The Boring Bar Newsletter
MakingChips
We're here to equip and inspire! A cutting-edge podcast and marketing agency crafted for manufacturers by manufacturers.
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Here's a recap of the amazing episodes that aired this week from MakingChips, MakingSparks, and Buy the Numbers!
How do you break free from dysfunctional workplace dynamics and create real transformation? Marlene Chism, a former factory worker turned HR consultant and coach, shares her journey from the shop floor to becoming an expert in conflict management.
After 21 years at Kraft Foods, Marlene realized she wanted more. When she started taking college classes, she discovered the Karpman Drama Triangle—a tool for understanding the roles of victim, persecutor, and rescuer—and it changed how she approached relationships and leadership.
In this episode, Marlene shares powerful insights and memorable stories, including a surprising lesson about boundaries and assumptions from a coworker. Whether you're leading a team or navigating workplace challenges, Marlene’s practical wisdom will inspire you to see conflict—and yourself—in a new way. Join us to learn how shifting your mindset can transform your relationships and workplace.
In this episode of Making Sparks, we sit down with Joshua Battles from Forge and Tripp Hudson of Machine Pilot and The Way Automation to dive into the transformative power of automation in small job shops.
From laser cutting and robotic integration to making automation accessible for low-volume work, Joshua and Tripp share practical insights and real-life examples of how technology can empower employees and enhance efficiency.
We also discuss the role of automation in preserving the backbone of American manufacturing—family-owned shops and owner-operators. Tune in to learn how small changes in automation can lead to big results, without sacrificing the people who make it all happen.
If you're curious about the future of fabrication or just love hearing about cool tech, this episode is for you!
When it comes to purchasing machinery, the decision isn’t always as simple as cash or financing—it’s a strategic move that can shape the future of your business.
In this episode of Buy the Numbers, Ty Willis joins me to break down equipment financing, Section 179 tax benefits, and how to make smart purchasing decisions. Should you leverage financing to preserve cash flow or invest upfront for incremental growth?
Ty dives into these questions, exploring how diverse lending strategies and tools like equipment finance agreements can help you maximize ROI without overextending your business.
We’ll also discuss common pitfalls, like buying equipment for depreciation alone, and why Section 179 should complement a smart decision—not drive it.
Whether you’re expanding operations, upgrading technology, or testing new markets, Ty’s expert insights will help you weigh the tax, financial, and growth implications of your next big move. Tune in for actionable advice to keep your business growing strategically!
More great content coming next week!
Manufacturing Leader Connector ➡️ Delivering a Different Model for Tooling Supply and Vending Integration💡Trusted Advisor to Manufacturing Clients 🧠 Idea Maker 🧰 ZENGERS.com
3wThis is awesome! I didn’t know we were doing this.