On this episode of Buy the Numbers, I sit down with Josh McKain to talk about his 3.5-step framework—the process he uses to help companies turn their goals into results.

Josh shares how he starts every project by aligning teams, often uncovering surprising gaps in understanding. From there, his framework guides teams through assessing their capacity, building a strategic roadmap, and staying on track with regular check-ins—the “half-step” that keeps everyone aligned.

We also explore the importance of tracking the right KPIs. Overloading your team with metrics can create confusion and dilute focus. Instead, Josh recommends identifying 3–5 key metrics that truly drive success and making sure every team member understands how their work impacts those goals.

Whether it’s coaching your team with data, staying agile in the face of challenges, or gamifying progress to boost performance, Josh’s insights are packed with actionable advice. Tune in to learn how you can set your team up for measurable success.

• Learn more about Josh McKain and Henry Rose Consulting [1:23]
• Josh’s three-and-a-half-step framework [4:42]
• Breaking down goals into KPIs [8:28]
• Why you need to review KPIs as a team [19:31]
• How Josh measures accountability [23:03]
• The importance of machine monitoring and data [25:43]
• The key to setting good goals [34:40]

• Connect on LinkedIn
• Henry Rose Consulting

• Follow on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mike Payne on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Buy the Numbers

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

“A good banker understands your business’s financial picture. They understand your balance sheet. They understand what your cashflow looks like. They have an understanding of what your needs are.”

In this episode, I sit down with Jace Dawson—the Commercial Regional Executive for Simmons Bank—to explore how manufacturing businesses can manage cashflow, secure financing, and grow strategically by leveraging traditional banking solutions.

Cashflow is the lifeblood of any shop, and understanding your operating cycle is critical to ensuring your business stays competitive and solvent.

We discuss the advantages of traditional banking over independent financing, how treasury management tools can streamline payables and receivables, and why a well-structured revolving line of credit can be a game-changer for managing working capital.

Whether you’re navigating equipment purchases, labor costs, or long payment terms, the right financial strategies can help your manufacturing business thrive.

• [2:12] Learn more about Jace Dawson
• [7:22] Bank financing vs independent financing
• [10:21] The advantages to traditional banking
• [13:07] The importance of cashflow in a business
• [16:32] Creating a good relationship with your banker
• [25:08] How your bank can help you manage cashflow
• [27:54] The basics of treasury management
• [30:33] What to look for with a working line of credit
• [36:18] What do payment terms cost you?
• [39:11] It’s time to reach out to your banker

• Simmons Bank
• Connect on LinkedIn

• Follow on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mike Payne on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Buy the Numbers

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK

When it comes to purchasing machinery, the decision isn’t always as simple as cash or financing—it’s a strategic move that can shape the future of your business.

In this episode of Buy the Numbers, Ty Willis joins me to break down equipment financing, Section 179 tax benefits, and how to make smart purchasing decisions. Should you leverage financing to preserve cash flow or invest upfront for incremental growth?

Ty dives into these questions, exploring how diverse lending strategies and tools like equipment finance agreements can help you maximize ROI without overextending your business.

We’ll also discuss common pitfalls, like buying equipment for depreciation alone, and why Section 179 should complement a smart decision—not drive it.

Whether you’re expanding operations, upgrading technology, or testing new markets, Ty’s expert insights will help you weigh the tax, financial, and growth implications of your next big move. Tune in for actionable advice to keep your business growing strategically!

• [2:44] Learn more about Ty Willis
• [5:11] How to build connections in the industry
• [10:42] Equipment financing + section 179
• [15:00] Why finance versus pay cash?
• [23:13] Why look at independent financing?
• [30:40] Flexible financing options
• [36:02] Is financing a purchase an option?
• [41:14] Key ratios that lenders look at
• [43:15] Pitfalls to watch out for
• [47:25] How to connect with Ty

• The Technology and Manufacturing Association
• EBITDA Growth Systems

• Connect on LinkedIn

• Follow on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mike Payne on LinkedIn

Subscribe to Buy the Numbers

Audio Production and Show Notes by - PODCAST FAST TRACK