Behind The Anvil

Michael Peterson

0.0 (0)
Entrepreneurship

Behind the Anvil – Join bladesmith Michael Peterson, with over 30 years of experience, as he takes you inside the world of bladesmithing, knife-making, and the craft behind Mike’s Damascus Knives LLC. From insights on the American Bladesmith YouTube series to shop talk, interviews, and wherever the conversation leads, Behind the Anvil is your forge-side seat to the art and stories of the blade.

13h ago

BEANS ON TOAST?! The Most American British Food Ever?

BEANS ON TOAST?! The Most American British Food Ever? In this episode of Behind The Anvil, Michael Peterson somehow finds himself going down the rabbit hole of one of Britain’s most famous meals: beans on toast. But here's the question… why does beans on toast sound more American than British? After watching some hilarious content from Habitual Linecrosser and British Dad Reacts, Michael starts wondering how this strange-sounding combination became a British staple. Naturally, that leads to a little Google research and a whole lot of opinions! Michael digs into the history of beans on toast and discovers the interesting connection to Heinz, America, and a 1927 marketing campaign in the UK. Somehow, an American company helped turn this simple meal into a British classic. And of course, Michael can't leave well enough alone. He talks about his own experiences with beans and ham hock, then starts coming up with ways to make beans on toast a little more American — bacon and eggs because apparently plain beans on toast just isn't enough! The conversation also touches on how beans became an important source of protein during World War II rationing and why this simple, inexpensive meal became such a staple. Plus, Michael talks about his plans to renovate and remodel the Behind The Anvil studio and his goal of raising around $1,500–$2,000 to help make it happen. Future supporters and sponsors may even get some recognition on upcoming episodes! And as always, Michael wants to hear from YOU: Do you eat beans on toast? Have you ever tried it? What would YOU put on it? Is beans on toast actually British… or did America secretly start this whole thing? Drop your thoughts in the comments! Michael is also pushing toward 1,000 YouTube subscribers, and once we get there, who knows… there might just be a giveaway! YouTubers Mentioned Habitual Linecrosser https://www.youtube.com/@habitual_linecrosser British Dad Reacts https://www.youtube.com/@BritishDadReacts HELP SUPPORT THE BEHIND THE ANVIL STUDIO If you'd like to help Michael remodel and improve the Behind The Anvil studio, donations are greatly appreciated! PayPal: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/MDKPeterson Every bit helps, and supporters who contribute toward the studio remodel may have an opportunity to be featured as sponsors on future episodes. Thanks for watching, listening, subscribing, and being part of the Behind The Anvil family! Never know where the conversation is going to go! #BehindTheAnvil #MichaelPeterson #BeansOnToast #BritishFood #AmericanFood #HabitualLinecrosser #BritishDadReacts #Podcast #Bladesmith #KnifeMaking #BehindTheAnvilPodcast #MDK #MikePeterson #StudioRemodel
Sep 28

The Episode We Forgot to Record | Michael Peterson & Brad Well… oops

Behind The Anvil — The Episode We Forgot to Record | Michael Peterson & Brad Well… oops. In this episode of Behind The Anvil, Michael Peterson and Brad sit down for another one of their wide-ranging conversations covering everything from hunting, food, preparedness, technology, space, nuclear energy, workplace security, and some good old-fashioned rabbit trails. There’s just one problem… Mike forgot to hit record after coming back from the break. So what you’re hearing is only part of the conversation. Rather than throw everything away, Michael and Brad decided to release what was actually recorded — and continue the conversation next week. In the recorded portion, Michael and Brad talk about: Michael's crazy work schedule, lack of sleep, exercise, and his plans for steak tacos Star Trek: Picard and Discovery Brad's recent antelope hunt and plans for taxidermy Swan hunting, eating wild game, and how the taxidermy process works Hunting trophies, museums, and unusual historical artifacts Housing, mortgages, and the cost of living Michael's book-writing progress and a new scene he's working on for The Walk Food storage, preparedness, and why you should actually store food you know how to use Beans on toast and Michael's research into how the dish became popular in Britain Michael's idea for an American-style beans-on-toast video using tacos or fajitas AI, engineering, technology, chip manufacturing, and Starlink Workplace security and the dangers of sharing too much information online Home security cameras and keeping kids safe around ATVs and other equipment How Michael got the nickname "Chainsaw" Hunting, kayaking, boat motors, wildlife, and outdoor safety Fuel prices, energy production, energy policy, and nuclear technology Valor Technologies and its plans involving advanced nuclear reactors Historical nuclear accidents and some controversial theories surrounding major historical events And, of course, plenty of the random conversations and rabbit trails you've come to expect from Behind The Anvil And just when the conversation was really getting rolling… We realized we weren't recording. Yep. That's one of those podcast moments you can't make up. So consider this Part 1 of the conversation. Michael and Brad will pick things back up next week and continue where they left off. Because on Behind The Anvil, you never really know where the conversation is going to go — even when Mike forgets to hit record. Thanks for listening and supporting Behind The Anvil! Hosted by Michael Peterson #BehindTheAnvil #MichaelPeterson #Brad #Podcast #Hunting #Preparedness #Bladesmith #KnifeMaking #OutdoorLife #Technology #NuclearEnergy #SmallBusiness #TheWalk #Oops #PodcastFail
Sep 21

