Strong sales and demand keep optimism alive, even as distributors come to terms with the new normal of outrageous delivery schedules. Meanwhile, major shipping concerns are deploying blockchain technology to manage global supply chains, despite the fastener industry’s apparent disinterest. AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin weighs in on the situation and discusses his company’s recent wave of acquisitions (1:47:16). Fresh off a merger of their own, Lindfast Solutions Group manager Jon Newman and Solution Industries GM Tim Vath share their thoughts on joining forces and moving ahead (22:17). On the Fastener News Report, industry newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Hayes Bolt VP Kelly Cole to assess the sagging FDI reading (55:59). Carmen Vertullo explains the mystery that is the jam nut, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:38:18). BONUS: Star spokesman Stainless Stan makes his debut appearance (49:53). Brian and Eric glimpse the future, and try to provide a missing link. Run time: 02:35:19

The new year brings continued business momentum, along with a full decade of data on which to measure it, as the Fastener Distributor Index marks its first full decade. Fastenal CFO, Holden Lewis returns to reflect on his role in the creation of the popular industry benchmark (20:36). 2022 also brings continued challenges, and Würth Revcar CEO Chapman Revercomb sees supply chain transparency as a major key to meeting them (1:32:36). On the Fastener News Report, industry newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Abbott-Interfast president Bob “GQ” Baer to review the latest FDI numbers (46:54). Is your zinc plating RoHS compliant? Carmen Vertullo explains what to know during the Fastener Training Minute (1:21:04). PLUS: Exciting details of upcoming industry events you can get in on now! Brian and Eric brush off some peculiar emulation and make serious plans to take some fastener folks fishing. Run time: 02:11:51

The fastener industry knows how to enjoy its festivities, but also how to open its heart when it counts. Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Matt Boyd of Parker Fasteners explain their plan to make a difference (1:35:03).  Desert Distribution managing partner Jo Morris looks back on a memorable year, and looks ahead with new offerings (15:57). Eurolink boss  Craig Penland discusses his formula for on-time inbound shipments (43:40).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty makes the case for actual fair trade, and welcomes Baird analyst David Manthey to cover the FDI (54:16).  And Carmen Vertullo presents his thoughts on fastener re-usability on the Fastener Training Minute (1:23:30). Cameos: GQ, Cavoto & GHIII BONUS Retro Chestnuts: Screwdolph and JR Prahl's The Gift.  Brian and Eric look for a direct connection to an obscure fastener.  Run time: 02:27:09

The fastener industry converged on Cleveland amid ongoing supply and pricing pressures, a tight labor market and new acquisitions. Despite the challenges, Fastener Fair USA saw good attendance and an abundance of fun. Stelfast president O.J. Simpson announces a new product category and explains the origin of the legendary Monkey (22:54). On the Fastener News Report, Earnest Machine CEO Kirk Zehnder joins screw biz journo Mike McNulty to break down the latest FDI reading (43:49). Industry educator Carmen Vertullo considers bolted joint tightness on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:38). From the show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey takes the pulse of show attendees Tom Massar, Steve Rogalla, Rich Cavoto, T.J. Munson, Heidi Volltrauer, London Penland, Chris McCaffrey, GHIII, Maryann Waltz, Bernie Longen and many more (1:25:25). BONUS DEBUT: Hall of Fame rep Marty Nolan performs his "Ode to Old Rusty Bolt" (2:12:16). Ever pragmatic, Brian and Eric discover the upside of severe port congestion. Run time: 02:15:30

The fastener world is running at a different pace as supply issues and ongoing consolidation impact the industry. Meanwhile, questionable policy trends add further uncertainty and pressure to the mix. Fortunately, emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing offer hope of new opportunities to forward thinking companies, as Achim Grenner of the Würth Additive Group explains (22:56). Adding their observations to the dialogue, Tough Mudder team mates Jake “Valdez” Davis, John “Cool Hand” Butler, and Jill Lewis react to the changing business environment (1:34:40). On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes AIS president Nick Ruetz to discuss the resilience of the newest FDI reading (53:23). Also, Industrial Distribution editor Mike Hockett presents a summary of the shake ups in this year’s Big 50 list (1:11:57). Carmen Vertullo discusses a critical but touchy aspect related to nuts, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:25:08). BONUS: IFE manager Morgan Wilson addresses the carpet controversy after the Vegas show (2:32:00). Brian and Eric are willing to consider almost any proposal, but decide against putting grasshoppers on the menu. Run time: 02:38:08

