In this episode, I’m drilling into one of the most critical aspects of running a successful business: managing cash flow. 

I’ll explain why understanding the gap between Day Sales Outstanding (DSO) and Day Payables Outstanding (DPO) is crucial, and how leveraging that gap can give your business a major advantage.  

You’ll also hear practical strategies for negotiating extended terms with your vendors, using credit cards to your benefit (hello, cash back!), and encouraging your customers to pay faster. These are real-world tips you can start applying today to keep your shop running smoothly and profitably. Don’t miss it!

Yeppers…I messed up!  In a previous episode, I threw out some numbers about ERP costs, and my good friend, Paul Van Metre from ProShop, hit me with a "Jim, WTF?" moment. Turns out, I wasn’t entirely accurate about ERP implementation costs, especially for shops with $5–10M in revenue. 

To set the record straight, Paul joined me in the studio to break it all down. We’re talking real numbers, hidden costs, and what it truly takes to implement an ERP system that can streamline your shop and take your business to the next level. 

Think you know what an ERP should cost? You might be surprised. Tune in to hear where I went wrong, what I learned, and how to make smart investments for your manufacturing operation.

In this episode I welcome Jayden Mackinnin from Fluid-Aire Dynamics to the my TRUE POSITION studio to discuss a cutting-edge solution that’s transforming industries: in-house nitrogen gas generation. We break down the biggest challenges companies face with traditional liquid nitrogen—like high costs, logistical headaches, and environmental concerns—and explore how generating your own nitrogen on-site can solve them all. From debunking misconceptions about the technology to understanding the real safety and cost benefits, Jayden delivers insights that will leave you rethinking your approach to nitrogen.

Are you ready to set your business up for success in 2025? In this episode we explore the critical decisions you need to make today to thrive tomorrow. From creating targeted marketing campaigns that resonate, to setting achievable sales goals that drive growth, I’ll share actionable insights to help you stay ahead. We’ll dive into building operational resilience, managing finances for sustainable expansion, and empowering your team with strong leadership.

Your future starts now. Whether it’s refining processes, leveraging new technology, or aligning your team with a shared vision, this episode gives you the tools to plan effectively and make an impact. Don’t wait for 2025 to start—listen now and take control of your success!

Are you ready to bust a move on the shop floor? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, we’re diving into the world of Gemba Walks—manufacturing’s ultimate groove for continuous improvement. Inspired by the catchy rhythm of the "Macarena," we’re coining it the GEMBA-rena! But this isn’t just a catchy name; it’s a game-changing approach to connecting with your team, identifying inefficiencies, and fostering a culture of collaboration and quality.

Join me as I break down the benefits of this hands-on management practice, from boosting morale to streamlining processes, and even outline a step-by-step plan for implementing Gemba Walks in your own shop. Whether you’re a Shop Lead, Operations Manager, or the President of your company, this episode will inspire you to hit the shop floor with purpose and groove toward success. Tune in and let’s step into the GEMBA-rena together!

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I challenge you to take a hard look at your machine shop. Are you running it as a lifestyle business, content with mediocrity, or are you ready to scale and thrive? We’ll explore what it truly means to embrace growth versus staying comfortable. If you've ever wondered whether you're holding yourself back or playing it too safe, this episode is your wake-up call. Tune in to decide where your shop stands!

In a fun twist for this episode, we flip the script! Day Hurn, Sales & Marketing Specialist at Robojob-USA, takes over the mic to interview me. We discuss  the future of automation in 2025, exploring how AI, robotics, and lights-out machining are transforming manufacturing. It’s not just about tech—it’s about the mindset shift needed to stay competitive. Join us for candid insights, unexpected questions, and a whole new perspective on what’s next in manufacturing!

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, we dive into one of those unglamorous but critical shop tasks: cleaning the coolant tanks. Who’s responsible? Why does it matter? Join us as we tackle the often-overlooked world of coolant maintenance, exploring its impact on machine performance, shop efficiency, and team morale. If you’ve ever dodged this duty or want tips on delegating it right, tune in—you’ll want to hear this!

Thinking about scaling your manufacturing business from $1M to $100M? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I break down the real costs of growing a manufacturing company at every stage. From upgrading equipment and expanding leadership teams to navigating supply chain complexities and international expansion, we cover what it really takes to build a thriving operation. If you're ready to grow but unsure of the financial and operational hurdles ahead, this episode is for you.

In this episode I talk about the crucial question: Do today's young people really grasp the impact and intricacies of manufacturing? 

As Gen Z and Gen Alpha start to shape the future, it's essential that we spotlight the innovative and dynamic nature of manufacturing. Join me as I explore how showcasing our industry can inspire and engage the next generation, ensuring they recognize the opportunities and advancements that await. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on bridging the gap and making manufacturing an exciting prospect for young minds!