Behind The Anvil Podcast – S2 E7: The Walk — From a Truck Driver’s Idea to a Book

Behind The Anvil Podcast – S2 E7: The Walk — From a Truck Driver’s Idea to a Book In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down to talk about a project that has been nearly a decade in the making — his book, The Walk. Michael shares where the idea for The Walk came from, including his years as a truck driver and his prepper mindset. The story is built around a scenario Michael has thought about for years: what would happen if an EMP knocked out the power grid and he had to walk home? Michael reads part of the first chapter and talks about the process of writing a book while balancing work, knife making, family, and everyday life. He also talks honestly about one of his biggest struggles with writing — spelling and grammar. When he first started writing, he used Google to help him with spelling, and later began using AI to help with spelling and grammar. The ideas, experiences, and story behind The Walk, however, come from Michael himself. Michael also gives an update on Mike’s Damascus Knives, including the small batch of knives he is currently working on, while discussing his decision to pause custom orders and classes for the time being. Along the way, Michael shares some personal stories, talks about recent expenses and health struggles, and discusses what he hopes to accomplish moving forward. Most importantly, Michael encourages anyone who has an idea for a book, story, project, or creative endeavor to just start writing. You don't have to be a professional writer, and you don't have to have perfect grammar or spelling to get your story down on paper. Sometimes you just have to take the first step. This is Behind The Anvil — conversations from blades to books and everything in between.
Sep 14

From Illinois to Tennessee: Business, Freedom, Taxes & Starting Over with Dustin Rhodes

From Illinois to Tennessee: Business, Freedom, Taxes & Starting Over with Dustin Rhodes On this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with bladesmith and entrepreneur Dustin Rhodes for a wide-ranging conversation about what happens when you decide to leave one state behind and build a new life and business somewhere else. Dustin shares the story behind moving from Southern Illinois to Tennessee and why he believes the move has made such a difference for both his business and his personal life. We talk about taxes, property costs, wages, gas prices, groceries, business regulations, and what it actually takes to relocate a small business. Dustin explains the transition from his Illinois operation to Smoky Mountain Forge Works and Trading Post LLC in Sevierville, Tennessee, including the challenges of setting up a new LLC, obtaining business licenses, dealing with sales tax, finding the right location, and investing in a new shop. We also get into the economic struggles Dustin saw in rural Southern Illinois, the loss of manufacturing jobs, employment challenges, declining communities, and how economic conditions can affect everything from local businesses to grocery-store selection. Michael and Dustin compare the cost of living in Illinois and Tennessee, including property taxes, state income taxes, sales taxes, gas prices, groceries, and the overall business climate. Dustin also shares his experience buying property and vehicles outright, avoiding financing, and why he believes owning your assets outright can make a huge difference in the long run. But this conversation isn't just about money. Dustin talks about the differences he has experienced in the communities, the atmosphere, faith, personal freedom, and what he describes as feeling like he has been “delivered from evil” by getting away from an environment he felt was holding him and his family back. The conversation also covers the challenges of relocating, including vehicle titles, mail forwarding, getting a Tennessee driver's license, concealed-carry permits, firearm regulations, and the differences Dustin experienced between Illinois and Tennessee. And because this is Behind The Anvil, eventually we end up talking about groundhogs! Dustin shares his recent experience hunting and cooking groundhog, including his slow-cooker method. Michael and Dustin also talk about trucking, pursuing happiness, making positive changes in life, and why sometimes changing your surroundings can make a tremendous difference. It's another episode proving that you never know where the conversation will go on Behind The Anvil! Follow Dustin & Smoky Mountain Forge Works and Trading Post LLC Facebook: Smoky Mountain Forge Works & Trading Post Dustin's business is located in Sevierville, Tennessee, near Smoky Mountain Knife Works. CHEYENNE RHODES' GROUNDHOG RECIPE Groundhog Flavor until your ancestors approve: mesquite, garlic powder, Tony Chachere's, and anything else that sounds good. Heck, throw in the kitchen sink if you'd like. Ingredients Groundhog Mesquite seasoning Garlic powder Tony Chachere's Anything else that sounds good 2 sticks of margarine 1 bottle of carbonated drink — Angry Orchard Original Water as needed (to not burn meat) Directions Sear the exterior of the groundhog, adding 1 stick of margarine and small amounts of water as needed. Add the seared groundhog and all remaining ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for a minimum of 12 hours. Occasionally add water to keep the meat moist. Eat when you're feeling like it, or when your wife/daughter tells you to. Make sure your neighbor knows it's groundhog and that you didn't steal a small dog for dinner. Cheyenne's Recommendation: Flavor until your ancestors approve! For wild game, make sure the animal was legally harvested and properly cleaned and handled. Cook thoroughly to a safe internal temperature.
Sep 7

