Parts Department

By Justin Brouillette & Jem Freeman

What's Parts Department about?

Justin Brouillette (Portland CNC) & Jem Freeman (Like Butter) discuss CNC machines, their product design and manufacturing businesses, and every kind of tool that they fancy.

Show Website - https://dept.parts

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Parts Department episodes:

06.25.2024
Special Note from Justin
Secret Show EP06 â Crushing Creativity availableð Get the Secret Show here: patreon.com/partsdept You might also enjoy PDX CNC's latest Youtube on getting superb plywood cuts. This is a temporary "episode" and will self-destruct prior to the next show...
06.18.2024
101 - Is Justin 'Within Tolerance?'
Jem is on baby leave, catching up on sleep with three kids at home. In the meantime, Justin is featured on the Within Tolerance podcast with Dylan from Proteum Machining. In this episode, Justin shares his journey of starting Portland...
06.04.2024
100 - Meet Venn Gantt
Join us for our 100th episode! We get a bit nostalgic, discuss the challenges of product launches, reflect on lessons learned from business coaching, and explore the art of video content creation. Plus, we have a software corner, customer interactions,...
05.28.2024
99 - Who Needs Sleep Anyways
Jem & Justin have both been up too late again, fixing website code and struggling with CNC nesting labels. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on this Episode Both up too late againConfigurator updatesCSS fails at 1amNesting labelsMapBoards...
05.20.2024
98 - Keep it Spicy Siri
Justin and Jem try to remember how this works almost 100 episodes in. New ChatGPT is Jem's design assistant and Justin has launched a new range of CNC tooling! If only Siri would whip us into shape, we'd get so...
05.14.2024
97 - Beefs Entendre
Jem and Justin weigh in on the Drake vs Kendrick's rap beef and start their own beef with Fusion's Nesting Extension. They explore using Rhino with Python, tackle an overwhelming number of tasks, and manage browser tab overload. They also...
05.07.2024
96 - Verily, the 'Gram Doth Poppeth Off
Jem and Justin discuss the latest Instagram algorithm change that has exploded Jem's account, are split on re-marketing mechanics, and recap old and new Profit First practices. Also, an Airtable ERP class? Plus Llama 3 is out. Watch on Youtube...
04.30.2024
95 - Good morning daddy
Start your morning with a discussion on GPT memories, beachside podcasting, and LB's first configuration-based Kitta Parts sale. Weâve reached 600 new faces on IG, maintained low-stress levels, and managed those pesky bills. Alba also makes a cameo. Watch on...
04.23.2024
94 - How to train your Unicorn
Jem and Justin discuss the new Fusion CAD course, recap CNC Router Unicorn training, and explore SCORE mentorship, and AI support programs. They also update you on the latest inventory trends and share their newest musical creations on Udio! Watch...
04.15.2024
93 - Short and Sweet
Justin and Jem discuss the week in their small manufacturing businesses. New in-person training course prep for Justin and finally the KittaParts configurator is live for Jem. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on this Episode Sorry for...
04.09.2024
92 - Popped my Mirka
Jem and Justin discuss CNC Unicorn Training, the juggle of multiple roles, and the nuances of financial management. They also touch on the magic of software tools like Text Expander and network setups. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments...
04.02.2024
91 - Already Banned Myself
Jem and Justin chat task management, Siri automations, the pros and cons of benches for people vs benches for tasks, CNC aggregates, the obligatory Software Corner plus more on Profit First. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on...
03.26.2024
90 - Pi, Let's Role Play
Justin gets some time for "deep work." with Jem & Justin as they explore unique productivity hacks, from Pi Role Play to ditching time tracking. Plus, CNC router tips, savvy quoting strategies, and progress on managing finances with Profit First....
03.19.2024
89 - Smile through the Podcast
Jem and Justin delve into the ups and downs of running a business, from slow sales to the challenges and rewards of marketing. They share a light-hearted take on the need to "smile through the phone" and the peculiar shift...
03.12.2024
88 - Beurre MontÃ©
Join Jem and Justin as they discuss contraction and time management. They brainstorm product ideas from beds to DJ stations, and explore software tools like Quotient, Da Vinci Resolve, and Affinity. Both share experience with Profit First and they tackle...
03.05.2024
87 - But First, Profit
Justin and Jem discuss dealing with cash flow issues in their businesses, new financial strategies they are trying based on the book Profit First, banking and software tools they are using like the Spark email app. They also talk about...
02.20.2024
86 - Tumbled Walnut Knobs
Join Jem and Justin as they delve into the intricacies of CNC programming with a focus on tricky fillets, explore Bambu X1 mods, and discuss the creation of Apple Vision Pro. They share insights on Sora's role in AI, navigate...
02.06.2024
85 - Phone Booth 5-axis
In this nail biter, or wait, is it an ankle biter? Jem is still waking up and Justin has had a bajillion coffees. Or has he? We'll never know for sure. 5-axis lust, getting older, learning Fusion 360, the Bezos...
01.30.2024
84 - Union Pie Warmer
Join Jem and Justin as they dive into the peculiar world of Australian scorpions and their bedtime antics! They'll also discuss the latest on KittaConfig's deadline, remote installations, and the unexpected use of pie warmers. Plus, insights into decoupling time...
01.23.2024
83 - Expensed my Haircut
In this episode, Jem and Justin dive into the world of productivity and organization. They discuss the benefits of the Full Focus Planner and the Nack Day Plan for staying on track. The episode also touches on the new PDX...
01.16.2024
82 - Additive to Replace Subtractive?
Jem and Justin are back from holiday break. They dive into the challenge of disconnecting, explore radius gauges on Makerworld, and share their latest workshop upgrades. Hear about their experiments with hot wax dipping inspired by honey-making, and Justin's insights...
12.26.2023
81 - Business, Maker. Business Maker
Jem and Justin review 2023 and plan for 2024 - delegating growth, strategic impatience, streamlining operations, new products, improving sales. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on this Episode Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.Year in ReviewResponsible use of...
12.19.2023
80 - Condiment Regret
Jem and Justin dive into CNC advancements with Bambu Handy and RhinoCAM, ponder over Rhino Block vs. Fusion, and discuss US-grown maple ply. They share insights on finding industry experts, discuss a new Langmuir Titan 25T Press brake, and talk...
12.12.2023
79 - Lean Baby
Jem and Justin are back! Babies, configuration tools, how many drugs can you get into a CNC router, and some neat ChatGPT tricks. Watch on Youtube ð Send 2023 Review or 2024 Plans for Next Episode DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments...
11.14.2023
78 - Hot Apricot Yoga
In this episode of Parts Department, Jem and Justin discuss failed products, ongoing improvements in 3D printing, hiring new staff, making progress on workflow systems, using AI to analyse business data, the growth of configurable CAD, and getting coworkers onboard...
