Fully Threaded Radio

MWFA FSTNR Week highlights and floor interviews including Christian Reich, Don "The Amazing" Shan, Nick Penney, Ashely Parker, Jeremy Gethmann, Andres Green, Nancy Rich, Jake "Valdez" Davis and more. Golf results and FTR award update. PLUS: The promised AI for Distribution Conference promo code, and is it really time to say goodbye? Run time: 40:03

Chris Nissen of Aspen Fasteners traces amazing changes in the fastener industry during his long tenure as a family owned importer turned digital seller(1:34:57).  Newsman Mike McNulty and Frank "Balboa" Devito of Brighton Best discuss the latest FDI numbers that have many sensing something unpleasant in the air, on the Fastener News Report (41:20). John "Cool Hand" Butler rides shotgun on the Fastener Training Minute with Carmen Vertullo during part 2 of his series on tapping (1:20:24). PLUS: Real estate advisor and long-time fastener pro, Marco Rodriguez explains the current state of commercial leasing and warehouse space (20:21). Brian and Eric look for ways to clear the air.  Run time: 02:27:05

S.W. Anderson president Jim Degnan dives into his tenure at the head of the  NFDA as new trends and looming technologies challenge the fastener industry (1:19:07).  Baird senior analyst David Manthey joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to evaluate the straining FDI and the rise of re-shoring (41:32).  Brighton Best International regional manager George Martinez previews the upcoming Pac-West fall conference (18:36).  On the Fastener Training Minute, veteran educator Carmen Vertullo launches a new series on thread tapping (1:11:04). PLUS: IFE manager Morgan Wilson talks golf and this year's Vegas show (32:46).  Brian off-shores himself while Eric warns against drinking the water. Run time: 01:54:45

The world approaches a precarious intersection with the advent of super AI.  AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin shares his thoughts and describes how new tech tools are already in use in the fastener industry (1:26:19).  BTM Manufacturing president Jake "Valdez" Davis and Elios Coffee proprietor Dan Smith explain the mission of U-Bolt Blend coffee (16:42).  Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (50:47). Fastener Professional of the Year Carmen Vertullo knows how to reverse hydrogen embrittlement.  Find out when it makes sense on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:34). BONUS: From the Naperville Fastener Association, GHIII and Bob "GQ" Baer preview this year's Rugged Maniac mud race and invite new team members to join the fun (44:44). Brian and Eric present an award of their own, then help some chickens cross the road. Run time: 02:05:02

Highlights and floor interviews from this year's Fastener Fair USA in Nashville.  Featuring interviews by the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey with Rich Cavoto, Jen Kushnir,  Jun Xu, Bob Chiricosta, Lonni Kieffer, Itzela Vasquez, Tony Martinez, GHIII, Baron Yarborough, Bernie Longen, Craig Penland, Laura Vath, Parker Jensen and many more. PLUS: Golf results and what is TBRW anyway? Run time: 01:05:39

Marine Fasteners CEO Dee Ward and ERP platform founder Bob Reynolds of INxSQL Software view the fastener industry from completely different angles, and share their insights on improving customer satisfaction for continued success (1:24:18).  Parker Fasteners senior manager Matt Boyd reports on the legendary Aerospace Hardware Sales Association bash and explains the mil-spec martini (14:43).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes AFC Industries VP of Sales, John Kovatch to examine the brutal results of the most recent FDI report (48:45).   Industry guru Carmen Vertullo presents rotation capacity testing on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:29).  Thanks to the blessing of internal combustion, Brian and Eric head for Nashville. Run time: 02:07:49

Like a skilled sommelier, Threaded Fasteners CEO Billy Duren uncorks The Nuts and Bolts of Leadership, a new podcast designed to inspire, instruct and inform budding leaders (1:36:26). With his nose for success in the fastener game, John "Cool Hand" Butler avoids any sediment build-up after his recent course change, and shares a pleasing pairing of aromatic announcements prompting a surprise guest to appear (16:36).  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty welcomes Martin Fastening Solutions EVP Marc Strandquist to sample the latest full-bodied FDI report on the Fastener News Report (59:24).  On the Fastener Training Minute, vintage fastener guru Carmen Vertullo explains how to handle go/no go gauge discrepancies (1:31:22). PLUS: Who took home the IronClad gloves from the Beaver Combat Glove Contest ?  (2:17:22) Brian and Eric realize life is mostly a long pour of plonk, but they're not complaining. Run time: 02:23:30

