Build Things Better Bench Omaha

This week on Build Things Better we talk to Jeff Spiehs about his work with multiple non-profits and how that led him to his work with the Metro Area Planning Agency (MAPA). We hear from Jeff about what MAPA is working to achieve through the Heartland 2050 project, why that work is important, and how you can get involved. This is a bit of a departure from our normal interviews with people making physical objects, but we think that the work that Jeff is doing to make Omaha a better place is just as important. Give this week’s episode a listen and let us know what you think. You can find Jeff on Instagram, @jeffspiehsAs always, you can find us on Instagram, @buildthingsbetter.


Check out MAPA's website at www.mapacog.org.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

This week on Build Things Better we’re joined by, metal smith and jewelry designer, Jamie Feinstein. Jamie uses a unique technique called mokume gane, loosely transalted to “wood grain metal”. A technique that originated in Japan, mokume gane is created using multiple types of metal layered and compressed under high heat and pressure to create the stunning wood grain effect. In this episode, Jamie discusses his background, how he got into creating jewelry, and some of his favorite pieces to create. Give this week’s episode a listen and let us know what you think. As always, you can find us on Instagram, @buildthingsbetter.


Check out Jamie Feinstein's website at www.jamiefeinsteindesign.com.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

On this episode of Build Things Better we talk to jewelry designer Heather Kita. While her eponymous business may be only a few years old, her experience in jewelry design stretches back 17 years. Like many makers, her journey to running her business took a number of different turns before she broke out on her own. Heather’s describes her aesthetic as “art that compliments the natural forms of the crystals and gems” and that is evident in her work. Heather’s jewelry lets the stone take center stage and creates unique, and simple settings for the gems. Listen in as we discuss Heather’s background, her style, and some of the fun things she is doing to branch out from jewelry. Click the link to below to head to Heather’s website and see some of her beautiful jewelry and pick something up for yourself.


Check out Heather Kita's website at www.heatherkita.com.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

This week we talk to Chris Hughes, founder and owner of Artifact. Chris started Artifact in 2010 with a simple, waxed canvas lunch tote. The company has since grown into a powerhouse of handmade bags and vintage goods. Artifact products are marked by carefully considered design, high quality materials, and an attention to detail. Not only does Artifact sell retail goods, Chris and his team also create custom goods for restaurants and other businesses. Our conversation with Chris sheds light on the history of Artifact, Chris’ design process, and some of the challenges that come with running a growing company. Click the link below to check out the Artifact website and pick up a bag or apron of your own.


Check out Artifact's website at www.artifactbags.com.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

Hey! Where have we been? Why haven't we released a new episode in a while? Is Zach still team cake? Listen to this quick little update to find out.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.

On this episode of Build Things Better, we talk to Todd of Dundry Hill Feltworks. Todd's wife, Alison, started Dundry Hill in 2011, and Todd joined her later, when the business grew too large for one person. The company produces home accessories using the finest, German, merino wool felt. From whimsical mobiles to colorful coasters, the couple strives to create unique products from high quality materials. Our conversation with Todd pulls back the curtain on the history of the company, the design process, and the way they involve the whole family in the business. Click the link below to check out their website and buy one of their beautiful products.


Check out Dundry Hill's website at www.dundryhill.com.


Todd mentioned Fringe and Fettle in the epsiode. Check out Fringe and Fettle's website at http://www.fringeandfettle.com/.


Check out our website at www.benchomaha.com/podcasts/.


Intro music by Leslie Wells for Flyover Country


This podcast is powered by Pinecast.