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Business of Machining

John Grimsmo of Grimsmo Knives and John Saunders of NYC CNC discuss their success, struggles, goals and more as machinists, business owners and entrepreneurs.
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Now displaying: 2017
Dec 29, 2017
Have a holly, jolly--uh, happy...Merry Christmas!  
 
No matter how you say it, it's a time of reflection, peace, joy, and hope.
Today's episode comes with a gift: NO MORE CRAZY LAG TIME. 
 
Sometimes you gotta go old-school. Saunders uses sheets of paper to get ideas in order.
Those little pieces of paper summon ideas to improve project organization.
TACTILE INSTAGRAM POST
 
Is Grimsmo on the verge of a huge decision or is it a case of "LIFE-STYLE CREEPING?"  
When the ball is in your court, the thought of taking a giant leap in growth is seductive.  
 
Click HERE for NYCCNC's recommended reading list.
 
LLCs, sub chapter S, loans, reinvesting capital--intricate components of a business entity can be very "TAXING" to say the least.  Saunders and Grimsmo discuss financial discipline.
"Money can't buy you happiness but it does buy you options." - Saunders
 
Coming Soon: 
A new shop tour video from Grimsmo!
Saunders struggles to decide whether or not to sub-out the job for creating a fixture plate for the VM3...  
 
While you finish laps in the parking lot and get ready to watch new videos from Grimsmo Knives, the end of this podcast might leave you with a  lump in your throat!
 
This is a private conversation between Saunders and Grimsmo ONLY but this time, they break the 4th wall.  
 
Happy Holidays from everyone at Grimsmo Knives and NYCCNC!  From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank you for being a part of this community.
 
2017 was a year of challenge, change, and growth;  a year chock-full of ups and downs, twists and turns-- and it's been great.
 
2018? BRING IT ON!
Dec 22, 2017

“Share 90% of what you do, and charge like heck for the last 10%” - Grimsmo’s dad

Employer Vs. the employee. With businesses expanding, they research employee rights, benefits, and how to implement that into employment processes, agreements, and online business tools.

Choosing software is daunting but when it comes to accounting, WAVE might give QuickBooks a run for its money.   

 

SHARING IS CARING.

Get insight into the internal workings of NYCCNC here.  

Coming Soon: Saunders will share the start-to-finish process of the Imperializer in upcoming videos.

Dedicated hardware devices. We need them.  Sure, you own a calculator or a phone but who wants to get their pockets wet trying to convert inches to millimeters??

Click here to cure “wet pocket syndrome.”

When bringing a product or service to market, you might be headed for a shark-infested ocean!  Steer clear and head for the big blue instead.

Get your copy of The Blue Ocean Shift here.

Grimsmo shares his freight troubles and the necessity of hiring an agent becomes imperative.

Those Linda Wheels THOUGH!

Saunders and Grimsmo discuss problems and solutions for grits and thread-mills. Some problems aren’t worth the time and money to be solved.

If you haven't HEARD, Grimsmo's got a new Tumbler Video!

New Year, New You?

Although hesitant to make New Year’s Resolutions, the Johns agree that the New Year is coming at a fitting time.

 

“I need to quit” - Saunders

Saunders relays the importance of keeping stress levels down while still maintaining productivity by delegating tasks.

 

Inspirational ending note...

“We need to strengthen our blind faith in what we do” - Grimsmo

Dec 15, 2017
Is this real life?  
Entrepreneurship is filled with surreal moments that 
leave your head spinning in a good way--and sometimes they come full circle.
 
Grimsmo's secured downtime for projects pushed to the wayside during Norseman production.  Stay tuned for a new video detailing Erik's tumbler tweaks
 
"It's on like Donkey Kong!"
Grimsmo addresses rumors about his absence from YouTube.  
The drought is over!
 
University Study on GK
 
Speaking of YouTube: DON'T FEED THE TROLLS
The guys discuss riding the social media roller coaster, the conscious decision to avoid negativity, and the fine line between pandering vs. creating genuine content.  Having a community that has your back makes all the difference.
  
Imperializer Video
 
Shop Update Video
 
iPad Time Machine Video
 
Clarifying the SCOPE of your business is an on-going process.  So, what's your tagline?
Saunders has one but he doesn't love it just yet. Takeaway = You've got to start somewhere.
 
