Anodizing Paintball Guns, a Brochure, and a Parking Lot
Jay Pierson's story of past failure in his MHub speech conjures entrepreneurship jitters of 2010 for Grimsmo.
Failure is almost a pre-requisite for success and as a major industry player points out on the NYC CNC forum, "You first have to exist [in other people's minds]."
Click HERE to Watch Jay's Speech
Don't forget: the successful people you admire today
were once standing in your shoes.
[[]>-- Renaissance of Making IN THE MAKING --<[]]
Saunders is a guest speaker on the Bantam Tools Podcast episode with Bre Pettis, co-founder and former CEO of MakerBot, scheduled to air in a few months. They share entrepreneurial stories, philosophies, and discuss bringing opportunities to places where people can afford to innovate.
ERP Check-Up
Saunders thinks by sharing their experiences, more people
would be able to understand how an ERP could benefit them.
The Elephant in The Room - The Lathe Sits Idle
Grimsmo's got the software, the equipment, and the manpower to let go of control but he's clinging on for dear life. Are you running your business or is your business running you? Saunders expresses sincere and deep concern for the future of Grimsmo Knives. His advice: GO COLD TURKEY.
SMW Fixture Plates - A, B, O, K.
How can you easily explain differences between products without inadvertently implying something negative?
Autodesk University, Las Vegas - Are your presentations ready?
For both Johns, their presentations are great--at least in their heads. If you were listening to a speeds & feeds presentation,
what would you want to know?
Happy Halloween! Dry Ice anyone? It’s super cool! (pun intended) Check out this project another machinist did with dry ice.
Grimsmo talks about the benefits of quenching your blades in dry ice after heat treat, and is working on a palette that will also improve the process. Saunders is also working with dry ice to blast parts.
Before you become a mad machinist for Halloween, maybe this solution will fix your mill:
Did your machine stop working? Grimsmo tried many different ways to fix his Mori, but in the end he just had to UN-press his emergency stop button...and turn his machine off and on about ten times.
Keeping track of mistakes and solutions
It’s not just parts a machinist/entrepreneur needs to track, it’s also thought processes. Learn about how Saunders and Grimsmo use documents on their computers, and ERP software to keep track of everything going on in their shops and minds.
“It’s important to be able to easily search for the solution” - Saunders
SAUNDERS WANTS YOUR OPINION
Saunders is comparing different ERP softwares, so if you have implemented or used the small business ERP software from SAP, Oracle, or Odoo, Saunders wants to hear from you! You can contact him here.
The Grimsmo Team has a new addition to the shop: an Engis 24” plate lapping machine! No training required. Grimsmo and Saunders discuss the extent to which training is valuable for new machines.
Check out Grimsmo’s Instagram for pics of the new machine, and stay tuned on their YouTube channel for a video all about it.
Saunders is clearing up the shop to make more room. His philosophy to help him get it done?
“If we’re not using it, it’s not making us happy, and it’s not part of our story, it goes” - Saunders
Jumping write into November
Grimsmo does not have a completed pen and it’s the end of October, BUT he still thinks he can get pens into production in November.
Save your business A LOT of money by thinking about exchange rates
The Grimsmo Team is 100% Canadian! But their customers aren’t, which means not all their banks should be either. Grimsmo shares the plan that he and Barry hatched to save money on the business by thinking about exchange rates, monthly costs, service fees, and product subscriptions.
“For every transaction through Shopify, we’re paying a percentage transactional fee” - Grimsmo
That’s all for now folks!
Shootin' the Breeze
Grimsmo and his son, Leif, pay Saunders a quick visit.
TURNS out, machining isn't the only thing he's precise about.
Saunders digs into his quality engineering obsession.
How to Win Friends & Influence People is a life-changing read. Do yourself a favor and get a copy by clicking HERE!
Family Heirlooms
Everyone says they look AND act like brothers,
so when Grimsmo becomes the owner of a sentimental
Kennedy toolbox, it just feels right.
TUFF STUFF
Jack Roman from Tuff Writer Pens features GK
in his EDC (Every Day Carry) + Micro Manufacturing Documentary.
Tuff Writer Pens <<<<Click Here to Check Out Their Site!
Zeroing In
Grimsmo conducts interviews and narrows it down to 2 awesome candidates.
"Be careful the story you tell yourself" - Grimsmo
When a group of manufacturing class students visits GK,
his goal is to open minds. Believing in broad and stereotypical job titles could prevent you from finding your passion!
The End is Nigh
With the end of the year drawing closer, Saunders
embarks on restructuring the website.
We're Out of Potato Chips
Saunders receives a beta Smart Supply logistics locker and with it, the ERP mindset is back. This Allting "Vending Machine" won't be putting out snacks, but it will be a huge first step in the ERP direction.
Speaking of ERP...
Grimsmo admits he needs to involve his team
more when it comes to Pro Shop but the benefits
are already obvious.
Airpods: Lifestyle Creep or Lifestyle Keep?
Saunders FINALLY tries Airpods and they
live up to the hype. Now that his hands are free,
he gives a BIG thumbs up.
Click HERE to get a pair!
Machine Tool Design Fundamentals
Saunders wants to know more about machine tool design. Other than piecemeal conversations and venturing into the rabbit hole, he's not sure where he can get a comprehensive overview.
UGH. STRAP CLAMPS.
Pocket NC Tombstone project inspires a workholding solution: a lathe chuck SUBPLATE!
Stay tuned for the upcoming Wednesday Widget.
The United States of Steele
Alec Steele is selling everything and moving to the states
to start a shop!
