Color of the Collar

Jason Thomas

Color of the Collar is a podcast about the people, stories, and experiences behind the work we do. Travis and Jason sit down in their shops to talk about careers, challenges, success, lessons learned, and everything that happens beyond the job title. Whether the collar is blue, white, or somewhere in between, every career has a story — and we want to hear it. 🎙️ Real people. Real careers. Real conversations.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 15: Goals Gone Wild!

    The conversation revolves around personal experiences, humor, and future goals, particularly focusing on the hosts' reflections on their recent trip, the challenges of procrastination, and their aspirations for the upcoming year. The conversation explores the challenges and strategies of content creation, business goals, and personal growth in woodworking, emphasizing the importance of setting realistic goals and learning to say no to projects that don't align with one's vision. The conversation explores various hypothetical scenarios and preferences related to woodworking, tools, and humorous situations, showcasing the personalities of the speakers. They engage in light-hearted banter while discussing their choices between different options, revealing insights into their values and humor. The conversation explores the personal experiences and inspirations of two woodworking enthusiasts as they discuss their top influences in the woodworking community. They share anecdotes about their families, the joy of woodworking, and the impact of various online personalities on their craft. In this conversation, Jason Thomas shares his admiration for fellow content creators and discusses his experiences in woodworking and candy preferences. The dialogue flows through various themes, including inspiration from other creators, personal anecdotes, and light-hearted discussions about candy and food. Takeaways Embrace humor in challengesSet clear, actionable goals Content strategy is evolvingSetting realistic goals is crucial Preference for quality toolsHumorous hypothetical scenarios Influence of online woodworking personalitiesImportance of family in woodworking Inspiration from fellow creatorsCandy preferences and nostalgia Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates02:57 Reflections on Vacation and Napping05:51 The Importance of Mentorship09:05 Navigating Online Criticism12:01 Giveaway and Audience Engagement14:58 Setting Goals for the Future20:59 Navigating Content Creation Strategies22:31 The Importance of Saying No23:59 Social Media Growth and Goals24:58 Building the Ideal Workspace26:40 Recording Content Effectively29:15 The Desire for a Physical Storefront30:43 The Shift in Goals Post-Family33:20 Balancing Personal and Family Goals39:55 Reflecting on Career Progression41:40 Fun and Games: Would You Rather?47:44 Dream Workshop Dilemma51:08 Content Creation vs. Woodworking52:47 Personal Assistant or Dress Dilemma53:08 Animal Encounters and Stories57:15 Sticky vs. Itchy Debate58:49 Furniture vs. Trees: A Choice01:01:10 Tattoo vs. No Teeth01:02:47 Ten Million Dollars or Woodworking01:08:43 The Joy of Family Moments01:11:55 Mount Rushmore of Woodworking Influencers01:13:42 Influences That Shaped Their Craft01:19:41 Personal Connections in Woodworking01:25:15 Innovative Techniques and Tools01:34:53 Inspiration from Fellow Creators01:37:10 Personal Connections and Mentorship01:38:52 Humor and Light-hearted Banter01:41:06 Halloween Candy Favorites01:46:20 Nostalgic Candy Discussions01:52:50 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

  2. Oct 15

    Episode 14: Burnout is REAL

    The conversation revolves around personal experiences, family interactions, and the challenges of burnout, with a light-hearted tone and humorous exchanges between Jason and Travis. The conversation delves into the theme of burnout, particularly in the context of balancing work, family, and personal projects. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on recognizing burnout, its symptoms, and strategies for mitigation. The conversation explores the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, particularly focusing on burnout and the importance of communication and boundaries. The hosts share personal anecdotes and strategies for managing time and expectations while maintaining relationships with family and friends. The conversation delves into the challenges of burnout, emphasizing the importance of recognizing personal limits and the need for support from friends and community. The hosts share personal experiences and insights on managing time, setting boundaries, and the significance of being present in both work and family life. Takeaways Family interactions are keyBurnout is a common topic Recognizing burnout symptomsBalancing work and family life Burnout affects the whole familySetting boundaries is crucial Recognize burnout signsValue time over money Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Family Dynamics03:02 Tools and Techniques for Work05:59 Setting the Scene for the Podcast08:57 Travel Experiences and Family Adventures12:01 Nature and Surroundings13:59 Discussion on Burnout15:35 Understanding Burnout17:12 Personal Experiences with Burnout25:08 The Nature of Rewarding vs. Taxing Work30:10 Defining Burnout vs. Tiredness36:01 Mitigating Burnout Through Self-Awareness42:24 Strategies for Family and Work Balance48:33 Navigating Challenges on Vacation49:30 The Importance of Communication50:45 Mitigating Burnout Through Time Management51:13 Learning to Say No52:01 Balancing Personal and Professional Obligations54:41 Establishing Boundaries with Family55:04 Transitioning to Patreon Segment

