CNC Underground: Afterhours is a candid manufacturing podcast for the people behind CNC machining, CAM, and modern machine shops. Hosted by Jessica Bird, each episode brings real conversations with industry voices about shop culture, technology, tooling, leadership, business, and the future of manufacturing. It is thoughtful, practical, occasionally funny, and always rooted in the real world of making parts and keeping shops moving.
CNC Underground: Afterhours
Claim This Podcastby Jessica Bird
25 episodes
Updated Daily
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Podcast Overview
CNC Underground: Afterhours is a candid manufacturing podcast for the people behind CNC machining, CAM, and modern machine shops. Hosted by Jessica Bird, each episode brings real conversations with industry voices about shop culture, technology, tooling, leadership, business, and the future of manufacturing. It is thoughtful, practical, occasionally funny, and always rooted in the real world of making parts and keeping shops moving.
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Publishing Since
7/28/2025
1 verified contact email on file for CNC Underground: Afterhours
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Recent Episodes
July 8, 2026
24. Running a Machine Shop Shouldn't Be This Hard with Paul Van Metre
<p>Running a machine shop is often called the hardest business in the world, and this episode covers the realities behind that statement. The conversation focused on why manufacturing and machining are so essential yet underappreciated, and what actually goes on when chaos is normalized in daily shop life. Addressing issues from tribal knowledge to retiring skilled employees, the discussion tackled workforce shortages, the impact of trades education, and how systems and structure, or lack thereof, can make or break a shop.</p><p>A key theme that emerged was the risk that comes with relying on a single employee who knows "everything," as well as the pain points that occur when chaos becomes the norm rather than the exception. The discussion explored practical solutions for reducing risk and improving morale, featuring the origins, development, and everyday impact of ProShop ERP, a system designed by machinists, for machinists.</p><p>Several points were raised, including mindset shifts needed to go from simply surviving to building a sustainable and enjoyable business. Listeners will find practical advice, relatable anecdotes, and strategies for fostering a positive culture and business success in an industry where every second, and every setup, matters.</p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Connect with Jess on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Paul on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulvanmetre/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulvanmetre/</strong></a></p><p><strong>ProShop: </strong><a href="http://www.proshoperp.com"><strong>www.proshoperp.com</strong></a><strong> and </strong><a href="http://www.loveyourerp.com"><strong>www.loveyourerp.com</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Join CNC Underground Newsletter! </strong><a href="https://swiy.co/cncunderground"><u>https://swiy.co/cncunderground</u></a></p><p>Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter <strong>read by 6,000+</strong> elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email.</p><p><strong>————</strong></p><p><strong>About Midwest CAM Solutions: </strong>Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support.</p><p><strong>Learn more at:</strong><a href="http://www.industrysagemedia.com/"> </a><a href="http://www.midwestcamsolutions.com"><u>www.midwestcamsolutions.com</u></a></p><p>—————————————————————————————————</p><p>Chapters:00:00 Introduction: Why Machine Shops Are So Challenging01:05 The Broader Impact of Manufacturing02:06 The Normalization of Chaos in Shops04:49 What Chaos Looks Like on the Shop Floor06:24 Knowing When Chaos Becomes a Real Problem07:28 The Risks of Relying on a Single Expert08:56 Retirement Wave and Labor Shortages10:03 Trades Education and the Stigma Around Manufacturing11:19 The Importance of Local Apprenticeships13:23 How Shops Can Attract and Retain Talent14:12 Gen CNC and Workforce Development Initiatives15:01 Why Some Shops Prefer Chaos to Structure16:16 Business Mindset Shifts for Shop Owners18:26 Recognizing Breaking Points in Business20:28 The Plateau: When "Good Enough" Isn't Enough22:38 Ego, Humility, and Shop Culture23:56 Reducing Key Person Risk and Knowledge Silos25:36 The Origins