Edge & Flow Podcast

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Were back! Lucas and TJ talk shop equipment, imported tools, manufacturing efficiency, and the never-ending process of optimizing a small shop. They also get into creativity, unfinished ideas, and why executing an idea matters more than just having one. Check out the brands: BRNLY: https://brnl...

Got something to say to this podcast? Send a voicemail, and you might hear yourself on the next episode! Lucas and TJ are back for Episode 108 of Edge & Flow. This week they talk traditional knife making, CNC manufacturing, AI, new shop technology, and how modern tools are changing the way makers work. Plus, shop updates, laser tech, and the challenges of running a growing knife brand. Check o...

Lucas and TJ are back for Episode 107 of Edge & Flow, with TJ fresh off Blade Show West! This week, they sit down with Jonah Boatman of Dull Boy Blades to talk about how he got into knife making, his journey building a knife brand, and what it takes to make a name for yourself in the knife industry. - Schwarz Knives: https://www.schwarzknives.com/shop - BRNLY: https://brnly.com - Dull Boy Blad...

Lucas and TJ discuss preparing for Blade Show while moving into a new shop, keeping product drops on schedule, and setting up a more efficient manufacturing space. They also dive into CNC machining, ERP systems, and using AI to build smarter workflows and improve shop safety.

Lucas and TJ talk about the new shop, planning the layout, new machines, three-phase power, lasers, production, and everything that goes into building out a bigger manufacturing space.

Lucas and TJ recap their experience at Work Sharp Fish Camp, talk about the value of building community, and share some thoughts on hiring, growing a team, and finding the right people. They also get into product development, making things for real-world use, and creating more space for good ideas.

We're back! This week on Edge & Flow, TJ and Lucas answer listener questions, talk about building a stronger brand, staying consistent, and the challenges of creating a more efficient knife-making process.

Lucas and TJ are back with another episode of Edge & Flow. This week they talk AI, building an ERP for the shop, manufacturing, custom orders, and how better systems can make more room for the things that actually matter.

Lucas and TJ are back for Episode 101 of Edge & Flow. This week they dive into Enduro production, manufacturing efficiency, CNC machines, and scaling a small knife shop. They also discuss knife drops, online lotteries, and the challenges that come with having more demand than product.

We're back! Luc and TJ discuss the many things that have happened in 2026 such as the launch of the Enduro, staffing changes, and a long list of knife shows.

Lucas and TJ reflected on their first year in their new shop, discussing their transition from a garage setup to a mature production company and highlighting their progress with various manufacturing processes. They explored the integration of forging and CNC machining techniques in knife making, while emphasizing the importance of learning from experienced manufacturers and accessing available re...

In this meeting, TJ and Lucas discussed a recent fire incident at a nearby bar and the importance of having business insurance, which TJ confirmed was in place for his shop. They reviewed their Thanksgiving holiday plans and Black Friday sales strategy, noting the success of their first-year discount promotion. The conversation then shifted to manufacturing topics, including Haas's equipment expan...

Lucas shared his hunting experiences and reflections on gear reliability, while comparing hunting to his work as a knife maker. TJ discussed fixture upgrades for knife models and manufacturing processes, including challenges with materials and vacuum forming techniques. The conversation concluded with discussions about documentation systems, project management tools, and the importance of aligning...

TJ and Lucas discussed TJ's journey in knife manufacturing, including his transition from fixed blades to folders and the challenges of prototype production and scaling operations. They explored strategies for diversifying TJ's business while maintaining his existing product line, with Lucas sharing insights on balancing growth and production efficiency. The conversation concluded with discussions...

In this meeting, TJ and Lucas discussed their experiences at the Blade Show West and Lucas's plans to refocus on custom folders, while also addressing machine maintenance issues and tool life challenges. They explored various solutions for Lucas's shop, including air compressor options and the importance of understanding financial statements for business decisions. The conversation concluded with...

Lucas and TJ discussed the upcoming Blade Show West and its unique characteristics compared to other knife shows, emphasizing its value for newer collectors and employees seeking firsthand customer interaction experience. They explored various business aspects of the knife industry, including pricing strategies, market dynamics, and the challenges of scaling operations, while examining successful...

Lucas and TJ discuss a Worksharp sponsored salmon fishing trip and the importance of spending time with colleagues outside of a work environment.

Ernest Emerson shares his journey from martial arts enthusiast to renowned knife maker, detailing how his upbringing in Wisconsin, passion for functionality, and chance encounters with Navy SEALs shaped his career path from custom knife making to founding his own successful company. He discusses his business philosophy of treating employees like family, his approach to collaborations with major kn...

The episode began with Lucas sharing his experience with burnout and his efforts to develop better self-care routines and work patterns, including using tools like ChatGPT to map out his workflow. Burnley and TJ discussed the challenges of balancing maintenance-focused work with creative projects in their businesses, with TJ sharing his realization about spending too much time on maintenance issue...

Lucas and TJ return from a podcast hiatus. This episode is a recap of Pacific Northwest Custom Invitational as well as shop happenings over the last few months.

Neither Luc nor TJ are attending Blade Show 2025. This was a big decision and made for good discussion.

Trade wars disrupting the knife industry and artificial intelligence fixing machines.

Luc returns from Blade Show Texas and has a new machine on the way. TJ has a big bevel grinding breakthrough.

Luc and TJ discuss the merits of "just in time" manufacturing.

Lucas announces his investment property purchase and plans to replace his Haas. The conversation migrates to philosophy and the things that motivate different creative minds.