As the fastener market adapts to unsettled circumstances, Endries International president and CEO Michael Knight engineers a strategy for continued growth (1:44:56).  Distributors report mostly positive sales last month, as Brighton Best president Jun Xu and news editor Mike McNulty dissect the FDI (and question an iron-fisted Fed) on the Fastener News Report (58:30).  Mike Robinson leads the NCFA to another year of solid trade events as he drives business for Star Stainless and trains for the next mud race extravaganza (16:18).  On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo dispells a common misconception about black oxide coatings (1:35:25).  PLUS: The Beaver Combat Glove Contest! Brian and Eric have different ideas about the future, but remain unified in their quest for the perfect fit.  Run time: 02:32:00

IFI Director of Training and senior fastener consultant, Laurence Claus describes a key challenge facing all fastener companies, the standards process, and his approach to bringing perspective to the industry (1:43:17).  Great Lakes Fasteners COO Brian Potasiewicz explains his rapid climb up the fastener learning curve, and offers constructive criticism of FCH (22:18).  On the Fastener News Report, Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer joins newsman Mike McNulty to consider mixed FDI results (51:32). Carmen Vertullo talks structural bolts, coatings and hydrogen embrittlement on the Fastener Training Minute (1:30:40). PLUS: TJ McFarland prepares for golf in Nashville while expanding market share for Goebel Fasteners (43:52). Brian and Eric have their own reasons for feeling a little off, but it's not the end of the world. Run time: 02:37:48

Premium locknut supplier J Lanfranco sees big opportunities appearing, as the cosmopolitan Jason Baines leads their North American push (1:47:01). Likewise, hard charger Matt Boyd is helping to guide Parker Fasteners forge ahead toward their vision of continued expansion and growth (28:28).  In contrast, the FDI took a dramatic hit to close the year just ended, and this time forward looking sentiment sagged as well.  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty discusses the details with Solution Industries GM Tim Vath on the Fastener News Report (1:09:46).  On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo talks salt spray testing for alloys (1:39:49). PLUS: Fastener Fair USA show manager Bob Chiricosta calls in from Nashville, site of the upcoming show (57:45).  Brian and Eric resolve to continue improving across the board, hopefully wearing new gloves. Run time: 02:36:03

Like a bobsled down a frozen precipice, the fastener industry streaks to the close of another blazing fast year. Fresh off the slopes, Mr. Charlie Kerr of Kerr Lakeside discovers a vexing industry development, and shares his approach to achieving top speed on skis (1:39:54).  Metric supplier Eurolink finishes the year with new beginnings, as CEO Craig Penland finds ways to expand during periods of upheaval (17:20).  The FDI changes direction as strong sales push a new rally, but will it last?  Senior news editor Mike McNulty welcomes AFC Industries VP of Sales John Kovatch to the Fastener News Report to discuss the unexpected uptick (56:46). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo teaches the fine art of monel passivation (1:26:28). BONUS: Scanwell Logistics analyst Chris Donnell explains why the train strike issue may still be an up hill battle (52:22).  Brian and Eric strive for seasonal jolliness even as all runs show black diamonds. Run time:  2:34:11

Selling fasteners begins by asking for the order, as Tim "Action" Jackson proved during an illustrious career in the thread game (1:30:37).  Newly appointed Marine Fasteners CEO Dee Ward asks his team for their best whenever he takes the field (15:31). Fastener newsman Mike McNulty asks about the decline of the FDI with Earnest CEO Kirk Zehnder on the Fastener News Report, then explains what it takes to stay happy during all economic circumstances (47:38). Carmen Vertullo breaks new ground as he discusses T & A as it pertains to stainless structural bolts on the Fastener Training Minute (1:19:01).  Meanwhile, Brian and Eric see the unfolding effects of applied modern monetary theory and wonder who is asking for what. Run time: 02:15:45

IFE is like no other show in the fastener industry, and this year's edition seemed a lot like "the good old days" without the carpeting.  The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey took her mic to the show floor and spoke to attendees from every part of the thread biz (9:34, 1:03:52).  Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty presents the Fastener News Report and fires hard at the powers that should not be (37:24).  On the Fastener Training  Minute, industry educator Carmen Vertullo explains the facts of bolt stretching (50:10).  Plus: The FDI sinks & Trainageddon update!  Eric embraces the here and now as Brian galavants out west.  Run time: 01:36:07

Industry veteran Marc Strandquist announces a new mission with Sellside Group, helping fastener companies navigate the challenges of a market in flux.  David Kerr of Metal Resource Solutions warns of coming price hikes on European steel. Plus: Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing is quitting? Run time: 30:47

