S1E4 - From Button Pusher to Craftsperson

Host: Steven Ricks

Release Date: August 25, 2025

Length: ~38 minutes

Listen in as Steven explores the difference between simply operating a tool and truly mastering it. From the “ballet” of the miter saw to the pitfalls of relying on YouTube, this episode unpacks why real growth happens when you understand not just what to do, but why you’re doing it.

🪚 What You’ll Learn:

• Why familiarity isn’t the same as mastery.
• The hidden dangers of “I’ve been doing it this way for years.”
• The ballet of the miter saw: the sequence that leads to safer, cleaner cuts.
• Why YouTube is inspiration—not instruction.
• How in-person feedback accelerates learning.

🔧 Tools & Tips Mentioned:

• Introduction to Woodworking Course – 10 hours covering everything from milling to joinery.
• Basic Woodworking: Build a Tool Tote – A new 3.5-hour hands-on starter class for all new Joinery members.
• Marc Adams School of Woodworking – Steven’s long-time source for advanced training and inspiration.

🪑 Segment Highlights:

• Bench Notes – Updates on the new Basic Woodworking course, The Joinery’s new member training requirement (starting Sept. 1), and fall shop news.
• The Craft – A deep dive into the difference between operating a tool and mastering it, using the miter saw as a prime example.
• Maker’s Moment – A story from Steven’s time at the Marc Adams School of Woodworking, where a simple adjustment in stance changed his dovetail cuts forever.
• Ask the Joiner – Steven tackles the big question: Why take a class if you already know how to use the tools?

📬 Have a Question?

Send your woodworking quandaries to: [email protected]

Steven might answer it on a future episode!

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with a friend, or leave a review—it helps us grow this community of curious, confident woodworkers.

Until next time: keep learning, keep making, and keep building with confidence.