In the 136th episode of Taps and Patience, hosts AJ and Harrison, along with guest Ken from Flux Work Holding, discuss Ken's transition from Robertson Custom Creations to primarily focusing on Flux Work Holding, detailing the challenges and growth he experienced in refining his product line amidst changes in e-commerce and marketplace dynamics. Ken emphasizes the efficiency gains he achieved by adopting new machinery, specifically a Hermla five-axis machine, and shares insights on product development, marketing strategies, and his approach to maintaining a niche business model with an eye toward automation rather than expansion. The conversation also veers into technical discussions about the design and functionality of vices, culminating in a light-hearted exchange about coffee preferences and future growth strategies for Ken's business.

In the 135th episode of "Taps and Patience" hosts AJ and Harrison discuss their current work challenges and successes, with AJ sharing insights on recent jobs including complex part machining and shop improvements, while Harrison updates on the setup of a new lathe machine. They also delve into various teaching methods for work coordinate systems, revealing the struggles AJ faces in helping his students grasp the concepts involved in probing macros. The episode concludes with a blend of light banter about robots, upcoming projects, and the importance of streamlining shop operations.

In episode 134 of the "Taps and Patience" podcast, AJ and Harrison chat about their experiences with work and machinery, including updates on Harrison's new machine and its complicated electrical setup. They discuss their ongoing workload, productivity improvements, and the exciting potential for new automation technologies in their businesses. AJ shares that he's had a record month in income due to increased efficiency and successful projects, while Harrison highlights his growth and plans for the future, including exploring new machinery options.

In the 133rd episode of the Taps and Patients podcast, hosts AJ and Harrison discuss their hectic October work schedules, including details about Harrison's new machine which is awaiting a transformer and power upgrade to become operational. AJ shares a challenging experience with part manufacturing and shipping issues that led to broken tools and costly shipping problems, emphasizing the need for efficient processes in a machine shop. They also touch on upcoming advancements in Harrison's adherence to AS9100 standards, their ERP system progress, and a new teaching methodology AJ is implementing, concluding with a call for collaboration on manufacturing projects.

n Episode 132 of the Taps and Patience podcast, AJ and Harrison discuss Harrison's new lathe, a DN Solutions Lynx 2100 LSYB, its specifications, features, and the expected learning curve associated with it. They also touch upon challenges faced in machining, such as warping of materials and improving operational efficiency, and discuss the importance of adapting workflows and systems to keep up with their growing manufacturing needs. Finally, they introduced a new tool developed for generating Kanban cards from Fusion tool libraries, emphasizing the balance between busy work in the shop and higher-level strategic thinking.Check out our Kanban Generator: https://subtractmanufacturing.com/kanban

In the 131st episode of Taps and Patience, hosts AJ and Harrison are joined by guest Ben, discussing their backgrounds in machining and the evolution of their respective businesses. Ben shares his journey from trade school to founding his shop, Prickly Pear Prototypes, which focuses primarily on ITAR work for defense startups and research labs. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies, growth challenges, and the intricacies of managing a machine shop, highlighting the importance of documentation and finding the right balance between production capabilities and business management.

In the 130th episode of "Taps and Patience," hosts AJ and Harrison discuss various topics including AJ's broken microphone, their experiences at Fabtech, and AJ's busy week preparing parts for shipment and participating in a meetup. They also delve into Harrison's recent work fabricating medical parts, challenges with quality control using CMM, and the nuances of using different measuring tools to improve accuracy. Throughout the episode, they reflect on manufacturing best practices, advertising strategies, and the dynamics of running their respective businesses while sharing insights on machining techniques and tools.

In the latest episode of Taps and Patience, AJ and Harrison discuss changes in their work environments, sharing struggles with specific machining challenges, including issues with tool setups and material warping. AJ reflects on his experiences with his recent projects, such as teaching classes and upcoming Mastercam training, while Harrison talks about the complexities of managing a young company and navigating client relationships, especially with a new medical project. They also explore the idea of creating an open-source franchise model for machining that shares best practices and standard tools to help others grow in the industry.

In the 128th episode of "Taps and Patience," AJ and Harrison discuss their recent challenges in machining, particularly AJ's struggles with warping large parts and Harrison's updates on family matters and new projects, including the use of a CMM for medical parts. They dive into details about their respective experiences with different machining tools and the importance of safety measures in their shops, such as eyewash stations and fire extinguisher placement. The conversation touches on the complexities of utilizing CAD software like Fusion in ITAR-compliant scenarios and their perspectives on various CNC machines, notably the Doosan and Haas, reflecting on performance and reliability within their operations.

In the 127th episode of Taps and Patience, hosts AJ and Harrison discuss a variety of topics, including new machinery at Harrison's shop, upcoming automation solutions, and the status of production orders. They also touch on the challenges of teaching and the evolution of AJ's teaching style to better accommodate students of varying speeds and skill levels. The conversation shifts to book recommendations, where they share a range of both business and fiction titles, emphasizing the importance of learning and self-improvement in their respective fields.

In the 126th episode of "Taps and Patience," AJ from Subtract Manufacturing and Harrison from Precision Ingenuity discuss their current work and projects. AJ shares updates about Subtract becoming an LLC and working on software improvements for better customer experience, while also detailing challenges with manufacturing acrylic cylinders. Harrison updates on a new CMM installation, their experience with machining issues, and discusses the importance of diversifying their customer base to manage risk better in the business.

