, and reorganization into cells with cross-training(25:33) Quality management approach and gaining team buy-in for process improvements(30:14) Check out SMW Autoblok’s massive catalog at SMWAutoblok.com(31:27) Closing the gap between office and shop floor through visible, hands-on leadership(34:21) Lessons from the buying process: financing, due diligence, and structuring the deal(40:21) Transparency with the team on costs, profitability, and impact on benefits(42:06) Career development through reviews, training opportunities, and goal setting(44:59) Biggest challenges: recruiting, assessing technical skills, and hiring for culture fit(49:06) Bringing in younger talent, mentorship, and patience in skill development (54:17) Real-life example: Software experience versus machining experience (56:37) The big decisions that are moving the company forward (1:01:16) Future proof your shop by listening to Lights Out Resources & People Mentioned Register for Top Shops 2025 and get 20% off Check out SMW Autoblok’s massive catalog Connect with Scott Bruneau Delaware MetalsConnect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    1 h y 2 m
  • 84. Facing Fears and Building an Emotionally Safe Workplace | Dana Gruber
    Jul 30 2025
    What if the next frontier of manufacturing leadership isn’t on the shop floor—but in the hearts and minds of your people? In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, Paul sits down with Dana Gruber, third-generation owner and president of ATCO Tool & Manufacturing. Dana didn’t grow up on the machines—she came from a career in cosmetology—but found herself drawn back into the family business with a mission that goes beyond precision parts: Creating an emotionally safe and psychologically aware workplace. From investing in cutting-edge technology like 3D metal printing to redefining what leadership looks like in a male-dominated industry, Dana is helping transform not just her shop in Meadville, PA—but the way we think about what it means to lead. She opens up about her personal healing journey, the emotional baggage many team members bring into the shop, and how building trust, vulnerability, and open communication has changed the game for her employees. This episode is a refreshing departure from the traditional “just make chips” mindset. Dana’s story is raw, thoughtful, and surprisingly practical. Whether you’re skeptical of “soft skills” or actively searching for ways to build a stronger team culture, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about what truly powers a great machine shop. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (1:19) Learn more about Dana Gruber and Actco Tool(9:42) What Actco Tool looks like today (and why)(11:38) Dana’s core mission: creating an emotionally safe, people-first culture(13:09) How her leadership style is received by long-time employees(15:22) The emotional wounds many workers carry and why awareness matters(18:44) Examples of workplace conflict and the importance of conscious leadership(21:56) Check out Verdant Commercial Capital for a true partner in your corner(22:35) Receptiveness to changes in the environment(26:40) Sales and marketing efforts to grow the additive side of the business(30:10 Diversifying into aerospace, dental, automotive, and even Hollywood(33:32) Dana’s approach to open-book leadership and financial transparency(34:28) Key roles on her management team—and her search for a purpose-driven COO(36:24) Continuous improvement through emotional growth and team alignment(38:05) Biggest recent challenge: learning the limits of shop capacity(45:58) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA Resources & People Mentioned Partner with Verdant Commercial CapitalManufacturer & Business Association MakingChips Machine Shop MBAThe Manufacturing Culture PodcastGrow your top and bottom line with CLA Connect with Dana Gruber Actco ToolTikTokDana@AtcoTool.comConnect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    47 m
  • 83. Crafting Success: Insights from Barry Walter Jr. on Company Culture
    Jul 16 2025
    In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sat down with Barry Walter Jr., and I have to say—this one lit me up. Barry’s a machine shop leader who brings heart, humility, and a whole lot of wisdom to the mic. From rebuilding a multi-generational business to designing a culture where “shit flows uphill” (his words!), Barry has transformed a plumbing parts OEM into an 8-figure, high-mix/low-volume powerhouse with 37 team members, 15 CNC lathes, and a customer service model that makes his buyers the heroes. What struck me most is how intentional Barry is—not just with his machines or his marketing, but with how he leads. From rigorous multi-stage hiring to monthly team celebrations to offering PTO in exchange for nonprofit volunteering, Barry’s built a workplace that lives out its core values every single day. Family first. Serve others. Made in America matters. And yes—work should be fulfilling. We also dive into the financial roadblocks that nearly brought the company to its knees and how Barry led the turnaround through culture, cost discipline, and strategic pricing. You’ll also hear how he’s passing the torch to the next generation—with three of his kids now working in the business—and why he replaced third-party sales reps with his own son, who now makes 60+ customer visits per week across the western U.S. This episode is packed with lessons on leadership, lean operations, OEM manufacturing, and building a resilient business that people actually want to work for. I think you’re going to love this conversation as much as I did. