Episode 12 – Forging Dreams with Cowboy & Ilena of Phenix Knives In this episode of Behind The Anvil, Mike sits down with Cowboy and his amazing wife Ilena of Phenix Knives in Bellville, Texas. Together, they share their incredible 28-year journey in knife-making—starting from a historic blacksmith shop and growing into their brand-new 5,000 sq. ft. shop. From Cowboy’s Forged in Fire experience to launching the Texas Select Knife Show, they open up about the lessons learned in running a business, how to stay fluid and pivot when challenges come, and the dedication it took to bring Cowboy’s dream of a bigger shop to life. They also talk about how the knife show has opened doors, built lasting friendships with makers across the USA, and what it means to be part of a growing bladesmithing community. This episode is packed with inspiration, resilience, and the spirit of forging more than just blades—it’s about forging dreams and connections.