Fully Threaded Radio

A focused discussion with Fastener Technology International senior news editor and FTR contributor, Mike McNulty, tracking his unexpected journey from engineering school to the desk of the industry renowned Fastener News Report. Run time: 48:38

Fastener Fair USA floor interviews featuring Chris McAffrey, Michael White, Blanca Delgado, Jill Lewis, Anders Green, Robbie Gilchrist and many more. On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty of Fastener Technology International speaks with Baird senior analyst Dave Manthey to explain the ongoing surge in the Fastener Distributor Index (56:29). Jason Baines of J. Lanfranco introduces a new coalition designed to address tariffs impacting the fastener trade (46:35). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo fixes a mistake with grade 9 (1:36:37). PLUS: 5 tips for preserving margins during lease negotiations (42:31). Brian and Eric plan an airlift. Run time: 02:16:17

The well dressed Matt Delawder of SWD and fastener golf ace Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing discuss industry developments and the upcoming MWFA 80th anniversary extravaganza (12:01). Huyett CEO Tim O'Keeffe joins news editor Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to analyze skyrocketing FDI numbers (59:41). Feature: Dealing with tariff rebate questions using AI with Nick Pericle of Tenexity (1:45:12). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo discusses fastener straightness (1:36:01). Plus: How to find "invisible money" on the warehouse floor (48:48), and what happened to Claude on tax day? Brian and Eric order Mac Minis and more Vegemite. Run time: 02:21:37

Industry leader, educator, innovator and former introvert Dr. Salim Brahimi discusses his role at the IFI, including new career development programs and upcoming changes to some important standards. He also shares his family story of escaping revolution-era Iran, and how that experience shaped his life and world view. Bonus: Learn how there came to be a bull shark named Salim. Run time: 01:03:51

When do the AI job losses hit? Distribution Strategy Group chief strategy officer Ian Heller describes the advance of new tech impacting every level of the thread game (1:46:33). Meanwhile, the fastener industry faces a raft of other pressures, including tariff uncertainty and global conflict. The affable Jason Baines of J. Lanfranco offers perspective (23:38). On the Fastener News Report, Würth Industry USA president Chapman Revercomb joins newsman Mike McNulty to explain an unusual alignment in the latest FDI reading (59:57). Industry guru Carmen Vertullo looks at rigging and lifting hardware, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:35:00). Also, Fastener Fair USA show manager Blanca Delgado previews the upcoming conference in Charlotte (52:14). PLUS: A surprising retirement announcement, and when is it NOT good to locate near a shipping hub? Brian and Eric try getting a bot to draw a pentahead.

Is there more than hot air behind the CBAM regulations now in full effect in the EU? How should the North American fastener industry view these new mandates? Braving conditions created by inevitable climate change, the gas loving Charlie Kerr of Kerr Lakeside offers his views from the ski slopes of Lake Tahoe (1:42:54). Würth Industry USA compliance officer Danielle Riggs provides more sober commentary from the conventional setting of her office (14:52). On the Fastener News Report, Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins senior news editor Mike McNulty with strong FDI numbers, and plenty of reaction from the market (44:40). Thread guru Carmen Vertullo presents options for meeting non-conformance situations on the Fastener Training Minute (1:32:28). BONUS: Where is the sweet spot in new warehouse space? (38:07) Brian and Eric look ahead to significant warming as they consider who vandalized the Sphynx. Run time: 02:43:50

Real estate advisor Marco Rodriguez has deep roots in the fastener industry. He reveals strategies for getting the upper hand in commercial leasing negotiations, showing why he has become the go to voice for advice on commercial real estate in the fastener industry. He also shares his thoughts on the impact of AI data centers on the commercial real estate leasing market. Run time: 33:52Contact Marco Rodriguez of Cresa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-rodriguez-51b8914/

WIFI Woman of the Year and world traveler Darlene Collis of LSG talks shop and shows why she is the Fastener Ninja (1:05:51). On the Fastener News Report, Birmingham Fastener VP Anthony Crawl joins thread newsman Mike McNulty to marvel at the latest FDI numbers (19:18). Volt Industrial Plastics maven Heidi Volltrauer announces a voyage of her own (10:05). Carmen Vertullo presents his takeaways from the recent bolted joint symposium on the Fastener Training Minute (56:38). PLUS: Is the party really over for industrial property landlords? Brian hangs out with Horus and Eric bids farewell to an icon.

