🚀 From Google Podcasts to Moon FM in No Time: Your Hassle-Free Migration Guide
👉

The MAKING CHIPS Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders with Jason Zenger & Jim Carr

MakingChips LLC

Welcome to MakingChips -

  • 28 minutes 3 seconds
    Precision Under Pressure: How Machinists Empower First Responders, 447

    Watching the wildfires spread in Los Angeles is both heartbreaking and sobering. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by this unspeakable tragedy. 

    We’re also reminded of the bravery and dedication of first responders—firefighters on the ground and pilots flying “super scoopers” to drop water where it’s needed most.

    But behind every heroic effort is another layer of unsung heroes: machinists. Why? Because these life-saving missions rely on precision-made tools and equipment, much of which starts in machine shops like yours. 

    From winches on fire trucks to the Jaws of Life, defibrillators, oxygen tanks, and components for SWAT and HAZMAT vehicles, machining plays a critical role in emergency response.

    In this episode, we’ll dive into the ways machinists are manufacturing the parts that help keep first responders safe and effective. Hill produces winch parts used across industries, including those found on fire trucks. Motis Fire Rescue is innovating equipment to make firefighters’ jobs easier.

    If you’re working in a shop supporting these industries, know that your craftsmanship truly saves lives. For that, we want to #ThankAMachinist.

    Segments
    • [0:34] ProShop’s new podcast: Manufacturing Transformed 
    • [1:41] How the metalworking nation supports first responders
    • [2:39] Manufacturing leadership spotlight
    • [7:34] Highlighting super scooper aircraft 
    • [11:45] Everything starts with machining 
    • [12:44] How machining supports first responders
    • [14:24] How to nail quoting with Paperless Parts 
    • [15:40] Highlighting Motis Fire Rescue
    • [17:13] How machining impacts every aspect of your life
    • [23:05] The incredible durability of manufactured parts 
    • [25:29] #ThankAMachinist and #ThankAFirstResponder
    • [27:04] Check out the Lights Out podcast 
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    20 January 2025, 11:00 am
  • 37 minutes 19 seconds
    A MakingChips Farewell to the OG: Jason Zenger, #446

    After nearly a decade of shaping MakingChips—spending close to 25% of his life on this journey—Jason Zenger is saying goodbye to the podcast that transformed the manufacturing space. 

    As one of the original trailblazers, Jason helped create a platform that built community, sparked essential conversations, and made manufacturing more approachable as a career. His vision and dedication inspired others to start their own podcasts, like Paul’s “Machine Shop Mastery.”

    Jason’s legacy isn’t just MakingChips. It’s the relationships, the #MetalworkingNation community, and the countless leaders who’ve been equipped and inspired along the way. 

    As Jason transitions to his next adventure—launching his podcast “Workmen of the Word” and writing his book, “Lead Like It’s Your Last Day”—he reflects on the power of community, education, and learning to prioritize what truly matters.

    Join us as we celebrate Jason’s contributions, reflect on the journey, and look ahead to the next chapter for him and MakingChips.

    Segments
    • [0:21] Use Paperless Parts to solve bottleneck problems
    • [1:46] Why is this Jason’s last episode of MakingChips?
    • [8:10] How podcasting made education more accessible 
    • [13:19] The challenges that come with running a family business
    • [17:18] Achieve 95% on-time delivery with ProShop ERP
    • [18:45] The far-reaching impact of MakingChips
    • [23:44] Jason’s final takeaway from 10 years of MakingChips
    • [28:32] How to stay connected with Jason
    • [28:58] Learn more about Jason’s upcoming podcast and book
    • [32:21] Why MakingChips is launching Hire MFG Leaders
    • [36:09] Check out the MakingSparks podcast!
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    14 January 2025, 7:25 pm
  • 54 minutes 31 seconds
    How to Build a Kick-Ass Culture with Beau Groover, 445

    What does it take to build a truly exceptional culture in your manufacturing business? In this episode of MakingChips, we sit down with Beau Groover, a seasoned coach with decades of experience in lean implementation, continuous improvement, and leadership. From his early days as an Inventory Control Manager to overseeing 21 plants as Director of Manufacturing, Beau’s career has been driven by one mission: helping people and organizations thrive.

    Beau shares his journey from manufacturing operations to coaching, revealing how leaders can create clarity, foster collaboration, and transform their teams with positive energy. Whether you’re tackling lean implementation roadblocks or looking to engage your shop floor in meaningful problem-solving, Beau offers practical steps and insights that you can put into action today.

    If you’re ready to lead with empathy, build a culture your team buys into, and measure success beyond the usual metrics, this episode is for you. After all, as Beau reminds us, “The person who loves walking will go much further than the person who loves the destination.”

    Let’s build kick-ass cultures so we can keep MakingChips! 

    Segments
    • [0:27] Leverage Paperless Parts to boost your process
    • [1:51] The methodology behind the move
    • [5:02] Learn more about Beau Groover 
    • [8:05] The difference between coaching and consulting 
    • [10:50] Building a Kick-Ass Culture
    • [12:38] How Bill Berrien leverages Paperless Parts
    • [20:11] Involving your shop floor in problem-solving
    • [24:39] Why do leaders hesitate to make changes? 
    • [27:40] How to overcome roadblocks in lean implementation
    • [30:06] How positive energy transforms cultures
    • [31:55] Listen to the Manufacturing Transformed podcast
    • [32:29] Lead with empathy—until you can’t
    • [37:29] Important metrics for manufacturers to track 
    • [41:48] How you can measure company morale
    • [42:33] Why clarity is a pillar of coaching
    • [47:30] Beau’s challenge to manufacturing leaders
    • [53:22] Check out the MakingSparks podcast! 
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    6 January 2025, 6:30 pm
  • 38 minutes 58 seconds
    New Year, New Goals: Aligning Metrics, Leadership, and Life, 444

    The world is divided when it comes to New Year’s resolutions. Some argue that if you’re committed to change, you should take action anytime—not just at the start of the year. 

