Edge & Flow Podcast

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.

Luc and TJ discuss business trajectory after Luc toured the Good Art facility over the holidays. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

It was a huge year of struggle, learning, and growth for Luc, TJ, and friends of the podcast. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

The X9 is Reeve grinding. Crucible (CPM) has announced the potential for a closure. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Both TJ and Luc have a machine down. Discussion about healthy growth later ensues. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Luc recaps the dinner and trunk show he put on in San Jose. The Syil X9 has almost landed at the Schwarz shop. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Kydex sheath design and process development never ends. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Reeve (Cup Wheel) Grinding... Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Kihoku production continues, a new machine is coming, and Blade Show West was a blast! Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

TJ returns from The Maker's Syndicate. Lucas continues his effort to strengthen his brand's social media presence. Patreon: patreon.com/user?u=87729999

Lucas and TJ get some R&R. Issues with a mismatch between the Tormach and the Syil appear. Patreon: www.patreon.com/user?u=87729999