Tariff news: Just ahead of the U.S. Supreme Court major announcement on tariffs, Canadian fastener men Jason Baines, of J. Lanfranco and Hans Fuller, of Fuller Metric, discuss bewildering new changes to Canada's steel tariffs that could cause serious disruptions.

The year concludes with mixed news from across the fastener industry, as veteran sales rep Rick Rudolph shares his recipe for seasonal cheer (1:40:39). Eurolink president, Craig Penland is bullish on the future, but keeps watch on European CBAM and other environmental regulations that complicate running a fastener business (23:25). On the Fastener News Report, Martin Inc. EVP Scott McDaniel joins news editor Mike McNulty to unpack the surprising shift of the FDI (57:53). Thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains B7 threaded rod markings on the Fastener Training Minute (1:30:26). PLUS: Zech Williams of Würth Industry explains the YFP approach to professional development (47:48) and Marco Rodriguez of Cresa drops more commercial real estate wisdom (42:49). Brian and Eric think deeply about the coming year as they take stock in the present moment.

Goebel Group CEO Marcel Goebel discusses his life in the fastener industry, expansion across Europe and entering the U.S. market, fastener fitness, finding the right people, and the World Rivet Congress.

Fastener sales continue to race along, as Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. and news editor Mike McNulty explain as they present the latest high octane FDI results on the Fastener News Report (44:34). Meanwhile, industry journeyman and BBQ connoisseur Tony Martinez of Buckeye Fasteners describes a great place for a pit stop (33:15). Back behind the wheel in the fastener industry, newly appointed All-State Fastener CEO Dan Hill shares his view of the road ahead (15:56). Feature: Dan Walker and Preston Boyd of the Industrial Fasteners Institute describe an exciting new apprenticeship program designed for domestic fastener manufacturing (1:31:55). On the Fastener Training Minute, industry expert Carmen Vertullo looks at hydrogen embrittlement testing (1:20:03). Brian and Eric suspect Sam Altman has a secret fastener fetish.

Laurence Claus is a widely known and respected fastener engineer, trainer, writer and mentor. With a career in fasteners that began on the manufacturing side, and spanning over 30 years, he continues his work today with the Fastener Training Institute, the Industrial Fasteners Institute and through his company NNI Training & Consulting. His writing appears in American Fastener Journal, Fastener Technology International, Distributors Link and others. Laurence Claus was inducted into the Fastener Industry Hall of Fame in 2025.

The fastener industry reports brisk sales, but optimism is slipping. Why is this happening? Abbott-Interfast president Bob "GQ" Baer joins news editor Mike McNulty to mull over the confusing FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (52:05). Industry legend, Mr. Bruce Darling, is remembered during a heartfelt conversation with Stelfast purchasing manager, Jim Jordan (1:35:36). IFI chairman Larry Spelman speaks from the recent fall conference in Louisville (15:25). On the Fastener Training Minute, guru Carmen Vertullo talks torque to yield fastening (1:25:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa: buy vs. lease? (35:31) and Parker Jensen of Atlas Distribution and the NFBBQA (39:47). Brian and Eric point out that you don't need a moon roof on a lunar rover.

