series5

Our traditional post-series Wrap Up Episode...for Series 5. We talk about some of the messages and emails we've had from you throughout the past 6 weeks. Thanks to everyone who got in touch!

Please get in touch with any of your reflections. Email us: aquietnightinsideno9@gmail.com, or find us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/aqnin9

On this episode, I start my foray into my new Falling-in-Love-with-Doctor-Who-Again series  -- called 'Spark Joy', because I'm a dork – with a squeeful review of my favorite new series story, "Amy's Choice".

Now, to be honest, I didn't really have a clue how truly controversial this episode was until I heard the new-ish Verity! Podcast episode chatting about it very recently. And unfortunately, I'd already recorded my own episode at that point when I did hear theirs (I was taking a break from editing it to check it out, in fact), so I couldn't/didn't really talk about or address their particular impressions here in mine – though I did make a comment or two on their blog post for the episode.

But anyway, because of that, obviously this episode is just my own personal feelings on the story, untainted by Other Fandom Feels and as different as they apparently might be for other people! And also in the spirit of my joy about the diversity of opinion in our fandom, I'll definitely plonk a link to the Verity! episode below in my show notes, if you're interested in hearing some contrasting opinions on things. #yayfandomdiversity

Anyway, aside from my massive squee about 'Amy's Choice', also included in this episode is some squee about conventions (both my recent visit to Wholanta 2019, as well as some exciting guests planned for DragonCon 2019), some squee about other podcasts (as I'm often wont to do), and some squee about listener feedback. And so yeah, this is overall a pretty squeeful episode!

So, hold onto your hats, everyone, and enjoy the ride! I'm so glad to have you all aboard this Love Train! #choochoo

Episode 31 – The Spark Joy Series: Sleep Is for Tortoises: Amy's Choice [And Wholanta 2019]

 

Table of Contents:

Closing out another season of predominantly fastener related talk radio, and reflecting on the first ONE HUNDRED episodes of the podcast, John "Cool Hand" Butler, of The Olander Company, and Marty Nolan, of R.L. English, revisit past FTR episodes and offer their observations on the impact of the show (1:23:13). Lindstrom sourcing guru, Rob Lucas, comments on steel prices and their likely effects on importers during the coming year (22:50). Ohio Oil and Gas Association EVP, Shawn Bennett, explains slumping oil prices and how domestic drillers are reacting (46:08). Also softening, the FDI numbers for November are revealed during Mike McNulty's Fastener News Report (1:02:57). Plus, Carmen Vertullo delivers another “fastener war story” on the Fastener Training Minute (1:16:36). Meanwhile, the boys take stock in the friends and experiences they've gained during their tenure as thread jockeys, and Brian explains why he will no longer have to carry his own cutlery to MWFA events. Run time: 02:08:42

Things could be worse, but the FTR boys aren't quite sure. Helping them sort out the methods and meaning of the Fastener Distributor Index, inquisitive index observer and proponent, Bob “GQ” Baer, of Abbott-Interfast speaks with senior BB&T Capital Markets analyst, Charles Redding (15:55). Industry blogger, Traveling Salesman, shares his thoughts on the big news about NIFS (38:54). Industry anchorman, Mike McNulty has screw biz headlines on the Fastener News Report (47:48), and fastener consultant, Carmen Vertullo presents the Fastener Training Minute (1:01:09). And despite possible storm clouds, legendary Stelfast founder Mr. Surinder Sakhuja reminds us all to smile, during a revealing conversation with Dan Zehnder, of Trinity Logstics (1:07:19). Brian and Eric aren't sure they're ready for their refrigerators to spy on them, but decide to continue innovating the Scrubber anyway.
Run time: 01:47:50