  3. Oct 8

    Episode 13: Things that make you say "Hell Yeah"!

    The conversation features a light-hearted exchange between two hosts, Jason and Reinvented, as they discuss various humorous and relatable topics, including their appearances, tattoos, and everyday life experiences. They also touch on the concept of things that make them say 'hell yeah', creating a fun and engaging atmosphere throughout the episode. The conversation explores various relatable experiences and feelings associated with woodworking, social media, and personal achievements, emphasizing camaraderie and shared joy in small victories. The hosts share humorous anecdotes and insights about their lives, highlighting the importance of celebrating friends' successes and the satisfaction of completing tasks well. The conversation explores various themes related to content creation, DIY projects, and the personal experiences of the speakers in woodworking and social media. They share humorous anecdotes, discuss the importance of community engagement, and reflect on the recognition they receive from their audience. Takeaways Humor in everyday lifeCelebrating small victories Celebrate friends' successesSatisfaction in small victories Content creation is spontaneousCommunity engagement enhances experience Creative freedom can be riskyEmotional connections enhance woodworking Humor in everyday experiencesImportance of community support Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Banter02:58 Tattoos and Personal Style05:59 Thematic Discussion: Things That Make You Say 'Hell Yeah'12:07 Comfort Foods and Social Interactions17:54 Crafting and Finishing Touches21:02 Cheers to Forgotten Beers24:09 Building Confidence Through Creation25:35 The Joy of Perfect Glue Refills26:11 Celebrating Friends' Achievements28:06 Going Viral: The Unexpected Joy32:26 Low Effort, High Reward Content35:06 Finding Hidden Treasures in the Shop36:10 Unexpected Tips from Happy Customers37:12 Grilling Success: The Perfect Cook40:20 Cleaning the Shop: A Pleasant Surprise41:45 One Take Wonders in Content Creation43:19 Spontaneity in Content Creation44:07 Promoting Products and DIY Tips46:00 Collaboration and Creative Chemistry48:23 Recognition and Validation in Social Media54:31 Public Recognition and Its Impact55:55 Satisfaction in Achieving Goals01:01:09 Humor and Lightheartedness in Conversations01:02:19 Engaging with the Audience on Patreon01:04:39 Navigating Creative Freedom in Woodworking01:06:15 The Emotional Impact of Custom Builds01:08:01 Harnessing Social Media Trends01:09:42 Milestones in Online Growth01:10:47 The Joy of Resourcefulness01:12:42 Supportive Community Engagement01:13:30 Reflections on Life and Loss01:18:05 Dealing with Online Criticism01:22:11 The Emotional Weight of Meaningful Projects01:26:10 The Challenges of Pricing and Client Expectations01:30:50 Fast Food Preferences and Ordering Experiences01:31:30 Project Management and Motivation01:32:45 The Joy of a Clean Workspace01:33:20 Music and Work Vibes01:34:39 Unexpected Moments in the Workshop01:35:46 Role Play in Everyday Scenarios01:36:21 Customer Interactions and Business Success01:37:10 The Thrill of Surviving Workshop Mishaps01:38:07 Community Engagement on Social Media01:39:01 Interactions with TikTok Influencers01:40:05 Building Connections Through Shared Interests01:42:20 Navigating Live Streaming Challenges01:43:08 The Fun of Fake Tattoos01:44:35 Visual Elements in Podcasting01:46:22 Editing and Producing Content