Tough Nutters George “GHIII” Hunt of Brighton Best, Bobby “Tater Tot” Wegner of Beacon Fasteners, Bob “GQ” Baer from Abbott-Interfast, and BTM Manufacturing president Jake “Valdez” Davis put on their jerseys to relive highlights of the dirtiest fastener networking event of 2025. Run time: 47:07

Floor interviews from the International Fastener Expo 2025, the largest fastener industry event of the year. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey traveled to Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas to get in on all the action. Golf results, break out sessions, Fastener Hall of Fame, special events and more. Run time: 01:04:18

Atlas Distribution Services president Scott Camp remembers legendary Fastenal founder, Bob Kierlin. Scott explains how he came to travel with Mr. Kierlin during the early stage of his career, observing and learning lessons he carries with him as he builds his own company today. Bob Kierlin was known for his practicality, common sense and efficiency. Scott Camp shares his accounts of their time together which validate Bob Kierlin’s stellar reputation and explain why he was so successful in business and in life. Run time: 35:59

Thinking hard about tariffs, AI tech, reshoring and keeping stock on the shelves, the fastener industry heads to Vegas for its largest annual conference of the year. Director of strategic sourcing for Würth Industry USA, Brian Schommer explains the critical role of sourcing and the reboot of the Würth Knowing podcast (14:11). Young Fastener Professional of the Year, Tim Vath of LSG shares his formula for success (37:49). On the Fastener News Report, Hans Fuller of Canadian distributor Fuller Metric joins Mike McNulty to compare notes on the surprising FDI numbers (47:39). Marco Rodriguez of Cresa discloses the 5 hottest markets for industrial warehouse space (1:20:14). Carmen Vertullo talks ASTM A193 B7 on the Fastener Training Minute (1:27:14). PLUS: Ian Heller of Distribution Strategy talks AI from the Applied AI for Distributors conference (1:38:35). Brian and Eric ignore irritating bird noises and think about their new AI-enabled Scrubber. Run time: 02:00:58

Midwest Fastener Association table top show floor interviews featuring the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey with Rick and Morgan Rudolph, Tom Blakley, Heidi Volltrauer, Josh Winkler, Tom Buddenbohn, Mallory Nichols, Matt Delawder, Sid Hirsch, Jill Coar, Luke Radtke, TJ Munson, Mike McNulty and many more. PLUS: Golf results including winner of the coveted FTR award. Run time: 55:49

Fastener veteran, metric legend of the Midwest, Mr. Rich Cavoto of Metric and Multistandard shares his experiences dealing with tariff confusion (1:36:00). AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin joins newsman Mike McNulty to question the shocking spike in the FLI on the Fastener News Report (48:42). Joanne Bialas celebrates International Fasteners 30 years in business (39:37). Ali Gonzalez and Kerry Tyler of Emerald preview this year’s IFE (18:56). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo looks at hydrogen embrittlement testing (1:19:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa explains what to look for in a build to suit commercial lease (15:18). Brian and Eric remember dial-up AOL as they experiment with Chat GPT 5. Run time: 02:08:07

With tariff talk deadlines looming, Canadian locknut provider J. Lanfranco VP and part-time Highlander Jason Baines provides an update on where things stand. He also explains his entry into the realm of Scottish hammer throwing, how Canada could address some of its challenges right now, and the therapeutic aspect of raising chickens.  Run time: 39:08

MW Components VP of sales, Kara Bosse sees the exciting side of the fastener sales game as she works to make manufacturing an attractive career for the next generation (8:07). Meanwhile, pitmaster Rob “Big Country” Reynolds of INxSQL Software explains how his ERP platform has expanded to support fastener manufacturing as well as distribution (1:40:25). On the Fastener News Report, Baird analyst Dave Manthey joins senior editor Mike McNulty to examine the latest surge of the FDI reading (50:23). Carmen Vertullo highlights conical spring washers on The Fastener Training Minute (1:26:20). PLUS: Ed Smith of Würth Industry USA takes the lead at the NFDA (40:10). Southwest gets Eric to the southwest, but high and dry. Run time: 02:10:10

MWFA FSTNR Week ’25 is right around the corner, that means it’s time to start prepping for fastener mud racing! Team leaders Bob “GQ” Baer of Abbott-Interfast, Jake “Valdez” Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Bobby “Tater Tot” Wegner of Beacon Fasteners set the stage for another memorable year. Once again, they hope to avoid electrocution, dehydration, excessive grass stains, and of course, hydrogen embrittlement, and they want you to join the team today! Run time: 25:06

