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What does it take to transition a 30-year-old family manual shop into a high-tech automated powerhouse? In this episode of the Chips and Tips podcast, host Tim Paul sits down with Shawn Conour, owner and operator of Conour Manufacturing. Shawn shares his incredible journey from growing up in his father's garage—where the air always smelled like coolant—to serving as a Sergeant in the Marine Corps in Afghanistan, and finally returning home to take the reins of the family business What we dive into in this episode: The Military Mindset: How Marine Corps discipline and "living life on fast forward" shaped Shawn’s approach to leadership and business consistency Mission-Critical Problem Solving: Hear the story of how Shawn saved a milk processing plant from losing $5 million in product by delivering a solution on a 36-hour deadline The Leap into Automation: Why Shawn invested in a Fanuc RoboDrill with a pallet system and the "trailblazing" (and sometimes painful) decision to run it on cutting oil Overcoming the Odds: Sean opens up about his struggles with dyslexia and why he believes machining is a "10,000-hour skill" that rewards grit over traditional academics The Future of American Manufacturing: A passionate call to action for shop owners to mentor the next generation and bring manufacturing back to the U.S. Shawn's philosophy is simple: "Bite off more than you can chew and then figure out how to chew it." Whether you are a solo garage machinist or running a multi-machine cell, this episode is packed with insights on perspective, positivity, and the technical hurdles of modern manufacturing. Connect with Shawn: Find him on Instagram and YouTube at Conour Manufacturing Connect with Shawn: IG: @conour_mfg YouTube: Conour Manufacturing Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell icon to stay updated on the latest tips and tricks from the shop floor! #Manufacturing #Machining #MarineCorps #RoboDrill #SmallBusiness #Automation #CNC #Toolpath

If your shop still debates tool numbers every time you program a part, you are solving the wrong problem. In this episode of Chips and Tips, Justin and Zap continue their deep dive into tool libraries by breaking down the four-digit Tool ID, or TID, system and why separating tool identity from tool number changes everything. They explain how a TID represents the full rotating assembly, including holder and stick-out, why you should assign sequential IDs without overthinking it, when different setups require new TIDs, and how to start a tool library even if you currently have nothing documented. The conversation tackles common objections like “my shop is too unique to standardize” and shows how that mindset quietly limits throughput, first-part yield, and scalability. Most importantly, they reframe optimization: get the program running, get a good part, then optimize. If you want faster setups, more reliable simulation, and a clearer path from programming to shipped parts, this episode will challenge how you think about your tooling system. From estimate to machining, smarter and faster with Toolpath.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I dive into a thought-provoking discussion with Chris Zapattini about the intricacies of tool library management. We explore the various setups and efficiencies—or lack thereof—within different machining environments. From the importance of having a structured tool library to the pitfalls of poorly managed ones, Chris shares insights from his extensive experience in the industry. We discuss what makes a tool library effective, the necessity of including cutting data, and the need for regular audits to ensure consistency and efficiency. Join us as we navigate through the foundational principles of tool library theory and challenge the status quo in machining practices. This is Part 1 of our engaging debate—tune in to elevate your understanding of tool management!

In this episode of the Chips and Tips podcast, Tim Paul sits down with Scott Moise to talk about what it really takes to build CNC software that machinists can trust. Scott’s career spans manual machines, yacht manufacturing, CAM programming, post processing, and years inside the Autodesk ecosystem. That mix of hands on shop experience and deep software knowledge shapes how he thinks about Toolpath today. The focus is simple but hard to execute: solve the problems machinists should not have to solve, without losing respect for the craft. The conversation covers Scott’s journey from Cornwall to New Zealand, early lessons learned on manual mills and lathes, and how those experiences still influence his approach to CAM, tooling data, and automation. Scott explains why speeds, feeds, and tool selection are still broken across the industry, and why those decisions should eventually fade into the background through better data and smarter systems. They also dig into leadership, customer advocacy, and the responsibility that comes with building software for real shops. From post processors to partner ecosystems, Scott shares what it means to grow Toolpath while staying grounded in the realities of the shop floor. If you care about CNC machining, CAM workflows, tooling data, or the future of manufacturing software, this episode offers a thoughtful and practical perspective from someone who has lived it.

What actually goes into making a custom carbide cutting tool, and why do so many tooling decisions look great on paper but fall apart on the machine? In this episode of Chips and Tips, Justin from Toolpath sits down with Dave Stanbach of Carbide Cutting Tools for a deep, practical conversation about carbide tooling in the real world. They dig into scrap carbide pricing and why it has surged, how custom tools are really quoted and tested, and why a simple sketch can be more effective than a fully detailed CAD model. Dave shares hard-earned insight on flute count tradeoffs, helix versus shear geometry, edge prep, coatings, and why features like wipers often fail to deliver better finishes. The discussion also covers thread mills, roughers versus finishers, chip management, and how coatings impact not just tool life but also cutting noise, which matters more than most shops realize. If you run CNC machines, order custom tools, or want to understand what actually drives tool performance on the shop floor, this episode delivers clear, experience-backed answers with no marketing fluff.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips podcast, Tim Paul sits down with Al Whatmough, CEO of Toolpath, to unpack a career shaped by machining, teaching, and building manufacturing software that respects the craft. Al shares how his early experiences in machine shops, classrooms, and engineering labs influenced his approach to CAM, automation, and leadership. The conversation covers what Toolpath really does, how to explain toolpaths to both machinists and non-machinists, and why productivity gains only matter when they align with how shops actually work. They also dive into Al’s role in bringing CAM into Fusion, lessons learned from product leadership at Autodesk, and what he is most focused on today as Toolpath grows. From customer value and sustainable growth to mentorship and faith-driven career decisions, this episode offers a thoughtful look at what it takes to build tools machinists can trust. If you care about CNC machining, CAM workflows, or the future of manufacturing software, this is a conversation worth listening to.

