Parts Department

Jem and Justin catch up on shop developments, with Justin juggling multiple products in development while Jem shares exciting robot adventures with his machinist. They discuss AI coding breakthroughs with Claude 4, celebrate Profit First successes, and contemplate documenting Jem's robot journey on YouTube. The conversation weaves through tax management wins and four-day workweek benefits.    

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• CAT50 Tool Tags incoming
• Robot conjugal visits
• Pecker laser 👍
• Milwaukee Packout in my Kitchen - Fabworks 50% off
• 🧈 Buttertube 👈 subscribe now
• Jem before kids video
• Claude 4 killed it in a single shot ꘎
• Add to cart now live after fixing caps and feet
• Android app for Laura ꘎
• Tax account 18k spot on PF ꘎ 👏👏👏
• Justin 70% of last years pay in 2025
• Mercury consulting
• Thanks Justin

00:00 Aging Reflections

02:50 Product Development Insights

06:11 Robotics and Engineering Adventures

09:15 Come into my Safety Zone

12:06 Laser Engraving Experiences

15:07 Content Creation and Branding

19:58 YouTube

27:46 AI Coding Updates and Innovations

29:47 Claude 4: A Game Changer in Coding

32:32 Creating Offline Apps with AI

35:22 The Evolution of Business Operations

39:09 Tax Management and Financial Planning

43:08 Profit First

47:01 Business Growth

51:01 The 4-day Work Week and Work-Life Balance

53:56 Tariff sea-saw

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Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Justin’s migrating off Freshdesk, grumbling about outdated UIs and dreaming of integrated tools. He’s knee-deep in Shopify, site redirects, and pondering injection moulding and SMED like it’s a lifestyle. Meanwhile, Jem’s grappling with KittaParts hardware complexity, designing 19” rack kits, inventing dowel-pivot hinges, and vibing with NotebookLM podcasts about ABB RAPID while secretly plotting to laser-engrave everything.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• Freshdesk "free" ending
• Disposable software ꘎ Laura 3D viewer
• Henry Holsters Tour - Audacity Micro ⠄ BEP
• No door APC Brothers
• SMED (Single Minute Exchang of Dies)
• Lean station
• Shipping area
• LLM robot programming ꘎
• Best part of owning business ⠄Urg. Laura says the coffee.
• Phew Shopify back to normal ꘎
• PDX CNC Distributors
• APSX PIM
• Chatter Sync update Masso vs Multicam
• Fricken Lasers ꘎
• Notebook LM ꘎ - Learn ABB robots
• Cities Skylines with Justin
• Factorio - Factorio does not fill the niche. It creates the niche.

---

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Show Info

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• Contact Jem & Justin
• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Jem and Justin talk about machining big aluminum parts, setting up shop spaces, Raspberry Pi projects, file transfer hassles, tool holders, and robot programming. They share wins, frustrations, and practical tips from a busy week in the workshop.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• Workshop layout
• Chatter Sync
• GH chops
• Hydraulic for ISO30?
• ISO30 drill chucks? - runout?
• RTFM GPT - Shared (Zap)
• YCM Dilemma
• Upgrade Storage
• Sell
• Scissors
• High stakes machining ꘎ Eagles
• Arbour rebuild, awesome old school shop ꘎
• Farken CF cards!!!
• Hourly rate assessment ꘎
• What happens if you scrap client material? ꘎

• 00:00 Workshop Challenges
• 02:49 Designing Efficient Workshop Layouts
• 05:40 Exploring CNC and Raspberry Pi Integration
• 08:42 Managing High-Value Client Projects
• 11:31 Tool Holder Innovations and Challenges
• 14:31 Cash Flow and Robotics in Manufacturing
• 21:07 Simulation and Toolpath Innovations
• 23:32 Programming Challenges with Different Robotics
• 24:50 Dealing with Mechanical Issues
• 26:55 Collaboration and Community Support
• 27:41 Machining Techniques and Precision
• 30:22 Pricing Strategies in Machining
• 35:44 Evaluating Equipment and Automation Needs
• 37:59 Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
• 40:24 Navigating Documentation and Resources

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Show Info

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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Jem and Justin talking shop 139 episodes deep and Jem has finally bought the dream robots!

