Create and Connect Podcast

Tom Breslin from The Phoenix Woodshop

Welcome to Create and Connect, the podcast that brings you into the world of makers—woodworkers, metal fabricators, leather craftsmen, and artists of all kinds—people who don’t just make things, they make meaning. I’m your host, Tom Breslin, the face behind The Phoenix Woodshop. I create custom CNC-machined flags to honor the service of firefighters, police officers, and military service members. Each flag is a one-of-a-kind tribute, made to connect with the individual receiving it. I consider it a privilege to tell their stories through wood and craftsmanship. This show is about stories like that—about creators who use their hands and hearts to build something bigger than themselves.

  1. 19 Aug

    Episode 24 Logan Newman

    I sit down with Logan Newman of Newman Special Woodwork to talk about the maker community, the realities of content creation, and why function matters more than polish in a shop tool. Logan shares how he approaches social media trolls, why woodworking events matter, and how relationships in the community have turned into real friendships.This episode is less about a single build and more about the people, mindset, and practical problem solving behind the work. Logan also talks through upcoming event plans, a new router book, and the challenge of taking his jigs from online content to in person sales. Key topicsLogan’s background and presence in the woodworking communityNavy veteran, full time vision care teacher, and creator behind a highly followed jig building channelKnown for solving real shop problems with practical, repeatable fixesWhy the maker community mattersLogan values the people who share ideas freely and help each other growTom and Logan both note that maker events create space for real conversation, not just quick introductionsFunction over form in shop solutionsLogan’s T track clamp hangers drew complaints for sticking out too far, but he designed them for his own shop layoutHe sees beauty in usefulness, adjustability, and efficiencyHis favorite example is a workbench extension that became almost permanent because it works so wellMaking shop layouts fit the person, not the other way aroundTom and Logan discuss mobile shop setups versus fixed stations like CNC tablesLogan emphasizes knowing your own space and designing around how you actually workWhat makes maker events valuableThe best conversations often happen after the busy event day, when people are tired and less performativeBoth hosts talk about the practical downsides too, especially food, hydration, and long hoursTaking his jig business into live eventsLogan is nervous about selling jigs in person at upcoming events in Maine and TexasHe’s used to anonymous online feedback, but in person the response is immediateStill, he sees it as a necessary step and wants to learn from the experienceCommunity friendships that surprised himLogan shares examples of close connections with Tony, Ryan Cochrane, Jimmy DiResta, Rob Rojas, George von Drisk, Ramon Valdez, and Albert KleinHe tells the story of being called on his birthday and sung to by friends, which he says was a highlightThe importance of being approachableLogan talks about how ego and confidence can look similar from the outsideHe tries to leave people with a good experience and believes legacy comes from how you treat others

  2. 5 Aug

    Episode 23 Shane Mooney : Mooney_Woodworks

    Shane Mooney

    Episode 23 Shane Mooney : Mooney_Woodworks

  3. 22 Jul

    Episode 22 Lucas D'Angelo : @MannMadeinMA

    Lucas talks about his path from childhood woodworking to metal fabrication, machining, and building a life around making.Lucas shares how growing up around tools and craftspeople shaped his early love for hands-on work. He explains how that foundation evolved into a full shop, a side business that became official, and a lifelong habit of staying busy through making, repairing, and problem-solving.The conversation also dives into the maker community: how Lucas found it, why he values it, and how sharing knowledge has become central to his philosophy. From Clubhouse to Maker Camp, from learning new skills to helping others learn them, Lucas reflects on the power of connection, teaching, and collaboration.Tom and Lucas also discuss: The influence of family craftsmanship and “making” cultureBalancing a full-time job with personal projects and business workWhy metalwork and machinery are Lucas’s favorite kinds of projectsHow Maker Camp and other events help people learn faster and connect deeperThe value of mentorship, skill-sharing, and community over gatekeepingTrying new materials and methods, including sewing, leather, and epoxyThe joy of turning ideas into real, tangible objectsLucas closes with a simple reminder of what fuels his work: the excitement of building, fixing, and learning something new every time he steps into the shop. Find Lucas: Instagram / Facebook / YouTube: @ManMadeInMA

    Episode 22 Lucas D'Angelo : @MannMadeinMA

  4. 8 Jul

    Episode 21 Dre Fandetti : Crafts with Dre

    Crafts with Dre: Epoxy Art, Metalwork, and the Maker Mindset Dre shares her journey as a maker blending epoxy artistry, welding, and functional art. Her insights highlight the importance of safety, preparation, and continuous skill development—whether you're working with chemicals, metal, or paint. If you're looking to refine your craft, expand your skills, or simply understand what motivates a multi-disciplinary creator, Dre offers practical advice and inspiration. Connect with Dre:Instagram: Crafts with DreFacebookTikTok Total Boat EpoxyMaker EpoxyLincoln ElectricJess Crow WorkshopsMaking It PodcastClubhouse App Final notes: Dre exemplifies how a multi-disciplinary approach—blending epoxy artistry, welding, and personal storytelling—can fuel continual growth. Her emphasis on preparation, safety, community, and self-awareness creates a blueprint for both seasoned makers and newcomers. If you're eager to expand your skills or find deeper purpose in your projects, her journey reminds us that mastery is a continuous, rewarding process.

