Forged in Fire & Life: Brian Rognholt’s Journey Through Steel and Survival Episode Description: In Episode 17 of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with Brian J Rognholt for a deep dive into a life shaped by fire, steel, and resilience. Brian shares how his blacksmithing journey began back in 1988, evolving from making simple crosses to tackling complex architectural ironwork and massive Damascus blades. The two swap behind-the-scenes stories from their time on Forged in Fire, revealing the intense pressures of filming, unexpected setbacks like broken blades, and the reality of competing under the clock. From gritty forge conditions in Brooklyn to the challenges of TV editing, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to perform on camera. Beyond the forge, Brian opens up about serious health battles, including heart surgery and recovery, offering a powerful perspective on perseverance. The conversation also ventures into car restoration, viral content, shop accidents, and even a bit of Star Trek and space exploration. This episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom, wild stories, and a reminder that the path of a maker is never just about the craft—it’s about the life lived around it.

In this episode of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with bladesmith Dustin Rhodes for a wide-ranging conversation from the forge to the future. Dustin shares exciting plans to expand his business into Tennessee, passing the torch on current operations while building something new from the ground up. The two dive into the realities of today’s knife market—rising costs, shifting demand, and how makers are adapting with new materials, techniques, and strategies. From deep discussions on steel quality, blade finishes, and heat treating, to wild stories of meteorite forging and one-of-a-kind builds, this episode covers it all. Dustin also opens up about working with unconventional materials, including human bone, and the challenges that come with pushing artistic boundaries. Packed with insight, experience, and a few unexpected turns, this is an episode you won’t want to miss—you never know where the conversation will go when two makers get talking.

In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Chris Jones of Steel Dog Knives to talk about the real journey of building a knife-making business from the ground up. Chris shares how an unexpected season of medical recovery — and binge-watching Forged in Fire — sparked his path into bladesmithing. Eight years later, he opens up about transitioning from hobbyist to full-time maker, balancing a new tech career starting March 9th, and navigating the financial and time-management challenges of running a small custom shop. The conversation dives deep into fixed blades vs. folders, chef knife geometry, heat treatment, pricing luxury custom blades, and the importance of constructive criticism from fellow makers. Michael and Chris also tackle knife show networking, misleading “handmade” imports, Facebook ad struggles, AI innovation, and why building relationships matters more than booth sales. From shop talk to steel science to tech and AI, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and a few good laughs — all forged in the spirit of craftsmanship and community...

Atlas Forge: Innovation, Industry & the Modern Bladesmith & Blacksmit In Season 2 Episode 13, host Michael Peterson sits down with Charles, founder of Atlas Forge and creator of the popular Mini Atlas Forge, to talk about the journey from computer repair technician to industry innovator in blacksmithing and knife-making tools. Charles shares how a U.S. Marines commercial in the 1980s sparked a lifelong passion for forging, leading him to build his first forge in the mid-2000s and eventually grow his operation from a small 12x12 back room into a 3,000-square-foot warehouse shop. The conversation dives deep into the evolution of forge design, blown air burners, CAD-driven innovation, and the real challenges of producing anvils in the United States after major manufacturers closed their doors. Michael and Charles also explore the realities of sourcing cast steel anvils, the rise of affordable advanced manufacturing tools, and the global knife-making community. They discuss everything from Damascus steel’s revival to coke vs. propane forges, insulation upgrades, and the development of high-carbon railroad spikes that are now fueling knife-making fundraisers and educational events. Packed with shop talk, business insight, and a shared passion for craftsmanship, this episode highlights resilience, innovation, and the spirit of the modern American blacksmith.

Ink, Integrity & AI with Rodney Jacobson In Episode 12 of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with longtime friend and comic book artist Rodney Jacobson. Mike and Rodney go back over 20 years—long before comics—when they were both starting out driving trucks on the coal haul. From the open road to the drawing board, their journey has been anything but ordinary. Rodney, known for his work with Valor Comics, Sentries, Swift Blades, and his own independent titles, shares what it’s like building a career in comics over two decades. They talk about breaking into the industry, staying committed to quality craftsmanship, and the realities of independent publishing. The episode also dives into character development, storytelling, AI vs. hand-drawn art, and how platforms like Kickstarter are opening doors for creators. Plus, Rodney will be appearing at the upcoming May Business Fest with comics available for fans. From coal trucks to comic books—this one’s about grit, growth, and staying creative.

Raised by the Shield & Sword – Steel, Story, and Strategy In this episode of Behind The Anvil, Host Michael Peterson sits down with Brian DeMille and Dan DeMille for a dynamic conversation that blends bladesmithing, comic art, and business insight. From childhood stories of being “raised by the shield” and “raised by the sword,” they reflect on the early influences that shaped their creative paths. The discussion dives into tactical and hunting knife design, the balance between form and function (including a debated butter knife design), and Michael’s transition from fixed blades to folders. He shares updates on refining his knives—adjusting materials, improving weight and balance, experimenting with brass and G10, and working toward more affordable, practical models. Brian, owner of Black Lotus, talks about his business creating custom-designed signs, banners, and branding materials for small businesses, helping them stand out in their communities. He also shares his involvement helping organize Rocktober and Mayhem in the Park, both held at Richfield City Park in Richfield, Utah. Dan DeMille, owner of Valor Printing LLC and creator of K.O.G.S. Comics, shares insights into independent publishing, military-themed storytelling, and the realities of marketing creative work in today’s crowded space. The conversation explores the role of AI in art and writing, debating AI-assisted tools versus traditional hand-drawn craftsmanship and what that means for artists and creators moving forward. From knife-making techniques and rising material costs to marketing challenges, creative integrity, and community-driven events, this episode delivers honest insight on craftsmanship, entrepreneurship, and staying true to your craft in a rapidly changing world.

Back on His Feet & Back to the Bench – Recovery, Rods, and Rockets

In this powerful and wide-ranging episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Brad to talk about his hard-fought recovery from back surgery, workers’ comp battles, and the long road back to work. Brad shares the physical and financial challenges he faced—including nerve damage, medication complications, and emergency surgery—and the determination it took to return to the job on December 4th. From there, the conversation shifts gears into fishing rod building, upcoming event prep, diesel engine upgrades, and the pros and cons of modern truck platforms. The two also dive deep into space exploration—discussing NASA funding, SpaceX, Blue Origin, Artemis missions, and the future of heavy-lift rockets. It’s a mix of resilience, craftsmanship, faith, freedom, and forward thinking—another honest and unfiltered conversation from behind the anvil.

From Canada to Custom Craft – A Conversation with Glenn Stoneman In this wide-ranging episode of Behind The Anvil, Michael sits down with Canadian-born entrepreneur Glenn Stoneman to talk craftsmanship, citizenship, and cultural contrasts between Canada and the United States. From Glenn’s custom night lights and wax warmers to discussions on education, healthcare, history, and energy, this episode dives deep into freedom, responsibility, and personal growth. Glenn also shares his involvement in upcoming theater projects, along with reflections on faith, purpose, and perseverance. It’s an honest, thought-provoking conversation about culture, conviction, and carving your own path.