Raise The Flag Podcast

A viral vintage anorak, a secret competition series, and a whole lot of scrappy bushcraft energy collide in this episode. Nick Italiano is joined by Heather the Happy and Hot Todd of PNW Bushcraft for a behind-the-scenes conversation about the creativity, chaos, and momentum driving their shop right now.

The big spark? Todd's wool army blanket anorak project that unexpectedly took off online and pulled Heather into a wave of new followers, fresh attention, and even bigger ideas. But the real story isn't just the jacket - it's what happens when two makers who can literally dream something up and build it start planning what's next.You'll hear how Todd is transitioning into full-time shop life, why Heather is expanding the brand's social media and YouTube presence, and how their in-house experiments are turning into products people actually want.

From custom EDC trays and new pocket knife slips to titanium clips, a new EDC wallet, and the return of fan-favorite fall gear, this is a look at a shop that never really stops making.Heather and Todd also break down their upcoming calendar: Blade Show West, vintage Coleman camping meetups, trailer rallies, tracking classes, a carving guild, mushroom foraging, and more. Along the way, they share the kind of real outdoor stories that only come from people who spend a lot of time in the woods - including getting lost, learning from it, and coming out the other side better prepared.

And then there's the fun part: the return of Team Heather vs Team Todd. The pair tease a revived build challenge where listeners may help choose the materials, vote on the results, and even support charity through the finished projects. If you like gear, maker culture, bushcraft, vintage camping, and the kind of creative brainstorming that turns into actual action, this episode delivers.Essential listening if you love seeing how outdoor brands are built from the inside - and if you want a front-row seat to the next wild idea before it becomes the next viral one.

It's September and that means the Raise The Flag Crew is back from their summer shenanigans! This episode has updates, survival stuff, Nooges by Nooches, Secret Squirrel Heather and more!

Tune in or don't we're not the boss of you!

When your business is moving fast, grief, supply chain chaos, and shifting priorities can hit all at once - and this episode is what it sounds like to keep going anyway. Nick, Heather the Happy, and Nuge get real about losing industry legend Ruben Bolieu, what he meant to the community, and how his “just keep going” mindset still shapes the way they work, lead, and show up for each other. The conversation starts with an honest reflection on Ruben’s impact, from Blade Show memories to the stories that keep surfacing after he’s gone. Heather and Nick share why honoring someone well means more than posting tributes, while Nuge opens up about carrying that loss through a packed season of knife-making, shows, and nonstop business pressure. You’ll discover:

• Why Blade Show was both the best business event of the year and one of the hardest personal moments for Nuge
• How Heather and Nuge are navigating growth, wholesale demand, and the realities of making small-batch gear at scale
• Why planning ahead matters, but only if you stay flexible enough to survive supplier delays, cost spikes, and last-minute pivots
• What makes one-of-one drops, custom runs, and limited releases so frustrating - and so powerful - for makers and collectors
• How small handmade businesses actually build community, trust, and demand over time

Nick also shares a preview of Off Grid’s upcoming nuclear aftermath issue, turning a usually fear-driven topic into a practical, eye-opening resource. It’s one of those conversations that jumps from deep personal reflection to the real mechanics of running a business under pressure, with plenty of hard-earned lessons in between.If you’ve ever tried to build something while life keeps changing the rules, this one will feel uncomfortably familiar in the best way. Essential listening for makers, entrepreneurs, knife nerds, and anyone who needs a reminder that the answer is usually simple: keep going.

Most of us underestimate the power of community, connection, and outdoor life—and Heather’s Blade Show experience is proof. After a long hiatus, she returns to share how in-person gatherings, wildlife encounters, and creative pursuits reignite her passion and fuel her business in ways she never expected. If you've ever doubted the impact of real-world relationships on growth and motivation, this episode will change your perspective. Heather, from PNWBUSHCRAFT, takes us behind the scenes of her recent Blade Show adventure, revealing why show weekends feel like family reunions and how personal interactions fuel her creativity and business success. She talks about meeting longtime customers in person—some pulling gear out of their pockets to share their stories—which fills her with warmth and inspiration.

Heather also shares how her community’s support has helped her sell out of products, plan for next year, and even manifest her gear on popular TV show “Alone.” Unexpected wildlife encounters, from mountain lions and eagles to coyotes and deer, highlight her deep connection to the outdoors—a reminder of why nature-centered life is so essential.The episode breaks down tangible insights, including how in-person events expand your network, the surprising power of wildlife and outdoor adventures to inspire your craft, and innovative product launches like her custom duffels and stamped wax canvas gear.

Heather emphasizes embracing a neurodivergent mindset, managing ADHD, and setting achievable goals—lessons for creators feeling overwhelmed.

She and Nick also discuss how social media is more than just posting; it’s about being human, sharing stories, and building community that organically grows your brand.

Why does this matter? Because in a world of digital noise, the real magic happens when we step outside, connect in person, and share authentic passions. Heather’s story is a call to find your community, explore nature more intentionally, and let your creativity flourish. Whether you're a maker, outdoor enthusiast, or business owner, this episode will inspire you to harness the power of real-world connections and nature-based living to elevate your life and work.

