Best Handwork Podcasts (2025)

1
Dana Bourgeois: 50 Years of Innovation, Tradition, and Tone 1:53:09

6d ago1:53:09

1:53:09

Today’s guest is a true icon in the world of acoustic guitar making. Someone whose influence has quietly shaped the way modern luthiers build, voice, and imagine the steel-string guitar. With over 50 years of experience at the workbench, Dana Bourgeois has carved out a singular path in the craft, blending deep technical knowledge with a relentless …

1
Tradition, Disrupted: Fred Kopo’s Uncompromising Approach to Guitar Making 2:04:59

13d ago2:04:59

2:04:59

In this episode of Life with Strings Attached, I sit down with Fred Pons (also known as Fred Kopo) a deeply respected luthier from France whose journey into guitar making began with what he describes as “a slap of inspiration.” At just 16, a visit to a rural guitar workshop with his teacher changed the course of his life. The smell of wood, the cal…

1
Biography | Mike Sankey: Building What No One Asked For 1:12:52

19d ago1:12:52

1:12:52

This episode is part of a new Biography Edition of Life With Strings Attached, a space to pause and reflect on the people behind the instruments. It's been our experience that these remarkable ideas come from remarkable people, who have a depth and character that cannot be easily distinguished from the things that they create. This Biography Editio…

1
Dan Furman, PhD: What Brain Signals Teach Us About Music, Focus, and Feeling 1:53:58

27d ago1:53:58

1:53:58

Dan Furman, PhD, is a neuroscientist, Harvard graduate, and co-founder of Arctop, a company developing real-time brain-computer interface software that translates electrical activity from the brain into usable data. In this episode, Dan joins Jamie Gale for a far-reaching conversation about music, emotion, memory, and how we might one day listen to…

1
Renovation Bootcamp 2025 13:34

27d ago13:34

13:34

Here is the latest update to one of the most requested programs I have created. Renovation Bootcamp was designed to give you the best possible info on what to know BEFORE hiring anyone for a renovation. For more info, here is the invite link.By Paul Indrigo

1
Rethinking the Electric Guitar with Two of Its Leading Historians: Jan Herbst & Steve Waksman 2:27:12

1M ago2:27:12

2:27:12

Few people have shaped the way we understand the electric guitar like Jan Herbst and Steve Waksman. Both have spent their careers asking deeper questions about sound, design, meaning, and the role of technology in music. Steve is the author of Instruments of Desire, the first major academic study of the electric guitar. Jan is a leading voice in th…

1
Dan Erlewine (StewMac): A Life in Guitar Repair, Innovation, and Legacy 1:40:49

1M ago1:40:49

1:40:49

[re-upload with improved audio quality] Legendary guitar repairman, luthier, and educator Dan Erlewine (StewMac) joins us for a conversation on innovation, legacy, and the craft behind the music. In this episode of Life With Strings Attached, we reflect on Dan’s early inspirations, his journey into guitar building and repair, and the unforeseen inn…

1
How Michael Tobias Designed the Bass You Didn’t Know You’ve Heard 1:40:45

1M ago1:40:45

1:40:45

Michael Tobias didn’t set out to change the sound of modern music, but that’s exactly what he did. In this episode, he joins Jamie Gale to reflect on five decades of instrument building, from the early days of repairing guitars in Washington, D.C., to founding Tobias Guitars, surviving corporate life at Gibson, and ultimately creating MTD: a brand …

1
April 2025 Sold Stories 11:05

2M ago11:05

11:05

Congrats to the 100+ homeowners that sold in April 2025. Having worked with many of you, I know how important the right preparation and marketing can be. Make sure you are also signed up for the Spring or Summer Seller Bootcamp sessions if planning your moves in 2025.By Paul Indrigo

1
Intro to Danforth Karate Academy 1:18

2M ago1:18

1:18

Welcome to my community business podcast series. If you are looking for a great martial arts program in or near the Danforth, look no further. Danforth Karate Academy is the place to go.By Paul Indrigo