 
Has Saunders finally discovered lathe love? HAH.  Love of 5th axis? Definitely.
There might be a new goal for IMTS 2018.  One thing is certain: A recent visit from HAAS brings MACRO gains.  
 
First 5th Axis Part Video
 
If your machines have tool changers but haven't heard of OPTIONAL STOP, get in on this pro-tip!
 
ON TAP TODAY: 
 
Rasks, a refurbish, and improving processes. The dino-digging knife is getting some TLC.  
 
Pre-historic Post
 
Saunders works with new intern (Alex) to demystify thread milling with information 
straight from The Machinery's Handbook.
Dec 8, 2017

“The business is becoming its own entity, and we all work for that business” - Grimsmo quoting Pierson

Saunders and Grimsmo reunite after missing one of their weekly chats and they have much to discuss.  As their businesses grow at a fast pace, having a great team and managing stress are becoming more important.  The guys work to advance the skills of their teams as well as their own.

Jonathan Lewis is back to teach another Tig Welding class. 

Superior Welding Instagram

Get your pro-membership for NYCCNC here.

“Find great people, get them on your team, and let them do great things” - Saunders

Both of them have taken on a new team member in the past week; Saunders hired an intern from an award winning high school robotics team with a passion for engineering. Over in Canada, Grimsmo’s new Media Producer (and first hire), Erin Kelly, is taking on full time duties and crushing it. Grimsmo can’t stop generating ideas for his team to accomplish together and getting more excited about his work. By the time the new machinist arrives in January, it will be as if he’s “split himself into four people”.

Anything else? Yeah, lots!

Saunders reminds Grimsmo to get excited about what you do, and John talks about how this can reduce stress levels.

Having trouble with thread mills?  Saunders offers advice.

Engineering students from McMaster do a presentation on Grimsmo Knives. Stay tuned to Grimsmo’s YouTube channel to watch the presentation and the chat afterwards between the students, Grimsmo, and Erin. More videos coming soon!

Saunders talks about custom vacuum plates.

Grimsmo combats his supply problem by making Rasks instead of Norseman knives. He declares he will never run out of material again.

Review of new Vibra Tumbler (spoiler: it’s great!). Video of unboxing and review coming on Grimsmo’s YouTube channel soon!

There is a lot of power in communication, especially if you’re a supplier. As Grimsmo says, “the human empathizes with personal problems, but the business doesn’t’ care at all.”

Get ready to hear the podcast with less and less of a lag between taping and publication. With two media people, “The Business of Machining” will be much closer to real time.

Dec 1, 2017
"Everything you do is a representation of who you are, even down to how you wash the dishes." - Grimsmo
 
Saunders returns from his 3rd round of AutoDesk University feeling refreshed. His perception of AU has evolved from one of pomp and circumstance to one of understanding and appreciation.  Plus, if your're a FUSION ULTIMATE customer, GENERATIVE DESIGN access has been granted.
 
If you didn't make it this year don't fret. Catch the keynotes, livestreams, and more for free here!
 
 
Stop! Hey! What's that sound? 
 
Production and quality are full steam ahead at Grimsmo Knives but the earsplitting sound of the tumbler is driving everyone nuts. With new equipment on the way and a media person to tackle branding and YouTube, John's bursting at the seams with ideas! 
 
Check out the CMTS Video to see the Vibra Tumbler here.
 
Vibra Website
 
Leica A60 Microscope
 
 
 
Growing, Growing, Gone?
Adding people means increasing payroll. An accountant can show you the numbers but what story does it tell?  According to a U.S. Bank study, 82% of businesses fail because of cash flow problems.  
 
Budgeting Video
 
 
Machine Shop ROI
 
Generalized Business Assessment
 
NYCCNC struggles with demand while Grimsmo Knives struggles with supply.  The guys discuss a direction for the podcast and desire to allow people to connect in a more personal way.
 
 
How many circles the parking lot does it take to finish a Saunders and Grimsmo podcast?
The fact that people tune in leave both Johns awestruck--even after all this time. 
Nov 24, 2017
"It's a good time to be alive." - Grimsmo
It doesn't get any better than having the world of information at your fingertips.
 