of ProShop ERP: Solving Chaos26:54 Building Systems That Work for Real Shops29:14 Turning Shop Solutions Into a Software Business32:04 What ProShop ERP Actually Does33:19 Going Beyond Traditional ERP Functions35:10 ProShop ERP as the Digital Backbone36:13 Reducing Tribal Knowledge Risk with Digital Tools37:30 The "Jimmy Casting": Documenting Processes38:41 Shop Game: Fix It or Live With It39:02 When to Fix Setup Sheets, Programming, and Paper Chaos41:31 Coping with Workarounds and Normalized Chaos44:08 How Small Fixes Add Up—Or Pile Up45:24 The Impact of Culture and Tools on Team Morale47:17 Practical Steps for Shop Leaders to Identify Problems49:57 Where to Learn More About ProShop ERP50:27 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways</p><p>—————————————————————————————————</p><p><br></p>
June 24, 2026
23. Inside the Break Room: Secrets Manufacturing Leaders Only Share Off the Record with Chris Luecke
<p>Get a front-row seat to the changing landscape of modern manufacturing as the microphones flip on Chris Luecke, host of Manufacturing Happy Hour. This episode covers content creation in manufacturing, skill gaps, amplifying new voices, technology trends, and leadership challenges, all delivered through candid conversations and personal stories. </p><p><br></p><p>The discussion covers generational shifts, the power of industry communities, the evolution from buzzwords to real progress, and practical advice for standing out in a crowded space. Perfect for anyone on the shop floor or in the boardroom looking for actionable takeaways and real talk about where manufacturing is heading.</p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Connect with Jess on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwluecke/"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwluecke/</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Manufacturing Happy Hour: </strong><a href="https://manufacturinghappyhour.com/"><strong>https://manufacturinghappyhour.com/</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Join CNC Underground Newsletter! </strong><a href="https://swiy.co/cncunderground"><u>https://swiy.co/cncunderground</u></a></p><p>Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter <strong>read by 6,000+</strong> elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email.</p><p><strong>————</strong></p><p><strong>About Midwest CAM Solutions:</strong>Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support.</p><p><strong>Learn more at:</strong><a href="http://www.industrysagemedia.com/"> </a><a href="http://www.midwestcamsolutions.com"><u>www.midwestcamsolutions.com</u></a></p><p>—————————————————————————————————</p><p>00:00 Amplifying the Next Generation & Podcast Introduction01:35 The Nontraditional Path to Podcasting in Manufacturing03:05 Bringing Manufacturing Conversations into the Public Eye04:27 Why Storytelling Sometimes Falls Short in the Industry05:10 The Early Days of Manufacturing Content Creation06:04 Documenting Tribal Knowledge & the Generational Gap07:38 When Does a Side Project Become a Business?09:44 The Value of Candid Conversations in Manufacturing10:13 "Podcast Guest Bingo": Most Common Leadership Topics11:31 People as a Company's Greatest Asset—But How to Stand Out12:08 Digital Transformation: More Than a Buzzword13:39 Lessons from Implementing Digital Change14:08 The Reality of AI in Manufacturing Workplaces15:34 Addressing Fear and Early Adoption of AI16:40 Looking at How Fast Technology is Advancing17:27 Digital Transformation as a Continuous Process17:52 Data-Driven Decision Making: From Buzzword to Benchmark18:58 Digital Maintenance Platforms as Entry Points19:42 Busting the Biggest Myth in Manufacturing Today21:45 The Real Motivators for Young Talent24:22 How Communities Like Sisterhood of Trades Change the Game26:14 Every Generation's Role as Industry Disruptors27:51 Why Leaders Need to Step Aside for New Voices30:18 Trend or Buzzword? Industry 4.0, 5.0, Digital Twins & More35:06 Is Reshoring Real or Just Hype?39:04 Are "Lights Out" Factories Here?40:34 Off-the-Microphone Leadership Worries41:57 Finding and Empowering Talent in Manufacturing46:47 Attitude vs. Skill: Hiring Strategies in Manufacturing Today47:34 Company Culture: Why It Matters Now More Than Ever49:49 Behind-the-Scenes Questions and Surprising Answers54:13 Manufacturing Ecosystems & Regional Collaboration54:36 One Key Piece of Advice for Manufacturing Leaders55:58 Where to Find Manufacturing Happy Hour & Connect with Chris57:02 Closing Remarks and Takeaways</p><p><br></p>
