The Impractical Machinists

Latest Episodes:

I Didn’t Realize What I Was Missing - Until I Left this Shop | 20 Apr 01, 2025

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When the job starts draining you, sometimes the best move is walking away. Here’s what happened next.
Burnout doesn’t hit all at once — it builds slowly, especially in high-pressure work environments. In this episode, we talk about what it really feels like to hit that point, why one of us finally decided to leave a demanding job, and what life is like on the other side.
We also dive into bigger questions:
– What makes a healthy work culture?
– How do you keep a team motivated without burning them out?
– And how can leaders build shops people actually want to work in?
This isn’t just a story about machining — it’s about finding balance, building better workplaces, and making hard choices for the right reasons.

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Drop your comments or topic ideas in the forum.
Or listen to our podcast on YouTube
Connect with the hosts on Instagram:
Patrick Mcclintock: IG or PM@Job Shopper TN
Cameron Graves: IG or PM@Machiningiscool
Bradley Thomas: IG or PM@Marvel
Thanks for listening!!!

Why Most Machine Shops FAIL at Efficiency - Feat. Chris Zappettini | 19 Mar 18, 2025

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What if you could shave hours off cycle times, optimize your machining strategies, and get your entire shop on board with process improvements—without the usual resistance?

In this episode of the Impractical Machinists Podcast, we sit down with Chris Zappettini, owner of Zappettini Consulting and co-host of Within Tolerance. Chris has spent years inside machine shops across the U.S., helping businesses cut waste, improve workflows, and implement smarter machining strategies. But as he explains, real improvement isn’t just about faster cycle times—it’s about getting everyone from the shop floor to management to buy in.

Chris shares a behind-the-scenes look at a recent project where rethinking material selection, tooling, and machining strategies slashed cycle times from 15 hours down to just 7 or 8. He also dives into the power of five-axis machining, custom G-code macros, and how well-organized CAM systems and fixture libraries can transform efficiency.

But this conversation isn’t just for shop owners—programmers, operators, and anyone who’s ever fought against change on the floor will get valuable insights on making processes smarter, not harder. Chris also opens up about life as a consultant, from navigating difficult customers to ensuring shops stay competitive in an ever-evolving industry.

Biggest Risks in Machining, Tools, and Burnout | 18 Mar 04, 2025

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Machining is more than just making parts—it’s stress, tight deadlines, and trying to balance work and life without losing your mind. In this episode, we talk about the reality of burnout in the trade, handling overwhelming RFQs, and when taking big risks actually pays off.

And much more! Stick around to the end for a big announcement from Patrick!

From the Air Force to a Machine Shop…Then I Lost It All | 17 Feb 18, 2025

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🚨 He risked it all to build a machine shop from scratch—then one bad deal took everything.

Charles Sanborn IV’s journey is a rollercoaster of risk, redemption, and hard business lessons. At 18, he was on the verge of going to prison. Instead, he joined the Air Force, a decision that changed the course of his life. But the real story starts after that—when he turned his passion for machining into a full-blown business.

While still serving, Charles built a machine shop from the ground up, growing it into a thriving business. But one massive contract, a bad deal, and a costly mistake led to losing everything—his shop, his home, and everything he worked for.

This episode of Impractical Machinist is a must-watch for anyone who’s dreamed of running their own shop, taken big risks, or learned the hard way that success in machining isn’t just about making parts—it’s about making the right decisions.

💬 Have you ever taken a business risk that didn’t go as planned? Let’s talk about it in the comments.

Connect with Charles Sanborn here:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cindertrackfab/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-sanborn-a0093126b/

What REALLY Defines Success in the Machining Trade? | 16 Feb 04, 2025

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What does it truly mean to be successful as a machinist?
Dive into this electrifying episode of the Impractical Machinist Podcast where hosts Patrick, Cameron, and Bradley discuss the ups and downs of the machining trade. Get insights on deep hole drilling and boring, learn about overcoming shop maintenance woes, and hear about their personal definitions of success in both professional and personal life.
Plus, catch their real talk on training the next generation of machinists and why paying attention is crucial. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking conversation packed with valuable tips and shared experiences!

