**Welcome to “A Scrap Life” Podcast**

**Host: Brett Eart**
**Guest: Jim Keith**

Brett Eart:
All right, I’m back. This time of year, we have the upcoming Scrap Expo. Is that right, Jim?

Jim Keith:
Yes, Brett. This is the fourth year we’re doing it.

Brett Eart:
So, I am here with the man, the myth, the legend, Jim Keith, and we’re excited to talk Scrap Expo. Jim, there are some new features this year, right?

**Jim Keith:**
Absolutely, Brett. We’ve got a larger outdoor demo area than ever before, with about a dozen exhibitors. We have stationary shears and several loggers, bailers, sorting equipment, material handlers, mobile shears, and grapples. It’s exciting to show how even small to medium-sized operators can use compact equipment to achieve great results.

**Brett Eart:**
I can relate. When we installed our first wire chopping line, we purchased a small setup which turned out to be efficient, easy to manage, and ideal for us at that time. Eventually, we expanded by adding another of the same instead of going bigger immediately.

**Jim Keith:**
That’s exactly what we’re showcasing. Sometimes, smaller, appropriate equipment can achieve more if it’s suitable for the operation.

Brett Eart:
How’s the planning going, Jim?

Jim Keith:
The planning is going great. Our expo is growing, and this year, we’re coordinating with other industry events to ensure participants can attend multiple expos without conflicts. Our target audience remains those owner/operators who can significantly benefit from the networking and insights Scrap Expo provides.

**Brett Eart:**
That’s good to hear, Jim. Your target and the information you provide resonate with many smaller operators who may not have the chance to participate in larger group or trade association events. The focus on practical, tactical solutions and machinery is beneficial for small and medium-sized businesses.

**Jim Keith:**
Certainly. We’ve got engaging sessions planned, including one on tariffs, mergers & acquisitions, and how these impact businesses. We continue providing actionable insights crucial for businesses, especially now when the industry faces challenges.

**Brett Eart:**
I appreciate that you include practical workshops and discussions directly impacting day-to-day operations. For instance, how would equipment costs, impacted by tariffs, shape decisions on new purchases?

**Jim Keith:**
Exactly, Brett. Providing this visibility and insights equips operators with the information to decide whether investing now or later yields better ROI.

**Brett Eart:**
Lastly, Jim, what are some standout features of this year’s expo?

**Jim Keith:**
We’ve kept registration very affordable, and new this year is a technology spotlight focusing on refining recycled metal. This session includes suppliers detailing advanced tech, followed by operators presenting real-world applications, moderated by industry expert Ron Shaw.

**Brett Eart:**
That’s impressive! Having comprehensive panels on technology and operations can really optimize the decision-making process for attendees.

**Jim Keith:**
Thanks, Brett. This year, attendees can also enjoy our dessert bourbon tasting and cigar reception at Church Hill Downs, providing an excellent social networking opportunity.

**Brett Eart:**
It’s all sounding great, Jim. Give us the event details one more time.

**Jim Keith:**
The Scrap Expo is on September 16 and 17 in Louisville, Kentucky. More details are at scrapexpo.net.

**Brett Eart:**
Thank you, Jim. I appreciate all that you do, and I’m looking forward to participating this year. Thanks for joining me on the podcast.

**Jim Keith:**
Thank you, Brett. I look forward to seeing everyone there.

*Music*