The super cool lathe tool block we talked about: https://www.instagram.com/p/DNVsetTR5gM

In episode 125 of the "Taps and Patience" podcast, AJ and Harrison discuss their recent activities, including AJ's busy teaching week and Harrison's experience dealing with challenging machining jobs. They share insights about manufacturing processes, tool setup, and the learning experiences of their employees when transitioning between different CNC machine brands like Haas and FANUC. Additionally, they touch upon AJ's struggles with a used car purchase and emphasize the importance of having solid processes in place to improve efficiency and quality in machining.

In the 124th episode of Taps and Patience, AJ and Harrison discuss their recent experiences, including Harrison's travels to Canada and their absence from recording new content. They also reflect on challenges faced in manufacturing, such as tooling issues and the importance of business transformation while addressing employee training and productivity. Additionally, they delve into the nuances of programming CNC machines and the impact of using modern tools versus traditional methods for teaching and production efficiency.Tools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the latest episode of "Taps to Patients," AJ and Harrison discuss their recent experiences, including Harrison's two-week vacation to Canada and family visits in Michigan, which included attending a funeral. AJ shares updates on Subtract Manufacturing’s new inspection process aimed at preventing defects rather than just catching them, which they believe will streamline quality assurance and ultimately lead to better products. They also touch on marketing strategies, shipping practices, and the importance of building relationships with customers and other shops while expressing excitement about future developments for their Tools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the 122nd episode of the Taps Patients podcast, AJ and Jacob discuss their current projects, including a big production job and the challenges they face in teaching and manufacturing. AJ shares his experience of purchasing a used Prius in hopes of saving on fuel costs for his commute but has encountered issues with the car that might make it less convenient than expected. The hosts also reflect on the efficiency of their quoting system for machining jobs and the importance of cultivating trust and quality standards among their network of shops.Buy Jamie's Anchor Point Zero Point System here!https://www.jspeceng.com/online-store/Anchor-Point-Base-Starter-Kit-p737261022Use Coupon Code: TAPTHAT25Join Toolpath!https://app.toolpath.com/sign-up?affiliate=180301HuffUse Code: 180301HuffTools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the 121st episode of Taps and Patients, AJ, Jacob, and Justin from Toolpath discuss the usage and features of Toolpath software, emphasizing its role in CAM automation and quoting processes. They address various user experiences, the development of tool libraries, and the challenges associated with implementing new features and improving usability. Additionally, Justin shares insights on the software's AI foundations and the ongoing efforts to enhance documentation and educational resources for users, while also announcing special offers for potential subscribers.Join Toolpath Today:https://app.toolpath.com/sign-up?affiliate=180301HuffTools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the latest episode of "Taps and Patients," AJ and Jacob discuss various topics related to their machining and teaching experiences, including the challenges of standardizing tool setups in their shops and the importance of critical thinking skills in education. They share insights on using tools and technologies, like instant online quoting systems, and the impact of artificial intelligence on content creation and problem-solving within the manufacturing sector. Additionally, they mention upcoming events like Fabtech and IMTS, emphasizing the significance of networking and learning opportunities within the machining community.Toolpath:https://app.toolpath.com/sign-up?affiliate=180301HuffTools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the 119th episode of the Taps Patients podcast, AJ and Harrison discuss their experiences managing a manufacturing shop, focusing on how hiring employees has alleviated some of their mental load while allowing them to focus on improvements and processes. They share insights on the importance of correctly training employees to minimize errors and maintain efficiency, illustrating their points with examples of minor accidents and teaching challenges in their respective roles. The conversation meanders through topics like automation, processes inspired by aviation, and financial management challenges in small businesses, while emphasizing the need for ongoing learning and adaptation in their operations.Tools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the 118th episode of Taps and Patients, hosts AJ and Harrison discuss their recent experiences, including Harrison's kayaking adventure where he and his wife lost and recovered her phone, and AJ's uneventful week spent in a shop with apprentices. The conversation shifts to machining topics, touching on the challenges of training new employees, and the importance of teaching foundational skills and troubleshooting techniques. Throughout the episode, they also address various listener questions regarding machine preferences, pricing strategies, and competition in the manufacturing industry, particularly focusing on the contrast between high-quality and low-cost production.Got Chips on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/got_chips_llcYoutube video about Op2 Stock:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAVqp04JzPITools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y

In the 117th episode of Taps and Patients, hosts AJ and Harrison discuss recent events in their respective businesses, including Harrison's hiring of two part-time employees, Ben and Parker, and their training progress in utilizing CNC machines. They also touch on the challenges of managing workloads amidst personal commitments and share insights about their experiences with various manufacturing technologies and equipment. The episode highlights the importance of documenting processes, maintaining quality control in coolant management, and the ongoing development of their companies, while also expressing gratitude towards their Patreon supporters.Sinister Machine Works: https://youtube.com/@sinistermachineworks?si=x9k8cdjY-pjlZb7cTools:Torque Wrench Adapter ER40: https://amzn.to/3SOx9AfAllen Wrench Set: https://amzn.to/3KeFYg4Pliers Wrench: https://amzn.to/3G0eqKlTumbler: https://amzn.to/3tMKlsUAir Compressor: https://amzn.to/3ilQSUYBlast Cabinet: https://amzn.to/37yYlOkBlasting Grit: https://amzn.to/3iiPpi7Rapid Air System: https://amzn.to/3uatCiqCamera: https://amzn.to/3qjtSdJMicroscope: https://amzn.to/3E3PV1Y