Is Starting a Part-Time Machine Shop Worth It? | 15 Jan 21, 2025

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🎙️ What Does It Take to Build a Machine Shop While Working Full-Time? 🛠️

In this episode of the Impractical Machinist Podcast, we sit down with Joe Kaslowski, a fire inspector by day and a machinist by night, who built a thriving CNC job shop in his garage. With no formal training, Joe turned his passion for machining into a side hustle without ever quitting his full-time job.

Whether you’re thinking about starting your own shop or just love hearing relatable stories from the machining world, this conversation will inspire you to keep grinding.

👉 Join the Discussion: Ever thought about starting a side shop? What’s holding you back? Drop a comment below!

Thread Milling vs. Tapping: What Works Best for You | 14 Jan 07, 2025

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We’re tackling YOUR questions about tooling strategies, workholding setups, and more!
Ever wondered when to use a thread mill instead of a tap? Or how to pick between solid carbide and indexable tooling? We’ve got you covered with real-world tips and personal experiences straight from our shops.
Topics:
Thread Milling vs. Tapping
Solid Carbide vs. Indexable Tooling
Workholding Favorites: Vices, Fixtures, and Setups
Got your own tooling questions? Drop them in the comments, and we might feature them in our next episode!

I Quit My Machining Job After 23 Years and Went Solo | 13 Dec 24, 2024

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What makes someone walk away from 23 years in a big shop to start their own shop? In this episode of the Impractical Machinist Podcast, we sit down with Shawn Brown from SBSOLOCO to hear his incredible story.

From growing up around machine shops to building his own dream shop, Shawn shares the highs, lows, and hard lessons he’s learned along the way. Discover how he prepared for the leap, the struggles he faced running his own business, and the strategies that helped him succeed.

📌 Topics Covered:

Whether you're a machinist, shop owner, or someone dreaming of starting your own business, Shawn's journey is packed with actionable advice and inspiration.

👉 What’s your biggest takeaway from Shawn’s story? Let us know in the comments!

Is It Worth Spending $300K on a 5-Axis Machine? | 12 Dec 10, 2024

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Topics:

Shop Updates
Why We Don’t Have a 5-Axis Machine
Managing Too Much Work
Supplying Tools: Shop vs. Personal
Medium-Term Shop Goals
Improving Tooling Manufacturer Support
Dealing with Costly Mistakes
Importance of Air Quality in the Shop
Teasers for Next Episode - Shawn Brown from SBSOLOCO!

Could a 5-axis machine save your shop thousands—or is it just overhyped?
In this episode, we dive into some of the biggest questions machinists face: Why don’t we have a 5-axis machine yet? How do you handle too much work without losing your sanity (or customers)? Should shops supply tools, or should employees bring their own?

We also get into the nitty-gritty of medium-term shop goals, compare horizontals to 5-axis machines, and share tips on prioritizing jobs when your schedule is bursting at the seams. Whether you’re a seasoned machinist or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!

This Will Change How You See Your CAM Software | 11 Nov 26, 2024

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Topics:

How ModuleWorks powers your CAM system.
The challenges of full machining automation.
Industry trends and the future of toolpaths.

Think you know your CAM system? Think again.
In this episode, we sit down with Julia and Greg from ModuleWorks, the hidden powerhouse behind many of the advanced toolpath strategies you rely on every day. Whether you're programming for a 5-axis machine or exploring automation, chances are ModuleWorks is behind the scenes making it all work.
We dive into the story of how ModuleWorks started, their game-changing role in CAM software, and why they’re shaping the future of machining automation. From tackling industry challenges like skill gaps to developing cutting-edge solutions like feed control and smart routing, this conversation is packed with insights every machinist and programmer will appreciate.
What’s in it for you?
✔️ A better understanding of how CAM systems really work.
✔️ Insider knowledge on what’s next in machining automation.
✔️ Practical takeaways to improve efficiency in your shop.
Join the conversation:
Did you know about ModuleWorks before this episode?
What challenges do you face with your CAM system? Let us know in the comments!
Make sure to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who loves learning about the technology driving modern machining.

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