Perfect for creators, outdoors lovers, and entrepreneurs feeling stuck or disconnected—this episode reminds you that the most meaningful growth happens when you step into the world around you. Hit play and get inspired to nurture your community and passion in tangible, fulfilling ways.

Most people don't push their limits — but Patrick does it for a living. From desert survival classes with Dave Holliday to Alaska trapping trips, he’s constantly chasing adventure in the most extreme environments. In this episode, Patrick shares raw stories of surviving the Sonoran Desert's blistering heat, enduring Yukon winter’s brutal cold, and even losing part of his thumb to a tricky trap — all to test skills that most only read about.

You'll discover the core lessons he learned from life-threatening encounters, how failure fuels growth, and why pushing past comfort is essential to mastery. We break down the real challenge of friction fire in the desert, the thrill of Arctic trapping escapades, and the importance of mental toughness when everything goes wrong. Plus, Patrick reveals how modern gear, unconventional ideas (like Heather's Tot pouch with endless possibilities), and the right mindset turn adversity into opportunity. This episode is perfect for survival enthusiasts, adventure junkies, or anyone craving inspiration to live boldly.

Whether you're a seasoned prepper or just someone curious about the edge of human capability, Patrick’s stories remind us that the greatest lessons are learned through doing — often at the cost of blood, sweat, and broken thumbs.

Most people don't push their limits — but Patrick does it for a living. From desert survival classes with Dave Holliday to Alaska trapping trips, he’s constantly chasing adventure in the most extreme environments. In this episode, Patrick shares raw stories of surviving the Sonoran Desert's blistering heat, enduring Yukon winter’s brutal cold, and even losing part of his thumb to a tricky trap — all to test skills that most only read about.

You'll discover the core lessons he learned from life-threatening encounters, how failure fuels growth, and why pushing past comfort is essential to mastery. We break down the real challenge of friction fire in the desert, the thrill of Arctic trapping escapades, and the importance of mental toughness when everything goes wrong. Plus, Patrick reveals how modern gear, unconventional ideas (like Heather's Tot pouch with endless possibilities), and the right mindset turn adversity into opportunity.

This episode is perfect for survival enthusiasts, adventure junkies, or anyone craving inspiration to live boldly. Whether you're a seasoned prepper or just someone curious about the edge of human capability, Patrick’s stories remind us that the greatest lessons are learned through doing — often at the cost of blood, sweat, and broken thumbs.

Most entrepreneurs overlook the power of in-person events—and then regret it. This episode reveals the surprising benefits of showing up, not just selling online. When Tom ditches his booth, he uncovers unexpected opportunities—building real connections, testing products firsthand, and mastering the art of low-cost, high-impact marketing. From miniature shows to knife festivals, they share actionable insights on how these events can elevate your business without breaking the bank. You'll discover:

• Why attending shows like Blade, Blade Texas, and Pennsylvania's knife events can be game-changers, even for small businesses
• How in-person interactions foster trust, lead to collaborations, and unlock new revenue streams
• Creative ways to make your booth stand out—think gnome costumes, exclusive drops, and guerrilla marketing tactics
• The importance of authenticity and trust in a world of fake branding and Chinese-made knockoffs
• How to balance fun with business—so you recharge, connect, and grow without burnout

This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs tired of hiding behind screens, looking for fresh ways to stand out, meet customers, and make memorable impressions. The hosts share hilarious stories, strategic tips, and why showing your true self is the ultimate business move. Don't miss the behind-the-scenes look at shows that can boost your brand, boost your confidence, and transform your perspective on marketing. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or just starting out, these insights will inspire you to get out there, have fun, and finally turn real-world interactions into real-world profits. Join Heather, Nick, and Tom as they reveal how a little fun, a lot of authenticity, and showing up in person can make all the difference—plus, some hilarious gnome costumes and exclusive secrets along the way. Ready to elevate your business game? Hit play now—your next big breakthrough is just an event away!

Nick, Heather, and Tom share candid stories about flipping failures into wins, the importance of emotional calluses, and why embracing failure is the key to growth. Discover how to develop quick, decisive judgment calls, manage burnout with humor and pragmatism, and cultivate the mental resilience that separates good leaders from great ones.

Ever feel like your ideas are overflowing but your time is never enough?

All three of us struggle with balancing creative sparks and actual production—yet finding that middle ground can make all the difference. From planning dedicated days for new projects to neighborhood relationships that turn strangers into supporters, it’s about working smarter—not harder.

Remember: your unique story and genuine approach build trust way faster than trying to fake being bigger or better. Success comes from relationship building, consistent quality, and embracing your small but mighty space.

This week the Raise the Flag Team answers the age old question of how many yee's is the maximum amount of yee's! Beyond that we discuss big boy toys, passion, work life balance, following your dreams, and encouraging the young people to do the same...and of course the nonsense!