PODCAST · business
Machine Tool Maniacs
by Matt Dvoracek
Machine Tool Maniacs is where creativity meets craftsmanship. We share the real stories of makers, machinists, and entrepreneurs who turned ideas into reality. Each episode is designed to inspire you to create, while breaking down the processes, tools, and strategies that bring visions to life. Whether you’re building a business, a product, or just your skills, we’re here to spark ideas, share knowledge, and fuel your journey from concept to creation.
Episodes
-
Is IMTS Doomed?
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs podcast, Will and I sit down ahead of IMTS 2026 to talk about what we’re actually expecting to see at the show — and whether trade shows like IMTS are still as valuable as they once were. Machine tool builders continue to make massive investments in…
more -
Man VS AI with Jon Cheney
AI isn’t just changing how we program parts anymore. It’s changing what shop owners and manufacturers can build for themselves. In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, Jon Cheney and I talk about how AI can be used to create tools that make a business more efficient, streamlined, and...
-
Stop and Smell the Roses with Brett Pt 2
In Part 2 with Brett from BRC Metalworks, we pick up with a look inside his current shop setup and what it took to get his building up and running. We also get into some of the modifications he’s made to his Haas TL lathe and how he’s continued to refine his equipment around the kind of work he...
-
Old Fords and 5-Axis with Brett Pt 1
In part one with Brett from BRC Metalworks, we talk about a path into CNC machining that I think a lot of people in this industry can relate to: cars. Brett’s passion for automotive and hot rods eventually led him to machining when he realized that instead of buying parts, he could learn how to...
-
Turbo Flanges to Distribution with Donnie
In Part 2 of our conversation with Donnie Carr, we pick up where the last episode left off. Donnie explains why he stepped away from Street Car Fabrication, what he learned during his time in machine tool sales, and how those experiences ultimately led to the launch of Pappy's Tool. We get into...
-
Machine Shops to Turbo Flanges with Donnie
Every machinist has a story, and Donnie Carr's is one built through hard work, networking, and taking advantage of opportunities. In Part 1 of this two-part Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast series, Donnie shares how he got his start in manufacturing, worked his way through multiple machine shops, and...
-
The Most Known Unknowns
CNC machinists and fabrication shops are the most known unknowns in modern life. In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Matt sits down with Will Mund to break down why CNC machines are far more than just tools, they are the backbone of manufacturing, product development, and global...
-
A CMMC Puzzle Piece
In Part 2 of our conversation with Austin Haslam, we take a deeper dive into CMMC and why cybersecurity is becoming a critical issue for machine shops supporting the defense industry. We discuss how industrial espionage isn't just something that happens to Fortune 500 companies. Even small and...
-
Bridge Between Worlds - Machine Shop Champion
In Part 1 of this two-part series, Austin Haslam joins Machine Tool Maniacs to discuss his journey from CNC machinist to Applications Engineer at Hartwig. We dive into what applications engineering actually looks like behind the scenes, how the role differs from life on the shop floor, and why…
more -
Stacking Machines and Scaling Fast
In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Matt sits down with David Petrich and Brendon Ralph of Machinable Innovations, joined by co-host Will Mund. The conversation covers David’s path from Air Force machining training to building Machinable Innovations, the challenges of learning the trade,...
-
The Force Behind the Machine Tools Pt2.
We continue our conversation about what it’s like being on the distribution side of the CNC machining and manufacturing industry. It’s not all roses on this side either. In part two, Will Mund and I dive deeper into the realities of machine tool distribution, customer expectations, service...
-
The Force Behind the Machine Tools
From the shop floor to the distribution side of CNC machining and manufacturing. In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Will and I break down our backgrounds in the industry, what led us into applications, service, and sales, and why helping machine shops solve problems became our passion. Real...
-
Lone Wolf Loadout
Taylor Jenkins of Lone Wolf Precision is proving that small shops can run at a high level by combining smart automation with practical systems. In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, we break down how he is using Toolpath Labs AI programming along with Gimbal automation to streamline...
-
Terminating Traditional Automation
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs podcast, Will Mund and I break down the rise of humanoid robots in manufacturing and what it means for CNC machining, machine shop owners, and machinists. We discuss how robots like Figure are already working thousands of hours in real production...
-
Fairway to 5-Axis
In this episode, I sit down with Eric Schneiter to talk about his path from running a golf course to diving deep into CNC machining. What started as a drive to build his own invention led him to discover that CNC is at the core of manufacturing. Along the way, the invention took a backseat and a...
