Explore every episode of the podcast Raise The Flag Podcast

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.

In this engaging conversation, Nick Italiano, Heather the Happy, and special guest Jacks Genega from Wild Card Wilderness discuss the importance of community in outdoor skills, the essence of bushcraft, and the upcoming courses Jax is offering. They reflect on their experiences in teaching and learning, the cultural context of outdoor skills, and the power of passionate teaching. The discussion emphasizes the need for connection with nature and each other, and how identity should not be solely defined by one's profession. Jax shares insights into her future plans and the significance of creating lasting connections through shared experiences in nature.

More on Jacks and Wildcard Wilderness

This week on Raise the Flag...Shane from ESEE Knives joins us for some knife talk and a very informative look at the world of Search and Rescue operations. You're not going to want to miss this one! Find Us on Instagram: Shane @shaneadams90 ESEE Knives @eseeknives Nick @black_flag_survival Nuge @knives_by_nuge Ross @baba_ross_bushcraft WEBSITES www.blackflagsurvival.com www.knivesbynuge.com www.eseeknives.com www.randallsadventure.com www.ratsar.org

This week on Raise the Flag...shop talk! Nick and Nuge discuss some of the challenges small business owners in the outdoor space face.

In this episode...Ross is Back and we complain about dumb things that people do in the woods, Nick wanders mystery lakes with pizza, Nuge gets sharks with laser beams on their heads...and someone mentions a Wicket XL. INSTGRAM: Nick @black_flag_survival Nuge @knives_by_nuge Ross @baba_ross_bushcraft WEBSITES www.blackflagsurvival.com www.knivesbynuge.com

Hey it's a bonus episode! Why is it a bonus? Because technology has failed us and the episode we tried to record was a total disaster...poscasting is easy though! 🤣 Any way...in this episode Nick and Nuge talk about dumb things people do to wildlife and why it's bad for your health...and some other stuff!

This week on Raise the Flag...Blade Show 2023 recap, some knife talk, and we still like the EDB a lot. Hosts Instagram: @black_flag_survival @knives_by_nuge @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites: www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags: #bladeshow #bladeshow2023 #fixedblade #edcfixedblade #knifemaker #knifemaking

This week on Raise The Flag...we talk about some essential skills for every outdoorsman, Tom is grumpy, Nick gets angry at parade goers, and Ross isn't going to Blade Show.

This Week on Raise the Flag...Heather from PNWBUSHCRAFT joins us and she is most definitely not grumpy! Websites: www.blackflagsurvival.com www.knivesbynuge.com www.pnwbushcraft.com Instagram: @black_flag_survival @knives_by_nuge @baba_ross_bushcraft @pnwbushcraftshop Tags: #waxedcanvas #outdoorgear #bushcraftgear #wildernessskills #survivalskills #survivalschool #survivalcourse #wildernesseducation

In this episode we discuss 10 thing we would bring to the woods for a week...Nick summons turkeys...and the usual banter!

This week on Raise The Flag...Mahi from Black Beard Fire joins us and we discuss fire starting, hilarious fire fail stories, and Tom swears at 12 year olds... Websites: www.blackflagsurvival.com www.knivesbynuge.com www.blackbeardfire.com (use code BLACK_FLAG_SURVIVAL at check out for 10% off) Instagram: @black_flag_survival @knives_by_nuge @baba_ross_bushcraft @blackbeardfire Tags: #fire #firecraft #firestarting #wildernessskills #survivalskills #survivalschool #survivalcourse #wildernesseducation

This week on Raise the Flag...Nick, Nuge, and Ross discuss self reliance; the benefits of being prepared, the importance of balance, and the dangers of attempting to be a "lone wolf" Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining #selfreliance #lifeskills #skills #selfreliantliving

The Raise The Flag Team have lost their homes! Well not really its just their homes have been filled with supplies and equipment to make their business run! Tune info for big plans, nonsense, and find out what happens if you pet Nuge!

