Advertise on podcast: Makers of the USA

Episode Highlights: * Why so many successful entrepreneurs still feel stuck or unfulfilled * The danger of hiding behind titles, success, or “having it all together” * How fear shows up differently for leaders and founders * Why storytelling doesn’t have to be dramatic to be powerful * The six-question framework Josh uses to uncover authentic personal brands * How podcasts and media appearances can be leveraged as strategic marketing tools * The Year of the Horse as a mindset for 2026: momentum, courage, and clarity Key Themes: Authenticity • Fear • Personal Branding • Storytelling • Entrepreneurship • Momentum • Leadership • Identity • Growth Memorable Quotes: * “Everything happening in your outer world is a reflection of what’s going on inside.” * “You already know what you want. The real work is understanding why you’re not getting it.” * “Your story isn’t boring—you’re just too close to it.” Who This Episode Is For: * Makers and creatives building something meaningful * Entrepreneurs in the messy middle * Leaders who look successful on paper but feel disconnected inside * Anyone ready to stop hiding and start moving forward If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Guest: 🧍‍♂️ Steven White — Co-Founder & Creative Director, [Different Regard](https://differentregard.com) 📍 Location: Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland Highlights: * Steven’s journey from finance to fashion — and how narcolepsy changed his path * Founding story of Different Regard (2010–2011) and building an in-house factory by 2013 * Transition from T-shirts to fully tailored suits and small-batch production * The philosophy behind custom consultations and valuing craftsmanship * Baltimore’s role as a creative hub and why Steven chooses to stay and build there * Mentorship and youth education initiatives teaching pattern-making, sewing, and design * Global yet local sourcing — from Baltimore to the UK and back * Creating standout custom pieces for clients like Real Housewives of Potomac’s Robin Dixon * How Different Regard balances high-end design with community values and sustainability * Kristan’s personal connection: Steven designed her suit for her national pageant Key Quotes: > “I want to show young people that you don’t have to sew to be in this space — there are so many ways to build a career in fashion.” > “We don’t just make clothes; we make people feel different, confident, and connected to the process.” > “Baltimore is where my story began — and it’s where I want to give back." Connect: 🎧 Listen to more episodes: makersoftheusa.com 📸 Follow @makersoftheusa and @differentregard on Instagram If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Episode Notes: Makers of the USA with Elise Marie Designs In this episode of Makers of the USA, host Kristan Vermeulen welcomes Elise Marie Designs, a Maine-based jewelry artist whose work blends sustainability, elegance, and storytelling. Elise opens up about her journey as a designer, how nature and the Maine coastline inspire her collections, and what it takes to build a thriving creative business in today’s world. Elise doesn’t just create—she teaches. Through workshops and classes, she shares her craft with others, giving participants a chance to learn jewelry-making techniques, explore their creativity, and leave with something truly handmade. It’s all part of her mission to expand the maker movement and keep the spirit of craftsmanship alive. You’ll hear about: ✨ Elise’s path from experimenting with design to building her own brand ✨ How sustainability shapes her process and material choices ✨ Why teaching workshops has become one of the most rewarding parts of her journey ✨ The challenges and triumphs of being a Maine-based maker ✨ Advice for aspiring artisans and entrepreneurs Whether you’re an artist, a maker, or someone who simply loves meaningful jewelry, Elise’s story will inspire you to celebrate craftsmanship and support local makers. Explore Elise Marie Designs: www.elisemariedesigns.com More episodes of Makers of the USA: www.makersoftheusa.com If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Key Topics Covered: The Spark Behind Origin USA Pete talks about how he saw an opportunity—and responsibility—to bring manufacturing back to America, starting with jiu-jitsu gis. Manufacturing in Maine The commitment to American supply chains and reviving long-lost skills in the state of Maine. Resilience & Risk Why Pete bet everything he had—literally—to get his business off the ground and why he never looked back. Partnership with Jocko Willink How teaming up with the Navy SEAL turned podcaster and author helped scale Origin’s mission and visibility. What "Made in America" Really Means The difference between a marketing label and a mission-driven movement. Advice for Makers & Entrepreneurs Pete shares powerful insight on grit, self-belief, and doing hard things—even when no one else believes in you. Notable Quotes: “If you're not willing to put it all on the line, then you're not building something that’s going to last.” “We don't just manufacture here. We grow our own cotton. We spin our own yarn. We dye, cut, and sew—all in America.” “You have to live the hard days to earn the good ones.” If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Hats, Hustle, and Heritage: How John Brubaker