    But the new year is also a natural time for reflection, a chance to evaluate where you’ve been and map out where you’re going, in both business and life. In this episode of MakingChips, we’re diving into resolutions that drive real impact:

    • Mike shares his goal to break down KPIs to align his entire team—from the receptionist to the CEO—around actionable goals that make a difference. 
    • Matthew reflects on the transformative power of gratitude journaling and his annual calendar audits, which help him prioritize what matters most. 
    • Jason dives into how to lead with intention through challenges and shares his vision for 2025. 
    • And Paul wraps up the conversation with some exciting news you won’t want to miss.

    Start 2025 inspired, equipped, and ready to make more chips—because if you’re not MakingChips, you’re not making money!

    Segments
    • [0:20] Use Paperless Parts for estimating and quoting 
    • [2:37] Using metrics and KPIs as coaching opportunities
    • [12:58] The importance of practicing gratitude
    • [16:15] Use ProShop ERP to manage cutting tools
    • [17:24] Matthew’s calendar audit practice
    • [19:41] Lead Like It’s Your Last Day
    • [26:05] Investing time in your best people 
    • [30:16] Remember to give more than you get 
    • [35:45] What can we focus on improving? 
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    30 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 57 minutes 43 seconds
    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 Connect With MakingChips
    23 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 48 minutes 20 seconds
    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 Connect With MakingChips
    16 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 37 minutes 49 seconds
    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 Connect With MakingChips
    9 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 39 minutes 17 seconds
    No-Drama Leadership: Marlene Chism’s Guide to Transforming Workplace Conflict (Part 1), 440

    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 Connect With MakingChips
    2 December 2024, 11:00 am
  • 34 minutes 20 seconds
    #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 Connect With MakingChips
    27 November 2024, 11:00 am
  • 43 minutes 19 seconds
    How Will a Trump Presidency Impact Manufacturing? 438

    Election years cause a lot of upheaval in the world of manufacturing. Industry spending can often see a sharp decrease, which can negatively impact many shops. The general indecision leading up to an election impacts almost every sub-genre in manufacturing, from medical devices to aerospace, oil & gas to firearms. 

    The election is over and Trump has officially been elected back into office. Will a Trump presidency negatively or positively impact manufacturing? Nick, Paul, and Mike tackle tough topics like regulations, trade policy, tariffs, taxes, and more in this episode of MakingChips. Will America keep MakingChips and keep making money? 

    Segments
    • [1:02] Check out the Manufacturing Transformed podcast 
    • [1:32] Election results are in: Now what? 
    • [2:13] The Trump impact on different sectors
    • [3:30] Manufacturing News: Leaders React to Trump Win
    • [8:39] Machine Shop Masterclass: Quality Management Systems
    • [19:28] Celebrating American Democracy
    • [20:12] Regulations in the defense space
    • [21:27] Download the CFO’s Guide to AI from NetSuite
    • [25:12] Talking trade policy and Tariffs
    • [33:02] Will the R&D Tax credit return?
    • [38:39] If Republicans sweep the House, what happens? 
    • [42:21] Check out a NEW episode of Lights Out this week! 
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    19 November 2024, 6:00 pm
  • 41 minutes 2 seconds
    How to Win Production Work, 437

    Are you ready to take your manufacturing business to the next level with production work? This episode of MakingChips dives into the top five benefits of production work and the essential steps to position your shop as a full-service production-ready operation. 

    Imagine the stability and growth potential when a substantial portion of your monthly revenue is already secured by repeat clients.

    We also cover the transition steps to shift your shop’s branding, approach to prototyping, and pricing strategy. From rebranding your business as a production powerhouse to splitting your shop’s workflow to accommodate both prototype and production divisions, we’re discussing how to reshape your operations for higher volume success. 

    Hear firsthand insights on building trust with customers and the importance of a solid Quality Management System (QMS) in securing and retaining high-stakes production contracts. Listen in to learn how targeting the right customers and building robust, repeatable processes can create a competitive advantage that fuels both profitability and growth.

    Because if you’re not consistently MakingChips, you’re not making money. BAM!

    Segments
    • [1:10] Book a discovery call ProShop ERP
    • [3:03] Manufacturing Leadership Spotlight
    • [8:39] How do you win production work?
    • [10:22] 5 benefits of production work
    • [17:15] Step #1: Communicate that you’re a full-service manufacturer
    • [21:46] Check out Paperless Parts for your quoting and estimating needs
    • [23:01] Step #2: Continue to offer prototyping services
    • [26:43] Step #3: Quote to win the higher volumes
    • [31:14] Step #4: Sell your QMS/BMS
    • [38:50] Step #5: Target the right customers
    Resources mentioned on this episode Connect With MakingChips
    12 November 2024, 6:00 pm
  • More Episodes? Get the App
About The MAKING CHIPS Podcast for Manufacturing Leaders with Jason Zenger & Jim Carr
Links
Listeners Also Subscribed To
© MoonFM 2025. All rights reserved.