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In this episode of the Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast, I sit down with Phil Van Lanen, owner of Van Lanen Sharpening, for a thoughtful, honest conversation about craft, service, and building a sharpening business the right way.

Phil shares how his approach to sharpening has always been grounded in serving people first — focusing on doing good work, treating customers well, and letting the business grow naturally instead of chasing quick wins. We talk about his early days getting started, lessons learned along the way, and the mindset shifts that helped him build something sustainable and fulfilling.

This conversation isn’t about hype, shortcuts, or gimmicks. It’s about:

• Starting a sharpening business with integrity
• Learning through mistakes and staying humble
• Communicating clearly with customers
• Balancing craftsmanship with real-world business needs
• Why service, consistency, and care still matter in a trade business

Whether you’re just getting started in sharpening, years into the craft, or simply interested in building a small trade-based business that aligns with your values, this episode offers grounded perspective and practical wisdom from someone who’s living it.

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In this session I focus the conversation on reasons to consider sharpening in retirement. 

I also look back on what we covered in the Guild in January and forecast some things to expect in February. 

Hopefully you found some points worthy of consideration. 

Learn more at: www.GuildOfSharpeners.org 

or reach me at [email protected]

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Welcome to the first Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast episode!

As a launch to this project I'm including some background on the evolution of The American Edge and The Guild of Professional Sharpeners. 

Following that is an attempt to set expectations for what to expect in 2025 from this podcast and for members or those interested in becoming members to the Guild.

I hope this helps you in some way and if you have any questions please don't hesitate to contact me.

https://members.guildofsharpeners.org/share/5V7kvPRJA1YDwUFw?utm_source=manual

[email protected]