  4. Oct 1

    Episode 12: Starting Over

    In this episode, Travis and Jason take a deep dive into woodworking......FINALLY. They share insights on starting a woodworking business from SCRATCH, the importance of planning, and the essential tools needed for success. In this conversation, Travis and Jason discuss the importance of investing in quality tools and the mindset needed for growth in woodworking. They also explore the varying starting points for woodworkers and emphasize that a well-equipped shop is not a prerequisite for success. In this conversation, Travis and Jason explore the evolution of content creation, parenting anecdotes, and the importance of monetization strategies in social media. They share personal stories and insights on how to effectively manage finances and cash flow in their respective businesses. In this episode, Travis and Jason discuss the intricacies of pricing strategies in woodworking, emphasizing the importance of understanding material costs and customer value. They also explore the significance of building strong relationships with clients and the challenges of burnout in the woodworking industry, highlighting the supportive nature of the woodworking community. Takeaways Track saw is essentialPlanning is crucial for woodworking Invest in quality toolsEmbrace a growth mindset Embrace creativity in content creationMonetization strategies for social media Pricing strategies matterCustomer relationships drive success Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Unique Snacks05:59 Transitioning to Woodworking Podcast08:57 Starting Over in Woodworking17:05 Essential Tools for Woodworking26:05 Prioritizing Tool Purchases27:01 Maximizing Efficiency with Tools35:50 The Importance of Mindset41:10 Diverse Starting Points in Woodworking51:12 Building Without a Dream Shop01:00:15 AI and Cliff Notes01:01:01 Parenting and Teaching Fun Words01:03:03 Humorous Parenting Stories01:04:59 Transitioning to Finances01:06:02 Monetization and Starting Over01:10:09 Social Media Strategies01:20:59 Understanding Cash Flow in Business01:25:38 Navigating Pricing Strategies01:32:01 Understanding Customer Value01:36:44 Building Relationships with Clients01:41:01 Dealing with Burnout in Woodworking01:49:44 Community Support and Connection

  5. Sep 24

    Episode 11: Lottery DREAMZ

    The conversation begins with a playful exploration of playing the lottery and imagining a win. The conversation delves into dream purchases and plans, including the desire to buy the Toys R Us franchise, invest in property, and create the ultimate workshop. The hosts discuss their visions for the perfect workshop, complete with high-end equipment, luxury amenities, and extravagant features. The conversation covers the dream woodworking shop, the discussion of Patreon and exclusive content, and the exploration of silly ideas and spending money. The hosts share their imaginative and humorous thoughts on these topics, providing entertaining insights into their preferences and aspirations. The conversation delves into the dream vehicles, including planes, classic cars, and customizations, as well as personal aviation and technology. It also explores automotive fantasies and the concept of a dream workshop. Takeaways Woodworking projects and business plans are discussed in detail, highlighting the challenges and strategies involved.The playful exploration of playing the lottery and imagining a win adds a lighthearted and imaginative element to the conversation. Dream purchases reflect personal desires and aspirationsThe ultimate workshop is a vision of luxury and functionality Dream woodworking shop planningExclusive content on PatreonHumorous and imaginative spending ideas Passion for aviation and personal aircraftCreative automotive customization and fantasyThe concept of a dream workshop and its unique features Chapters 00:00 Casual Conversations and Updates02:04 Woodworking Projects and Business Plans20:16 Playing the Lottery and Imagining a Win23:04 Dream Purchases and Plans37:36 The Ultimate Workshop45:26 Dream Woodworking Shop46:48 Patreon and Exclusive Content55:38 Silly Ideas and Spending Money01:06:08 Dream Vehicles01:07:29 Private Aviation01:09:26 Personal Aviation and Technology01:09:43 Classic Cars and Customization01:10:13 Automotive Fantasies01:20:04 Shop of Dreams

  6. Sep 10

    Episode 9: THAT's gonna leave a mark!

