Podcast appearances and mentions of Greg Porter

EABA (End All Be All) 2e is a generic roleplaying system with a core rulebook and a collection of sourcebooks designed by Greg Porter and published by his company BTRC (Blacksburg Tactical Research Centre). The first edition was released in 2003, the second – which is what we discuss in this episode – in 2012.Read the full show notes here.Discuss this episode on our Discord.

Dive into the latest Maker’s Quest podcast where Brian Benham details his epic root-over-rock chess table build, and Greg Porter reveals his new guitar side-bending machine. A deep dive into custom woodworking and luthiery. Watch The Podcast Hosted by Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Brian’s Blog https://www.briansbenham.com/ Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ Greg Porter from SkyScraper Guitars https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Welcome back to the Maker’s Quest podcast! In our latest episode, hosts Brian Benham and Greg Porter reconnect after a short hiatus, diving deep into the projects that have been consuming their time and creative energy. From the intricate challenges of custom furniture to the precise engineering of luthiery tools, this conversation is a masterclass in problem-solving and passion. Catching Up and a Note from Greg Greg kicks things off with a heartfelt apology for his voice, which is understandably rough. He's been battling long Covid for over a year, which has led to lung issues requiring a steroid inhaler. “Whatever steroids are in that inhaler just barbecue my vocal cords,” he explains. It's a poignant reminder of the very real, human challenges that creators often push through to pursue their craft. Brian’s Monumental Vegas Project: The Root Over Rock Chess Table The centerpiece of Brian's update is a project he's just wrapped up and delivered: a stunning, one-of-a-kind chess table for a client in Las Vegas. The concept was a “root over rock” bonsai-inspired base supporting a glass-topped chess table. What sounds like a beautiful idea in a render became one of the most patience-testing projects of Brian's career. The Challenge of the Scribe: The entire base consists of sculpted walnut roots and a trunk that had to be meticulously scribed to fit perfectly around an amorphous rock form. The killer detail? It's visible on all sides. “There is no really good place to cheat it to the back,” Brian says. “It just took a long time. There is a point halfway through where I was like, I don’t know if this is going to turn out well… did I over-commit my skills?” He estimates a staggering 40-60 hours were spent on the scribing process alone. The project also required ingenious fixturing to use his CNC machine as a mill to create flat surfaces on the round trunk for the branches to join, battling software safety features along the way. In the end, the client was thrilled. The final piece, which pairs his walnut and wenge woodwork with a stunning silver-and-copper chessboard sourced from an artist in Mexico City, is a testament to the power of seeing a daunting vision through to completion. A Lesson in Design Collaboration: Brian also highlighted a small drawer on a accompanying vanity piece. The client insisted on a specific, sleek look that prioritized form over deep function, requiring Brian to modify hardware to fit. It was a perfect example of the collaboration and compromise inherent in custom work. “If you are just rigid on your own ideas, you’re probably not going to end up with a good design,” Brian notes. “It’ll be very boxed-in.” Greg’s Luthiery Deep Dive: Engineering the Perfect Guitar Bender On the other side of the maker spectrum, Greg has been deep in the world of guitar building, specifically focused on solving a complex problem: building a better side-bending machine for acoustic guitar cutaways. The Cutaway Conundrum: A guitar's cutaway (the scooped section near the neck) allows for easier access to higher frets but presents a major bending challenge due to its tight, compound curves. Greg's goal was to create a machine that is not only effective but also a joy to use—a tool that produces repeatable, predictable results for both hobbyists and professionals building guitars worth tens of thousands of dollars. His new design features a unique hinged ram that bends the wood linearly, capturing it gradually rather than pressing from the center and hoping for the best. “It starts at one end and it kind of linearly bends it down into the form… it’s the only one that’ll be on the market that has that feature.” The Tape Trick for Flawless Bends: Greg also shared a fantastic tip for preventing wood from splintering during extreme bends. Instead of using the traditional method of laminating linen and epoxy to the wood's outer face (which must be scraped off later), he discovered Captain Tape. This high-temperature tape, used in powder coating, can withstand the 350°F heat of the bending process. It contains the wood fibers perfectly, and when the bend is cool, it simply peels off, leaving a clean surface ready for finishing. The Maker’s Mindset: Curiosity and Persistence This episode was a brilliant showcase of the maker mindset: Embrace the Hard Problems: Whether it's a multi-dimensional scribe or a complex mechanical pivot, both Brian and Greg lean into the challenges that scare them. Iterate Until It's Right: Greg went through four prototypes for his bender, obsessing over bolt lengths and clearances to create a refined, professional tool. Share Your Knowledge: From CNC software quirks to bending techniques, the drive to share hard-won knowledge with the community is what makes the maker world so rich. You can find Greg Porter at Skyscraper Guitars and Greg’s Garage on Instagram and YouTube. Find Brian Benham at Benham Design across the web.