"The future will be kind to him." - Saunders
Phenomenal Feedback
The shop tour videos are always fun for Saunders
but since he's considering a direction for the business and the channel, he's not sure how they fit in the grand scheme.
Grimsmo chimes in with a great suggestion.
Stay tuned for the video where we follow a crucial C-17 part
from Forging to finished AND the full length tour of Vahl, Inc!
AUTODESK UNIVERSITY LAS VEGAS, NV
Saunders has his AU bag packed with
Leif's hat and a Sandvik Boring Bar for Laurens.
Click HERE for AU Las Vegas Registration!
Grimsmo is putting pens write back into the game! He and Angelo had a nice long meeting where they made A TON of changes to the internal workings of the pens.
Curious about what changed? Watch out for new Saga Saturday videos coming again soon on Grimsmo’s YouTube channel!
Learning is great, and it’s even better if knowledge can be used right away! Saunders learns what a “living hinge” is (keep listening to find out), and he bought a Skyhook crane (which is also new territory for him).
Which would YOU choose? Red or Blue? And no, we’re not talking about pills.
“Welcome to the Loctite Episode!” - Grimsmo
The Johns discuss loctite, different variations you can get, and how its versatility makes it so AMAZING!
What does loctite do? Fills in all the gaps and gives you 100 percent thread. It prevents the start of the reverse rotation.
The Balance of Risk and Reward
There’s always a risk when you sit down with a mentor or someone in the field, but from Saunders’ experience, the good always outweighs the bad.
Saunders talks about his trip to New York. He did SO MUCH in the two days he was there, but especially enjoyed his tour of the VAHL shop. There will be a video of that, so keep an eye out on Saunders’ YouTube channel for the shop tour!
Take away from the trip? Saunders says it’s always great to get a little out of his comfort zone, but he has to reflect a little more before he knows exactly what lessons he's learned.
How do you measure lean?
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss what goals that have when they implement lean strategies into their workflow.
“Better results at the end of the day is all the matters” - Grimsmo
The machines Saunders has makes him: “parts , money and happy”
Workflow improvements?
Grimsmo uses UpWork a lot to get results, and now the shop is also considering a fine grinding machine that would cut down on lapping time.
Grimsmo is going to visit Saunders this weekend! It’s a great time for them to just hang out, and be dads together.
:: Solving a toolpath mystery ::
:: The John Saunders Turkey Machine ::
:: Don't judge a fish by how it climbs trees ::
DEFINING BUSINESS OBJECTIVES
Saunders asks himself, "What the heck ARE we?"
Does having multiple areas of specialty dilute
the business? After some revelatory conversations,
he's "zeroing" in on what it means to be SMW.
"Daddy, I'm trying to find John Saunders Turkey Machine Shop."
While enjoying the Canadian Thanksgiving festivities,
Grimsmo's daughter, Claire, is on the hunt for a hilarious
and totally under-rated video. Click The Image to Watch!
MACHINE SHOP LINGUISTICS
Often, words lose their meaning and need
updated to accurately reflect our ever-changing world.
By changing the suffix, the word "Marketing" gets new life.
TOOLPATH MYSTERY SOLVED!
The gradual arc on a GK knife handle goes from 1 line of G-code to 50, leaving behind noticeable facets that the guys have to buff out. Luckily, in this digital age, we can turn to the machining
community to ask for help!
Thanks to @laurenswijnschenk, the proverbial thorn in Grimsmo's side is gone. Check out his Instagram HERE!
BUST OUT THE FUSION 360
First, pull over and open your laptop!
Have you ever used the "View Toolpath" feature in Fusion?
If you haven't, you aren't alone!
IMTS 2018 - GET YOUR FIX
The NYC CNC full length IMTS video hasn't been published yet but here are some
shorter IMTS videos to tie you over!
Grimsmo Knives IMTS 2018 Day 1 - Becoming Swissish
Grimsmo Knives IMTS 2018 Day 2 - Small Booths
GRIMSMO KNIVES is HIRING
Their "We're Hiring" video has been released to the interwebs but
in order to be seriously considered, you MUST make a short video
about yourself! A deep conversation ensues about the art of hiring employees that you don't want to miss!
Click the Image to Watch!
THERE MUST BE A FULL MOON
Saunders is back in NYC, looking at a Mori Seiki SL-1A with FANUC control...but will the forklift have enough capacity to handle the instruction manuals?
Finally Got Some Green Tops!
Grimsmo gears up to try out Helical tools for the first time.
What processes work best for your shop?
Sometimes it’s as simple as wrapping green tape around material you’re not using or using google sheets more often, and other times it’s necessary to get creative with a new tool! BTW the Grimsmo shop has a band saw now.
“It all depends on your goals”- Grimsmo
If quantity is your goal, you focus on materials that make products faster. If your goal is quality, you have to invest in materials to make them top notch, but you should make sure it’s not taking any longer than it needs to.
Tiny Tolerances
Grimsmo and Saunders discuss tolerances. They are a crazy important consideration, maybe even more important than we realize. How do you make sure your perfect parts are actually perfect?
Saunders asks himself questions like “What tolerances do I need?” as he plans his trip to NYC to look at a used FANUC 2-axis lathe.
The Journey: it never ends.
Saunders is inspired by Tony Robbins too! As the Johns discuss realistic goals from the next year, to the next TEN years, Saunders reminds Grimsmo of a Tony Robbins quote:
“Most people overestimate what they can do in one year, and they underestimate what they can do in a decade”
Everyone puts so much pressure on themselves over the course of a day, or a week or a month, but those little steps will lead to huge results. It just takes time.
“It has to grow organically for it to work, and it has to take ten years, and it has to be a struggle” - Grimsmo
Ask yourself: Where were YOU last year? It might make you feel pretty good.