Wears Every Role with Purpose In a world where reinvention is often just a buzzword, John Brubaker is living proof that you can evolve without losing the core of who you are. Known to many as Coach Bru, a celebrated author, speaker, and performance coach, Brubaker has turned his passion for leadership into bestselling books and transformative programs. But in a bold pivot, he's added a new title to his resume—master hatmaker and founder of Hats by Bru. This podcast episode dives into the story behind that transformation, revealing how a deep love for craftsmanship, style, and storytelling led him to create a brand that sits at the intersection of identity and artistry. From Coaching Greatness to Crafting Crowns In the episode, Brubaker shares how he went from writing leadership books and speaking on big stages to hand-shaping hats in his workshop in Maine. What started as a personal passion evolved into Hats by Bru, a bespoke hat company rooted in tradition and individual expression. "Every hat I make is a reflection of someone’s story,” Brubaker says in the episode. “It’s not just an accessory—it’s a statement." Listeners learn how he immersed himself in the craft, studying under master hatters in Texas and Colorado, and why attention to detail—something he honed as a coach—is now the soul of his business. Why Hats by Bru is More Than a Brand Brubaker doesn’t just make hats—he creates an experience. Whether it’s a custom fitting, a storytelling session during the design process, or a community event, Hats by Bru reflects a lifestyle of confidence, authenticity, and legacy. In the episode, Brubaker talks about how his clients range from country musicians and executives to creatives and everyday folks who want to wear something uniquely theirs. His custom events—private hat parties and pop-ups—turn craftsmanship into connection. “People light up when they put on the hat that’s made for them. It’s like they’re stepping into who they really are,” he shares. A Legacy of Leadership Before hats, Brubaker was (and still is) a powerhouse in performance coaching. With titles like Seeds of Success, The Coach Approach, and Stadium Status, he’s helped leaders unlock potential through mindset shifts and strategic focus. His work has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Fast Company, and he’s hosted The Coach Bru Podcast, where leadership and life intersect. Interestingly, the two worlds—coaching and hat-making—aren’t so different. As he explains in the episode: “Coaching is about seeing people clearly. So is crafting a hat. Both require listening, understanding, and shaping something with intention.” Blending Purpose with Practice The episode touches on the importance of slowing down, working with your hands, and creating something meaningful in a digital-first world. Brubaker reflects on the joy of building with intention and the creative peace he’s found in hat making. It’s a refreshing take on entrepreneurship that values depth over speed and connection over clicks. He’s also authored a companion guide, The Care and Feeding of Your Hat, which mirrors his leadership ethos: take care of your tools, your story, and yourself. Final Stitch: What This Episode Teaches Us This conversation with John Brubaker reminds us that our paths don’t have to be linear. You can write books, lead teams, and shape fedoras—all with the same heart. Whether you're a creative, a leader, or someone in search of a new beginning, Hats by Bru is more than a business—it's a metaphor for reclaiming your identity, one stitch at a time. Listen to the full episode to hear how Coach Bru weaves storytelling, legacy, and leadership into every brim and every brand he builds. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Meet Jen Dean: Photographer, dark alchemist, and guide for personal transformation The healing power of boudoir photography What is “dark alchemy”? Jen explains the process of facing shadow to reveal the light Reclaiming identity through vulnerability and embodiment Jen’s personal journey: how she came to this work and why it matters The importance of self-love in a culture that profits from insecurity How her sessions go beyond the photoshoot — creating space for emotional breakthroughs Advice for women beginning their path of self-exploration Learn more or book with Jen at JenDean.com If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Episode Title: Building Strength, Inside and Out: The Journey of Evan Amell and EA Fitness Guest: Evan Amell, Owner of EA Fitness & Performance Podcast: Makers of the USA Episode Summary: In this inspiring episode of Makers of the USA, host Evan Amell, the young entrepreneur behind EA Fitness & Performance, shares his remarkable journey from athlete to fitness coach and business owner. From overcoming personal health challenges to building a thriving fitness community, Amell’s story is one of determination, mentorship, and a passion for helping others achieve their best selves—physically, mentally, and emotionally. As a young entrepreneur, Amell discusses how he navigated the challenges of starting his own fitness business, learning from a seasoned mentor in the wellness industry, and creating a supportive community at EA Fitness. He also explains his unique, holistic approach to fitness that goes beyond just physical performance and focuses on mental wellness, personal