Dive into the latest Maker's Quest podcast where Brian Benham details his epic root-over-rock chess table build and Greg Porter reveals his new guitar side-bending machine. A deep dive into custom woodworking and luthiery. Hosted by Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Brian's Blog https://www.briansbenham.com/ Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ Greg Porter from SkyScraper Guitars https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage   Welcome back to the Maker's Quest podcast! In our latest episode, hosts Brian Benham and Greg Porter reconnect after a short hiatus, diving deep into the projects that have been consuming their time and creative energy. From the intricate challenges of custom furniture to the precise engineering of luthiery tools, this conversation is a masterclass in problem-solving and passion. Catching Up and a Note from Greg Greg kicks things off with a heartfelt apology for his voice, which is understandably rough. He's been battling long Covid for over a year, which has led to lung issues requiring a steroid inhaler. “Whatever steroids are in that inhaler just barbecue my vocal cords,” he explains. It's a poignant reminder of the very real, human challenges that creators often push through to pursue their craft. Brian's Monumental Vegas Project: The Root Over Rock Chess Table The centerpiece of Brian's update is a project he's just wrapped up and delivered: a stunning, one-of-a-kind chess table for a client in Las Vegas. The concept was a "root over rock" bonsai-inspired base supporting a glass-topped chess table. What sounds like a beautiful idea in a render became one of the most patience-testing projects of Brian's career. The Challenge of the Scribe: The entire base consists of sculpted walnut roots and a trunk that had to be meticulously scribed to fit perfectly around an amorphous rock form. The killer detail? It's visible on all sides. "There is no really good place to cheat it to the back," Brian says. "It just took a long time. There is a point halfway through where I was like, I don't know if this is going to turn out well... did I over-commit my skills?" He estimates a staggering 40-60 hours were spent on the scribing process alone. The project also required ingenious fixturing to use his CNC machine as a mill to create flat surfaces on the round trunk for the branches to join, battling software safety features along the way. In the end, the client was thrilled. The final piece, which pairs his walnut and wenge woodwork with a stunning silver-and-copper chessboard sourced from an artist in Mexico City, is a testament to the power of seeing a daunting vision through to completion. A Lesson in Design Collaboration: Brian also highlighted a small drawer on a accompanying vanity piece. The client insisted on a specific, sleek look that prioritized form over deep function, requiring Brian to modify hardware to fit. It was a perfect example of the collaboration and compromise inherent in custom work. "If you are just rigid on your own ideas, you're probably not going to end up with a good design," Brian notes. "It'll be very boxed-in." Greg's Luthiery Deep Dive: Engineering the Perfect Guitar Bender On the other side of the maker spectrum, Greg has been deep in the world of guitar building, specifically focused on solving a complex problem: building a better side-bending machine for acoustic guitar cutaways. The Cutaway Conundrum: A guitar's cutaway (the scooped section near the neck) allows for easier access to higher frets but presents a major bending challenge due to its tight, compound curves. Greg's goal was to create a machine that is not only effective but also a joy to use—a tool that produces repeatable, predictable results for both hobbyists and professionals building guitars worth tens of thousands of dollars. His new design features a unique hinged ram that bends the wood linearly, capturing it gradually rather than pressing from the center and hoping for the best. "It starts at one end and it kind of linearly bends it down into the form... it's the only one that'll be on the market that has that feature." The Tape Trick for Flawless Bends: Greg also shared a fantastic tip for preventing wood from splintering during extreme bends. Instead of using the traditional method of laminating linen and epoxy to the wood's outer face (which must be scraped off later), he discovered Captain Tape. This high-temperature tape, used in powder coating, can withstand the 350°F heat of the bending process. It contains the wood fibers perfectly, and when the bend is cool, it simply peels off, leaving a clean surface ready for finishing. The Maker's Mindset: Curiosity and Persistence This episode was a brilliant showcase of the maker mindset: Embrace the Hard Problems: Whether it's a multi-dimensional scribe or a complex mechanical pivot, both Brian and Greg lean into the challenges that scare them. Iterate Until It's Right: Greg went through four prototypes for his bender, obsessing over bolt lengths and clearances to create a refined, professional tool. Share Your Knowledge: From CNC software quirks to bending techniques, the drive to share hard-won knowledge with the community is what makes the maker world so rich. You can find Greg Porter at Skyscraper Guitars and Greg's Garage on Instagram and YouTube. Find Brian Benham at Benham Design across the web.