1
Introducing the Handwork Department 0:49

2M ago0:49

0:49

Welcome to the Handwork Department. This is one of the most unique vintage and antique shops in all of Ontario. And its right here on the Danforth. Hope you enjoy the small business podcast promos here. Share them with others you know that may need one.By Paul Indrigo

1
From Hollywood to Handwork: Concept Artist Tim Warnock on Creative Identity 1:52:02

2M ago1:52:02

1:52:02

What does a concept artist who’s worked on Harry Potter, Transformers, and The Expanse have to say about boutique guitars? Plenty, as it turns out. In this episode of Life With Strings Attached, Jamie Gale talks with Tim Warnock — a former matte painter at Industrial Light & Magic and co-founder of Northfront Studio — about what it means to build c…

1
Meet Peter at Danforth Karate Academy 16:28

2M ago16:28

16:28

Meeting the people in your community is essential to knowing the area. That is why I have tried to meet with every local business owner I can. Today, I meet with Peter. Owner of the Danforth Karate Academy. Enjoy the show!By Paul Indrigo

1
Gangs, Guitars, and the Grit to Keep Going — Bob Robinson 1:49:58

2M ago1:49:58

1:49:58

What does it take to stay creative in the face of chaos? In this episode of Life With Strings Attached, Jamie Gale sits down with Bob Robinson — a luthier, furniture maker, and all-around builder — to hear how his journey took him from working in gang territory on Chicago’s West Side to redefining what it means to make a classical guitar. They expl…

1
SOLD on Sammon Avenue 5:04

2M ago5:04

5:04

This house is now SOLD! A big moment in local history. First time this home has sold in 24 years! Although its no longer available, its story will go on for many more years. Does YOUR home have a great story to tell? Sign up now for your updated home value report to get started.By Paul Indrigo

1
Spring 2025 Sold Stories 17:04

2M ago17:04

17:04

Happy Spring season to all. As part of my regular updates, I take you behind the scenes of what is happening in the world of real estate. For the full scoop, be sure to join the 1000s that are part of the Danforth Neighbourhood News & Real Estate Club.By Paul Indrigo

1
73 – The Tenth Anniversary Issue 1:00:39

2M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

In this episode, the guys discuss their upcoming special publication: The Tenth Anniversary Issue. They’ve poured out untold energy and creative reflection to make this the most compelling title they’ve ever released. This issue features: Joshua A. Klein, Michael Updegraff, the Yale Furniture Study, Steve Latta, Sally Bernstein and Joel Moskowitz, …

1
Frank Deimel on Sound, Identity, and Building Guitars That Rebel 1:42:20

2M ago1:42:20

1:42:20

In this episode of Life With Strings Attached, Jamie Gale speaks with German luthier Frank Deimel, a builder whose instruments blend fine craftsmanship with punk energy, political commentary, and sonic experimentation. Frank shares the unexpected path that took him from classical guitar dropout to one of the most original voices in modern guitar ma…

1
Isaac Jang on Legacy, Faith, and the Craft of Making Happy Guitars 1:48:37

2M ago1:48:37

1:48:37

[re-upload with highly improved audio] In this episode of Life With Strings Attached, Jamie Gale sits down with luthier Isaac Jang — one of the most admired voices in the modern guitar world — to explore what it means to build instruments that don’t just sound beautiful, but feel meaningful. From a decade-long apprenticeship with Kathy Wingert to l…

1
Rewiring the Brain: Living, Creating, and Surviving with Intention | J. Galen Buckwalter 1:58:56

3M ago1:58:56

1:58:56

J. Galen Buckwalter is a research psychologist with over 30 years of experience exploring the intersection of psychology, technology, and human behavior. He started his career as a research professor at the University of Southern California and later developed a behavioural outcomes research program at Kaiser Permanente. But many will know him best…

1
Deconstructing the Guitar: A Whole New Approach | Michihiro Matsuda 1:51:25

3M ago1:51:25

1:51:25

Over the last two decades, Michihiro Matsuda has crafted some of the most innovative and inspiring guitars in the world. His work seamlessly blends tradition and creativity, reflecting his deep Japanese heritage and culture. The principles of contemplation and reflection—so central to Japanese philosophy—are evident in every instrument he builds. B…