growth, and building a lasting fitness mindset. Key Takeaways: Evan’s Personal Transformation – How Amell’s own fitness journey led him to pursue a career in coaching and eventually open his own fitness business. The Importance of Mentorship – The crucial role that Amell’s mentor played in his entrepreneurial journey and how guidance from an industry veteran shaped his approach to fitness coaching and business management. EA Fitness: A Community, Not Just a Gym – How Amell built a community-driven fitness space where clients are supported both physically and mentally, and how that community culture has contributed to the success of EA Fitness. A Holistic Approach to Fitness – Amell’s philosophy is that true fitness is a combination of physical health, mental resilience, and sustainable lifestyle changes. Building a Business with Core Values – How Amell’s commitment to authenticity, hard work, and consistency has played a key role in the success and growth of EA Fitness. Vision for the Future – What’s next for EA Fitness & Performance and how Amell is planning to continue growing his business while staying true to his mission of improving lives through fitness. Listen to the Full Episode for: Insights into what it takes to build a fitness business from the ground upHow fitness can be more than just physical appearance—it's about mental health tooThe impact of a strong support network and community in reaching your goalsThe power of mentorship in shaping the career of a young entrepreneurWhere to Find Evan Amell and EA Fitness: Website: EA Fitness & PerformanceInstagram: @eafitnessandperformanceEpisode Resources: EA Fitness & Performance Coaching: Coaching PageConnect with the Podcast: Subscribe to Makers of the USA for more interviews with inspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders.Follow us on Instagram and Twitter to stay updated on future episodes! If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Podcast Notes: Olagunju Busola Dorcas – Fashion, Storytelling, and Community Impact** Episode Overview: In this episode, we speak with Olagunju Busola Dorcas, a Maine-based fashion designer originally from Nigeria. Olagunju shares her inspiring journey from studying project management in Maine to following her true passion for fashion. Alongside her design work, she supports refugees as they settle in Maine, weaving together her love for creativity and community. Key Topics: 1. Background & Journey:    - Olagunju’s move to Maine to study project management.    - Despite focusing on a degree in project management, her passion for fashion never faded.    - How she transitioned from academics to pursuing a full-time career in fashion design.    - The importance of following one's true passion and making career shifts. 2. Fashion Design & Creative Vision:    - Her approach to fashion design – blending personal stories with each creation.    - Custom designs and bespoke dresses tailored to tell a meaningful narrative.    - Notable figures she’s worked with in Maine, including the owner of Coffee Be Design and USOA Ms. Maine. 3. Fashion as Storytelling:    - How Olagunju uses fashion to communicate deeper personal stories.    - The power of design as a tool for self-expression and narrative.    - Examples of her work and how each piece tells a unique story. 4. Community Impact:    - Olagunju’s role in supporting refugees in Maine and helping them settle.    - The intersection of fashion and community engagement in her life and work.    - How her career enables her to make a positive difference in people’s lives. 5. Advice for Aspiring Designers & Creatives:    - The importance of persistence and staying true to one's passion.    - How to balance creative dreams with practical life responsibilities.    - Tips for anyone looking to start their own business in the fashion industry. Takeaways: - The importance of combining passion with purpose, as Olagunju does through both her fashion design and refugee support work. - Fashion as a means of storytelling and cultural expression. - How personal experiences can shape creative pursuits and contribute to broader community support. Listener Action Points: - Reflect on how creativity and passion can be integrated into your own career. - Support local designers and businesses in your community. - Consider how fashion and other creative industries can be used as a platform for social good and storytelling. Closing Thoughts: Olagunju’s journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion, the impact of community support, and how creativity can be used to inspire and make a difference in the world. Tune in to hear more about her journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

