Layered Insights | A 3D Printing Podcast

Layered Insights is a podcast about the real-world evolution of 3D printing—from hobbyist roots to industrial applications. Hosted by Alex (AG3D) and Matt (Niche 3D), two makers-turned-entrepreneurs, the show explores the tools, challenges, and breakthroughs of additive manufacturing. Whether it’s scaling from prototypes to production, designing for real-world performance, or printing Iron Man helmets in your garage, each episode peels back a new layer of insight. Expect technical depth, honest stories, a bit of banter, and a whole lot of plastic.

Print 1: Layer 1: Matt & Alex Reveal Their FIRST 3D Printers & 3D Printing Origin Stories 09/07/2025

Print 1: Layer 1: Matt & Alex Reveal Their FIRST 3D Printers & 3D Printing Origin Stories Alex and Matt discuss their experiences with 3D printing, highlighting their backgrounds and current roles. Alex, who has been 3D printing for seven years, runs AG3D Printing, a service focusing on part success and storytelling. Matt, with six years of experience, recently went full-time with his own company, Niche 3D, to help companies adopt 3D printing. They share their first printers—Alex's Rigidbot Big and Matt's Prusa MK2S—and the challenges and lessons learned from them. Both emphasize the importance of hands-on experience and the evolving capabilities of 3D printing technology, including its potential to revolutionize manufacturing and reduce waste and emissions. Links: Alexander G. Orphanos | AG3D Labs: ag3d-printing.com Matthew Guy | Niche 3D LLC: Niche3D.io Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Layered Insights Pilot Episode 00:42 Alex of AG3D's Origin Story in 3D Printing 01:39 Matt of Niche 3D's Origin Story in 3D Printing 03:34 Matt's first year with Niche 3D Full Time - How it's Going 04:52 When you Love 3D Printing at Work & at Home... 05:58 Our FIRST 3D Printers & Early Experiences 12:04 Transitioning a Hobby to Professional 3D Printing 13:08 Challenges and Opportunities in the 3D Printing Industry 14:04 The 'MakerBot' Era and the Early Days of 'everyone's first 3D Printer' 18:35 The Age Before Ample Amazon 3D Printing Supplies & Spare Parts... 20:04 Alex Storytime: How I learned about manufacturing & $ from Ed the Toolmaker 21:22 Low vs. High Volume Part Production: 3D Printing vs. Injection Molding & more 22:11 There are STILL so many people who haven't learned about 3D printing or its potential 27:10 Our Shared Mission for Making 3D Printing Accessible to Everyone 29:40 Q: "What is the total number of printers that you have currently?" 30:17 How to Follow, Support, and Work With Matt & Alex /episode/index/show/05252e26-75d8-4449-8f86-cb884d1b6172/id/38114855

Layered Insights | A 3D Printing Podcast

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