1
#45 - Finding Spring in Winter's Grip 26:41

3M ago26:41

26:41

In this episode of the In Kinship Podcast, I share my journey of embracing the unexpected as winter stubbornly refuses to release its grip on northern Michigan. With warmth and humor, I take you along on an impromptu adventure with my nine-year-old son when we found ourselves "lost" on country roads—transforming what could have been a stressful sit…

1
Building Guitars with Innovation and Purpose | Simon Padalka 1:56:52

3M ago1:56:52

1:56:52

Today on Life With Strings Attached, we have a truly inspiring guest—luthier Simon Padalka, the mastermind behind Padalka Guitars. Simon’s journey into guitar-making began in 2011 in his hometown of Krasnodar, Russia. Though he earned a master’s degree in architecture in 2012, his passion for craftsmanship and design led him to trade blueprints for…

1
#44 The Joy in the Struggle 16:17

3M ago16:17

16:17

In this light and candid episode of the In Kinship Podcast, I unpack the ups and downs of the creative process through the lens of a dress gone wrong. With laughter and insight, I share how a see-through fabric mishap and a fiddly neckband led to valuable lessons about embracing failure, stepping away when frustrated, and finding the balance betwee…

1
Why Handmade Guitars Matter | Eric Weigeshoff 1:59:36

3M ago1:59:36

1:59:36

Today on Life With Strings Attached, we’re joined by Eric Weigeshoff, the visionary luthier behind Skytop Guitars. With a background in design and film, Eric approaches guitar-making as both an art form and an immersive experience. His passion for rock climbing and the natural world informs his craft, leading him to create guitars that are not only…

1
Redesigning A Country Music Icon | Ric Riordon 1:47:39

4M ago1:47:39

1:47:39

What does it mean to redesign a cultural icon? Ric Riordon was already a well-established designer when, over two decades ago, he and his team were asked to redesign the trophy for the Academy of Country Music Awards. The original had barely changed since the mid-’60s, so the team were taking on quite a challenge: replacing a recognisable icon that…

1
72 – Working at Scale 47:06

4M ago47:06

47:06

In this episode, Joshua and Mike explore the pros and cons of working at a larger scale than furniture making. Whether you’re constructing something as immense as a barn or simply working in batches, trying your hand at a project that will take you more than a few days’ work will expand your capacities. Inspired by Joshua’s upcoming article in Issu…

1
Building Guitars for Steve Vai, Jerry Cantrell & Slash | Stephen McSwain 1:20:19

4M ago1:20:19

1:20:19

How in the world do you get your first guitar build in Steve Vai's hands? Well, you take some big risks and make some bold choices, and Stephen McSwain has certainly done plenty of both. From hand carving horror-themed installations for Slash to working with world-renowned visual artists, Stephen has time and again gone where no luthier has gone be…

1
Making The Crazy Leap To Guitar Making | Michael Bashkin 1:47:56

4M ago1:47:56

1:47:56

Michael had his dream job working for the US Forest Service – until the sight of a luthier's workshop turned his interest in guitars into an obsession that couldn't be ignored. Now, Michael is a master guitar maker with over 25 years of experience crafting exquisite acoustic guitars in Fort Collins, Colorado. Renowned for his signature designs feat…

1
AI & The Artist | Kosta Lagis (Pt. 2) 1:34:16

4M ago1:34:16

1:34:16

Here's part 2 of my conversation with visual effects artist Kosta Lagis, whose credits include blockbusters like Prometheus, Man of Steel, and Deadpool. In this episode, we dive deeper into Kosta's experience with generative AI and what this technology means for the future of artists and creatives. We also explore the role of religious and unifying…