As a side note: Grimsmo’s hiring!
The official announcement was out on their YouTube channel Thursday Oct 3.
Hmmm...What should we buy next?
The Johns get Swissish (again) as they talk about how a Swiss Lathe works.
With the lapping machine being overused, a fine grinding machine is starting to look like a more real part of the future for the Grimsmo Shop.
Fine grinding machine by Supfina:
Model that Grimsmo is considering:
Keep an eye out!
Saunders is going to releasing a new product by the end of this year!
Get Well Soon, Grimsmo!
He might be under the weather but shop life waits for no one...
--BURNOUT--
When you enjoy working, you have to be more
conscious of that sneaky little thing called burnout. You might not notice until it's too late!
Pride and Humility: The Balance
William breaks a toy at school.
Tony Robbins Total Immersion
Grimsmo and Meg attend a Tony Robbins event and return revitalized!
Love him or hate him the "I'm Not Your Guru" guru
has ways to break limiting thinking patterns and bestow clarity. Using a different framework makes critical decision-making easier.
NEGATIVE NANCIES
As Saunders releases the first of many Johnny 5 videos, the negative nancies get their panties in a twist because of an estimated 2-year timeline. Rome wasn't built in a day...right?
Hesitation Parallels
Saunders has found THE microscope and a jib-crane solution but suffers a case of Paralysis by Analysis while actively fighting lifestyle creep.
From Grimsmo's last video (BACK FROM IMTS 2018!) he's STILL gotta order titanium round bar BUT this order entails more than clicking a button...
Are you ready to talk technology and tools from IMTS with Saunders and Grimsmo?
I hope so! Because this episode gets nice and technical
The Johns are back from IMTS, inspired, and ready to get back to hustling. They’re happy they can pick up where they left off because of their awesome employees holding down their respective forts while they were gone, and keeping up with the daily grind and processes.
“Make the process the expert” - Grimsmo
Thanks for coming out to the Manufacturing/Entrepreneurship Summit! It was a blast!
In this episode Grimsmo and Saunders reflect on the event and wrap it up with some final thoughts on certain questions that were asked during the Q and A period.
Teaser: Their favourite part of IMTS was talking to and learning from the people, and it’s amazing to see how many parallels there are between entrepreneurs’ stories.
At the show there were plenty of machines of the future, but what about machines of their future? Still lots!
Grimsmo discusses Swiss Lathes and 5-Axis machining, and Saunders gives some tips on how to get the deepest of information about machines from company representatives at the show.
“It’s almost worth stretching the truth to get a deeper answer about a machine, even its based on a question about a fictional tool” - Saunders
Pro tip: Go to a machine show! Even if it's small, it’s a great place to meet like-minded people and get some answers first-hand.
Looking into a Microscope
Saunders debates getting a super cool microscope from Vision Engineering. Without the show, Saunders might never have found that company.
“Go outside your comfort zone and find something you never would have otherwise” - Saunders
Crush it this week!
THIS IS NOT YOUR ORDINARY PODCAST! THIS IS AN AWESOME, IMMERSIVE AUDIO EXPERIENCE OF IMTS!
Energy = Kinetic
People = Inspirational
Podcast = Straight, No Chaser
Experience IMTS as Saunders and Grimsmo as they meet people on their way to AB Tools. BOOM. You're on the podcast!
Buying Machines for your Business
Grimsmo and Saunders talk about the importance of Customer Service when it comes to buying a machine.
“Just sell me machines and give me service” - Grimsmo
Service is important because....
“Fun Fact: Everything mechanical in the world ceases to work at some point” - Saunders
When it comes down to it, the quality of the machine is going to affect your relationship with that company. Don’t forget to consider a warranty!
CALLING ALL LISTENERS! Saunders has a query.
The shop in Ohio is getting HOT, and NYC CNC is thinking about getting a climate control system sooner than expected.
Specifications for the project:
- Our shop is 50 x 80 ft. with 15 ft. ceilings
- NYC CNC doesn't think more insulation is necessary
- What are our listeners thoughts on using a mini-split? Link to the definition of a mini-split here. How about on an “Energy Recovery Ventilator”? We don’t want to “cool the country with our AC” (as Saunders’ mom would say)
ALSO, Saunders would like to know if anyone has a CMX 1100, and what YOUR thoughts are on it. What is it comparable to?
Contact Saunders here or at info@saundersmachineworks.com
Lapping up time
Grimsmo can’t wait for the new lapping machine to come in, it’s going to make processes A LOT faster.
Pro tip: Using UpWork to solve your problems also helps you get work done faster.
Choose the right machine for YOU!
The Johns discuss how to choose the right machine for your needs, even when there’s so many solid options out there. The two of them also talk about how to make processes on Grimsmo’s mill more efficient and reliable.
IMTS is NEXT WEEK! And the Johns will be there running around, asking questions, and learning new things.
They talk about what they want to see at IMTS. Here's a little teaser on Grimsmo’s IMTS list:
- He wants to learn more about machine tracking software
And how about Saunders?
- Thinking more long term about good coolant management
- Looking at CMX and DMU 50 machines
Don’t forget to SIGN UP for the Manufacturing Entrepreneurship Summit 2018 in Chicago, Illinois.
Sunday, September 9th, 2018 (ONE DAY BEFORE IMTS!) and...it's FREE!
Workshop Topics:
- Product Development
- Bootstrap Entrepreneurship
- Growing & Operating a Job Shop
- Optimizing Surface Finishes with CAM & Tooling
- Fixturing Tips & Tricks
- Lean Shop Operations
Guest speakers: John Grimsmo, Jay Pierson, Tim Paul, Bill Fienup, John Saunders, and Zach Kaplan!