SAYONARA lag time!  The guys record using ZenCaster to lean out the podcasts and close the gap between life and release date.
 
What happens in Vegas...is AUTODESK UNIVERSITY.  Saunders attends to speak about Social Media and Modern Manufacturing.    
 
One step back, two steps forward. While gathering information about the intricacies of an ERP system, Saunders realizes the first step starts with streamlining processes in the shop.
 
The only thing harder than saying "no" is following through with a begrudged "yes."
Grimsmo finds that being honest and upfront gets easier with practice. 
 
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's Grimsmo and Erik?  
Not only are they literally flying high, this past few weeks of production have left them on cloud 9.
 
Erik's Instagram Post
 
Hiring employees is a lot like DATING.  While the comparison might seem like a stretch, the similarities are striking. Although local schools and colleges have a pool of candidates, the protocol for reaching out seems ambiguous.   
 
In a world of immediacy, it's no surprise that finding uninterrupted time is like trying to find Sasquatch.  Maybe it's not about finding it, it's about deciding what can wait.
 
Calling all listeners! We want to hear from you.  If this podcast has helped you, make a post on Instagram or Facebook.
 
Nov 17, 2017

"Grimsmo's frowning at me with disdain--"

 
"I'm THINKING!" 
 
With Thanksgiving rounding the corner, this episode of Business of Machining offers a lot of food for thought.
 
After a night of tossing and turning, Saunders uses his inability to sleep to his advantage.
 
How's that Norseman pallet coming, Grimsmo?  Finishing the much improved pallet while 
keeping up on production is a challenge.  
 
HUBRIS VS HUMILITY: 
The Johns are definitely not fans of arrogance but is it possible to be too humble?
 
Saunders contemplates the biggest business decision he's had to make thus far and it's all about ERP (enterprise resource planning).  While no holy grail of systems exists, one in particular catches his eye.
 
Check out ODOO here.
 
The Grimsmo Knives roster is set to gain some new names.  When hiring someone you know, it's not a question of their knowledge or ability.  The real question might surprise you.  
"Don't forget, you're the boss." - Saunders
 
ROBIN RENZETTI INSTAGRAM POST
 
The guys talk toolingchip formation problems, and solutions.  If you're getting 
some SCUFFS, you aren't alone!
 
When you hear the phrase, "custom tooling," what comes to mind?  Dollar signs and hassle?  
Put your mind at ease because it's much easier than you think!
 
Saunders and his team take Turkey Day to the extreme in a new, must-see video soon to air.   
Nov 10, 2017
The car is kaput. Grimsmo makes due with his mic from home.
 
If you've successfully changed the insert on a boring bar while holding your child, 
you might be a machinist.
 
Time flies when life is good.  Grimsmo reflects on obsession
When you say yes to the short term goal, are you short changing yourself?
 
The path from point A to point B isn't a straight line, so of course it takes longer to get there. 3.14 times longer, to be exact.
 
Grimsmo reveals a new, big goal.
"I hope you have time to talk to me in two years!" - Saunders
 
Saunders has what he describes as the BEST WEEK EVER.  Who knew 3 pieces of software could make such an impact?
 
 
What the heck is a nurdle?  It's not just a recommendation from the American Dental Association.
 
Take some advice from Tools of Titans and Stay Calm by clicking here
Remember: Slow is fast, Fast is smooth.
 
Asana is the MVP for organizing projects.  Think digital Pierson Boards! 
See the S&H Tour Video here.
 
Fusion released FORM TOOLS!  Click here to learn the trick.
 
YOU'RE ON THE CLOCK.  
Frank discussion ensues about dealing with unexpected visitors when time is of the essence.
Nov 3, 2017
What do speaking French, VENN DIAGRAMS  and SUPERPOWERS have in common?
This episode of Business of Machining, of course.
 
THE STRUGGLE IS REAL:
As an entrepreneur, staying true to yourself and your VISION is tough.  Not only do you have to have a passion for what you do; it also has to coincide with what people want. 
 
The launch of the new NYCCNC Website has Saunders close to making a phone call.
 