1
Creating Visual Effects For The World's Biggest Movies | Kosta Lagis (Pt. 1) 1:47:28

5M ago1:47:28

1:47:28

With over 25 years of expertise in film, advertising, and industrial design, Kosta Lagis has worked on blockbuster movies like Prometheus, Man of Steel, and Deadpool, as well as high-profile commercials for brands such as Huawei and Mobil. He's currently the creative Director for Computer Graphics at The Mill in Shanghai. With a deep technical foun…

1
71 – Finding Balance 39:00

5M ago39:00

39:00

Do you believe it’s healthier to work with your mind or is it better to work with your hands? We hope you said, “Neither.” Why the dichotomy? In this episode, Joshua and Mike argue that getting stuck in one mode or the other to the exclusion of all else undermines a person’s overall health. We are more than brains, and we are more than bodies. Beca…

1
Not Taking Seriously Good Guitars Too Seriously | Doug Kauer of Kauer Guitars 1:43:34

5M ago1:43:34

1:43:34

Doug Kauer is always the least serious guy in the room, which makes him a great podcast guest – it’s also part of what makes him a successful guitar maker with his own unique style. Doug started building guitars when a lifetime of woodworking combined with a love of guitar. Spurred on by the support of other luthiers, he found his direction in what…

1
A Game-Changing New Guitar From Verso Instruments | Robin Stummvoll 1:42:05

5M ago1:42:05

1:42:05

Robin Stummvoll of Verso Instruments joins me to talk about the release of his new, highly innovative guitar, Sine, which will be exhibited in the Boutique Guitar Showcase at NAMM 2025. Having gained worldwide attention for his Cosmo model, Robin has plenty to share about the role of playfulness in creativity, escaping the constraints of establishe…

1
The Challenge of True Innovation | Ola Strandberg 1:26:17

5M ago1:26:17

1:26:17

Ola Strandberg is a true innovator, having redefined modern guitar-making with his .strandberg* brand. Pioneering the resurgence of headless guitars, Ola combines ergonomic innovation, sustainable materials, and cutting-edge aesthetics to create instruments that inspire musicians and luthiers worldwide. With so much change occurring, now is a good …

1
Contrarian Guitars With '80s Roots | Jon Sullivan Of Sully Guitars 1:16:38

6M ago1:16:38

1:16:38

Jon “Sully” Sullivan is the founder of Sully Guitars, a brand known for blending innovation with the spirit of '80s hot rod guitar culture. But, as Sully explains in this conversation, his guitars are far more than a nod to the era he grew up in. We talk about what it means to go beyond your influences, to build guitars out of spite and to live you…

1
Structural Engineering Meets Guitar Design | Enrico Di Donato 1:33:13

6M ago1:33:13

1:33:13

What would a structural engineer bring to guitar making? In his career as a structural engineer, Enrico Di Donato collaborated with renowned architects like Renzo Piano and Arata Isozaki. After years of exploring composite materials for seismic reinforcement and authoring publications on the subject, Enrico shifted his focus to luthiery, combining …

1
Why We Make Things & Why It Matters | Peter Korn 1:22:00

6M ago1:22:00

1:22:00

Why do we make things? What is it that draws so many of us to hunker down in dusty workshops, pick up some hand tools, or devote hours to any kind of craft and creation? We might sometimes be mystified by our own obsession or powerful draw towards making things – that feeling of a need to create. Exploring this is part of exploring what it means to…

1
What is Creativity? | Dion James of Dion Guitars 1:08:54

6M ago1:08:54

1:08:54

Based in Edmonton, Canada, Dion James builds steel-string acoustic guitars known for their striking minimalism. Subtle in their looks from afar, Dion's instruments make careful use of intricate detailing without becoming ostentatious. They’re packed with innovation informed by years of building and experimentation, all brought together with a decis…

1
#43 - Using stitches to journal your state of being 1:05:13

6M ago1:05:13

1:05:13

With guest Tamanna Rahman, a textile artist, clothes maker, and psychiatric nurse practitioner who integrates holistic mental health practices into her craft. Tamanna shares her journey, from her early love for textiles inspired by her grandmother to how COVID sparked her passion for sewing and embroidery and drove home that life doesn't have to lo…

