Explore every episode of the podcast Yours For The Making with Robin Johnson
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| From Gut Health to Growth: Kombucha, Craft & Community with Leon Driver of Booyah Vitality | 23 Apr 2025 | 01:02:13 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, host Robin Johnson dives into a conversation rich in craft, community, and kombucha with Leon Driver, of Booyah Vitality - the family-run kombucha and health drinks brand making waves across the South East of England. Leon shares how Booyah went from a kitchen-side passion project to a fast-growing wellness brand, producing natural kombucha, turmeric shots, and dandelion coffee from their Hastings-based brewery. Learn about their handcrafted process, the importance of real ingredients, and the growing demand for gut health and probiotic drinks. We explore the science behind kombucha, why not all kombucha is created equal, and how health-conscious consumers can make better decisions in a market dominated by processed foods and misleading “natural” labels. Leon also talks about the culture of wellness, health trends and the entrepreneurial highs and lows of building a business with family. Plus, discover Leon’s passion for Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, how he balances business with wellness, and the surprising parallels between kombucha brewing and surfing. Connect with the amazing family team from Booyah Vitality via https://booyahvitality.co.uk This episode is for you if you’re into:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Mr. Doodle: How Sam Cox Turned His Passion into a Global Art Brand | 23 Apr 2025 | 01:05:59 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, host Robin Johnson welcomes one of the UK’s most recognisable contemporary artists - Sam Cox, better known as Mr. Doodle. From obsessively doodling as a kid to creating a viral doodle-covered house, launching his own art universe, and building a family-run global brand, Mr. Doodle shares the full story behind his creative rise. Learn how he developed his signature style, created alter-ego characters like Dr Scribble, and turned passion into profession. Whether you’re an artist, creative entrepreneur, or just curious about how to build a career doing what you love, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and inspiration. In this show, we discuss:
This episode is for: Creative entrepreneurs, Makers, Artists, Side hustlers, Brand builders, DIY creators, Art lovers, Fans of Mr. Doodle and anyone who loves stories of turning passion into purpose Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Welcome To Yours For The Making with Robin Johnson | 23 Apr 2025 | 00:01:31 | |
Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| From Surf Shops to Sold-Out Shows: Artist Andy Walker on Creativity, Confidence, and Getting Out of the Drawer | 01 May 2025 | 00:49:45 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with Brighton-based artist Andy Walker, whose career has spanned fine art, flip-flops, live music, and now full-time painting. Andy shares the captivating story of how his sketchbook doodles evolved into large-scale, gallery-sold works, and how his journey from visual merchandiser to exhibiting at the Affordable Art Fair proves it’s never too late to go big. In this episode, you will hear:
Whether you're a full-time artist, a creative hobbyist, or simply someone navigating your own side project, Andy’s story will inspire you to just get it out there. This episode is packed with real talk on imposter syndrome, self-promotion, late-bloomer success, and the magic of finally being seen. Connect with Andy via https://www.instagram.com/thewalkergallery/ Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Building a Luxury Footwear Startup Brand with Purpose: Sustainability, Craftsmanship & The Journey Of Starting Farrago with Matthew Bedford | 07 May 2025 | 01:03:24 | |
In this inspiring episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with luxury footwear designer and founder of Farrago, Matthew Bedford, to explore what it really takes to build a purpose-driven fashion brand from the ground up. Matthew shares his journey from award-winning Cordwainer at London College of Fashion to launching his innovative women’s shoe brand, Farrago. Designed with interchangeable accessories and made in collaboration with traditional Portuguese craftspeople, Farrago’s mission is to create luxury women's heels and boots that are stylish, high quality, and genuinely sustainable. In this episode, you will hear:
If you’re interested in luxury fashion design, starting your own shoe brand, eco-conscious design, or how to scale a direct-to-consumer product, this episode is packed with candid insights, honest lessons, and real-world advice. This podcast includes a deep-dive into: Luxury footwear design, how to start a shoe brand, sustainable fashion podcast, direct to consumer footwear, women's luxury heels, fashion manufacturing in Portugal, eco-friendly shoe design, ethical fashion startups, interchangeable shoes, vegan leather alternatives, how to make shoes, launching a fashion brand UK, artisan shoemaking, slow fashion podcast, sustainability in fashion, sustainable shoe brands, startup challenges in fashion and the journey of being crafting a new brand of British designer footwear Check out Matt’s amazing work via https://farrago.uk/ and follow his journey via https://www.instagram.com/iamafarrago/ Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| From Punk Stages to Studio Life: Kid Kapichi’s Ben Beetham on Music, Fame & Creative Freedom | 14 May 2025 | 00:49:35 | |
In this powerful episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Ben Beetham - guitarist, producer, and founding member of the UK punk rock band Kid Kapichi - for a candid conversation about life in music, independent creativity, and what it means to walk away from the band he helped build. From sharing the stage with You Me at Six and Sex Pistols at the Royal Albert Hall this year to producing fresh new acts in Hastings, Ben shares what it’s really like being in a band that’s done the DIY music career right. He opens up about burnout, evolving musical identities, and the emotional decision to leave the group to pursue a future in music production and songwriting full-time. This episode is packed with real talk about:
Whether you’re an independent artist, a songwriter, or just love behind-the-scenes insight about the real craft behind making music, this episode is an honest and inspiring listen about staying grounded while chasing growth. This episode includes conversations cover: Kid Kapichi, UK punk bands, independent music career, how to start a band, producing music UK, life on tour, songwriting process, DIY musicians, leaving a band, music career advice, creative transitions, Hastings music scene, punk rock podcast, building a fanbase, recording an album, music industry reality, balancing art and fame Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| From Forest to Furniture: The Art and Craft of Sustainable Timber with English Woodlands | 21 May 2025 | 01:01:38 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with Nick Lewis of English Woodlands Timber to explore the fascinating journey of sustainably sourced wood, from managed forests to fine furniture. Whether you're a seasoned furniture maker, a joiner, a restoration enthusiast, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of natural materials, this episode is packed with insight into the timber trade, traditional woodworking techniques, and sustainable forestry in the UK. Nick shares his journey from a fine art background into the world of timber, detailing the sourcing, seasoning, and kiln-drying process that transforms raw logs into usable hardwood boards. The pair dive deep into the challenges and opportunities facing British timber today, from the resurgence of characterful homegrown species like oak, ash, elm, and chestnut, to the impact of climate, forestry management, and geopolitical events on supply chains. Listeners will learn about:
They also discuss real-world projects like bridge builds, luxury retail fit-outs, and the inspiring community behind English Woodlands Timber — a place known as much for its scenic South Downs setting as for its warm, knowledgeable team. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in woodworking, sustainable timber, fine furniture making, forestry, English hardwoods, joinery, restoration carpentry, kiln drying, sawmills, forest-to-furniture craftsmanship, and timber supply chains. In this episode, you will hear conversation on: English Woodlands Timber, UK timber suppliers, sustainable wood sourcing, kiln drying timber, homegrown hardwoods, joinery timber, buying oak boards UK, fine furniture making, air dried timber UK, timber grading, FSC certified timber UK, timber drying process, woodworker podcast UK, timber industry podcast, sustainable joinery, woodland management UK Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| From Sketch to Wrist: The Art of British Watchmaking with Matt Herd of Beaucroft | 28 May 2025 | 01:03:00 | |
What does it take to design a timepiece that lasts generations? In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with Matt Herd, co-founder and designer at Beaucroft Watches, a rising name in British independent watchmaking. From early design scribbles in Cambridge to handcrafted, small-batch production runs, Matt shares the deeply personal and creative journey behind Beaucroft's elegant mechanical watches. If you're passionate about craftsmanship, product design, and British heritage brands, this conversation is a masterclass in what it means to make with intention, build a creative business from scratch, and embrace the imperfections that drive innovation. Matt opens up about:
Whether you're a maker, designer, watch enthusiast, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights on product integrity, brand storytelling, and why making mistakes might be your most valuable design tool. Check out the amazing work and beautiful designs from Beaucroft via their website https://beaucroftwatches.com/ In this conversation, we talk about British watch brands, independent watchmakers UK, Beaucroft Watches, mechanical watches, Miyota movement, Swiss watch vs Japanese watch, Cambridge design, product design journey, watch design process, handmade watches UK, craftsmanship podcast, artisan watchmaking, creative entrepreneurship, side hustle to business, building a brand story, legacy products, slow design, small batch manufacturing, how to start a watch brand, artistic collaboration and British heritage design Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Designing Beachfront Icons & Bold Builds with RX Architects' Rob Pollard | 05 Jun 2025 | 00:59:41 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson is joined by Rob Pollard, co-founder of RX Architects - the award-winning firm behind some of the UK’s most iconic beachfront properties. From the now-famous pink “Sea Breeze” house built entirely without road access on Camber Sands, to cutting-edge wineries in the South Downs, Rob shares the untold stories behind RX’s most ambitious projects. This is a masterclass in modern architecture, sustainability, and pushing the limits of what’s possible in the built environment. You’ll hear how RX Architects:
Plus, you’ll discover why Sussex wine country is a booming hotspot for architectural opportunity, and why hands-on delivery, lasting client relationships, and design integrity matter more than ever. This conversation is essential listening for anyone passionate about:
