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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 will arrive. Run time: 02:31:37

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 free pen, and Eric decides to avoid future dark alleys. Run time: 02:29:07

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

The old adage about people not leaving the fastener industry proves true again as reluctant highway pilot Tim "Action" Jackson returns.  Back from an extended RV misadventure to report on the recent Pac-West conference, he sees the industry with the eye of an outsider coming back in (1:33:50).  Likewise, the screw biz was never far from the heart of life-long  thread man Don "The Amazing" Shan, as he announces an all new venture after a brief hiatus (21:53).  Never having strayed the course, journeymen Mike McNulty and AFC Industries VP of sales, John Kovatch pour over the latest FDI report and speculate what it portends for the coming year on the Fastener News Report (53:52).  During a special Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo lays out everything the well equipped fastener distributor needs on its reference desk (1:19:49).  PLUS: Fastener Fair USA show manager Bob Chiracosta previews the upcoming show in Detroit (1:33:50).  Brian heads south for supplies while Eric hopes to stay off the rocks.  Run time: 02:32:33 

There’s no hyperbole suggesting the fastener industry is moving at a hyperbolic rate, as world events impact supply and pricing at a dizzying pace. Star Stainless president, Tim Roberto Jr. describes “Rusty Monday”, shocking developments in the nickle and stainless markets (51:38). Counseling a pragmatic approach amid ongoing disruptions, Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins newsman Mike McNulty to discuss the latest FDI and doing business in a climate of uncertainty, on the Fastener News Report (1:03:25).  Würth Industry North America meets the challenges with state of the art distribution center technology, as WINA senior director Ken Misch explains (1:53:30). Financial advisor and host of The Blockchain Advisor podcast, Bill Ulivieri presents advice on getting setup to accept digital currencies (21:27). Plus, Carmen Vertullo has the Fastener Training Minute, this time focusing on torquing nylon insert locknuts (1:42:26). Brian and Eric shun an appeal from yet another false dialectic, opting instead to walk their fastener dogs. Run time: 02:32:20

Strong sales and demand keep optimism alive, even as distributors come to terms with the new normal of outrageous delivery schedules. Meanwhile, major shipping concerns are deploying blockchain technology to manage global supply chains, despite the fastener industry’s apparent disinterest. AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin weighs in on the situation and discusses his company’s recent wave of acquisitions (1:47:16). Fresh off a merger of their own, Lindfast Solutions Group manager Jon Newman and Solution Industries GM Tim Vath share their thoughts on joining forces and moving ahead (22:17). On the Fastener News Report, industry newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Hayes Bolt VP Kelly Cole to assess the sagging FDI reading (55:59). Carmen Vertullo explains the mystery that is the jam nut, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:38:18). BONUS: Star spokesman Stainless Stan makes his debut appearance (49:53). Brian and Eric glimpse the future, and try to provide a missing link. Run time: 02:35:19

The new year brings continued business momentum, along with a full decade of data on which to measure it, as the Fastener Distributor Index marks its first full decade. Fastenal CFO, Holden Lewis returns to reflect on his role in the creation of the popular industry benchmark (20:36). 2022 also brings continued challenges, and Würth Revcar CEO Chapman Revercomb sees supply chain transparency as a major key to meeting them (1:32:36). On the Fastener News Report, industry newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Abbott-Interfast president Bob “GQ” Baer to review the latest FDI numbers (46:54). Is your zinc plating RoHS compliant? Carmen Vertullo explains what to know during the Fastener Training Minute (1:21:04). PLUS: Exciting details of upcoming industry events you can get in on now! Brian and Eric brush off some peculiar emulation and make serious plans to take some fastener folks fishing. Run time: 02:11:51

