The Manufacturing Automation Podcast

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on wrapping up Q2 with solid momentum and a clearer vision heading into Q3. They share how quoting systems, lean team habits, and a more disciplined sales process are shaping the next phase of growth. The conversation also dives into the benefits of consolidating operations under one roof—from engineering to final a...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt unpack a rollercoaster week—celebrating the smoothest turnkey project delivery in company history while also grappling with a surprise hiring fallout and challenging customer interactions. They reflect on cash flow milestone structures, quoting approaches, and how internal friction often leads to the most meaningful lean im...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt unpack the reality of stepping back from growth mode to refocus on execution, culture, and systems. Michael shares how working in the business revealed bottlenecks in machining and sparked a deeper investment in lean shop floor improvements. Matt reflects on Automate trade show wins, shifting team energy, and integrating AI...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt dive into the messy but essential work of simplifying operations, cutting underperforming SKUs, and doubling down on lean principles. They reflect on recent wins in sales and onboarding, explore the unexpected effects of tariff changes on customer demand, and compare strategies for improving customer communication—whether t...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on the shift from high-velocity scaling to focused execution. They talk through the pressures of excess demand, making tough SKU decisions, and leaning into simplified, efficient operations. The conversation also dives into how visuals like sales process flowcharts can boost customer confidence, new Fyxer workflows...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt unpack a surge in sales activity, the stress of scaling under pressure, and how they’re leveraging AI and software to improve efficiency. They discuss making tough hiring decisions, refining quoting systems, and building out productized automation assessments. The conversation also explores strategies for maintaining long-t...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt dive into how economic uncertainty—like shifting tariffs and client hesitations—affects automation businesses. They discuss strategic pricing adjustments, managing inventory risk, and why communication with suppliers is more critical than ever. The conversation also explores operational discipline: from streamlining hiring...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt unpack the real-world stressors of running a growing automation business—from late payments and supplier delays to team accountability and CRM systems. They share lessons from urgent hiring, optimizing sales workflows in HubSpot, and integrating video tools like Loom to close deals faster. The discussion also explores produ...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on navigating headcount reductions, cash flow management, and the challenge of finding the right hires. They explore the idea of hybrid technical-sales roles, frustrations with influencer marketing, and the continued evolution of their CRM, video, and email strategies. The conversation also dives into sales conversi...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt share updates on shifting sales strategies, improving lead conversions, and the growing pains of scaling automation operations. They reflect on closing high-value deals, customer buying behavior, and how product perception impacts sales outcomes. The conversation also explores credit card pricing strategies, streamlining sa...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt break down the highs and lows of the past few weeks—from closing major deals to restructuring their sales process. They discuss the pressure of hitting quarterly targets, making tough team decisions, and leveraging AI tools to improve efficiency. The conversation also covers refining sales outreach, automation-driven market...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on major life and business milestones, from welcoming a new family member to making critical shifts in sales and marketing strategy. They discuss lead generation, optimizing their funnel, and adjusting product offerings to streamline customer engagement. The conversation also explores R&D updates, improving oper...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt discuss the challenges and excitement of closing high-value automation deals while refining their sales and marketing strategies. They dive into sales cycle optimizations, proposal structuring, and lessons learned from long-term business growth. The conversation also covers new R&D efforts, the evolution of their turnke...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt dive into the realities of handling complex installations, managing shipping delays, and making critical business decisions. They discuss optimizing sales cycles, shifting marketing strategies, and the challenges of moving upmarket. The conversation also explores the importance of team dynamics, refining automation assessme...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt discuss the ever-changing dynamics of sales and marketing in automation. They share insights on managing sales cycles, optimizing lead generation, and finding the balance between chasing new opportunities and staying focused on core business goals. The conversation also explores R&D updates, automation assessment strate...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on the unpredictable nature of revenue cycles and the constant adjustments required to maintain business growth. They discuss refining sales strategies, leveraging trade shows, and optimizing SEO and ad campaigns to drive leads. The conversation also explores managing team workload, the evolving role of R&D, and...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt reflect on the highs and lows of managing an automation business. They discuss handling difficult client meetings, the importance of maintaining cash flow, and strategies for structuring automation assessments. The conversation also dives into R&D updates, refining sales and marketing tactics, and the impact of trade sh...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt discuss the ups and downs of business growth, from refining sales strategies to managing operational bottlenecks. They explore lessons from trade shows, SEO optimizations, and the challenge of maintaining efficiency while scaling. The conversation also touches on team accountability, process improvements, and personal refle...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast , Michael and Matt dive into the realities of leading a growing automation business while managing shifting priorities. They discuss strategies for balancing sales and execution, improving team accountability, and making tough hiring decisions. The conversation also covers the challenges of process standardization, navigating trade show strat...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt reflect on the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining agility and managing risk. They discuss forecasting sales, optimizing production workflows, and finding the right balance between expansion and stability. The conversation also explores the importance of structured budgeting, operational efficiencies, and know...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt share candid reflections on the ups and downs of life and business in automation. They dive into topics like refining marketing strategies, improving shop floor efficiency, and developing innovative R&D solutions for customer needs. The discussion also highlights personal milestones, the challenges of scaling a business,...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt dive into the intricacies of leading a growing team while navigating operational challenges. They discuss streamlining processes, improving machine utilization, and strategies for managing overlapping priorities. The conversation also highlights the power of effective SEO, website optimizations, and branding efforts in drivi...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt reflect on the delicate balance of leading a growing team while pushing forward with innovative R&D projects. They explore strategies for improving efficiency with Gantt charts, managing client transitions, and maintaining team morale through structured workflows. Along the way, they discuss the challenges of integrating...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt discuss the critical role of accountability in managing teams and scaling their automation business. They reflect on navigating team dynamics, resetting expectations for discipline, and the challenges of staying focused during rapid growth. The episode also covers product updates, marketing strategies, and how personal passi...

In this episode of the Manufacturing Automation Podcast, Michael and Matt reflect on the challenges of managing growth while maintaining efficiency and staying true to their passions. They discuss updates on pallet and conveyor systems, insights from recent trade shows, and the complexities of scaling a team. Beyond business, the conversation delves into personal dilemmas, from balancing work with...