Whether you’re an architect, designer, builder, or simply someone who loves beautiful spaces - this one’s for you. Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Ed Lofts on Overcoming Trauma, Building Resilience & Why Slowing Down Could Save Your Life | 12 Jun 2025 | 01:03:59 | |
In this raw and powerful episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Ed Lofts, seven-time world kickboxing champion, gym owner, complex trauma specialist, and all-around explorer of physical, mental, emotional, and financial growth. Ed opens up about his transformative journey from martial arts prodigy to trauma therapy advocate, exploring how early life abuse shaped his worldview, how helping his mother heal from lifelong shame became a personal milestone, and why real growth means finding the edges of your comfort zone. You'll hear candid insights into the realities of CTE in combat sports, how unprocessed trauma holds people back, and why men in particular need better tools to process emotions. Plus, how Ed's mentors shaped his philosophy, what true freedom looks like, and why “slowing down” is the most underrated tool for self-discovery. Whether you're into self-improvement, psychology, martial arts, or just navigating the modern challenges of fatherhood, business, and emotional well-being, this episode delivers heavyweight insight. In this episode, Robin Johnson and Ed Lofts discuss:
KEY MOMENTS: 0:00 - Introduction to Ed Lofts: Martial Arts Champion & Explorer 0:05 - The Explorer's Mindset: Pushing Personal Boundaries 3:30 - From Martial Arts to Enlightenment: Ed's Early Journey 5:10 - Mentorship and the Importance of Finding the Right Guides 9:20 - Movement, Performance, and Working with Ido Portal 13:00 - Brain Trauma in Combat Sports: A Critical Health Concern 16:50 - Complex Trauma: Understanding Emotional Healing 22:30 - The Impact of Childhood Experiences on Adult Behavior 27:15 - Financial Freedom and Personal Growth 32:40 - Navigating Emotional Challenges and Seeking Help 38:20 - Parenting, Presence, and Inner Child Work 44:50 - The Four Pillars of Personal Development 50:30 - Transitioning from Martial Arts to Trauma Therapy 55:45 - Building a Platform for Personal Growth and Education 1:01:30 - One Key Piece of Advice for Personal Transformation This podcast is for: Those interested in trauma recovery and personal development, Men exploring emotional health and mindset, Martial artists, combat sports athletes, and trainers, Entrepreneurs, fathers, and purpose-driven leaders, Listeners seeking holistic tools for personal reinvention, Fans of Gabor Maté, Tim Fletcher, Ido Portal, and The School of Life Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Building a Solo Woodworking Business | Zac Matheou of Lycan Design | 19 Jun 2025 | 01:28:43 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with the self-proclaimed “ply guy” - Zac Matheou, founder of Lycan Design, and a master craftsman known for his impeccable plywood cabinetry and honest takes on life as a solo maker. Zach shares the story of his winding path into the world of bespoke joinery - from helping his dad in a pine furniture factory to a special effects career and eventually founding his own workshop. With over 11 years of hands-on experience, Zach opens up about everything from the realities of running a business alone, the beauty of hand-drawn designs, tool brand snobbery, pricing struggles, sustainability, and why he’s still not quite sure how he got here. If you're a cabinetmaker, independent designer, joiner, or creative entrepreneur — especially one trying to balance quality craftsmanship with business growth — this is a masterclass in real-world making. In this episode, you will learn:
This episode is a must-listen for: Woodworkers and furniture makers, independent craftspeople and designers, creative entrepreneurs, Architecture and design studio collaborators, fans of high-quality joinery and British craftsmanship and anyone building a values-led, purpose-driven making business Key Moments: 0:00 - Introduction to Makers and Craftsmanship 0:54 - Meet Robin Johnson and Zac Matheou 1:19 - Zac's Plywood Expertise 2:09 - 11 Years of Working with Plywood 3:03 - Challenges of Running a One-Man Business 6:30 - Zac's Family Background in Furniture 9:02 - Career Journey in Special Effects 10:33 - Workshop Evolution 11:36 - Challenges of Workshop Transitions 13:07 - Lessons Learned in Craftsmanship 15:08 - Attention to Detail in Woodworking 22:38 - Relationships with Architects and Designers 24:38 - Social Media Trends in Woodworking 32:33 - Tools and Technology in Craftsmanship 38:30 - Design and Manufacturing Process 41:42 - Plywood Supply Challenges 48:09 - Waste Reduction and Material Optimisation 54:27 - Apprenticeships and Trade Skills 1:08:37 - Spray Finishing Techniques 1:16:45 - Pricing and Value in Custom Furniture 1:22:37 - Advice for Aspiring Craftsmen 1:28:25 - Future Plans and Business Goals for Lycan Design Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Building Bikes, Brands & Beautiful Machines – with Foundry Motor Co’s Tom Simpson | 25 Jun 2025 | 00:57:08 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson sits down with custom motorcycle builder and creative powerhouse Tom Simpson, the founder of Foundry Motor Co. Based in Chichester, Tom has spent the last 15 years handcrafting some of the UK’s most admired custom bikes - from oily-rag Triumphs to retro-futurist cafe racers that wouldn’t look out of place in Blade Runner. Tom shares how he went from blacksmithing ornamental railings to TIG-welding speedo brackets in a custom bike workshop, and why everything changed when he opened the new Foundry Coffee Lounge, a destination café and creative hub for bikers, builders, and vintage vehicle lovers. Whether you’re into custom motorcycle building, metalwork, TIG welding, or you’re dreaming of launching a brand around your passion - this episode is packed with insights, stories, and laughs from one of the UK’s most thoughtful makers. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Key Moments: 0:00 - Introduction: Tom Simpson and Foundry Motor Co 0:25 - First Motorcycle Experiences and Early Passion 2:30 - Transition from Sales to Motorcycle Building 4:35 - How Foundry Motor Co Began 7:15 - New Workshop and Coffee Shop Location 11:02 - Design Philosophy and Bike Inspiration 15:03 - Workshop Tools and Metalworking Techniques 20:37 - Personal Motorcycle and Riding Experiences 22:42 - Goodwood Revival and Automotive Passion 24:36 - Design Inspiration and Bike Building Process 29:29 - Custom Motorcycle Scene Evolution 34:32 - Working on Motorcycles and Challenges 40:16 - Family and Passing on Mechanical Knowledge 42:54 - Early Motorcycle Memories 47:14 - Old vs New Motorcycles 49:23 - Future Plans for Foundry Motor Co 54:10 - Motorcycle Community and Networking 55:27 - Advice for Young Motorcycle Enthusiasts Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| How Salvage Sister Is Making Power Tools Inclusive | Charis Williams on DIY, Metalwork & Creativity | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:54:42 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson is joined by metalworker, maker, and creative powerhouse Charis Williams, also known as The Salvage Sister. From welding sculptures in her garden workshop to empowering women and beginners to confidently use power tools, Charis is on a mission to make hands-on creativity accessible for all. You’ll hear how Charis went from a soul-crushing job at a bank to building a life around reclaimed materials, self-taught skills, and unshakeable creative passion. She shares her journey through the world of murals, woodworking, welding, television appearances, and now - launching her own online course platform designed to teach practical tool skills to beginners in a safe, empowering way. Whether you're a hobbyist, aspiring maker, or professional creative, this conversation is packed with laughter, grit, and insights into running a creative business from scratch. In this episode, you will hear:
This is for: Beginner makers ready to pick up tools for the first time, women looking to build DIY confidence, Creatives juggling family, freelance, and making, workshop hosts and community educators, fans of hands-on learning, reclaimed materials, and metalwork plus anyone considering turning their creative hobby into a business Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| How to Grow Gourmet Mushrooms & Build a Small-Scale Mushroom Business | Basil’s Fungi Farm | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:37:11 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, host Robin Johnson is joined by Robbie Kelly, founder of Basil’s Fungi Farm, a thriving gourmet mushroom business based in Hastings. From culturing mycelium on petri dishes to supplying chefs across the UK, Robbie shares his remarkable journey from teenage curiosity and chef life to pioneering sustainable urban mushroom farming. Discover the science behind mushroom cultivation, how mycelium networks connect ecosystems, and why mushrooms might be the future of food, medicine, and environmental innovation. Whether you're a chef, grower, biohacker, or sustainability advocate, this episode delivers rich insight into one of nature’s most fascinating organisms—and the What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
In this show, we discuss: Gourmet mushroom farming, how to grow mushrooms at home, mycelium cultivation, sustainable agriculture uk, oyster mushroom kits, lion’s mane recipes, mushroom growing startup, urban farming UK, Cordyceps mushroom health benefits, DIY mushroom grow kits, small-scale farming, food entrepreneur podcast, fungi and ecology, how to grow lion’s mane, mushroom spore propagation, mushroom farm business uk, regenerative food systems, soil biology podcast, artisan food growers, mushroom farming tips for beginners KEY MOMENTS: 00:00 – Why taking risks is worth it 01:20 – Meet Robbie Kelly from Basil’s Fungi Farm 02:00 – What are gourmet mushrooms? 02:45 – Saprophytic mushrooms and species overview 03:40 – Robbie’s journey: from chef to grower 04:30 – Starting a mushroom business from a bedroom 05:15 – The Hastings mushroom yard setup 06:00 – How to grow mushrooms using sawdust & straw 07:00 – Understanding mycelium: cloning & propagation 08:20 – Using Petri dishes, grain, and culture slants 09:20 – The underground network: mycelium & ecosystems 11:00 – From petri dish to pounds of sawdust 12:00 – Mushroom fruiting: how long it takes 13:20 – Grow room conditions: humidity, temperature, air 14:45 – Always learning: growing vs. running a business 15:40 – The toughest part of starting up 17:00 – Selling to chefs and scaling up locally 18:30 – Could he hire staff? Scaling challenges explained 20:30 – Long-term vision: small-scale, human business 21:30 – Mushroom grow kits for home use 23:00 – Can you grow mushrooms in your garden? 24:00 – Medicinal mushrooms & supplements: do they work? 25:30 – Growing Cordyceps: tricky but possible 27:00 – Why some mushrooms can’t be grown sterile 28:30 – Home mushroom growing: kits vs. DIY 29:10 – Robbie’s favourite mushrooms to cook with 30:30 – Markets, meetups & mushroom visibility 31:30 – Why local home delivery is tricky 32:20 – Best advice for new growers 33:30 – Where to learn mushroom cultivation 34:30 – The hidden risks of mushroom farming 35:30 – Spores, mold & building a culture lab 36:15 – Why Robbie loves mushroom growing 36:35 – Where to buy Basil’s Fungi Farm mushrooms Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Inside deBolex Motorcycles: Custom Builds, Metal Shaping & The Future of Bike Craftsmanship | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:53:58 | |
