Within Tolerance

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 podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 ChatGPT - Dylan) Check out Justin's IG @pdxcnc ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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 tool systems. We also discuss strategies for preventing burnout and achieving work-life balance. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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

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

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 ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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

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

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 ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

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