June 10, 2026
22. Hiring Nightmares and Winning Formulas: What Breaks First When Your CNC Shop Booms?
<p>Caz, founder of Caztek Engineering and Caztek Precision, and Landon, director of Strategic Growth, share their no-nonsense approach to rapid business growth in precision manufacturing. Hear what happens when ambition collides with execution: from doubling company size to onboarding second shifts, investing in automation, and developing leadership. </p><p><br></p><p>The conversation covers scaling teams, striking the balance between moving fast and getting it right, hiring the right talent, iterating on core values, integrating new technology, and finding the sweet spot between innovation and discipline. If you're building, scaling, or rethinking your business operations in manufacturing or engineering, this conversation reveals real-world approaches and honest reflection you won’t want to miss.</p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Connect with Jess on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicaurbans/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Christina on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacasanova/</strong></a></p><p><strong>Connect with Landon on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/landon-wiser-55455386/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/landon-wiser-55455386/</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>Connect with Caz on LinkedIn: </strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/casimir-sienkiewicz-375a20/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"><strong>https://www.linkedin.com/in/casimir-sienkiewicz-375a20/</strong></a><strong> </strong></p><p><strong>———</strong></p><p><strong>Join CNC Underground Newsletter! </strong><a href="https://swiy.co/cncunderground" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://swiy.co/cncunderground</a></p><p>Join CNC Underground — the go-to weekly newsletter <strong>read by 6,000+</strong> elite machinists and programmers. Get cutting-edge tips, tooling strategies, CAM shortcuts, and industry updates in one tight, no-fluff email.</p><p><strong>————</strong></p><p><strong>About Midwest CAM Solutions:</strong>Midwest CAM Solutions is the world’s largest GibbsCAM reseller, helping manufacturers boost productivity with expert CAM software solutions, training, and support.</p><p><strong>Learn more at:</strong><a href="http://www.industrysagemedia.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer"> </a><a href="http://www.midwestcamsolutions.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">www.midwestcamsolutions.com</a></p><p>—————————————————————————————————</p><p>00:00 CNC Underground After Hours begins00:06 Show introduction and guest overview01:07 What Caz and Landon focus on right now02:48 Making the business scalable and building a team03:55 When to chase perfection vs making progress06:38 Lessons learned: allowing new hires to make mistakes10:05 How CazTek operates day-to-day11:14 Service offerings: engineering, prototyping, manufacturing12:58 Bringing more manufacturing in-house14:15 Division of responsibilities in operations and growth15:39 Industry trends: reshoring, manufacturing growth, tariffs15:59 Pursuing AS9100 certification and entering government work17:45 What happens when things go wrong internally?18:30 Saying yes too quickly vs waiting for readiness20:13 Out-of-the-box thinking at CazTek21:15 Fostering creative and cross-disciplinary solutions23:28 Ruby bearings and innovation stories from medtech25:58 CazTek’s role as a catalyst with OEMs and product development27:13 The drivers and practical steps for 100% growth30:24 Strategy shift: building leadership and middle management33:22 What broke first during scaling—and how hiring changed35:59 Attitude vs skill in hiring practices36:31 Aligning hiring/firing/accountability with core values37:00 Creating and preserving company culture38:27 What breaks operationally as growth demands new shifts41:05 Automating, AI, and the future of lights-out manufacturing46:47 Mistakes you only want to make once49:13 Machines, people, or process: what matters most in scaling a business?51:25 Planning for growth: foundation over speed53:19 Fielding diverse perspectives and learning from disagreements54:29 Hot Takes: automation, quoting, hiring, machines vs systems58:57 Fixing problems if starting from scratch in a shop62:13 The real goal: a great workplace and making an impact63:11 Strategy, vision, and the next debate<br></p>
25 total episodes available
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- What is CNC Underground: Afterhours?
- How often does this podcast release new episodes?
This podcast updates daily.
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This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
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Yes, this podcast regularly features guests.
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