Creative Culture: Recent Episodes
Steve Ramsey
Creative Culture is about art and how it influences culture. Conversations with an eclectic mix of creative people: makers, artists, musicians, filmmakers, authors, comedians and more.
Raven Griim is a cosplayer, content creator, and social media powerhouse, with millions of followers on TikTok and Instagram. I talked to her about cosplay, horror movies, anime, body modification and much more.
• Tattoo Talk: Raven shares her experiences with tattoo laser removal and why she chose to cover up some of her ink. How painful is tattoo removal?
• Permanent Fangs: We talked about body modification and her decision to have a dentist give her permanent vampire fangs
• Cosplay Life: How she became a full-time cosplayer, the joys of embodying her favorite characters, and why she stays true to her love for anime.
• Horror Movie Magic: Naturally, I wanted to talk about our favorite horror movies!
• Halloween Vibes Year-Round: As two people who live and breathe Halloween all year, we chat about how we celebrate the season (or don’t!) and what it means to truly embrace the spooky in everyday life.
Raven on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ravengriim
Raven on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ravengriim
On this episode of Creative Culture, I chatted with Kevin Perjurer, the creator of Defunctland. If you're a fan of meticulously researched and utterly fascinating documentaries about bygone theme parks and themed entertainment, you'll love this episode. It was interesting to talk to him about being a full-time documentarian, and crafting stories that captivate millions of viewers.
What is the current state of documentaries and why is there such an explosion of them everywhere? Are they getting better or just changing? Kevin and I also talked about the blurred lines between traditional media and YouTube, and what it means to be a creator in today's digital age. Plus, we discuss the nuances of balancing entertainment with historical accuracy, and how Kevin navigates the ever-evolving landscape of content creation.
We also explore some of Kevin's most intriguing projects, including his exploration of the mysterious origins of the Disney Channel theme jingle, Kid Cities, and behind the scenes of the American Idol theme park experience.
Check out Defunctland on YouTube.
Watch this episode on YouTube
In this episode of Creative Culture I had a wide-ranging conversation with TikTok creator Dandy Demon. We talked about her experience creating content for TikTok and her approach to OnlyFans where she creates “nightmare thirst traps”. We also talked about her stalker and how important it is for her to maintain a positive online environment for her viewers.
Important Dandy highlights:
- How Dandy managed to infiltrate an e-girl cult
- Her obsession with learning the German language
- The fun of hiding people on YouTube
- How her cat, Bagel, receives positive affirmations
- The possibility of buying a pink Hello Kitty Glock to defend herself from a stalker
Dandy on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dandydemon
Dandy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DaxDives
Is creativity the same as curiosity?
In this episode of Creative Culture, I'm joined by Danie Berger, from @DIYDanie. We talked a lot about how social media is fundamentally changing art and creativity. It's no longer enough JUST to make art...you have to show the process. And then make that process crazy enough that people will watch. We talked about dealing with creative funks, and finding joy in authentic expression.
Main Takeaways:
Creative Funks and Burnout: The difference between creative funks and burnout.
Authenticity in Art: Danie shares her views on what it means to be authentic in the digital age, emphasizing the value of showing the unpolished, messy side of creativity. She believes authenticity is about being true to oneself and not just presenting a polished version for social media.
Personal Passion: Is it possible to stay passionate about something that you turn into a career?
The Role of Social Media: Social media has changed the way art is fundamentally created, making it more accessible but also more challenging to maintain integrity of creative work.
Personal Projects and Authenticity: We both share our experiences with personal projects that we don't necessarily share with a wide audience. These projects help us stay grounded and remind us of the joy of creating for the sake of creation, not just for content.
Visit Danie on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DIYDanie
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked to Chris Burton of Half-Asleep Chris, known for his charming and delightful videos featuring his stop-motion animation, Lego and his pets. We discuss Chris's journey to 3.2 million subscribers, his creative process, the challenges of producing high-quality content, and the unique appeal of his videos.
Some of the fun-filled things we chatted about:
🚀 A project Chris is working on to send a Lego roller coaster into space using a high-altitude balloon. The challenges of making a reliable roller coaster for this venture add a layer of excitement and creativity to the endeavor.
😸 His "catio" (a cat patio) and how he's turned his home into a playground for his cats. This includes building a treehouse and various platforms, highlighting the fun and quirky side of being a cat owner.
🐸 How Lego designers use frog pieces creatively in sets, such as in bonsai trees and fire stations. Chris even has thousands of Lego frogs in various colors, reflecting his playful approach to building.
⛵ Chris's ambitious project to create a Lego boat ride in his garden, complete with a man-made river and a coherent story, shows his dedication to making immersive and entertaining videos. This project has been in the works since August and promises to be one of his best yet.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leaving a comment! Chris's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@HalfAsleepChris Support Creative Culture: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Welcome back to Creative Culture! In this episode, I had a fun conversation with Elliot Fullam, a multi-talented artist who began his career at the age of nine. From interviewing rock legends to acting in horror films and crafting his own music, Elliot's journey is as diverse as it is fascinating. We explore the unique blend of horror and metal, discuss the evolution of media production, and share personal stories of meeting icons like James Hetfield. Whether you're a horror fan, a metal enthusiast, or a creative soul, you need to listen to this episode! 😃
Main Topics:
• Elliot Fullam's Early Career: Started interviewing famous musicians at age nine and his growth in the media. • Connection Between Horror and Metal: Discussing how these two genres intertwine and the communities around them. • Evolution of Media Production: Insight into how technology has changed the landscape for young artists and filmmakers. • Elliot's Music and Acting Career: Discussion on his slowcore music style, upcoming tours, and his roles in films like "Terrifier 2". • Advice and Insights from Celebrities: Lessons learned from various interviews, including coping with nervousness and staying genuine. • Creative Processes and DIY Culture: How current technology empowers artists to produce and distribute their work independently.
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leaving a comment! Elliott's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@littlepunkpeople Support Creative Culture: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked to mixologist and professional bartender Leandro Di Monriva @TheEducatedBarfly about the art of mixing cocktails and what it takes to be a bartender. We chatted about everything from things that annoy bartenders to the tools of the trade. And if you've been thinking about setting up your own home bar, Leandro shares his tips, including the spirts you'll want to have on hand, the tools you'll need, and the types of glassware. And yes, we learn if James Bond was correct in ordering a martini "shaken, not stirred" or if that's nonsense!
The Educated Barfly on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/
Support Creative Culture on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Has social media fundamentally changed the way we perceive art? Can art me quantified by the number of eyeballs that view it? In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with CJ the X, @cjthex a creator and philosopher whose work explores the intersection of art and our cultural engagement with social media. CJ's content, ranging from thought-provoking videos to critical essays, offers a fresh perspective on art's subjectivity and the influence of digital platforms on creative expression. We navigated through various topics, including the challenges and triumphs of the creative process, the impact of social media on art, and the essence of making art that resonates both personally and publicly.
Key takeaways from our conversation:
- The "Mr. Beastification" of art
- CJ's approach to content creation emphasizes depth and thoughtfulness, urging creators to prioritize substance over viral appeal.
- The importance of "aesthetic sincerity" in art, where the value of creative work stems from genuine expression rather than strategic analytics.
- The challenge of balancing creative integrity with the pressures of social media metrics and audience expectations.
- The concept of "doing" as the core of artistic identity, underscoring the need for creators to engage actively with their craft.
- Insights into navigating the digital landscape as an artist, including the pitfalls of content commodification and the pursuit of meaningful engagement.
- The potential of social media as a tool for artistic expression, despite its inherent tensions with traditional notions of artistry.
- Reflections on the evolving definition of art in the digital age and the role of creators in shaping cultural conversations.
Watch CJ's videos: https://www.youtube.com/@cjthex
Read CJ's essays: https://cjthex.com/
Support Creative Culture on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
This episode of Creative Culture is a look into the enchanting world of historical fashion with the talented Vasi Birchwood who not only dons but also meticulously crafts her own historical attire that she wears daily. We explored Vasi's journey into hand sewing and her passion for bringing the clothing of the working-class Victorian era and her Volga Tatar heritage to life. Our conversation touched on the practicality and comfort of historical garments, debunking common misconceptions about corsetry, and the deeper connection these clothes offer to our ancestors and past cultures. Vasi's approach to living intentionally, through sustainable fashion and a deep respect for craftsmanship, offered a refreshing perspective on the significance of what we wear and how it connects us to history and identity.
