On our recent trip through Albuquerque, New Mexico, we had the opportunity to meet Jessi Lloyd of Grey Collective Hats.
Since her cover feature in We Are Makers Edition 12 Jessi has downscalled from her retail space, started, funded and planned a huge creative space before funding was pulled, rebuilt her shop in her garage, and found a beautiful work around to continue to host her hat making courses in stylish Air BnBs all whilst keeping her thriving in person market approach of selling her hats alive.
Jessi, a lifelong maker, started Grey's Hats to serve her late husband's need for a hat. Through her husband's ill health, she has ardently pursued hat-making since day one and really found her stride with it.
She is one of the foremost hat makers in the world in our eyes and brings passion, excitement, and a willingness to do the work to everything she does.
Jessi Lloyd - Grey Collective Hats
Instagram: @greycollectivehatsWebsite: https://www.greycollectivehats.com/
We Are Makers
Instagram: @weare_makersWebsite: https://www.wearemakers.shop
Recorded on Nomono Sound Capsule.
Website: https://nomono.co/wam
We sat down with We Are Makers repeat offender Sarah Garvey in her Arizona workshop and talked all things leatherwork, her journey, and where she is leaning now. Sarah was the cover feature of Edition Eight of We Are Makers. We get to go back and visit her and see what she has done since then, whilst recapping on her story and the importance her work has played in her life. Hosted in person, from her 40ft shipping container workshop adorned with her work from the past years, the setting was a beautiful place for us to take on our first 3-camera podcast setup to make things a little more engaging for you, our podcast listeners and watchers.Sarah Garvey - Western Skies HandmadeInstagram: @westernskieshandmadeWebsite: https://westernskieshandmade.com/We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite: https://www.wearemakers.shopRecorded on Nomono Sound Capsule. Insta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/wam
In North Carolina, working from a 100-year-old cabin on his land, Tobias Crislip is keeping a traditional craft alive. As part of the small, family-run business Wyatt & Dad, Tobias doesn’t just fix boots, he gives them new life.Cobblering is often overlooked. It’s not about starting from scratch, but about repair and preserving what matters. Tobias is carrying on a skill fewer people know how to do.We visited him in May to hear about his journey, the craft and how he’s educating the public through social media and YouTube, one pair of boots at a time.We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Mission Info: https://www.wearemakers.shopTobias CrislipInsta: @procobblersWebsite: https://wyattanddad.comRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/Want to support us on the road? Buy us a coffee:https://ko-fi.com/wearemakers
In this episode, we sit down with Becca Jane Koehler, a ceramic artist and illustrator based in Nashville, TN. We visited Becca at her home studio back in May while passing through the area and had a great conversation about her creative journey. We've followed Becca's work on Instagram for a long time, so was really great to see her work in person. Becca started out in product design at Target, creating furniture, dinnerware, and bedding. Since then, she’s worked as a freelance illustrator and built a career that spans ceramics and design. We talk about transitioning between creative fields, building a freelance career, and how she balances multiple disciplines while turning her home into a space that reflects her style.A great lunchtime listen! We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Mission Info: https://www.wearemakers.shopBecca JaneInsta: @beccajanestudioWebsite: https://www.beccajane.comRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/Want to support us on the road? Buy us a coffee:https://ko-fi.com/wearemakers
For this episode, we travelled to Indiana to meet Nathan Brandt – CEO of Coal Iron Works – and hear the remarkable story behind the company’s founding. What followed was a powerful, emotional, and deeply personal conversation. Nathan opens up about the origins of Coal, the hardships they’ve faced, the lessons learned, and the profound loss of co-founder and friend, Andy Davis.A huge thank you to the entire team at Coal Iron Works for welcoming us into their world – and for getting Jack into Coal School to forge his very own hammer!We’re also incredibly proud to share that Coal Iron Works is now an official sponsor of We Are Makers, supporting our mission to tell maker stories across the globe.We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Mission Info: https://www.wearemakers.shopCoal IronworksInsta: @coalironworksWebsite: https://coaliron.com/
Nathan BrandtInsta: @farmsmith.coInsta: @brandtblossomfarmRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/Want to support us on the road? Buy us a coffee:https://ko-fi.com/wearemakersIf you’re drawn to real stories, raw conversations, and the fire that fuels creative lives – this episode is for you. Like, share, and subscribe – it really helps!
