FCH News

Episode #135 – Testers and Jesters

The fastener industry knows how to laugh, but bolts and nuts are serious business. NFDA president, Kelly Cole clearly grasps this as he surveys industry operating conditions, previews an upcoming landmark association meeting, and explains his unique wardrobe selection (1:26:42). Rob LaPointe and Carmen Vertullo of AIM Testing Laboratory share the genesis of their new […]

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Episode #134 – Got Zarf?

The fastener industry reacts to the news and events of this year’s International Fastener Expo, featuring perennial expo observers Jake Davis, of BTM Manufacturing, and Rosa “The Riveter” Hearn, of Brighton Best International (1:07:51). Also, from the show floor, the lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey speaks with Fastener Industry Hall of Fame award winners Robbie […]

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Episode #133 – Failure to Communicate

The message is clear: What we have here is the latest installment of predominantly fastener-related talk radio, as Solution Industries’ Frank “Balboa” Devito succinctly communicates about his thinking on recent industry developments, his newest team member, and his long time source of inspiration (58:40). Mr. Marc Strandquist shares his reasons for the big move at […]

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Episode #131 – Get the Lead Out

During a 100% lead-free episode of fastener talk radio, industry consultant Carmen Vertullo revisits the topic of Prop 65 in the wake of his recent webinar, with the latest developments and thinking on the subject (17:35). Innovative Components founder and president, Mike O’Connor describes the right way to “near-shore” and how to make a better […]

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Episode #130 – Don’t Be Scared

Disruptive technology and competition present volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) to the fastener industry, even as the screw biz surges. But fear not, George Hunt III of BBI discusses ways of bringing stability and success to a life in fasteners, with work and family in simple equilibrium (1:16:09). NFDA president, Kelly Cole joins Fastener […]

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Episode #129 – Disintermediation

Should you be concerned about impending changes to California Proposition 65? How can you position your distribution company to thrive in a world dominated by Amazon Business? And who won the FTR Busch Light 30 pack at this year’s MWFA Open? Industry expert, Carmen Vertullo offers practical advice to the fastener industry as it ponders […]

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Episode #128 – Zygology

Fastener Industry Hall of Fame member and zygologist, Mr. Mike McGuire shares his thoughts on a range of predominantly fastener-related topics, and hints of a new business venture coming soon (1:17:31). The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey explains the FCH/FTI Fastener Training Week scholarship with past winners, Shenice Peterson of Empire Bolt, and Michael Shibasaki […]

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Episode #127 – Hello Cleveland

The fastener industry converged at the rock hall of fame recently, and it was no mistake, although there was some confusion about the ground transportation. Jammin’ Jake Davis of BTM Manufacturing and Brighton Best’s Rosa Hearn share their experiences from Fastener Fair USA (1:28:25). The lovely and talented Lynn Dempsey joined Brian as they traveled […]

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Episode #126 – Tariffs Anyone?

 Who’s up for some sweet new tariffs? Apparently, not the fastener industry, as Kerr Lakeside honcho, Mr. Charlie Kerr weighs in with his reaction to the news of tariffs on imported steel (13:08). During the second big feature segment, G.L. Huyett CEO, Tim O’Keeffe describes growing a thriving fastener business from humble beginnings and […]

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