1
When An Artist Makes Guitars | Nicolai Schorr of Schorr Guitars 1:21:40

7M ago1:21:40

1:21:40

There might be a lot of guitars that claim to be unique, but there's only a relatively small number that achieve – without question – something new. Nicolai Schorr's instruments are undoubtedly among that select group. From his workshop in Berlin, Nicolai handcrafts guitars and basses that are as playful and refreshing as they are bold. It's unsurp…

1
Incredible Instruments From Poland | Marek Dąbek Of Stradi Instruments 1:32:27

7M ago1:32:27

1:32:27

If you’ve ever seen Marek Dąbek’s Stradi instruments, you’ll understand that he has a fascinating approach to building guitars and basses. On this week’s episode of Life With Strings Attached, we talk about the origins of Marek’s instruments, the benefits of having to struggle for what you want, and why a tarantula lived in his kitchen. Stradi Inst…

1
#42 - Take the next right step...sometimes all you can do is begin 21:37

7M ago21:37

21:37

Join me as I tell you about my day at the coffee shop and how I went from frustratingly staring at a blank canvas to figuring out exactly what I wanted to do...simply by trusting in the process and taking the next step. [email protected] Tina VanDenburg

1
#41 - when you avoid a thing by doing the thing you were already avoiding! 26:44

7M ago26:44

26:44

So, tell me if you know this story. This week I shopped for way too many groceries and then in an epic showing of avoiding what I SHOULD have been doing, I pulled everything out of the pantry, fridge and freezer. Yes all of it. Washed everything down and reorganized all food items in my life. I donated the "no-longer-what-I-want-to-be-eating-but-st…

1
NAMM CEO John Mlynczak | The Future Of Our Industry 1:14:06

7M ago1:14:06

1:14:06

What is the future of the NAMM Show? What direction are our instruments – and our industry – heading in? What is it that instrument makers need most right now? There are few better people to speak to about the future of our industry than John Mlynczak. As the CEO of NAMM, he runs the world's largest trade organisation for musical instrument makers …

1
Building The Complete Guitar Business | Adam Buchwald 1:01:20

7M ago1:01:20

1:01:20

Based in Vermont, Adam Buchwald has managed to build an enviable business that spans every part of the guitar making and selling process, from supplying woods and tools to designing and building across several brands, and even setting up a retail space. In his full career he’s covered even more ground, plying his trade as a professional musician wi…

1
The Story of Turnstone Guitars | Rosie Heydenrych 1:19:17

7M ago1:19:17

1:19:17

This week on the podcast, English guitar maker Rosie Heydenrych talks about how she started Turnstone Guitars, why she's drawn to using non-traditional woods, and what fuels her curiosity as she continues to grow her business. As well as crafting beautiful and refreshing instruments, Rosie has created a family business that prioritises what's most …

1
#40 - Making sense of the world through illustration! 1:02:12

7M ago1:02:12

1:02:12

With guest Elina Puaohiniemi. I met Elina 5 or 6 years ago in an online community and have had the pleasure of watching her share her illustrations, books and so much love with the world. from Elina’s website: (this delightful bit is exactly why I want to have Elina on the podcast!) “Elina Puohiniemi aka elinap is an artist, life coach and the crea…

1
#39 when the fabric inspires you so much, you open a fabric store! 40:49

7M ago40:49

40:49

My guest today is Nan Webb, Founder at Bolt and Spool, a cloth merchant in Cleveland, OH. Nan began sewing at the young age of 8. Her love for pattern design, texture, and all things uncommonly beautiful inspired her to open her historic Murray Hill Road boutique in Cleveland’s Little Italy neighborhood in 2010. The storefront is a space where sewi…

1
There Are Too Many Guitars?! | Juha Ruokangas 1:52:07

8M ago1:52:07

1:52:07

This week, I'm joined by Finnish master guitar maker Juha Ruokangas to talk about the future of guitars, music and his own business. With over three decades of experience in the game, building some of the finest quality instruments available on Earth, Juha certainly has an interesting perspective on the changing world of the guitar. It was fascinat…

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Handwork Podcasts

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