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:10) Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA(1:20) Barry’s podcast obsession and love for the machining community(3:20) The origin story: From Navy machinist to garage startup(7:00?) Surviving multiple failed business partnerships before the family took over(9:34) Barry’s journey from psych hospital worker to screw machine operator(10:51) Growing to 15 CNC lathes and 37 team members—still hiring(14:00) Taking over the business from his father in 2015(18:33) Creating a workplace culture of trust, transparency, and ownership(21:00) What makes the culture at Barry E Walter Sr Co different(24:19) The financial reckoning: Working with EBITDA Growth Systems to level up operations(29:28) Building a national B2B customer base and using tech like HubSpot + MapMyCustomer(34:17) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration(35:28) Competitive edge: responsiveness, service, and American-made value(39:10) Impact of cultural change on employee retention and buy-in(41:09) Their 3-4 step hiring process, including “spousal interviews” and cultural fit(45:51) Final core value: Work should be fulfilling(48:09) In-house machinist training: from programming to tool grinding(55:22) Acquiring businesses to build their portfolio(1:00:18) The power of storytelling, shared values, and servant leadership(1:04:16) Recruit the right leaders for your shop with Hire MFG Leaders Resources & People Mentioned Top Shops 2025The 3-Gun ShowEntreLeadershipTotal Money MakeoverEBITDA Growth SystemsHubSpotMapMyCustomersProKeep appStart with Why Connect with Barry Walter Jr. Barry E. Walter Sr. CompanyConnect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    1 h y 5 m
  • 82. Belief and Brotherhood with Kelly Denison
    Jul 2 2025
    Every once in a while, I sit down with a guest who reminds me exactly why I started this podcast in the first place. That was the case with Kelly Denison, the second-generation owner of Continental Machine Company in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Kelly is the kind of leader who sees his machine shop not just as a business—but as a vehicle for opportunity, growth, and purpose. In our conversation, we talked about what it means to carry forward a legacy. Kelly’s dad bought the business in 2000, and by 2020, Kelly had earned his way into full ownership—not by entitlement, but by doing every job in the shop. From janitor to programmer to accountant, he worked his way up and built a deep understanding of what it takes to run a shop. But what struck me most was his mindset. Kelly isn’t just making precision parts—he’s making machinists. He’s building careers, instilling pride, and leading with heart. From funding a church in Costa Rica to mentoring his team toward mastery, Kelly is proving that shop ownership can be both profitable and profoundly meaningful. If you’ve ever wrestled with succession, struggled with ISO as a “quality burden,” or wondered how to build a values-driven culture that retains talent, this episode is for you. It’s packed with humility, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom. I walked away inspired—and I know you will too. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Why shop owners are part of a special brotherhood(0:10) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA(1:22) Reflecting on my conversation with Kelly(3:46) The history of Continental Machine (and Kelly’s role)(6:20) Overview of today’s team and customer base(8:00) Building out ISO and shifting to a true business system(11:50) Why five-axis milling transformed their workflow(14:24) Turning a QMS into a business-wide tool(18:27) Why shop owners shouldn’t try to do it all alone(20:00) Lessons from a diverse mastermind group(23:34) The myth of the technician-turned-entrepreneur(24:53) Kelly’s side business and what it taught him about ownership(26:56) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration!(29:21) Recruiting through trade schools and investing in people/career growth(33:30) The mindset shift from making parts to making machinists(35:19) Kelly’s “why” and the role of faith and philanthropy(37:15) Making parts that save lives—and being proud of it(40:57) Navigating the emotional side of family business succession(45:38) Kelly’s proudest moment: building components for defense systems(49:00) Final reflections on pride, purpose, and what it means to lead a shop(50:25) Three reasons to check out Buy the Numbers Resources & People Mentioned The E-Myth RevisitedGrow your top and bottom line with CLAStay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration! Connect with Kelly Denison Continental Machining CompanyConnect with Kelly on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    51 m
  • 81. Perseverance and Processes with Rhys Andersen
    Jun 18 2025
    What would you do if your very first CNC machine didn’t even power on? For most people, that’s where the story would end. But for Rhys Andersen, it was just the beginning. In this episode, I sit down with one of the most determined shop owners I’ve ever interviewed. Rhys is the founder of Method Manufacturing in Austin, Texas — and his journey into precision machining is anything but conventional. From wildland firefighting to architecture school to a series of trial-by-fire business ventures, Rhys took the long road to building a thriving aerospace and defense machine shop. You’ll hear how he bootstrapped his first massive bed mill (without even knowing if it worked), taught himself CNC machining, and slowly transformed a one-machine operation into a fully cross-trained, process-driven company with advanced 5-axis automation. We dig into how relationships opened doors to major aerospace work, the real challenges of hiring and developing talent, and how Method’s unique approach to systems and autonomy allows his team to perform at a high level — without sacrificing their personal lives. This conversation is full of practical lessons for any shop owner trying to scale, build processes that actually work, and free themselves from being the “best machinist in the shop.” Rhys’s story is proof that grit, humility, and systems thinking can take you further than raw skill alone. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:20) Stay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration!(2:57) Rhys’s background: growing up in fabrication and firefighting(5:19) The first business failure and how it led to starting Method(9:06) Learning how to machine and going full-time after losing his oilfield job(11:27) The mindset of perseverance and problem solving(12:37) Buying a machine that was stored in a barn (and fixing it up)(15:12) What Rhy’s business looks like present day(17:17) Breaking into aerospace: Patience, persistence, and building trust(23:16) Lessons learned from hiring mistakes and building a strong team(27:40) Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP(28:53) Creating a culture of extreme autonomy and flexible schedules(31:21) Cross-training machinists and eliminating single points of failure(34:14) Using Fulcrum to capture tribal knowledge and improve processes(36:58) Changing the perception of machining as a high-tech, creative career(41:07) Why shop owners need to get out of the shop and network(45:14) The challenge of scaling: building systems that don’t rely on you(47:25) Investing in automation to enable growth and better work-life balance(50:47) Why investing in branding, photos, and professional image matters(54:30) Bringing anodizing in-house to control quality and reduce headaches(56:34) What is your entry into the market?(58:35) Why you need to Listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned FulcrumAustin Regional Manufacturing AssociationStay tuned for Top Shops 2025 registration!The Lights Out podcast Connect with Rhys Andersen Method MfgConnect on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    59 m
  • 80. 4x Your Money with Machine Shops with Mike Payne
    Jun 4 2025
    What if you could double—or even quadruple—the value of a machine shop within just 12 months of buying it? For Mike Payne, this isn’t a hypothetical. It’s a repeatable system he’s refined across five acquisitions (and counting). In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, Mike returns to the mic to break down exactly how he transforms tired shops into thriving, high-value operations—without starting from scratch. Mike walks us through his bolt-on acquisition strategy, sharing how he targets shops with legacy customers, retiring owners, and underutilized assets. But the real magic happens post-purchase. By layering in his tech stack, systems, and leadership team, he’s able to drastically improve efficiency, customer value, and ultimately, the valuation multiple—often turning a 2.5x shop into a 5x performer. You’ll hear how Mike evaluates potential deals, builds financial models based on his operating costs, and uses simple frameworks to identify untapped value others miss. He also shares practical insights for both buyers and sellers—from structuring seller-financed deals to boosting your multiple with minimal upfront investment. Whether you’re considering your first acquisition or preparing to sell your shop, this episode is packed with tactical advice and inspiring proof that serious wealth-building in manufacturing is not only possible—it’s within reach. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:13) Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA(1:30) Welcoming Mike Payne back to Machine Shop Mastery (7:30) The difference between a 2x and 5x multiple—and how to shift it(12:40) The magic of applying ProShop, systems, and talent immediately(14:00) How new capabilities drive revenue increases with legacy customers(15:07) A real-world example: buying a shop for the price of one machine(17:06) How better purchasing power and equipment cataloging create ROI(20:12) The market opportunity: thousands of underperforming shops for sale(22:24) Advice for sellers: how to move from a 2.5x to a 4x+ valuation(25:50) The math of wealth-building via acquisition vs. from-scratch startups(28:15) Get fired up for Modern Machine Shop’s Top Shops 2025(28:41) Scaling without adding overhead: people + process + systems(36:15) How your valuation multiple improves the moment you sign the deal(38:59) The importance of clean books and what buyers want to see(43:43) Standardizing CAD/CAM without stifling capability(45:47) A true story: Why there’s a shop culture fit for everyone (53:30) The long game: building equity, opportunity, and value for your team(1:00:20) Why you need to listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Grow your top and bottom-line with CLADemystifying the Buying and Selling of Machine ShopsFunding Your Dream Machine ShopMachines Are Just the Start (How to Build a Shop That Lasts)Get fired up for Modern Machine Shop’s Top Shops 2025Listen to the Lights Out Podcast! Connect with Mike Payne Connect on LinkedInThe Buy the Numbers podcast Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    1 h y 1 m
  • 79. The BTM Blueprint: Collaboration, Culture, and Growth
    May 21 2025