The 2021 International Fastener Expo surprised many with its stronger than expected attendance and upbeat feel.  Direct from the scaled down show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey speaks with attendees on a wide variety of topics. Plus, results of the hotly contested golf tourney. Run time: 50:00

Fastener Professional of the Year, family business operator and philanthropist Jim Derry of Field Fastener reflects on what it takes to be successful in business and in life (1:29:32). NCFA Screw Open full coverage, including this year's winner of the coveted FTR Award, Laura Vath, Dan Duffield, Kim Arnold, Charlie Kerr, Kurt Triptow and many more! (20:36).  Star Stainless national sales manager, Bryan Wheeler joins industry newsman Mike McNulty to discuss the latest FDI and shocking outlook reading on the Fastener News Report (56:21). On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains when it's good to substitute a long socket set screw for a stud, and when it's not (1:21:37).  BONUS: Fastener CFO for hire Pete Carlson explains why it makes sense to review your financials, and where to look for hidden revenue (41:20). Brian and Eric contemplate the drifting sands of time, while assiduously avoiding sand traps and perilous golf situations in general. Run time:  02:07:33

The Mid-West Fastener Association table top show, 75th anniversary black tie gala, and annual golf tournament were wildly successful.  Kicked off by a pair of unofficial but equally energized events, FSTNR Week '21 was received by an enthusiastic fastener industry, ready to return to face to face events.  Nancy Rich, GHIII, Kam Dorsey,  Mike Stamm, Rob "Big Country" Reynolds, Bobby Wegner, Heidi Volltrauer, John "Cool Hand" Butler, Christian Reich, Colin Cochart, Jake "Valdez" Davis and many more! PLUS: Tough Mudder, NFA meet-up &  golf results. Run time: 42:01

Fastener industry legend and chip shot artist Mr. Robbie Gilchrist describes current market conditions, the future of the rep business, and how the NFDA found its way (18:28/1:30:25). AIM Testing Labs partner Rob LaPointe explains how hydrogen embrittlement is like an M&M (42:29). On the Fastener News Report, Fastener Technology International managing editor Mike McNulty hosts S.W. Anderson Company senior manager Jim Costello to unpack the latest mixed FDI numbers (53:28). Carmen Vertullo explains that blind rivets have a wider range of applications than you might think on the Fastener Training Minute (1:21:06). PLUS: Todd McRoberts has a new cold heading home! Connoisseurs of both snack foods and liberty, Brian and Eric note examples of the stifling results of bureaucratic overreach. Run time: 02:17:11

Fastener distributors rely on firmly grounded suppliers, especially in stormy seas, so it’s good to know Star Stainless Screw Company has an experienced captain at the helm. President Tim Roberto Jr. opines on the choppy overseas shipping situation, and the benefits of a good float (20:18). With the MWFA’s big week on the horizon, board member Tabitha Herbst, along with Bobby Wegner of Beacon Fasteners & Components, and Jill Lewis of Associated Fastening Products weigh in on preparations for the electrifying kick-off race (1:52:53). Just back ashore, IFE manager Morgan Wilson previews this year’s Vegas show (53:38). Then, Frank “Balboa” DeVito of Solution Industries joins Fastener News Report editor Mike McNulty for a cruise through the fastener news (1:04:46). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo describes a specific kind of customer rejection situation (1:44:51). BONUS: S.W. Anderson boss Jim Costello talks hydrogen embrittlement while basting ribs! Brian and Eric have fun with their peers on the piers. Run time: 02:28:47