my TRUE POSITION

What if your CFO actually understood your machine shop? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I sit down with Dave Capkovitz and Mike Watkins from EBITDA Growth Systems — the fractional CFO team that's helped us transform CARR Machine & Tool since 2022. Their bold promise? Double your EBITDA in three years or don't pay a dime. We talk about why financial strategy is different for manufacturers, how...

If you're a small to midsize manufacturer like me, you know exactly what I'm talking about — constant calls, emails, and DMs from lenders promising fast cash and easy approvals. But what's really going on behind the scenes? How did they get our info, why are they targeting us, and what's the true cost of these so-called "solutions"? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I'm breaking down the fundin...

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I'm talking about reverse shadowing — why it's time for owners, managers, and executives to follow the people on the front lines and learn from them. From the shop floor to shipping and admin, there's something new to pick up if you're willing to listen. This is how you build trust. This is how you stay relevant.

Ever feel like LinkedIn is more of a burden than a benefit? You're not alone. In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, we're cutting through the noise and breaking down how manufacturers can use LinkedIn as a tool—not a time-sucking, stress-inducing headache. Why LinkedIn feels overwhelming (and how to fix it) How to engage without feeling pressured to post all the time The real way to connect with cu...

Thinking about getting ISO 9001 or AS9100 certified but not sure which one makes sense for your shop? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I break down the key differences, the real costs, and how to offset expenses using Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs). If you want to win aerospace and defense contracts but the price tag has you hesitating, this episode is for you. No fluff—just strai...

Are you making the right first impression? If your bio is dull and your headshot is a blurry selfie, you're not doing yourself any favors. In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I break down why every manufacturing leader needs a strong bio and a professional headshot. We'll cover why your digital handshake matters, who needs one, how to craft it, and why a professional headshot is worth it. If you...

Are You Ready for Pre-Retirement? As a multi-generational manufacturing business owner, stepping away from the day-to-day is easier said than done. Have you staffed your business correctly? Do you have the right leadership, mid-level management, and sales pipeline in place to keep things running smoothly? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I explore pre-retirement strategies—how to test the wate...

Are you protecting your shop's secrets, or leaving the door open for competitors to take your hard work? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, explain why every machine shop needs a solid NDA.  I'll share real-world lessons, that went sideways and could have been avoided with the right agreement in place. From third-party programmers to heat treaters and finishing companies, you and your customer's...

Overtime: Is it driving growth or quietly eroding your culture and profitability? In this episode, I reflect on decades of overtime practices at CARR Machine & Tool and shares key insights: The hidden costs of overtime on margins and efficiency. Why today's workforce prioritizes work-life balance. How over-reliance on overtime can expose inefficiencies. The cultural challenges of inconsistent over...

What's your brand? It's a question I was asked over a decade ago, and it changed how I approach both business and personal growth. In this episode, we'll explore the power of aligning your corporate brand with your personal brand. Learn why your corporate brand builds trust, how your personal brand sets you apart, and how combining the two can amplify your success. Ready to elevate your brand? Tun...

2024 was a year of resilience, growth, and transformation for me personally and professionally. In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I'm reflecting on the milestones we hit at CARR Machine & Tool, the exciting progress on this podcast, and some meaningful personal wins that made this year unforgettable. From expanding our capabilities in aerospace manufacturing to engaging younger generations, the...

In this episode, I'm drilling into one of the most critical aspects of running a successful business: managing cash flow.  I'll explain why understanding the gap between Day Sales Outstanding (DSO) and Day Payables Outstanding (DPO) is crucial, and how leveraging that gap can give your business a major advantage.   You'll also hear practical strategies for negotiating extended terms with your vend...

Yeppers…I messed up!  In a previous episode, I threw out some numbers about ERP costs, and my good friend, Paul Van Metre from ProShop, hit me with a "Jim, WTF?" moment. Turns out, I wasn't entirely accurate about ERP implementation costs, especially for shops with $5–10M in revenue.  To set the record straight, Paul joined me in the studio to break it all down. We're talking real numbers, hidden...