 Insights from Makers Brian Benham and Greg Porter” In this episode of the Maker’s Quest Podcast, hosts Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts and Greg Porter from Skyscraper Guitars delved into the often-overlooked reality of failure in the creative process—especially when turning ideas into marketable products. Both seasoned makers shared candid stories of their struggles, lessons learned, and how embracing failure is a non-negotiable step toward innovation and profitability. Watch The Podcast Hosted by Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ Greg Porter from SkyScraper Guitars https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage The CNC Learning Curve: Speed Isn't Always King Brian Benham, a furniture maker and CNC enthusiast, kicked off the discussion with his early trials on his new Avid CNC machine. His goal? To efficiently produce a yin-yang wine bottle holder. But his initial excitement was tempered by a harsh lesson: “I watched YouTube videos where people said, ‘Why are you running so slow? Crank it up!' So I did,” Brian recalled. The result? Broken tabs, a mangled workpiece, and a smoking spindle. The high feed rate and aggressive depth of cut destroyed the part mid-operation. Greg Porter, a guitar maker and CNC veteran, nodded in agreement. “Dust is bad—you want chips,” he explained, emphasizing that proper chip ejection prevents heat buildup and tool wear. Both makers stressed the importance of balancing speed with precision, especially when working with different materials like cherry (softer) versus walnut (denser). Workholding Woes and the “Maker's Dozen” Brian also shared a mishap where inadequate hold-downs led to a shifting workpiece, ruining a cut. His solution? Nesting parts efficiently and pre-drilling problematic areas to avoid tab failures. But the bigger takeaway was his “Maker's Dozen” philosophy: “Make 12 units at a time. Price for 10, because two might fail. By the next dozen, you've optimized the process,” Brian said. This approach minimizes waste and allows incremental improvements without massive sunk costs. Greg added that for high-value materials (like exotic guitar woods), salvaging is worth the effort. But for sheet goods, sometimes tossing a botched piece saves more time than fixing it. 3D Printing: Prototyping's Best Friend The duo pivoted to 3D printing, where Greg showcased a gear assembly that took a dozen iterations just to fit a timing belt correctly. “Fail fast,” he advised. “Get the mistakes out early.” Brian echoed this, describing how he prints small test sections (like threaded parts) before committing to long prints. *”A 30-minute test beats a 3-hour disaster,”* he said. Both praised modern printers for reliability but acknowledged that vibration and material quirks still demand patience. Scaling Up: Robots and Revenue Looking ahead, Brian envisions his CNC as a cash-flow generator. Inspired by a photographer who sold everything from keychains to $5,000 prints, he plans to offer small, accessible products (like $25 cribbage boards) alongside high-end furniture. “The $25 items keep the lights on; the big commissions are the dream,” he said. Greg, who runs multiple machines simultaneously, laughed: “When all three robots—CNC, laser, mill—are humming, I feel like a factory.” But he cautioned that optimization is key. His “RTM” (Ready to Manufacture) files undergo dozens of tweaks to shave seconds off cycle times. The Bottom Line: Failure = Progress Both makers agreed: Failure isn't just inevitable—it's necessary. Whether it's dialing in feeds/speeds, salvaging scraps into new products (like Brian's failed cutting boards becoming trivets), or accepting that some ATMs (products) will stay unplugged, the path to success is paved with missteps.

 Insights from Makers Brian Benham and Greg Porter" In this episode of the Maker's Quest Podcast, hosts Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts and Greg Porter from Skyscraper Guitars delved into the often-overlooked reality of failure in the creative process—especially when turning ideas into marketable products. Both seasoned makers shared candid stories of their struggles, lessons learned, and how embracing failure is a non-negotiable step toward innovation and profitability. Hosted by Brian Benham from Benham Design Concepts https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Brian Benham on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/benhamdesignconcepts.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ Greg Porter from SkyScraper Guitars https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage   The CNC Learning Curve: Speed Isn't Always King Brian Benham, a furniture maker and CNC enthusiast, kicked off the discussion with his early trials on his new Avid CNC machine. His goal? To efficiently produce a yin-yang wine bottle holder. But his initial excitement was tempered by a harsh lesson: "I watched YouTube videos where people said, ‘Why are you running so slow? Crank it up!' So I did," Brian recalled. The result? Broken tabs, a mangled workpiece, and a smoking spindle. The high feed rate and aggressive depth of cut destroyed the part mid-operation. Greg Porter, a guitar maker and CNC veteran, nodded in agreement. "Dust is bad—you want chips," he explained, emphasizing that proper chip ejection prevents heat buildup and tool wear. Both makers stressed the importance of balancing speed with precision, especially when working with different materials like cherry (softer) versus walnut (denser). Workholding Woes and the "Maker's Dozen" Brian also shared a mishap where inadequate hold-downs led to a shifting workpiece, ruining a cut. His solution? Nesting parts efficiently and pre-drilling problematic areas to avoid tab failures. But the bigger takeaway was his "Maker's Dozen" philosophy: "Make 12 units at a time. Price for 10, because two might fail. By the next dozen, you've optimized the process," Brian said. This approach minimizes waste and allows incremental improvements without massive sunk costs. Greg added that for high-value materials (like exotic guitar woods), salvaging is worth the effort. But for sheet goods, sometimes tossing a botched piece saves more time than fixing it. 3D Printing: Prototyping's Best Friend The duo pivoted to 3D printing, where Greg showcased a gear assembly that took a dozen iterations just to fit a timing belt correctly. "Fail fast," he advised. "Get the mistakes out early." Brian echoed this, describing how he prints small test sections (like threaded parts) before committing to long prints. *"A 30-minute test beats a 3-hour disaster,"* he said. Both praised modern printers for reliability but acknowledged that vibration and material quirks still demand patience. Scaling Up: Robots and Revenue Looking ahead, Brian envisions his CNC as a cash-flow generator. Inspired by a photographer who sold everything from keychains to $5,000 prints, he plans to offer small, accessible products (like $25 cribbage boards) alongside high-end furniture. "The $25 items keep the lights on; the big commissions are the dream," he said. Greg, who runs multiple machines simultaneously, laughed: "When all three robots—CNC, laser, mill—are humming, I feel like a factory." But he cautioned that optimization is key. His "RTM" (Ready to Manufacture) files undergo dozens of tweaks to shave seconds off cycle times. The Bottom Line: Failure = Progress Both makers agreed: Failure isn't just inevitable—it's necessary. Whether it's dialing in feeds/speeds, salvaging scraps into new products (like Brian's failed cutting boards becoming trivets), or accepting that some ATMs (products) will stay unplugged, the path to success is paved with missteps.  

In today's episode, Jeff and Susan would like to give you hope that our country doesn't have to be so hatefully divided when it comes to politics. To that end, they have posted two separate interviews: one with Greg Porter who is voting for Donald Trump (this episode) and one with DeShauna Blankinship who is voting for Kamala Harris (see Part 2). Please note that Jeff and Susan don't necessarily agree with everything their interviewees say here, AND they will always advocate for your right to vote for whomever you choose. Enjoy the episodes!

