A podcast centered around design, creativity, and the search for authentic inspiration in woodworking and beyond, hosted by Paul Jasper, Erik Curtis, and Mary Tsai. Join our Patreon for a VIDEO FEED of the show on YOUTUBE, and the ever lively AFTERSHOW: https://patreon.com/user?u=91688467&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_link
BY POPULAR REQUEST, ANOTHER EPISODE OF BARSTOOL CONFESSIONS. Pull up a bar stool next to us, have a beer, and talk about DESIGN, LIFE, PHILOSOPHY, and the emotional nature of CREATIVITY.This episode gets back to our roots where Paul & Erik have a vulnerable and candid discussion on two SUPRISE QUESTIONS (each of us came up with 1 question and DID NOT tell the other person prior to the show) to answer in the moment, with no prep. Even though it was recorded as a podcast episode, it felt like the old days where the two of us were sitting together, enjoying a beer, and searching for meaning in our lives together.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
When you design something, should you be thinking about the final price upfront? Does that help guide you toward a sale of the piece or does that HINDER your thinking, prohibiting you from making AN EVEN BETTER PIECE?? Are we thinking practically about marketing, price point, and MAKING THE SALE, or are we LIMITING OUR CREATIVITY or ability to break into even HIGHER PRICE POINTS? Join us for a spirited discussion on this topic with our friend and occasional co-host Jen Diarenzo. To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Where has all the color and ornamentation gone??? Why has minimalism become so pervasive over the last century in America? Once, ornamentation and vivid color were celebrated hallmarks of art, architecture, and design—think Baroque paintings, intricate textiles, and the opulence of Art Nouveau. But with the rise of minimalism in the early 20th century, a dramatic change took hold. Clean lines, muted palettes, and functional simplicity replaced the flourish and decorative excess of previous eras. In this episode, we explore how and why ornamentation fell out of favor, and what that tells us about changing tastes, cultural values, and the evolving purpose of art itself.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
This podcast began organically, when Paul & Erik noticed that each time they were together, they would pull up a bar stool, have a beer, and talk about DESIGN, LIFE, PHILOSOPHY, and the emotional nature of CREATIVITY, so why not record the conversations that were ALREADY HAPPENING?! We figured we may or may not find answers, but at least we're asking the right questions, being honest with ourselves, and sharing that discussion with the community we care so much about.This episode gets back to those roots where Paul & Erik have a vulnerable and candid discussion on two SUPRISE QUESTIONS (each of us came up with 1 question and DID NOT tell the other person prior to the show) to answer in the moment, with no prep. Even though it was recorded as a podcast episode, it felt like the old days where the two of us were sitting together, enjoying a beer, and searching for meaning in our lives together.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Have you ever felt a sense of calm after working in the garden, fixing something in the shop, or cooking in the kitchen? Why does working with our hands have such a powerful effect on our mood? Can working with our hands help with the heaviness we feel, the anxiety, or even depression?In today's episode, we're diving into the deep connection between WORKING WITH OUR HANDS and MENTAL WELL-BEING with Clinical Psychologist and Professor Dr. Sherry Pagoto. Sherry challenges us to assess our LIFE BALANCE through the ROOTS Framework (Relationships, Occupation, Ongoing Growth, Tasks, and Self-Care) and explains how these life areas being in BALANCE is key to mental health, and how WORKING WITH OUR HANDS can help rebalance us when life goes sideways. This important episode will explore the science behind this connection and share inspiring stories of how creativity and craftsmanship can be a form of therapy.A companion article to today's conversation is published in Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/shrink/202504/how-creative-pursuits-can-quiet-the-noise-of-stressFor more information from Dr. Sherry Pagoto, you can find her on LinkedIn, BlueSky @drsherrypagoto.bsky.social and on Instagram @drsherrypagoto.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
We ALL FACE LIMITATIONS IN OUR LIVES: Limitations based on form and function (how DIFFERENT can a guitar or violin actually be without sacrificing sound quality or playability?), limitations of materials (there's only SO MUCH of a specific figured wood or rare veneer), and limitations of economy (we can only spend so much time or money on a piece while making a living!). So HOW DO WE STAY and FEEL CREATIVE WITHIN THESE LIMITATIONS ??? Today we have a wonderful talk on this topic with DAISY TEMPEST, guitar luthier, on how she finds opportunities for CREATIVITY within arguably one of the most traditional fields in the world, ACOUSTIC GUITAR MAKING.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Have you ever felt feelings of lonliness and/or isolation as a creative? We spend so many hours alone typically because that is how we make things and have the quiet head space to create. Moreover, many people in our lives may not understand WHAT or WHY we do this. How much alone time is optimal vs. too much? What do you do when feeling of lonliness creep in?Today we have an amazing conversation with Maker/Woodworker/Content Creator and PYSCHOLOGIST Dr. Sam Raimondi (DIYHuntress) on this topic. We all share our experiences on this topic and importantly, share how we alleviate these feelings to emerge inspired with a deep sense of well-being.