PLUS, AN AFTER-PARTY!
INFO FOR THE MID-EAST OHIO MODEL ENGINEERING EXPO
The Expo is on Sept 29, 2018. AND Saunders is having an open house on the DAY BEFORE THE EXPO! Check out the links below for more information.
Mid-East Ohio Model Engineering Expo
Info on Saunders’ Shop Tour on Sept 28, 2018
The Grimsmo Grapple: Touchy Subjects
The guys do their best to be open and honest but some topics
are hard to discuss!
Compartmentalizing family vs. business life is easier said than done. At GK, business IS family, so it's near impossible!
Process Reliability--NOT JUST FOR PARTS OR BUSINESS OPERATIONS
Grimsmo shows tremendous strength in his ability to self-evaluate.
Instead of hiding behind a smile, he admits his own truth.
On his quest to become more assertive, unlearning habitual ways of handling conflict and replacing them with more effective strategies is a lengthy process--a process needing constant practice.
The old "build-up and blow-out way" isn't the Grimsmo way!
GET THE CHIPS OUTTA THERE
Throw a couple of broken through-coolant drill bits
onto the pile and you've got the making of a "wild week."
"Could a line of code turn the coolant on to STRAFE the hole instead of going into it?" - Saunders
(To understand this plausible solution, play DOOM or search the urban dictionary).
Centered Saunders
Being an entrepreneur means you're a defacto leader.
As the leader, you inadvertently pass on your ways of handling
chaos to your team. If you freak out, they'll freak out.
If you approach with a cool head, they'll follow suit.
SUB SANDWICHES AND SUCCESS
Useful tips can be found everywhere...even at Jimmy John's!
While on a lunch break at Jimmy John's, Saunders notices
a list on the wall.
Warren Buffett's 10 Rules for Success
INVESTOR MINDSET
Grimsmo shifts his perspective to that of an investor looking from the outside in.
Saunders poses 2-sided hypotheticals about what outside investors AND business owners want.
***GET INSPIRED***
Manufacturing Entrepreneurship Summit 2018 - Chicago, IL!
The Manufacturing Entrepreneurship Summit will be held at mHub
Sunday, September 9th, 2018 (ONE DAY BEFORE IMTS!) and---it's FREE!
Workshop Topics:
- Product Development
- Bootstrap Entrepreneurship
- Growing & Operating a Job Shop
- Optimizing Surface Finishes with CAM & Tooling
- Fixturing Tips & Tricks
- Lean Shop Operations
Guest speakers: John Grimsmo, Jay Pierson, Tim Paul, Bill Fienup, John Saunders, and Zach Kaplan!
PLUS, AN AFTER-PARTY!
SIGN ME UP! <<<<<< Click Here to Register Now!
Moving from CNC to RNR
Grimsmo takes a well deserved break. His idea of a vacation? Renting a Tesla and taking it out on the open road to Tobermory for a coupe days. No need for new windows when you’re out in nature! And sometimes you can be most productive when you're relaxed.
The Grimsmo Shop Reaction:
“Guys, John’s gone! We can do whatever we want!...LET'S CLEAN!” The Grimsmo shop has gotten cleaner since he left it on Wednesday last week.
The best advice you can give may shock you! And it’s *drum roll please*...
Stay humble.
“Your company comes with merit, and it shows something good about your personality, but still be the kind of person someone would want to get stuck in an airport with” - Saunders
Playing fair with your customers
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss Tormach vs. vertical machining centers, and the expenses involved in software updates that you aren’t allowed to do on your own. Will their businesses have to take a page from this book in the future?
Psst...Can I Rask you a question?
Grimsmo answers Saunders query about whether he’s going to start getting into Rask production again anytime soon. Answer: it’s complicated. There’s a technical problem that needs fixing before production can start up again, and Saunders and Grimsmo swap ideas about how to fix it.
Possible Solution: The LX 160
New Training Classes at NYC CNC!
This is the first week of Saunders’ new Haas machine training classes!
You can sign up for a class here
Saunders is also working on a secret project, stay tuned into this podcast for him to announce it within a couple months.
Quick tip to avoid buyers’ remorse:
“Don’t buy the machine unless you can sell yourself on it all day long, everyday” - Saunders
Saunders Answers: Should you QUIT your job?
Hint: Make sure you don’t turn your passion into a burden, stressing for money can do this.
Is #PaulAkersMoment a thing?
Saunders gets a new setup for the camera, and reduces setup times.
Still SUPER EXCITED for IMTS! Coming up! We’ll hear a lot more about it in the next episode.
The Johns share heartwarming entrepreneurial moments that hit them RIGHT IN THE FEELS.
Square One
No matter your experience level, the learning should never stop. Each new aspect of business sends you back to the green.
If your brain is exploding, you're doing it right!
A Testament To Self-Care
Grimsmo and Saunders know the drill (pun intended) when it comes
to "taking time off." Usually it's for business related events but if you're listening now, Grimsmo has left the building! He's on an adventure--but he may or may not leave the laptop in the FRUNK.
The Mori. The Haas. Bada Boom or Biiig Bada Boom?
Nail on the Head
Ryan Wenner's quote about the "2 most important skills for entrepreneurs" resonates with Saunders. ALSO: Changing your definition of the word "failure" can change your life!
Business as Usual
Implementation of a shared maintenance schedule is in progress at SMW, which brings up preventative maintenance (batteries in particular).
HAAS ATM Groups--we were doing it wrong!
That moment you realize you've over complicated tool life management--and LAUGH ANYWAY.
