Behind The Anvil

Michael Peterson

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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.

3D AGO

Forged Stories: Spring Steel, Friction Folders & The Legacy of Buster Warenski”

Episode 20 of Behind The Anvil Podcast features Host Michael Peterson going solo behind the mic for a deep dive into knife making, creativity, AI tools, and the stories that shaped the craft. Michael shares updates from the shop, including new blacksmith knife designs, a spring steel letter opener project, and the ongoing build of a custom friction folder knife with handmade spacers and refined mechanics. Michael also opens up about organizing the upcoming Small Business Fest in the park — a growing community event featuring vendors, music, and food trucks sponsored by KB Business Solutions and BC Custom Rods LLC. From handling insurance to doubling vendor spots, he talks about the challenges and excitement of building something bigger for the local community. The episode takes a nostalgic turn as Michael reflects on legendary knife maker Buster Warenski and the impact he had on the knife-making world. Michael shares personal memories, stories of the famous King Tut Dagger recreation, meteorite projects, and lessons learned from both Buster and his father about craftsmanship, innovation, and problem-solving in the shop. Michael also discusses how he’s been using ChatGPT to help with social media posts, flyers, research, and creative content while balancing the importance of keeping authenticity in the craft. Plus, he talks future plans for documentaries highlighting Utah knife makers and preserving the history behind the blades. Follow Michael and check out his work at Mikes Damascus Knives Listen to Behind The Anvil Podcast on: • Spotify • Apple Podcasts • YouTube

52 min
MAY 11

Episode 19: Steel, Strategy & The Future of Bladesmithing

Behind The Anvil Podcast host Michael Peterson sits down for an in-depth roundtable discussion with Shawn Shropshire, Brian J Rognholt, and John C. Thunert for a raw and honest conversation about the realities of the modern knife-making industry. From organizing knife shows and small business events to surviving changing market trends after the boom sparked by Forged in Fire, the crew breaks down the hard lessons behind building a successful bladesmithing business without drowning in debt. The conversation dives deep into steel choices, forging techniques, Damascus combinations, heat treating philosophies, and why trusted steels like 1084 and 5160 still hold their place in the forge despite the rise of “super steels.” Shawn, Brian, John, and Michael also tackle the future of the craft, discussing CNC machining, plasma cutting, 3D printing, AI tools, and the balance between embracing technology while preserving the soul of handcrafted work. Along the way, the group shares stories from the forge floor, lessons learned from years of experience, unusual customer requests, creative inspiration through dreams and sketchbooks, and the importance of knowing when to say no in business and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned bladesmith, a beginner blacksmith, or simply fascinated by the culture behind handmade knives, this episode delivers insight, humor, and real-world advice straight from the anvil. Follow the guests online: • Shawn Shropshire / SDS Knifeworks — https://sdsknifeworks.com • Brian J Rognholt / Odin Forge — https://odinforge.com • John C. Thunert / JCT Knife Works — https://www.facebook.com/JCTKnifeWorks • SDS Knifeworks Social Links — https://linktr.ee/sdsknifeworks • Behind The Anvil Podcast on Amazon Music — https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/669448bd-f04d-403b-a81b-991ebbc1c0c1/behind-the-anvil

1h 34m
MAY 4

“The Comeback Kid: Purpose, Pressure & Podcasting with Richard Kaufman”

In this episode, host Michael Peterson sits down with Richard Kaufman, known as “The Comeback Kid,” for a real and inspiring conversation about resilience, business, and finding purpose after setbacks. Richard shares how his military experience shaped his approach to entrepreneurship, including using structured planning like the “9-line” in business. He also opens up about overcoming major personal challenges—including a period of blindness—and his mission to help veterans transition into civilian life with purpose. The two dive into podcast burnout, with Richard reflecting on producing six episodes a week for years before hitting a breaking point. He explains how he rebuilt by focusing on balance and a clear audience. Michael connects this to his own journey, discussing struggles in his knife-making business and the push toward higher-end work and meaningful products. They also talk strategy—landing sponsors, using tools like ChatGPT, and growing a podcast the right way. Faith, priorities, and staying grounded in what matters most round out this powerful episode. Check out Richard Kaufman: Podcast: Vertical Momentum Podcast Listen here Books on Amazon A must-listen for anyone building a business, brand, or better life.

