Woodworking has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. My father's tools were my first introduction to the craft, and over the years, what started as a personal passion turned into something much bigger. After 35 years as a UI programmer, I found myself drawn more and more to the tangible satisfaction of building with my hands. I started making tables for a handful of clients on the side, working out of a small shop by a lake in New Hampshire. As orders grew, I made the leap—turning my part-time passion into my full-time business, New England Table Company.
Running a small woodworking business is a rewarding challenge—one that goes far beyond just making furniture. There's the craftsmanship, of course, but also the constant learning, problem-solving, and balancing act of handling everything solo. That's why I started Solo in the Shop. It began as a way to document my own journey—the challenges, the successes, and the lessons learned while growing a one-person woodworking business. But over time, it's become more than that. The podcast has evolved into a resource for solo woodworkers, DIYers, and makers who are navigating the same path, whether they're just getting started or already deep in the sawdust.
Through interviews with other makers and deep dives into the realities of running a shop alone, Solo in the Shop is about more than woodworking—it's about the independence, resilience, and creativity that comes with making a living from your craft. Whether you're tuning in from your own shop or just dreaming about starting one, I hope this podcast helps you feel connected, inspired, and motivated to keep building—both in your craft and in your business.