Key highlights of the episode include:
- Vasi Birchwood's expertise in creating authentic historical fashion by hand, focusing on working-class Victorian and Volga Tatar garments.
- The practical benefits and comfort of wearing historical clothing, challenging modern perceptions of discomfort associated with it.
- The significance of historical attire in connecting with one's heritage and the broader cultural implications of fashion throughout history.
- The importance of sustainable fashion practices and the critique of fast fashion's impact on society and the environment.
- Vasi's personal journey into sewing and the therapeutic aspects of handcrafting garments.
- The role of clothing in living intentionally and fostering a deeper connection to the materials and processes involved in garment creation.
Visit Vasi's YouTube channel
Consider supporting the podcast on Patreon!
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with Electric Linda, a master tattoo artist hailing from Norway about tattoo art. With over two decades of experience, Linda brings a rich tapestry of stories, insights, and artistic wisdom to the table. Known for her dynamic and colorful photorealistic tattoos, as well as being a specialist in coverups, Linda has won over 50 international tattoo awards. Beyond her tattoo mastery, she's also a passionate entrepreneur, running both a successful tattoo studio and an online store inspired by tattoo art. This conversation explores the depths of tattoo culture, artistic expression, and the personal journeys intertwined with every inked piece.
Main takeaways from the show include:
- The evolution of tattoo placements and societal perceptions over the past two decades.
- Insights into the personal and emotional significance tattoos hold for individuals.
- The intricacies of tattoo artistry, from photorealism to coverups, and the technical skills required.
- The importance of artist-client relationships in the tattoo process and how it shapes the final artwork.
- The impact of social media and television on the tattoo industry and individual artists' careers.
Help support the show! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Watch Creative Culture on YouTube!
Electric Linda on YouTube
Welcome to Creative Culture, a podcast that explores the myriad ways people express their creativity. In this episode, I spoke with Lloyd Barnes @LloydB a professional magician and illusion creator. Lloyd not only develops magic illusions for magicians globally but also shares his expertise through detailed tutorials on his YouTube channel. His approach to magic combines ingenuity and creativity, and in this conversation, he dives into the intricacies of his craft, offering a unique perspective on magic and illusion.
Main Takeaways:
• The Art of Illusion Creation: Lloyd discusses his process of developing new magic tricks and the challenges of balancing technical skill with presentation. • The Impact of Technology on Magic: Insights into how advancements in technology have shaped modern magic and illusion. • Ethics in Magic: Lloyd shares his views on the ethics of revealing magic tricks and the distinction between exposure and education in the magic community. • Personal Journey into Magic: A look into Lloyd's personal journey and how he transformed challenges into a thriving career in magic. • Magic as a Universal Language: Exploring how magic transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, connecting people worldwide.
Listeners of this episode will gain a deeper appreciation for the art of magic and the creative process behind illusion creation. Lloyd Barnes's journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a renowned illusionist is not only inspiring but also a testament to the power of creativity and perseverance. Whether you're a magic enthusiast or simply curious about the world of illusion, this episode offers valuable insights and an engaging conversation.
Check out Lloyd's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@LloydB Support Creative Culture! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
This episode of Creative Culture, features Madison from @EsoTarot. https://www.youtube.com/@EsoTarot The episode explores the art of tarot reading, its cultural significance, and its comparison to psychology. Madison shares her journey into tarot reading, discussing the personal and broader implications of tarot, its misconceptions, and its role in self-reflection and personal growth.
This conversation will give you a deeper understanding of tarot reading beyond common stereotypes. Madison demystifies tarot, presents it as a meaningful practice for self-discovery, and showcases its relevance in modern culture. Her insights offer a fresh perspective on tarot's role in personal and psychological growth.
Key takeaways from the episode include:
• Tarot is more than just card reading; it's a tool for self-exploration and reflection. • Misconceptions about tarot often stem from lack of understanding or religious and cultural biases. • The process of tarot reading varies among individuals, blending intuition and structured meanings of cards. • Madison discusses the ethics in tarot reading, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and responsible practices. • The podcast highlights the parallel between tarot and psychology, both serving as tools for understanding human behavior and emotions. • Madison's YouTube channel offers accessible, long-form tarot readings, emphasizing community and collective experiences.
Support the show at https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod Thank you!
Help support the podcast! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod Chef PK on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CHEFPKR
Paul Karyakos, also known as Chef PK, combines his love for cooking with his passion for anime. In this episode of the Creative Culture Podcast, Paul discusses his unique approach to creating content that blends culinary arts with anime and video games. He shares his experiences filming in Japan, the significance of food in anime, and the influence of Western cuisine on Japanese culture.
Paul also talks about his journey as a chef and how he found success on YouTube by combining two niches. Overall, his story highlights the power of creativity and the importance of embracing one's passions.
In this conversation, Paul discusses his approach to creating new ideas for his content and the challenge of keeping it fresh. He shares his goal of providing unique experiences for convention attendees and involving the community in his videos. Paul also talks about balancing health and food content, managing caloric intake, and the concept of rare and appropriate food indulgences.
He expresses his dislike for food waste and the joy he finds in cooking for others. The conversation concludes with a mention of Paul's upcoming book release, which features recipes and stories from his travels in Japan.
Takeaways:
• Food plays a significant role in anime, often reflecting the culture and emotions of the characters. • The depiction of food in anime has evolved over time, with dedicated studios now specializing in creating realistic and appetizing food scenes. • The pandemic has led to an increased interest in cooking and food-related content on YouTube. Creating new ideas for content can be challenging, but involving the community and providing unique experiences can help keep it fresh. • Balancing health and food content is important, and it's possible to enjoy indulgent meals while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. • Finding joy in cooking for others can create lasting memories. • Paul has an upcoming book release that features recipes and stories from his travels in Japan.
A Year in Practice is available here: https://amzn.to/3NdFJp0
Jacqueline's website: https://www.jacquelinesuskin.com/
Help support Creative Culture! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Jacqueline Suskin, a prolific poet and writer, discusses her work and the importance of poetry in human culture. She shares her experience running Poem Store, where she writes personalized poems for people on the spot. Jacqueline emphasizes the need for vulnerability and authenticity in creative expression and explores the impact of seasons on creativity.
Her latest book, A Year in Practice, offers techniques and prompts to guide creative individuals throughout the year. In this conversation, Jacqueline Suskin discusses the importance of reconnecting with the earth and recognizing our connection to it. She emphasizes the need to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature. Jacqueline also encourages people to approach poetry with a sense of curiosity and to use it as a healing practice. She provides tips for writing poetry and emphasizes the value of sharing one's work. She concludes by discussing the need for poetry in today's world.
Takeaways: • Poetry is a powerful form of self-expression that allows for exploration of the macro and micro aspects of life. • Writing poetry for oneself can be a valuable practice, but sharing it with others can create a deep connection and resonance. • Creativity and inspiration can come from various sources, including other poets' work and the natural world. • The seasons can have a profound impact on creativity, with each season offering its own rhythm and energy. Reconnecting with the earth and recognizing our connection to it can provide a sense of wholeness and vitality. • Taking time to disconnect from technology and spend time in nature can help us find depth and clarity in our lives. • Writing poetry can be a healing practice that allows us to express our emotions and experiences in a unique and creative way. • Sharing our poetry with others can be a powerful and rewarding experience.
Did you know that the number of trips to emergency rooms rise every December? Are you running too many lights in a single strand? How safe are you climbing up a ladder to install holiday lights? In this episode Scott Dixon of EverydayHomeRepairs and I discuss the dangers of the season and ways to avoid them.
In this episode of Creative Culture, I talked with Jenna Whiting of @chainsawjenna , a prolific sculptor whose tool of choice is the chainsaw. We talked about her carving career and how she approaches the beautiful and amazing works of art she creates. She also talks about the performative nature of chainsaw carving and the various saws she uses. This is an inspirational episode for any creative person who is trying to find meaning in their art as well as people needing a nudge to start their own business.
Check out Jenna on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@chainsawjenna
Video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/-lxWGrkC47o?si=PciEMj5cqxJHGOgH
Support the show! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
In this spooky Halloween special, I'm joined by Ethan James @TheHonestCarpenter to discuss our favorite scary movies just in time for Halloween. We explore various horror subgenres, from classic slashers to modern gems, sharing recommendations and insights.