In this episode, Robin Johnson is joined by Calum Price, founder of deBolex Engineering, one of the UK’s most respected custom motorcycle builders. Known for transforming Ducatis and Triumphs into fully bespoke machines, deBolex specialises in high-end custom bikes that combine modern engineering with traditional craftsmanship. Calum shares the full journey - from stripping his first Ford at 17, to building hand-shaped aluminium fairings, fabricating race-inspired carbon fibre bodywork, and creating the limited-run deBolex DB25 Ducati series. He also discusses deBolex’s current passion project: a Vincent-inspired custom build, blending 3D-printed metal parts with vintage techniques like brazing and English wheel metal shaping. This episode is packed with insights into:
Whether you're a custom bike enthusiast, a builder, or just love hearing about craft and design, this episode is for you. Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. KEY MOMENTS: Key Moments: 0:00 – Introduction & The Love of Craft 01:05 – Meet Calum Price from deBolex Engineering 02:23 – The Rise of the Custom Bike Scene 03:29 – How deBolex Found Its Unique Design Identity 05:42 – Inside the deBolex Ducati DB25 Project 08:07 – Balancing One-Off Builds with Series Production 08:56 – Why deBolex Does Everything In-House 10:58 – Traditional Metal Shaping Meets Modern Tech 13:34 – The Lost Art of Panel Beating & Fabrication 16:42 – Keeping deBolex Small & Craft-Focused 18:22 – Building Bikes for Celebrities & High-Profile Clients 20:08 – Why Custom Motorbikes Take So Much Time & Skill 23:14 – Personal Projects: The Vincent Family Legacy 27:35 – 3D Printing Meets Traditional Frame Brazing 30:29 – Why Making Mistakes Fuels Better Craftsmanship 32:00 – Dream Projects & The Idea of a Ground-Up Bike Build 36:01 – How the Custom Motorcycle Scene is Changing 39:11 – The Rise of Adventure Bikes & 90s Race Replicas 43:30 – The Pursuit of the Perfect (But Interesting) Bike 46:31 – Vincent Motorcycles: The Ultimate All-Rounder 47:49 – Will the Future Be Electric? The Debate 49:04 – Advice for Aspiring Bike Builders: Start with Metalwork 51:26 – Combining CAD, 3D Printing & Old School Techniques 53:03 – Where to Find deBolex & How to Get a Bike Built | |||
| Cam Whitnall on Saving Lions, Fighting Wildlife Crime & Building the UK’s Leading Big Cat Sanctuary | 23 Jul 2025 | 01:18:38 | |
In this inspiring episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Cam Whitnall, Director of The Big Cat Sanctuary, wildlife photographer for Nikon, social media creator, and passionate conservationist. Cam shares the remarkable story of rescuing five lions from Ukraine, navigating the complexities of the illegal wildlife trade, and building a state-of-the-art lion habitat, one of the most advanced in the UK. He explains how social media, content creation, and viral storytelling have become powerful tools for wildlife conservation, fundraising, and public awareness. From growing up in a family of zoo and sanctuary operators to building a 20-year vision for the future of big cat care, Cam reveals the behind-the-scenes reality of managing a sanctuary, working with DEFRA on zoo standards, and balancing media influence with on-the-ground animal welfare. Key topics covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson - founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on shows such as The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Intro: Meet Cam Whitnall & The Big Cat Sanctuary 01:45 – How Cam Became a Conservationist & Content Creator 04:10 – The Big Cat Sanctuary’s 20-Year Vision 06:55 – The Story of Rescuing Lions from Ukraine 10:12 – The Illegal Wildlife Trade Explained 12:45 – How the Ukraine Lion Rescue Happened 15:30 – Building a £500k Lion Habitat from Scratch 17:50 – Why There’s a Black Market for Big Cats 19:30 – The Reality of Running a Sanctuary vs a Zoo 22:10 – Animal Welfare: Good Zoos vs Bad Zoos 24:05 – New DEFRA Standards & UK Zoo Regulations 26:20 – Behind the Scenes of Animal Rescues in the UK 28:30 – Cam’s Family Legacy: 3 Generations of Animal Care 31:05 – Balancing Social Media with Conservation Work 33:40 – How Social Media Helps Raise Conservation Funds 36:10 – Rewilding & The Future of Big Cat Conservation 38:55 – What’s Next for The Big Cat Sanctuary 41:00 – Cam’s Personal Goals & Upcoming Projects 43:10 – Final Advice: How to Make a Difference in Conservation | |||
| How Brewing Brothers Went From Pubs to Pioneers | 30 Jul 2025 | 00:52:46 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Billy Ericksson, Head Brewer at Brewing Brothers in Hastings. From pouring pints in pubs to managing a 3,200-litre brewery, Billy shares the full story behind one of the South Coast’s most respected independent craft breweries. Billy talks about local hops, seasonal brewing, and the art of creating unique small-batch beers using foraged ingredients like spruce tips and raspberries. He reflects on how Brewing Brothers adapted during COVID-19, pivoting to pizza deliveries and packaging beer by hand. He also explains how the business scaled from a 400-litre brew kit to multiple venues without losing its small-scale brewing soul. For anyone curious about the craft beer industry, running a brewery, or the science and creativity behind ale, this is a deep-dive into what it really takes to build a brewery that lasts. Key Topics Covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson – founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, and Woodland Workshop – this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. 🎧 Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction to Billy & Brewing Brothers 03:15 – From pulling pints to brewing beer 06:32 – Brewing Brothers’ first 400-litre kit 08:45 – “Mordor”: Renovating the old brewery site 10:59 – How COVID reshaped their business 14:18 – Small-batch brewing and foraged flavours 18:00 – Seasonal adjustments to mash and fermentation 21:42 – Scaling production while staying true to craft 25:03 – The science behind IPAs and water chemistry 28:45 – How New England styles changed the game 30:52 – Using local hops from Tibbs Farm 33:15 – Why foraged ingredients matter 36:27 – Staffing, burnout, and building a team 39:45 – The power of branding in modern brewing 41:02 – Advice for aspiring brewers | |||
| Behind the Camera: Tim Cragg on Crafting Powerful Documentaries | 06 Aug 2025 | 01:06:35 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Tim Cragg – award-winning director of photography whose work spans iconic documentaries like Three Identical Strangers, the Beckham series, and upcoming films at Tribeca. With a BAFTA, Golden Globe nominations, and decades of experience, Tim offers an unfiltered look into the art of cinematic storytelling. From shooting intimate interviews to capturing large-scale productions, Tim shares how he chooses projects that matter, adapts to the demands of true crime and celebrity docuseries, and continues to push creative boundaries. Whether working with Spielberg’s team on alien documentaries or interviewing Holocaust survivors for the British government, his focus is always on truth, emotion, and impact. For aspiring filmmakers and film lovers alike, this is a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to tell powerful stories on screen. Key Topics Covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson – founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, and Woodland Workshop – this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. 🎧 Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Meet Tim Cragg: BAFTA-winning director of photography 04:12 – Getting into film with dyslexia and no formal training 08:40 – Why documentaries? Tim’s approach to choosing projects 11:55 – Filming Three Identical Strangers and Beckham 15:22 – Working with David Attenborough, Spielberg, Aronofsky 18:40 – True crime, trauma, and Netflix-funded therapy 23:05 – Why alien documentaries are taken more seriously now 26:14 – Filming celebrities to look real, not polished 30:48 – Global impact of Netflix vs BBC budgets 34:01 – Shooting a mafia series and Tribeca feature film 38:12 – Advice to aspiring filmmakers: trust your instinct | |||
| Helena Martin on Narrative-Led, Sustainable Interior Design | 13 Aug 2025 | 01:29:29 | |
In this episode of Yours For The Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Helena Martin, Lead Interior Designer at Hollaway Studio, to unpack the art of creating interiors that are as functional as they are beautiful. Helena explains her narrative-led design approach, where every project tells its own unique story, whether it’s a luxury jewellery store, a multi-storey skate park, or the entrance to one of London’s most iconic skyscrapers. She shares how she balances creative vision with practical constraints, navigates the challenges of heritage building restoration, and embraces sustainable materials to deliver interiors that stand the test of time. From unexpected discoveries in renovation projects to the pressures of rising material costs, Helena gives an unfiltered view of the modern design process — and offers advice for aspiring designers on versatility, collaboration, and building a personal style that lasts. Key Topics Covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction to Helena Martin and Hollaway Studio 04:15 – Narrative-led design and tailoring interiors to the client 10:42 – Designing Stephen Webster’s Burlington Arcade store 17:28 – Balancing heritage restoration with modern functionality 23:56 – Sustainability and timeless material selection 31:40 – Project delays, planning permission and Covid-19 impacts 39:12 – Managing rising material costs and client expectations 46:05 – Uncovering historic features during renovations 53:47 – Collaborating with architects and specialist makers 1:01:20 – Advice for aspiring interior designers 1:08:15 – Hollaway Studio’s standout projects and creative process 1:16:40 – Personal renovation experiences and lessons learned 1:24:30 – Final reflections and future design aspirations | |||
| Traditional Joinery, Business Grit, and the Future of Craft with Damen Foord | 20 Aug 2025 | 01:35:39 | |
What does it really take to survive and grow in the modern joinery trade? In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Damen Foord, founder of D Foord Joinery, to talk about the highs, lows and lessons of life as a traditional joiner. Damen shares his journey from a tough apprenticeship into running his own joinery business, the constant struggle to balance craft with cost, and why he believes traditional skills are being lost in a world dominated by mass-produced furniture. Together, Robin and Damen unpack the realities of managing staff, training apprentices, finding clients, and staying profitable through economic downturns. This episode shines a light on the value of skilled craftsmanship, the risks of going it alone, and the future of joinery in Britain. Whether you’re a maker, apprentice, or simply curious about the craft behind bespoke furniture, you’ll get an unfiltered look at what it means to dedicate your life to wood. Key Topics Covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction: Robin Johnson and Damen Foord on confidence and business 06:45 – Robin on shutting down his first business and rebuilding stronger 12:30 – Damen’s traditional joinery training and lessons from mentors 20:15 – Why doing things right matters more than shortcuts 27:40 – Starting D Foord Joinery in 2018 and early challenges 35:10 – The reality of bespoke joinery costs vs mass production 44:25 – Apprenticeships, training, and finding the right staff 54:40 – COVID, economic downturns, and adapting as a small business 01:05:30 – The role of YouTube in showcasing traditional joinery 01:13:20 – Robin and Damen on collaboration and supporting the trade 01:22:15 – Final advice for aspiring joiners and reflections on the future | |||