Behind The Anvil S3 E5 — Getting Started in Bladesmithing for $1,000 or Less

Behind The Anvil S3 E5 — Getting Started in Bladesmithing for $1,000 or Less In this solo episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson gets back to the basics and talks about one of the questions he hears often: How can someone get started making knives without spending a fortune? Michael breaks down how to get into bladesmithing for $1,000 or less, covering both traditional forging and stock removal. He walks through the basics of choosing the right steel, essential tools and supplies, belt grinders, handle materials, and where to find quality materials without breaking the bank. Michael also takes a look at his e-book on getting started in knife making, discussing the different chapters and resources included—from choosing your first steel and tools to finding reliable suppliers. He shares plans to update the book with new information based on what he has learned throughout his years in the craft. Along the way, Michael talks about his own journey into bladesmithing, the lessons he learned from mistakes, and why beginners shouldn't feel like they need an expensive shop or every piece of equipment available before making their first knife. He also gives an update on the shop, his decision to temporarily pause knife-making classes, and his plans for revamping both the shop and Behind The Anvil Podcast. Whether you're thinking about making your first knife or you've already started building your shop, this episode is a reminder that you don't need the biggest forge, the most expensive grinder, or a shop full of equipment to begin. Start simple. Practice. Learn from your mistakes. Learn from experienced makers. Most importantly—enjoy the craft. Welcome to Behind The Anvil with host Michael Peterson.
Aug 31

From Combat Zones to Open Roads: The Story of John Dunn

From Combat Zones to Open Roads: The Story of John Dunn In this episode of Behind The Anvil Podcast, Michael Peterson sits down with John Dunn for a wide-ranging conversation about military service, aviation, deployments, motorcycles, trucking, and the challenges veterans face when transitioning back to civilian life. John shares stories from his time in the U.S. Air Force, beginning at just 17 years old in 1988. He talks about working with experimental weapons at Eglin Air Force Base, including the Bunker Buster and stealth weapons, before serving at a NORAD alert site in Alaska where F-15s stood ready to respond to potential threats. John also takes us into the extreme conditions of Alaska, where temperatures could reach 90 degrees below zero, making ordinary maintenance work a serious challenge. He shares stories about aircraft maintenance, ordnance, protective equipment, and the realities of working around military aircraft and weapons systems. The conversation continues with John's time in the Army National Guard, including his deployment to Iraq from 2009–2010, where he supervised maintenance on OH-58D Kiowa Warrior helicopters. John discusses the realities of tactical aviation, life in a combat zone, equipment restrictions, and the experiences that stayed with him after returning home. Michael and John also talk about the difficult transition many veterans face after leaving military service, including the loss of fellow service members, depression, and finding the courage to ask for help. John shares resources and personal experiences that may help veterans who are struggling. Then the conversation takes a turn toward motorcycles, including John's journey from a Buell Blast to BMW adventure bikes and his experiences riding The Tail of the Dragon, one of America's most famous—and dangerous—motorcycle roads. From military aviation and frozen Alaskan runways to Iraq, trucking, motorcycles, veterans' struggles, and life after the military, this episode is packed with stories, opinions, and experiences you won't want to miss. Behind The Anvil Podcast — where we talk to the people behind the craft, the stories, and the life experiences that shape us.
Aug 24