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Did Erik copy Nick's cabinet? Did Nick copy Erik's? Did they copy each other? or did both just happen to occur simultaneous and independently? Why were their build videos so similar as well? Why does this happen? TODAY we talk with the amazing DESIGNER AND FURNITURE MAKER NICK PEDULLA on the topic of COPYING vs SIMULTANEOUS REVELATION, and set the record straight about their VERY VERY similar cabinets. We get to know Nick's thinking in terms of his approach to design, and some really interesting insights as to how he runs his business to successfully make ends meet as an artist & craftsperson.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Should you cut raw meat on wooden cutting boards? Do the bacteria grow inside the cutting board? Is plastic better? Should you use a finish on wood cutting boards? How often do SERIOUS allergies develop from breathing in wood dust? Should you always wear a mask? What is the risk of cancer for woodworkers? IF YOU'VE BEEN CURIOUS OR CARE ABOUT ANY OF THESE QUESTIONS, YOU SHOULD LISTEN TO THIS EPISODE!In this episode, we speak with Professor of Wood Anatomy at OSU, Dr. Seri Robinson, about these EXTREMELY important topics. Seri has dedicated years of laboratory research towards addressing these topics and leads a wonderful discussion. A rare occurrence in the maker space where two Ph.D. scientists (Paul & Seri) work together to deconvolute these important topics, cut through fear and misinformation, and come away with real world pragmatic recommendations.For more reading on these topics, here is a link to Seri's book "Living with Wood: A Guide for Toymakers, Hobbyists, Crafters, and Parents" and Seri's Patreon all about Wood Safety: http://www.patreon.com/woodsafetyTo watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Have you heard of "Industrial Design" before? (or have you largely overlooked it like so many of us?!) The iPHONE, which transformed the entire world, is an ingenous example of Industrial Design where an object is designed to interact with hundreds of millions of random people. What are the rules governing GOOD INDUSTRIAL DESIGN and what does it have to teach us about OUR OWN WORK???? Are we missing an opportunity here to learn something important here??? Mary brings the heat in today's discuss on this amazing and often overlooked topic.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Are you satisfied with what you have in life? Do you find yourself wishing for MORE?? MORE AND MORE MONEY, a bigger/better place to live, a nicer car or more opulent vacations? "When I have (Insert Answer Here), then I"ll be happier!" . Do you continually strive for more, AND ACHIEVE IT, only to feel somewhat hollow or anticlimactic?Let's start 2025 together on a POSITIVE OPTIMISTIC note, and tackle the topic of "ENOUGH". Can we realize what is ENOUGH in our lives, and rather than chasing happiness, practice gratitude and appreciation to find the happiness already within. True contentedness comes NOT from getting what you think you want, but rather, learning to APPRECIATE what you already have. To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
DO YOU KNOW what your significant other or non-artist friends THINK & FEEL about your art, your craft, or your passion? Do they find it intersting because we do? Do they feel the special pull of hand made objects like we do? Do they find themselves passionate by proxy, or do they think we're just weird?Join us for a special HOLIDAY EPISODE where we hear from the significant others Victoria & Sara and hear about HOW THEY SEE THE MAKER WORLD. We also have some fun TRIVIA CHALLENGES between the girls seeing how much they have learned by Osmosis, followed by the sexiest ad read ever. It's a joyful and fun episode for all!To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Do you find yourself bored when you make something more than once? How about when you make that something 1000 times because it sells well? Is there creativity to be found withing production work? How do we deal with the mental side of doing a repetitive task? In this episode we think about both the PROS and CONS to production work and how to find the right mindset that enables repetitive production work to be more creative and more fulfilling. We also have our first AD read, and believe me, you won't want to skip it because its a hiarious mess told as a bad Hallmark Movie. I'm pretty sure we won't have another ad sponsor after this! To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Do you want to earn more money for your work? Do you struggle to set prices and get nervous thinking about asking for more money? When you do charge more, do you feel ok about it? Today we discuss the many ways one can RAISE PRICE POINT as an artist and then have a short but spirirted session of WIB's DEBATE CLUB where Erik and I debate the ethical and moral implications of doing so. Joining us for this episode is the amazing fine artist, educator, and documentarian JACK THOMAS! She'S smart, witty, experienced, and hilarious and adds a wonderful piece to this conversation.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Do you feel STRESS at times in the shop? Many people turn to woodworking and other crafts to relieve stress but once sufficiently into it, those once stress-relieving hobbies can actually become a SOURCE OF STRESS. Today we talk about the stresses that each of us feel around the shop and making experience, what effects that stress has on us, and how we go about solving or alleviating that stress.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
We've all seen them, pieces of furniture or woodworking where someone throws all these random ass pieces of contrasting figured woods together, thinking that by using figured woods, their piece will look better, or fancy, or valuable. When in reality, it often looks gaudy and disjointed, and a bit confused. IS USING FIGURED WOODS A GIMMICK? Join a spirited debate on how we see the tasteful use of figured woods, but how this simple question speaks to a MUCH LARGER design question of HUGE IMPORTANCE. We also cover how figured woods develop in trees and what the scientific research says about their occurrence.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Have you ever felt like an Imposter at work or when creating? It is estimated that up to 85% of people experience imposter syndrome in their lives, despite training and high achievement. ARE YOU PART OF THAT 85%? In today's episode we confront this issue head on with the help of Kristin Siegfried Ballenger, who is an expert luthier (maker or violins and other stringed instruments) and has first hand experience dealing with imposter syndrome. We all relate our experiences with imposter syndrome, talk about what the research suggests about it, and perhaps most importantly, talk about how to deal with it productively to achieve a deeper sense of confidence.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