In this episode, Eric Dudas of FCH Sourcing Network is joined by Fastenal veteran turned homesteader Sam Aldinger and ERP code-slinger Anders Green of ALOX4 to dive deep into the evolving world of fastener sourcing, exploring why it’s still very much an art—despite rising interest in AI, B2B e-ecommerce and automation. They discuss the complexity of matching vague inquiries to real-world parts, the limitations of current tech solutions, and how tools like FCH SourceFinder and the “Scrubber” are paving the way. It’s a candid, forward-looking conversation on the digital future of industrial sourcing.Run time: 01:15:18

With a long view on the fastener industry and numerous careers to reflect on, Distributor’s Link Magazine publisher Mr. Leo Coar recounts the launch of his flagship businesses and shares thoughts on a range of topics. From the shift away from domestic manufacturing and rise of the master importers, to the early days of the fastener shows, to the impact of AI tech on fastener distribution, a true legend of the industry tells it like it was, and the way he sees it in the days ahead. Run time: 47:31

The fastener market may be going nuts, but marketing pros Rosa Hearn of BBI and Joe Shoemaker of AFC Industries keep a steady hand while getting the right messaging to the industry (1:07:11). Würth Industry USA managing director Chapman Revercomb joins senior news editor Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to read into the latest FDI rally (21:12). Perigee Manufacturing CEO Michael Topolewski breaks down the fall out from the recent SPS fire (11:45). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo presents the most important training topic EVAH! (57:13) Summer is kicking off, so Brian and Eric crave BBQ, as always. FNR musical interlude: “Dead Man Theme” by N. Young cover. Run time: 01:47:56

Fastener Fair USA in Nashville was a big success with strong traffic, numerous education and networking opportunities, Nascar simulator competition and a down home after hours event. The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey gathered reactions and commentary from show attendees from across the industry, including Josh Winkler, Louis Speedon, GHIII, Heidi Volltrauer, Tim Vath, Kim Penland, Bob Chiricosta, Henning Cybulski, John “Cool Hand” Butler and many more. Run time: 01:08:27

The screw turns as the industry heads to Nashville for its annual spring jamboree. NCFA Distributor Social attendees, Gary Graham, Justine Urban, Morgan Wilson speak with the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey. On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo explains new structural bolt standard changes that could impact hydrogen embrittlement. PLUS: Who actually won the FTR award at this year’s MWFA Still Screwed Up Open? Run time: 34:30

With over 20 years at Fastenal, Sam Aldinger makes the jump into homesteading, balancing a blend of animal husbandry, podcasting and digital business coaching all while managing a fulfilling family life. The discussion touches on the importance of data in fastener distribution and manufacturing, selecting the correct B2B commerce platform, networking into farm communities, the culture at Fastenal, and sheep psychology. Run time: 51.55

The fastener industry reacts to the new tariffs as the impacts begin to take shape. Field Fastener president Adam Derry joins Fastener Technology International editor Mike McNulty to sort out the tanking FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (21:16). Returning from Stuttgart, Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich checks in with his read (12:55). Plus, John “Cool Hand” Butler of Martin Supply shares news of the largest charity bed build yet (1:54). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo talks electro-plating alloy socket set screws (59:50). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez presents the quarterly commercial real estate report (52:23). Eric is back from the pit, on the way to Nashville. Close theme: Robert Earl Keen, “Barbeque”, 1996. Run time: 01:07:38

The world’s largest dedicated fastener show, Fastener Fair Global, took place in Stuttgart, Germany and Eurolink Fastener Supply Service founder and president Craig Penland was there. He reviews this year’s show as well as some of his adventures exploring various locations in Europe. He also shares a surprising take on the European view of the tariffs. Run time: 33:51

Despite shifting tariff pronouncements, the fastener industry records another strong month as Brighton Best International president Jun Xu joins newsman Mike McNulty explain on the Fastener News Report (28:33). Meanwhile, Rick Perkhaus of Fastener Specialties Manufacturing confronts an issue facing many small to mid-sized family operations (8:37). On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo discusses the fine points of mixing small lots when sending parts for plating (1:07:19). Brian and Eric note an attractive aspect of European fastener shows. Musical cameo @ 1:04:55 The Meters – “Doodle-Oop” 1971. Run time: 01:16:20

