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This week on Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams welcome content master Jeff from Johnny Builds to dive deep into short form content! They break down the science behind viral success, discuss the importance of shot planning for efficiency, and debate the future of platforms like Instagram and YouTube. Jeff shares his strategy for helping makers grow their audience, emphasizing the need for consistent posting and engaging storylines.

Hear what the hosts are making, including CNC-cut Yahtzee boxes and Christmas ornaments, and Alex Adams's whimsical spatulas and unique wood-bent charcuterie boards. They also spotlight incredible maker projects from the community, like a magnet-floating CNC whale, hyper-realistic marquetry moths, and a woodturner who uses his creations to make ice cream! Plus, they have a lot of fun with the F*ck, Marry, Kill segment and the ongoing "Snake Saga."

Tune in for invaluable tips on lighting, editing, avoiding burnout, and maximizing your reach in the digital maker space!

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Step up to the lathe! On this episode of Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams welcome master woodturner and host of Sawdust Talk, TJ from TJT Workshop, for a deep dive into the world of woodturning.

TJ breaks down the basics, explaining what woodturning is, why it offers instant gratification, and the exciting possibilities of working with green wood. They discuss the essential tools you need to start—from affordable beginner lathes (like the Harbor Freight Bauer) to the debate between easy-to-use carbide scrapers and traditional steel gouges. TJ shares crucial safety advice, addresses the importance of high-quality PPE (including the dangers of turning with gloves!), and answers listener questions on preferred cutting techniques and how to duplicate projects using calipers and story sticks.

Plus, hear about Alex Duffey's holiday production run of CNC game boards and wooden earrings, and Alex Adams’s custom laser-engraved memorial piece and beautiful walnut sofa table. In "Whatcha Watchin'," they spotlight incredible maker projects, including intricate puzzle tables, next-level resin art, and the mind-blowing multi-axis woodturning of Derek Weidman.

Tune in for invaluable tips, shop humor, and a renewed appreciation for one of the oldest and most satisfying crafts in the maker community!

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This week on Whatcha Makin', Alex Duffey and Alex Adams tackle a topic every maker can relate to: woodworking on a budget! They share their best tips on scoring hand-me-down tools and affordable wood on Facebook Marketplace, plus creative ways to supplement your income by selling at markets or filming your own DIY projects.

Alex Duffey gives a full recap of the Texas Woodworking Fest, sharing his experiences from the classes and the expo floor, along with some memorable moments with friends (and a CNC tattoo!). Meanwhile, Adams discusses his latest projects, from a sofa/bar table to a charcuterie board. You'll also hear what broke this week (a router and a dust extractor!), and get some inspiration from their "Whatcha Watchin'" picks, which include incredible builds from the maker community.

Tune in for practical advice, real-world stories, and plenty of humor about the triumphs and tribulations of being a maker!

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