-
Need For Speed: Midnight Machining
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs podcast, I sit down with Bailey Shenk from Pizza Boy Metal Works. Bailey shares how he started his machine shop in his parents’ garage, building parts for the car community and turning his passion for cars and machining into real work. We talk about…
more -
CNC Repair Wizard
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, Will Mund and I sit down with Aaron Morrill, better known online as CNC Repairman. Aaron shares how he got his start repairing CNC machines, why he began creating repair videos for the machining community, and how that effort led to developing...
-
Motion Mechanics Spindles
In this continuation of our Machine Talk series, Will Mund and I set out to cover multiple components and ended up going deep on one of the most critical parts of any CNC machine: the spindle. Whether it’s spinning the cutter in a mill or spinning the part in a lathe, the spindle is what makes...
-
Motion Mechanics
In this Machine Talk episode, Will Mund and I break down the next layer of CNC machines by focusing on motion. After covering machine foundations in the last episode, we get into what actually makes a CNC move, including box ways vs linear guideways, what “hand-scraped” really means on box ways,...
-
Merchant of Machine Tools
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, I sit down with Brandon Atkinson of Elevation Machine to talk about our history growing up in manufacturing and how we both leapfrogged through different shop environments to end up where we are today. Brandon breaks down how Elevation Machine...
-
Special Delivery: Putting Your Business on the Map
In this episode, Matt and his wife Nicole break down how machine shops, CNC machinists, and product-focused entrepreneurs can start using short-form content to market what they offer. We cover why simple videos are enough to begin, how to show up consistently, and why perfection is not required.…
more -
G28 (2026)
In this episode, Will Mund joins to break down predictions for manufacturing in 2026: tariff impact on U.S. supply chains, workforce challenges, and how desktop/entry-level CNC machines could expand training pipelines for new machinists. A quick listen for CNC machinists, shop owners, and anyone...
-
M30 (End of Program 2025)
In this end-of-year wrap-up episode, Will Mund and I break down what actually mattered in manufacturing in 2025. We cover the launch of Machine Tool Maniacs, Will’s progress with Greenlight Machinery, key industry moves, and how AI is already affecting CNC programming, quality, and customer...
-
Breakdowns and Breakthroughs with Kelly Rus
Get ready to sit down with Kelly Rus of Precision Machine and Repair to break down how he built a machine shop from the ground up in just a few short years. Kelly started by buying out a one-man shop and shipping it to a small town in Georgia, then setting up in the corner of a dump truck company...
-
Side Hustle to Systems: Chris Keeps Rolling PT2
In this second part of my conversation with Chris Lamb from Triple Axis Manufacturing, we get into the real nuts and bolts of running a small machine shop. We talk about his actual equipment setup from near free machines to inspection gear, how he finds work without chasing every job online, and...
-
Pedals, Planes, and Precision: Chris Comes Full Circle PT1
Part one of my conversation with Chris Lamb of Triple Axis Manufacturing is all about coming full circle. We dig into what it’s like growing up in a family machine shop, learning the trade from your dad, and how those early lessons stick with you whether you realize it or not. Chris shares his…
more -
Machine Talk with Will: The foundation of your CNC
In this Machine Talk episode Will and I break down the one thing most machinists never think about. The foundation under the sheet metal. Cast iron weldments epoxy granite and concrete. What they do how they handle weight vibration and rigidity and why that matters for accuracy and tool life. We...
-
Moon-Dust Forge with Rocky Part 2
In the second half of my conversation with Rocky Parkerton, we look ahead at where AZ3DPrint is going next and how he’s leveling up his entire operation. Rocky breaks down his future machine tool plans, why he’s doubling down on capability, and how his spin-off company Regolith Forge is becoming...
-
Command and Conquer with Rocky Part 1
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, Matt sits down with Rocky Parkerton, founder of AZ3DPrint and RegolithForge. Rocky shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Army to becoming a CNC machinist, programmer, and ultimately a shop owner. In the first half of the episode, Rocky...
-
Machine Tool Road Rash
In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, Matt sits down with Josh and Brad, sales engineers with Hartwig, to talk about their journey into the manufacturing world and the lessons they’ve learned helping shops level up. From guiding shop owners through the decision to move from used machines to…
more -
Machine Talk: Gotta Catch Them All... Machine Controls PT 2
In Part 2, Will from Greenlight Machinery and I wrap up our talk on CNC controls. This time we dig into Mazak’s MAZATROL, Okuma’s OSP, Mitsubishi, and a few other systems you’ll likely cross paths with on your manufacturing journey. Whether you’re a seasoned machinist or just getting started, we...