For this episode, we travelled to rural Indiana to meet Daniel - a former creative professional whose career was upended by the layoffs of 2020. With an industry in collapse and no clear next step, Daniel and his family made a life-changing move: back to the farming community where he was raised, to start over from scratch.What began as an experimental side project in his basement has grown into a thriving letterpress studio. Now, Daniel creates custom prints, collaborates with businesses, and shares his journey through talks and workshops across the U.S., all from his home studio nestled in the heart of farmland - which we visited!His story is one of creative reinvention and the power of staying open to unexpected possibilities. It’s exactly the kind of story we’re here to tell.We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shopHOOSIER TYPE CoInsta: @hoosiertype.coWebsite: https://hoosiertypeco.squarespace.com/Recorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is below:https://ko-fi.com/wearemakersIf you enjoy genuine conversations, road-trip discoveries, and creative inspiration, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share - Please!
Have you ever experienced an inspiring encounter that was completely unplanned? That happened to us on the road in the USA. We dropped in on Jordan Wright of Wright & Rede and were blown away.... he used the hashtag madeinclevland on instagram and that's how we found him!In this episode, you’ll hear:– How this spontaneous stop led to one of our favorite conversations– Jordan's incredible artistic vision, philosophy, and creative process– Stories behind his most memorable works and collaborations– Insightful takeaways about pursuing passion and embracing unexpected opportunitiesJordan is one of those rare people you instantly feel happy to meet. His energy, openness, and craft are truly inspiring and this chat is as genuine and refreshing as it gets.We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shopWRIGHT & REDEJordan LeeInsta: @wrightandredeWebsite: https://www.wrightandrede.comRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is below:https://ko-fi.com/wearemakersIf you enjoy genuine conversations, road-trip discoveries, and creative inspiration, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share - Please!
Our USA trip continues where we stopped and visited this amazing family business in Sylvain, Pennsylvania. We speak with Connie & Kayle Sickler.
This conversation features a family running a timber frame business and explores their philosophy and journey. They discuss the origins of the business, tracing a love for timber framing through generations, and the decision to incorporate CNC machining for efficiency and wider reach while still valuing traditional craft. The family emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, prioritizing family time over unlimited growth, and their belief in collaboration with external experts. They also touch on the durability and potential for reuse of timber frames, viewing their work as creating lasting structures that become part of people's lives and the landscape.
We Are Makers
Insta: @weare_makers
Website & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shop
Settlement Post and Beam
Insta: @settlementpostandbeam
Website: https://www.settlementpostandbeam.com
Recorded on: Nomono
Insta: @nomonosound
Website: https://nomono.co/
If you'd like to buy us a coffee for on the road - we'd LOVE that as a thank you for bringing these conversations to you.
https://ko-fi.com/wearemakers
Thank you!
In this episode, we hang out with Will Adams – the maker behind Honey Brook Tools. Based in Vermont, Will creates beautiful, functional hand tools for woodworkers, all crafted with care in his one-man workshop.
We talk about his journey from teaching to toolmaking, what inspires his designs, and how he’s built a business focused on quality, honesty, and good old-fashioned craftsmanship. Will’s all about making tools that feel great in your hand and make you want to create. It’s a relaxed, honest chat with a guy who genuinely loves what he does.
We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shop/Will AdamsInsta: @honeybrooktools_and_woodworksWebsite: https://honeybrooktools.com/Youtube: @Honey_Brook_ToolsRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is belowhttps://ko-fi.com/wearemakers
Our first podcast back in the US took us to New Hampshire where we had the honour of sitting down with Thomas Boucher, the skilled hands and curious mind behind Greasy Luck Forge. From growing up in his father’s blacksmith shop to becoming one of the few traditional locksmiths in the U.S., Thomas is on a mission to preserve and share the intricate art of handmade lock-making and historical metalwork.We loved visiting his shop after having featured him in Ed.4 of our We Are Makers Magazine. Jack and I stayed the evening, went for dinner and enjoyed getting to know Thomas better.
We hope you enjoy!
