Andrew and Jay kick off 2025 with a wide-ranging conversation about everything from the history of urban neighborhoods and local governance, navigating customer expectations, managing inventory, and handling unexpected crises like power outages. We also dive into the importance of aligning with vendors, and the intricacies of new machine installations.

Andrew sits down with John Saunders of Saunders Machine Works for a candid discussion about their John's visit to Andrew's shop, lessons in lean manufacturing, and the challenges of running a small business. 

As 2024 wraps up, Andrew and Jay reflect on the year. They discuss lessons learned in 2024, and how they're preparing for industry shifts in 2025. Plus Jay reveals an exciting new diversification venture in the tiny home industry, Piccola Tiny Homes, and how lean principles are transforming this space. 

Jay goes solo, discussing the challenges and triumphs of launching Pierson's latest product, walking listeners through the “Musk Algorithm”—a five-step framework for process creation and optimization:

 1. Question assumptions and requirements.

 2. Delete unnecessary components.

 3. Optimize processes.

 4. Accelerate production.

 5. Automate intelligently.

And do that in them order, or else! Alongside, Jay delves into Pearson’s philosophy of a people-centric lean company, the value of questioning long-standing practices, and how to foster a work culture where innovation thrives.

The big reveal: Andrew finally shares which 5-axis CNC machine he chose and why it outshone other strong contenders (you’ll have to tune in to find out which one made the cut). Along the way, we dive deep into the decision-making process for major shop investments, offering valuable insights for anyone facing similar choices.

How about something a little different? 

Andrew and Jay take a detour through the world of craftsmanship, innovation, and efficiency by way of music. They discuss the evolution of electric bass designs, the nuances of machining and guitar manufacturing, and how lean principles can be applied not only to manufacturing processes but also to everyday life, from jiu-jitsu to efficient workspace setups. 

Along the way, they share stories about their newest equipment, the challenges of expanding their businesses, and the balancing act of maintaining quality while maximizing efficiency.

This week, we dive into the madness of Cyber Monday, Black Friday, and the whole crazy sales season. Ever wondered if discounts are really worth it? We’re talking about the psychology of sales—why free stuff beats discounts, how to build customer loyalty (shoutout to Gary Vee and John Taffer), and why one of us is over Black Friday sales. We also share behind-the-scenes stories of shipping blunders that’ll make you cringe. Plus, the thrill of new machines arriving at the shop.

Don’t miss:

• Why “pre-sales” are the worst.
• How to make your customers love you without cheapening your brand.
• Stories from the trenches of manufacturing chaos.

Both Jay and Andrew have made some big purchases lately, including Andrew's final decision on a 5-axis machine. In this episode, they share candid stories about navigating those choices. Just what kind of thought do you put into a six-figure decision? Do you trust your gut, do you rationalize, or what? Oh, and they also discuss battling gophers (yes, really).

Jay and Andrew talk about getting paid by ideas versus getting paid by hours, passing the right kind of physical legacy on to your kids, the purposes of reserve cash, and more.

Jay and Andrew start by discussing what they will focus on as business owners coming out of this election. (Hint: focus on what you can control, which, it turns out, is actually quite a lot.) Then they talk about numbers. Some business owners run their operations based on a thorough understanding of all the relevant numbers. For some, this can lead to wonderful results; for others, it can be incredibly stifling. How do you use numbers to your advantage?