Stop trying to fix chaos with a "panic hire" and start building a scalable business through the power of automation. In this episode of Talking Shop, Brandon and Nick are joined by Curtis from HR to pull back the curtain on the harsh reality of hiring in today's unpredictable labor market. We explore why the old model of "hiring more people to grow" is increasingly fragile and why successful shops are prioritizing process over traditional staffing to achieve consistent results.

Hiring is harder than ever, with smaller labor pools, rising wage expectations, and higher turnover rates. We discuss how to identify quality employees and, more importantly, how to support them with tools like CNC machines and software that eliminate burnout and reduce costly rework. Automation doesn't replace the human element; it protects your business from volatility and empowers your team to work smarter, not harder.

Whether you are struggling to find skilled welders or trying to figure out if you should finance your next piece of equipment, this episode provides a roadmap for building a business that can withstand the realities of 2026. Join us as we discuss the "story" behind a resume, the value of being trainable, and why consistency is the ultimate secret to growth.

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Don't give away the first month of the year! In this kickoff episode for 2026, Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters dive into why January is the "bridge month" that determines your success for the entire year. Many businesses lose momentum after the Q4 grind, but we're discussing why taking your foot off the gas now is the most dangerous mistake you can make for your annual goals.

We break down the "January Reputation"—the myth that customers aren't buying and that it's okay to ramp up slowly. The reality is that your competitors aren't resting, and every day you spend "catching your breath" is a day they are winning your future customers. We also tackle listener feedback, including how to find our free cabinet-making tutorials and a deep dive into the true ROI of ShopSabre CNC machines. Whether you are an owner or an employee, this episode is a wake-up call to show up mentally, set the pace, and outwork the competition from Day 1

[00:00] - Happy New Year & Welcome to 2026 [00:28] - Nick's Vacation Brag & Banter [01:31] - Today's Topic: New Year, New Goals, New Opportunity [02:14] - The Danger of Giving Away January Momentum [03:40] - Viewer Questions: Cabinet Tips, Machine Costs & More [07:54] - The Lie of "We'll Start Strong Next Week" [10:13] - Competitors Don't Pause—Why January Matters Most [14:42] - Momentum as a Bridge Month (Not a Reset) [17:08] - Culture, Accountability & Mental Presence [20:00] - Key Takeaways: Start Strong to Win the Year [23:23] - Motivational Quote & Final Push [27:43] - Wrap-Up & See You Next Week

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

2025 is a wrap! Before we rush into 2026 chasing new numbers and new growth, it is crucial to pause and take a true "inventory of success."

In this final episode of the year on Talkin' Shop, Brandon and Nick revisit the highs and lows of 2025. Success isn't just about where you end up on December 31st; it's about what you endured, what you learned, and how you choose to move forward. We discuss why challenges—like pricing struggles, employee retention, and market shifts—are actually proof you are "in the game," not failing.

Plus, we cover some hard lessons learned (including a historic fantasy football collapse), answer viewer questions about ShopSabre pricing and tech support, and break down the new "Rotation Feature" on Saber Nation University that's saving backs in the shop.

Timestamps [00:00] - Intro to the Final Episode of 2025 [01:25] - "New Year Old Nick" & The Fantasy Football Collapse [04:32] - Q&A: Why Does the Website "Not Have Pricing"? [05:55] - Q&A: The Value of In-House Tech Support [06:53] - Feature Highlight: Rotation Feature on Saber Nation University [08:39] - Taking an "Inventory of Your Success" [13:16] - Why Challenges Are Proof You're Playing the Game [16:39] - Gaining Perspective: What Actually Matters in Business? [19:50] - Designing Your 2026: Work with Intention [25:23] - You Are More Capable Now Than a Year Ago [32:27] - Motivational Quote of the Week

#ShopSabre #TalkingShop #BusinessGrowth #2025Recap #2026Goals #SmallBusinessSuccess #CNCBusiness #Manufacturing #EntrepreneurMindset #ShopManagement #Leadership #reflectionandprogression #motivational

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

If you own a CNC shop and are unsure about financing new equipment because of changing interest rates, this episode of Talkin' Shop with ShopSabre is for you. Hosts Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters explain why now is a smart time to finance your next CNC machine, thanks to recent Federal Reserve rate cuts that make lending more favorable for business growth.

Find out how low interest rates can make equipment financing a smart way to grow your business instead of a burden. Brandon and Nick clear up common misunderstandings, showing that a 0.25% rate change usually means only about $6 more per month on a $60,000 machine, while waiting to buy can cost you much more in lost revenue and productivity. They share practical tips, like keeping cash available for payroll and new opportunities, using tax breaks such as Section 179 deductions, and boosting your return on investment with faster production, shorter lead times, and new contracts. The episode also features real customer stories, including a sign shop that won big contracts after financing and a cabinetmaker who increased profits by buying materials wisely. It proves that financing is often a better choice than holding onto cash.

If you are considering a ShopSabre CNC router, plasma, or laser to automate your work, lower labor costs, or stay ahead of competitors, financing can help you grow in 2026 without using up your savings. Don't miss out on bigger gains by focusing only on small savings. Smart borrowing can drive long-term success in manufacturing, woodworking, metal fabrication, and more.

Timestamps: [00:00] - Intro to Talkin' Shop with Brandon Bombardo [00:37] - Why Financing Equipment Makes Sense Today [01:14] - Fun Banter: Introducing the Lego Connoisseur [03:31] - Overcoming Past Pricing Mindsets for Growth [05:20] - Viewer Q&A: Aggregates, Knife Control & Phase Converters [09:48] - Deep Dive: Financing as a Growth Tool, Not Debt [11:00] - Rate Cuts Explained: Real Impact on Payments [15:33] - Why Growth Always Beats Cash Hoarding [17:59] - Customer Stories: Machines Paying Themselves Off Fast [20:55] - Sign Shop Success: Landing Big Contracts Via Financing [22:55] - Cabinet Shop Win: Higher Margins Through Cash Preservation [25:30] - When Financing Makes Strategic Sense [29:55] - Tips: Work with Trusted Lenders Like Geneva Capital [32:23] - Final Thoughts: Use Financing Wisely for 2026 Success [36:07] - Motivational Quote & Hockey Life Lessons [40:31] - Holiday Wrap-Up & Merry Christmas

#CNCFinancing #ShopSabre #CNCEquipment #BusinessGrowth #ManufacturingTips #CNCRouter #CNCPlasma #WoodworkingBusiness #MetalFabrication #ShopOwner #EquipmentFinancing #Section179 #GrowYourShop #Automation #ProductivityBoost Get a Quote Today: https://www.shopsabre.com/ Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Welcome to Talkin' Shop Episode 229 with Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peterson! Today we're diving deep into the #1 thing that matters more than marketing, automation, or even price: Customer Service – and why manufacturing in-house (instead of outsourcing or importing) gives your customers a dramatically better experience. Most shop owners think customer service starts when the phone rings. Wrong. It actually starts the moment you decide WHO builds your product. In this episode we break down:

How in-house manufacturing gives you total control over quality, lead times, and accountability Why outsourcing breaks the feedback loop and leaves customers frustrated Real-world stories: 5-day freight-damage turnaround vs. months of waiting on import parts The hidden costs of "cheaper" overseas products (downtime, lost loyalty, damaged reputation) How bringing production in-house skyrockets long-term profit, customization, and customer loyalty

Whether you're a cabinet shop, sign maker, metal fabricator, or any small-to-medium manufacturer, this episode will change how you think about outsourcing forever.

Timestamps 00:00 - Intro & Fantasy Football Banter 06:20 - Why Customer Service Marketing, Automation, or Price 18:04 - Customer Service Starts the Day You Decide Who Builds Your Product 22:16 - How Outsourcing Breaks the Feedback Loop 25:43 - Real Story: 5-Day Freight Damage Turnaround (In-House Wins) 29:24 - Vertical Integration = Faster Support & Better Training 32:05 - Higher Margins & True Customization with In-House 38:20 - Support Speed, Parts Availability, and Customer Confidence 40:11 - In-House Isn't Just Operations – It's a Customer Service Philosophy 46:57 - Final Motivation & 2026 Challenge

🔥 Like this video if you're done sacrificing customer experience for a few bucks up front! 💬 Comment below: Are you bringing more in-house in 2026? 🔔 Subscribe + hit the bell so you never miss an episode! 📞 Ready to own your process and deliver legendary customer service? Get your custom ShopSabre CNC quote today → https://www.shopsabre.com/get-a-quote/

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

#CNC #CNCMachining #ShopSabre #Manufacturing #InHouseManufacturing #CustomerService #AmericanMade #CNCRouter #CNCPlasma #MadeInUSA #SmallBusiness #CabinetShop #SignMaking #MetalFabrication

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or straight-up uncomfortable in your shop right now? That's not a problem — that's your sign you're growing. In Episode 228 of Talkin' Shop with ShopSabre, Brandon and Nick get real about why business growth feels so damn uncomfortable for small and medium-sized manufacturers — and why leaning into that discomfort is the fastest way to level up your shop, your team, and your profits. We break down the paradox every CNC shop owner faces: you want more orders, but when the workload finally explodes it creates chaos, burnout, and fear. The truth? Staying small and "comfortable" is actually the riskiest move you can make in 2026. Key moments & topics:

Why discomfort is the price of progress (and how to embrace the suck) Real shop stories: cabinet shops cutting lead times from 12 → 8 weeks with automation The hidden cost of being "too busy to grow" Hiring fears, outdated equipment traps, and why your employees secretly want you to invest How investing in a new CNC router (or people/systems) isn't an expense — it's the tool that buys you time, quality, and sanity

If you're maxed out, behind on quotes, or scared to pull the trigger on that next machine or hire — this episode is your push.