As the fastener industry returns from its annual desert diversion, Don “Solution Man” Shan and fastener cowboy John Wachman join the FTR boys for a look at this year's NIFS (1:10:13). New NFDA president, Casey McIlhon, offers his vision for the national fastener organization as he takes the reigns (17:15). Mike McNulty and Tom Buddenbohn review the latest FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (40:50). Also, Josh Glaser describes an all new part available from Glaser and Associates (30:48). Plus, Jay Minichino's FIC report (52:56), Carmen Vertullo's Fastener Training Minute (1:03:44), and interviews from the show floor in Vegas with the lovely and talented, Lynn Dempsey. Brian and Eric return to the grind, and wonder who stole their monkey. Run time: 01:54:16

Despite currency devaluations and index slumps, the fastener industry parties on. Hear what went on in Nashville at the AAFS, who topped the field at the NCFA Screw Open, and what's on tap for this year's Vegas NIFS predominantly fastener-related hootenanny. Fearless reshoring warrior, Mr. Harry Moser, explains the impact of recent moves on the Yuan on importing and domestic manufacturing (1:38:03). Andy and Gary Graham, of National Threaded Fasteners, describe how the new breed of fastener professionals uses wireless technology in their day to day roles, in the office and on the road (34:58). On the Fastener News Report, industry anchorman Mike McNulty and NFDA's Marc Strandquist break down the latest disappointing Fastener Distributor Index reading, and look for reasons to remain optimistic (1:10:57). Plus, Carmen Vertullo's Fastener Training Minute (1:32:24), association news from the FIC, and author, Tom Payne, on innovative thinking and problem solving (56:52). Bonus: The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey has sounds from the show floor in “NashVegas”. Brian and Eric go moderate, for a change, and profile the FTR listener base. Run time: 02:12:23

Barren email servers are in the news. In contrast, online fastener talk radio is brimming with useful information, as industry legend, Mr. Bruce Darling, joins raconteurs and Trinity Hardware chief, Dan Zehnder, during a landmark interview (1:14:27). Don Nowak, of Falcon Fastening Solutions, explains National Manufacturing Day, and urges fastener companies to participate (:40). Mike McNulty presents industry headlines on the Fastener News Report, and welcomes Würth Group EVP, Marc Strandquist, to analyze July's sobering FDI numbers (41:00). Also, Heidi Volltrauer, of Volt Industrial Plastics, previews the upcoming All American Fastener Show in Nashville (26:20). Below the fold, but equally content-rich, BMB Fasteners' Jay Minichino delivers the FIC report (59:48), and industry educator and consultant, Carmen Vertullo, has the FTI Fastener Training Minute (1:07:12). Brian and Eric recount a server-related meltdown of their own, and describe their first tangible encounter with “net neutrality”.
Run time: 01:53:45

There was no trouble when Andy and Gary Graham of National Threaded Fasteners joined forces to talk about the industry, gaining their credentials, and commenting on the changing nature of the fastener business (1:27:16). Meanwhile, industry journeyman Carmen Vertullo speaks about current issues and why the Bay Bridge incident has been a learning experience for everyone (32:07). Fastener Technology International Magazine editor, Mr. Mike McNulty, presents another info-packed Fastener News Report, including exciting developments about the FDI (101:22). Also, Jay Minichino delivers the FIC report, and the Fastener Training Minute provides insightful comments on fastener QA (1:19:31). Brian and Eric prattle on, this time dwelling on the end of an important era in rock and roll history. Run time: 02:12:19

FastenerTech '15 was a huge success, and the NFDA made haste by holding its summer meeting concurrently in Rosemont, elevating its new leadership. Stelfast honcho, Don Haggerty announces a new Stelfast location (1:24:13), and industry legend, Mr. Robbie Gilchrist comments on the state of the fastener industry (17:54). The FDI saw a small dip in May, and Mike McNulty and Paul Tiffany ruminate on the latest numbers on the Fastener News Report (56:27). Plus, industry guru, Carmen Vertullo, presents the Fastener Training Minute and previews upcoming Fastener Training Institute events (1:18:44). Also, Casey McIlhon, Tracey Lumia, Gary & Andy Graham of National Threaded Fasteners, Lori Coar, Rich Cavoto, and many more make cameo appearances. Meanwhile, based on the ITR forecast, Brian and Eric prepare to make the most of the online fastener business before the big one hits in 2030. Run time: 2:03:10