HAAS Training Classes at SMW
That old block of machining wax is FINALLY getting put to use AND, it benefits those who purchase a Haas without the Renishaw!
FEED ME SEYMO--I mean, GRIMSMO! You don't have to be a fortuneteller to know that a BAR FEEDER is in the GK future!
THRIVING vs. STAGNATING
Growing too fast or not at all could end up in closed doors.
While changing your definition of failure, it wouldn't hurt to
get new perspective on PROFIT; it's more than just owner take-home.
MONEY, MONEY, MONEY
now that we have your attention....
Accounting is a dreaded subject for most but you
owe it to yourself and business to understand it!
Saunders discusses contribution margin and why
it's a number he likes to focus on.
Click below to learn some accounting basics!
Accounting for Machinists and Entrepreneurs: Beginner's Guide
AND...if you ARE going to borrow money, don't get "fleeced."
If you have a grip on how loans work, take the quiz and watch
"Should I Take Out a Loan?" just to be sure. You don't know what you don't know!
::::Under Pressure::::
TORN about IMTS: Grimsmo is pumped to find his dream machine while Saunders works to regain his curbed enthusiasm.
BE STINGY with your time and DO NOT FEEL GUILTY if you have to turn vendors down.
Work/Life Balance: how kids can make you sleep better
Sound like an oxymoron? Sometimes we need an escape from work; you can get stressed because you’re working too much.
Call it what it is! A BUSINESS.
When payroll gets involved, that’s when it gets serious (and when something starts to run like a mini corporation). The Johns discuss the difference between planning and dreaming when it comes to growing your business.
“If there’s a decision you can solve for under 100 dollars, solve it yourself.” - Tim Ferriss, Four Hour Work Week
The Johns get inspiring (and a little cheesy):
“Believe in yourself!” - Saunders
“‘It’s fun to dream’ is the wrong phrase. The phrase should be ‘it’s fun to plan’” because it’s all part of the true picture of the business. - Grimsmo
“The future will be kind to me, as I intend to invent it” - Saunders
QOTD: How do you dream about things?
What if I got…? Is a form of planning.
Goals to grow the business! For what? Growth!
Sometimes you’re not working for a sports car, you work so you can grow your business and invest in it. The Johns talk about what they're working towards.
IMTS is one month away!
Grimsmo and Saunders will be there a day before IMTS starts (Sunday, Sept 9) for the Manufacturing and Entrepreneurship Summit, which is a version of the NYC CNC open house, and there will be plenty to learn! Grimsmo will also be doing a workshop on knife making, and talking about the business.
The event will be held in a pretty great space called mHUB in downtown Chicago.
TO-DO or WILL-DO? that is the question.
Putting something on a piece of paper as a to-do list doesn’t mean it’ll get done, and everyone has a different kind of to-do list that works for them. Saunders and Grimsmo talk about the differences between theirs.
“Its surprisingly hard to find a system that works for you” - Grimsmo
The final part of this episode is all about Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
Grimsmo is in the midst of setting his company up with ProShop but, similarly to to-do lists, everyone uses ERP systems differently.
The Importance of Self-Care
Take a second to think about YOU. Have you slept well? Eaten well?
If you're used to running on empty, it's time to refuel and recharge.
Take care of yourself today. Your business depends on it!
Grimsmo goes on a BENDER, but it's not what you think!
Engraving is now 98% closer to being a lights-out operation.
While he didn't get much sleep, he IS energized by tackling
those neglected tasks!
MO' Money, MO' Problems
So, you've got the revenue but do you have the
critical thinking skills to plan and budget wisely?
Toolholder Controversy
With a plethora of tool holding options and mixed messages from intelligent members of the machining community, making a good choice is tough. Try tossing in a price-point and you have a recipe for uncertainty.
The guys discuss REGO-FIX powRgrip, ER Collets, and Shrink Fit, to name a few.
DEBATE ON HOLDERS FOR ROUGHING TOOLS: Hydraulics OR Milling Chuck?
FEELIN' SQUEEZY...
At first, those teensy percentages online stores or payment processors charge seem like nothing but it all adds up!
Some payment processors may not take kindly to your product, so BEWARE!
Rob Lockwood. Answers. Giant Sandwiches in the Dark. What does it mean?
During Lockwood's visit to GK, he was asked what he would change.
For the past 3 months, Grimsmo's been eating a GIANT SANDWICH in the shadows--one that he's now ready to share with everyone!
On that note, here's some food for thought:
"Don't become an entrepreneur SIMPLY because you dislike your day job. THIS ISN'T ANY EASIER!"
Both Saunders and Grimsmo have been working towards the success of their business for about a decade, and an article written about NYC CNC helps them both reflect.
Just as a new lifestyle starts to creep up on the Johns, things start to speed up at the Grimsmo shop. Erik beat his knife making record! Now it’s up to the others to keep up!
Wake up, John!
How you wake up can determine the rest of your day. What’s your morning routine? Grimsmo has tried out a ton, but both Saunders and Grimsmo have found that getting that extra time with their families in the morning makes them more productive.
“Having a focus list helps you say no to a lot” - Saunders
Get ‘er done!
Saunders decided it was time to revamp their fixture project, but that’s all he had to do with it. Alex the intern did some awesome problem solving and met the challenge head on! It comes down to delegation and trusting your team.
Fancy New (Shop) Toys
Speaking of delegation, Saunders literally just bought into one of his employees ideas, and now Ed at NYC CNC has a new Mark II 3D Printer because of it! Basically, this machine gives you the ability to run stronger material than a run-of-the-mill $400 3D printer. You can learn a lot more about its special abilities to make an Auger for your Haas in Saunders’ upcoming video!