This week on Raise the Flag...Nick and Nuge chat with Jayberry Owner of Tuff Possum! The joys and challenges of running a small business in the outdoor space! Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Tuff Possum: @tuffpossumgear Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com www.tuffpossumgear.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining #smallbusiness #supportsmallbusiness #outdoorgoods

This week on Raise the Flag...kids and the great outdoors, how to motivate them, how to get them involved...and maybe we talk about fishing...a whole bunch. Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining #outdoorkids #hikingkids #fishing

This week on Raise the Flag...Get to know about what motivated us to be outdoors people! Also some stuff on gatekeeping and maybe radioactive leprechauns. Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining

Knife talk...size, grind, steel, HRC, and a lot of banter...enjoy! Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining

This week we discuss minimalist essentials with special guest Ross aka baba_ross_bushcraft...also banter lots of banter! Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining

Nick and Nuge discuss the joy that is the great outdoors! Why we love it, how it helps us, and how it builds community! Check us out on Instagram: Nick: @black_flag_survival Nuge: @knives_by_nuge Ross: @baba_ross_bushcraft Websites www.blackflagsurvival.com Www.knivesbynuge.com Tags #bushcraft #outdoors #greatoutdoors #edc #everydaycarry #hiking #woods #outdoorsman #blackflagoutdooracademy #survival #wildernesssurvival #survivaltraining #hunting #fishing

Join Nick and Nuge as they discuss building Functional EDC (everyday carry) systems. We also updated so audio equipment and processing thanks to our most excellent producer Ross Biddle. Check us out on Instgram Nick: black_flag_survival Nuge: knives_by_nuge Ross: baba_ross_bushcraft

Nick and Nuge discuss some of the challenges small businesses and members of the outdoor community face on social media. We also dive into the topic of sourcing safe drinking water and some of the options on the market for water filtration.

This is the first episode! We give you a taste of what to expect from the Academy classes and future podcast episodes.

We Are Back and pretty much as awesome as we were before! We have big plans in the works for 2026, so tune in and here all about our accomplishments in 2025 and our goals for 2026!

Hey so we recorded this right after Blade Show West...and because life sometimes happens it didn't go live...but here it is! Listen in to hear all about Heathers experiences at Blade Show and all the other crazy happens in the life and times of the Raise The Flag Crew!

This Week on Raise the Flag...Patrick Diedrich, Senior Editor of RECOIL OFFGRID Magazine joins us to discuss his experiences deep in the jungles of Colombia! This is one episode you won't want to miss!

This week on Raise the Flag...Potato Thieves!!!! For serious though we get into the nitty gritty of how rising costs impact production costs for businesses and the unique challenges small businesses face in this environment...also hat mojo, Death Bunny Society, and other good stuff!

This Week on Raise the Flag...Heather announces her Death Bunny Society Kick Starter! Tom is back and we take on social media "experts", trucks that don't do truck things, and more!

Check out the Death Bunny Society Kick Starter! Because it will make Heather happy...seriously, what kind of monster doesn't want heather to be happy? If you have a heart click it, go on do it now!

https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/pages/death-bunny-society-want-in

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Podcast

01:11 Heather's Kickstarter Announcement

02:31 Custom Fabric Printing and Business Growth

04:48 Transitioning to Whatnot and Live Auctions

06:47 Challenges of Organizing Workspaces

10:29 The Chaos of Working from Home

14:16 The Importance of Organization

15:51 The Nature of Online Expertise

19:26 The Value of Lifelong Learning

21:51 Social Media and Its Impact on Perception

24:35 Upcoming Events and Trade Shows

28:02 Balancing Work and Personal Life

30:30 Magazine Features and Writing Experiences

35:01 The Quality of Print Media

37:21 Taking Time Off and Enjoying Nature

41:50 The Challenges of Weekend Recreation

43:45 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans

This Week on Raise the Flag...Patrick Diedrich, Senior Editor of Recoil Offgrid (aka Nick's Boss) joins us for a recap of the Undisclosed training and scenario event that Recoil Offgrid Magazine just hosted. Tom talks about his experiences during an off-grid week in the mountains with some awesome outdoor adventure types, and Heather gets even more whimsical after attending her first Renaissance Faire. This one is chock full of valuable lessons, great stories, and the usual non-sense!