Perfectionism could be overkill but that's what makes it a Grimsmo.  
Knife Spacer Instagram POST
 
Dowel pins.  Do you buy or make your own?  
Orange Pallet VIDEO
Dowel Pin Instagram POST
 
What is your SUPERPOWER?  We're not talking about flying or telekinesis here. 
 
Find out the big surprise Saunders has for his son and how Grimsmo makes Erik's life better with a pneumatic cylinder.  Check it out HERE.
 
Grimsmo's putting the force multipliers to work.  
Click HERE for a video on UPWORK and FIVER.
Although he's excited about his new product, he's made some decisions about documenting the flashlight process.
 
My First Light Misunderstanding
Oct 27, 2017
ARIEL. CANADIAN THANKSGIVING IN OCTOBER. BYE BYE, BOOTSTRAPPER?
 
Saunders chaperones students to Ariel.  If you're looking for inspiration, you may not have to fly across the ocean to find it.
 
Click HERE for Ariel Video.  
 
Geeking out at the local computer shop, Grimsmo purchases a much needed new laptop.  Despite the new technology, a problematic Fusion file hasn't improved.  The Johns discuss potential causes, solutions and the best ways to structure a large file
Take notes!   
 
Once a bootstrapper, NOT always a bootstrapper!
This mentality has its merits but when your business evolves, it may no longer serve you.
Is it time to let go?
 
Saunders and employees are vetting ASANA, a software to keep track of projects and Grimsmo works on finishing some fancy knives promised.  
Oct 20, 2017

Saunders says 'tis the season with an Uberchuck commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-lncrr_7aJE

Saunders visits EMO in Germany while Grimsmo uploads his first YouTube video in months: CMTS!

Grimsmo debates the future of producing videos: in-house or enlist outside help?

McMaster University partners up with Grimsmo knives for a marketing class project!

Saunders speaks on Social Media at a local Machinery Dealer open house
What can YOU get out of an Open House Sales Event? Will a Royal Chuck get Saunders over the Lathe hurdle? Bar Feeder Secrets that Machine Dealers won't tell you! The key to buying a new machine? Play the market!

UpWork FTW! Grimsmo implements a great solution to their maker's choice system via some custom code written by an UpWork expert.

Finally, Saunders and Grimsmo are both due for new computers! What to buy?!

Oct 13, 2017
New year, new approach. Grimsmo returns from CMTS; his first trade show since IMTS in 2016.
No matter how discerning you plan to be, the almighty sales pitch has the power to undermine due diligence.   
 
Click here to time travel back to IMTS 2016
 
If you're considering EDM, this one's for you.  If not, it's cool anyway. Tune in for a simple explanation of the process as well as the pros and cons.
 
For entrepreneurs, perpetual consideration of better technology and processes is crucial to success.  Any purchase must hinge on more than it being the apple of one's eye.
Saunders relays the importance of RETURN ON INVESTMENT.   
 
Machine Shop ROI Video
 
What is a BRAIN TRUST and how can you develop this invaluable resource? 
Luckily,  Dale Carnegie's How to Win Friends and Influence People has some advice.
 
Get the Ebook for $0.90 here
 
Fostering business relationships that produce win-win output is obvious but what happens if you focus on the INPUT? Saunders realizes he's made a mistake when he meets his anodizer.
 
Video microscope or old school like biology class?  There are benefits and drawbacks to both.   
 
Microscope on Amazon
 
"Tiiiiimmee is on my side...yes it is!" -- I THINK...
Spending time on time management?  Although it might seem counterproductive, 
tracking time is a good way to find inefficiencies.
 
Time Sheet Video on Patreon
Oct 6, 2017
"To say it was life-changing would be a bit dramatic but...it was life changing!" - Saunders
 
Saunders shares his EMO experience while Grimsmo gets ready for CMTS in Toronto. 
A year has passed since they attended IMTS and major changes 
have taken place not only in their shops but in their lives.  
 
Tradeshows are inspiring but for some, they are intimidating.  
Saunders offers advice for those who are new to the scene.
If you're seasoned, it behooves you to keep an open mind.
 
New advances in technology can impact the direction of your 
business in the future.  Unfortunately, pill-bottle parts
catchers were not on this year's line-up.
 
