Talkin Shop with ShopSabre

Stop trying to fix chaos with a "panic hire" and start building a scalable business through the power of automation. In this episode of Talking Shop, Brandon and Nick are joined by Curtis from HR to pull back the curtain on the harsh reality of hiring in today's unpredictable labor market. We explore why the old model of "hiring more people to grow" is increasingly fragile and why successful shops are prioritizing process over traditional staffing to achieve consistent results.
Hiring is harder than ever, with smaller labor pools, rising wage expectations, and higher turnover rates. We discuss how to identify quality employees and, more importantly, how to support them with tools like CNC machines and software that eliminate burnout and reduce costly rework. Automation doesn't replace the human element; it protects your business from volatility and empowers your team to work smarter, not harder.
Whether you are struggling to find skilled welders or trying to figure out if you should finance your next piece of equipment, this episode provides a roadmap for building a business that can withstand the realities of 2026. Join us as we discuss the "story" behind a resume, the value of being trainable, and why consistency is the ultimate secret to growth.
Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/
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Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre
Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/
Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.
For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.
Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.
ShopSabre CNC 
www.ShopSabre.com
21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
800-493-6021

Don't give away the first month of the year! In this kickoff episode for 2026, Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters dive into why January is the "bridge month" that determines your success for the entire year. Many businesses lose momentum after the Q4 grind, but we're discussing why taking your foot off the gas now is the most dangerous mistake you can make for your annual goals.
We break down the "January Reputation"—the myth that customers aren't buying and that it's okay to ramp up slowly. The reality is that your competitors aren't resting, and every day you spend "catching your breath" is a day they are winning your future customers. We also tackle listener feedback, including how to find our free cabinet-making tutorials and a deep dive into the true ROI of ShopSabre CNC machines. Whether you are an owner or an employee, this episode is a wake-up call to show up mentally, set the pace, and outwork the competition from Day 1
[00:00] - Happy New Year & Welcome to 2026
[00:28] - Nick's Vacation Brag & Banter
[01:31] - Today's Topic: New Year, New Goals, New Opportunity
[02:14] - The Danger of Giving Away January Momentum
[03:40] - Viewer Questions: Cabinet Tips, Machine Costs & More
[07:54] - The Lie of "We'll Start Strong Next Week"
[10:13] - Competitors Don't Pause—Why January Matters Most
[14:42] - Momentum as a Bridge Month (Not a Reset)
[17:08] - Culture, Accountability & Mental Presence
[20:00] - Key Takeaways: Start Strong to Win the Year
[23:23] - Motivational Quote & Final Push
[27:43] - Wrap-Up & See You Next Week
Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/
Follow us for daily CNC content
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre
Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/
Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.
For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.
Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.
ShopSabre CNC
www.ShopSabre.com
21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
800-493-6021

2025 is a wrap! Before we rush into 2026 chasing new numbers and new growth, it is crucial to pause and take a true "inventory of success."
In this final episode of the year on Talkin' Shop, Brandon and Nick revisit the highs and lows of 2025. Success isn't just about where you end up on December 31st; it's about what you endured, what you learned, and how you choose to move forward. We discuss why challenges—like pricing struggles, employee retention, and market shifts—are actually proof you are "in the game," not failing.
Plus, we cover some hard lessons learned (including a historic fantasy football collapse), answer viewer questions about ShopSabre pricing and tech support, and break down the new "Rotation Feature" on Saber Nation University that's saving backs in the shop.
Timestamps
[00:00] - Intro to the Final Episode of 2025
[01:25] - "New Year Old Nick" & The Fantasy Football Collapse 
[04:32] - Q&A: Why Does the Website "Not Have Pricing"? 
[05:55] - Q&A: The Value of In-House Tech Support 
[06:53] - Feature Highlight: Rotation Feature on Saber Nation University [08:39] - Taking an "Inventory of Your Success" 
[13:16] - Why Challenges Are Proof You're Playing the Game 
[16:39] - Gaining Perspective: What Actually Matters in Business? 
[19:50] - Designing Your 2026: Work with Intention 
[25:23] - You Are More Capable Now Than a Year Ago
[32:27] - Motivational Quote of the Week
#ShopSabre #TalkingShop #BusinessGrowth #2025Recap #2026Goals #SmallBusinessSuccess #CNCBusiness #Manufacturing #EntrepreneurMindset #ShopManagement #Leadership #reflectionandprogression  #motivational 

Follow us for daily CNC content
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre
Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/
Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.
For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.
Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.
ShopSabre CNC 
www.ShopSabre.com
21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
800-493-6021