In today's episode, Jeff and Susan would like to give you hope that our country doesn't have to be so hatefully divided when it comes to politics. To that end, they have posted two separate interviews: one with DeShauna Blankinship who is voting for Kamala Harris (this episode), and one with Greg Porter who is voting for Donald Trump (see Part 1). Please note that Jeff and Susan don't necessarily agree with everything their interviewees say here, AND they will always advocate for your right to vote for whomever you choose. Enjoy the episodes!

In this episode, Brian and Greg talk about how they set up their tools in their shop and how important it is to set up tools accurately. They then share a few tips on tool setup. Watch It On YouTube Hosted by Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Brian Benham Portfolio: https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/custom-furniture-colorado-springs/ Brian’s Woodworking Plans: https://www.digitaldesignconcepts.art/ Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ In this episode of The Maker's Quest Podcast, hosts Brian Benham and Greg Porter explore how millwright techniques—precision alignment, trueness, and flatness—can be applied to home workshops. While most of us don't work in factories, many woodworking and metalworking tasks benefit from the same attention to accuracy that millwrights use when setting up industrial machinery. What Does a Millwright Do? Greg explains that millwrights are responsible for installing and aligning machinery in factories, ensuring that conveyor belts, worktables, and other equipment are perfectly level, square, and true. This precision ensures repetitive tasks are performed accurately over time. In woodworking, similar principles apply—especially when setting up tools like table saws, jointers, and bandsaws. While we may not need industrial-level precision, small adjustments can significantly impact the quality of our work. Table Saw Setup: The Heart of the Workshop For many woodworkers, the table saw is the centerpiece of the shop. Brian and Greg discuss the importance of aligning key components: Miter Slots to Blade: Brian uses a dial indicator (or even a combination square and single-tooth method) to ensure the blade runs parallel to the miter slots. Fence Alignment: A common debate is whether the fence should be perfectly parallel to the blade or slightly toed out to prevent kickback. Brian prefers perfect alignment for precision joinery, while Greg notes that modern riving knives reduce kickback risk. Outfeed Table Leveling: While the table saw itself doesn't need to be level, the outfeed table should be coplanar to prevent workpiece tipping during cuts. Greg shares his experience setting up his SawStop table saw, praising its out-of-the-box accuracy but ultimately replacing the factory extension wing with a custom torsion-box router table for better precision. Bandsaws: The Unpredictable Beast Both hosts agree that bandsaws are among the most frustrating tools to keep dialed in. Heat expansion in the blade, tension changes, and wheel alignment all contribute to inconsistency. Blade Drift: Even after careful setup, bandsaws can drift due to heat and tension changes. Wider Blades Stay Truer Longer: Greg notes that resawing with a wide blade holds alignment better than narrow blades used for curves. Jointers and Drum Sanders: The Battle for Flatness Jointer Setup: Ensuring infeed and outfeed tables are coplanar is critical. Greg recommends using a precision straightedge and feeler gauges to check alignment. Drum Sanders: Brian struggled with inconsistent sanding until he used a dial indicator to align the drum to the bed. Greg upgraded to a Powermatic with automatic feed-rate adjustment, reducing burn marks and snipe. The Importance of Leveling in Metalworking Greg, with a metalworking background, emphasizes the importance of leveling milling machines and welding tables: Milling Machines: Must be leveled to prevent twist in the frame, which accelerates wear and reduces accuracy. Welding Tables: A flat reference surface (like a cast iron table or granite slab) ensures precise fabrication. Brian adds that his Langmuir Systems welding table transformed his metalwork by providing a reliable reference surface. Tools Where Leveling Matters Less Not every tool needs millwright-level precision: Mobile Tools: Bandsaws and drill presses on wheeled bases don't require perfect leveling since they're constantly moved. Workbenches: While flatness matters, minor deviations (like Brian's 1/16″ over 8 feet) are often negligible in woodworking. Final Thoughts: Patience Pays Off Both hosts agree that taking the time to properly set up tools—whether it's a table saw, jointer, or milling machine—saves frustration later. Dial Indicators & Feeler Gauges: Inexpensive tools that make a big difference. Revisiting Adjustments: Tools drift over time; periodic checks ensure ongoing accuracy. Know Your Tolerances: Wood moves, so ultra-fine precision isn't always necessary—but machinery setup should be as accurate as possible. Conclusion While most home workshops don't need factory-level precision, applying millwright techniques to key tools can drastically improve accuracy and repeatability. Whether you're dialing in a table saw or wrestling with a bandsaw, a little extra setup time pays off in the long run.

Industrial Talk is onsite at OMG, Q1 Meeting and talking to Greg Porter and Chris Tranchina with Sev1Tech about "Digital Twin solutions applied to the manufacturing of rockets". Scott MacKenzie hosts the Industrial Talk podcast, celebrating industry professionals and their innovations. At the OMG q1 meeting, Greg Porter and Chris Tranchina from Sev1Tech discuss their work on a digital twin of the Michoud Assembly Facility, funded by a NASA grant through LSU. The digital twin aims to simulate the manufacturing process of rockets for the Artemis program, using 3D laser scanning to capture the facility's current state. The project, still in progress, has scanned half the facility and is addressing issues like equipment tracking and optimizing crane operations. The ultimate goal is to simulate rocket builds, enhancing efficiency and reducing errors. Action Items [ ] Reach out to Greg Porter (greg.porter@sev1tech.com) to learn more about the project. [ ] Reach out to Chris Tranchina (christopher.tranchina@sev1tech.com) to learn more about the project. [ ] Connect with Greg and Chris on LinkedIn to stay updated on their work. Outline Introduction and Welcome Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry professionals and their innovations. Scott welcomes listeners and highlights the passion and dedication of industry professionals. The podcast is broadcasting from the OMG q1 meeting, a gathering of problem solvers passionate about education, collaboration, and innovation. Scott introduces Greg Porter and Chris Tranchina, who are part of the digital twin Consortium and have presented earlier at the meeting. Background of Greg Porter and Chris Tranchina Greg Porter introduces himself as a senior systems architect with Sev1Tech. Chris Tranchina describes himself as a 3D animator and modeler, brought in for real-time expertise in rendering the digital twin. Scott MacKenzie asks about the digital thread and how it ensures data trust by leaving data in its authoritative system. Greg explains the digital thread's role in connecting source systems through APIs and exposing metadata to understand data relationships. Collaboration with LSU and NASA Greg discusses the partnership with LSU to build a digital twin of the Michoud Assembly Facility, funded by a NASA grant. The facility is used for assembling rockets for the Artemis program, including the Space Launch System, the Exploration Upper Stage, and the Orion spacecraft. The objective is to simulate the build of the rockets by understanding the current state of the facility through 3D laser scanning. The project is still a work in progress, with roughly half of the facility scanned so far. Challenges and Progress in the Digital Twin Project Scott MacKenzie inquires about the challenges faced in digitizing the facility without existing blueprints. Greg explains the importance of understanding the current state of the building to simulate the build process. The project includes scanning platforms, tooling, flight hardware, and the building itself to create a detailed digital model. Chris adds that the digital twin helps in optimizing manufacturing processes and addressing issues like...

In this episode, we talk about people we follow for design inspiration.  Some of them might surprise you, as inspiration can come from anywhere. Watch The Podcast: On this episode of The Maker's Quest Podcast, hosts Brian Bynum and Greg Porter shared their go-to sources for design inspiration—both online and offline. From woodworking to metal shaping, Photoshop to sci-fi architecture, their picks span a wide range of creative disciplines. Here's a breakdown of their favorite channels, creators, and philosophies on staying inspired. Beyond Woodworking: Unexpected Sources of Inspiration Brian kicked off the conversation with a surprising admission: he rarely watches woodworking content anymore. Instead, he seeks inspiration from adjacent fields to push his craft forward. 1. Lighting Mentor (Jeremy) A Pixar colorist and lighting expert, Jeremy's channel dives deep into light, shadow, and digital painting in Photoshop. Brian credits him for elevating his photo-rendering skills, helping him create more realistic and dynamic presentations for clients.  https://www.youtube.com/@LightingMentor 2. The Futur Academy (Chris Do & Christo) While Chris Do's main channel focuses on business, his secondary channel, The Futur Academy, explores graphic design principles—layout grids, typography, and composition. Brian applied these concepts to furniture design, even using the Fibonacci sequence in a table project.  https://www.youtube.com/@TheFuturAcademy 3. Dami Lee (Architecture) Dami's channel analyzes fictional architecture from movies like Dune and Blade Runner, blending storytelling with urban design. Her thought experiments—like “What would living in this sci-fi city feel like?”—push Brian to think beyond traditional forms.  https://www.youtube.com/@DamiLeeArch 4. SketchUp's Official YouTube Channel SketchUp's live drawing sessions (hosted by artist Aaron Dixon) taught Brian sculptural modeling techniques—like designing the Toy Story dog in 3D—which he now applies to furniture. The community's accessibility (even direct messaging experts) makes it invaluable. https://www.youtube.com/@SketchUp 5. Practical Engineering (Grady) Grady breaks down real-world engineering—why bridges stand, how dams work—in digestible ways. Brian emphasized how understanding mechanics can improve design, especially for functional pieces. https://www.youtube.com/@PracticalEngineeringChannel 6. Honorable Mentions: Lost Gems X-Files The Group of Inspiration – some of the best. Giaco Whatever https://www.youtube.com/@GiacoWhatever Cactus Workshop https://www.youtube.com/@Cactusworkshopchannel Works By Solo https://www.youtube.com/@WorksbySolo  Ron Covell https://www.youtube.com/c/roncovell Van Neistat https://www.youtube.com/@vanneistat The Devil Wears Prada 99 Percent Invisible by Roman Mars, Book and Podcast Greg's Picks: From Boats to Guitars Greg's inspirations skew toward craftsmanship with a technical twist. 1. Tails From A Shipwright Leo restores historic wooden sailboats, showcasing traditional shipwright techniques. Greg admires his problem-solving, like hand-carving complex joints, and the channel's archival value for vanishing skills.  https://www.youtube.com/@TipsfromaShipwrightvideos 2. Envision Prototype (Car Design) This builder frankensteins cars, merging halves of different models, then hand-shapes new panels. Greg loves the deep dives into hidden details (door sills, firewalls) that make a design functional.  https://www.youtube.com/@iNVisionPrototypes 3. Ken Parker (Archtop Guitar Works) The mind behind the revolutionary Parker Fly guitar, Ken now crafts composite archtop guitars. His blend of carbon fiber innovation and traditional luthiery inspires Greg's own guitar-making ventures.  https://www.youtube.com/@kenparkerarchtoppery9440 4. Michael DiTullo (Industrial Design) A Nike and automotive designer, Michael's live sketching sessions reveal his design process. Greg studies how he refines thumbnails into fully rendered products—applicable to any craft.  https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelDiTullo 5. Wray Schelin's Metal Shaping Wray's metalwork videos (like building an Alfa Romeo prototype) emphasize form development. Greg calls his approach a masterclass in translating 2D sketches into 3D objects.  https://www.youtube.com/@proshaper 6. Honorable Mentions: Lost Gems Sawyer Design https://www.youtube.com/@SawyerDesign Engles Coach Shop https://www.youtube.com/@EngelsCoachShop David Marks https://www.youtube.com/@DavidJMarks Tom Sachs – 10 Bullets https://youtu.be/28reJVNLk80?si=z4j1SinQyF-4KlA4 Love Letter to Plywood. https://youtu.be/pVxldyIa0Bg?si=INfyXMohCihPZmf9 Project Runway, when Tim Gunn was a judge Key Takeaways: How to Stay Inspired Look Outside Your Niche: Brian's best ideas come from non-woodworking sources. Embrace Adjacent Skills: Greg's guitar bender project fused welding, machining, and electronics—skills learned from diverse channels. Steal Like an Artist: As Greg put it, “Don't borrow—steal and make it yours.” Hosted by Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Brian Benham Portfolio: https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/custom-furniture-colorado-springs/ Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ

In this episode, the guys talk about their experiences at tradeshows, art galleries, and arts and crafts shows. They talk about what they do to make the show a success and things that are a challenge. Watch The Podcast Show Notes Sometimes, the best contacts you make at a show are with other vendors for B2B business. Not everyone gets enough orders at the show to pay for the booth fee, but people often remember you and become future customers. The general rule of marketing is 1 out of 1000.  On average you have to hand out 1000 business cards to get 1 customer. or 1000 clicks to get a sale, etc. Sharing a booth fee can help bring down the cost, but check the booth rules to be sure you aren’t breaking their rules and get kicked out.  Have literature that customers can take with them so they can look you up later.  Present yourself in a professional, friendly manner; don’t have RBF (Resting Brian Face) Hosted by Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Brian Benham https://www.briansbenham.com/  Portfolio: https://www.behance.net/Brian_Benham  Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ Custom Furniture https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ The Power of Trade Shows and Art Fairs for Your Business Trade shows, art fairs, and craft exhibitions can be game-changers for small businesses and makers. Whether you’re selling handmade furniture, custom guitars, or unique woodworking tools, these events offer invaluable opportunities to connect with customers, network with industry peers, and boost sales. In a recent episode of The Maker's Quest Podcast, hosts Greg Porter (of Skyscraper Guitars) and Brian Benham (of Benham Design) shared their experiences and insights on how trade shows and art fairs can elevate your business. Here's what we learned. Why Trade Shows and Art Fairs Matter 1. Building Relationships & Networking Greg emphasized that trade shows aren't just about immediate sales—they're about building long-term relationships. At guitar shows, he connects with luthiers, repair technicians, and builders—his core customers. These interactions often lead to future sales, referrals, and collaborations. “So much of conventions and trade shows for me are just the relationship part. There's the money and ringing up sales, and that's great. But meeting people, connecting dots—that's where the real value is.” Brian echoed this sentiment, noting that even casual conversations at art fairs can lead to unexpected sales months later. 2. Introducing Your Brand to New Audiences Trade shows allow you to put your product directly in people's hands. Greg found that items like T-shirts, which rarely sold online, became top sellers at events simply because customers could see and touch them. Brian shared a similar experience with cutting boards—while they barely moved on his website, they flew off the table at craft fairs. 3. The “Before and After” Effect Greg pointed out that some of the best business happens before and after the show officially starts. Vendors and serious buyers often arrive early or linger late, making it the perfect time for meaningful conversations. Challenges & How to Overcome Them 1. Noise & Distractions At guitar shows, Greg faced the challenge of competing with loud amplifiers and live demos, making it hard to have technical discussions. His solution? Handing out business cards and encouraging follow-up emails or Zoom calls. 2. Gallery vs. Art Fair Sales Brian discussed the pros and cons of selling through galleries: Pros: Exposure to high-end buyers. Cons: High commission fees (often 50%) and pressure to produce lower-cost pieces. His workaround? Designing simpler, faster-to-make pieces specifically for galleries, focusing on decorative elements that elevate perceived value. 3. Logistics & Setup Both hosts stressed the importance of preparing for logistics: Bring a friend to help with setup and booth coverage. Arrive early to secure a good spot and avoid last-minute stress. Use tablecloths, signage, and displays to make your booth inviting. Have backup payment options (Square, PayPal, cash) in case of tech failures. Pro Tips for Success 1. Engage Visitors Without Being Pushy Smile and greet people—even if they don't stop. Encourage interaction by letting them hold or try products. Tell a story about your craft—people remember experiences, not just products. 2. Offer Multiple Price Points Brian sets up his booth with: High-ticket items (furniture) to draw attention. Mid-range pieces (clocks, plaques). Affordable impulse buys (cutting boards, small puzzles). Greg does the same, balancing premium guitar tools with lower-cost accessories. 3. Leave a Lasting Impression Business cards, postcards, and stickers help customers remember you. Giveaways (like candy or small puzzles) create goodwill, especially with kids. Follow up after the event with a thank-you email or social media shoutout. Final Thoughts Trade shows and art fairs aren't just sales opportunities—they're marketing, networking, and brand-building goldmines. Whether you're a woodworker, luthier, or any kind of maker, these events can help you:  Grow your customer base  Test new products  Forge industry connections  Boost brand awareness As Greg and Brian proved, success at these events comes down to preparation, engagement, and follow-up. So, if you've been on the fence about signing up for a show, take the leap—you might just find your next big client or sale.

