Behind The Anvil – Season 2, Episode 3 Description: In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with John C. Thunert for a wide-ranging and deeply personal conversation that spans continents, generations, and the forge floor. Raised as an Army brat, John shares what it was like growing up across four continents—living in places like Italy, Germany, Ethiopia, Maryland, Virginia, and other parts of the United States—moving every few years and learning to adapt without ever quite having a place called “home.” The conversation dives into the realities of military family life in the 1960s and 1970s, from limited communication through ham radios to the impact of world events on daily living. John reflects on his father’s military career in supply and logistics, the lessons learned from an early loss, and how faith became a necessary anchor in a life full of uncertainty and constant change. From there, the discussion transitions into parenting, respect, and hard-earned life lessons before shifting gears into John’s unexpected journey into knife making. Inspired by Forged in Fire, John talks about competing on the show, the brotherhood it created, and how he transitioned from pest control into the craft—balancing passion, finances, and the realities of making blades in today’s market. Michael and John also dig into knife handle design trends, guild involvement, forging techniques, equipment wins and warnings, and the value of honest, constructive feedback among makers. Along the way, they swap stories about bourbon, Texas gardening, climate challenges, and the importance of actually using the knives you make. The episode wraps with reflections on humor, resilience, financial ups and downs, legacy, and finding purpose—whether that’s through sharing the forge with a granddaughter or striving to leave something meaningful behind. A thoughtful, candid episode about life, craftsmanship, and being forged by both fire and experience

: In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with James Pockett to talk about a life shaped by hard work, faith, and the courage to take a chance. Born in San Angelo, Texas, and raised in Andrews, James shares how growing up in a small West Texas town led him straight into the oil and gas industry, stepping onto his first drilling rig at just 19 years old and eventually working every position on the rig. He reflects on nearly 35 years of marriage, the values that grounded him, and how a chance encounter with a knife maker at a gun show in Odessa changed the direction of his life. James opens up about seeking out mentors, learning the craft from local makers, and finding purpose and brotherhood within the knife-making community, including his growing involvement with the Texas Knife Makers Guild. He also shares his faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, how it shaped his journey, and how simply asking a local blacksmith for guidance led him into the art of bladesmithing—and into a new family forged by fire, steel, and shared belief. This episode is a powerful conversation about taking risks, honoring tradition, and finding meaning both at the forge and beyond the anvil.

Behind the Anvil – Season 2, Episode 1 Host: Michael Peterson Season 2 kicks off with a special solo episode as host Michael Peterson steps behind the mic to reflect on the journey of Behind the Anvil so far. In this episode, Michael shares his honest thoughts on how the podcast is going, what he’s learned along the way, and what keeps him inspired to continue telling stories from the forge and beyond. He also takes a more personal turn, sharing a couple of short stories about his grandfather and great-grandfather from the Peterson side of the family. Michael wraps things up by talking about where he hopes the show will go next and offers a sneak peek at some exciting things coming in Season 2. This episode sets the tone for what’s ahead—more stories, more makers, and more passion forged in fire. Tune in and help kick off Season 2 of Behind the Anvil.

Forged in Function: The Art and Engineering of Knife Folders with Joshua Eubanks In Episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael welcomes engraver and knife maker Joshua Eubanks of Rusty Chisel Engraving for an in-depth exploration into the craft, culture, and engineering of knife folders. This episode shines a spotlight on Joshua’s journey, his creative process, and the experiences that shaped his approach to the craft. Joshua shares his military background and reflects on his time stationed in Italy, where he connected with an Italian knife maker who left a lasting impact on his appreciation for design, tradition, and craftsmanship. That encounter helped guide his path into custom knife work and engraving, influencing the way he views function, form, and artistic detail. Throughout the episode, Joshua breaks down the mechanics and thought process behind various knife folders—friction folders, slip joints, lockbacks, and more—while offering practical guidance for both new and experienced makers. He discusses materials, patterns, pivots, springs, geometry, and the small engineering choices that separate a good folder from a great one. His insight draws from hands-on experience, problem solving, and a deep respect for the craft. Joshua also talks about creativity within the knife world, the influence of historical designs, and the challenges and rewards of pushing innovation in a craft where some ideas catch fire and others remain hidden gems. In a meaningful conclusion, Joshua shares how knife making and engraving have served as grounding, healing outlets in his journey—offering purpose, clarity, and connection. His story provides encouragement for veterans and anyone seeking direction through hands-on craft and creativity. This episode highlights Joshua’s skill, story, and passion—perfect for knife makers, veterans, and anyone inspired by the blend of engineering and art.