In this episode I welcome Jayden Mackinnin from Fluid-Aire Dynamics to the my TRUE POSITION studio to discuss a cutting-edge solution that's transforming industries: in-house nitrogen gas generation. We break down the biggest challenges companies face with traditional liquid nitrogen—like high costs, logistical headaches, and environmental concerns—and explore how generating your own nitrogen on-s...

Are you ready to set your business up for success in 2025? In this episode we explore the critical decisions you need to make today to thrive tomorrow. From creating targeted marketing campaigns that resonate, to setting achievable sales goals that drive growth, I'll share actionable insights to help you stay ahead. We'll dive into building operational resilience, managing finances for sustainable...

Are you ready to bust a move on the shop floor? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, we're diving into the world of Gemba Walks—manufacturing's ultimate groove for continuous improvement. Inspired by the catchy rhythm of the "Macarena," we're coining it the GEMBA-rena! But this isn't just a catchy name; it's a game-changing approach to connecting with your team, identifying inefficiencies, and fos...

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I challenge you to take a hard look at your machine shop. Are you running it as a lifestyle business, content with mediocrity, or are you ready to scale and thrive? We'll explore what it truly means to embrace growth versus staying comfortable. If you've ever wondered whether you're holding yourself back or playing it too safe, this episode is your wake-up call...

In a fun twist for this episode, we flip the script! Day Hurn, Sales & Marketing Specialist at Robojob-USA, takes over the mic to interview me. We discuss  the future of automation in 2025, exploring how AI, robotics, and lights-out machining are transforming manufacturing. It's not just about tech—it's about the mindset shift needed to stay competitive. Join us for candid insights, unexpected que...

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, we dive into one of those unglamorous but critical shop tasks: cleaning the coolant tanks. Who's responsible? Why does it matter? Join us as we tackle the often-overlooked world of coolant maintenance, exploring its impact on machine performance, shop efficiency, and team morale. If you've ever dodged this duty or want tips on delegating it right, tune in—you'l...

Thinking about scaling your manufacturing business from $1M to $100M? In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I break down the real costs of growing a manufacturing company at every stage. From upgrading equipment and expanding leadership teams to navigating supply chain complexities and international expansion, we cover what it really takes to build a thriving operation. If you're ready to grow but...

In this episode I talk about the crucial question: Do today's young people really grasp the impact and intricacies of manufacturing?  As Gen Z and Gen Alpha start to shape the future, it's essential that we spotlight the innovative and dynamic nature of manufacturing. Join me as I explore how showcasing our industry can inspire and engage the next generation, ensuring they recognize the opportunit...

On this episode of True Position, we dive into the ever-evolving world of employee handbooks. We explore why this crucial document isn't just a formality, but a dynamic tool for shaping workplace culture and compliance. Whether it's adjusting to new laws or aligning with company values, rewriting your handbook is a necessary task for staying ahead. Tune in now to hear practical insights that will...

In Episode 83 of My True Position, I team up with special guest Michael Martin to reveal easy, effective, and economical tips for automating your machine shop. Automation doesn't have to be overwhelming or costly—learn straightforward strategies to boost productivity without breaking the bank. Michael brings his industry expertise to the table, offering insights on trunnion tables and other budget...

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION, I'm joined by a special guest, Fred Garcia from Fluid-Aire Dynamics, to explore a crucial but often overlooked aspect of manufacturing: compressed air. Titled "Air Power: The Driving Force Behind Manufacturing Efficiency," we dive deep into how healthy, reliable air systems are vital to keeping production running smoothly—and how downtime in your air compressor...

In this episode of My TRUE POSITION , we're tackling a common frustration: why are manufacturers notorious for poor communication, from not returning calls to outright ghosting? Whether it's a breakdown in customer service or delays in the supply chain, poor communication can hurt your business. Join me, Jim Carr, as we dive into the reasons behind this industry-wide issue and share actionable tip...