Some of the movies discussed:
"Happy Death Day" "Totally Killer" "The Blackcoat's Daughter" "Terrifier" and "Terrifier 2" "Saw" (Franchise) VHS Series (Found Footage Anthology) "Halloween Trick 'r Treat" "Evil Dead Rise" "Ginger Snaps" "Prom Night 2: Hello Mary Lou" "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" "Werewolves Within" John Carpenter's Films ("The Fog," "Christine") "Motel Hell" "Auntie Lee's Meat Pies" "Infinity Pool" "Deadstream" Nicolas Cage Films ("Adaptation," "Pig," "Becky," "Wrath of Becky")
We share our thoughts on cult favorites like "Terrifier" and the unique anti-hero Jigsaw from the "Saw" franchise. We also delve into the world of found footage horror with the VHS series, emphasizing the artistry and creativity behind these shorts.
We also touch on "Evil Dead Rise" and its fresh urban take on the horror classic. Werewolf movies briefly take the spotlight, with "Ginger Snaps" standing out as a memorable example.
We continue our discussion by exploring recent horror releases, including "The Last Voyage of the Demeter" and the comedy-horror gem "Werewolves Within." We share insights on the experience of rewatching older films and highlight their enjoyment of John Carpenter's classics like "The Fog" and "Christine." And let's not forget about kitschy horror favorites such as "Motel Hell" and "Auntie Lee's Meat Pies."
The episode also delves into marketing strategies, with A24's approach to promoting independent cult films being commended. The effectiveness of movie trailers and the trend of young filmmakers attempting to include everything in their movies are explored. The Lovecraftian genre, Nicolas Cage's diverse roles in horror, and a brief mention of "Deadstream" round out our discussion.
Throughout the conversation, we emphasize their belief that a good film should be evaluated not solely on objective elements like acting and budget, but on its ability to tell a compelling story and evoke emotions. We share their appreciation for films that surprise and engage the audience, leaving a lasting impression.
Ethan on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonestCarpenter
Grab your popcorn! Nina Nesseth, author of "Nightmare Fuel: The Science of Horror Films" slashes into the Creative Culture Podcast for a ghostly discussion on why horror movies scare us and what causes our brains and bodies to react the way we do. We also highlight the evolution of horror reflecting societal concerns, from classic monsters to modern real-world horrors. Dare to listen? 🎬💀
Some of the fun topics include:
• The physiological responses to fear, appeal of jump scares, and our evolutionary understanding of threats play significant roles in horror.
• How horror movies mirror societal fears and values, evolving over time to represent themes such as consumerism, the Red Scare, queerness, trauma and more.
• Why the genre is expanding with the rise of liminal films and reflections of real-world events like 9/11 and the pandemic.
• Debunking t common misconception links horror movie consumption to real-world violence; however, this correlation is not based on any science and utter bullshit lol.
Whether you're a horror enthusiast, science nerd, or just a curious listener, this episode is a revelation about a genre that mirrors our deepest dreads and cultural shifts. Don't miss out on these dark yet enlightening insights!
Get a copy of Nina’s book, Nightmare Fuel here: https://amzn.to/3ZPDGwp
You can watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/QD_fnZ5Me-U?si=08SLsDkXyMo3WBnw
You can help support Creative Culture here: https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Thank you!
Support this podcast! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Video episodes are available on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@creativeculturepod
In this episode of Creative Culture, I am joined by Alec Watson, renowned for his insights into the fusion of creativity and technology. He’s also a pinball collector, historian, and restorer. We take a deep dive into the fascinating world of pinball. From its roots to modern evolutions, we discuss the art, design, history, and cultural impact of this iconic arcade game.
Main Takeaways:
- The Evolution of Pinball: Learn about the transformation of pinball machines over time, from their connections to gambling to their shift towards skill-based gameplay.
- A Walk Down Memory Lane: Alec and I reminisce about pinball, our childhood pinball memories, and the thrill of playing at local arcades.
- Historical Insights: Uncover how the French game 'bagatelle' inspired pinball, and the journey of pinball from being illegal in New York to becoming a celebrated arcade staple.
- The Technology Behind the Game: Explore the introduction of flippers, the transition to solid-state machines in the 1970s, and how the art of 'nudging' became a key strategy for players.
- Pinball in Modern Times: Recent innovations, including video displays in machines.
Pinball enthusiasts and novices alike will find a treasure trove of knowledge in this episode. Alec and I navigate the intricate world of pinball, revealing its rich history, technological innovations, and cultural significance. Beyond just gameplay, you’ll learn the intricacies of machine design, maintenance challenges, and the passionate community that surrounds this classic game. I promise, by the end you will have gained a deeper appreciation for pinball, understanding its enduring charm and the undying enthusiasm of its fans.
Check out Technology Connections on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TechnologyConnections
Does the U.S. have a unique architectural style besides the hideous McMansion? Why does the constructed suburban landscape have the same blandness no matter where you travel? Well, it's all about the stories they (don't) tell.
The art of architecture:
- Architectural fails
- The haunting feeling caused by liminal spaces
- The challenges of converting office spaces into residential units
- The popularity of mid-century modern architecture
Don't Miss:
- 10:50 The few unique city skylines in the U.S.
- 20:15 With such a large cultural shift to working from home, what to do with the vast amounts of empty office spaces?
- 26:45 Have you seen Jury Duty??? OMG it's amazing!
- 46:40 Why are liminal spaces so compelling?
- 57:15 Why should you care about architecture and how can you start to pay attention to it?
In this episode, Stewart Hicks discusses how architecture in the urban environment, even city skylines themselves are unique because they tell stories. Stewart Hicks is an Associate Professor in the School of Architecture at the University of Illinois at Chicago and is the co-founder of the practice Design With Company. Stewart's YouTube channel explores (mostly urban) architectural topics and his videos are highly polished, well researched, and fun.
If you enjoy Creative Culture, please help support the show on Patreon!
I had an absolute blast chatting with Ali Spagnola, a true creative maverick. She spills the beans on how she keeps those creative juices flowing—hint: it involves actively hunting for ideas rather than waiting for a strike of inspiration. Ali lets us in on her selection process, diving into how she picks and chooses projects that not only resonate with her but also defy artistic norms.
Ali dishes on some of her mind-blowing projects, including the Chia Pet car and a freakin' driveable fidget toy! She walks us through the thrilling journey of turning a simple idea into a tangible masterpiece.
What really hit home for me was Ali's take on balancing intentional creativity with spontaneous artistic exploration. We explore embracing experimentation, learning from flops, and staying true to your unique vision.
So, if you're an aspiring creative looking for a hefty dose of inspiration and a fresh perspective on pushing boundaries, you gotta check out this episode. Ali Spagnola and I dive headfirst into what it means to fearlessly march to the beat of your artistic drum.
Ali on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alispagnola
Her fitness channel: https://www.youtube.com/@FitnessOutrageous
Marissa Hill is the producer and host of Shade TV, a YouTube channel devoted to fashion, sneakers and hype culture. She herself is a sneakerhead and fashion model who is continually seen at movie premieres, pop culture events and festivals. In this episode we talked about her role in hype culture, what kind of sneakers to wear, and a little about volleyball.
Shade TV on YouTube
Mary Tsai is an Artificial Intelligence/ Machine Learning designer for Adobe, specializing in its audio and video tools such as Premier and After Effects.
In this episode we discuss what AI is, what it means, and how it will affect culture, especially involving artists, makers and other creatives. Will artists become obsolete?
Visit Mary on Instagram
Support the podcast!
Laurie Shannon is the creator and host of The Icing Artist, a YouTube channel that has garnered nearly 5 million subscribers and whose videos have been seen over 1.2 billion times over the past ten years. In this episode we talked about the art of cake decorating and I learned some of the tricks and tools of the trade. Laurie recently launched a new online course designed to teach you everything to create stunning cakes of your own, step by step.
Visit The Icing Artist on YouTube
Check out Laurie's online cake decorating course.
Cam Anderson of Blacktail Studio joined me this week to talk about his newfound fascination with making tables out of denim. Is he a trendsetter? Well, we also discussed how the first person to do something is rarely the best.
Watch Blacktail Studio: https://www.youtube.com/@BlacktailStudio
Support this podcast! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
This week I spoke to Jared Polin of FroKnowsPhoto about Photoshop's new generative AI and other apps such as MidJourney AI. They are dramatically changing everything about art and photography. Do we really need humans to take photographs? Are graphic designers becoming irrelevant?
We also talked about the trend for shooting film and how a lot of people are simply wasting their time by not understanging this medium.