Has tragedy been narrowly averted or is the supply disruption train still racing down the track, set to impact business across the country? Scanwell Logistics freight forwarding expert Chris Donnell shares his view (16:31). On the other race front, Rugged Maniac team veterans Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing, Mike Robinson of Star Stainless and Brandi Bertoia of INxSQL Software recount their experience on the mud track, prefaced by Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer (1:38:55). Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty welcomes Baird analyst Quinn Fredrickson on the Fastener News Report to examine the highly unusual FDI results (1:01:15).  On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo explains the difference between drywall and wood screws. PLUS: International Fastener Expo manager Morgan Wilson reveals exciting details about the upcoming show in Vegas (46:30).  Brian and Eric wait patiently for their train, but at this point it's anyone's guess if it

The Mid-West Fastener Association annual FSTNR Week and table top show, golf tournament and lead up events were wildly successful again this year.   TJ McFarland, Don "Tex" Carr, Mike Robinson, Jake "Valdez" Davis,  Erica Strandquist, Bob "GQ" Baer, Kam Dorsey, Ashley Parker, Wayne "Captain Smooth" Wishnew and many more! PLUS: Golf highlights including this year's FTR Award winner. Run time: 41:14

When big fastener companies acquire other big fastener companies, and people who know big fasteners talk about it, you have the makings of an aptly titled podcast. Star Stainless president, Tim Roberto Jr. discusses the recent big headlines involving the acquisition of his company by Lindfast Solutions Group (12:38). Big bearded Baron Yarborough of Birmingham Fasteners returns to weigh in and discusses the rigors of building out big new manufacturing firepower (1:24:01).  On the Fastener News Report Mike McNulty welcomes Solution Industries GM Tim Vath to consider the big drop in a leading indicator and what it might mean for distributors (37:47). Industry guru Carmen Vertullo talks fastener chemistry on the Fastener Training Minute (1:08:54).  Thematically, Eric gains a big supply of fasteners and Brian uses a Vegemite mule to supply the biggest fastener show around.  Run time:  02:01:28

Strong sales and ongoing supply challenges remain the top themes as the fastener industry keeps its optimism heading into a hot summer.  On the water, at the bar or while making his podcast debut, Jason Baines of J. Lanfranco makes a big splash wherever he goes (13:49).  Prepping for the Rugged Maniac race ahead of FSTNR Week,  TJ McFarland of Goebel Fasteners and Brandi Bertoia of INxSQL Software plan to make a splash of their own (1:47:57).  NFDA president Nick Ruetz joins newsman Mike McNulty to review mixed signals in the latest FDI on the Fastener News Report (1:02:07).  Carmen Vertullo offers helpful tips to reduce common risks of  technical drawings on the latest Fastener Training Minute (1:37:08).  Brian builds a driveway and Eric builds a case. Closing summer tour jam: GD 7/17/89  Run time: 02:19:03

The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey hit the floor at Fastener Fair USA with mic in hand. Her interviews with show attendees reveal steady progress along with a vague yet persistent uncertainty (1:41:04). Less ambiguous, Würth Construction Services CEO Alex Mikros describes the clear path he sees while guiding his reformulated organization towards continued growth (17:18). Star Stainless Screw president, Tim Roberto Jr. joins newsman Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to review the latest FDI numbers (57:48). Veteran MWFA board member Rich Cavoto of Metric & Multistandard presents a harrowing story from the streets of Detroit, then looks ahead to FSTNR week ‘22 (45:35). Torquing large (frickin’) bolts is the subject of the latest Fastener Training Minute with Carmen Vertullo (1:31:34). PLUS: Rugged maniac Bob “GQ” Baer of Abbott-Interfast puts out the call for able-bodied fastener friends to join him at this year’s obstacle race event (2:11:02). Brian points out that not just anyone should get a fre

As Brian returns from down under, and with the Detroit show just around the corner, the FDI cools and the fastener world reconsiders its supply chain.  Industry veteran Preston Boyd of the Industrial Fasteners Institute describes how his organization is reaching out to distributors to reintroduce domestic suppliers (1:39:47).  Scanwell Logistics senior expeditor Chris Donnell explains a wide range of pressures on imports that suggests no improvement for inbound shipments in the foreseeable future (15:41).  Industry newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Sems & Specials VP of sales Kelly Charles as guest commentator on the Fastener News Report (1:00:19).  Thread guru Carmen Vertullo makes a generous offer of mentorship on the Fastener Training Minute (1:28:21).  The boys scramble to hold it all together as they prepare to hit the road for the motor city.  Run time:  02:25:29