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• How many robots did Jem buy? ꘎
• 7robotics wood MFG ⠄
• AWESOME Lean Machine Shop Tour: Pierson Workholding!
• Giant ALU parts. 90% reduction - 15.7lbs to 1.55 lb (7.12kg to 0.70kg)
• Pierson SmartVac 3
• Overwhelm = high
• Selling machines
• Upgraded Controllers
• Snazzy Labs Self Driving for $999
• New AirShop Developer?
• Holy shit balls RAPID is good ꘎
• Crashing windows 98 CNC with 3D surfacing code ꘎
• Chatter Sync
• Midnight twerking tool offsets ꘎
• New regulations on shelving tip over risks ꘎
• Blowin' the Ass Sale record away
• Brain melt Australian manufacturing week ꘎
• Giant ALU parts. 90% reduction - 15.7lbs to 1.55 lb (7.12kg to 0.70kg)
• Pierson SmartVac 3

Chapters

• 00:00 It begins
• 01:47 Robot Acquisition and Negotiation
• 04:40 Understanding Robot Capabilities and Industry Impact
• 07:58 The Future of Automation in Manufacturing
• 10:44 Programming Robots and Learning New Skills
• 13:48 Hands-On Training with Robots
• 16:45 Challenges in Material Handling and Job Quoting
• 19:42 Innovations in CNC and Vacuum Systems
• 22:46 Exploring New Technologies and Safety Regulations
• 30:37 Technical Challenges and Machine Troubleshooting
• 33:05 The Future of Robotics and Automation
• 36:38 Innovative Solutions in Manufacturing
• 37:46 Developing New Projects and Collaborations
• 39:48 Sustainable Practices in Agriculture
• 41:44 Sales Strategies and Business Growth
• 44:47 Product Safety Regulations and Compliance

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Show Info

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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Jem and Justin talk shop robots and multi axis dreams alongside workflow struggles. They share surprising AI insights on personal blind spots, discuss shop music issues, and recount tales of tool discoveries 3D printed clamps and even a shop fire. Plus E Ink displays and hardware platforms.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• Virtual Live Machining with Client
• Sick E-ink Dashboard - usetrmnl.com - Justin10 for $10 off
• Goebel Insurance - Goebel Furniture
• Saved OP3 with a printer ⠄
• Simtheory Model Catalogue
• Artifical Analysis
• Six axis ꘎
• Big Ass Annual Sale - May 5-9
• Sprutcam
• Offensively bad Jazz
• M5Stack

• @proteummach: What is a project that each of you have shelved that you wish you could restart?
• @astonjcreative: How do you track and maintain random non work ideas and thoughts throughout the day
• Drafts & Voice Notes
• @likebutter.au: How many robots should I buy?
• @debrisfactory: Style of Endmill or other tool you wish you knew about five years earlier
• @forestbirdoriginals: What is the biggest external factor that has impacted your businesses ability to grow ? (positive or negative impact, other than COVID)
• @patrickbeseda: Do you use headphones, speakers, or no music in the shop? Or prefer podcasts?

00:00 Morning Routines

01:47 Reflections on Work and Productivity

04:35 Sales Insights and Financial Tracking

07:38 Exploring New Products and Innovations

10:38 Client Interactions and Training Experiences

13:30 Shelved Projects and Future Aspirations

16:21 Robotics and Automation in the Workshop

22:23 Software and Programming for Robotics

24:32 Maintaining Creativity and Idea Management

30:07 Capturing Random Thoughts

31:34 Utilizing Technology for Productivity

33:01 AI and Self-Reflection

36:09 Identifying Personal Bottlenecks

39:12 Navigating External Business Challenges

39:43 Music and Work Environment

45:46 Innovative Tooling Techniques

53:17 Exploring New Technologies

58:17 Insurance and Business Risks

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Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Jem and Justin tackle tricky importing issues and economic uncertainty. They chat shop tech including robots and CNC sanding ideas. Updates on Profit First distributions, tax savings, and the cash flow rollercoaster. Plus, beta configurator progress, cool soldering irons, and movie tangents.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic

• Flip flops economics
• Price rises?
• OK Go - Love - Sense of loss
• Nack iMac stand legacy
• Threads on PS1
• Can we still make good kids? Good Podcast
• PF Distro
• New Sheet
• Taxes ))<>((
• Monday bakery cash slump
• Found the best soldering iron TS101 ꘎
• KittaParts Beta configurator revenue update
• $24,661.42 in 2 months
• 🚨 Jem to turn cart on again by next week! 🚨 
• High School Teachers – Justin needs you!
• Debris - Zero Dollar Product
• Vortex tube cooling, can I 3D print one
• Goodfellas

• 00:00 ello
• 02:20 Supply Chain Forced Fiasco
• 09:00 Navigating Pricing Strategies
• 10:51 Love for Love
• 13:10 Technical Difficulties.mp4
• 16:08 Robotics in Filmmaking
• 18:59 Machinery and Tooling
• 22:01 Innovation in Sanding Techniques
• 25:05 3D Printing + Custom Tooling
• 28:04 Threading and Machining Strategies
• 30:51 Soldering for Two
• 32:01 Personal Productivity Tools
• 33:14 Financial Management and Profit Distribution
• 35:40 Saving for Taxes
• 36:51 Debt and Business Cash Flow
• 43:00 Revenue Targets and Seasonal Slumps
• 45:01 Sales Workflow and Customer Engagement
• 48:59 Education Products - Get at Justin!

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Show Info

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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Justin and Jem find a new AI obsession named Gorbo, question their sanity naming products, and discover that borderline-creepy customer texts actually make sales. Jem composts plywood (because why not?), MacBook meltdowns ensue, and robot vacuums run amok. To top it off, Eric (Mel) ends up the show’s first-ever guest.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic - New voice message option

• Lean into the absurd
• Gorbo's Swim hole - Wild Video AI
• CRYPTID DATING GAME
• William Gibson Novel
• LIVE for Patrons
• Abandoned cart responses
• High touch relationship building with leads
• Grasshopper animation
• Domestic RoboVacs for workshops
• PDX's Chippy Shop Robot Vacuum
• International shop to a good perspective ꘎
• Do more shop visits
• Window server issues, have to change my ways ꘎
• Compost David from Sydney ꘎
• Blue THH
• 🚨 New LEGO Merch out now
• Eric Larson is our first guest!

Chapters

• 00:00 Gorbo
• 02:28 Cryptid Dating
• 05:24 Product Development and Innovations
• 08:01 Customer Engagement and Marketing Strategies
• 10:59 Hot White Kitta Parts
• 13:58 High-Touch Customer Service and Genuine Connections
• 17:00 Composting Insights and Environmental Discussions
• 37:18 Exploring Creative Projects and Challenges
• 40:00 Visitor Insights and External Perspectives
• 42:34 Shop Visits
• 47:09 Shop Management and Cleanliness
• 53:07 Grasshopper and Python Scripting
• 58:01 Unexpected Guests and Creative Conversations

---

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SUPPORT THE SHOW

• Become a Patreon - Get the Secret Show
• Review on Apple Podcast
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Show Info

• Show Website
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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Jem and Justin catch up on vacation resets, DIY solar dreams, AI wins, shop updates, consulting gigs, slow sales turning a corner, and future plans for guests and maybe a move.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic - New voice message option

• Time off for Justin
• Monster Cable F'd with the wrong guy
• Super satisying letter - story from his site
• KittaParts Builder gaining momentum
• Text line running hot with beta builders ꘎
• Thinking about moving Like Butter to the home shop
• Patreon Video on Simtheory - another coming
• Consulting on manufacturing and Christini (haha) fantasies ZAPPETTINI ꘎
• GPT Report writing on the road ꘎
• GPT 4.5 nailed my copy writing brief, make me smile and lol ꘎
• Passed the Laura test ꘎
• GPT 4.5 blew my tokens in 30 mins
• Simtheory assistant scraping
• AI saves my old robot vacuum ꘎
• Put my phone away for 10 minutes and did something I've been wanting to do for years ꘎
• Big Guests?!⁉️
• PF: Had ALL OF IT
• Fake smiles, show time, baby!
• Prop on the news ꘎ - Kickerstarter hair archives
• Slim Spacers