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We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makers
Website & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shop/
Thomas Boucher
Insta: @greasyluckforge
Website: https://www.greasyluckforge.com/
Youtube: @GreasyLuckForge
Recorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosound
Website: https://nomono.co/
If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is below
In this episode, we return to the forge of Alex Pole - blacksmith, maker, and previously featured maker of We Are Makers. First featured in Edition One, Alex has spent over three decades honing his craft and building his business.We talk about how he got started, how the craft has evolved, and why he’s shifting away from social media to embrace more traditional, meaningful forms of communication - like newsletters and word-of-mouth. From navigating the changing landscape of business to staying true to the rhythms of hand-forged work, this is a rich, honest conversation about craft in a fast-moving world.Recorded in his forge, this episode is both a catch-up and a deeper dive into what it means to be a maker today - resilient, adaptive, and always learning._______________________We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Grant Info: https://www.wearemakers.shop/https://www.wearemakers.shop/Alex Pole Insta: @alexpoleironworkWebsite :https://www.alexpoleironwork.comRecorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/https://nomono.co/If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is belowhttps://ko-fi.com/wearemakersThank you!Kate & Jack
This week on WAMCAST, we’re joined by Donna Collinson - the flamework glass artist behind The Glass Florist. From a 15-year-old florist to a viral sensation with a year-long waitlist, Donna shares how she found her niche creating intricate glass flower bouquets that never wilt. We talk about the sensory magic of working with glass, the moment a viral video changed everything, and we talk about her invite to the Corning Museum of Glass (in New York) this year May 2025 (which we are attending!)We were so excited to visit Donna in her Northamptonshire workshop. After featuring her in Edition Eleven of We Are Makers, we knew we had to see her process in person - and it did not disappoint. Spending time with people who just get it is so inspiring. Fittingly, we’re releasing this episode the same week Donna heads to New York for her big live demonstration at the Corning Museum of Glass.It’s a story about carving your own path, trusting your creative gut, and building something beautiful from the ground up._______________________
We Are MakersInsta: @weare_makersWebsite & WAM Grant Info: @www.wearemakers.shop
Donna CollinsonInsta: @theglassflorist_Website: https://theglassflorist.co.uk/
Recorded on: NomonoInsta: @nomonosoundWebsite: https://nomono.co/If you'd like to buy us a coffee on the road - the link is belowhttps://ko-fi.com/wearemakersThank you!Kate & Jack
In November, Jack visited the Cockpit Studios open day in London, where he had the privilege of meeting master carver Clunie Fretton. After an inspiring conversation, Jack had to ask if she’d be interested in joining us for a podcast—and thankfully, she said yes!Through our conversation, it became clear that Clunie is not just a master carver, but also a historian and true custodian of her craft. Although she doesn’t always give herself enough credit for these roles, her accomplishments speak volumes.Clunie’s work has earned her recognition at the highest levels within her field. While she may not have the massive following of social media influencers, she commands deep respect in the world of craft, where skill and authenticity matter most. We Are Makers Insta: @weare_makers Website: @www.wearemakers.shop Clunie Fretton Insta: @cluniefretton Website: https://www.cluniefretton.com _______________________ Recorded on: Nomono Insta: @nomonosound Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
In this episode, we meet Hayley and Martin of Fox and Furb, a dynamic duo reviving traditional upholstery and crafting bespoke bold furniture. We met Hayley and Martin at the UK event Goodwood Motor Circuit event in September. Hayley was demonstrating traditional upholstery at the Revive and Thrive tent, which celebrates craftsmanship and highlights makers combating throwaway culture. Her live demonstration offered us an in-depth look at the time and skill involved in this craft. After the workshop, we couldn’t wait to learn more her inspiring journey. This episode is Martins debut! He's been behind the scenes a lot, but today he's proudly sat next to his partner in life and in business. Tune in to hear how they’re turning their passion into a thriving business! ✊ WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST? Head over to https://www.wearemakers.shop and pick up a copy of our printed publication. Filled cover to cover with amazing makers from Around the world. We Are Makers Insta: @weare_makers Website: @www.wearemakers.shop Fox and Furb Insta: @foxandfurb Website: https://www.foxandfurb.co.uk _______________________ Recorded on: Nomono Insta: @nomonosound Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
This podcast is worth watching if you'd like to see Stefan explain his work
We travelled to Stefan's hometown, Arnhem in the Netherlands to finally meet in person having shared his written story in Edition Nine of We Are Makers.
