Create and Connect Podcast

Tom Breslin from The Phoenix Woodshop
  • 5.0 (4)
  • Arts

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. 1d ago ·  Bonus

    Tips for Maker Camp from Tom

    Here are a few tips while attending The Castskill Mountain Maker Camp 2026. Be properly dressed! That means have PPE (personal protective equipment). Eye protection is a must! Hearing protection, gloves, boots (with steel toes), head cover and maybe a dust mask are all suggested depending on your activity. A bandana is always helpful as a face covering, a rag or just as a handkerchief. If you are new, there are many makers who swap stickers if you are interested. You sticker may be your logo or your Instagram handle or your contact info. Not required but fun. to trade. Maintain your health! Stay hydrated! Have lots of water and electrolytes. Be sure to eat when necessary so you do not become "hangry". Keep you medication close especially if you are diabetic, have food allergies, bee allergies or just under a care of a doctor!!! Sun protection is important while out in the field. Dress appropriately for the weather. It can be very hot, very cold even very wet. Plan accordingly. Sun block, hat, extra clothes and even rain clothes are good ideas. If you are interested in gathering with Friends of Bill W. then please reach out to me Tom @the_phoenix_woodshop or Adam @uncle_sam_metalworks

    Tips for Maker Camp from Tom

  2. 3d ago

    Episode 26 Austin Handel - The Maker Camp

    Crafting a Maker Community: Insights from Austin Handel Welcome back to Create and Connect, the podcast where craft meets conversation. I'm your host, Tom from the Phoenix Wood Shop. In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Austin Handel, a cornerstone of the EStorm community and the driving force behind the Blackthorne Makers Camp. His family's Blackthorne Resort has been transformed into a vibrant hub for makers, uniting craftsmen in a collaborative environment. Today, we explore how Austin is reshaping the landscape of hands-on creativity and the importance of community in the maker movement. http://www.catskillmountainmakerscamp.com/

    Episode 26 Austin Handel - The Maker Camp

  3. Trailer

    Highlights

    Some Makers you may know or have heard before: Ethan Carter Dennis Forrester Papa Chad Pat Reynolds Jimmy DiResta

  4. Sep 2

    Episode 25 : Mark & Donna Kubowitch - Rockin K Creations & Maker on the Street

    Challenge achieved! Episode 25 Support Mark & Donna http://rockinkcreationsshop.etsy.com @rockin_k_creations @makeronthestreet Mark and Donna are a dynamic duo in the maker community, showcasing their talents through Rockin' K Creations and Maker on the Street. Their diverse range of projects reflects their creativity and commitment to craftsmanship, making them a notable force among makers. The Maker Community Connection At the Sparks and Sawdust event, Mark and Donna emphasized how important it is to connect with others in the maker community. Their journey shows how collaboration and networking can lead to innovative ideas and projects. They shared how their work in gardening tools and kitchen items brings a sense of community and creativity. The Birth of Maker on the Street Mark and Donna took inspiration from a need in the community to showcase maker projects. Their collaboration with the Working Hands Podcast led them to create Maker on the Street, where they interview fellow makers about their projects. This initiative not only promotes their work but also builds connections within the community. Mark's idea of using a honey dipper as a microphone during interviews added a fun twist, making their interactions more engaging and memorable. @workinghandspodcast The Evolution of Maker Swap Over the years, the Maker Swap event has evolved significantly. With more participants showcasing their best work, the event has become a platform for makers to elevate their skills and creativity. Mark and Donna's involvement has helped to highlight the talents within the community, encouraging both novice and experienced makers to participate and share their best creations.

    Episode 25 : Mark & Donna Kubowitch - Rockin K Creations & Maker on the Street

  5. Aug 19

    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

  6. Aug 5

    Episode 23 Shane Mooney : Mooney_Woodworks

    Shane Mooney

    Episode 23 Shane Mooney : Mooney_Woodworks

  7. Jul 22

    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

  8. Jul 8

    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
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Trailers

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

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
    34
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Tom Breslin from The Phoenix Woodshop

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