| 45 Years of Joinery Mastery with Richard Muddiman of Johnson Bespoke | 27 Aug 2025 | 00:53:01 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Richard Muddiman, the Joinery Foreman at Johnson Bespoke. With more than 45 years of woodworking experience, Richard has seen it all – from traditional hand tools to the evolution of modern machinery. Calm, collected and deeply skilled, Richard shares insights on the art of joinery, the lessons learned over a lifetime in the trade, and why true craftsmanship can never be replaced by shortcuts. If you’ve ever been curious about what it takes to stay at the top of your craft for nearly five decades, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humour and practical knowledge. Key Topics Covered:
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introducing Richard: 45 years in joinery 06:45 – How the woodworking trade has changed over time 14:20 – Lessons learned from apprenticeships and mentors 23:10 – The role of patience and attention to detail 32:55 – Why mass production can’t replace craftsmanship 41:30 – Richard’s proudest projects in joinery 50:10 – What keeps him passionate about woodworking after decades | |||
| From Graffiti to Tattoos with Alexis Camburn of Two Snakes Tattoo | 03 Sep 2025 | 01:14:18 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Alexis Camburn, the founder of Two Snakes Tattoo in Hastings, to explore her journey from graffiti artist to respected tattooist and studio owner. Alexis shares candid insights about the tattoo industry, from her early apprenticeship days in a father-and-son shop to building a thriving business that has become a cornerstone of the Hastings creative community. She opens up about the realities of running a tattoo studio, the financial pressures of self-employment, and the supportive network of local makers, barbers, brewers, and butchers in Trinity Triangle. Alexis also discusses the importance of proper tattoo aftercare, her own fears of needles, and how tattoos shaped her confidence and identity. Alongside tattooing, Alexis talks about her catering venture Fed Box, her 20 months of sobriety, and how resilience and passion keep her moving forward. This episode is a deep dive into creativity, community, and carving out your own path as a maker. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces Alexis Camburn of Two Snakes Tattoo 05:30 – From graffiti to tattoo apprenticeship in Sidley 13:10 – First tattoos, fears of needles, and building confidence 21:45 – Tattoo conventions and the global tattoo community 34:20 – Founding Two Snakes Tattoo and early financial struggles 47:00 – The Hastings creative community and Trinity Triangle collaborations 55:15 – Tattoo culture, celebrity influence, and customer perceptions 1:05:40 – Tattoo aftercare and the pain of placement 1:14:30 – Running Fed Box Catering alongside tattooing 1:21:50 – Sobriety, resilience, and personal growth 1:28:00 – Future plans for tattoo conventions and collaborations | |||
| From Plumbing to Pizza with Dan Caldieraro of Brewing Brothers | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:46:39 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Dan Caldieraro, executive chef and director of Brewing Brothers, the team behind some of Hastings’ best pizza and pasta. Dan shares his unexpected journey from plumbing with his father in Italy to finding his calling in the kitchen, inspired by his brother. He explains the realities of working in a high-pressure restaurant, the importance of quality ingredients, and why slow fermentation and wood-fired ovens transform pizza dough. Dan also talks about fresh pasta, the difference between egg and semolina pasta, and why gnocchi holds a special place in his heart. He opens up about the balance of being a new dad while leading a kitchen, the creative buzz of seasonal tasting nights, and why simplicity and proper technique are at the core of Italian cooking. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction to Dan Caldieraro of Brewing Brothers 01:15 – From plumbing in Italy to cooking with his brother 03:35 – The intensity of a busy restaurant kitchen 05:20 – Falling in love with Hastings and joining Brewing Brothers 07:57 – Opening the Imperial and starting with pizza 09:36 – Why wood-fired ovens change everything 12:12 – Blending different flours and slow fermentation for pizza dough 17:08 – The science of heat and perfect crusts 21:38 – Fresh pasta versus dried pasta and cooking times 25:16 – The ritual and joy of making pasta at home 29:40 – Gnocchi and childhood favourites 31:45 – Hosting seasonal tasting nights with foraged and local ingredients 34:54 – Pizza as the winning model at the Imperial 37:17 – Favourite pizza toppings and experimenting with flavours 40:42 – Pasta, sauces, and the Italian food code 43:48 – Advice for aspiring chefs and the value of asking questions 45:17 – Where to find Dan and Brewing Brothers | |||
| The Art of Gilding and Mirror Making with Shaun Phelan | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:53:52 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Shaun Phelan, gilder and mirror maker, whose career began in 1996. Shaun explains the detailed craft of gilding, from preparing wood with layers of gesso to the flexibility of water gilding and the creation of burnished finishes. He shares how his work evolved from antique frames to convex mirrors, pigmented glass, and bespoke furniture. Shaun talks about his early influences, the rise of social media in bringing new commercial commissions, and his collaborations with Asian factories that allow him to combine rare materials like onyx and amber into new designs. He reflects on balancing artistic creativity with commercial demand and the importance of innovation in keeping a centuries-old craft alive. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces Shaun Phelan, gilder and mirror maker 01:18 – Explaining gilding and the role of gesso layers 04:14 – Why Shaun prefers water gilding to oil gilding 05:39 – Childhood influences and fascination with antiques 06:47 – Moving from gilded frames into mirrors 09:03 – How Instagram brought new commercial work 12:47 – Partnering with Asian factories and bespoke production 18:06 – Returning to gilding for artists and commissions 21:16 – The creative process behind pigmented glass mirrors 26:14 – Expanding into furniture and lighting design 34:08 – The challenges of retail versus commercial focus 41:25 – Where Shaun’s mirrors fit best and why exclusivity matters 47:29 – Advice to his younger self about failure and resilience 49:00 – Finding Shaun online and the role of Instagram | |||
| Guy Watts on Architectural Plants, Apprenticeships and Extreme Adventures | 24 Sep 2025 | 01:14:25 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Guy Watts, Managing Director of Architectural Plants in West Sussex. Guy shares how his 32-acre nursery grows 60–70% of plants on site, using propagation, grafting and container growing to produce hardy, long-lasting trees and shrubs. He explains why the business invests heavily in apprenticeships, creative maintenance and AI-driven garden design. The conversation also dives into Guy’s personal story, from rowing across the Indian Ocean to earning his pilot’s licence, and how extreme challenges shaped his leadership and resilience. Listeners will also hear about unusual projects like helicopter-delivered trees, solar-powered plant labs and why vocational training is key to the future of horticulture. Perfect for gardeners, landscapers, horticulture students, sustainability professionals and anyone fascinated by the business of plants and the culture of making. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Guy Watts and Architectural Plants 04:40 How the nursery grows and propagates plants 08:30 Guy’s early gardening experiences in Rye 12:20 Creative maintenance and Clip Fest at Chelsea Flower Show 15:00 Apprenticeships and training the next generation 20:00 Challenges in recruiting young people into horticulture 25:00 Balancing technology with traditional horticultural skills 36:50 Solar power, plant labs and rare propagation 45:00 Designing gardens and customer experience with AI 50:00 Delivering trees by helicopter and extreme logistics 53:50 Why Guy got his pilot’s licence 55:30 Rowing across the Indian Ocean for 102 days 66:40 Lessons from Streetscape charity and resilience in business 70:00 Advice for young people entering horticulture | |||
| From VW Restorations to Bespoke Joinery with Russell Birt | 01 Oct 2025 | 01:15:58 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Russell Birt from Birt Williams Bespoke Joinery in Eastbourne. Russell shares his journey from restoring a 1974 Volkswagen camper to running a thriving joinery business. He opens up about taking over a workshop at 31, surviving accidents and setbacks, and building a partnership that balances traditional hand skills with modern CNC technology. The conversation covers conservation joinery, the challenges of pricing and time management, the value of apprentices, and why quality always wins over speed. Packed with insight for makers, joiners, woodworkers and anyone passionate about craft, this episode explores the realities of keeping traditional skills alive while adapting to the pressures of modern business. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction to Russell Burtt and the joinery community in Eastbourne 01:00 – From VW restoration to pursuing joinery 02:00 – Buying a workshop at 31 and early challenges 05:00 – Business setbacks and recovery with new partnerships 09:00 – Adapting to quieter markets and investing in CNC technology 13:00 – Balancing tradition with modern machines 17:00 – Ownership of projects and importance of the finish 20:00 – Campervan interiors and CNC opportunities 25:00 – Pricing challenges and managing time effectively 33:00 – Balancing office work and workshop life 39:00 – The joy of making and rekindling passion 43:00 – Passing skills down through apprenticeships 46:00 – The future of conservation joinery 54:00 – Favourite parts of joinery and the love of timber 01:00:00 – Challenges of conservation work and heritage restrictions 01:06:00 – Partnerships, flexibility, and running a small workshop 01:10:00 – Why quality work builds reputation and wins clients 01:11:00 – Advice for young joiners starting out | |||