The fastener industry knows how to enjoy its festivities, but also how to open its heart when it counts. Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Matt Boyd of Parker Fasteners explain their plan to make a difference (1:35:03).  Desert Distribution managing partner Jo Morris looks back on a memorable year, and looks ahead with new offerings (15:57). Eurolink boss  Craig Penland discusses his formula for on-time inbound shipments (43:40).  On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty makes the case for actual fair trade, and welcomes Baird analyst David Manthey to cover the FDI (54:16).  And Carmen Vertullo presents his thoughts on fastener re-usability on the Fastener Training Minute (1:23:30). Cameos: GQ, Cavoto & GHIII BONUS Retro Chestnuts: Screwdolph and JR Prahl's The Gift.  Brian and Eric look for a direct connection to an obscure fastener.  Run time: 02:27:09

The fastener industry converged on Cleveland amid ongoing supply and pricing pressures, a tight labor market and new acquisitions. Despite the challenges, Fastener Fair USA saw good attendance and an abundance of fun. Stelfast president O.J. Simpson announces a new product category and explains the origin of the legendary Monkey (22:54). On the Fastener News Report, Earnest Machine CEO Kirk Zehnder joins screw biz journo Mike McNulty to break down the latest FDI reading (43:49). Industry educator Carmen Vertullo considers bolted joint tightness on the Fastener Training Minute (1:15:38). From the show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey takes the pulse of show attendees Tom Massar, Steve Rogalla, Rich Cavoto, T.J. Munson, Heidi Volltrauer, London Penland, Chris McCaffrey, GHIII, Maryann Waltz, Bernie Longen and many more (1:25:25). BONUS DEBUT: Hall of Fame rep Marty Nolan performs his "Ode to Old Rusty Bolt" (2:12:16). Ever pragmatic, Brian and Eric discover the upside of severe port congestion. Run time: 02:15:30

The fastener world is running at a different pace as supply issues and ongoing consolidation impact the industry. Meanwhile, questionable policy trends add further uncertainty and pressure to the mix. Fortunately, emerging technologies such as additive manufacturing offer hope of new opportunities to forward thinking companies, as Achim Grenner of the Würth Additive Group explains (22:56). Adding their observations to the dialogue, Tough Mudder team mates Jake “Valdez” Davis, John “Cool Hand” Butler, and Jill Lewis react to the changing business environment (1:34:40). On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes AIS president Nick Ruetz to discuss the resilience of the newest FDI reading (53:23). Also, Industrial Distribution editor Mike Hockett presents a summary of the shake ups in this year’s Big 50 list (1:11:57). Carmen Vertullo discusses a critical but touchy aspect related to nuts, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:25:08). BONUS: IFE manager Morgan Wilson addresses the carpet controversy after the Vegas show (2:32:00). Brian and Eric are willing to consider almost any proposal, but decide against putting grasshoppers on the menu. Run time: 02:38:08

The 2021 International Fastener Expo surprised many with its stronger than expected attendance and upbeat feel.  Direct from the scaled down show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey speaks with attendees on a wide variety of topics. Plus, results of the hotly contested golf tourney. Run time: 50:00

Fastener Professional of the Year, family business operator and philanthropist Jim Derry of Field Fastener reflects on what it takes to be successful in business and in life (1:29:32). NCFA Screw Open full coverage, including this year's winner of the coveted FTR Award, Laura Vath, Dan Duffield, Kim Arnold, Charlie Kerr, Kurt Triptow and many more! (20:36).  Star Stainless national sales manager, Bryan Wheeler joins industry newsman Mike McNulty to discuss the latest FDI and shocking outlook reading on the Fastener News Report (56:21). On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains when it's good to substitute a long socket set screw for a stud, and when it's not (1:21:37).  BONUS: Fastener CFO for hire Pete Carlson explains why it makes sense to review your financials, and where to look for hidden revenue (41:20). Brian and Eric contemplate the drifting sands of time, while assiduously avoiding sand traps and perilous golf situations in general. Run time:  02:07:33