This week on Raise the Flag...Epic Quests or just cool road trips, but epic quests sound more exciting! Heather travels to Mordor ...or Colorado, trains with master crafters of bushes, and Todd made The One Spoon to Rule Them All!

In this episode of the Raise the Flag Podcast, hosts Nick and Heather, along with special guest Todd, explore a variety of topics ranging from personal relationships and humor to outdoor gear and packing strategies. They share insights on the importance of collaboration in the outdoor community, the evolution of Crocs, and the challenges of knife-making. The conversation flows naturally, touching on travel experiences, the art of minimalism, and the joy of creating functional gear. Listeners are treated to a mix of laughter, personal anecdotes, and practical advice, making for an engaging and entertaining episode.

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.

This Week on Raise the Flag...Blade Show 2025 Recap of all the awesomeness! So much to cover - the knives, the people, the vibe! What an incredible show and of course the sticker scavenger hunt!

The calm before the storm...more like the chaos before the storm!

Tom is back to update us on his Blade Show good and Heather details what she is bringing along with her! Nick discusses his Blade Show classes and don't forget the really cool Blade Show challenge and contest for any listener attending! Tom weighs in on the great marshmallow debate...That's it we need to go pack!

This week on Raise the Flag...Nick discusses his experiences in Wilderness Survival class with Jeff Hatch of Raven Wilderness School and there is a debate about the proper way to prepare marshmallows...and Nick is right! (because I write the captions and there is nothing Heather can do about it bwhaha!)

We also talk outdoor clothing and a bunch of other cool stuff so listen to it!

This Week on Raise the Flag...Is bag problem really a problem? We don't think so we need all the bags! Our bags need bags! We also talk about all of our upcoming events, adventures, and classes! We talk a little about bringing more women into survival land and more!

This Week on Raise The Flag...wow we got an episode that it loaded with good stuff! Guest host Joe Flowers of Bushcraft Global joins us for a recap of the Mountain Readiness Expo and a lot of talk about many cool upcoming events that some or all of us will be at!

We dive into the importance of situational awareness, explore the complexities of Land Snorkeling, learn about the importance of understanding our environment, and so much more!

Heather is back from CANCON Arizona and she played with a Mini-gun! Listen to hear all about Heather and her transformation in a a jelly bean warrior!

We also have some updates for upcoming evens, gear, and more!

This Week on Raise the Flag...Join us for the (un)True story of Heather's involvement in a secret underground black market fabric ring and the unfortunate circumstances around her neighbors untimely demise when the stumbled upon a wool deal gone wrong!

Also we talk about other stuff like PNWBUSHCRAFT at CANCON Arizona, BLADE SHOW Atlanta, Tom being mad at a tree, and a scavenger hunt giveaway challenge!

Be sure to see Heather and Todd at CANCON April 10-12 at the Ben Avery Range in the Offgrid Base Camp Section!

Is mosts a word? Probably not but I said it any way! This week on Raise the Flag...Catch up with the Raise the Flag Crew and their assorted adventure in maker/writer land. Lots of updates, event announcements, and Tactical Gnomes Oh and Nick's computer explodes in the middle of the podcast!

Tune in for all the shenanigans!

This Week on Raise the Flag we have Mat (yes, Mat with one t) from Georgia Bushcraft on talking all about Georgia Bushcraft and their upcoming events! He also shares the story of how a hobby led to The Walking Dead and eventually to Georgia Bushcraft!

You Want the Links? We got the Links!

Georgia Bushcraft: https://www.georgiabushcraft.com/

Our brand new intro and outro music by the Bearded Burton! Follow The Bearded Burton: https://www.youtube.com/@UCCnQJYSkQjQCEsVgrc

Check out your hosts:

Nick: https://blackflagsurvival.com/ and https://www.offgridweb.com/

Tom: https://www.knivesbynuge.com/

Heather: https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/

Support the Podcast:

https://www.patreon.com/c/RaisetheFlagPodcast

This Week on Raise The Flag...The Return of Joe Flowers! If you don't know Joe, you won't want to miss the opportunity to learn more about this passionate knife designer, jungle guide, and entomologist. If You do know Joe, you are already aware you don't want to miss his stories!We talk knives, the IWA convention in Europe, Godzillia and Blade Show Texas! and if you're at Blade Show Texas be sure to stop by and see Nuge and some of our awesome past guests including AA Forge, Auxiliary Manufacturing, JD Custom Knives, and The Woods Monkey!