As soon as we sat down to record, Erik said, "Let's just WING IT!!" , instead of following an outline for the conversation about: IS BEING COMPETITIVE A GOOD THING? Paul is noticeably uncomfortable and what ensued is lovely W.I.B. history.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
In today's episode of the Master Series, we discuss the amazing Japanese Americana furniture designer and architect, George Nakashima, widely considered to be the father of slab furniture. George believed trees had a soul, and through the act of making furniture he was giving them a second life. His most famous pieces of furniture include live edge slab tables and benches with architecturally inspired bases, with clean lines almost evoking the peace and serenity of Zen Buddhism. Following George's death in 1990, his daughter Mira boldly led Nakashima Woodworkers forward into their new chapter. Today, we have the incredible fortune of having two VERY SPECIAL guests with us, Mira Nakashima, daughter of George Nakashima, and her grandson Toshi Amagasu who not only give us an inside look into Nakashima Furniture, but also inside their thriving family legacy. For more information on Nakashima Furniture: https://nakashimawoodworkers.com/ For a wonderful in-depth documentary on George's Life: https://nakashimadocumentary.com/ George Nakashima Video Clip courtesy of Jim Bunn, with assistance from John Nakashima.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
The current crop of DIY shows make us feel as though we can build anything quickly and easily over the course of a weekend with only a few tools. But is this ACTUALLY TRUE??? Are DIY influencers selling us a fantasy as a form of entertainment or are they really teaching us how to make things and improve our homes? In this episode, we review a brief history of DIY culture and how it developed, which helps us to understand the complex nature of DIY as it exists today. We have a ROUSING episode of WIBS Debate Club, where Erik and Mary pick sides of the DIY argument and the GLOVES COME OFF!To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Are you a PERFECTIONIST? Do you have tendencies toward perfectionism? Does it steal the joy of making things? Does it make it difficult to start or finish anything because it's so built up in your mind how AMAZING the next project needs to be? OR does it make you a better maker/artist with a higher standard of excellence who improves very quickly after each project? In this episode we consider the double-edged sword that is PERFECTIONISM and how to identify and deal with it.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Content Creators have taken social media by storm, showing you all their "tips & tricks", advising you what to buy, and how to make things. THEIR GOAL: GET THE MOST EYEBALLS TO WATCH THEIR VIDEOS SO THEY EARN MORE MONEY in the form of ad revenue and corporate sponsorships. This begs the question of whether you can trust their advice. In this episode we take on this dicey topic, especially because Erik is a self-proclaimed CONTENT CREATOR. What do you think? Can you trust what they tell you? Our good friend Jen DiArenzo again joins us for this lively and compelling discussion.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
In the Masters Series, we review MAJOR INFLUENCES on American Furniture. Together, we seek to understand their story, belief systems, and guiding philosophies, as a way to understand the objects they made, which are still extremely well know and popular today. The Shakers are SO MUCH more than just simple furniture. Did you know they pursued artistic and craft perfection as a way to honor god? Did you know they believed in equality of the genders and races at a time of extreme sexism and racism in the 1700's and 1800's? Did you know a Shaker woman is credited with INVENTING the circular saw? Did you know the shakers EMBRACED TECHNOLOGY and sold their wares, being regarded as the finest money could buy? There is a fascinating and fabulous story within this episode and if you listen to it, you will never see shaker furniture the same way again.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Is being a HOBBYIST enough?? Or should you lay down all the chips and go FULL TIME PROFESSIONAL?? Today we discuss the pros/cons of this critical decision faced by so many artists to help you evaluate your own decision. Paul & Mary are hobbyists while Erik is a full time professional, so we have all the viewpoints covered and get INTO IT. Join us for this important and lively discussion.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Fact: We're all going to die. Question: Do we make things, things that can last across centuries, as a way of establishing a legacy for ourselves. Do you think "this piece will likely outlive me" as you make? Have you thought, "I wonder who will own this some day and how they will use it, or whether they'll be curious who I am?". Coming to terms with our own eventual death and the question of making and legacy is on the docket for discussion today and we think it's a FASCINATING question, you should join us.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Many people will tell you, "Pursue your passion and you'll never work a day in your life", suggesting that if you follow your burning passion, the money will follow. Others are far more practical recommending you find a product that will sell and focus on that right away while building your business because WE ALL HAVE BILLS TO PAY. Which of these is right? How should we balance pursuing our passion while earning a living? Does a sole focus on money ruin our passion for a craft that used to make us feel alive?Join us for a spirited discussion on this topic with our new interim host Jennifer DiArenzo!! (While Mary is traveling this week) Jennifer is classically trained with a degree in art and illustration, is a phenomenal pyrography artist, and has strong coffee views and a sense of humor that fit right in to Woodworking in Bullshit.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
