Innovation in manufacturing is often framed as a technology problem. Better machines, faster software, smarter automation. But in this episode of Buy the Numbers, the conversation takes a different turn, one that looks past tools and toward the human systems that actually make innovation stick.

Mike Payne is joined once again by Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath, for a wide-ranging discussion on why innovation truly happens at the speed of communication and why trust, relationships, and shared experiences matter more than ever in an AI-driven world. From AI-powered productivity to the limitations of traditional trade shows, Al challenges conventional thinking about how the manufacturing industry learns, connects, and moves forward.

The episode centers on Toolpath's upcoming Machining Summit on the Summit in Mammoth Mountain, an intentionally unconventional event designed to prioritize conversation over sales pitches and relationships over transactions. By removing the usual trade show noise, Al explains how smaller, effort-required gatherings create deeper connections, better idea exchange, and more meaningful outcomes for shop owners and industry leaders.

Along the way, the conversation explores community building, trust in an age of AI, why shared meals and experiences still matter, and how manufacturers can rethink events, partnerships, and collaboration to drive real progress. This episode isn't about hype. It's about the numbers behind innovation, and why people remain the most important variable.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (0:39) Learn about the Machining Summit on the Summit (and why you should go)
• (7:28) Why you should consider attending the IMTS Exhibitor workshop
• (9:38) How Toolpath builds community and trust beyond the product
• (13:06) Why trust becomes more important as AI capabilities increase
• (14:10) Who the summit is built for and why decision-maker diversity matters
• (17:34) Selecting panelists who prioritize shared knowledge over gatekeeping
• (19:54) Why we love the SMW Autoblok catalog
• (20:35) Balancing shop owners, vendors, and leaders for broader perspective
• (24:18) Who should attend the Machining Summit on the Summit?
• (25:52) Creating access for newer and smaller shops through Fresh Tracks
• (28:04) Why shared experiences, meals, and even plus-ones deepen trust
• (31:17) Grow your top and bottom line with CLA

Resources & People Mentioned

• Register for the Machining Summit on the Summit
• Why you should consider attending the IMTS Exhibitor workshop
• Why we love the SMW Autoblok catalog
• Grow your top and bottom line with CLA

Connect with Al Whatmough

• Toolpath
• Connect on LinkedIn

Connect With Buy the Numbers

• Follow on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mike Payne on LinkedIn

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Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK