Effort Doesn't Equal Output | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E66 Lean Built: Manufacturing Freedom podcast

53:50

Andrew and Jay dive into lessons from an improv-based leadership workshop—like how body language and silence shape communication. They explore “last-letter listening,” a simple but powerful game to build better habits in conversations. Then the discussion shifts to process drift, shop floor improvements, and the ongoing battle between order and entropy. Along the way: clear bins, label makers, expanding facilities, Formula 1 fandom, and why every machinist should probably watch some racing.…

1
Stop and Fix: Building a Culture of Lean Accountability | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E87 31:57

hace 9 días31:57

31:57

How do you maintain lean principles when things are temporary? From setting up makeshift workstations to dealing with process drift and forgotten improvements, Andrew and Jay discuss the cost of cutting corners ... even in short-term production. You’ll hear real-life shop floor stories about mislabeled kits, cracked lenses, and the subtle erosion of good processes. Plus, they explore how visibility, standardization, and a culture of “stop and fix what bugs you” can transform workflow—no matter how small the task. Book mentioned: The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement by Eliyahu M. Goldratt…

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Shipping Woes & Business Wins: A Lean Approach to Logistics | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E86 46:25

hace 16 días46:25

46:25

When your entire shipping process is disrupted by a black hole of lost packages, what do you do? In this episode, we dive into a real-world shipping and fulfillment crisis, as a USPS hub in Indianapolis fails to deliver—literally. With potential for lost orders, frustrated customers, and rising costs, Andrew breaks down how his company pivoted their logistics strategy in real time to save their product launch. We also explore lean manufacturing principles, the importance of process feedback loops, and why bad vendors will eventually burn themselves down—sometimes literally. Plus, hear some wild manufacturing war stories, including an industry where 50% of products are thrown away—and it’s still cheaper than domestic production.…

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Surviving the Install: The High-Stakes World of CNC Machine Setup | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E85 43:52

hace 23 días43:52

43:52

Installing a new CNC machine isn’t for the faint of heart, and in this episode, we dive into the process of rigging and setting up the Matsuura MX420 PC10. From nerve-wracking moments with teetering machine parts to the surprising role color plays in a shop environment, Andrew and Jay share firsthand experiences from the world of machining. Plus, we explore: why rigging mistakes have led to catastrophic crashes in the past, how a misaligned spindle caused major headaches, the power of getting the right technicians for the job, why choosing between a Brother and a Haas CNC is about more than just speed, insurance for machine downtime, using external expertise, and optimizing workflow tools like digital note-taking devices.…

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The Decision-Making Hack That Frees Up Time | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E84 50:24

hace 30 días50:24

50:24

Jay and Andrew unpack the concept of “Ask for No, Don’t Ask for Yes,” a strategy that flips traditional decision-making on its head. Inspired by this article from Dan Moore , they discuss how shifting from seeking approval to assuming action can streamline workflows, eliminate bottlenecks, and empower teams to make decisions with confidence. They also share insights on reducing decision fatigue, setting clear boundaries, and avoiding unnecessary delays. Plus, they do a deep dive into machining improvements, and ChatGPT for workflow automation.…

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Smart Failure vs. Dumb Failure | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E83 48:33

hace 5 weeks48:33

48:33

In this episode, we dive deep into the value of failure—yes, failure—as a crucial tool for growth and success. Jay and Andrew discuss the difference between smart failure vs. dumb failure, how to create core values that actually shape company culture, and why embracing mistakes (the right way) leads to continuous improvement. They even have a friendly debate about how much pain you should feel when you (first) make a mistake. Book mentioned: The Brand Gap: How to Bridge the Distance Between Business Strategy and Design by Marty Neumeier…

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The Art of Hiring: Finding the Right Fit Without Micromanaging | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E82 46:30

hace 6 weeks46:30

46:30

What’s harder—your first hire or your tenth? In this episode, Jay and Andrew discuss the growing pains of hiring, when to trust your gut, and how to build a hiring process that works. They break down lean manufacturing principles, why “busy” doesn’t mean productive, and how reducing waste can create a healthier, more profitable business.…

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No Questions? No Job! Why Incurious People Are Bad Employees | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E81 57:09

hace 7 weeks57:09

57:09

In this episode, Jay shares key takeaways from his visit to Gimbal Automation, giving us a behind-the-scenes look at innovation in action. We break down why job candidates who don’t ask questions can be a major red flag, and we dive into the pitfalls of the pre-order trap—why taking money before your product is truly ready can backfire. Plus, Andrew shamelessly swipes a great idea from Jay to improve the visitor-experience to his facility—you might want to steal it too.…

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Hack Your Business With Automation, Routine, & Memory | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E80 45:28

hace 8 weeks45:28

45:28

In this episode, Jay and Andrew geek out on the power of routine, why structured days fuel creativity, and how memory palaces can turn you into a mental wizard. Plus, Jay shares a hilarious (and frustrating) story about a packaging company that somehow managed to ship his product back looking like it survived a battle. And Andrew explains why automation isn’t stealing jobs—it’s setting people free. Book mentioned: Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything by Joshua Foer .…

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SHOT Show 2025 Debrief | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E79 19:06

hace 9 weeks19:06

19:06

In this solo debrief, Andrew talks about his experiences at SHOT Show 2025, sharing reflections on industry trends, the rising costs of Vegas, trade show logistics, connecting with industry peers, the value of focused networking, and more.

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Loathing Las Vegas (Or How I Learned To Stop Worrying and Love The Trade Show) | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E78 50:07

hace 10 weeks50:07

50:07

Andrew is headed to the SHOT Show, so he and Jay dive into the ins and outs of trade show culture, including the fascinating interplay between established giants and ambitious startups. Later they discuss balancing standardization with customization, and when it’s worth going the DIY route versus opting for factory solutions. Plus, hear their takes on pricing psychology, crafting an efficient workplace, and the joys of hands-on tinkering as founders.…

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Buy The Machine, Buy The Culture | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E77 56:44

hace 11 weeks56:44

56:44

Andrew and Jay kick off 2025 with a wide-ranging conversation about everything from the history of urban neighborhoods and local governance, navigating customer expectations, managing inventory, and handling unexpected crises like power outages. We also dive into the importance of aligning with vendors, and the intricacies of new machine installations.…

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Shop Insights with John Saunders| Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E76 33:53

hace 12 weeks33:53

33:53

Andrew sits down with John Saunders of Saunders Machine Works for a candid discussion about their John's visit to Andrew's shop, lessons in lean manufacturing, and the challenges of running a small business.

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Lessons from 2024 and Exciting Ventures for 2025 | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E75 40:53

hace 13 weeks40:53

40:53

As 2024 wraps up, Andrew and Jay reflect on the year. They discuss lessons learned in 2024, and how they're preparing for industry shifts in 2025. Plus Jay reveals an exciting new diversification venture in the tiny home industry, Piccola Tiny Homes , and how lean principles are transforming this space.…

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The 5-Step Innovation Process | Lean Built - Manufacturing Freedom E74 26:18

hace 14 weeks26:18