Episode 04: Michael Burch

Episode 04: Michael Burch

Author: Discussion of knives, knifemaking, and knife collecting with makers Michael January 22, 2018 Duration: 2:34:48

Our third knifemaker panel introduction digs into the life and background of Michael Burch.  We learn about Michaels influences, what drives him to perfect his craft, and how his love for knives put him on a path to become a craftsman.


Imagine pulling up a chair in the corner of a bustling knife show, where the air hums with the shared passion for finely crafted steel. That's the feeling you get with Mark of the Maker. Hosted by Mark Stheiner, this podcast gathers renowned custom knifemakers like Tom Krein, Sean Kendrick, and Michael Burch for conversations that flow as easily as if they were just friends talking shop. The discussion goes far beyond simple tool reviews, diving into the entire culture and craft surrounding blades. You'll hear authentic perspectives from both the creators at the forge and the collectors who cherish their work, offering a full-circle view of this unique world. Each episode might explore the nuanced history behind tactical designs, current trends shaping the field, or candid commentary on the industry itself. They also tackle how modern influences, like social media, impact traditional craftsmanship. It’s a genuine and deep exploration for anyone fascinated by the art of knifemaking, the stories behind the tools, and the community that brings it all to life. Tune in for a podcast that captures the essence of the craft, straight from the voices that define it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 175

Mark of the Maker
Podcast Episodes
Episode 132: Blade 2025 Wrap-Up [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:37:32
We're chatting with Tom Krein and special guest Jarrod Franklin to give you the inside scoop on Blade Show Atlanta 2025. Tom and Jarrod share their thoughts on this year's show prep, the coolest things they saw, what the…
Episode 131: Knives in Music [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:35:53
The crew chats on a topic that is near and dear to Sean's heart - Knives in Music. This one is a picks episode that goes in a few directions, which is very on-brand for us. Some of these are specific knives, some are a s…
Episode 130: More Movie Knives [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:37:39
We managed to get the band back together to revisit an old favorite topic of ours - knives of the movies. Some of you will remember Episode 10, wayyy back in 2018? We take another run at this topic and make some picks of…
Episode 129: NOCKI 2025 Wrap-Up [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 54:08
Matthew Patton joins us for a wrap-up of the 2025 New Orleans Custom Invitational show. We discuss the origins of the show and how the somewhat unique format works. Michael gives us some insight into the knives he got to…
Episode 128: Blade TX 2025 Wrap-Up [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:22:22
Mark and Sean chat with Tom about his experiences at Blade Show Texas 2025. Tom's always got some great stories about his trip, the things he comes across at shows and what manages to find its way home with him. Always a…
Episode 127: Sean the Teacher [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 59:52
Mark and Michael sit down with Sean to discuss his transition from a student to an adjunct instructor. Sean shares his experiences, the lessons he's learned, and insights into the growing demand for skilled trades profes…
Episode 126: Season 8 Kickoff [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:38:57
Season 8 seems crazy, but here we are! We talk about what's happened since we wrapped Season 7, what we're looking forward to, and shows planned for the year. There's even a stealth picks episode buried in here, talking…
Episode 125: 2024 Holiday Picks [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:15:15
It's time to wrap up 2024 and Season 7! We reflect a bit on the year, with its ups and downs and many changes. Then we dive into a holiday picks segment with both price point gift picks, but also one focused on makers. F…
Episode 124: Brian Fellhoelter [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 2:16:02
We sit and chat for a bit with "maker of things" Brian Fellhoelter. From knives to pens, yo-yos to flashlights, Brian has just about made it all over the years. We walk through his past, his meteoric rise to recognition…
Episode 123: Inspiration in All Things [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 47:31
Mark, Sean and Michael get together to talk about inspiration and how Sean takes some of his from both movies and books. Good discussion about how some of these things impact Sean's work and how they're also applicable t…