Colton Hagler's (@coltcrit) path has taken him through unexpected viral success, hard-earned business lessons, and now, a furniture repair career with his sights set on ownership. He's also a host of the woodworking and goodtimes podcast Beat Around the Bench.

Brendan Pozsgai (@varnishandgarnish) blends woodworking with barware, creating custom charcuterie boards, bottle openers, and other home goods with a nod to craftsmanship and hospitality. He’s also balancing real estate, marathons, and a corporate IT career, proving that the maker hustle can take many forms.

We talk about accidentally selling $60K of product overnight; what happens when demand outpaces production and the reality of running a small business sets in; Building a Side Hustle with Purpose; and How WorkbenchCon, Maker Camp, and finding the right mentors have shaped their careers.

More Colt

• Instagram
• Beat Around the Bench Podcast

More Brendan

• Instagram
• Website

We had some tremendously generous support in making this Chapter of The Storyteller's Tavern possible, and we'd like to thank Workbench Conference, Total Boat, and Kutzall for all that you do to support and uplift the Maker Community, as well as for helping make this chapter happen.

The Storyteller's Tavern is made and hosted by @TheTinkerTeacher and @MakerMush. Please consider subscribing, reviewing, and rating. We welcome your support on Patreon.