Jared on YouTube
Support Creative Culture on Patreon
Joining me today is Prano Bailey-Bond, the filmmaker who wrote and directed Censor, a movie that takes place during the U.K. "Video Nasties" era and tells the story of Enid, a film censor who screens all these videos to implement cuts of scenes deemed too dangerous to be viewed. The movie asks if watching violent movies causes people to act violent, then what prevents censors from also becoming violent.
I wanted to have Prano on the podcast to talk about censorship and give us some insight into our not-so-distant past and how that might have shaped today's standards and regulations. Are we doomed to repeat ourselves?
You can stream Censor on Prime or buy the Blu-Ray
Follow Prano on Instagram.
Support Creative Culture on Patreon.
Help support this podcast! https://www.patreon.com/creativeculturepod
Nick Lewis is a designer with the goal of simplifying interior design. He’s not afraid to voice his opinions on design trends that might be here to stay and others that need to go. Nick represents such a rational voice in what can be very subjective, even divisive topics. Why is interior design important in our lives and why does it matters?
Interior design is the intersection of practical construction knowledge with creativity and artistic style. In this episode we discuss finding your design style and what the different interior styles are. We also talk about what the role of an interior designer is and when you should consider hiring one. What is their area of expertise and how are they different from an interior decorator?
Nick Lewis on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Nick_Lewis
Boring to Beautiful course: https://nicklewis.samcart.com/products/boring-to-beautiful
Scott Dixon joined me this week to discuss his YouTube channel, Everyday Home Repairs, which has detailed tutorials on how to fix just about anything in and around your house. Ever wonder how to add an electrical outlet in a wall without access to an attic or crawlspace…and not rip apart the wall? Do you have a crack in your concrete driveway that needs fixing or a faucet that won't stop dripping? Need to fix a stuck garbage disposal or learn how to install a new one? And for god's sake, know where your water shut-off valve is!
His channel tackles everything from plumbing and electrical work, to carpentry and remodeling, all with an eye on the DIYer.
Everyday Home Repairs on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EverydayHomeRepairs
Zack Nelson is the creator of JerryRigEverything, a YouTube channel mostly about technology. With over 1.6 billion channel views, you’ve probably seen one of his many videos taking apart phones, testing their durability, or showing you how to repair them. Or maybe you’ve seen his videos on electric vehicles: he built his on electric Hummer.
Zack is also interested in accessibility issues and created an off-road electric wheelchair called the Not-a-Wheelchair and is developing a new, affordable manual wheelchair.
Watch Zack on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JerryRigEverything
Cassandra Aarssen the world’s leading expert on decluttering and organizing. She helps people to understand why we have such a hard time dealing with all the stuff in our lives. In addition to general organizing advice, I wanted to have Cas on the show to help the artists and creative people who listen to this show with our workspaces. I’ve talked to thousands of people who seem to have the same struggles and challenges when it comes to their workshops and studios. We save every weird screw and fastener because “I might need that someday” or we save every scrap of plastic, because “I might be able to make an art project with that someday”. We end up not knowing what we have or where anything is when we do actually want it.
Clutterbug on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Clutterbug
Clutterbug podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4NuPlpyet5LKQcM7bUCCw5?si=7802221e76734a45
Within 5 years, the U.S. is likely to reach a critical juncture where is will be difficult to hire anyone to fix a leaky pipe or worse, repair a structural problem with your house. Ethan James is a leader at the forefront of research and education on the trade labor shortage. In this episode of The WTS we discussed what is being done to encourage young people to learn a trade and fill the massive gaps being created by an aging workforce of skilled tradespeople who are reaching retirement age.
Plus, We discuss Ethan's list of the 7 most in-demand jobs right now. If you are a young person considering learning a trade, you are more needed now than ever. And you'll be able to earn some pretty high salaries in a short time.
Visit Ethan's YouTube channel, The Honest Carpenter: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonestCarpenter
Support The WTS Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Morgan Eckroth is the reigning US Barista Champion who finished second in the 2022 World Barista Championship. Morgandrinkscoffee is a blend of real world experience, practical advice, art, education, business, and pure entertainment: all revolving around coffee.
In a sea of angry videos, cynical videos, confrontational videos, endless clickbait and short-attention span noise, Morgan's short form videos are a breath of fresh air. These videos are brief vignettes recreating simple, quiet, slice of life moments in a real coffee shop. Morgan sets up the camera and performs the roles of both barista and customer. They're anecdotal scenes that all seem to be created from a place of honesty and observation. She’s completely turned the script on what the internet has taught us to expect in a video. It's so weird how kindness is now radical.
Watch Morgandrinkscoffee on TikTok and YouTube
Support The WTS Podcast
Basia Adamiec is a metalsmith and silversmith who crafts fine jewelry and shares her work with the world on her YouTube channel, The Art of Metalsmithing, a great resource for learning the tools and techniques needed to make your own jewelry and become a jeweler. Check out her work:
https://www.youtube.com/@TheArtOfMetalsmithing
Support The WTS at https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Benjamin Sinclair is the bass player for The Beths, as well as a hand tool woodworker. He also plays saxophone and keeps a detailed online journal of his experiences touring on the road. In this episode, we talk about art, performing with The Beths, and the convergence of creative interests.
Read Ben's travel blog
Listen to The Beths on Spotify
Support The WTS
It was fun to catch up with Jason Hibbs from Bourbon Moth Woodworking and talk about the life cycle of woodworkers on YouTube, the Airstream cult, and why TV can't draw any audience for woodworking shows. We also have a formal statement from Blacktail Studio about the river table debate.
Bourbon Moth on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Bourbonmoth
Help support The WTS: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Jon is a graffiti artist and teacher whose videos transcend mere education and touch upon other topics and philosophy in the world of art. In this episode we get into the future of art and how artificial intelligence can create art much quicker and, in many cases, just as good as humans. Will we really need human artists for most art creation, especially commercial art and graphic design?
Jon's video, The END of ART. https://youtu.be/x6cjWvjf220
Support the podcast: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Help support The WTS: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Kseniya Simonova's art is engaging, challenging, emotional, and inspiring…and she does it all with sand. Real-time stories, performed with sand.
I first discovered Kseniya back in 2019 when I saw her perform on America’s Got Talent and was sent directly to the finals when Terry Crews gave her the golden buzzer. She also was a finalist on Britain’s Got Talent, and the winner of Ukraine’s Got Talent.
Kseniya has performed in more than 70 countries and presented her art to the Queen of Denmark, the Royal Families of Thailand, Morocco, Bhutan, Great Britain, Bahrain, as well as Presidents of Malta, Poland, Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkey and many others. She’s performed with symphony orchestras around the globe.
Check out her work on her YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@KseniyaSimonovaTV
Justin McElroy is a comedian, voice actor and podcaster known for long running podcasts such as Adventure Zone, Sawbones, My Brother, My Brother, and Me, and more. Woodworking has been his life’s work since late May of 2020. In this episode we talk about woodworking, podcasting, comedy, and how I caught a cold.
Check out all the McElroy stuff: https://www.themcelroy.family/
How to fake in interest in woodworking: https://youtu.be/3atB76oL7yk
Support the podcdast: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Support the podcast at: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Cam Anderson from Blacktail Studio is back for the 3.5th time to talk about epoxy, big slabs of wood, and YouTube.
Blacktail Studio is still the most popular woodworking channel on YouTube, recently passing 2 million subscribers, a significant number of whom are probably hate-watching. (You know who you are.) Cam's got over 227 million channel views…and that’s off the success of full-length videos, not shorts.
His videos feature really really big slabs of lumber, gallons and gallons of epoxy, and lots of dollar signs in the thumbnails. But above all the glamor and glitz, Cam is an artist and the furniture he makes is stunningly beautiful.
Blacktail Studio channel: https://www.youtube.com/@BlacktailStudio
Bonsai is an artform unlike any other in the amount of time, dedication and patience it takes to see results. It’s a form of sculpture that can take years to see how your efforts will take shape. Bonsai trees can be centuries old and require very special care to keep them beautiful and healthy.
And that’s where Darren George comes in. Darren describes himself as a bonsai practitioner. On his YouTube channel, Gro Bonsai, you'll learn what it takes to grow and maintain bonsai trees, and see the meticulous care and attention needed to restore neglected trees.
The irony of bonsai, as Darren puts it, is that “we go to great lengths to make it look like the tree was never touched by human hands.” And maybe that’s why watching the craft of bonsai is so fascinating…watching this blending of nature, human ingenuity, and art.