Lots of news with tariffs. This is breaking every day now, as it turns out. Endries CEO Michael Knight reacts to the latest tariffs and shares thoughts on what they mean for the fastener industry. You’ve heard him on the podcast before, probably seen him at various shows, and seen his many posts on LinkedIn. He’s a person who has many insights and an excellent perspective to share with us here. Run time: 21:16

Canadian locknut provider J.Lanfranco Fastener Systems supplies premium fasteners to industries on both sides of the border. VP Jason Baines discusses his approach working with partners across the supply chain, shares thoughts on changing political conditions, and looks for the best in everyone involved. Run time: 22:55

Pac-West Fastener Association spring conference floor interviews and coverage, including Paul Vittori, George Martinez, Darlene Collis, Carl Spackman, Michael Chen, Jake “Valdez” Davis, Christian Reich and Steve “The Sasco Man” Dunham. PLUS: Golf tourney winners. Run time: 27:42

The fastener industry powers ahead amid unsettling tariff news, cyber warfare and sky high egg prices. Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel joins newsman Mike McNulty to sift through the surprising FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (29:22). From his new operating base in Malaysia, Würth EVP Asia-Pacific Dee Ward shares a very different viewpoint, as he drives growth while patiently waiting for baseball season to begin (8:58). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo cautions on a simple but critical difference in an important ASTM vs. ASME standard (1:01:23). BONUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cresa presents his quarterly warehouse space leasing report. Brian and Eric watch for a black swan, and hope it will lay a few eggs. Run time: 01:13:23.

FTR co-host Brian Musker shares two stories from his recent adventures outside of the FCH data lab (15:32). Fastener industry guru Carmen Vertullo explains lot traceability and why you should be on good terms with your test lab (28:19). WTC Managed IT Services senior consultant Will Snyder provides an important Microsoft security tip all distributors should understand (10:05). PLUS: What happened at the NFDA web conference on the new tariffs. Run time: 53:35.

As he rides into the sunset, Steve “The Sasco Man” Dunham stops by to take stock in a fastener career well spent (9:08). On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty welcomes Würth Industry USA COO Jeff Schmitt to read into sinking FDI numbers, plus major strategic announcements from Würth (35:16). Carmen Vertullo explains proper nut lubrication for structural applications on the Fastener Training Minute (1:13:18). Following the MFDA economic meeting, Brian and Eric consider safe asset classes before anything hits the fan. Run time: 01:29:37

Skidmore-Wilhelm expert and proprietor Mr. John O’Brien and industry guru Carmen Vertullo delve deeply into the applications, uses and origins of tension bolting’s most unique and essential tool. Discover simple yet effective lubricating techniques, little known but deadly hazards of improper bolt tensioning, and exclusive training opportunities during this wide reaching conversation. PLUS: Mysterious K-factor talk aplenty! Run time: 01:23:40

The new fastener year begins with dramatic headlines, Fastener Technology International editor in chief Mike McNulty breaks the stories and welcomes Huyett CEO Tim O'Keeffe to look at complete 2024 FDI numbers plus the outlook for the year ahead on the Fastener News Report. EXTRA: Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. explains the latest huge LSG acquisition. On the Fastener Training Minute, thread guru Carmen Vertullo looks at risk mitigation in structural bolt tensioning. Plus, Fastener Fair USA show manager Blanca Delgado preview the upcoming event in Nashville. Brian and Eric often work independently, but sometimes they join forces, and when they do, it can mean fastener podcast gold.  Run time: 01:19:51

‘Tis the season to reveal new fastener association officers, as industry veteran rep Robert Rundle of R.W. Rundle Associates takes the lead at the MFDA (8:36). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo explains a critical aspect of plating (18:30). Plus, the next winner of the IronClad Gloves Out of The Rut contest. CHRISTMAS BONUS: J. R. Prahl’s “The Gift” redux edition (43:55). Run time: 49:01

