FTR Unthreaded: Mike McNulty

 As campaign season gives way to deer season, the fastener business remains strong even as some begin to question how long the optimism will continue. Meanwhile, the circumspect Mr. Charlie Kerr adds capacity to his long running cold heading operation (1:52:08). Hunter and thread merchant, Craig Penland of Eurolink Fastener Supply Service builds AI tools for his sales force and his stalking grounds (15:43). On the Fastener News Report, Jason Baines of premium nut manufacturer J. Lanfranco joins news editor Mike McNulty to break down the still exuberant FDI survey report (57:56). Proof load testing of fasteners is the topic of the latest Fastener Training Minute with Carmen Vertullo (1:44:16). PLUS: New NCFA officers, the realities of signing a gross lease, and Brisketfest ‘27 date announced. Brian and Eric figure after 20 years it's time to open FCH to manufacturers. Run time: 02:55:19

The International Fastener Expo moved to Phoenix in 2026. Many questioned what would happen with the big change, and the industry responded by turning out in strong numbers to enjoy another memorable edition of the premier annual event. Floor interviews, commentary and semi-comprehensive coverage as seen from the booth of the FCH Sourcing Network and the eyes of Lynn Dempsey and her roving recorder. Plus: Innovative product of the year, golf results, and the color of this year's Lindfast monkey. Run time: 01:00:37

LindFast Solutions Group CEO Mike Spencer and Chief Commercial Officer Steve Dean explain their omni-channel vision for the most dynamic master distributor in the industry, and why the future should be a barrel of fun (1:21:15). The FDI scorches on, as data center expansion and strong sales numbers drive record optimism. AFC Industries CEO Kevin Godin joins Mike McNulty to look closely at the numbers on the Fastener News Report (37:03). Young Fastener Professional of the Year, Taryn Goodman of Industrial Rivet recounts her departure and eventual return to the fastener industry (16:36). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo talks fastener reusability and torque to yield (1:10:13). PLUS: Pac-West announces new officers, and keeping your leverage at lease renewal time. Brian and Eric emerge from the cyber war trenches to head to Phoenix for IFE. Run time: 01:59:57

 Würth Industry USA CEO Daniel Schmidt made his way through the  Würth apprentice program over 30 years ago, reaching his current leadership role at the helm of a billion dollar plus industrial organization. During this conversation you’ll learn how he did it and hear about some of the instructive stops he made along the way. He shares his thoughts on the direction of industrial distribution, how emerging tech including AI is being managed at  Würth, and what happened with  Würth Additive. You’ll also get an idea of Daniel’s mindset and philosophy of life as he explains some of the chapters of his highly successful career story. Run time: 01:08:38

Chicago hosts the MWFA 80th anniversary gala and FSTNR Week, mud races and table top interviews ensue (24:22). Huge news on tariffs with Canada dominates the Fastener News Report, as Hans Fuller of Fuller Metric joins senior editor Mike McNulty (1:01:43). The online sales game has changed dramatically in the age of AI, Justin King of the B2B eCommerce Association and Sam Aldinger with Highland Consulting explain the new terrain (1:52:19). On the Fastener Training Minute, industry guru Carmen Vertullo is right at home covering external hydrogen embrittlement (1:41:29). PLUS: NCFA & MWFA golf results, get extra cash at lease renewal time, and what to expect at IFE. As always, Brian and Eric let the good times roll. Run time: 2:34:59

Professional fastener consultant and vinter Doug Weiland discloses his best recipe for a thread business with legs (1:46:42). 2026 Hall of Fame inductee Tim Roberto Jr. of LSG joins Mike McNulty to dissect the latest red hot FDI numbers on the Fastener News Report (57:45). Industry guru Carmen Vertullo previews his upcoming in-person risk management conference (21:59), then returns with a Fastener Training Minute covering a seldom discussed HE topic (1:34:04). Show directors Anya Falcone and Linette Dao look ahead to an all-new IFE in Phoenix (41:31). PLUS: Commercial rents plummet and MWFA HOF inductions. Brian and Eric consider ways to defend against Amazon Business and think about a yaht. Run time: 02:50:14

Fastener sales are sizzling as much as the summer heat, but is the data center boom really driving all the business? AFC Industries EVP John Kovatch and VP of marketing Joe Shoemaker explain how they view the current market and what they're doing to approach it (1:42:31). Ed Smith of Würth Industry USA looks back at his tenure as NFDA president (13:12). On the Fastener News Report, Advance Components president Gary Cravens joins senior news editor Mike McNulty to look at the latest scorching FDI numbers (42:09). Industry educator Carmen Vertullo explains non-destructive inspection testing techniques, on the Fastener Training Minute (1:29:24). Brian and Eric marvel at AI in ludicrous speed mode, and remember to order more Vegemite. Run time: 02:30:58

Dr. Salim Brahimi on the recent IFI standards camp and RCSC meeting (16:39), Fastener Industry Coalition chairman and Brighton Best sales manager Michael White (1:46:35), Martin EVP Scott McDaniel joins Mike McNulty on the Fastener News Report (58:08), Rob "Big Country" Reynolds of INxSQL and Tony Martinez of Buckeye Fasteners recap Brisketfest '26 (49:14), plus Carmen Vertullo explains why your great fastener innovation may be a terrible idea on the Fastener Training Minute (1:39:18). BONUS: Outwit the landlord at lease renewal time (44:21). Brian and Eric dream up an AI filter for parrots and roosters. Run time: 02:17:49

A focused discussion with Fastener Technology International senior news editor and FTR contributor, Mike McNulty, tracking his unexpected journey from engineering school to the desk of the industry renowned Fastener News Report. Run time: 48:38

Fastener Fair USA floor interviews featuring Chris McAffrey, Michael White, Blanca Delgado, Jill Lewis, Anders Green, Robbie Gilchrist and many more. On the Fastener News Report, Mike McNulty of Fastener Technology International speaks with Baird senior analyst Dave Manthey to explain the ongoing surge in the Fastener Distributor Index (56:29). Jason Baines of J. Lanfranco introduces a new coalition designed to address tariffs impacting the fastener trade (46:35). On the Fastener Training Minute, Carmen Vertullo fixes a mistake with grade 9 (1:36:37). PLUS: 5 tips for preserving margins during lease negotiations (42:31). Brian and Eric plan an airlift. Run time: 02:16:17