CAM looks clean in theory. The shop floor decides if it actually works. In this episode of Chips and Tips, Tim Paul talks with James Meyette about what it takes to turn CAM strategies into parts that run reliably in production. They cover the evolution of CAM systems, why associativity changed everything, and how five-axis machining quickly exposes weak processes. The conversation dives into multi-pallet five-axis setups, post-processing and simulation realities, CAMplete, Mastercam, Fusion, and where modern tools help without replacing experience. Practical, honest, and focused on what really matters once the spindle starts turning.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I sit down with Devin Bedoni of Lycan Precision to explore the complexities of automation in CNC machining. We tackle the pressing question: should Devin invest in a new spindle or prioritize automation with a robot? As we discuss the nuances of high-mix prototyping and the challenges of integrating automation into existing workflows, Devin shares his insights on balancing production needs with skill levels and the mental load on his team. We also delve into the importance of tool management and programming capacity as critical factors in scaling operations. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on controlling chaos through automation and the strategic decisions every machine shop faces.

Justin sits down with automation nerd and Lights Out Manufacturing mastermind Graham Francis for a deep dive into the future of robot-tended machining. From vacuum-gripping raw stock to running 25 chaotic OP1s on a trade-show floor, Graham breaks down why part-loading beats pallet-loading, why cobots aren’t “toys,” and how self-aligning fixtures make or break real automation. They get into the messy truth of integrating robots with CNCs, the magic of force-feedback motion, the art of soft-jaw design, and what actually happens when your robot tries to open a chip-packed machine door. It’s a brutally honest, deeply technical, and surprisingly funny tour through automation myths, machine-shop reality, and the wild engineering that makes lights-out machining possible. Find Lights Out Manufacturing here: https://www.lightsoutmfg.com/

Join me in this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast as I sit down with Ben Engle, a multifaceted content manager at Toolpath. We dive deep into Ben's journey, from his early days tinkering in the garage to his pivotal role in transforming how machining is approached with AI-driven solutions. Ben shares his experiences at Toolpath, including his transition from technical operations to content creation, and how he's helping to shape the future of CNC machining. We discuss the importance of adaptability in the industry, the value of building relationships, and the exciting developments on Toolpath's horizon. Tune in for insights on innovation, community, and the ever-evolving landscape of precision machining.

In this exciting episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I sit down with Lauren Fahey, a mechanical engineer and self-proclaimed "Professional Badass." Join us as we explore her journey from working at NASA to her current role as a manufacturing engineer at a space startup. Lauren shares her passion for making things, including her adventures with a desktop CNC machine called the Carvera. We dive deep into her innovative projects, like crafting a custom music box and enamel pins, all while navigating the challenges of machining in a small apartment. Tune in for insights on CNC programming, design-for-manufacturing, and the unique experiences that come with being a maker in the engineering world.

Justin hosts Alex Rosner of Wisconsin CAM Solutions for an in-depth conversation on the art and science of shop ingenuity. Alex brings his dual perspective—running a machining business while also coding and engineering software—to the table. They begin by digging into unconventional probing macros, calibration techniques, and the idea that “doing things wrong” sometimes yields the best results. Then they get into creative shop-floor physics: how to ballast an engine hoist with water, reverse its geometry, and push its limits. They discuss tool-setting trade-offs, the quirks of Brother Speedio machines, and how Alex blends software logic with hardware realities in his day-to-day work. They also share stories of open-source macro development, DIY coolant recycling systems, and the economics of build-versus-buy. The episode wraps with the legendary Freddy coolant-vac debate—why every machinist dreams of owning one, and how to ghetto-rig something that actually works.

Tim Paul sits down with Justin Gray, CTO of Toolpath, for a wide-ranging conversation about the craft, culture, and future of machining. Together they dive into why every shop has its own unique fingerprint, how investing in the right tooling separates good parts from great ones, and why machinists can be both stubbornly traditional and brilliantly innovative. Justin shares candid thoughts on breaking out of the “safe” processes we all cling to, and why there’s never been a better time to be a machinist. Whether you’re running a one-man shop or managing a full production floor, this episode offers sharp insights, shop-floor wisdom, and a few laughs along the way.

In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I sit down with CAD/CAM legend Kevin Schneider, a key figure behind Autodesk's Fusion software. With over 26 years at Autodesk, Kevin shares his journey from hands-on manufacturing to leading innovative CAD solutions. We discuss the evolution of Fusion, the importance of integrating CAD and CAM, and the challenges of transforming traditional machining processes. Kevin emphasizes the significance of learning from mistakes and the need for a collaborative mindset in the machining community. He also sheds light on future developments in Fusion and the ongoing quest to improve user experience in software. Tune in for valuable insights from a true industry pioneer.

When it comes to CNC automation, should you invest in pallet loading or part loading? In this episode of Chips and Tips, Justin sits down with Michael Gimbel of Gimbel Automation to unpack the tradeoffs, myths, and hidden challenges behind each approach. Michael shares insights from his own journey—starting as a job shop owner frustrated with inefficiency, to building innovative spindle grippers and modular systems designed to make automation simpler, cheaper, and more accessible. Along the way, he and Justin discuss: • The real differences between pallet and part loading • Why chips usually aren’t the problem machinists expect • How spindle grippers can change the game for small shops • The leap from one-op to two-op automation (and why it matters) Whether you run a small shop or manage large-scale production, you’ll come away with practical frameworks for evaluating automation strategies—and a clearer picture of how to unlock more spindle time without breaking the bank.