Oh no! Grimsmo’s toaster broke! I guess it’s time for a new tempering oven...
When you have a brand new lapping machine, but you’re still using a toaster oven to temper your blades, you know it’s time for an upgrade.
Running a machine shop? Get a microscope. ‘Nuff said.
Complicated coding makes for more efficient machining; keep an eye out for Grimsmo’s video on engraving!
Interested in making knives? Grimsmo’s got some advice for you.
Grimsmo and Saunders have a similar story, but the real reason it's inspiring is because it's replicable. Being an entrepreneur is difficult, but anyone can take small steps to achieve their bigger goals.
For example, take a look at Grimsmo’s first knife. The blade was 304 stainless steel!
“Businesses like CAMplete look overwhelming when you see them today, but the reality is that that’s not how anything is built. It’s grown over time” - Saunders
Saunders and Grimsmo went to visit CAMplete when Saunders was in Canada, check out the video! Coming soon on Grimsmo's YouTube channel.
Saunders’ Pro tip: lean machining can be done at any level
What today's episode lacks in pep, it makes up for in realism:
Entrepreneurship can be exhausting--and it isn't necessarily a bad thing.
After the Johns team up in Canada, the overwhelming excitement settles, leaving the need for recuperation behind.
Stay tuned for the video and video podcast!
GET OUT OF MY SHOP...AND INTO MY KITCHEN?
A change in surroundings brings new thoughts and ideas to
the table--literally.
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss their trip to CAMplete Solutions, Inc.--a company that designed specific software to bridge the communication gap between CADCAM & machines. To learn more about CAMplete Truepath or CAMplete Turnmill, click HERE!
Entrepreneurship & Open Minds
As Saunders's confidence in 5th-Axis machining increases,
he admits, "It's time for a lathe"--with a Y-Axis, of course!
The guys discuss Y-Axis benefits and 3-Axis toolpath milling differences & preferences.
"It's a whole new world!" - Grimsmo
Finicky-FANUC
While on their CAMplete adventure, Grimsmo can't help but feel responsible for alarming out the MAM72-35V.
Check out Grimsmo's Hanbei Error Alarm Remedy!
Torque Wrench Myth Laid to Rest?
While the data isn't scientific, Saunders gets confirmation about stored torque wrench values from a reputable defense company!
D'jever See This Before?
Grimsmos ER11 Lindex Collet Nut Cracked!
Click the photo for full IG Post:
BIG ASS Fan Arrives at SMW (video coming soon)
The nomenclature is fitting and it feels amazing!
Grimsmo Knives blows the door WIDE open on new shop developments--Tune in to check it out!
It's still a shock when people say they binge on Business of Machining podcast episodes and we want to give a sincere thank you to those who listen and show their continued support!
It’s Friday today, which means that Saunders picked Grimsmo up yesterday morning to take him on a trip to Kitchener, ON, and visit CAMplete. Saunders is stoked to pick their brains about 5-axis, but they are really just happy to be doing it together!
“If you don’t live in a 5-axis world, you wouldn’t even know what you’re missing” - Saunders
Let’s talk about processes!
Stay tuned for a bonus podcast episode...on YouTube! It’ll be their first video format podcast
It’s ALL about the flow
Grimsmo’s shop is doing well right now with their one piece flow setup, he and Saunders talk about how to set up their workflows and palettes to maximize their productivity.
How can you improve workflow?
What can The Office teach you about machining? Saunders talks about how The Office and the movie “Deep Impact” inspired him to “seize the day, be deliberate, keep planning, and keep working”. Good news: you can do this well into old age.
Saunders’ “Not a To-Do List”
“One of the things that no one tells you as an entrepreneur is that it can be difficult to not have a boss” - Saunders
Saunders and his wife sit down in the morning to talk business and set a focus area for the day. This turns into a focus list that helps Saunders justify how he spends his time.
What does a “goal” mean to different people?
Article mentioned in podcast: The seven things you must go through before making $1 million in revenue
“Actions have to match the ambitions, or else you’re just making it up” - Grimsmo
Grimsmo’s upcoming improvements: heat treating processes, and the lock bar insert for the knives.
5-Axis Blues Bliss!
Saunders was hesitant at first about going 5-axis, but he is in love with it now!
Do you have a parallel version of you? Maybe it's time to give them a shout and review the first half of the year with them, you may be surprised.
John and John have more than just their names in common; they also are in about the same place business wise, and have about the same number of employees. Now all Grimsmo needs is that new shop!
Saunders and Grimsmo discuss the balancing act that is being both a technician and a manager. It comes down to hierarchies, and making employees feel respected and listened to.
Coming soon to a podcast near you: Torque Wrenches, the continuing battle!
Saunders struggles with his Haas and tries to make 5 axis machining simple
“The beauty of 5-axis is that you should have the ability to just do that” - Grimsmo
Locking down the lock bar insert!
We all know Grimsmo strives to make his knives perfect, and now it’s time to improve the reliability of the process. So far everything is going swimmingly, the insert just needs to pass the “spine whacking” test. Which is exactly what it sounds like.
Lathes, lathes, lathes!!! ...Saunders? Are you still there?
The smallest part that Grimsmo has ever made is going to come out of his lathe, and be put into the lock bar insert.
Check out Geissele Triggers: https://geissele.com/
FOMO does not apply to Grimsmo...he wants things to happen without him! AND THEY ARE! The team tried out the new Arbor press the other day, video to come out soon on Grimsmo’s channel.