Watch Darren at Gro Bonsai on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GroBonsai
Support The WTS! https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Anne-Marie Faiola has created a soapmaking empire with Bramble Berry, a company she founded in 1999 in a 400 square foot space. Today she is CEO, the company has more than 100 employees
With over 60,000 customers, Bramble Berry is THE place to shop online for supplies and kits as well as being a vast educational resource for people getting into the craft of soapmaking or starting their own businesses.
And one of those resources is the Bramble Berry YouTube channel where Anne-Marie posted her first video in 2009 and continues to teach viewers how to make soap, candles, skin care products and more.
Anne-Marie is the author of several soap making books and has been awarded Small Business Person of the Year from the Washington State Small Business Association, Business Woman of the Year by the Washington State Women’s Business Owners Association, and a Best Boss in America by Fortune Small Business. This is such a success story and inspiration for anyone just starting out with a small space and a dream to start a business.
Today, talented soapers from all over the world are making absolutely stunning works of art out of lye and oil, largely inspired by Anne-Marie and Bramble Berry.
Bramble Berry on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/soapqueentv
Bramble Berrry website: https://www.brambleberry.com/
With the Halloween season upon us, I’m happy to have Jaime Nakae and Jay Grenier joining me back on the podcast.
Their YouTube channel, Wicked Makers, is THE place to go for all your DIY Halloween decorating needs. You can learn how to make spiderwebs, creepy skulls, haunted mirrors, floating ghosts, pirate chests and much more.
Suppoprt The WTS! https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Wicked Makers on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WickedMakers
Jared Polin started posting videos on YouTube in 2008 and has been grinding ever since. His channel Fro Knows Photo is a great place to learn photography and keep up with the latest cameras, gear and photography news.
In this episode we catch up with Jared's business, YouTube, the craft of photography, what kind of gear to consider, and ways you can get better shots.
Jared's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/froknowsphoto
Become a WTS+ member at https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Support the podcast by becoming a WTS+ member: https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Florian Gadsby is a ceramicist who creates hand thrown stoneware and pottery out of his studio in North London. He’s made thousands of exquisite cups, mugs, bowls, vases, jars and more which he sells on his website at floriangadsby.com. About 5 or 6 years ago he began diligently posting his work daily on instagram and hasn't missed a day since.
Three years ago Florian began making and posting videos on YouTube allowing him to dive deeper into the process of making pottery and discuss his philosophy of making. His work is characterized by simple forms and straight shapes, but with an incredible attention to detail. There’s something timeless and universally beautiful about all of his pieces.
His videos take us inside a prolific profesional studio, showing viewers how clay is thrown on a wheel, shaped, trimmed, glazed and fired. He even gives us insight into how he manages to package and ship so many orders. If you’re an artist or craftsperson, you will find Florian’s videos to be inspiring. And if you aren’t a maker, you will enjoy the calming pace of these videos and marvel at how finely crafted art is created by someone at the top of their field. His pieces are truly stunning and it’s so satisfying to watch a blob of clay come to life on a wheel in his hands.
Florian Gadsby on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/FlorianGadsbyCeramics
Website: https://www.floriangadsby.com/
Enjoy the podcast? Become a WTS+ member! https://www.patreon.com/thewts
What exactly was Andy Warhol trying to say with his Marilyn Monroe series? Why are people emotionally moved, sometimes to tears, by viewing a large, geometric shape of color painted by Mark Rothko? Why does Nighthawks by Edward Hopper feel so cold and lonely? What makes Michaelangelo’s David different from other depictions of David? Who was the Mona Lisa and why was painting her so radical? What makes the paintings of Jean-Michel Basquiat so relevant today?
James Payne is an art curator, art lover, art historian, and former gallery owner who brings perspective to famous works of art by helping us to understand not just what they mean, but about the lives of the artists who created them. Art seems to be inseparable from the artist.
In each video on his YouTube channel, GREAT ART EXPLAINED, James explores the history of a particular work of art, the artist who created it, the techniques used, its relevance and symbolism, and the social and political climate that led to its creation. He helps us get beyond art cliches such as “My kid could’ve painted that”. James’s videos are intelligent, thought provoking, inspiring, all the while remaining totally accessible and grounded to even the most casual art enthusiast or curious beginner.
Visit Great Art Explained on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GreatArtExplained
Enjoy the podcast? Become a WTS+ member! https://www.patreon.com/thewts
What exactly was Andy Warhol trying to say with his Marilyn Monroe series? Why are people emotionally moved, sometimes to tears, by viewing a large, geometric shape of color painted by Mark Rothko? Why does Nighthawks by Edward Hopper feel so cold and lonely? What makes Michaelangelo’s David different from other depictions of David? Who was the Mona Lisa and why was painting her so radical? What makes the paintings of Jean-Michel Basquiat so relevant today?
James Payne is an art curator, art lover, art historian, and former gallery owner who brings perspective to famous works of art by helping us to understand not just what they mean, but about the lives of the artists who created them. Art seems to be inseparable from the artist.
In each video on his YouTube channel, GREAT ART EXPLAINED, James explores the history of a particular work of art, the artist who created it, the techniques used, its relevance and symbolism, and the social and political climate that led to its creation. He helps us get beyond art cliches such as “My kid could’ve painted that”. James’s videos are intelligent, thought provoking, inspiring, all the while remaining totally accessible and grounded to even the most casual art enthusiast or curious beginner.
Visit Great Art Explained on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GreatArtExplained
Please help support the WTS! https://www.patreon.com/thewts
This is one of the most kickass stories you’re going to hear on this podcast. Of all the artists and makers I’ve talked to, none have embodied the DIY spirit of this show more than filmmakers Toby Poser, John Adams, and their two daughters, Zelda and Lulu: The Adams Family. They are the ultimate DIY family: they take turns acting and directing, they write the screenplays, they are cinematographers, camera operators, carpenters, edit their own movies and even score their own soundtracks.
Check out The Adams Family: https://www.wonderwheelproductions.com/pages/about.php
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adams.family.films/
Please consider supporting The WTS and becoming a WTS+ member. https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Grady Hillhouse is a civil engineer and creator of Practical Engineering, a YouTube channel devoted to explaining the man-made infrastructure of the world surrounding us. His videos teach us about how aquifers and dams work, or how water towers supply our homes with water. You’ll learn about the importance of culverts, how pavement works, and how electrical transmission lines and traffic signals work. And this just scratches the surface.
Grady’s first book, Engineering in Plain Sight: An Illustrated Field Guide to the Constructed Environment, which is set to release on November first, is already the Amazon #1 Best Seller in Home Design Buildings & Construction.
A recent video on Practical Engineering was all about debunking construction myths, a topic I thought would be a lot of fun to talk about on this podcast. And while we’re at it I’ll throw in some of my own woodworking myths.
Practical Engineering on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PracticalEngineeringChannel
Please consider supporting The WTS and becoming a WTS+ member. https://www.patreon.com/thewts
Grady Hillhouse is a civil engineer and creator of Practical Engineering, a YouTube channel devoted to explaining the man-made infrastructure of the world surrounding us. His videos teach us about how aquifers and dams work, or how water towers supply our homes with water. You’ll learn about the importance of culverts, how pavement works, and how electrical transmission lines and traffic signals work. And this just scratches the surface.
Grady’s first book, Engineering in Plain Sight: An Illustrated Field Guide to the Constructed Environment, which is set to release on November first, is already the Amazon #1 Best Seller in Home Design Buildings & Construction.
A recent video on Practical Engineering was all about debunking construction myths, a topic I thought would be a lot of fun to talk about on this podcast. And while we’re at it I’ll throw in some of my own woodworking myths.
Practical Engineering on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/PracticalEngineeringChannel
Please consider supporting the show at https://www.patreon.com/thewts Become a WTS Patron or a WTS+ member.
My goal with the WTS is to bring you quality conversations with people at the top of their fields, people with unique artistic visions and worldviews, people with practical building skills, and creative people with engaging personalities.
While The WTS Podcast is still a passion project, it takes a toll on my "day job" due to the amount of time I’m pulled away from my YouTube channel. I spend an average of 12-15 hours a week finding and booking quality guests for the show, researching their work, preparing for an interview, recording the episode, editing the podcast, then posting and promoting it. This is all a one-man show.
If you listen to The WTS regularly and you find these conversations stimulating, educational, provocative, inspiring, or simply entertaining, please consider becoming a WTS Patron or a WTS+ member.