| The Art of Handmade Furniture with Andrea Felice | 08 Oct 2025 | 01:20:34 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Andrea Felice, the Italian-born furniture maker behind Andrea Felice Bespoke Furniture. Andrea blends traditional joinery with sculptural design, creating handcrafted pieces that balance artistry, craftsmanship, and functionality. He shares his journey from his family’s furniture business in Italy to building a bespoke studio in London, his collaborations with designers like Rebecca James, and the challenges of preserving artisan skills in a world dominated by mass production and CNC machines. Andrea also opens up about the pressures of running a small workshop, the role of tools in inspiring design, and why patience and persistence remain essential for anyone entering the trade. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces Andrea Felice and his hybrid artisan approach 02:00 – Merging traditional training with sculptural design 05:30 – Complex projects and the value of prototyping 08:40 – Why bespoke work costs more than mass production 14:00 – CNC machines versus traditional craftsmanship 18:20 – Growing up in an Italian furniture-making family 22:50 – Starting a business in London and surviving the 2008 downturn 29:00 – Gentrification and the loss of artisan workshops in London 32:40 – The lasting value of handcrafted furniture 35:20 – Running a business with a partner and dividing responsibilities 43:00 – Work-life balance, filtering clients, and reducing stress 53:00 – The skills gap in joinery and training apprentices 1:02:00 – Sources of inspiration from tools, materials, and nature 1:08:40 – Collaboration with designer Rebecca James and their collection 1:15:00 – The obsession with tools and workshop life 1:18:30 – Andrea’s advice for aspiring woodworkers: patience and persistence | |||
| Designing Gardens that Last: Joe Perkins on Sustainability, Chelsea Flower Show and the Future of Landscape Design | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:53:37 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Joe Perkins, one of Britain’s leading garden designers and three-time Chelsea Flower Show gold medallist. Joe shares the behind-the-scenes reality of the 18-day build at Chelsea, his collaboration with the King’s Trust, and how garden design is evolving to meet the challenges of climate change and sustainability. From designing resilient landscapes in Tunisia to creating inclusive public spaces at Sheffield Park, Joe reveals how creativity, ecology and craftsmanship combine in modern landscape design. Listeners will gain insight into the design process, the emotional depth of working on war cemeteries, and practical advice for transforming home gardens into green, vibrant spaces. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Forging Legacy: Dean Boyd on the Art, Science and Survival of British Knife Making | 22 Oct 2025 | 01:05:11 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with Dean Boyd, co-founder of Emberleaf Workshops, to explore the precision, patience and philosophy behind high-end bespoke knife making. From military roots to mastering metallurgy, Dean shares how he built one of Britain’s leading custom knife workshops, creating blades from mammoth ivory, meteorites and powder-forged steels designed at a molecular level. Dean explains how Emberleaf grew from a two-man shed operation into a thriving business crafting heirloom-quality knives for collectors, bushcrafters and military units. He discusses the science behind blade geometry and metallurgy, the challenge of training new bladesmiths, and his mission to leave behind a legacy business that outlives him. The conversation also touches on military craftsmanship, safety culture, business growth, and the mental resilience required to run a creative manufacturing company in modern Britain. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. | |||
| Riding the Line: George Marshall on BMX, Photography and Surviving the South Pole | 29 Oct 2025 | 01:19:21 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with George Marshall, the photographer behind some of the most iconic BMX and cycling images of the past two decades. From shooting for brands like Rapha, Specialized and Trek to documenting riders at Battle of Hastings and beyond, George shares stories from the frontline of action photography. He reflects on his transition from BMX to road cycling, his time launching Team Sky and his filmmaking expeditions with Royal Enfield — including a three-month survival shoot in Antarctica. George opens up about the realities of freelancing, financial struggles, and the sacrifices behind creative success. He also shares practical advice for young photographers on patience, resilience and staying passionate even when progress feels slow. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Introduction and George’s early life in BMX 05:00 – Shooting local legends and community stories in Hastings 10:30 – How BMX led to photography and The Albion magazine 18:00 – Working with global brands like Rapha, Trek and Specialized 23:30 – Transitioning from BMX to road cycling and launching Team Sky 30:00 – Building a photography career from scratch 36:00 – The pressures and realities of freelance creative work 43:00 – The story behind the Croydon Warrior photo 50:00 – Life lessons from shooting extreme events 58:00 – Filmmaking with Royal Enfield and the Antarctica expedition 1:05:00 – Navigating storms and survival at the South Pole 1:10:00 – The mindset of staying calm under pressure 1:15:00 – Mental health, motivation and self-doubt in creative work 1:20:00 – Advice for young photographers and choosing a niche 1:27:00 – Final reflections and closing thoughts | |||
| Carving Your Own Path: Jarrad Belton on Furniture Making, Timber Ethics and Finding Purpose in Craft | 05 Nov 2025 | 01:20:07 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with furniture maker and educator Jarrad Belton, known as the “worker of wood”. Jarrad shares his journey from leaving college unsure of his path to discovering carpentry, mastering timber machining, and retraining as a fine furniture maker. He opens up about the reality of working in an undervalued trade, the discipline it takes to master hand tools, and why passion must come before profit in any creative career. Jarrad discusses sustainability in timber sourcing, the ethics of using tropical hardwoods, and how he teaches new makers to respect their materials from forest to finished form. The conversation explores the delicate balance between creative ambition and commercial reality, the challenge of developing a unique design identity, and the enduring joy of working with your hands. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces Jarrad Belton and his early start at English Woodlands 02:00 – How carpentry replaced a career in motorbike mechanics 04:25 – Retraining in furniture making and finding purpose in craft 07:05 – Why apprenticeships and furniture courses are disappearing 16:00 – The sense of community in traditional craft 17:30 – Jarrad’s design philosophy and inspiration from nature 20:00 – Timber ethics and the dangers of unsustainable forestry 24:00 – Lessons from French silviculture and biodiversity in woodlands 39:00 – Starting a furniture business and learning the value of your time 44:15 – The struggle for recognition as an independent maker 54:11 – How to price work without underselling your craft 58:41 – Comparing craftsmanship to car making and industrial design 1:02:48 – Designing for nature and impermanence 1:04:08 – The challenge of originality and creative identity 1:08:05 – Lessons from sculptor Philip Walker on aesthetics and intuition 1:10:04 – Balancing machines and hand tools in modern furniture making 1:13:33 – Teaching apprentices the importance of hand skills 1:16:45 – Jarrad’s advice to his 18-year-old self: stop comparing 1:18:31 – Exhibitions, galleries, and where to find Jarrad’s work | |||
| The Woodsman’s Code: James Vann on Forestry, Craft, and Living from the Land | 12 Nov 2025 | 01:03:27 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson sits down with tree surgeon, timber framer, and chainsaw instructor James Vann for a grounded, unfiltered conversation about the life of a modern woodsman. From growing up on a Kent farm to working across Europe in forestry and learning the craft of timber framing, James has built a life around the forest. He talks about the danger and discipline of felling trees, the devastation of ash dieback, and the importance of sustainable woodland management. The conversation dives into deer stalking, ethical hunting, the use of local timber, and the undervalued nature of tree work as a trade. This is an honest portrait of a man who lives by the seasons, works with nature, and finds meaning in hard work, good tools, and doing things properly. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces James Vann, a craftsman of the forest 02:00 – Starting a firewood business as a teenager and learning through graft 03:16 – Working abroad and discovering a global community of foresters 05:38 – The dangers and discipline of tree surgery 07:59 – Understanding and managing ash dieback in British woodlands 11:00 – The role of deer in forest health and biodiversity 13:40 – Hunting in Australia and the ethics of sustainable hunting 17:45 – Butchering, processing, and cooking wild game 21:00 – How hunting changed James’s relationship with food 32:35 – Shifting from furniture making to timber framing 34:20 – Milling, framing, and building with local oak 37:05 – The moral conflict of felling healthy trees 41:06 – The obsession with imported timber and monoculture forestry 44:17 – Chestnut coppicing, undervalued crafts, and the cost of cheap timber 47:11 – Why forestry work is undervalued and misunderstood 50:28 – Competing with European oak and imported timber 53:50 – Moving into training and forestry education 55:07 – Reflections on Kings of the Wood and lessons from TV work 57:16 – Advice to his younger self: focus, commit, and master one craft | |||
| How James Burtt Built a Podcast Empire from Scratch | 19 Nov 2025 | 01:03:24 | |
James Burtt joins Robin Johnson to share his remarkable journey from a failed radio presenter and cabaret singer to becoming one of the UK’s leading podcast producers. Having launched almost 200 shows—with 98% charting on iTunes—James reveals the strategies behind creating, growing, and monetising successful podcasts. He breaks down why podcasting is the most underused marketing tool for businesses, how authenticity drives long-term results, and why most creators quit before the breakthrough. From early missteps in radio to building Phonic, a thriving podcast production agency, this episode is packed with straight-talking advice for creators, entrepreneurs, and brands who want to stand out through storytelling. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 – Robin introduces podcast producer James Burtt 03:25 – From failed radio presenter to discovering podcasting 05:55 – How Phonic was born during the pandemic 07:18 – How to monetise a podcast without ads 12:15 – The power of guest selection and tactical networking 17:22 – Why you don’t need fancy equipment to start a podcast 21:41 – Lessons from Steven Bartlett and Joe Rogan’s rise 26:45 – Why most creators give up too soon 30:45 – The importance of authenticity in building an audience 39:00 – How to choose the right guests for long-term growth 46:49 – Advice for aspiring podcasters: define your version of success 53:36 – The truth about content quality and audience fit 56:39 – Life advice: stickability, consistency, and learning your craft 1:00:49 – Why persistence always wins | |||
| The Battle To Build Premium British Smocks With Jacob Lockwood | 26 Nov 2025 | 01:09:40 | |
