Ernest Emerson shares his journey from martial arts enthusiast to renowned knife maker, detailing how his upbringing in Wisconsin, passion for functionality, and chance encounters with Navy SEALs shaped his career path from custom knife making to founding his own successful company. He discusses his business philosophy of treating employees like family, his approach to collaborations with major knife manufacturers, and his commitment to maintaining craftsmanship despite technological advances in the industry. Ernest also reveals his diversification strategy beyond knives, including apparel and whiskey businesses, while offering advice to aspiring entrepreneurs about full commitment, honest self-assessment, and maintaining ownership rather than seeking early investors.

The episode began with Lucas sharing his experience with burnout and his efforts to develop better self-care routines and work patterns, including using tools like ChatGPT to map out his workflow. Burnley and TJ discussed the challenges of balancing maintenance-focused work with creative projects in their businesses, with TJ sharing his realization about spending too much time on maintenance issues. The conversation concluded with a discussion about social media platforms, particularly Instagram and TikTok, including their evolving roles, decreasing engagement, and the impact of AI-generated content, as well as plans for shop organization and machine usage.

Lucas and TJ return from a podcast hiatus. This episode is a recap of Pacific Northwest Custom Invitational as well as shop happenings over the last few months.

Neither Luc nor TJ are attending Blade Show 2025. This was a big decision and made for good discussion.

Trade wars disrupting the knife industry and artificial intelligence fixing machines.

Luc returns from Blade Show Texas and has a new machine on the way. TJ has a big bevel grinding breakthrough.

Luc and TJ discuss the merits of "just in time" manufacturing.

Lucas announces his investment property purchase and plans to replace his Haas. The conversation migrates to philosophy and the things that motivate different creative minds.

Luc and TJ discuss business trajectory after Luc toured the Good Art facility over the holidays.

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It was a huge year of struggle, learning, and growth for Luc, TJ, and friends of the podcast.

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