Talking Timber Podcast

Most of the industry’s leading figures talk about the real challenges and opportunities in timber, yet few have the insight and passion like Chris Sutton, a veteran with 50 years in the game. After a career filled with innovation, resilience, and unwavering ethics, Chris reveals behind-the-scenes stories from his time at James Latham, from pioneering sustainable timber initiatives to facing indust...

Most kitchens are fixtures — Naked Kitchens sees through the surface with a radical approach that combines technology and craftsmanship to create bespoke timber masterpieces. In this episode, CEO Alex Everett reveals how a Norfolk-based family business transformed from solid timber worktops to a high-tech, design-led kitchen powerhouse - without sacrificing its roots in craftsmanship. Discover the...

Join us as we explore the Carrefour International Du Bois exhibition in Nantes, France, with Samantha Padden, the event's international business manager. Discover the show's history, its focus on timber, and why it's a must-visit for industry professionals worldwide. Carrefour International Du Bois runs between  June 2nd, 3rd and 4th 2026 in Nantes, France.

In the ever-evolving landscape of the timber industry, understanding trade policy and supply trends is essential for stakeholders. In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer chat to Nick Boulton, head of technical and trade policy at Timber Development UK, to gain insights into his long-standing career and the current state of the industry.

In the world of timber production, few stories encapsulate the blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability like that of Piveteaubois. Founded in 1948, the company has transformed from its humble beginnings as a one-man operation into one of France's leading softwood manufacturers. In this episode, we delve into the insights shared by Elisabeth Piveteau, the UK and Ireland sales directo...

In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer interview Geoff Rhodes, a pioneer in the MDF industry. They discuss the origins of MDF, its introduction to the UK market, and Geoff's extensive career in the timber industry, including his time at Seaboard International. This engaging conversation highlights the evolution of MDF and its significance in the timb...

In a world where diversity and inclusion are paramount, the timber industry is taking significant strides to encourage more women to join its ranks. The Women in Timber Initiative is a groundbreaking effort aimed at transforming the traditionally male-dominated sector into a welcoming space for women. Laura Qualters, membership development manager at the Timber Development UK Trade Association, to...

In this episode we talk with Rupert Oliver about the significant economic impact of hardwood exports from the US, highlighting the potential for efficient verification models that could be funded at a fraction of the current market value. We chat about the implications of these practices on global markets and the importance of sustainable funding models.

In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffrey and Keith Fryer engage with Paul Brannen, author of 'Timber: How Wood Can Help Save the World from Climate Breakdown. ' The conversation explores the critical role of timber in addressing climate change, the importance of decarbonising the construction industry, and the innovations in timber construction that can lead to a...

Keith and Mike are joined by Arclin.

Keith and Mike talk to Chidi Adilih-Osim about the Women in Timber conference in Leeds September 2025.

Keith & Mike head to Salisbury Cathedral in Salisbury to check out the timber structures and head to the top of the spire.

Keith and Mike talk to founder Andy Ferguson about WoodScanner,  a transparent digital market place for sellers and buyers to make contact and communicate, ultimately a forum to facilitate timber business. 

Keith & Mike talk about Series One and everything that has happened during the process, all that has been achieved including guests that have made it onto the show and more!

Keith & Mike talk all things new coming up in Series 2 of the Talking Timber Podcast!

Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

Keith & Mike talk to Gabriele de Col of wood processing machine giant SCM about latest advances in timber technology - from automation, to remote machine monitoring and Ai's potential to pre-empt machine problems and enhance reliability. 

Mike & Keith discuss plywood, from its early history, through to today. The discussion moves onto the specification and quality of hardwood plywood, how that has changed and whether for the better, or not! The podcast looks at alternative products and where hardwood plywood might be heading.

A Warm Welcome From Keith & Mike!

Keith and Mike talk to David Venables discussing the AHEC

Mike and Keith discuss with Nils Peterson about the EUDR and it's challenges and opportunies.

Join Keith and Mike with Dave Hopkins the Chief Executive of Timber Development U.K discussing Global Timber Availability.

Join Keith and Mike for the first episode in Talking Timber discussing user class specifications.