Close your eyes and imagine stepping through dappled woods, bow in hand, arrows at the ready, following the paths of our ancestors. That’s exactly what Stefan Tim, archery enthusiast and bamboo craftsman, did before launching Bamboo-Bows. In our podcast, Stefan talks us through his journey and the bow-crafting process. WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST? Head over to https://www.wearemakers.shop and pick up a copy of our printed publication. Filled cover to cover with amazing makers from around the world. We Are Makers Insta: @weare_makers Website: @www.wearemakers.shop Stefan Tim Insta: @bamboo.bows Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/BambooBows _______________________ Recorded on: Nomono Insta: @nomonosound Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
Broom making might not be a craft you hear about every day, but today, we’re introducing you to Jamie Dun, a passionate maker who’s one of few who is bringing this timeless skill back to life in the UK. Originally from Montana, Jamie moved to the UK and found herself struggling to find a high-quality, handmade broom for her 180-year-old house. Not wanting to settle for another plastic broom, she started to teach herself the craft and has now started her own business selling them here in the UK with the aim to teach others! WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST? Head over to https://www.wearemakers.shop and pick up a copy of our printed publication. Filled cover to cover with amazing makers from Around the world. We Are Makers Insta: @weare_makers Website: @www.wearemakers.shop Jamie Dun Insta: @bristol.broomworks Website: https://bristolbroomworks.com _______________________ Recorded on: Nomono Insta: @nomonosound Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
A podcast in the forest, in Wales (UK) - no problem! 🌳
In this episode, we joined Lee John Philips and his life partner, Diana Brook, in the beautiful setting of Stiwdio Sylen—a soon to be woodland studio in the wilds of Carmarthenshire, Wales 🏴
Through our conversation Lee, an illustrator turned spoon carver, discusses one of his significant projects—an illustrated inventory of items from his late grandfather’s toolshed, expected to document over the estimated 100,000 items (so far he’s illustrated over 8,500) tune in to find out the story!
Together, Lee and Diana live creatively in their van and are crafting a space to teach and inspire 🙌🏻
We Are Makers
Insta: @weare_makersWebsite: @www.wearemakers.shop
Lee John Philips & Diana BrookInsta: @leejohnphillips & @dianarbrook
Website: https://www.leejohnphillips.co.uk / http://dianarbrook.com
Recorded on: Nomono
Insta: @nomonosound
Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
Criostal na Rinne is a hand cut crystal studio workshop situated in Ireland's Ancient East in the picturesque Irish-speaking area of An Rinn, the Waterford Gaeltacht. Eamonn Terry, a master craftsman glass cutter of over 50 years experience, started his career with Waterford Crystal before establishing Criostal na Rinne in 1987, producing Irish crystal of incredible quality and beauty.
We Are Makers
Insta: @weare_makers
Website: @www.wearemakers.shop
Eamonn Terry (Criostal na Rinne)
Insta: @criostalnarinne
Website: https://criostal.com
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Recorded on: Nomono
Insta: @nomonosound
Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
Our travels in Ireland continued where we travelled to rural West Cork to meet Paul O’Brien who we featured in our printed magazine back in March 2021. It was really interesting to chat more in-depth about his business and how things have been since Covid and how it's shaped his empire,
Paul is a furniture designer and maker based in rural West Cork, Ireland. Originally from Dublin, with a fine arts background and fine furniture training in London, he returned to Ireland to work at a renowned furniture studio. After honing his skills alongside skilled international craftspeople, he chose to establish his own workshop, driven by a desire to work with his hands, create beautiful objects, and be his own boss. His approach combines traditional craftsmanship with modern design, aiming to produce world-class, functional, and aesthetically pleasing furniture. Paul focuses on using solid timber and a mix of hand skills and machinery, ensuring every piece embodies a fine balance of various design elements. His philosophy stresses that crafted objects should add value to daily rituals, enhancing them with thoughtful design and integrity.
WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST? Head over to https://www.wearemakers.shop and pick up a copy of our printed publication. Filled cover to cover with amazing makers from around the world.
We Are Makers
Insta: @weare_makers
Website: @www.wearemakers.shop
Paul O’Brien
Insta: @modet_furniture
Website: https://modet.ie
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Recorded on: Nomono
Insta: @nomonosound
Website: https://nomono.co/WAM
Our travels continued in Ireland where we travelled to see a maker who we've featured previously - Sam Gleeson, a Bladesmith from County Clare, Ireland We believe it’s essential to document the evolution of these artisans, offering insights into their journeys and progress. A story that particularly caught our attention and wanted to hear more about was Sam Gleeson’s endeavour to establish a craft school in Ireland, a project he hinted at back in Edition One in 2020. With a scarcity of craft schools available, and nothing else like it in Ireland, it’s crucial to support individuals like Sam who are dedicated to preserving traditional skills and providing the next generation with opportunities to explore craft as a viable career path. We caught up with Sam to learn about the developments in both his professional and personal life since 2020. It’s clear he’s been incredibly active, balancing family commitments with ambitious business goals - we hope you enjoy our conversation! WANT TO SUPPORT THIS PODCAST? Head over to https://www.wearemakers.shop and pick up a copy of our printed publication. Filled cover to cover with amazing makers from around the world. We Are Makers Insta: @weare_makers Website: @www.wearemakers.shop Sam Gleeson Insta: @thisiswhatwedoo Website: https://www.thisiswhatido.ie