Jacob Lockwood joins Robin Johnson to unpack the reality of building a premium clothing brand in Britain at a time when most of the industry has outsourced its craft. Jacob explains how he turned his military needs into a business that now designs and manufactures high grade British smocks using Cordura, Harris Tweed and UK sourced materials. He talks openly about the real cost of making things properly in the UK, the struggle to find skilled machinists, the shift in consumer mindset towards buying fewer but better items, and the pressure of scaling a product while refusing to compromise on quality. Jacob also shares how he built traction without an agency, the role of social media in driving demand, and his vision to grow a British brand that stands for durability, skill and long term value. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Jacob and the story behind Lockwood Premium British Smocks 2:11 How military experience shaped his design philosophy 4:18 Why consumers are shifting towards premium clothing 7:35 The true cost and difficulty of British manufacturing 10:24 The challenge of finding skilled British makers 13:38 When a brand must slow down to protect quality 14:10 The role of social media in attracting loyal buyers 22:40 Why he refuses to compromise on materials 34:32 Future product plans and ambitions for the brand 37:50 Lessons Jacob learned while building the business 1:06:45 The wider impact of UK manufacturing on the economy 1:08:07 Final thoughts and Jacob’s long term vision | |||
| How Stephen Clark Designs Furniture People Actually Want | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:58:24 | |
Furniture designer Stephen Clark from Clark & Co joins Robin Johnson for a detailed look at how real product design works behind the glossy brochures. Stephen explains the journey from university projects to designing mass market furniture for major retailers and then shifting into high end bespoke manufacturing. He talks openly about the pressure of designing for different budgets, why accessible good design matters, and how storytelling and communication shape every product that reaches a customer. This conversation breaks down the creative process, the reality of British manufacturing, the rise of AI in design, and the responsibility designers carry when their work ends up in thousands of homes. It is a practical and honest guide for makers, designers and anyone who wants to understand how furniture is really made. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Stephen Clark and how he found furniture design 00:53 Moving from university into retail with Home Retail Group 03:01 What it takes to design for different retailers and budgets 03:42 Shifting into bespoke manufacturing with Friend Group 08:54 Why Stephen started Clark and Co and changed direction 11:26 Understanding the customer journey and design communication 17:29 Balancing high end design with budget and manufacturing constraints 25:21 How AI supports the workflow of modern designers 34:46 Using augmented reality to help customers visualise furniture 40:57 Stephen’s future plans and long term design vision | |||
| The Real Cost Of Making Things Right With Biesse Expert Mark Trapnell | 10 Dec 2025 | 01:04:42 | |
Robin Johnson sits down with Biesse Sales Manager Mark Trapnell for a detailed look at manufacturing, production flow, tooling decisions, CNC capability and the practical realities of running a modern workshop. Mark shares his journey from apprentice heavy goods mechanic to senior roles across major manufacturing businesses before moving into machinery consultancy. He explains why understanding process flow, input quality, tooling choices and skill sets matters more than any single machine. This episode gives clear insight into lean thinking, production efficiency, value stream mapping and what small makers should consider before investing in CNC machinery. A grounded conversation full of practical advice for anyone working with wood, materials or complex workshop processes. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Mark’s background and early career in heavy goods engineering 04:00 Moving into woodworking and large scale pine furniture manufacturing 08:30 Training, City and Guilds progression and early CNC exposure 12:00 Managing teams, production flow and why seconds matter at scale 17:50 Lean principles and the importance of correct input processes 21:30 Cutting waste, skip costs and understanding value stream mapping 25:20 Why lean is pointless without clear information from designers and clients 29:50 The reality of manufacturing for prisons and major tier one contractors 33:40 Lessons from running workshops without formal training 38:30 Complex refurbishment projects including House of Lords benches 42:00 Joining Biesse and why real production experience matters in sales 46:30 Choosing the right CNC and why Mark refuses to oversell machines 49:10 Should small makers consider stone and advanced materials 52:00 What first time machine buyers must understand before investing 55:30 Why skilled labour plus CNC creates the strongest workflow 59:40 Advice for young makers and why you must take opportunities | |||
| The Precision, Patience and Art of Marquetry with Master Maker Audrey Fasquelle | 17 Dec 2025 | 01:04:55 | |
Robin Johnson talks with master marquetarian and teacher Audrey Fasquelle in a detailed exploration of the craft, technique and mindset behind one of the most demanding decorative arts. Audrey shares her journey from early cabinet making in France to advanced marquetry for luxury vehicles, along with her teaching roles at Farnham, West Dean and Robinson House Studio. She explains how veneers behave, how grain direction shapes outcomes, how colours and undertones must be read correctly and why mistakes should be expected and embraced. This episode highlights the real labour behind fine marquetry, the problem solving required for curved work, the rising interest in handmade detail and the importance of slowing down, preparing carefully and training your eye. A clear and honest look at a craft that rewards patience, precision and obsession with detail. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 What marquetry is and why it works like a jigsaw 01:20 How veneers behave and why pressing technique matters 03:30 Grain direction and why most beginners snap their first pieces 05:40 Patience, preparation and understanding imperfections 07:05 Audrey’s journey from cabinet making to marquetry training 11:20 Difference between marquetry and parquetry 13:10 Early career challenges and failed attempts at a marquetry business in France 15:20 Working at Silverlining and later moving into luxury automotive marquetry 17:40 Creative demands of high level bespoke interiors 19:10 Learning laser cutting to support modern marquetry practice 20:00 Teaching at West Dean and adapting to different student personalities 26:40 Speaking for woodworker guilds and joining the Farnham teaching team 31:00 Teaching at Robinson House Studio and learning to handle student frustration 35:00 Balancing full time work with her own studio practice 39:20 Key projects that shaped her career including a complex degree piece 43:00 Turning stacked veneer blocks into patterned drinking vessels 49:50 How long detailed marquetry takes from design to finish 52:40 How colour undertones influence veneer selection 55:00 Techniques for curved marquetry and flexible veneer applications 58:40 Advice to her younger self about patience and persistence 01:01:10 Becoming a recognised master marquetarian and where to find her courses Keywords: marquetry, veneer work, fine woodworking, decorative woodcraft, cabinet making, parquetry, veneer cutting, grain direction, luxury craft, handmade furniture detail, West Dean College, Farnham School of Art, Robinson House Studio, Silverlining, luxury car interiors, curved marquetry, flexible veneers, creative woodwork, woodworking education, artisan training, traditional crafts, British craft podcast, Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson, master maker, creative process, wood textures, veneer preparation, marquetry tools, hand cut marquetry | |||
| Building Looking Glass Lodge: From Woodland Vision to Sustainable Retreat in Fairlight | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:46:22 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with Lindsey and Rik Goodman about designing building and running Looking Glass Lodge in Fairlight East Sussex. The conversation follows their journey from an early idea of a small shepherd style retreat to delivering a striking glass fronted woodland lodge with near full occupancy. Lindsey and Rik explain the influence of family history and woodland stewardship on the design, the planning challenges of building in an area of outstanding natural beauty, and the financial pressure created by specialist glass requirements and rising material costs during Covid. They discuss sourcing locally, designing for calm rather than activity, switching from build mode to marketing overnight, and learning what guests actually value. This episode gives a clear view of the emotional financial and practical reality of building a high end retreat in the UK countryside. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introducing Looking Glass Lodge and its location 01:10 Family history and woodland background 02:33 The original shepherd hut idea 03:41 Design ambition grows with the site 04:25 Location led design and woodland immersion 05:32 Planning permission challenges 06:41 Wildlife protection glass and light control 07:27 Budget pressure and committing to the build 08:23 Covid impact on material costs 09:14 Stress coordination and competing priorities 10:03 Mental strain during the build 12:53 Deadline pressure and opening on time 14:00 Transition from building to marketing 15:26 First guest feedback and confidence 16:52 Supporting local suppliers and makers 17:47 Designing for rest not activity 19:14 Guest behaviour and repeat bookings 20:05 Research inspiration and Scandinavian influence 21:17 Biophilic design and material choices 23:11 Interior decisions and practical compromises 25:14 Would they build again 27:28 Financial reality and sustainability 28:12 Occupancy rates and success 32:14 Guest privacy and low contact hosting 38:35 Advice for anyone building a retreat 39:06 Research commitment and loving the project 40:06 Advice to their younger selves 42:14 Where to find and book the lodge | |||
| Ella Fielding on Chainsaw Carving, Creativity, Neurodiversity and the Power of Making | 31 Dec 2025 | 01:02:11 | |
This episode of Yours for the Making dives deep into the world of chainsaw sculptor Ella Fielding. Her story offers a clear view of how creativity takes shape when instinct, physical craft and neurodiversity come together. Robin Johnson talks with Ella about her early start in sculpture, the impact of dyslexia and ADHD on her creative thinking, and her discovery of a fast and intuitive way of working with wood. Ella explains the emotional experience of carving fallen trees for clients, the practical challenges of working with different timbers and the therapeutic presence she feels when cutting. She also explores the flaws of traditional education, the value of hands-on learning, the influence of play, and the importance of making without the pressure to display or impress. This is a grounded and honest conversation that celebrates the maker mindset and the spirit of curiosity that drives creative work. Key Topics Covered Ella’s journey into sculpture and chainsaw carving The impact of dyslexia and ADHD on creative problem solving Limitations of traditional art education and the value of practical learning The importance of play in early creativity Mindfulness through physical craft and focused making Working with different types of wood and the challenges each one presents How personal stories and environments shape commissioned pieces The emotional role of tree carving and honouring fallen trees Social media use for creative community building Building confidence in handmade work without public pressure Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Ella and her unique creative path 00:52 Discovering chainsaw carving during her sculpture degree 04:30 Finding confidence through fast and instinctive making 05:47 The uncertainty of a career in fine art 09:19 Ella leaves school at 14 and discovers hands on learning 13:02 Discussion on the flaws in the education system 18:26 Creativity, play and permission to fail 20:51 The joy and discovery that happens through making 21:10 How the tree itself shapes the final sculpture 23:19 The emotional process of carving fallen trees 25:48 How Ella designs commissions that reflect people and place 26:24 The influence of neurodiversity on her creative life 33:34 The sensory link between materials and creativity 36:50 The importance of making without public pressure 40:20 Mindfulness and presence in chainsaw carving 43:37 The role of surfing and making in mental clarity 48:51 Working with different types of wood 52:18 Respect for ancient trees and the emotional impact of loss 55:38 Public commissions and where to see Ella’s work 57:22 Social media and creative community 59:20 Advice Ella would give her eighteen year old self | |||