    In this episode of Machine Shop Mastery, I sit down with Kyra Tillman, third-generation owner of BTM Industries. When Kyra returned to the family shop, she inherited more than just machines—she inherited decades of “this is how we’ve always done it.” What she’s done since is nothing short of a transformation. With grit, grace, and a serious knack for finding and using resources, Kyra has turned a quiet, closed-door machine shop into a vibrant, collaborative, culture-driven powerhouse—one where growth and fun coexist, Nerf guns included. We dig deep into how she transitioned the shop from old-school processes and undocumented tribal knowledge into a modern, ISO-certified job shop with an eye toward continued growth. Kyra shares candidly about the challenges of taking over from her father, navigating culture change, building an apprenticeship program, and leveraging MEP grants and peer groups to grow her business and team. This conversation is a roadmap for any shop owner who's been putting off change, underestimating the power of collaboration, or unsure where to start when it comes to scaling smarter—not just bigger. Kyra’s journey proves that transformation doesn’t require perfection—it requires community, commitment, and a willingness to be both humble and hungry. Whether you're a next-gen leader or seasoned veteran, this episode is full of the kind of real talk and actionable advice that'll get you thinking differently. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) Goofballs with grit: The culture inside BTM Industries(0:31) Stay tuned for registration information about Top Shops 2025(1:31) Introducing Kyra Tillman: Queen of resources and collaboration(3:46) Shop snapshot: BTM’s low-volume, high-variety machining work(5:30) The origin story: From grandfather’s founding to Kyra’s return(9:12) Doubling revenue with the same headcount(11:28) Email campaigns and grant-funded lead gen(15:21) Collaborating with MEPs and why you should too(18:00) The power of industry groups like NTMA and peer networks(28:23) Culture change: From isolation to cross-training and teamwork(30:18) Grow your top and bottom-line with CLA(32:55) The family buyout and post-transition challenges(36:30) ERP systems, ISO certification, and lessons from poor fits(40:00) Hiring for character, training for skill(43:36) Tracking metrics and fostering team transparency(45:41) Getting comfortable with growth and being the face of the business(47:05) Culture wins: T-shirt design contests, Nerf wars, and tacos(49:48) Strategic decisions: Standardizing machines and tools(52:23) Advice for successors and new shop owners: Find your support system(53:52) Kyra’s opinion on the trajectory of manufacturing(56:14) Why you need to listen to the Lights Out podcast Resources & People Mentioned Stay tuned for registration information about Top Shops 2025NTMA10,000 Small BusinessesVistageGrow your top and bottom-line with CLAManufacturing Pathways Consortium Connect with Kyra Tillman Connect on LinkedInBTM Industries Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    57 m
  • 78. The Power of Being Mission Driven - Court Durkalski of Truline Industries
    May 7 2025
    Most shop owners I talk to are focused on the usual things: keeping the machines humming, staying profitable, maybe planning for growth or succession. But what if the real unlock for your shop wasn’t more tech or tighter margins—but a completely different way of thinking about why your business exists in the first place? That’s what today’s episode is about. I sat down with Court Durkalski, CEO of Truline Industries, and honestly, this conversation hit me harder than most. Court runs a $23 million aerospace machining company with 120 employees—and they give away 10% of their gross sales to global charitable causes. Not profits—sales. That level of generosity is unheard of in manufacturing, and yet their quality metrics, delivery performance, and bottom line are world-class. The kicker? That whole culture came from a very personal place, and a journey that includes addiction, near financial collapse, and walking away from a path to ministry. I wanted to understand how a shop like Truline stays so focused, so precise, and so mission-aligned. And what I found is that none of it is accidental. From hiring practices to equipment decisions to the way they manage customer relationships, everything at Truline is built around this core belief that doing great work and doing good in the world aren’t at odds—they’re actually the same thing. If you’re someone who’s always thought values should stay separate from business—or maybe you’ve just never thought about your shop as a force for something bigger—I think this episode will leave you thinking differently. It sure did for me. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:53) Grow your top and bottom line with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA)(2:09) The moment I got choked up—and why Court's mission moved me(4:12) How Truline evolved from a tax write-off to an aerospace shop(12:10) Court’s addiction and the personal crash that nearly ended it all(15:26) Leaving the shop behind for Bible college—and the shock that came next(17:23) The conference that changed Court’s future and pulled him back to the business(19:20) Early steps toward CNC adoption and finding a niche in jet fuel pump parts(23:35) The tight tolerances, leaded bronze, and engineering details behind Truline’s work(28:19) Ego, submission, and a defining leadership shift between father and son(34:05) What it means to run a “God-owned” company—and the cultural transformation it sparked(37:01) The 2008 recession, credit line debt, and the bold financial leap toward giving(48:42) The ROI of generosity: culture, retention, and $40M+ given away(50:39) How Truline earns customer trust—even when mission gets in the way of margins(57:04) The two things that are intrinsically tied to delivering excellence (1:02:22) Why you need to listen to Making Sparks Resources & People Mentioned Fellowship of Companies for Christ International Connect with Court Durkalski Truline IndustriesConnect with Court on LinkedIn Connect With Machine Shop Mastery The websiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagram Subscribe to Machine Shop Mastery on Apple, Spotify Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK
    Más Menos
    1 h y 3 m