If you own a CNC shop and are unsure about financing new equipment because of changing interest rates, this episode of Talkin' Shop with ShopSabre is for you. Hosts Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peters explain why now is a smart time to finance your next CNC machine, thanks to recent Federal Reserve rate cuts that make lending more favorable for business growth.
Find out how low interest rates can make equipment financing a smart way to grow your business instead of a burden. Brandon and Nick clear up common misunderstandings, showing that a 0.25% rate change usually means only about $6 more per month on a $60,000 machine, while waiting to buy can cost you much more in lost revenue and productivity. They share practical tips, like keeping cash available for payroll and new opportunities, using tax breaks such as Section 179 deductions, and boosting your return on investment with faster production, shorter lead times, and new contracts. The episode also features real customer stories, including a sign shop that won big contracts after financing and a cabinetmaker who increased profits by buying materials wisely. It proves that financing is often a better choice than holding onto cash.
If you are considering a ShopSabre CNC router, plasma, or laser to automate your work, lower labor costs, or stay ahead of competitors, financing can help you grow in 2026 without using up your savings. Don't miss out on bigger gains by focusing only on small savings. Smart borrowing can drive long-term success in manufacturing, woodworking, metal fabrication, and more.
Timestamps:
[00:00] - Intro to Talkin' Shop with Brandon Bombardo
[00:37] - Why Financing Equipment Makes Sense Today
[01:14] - Fun Banter: Introducing the Lego Connoisseur
[03:31] - Overcoming Past Pricing Mindsets for Growth
[05:20] - Viewer Q&A: Aggregates, Knife Control & Phase Converters
[09:48] - Deep Dive: Financing as a Growth Tool, Not Debt
[11:00] - Rate Cuts Explained: Real Impact on Payments
[15:33] - Why Growth Always Beats Cash Hoarding
[17:59] - Customer Stories: Machines Paying Themselves Off Fast
[20:55] - Sign Shop Success: Landing Big Contracts Via Financing
[22:55] - Cabinet Shop Win: Higher Margins Through Cash Preservation
[25:30] - When Financing Makes Strategic Sense
[29:55] - Tips: Work with Trusted Lenders Like Geneva Capital
[32:23] - Final Thoughts: Use Financing Wisely for 2026 Success
[36:07] - Motivational Quote & Hockey Life Lessons
[40:31] - Holiday Wrap-Up & Merry Christmas
#CNCFinancing #ShopSabre #CNCEquipment #BusinessGrowth #ManufacturingTips #CNCRouter #CNCPlasma #WoodworkingBusiness #MetalFabrication #ShopOwner #EquipmentFinancing #Section179 #GrowYourShop #Automation #ProductivityBoost
Get a Quote Today: https://www.shopsabre.com/
Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/
Follow us for daily CNC content
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre
Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/
Like and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for more CNC router and CNC plasma cutting machine tutorials, DIY project builds, and more. We feature cutting in different materials such as wood, plastic, aluminum, and other various steels.
For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.
Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.
ShopSabre CNC 
www.ShopSabre.com
21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
800-493-6021

Welcome to Talkin' Shop Episode 229 with Brandon Bombardo and Nick Peterson!
Today we're diving deep into the #1 thing that matters more than marketing, automation, or even price: Customer Service – and why manufacturing in-house (instead of outsourcing or importing) gives your customers a dramatically better experience.
Most shop owners think customer service starts when the phone rings. Wrong. It actually starts the moment you decide WHO builds your product. In this episode we break down:
How in-house manufacturing gives you total control over quality, lead times, and accountability
Why outsourcing breaks the feedback loop and leaves customers frustrated
Real-world stories: 5-day freight-damage turnaround vs. months of waiting on import parts
The hidden costs of "cheaper" overseas products (downtime, lost loyalty, damaged reputation)
How bringing production in-house skyrockets long-term profit, customization, and customer loyalty
Whether you're a cabinet shop, sign maker, metal fabricator, or any small-to-medium manufacturer, this episode will change how you think about outsourcing forever.
Timestamps
00:00 - Intro & Fantasy Football Banter
06:20 - Why Customer Service  Marketing, Automation, or Price
18:04 - Customer Service Starts the Day You Decide Who Builds Your Product
22:16 - How Outsourcing Breaks the Feedback Loop
25:43 - Real Story: 5-Day Freight Damage Turnaround (In-House Wins)
29:24 - Vertical Integration = Faster Support & Better Training
32:05 - Higher Margins & True Customization with In-House
38:20 - Support Speed, Parts Availability, and Customer Confidence
40:11 - In-House Isn't Just Operations – It's a Customer Service Philosophy
46:57 - Final Motivation & 2026 Challenge
🔥 Like this video if you're done sacrificing customer experience for a few bucks up front!
💬 Comment below: Are you bringing more in-house in 2026?
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📞 Ready to own your process and deliver legendary customer service?
Get your custom ShopSabre CNC quote today → https://www.shopsabre.com/get-a-quote/
Check out all of our equipment at https://www.shopsabre.com/
Follow us for daily CNC content
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/shopsabre
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/shopsabre
Twitter/X: https://x.com/ShopSabreCNC
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@shopsabre
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shopsabre-cnc/
#CNC #CNCMachining #ShopSabre #Manufacturing #InHouseManufacturing #CustomerService #AmericanMade #CNCRouter #CNCPlasma #MadeInUSA #SmallBusiness #CabinetShop #SignMaking #MetalFabrication
For over 20 years, ShopSabre CNC has provided businesses and hobbyists with the best CNC machines at the best value. By focusing on unbeatable customer service and high-quality products built in the USA, we've grown from a single machine built at home to one of the most trusted CNC machine manufacturers in the country.
Since building our first machine two decades ago, we now have over 10,000 CNC routers, plasma, and laser engraving machines in a wide variety of industries in over 40 countries. Our success is a result of our commitment to developing a better way to build CNC machines and support our customers.
ShopSabre CNC 
www.ShopSabre.com
21673 Cedar Ave, Lakeville, MN 55044
800-493-6021