Within Tolerance

This week I am joined by Ledyard McFadden, the owner of LHM Engineering, a one-man, five-axis contract manufacturing shop in Boston specializing in medical equipment, robotics, and semiconductor projects. Ledyard also co-founded Tahr Equipment, an outdoors equipment manufacturer.Ledyard shares his manufacturing journey, starting with his experience working with the FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) and his decision to focus on Baja SAE racing in college. He talks about his time as the manufacturing manager of the Baja team, the challenges they faced during a design change, and the lessons he learned as a leader. He also discusses his experiences working for a semiconductor automation company and a turbo machinery machine shop.Listen in to hear Ledyard's manufacturing journey, and how he came to start his own shop! Check out Ledyard's IG @lhmengineering ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Tim Paul joins me this week with some fantastic stories and lessons. Tim shares his manufacturing journey and highlights the importance of continuous learning, networking, finding the right tools, and overcoming imposter syndrome for professional growth and success in the industry. We reflect on our own experiences and emphasize the value of relationships and seizing opportunities. Check out Tim's IG @oneeartim ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Warning: This Episode has a fair bit of death and medical trauma. If that's not your thing skip from about 3:04:30 - 3:33:00 Chris Zappettini and Jason Peterson join me this week in my longest episode yet, sharing personal struggles and professional experiences. Chris updates us on the last month or so since he's been on the podcast. Jason walks us through his backstory in manufacturing, dying multiple times, and his attitude of continual perseverance no matter what. Jack Welch Episode of BtB - Part One: Jack Welch Is Why You Got Laid Off | BEHIND THE BASTARDS https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YZv7wc7USQE Check out Jason's IG @jason_x2devgroup Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Joe Roggenbuck and I discuss his recent business challenges and successes, the pros and cons of working alone versus managing employees, tooling on a lathe, the search for a new workshop, and the importance of investing in employees. We also touch on shop projects, hiring and training employees, and the value of having the right tools. Check out Joe's IG @cobraframebuilding ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Garrett Wade joins Dylan to share his story into manufacturing, his background in high-end automotive photography, and how his continual learning led him into making gorgeous parts. We also dive into his successes with his UMC500, a new machine that was just installed, and plans for workholding and tooling for 5 axis. Check out Garrett's IG @garrettwade ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Josh Shapiro, owner and operator of J.N. Shapiro Watches, shares his background in manufacturing and his passion for reviving American watchmaking. We discuss his use of CNC machines, challenges in machining difficult materials like tantalum, and his efforts to develop his own watch movement. Josh emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and combining automated and handcrafted processes. We touch on their current projects, design inspirations, and upcoming watch movement. Overall, we explore the world of high-end watchmaking and Josh's dedication to quality and craftsmanship. Check out J.N Shapiro's IG @jnshapiro_watches ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

I am rejoined by two wonderful past guests, Josh Hacko and Chris Zappettini, who ask me your questions! Thank you to everyone who listens for 200 episodes, and here's to another 200! Check out Josh's IG @nhmicro @nicholashackowatch Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting @skillgapinc ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

In this episode of Within Tolerance, Chris and I explore the second half of the book "Principles" by Ray Dalio and uncover valuable insights. We discuss problem-solving techniques, the importance of employee solutions, and talk about Fusion 360 CAM. We highlight the significance of a strong team for automation, and talk about the importance of employee training. I also announce the upcoming 200th episode celebration and share updates on ongoing projects and shop location search. Tune in for enriching discussions on machining and manufacturing. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

In this episode of Within Tolerance, I have Rob Ellis, director of manufacturing at Maztech Industries, as my guest. Rob shares his journey into manufacturing, his passion for machining, and his experiences with 5-axis machines. He discusses the challenges and successes of his team at Maztech Industries, their focus on lean manufacturing principles, and their dedication to making the best parts possible. Rob also talks about networking, continuous learning, and the importance of personal growth in the industry. Tune in for more insights from Rob and his team at Maztech Industries. Check out Rob's IG @rad_rob ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast

Dylan and Chris get together to update on shop status, jobs ending and beginning, trying new tools, and Chris's best project yet. Both also discuss the first half of the book club book, "Principles" by Ray Dalio. Check out Zap's IG @zap.consulting ----------------------------------------- Help support the podcast www.patreon.com/withintolerancepodcast