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.

After a few attempts to get Adam from AA Forge on here we finally did it. We did had an epic battle with the evils of technology, but through perseverance we made it happen! Take that Skynet!

Beyond all that we have great conversations about knives, upcoming Blade Show Events, and Adam shows off a new model...but wait I can't see anything through my ears?!?!

You'll Just have to check out the episode on youtube to see the new goodness!

You Want the Links? We got the Links!

AA Forge: https://aaforge.com/

Our brand new intro and outro music by the Bearded Burton! Follow The Bearded Burton:https://www.youtube.com/@UCCnQJYSkQjQCEsVgrcD-n2wCheck out your hosts:Nick: https://blackflagsurvival.com/ and https://www.offgridweb.com/Tom: https://www.knivesbynuge.com/Heather: https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/Check out more on Raise The Flag PodcastListen to us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/212YKOdlEcQNBjUhSbBrkUSupport the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/c/RaisetheFlagPodcast

It was a cold brisk day in New England, We recorded a podcast and I was planning on uploading as usual and bam! Ice Storm!

Sorry it's late, mother nature really didn't want you to listen to this one but in scrappy raise the flag fashion we made it work!

In this episode Tom is remarkably cheerful, Blade Show happenings, new publications, terrible sleeping bags, and much more!

We are back...well mostly back, Tom lost some finger mass and red water! This week we discuss injuries while working and recreating in the outdoors. Watch Heather almost pass out from the gory details!Matt Williams is a talented writer and content creator that Nick has the pleasure of working with. While his journey may have started in the tactical space he is making moves to follow his passion for the Great Outdoors!Be sure to listen to the audio version to check out our brand new intro and outro music by the Bearded Burton! Follow The Bearded Burton:https://www.youtube.com/@UCCnQJYSkQjQCEsVgrcD-n2wCheck out your hosts:Nick: https://blackflagsurvival.com/ and https://www.offgridweb.com/Tom: https://www.knivesbynuge.com/Heather: https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/Check out more on Raise The Flag PodcastListen to us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/212YKOdlEcQNBjUhSbBrkUSupport the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/c/RaisetheFlagPodcast

This week on Raise The Flag...some one brought up Star Wars which leads to an nerdy rant by Nick and Tom. We also discuss some the importance of layering and cold weather protection, business updates, and of course, the nonsense!

Check out your hosts: Nick: https://blackflagsurvival.com/ and https://www.offgridweb.com/ Tom: https://www.knivesbynuge.com/ Heather: https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/ Check out more on Raise The Flag Podcast Listen to us on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/212YKOdlEcQNBjUhSbBrkU Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/c/RaisetheFlagPodcast

Did you know cornhole is a competitive sport? It is and we are launching the first official competitive hook and loop extreme sports patch league! Ok we aren't actually doing that but we do have a great conversation with John over at Badger Claw Outfitters and talk about some of the products he has coming this year, events coming up...and in typical Raise the Flag fashion shenanigans ensue! -Check out Badger Claw Outfitters: https://badgerclawoutfitters.com/ -Nick's Article about the Badger Claw Outfitters M1 Discover Pack on Recoil Offgrid: https://www.offgridweb.com/preparation/go-bag-building-a-winter-survival-kit-with-bco-discovery-m1/ Check out your hosts: Nick: https://blackflagsurvival.com/ and https://www.offgridweb.com/ Tom: https://www.knivesbynuge.com/ Heather: https://www.pnwbushcraft.com/ Check out more on Raise The Flag Podcast

Support the Podcast: https://www.patreon.com/c/RaisetheFlagPodcast

what do all the things in the title have in common? We talk about them on the podcast, plus a bunch of other stuff!

woah it's 2025 and the Raise The Flag Crew has made a resolution to curse less, be more organized, and just be as positive as Heather always is...Just kidding! We are up to the same shenanigans and there are some cool announcements for new stuff coming in 2025!