Steve Michon on Truth, Trust, and Going the Extra Mile in Manufacturing | Radical Job Shop Show

In this episode of The Radical Job Shop Show, host Emily Joann Wilkins sits down with Steve Michon, owner of Zero Tolerance CNC, a precision tooling and plastic injection mold shop known for its craftsmanship, honesty, and people-first leadership.Steve shares what it really takes to build a shop where truth matters, mistakes become teachers, and going the extra mile isn’t optional—it’s the standard. From using social media to build trust (not just attention) to hiring the next generation before experience retires, this conversation explores how leadership, transparency, and generosity shape long-term success in manufacturing.We talk about building a culture where people feel safe to fail and learn, why responsiveness and communication matter more than ever, and how Steve views his role as both a lighthouse—guiding others with clarity—and a fountain, giving more than he takes.Whether you’re leading a CNC shop, navigating growth, training young talent, or trying to build a manufacturing business rooted in trust and integrity, this episode offers a grounded, human take on what it means to lead well.Special thanksThanks to our friends at Creston Industrial Sales who've backed our mission since day one. We were able to kick things off live at the Advanced Manufacturing Expo in Grand Rapids, Michigan.📌 Need help telling your story?Start with The Setup:https://www.marketingmetal.com/how-it-worksStay connected:Explore more at https://www.marketingmetal.comTimestamps00:00 – Intro: The Radical Job Shop Show00:34 – Meet Steve Michon of Zero Tolerance CNC01:08 – Steve’s wife, partnership, and founding the shop02:00 – What Zero Tolerance CNC does (injection molds + tooling)03:05 – Why Steve avoids automotive work04:05 – Precision tooling, tight tolerances, and complex molds05:10 – How work finds the shop: trust, word of mouth, and reputation06:20 – Showing work in progress and building transparency07:30 – Telling customers the truth when mistakes happen08:45 – “Going the extra mile” as a leadership standard10:05 – Communication, responsiveness, and personal touch11:05 – What makes Steve’s shop truly radical12:00 – Learning new technology and sharing knowledge13:10 – Being a lighthouse and a fountain14:40 – Hiring young talent and working with high schools16:05 – Training, failure, and psychological safety17:30 – Leadership, fear, and responsibility to employees18:50 – Measuring impact beyond parts and profit20:05 – Staying optimistic and grounded21:15 – Closing thoughts on the future of manufacturing