🔥 Ready to stop delaying growth and start dominating your market? Get a no-pressure quote on America's #1 CNC router brand built for production shops:

👉 https://www.shopsabre.com/get-a-quote/ 💬 Drop a comment: What's the #1 thing making growth feel uncomfortable in YOUR shop right now?

Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro + Keeper of the Pens chaos 00:21 – Today's topic: Embracing the suck of growth 03:51 – Why being "too busy" is actually a growth signal 07:07 – Viewer Q&A (Crocodile file, cutting steel on routers, bad software) 11:48 – The paradox: You want growth… until it shows up 15:02 – Cabinet shop case study – 12 weeks → 8 weeks lead time 17:20 – The real danger of refusing to hire or automate 22:05 – Growth = stability (not risk) 25:59 – Comfort comes AFTER growth, never before 32:06 – Step-by-step: How to grow responsibly in 2026 38:31 – Motivational close: "You don't just deal with adversity…" Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

#CNCRouter #ShopSabre #TalkinShop #BusinessGrowth #EmbraceTheSuck #Manufacturing #CNCMachining #SmallBusinessGrowth #WoodworkingBusiness #MetalFabrication #Automation #CNCPlasma #Entrepreneurship #ShopTips #GrowYourShop

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Is buying an American-made CNC router just about patriotism, or is it a smarter move for your bottom line? In this episode of Talkin Shop, Brandon and Nick break down why domestic machinery is the superior choice for small and medium-sized shops focused on long-term profitability and growth. We dive past the slogan to discuss the real-world impact of quality control, parts availability, and reliable support on your business's success.

The guys also tackle a rapid-fire Q&A session covering essential topics for shop owners. They discuss the best software workflows for designing MDF doors, the specific advantages of using manufacturer financing over traditional bank loans, and a critical warning about waiting until 2026 to make your equipment purchase. With vendor price increases on the horizon, waiting could cost you more than just time.

Whether you are looking to upgrade your capacity or invest in your first CNC machine, this episode explains why "cheaper" import options often cost thousands more in downtime and rework. Tune in for actionable advice on scaling your shop with intention.

Timestamps: [00:00] - Welcome & Intro to American-Made CNC Routers [00:53] - Introducing Nick Peters & Weather Banter [02:36] - Thanksgiving Wishes & End-of-Year Insights [05:35] - Q1: Designing MDF Doors with Software [07:33] - Q2: Financing Options vs. Your Bank [11:20] - Q3: Why Not Wait Until 2026? [13:44] - Defining American-Made: Quality & Support [17:04] - Benefits for Small Shops: Precision & Productivity [24:34] - Risk Reduction, Versatility & Maintenance Ease [30:05] - Employee Loyalty & Scaling Your Business [35:17] - Debunking Objections to American-Made CNC [39:47] - Partnership with ShopSabre & Final Thoughts

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Paralysis by Analysis: It's the silent killer of progress and the reason good ideas never take shape in your business. In today's world of endless information and decision fatigue, overthinking is one of the biggest threats to your company's growth.

Join hosts Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters for Episode 226 of Talkin Shop as we dive deep into what "analysis paralysis" is, why it happens, and—most importantly—how to break the cycle. Learn the practical steps to make faster, more informed decisions, stay competitive, and build unstoppable momentum for your business. We cover how to identify if you're just "spinning your wheels" and the cost of indecision (time, money, and momentum). Indecision is still a decision, and it's usually the most expensive one you'll ever make.

This episode also features a popular Q&A segment with crucial advice for the CNC manufacturing and sign-making industries:

Drilling/Tapping 12-Gauge Steel: Understanding the risks of using routers/milling centers for hard materials.

ADA Sign Production: The two key methods (raster vs. quill print) and how to produce ADA-compliant signs on CNC equipment.

Influencer Marketing/Partnerships: ShopSabre's approach to organic relationships and why they do not give away machines for free.

Don't let the search for perfection be the enemy of progress. Trust the data, set deadlines, and start moving forward confidently.

0:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Paralysis by Analysis 0:32 - Why Overthinking is a Major Threat to Business Growth 3:22 - Identifying When You're Just "Spinning Your Wheels" 4:15 - Q&A: Drilling & Tapping 12-Gauge Steel 5:34 - Q&A: How to Produce ADA Signs on a CNC Machine 6:57 - Q&A: Influencer Marketing & Working with ShopSabre 10:23 - The Costly Problem of Researching vs. Buying CNC Equipment 15:48 - The Problem with Over-relying on Online Reviews 24:58 - Why Perfection is the Enemy of Progress 30:19 - Practical Steps: Set a Deadline & Trust the Data 33:25 - Real-World Example: Upgrading Equipment During Uncertain Times 38:44 - The Guarantee: Action Doesn't Guarantee Success, Inaction Guarantees Failure 40:10 - The Meaning of Made in the USA 43:35 - Motivational Quote: Growth is Outside Your Comfort Zone

#ParalysisByAnalysis #BusinessGrowth #DecisionMaking #EntrepreneurshipTips #StopOverthinking #BusinessStrategy #CNC #Shopsabre #MadeInUSA #CNCMachining #SmallBusinessAdvice #ProductivityHacks #TalkingShop #BusinessMomentum

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

With the economy in 2025 being so unpredictable, learn how to keep your shop moving forward even when things get tough. Stay productive, confident, and proactive by using proven strategies from ShopSabre's Talkin' Shop podcast. Hosts Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters discuss real-world challenges such as supply chain issues, rising costs, and labor shortages, and show how you can turn these problems into growth opportunities through automation and smart choices.

This episode explores how uncertainty is a normal part of running a shop, especially in manufacturing and CNC work. Find out why reacting emotionally can slow you down, and see how focusing on what you can control, like your attitude, effort, and important tasks, helps you build momentum. Learn the difference between just being busy and actually being productive, with tips on delegating, automating simple tasks, and tracking key performance indicators for long-term efficiency. The hosts share real examples, such as using CNC fixtures like All Star gaskets for holding small parts and improving workflows to cut waste when costs go up.

Brandon and Nick offer practical advice, such as setting daily priorities, celebrating small wins to keep spirits up, and using slow periods to train your team. They highlight how good leadership builds confidence, encourages cross-training, and supports using technology like nesting software or ERP systems so you can make decisions based on facts instead of fear. Whether you run a woodworking shop adding new products or a manufacturing business automating tasks, this episode shows that challenges can reveal new opportunities and help you earn smarter, not just easier, money.

If you own a shop and want practical, SEO-friendly tips on building business resilience, this episode is a helpful guide for thriving in any market. While it focuses on U.S. manufacturers facing local economic changes, the advice can be useful for shops anywhere.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro to Talkin' Shop with Brandon and Nick 00:28 - Understanding Business Uncertainty in 2025 01:23 - Banter and Episode Overview 04:41 - Tips for Small Part Hold-Down with Vacuum Fixtures 09:55 - Global Supply Chains and Market Shifts 14:59 - Focused Action vs. Random Motion 22:14 - Building Team Confidence and Morale 33:30 - Turning Challenges into Opportunities with Automation

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021

Discover the key difference between being busy and being truly productive in your manufacturing or shop business—essential for entrepreneurs aiming to scale efficiently. In this episode of Talkin' Shop, host Brandon Bombardo and guest Nick Peters dive deep into why wearing "busy" as a badge of honor often hinders real progress, and how shifting to focused, measurable efforts can transform your operations.

We break down real-world examples from shops struggling with constant firefighting, redundant tasks, and inefficiencies like manual cutting that lead to recuts and wasted time. Learn how integrating CNC automation, such as ShopSabre machines with nesting software and automatic tool changers, frees up your team for high-value work, reduces lead times, and boosts output by up to 15% without adding staff. We discuss identifying productivity leaks through time tracking, workflow mapping, and prioritizing impact over urgency, plus mindset shifts for leaders to foster accountability and sustainable growth.

Whether you're in woodworking, metal fabrication, or any CNC-driven industry, these strategies help you work smarter—not harder—measuring success by outcomes like happier customers, higher margins, and the ability to leave at 5 PM feeling accomplished. From Amazon's automation tactics to small shop success stories, get actionable insights to outsmart inefficiencies and build a thriving business.

Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro to Talkin' Shop & Episode Topic 00:55 - Fun Banter: ShopSabre Chili Contest 05:20 - Viewer Questions & Comments 10:00 - Defining Busy vs Productive 14:00 - Shop Examples: CNC Efficiency Gains 20:00 - Spotting Productivity Leaks & Fixes 28:00 - Leadership Mindset for Growth 35:00 - CNC Automation: Key to Scaling

#CNC #Productivity #BusinessGrowth #ShopManagement #Manufacturing #Automation #Entrepreneur #SmallBusiness #Woodworking #MetalFabrication #ShopSabre #TalkinShop #SuccessTips #Efficiency #cncmachineshop

Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/

Follow us for daily CNC content Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/

Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.

For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.

Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.

ShopSabre CNC www.ShopSabre.com 21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044 800-493-6021