CNC technology is currently one of the most divisive topics in our craft. Many argue, CNC use should NOT be considered woodworking, while others insist that it's just another tool, and these "growing pains" occur whenever a new technology comes into the craft. This speaks to a larger issue of innovation & technology adoption in the arts and the challenges it poses to fields steeped in tradition.Join us for a spirited discussion analyzing BOTH SIDES of this fascinating topic. To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Have you felt creative burnout as an artist/maker? You feel exhausted, uninspired, and maybe even a bit cynical. What do you do in these moments? What do you do when you hit that moment of not caring or not having the energy to keep up with your job or creative work?In this episode, we share our experiences identifying and dealing with creative burnout, and discuss what research suggests for possible solutions to this very real and common problem. To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
In this episode, we discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cover how we can use this exciting (and sometimes scary) technology in our creative pursuits. Our host Mary Tsai, who works in the AI field, helps us understand fact vs. myth, as we cover many topics that we are forced to address now that AI plays such a prominent role in our daily lives.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
How do we figure out WHO WE ARE as an artist? What is it that we want to communicate with our work, either visually or conceptually? Have you been able to define a style that is immediately recognizable as your own? For most, this is an evolutionary process consisting of much trial and error, taking risks, resulting in both failures and successes. Join us and our SPECIAL GUEST KEITH JOHNSON as we jointly discuss this most important topic.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Why do people LOVE and CHERISH certain objects? What is it about those objects exactly? If we can figure this out, perhaps we can use these guiding principles to guide the things WE MAKE, becoming treasured heirlooms instead of disposable goods. This has far reaching implications for humanity at a time where resources are being depleted, pollution is impacting everyone, and our society treats nearly everything as disposable. This topic has been pioneered by the research of Jonathan Chapman, professor at Carnegie Melon School of Design, in his book "Emotionally Durable Design: Objects, Experiences & Empathy." Our very own host, Mary Tsai, was a graduate student in Jonathan's lab, studying with him for a number of years. Mary is the perfect person to take us through this important and fascinating topic.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
"HUSTLE & GRIND BABY!" We've all heard catchy motivational phrases like this, which sound good on the surface, but is HUSTLE CULTURE actually toxic to our creativity? Does it lead to higher productivity and success or simply BURNOUT? Join us for a discussion on this topic where we arrive at some quite interesting conclusions.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Most of us hate being bored. However, does being bored actually stimulate creativity? Research suggests it DOES! . How do you handle your boredom? Do you allow yourself time to be bored or do you constantly take your phone out and browse it like a dopamine addict? Are you doing yourself a creative disservice? Join us for a discussion on this absolutely fascinating topic.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & inappropriate AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
We are honored to have our first guest, Konrad Sauer, on the podcast to discuss his views of design with us including: 1 + 1 = 3, the pitfalls of using computers to design, designing without considering execution details, and more. Konrad is known more broadly in the woodworking field for his exceptionally beautiful and function infill planes (Sauer & Steiner), which he has been crafting by hand for the past 25 years. However, what many people don't know is that he is classically trained in art/design and is incredibly passionate about those topics. To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & inappropriate AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon:http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Are you an Artist? Are you a Craftsperson? Does it matter? Why do we use these labels and what are the differences between art and craft? What exactly is art? What is Craft? Are these labels helpful or just bullshit? Join our discussion on this divisive topic.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the funny & inappropriate AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon:http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
Where do you look for INSPIRATION when you're in a creative rut? Why do so many people AVOID original design? Let's hurt some feelings today as we discuss these extremely important issues.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the highly inappropriate AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon:http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467
We dive in to the sticky, but important topic of COPYING. Is it OK? Is it helpful? Is it a normal part of the artistic process? Let's discuss.
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