Justin is joined by the one and only Chris Zappettini of Zappettini Consulting for a dive deep into one of their core mantras: “First we make good parts, then we make fast parts.” The duo explores how this principle has shaped their businesses, their code, and their cutting strategies.

From the long evolution of Chris’s Asana-based systems to the quirks of quoting, automation, and job shop workflows, they break down how chasing optimization too early can sabotage progress, and how building something solid first paves the way for meaningful speed later. Along the way, they touch on:

• Why premature optimization is the enemy

• Lessons from job shops, turnkeys, and aerospace brackets

• The surprising power of templates and standardized quoting

• The real goal: fast throughput, not just fast cycle time

• AI’s role in matching parts to templates

Whether you’re running a machine shop, writing code, or just trying to build a better system, this episode delivers a punchy reminder: reliability before speed, clarity before cleverness, and good parts before fast ones.

Garrett Wade joins Justin to break down how smart use of Fusion 360 templates, container methods, and zero-point workholding can save hours on every job. From soft jaw strategies to avoiding Z-crashes—and even a peek at Toolpath’s AI-driven future—this episode is packed with practical CAM wisdom for shops that want to move faster and safer.

Join me on the Chips and Tips Podcast as I chat with Tyler Bonde from Mitsui Seiki in episode #12. This episode marks my return to podcasting after recovering from a neck and back injury. Tyler and I dive into his fascinating journey from growing up in Minnesota to his current role in North Carolina. We explore his diverse career path, including his early interest in automotive trades and his transition into machining. Tyler shares insights into his work at Mitsui Seiki, where precision and reliability are key. We also reminisce about our first meeting at a go-karting event, highlighting our shared passion for racing. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the machining industry, personal stories, and the importance of building relationships in sales.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I sit down with Miguel Pinilla, CTO of Arda Systems, to explore the intricate world of automation and variability in supply chain logistics. With over 25 years of experience, Miguel shares insights on the challenges of ensuring timely deliveries, the importance of managing work in progress, and how variability can wreak havoc on operations. We delve into the role of robots in reducing variability and enhancing efficiency, particularly in job shops. Whether you're a manufacturing enthusiast or a logistics professional, this episode offers valuable tips on optimizing processes and maintaining stability in an ever-demanding environment. Join us as we navigate the tyranny of now and uncover strategies to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of manufacturing and logistics.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I dive deep into the world of Kanban with Uriel Eisen from Arda and Austere Manufacturing. We explore how Kanban can streamline inventory management and prevent the chaos of running out of essential supplies. I share my personal journey of implementing Kanban at Toolpath, where I faced challenges like broken end mills and the hassle of reordering. Uriel explains the basics of Kanban, its origins in the Toyota production system, and practical tips for implementation. We discuss the benefits of having a centralized ordering system, the flexibility of creating partial cards, and the importance of assigning ownership in the ordering process. Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to Kanban, this episode offers valuable insights to enhance your shop's efficiency. Tune in to learn how Kanban can transform your workflow.

Join me, Justin from Toolpath Labs, as I dive into an engaging conversation with Jim Belosic, founder of SendCutSend, on this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast. Discover how Jim's journey from needing car parts to building a thriving business revolutionized the manufacturing world. We explore the challenges and innovations in CNC machining, focusing on SendCutSend's unique approach of producing parts without traditional prints. Jim shares insights on leveraging advanced technology and software to meet customer needs efficiently. Learn about the company's philosophy of training customers to design manufacturable parts and the exciting potential of bridging the gap between designers and machinists. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious hobbyist, this episode offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of manufacturing. Tune in to explore how SendCutSend is shaping the future of machining.

Feel like every quote they write is a shot in the dark

Have been burned by material costs, missed features, or surprise inspection demands

Use slitting saws, glue and tape, or even manual mills to solve wild quoting puzzles

Are trying to raise prices without losing customers (or their minds)

Quoting mistakes (and the weird lessons learned)

Setup strategies for weird parts—including a $2,000 block of PEEK

Expediting nightmares, tooling tricks, and the soft jaw rabbit hole

Whether automation, zero-point systems, or tape-and-glue workholding actually change how you price jobs

When to send a “go away” quote—and when it backfires

Join me on the latest episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, where I catch up with Pete, our Head of Product at Toolpath. We dive into his experiences over the past few months, including our recent team retreat in Cleveland. Discover the dynamics of our remote team coming together and the spontaneous creativity that unfolded. Pete shares insights into our product roadmap, focusing on three exciting projects: Project Golden, Project Otter, and more. Learn how we're making Toolpath smarter and more intuitive, and get a sneak peek into the innovative ways we're enhancing user experience. Plus, hear about our late-night brainstorming sessions and the intriguing mechanics of a unique bowling alley. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with laughter, tech talk, and future plans.

Join me, Tim Paul, on the latest episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast as I sit down with Mark Terryberry from Haas Automation, renowned for his role in the Haas Tip of the Day series. We dive into Mark's journey from a machinist to an educational influencer in the industry. Discover the origins of the Tip of the Day videos and their significant impact on the machining community. Mark shares personal stories, including his early mechanical endeavors and the importance of hearing protection in the shop. We also explore the collaborative process behind creating these insightful videos and how they continue to shape the future of machining education. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with industry insights and personal anecdotes that highlight Mark's passion for sharing knowledge and fostering mentorship in the machining world.