I’ve got some cool new WTS stickers to send out to everyone who signs up. And if you sign up as a WTS+ member you’ll get exclusive access to a raw, unedited video version of each episode. These include all the awkward pauses, topics we discuss that I edit out, preshow banter and more. As interest grows in WTS+, I’ll be adding new benefits. Hopefully some livestreaming, Q&A’s and aftershow discussions.
Thanks so much for listening to The WTS and thanks for your support.
This week I talked to Sam Raimondi, the DIY Huntress, in her professional capacity as a psychologist to see if she can offer us all some strategies for dealing with the funk we all seem to be in after the past couple years. It’s great to have hobbies to give us an outlet to relieve some of the stress we feel, but with inflation, the cost of materials, looming recession, and general uncertainty, it can be pretty hard to pursue those activities.
We also explored the role of social media and "influencers" on all our lives and how it affects our well being. Who can possibly keep up with the thousands of people we follow who live charmed lives, traveling the globe, making the coolest projects imaginable, building their own dream shops, and remodeling their homes. If you’re working paycheck to paycheck, are you inspired by all this or is it just depressing?
Sam's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/Diyhuntress
The WTS Website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Martina and Hansi are the Norwegian duo behind Nerdforge, a YouTube channel devoted to creating art and building projects often with a fantasy and swords and sorcery focus.
In this episode we talked about how they make books, armor, models, dioramas, and much more. And we discussed how Martina lost a finger using a tablesaw.
Visit Nerdforge on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Nerdforge
The WTS Website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Jon Grim is a clear voice and advocate for graffiti culture, as well as an art mentor drawing on the history of the medium to teach and refine techniques used by graffiti artists. On his youtube channel, The Artist Block you’ll learn about the typography associated with tags, tools for painting and bombing, styles of graffiti, and what to look for when evaluating tags, throw-ups, and pieces. You’ll also learn about the culture and impact of graffiti and its place within the larger world of art.
Jon has been a graffiti artist for over 20 years drawing inspiration from his father, an OG graffiti artist in New York back in the early 1970s. He’s posted over 565 videos on the topic over the course of the past ten years. He’s also a digital artist working in the realm of hyper-realism.
Check out Jon on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheArtistBlock
The WTS Website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Check out Shaper Origin risk free at https://www.shapertools.com/wts
Scott Reeder is a Hollywood prop master who is responsible for everything actors touch on a film or television set. A big part of his job is sourcing or creating realistic objects that look like the real thing, but are safe for the actors to use, such as bottles you can bust over someone’s head, glass shards you can chew on or roll around on, retractable knives, or non-alcoholic whiskey. But he is also called on to create props that won’t interfere with the sound recording on set…things like paper bags that don’t rattle and silent billiard balls.
Some of the films he’s worked on include some of my personal favorites such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning, Friday the Thirteenth (the 2009 remake), Machete, Grindhouse, and the underrated NOS4A2 series.
He worked on Pitch Perfect, Friday Night Lights, the original Walker Texas Ranger as well as the current reboot, Walker. And this is just a bit of his resume over the past 20 years.
In May of 2020 Scott created a tiktok account and started posting videos telling dad jokes. It wasn’t until a few months later when he posted a video of himself busting breakaway bottles on his head that the account really took off.
Today Scott Prop and Roll has over 1.4 million followers on TikTok and about a year ago he created the Scott Prop and Roll YouTube channel where he’s killing it with YouTube Shorts.
Follow Scott Prop and Roll on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ScottPropandRoll
The WTS Website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Chris Berry is a professional house painter who's been posting videos on his YouTube channel, Paint Life TV for the past 11 years. It's a show where you can learn everything about painting your own home, or how to become a professional painter.
In this episode, we talked about how to decide if you should hire a pro or paint your home yourself, the tools of the trade, how to begin a lucrative career as a painter, and current trends.
Get my monthly newsletter: https://notesfromsteve.com
Try a Shaper Origin risk-free in your shop for 30 days: https://shapertools.com/wts
Paint Life TV on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Idahopainter
The new WTS website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Matty Benedetto is the host, creator, and evil genius behind Unnecessary Inventions, where he showcases his totally unnecessary inventions. Inventions that solve problems that don’t exist, but actually seem kinda practical.
In this episode Matty and I talk about his army of 3D printers, his Superbowl commercial, and how he makes his ingenius inventions.
Try a Shaper Origin risk-free in your shop for 30 days: https://shapertools.com/wts
Unnecessary Inventions: https://www.youtube.com/c/UnnecessaryInventions
The new WTS website: https://www.thewtspodcast.com/
Dan Harmon is the writer, executive producer and creator of the Emmy award winning animated series Rick and Morty, but he's also a maker and woodworker who's systematically turning "his friend Dylan's house" into a batcave. Follow Dan on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danharmon/ Begin your own woodworking hobby this weekend with The Weekend Woodworker course. Check it out: https://weekendwoodworkercourse.com
Jeff Thorman is the creator and host of Home Renovision DIY, a YouTube channel started on April 3, 2016. He has been a general contractor for over 25 years and shows viewers how to renovate and remodel their own homes by dispensing a plethora of tips, tricks, hacks and advice…perfect every time.
Whether you want to learn how to install drywall, or a drop ceiling, install floor tile, hang kitchen cabinets, paint a room or add lighting fixtures, Home Renovision DIY is a solid resource.
In this episode we talked about when you should call in the professionals, how to know if a project is beyond your capabilities, and if you should you even renovate a home at all.
Check out Home Renovision DIY on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HomeRenoVisionDIY
Start your own woodworking hobby THIS WEEKEND: https://www.weekendwoodworkercourse.com
Scott Brown is a professional carpenter who started posting videos on YouTube in February, 2016. In 2018 when he leaned into producing the storytelling, vlog style videos he’s known for today. Today, this series has over 330 episodes and is going strong, showcasing the day to day workings of his carpentry business, Scott Brown Carpentry, in Nelson, New Zealand.
In this episode, Scott talks about the challenges facing builders in New Zealand, how building is different, and what he's learned from running his own carpentry business.
Watch Scott Brown Carpentry on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ScottBrownCarpentry
Build the Basic Mobile Workbench! Free plans at https://basicmobileworkbench.com
In this episode I spoke with Sam Raimondi about her aproach to building things, flipping firniture, designing retail spaces, and home renovation.
She started her YouTube channel, DIY Huntress, in May of 2016 and since then has posted more than 100 videos showcasing her creative passions.
Sam is also a full-time psychologist, so we got into a little of that side of her life and how she manages two careers.
Visit Sam on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Diyhuntress
Get started in woodworking for less than $1000. Download my free guide: https://mytoollist.com
There is no hotter debate in the woodworking community at the moment than the use of epoxy resin in woodworking, commonly seen in river tables. Is epoxy the freshest and coolest new material to work with since the invention of plywood, or is it an ugly, hideous abomination that has the staying power of a fidget spinner?
To talk about this, I invited the two most prominent makers at the forefront of this topic to join me on the show. They also happen to have the two hottest maker channels on YouTube at the moment.
In the Pro-river table corner is Cam Anderson of Blacktail Studio https://www.youtube.com/c/BlacktailStudio , who has the largest, fastest growing maker channel on YouTube with a focus on creating large tables by combining epoxy resin with huge slabs of unusual wood. Most of his viewers find each of his pieces to be beautiful, bold and unique.
In the anti-river table corner is Jason Hibbs, https://www.youtube.com/c/Bourbonmothdecor the man and the beard behind Bourbon Moth Woodworking, a YouTube channel with funny and quirky videos showcasing his finely crafted woodworking projects…made out of wood… and making it clear that we should JUST SAY NO to river tables.
This week on the podcast I wanted to mix things up a bit and talk to someone who is a member of The Weekend Woodworker and a super creative individual.
Neil Patrick Harris has a long resume going back several decades in the entertainment industry and in the past couple years he's gotten into woodworking, so I thought it would be fun to talk to him about his experience so far and how…and if… he's able to juggle this hobby with his career and family.
We also talked about his awesome new newsletter, Wondercade. It's free at https://www.wondercade.com/
Wanna learn woodworking? Join Neil and thousands of others in The Weekend Woodworker, my online courses at https://www.weekendwoodworkercourse.com/
Start your woodworking hobby today! https://www.weekendwoodworkercourse.com
This week, Jimmy Diresta is back to talk about his latest project, a new series on Netflix called Making Fun. The setup is a group of kids brainstorm crazy ideas of things they’d like to see made, and then watch Jimmy and 4 other really bearded guys build them. The hook is that Jimmy doesn’t like children, which leads to a lot of sassy interactions. It’s corny and fun, and I think kids will really enjoy it.
