Beyond the Workbench

What makes a leathercraft show more than just an event? Odin and Magnus reflect on the Heart of Texas Leathercraft Show in Waco, Texas—a gathering that brings together artists, learners, vendors, and friends who keep the craft alive. In this episode, we dive into our experience at the Heart of Texas show, sharing key insights from the classes we taught and reflecting on the value of catching up in...

How do you fund your leathercraft business without going broke? In this episode, Odin and Magnus share practical strategies for making the leap from hobbyist to business owner while keeping your finances intact. In this episode, we dive into how to make tools pay for themselves, avoid the trap of chasing others' success, and when strategic debt might actually accelerate growth. Topics discusse...

How do you turn a shared passion into a thriving brand? Garrett and Amanda Willis of Grit Mercantile join Odin and Magnus to share their journey of building a leathercraft business rooted in authenticity and connection. In this conversation with Garrett and Amanda Willis, we explore how they craft items meant to become part of their customers' lives, and how embracing both creativity and busin...

How do you balance the craft you love with the business demands that keep growing? In this episode, Odin and Magnus explore the tension between making and managing. In this episode, we dive into redesigning and scaling product production, navigating delegation, and the importance of continually evaluating your business. Topics discussed: • Balancing craft and business demands • Redesigning product...

What makes a brand worth fighting over? In this conversation, Odin Clack and Michael Magnus are joined by Dave Munson, Founder of Saddleback Leather Co., to talk about building a business that lasts generations. In this conversation with Dave Munson, we explore branding, building a business with longevity in mind, and his new book "They'll Fight Over It When You're Dead." Guest:...

What does it take to finally start the podcast you've been talking about? Sometimes it just takes the right moment. In this inaugural episode, Odin Clack and Michael Magnus launch Beyond the Workbench from the 30th Anniversary Rocky Mountain Leather Trade Show. In this episode, we dive into why Odin and Magnus finally pulled the trigger on starting the podcast, and Odin shares his insights and...