Small Business Talks

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Apr 2026

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Are you a small business? Looking for answers to small business challenges or looking for ideas and solutions from other small businesses? Maybe you are looking for inspiration. That’s what we are all about! Small Businesses Talking to Small Businesses, sharing their experiences, discoveries, and thoughts to help your business succeed. From talks about getting started to new products and services they created. We feature interviews from small business owners and include experts in the areas of marketing, strategy, and resources to help you improve.

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21 recent

April 8, 2026Episode 2224 min

Custom Overhead Bridge Cranes: Solving Unique Production Challenges Through Engineering

Growing manufacturers face constant pressure: move more material, do it safely, and make it all fit inside existing facilities. In this episode of Small Business Talks, we explore how custom overhead bridge crane systems help small and mid‑sized businesses solve complex material‑handling challenges through smart engineering and thoughtful design. Our guest, Tom Shultz, Chief Engineer at AFE Crane, shares an inside look at the different types of overhead crane systems available—and how to know when a standard solution isn’t enough. From single‑ and double‑girder cranes to under‑running systems and specialized designs, Tom explains how custom engineering can overcome space constraints, workflow bottlenecks, and unique production requirements. Guest Contact Information AFE Crane Website - https://afecrane.com/ Email: sales@afecrane.com | Phone : +1-800-728-0818

April 5, 2026Episode 2125 min

What is Metal Injection Molding?

Is your manufacturing process holding back your product’s potential? In this episode of Small Business Talks, we dive deep into Metal Injection Molding (MIM)—a "quietly transforming" technology that bridges the gap between plastic injection molding and high-strength metal production. Our guest, Nick Eidam, of Advanced Powder Products, explains how this 40-year-old matured technology is now the go-to for small, complex parts that are "really tough to manufacture any other way". If you are currently relying on expensive CNC machining or traditional investment casting, this episode explores a high-ROI alternative that could slash your costs by up to 75%. Guest: Nick Eidam, Director of Business Development at Advanced Powder Products Website: https://advancedpowderproducts.com/ | Phone: (814) 342-5898 Key Takeaways for Manufacturers What is MIM? A process combining fine metal powders (typically <22 micron) with wax and polymer binders to create a "feedstock" injected into a mold. The "Magic" of Sintering: Parts are molded 20% larger than their final size; during sintering at over 1,200°C, binders melt away and the part densifies to its final geometry. Ideal Geometry: MIM is optimized for small, complex parts—ranging from "a couple dozen on a fingernail" to those that fit comfortably in the palm of your hand. Material Versatility: Common alloys include stainless steels (17-4, 316), carbon steels (4140, 4340), and even exotic materials like titanium and copper.

September 4, 2025Episode 2028 min

Vertically Integrated Manufacturing

How it Can Improve Your Business & Your Customers Satisfaction Vertically integrated manufacturing is beneficial to manufacturers as it provides greater control over the supply chain, improves quality control, reduces costs and lead times, and can lead to increased profits by capturing more value. Implementing vertical integration requires strategy and managing complexity. In this podcast we talk with Landon Geater and Jared Graening of Geater Machining and Manufacturing a vertically integrated manufacturer about the challenges and benefits of their vertical integration journey. Many Thanks to Geater Machining and Manufacturing for being on this podcast. We have listed their contact information below. Web: https://geater.com/ Phone: (319) 334-6026 Email: info@geater.com

August 28, 2025Episode 1942 min

TMR Mixers & Cattle Feed Mixers : A Buyers Guide on What To Look For

TMR mixers, also known as feed mixers, are essential tools for livestock farmers, offering numerous benefits that enhance the health and productivity of animals and offer cost saving by improving feed efficiency. With so many different types of mixers, which is right for your operation. In this podcast we discuss the types of feed mixers, and which types work best for which situations. In this podcast we are going to discuss what to consider when choosing a cattle feed mixer and why those factors are important. To help us better understand what to look for we have Joel Schelling, Sales and Marketing Specialist at Post Equipment and parent company of Herd Boss Feeders. and Dan Koonan, a sales specialist. Contact Information: Joel Schelling: jschelling@postequip.com | Phone: 712-476-4500 Post Equipment: https://postequip.com/ | Herd Boss Feeders: https://herdbossfeeders.com/