Follow Jimmy on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/jimmydiresta
Keith Johnson has been creating high-end furniture on his YouTube channel, Keith Johnson Custom Woodworking, for the past few years. In this episode I talked to Keith about fine woodworking and what it takes to produce high quality furniture. And we talked about his cats.
Follow Keith on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/KeithJohnsonCustomWoodworking
Get started in woodworking for less than $1000. Download my free guide: https://mytoollist.com
Laura Kampf is a maker who's been sharing an eclectic mix of projects and crazy ideas on her YouTube channel since 2015.
Her projects range from fabricating barbecue grills to making unique bicycles and furniture to building her own tiny house. She recently purchased a 120 year old house that she will be restoring as her channel begins a new era.
Visit Laura on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/laurakampf
Start woodworking this weekend! Check out my step-by-step online course: https://www.weekendwoodworkercourse.com
Sign up for my free monthly newsletter at
http://notesfromsteve.com
Rural Renovators is a custom contracting company specializing in post frame construction, building everything from basic storage buildings, to insulated workshops, and even residential homes.
Seven years ago Kyle started posting videos of the building process on his YouTube channel, RR Buildings. But in mid 2021, the channel exploded, accumulating 80,000 subscribers in October alone.
So what happened? Kyle started posting YouTube Shorts. In June, he posted a video showing how he leveraged a board into position which garnered 24 million views. Immediately, he followed it up with a series of Shorts, each gaining crazy views. The most popular one now has 68 million views. In fact all of the most watched videos on Kyle’s channel are shorts, a format he is definitely leaning into. To date, all of his Shorts combined total over 300 million views.
In addition to short form content, Kyle documents the entire construction process of various buildings he is working on. Currently he’s building a house he calls the Barndominum. These long videos are often longer than 30 minutes, offering a stark contrast to the Shorts. These videos are extremely well shot and edited and show all the interesting details that go into building construction.
Visit RR Buildings on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RRBuildings
Blake McFarland is an artist who specializes in mixed media sculptures using wood, steel, epoxy, foam, fiberglass, crayons, even ramen noodles. Since 2019 he’s been filming these creations and showing the process on his YouTube channel, BM Sculptures.
His highly detailed sculptures can take up to eight weeks to create for clients such as Hyundai, the Cleveland Cavaliers, the Golden State Warriors and many more. His multiple collaborations with Goodyear has led him to create multiple sports team mascot sculptures out of recycled tires, a medium he seems especially skilled with.
Before becoming a full time artist, Blake was a professional baseball player, who spent 8 years pitching for the Toronto Blue Jays. Recently Blake was a contestant on the TV show Making It, and even more recently he became a dad for the second time.
BM Sculptures on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BMSculptures
Steve Ramsey: https://www.youtube.com/c/stevinmarin
I’m pleased to have Cam Anderson join me again on the podcast so we can dive a little deeper into the world of epoxy, big slabs and the insane growth of his YouTube channel, Blacktail Studio.
And we'll try to figure out why epoxy seems to drive some people bonkers!
Visit Blacktail Studio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BlacktailStudio
In August 2015 Simone Giertz posted an 8-second long, toothbrush machine video, showing a machine she designed to remove the drudgery of manual tooth brushing. It was funny, ridiculous, and got shared just about everywhere.
That video would come to define much of what Simone’s videos would be about: making machines that sort of make sense. Like an alarm clock that slaps you awake or a breakfast machine that ensures you will be cleaning up a bunch of Cheerios.
It wouldn’t be long before fans had dubbed her the Queen of Shitty Robots, a title that she embraced, but has kind of moved away from in the past couple years as she has expanded to building an even wider range of projects.
Things like remodeling a trailer, making a coffee table out of burnt matches, and converting a Tesla into a pickup, all presented in her casual, conversational style and wry humor. And sometimes her videos aren’t projects, but experiences, like when she got weightless in the Vomit Comet or talked candidly about her brain surgery.
Simone has a beautiful workshop in LA where she uses all kinds of materials and techniques to create all kinds of projects limited only by her imagination.
Watch Simone on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/simonegiertz
Robert Dunn has two of the most entertaining channels on youtube. His main channel is Aging Wheels, a channel he started in 2014 mainly about weird and obscure cars, and how he fixes them up and drives them around. If you love cars, you need to check it out, and if you’re like me, and don’t know anything about cars, you will definitely love Aging Wheels. It's a car channel for the rest of us.
But he started his second channel, a woodworking channel called Under Dunn in 2019 and as it approaches 100,000 subscribers and another silver play button, it has become its own thing and just as entertaining as Aging Wheels.
Robert brings a natural humor to all of his videos and has found a different and unique take on the YouTube woodworking genre.
Aging Wheels: https://www.youtube.com/user/agingwheels
Under Dunn: https://www.youtube.com/c/UnderDunnOfficial
Matt Cremona is unusual in the world of woodworking because he not only builds high end furniture, but he cuts down the trees and mills the lumber from those trees to make that furniture.
In 2016 Matt built his own bandsaw mill which allows him to make lumber out of really big logs. Amazingly, Matt's most popular video is 42 minutes long and shows how he used his bandsaw mill to make slabs. It's a fascinating look at all the labor that goes into milling lumber and gives viewers insight into the finer details of a process most of us have never seen before. Let alone, the impact of seeing that it's just one guy doing this in his yard.
Most recently, Matt moved into a huge new home that he's renovating and making even huger by building an addition to the space, which he's documenting and sharing on YouTube.
Visit Matt Cremona on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/mcremona
John Malecki is a woodworker and epoxier who started his YouTube channel in January, 2016 and had a big breakthrough just two years later when he posted a pair of live edge epoxy table videos within 5 days of each other. The second of these, Live Edge River Table Woodworking How To is still his most viewed video with 5.1 million views.
Ever since then, the channel is about going big! Big epoxy, big slabs, and most recently a huge workshop. Before getting into YouTube, John was a football player who actually got to play a game in the NFL.
But I think viewers are mostly hooked on John's show because of his hijinks and fast paced presentation. You never know what to expect when watching a John Malecki video.
Check out John's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnMaleckiBuilds
On March 24 2017, Katelyn and Evan posted their first video to a YouTube channel that they decided to call Evan and Katelyn. In the first 20 seconds of their first video, they established their high energy lifestyle format and instantly became the cutest, giggliest DIY couple on the platform.
Evan and Katelyn's channel features a wide variety of fun, silly and useful DIY projects... everything from woodworking to metalworking, candle making, props, costumes, electronics, even cooking, and my personal favorites: their cat projects for Joobie, their cat and supurrvisor.
In addition to all the lifestyle content they create for their main channel, they have a litany of 5 smaller channels and they livestream on Twitch.
Visit Evan & Katelyn on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/EvanAndKatelyn
Rex Krueger a YouTuber, an author, a historian, and a woodworker. Although, we’re going to discover that there is no such thing as a woodworker. He builds mostly traditional furniture in a mostly traditional manner using mostly traditional tools. He's a leading advocate for ditching power tools and returning to a simpler time of human powered construction.
Rex has made videos showing how to make workbenches, how to use and make traditional hand tools as well as restore them. He has a few furniture projects and some of my absolute favorite videos on YouTube, Furniture Forensics, where he examines an old piece of furniture to reveal telltale signs of how it was built, and why.
If you're interested in the history of woodworking and how that can help you to better understand your own woodworking, Rex Krueger is an amazing resource . No tablesaw necessary.
Visit Rex Krueger on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RexKrueger
Jon Peters started posting woodworking videos in March of 2010 with three videos showing how he made a dining table, immediately establishing the type and quality of furniture we could look forward to on his channel, Longview Woodworking.
Fast forward eleven years, and Jon is still regularly cranking out an eclectic mix of woodworking, art, tool reviews, shop projects, building construction, home renovation, farming, even beekeeping. All out of his stunningly beautiful barn workshop.
No matter what the project or what the video, Jon always delivers his videos with a calm demeanor and a straightforward approach. He’s like the neighbor with all the cool stuff and a cool shop who you just want to hang out with.