| Laurent Peacock on Bespoke Furniture Design Craftsmanship and Finding a Creative Identity | 07 Jan 2026 | 01:07:31 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with South London furniture designer Laurent Peacock about his route from industrial design into bespoke furniture making. Laurent explains why mass production left him cold and how working directly with wood gave him clarity and purpose. He talks openly about earning the Guild Mark and the validation it brought both personally and professionally. The conversation explores the tension between form and function in contemporary furniture design, the pressure to build a recognisable style, and the reality of making work that must last as well as look right. Laurent also shares his discomfort with self promotion, his approach to exhibitions, and why tactility and physical interaction sit at the centre of his work. This episode offers a clear and honest view of what it takes to build a sustainable practice in high quality furniture making. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Laurent Peacock and his background 00:34 Early fascination with making and design 02:20 Industrial design and dissatisfaction with mass production 03:31 Discovering furniture making and working with wood 05:10 Submitting work for the Guild Mark 06:45 Validation confidence and opening professional doors 08:52 Community support within woodworking 12:10 Struggles with promotion and visibility 15:51 The divide between galleries and functional furniture 18:58 Storytelling versus build quality 21:34 Process driven design and material exploration 25:27 Longevity function and criticism of fragile art furniture 30:39 Finding position on the form and function spectrum 36:09 Experimentation play and constraints 40:05 Searching for a coherent creative story 45:29 Hiding technique and letting form speak 49:19 What buyers respond to at exhibitions 56:51 Tactility interaction and physical experience 1:02:05 Accessibility value and pricing reality 1:03:40 Advice to his eighteen year old self 1:05:28 Where to see Laurent’s work | |||
| Sam Kille on Furniture Making Discipline Design Identity and Building Heirloom Quality Work | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:49:35 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with furniture designer Sam Kille about his route from military service into bespoke furniture making. Sam explains how carpentry and joinery in the Royal Engineers shaped his discipline precision and approach to craft. He talks openly about running a furniture business with a partner, stepping away during Covid, and returning with a clearer sense of direction. The conversation covers Scandinavian and Japanese influences, heirloom quality furniture, and the realities of selling bespoke work in the UK. Sam also discusses pricing honestly, choosing the right clients, diversifying income through kitchen work, and why furniture should last generations. This episode offers a grounded view of what it takes to build a sustainable furniture practice without shortcuts. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Sam Kille and his background 01:10 Military training and carpentry trade 02:38 Starting a furniture business with a partner 03:39 Closing the business and stepping away 04:29 Design influences and visual language 05:30 Sam’s design process and sketching 06:10 Diversifying skills to survive financially 08:40 Selling bespoke furniture and pricing reality 09:02 Heirloom quality and long term value 10:26 Family legacy and inherited furniture 10:55 Discipline from military life 13:08 Working with clients and trust 15:51 Saying no and choosing the right work 18:18 Timber choices and material preference 25:07 Pricing honesty and time value 27:00 Apprenticeships and traditional joinery skills 31:40 Continuous professional development 39:44 Four day working week 43:00 Identity and business ownership 45:38 Advice to younger makers 47:45 Where to find Sam’s work | |||
| Robin Redmile-Gordon on Ichi-Coo Park, Craft Apprenticeships, AI and Building a Life Through Making | 21 Jan 2026 | 01:27:30 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with Robin Redmile-Gordon, Director of Ichi-Coo Park, about building a life shaped by creativity and long term thinking. Robin shares how transforming Russ Hill Farm into a vast garden and living artwork helped him stay sane while running a global IT company. The conversation moves through craftsmanship collaboration and why clear briefs unlock exceptional work from skilled people. Robin offers a blunt critique of modern education and exam driven learning, argues for apprenticeships rooted in real work, and explains why holistic learning matters more than qualifications. Robin also discusses AI as a practical tool for thinking diagnosis and productivity, shares his experience of living with terminal blood cancer and the role of Turkey Tail mushrooms, and outlines ideas for a future where skills, purpose and creativity matter more than bureaucracy. This episode challenges conventional thinking and defends making as a meaningful way to live. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Ichi-Coo Park and its origins 02:26 The heart shaped island story 05:19 Working with skilled craftspeople 07:57 Value over cost in making 12:14 Building to protect sanity 17:25 Apprenticeships and skills gaps 27:03 Holistic learning and curiosity 38:48 AI as a working tool 51:36 AI and health diagnosis 56:19 Living with blood cancer 1:06:39 Skills across generations 1:23:18 Clip Fest 2026 | |||
| Steve Briggs on Church Conservation Stone Masonry and Building a Sustainable Heritage Business | 28 Jan 2026 | 01:21:13 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with Steve Briggs, founder of Briggs and Sons Masonry about conservation led stone masonry and the realities of scaling a heritage business. Steve explains why retaining original fabric matters, how church and listed building work demands restraint and judgement, and why replacement comes last. The conversation covers running a contracting arm alongside a consultancy for listed homes, navigating consent and surveys, training the next generation, and choosing culture and quality over rapid turnover. This episode offers a grounded view of craft led growth in the UK heritage sector. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introducing Steve Briggs and conservation masonry 02:10 Keeping original fabric wherever possible 05:40 Church restoration realities 09:15 Running contracting and consultancy work 13:30 Listed building consents and surveys 18:45 Scaling teams and managing growth pain 24:20 Training trainees properly 30:05 Culture over turnover 35:40 Learning craft through family 41:10 Sustainability in heritage businesses 46:30 Attracting the next generation | |||
| Studio Furthermore on Moon Rock Furniture, Recycled Aluminium and Designing the Future | 04 Feb 2026 | 01:17:38 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Marina Dragomirova and Iain Howlett, founders of Studio Furthermore about their Moon Rock Project and the long road of material driven design. They explain how six years of experimentation led to an aluminium foam made from recycled car wheels and how that material became a cabinet unveiled in Miami that shocked audiences when opened. The conversation covers material failure, foundry collaboration, storytelling in collectible design and the limits of photography in conveying physical work. Marina and Iain also discuss gallery relationships, sustainability futurism and their next chapter working with Japanese craftsmen on laminated plywood furniture. This episode offers a clear view of how new materials become meaningful objects through patience, research and conviction. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introducing Studio Furthermore and Moon Rock 03:58 The Miami cabinet and the shock reveal 07:01 Foundry collaboration and process control 13:11 Scaling up and thinking beyond furniture 20:38 Early ceramic foam experiments 35:10 RCA influence and material research 46:18 Storytelling and selling collectible design 1:01:19 Working with Japanese craftsmen 1:08:27 Failure as fuel for new ideas 1:10:19 Why physical galleries still matter | |||
| How to Scale a Bespoke Joinery Business Without Losing Craft, Profit or Your Sanity | 18 Feb 2026 | 01:29:49 | |
Robin Johnson speaks with Louis Rhoades of Louis Rhoades Studio about scaling a bespoke joinery business from a one man workshop to a structured, design led studio. They break down pricing to the penny, profitability between two and four staff, why growth from four to ten is brutal, and how value beats cost when you invest in CNC, spray finishing and FUGA Hydro substrates. This episode tackles hospitality versus residential work, outsourcing risk, honest client communication, proportion in design, and the stress that comes with ambition. A direct conversation between two workshop owners on craftsmanship, margins, ethics and long term thinking in British furniture making. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Scaling from one man workshop to small team 04:25 Why employing friends rarely works 08:09 Hospitality versus residential pricing realities 11:07 Value proposition and stepping away from tenders 24:58 Outsourcing failures and bringing processes in house 30:12 Investing in CNC and spray finishing for output and control 33:57 Calculating day rates and defining real value 45:15 Design ethics, legacy and avoiding disposable furniture 01:01:12 Hydro Fuga, veneering and modern wardrobe design 01:17:42 Craft standards, minor defects and client honesty 01:21:37 Advice to a younger self on stress and growth | |||
| Louisa Pacifico on Pricing Premium Craft, Saying No and Building a Sustainable Creative Business | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:56:25 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making Robin Johnson speaks with Louisa Pacifico, founder of Future Icons about how makers turn skill into a viable business without undercutting their value. Louisa explains why premium craft succeeds through fewer higher value sales rather than volume, and why many artisans struggle because they price emotionally rather than commercially. The conversation covers gallery relationships, press strategy licensing contracts and the importance of knowing when to say no. Louisa also discusses her role curating Future Icons Selects during London Craft Week and how makers should approach shows with clarity, purpose and realistic expectations. This episode offers practical insight for craftspeople who want longevity rather than noise. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 What Future Icons does and why it exists 03:00 Pricing problems in the craft sector 08:44 Knowing when not to do a show 15:27 Value based pricing versus cheap tenders 20:20 Learning business by doing 24:55 Funding education and apprenticeships 34:52 Curating Future Icons Selects 42:08 Regional buyers and gallery strategy 50:46 Advice to young makers 52:10 How to contact Louisa & Future Icons | |||
