Manufacturing is challenging, but if you are connected to a community of leaders, you can elevate your skills, solve your problems and grow your business! Maki...
Looking Back, Moving Forward: Our Top MakingChips Moments of 2024, 443
In this special episode of MakingChips, we reflect on our favorite moments of 2024—the ones that made us laugh, the ones that brought a tear to our eyes, and the ones that remind us why we’re so proud to be part of the manufacturing community. We dive into the topics that matter most: How to transfer tribal knowledge to the next generation. Why implementing AI isn’t just an option anymore—it’s a competitive edge for the future. How building a culture of care and support can transform your team and your business. The incredible ripple effect of manufacturing: creating stability for our country, our communities, and our families. The importance of managing vendor relationships for long-term success. What it means to lead with integrity, trust, and purpose in a fast-changing world. You’ll also get an inside look at each show in the MakingChips family, hear some exciting announcements, and discover what’s next for MakingChips. Let’s celebrate the wins, embrace the challenges, and look ahead to an even brighter future. Because—at the end of the day—if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money. Segments [0:28] Check out Paperless Parts for your estimating and quoting needs [2:12] MakingChips is celebrating 10 years of podcasting! [4:42] Launching with a moment of laughter [9:48] A snapshot of Buy The Numbers [10:27] How can we automate tribal knowledge? [13:45] How Bill Berrian leverages Paperless Parts [21:16] The industry is investing in AI for manufacturing [24:44] Learn more about Machine Shop Mastery [26:02] Companies must pour into their employees [29:55] Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP [32:22] If you want to change the world, start with your own heart [35:11] Learn more about the Lights Out podcast [36:24] Business moves at the speed of trust [41:40] A sneak peak at an upcoming episode [44:38] How manufacturing creates stability [46:46] The importance of managing your vendor relationships [53:50] Rolling out the red carpet for Hire MFG Leaders [55:26] What’s next for MakingChips? Resources mentioned on this episode Check out Paperless Parts for your estimating and quoting needs Achieve on-time delivery with ProShop ERP Utilizing Marketing Strategies in Industrial and Manufacturing Businesses Bill Berrian with Pindel Global Precision Greg McHale with Datanomix on Buy The Numbers Betting it All on a Dream with Ashley Hunsaker from HTS Coatings Manufacturing Fuels Grit with Drew Crowe and Andy Mueller The MakingChips take on Managing vendor relationships Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
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57:43
Why Customer Service Outsells Sales, 442
Customer service in manufacturing is often seen as a pain point rather than a differentiator. We’ve all experienced the frustrations of dealing with companies like Comcast—impossible cancellations, endless transfers, and the feeling of being treated as just another number. Unfortunately, too many manufacturing shops still operate with a similar “you’ll get it when you get it” mentality, leaving customers in the dark about their orders. This old-school approach is no longer sustainable, and shops that fail to adapt are finding themselves left behind. But what separates the shops that are thriving? It comes down to investing in processes, systems, and a culture centered around exceptional service. Setting a higher bar for communication and transparency can transform customer relationships. With tools like ProShop ERP, Mike and others have redefined what it means to serve their customers, delivering instant updates, proactive communication, and unmatched reliability. The future of manufacturing demands not just great parts but great service—and the shops embracing this shift are the ones leading the industry forward. If you’re not investing in customer service, there won’t be orders, and without orders you won’t be MakingChips, and you won’t be making money. BAM! Segments [0:30] Check out the Manufacturing Transformed podcast [2:44] What's the Chip on Your Shoulder? [8:46] What makes those who are doing it right different? [11:05] Machine Shop Masterclass: QMS [19:37] How much transparency should shops provide? [26:05] Download the CFO’s Guide to AI from NetSuite [27:11] The contrast between sales and service [35:46] Service drives product development [37:37] Why sales and service need to communicate [39:56] Real success stories from ProShop ERP [44:44] How will you improve your service in 2025? [47:06] Check out the At the Boring Bar podcast! Resources mentioned on this episode Leverage ProShop ERP to create systems and processes Check out the Manufacturing Transformed podcast Download the CFO’s Guide to AI from NetSuite Nick’s LinkedIn post about customer service East Branch Engineering JJR Fabrication Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
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48:20
From Conflict to Courage: Marlene Chism’s Guide to Transforming Workplace Conflict (Part 2)
In part two of our conversation with Marlene Chism, we dive deeper into the intricacies of navigating workplace conflict and cultivating emotional resilience. Marlene shares actionable strategies for overcoming internal and external conflicts by aligning with your core values and taking personal responsibility for your reactions. She highlights the importance of emotional regulation, urging leaders to interpret feelings like anger and frustration as signals to pause and regain control rather than react impulsively. By taking ownership of our emotional responses and openly addressing missteps, we can build stronger, more transparent relationships. Marlene also explores how clarity—whether in defining values, addressing workplace drama, or preparing for difficult conversations—is the key to effective leadership. She introduces her “Blueprint for Difficult Conversations,” emphasizing preparation, accountability, and clarity to guide meaningful dialogue. Through thought-provoking examples, including her visual framework of a boat, island, and shark, Marlene challenges leaders