Jon Peters, Longview Woodworking on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/JonPetersArtHome
Vikkie Lee is a builder, a DIYer, a home remodeler, a woodworker, a carpenter, a food blogger, and author. She started her YouTube channel, The Carpenter’s Daughter on February 19, 2015 and since then has posted 250 videos showing how to build all kinds of stuff, including various structures from doghouses to full sized sheds and storage units.
We talked about her YouTube career, her willingness to tackle any project, and I learned about her 57 foot narrowboat.
Visit The Carpenter's Daughter - Vikkie Lee on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu46Dpf61TAL0zVMLsJ_K1g/featured
Special offer to listeners of The Woodworking Talk Show: Get 20% Off + Free Shipping, with the code TWTS at Manscaped.com
This week I chatted with Bob Clagget, a former software engineer who started his YouTube channel back in May of 2013 and was able to ditch his day job just two years later.
I Like to Make Stuff is a variety DIY channel featuring woodworking, metalworking, leatherwork, home improvement, programming, electronics, prop making, 3D printing, a little bit of auto mechanics lately, and a large dose of Star Wars and Legos.
Check out I Like to Make Stuff on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Iliketomakestuff
I can't think of anyone who seems to have more fun with DIY projects than Danie Berger, AKA DIY Danie. Her YouTube channel is a blend of art, woodworking, renovating and home remodeling, all delivered with high-energy and enthusiasm.
All of Danie’s projects offer practical DIY tips and advice, as well as ideas and inspiration that everyone can bring to their own homes. And it’s more than that, every video tells a story.
Danie posted her first video to YouTube...DIY Farmhouse Dining Space Makeover for Under $200... on May 11, 2019, immediately establishing her style. Since then, in just 2 and a half years, she has racked up almost 15 million views and accumulated 221,000 subscribers.
Watch and subscribe to DIY Danie on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DIYDanie
Fix This, Build That, is a YouTube channel created by Brad Rodriguez in 2016. His channel features woodworking and shop projects as well as DIY, home improvement and remodeling projects. His furniture projects are both practical and beautiful featuring hardwoods, epoxy...and secret hidden things!
Visit Fix This, Build That on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Fixthisbuildthat
Just having a little fun this week with Ethan James of The Honest Carpenter channel. When he was on episode 4, I discovered that he's as big a fan of horror movies as I am, so I HAD to invite him back to talk spooky and scary movies, just in time for Halloween.
Don't worry, if horror movies aren't your thing, don't worry...I'll be back with regular woodworker and maker interviews next week!
Be sure to check out The Honest Carpenter channel on YouTube. It's one of my favorites. https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHonestCarpenter
Jaime Nakae and Jay Grenier are the couple behind Wicked Makers, a DIY YouTube channel largely devoted to making spooky props and decorations for Halloween.
And although all these projects are super professional looking, they are all very approachable for almost any DIYer. This, along with their on-camera chemistry explain why their videos get so many views.
Check out Wicked Makers on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/WickedMakers
Jimmy DiResta has been a staple in the YouTube maker community for the past decade, working with all kinds of materials, tools, and techniques including woodworking, metalworking, leatherwork, and lately digital fabrication. His most popular videos involve weapons... knives, axes, but he also makes signs, furniture, tools and just about anything else.
Jimmy's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/jimmydiresta
Website: https://jimmydiresta.com/
Long before YouTube, back before most people even had an email address, Roy Underhill set the stage for what a woodworking show might look like.
Roy has been the host of The Woodwright's Shop for 39 seasons, beginning in 1979, making it the longest running how-to series on PBS.
In this episode we discussed his show, hand tool woodworking, and woodworking ethics.
Check out The Woodwright's School here: https://www.woodwrightschool.com/
On this episode, I talked to Matt Outlaw of 731 Woodworks, who recently quit his job as a state trooper to become a YouTuber. We also discussed the business of woodworking and how to sell the projects you make.
Visit 731 Woodworks on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/731Woodworks
On October 18 2006, Marc Spagnuolo made YouTube history when he posted his first video on a channel he called The Wood Whisperer. His woodworking is some of the best in the business, showcasing beautifully crafted furniture, using a combination of traditional power tools along with planes, chisels and other hand tools when needed.
In this episode I talked to Marc about being on YouTube for 15 years and how he's recently pivoted his content. And we'll learn what he considered the most essential wood joint.
The Wood Whisperer channel: https://www.youtube.com/thewoodwhisperer
The Wood Whisperer Guild: https://thewoodwhispererguild.com/
Modern Builds has become a leading channel showcasing practical, highly approachable DIY projects made mostly with a modest set of power tools and construction grade lumber. He uses a variety of techniques and materials including woodworking metalworking and concrete working.
Some of Mike’s most popular videos are his remodeling videos, including a series where he transformed an old school bus into a tiny house.
Mike is also a co-host of the long-running Modern Makers Podcast, along with Ben Uyeda and Chris Salomone...a couple of previous guests on The Woodworking Talk Show.
Modern Builds on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ModernBuildsDIY
The Modern Maker Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/10o65pbMCfnnRL0XOE3gKd?si=7TVhrI2_Rb-Nt_ebgY-OrQ&dl_branch=1
With over half a billion views, Matthias Wandell maintains the largest woodworking channel on YouTube, Woodgears.ca. He is the foremost expert on making his own woodworking machines, including a homemade jointer, a tablesaw, 3 different belt sanders, a homemade lathe, a saw mill, a bunch of bandsaws including, most recently a huge 26” bandsaw, a computer controlled box joint jig, a slot mortising machine, a horizontal boring machine, a homemade air cleaner, and a couple of pantorouters...all with highly detailed plans so you can build them too.
Matthias is an engineer who develops computer programs to answer questions and run experiments in his home and shop. He does construction and home improvement projects as well as builds fine furniture. His channel features solid woodworking tips and tricks. He makes wooden gears, marble machines, tests airflow in fans, and builds incredible mazes to test mice.
Matthias's main channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/Matthiaswandel
Matthias random stuff: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3_AWXcf2K3l9ILVuQe-XwQ
Website: https://woodgears.ca/
Chris Salomone of Four Eyes Furniture designs furniture with clean lines and interesting, sometimes complex shapes. He's a very skilled woodworker, but his passion lies in design.
Chris's Four Eyes Woodworking channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/ChrisSalomone1
Welcome to the Woodshop: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmAc4goFlpEG_YXgZv2MiGw
In June, 2015 Jonathan Katz-Moses began posting videos showcasing his handmade jewelry boxes and a couple years later was the king of the dovetail joint. He designed the magnetic dovetail jig that makes it easy for anyone to hand cut perfect dovetails every time.
Today Jonathan has a massive 5000 square foot shop where he creates mostly products for woodworkers.
His videos are geared toward high-end, production woodworking with tips, techniques, tool discussions, and advice for getting the most out of your shop.
Jonathan's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/KatzMosesWoodworkingShop
Cam Anderson is a former helicopter pilot who has been posting woodworking videos on his channel Blacktail Studio since 2018.
Cam’s YouTube channel is all about going big! Big wood slabs, big epoxy tables and big money. He is the undisputed King of Epoxy Tables!
Blacktail Studio on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BlacktailStudio
Ethan James is a former contractor who's brought more than 20 years of professional experience and knowledge to his YouTube channel, The Honest Carpenter. In fact, he's one of the few YouTubers with actual real world work experience.
His channel is jam packed with practical home repair tips, advice for buying wood, what to look for in tools, shop projects, and even tips on dealing with contractors.
The Honest Carpenter on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheHonestCarpenter
Since 2013 Ben Uyeda has been making all kinds of things using all kinds of materials from the Maker Ranch in the desert and posting videos on his channel, Homemade Modern. The range of things he makes is amazing….from DIY hot tubs to live edge tables and floating beds. He's made a house out of a shipping container and is renovating other spaces. His work has a playful, artistic bent and he seems to love experimenting with materials and designs.
Check out Homemade Modern at https://www.youtube.com/user/HomeMadeModern
In this episode of The Woodworking Talk show, I talked with Jason Hibbs from Bourbon Moth Woodworking. Check out his channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/Bourbonmothdecor
Welcome to the first episode of THE WOODWORKING TALK SHOW! To kick off this series, I chatted with Shara McCuiston of Shara Woodshop Diaries Shara's been producing YouTube videos for 4 years and has an amazing channel filled with big projects.
Subscribe to Shara Woodshop Diaries:
https://www.youtube.com/c/SharaWoodshopDiaries