To get a horizontal or a 5-axis pallet system?  That is the question.
Tune in to find out what Grimsmo's keeping his eyes peeled for at CMTS.
Click here to see the tour of Orange Vise.
 
Saunders and Grimsmo love to talk about machines but today they shine the light on 
software.  They make a call to action for the youngest members of our society to 
get involved!  Who knows, maybe you could end up becoming a programmer for hyperMILL!
Sep 29, 2017
Statistically, it's incredibly likely to get dark every day; however, there is 
0% chance of Saunders holding a focus group.
 
You have a great product to offer the masses but is it enough to be successful?
If you haven't considered MINIMAL PRODUCT VIABILITY, you might be in for a surprise.
 
Grimsmo's confidence in his ability to create a product from start to finish leaves him 
conflicted about sharing his flashy new product.
 
With each success, pressure to achieve the ever-rising bar can be overwhelming.  The pursuit
of perfection could be costly. Renshape Video
 
Grimsmo shares highlights of "Day with Renishaw."
See the FANUC macro book here
 
Saunders leaves tomorrow for EMO in Hannover, Germany. He's excited but nervous.  
"I'm not the same person I was when I went to IMTS."  
 
"That is cool but it's not cool." 
How do you simplify processes and is there an easier way?  The guys share their tactics. 
Thumbstud Instagram post
 
Click here to check out Home Shop Machinists podcast with guest speaker, Robin Renzetti.
 
You've still got time! Leave a review on iTunes for the Johns
and get a chance to share your voice until the end of September.
Sep 22, 2017
Have you ever heard of EUSTRESS?  Probably not.  But you've definitely experienced it. It's a feeling our co-hosts lovingly refer to as "the grind."
 
With the pre-order in the past, Grimsmo turns his 
focus and renewed energy toward the Norseman workflow and 
the automated process for Maker's Choice knives.
 
While some think chip thinning is overrated, Saunders believes understanding this machining phenomenon is valuable.
Click here to see the video. 
 
"When we're going on an information binge and trying to learn something, you've got to look hard!" - Grimsmo
In the age of information, we often spend more time searching than learning.
 
Saunders rocket pitches his goal to create an epicenter of tailored
information via revamping the new NYCCNC website.  In terms of the big picture, he hopes to foster a supportive, like-minded community.
 
"I'm leaving on a jet plane"---AGAIN?
Saunders packs his bags for EMO in Hannover, Germany.
 
 
GET INVOLVED: On Wednesday, October 4th, Saunders will attend the 
Reynolds Machinery Open House in Dayton, Ohio to speak about 
social media and manufacturing.  All are welcome.
 
DON'T FORGET: September isn't over and your chance
to leave a review for your co-hosts on iTunes isn't either.
Your review not only gives them insights but it
also gives you a chance to have a conversation
with the co-hosts.
Sep 15, 2017
BEEF.  That's what's for 7am.
People that lack authenticity can test your nerves and leave you 
feeling raw but it's easy to let it go when there are bigger fish to fry.
 
Today is the first day of the rest of Grimsmo Knives.  
After an arduous journey with a 2.25 year pre-order, the new
direction for the company becomes clear. It's like a breath of 
fresh processes. 
 
If you want to dig up the past, perhaps you should try using your Grimsmo Knife.  According to prehistoric sources, it does a DINO-mite job. Click here
 
As Saunders prepares for his family vacation, he's also drilling his brain (pun intended) about incorporating re-ground tools into the workflow for the steel fixture plates.  
Will he be able to leave the shop rest assured or will his brain spiral out of control?
 
TRELLO?  Is it me you're looking for?
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss the benefits of using this app as well as others for organization, research and other tasks.  
 
Happy belated birthday to Grimsmo! According to Saunders, they 
have now reached a new milestone: Boring Dad Birthday Age.  
I'll take my FANUC macro book and be on my way now, thanks.
  
When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade.
When life gives you 62 Rockwell, you become....a cannibal?
Click below for a peek if you dare.
 
https://www.facebook.com/NYCCNC/videos/1272462719566069/ 
 
https://www.facebook.com/NYCCNC/videos/1271578749654466/
 
Head over to iTunes to give the co-hosts a shout, especially if
the machines are running. Until the end of September, you can leave a review and get 
a chance to mull things over with the guys.  
Sep 8, 2017
"I don't always find EXTRA KNIFE ORDERS but when I do, it's when I have T-minus 6 days until the deadline. "- Grimsmo
 
If you haven't seen your reflection in a while, check out this Instagram post.
 