| Bespoke Kitchen Business Growth, CNC Cabinet Vision and Hand Painted Finishes with Brandon Collins | 25 Feb 2026 | 01:02:19 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Brandon Collins of Crabtree and Hargreeves about building a profitable bespoke kitchen and furniture business in the UK. Brandon shares how he transitioned from antique restoration with his father into high end bespoke kitchens, how he named his company for brand positioning and search clarity, and why hand painted finishes outperform spray finishes in durability and long term maintenance. He explains how investing in CNC machinery and Cabinet Vision software improved accuracy, efficiency and client communication, and he discusses pricing, managing growth, recruiting skilled cabinet makers and protecting craftsmanship in a technology driven world. This episode will resonate with furniture makers, joiners, kitchen designers, cabinet makers and small workshop owners who want practical insight into scaling a bespoke furniture business while maintaining quality and creative control. Key Topics Covered • Transition from antique restoration to bespoke kitchens • Brand naming strategy for cabinet makers and furniture businesses • Hand painted kitchen finishes versus spray finishes • CNC machines in small woodworking workshops • Using Cabinet Vision software for cabinetry design and production • Growth challenges in bespoke furniture businesses • Pricing, margins and workshop efficiency • Skills gap in cabinet making and joinery • Human judgement in bespoke craftsmanship • Client expectations in high end kitchen design Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Brand Origin and Business Evolution 03:25 Transition from Antiques to Bespoke Furniture 06:26 Challenges and Opportunities in the Furniture Industry 15:27 Hand-Painted Finishes and Quality Control 24:32 Technological Advancements and Efficiency 55:24 The Role of Technology in Bridging Skills Gaps 55:47 The Importance of Creativity and Craftsmanship 56:05 The Future of the Furniture Industry 56:26 Advice for Aspiring Furniture Makers 01:00:21 Final Thoughts and Contact Information | |||
| From Woodturning to TEFAF New York: Ash and Plumb on Sculpture, Storytelling and Building a High End Craft Business | 04 Mar 2026 | 01:06:00 | |
In this episode of Yours for the Making, Robin Johnson speaks with Barnaby Ash and Dru Plumb of Plumb and Ash about their rise from garage woodturning to exhibiting at TEFAF New York. They discuss Greco Roman influences, sculptural wood vessels, working with green oak, embracing cracks and stitch work, targeting high end galleries, and building a profitable craft business through strategy, research and relentless refinement. Key Topics Covered • Woodturning and contemporary wood sculpture • Greco Roman classicism and design history influence • Storytelling in art and craft practice • Working with green oak, cracks and natural movement • Stitching wood vessels and visible mending techniques • Transition from craft fairs to international art fairs • Targeting high end galleries and collectors • Pricing strategy and value in the art market • Creative partnership and studio roles • Burnout, pressure and creative flow state • Building a sustainable craft business in the UK • Future plans including blacksmithing and workshop expansion Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Plumb and Ash and their sculptural woodturning 01:06 Greco Roman influences and design research 03:17 Storytelling, symbolism and emotional impact in sculpture 08:46 Starting out with a second hand lathe and garage workshop 16:18 Moving from functional objects to sculptural vessels 17:48 Targeting high end galleries and strategic growth 22:24 Pressure, ambition and creative risk 25:01 Division of roles in a creative partnership 27:32 Working with green oak, cracks and stitched repairs 34:55 Complex sculptural handles and pushing technical limits 38:43 Milestones including Collect, museum acquisitions and TEFAF 51:13 Plans for a new woodland workshop 56:05 Burnout, deadlines and creative obsession 59:51 Making work that feels beyond your own ability 01:00:57 Advice to their eighteen year old selves | |||
| The Dark Art of Upholstery: Building a Bespoke British Furniture Business from the Ground Up | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:52:58 | |
Robin Johnson sits down with Jeff McGurty, founder and owner of D&P Upholstery in Gateshead, one of the North East's most established bespoke upholstery businesses. Jeff built his company from a one-man band operating out of evenings and weekends into a seven-person team with a brand new, five times larger workshop in Team Valley. In this episode, Jeff and Robin pull back the curtain on the upholstery trade: a craft that is simultaneously a dark art, a dying art, and a business full of genuine opportunity for those who approach it with curiosity and commercial instinct. They cover the nuts and bolts of running a split commercial and domestic upholstery operation, the frustrations of dealing with premium fabric suppliers, the smart play of building a client base through interior designers, and the calculated growth decisions that took Jeff from moonlighting in a small unit to leading a team and developing a new product range under his own brand, Forme. If you work in the trades, run a craft business, or simply love hearing how skilled makers build real businesses from raw skill, this episode delivers. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Robin introduces Jeff McGurty and opens with the idea of upholstery as a dark art, hidden craft work that disguises whatever sits beneath it 01:30 Jeff breaks down the 50/50 split between domestic re-upholstery and commercial bespoke seating, and how subcontracting frame-making keeps the operation lean 02:35 The pair dig into the absurdity of dealing with premium fabric suppliers: week-long quotes, discontinued stock, and bureaucratic trade account processes that slow down real work 04:12 Jeff compares expensive fabrics to designer brands and explains why mid-range fabrics with strong rub-test results often do a better job 05:59 Jeff's origin story: Sports Science, two weeks of work experience as a PE teacher, and a summer job that changed everything 08:11 The business decision that shaped Jeff's early growth: building relationships with interior designers rather than chasing direct-to-consumer work 11:49 How Jeff ended up working above one of his interior designer clients, and the move that eventually led him to buy DNP Upholstery from its retiring founders Derek and Pam 14:55 Jeff reveals the new modular sofa range being developed under the Form brand, including AI-powered fabric visualisation software built for trade-only use 18:11 The clever modular arm system that lets Jeff show 20 distinct sofa designs using a single seat and back unit with interchangeable arms 21:07 Robin's honest account of buying a sofa online and why he will never do it again 23:39 The best cushion filling? Jeff argues for a foam core with a feather wrap: structure without the sag 24:27 Jeff's most unusual project: a Chesterfield sofa made entirely from Paul Collingwood's cricket jerseys, each diamond panel featuring a different team badge 27:29 Why employing people remains the hardest part of running the business, and what went wrong with previous apprentices 29:08 A frank conversation about rising National Insurance contributions, minimum wage pressures, and the real cost of employment for small trade businesses 33:52 The turning point: bringing on a business manager freed Jeff from admin and let him focus entirely on pricing and growth 40:57 Introducing Forme: Jeff's new consumer brand, built around a British racing green and gold identity, with a trade website and AI fabric visualisation tool 43:16 Jeff's advice for anyone wanting to get into upholstery: knock on doors, find the local hot spots, and stay curious 50:43 Why TV programmes like The Repair Shop have helped raise public awareness and appreciation of upholstery as a craft 51:06 Jeff announces plans for monthly public upholstery workshops at the new Team Valley premises | |||
| Designing Ash Furniture in Britain with Katie Walker and Charlie Dedman on Sustainable Chair Making and Manufacturing | 11 Mar 2026 | 01:04:26 | |
Robin Johnson speaks with furniture designer Katie Walker and designer Charlie Dedman about the collaboration behind Meon Furniture and the realities of modern British furniture making. The conversation explores design for manufacture, steam bending ash timber, CNC machining, sustainable forestry and the business decisions behind heirloom furniture. They discuss the shift from studio craft to batch production, the value of workshop knowledge, and the importance of constant product improvement through feedback and testing. The episode also examines the role of British timber, the impact of ash dieback on forestry, and the challenge of building furniture that will last for decades rather than years. Key Topics Covered
Enjoying the show? Leave a review, follow us, and share the episode with a fellow maker. New episodes every week with artists, designers, craftsmen and creators from around the world. Yours for the Making with Robin Johnson is the podcast that celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the art of making. Hosted by Robin Johnson — founder of Johnson Bespoke and BBC presenter on The Travelling Auctioneers, The Restorers, Woodland Workshop — this podcast dives into the stories of makers from all walks of life. From woodworkers, metal fabricators, and chefs to artists, designers, and hobbyists, each episode offers real conversations with the people behind the things we love. Whether you're a hands-on creative, aspiring artisan, or simply curious about how things are made, this podcast offers inspiration, insight, and practical wisdom. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, lessons in process and passion, and a celebration of the maker movement in all its forms. Subscribe now and follow Yours for the Making wherever you listen to your favourite podcasts. Key Moments: 00:00 Introduction to Katie Walker and Charlie Dedman 01:23 Origins of the Meon Furniture collaboration 02:15 Katie Walker’s design education and Royal College background 07:23 Designing furniture for CNC manufacture 10:33 Learning woodworking skills through hands on training 13:48 Steam bending ash timber for chair design 17:21 Why ash timber is used for interior furniture 18:52 British ash, forestry and ash dieback 23:17 The history and reputation of Gaze Burvill furniture 29:11 Designing joinery that reduces manufacturing time 31:33 Designing sculptural furniture versus designing for production 37:35 Product development and improving furniture over time 41:27 Designing heirloom furniture built to last generations 45:26 Launch strategy for Meon Furniture 49:12 Why chair making is one of the hardest furniture disciplines 50:48 Advice to younger designers entering the craft industry | |||