    Episode 21 Dre Fandetti : Crafts with Dre

  5. 24 Jun

    Episode 20 Adam Coonradt : Uncle Sam Metal Works

    This conversation is with Adam D. Coonradt of Uncle Sam Metalworks. From the firehouse to the forge, Adam shows us how discipline, creativity, and a little bit of fire in the belly can shape not just metal—but a meaningful life as a maker, dad, and community member. If you enjoyed today's episode, head over to Instagram and Facebook to follow @uncle_sam_metalworks to see his latest projects, hammer-ins, and everyday maker moments. And if you're local to the Capital Region in New York, keep an eye out for his work at craft shows and blacksmithing events. Thanks for listening to Create and Connect. If this episode sparked something in you, share it with a fellow maker, leave a review, and join us next time as we connect with more creators who are building with their hands and their hearts.

    Episode 20 Adam Coonradt : Uncle Sam Metal Works

  6. 10 Jun

    Episode 19 :Verne Horst : The Need to Create

    The Power of Connection and Creativity in the Maker CommunityIn this episode, we dive into the significance of making, sharing, and the emotional bonds created through craftsmanship. My guest, Vern Horst, highlights how creating isn't just about tools or finished products—it's about connecting with others and ourselves. Whether you're crafting sentimental pens or collaborating on large projects, the message is clear: making fosters community, healing, and personal fulfillment. In this episode:The importance of creativity as a lifelong compulsion and mental necessityHow gifts like sentimental pens help preserve memories and strengthen bondsThe impact of making on mental health and emotional well-beingUnique project ideas, from denim artisan pieces to memorial urnsStrategies for overcoming creative challenges, including taking breaks and collaborative effortsThe role of maker communities, spaces, and social media in expanding inspirationThe value of sharing your work not just as art but as a way to give meaning and memoriesResources & Links:Vern MakesHeather Segal DesignsCreate and Connect PodcastMaker CampSilent MarsDeadrise CraftsInstagram: Vern MakesYouTube: Vern MakesConnect with Vern Horst:InstagramTikTokYouTubeAdditional Notes: Vern exemplifies how craftsmanship is a pathway to personal expression, mental health, and community engagement. His projects range from sentimental pens that keep loved ones’ memories alive to collaborations pushing technical boundaries. Remember, the act of making is about more than the finished product—it's about the stories, memories, and connections we forge along the way.

    Episode 19 :Verne Horst : The Need to Create

  7. 27 May

    Episode 18 James D'Ambrosio : Self Challenges to Stay Creative

    The conversation with James D'Ambrosio of AMFNYC covers his journey of creative projects, the joy of creating and experimenting, the impact of community events, the art of hydroforming a football, the vision for a bigger workshop, and the future of creative projects. James shares his passion for radical and unique projects, the growth of maker events, and the dream of a bigger workshop. He also discusses the transformation of a car, the impact of creative projects, and the future of creative projects. The conversation covers topics such as advancements in technology, maker community events, challenges faced during these events, preferences for tools and workshop environment, collaboration with other makers, and the creation of firefighter-themed artwork. The discussion also delves into the challenges and logistics of maker community events, as well as the collaborative nature of the maker community.

    Episode 18 James D'Ambrosio : Self Challenges to Stay Creative

  8. 13 May

    Episode 17 Chris Verde : Learning to Grow and Share

    Chris Verdi shares his experience of working with Makers in the Maker Community like Jimmy Diresta, Dave Doherty and JD expressing his inspiration and learning from the opportunity. Greenmoneyfab.com Instagram @greenmoneyfab You Tube : Greenmoney Fab

    Episode 17 Chris Verde : Learning to Grow and Share
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About

Welcome to Create and Connect, the podcast that brings you into the world of makers—woodworkers, metal fabricators, leather craftsmen, and artists of all kinds—people who don’t just make things, they make meaning. I’m your host, Tom Breslin, the face behind The Phoenix Woodshop. I create custom CNC-machined flags to honor the service of firefighters, police officers, and military service members. Each flag is a one-of-a-kind tribute, made to connect with the individual receiving it. I consider it a privilege to tell their stories through wood and craftsmanship. This show is about stories like that—about creators who use their hands and hearts to build something bigger than themselves.

Information

  • Creator
    Tom Breslin from The Phoenix Woodshop
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Tom Breslin from The Phoenix Woodshop

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