Record players are scarce these days but there's something that might work in a pinch.  A PROFILOMETER???
 
For Saunders, the benefits of a Cogsdill are becoming more evident
but is it the answer for the steel fixture plates?
 
Have we forgotten the Linda wheel?
Grimsmo doesn't want to purchase the same wheel again but he may not have a choice.  Production must be able to continue whether or not he has found a way to get better results.  That moment when your business starts making the decisions. 
 
Breaking up is hard to do, especially when it's with WTF anodizing.  There aren't many fish in the sea but that doesn't mean doing it yourself is sustainable.
QC Video
 
The guys discuss shifts in their primary roles as entrepreneurs and morning routines.
Saunders must have some interesting S&F for those 11 minutes.
 
After tuning in, head over to iTunes to leave a review for the co-hosts! 
From now until the end of September,
 
your review = chance to shoot the breeze with co-hosts on the topic of your choice.
Sep 1, 2017
Harder. Better. Faster. Stronger.
 
Out of nowhere, Grimsmo has an astonishing spike 
in productivity but Saunders is perplexed.  Did he wake up with
superpowers or clone himself?
 
Bureaucracy?  More like bureauCRAZY!
Saunders finds himself peevish and bogged down with
what should have been a simple task.
 
With the right tools in the right places,
machining the steel fixture plates should, in theory, 
be a cinch; however, with 471 holes, tool deflection and wear are proving
to be a challenge.  
 
Both Johns are looking forward to next month's trade shows but 
for Grimsmo, September is a new beginning.
 
Whodunnit? Here's a clue: it wasn't Colonel Mustard in the library with 
a candlestick. Find out which one of the guys had to hit the E-Stop and why.    
 
If you haven't left a review on iTunes, it's not too late!
Leave a few words for the co-hosts for your chance to 
have a chat with them.
Aug 25, 2017
"I've felt what drowning feels like and it sucks." 
 
Grimsmo's pushing full steam ahead but is it enough to meet the deadline?
 
Reducing Stress = Immediate Relief, right? Not exactly.
 
Unfortunately, ANY change in your normal stress level can leave you feeling 
worse because it's not what you're used to. Saunders grapples with finding a new
norm.
  
How do you pay Uncle Sam and what do they call it in Canada?  
Paying sales taxes in their respective countries is different but do they agree on 
the notion of getting financial business advice and what to do with it?
 
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss BORING BAR pre-machined surface sensitivity, process
reliability, and faking it 'til you make it.  In this case a wrong CAN make
a right. 
 
Keeping up on social media platforms is tedious but with a few
hacks, you can stay on top of your game. 
#toomanyhashtags #watchyourfingers
 
Now Trending: Can't high five a friend because you're far away?  
E-FIVES are the next best thing. 
 
Don't forget to leave a review on iTunes to 
get your chance to talk with the co-hosts!   
Aug 18, 2017


Feel like picking some BRAINS?

By reviewing this podcast on iTunes from now through the end of September, you could be chosen to have a CHAT with the co-hosts on the topic of your choice!

Saunders visits Madison, WI for Tech Days, formerly the Tormach Open House and
Mitutoyo America Corporation, second to The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in metrology accuracy.

And I said, "LAAATHE, what's goin' on?"
Grimsmo's coming in hot...so hot his inserts are turning to TOAST! Reaching out
for some help on Instagram, he's told to go back to school when it comes to SFM.
Click here to see Instagram post.

Should Grimsmo dive into arduino and put a z-axis motor on the
Tormach Surface Grinder? It's a yes AND a no from Saunders.

With the August 31st deadline fast approaching, marking the Rask Advent Calendar
has become an exciting part of the day.

COMING SOON:
Crunching numbers on accounting and the role it plays in capital investment.

 

Aug 11, 2017

Video: Q-Mark


STRESS, SOLUTIONS, and...SUSHI?