The Mid-West Fastener Association table top show, 75th anniversary black tie gala, and annual golf tournament were wildly successful.  Kicked off by a pair of unofficial but equally energized events, FSTNR Week '21 was received by an enthusiastic fastener industry, ready to return to face to face events.  Nancy Rich, GHIII, Kam Dorsey,  Mike Stamm, Rob "Big Country" Reynolds, Bobby Wegner, Heidi Volltrauer, John "Cool Hand" Butler, Christian Reich, Colin Cochart, Jake "Valdez" Davis and many more! PLUS: Tough Mudder, NFA meet-up &  golf results. Run time: 42:01

Fastener industry legend and chip shot artist Mr. Robbie Gilchrist describes current market conditions, the future of the rep business, and how the NFDA found its way (18:28/1:30:25). AIM Testing Labs partner Rob LaPointe explains how hydrogen embrittlement is like an M&M (42:29). On the Fastener News Report, Fastener Technology International managing editor Mike McNulty hosts S.W. Anderson Company senior manager Jim Costello to unpack the latest mixed FDI numbers (53:28). Carmen Vertullo explains that blind rivets have a wider range of applications than you might think on the Fastener Training Minute (1:21:06). PLUS: Todd McRoberts has a new cold heading home! Connoisseurs of both snack foods and liberty, Brian and Eric note examples of the stifling results of bureaucratic overreach. Run time: 02:17:11

Fastener distributors rely on firmly grounded suppliers, especially in stormy seas, so it’s good to know Star Stainless Screw Company has an experienced captain at the helm. President Tim Roberto Jr. opines on the choppy overseas shipping situation, and the benefits of a good float (20:18). With the MWFA’s big week on the horizon, board member Tabitha Herbst, along with Bobby Wegner of Beacon Fasteners & Components, and Jill Lewis of Associated Fastening Products weigh in on preparations for the electrifying kick-off race (1:52:53). Just back ashore, IFE manager Morgan Wilson previews this year’s Vegas show (53:38). Then, Frank “Balboa” DeVito of Solution Industries joins Fastener News Report editor Mike McNulty for a cruise through the fastener news (1:04:46). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo describes a specific kind of customer rejection situation (1:44:51). BONUS: S.W. Anderson boss Jim Costello talks hydrogen embrittlement while basting ribs! Brian and Eric have fun with their peers on the piers. Run time: 02:28:47

Sales activity continues to boom, along with supply chain headaches, so naturally INxSQL founder Bob Reynolds and the uncancelable Joe Truckey of Cal Fasteners turn their thoughts to summer golf (1:41:19). In pursuit of another kind of diversion, EFC International sales manager Paul Musgrove offers pro tips for better BBQ (23:21). Industry editor Mike McNulty welcomes Optimas CEO Marc Strandquist, as they mostly stay on the topic of the latest amazing FDI results during the Fastener News Report (56:03). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo explains grades of socket products (1:32:09). Upcoming fastener show and event round up. Also, why you should stock up on wing nuts now. Wondering about their booth space, Brian and Eric shadow box an uncertain future as they wander the fastener land. Close theme: GD 7/24/87 Run time: 02:29:12

It’s safe to say Jake “Valdez” Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Bob “GQ” Baer of Abbott-Interfast have been training with varying degrees of intensity, but will their efforts prove effective during the upcoming Tough Mudder event? They compare notes on race prep, current supply chain craziness, and the MWFA super-event happening this summer. (18:52) George Schrull of Buckeye Fasteners describes new “lights out” fabrication capabilities, and confirms there will be plenty of proven fastener-related malted medicinals at this year’s fastener shows. (1:48:57) On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty hosts Hayes Bolt & Supply VP, Kelly Cole with FDI coverage, headline round up, and Mike’s Back Page Report. (1:06:56)  Industry educator Carmen Vertullo injects his brand of fastener biz know-how during the Fastener Training Minute, covering technical considerations when suggesting substitute parts for your customer. (1:39:15) BONUS JAB: From the studio of quasi-retirement, industry veteran Dick Ripley torches the fret board with a jammin' fastener industry debut! (2:28:05) Brian and Eric confirm that most people have no business screwing with complex software systems. Run time: 02:33:38