Monthly Manufacturing Podcast Roundup: April 2025
The manufacturing industry is full of innovative problem solvers—so makes sense that there are tons of podcasts out there covering everything from fixing broken machinery to growing your business. But with so many options, finding the best ones can be overwhelming.
That’s why our team sifts through a variety of podcasts each month and curates a list of insightful conversations happening in the manufacturing world. We hope one of these 5 episodes are worth adding to the queue for your next commute!
1. Cutting Through the Noise with Jason Ray
Why is it so hard to turn a computer-designed product into something a supplier can actually make correctly and efficiently? While design software has come a long way over the years, different companies use different systems that don’t always work well together. Instead of smoothly sharing 3D models, many still rely on old-school 2D PDFs because they’re the only files everyone can open—even though they lack critical information.
In Episode 2 of our CEO & Co-Founder Jason Ray’s new video series, “Cutting Through the Noise,” Jason sits down with Paperless Parts Vice President of Business Development Ken Cowan. Jason and Ken break down how we got here, from the early days of 2D drawings to today’s advanced 3D models, and why new solutions like STEP files and Model Based Definition (MBD) haven’t fully solved the problem.
2. The Job Shop Show with Cres Ferrell
In this episode, host Jay Jacobs talks with Cres Fererell of ReNEW Manufacturing Solutions about his journey from learning business on the job to acquiring and revitalizing machine and fabrication shops. Cres shares insights on sales strategy, automation, and the future of American manufacturing—offering valuable advice for shop owners looking to grow, innovate, or plan their next move.
3. MakingSparks: How to Fix Your Quoting Process Before it Kills Your Shop
In this episode of MakingSparks, a MakingChips production, the show’s hosts Casey Voelker and Matthew Nix sit down with Jason Ray to talk about how modern software can make quoting faster and help your shop drive revenue. Plus, Jason breaks down why so many shops have ERP trauma, how to fix broken quoting workflows, and why AI isn’t the magic bullet everyone thinks it is. He also shares insights on the reshoring wave happening in U.S. manufacturing and what it means for fabricators trying to scale.
4. The Fabricator Podcast: Engineering Creative Fabrication Projects
Mike McCarthy, VP at Design Communications Ltd (DCL), joins The Fabricator Podcast to talk about what it’s like to be at the intersection of engineering, design, and fabrication of some of the most recognizable creative large-scale projects around the country; DCL specializes architectural custom elements like signs, sculptures, and tech installations. Their in-house team of over 50 fabricators collaborates closely with engineers and project managers to bring complex creative visions to life, often overcoming challenges and finding innovative solutions through the fabrication process. Mike and the show hosts also dive into their experience engaging with students to inspire the next generation of designers and manufacturers.
5. Metals in Advanced Manufacturing: Modernizing a Sixth-Generation Metal Fabrication Company
In this episode of Metals in Advanced Manufacturing, host Jennifer Betts sits down with Tim Hofmann, VP of Operations at Frank B. Clayton’s Son Inc., a sixth-generation metal fabrication company. Tim shares the rich history of the 126-year-old company, its challenges, and the innovations under his leadership, including digital transformations, lean manufacturing principles, and advanced quoting systems. Learn about the importance of adapting to modern technologies to remain competitive in the metals industry.
The manufacturing industry is evolving so rapidly that it can feel overwhelming to stay informed. Whether you’re looking to grow your business, explore new technologies, or adapt to industry shifts, check back each month for our podcast round-ups and stay up to speed (hands free).
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