1h 15m
APR 27

The Wandering Bladesmith Returns

The Wandering Bladesmith Returns. Host Michael Peterson sits down once again with Shawn Shropshire, aka the Wandering Bladesmith, for a wide-ranging conversation packed with shop talk, travel stories, and real talk about the knife-making industry. From the Oklahoma Knife Group show to international adventures in Brazil and Italy, Shawn shares insights on building a business, connecting with makers worldwide, and what truly matters beyond the table sales. The two dive into the realities of rising material costs, creative burnout, and the importance of respecting tradition while forging your own style. They also talk about the challenges of making folder pocket knives, transitioning from larger builds to precision work, and the constant push to improve as makers. More than just knives, this episode highlights community—featuring a look at the OK Kids Korral Foundation and the incredible work they do providing housing and support for families with children receiving medical treatment. Honest, insightful, and grounded, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

1h 47m
APR 20

Forged in Fire & Life: Brian Rognholt’s Journey Through Steel and Survival

Forged in Fire & Life: Brian Rognholt’s Journey Through Steel and Survival Episode Description: In Episode 17 of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with Brian J Rognholt for a deep dive into a life shaped by fire, steel, and resilience. Brian shares how his blacksmithing journey began back in 1988, evolving from making simple crosses to tackling complex architectural ironwork and massive Damascus blades. The two swap behind-the-scenes stories from their time on Forged in Fire, revealing the intense pressures of filming, unexpected setbacks like broken blades, and the reality of competing under the clock. From gritty forge conditions in Brooklyn to the challenges of TV editing, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to perform on camera. Beyond the forge, Brian opens up about serious health battles, including heart surgery and recovery, offering a powerful perspective on perseverance. The conversation also ventures into car restoration, viral content, shop accidents, and even a bit of Star Trek and space exploration. This episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom, wild stories, and a reminder that the path of a maker is never just about the craft—it’s about the life lived around it.

1h 52m
APR 13

Forging the Future: Business Moves, Meteorite Steel & Hard Truths with Dustin Rhodes

In this episode of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with bladesmith Dustin Rhodes for a wide-ranging conversation from the forge to the future. Dustin shares exciting plans to expand his business into Tennessee, passing the torch on current operations while building something new from the ground up. The two dive into the realities of today’s knife market—rising costs, shifting demand, and how makers are adapting with new materials, techniques, and strategies. From deep discussions on steel quality, blade finishes, and heat treating, to wild stories of meteorite forging and one-of-a-kind builds, this episode covers it all. Dustin also opens up about working with unconventional materials, including human bone, and the challenges that come with pushing artistic boundaries. Packed with insight, experience, and a few unexpected turns, this is an episode you won’t want to miss—you never know where the conversation will go when two makers get talking.

1h 45m
APR 6

Forging a Path: Chris Jones of Steel Dog Knives on Craft and Community

In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Chris Jones of Steel Dog Knives to talk about the real journey of building a knife-making business from the ground up. Chris shares how an unexpected season of medical recovery — and binge-watching Forged in Fire — sparked his path into bladesmithing. Eight years later, he opens up about transitioning from hobbyist to full-time maker, balancing a new tech career starting March 9th, and navigating the financial and time-management challenges of running a small custom shop. The conversation dives deep into fixed blades vs. folders, chef knife geometry, heat treatment, pricing luxury custom blades, and the importance of constructive criticism from fellow makers. Michael and Chris also tackle knife show networking, misleading “handmade” imports, Facebook ad struggles, AI innovation, and why building relationships matters more than booth sales. From shop talk to steel science to tech and AI, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and a few good laughs — all forged in the spirit of craftsmanship and community...

1h 51m
MAR 30

Atlas Forge: Innovation, Industry & the Modern Bladesmith

Atlas Forge: Innovation, Industry & the Modern Bladesmith & Blacksmit In Season 2 Episode 13, host Michael Peterson sits down with Charles, founder of Atlas Forge and creator of the popular Mini Atlas Forge, to talk about the journey from computer repair technician to industry innovator in blacksmithing and knife-making tools. Charles shares how a U.S. Marines commercial in the 1980s sparked a lifelong passion for forging, leading him to build his first forge in the mid-2000s and eventually grow his operation from a small 12x12 back room into a 3,000-square-foot warehouse shop. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of forge design, blown air burners, CAD-driven innovation, and the real challenges of producing anvils in the United States after major manufacturers closed their doors. Michael and Charles also explore the realities of sourcing cast steel anvils, the rise of affordable advanced manufacturing tools, and the global knife-making community. They discuss everything from Damascus steel’s revival to coke vs. propane forges, insulation upgrades, and the development of high-carbon railroad spikes that are now fueling knife-making fundraisers and educational events. Packed with shop talk, business insight, and a shared passion for craftsmanship, this episode highlights resilience, innovation, and the spirit of the modern American blacksmith.

1h 35m

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

45
Rating

Explicit
Show Website

Behind The Anvil