Rep. Greg Porter, chief Democrat on the powerful Ways and Mean Committee, rejoins the podcast to reflect on the 2024 legislative session and to give us a preview as we look to the interim and the upcoming budget session.

Tonight, we talk about how to price your work so you can run a successful business and put food on your table.  Whether it is pricing a custom piece or a mass-manufactured piece, we've got you covered with a few tips you can implement today to price your work for success! Hosted by Brian Benham  https://www.benhamdesignconcepts.com/ Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/

Digital engineering is a relatively new field that is having a big impact on space commerce. On this edition of the Ex Terra Podcast, Tom Patton talks with Greg Porter, Senior Systems Architect at Sev1Tech, which provides IT modernization, cloud, cybersecurity, engineering, training and program support services to U.S. government agencies and major commercial organizations. Headquartered in the Washington D.C. metro area, Sev1Tech is a trusted contractor supporting critical missions across the defense, intelligence, homeland security, space, and health markets. "The worker out on the floor can actually put on the hololens and they can see virtual items overlaid into their real space." Greg Porter Sev1Tech offers extensive digital engineering solutions such as model-based engineering, digital thread design, development and implementation, and digital twin design. These allow the company to create artificial and augmented reality environments for remote training and problem solving. "The worker out on the floor can actually put on the hololens and they can see virtual items overlaid into their real space," Porter said, "which is super helpful when they're working on tasks and they can see work instructions right in front of them. And it even interacts with the person using the desktop model remotely." Porter has been with the company since October 2021, leading the Artificial Intelligence team as well as the company's Digital Twin and Digital Thread efforts. For over 12 years, Greg Porter has been a noteworthy leader in the IT industry. Prior to Sev1Tech, he was a Senior Systems Architect at Geocent, leading data analytics for logistics and Hadoop cluster projects, and Senior Big Data Administrator at Honeywell FM&T, where he was responsible for Big Data infrastructure design, configuration, installation, and security. How does what happens in space affect your everyday life? The Ex Terra podcast is dedicated to introducing you to many of the interesting people involved in the commercial space industry, and taking you behind the scenes with many of the companies making significant contributions to the new space economy. The podcast is available on Anchor, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Audible, Breaker, Overcast, Pocketcasts and Radio Public.

Long-time legislator, Rep. Greg Porter, sits down to recap the events of the day and week, including procedural maneuvering by House Democrats that yielded the very first floor vote on the issue of cannabis legalization in Indiana. He also shares more information on the budget, the role of Ways and Means, and what it's like to have served in the majority, minority (and even with a 50-50 split).

In this episode, we talk about how makers handle challenges. We talk about acquiring tools, acquiring skills, acquiring new clients, and how social media algorithms are diluting creativity. Website: https://www.themakersquest.com/ Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Brian Benham https://www.brianbenham.com/ Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ  

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mike Mercado welcomes to the show one of the creators of the brand new comic book, SHOWTIME, Greg Porter! Greg walks us through the process of making a comic, what story he has in store for the readers, and so much more! Enjoy our conversation here on Mercado Airwaves. Links: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mercado-airwaves/id1197066772?mt=2 https://open.spotify.com/show/6drV95Mt4foLzeQp90J7A1?si=0WdNH4XxT0aHtvTWBRaLTA https://www.youtube.com/c/mercadoairwavesnetwork https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkLnBvZGJlYW4uY29tL21lcmNhZG9haXJ3YXZlcy9mZWVkLnhtbA?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwio1LKu64fsAhXFa80KHfMJBLYQ4aUDegQIARAC&hl=en https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/231d98a7-cdaa-4d69-a62a-2c15e443bf94/Mercado-Airwaves https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/mercado-airwaves https://mercadoairwaves.podbean.com/ https://soundcloud.com/wcpt820 https://soundcloud.com/user-530853141 https://tunein.com/podcasts/Media--Entertainment-Podcasts/Mercado-Airwaves-p1187820/ https://gonemissingpodcast.podbean.com/ ROKU CHANNEL- THE REWIND SPORTS :60 https://www.patreon.com/MercadoAirwavesNetwork https://mercadoairwaves.myteespring.co/ The Sports Cubicle 9pm-10pm Sundays WCPT820.com #comics #comic #comicbook #comicbooks #dc #marvel 

 In this episode, the guys talk about The Fudge Factor and allowing for accumulative error in both your work and planning out your work.  Where do you hide the attentional errors or discrepancies, and how to prevent them?   Website: https://www.themakersquest.com/ Greg Porter https://skyscraperguitars.com/ Greg On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregsgaragekc/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SkyscraperGuitars YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/GregsGarage Brian Benham https://www.brianbenham.com/ Brian On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/benham_design/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXO8f1IIliMKKlu5PgSpodQ  

Prices rising high with record-breaking inflation. A one-on-one with AG Todd Rokita and we talk to the state rep. Greg Porter and the White House Deputy Press Secretary.