In this episode, host Kristan Vermeulen sits down with Bobby Miller, a highly experienced asset developer in Maine, to discuss the current state of the housing market, the lack of inventory, and the development landscape throughout the state. Bobby shares his journey from his upbringing in Camden to becoming a key player in Maine’s real estate scene. Key Topics Covered: The Housing Crisis in Maine: Bobby talks about the ongoing shortage of inventory in Maine’s housing market and the impact it’s having on potential homeowners.He shares his insights into the causes behind this shortage and explores possible solutions to ease the crisis moving forward.Bobby’s Experience in Maine’s Development Sector: With years of experience in asset development, Bobby discusses the various projects he’s been a part of in Maine and the unique challenges and rewards of working in the state.He highlights some of his most memorable developments and the lessons he’s learned along the way.Growing Up in Camden: Bobby reflects on his childhood in Camden, Maine, and how it influenced his values and approach to both business and life.He shares stories from his early years in Camden and how the community spirit there shaped his outlook on development.Why Bobby Loves Kennebec County: As a developer in Kennebec County, Bobby explains what draws him to the area and why he enjoys working there.He discusses the balance between maintaining the area’s charm and supporting growth to meet the demand for housing and infrastructure.Insights into Asset Development: Bobby offers a deep dive into the asset development process, offering advice for navigating the complexities of developing properties, especially in Maine’s more rural areas.He reflects on how the industry has evolved over the years and provides a glimpse into future trends that may shape the housing market.Personal Reflections & Future Outlook: Looking ahead, Bobby talks about his future plans in asset development, what excites him about Maine’s real estate market, and the potential for growth in both urban and rural areas.He shares his thoughts on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in Maine’s development sector.Tune in to hear Bobby’s insightful reflections on Maine’s housing market, his development experiences, and the bright future of asset development in the state. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Treading New Paths: Jax & Bard’s Shoemaking MasteryIn the heart of Gray, Maine, a small town known for its scenic beauty and quiet charm, a unique brand has emerged, one that combines age-old shoemaking traditions with modern sensibilities. That brand is Jax & Bard, a name synonymous with high-quality, handcrafted footwear. Whether you’re a connoisseur of custom shoes or simply someone who values craftsmanship, Jax & Bard offers more than just shoes—they offer a story, a legacy, and a testament to the enduring art of shoemaking. The Origins of Jax & BardFounded by Jackie Lindstedt—the company started with a love for shoe design and craft as well as quality and sustainability. Jackie was driven by a desire to create shoes that not only looked stunning but also felt exceptional to wear. Jax & Bard shoes are designed with a focus on comfort, durability, and, most importantly, craftsmanship. Both Jax and Bard bring a personal touch to every pair of shoes they create, infusing their distinct styles into their work while honoring the legacy of traditional shoemaking techniques but also making the process more modern and sustainable. Their commitment to quality is evident in every stitch and the fabric she uses is unique as she can craft a custom piece for her clients. Handcrafted from Start to FinishWhat sets Jax & Bard apart from other footwear brands is their dedication to the art of handcrafting. From the moment a customer places an order to the time they slip their feet into their new shoes, the experience is steeped in artistry. Jackie carefully and strategically prints out a design onto sustainable fabric and then places the fabric on clogs or an espadrille base sourced by a local company. The design process is highly personalized. Jax and Bard work closely with each client to ensure the shoes not only fit perfectly but also reflect the wearer’s style. Each pair is made-to-order, meaning no two shoes are exactly the same, and this level of bespoke care is what makes Jax & Bard shoes a unique treasure for those who appreciate the value of true craftsmanship. Every step in the creation of a Jax & Bard shoe is done with precision and care. The process includes hand-stitching, custom fitting, and finishing techniques that ensure a level of comfort and durability not often seen in mass-produced footwear. The result is a pair of shoes that don’t just serve as a piece of clothing but as an investment in craftsmanship, style, and longevity. A Commitment to Local CraftsmanshipThough Jax & Bard has expanded its reach beyond Gray, Maine, the company remains deeply rooted in its local community. They take pride in their artisanal approach and in supporting the local economy by sourcing materials and services from nearby suppliers whenever possible. The brand is also committed to sustainable practices, ensuring that its shoes are built to last, thereby reducing waste and the environmental footprint of fast fashion. She even takes leftover fabrics and turns them into earrings. The Future of Jax & Bard: Crafting New PathsAs the company grows, Jax & Bard remains committed to its core values. They continue to build upon their legacy by expanding their collections and experimenting with new designs and techniques while staying true to their roots. The world of custom footwear is evolving, and Jax & Bard is at the forefront of this evolution, bringing old-world craftsmanship into the modern age. She is even considering diving into slippers which is a huge passion of hers. But while the future is exciting, Jax & Bard hasn’t lost sight of what makes their shoes special: the personal connection they have with their customers. Each pair of shoes is more than just a product; it’s a collaboration between the maker and the wearer, ensuring a perfect fit, both physically and stylistically. Discovering Jax & BardTo explore their collections or learn more about the artisans behind Jax & Bard, visit https://jaxandbard.shoes/. Whether you’re based in Maine or beyond, there’s no better time to step into a pair of shoes that are as unique as you are. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook, and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Rogue Life Maine: A Story of Craftsmanship, Community, and PassionIn the heart of Maine, where the rugged coastline meets vast forests and small towns built on hard work, a brand was born — a brand that would eventually redefine the world of fitness equipment and inspire a lifestyle grounded in strength, resilience, and pride. This is the story of Rogue Life Maine. The Beginning: A Vision Takes Root This business started as an award and trophy business owned by Mark Rodrigue's parents and now it's a commitment to continue producing American-made apparel and accessories that are both built to last and designed for performance. In a state known for its natural beauty and hardworking, no-nonsense people, Rogue Life Maine has all of its operations in Lewiston. Maine’s deep-rooted culture of craftsmanship, from shipbuilders to loggers to artisans, resonated with the Rogue team. The decision to keep this business in Maine wasn’t just about logistics; it was about a philosophy that aligned with Maine’s spirit — a place where quality and hard work were not negotiable but ingrained in everything people did. The Heart of Rogue Life Maine: Craftsmanship and Quality In a small town in Maine, nestled among forests and fields, the Rogue team set up shop. And here, the true essence of Rogue Life Maine began to take shape. Maine’s factories are often humble, yet they produce some of the most enduring and well-crafted products in the country. This tradition of attention to detail and pride in one’s work was infused into every piece of apparel, outdoor pack, hat, etc. produced by Rogue. Every stitch, every screenprint, every embroider was a testament to the skill of local craftsmen who took pride in their work, just as the Rogue team did. Rogue Life Maine wasn’t just a name — it was a commitment to producing materials that reflected the values of this quiet, hardworking state. A Lifestyle Built on Resilience But Rogue Life Maine wasn’t just about manufacturing — it was about building a community of individuals who shared the same drive and dedication that the brand embodied. Whether in Maine or across the globe, those who used Rogue products became part of a greater movement. The rugged landscapes of Maine, with its steep mountains, coastal cliffs, and winter winds, provided the perfect metaphor for the type of person who was drawn to Rogue Life. It was a life built on grit, endurance, and a love for the challenge. It didn’t matter if you were climbing mountains in the backwoods of Maine or just pushing yourself to be the best version of yourself — Rogue Life was about embracing that challenge with everything you had. At the heart of Rogue Life Maine is a community of athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and everyday people who know that true strength comes not just from the muscles you build, but from the mindset you cultivate. The same values that shaped the production of Rogue’s products — durability, reliability, and strength — became the foundation for the community that formed around them. The Future of Rogue Life Maine Looking ahead, Rogue Life Maine continues to evolve, with new products, new initiatives, and a growing community of like-minded individuals. As the brand expands its reach globally, the roots in Maine remain firm — a constant reminder of where it all started and the values that continue to drive it forward. It’s about maintaining that commitment to craftsmanship, community, and strength that has always been at the heart of Rogue Life Maine. Whether you're hiking the rugged Maine coast, or simply living your life with determination and grit, Rogue Life Maine is a reminder that true strength — like the land of Maine itself — is built slowly, steadily, and with purpose. And it’s a life worth living. You can learn more about Rogue Life Maine by visiting their website.  If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

Jordia Benjamin, recognized in MaineBiz's "40 Under 40," is a prominent figure in the arts community. As the Executive Director of Indigo Arts Alliance, she focuses on supporting artists of color and fostering cultural representation. Benjamin's leadership emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and community engagement. Her work has significantly impacted the Maine arts landscape, promoting diversity and inclusion while nurturing emerging talent. Through her initiatives, she aims to inspire social change and enhance the visibility of underrepresented artists. Kristan speaks to Jordia about her previous careers that helped her get to where she is today. The ones that have a really special place are those that continue to have an impact today. Twelve years ago, under the auspices of the National Art Gallery of the Bahamas, she created the first teacher's art resource guide (over 100 pages) that provided an art curriculum for each grade school level based on Bahamian artists and history. The guide is still in use today. In addition to her work on an art resource guide, she fostered a program allowing gifted emerging Bahamian artists to exhibit their work alongside Bahamian masters in conjunction with the gallery, many of whom are now represented by international galleries and have exhibited in international museums. Today, her work at Indigo Arts Alliance allows her to advance the professional development of Black and Brown artists aligning with her moral compass. With an amazing team, they can advance through their residency program, the artistic excellence of local/national and global creatives. You can learn more about Indigo Arts Alliance by visiting their website.  