The FDI brings a lump of coal to the fastener industry, but Star Stainless president Tim Roberto Jr. and Fastener Technology International senior news editor Mike McNulty remain positive, despite mixed feelings over probable new tariffs, on the Fastener News Report (20:23). Goebel Fasteners CEO Christian Reich takes more fastener limelight at this year's Fastenal Expo (14:21). PLUS: Marco Rodriguez of Cressa presents an update on the over land trucking situation (58:02). Brian and Eric teach a new AI old tricks.  Run time: 01:10:34

Premium fastener provider J. Lanfranco sends mining industry veteran Steve Roebuck on a mission to dig up new business from an international market (11:20). On the Fastener Training Minute, thread educator Carmen Vertullo discusses a classic question involving nylon insert locknuts (22:50). PLUS: The first winner of the "Out of the Rut" IronClad gloves contest! Brian and Eric hone their skills and their platform. Run time: 49:28

Fastener industry optimism keeps the latest FDI numbers strong as AFC VP of sales John Kovatch joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (19:55). There's more good news for fastener mud racers as Jake "Valdez" Davis of BTM Manufacturing announces dates for next year's huge MWFA event (7:15). PLUS: Brian and Eric launch the new IronClad gloves "Out of the Rut" contest. Run time: 53:30

Jo Morris of Desert Distribution and TJ McFarland of Brikksen travel far afield in their fastener endeavors, jamming in as much fun as good business will allow (4:28). Thread guru Carmen Vertullo discusses thread stripping on the Fastener Training Minute (21:26).

Digital fastener data is like footprints that leave a long lasting imprint.  So says JR Prahl of mega-industrial supplier OneMonroe (45:19). On the Fastener News Report, senior fastener newsman Mike McNulty welcomes Martin Fastening Supply EVP Scott McDaniel to discuss the soaring FDI readings from the most recent report (10:18). Brian and Eric set a new fastener data course of their own while trying out a new, "tighter" format.

Würth EVP Larry Stevens shares his thoughts as he guides the world's largest industrial supplier toward global integration and connectivity. From simple midwest beginnings, he spent 16 years building the business in Asia before returning to the U.S. to focus on directing the company's vast collection of companies towards a more unified growth course. During this wide-ranging conversation, Larry shares many experiences, including his reactions to some of the more "exotic" cuisines he was presented in the east, and his unexpected feelings upon returning to the west.  He also looks to the future of a more globalized world, where technologies such as AI and additive manufacturing are changing the way business will be done.

Don "The Amazing" Shan joins Brian and Eric for semi-comprehensive IFE '24 coverage, featuring Larry Stevens, Jo Morris, Marcel Goebel, Wayne Wishnew, Lisa Sanderson, Jake Glaser, John Gaudette, Mike Robinson and many more!  An important name was added to the wall this year, and the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey was there.  Plus, Earnest CEO Kirk Zehnder joins industry newsman Mike McNulty to dissect the stunning FDI report on the Fastener News Report (1:09:55). Newly inducted Fastener Hall of Famer Carmen Vertullo gazes into the future of fastener materials on the latest Fastener Training Minute (1:37:18). 

Fastener industry 50 year veteran and Goebel Fasteners national sales manager Sam Underwood explains what makes a great distributor (14:29). Will Snyder of WTC Business Technology Services on the fallout from the Cloudstrike internet outage snafu (1:29:54). Birmingham Fastener & Supply CEO Brad Tinney joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report to review the sudden dip in the FDI (42:09). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo puts a pi R squared equation to use (1:14:12). Eric tries to convince Brian to hand out more pens.

Fastener Fair USA show manager and fastener friend Mr. Bob Chiricosta of RX Expositions is the winner of this year's Form Fit & Function Award, presented by the Naperville Fastener Association (the most  non-exclusive of all the fastener associations). PLUS: Bob "GQ" Baer and Jake "Valdez" Davis preview this year's FSTNR Week '24.