to refocus on outcomes rather than obstacles. This episode equips you with the tools to move from conflict to courage, fostering a culture of alignment, respect, and proactive problem-solving. Segments [0:29] How to get 50% off MasterClass [3:08] Emotional regulation in the workplace [6:50] Navigating internal conflict [10:52] Using core values to navigate conflict [15:05] Cultivating self-awareness in the workplace [16:10] Moving from conflict to courage [19:09] Don’t allow “Power of Attorney” [20:07] Use Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating [24:18] See the possibility in your people [25:03] Learn more about Marlene’s coaching and training [28:56] Dialing down on the importance of clarity [32:28] How to connect with Marlene [36:08] Book a discover call with ProShop ERP Resources mentioned on this episode No-Drama Leadership: How Enlightened Leaders Transform Culture in the Workplace From Conflict To Courage with Marlene Chism Connect with Marlene on LinkedIn Marlene’s website Get 50% off MasterClass Use Paperless Parts for quoting and estimating Book a discover call with ProShop ERP Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
How do you break free from dysfunctional workplace dynamics and create real transformation? Marlene Chism, a former factory worker turned HR consultant and coach, shares her journey from the shop floor to becoming an expert in conflict management. After 21 years at Kraft Foods, Marlene realized she wanted more. When she started taking college classes, she discovered the Karpman Drama Triangle—a tool for understanding the roles of victim, persecutor, and rescuer—and it changed how she approached relationships and leadership. In this episode, Marlene shares powerful insights and memorable stories, including a surprising lesson about boundaries and assumptions from a coworker. Whether you're leading a team or navigating workplace challenges, Marlene’s practical wisdom will inspire you to see conflict—and yourself—in a new way. Join us to learn how shifting your mindset can transform your relationships and workplace. Segments [0:20] Check out the Manufacturing Transformed podcast! [1:28] Check out our other MakingChips podcasts! [3:56] The importance of self-awareness [8:43] From manufacturing to conflict consulting [16:24] We have to humanize our workforce [19:58] The Karpman Drama Triangle [21:12] Get the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning [27:50] Anything transformative is about self-development [32:54] Marlene’s most memorable story from the shop floor [38:28] Listen and subscribe to “Buy the Numbers” Resources mentioned on this episode The Manufacturing Transformed podcast! Get the CFO’s Guide to AI and Machine Learning The Team Success Podcast No-Drama Leadership: How Enlightened Leaders Transform Culture in the Workplace From Conflict To Courage with Marlene Chism Connect with Marlene on LinkedIn Marlene’s coaching website Karpman Drama Triangle Mike Ruge MakingSparks Buy the Numbers Lights Out Machine Shop Mastery Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
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39:17
#ThankAMachinist, 439
Today, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the hardest-working and most impactful people in the world: machinists. These skilled professionals are behind nearly everything we touch, from the medical devices that save lives to the cutting-edge aerospace components that explore the final frontier. Machinists are the unsung heroes who take ideas from concept to reality, crafting the parts that power industries, enhance daily life, and drive innovation. Without them, the technology, tools, and conveniences we rely on wouldn’t exist. This episode is dedicated to saying a big thank you to machinists everywhere. Join the conversation online with #ThankAMachinist to celebrate their incredible contributions. Without them, we wouldn’t be MakingChips and we wouldn’t be making money. — Paul Van Metre Segments [2:16] Gift Masterclass for the Holidays! [5:15] How can we make manufacturing mainstream? [8:23] Manufacturing News: Military Contractors [10:41] The guys play a game: Connecting manufacturing with hobbies [16:25] Let’s use the hashtag: #ThankAMachinist [18:20] Check out Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting! [19:11] Paul’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [22:13] Jason’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [25:14] Mike’s #ThankAMachinist shoutouts [29:24] Nothing in the modern world exists without machinists [32:41] Manage your cutting tools with ProShop Resources mentioned on this episode Check out Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting! Get 50% off your Masterclass subscription Book a discovery call with ProShop ERP Military Contractors Are in Nearly Every Small Town in the United States Matthew Lindsay on LinkedIn Josh Hacko with NH Micro on LinkedIn Greg McArthur with NTL Industries Jacob Sanchez Nate A Nush Ahmed Tony Gunn Thomas Nathan Chris Luecke John Guimond Josh McKain Jean Davis Thomas Smith Const Ivanov Gary Keel with Trillium Machine Nick and Tanner Preece of Preece Machining and Assembly James and Sean Cerven with Cerven Solutions Nathan Bourgeois of Ouroboros Space and Defense Naked Prosthetics Connect With MakingChips www.MakingChips.com On Facebook On LinkedIn On Instagram On Twitter On YouTube
About Making Chips Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders
Manufacturing is challenging, but if you are connected to a community of leaders, you can elevate your skills, solve your problems and grow your business! MakingChips was launched in 2014 to equip and inspire the metalworking nation. Hundreds of episodes and a million downloads later, it’s an industry-leading source of information, inspiration, and entertainment for manufacturing leaders of all types. It’s hosted by Jason Zenger and Nick Goellner, two multi-generational manufacturing leaders, and they’re joined by a rotating panel of expert guests – including Titan Gilroy (TITANS of CNC), John Saunders (NYC CNC), Mark TerryBerry (Haas Automation), and many more. Join us as we tackle the topics that keep you up at night - leadership, operations, technology, growth, workforce development and culture.
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