Brian and Eric are feeling ever so vibrant and youthful as they welcome fastener industry veterans Frank Devito, of Solution Industries (14:19), and Marty Nolan of R. L. English (1:15:11), to discuss the recent NCFA Distributor Social and panel event, startling industry news & developments, and their own relevance. Mr. Mike McNulty presents the Fastener News Report, with NFDA president, Paul Tiffany, commenting on the surprising bump in the April FDI reading (51:29). Plus, Carmen Vertullo talks vibration on the latest Fastener Training Minute (1:09:48). Along with the debonaire, Bob "GQ" Baer, John Wachman, and the kid from Stelfast, Ryan Kertis, it's another odyssey in online fastener radio not to be missed. Run time: 02:03:13

When Würth North America EVP, Mr. Marc Strandquist (1:18:11), and MWFA president, Rich Cavoto (11:57), drop in to share their perspectives on the fastener business, online fastener talk radio becomes a virtual industry summit! Even more so as Fastener Technology International editor, Mike McNulty, and NFDA president, Paul Tiffany, present March FDI analysis on the Fastener News Report (49:19). Also, Carver Consulting CEO, Carmen Vertullo, presents the Fastener Training Minute (1:12:49), and Jay Minichino has FIC association calendar updates. Hosts Brian and Eric shake off the sting of tax day with thoughts of Buckeye muskie hunting and medical malpractice. Run time: 01:57:11

And so it goes, the jovial and informative, Mr. Dick Ripley, of Lindstrom, waxes eloquent on the state of the fastener industry and his latest position within it (1:17:28). Industrial Products Company IT guy, Michael White, talks INxSQL (27:02), and Kevin Chavis of Star Stainless Screw and the Pac-West discusses the latest from Long Beach (00:46). The Fastener News Report with Mike McNulty is presented from the world's largest fastener show in Stuttgart, Germany (49:19). Plus NFDA president, Paul Tiffany on the latest FDI reading (52:30), Carmen Vertullo with the Fastener Training Minute (1:07:31), and Jay Minichino of the FIC with association news (44:09). Brian and Eric talk fastener raves, noise canceling headphones, and AGW fraud. You'll want to tell two friends! Run time: 02:04:46

Whizzing along at top speed, the new year doesn't seem quite so new anymore, but youth springs eternal as Aaron Shushan of Specialty Sales, and Ryan Kertis of Stelfast, drop in to explain Young Fastener Professionals (1:22:48). Fastener Technology International editor, Mike McNulty, dissects the latest FDI numbers, along with NFDA chief, Paul Tiffany, on the Fastener News Report (53:42), which also features a fastener association round-up report by Jay Minichino, of BMB Fasteners and FIC (1:07:37). Branam Fastening's weld stud maven, Mr. Kurt Triptow, rides shotgun with the boys for a few laps (12:44). Plus, Carmen Vertullo presents the Fastener Training Minute (1:17:10). It's a fast-paced foray on the high octane fastener freeway! Run time: 01:52:17

The boys meant no harm when they took a brief hiatus over the holidays, and now they're back to kick off a new year of fastener talk radio. ND Industries VP of Business Development, Jim Barr, talks fastener training, and explains ND's new line of adhesive fastening products (24:20). Rob Lucas, of Fidelis Fasteners, opines on the longshoreman's "slow down", BBI's success, and changing buying habits (1:04:56). NFDA president, Paul Tiffany, joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to discuss changes and a new vision for the Fastener Distributor Index (43:22). Plus, new FTR partners are announced. Brian and Eric make their way the only way they know how, and things go pretty well overall. Run time: 01:45:24