Saunders dream job? High level R&D! Dream vacation? Coming to see the Grimsmo shop! And dreams are coming true next week for both Saunders and Grimsmo, as he'll come by the shop and hang out with the whole crew. Keep an eye out for that video! Who knows what’s going to happen when the two John’s are in the same room!
If you haven't felt STUPENDOUS lately, this podcast will brighten your day. Get ready for a game of Not Metalurgist Part 1 & 2, a nugget of advice from Brad Southard, and Saunders gets his butt kicked by a 5th-Axis toolpath on the HAAS!
Up the ANTSY?
During the annual Blade Show lull, Grimsmo suddenly finds extra time AND the urge to move on to something new.
Instead of making parts, he's pinpointing areas for improvement and keenly observing his behavioral patterns. #itfeelswrongbutitssoright
IMPROVEMENT NO. 1 <<<<FULL QUENCH>>>>
Thanks to the lapping machine, flat is actually FLAT. However, that means turning a critical eye toward the heat treating process. Grimsmo's idea involves a 2-ton arbor press. Wave goodbye!
THREADMILLING: Are you "doing it wrong?" If it's wrong but it works, does it matter? Ya might be killin' your tool life though! Grimsmo and Saunders discuss multiple passes, spring passes, cutter comp, and macros for tool life management.
VIDEO: Renishaw Probe like CMM
IMPROVEMENT NO. 2: LOCK BAR INSERT + DISGUSTINGLY TINY SCREWS...
We Paul Akers'd it!
The evolution of the podcast process represents something bigger.
Grimsmo shares an EPIPHANY when first encountering macros & tool life management--not knowing where or how to start and NOW, he's teaming up with Autodesk to teach it! So, get out your SAGA and get ready to take notes!
The end is nigh for the Super Comfortable SMW Adaptive T-Shirt Campaign---get yours HERE!
MYTHBUSTERS: Keep Torque Wrenches Stored at 0?
The release of the SHOP UPDATE video provokes a litany of comments surrounding stored torque values. Fact or fiction? If you have any empirical data on this, PLEASE SHARE!
Push Cycle Start.
Saunders paraphrases an entrepreneurial, button-pushing e-mail. Both try their best to give advice for a fellow, overwhelmed entrepreneur.
Failing isn't the only issue. How do you deal with people losing faith in you after having failed multiple times?
FINALLY, 5-AXIS TOOLPATH ON THE HAAS!
Click Image for the IG Post!
OTHER LINKS:
Where in the world is Saunders now? Stockholm, Sweden! And it’s “life-changing”
How could it not be when it's this beautiful?
This episode is a shorty but a goodie as our two favourite John’s talk production and management at the Sandvick Coromant headquarters, and how it relates to their businesses.
Link to Sandvick Coromant: https://www.sandvik.coromant.com/en-gb/pages/default.aspx
Saunders was allowed to film, so keep an eye peeled for a video about his adventure in Sweden. It’ll come out in the net few months on his channel.
Highlights of the tour:
- Sandvick implements lean machining into everything, and the company is always improving (sounds familiar)
- They are hungry for quality and are always pushing themselves
- Focus on skilled labourers
- SO much Emphasis on profitability and the bottom line
Grimsmo is awed by how they’re still doing this on a grand scale...and keeping up with production!
Major themes that Saunders noticed:
They have an “ability to stay focused, and ability to say no” - Saunders
“Having that hyper driven focus of what you do, doesn’t mean you can’t do other things later. It just means you shouldn’t do them now” - Saunders
How to be a “legacy company”
Fun fact: Sandvick started having autonomous forklifts in their company in 1989! That’s been normal to them for the past 30 years!
Get ready for some soul searching in future episodes! Hint: it might happen sooner rather than later because Saunders is coming to Canada to hang out with Grimsmo!
Grimsmo: I'm back...I think.
GK: You sure?
Grimsmo: *rolls into shop at 11pm to feed the lathe* Yep!
Grimsmo's recovered from Blade Show 2018!
VIDEO: Blade 2018 w/ALEC STEELE and more awesome makers!
Delrin Bearing Cage QC Process--DIALED
Debur. Pivot. Slip Fit. Insert Bearings.
While Grimsmo's catching up on Delrin bearing cages,
catch up on SAGA SATURDAY!
Batch Gone Bad
Admitting a mistake is difficult but imagine admitting it publicly!
Mistakes lead to new processes but make sure your new checklist stays-- in check!
Read: The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get things Right
Forum on NYCCNC.com: Batch Flow VS. One Piece Flow
TALK SHOP RE: Tool Setting
Grimsmo's setting up different tools; touching off and centering them individually by using a dial test indicator in a Noga indicator in a collet. The guys mull over ideas to improve workflow.
DIY CNC Turret Lathe? But WHY though?
- we think we can
- we want a dedicated, highly useful tool to make individual, magnetic, fixture plate hole PLUGS!
VIDEO: DIY CNC TURRET LATHE
Saunders/Hermle Sit Down
Despite the cut-throat nature of the industry, Hermle holds a tremendous amount of respect for other companies who are doing it and doing it well! A rare sentiment these days.
Gorilla Glass Curiosity Assuaged?
Saunders reads the full e-mail aloud.
"It is indeed similar to a Prince Rupert's Drop but a lot COOLER!"-Jason V.
Sized Up and Soured
What happened in Northeast Ohio?
"A Machine tool is only as good as its last mile."
PATREON ASKS, GRIMSMO ANSWERS!
Grimsmo explores different avenues and decisions
that brought him to where he is today.
Cool products. Cool Tools. Staff to support the products and tools.
"Is that a vision or is that just greed?"
Grimsmo feels unfocused but from the outside looking in, Saunders gets a completely different picture!
