Chips and Tips Podcast
We’re the Toolpath Customer Success Team, here to chat about all things Toolpath, Autodesk Fusion, and the machining community. Check out the Chips & Tips blog for extra details on each episode. https://toolpath.com/chips-and-tips
All Episodes
#14 Chips and Tips — Good Part, Then Fast Parts (w/ Chris Zappettini)
Justin is joined by the one and only Chris Zappettini of Zappettini Consulting for a dive deep into one of their core mantras: “First we make good parts, then we make fast parts.” The duo explores how this principle has shaped their businesses, their code, and their cutting strategies. From the long evolution of Chris’s Asana-based systems to the quirks of quoting, automation, and job shop workflows, they break down how chasing optimization too early can sabotage progress, and how building something solid first paves the way for meaningful speed later. Along the way, they touch on: • Why premature optimization is the enemy • Lessons from job shops, turnkeys, and aerospace brackets • The surprising power of templates and standardized quoting • The real goal: fast throughput, not just fast cycle time • AI’s role in matching parts to templates Whether you’re running a machine shop, writing code, or just trying to build a better system, this episode delivers a punchy reminder: reliability before speed, clarity before cleverness, and good parts before fast ones.
#13 Chips and Tips — Template My Template
Garrett Wade joins Justin to break down how smart use of Fusion 360 templates, container methods, and zero-point workholding can save hours on every job. From soft jaw strategies to avoiding Z-crashes—and even a peek at Toolpath’s AI-driven future—this episode is packed with practical CAM wisdom for shops that want to move faster and safer.
#12 Chips and Tips — Tyler Bonde from Mitsui Seiki
Join me on the Chips and Tips Podcast as I chat with Tyler Bonde from Mitsui Seiki in episode #12. This episode marks my return to podcasting after recovering from a neck and back injury. Tyler and I dive into his fascinating journey from growing up in Minnesota to his current role in North Carolina. We explore his diverse career path, including his early interest in automotive trades and his transition into machining. Tyler shares insights into his work at Mitsui Seiki, where precision and reliability are key. We also reminisce about our first meeting at a go-karting event, highlighting our shared passion for racing. Tune in for an engaging conversation about the machining industry, personal stories, and the importance of building relationships in sales.
#11 Chips and Tips — Automation, Variability, and the Tyranny of Now (with Miguel Pinilla)
In this episode of the Chips and Tips Podcast, I sit down with Miguel Pinilla, CTO of Arda Systems, to explore the intricate world of automation and variability in supply chain logistics. With over 25 years of experience, Miguel shares insights on the challenges of ensuring timely deliveries, the importance of managing work in progress, and how variability can wreak havoc on operations. We delve into the role of robots in reducing variability and enhancing efficiency, particularly in job shops. Whether you're a manufacturing enthusiast or a logistics professional, this episode offers valuable tips on optimizing processes and maintaining stability in an ever-demanding environment. Join us as we navigate the tyranny of now and uncover strategies to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of manufacturing and logistics.