11.07.2023
77 - Wet and Mouthy
Jem and Justin discuss printing progress Jem has made after troubleshooting issues with Bambu PETG filament. They talk about tips for Justin as he prepares for upcoming parental leave and the challenges of documenting processes. Jem shares they've hired a...
10.31.2023
76 - Deleting my Teenager
In this episode of Parts Department, Jem and Justin cover a range of topics including using AI to generate product images, keeping legacy products going, workflow automation experiments, the power of paper planners, and launching new products. Watch on Youtube...
10.24.2023
75 - Time to pull the plug?
Justin and Jem commiserate about the difficulties of growing their product businesses while still needing to do custom client work to pay the bills. They're impatient with the slow transition and want to steer their companies in new directions. But...
10.17.2023
74 - Shit Kicker Applications
Jem and Justin discuss playing language games with AI assistants, hiring for their workshops, automating workflows, balancing polished vs raw social media content, and ongoing machine maintenance issues. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on this Episode Please note: Show...
10.10.2023
73 - Insert Witty Furniture Joke
Jem and Justin dive into hot manufacturing topics like DC spindle swaps, roboforming advances, smarter factory tech, Aussie wood vs Thor tools, recruiting challenges, and secrets to better production development. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on this Episode...
10.03.2023
72 - Wrong Size Reamer!
In this episode Jem and Justin chat about experimenting with GitHub to share code for Fusion 360 scripts, using large language models like GPT-4 and Claude for data analysis, drama in the 3D printing community around the new Bamboo MakerWorld...
09.26.2023
71 - Configured Desires
Jem's client bails, pushing project dates while Justin dives deep into Fusion 360 Configurations and his killer script for importing multiple STEP files. Jemâs feeling a bit broken, but the show must go on! We geek out over Airtable automation...
09.19.2023
70 - Beyond the Wonderwall
In this episode, Jem and Justin delve into the intricacies of Fusion 360 and Bommer, explore the potential of FloDesk Email for PDXCNC, and stress the importance of ethical tech migration. They also discuss Rhino WIP's compatibility with Apple Silicon...
09.12.2023
69 - Less Boot to Lift
Jem's got vocal issues but that ain't stopping us. We're talking about growing on Etsy and Amazon while also discussing the struggles of balancing different roles in a small business. Plus, exciting updates on Fusion 360 and the start of...
09.05.2023
68 - App Unitaskers
Jem and Justin dive deep into tech and tool talk this episode. They hash out the potential of the MacBook M2 for CAD work and debate the best ERP-style apps for machine shops. They chat about the NYC CNC Bourne...
08.29.2023
67 - Fusion Summit Descent
Justin unpacks Fusion Summit details, discusses CloudNC, and a new fast way to import files into Fusion 360. They tackle the tangled web of quotingâshould it be simple or super complex? The guys also vent about the production clock ticking...
08.22.2023
66 - Sprinkle the Special Sauce
From hiring to sales brainpower, Jem and Justin navigate the ups and downs of the business. With wit and insight, they dive into design, quotes, and even a Bambu breakdown. Don't miss it! Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments...
08.08.2023
65 - Yes Chef
Join Jem and Justin as they share a PSA warning about LinkedIn, reveal the lowdown on Bambu ASA Filament, introduce fresh KittaPartsKittaParts accessories, and untangle the web of product naming conventions. The duo then draws parallels between running a workshop...
08.01.2023
64 - It's Tinker Time
Join Jem and Justin as they discuss new ChatGPT tricks, challenges in AI and Fusion 360's improved performance on Apple silicon chips. Expect laughter, NSFW anecdotes, and an exploration of shop happiness. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments on...
07.25.2023
63 - Your Questions Answered
Hosts Jem and Justin tackle your burning queries in this lively AMA episode! They discuss investment in custom work, frame depth cutting dilemmas, debris broom sales, and responsible client-off turning. Hobbyist table saws and creative processes aren't left out either....
07.18.2023
62 - Fancy Tuxedo Advertising
Jem and Justin are back from their things and ready to titillate. They discuss PDX CNC's hiring process, share their insights from "Answer the Public," explore Meta's new Threads, and ponder the ups and downs of the AU Economy. Plus,...
07.04.2023
61 - The Basement Van
In this episode of Parts Dept., Jem and Justin delve into the world of fulfillment, discussing the intricate process of counting parts. From drug scales to counting scales, they explore the challenges and strategies involved in shipping pre-orders on time....
06.27.2023
60 - What can break your business?
Justin doesnât have ears and Jem has not had breakfast. Jem discusses his condition and the importance of not ignoring problems, which can lead to bigger issues. They explore business problems, a practical marketing plan, software updates, and tools like...
06.13.2023
59 - Coolant Chronicles
Join Jem and Justin as they dive into Photoshop Beta, critique coolants, and discuss LB's new General Manager. The duo will take you behind the scenes of their video content planning and product development progress. They'll also talk about the...
06.06.2023
58 - Chippy Noo-Noo
Join Jem and Justin on the latest episode of Parts Department. They dive into the world of manufacturing, discussing Justin's new coolant cleanout machine for the CNC Mill. They celebrate shipping the last ATC pre-orders and explore new orders and...
05.30.2023
57 - PETG Hot and Slow
Jem and Justin return, discussing PDXCNC's solutions for PETG printing in warm weather. They share progress on the KittaSauna project and their obsession with custom Airtable forms. They want your questions about Automation for the upcoming Secret Show. PDXCNC Starts...
05.23.2023
56 - Bambu Woes & Product Lifecycle
Jem and Justin navigate through Bambu product challenges, shed light on nano bed adhesion, and share fascination for mini octopuses. They also delve into the capabilities of GPT4 plugins, discuss recycling and end-of-life product considerations, and explore handy Shopify apps...
05.16.2023
55 - Techniks & TwiggaParts
Jem and Justin are back, juggling a photoshoot, new CNC tool setup products from Techniks, and intriguing TwiggaParts. Jem shares his amusing CovidLite experience, they delve into the world of GPT4All models, and bring Anthropic into the Slack discussion. They...
05.09.2023
54 - The Boys and their Bambus
Jem and Justin discuss Slite video lights, tooling foam, 3D printing with Printables.com, BambuLabs AMS Hydra upgrade, desiccant dry boxes, Laura Woodward sculptures, private AI, choosing one specialization, sawdust-powered heaters, and Carbide tools. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments...
05.02.2023
53 - Table Full of Foam
Jem and Justin discuss a variety of topics related to their work and personal projects, including 3D printers, procrastination, cold calling, milling tooling foam and shipping pre-orders in this episode of the podcast. Watch on Youtube DISCUSSED: âï¸ Send Comments...