Unlike winning at slots, or in the podcasting game, fast-paced fastener talk radio is no long shot as Mark Klosek and Dave Kjanek, of the Vertex Distribution team, describe the current stainless market (18:40). Then, the annual Semi All-Star Panel convenes to review this year's Vegas fastener show, with John Butler, Laura Vath and Bob Baer spinning the wheel (1:01:14). Fastener industry newshound, Mike McNulty rounds up industry headlines, and explains the avalanche of support for liberty, as evidenced by the recent mid-terms, on the Fastener News Report (46:53). Plus, Carmen Vertullo compares fine versus coarse threads on the Fastener Training Minute (38:12). Brian and Eric are 2 to 1 favorites, although you shouldn't gamble on whether Brian will ever manage to find paper towels at Cosco. Run time: 02:14:31

Just ahead of the latest Vegas fastener show, it's more projectile fastener Internet talk radio! Outspoken fastener man and political wonk, Mr. Charlie Kerr, speaks on his late father, reshoring, and the upcoming mid-term elections (1:07:47). Jackie "Kind of a Big Deal in the Industry" Ventura, presents the Fastener News Report, and explains the disastrous reality of "common core", the federal government's attack on public education (45:53). Leading off, the youthful and fastener-laden outside sales manager of National Threaded Fasteners, Gary Graham, describes his journey in this screwy industry (21:34). Plus, fastener guru, Carmen Vertullo, presents the latest edition of The Fastener Training Minute (1:00:17). Brian and Eric prepare for a productive and virus-free visit to Sin City, imploring listeners to make the lengthy trek to booth 1855. Run time: 02:07:14

The boys are back, feeling ever so safe thanks to far reaching efforts of our benevolent federal government, along with Mark Georgia of Fascomp (59:05), NIFS partner Mike McGuire (13:21), and Mike McNulty with the Fastener News Report, this time joined by Field Fastener president, Mr. Jim Derry (36:10). Run time: 01:31:12

The fastener industry may be throwing cold water around, but business conditions are hot. Mike McNulty explains the dramatic spike in the July FDI numbers, and also is joined by Robbie Gilchrist, who has news about this year's Gilchrist Foundation scholarship award winners (24:39). During the third installment of "Legends of the Industry", Trinity Hardware Headquarters' head honcho, Dan Zehnder speaks with Lake Erie Screw legend, Mr. George Wasmer (41:24). Plus, Carmen Vertullo presents the Fastener Training Minute (15:17). Brian and Eric mull over their options on addressing the ALS challenge. Run time: 01:31:51

During a virtual shore lunch of fastener industry news and information, Jay Queenin and Kelly Cole, of Specialty Bolt & Screw, explain their new partnership and plans to expand internationally (1:01:06). MWFA president, Rich Cavoto, recaps this year's table top and golf event (17:21). Fastener Technology International editor, Mike McNulty presents the Fastener News Report and is joined by Holden Lewis of BB&T Capital Markets with the June FDI report (37:50). Hosts Brian and Eric lament missing some of the fun at the summer fastener events, but fondly remember the fillets and rollers they enjoyed instead. Run time: 01:41:36

There's more than one way to measure success, and the same can be said of hex head cap screws. Stelfast president, Simmi, presents her perspective on various fastener industry issues, including the Taiwanese plating situation, and goes on to describe her involvement with an all-new organization, designed to enable success for fastener professionals across the industry (1:27:45). Fastener Technology International editor, Mike McNulty, delivers top industry headlines, and BB&T analyst, Holden Lewis, is grilled on the startling May FDI numbers by a special guest interviewer on the Fastener News Report (55:22). Bay Standard Manufacturing's, the formerly erstwhile fastener man, Robert Rodgers, kicks things off with his take on outstanding threaded rod anti-dumping litigation (25:57). Plus, a new opportunity to win a full scholarship to the FTI's coveted Certified Fastener Specialist program is announced (9:07). New Feature: The Fastener Training Minute, with veteran industry consultant, Carmen Vertullo (1:22:22). Brian and Eric, meanwhile, sharpen hooks and clean out the boat of last season's plastic worms, as they prepare for success in their pursuit of trophies across the flats. Run time: 02:02:23