June 21, 2024Episode 1848 min

Shipping Container Farming & Understanding CEA

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is a broad term for any type of farming that takes place in a controlled environment, indoors and shielded from the elements. This can be done in a variety of settings, including greenhouses, warehouses, including repurposed shipping containers. Jim Schroeder, principal owner of Alta-CEA, answers our questions about shipping container vertical farming and provides in-depth information about how CEA works and the necessity of training in order to effectively produce crops. Contact Information: Alta CEA Website: https://alta-cea.com/ Jim Schroeder : jim@alta-cea.com Read more about Innovations in Vertical Farming at our Innovations Blog Please subscribe to our Podcast and send us your comments at nealr@mfgpa.org

June 20, 2024Episode 1722 min

What is Form 5500?

If your business or organization offers pension or welfare benefit plans, you’ll want to listen to this episode that explains Form 5500 in detail, in addition to filing requirements and the hefty penalties for incorrect or late submissions. Ann Myers and Alan Perka from the 5500 tax Group join us to help explain the details and filing of this form, Today on small business talks. For additional details on Form 5500. You can Contact The 5500 Tax Group thriough their website address listed below. Website: https://5500tax.com/ Don't foget to visit The Small Business Talks Blog and Subscribe to Our Channel. We are always wanting to hear from our listeners and encourage you to send us your comments and suggestions to us via email at: nealr@mfgpa.org.

June 18, 2024Episode 1630 min

Co-Managed IT Services – What are They & What Advantages Do They Offer?

Most businesses have heard of managed It services but may not be familiar with Co-Managed Services. What are the differences and what advantages do one have over the other. Steve Arndt and Greg Shenefelt of Silver Linings Technology join us to explain the differences and what advantages each type of service offers and how Co-Managed IT may be a solution many businesses are looking for. Contact Info Silver Lining’s Technology Phone: 360-450-4759 Steve Arndt, sarndt@silverliningstechnology.com Greg Shenefelt, gshenefelt@silverliningstechnology.com Visit the Small Business Talks Website for more information. We would enjoy hearing from you and invite you to send your comments and suggestions to nealr@mfgpa.org.

April 3, 2024Episode 1531 min

Why Should I Use an Outsourced IT Provider?

Many businesses ask if they should hire an outsourced IT Provider to manage their company’s information technology. This is especially true for the Legal cannabis industry which has unique challenges and hefty regulations for growers, distributors, and dispensaries in the cannabis industry. In fact, Cannabis IT Services and Solutions is fast becoming one of the largest growing areas in the IT service market. To help us better understand why an IT provider is beneficial and what to look for in a provider we have Steve Arndt – President Cannabis Technology Partners & Silver Lining Technologies and Greg Shenefelt – Help Desk Coordinator Cannabis Technology Partners today on Small Business Talks. Many Thanks to: Cannabis Technology Partners 360-450-3687 info＠cannabistechnologypartners.com https://cannabistechnologypartners.com/ Have a comment or idea for a podcast, email us at nealr@mfgpa.org Visit Our Blog : American Business Blog

August 28, 2023Episode 1319 min

Beam Saws - How to Increase Cutting Efficiency in a Business

In this cutting episode of Small Business Talks, we sit down with Dave Brown from The Original Saw Company. Dave dives into the advantages of beam saws, explaining their superior platform, stability, and exceptional cross-cut capabilities. We delve into the practical applications for businesses, both large and small, emphasizing the beam saw's ability in cutting a variety of materials. Dave also touches on the importance of the right tooling, offering insights into cutting materials beyond just wood. From power requirements to the nuances of manual vs. power cross feeds. Plus, get valuable tips on maintaining your beam saw to ensure longevity and precision with every cut. The Original Saw Company Website Phone: 1-800-733-4063 Visit the Small Business Talks Site Have a question, comment or topic idea, email us at: nealr@mfgpa.org

May 22, 2023Episode 1221 min

The Rise of Online Loans and the Importance of Local Banks

Online Loans vs. Local Community Bank Loans In an increasingly digital world, the financial landscape has witnessed a significant increase in online lending platforms. However, are local bank loans still a viable and advantageous option? Join us in this thought-provoking podcast as we delve into the realm of borrowing and explore the key differences between online loans and the benefits of turning to your local bank for home loans with our guests Amanda and Jo Lea, Vice President of Real Estate Lending and Assistant Vice of President of Real Estate Lending for Farmers National Bank in Illinois. Farmers National Bank Website