How long have you been in survival mode? If you're feeling under the
weather, there's a good chance it isn't last night's dinner.
When it comes to stress, be prepared to bring solutions to the table.
If there isn't a solution, venting and validation can offer relief.

Saunders and Grimsmo mull over ways to avoid past pitfalls and new ideas
to move their businesses forward. Often, the right decision isn't the easiest decision.

What gives? Saunders and Grimsmo share personal experiences
and frustration about companies who refuse to give a ballpark when it
comes to pricing.

No more guessing! Saunders reveals plans for the $11.82 teaser nugget.

On philosophical note, the guys talk about inspiration and legacy.
The phrase, "You can't take it with you" takes on a new meaning.

Aug 4, 2017

Video: Okamoto - I DO give a chuck! 

Book: THE GRINDING WHEEL

The Rask order is nearing completion and the stork's bringing the VF2.

Saunders has a fantastic week. Systems are falling into place but
he reminds himself "not to count his chips while he's at the table." Grimsmo
still thinks it's a good idea to pat yourself on the back every once in a while.

The guys discuss accounting, tool organization and an important question
that was posed by Saunders in episode 17. Now that Grimsmo's had
some time to think, he's got some answers but what if it wasn't the
right question to ask?

Tune in to find out about a project that will give some weight to spinner
production and Saunders's $11.82 "teaser nugget." Can anyone guess
what's going on with that? Hmmm...

 

Jul 28, 2017


Orange Vise Tour 

 

Grimsmo returns from vacation but was he able to relax?

Saunders tinkers with a new plan for organizing tools.
Just because they're the same size doesn't mean they go together.
To maximize efficiency, you may need to think outside your tool box.

PROCESS RELIABILITY, tell me what it means to me...
Reliable and consistent results take the cake over pushing tool paths to the limit.

The guys get to the nitty gritty on boring heads, tool life and custom macro for probing.
Saunders plans to test his codes to instill some confidence.

Grimsmo dreams of a book about FANUC macro code for his birthday.
"If it's a Fanuc intruction book, it'll probably have to come freight delivery." -Saunders

The Founder, a movie about the McDonald's franchise, offers food for thought.
Even if you don't plan on franchising your business, this movie could help you "dial in" your
processes.

Are they status boards...work-flow boards? No one is sure exactly,
but they're working like a charm! Tune in to find out what the guys will be calling them
"henceforth."

Jul 21, 2017
    Orange Vise Tour

Machine ROI

Delivering Happiness

Grimsmo + Vacation = Worry/Anxiety?

Normally, the idea of vacation should produce feelings of excitement and
relaxation but for Grimsmo, it's a different story. "What is the end goal?"
The guys are in a constant state of defining and refining goals.
How do you know you've made it if you don't know where you want to end up?

In his quest to pay it forward and build a positive community for machinists,
Saunders often connects to his audience by showing lessons learned the hard
way. No matter how thick the skin, the internet trolls get under it by using
petty and destructive comments to assert themselves.

Grimsmo "discovers" EDM --Not Electronic Dance Music, wire EDM for knife making!

Mitutoyo comes to SMW to do a Measurelink Demo. When it comes to business
partnerships, personal connections can add weight to business decisions.
At the end of the day, it's still a business needing to thrive.
Jul 14, 2017
Pierson MPS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEZeVbockyQ
 
Link to Saunder's Video RE: ChipBreak about drawings: http://bit.ly/2sWGcoI
 
As patriotic holidays arrive and fireworks are ignited, both Johns get fired up about PROCESS--the process of making processes, to be exact.  What if you have no idea where to begin?  The important thing is not WHERE you start but THAT you start.  According to Grimsmo, "Sometimes you gotta make that first crappy one before you can find the better one!"  
 
Saunders finally takes the plunge (pun intended) and purchases a VF2.  "I only need to buy one more tool, honey!"  Saunders is convinced that a Mitutoyo Bore Gauge is the missing puzzle piece in his repertoire.  At least for now.
 
Not only do entrepreneurs have to be aware of thinking flaws, they have to be willing to admit and combat them.  When it comes to improving processes, you are the captain of a ship searching through your business for hidden treasures.  Even at the helm, you might realize you don't know everything and that's okay.  In fact, that's a good thing!
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