SMOOTHING 
If you're looking for some sweet duds, look no further!
Next on the list: JORTS---jk.
WHO'S LAPPING NOW?
Click Photo to See IG Post!
Eric! That's who. According to him EVERYTHING ELSE IN THE SHOP IS WRONG!
First thing’s first: Grimsmo’s back from BLADE SHOW, BABY!
To sum up:
- Awesome team bonding experience. The Grimsmo crew and Brad Southard shared everything (including the booth and the AirBnB)
- Met SO MANY people during the event, and down in the pit!
“A great way for makers to connect with their customers.” - Grimsmo
“Meeting people is what it’s all about!” - Saunders
The REVEAL of the SAGA!
Grimsmo did it! He crunched and turned the pen project into a pen PRODUCT!
And, just like Grimsmo, the pen is complicated and unique (especially the mechanism, which could stump an engineer)
Keep an eye on the Grimsmo YouTube channel! There’s gonna be a few videos on Blade Show coming out soon.
That’s a lap!
Grimsmo not only decided to get a lapping machine, it was delivered on Wednesday! But it’s just a loaner...the new one is bigger, better, and coming in a couple months.
The Negotiator
Saunders raves about the book he’s been reading lately called Never Split the Difference by Christopher Voss and Tahl Raz, which is all about the art of negotiation. It’s an art form, and the masters of it find win-win solutions.
Sometimes it’s okay to be blown away by the traction this podcast has, and Saunders takes a quick tangent to thank all our great listeners! (like Alec Steele!)
Our only regret is that maybe we should’ve called it “accountabilibuddies”.
What does Kate Spade have to do with the growth of a manufacturing business? A NPR podcast episode helps Saunders reflect on staying on track to happiness in your business.
“Growth can be addictive.” - Saunders
“You won’t realize how much energy you lost until you get it back.” - Saunders
OKAY let’s get down to nerding out about the new TORMACH SERIES
Better spindle, better horsepower, much better enclosure, and so much more that it won't fit in this description!
Thinking 5 Axis? So is Saunders; research keeps him focused.
Check out the book The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement by Eliyahu Goldratt. It’s an oldie but goodie.
Thinking about IMTS already? So are Saunders and Grimsmo. They’ll be heading to MHub in Chicago the Sunday before IMTS to do a talk at the manufacturing and entrepreneurship event.
There Ain't No Rest for the....Knife Maker?
Grimso's dragging from pulling a 14.5 hour shift to get the SAGA ready for Blade Show!
Speaking of Blade Show, it's TODAY!
Gathering the team with pens in pockets, GK heads to Atlanta, GA for the World's Largest Knife Show--and it's going to be his best year yet!
If you're headed there, make sure to stop by table 948 to find them!
Tolerances on Tolerances
Is GD&T controversial?
This system for defining and communicating tolerances seems like a great way to employ another lean principle but Saunders senses some hesitance.
Work-Flow for Tweaks?
Numbered egg crates. Low hanging fruit. Multiple Fusion File Updates?
Boring Out Stainless 45RC?
With constant surface speed 350 ft/min (106.68 M/min), the RPM changes make the subspindle sing. That little ditty could be a sign of struggle.
The MAM72-35V has made a lasting impression on Saunders.
Check out the newly released AMAZING Matsuura 5-Axis CNC Show Room and Interview with Katsu Matsuura!
It's about the JOURNEY--not the DESTINATION
Grimsmo's taking advice about capturing the SAGA of the SAGA on film! See the newest SAGA SATURDAY EPISODE! The journey is ALWAYS on PI TIME.
Process Sheets & Manuals Underway
The SAGA is the first GK product with documented process sheets!
Ed creates a Guide to Shipping for SMW.
QUE:The 2-year long Johnny 5 Project
With helping hands from the J5 Guru, the SMW team is making headway at a faster-than-anticipated speed but remember, Rome wasn't built in a day.
Broken Tools - THOSE ARE ROOKIE NUMBERS!
Click HERE to check out the IG POST.
GOOD OL' TUG AND PULL
Grimsmo's laser focus on the SAGA means that
attention to other business areas may be lacking a teensy bit.
Machinist Woes
The pieces and parts of your business are running like clock-work but something's missing.
Easy Answer: Get a dose of SPINDLE THERAPY!
Following the SAGA of the SAGA?
If you listen closely, you'll hear the sound of awesome!
Blade Show is fast approaching AND the SAGA's in the 5% tweak stage! Grimsmo's on a quest for honest feedback from those around him. If you're going to Blade Show, make sure to stop and say, "Hi!"
TIME TO TROUBLESHOOT
Grimsmo's trying to drill a 1/4" hole--2" deep but the drills are EXPLODING! Speaking of time, how long do the set-ups take? Touching off each tool = Confusion
"You're reinvigorating my hate (for lathes)!" - Saunders
SAGA SATURDAY EPISODE 1
Saunders gushes over the mechanism but wants to see more about the lead up!
Sharing the PROCESS
Showing mistakes takes guts when you have a reputation for excellence but that's HOW EXCELLENCE is made! Excellence in itself IS a process rather than a fugue state.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP & BUSINESS TOPICS
Minimum Product Viability (ARTICLE)
Actionable Items
Legitimate Scarcity
"Your mama was a snow blower!"
SMW team embarks on making the Johnny-5 from Short Circuit and Grimsmo's got only ONE REQUEST.
EDuino makes a cameo for a nano second.
THE STRUGGLE IS REAL
Saunders grapples with a big decision.
"This might be the last one I have in me."
CALLING BUSINESS OF MACHINING PATRONS:
What should the Johns should do while they're visiting together?