Podcast Title: Cleared Hot
Host: Andy Stumpf
Episode: 397 - Josh Smith - Manufacturing, Tariffs, and Bringing Jobs Back to the United States
Release Date: July 25, 2025

1. Introduction

In Episode 397 of Cleared Hot, host Andy Stumpf engages in a candid discussion with Josh Smith and Evan Hafer, delving deep into the intricacies of American manufacturing, the impact of tariffs, and the broader political landscape influencing job creation in the United States.

2. The Impact of Tariffs on Manufacturing

Josh Smith initiates the conversation by expressing his frustration with the current administration's tariff policies, which significantly affect his manufacturing business.

"[04:37] Josh Smith: ... if you really actually wanted to challenge legally with enough power behind it, it's your, it's your job as the government to provide some form of clarity on what you're doing with our tax money."

Smith highlights how tariffs on equipment, such as a blade grinding machine priced at half a million dollars, have surged to 37% and could potentially jump to 50% shortly. This abrupt increase poses a substantial financial burden on his business, complicating plans to scale operations and invest in necessary machinery.

Evan Hafer adds, emphasizing the unpredictability of tariff decisions:

"[52:28] Evan Hafer: ... there’s been 146 different tariff decisions since Trump has been in office. It’s probably closer to 200 at this point."

The duo discusses the tiered approach to tariffs, advocating for focus on finished goods before materials and equipment, arguing that tariffs should primarily target finished products to encourage domestic production without strangling the supply chain.

3. The Decline of the American Steel Industry

Smith laments the decline of domestic steel production, referencing the bankruptcy of Crucible Steel Technologies and its acquisition by a Swedish company, leaving the U.S. without crucial steel manufacturing capabilities.

"[62:53] Josh Smith: ... so there’s no more powder technology steel in America, which means any knife company in America using stainless steel in a powder technology form, which is superior...."

The conversation underscores the national security implications of losing domestic steel production and the challenges faced in rekindling this once-thriving industry.

4. Personal Experiences and Business Challenges

Smith shares his entrepreneurial journey, detailing how he bootstrapped his knife manufacturing business from a garage to a burgeoning enterprise with plans to expand further. He emphasizes the importance of American-made products and the community support that fuels his growth.

"[34:17] Josh Smith: ... what I wanted to build in a company and how I wanted to look and feel and the goal."

He recounts the difficulties in obtaining specialized machinery domestically, illustrating the scarcity and high costs associated with procuring equipment necessary for high-quality manufacturing.

5. The Epstein Scandal and Political Implications

A significant portion of the discussion pivots to the Epstein scandal, exploring its ramifications on political strategies and public trust.

"[17:57] Josh Smith: ... when you only have one term to serve, you can be as you can be whatever you want to be because you have to worry."

Smith and Hafer debate the potential government cover-up, speculating on the involvement of high-profile figures and the long-term implications for political accountability and transparency.

6. Strategies to Rebuild American Manufacturing

The hosts brainstorm strategies to invigorate American manufacturing, advocating for a mix of broadsword and scalpel approaches—bold initiatives complemented by nuanced, expert-driven solutions.

"[12:53] Josh Smith: ... but there's a way to do some planning and there's a way to find your route to that."

They discuss the necessity of public-private partnerships and governmental support to reinvigorate key industries, ensuring that investments lead to sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.

7. Collaboration with Black Rifle Coffee

Smith introduces his partnership with Black Rifle Coffee, highlighting a symbiotic relationship that leverages shared values of American manufacturing and community support.

"[94:59] Josh Smith: ... it makes that store special."

The collaboration includes opening a coffee shop within the manufacturing facility, designed to attract customers and promote a unique brand experience combining quality products with a strong sense of patriotism.

8. Taxation and Government Accountability

The conversation shifts to broader economic concerns, particularly taxation and the national debt. Both hosts express skepticism about the government's fiscal responsibility and explore unconventional methods to hold officials accountable.

"[86:30] Evan Hafer: ... how can you hold the government accountable?"
"[87:34] Josh Smith: ... but it's also incumbent upon us as citizens to hold our government accountable."

They debate the feasibility and potential repercussions of large-scale initiatives like tax strikes, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and education in fostering governmental transparency.

9. Conclusion

In wrapping up, Josh Smith reaffirms his belief in the American dream and the resilience of citizens in driving meaningful change. Despite the myriad challenges—from political instability to economic uncertainties—he remains optimistic about the potential for rebuilding American manufacturing and creating sustainable jobs.

"[86:30] Josh Smith: ... I believe in our country and I believe in our citizens and I think the greatest country on earth."

Evan Hafer concurs, emphasizing the importance of unity and proactive measures in overcoming systemic obstacles.

Notable Quotes

• Josh Smith [04:37]: "If you really actually wanted to challenge legally with enough power behind it, it's your, it's your job as the government to provide some form of clarity on what you're doing with our tax money."

• Evan Hafer [52:28]: "There’s been 146 different tariff decisions since Trump has been in office. It’s probably closer to 200 at this point."

• Josh Smith [17:57]: "... when you only have one term to serve, you can be as you can be whatever you want to be because you have to worry."

• Josh Smith [34:17]: "... what I wanted to build in a company and how I wanted to look and feel and the goal."

• Josh Smith [86:30]: "I believe in our country and I believe in our citizens and I think the greatest country on earth."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Cleared Hot offers a thorough exploration of the challenges and opportunities within the American manufacturing sector, highlighted by personal insights and a deep dive into the political factors at play. Listeners gain a comprehensive understanding of how tariffs and governmental policies directly impact small businesses aiming to revive domestic manufacturing and employment.

For those interested in the intersection of politics, economics, and entrepreneurship, this episode serves as a valuable resource, providing both strategic perspectives and heartfelt narratives.