What's Parts Department about?

Download our free app to listen on your phone

Parts Department episodes:

Special Note from Justin

101 - Is Justin 'Within Tolerance?'

100 - Meet Venn Gantt

99 - Who Needs Sleep Anyways

98 - Keep it Spicy Siri

97 - Beefs Entendre

96 - Verily, the 'Gram Doth Poppeth Off

95 - Good morning daddy

94 - How to train your Unicorn

93 - Short and Sweet

92 - Popped my Mirka

91 - Already Banned Myself

90 - Pi, Let's Role Play

89 - Smile through the Podcast

88 - Beurre MontÃ©

87 - But First, Profit

86 - Tumbled Walnut Knobs

85 - Phone Booth 5-axis

84 - Union Pie Warmer

83 - Expensed my Haircut

82 - Additive to Replace Subtractive?

81 - Business, Maker. Business Maker

80 - Condiment Regret

79 - Lean Baby

78 - Hot Apricot Yoga

77 - Wet and Mouthy

76 - Deleting my Teenager

75 - Time to pull the plug?

74 - Shit Kicker Applications

73 - Insert Witty Furniture Joke

72 - Wrong Size Reamer!

71 - Configured Desires

70 - Beyond the Wonderwall

69 - Less Boot to Lift

68 - App Unitaskers

67 - Fusion Summit Descent

66 - Sprinkle the Special Sauce

65 - Yes Chef

64 - It's Tinker Time

63 - Your Questions Answered

62 - Fancy Tuxedo Advertising

61 - The Basement Van

60 - What can break your business?

59 - Coolant Chronicles

58 - Chippy Noo-Noo

57 - PETG Hot and Slow

56 - Bambu Woes & Product Lifecycle

55 - Techniks & TwiggaParts

54 - The Boys and their Bambus

53 - Table Full of Foam