    The conversation opens with a humorous exchange and a reference to a popular meme. It then transitions into a discussion about the hosts' recent experiences, including a visit home, a woodworking project, and a kidney stone incident. The main theme of the conversation revolves around injuries and safety in the context of woodworking and personal experiences. The conversation covers a series of woodworking accidents and injuries, including table saw incidents, angle grinder mishaps, and planer accidents. Each story highlights the importance of safety, vigilance, and proper equipment use in woodworking. The speakers share personal experiences and lessons learned from these incidents. The conversation covers a woodworking accident involving a planer, a humorous incident with a live stream, and a dramatic injury story. The conversation covers a range of topics including personal experiences, Patreon live episodes, woodworking, and dealing with negative comments. It also includes discussions about potential future content and the engagement with the audience. Takeaways Memes and humor play a role in setting the tone of the conversation.The discussion centers around personal experiences, including a visit home, a woodworking project, and a kidney stone incident.The main theme of the conversation is injuries and safety in the context of woodworking and personal experiences. Safety firstVigilance is key Woodworking accidents can be severe and unforgiving, requiring extra caution and safety measures.Humor and lightheartedness can be found in unexpected situations, even during an injury.Emergency room experiences can be both intense and comical, creating memorable stories. Resilience in the face of adversityEngagement with the audience is key Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Topic of Injuries and Safety in Woodworking53:29 Planer Accidents55:39 Woodworking Accident and Safety57:06 Humorous Incident with a Live Stream01:05:19 Dramatic Injury Story01:22:45 Personal Experiences and Stories01:24:03 Patreon Live Episodes and Audience Engagement01:25:23 Woodworking and Product Endorsement01:29:27 Podcast Growth and Audience Interaction01:30:40 Future Content and Engagement with the Audience01:33:57 Dealing with Negative Comments and Resilience

  7. Aug 27

    Episode 7: Humble Beginnings

    In this episode, we wanted to talk about how we got started. It begins with a discussion about our woodworking journey, followed by insights on overcoming intimidation and comparison, and concludes with a focus on influential woodworking brands. The conversation covers the early woodworking journey, experiences with building and selling on Etsy, the transition to full-time woodworking, and insights into pricing and customer relations. It delves into the challenges and learning experiences encountered in the woodworking business, providing valuable insights for aspiring woodworkers. The conversation delves into various aspects of customer interactions, including miscommunication, expectations, feedback, preferences, consultation, engagement, satisfaction, collaboration, trust, influence, challenges, decision-making, expertise, and loyalty. Takeaways Start woodworking with passion, not just for profitComparison can be detrimental to progressInfluential woodworking brands can inspire and influence woodworking enthusiasts Transitioning to full-time woodworking requires strategic planning and a clear understanding of business operations.Pricing strategies and customer relations play a crucial role in the success of a woodworking business. Effective communication with customers is crucial for understanding their needs and expectations.Building trust and satisfying customer preferences are essential for long-term customer loyalty. Chapters 00:00 Starting the Woodworking Journey06:00 Overcoming Intimidation and Comparison19:20 Influential Woodworking Brands22:40 Early Woodworking Journey23:57 Building and Selling on Etsy29:51 Transition to Full-Time Woodworking46:54 Pricing and Customer Relations51:44 Customer Interactions53:28 Customer Miscommunication54:24 Customer Expectations55:22 Customer Feedback56:09 Customer Preferences57:00 Customer Consultation59:36 Customer Engagement01:01:24 Customer Satisfaction01:02:25 Customer Collaboration01:04:02 Customer Trust01:05:36 Customer Influence01:06:06 Customer Challenges01:07:30 Customer Decision-Making01:09:09 Customer Expertise01:10:09 Customer Preferences01:11:06 Customer Feedback01:12:09 Customer Expectations01:13:01 Customer Engagement01:14:17 Customer Satisfaction01:15:48 Customer Loyalty

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Color of the Collar is a podcast about the people, stories, and experiences behind the work we do. Travis and Jason sit down in their shops to talk about careers, challenges, success, lessons learned, and everything that happens beyond the job title. Whether the collar is blue, white, or somewhere in between, every career has a story — and we want to hear it. 🎙️ Real people. Real careers. Real conversations.