-
Machine Talk: Gotta Catch Them All... Machine Controls PT 1
In this episode I sit down with Will from Greenlight Machinery to kick off our conversation about CNC controls and the history behind them. We start by talking about the three main controls you’re most likely to see out in the wild - HAAS, FANUC, and Siemens. We keep it real and talk about where...
-
Building a Dynamic Shop with Cody
In this episode of the Machine Tool Maniacs Podcast, we sit down with Cody Ruud, the founder of Dynamic Machine, to dive into his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to running his own CNC shop. Cody shares what it took to take the leap-starting his shop right in his backyard-and the...
-
From Horseshoes to CNC Machines - The Yukon Forge Story
What do you do when you can’t afford the tools you need to make a living? For John McNerney, the answer was simple - you build them yourself. Starting as a farrier, John’s need for quality tools pushed him into blacksmithing, where his talent eventually landed him on the hit show “Forged in…
more -
Episode 2 - Xometry king of Woods Cross with Brady
Welcome back for part two with Brady from O.P.A. Industries! In this episode, we wrap up Brady’s story - diving into how he’s grown O.P.A. to where it is today. We talk about how he leverages platforms like Xometry to maximize spindle uptime and keep his shop flexible with capacity. Plus, Brady...
-
Episode 1 – Building O.P.A. Industries with Brady Pickett
In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, I sit down with Brady Pickett, owner of O.P.A. Industries, to talk about his journey through the world of machining. Brady shares his introduction into the trade and his background as an applications engineer before taking the leap to start his own…
more -
Machine Talk with Will: 5-Axis in a Garage
In this Machine Talk episode, Matt sits down with Will Mund to break down the world of small 5-Axis CNC machines — from entry-level benchtop setups to larger machines you could actually fit in your garage. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to take your first step into machining or curious about...
-
Startup Grit in the Gem State
In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, I sit down with Drew Mortensen, the founder of Gem State Machine in Idaho Falls. Drew shares his journey from machinist to shop owner, the leap of faith that launched his business, and the unexpected challenges along the way. We dig into the realities of...
-
The Do’s and Don’ts of Buying Used Machinery
Buying used machinery can make or break a shop — but knowing what to look for (and what to avoid) isn’t always obvious. In this episode of Machine Tool Maniac, I’m joined by Will Mund, owner of Greenlight Machinery, to break down the do’s and don’ts of purchasing used equipment. Will shares his...
-
If You Build It… You Still Have to Sell It
Marketing Lessons from the Fitness World for Makers & Manufacturers. Whether you run a machine shop, operate in manufacturing, or are solo entrepreneurs developing their own products — how proven marketing strategies from the saturated health & fitness world can help them stand out, attract...
-
Fast Acquisition with Rob Moody
In this episode of Machine Tool Maniacs, I sit down with Rob Moody — machinist, entrepreneur, and creator of Fast Acquisition. Rob shares his journey from starting as a young machinist to rising into management, then launching a small shop out of his one-car garage. We talk about growing that…
more -
The Mission Statement!!!
In this episode, I share the heart behind Machine Tool Maniacs — why this podcast exists, who it’s for, and what we’re building together. It’s about inspiring creativity, sharing real stories from makers and manufacturers, and giving you the tools to bring your own ideas to life. Whether you’re a...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
ABOUT THIS SHOW
Machine Tool Maniacs is where creativity meets craftsmanship. We share the real stories of makers, machinists, and entrepreneurs who turned ideas into reality. Each episode is designed to inspire you to create, while breaking down the processes, tools, and strategies that bring visions to life. Whether you’re building a business, a product, or just your skills, we’re here to spark ideas, share knowledge, and fuel your journey from concept to creation.
HOSTED BY
Matt Dvoracek
CATEGORIES
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Machine Tool Maniacs have?
Machine Tool Maniacs currently has 42 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Machine Tool Maniacs about?
Machine Tool Maniacs is where creativity meets craftsmanship. We share the real stories of makers, machinists, and entrepreneurs who turned ideas into reality. Each episode is designed to inspire you to create, while breaking down the processes, tools, and strategies that bring visions to life....
How often does Machine Tool Maniacs release new episodes?
Machine Tool Maniacs has 42 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Machine Tool Maniacs?
You can listen to Machine Tool Maniacs on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Machine Tool Maniacs?
Machine Tool Maniacs is created and hosted by Matt Dvoracek.
URL copied to clipboard!