Wayne catches up with his long-time friend, Greg Porter a.k.a. Popbottles.

Los ñoñonautas se echan un clavado en la nostalgia para revisar los efectos e impactos de Wonder Woman: Dioses y Mortales, épica saga de la Mujer Maravilla post-Crisis '85 a cargo de George Pérez, con Len Wein, Greg Porter y Bruce Patterson. FECHA: Diciembre 14, 2020. MESA: Isaac de la Rocha, Ilse Espinoza y Valentín García.

Scientific Poker Strategy creator Greg Porter, who has been grinding hard throughout the Covid lockdown, returns to the Zoo today. It's a packed episode as we not only go over playing on Ignition, Bros, and the OOP training game, I get back to some strategy with two hand reviews. Porter reports on successfully getting a… The post The Poker Zoo, Ep. 52: Porter Goes Bananas appeared first on Out of Position.

Special edition today, focused on OOP's partner coach, Greg Porter. Greg will present a webinar titled Scientific Poker Strategy: Using GTO+ to Explore and Design Robust Strategies on Saturday, March 21st. Having established himself as a successful professional player, this last year Greg has been quietly expanding his poker coaching practice: this seminar is one… The post The Poker Zoo, Ep. 41: Scientific Strategy with Porter appeared first on Out of Position.

The Boys discuss the upcoming Super Bowl with two guests (Greg Porter and Kelvin Jarmon), look into some of the weirder prop bets available for the big game, name their favorite Super Bowls of the past decade, and as always ... mailbag!

Cole Bryson and Jed Blackwell recap Friday's High School Football games, Preview the Playoffs, and Interview Lou Bezjack and Greg Porter.

Episode one guest Greg Porter returns to the Zoo. We talk about his post-WSOP shift to Ignition online, discuss the talented streamer Invoker, and confront an interesting hand in TBR that's really not about the hand. The podcast closes with a hint of what's come at OOP. Greg also runs the Out of Position PPPoker Club… The post The Poker Zoo, Ep. 29: Porter appeared first on Out of Position.

What might be changing for Indiana's schools? Lawmakers host Jon Schwantes will ask Representatives Bob Behning and Greg Porter, both of Indianapolis, Teresa Meredith, President of ISTA, and Chris Himsel, Superintendent of Northwest Allen County Schools.

What might be changing for Indiana's schools? Lawmakers host Jon Schwantes will ask Representatives Bob Behning and Greg Porter, both of Indianapolis, Teresa Meredith, President of ISTA, and Chris Himsel, Superintendent of Northwest Allen County Schools.

Led by singer/songwriter Alan Williams, along with compatriots Darleen Wilson (guitar) and Greg Porter (bass), and a host of new and old collaborators, Birdsong At Morning spins elegant tapestries of sound, words, and music. Alan Williams discusses their new album “Signs and Wonders” that features 10 original compositions by Alan, and an inventive (and timely) interpretation of Supertramp's “The Logical Song.” www.BirdSongatMorning.com This episode was sponsored by www.NationalParksArtsFoundation.org

From the quietly ambitious 4-CD box set debut, “Annals of My Glass House” (2011), through the expansive territory of “A Slight Departure” (2015), to the masterful new album, “Signs and Wonders” (2018), Birdsong At Morning has garnered rave reviews and airplay around the world.   Led by songer/songwriter Alan Williams, along with compatriots Darleen Wilson (guitar) and Greg Porter (bass), and a host of new and old collaborators, Birdsong At Morning spins elegant tapestries of sound, words, and music.

Greg Porter is an architect, designer, maker and the host of the YouTube channel Greg's Garage, where he builds cool designs and solutions using 3D printing and fabrication machines that he built with his own hands. In this interview, we talk about his journey to being an architect, what moves him as a maker and designer, and the future of design as we integrate our creativity with artificial intelligence. You can find more about Greg on his website, www.gregsgaragekc.com.

This week, Bobby, Tom and Ian are joined by our good friend Greg Porter to talk about Sean McVay accepting the Rams head coaching job and how the ’Skins should go about filling both the OC and DC positions. We also recap a wild weekend of playoff football, which thankfully resulted in a Cowboys loss. Then Ian tells the story of how he missed Alex Ovechkin’s historic 1,000th point. Check back later this week for part two of our conversation with Porter in which we discuss our favorite sports movies and the TV show “Friends."

This week host Jon Schwantes addresses the state budget with his guests Rep. Tim Brown, Rep. Greg Porter, Sen. Luke Kenley, and Sen. Karen Tallian.

This week host Jon Schwantes addresses the state budget with his guests Rep. Tim Brown, Rep. Greg Porter, Sen. Luke Kenley, and Sen. Karen Tallian.

Greg Porter from XalerStudios.com joins the show. A Summer of MuggleCastin’ We give a listen to some samples of the OOTP soundtrack. Andrew thinks “Hoop” has done a good job. Is the town from the deluxe edition just outside JKR’s window? What was Bellatrix talking about to Voldemort in the Ministry? Could the symbol represent items of the Founders? Road to Deathly Hallows: Where are the Horcruxes? Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, Hogwarts, Azkaban, St. Mungo’s? Jamie thinks these are all too public places to hide a Horcrux. Road to Deathly Hallows: Who Will be With Who? Connections. Chicken Soup.