Behind The Anvil with Guest Pat Biggin In this episode, Michael sits down with Wisconsin Tech Ed teacher and bladesmith Pat Biggin to dive deep into the art of Cu-Mai Damascus. Pat breaks down his process for forging copper-and-steel layered billets, shares the story behind his Cu-Mai knife featured in Blade Magazine’s 2025 Annual, and talks about his passion for folders, custom stamps, leatherwork, and metal shop education. Pat also opens up about refining stamp-making with a pantograph machine, teaching challenges, running seasonal knife-making classes, and balancing family life with craft. Michael and Pat get candid about social media restrictions on small makers, the rising cost of living, classroom safety, and the everyday realities of both teaching and knife-making. They wrap up with updates on current projects—from WWII knife reproductions to long-running builds—and offer practical tips for makers at every level.

Behind The Anvil Podcast with guest Dr. Justin Abbott In this inspiring and deeply personal episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Dr. Justin Abbott to explore the powerful connection between knife-making, mental health, and faith. Dr. Abbott shares how his love for blades began with a simple Swiss Army knife from his grandmother in the 1980s—and how forging later became a source of peace and reflection during the long, stressful years of medical school. The conversation dives into the therapeutic side of forging, the importance of creating safe spaces for men, and how community gatherings—like the “fires” movement spreading across the country—are helping men open up, heal, and find purpose through honest conversation and brotherhood. Michael and Justin discuss the weight of societal pressure on men, the struggles of grief, loss, and vulnerability, and the need to bring faith and authenticity back into the conversation about mental health. Together, they explore topics like ketamine-assisted therapy, modern mental health treatments, and the spiritual parallels between forging steel and refining the soul. From the shop to the firepit, this episode reminds us that true strength isn’t found in silence—it’s forged in the heat of struggle, shaped by faith, and strengthened through the support of other men walking the same path.

Episode 22 – Behind The Anvil Podcast: Faith, Forging, and the Supernatural with Pastor Ryan Shaddix In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, host Michael Peterson welcomes Pastor Ryan Shaddix, who moved to Sevier County in 2014 with his wife to plant a church focused on reaching those often overlooked by mainstream religious communities. Together, they explore faith, purpose, and the unseen spiritual realities that shape our lives. Pastor Ryan opens up about his past struggles with addiction and how a life-changing turning point — through the love and support of his wife — led him to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. His story is one of redemption, resilience, and the transforming power of grace. He also shares his heart for youth and those marginalized by religion, and his passion for teaching the Bible in the Calvary Chapel style, including his current study through the Book of Acts. Michael and Pastor Ryan dive into discussions on the supernatural worldview, the influence of spiritual forces in today’s world, and resources like Dr. Michael Heiser’s teachings and The Bible Project. They also explore thought-provoking topics such as the Shroud of Turin, creation, and how faith shapes our understanding of truth and purpose. Filled with honest conversation, deep theology, and powerful testimony, this episode shines a light on how God redeems broken lives and calls believers to live with integrity and courage in a spiritual battle for the soul. Listen to Episode 22 of Behind The Anvil with Michael Peterson and guest Pastor Ryan Shaddix — available Monday morning on all podcast platforms. #BehindTheAnvilPodcast #FaithAndForging #MichaelPeterson #PastorRyanShaddix #CalvaryChapel #TestimonyOfGrace #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #RedemptionThroughChrist #SupernaturalFaith

Crafting Beauty in Resin: Emily’s Journey from Bulgaria to the Knife-Making World In this inspiring episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Emily from CastingCraft, a talented resin artist known for her stunning custom knife handle scales. Emily shares her incredible journey from growing up in socialist-era Bulgaria to immigrating to the United States after winning the green card lottery in 1999. She opens up about the challenges of starting over in a new country, the importance of perseverance, and how her love of creativity eventually led her into the world of knife-making. Emily discusses her path from working as a veterinary technician to becoming a resin entrepreneur, crafting unique and artistic handle scales that have captured the attention of makers across the globe. From embedding fish scales, ostrich feet, and even pet ashes into her resin designs, to developing more than 500 unique patterns, Emily’s innovation and craftsmanship shine through. Michael and Emily also talk about the supportive knife-making community, the value of collaboration over competition, and her experiences attending Blade Shows across the U.S. Emily reflects on her roots, her daughter’s connection to Bulgarian culture, and her growing business that now feels like a true family within the knife world. Join Michael and Emily for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and community—a perfect reminder that every artisan’s story begins with a spark and a willingness to take the first step. Listen now to Episode 21 of Behind The Anvil with special guest Emily from CastingCraft.