If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

[00:02:56] Organ building craftsmanship. [00:03:58] Organ building and inspiration. [00:10:37] Knowing music for organ building. [00:14:22] Perfect facility for craft. [00:20:53] The cost of organs. [00:21:43] Organ building as mechanical design. [00:27:11] Moon and farming practices. [00:30:43] Two temperaments in organs. [00:38:15] Organ pipes collapsing over time. [00:40:21] Organ builders and bone materials. [00:45:09] The gold leaf process. [00:48:06] The weight of the organ. [00:52:02] Community involvement in instrument care. Organ building is a complex and intricate process that demands a significant investment of time and financial resources. In the episode, it is highlighted that churches and other organizations often face the challenge of securing funding and going through a lengthy organizational process before they can even begin constructing an organ. This can take years to accomplish as they work towards securing the necessary funds and finalizing arrangements. The episode also sheds light on the cost of building an organ. It is mentioned that the average cost of an organ is around a million dollars, although this can vary depending on the size and complexity of the instrument. Larger organs can cost up to two million dollars or even more, while smaller organs may be priced at around five hundred thousand dollars. The episode emphasizes the crucial role of careful planning and design in organ building. Before commencing the construction process, the organ builder must create a detailed design that ensures all components fit together harmoniously and allows each pipe to have sufficient space to produce sound. This meticulous process involves laying out thousands of pipes on templates and ensuring each one is of the correct size and position. Organ building is a costly and time-consuming endeavor that necessitates extensive planning, funding, and organization. It is a process that requires both craftsmanship and artistry and scientific and mathematical skills. The episode discusses the average cost of an organ, which is approximately a million dollars. The host inquires about the cost of organs, and the builder confirms that a million dollars is a typical average cost. However, the builder also mentions that the cost can vary, potentially reaching two million dollars or more for larger organs, or as low as five hundred thousand dollars for smaller organs. Therefore, while a million dollars is the average, the actual cost depends on the size and complexity of the organ. Martin initially developed a passion for organ building at the age of 15. However, their parents discouraged them from pursuing it at that time, leading them to choose a business high school instead. Despite this, the desire to become an organ builder never left their mind. After completing high school and entering adulthood, Martin felt a strong urge to engage in a craft and work with their hands. Organ building remained a lingering passion. Fortunately, they secured an apprenticeship position with a well-known and reputable organ-building company. Through this apprenticeship, they acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to install organs, tune them, and perform maintenance. Eventually, Martin had the opportunity to travel to the United States multiple times a year for work. They received job offers from various organ builders, first in Minnesota and then in the Montreal area of Canada. Finally, they decided to move to the United States and work with another organ builder who intrigued them. This experience ultimately led the host to establish their own organ-building business. Despite initially facing discouragement from their parents, Martin's passion for organ building never wavered. They pursued their passion, gained experience and knowledge through apprenticeships and job opportunities, and eventually established their own successful business in the field. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