Behind The Anvil Podcast — Michael Peterson Sits Down With Well..... Himself

Behind The Anvil Podcast — Michael Peterson Sits Down With Himself In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with himself for a personal update on the knife business, his return to driving truck, and what’s ahead for the podcast. Michael talks about pausing custom knife orders and knife-making classes for the foreseeable future while he focuses on personal projects and driving truck. He also looks ahead to getting back into knife making later this year, including Christmas orders and some new mosaic Damascus projects. From there, the conversation moves into Michael’s experience as a coal hauler, his thoughts on coal, nuclear power, and America’s energy future, and why reliable energy matters more than ever. Michael also talks about his plans for a new studio, paying down debt, and ways listeners can support Behind The Anvil as the show continues to grow. Then the conversation turns to the American beef herd. Michael discusses how cattle numbers are now comparable to levels seen decades ago, despite the U.S. population being roughly three times larger. He looks at drought, fuel costs, cattle prices, and the difficult choices ranchers are facing. It’s a wide-ranging conversation about knives, trucking, energy, agriculture, and the American economy — with Michael doing what he does best: sharing his thoughts and encouraging listeners to do their own research. Listen and support Behind The Anvil: Behind The Anvil on RSS.com Check out Mike’s Damascus Knives LLC: Mike’s Damascus Knives LLC Subscribe, share, and follow Behind The Anvil on social media. Stay Sharp! And the episode of King Trout On the Screwworms problem and why it' back https://youtu.be/fQGVTJ7zFhs?si=8IGc2wCHIlEIr9kl
Aug 17

From Forged in Fire to the Forge: Pablo Martinez’s Bladesmithing Journey

From Forged in Fire to the Forge: Pablo Martinez’s Bladesmithing Journey On this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Arizona bladesmith and instructor Pablo Martinez to talk about his journey from discovering blacksmithing through Forged in Fire to stepping into the forge himself—and eventually becoming an instructor at Desert Metalcraft. Pablo’s journey began in 2019 when he took a six-week course at Desert Metalcraft. Just a few years later, he found himself competing on Forged in Fire, taking on the challenge of forging a George Washington Battlesword under the intense pressure of television competition. Pablo opens up about the adrenaline, lack of sleep, COVID-era filming restrictions, mistakes in the forge, and the lessons he took away from the experience. Michael and Pablo also dive deep into the realities of building a bladesmithing business out of a garage in Arizona, repurposing broken axe heads, making knives and jewelry, upgrading equipment, and learning how to properly price handmade work. But this conversation goes far beyond steel and fire. Pablo talks about his career in social services, the burnout that can come from working with at-risk youth and helping people transition back into the community, and how blacksmithing, jiu-jitsu, and Muay Thai have become important outlets for managing that stress. The two also discuss faith, safety, teaching the next generation, traditional crafts, Damascus steel, social media, AI, cybersecurity, and the importance of the blacksmithing community sharing knowledge instead of keeping techniques secret. From a first railroad-spike knife to competing on national television and eventually teaching others, Pablo's story is a great reminder that skill is built through perseverance, mistakes, hard work, and the willingness to keep learning. Whether you're a bladesmith, blacksmith, Forged in Fire fan, or simply someone interested in hearing how a person turns a passion into a craft, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Listen in as Michael and Pablo get Behind The Anvil! Connect with Pablo Martinez Instagram: @3sonsdesertforge on Instagram Learn More & Train at Desert Metalcraft Desert Metalcraft: Desert Metalcraft School

Behind the Anvil – Join bladesmith Michael Peterson, with over 30 years of experience, as he takes you inside the world of bladesmithing, knife-making, and the craft behind Mike’s Damascus Knives LLC. From insights on the American Bladesmith YouTube series to shop talk, interviews, and wherever the conversation leads, Behind the Anvil is your forge-side seat to the art and stories of the blade.

Creator

Michael Peterson
Years Active

2025 - 2026
Episodes

66
Rating

Explicit
Show Website

Behind The Anvil