Chapters

• 00:00 Goood Morning
• 01:34 Reflections on Time Off and Parenting
• 04:37 Legal Battles and Patent Trolls
• 07:24 Business Challenges and Supplier Issues
• 09:21 Nostalgia and Early Business Ventures
• 13:22 Product Development and Innovations
• 17:57 Sales Strategies and Customer Engagement
• 22:51 Future Plans and Business Expansion
• 27:13 Exploring Lithium Battery Opportunities
• 30:29 Navigating Sim Theory and Marketing Challenges
• 33:32 Consulting in Manufacturing: Insights and Experiences
• 37:36 The Impact of AI on Writing and Creativity
• 45:44 Balancing Work and Personal Life
• 47:36 Hidden Phone, Happy Daughter
• 51:01 Future Plans: Guests and Collaborations

---

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SUPPORT THE SHOW

• Become a Patreon - Get the Secret Show
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Show Info

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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Justin hosts 25 high school students at PDX CNC for a packed tour and CNC routing live Mount Hood machining session, sharing insights into education, tooling, and shop layout. Jem rebrands his custom furniture configurator to Kitta Parts Builder, phases out VividWorks. They dig into DIY automation—from cobot sanding and Rhino scripting to overnight print bed swapping—and marvel at a spotless European shop using robotic CNC loading with laser-measured sheet stock. Rounding it out: AI companions, part quoting workflows, and the existential joy of printed PETG brushes.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic - New voice message option

• School tours at PDX
• Machining Mount Hood - Steep & Shallow
• 4am JSON dreams
• Vibe coding
• 85% issues with Cursor! Focus MF
• KittaParts Builder replaces paid configurator
• So much redundant code! Ooops

Samuel - Random Routing

• Excuse me? Backlit racking?
• insane - voice to gcode

• Second Shift Mentality?
• Her, holds up
• PDX CNC's first Automated CNC on the way
• PDX CNC on Amazon
• Throw away script saves hours of work.
• Pi, never left us
• Printing Brushes
• Gimbal Automation - insta

Race of the Lasers ⚡

• Fabworks - PDX CNC referral
• SendCutSend - Within Tolerance - Jim B
• RMFG

---

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SUPPORT THE SHOW

• Become a Patreon - Get the Secret Show
• Review on Apple Podcast
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Show Info

• Show Website
• Contact Jem & Justin
• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links

Justin and Jem discuss the challenges of running small manufacturing businesses - from unexpected CNC E-stops to the stress of public holidays when you're behind on cash flow. They share their experiences with production documentation, hiring/firing employees, and the constant iteration of products and processes. The conversation covers new materials for Like Butter's Kitta Parts, shipping station improvements, and the potential (and limitations) of 3D scanning for custom work.

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DISCUSSED:

✍️ Comment or Suggest a Topic - New voice message option

Whoops - Justin published day early on accident

• Watching a truck wreck
• Hiring: can't imagine ... then ⠄
• Justin's got that new Pod Cam
• Suzie helping ꘎
• Bad Replika AI, "I am useful!"
• Low point weekend ꘎
• Fuggen public holidays
• Trapped vibes
• New dowel stock!
• Slow here too - worst weekly sales in memory
• Audacity Micro "Self Robot"
• Cobot vs Humanoid?
• Shipping Area Revision
• Love my text chat ꘎
• Succumb to filthy vanilla cabinetmaking to fill gaps ꘎
• Block script success ꘎
• Dispatch standup ꘎

00:00 Slow motion truck crash

01:46 Production Process and Material Changes

04:17 Jem's New Stick

06:58 Hiring and Employee Management

09:46 Documentation and Process Standardization

14:40 Fire as well as you hire

17:53 Public Holidays and Work-Life Balance

27:05 Navigating Business Pressures and Personal Well-being

29:11 Unexpected Sales and Client Relationships

31:51 The Challenges of Product Sales vs. Custom Work

34:24 Exploring AI and Automation in Business

36:13 Software Tools for Cabinet Making

38:43 Improving Shipping and Dispatch Processes

50:44 Enhancing Customer Experience and Feedback

54:15 The Future of 3D Scanning and Its Applications

---

Profit First Playlist

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SUPPORT THE SHOW

• Become a Patreon - Get the Secret Show
• Review on Apple Podcast
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Show Info

• Show Website
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• Instagram | Tiktok | Facebook | Youtube

Please note: Show notes contains affiliate links.

HOSTS

Jem Freeman

Castlemaine, Victoria, Australia

Like Butter | Instagram | More Links

Justin Brouillette

Portland, Oregon, USA

PDX CNC | Instagram | More Links