[00:02:12] Meditation and spirituality. [00:06:52] Eye-opening experiences in Colombia. [00:08:03] Colorful nature in Colombia. [00:12:24] Incorporating nature in glass art. [00:16:00] Artistic inspiration from family. [00:19:59] Getting into meditation. [00:25:38] Challenging glass projects. [00:29:38] Changing creative direction [00:34:21] Seattle becoming a glassblowing center. [00:36:10] Passing on glass blowing. In this episode, Kristan and Rob delve into the practice of meditation, emphasizing its dedicated and daily nature, which takes several years to truly master. Drawing a parallel, Rob compares meditation to glassblowing, explaining that both require consistent practice over an extended period of time. They stress the importance of having a teacher to guide individuals through their meditation practice and also mention the benefits of having a dedicated meditation partner. The discussion highlights how meditation cultivates a calm and joyful state of mind, which in turn enhances creativity. The guest shares that their meditation practice is separate from their glassblowing, indicating that the two practices are distinct yet complementary. Overall, the episode underscores the commitment and daily practice required for meditation, emphasizing its positive impact on creativity. The episode also explores how glassblowing can serve as a meditative activity, creating a serene and joyful space for creativity. The guest shares their personal experience, describing how glassblowing feels like a form of meditation to them. They explain that combining glassblowing with meditation brings about a sense of calm and joy that they cannot live without. The host agrees, adding that glassblowing helps individuals enter a calm and creative mindset, enabling them to work joyfully with their teams. Rob further emphasizes that despite any frustrations that may arise during the glassblowing process, one can always step back and find humor in the situation. This suggests that glassblowing not only provides a meditative and tranquil environment but also fosters a sense of joy and lightheartedness in the creative process. The host deepens the connection between glassblowing and meditation by inquiring if the guest's meditation teacher helped them understand how glassblowing can be a meditative practice. The guest confirms that while the teachings of glassblowing and meditation are separate, meditation has played a significant role in their life for several years. Nature serves as a major source of inspiration for the artist's work, influencing their projects in profound ways. The artist explains that when they practice or seek to be creative, they tap into a place in their mind or on paper where ideas and colors flow, and nature is their primary wellspring of inspiration. They express that most of their work is influenced by nature, as they believe it excels in providing ideas worth borrowing. The artist also shares a favorite project in Seattle, where they were tasked with creating 200 pieces for a building's entrance. The client desired an ambiance that evoked a connection to nature. The artist designed a piece consisting of 250 glass elements, incorporating flowers, leaves, and cattails to capture the essence of nature. Throughout the episode, the artist's passion for nature and their desire to infuse its beauty into their work shines through. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.

[00:02:45] David Seery's artistic journey. [00:05:28] Selling milk at age seven. [00:08:00] Land investments in North America. [00:12:55] The elephant trailer. [00:18:03] How long does it typically take you to make a piece? [00:21:20] Dealing with pandemic challenges. [00:25:02] Wine making. [00:28:18] New stories wind their way. David Syre's artistic practice is deeply rooted in spirituality, with their strongest mentors being the Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa. They believe that spirituality forms the foundation of their art, equating it with love, compassion, and forgiveness. Their art goes beyond aesthetics, aiming to evoke emotions and create a sense of awe through vibrant colors and a "wow factor." The influence of their mentors and spiritual beliefs is evident in shaping their artistic practice. In the episode, David Syre emphasizes the importance of daily meditation and yoga practice. They believe that this routine sets the tone for their art, allowing them to tap into their subconscious mind and find inspiration. Living in the present moment and harnessing the energy from their core and heart brings forth images and ideas. The speaker also mentions the significance of daily walks, meditation, and breathing exercises in fueling their creativity. Their dedication to these practices is further highlighted by the presence of a dedicated yoga and meditation room on their property. David Syre, shares his personal journey of transitioning from a career in business development to becoming an artist. Encouraging listeners to follow their passion, he believes that everyone has the potential to be an artist, regardless of their background or previous career. Seery emphasizes the importance of courage in pursuing a creative path, urging individuals to step forward and make their artistic aspirations a reality. Drawing inspiration from spiritual mentors and incorporating daily meditation and yoga, Syre's art is a testament to the power of embracing one's creativity. Overall, the episode underscores the significance of embracing one's artistic side and having the courage to pursue a creative route. It highlights the role of spirituality, daily practices, and influential mentors in shaping an artist's journey. If you enjoyed this Makers of the USA episode, please leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Facebook. Please check out Makers of the USA's YouTube channel, Facebook and Instagram. Thank you all and stay safe and healthy.