Oak and Steel Podcast

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersFirst Due Construction and MillworksTami at Step Into AdventureBack in the shop, projects are moving — from CNC learning curves and custom builds to welding frames and figuring out how to actually document the process along the way. There’s also a Make What You Fear update (including a dog-approved… or not-so-approved… build), plus some deep dives into materials, techniques, and lessons learned.It’s a mix of shop talk, life updates, and the kind of conversations that happen when you’re balancing careers, creativity, and whatever comes next.Get a mug and hang out.

After a short break, Oak and Steel is back.In this episode, Michael and Matt catch up on everything that’s happened behind the scenes — including Matt’s promotion to Battalion Chief in the fire service and what that new role means for life on shift and beyond.They talk about the realities of leadership, transitioning from doing the work to directing the work, and how careers evolve over time. Meanwhile, back at the shop, the projects keep stacking up. From building coffee packaging machines to new equipment in the shop and ideas for future builds, there’s plenty going on.They also dive into balancing side businesses, shop life, and the constant juggle of wearing too many hats when you're running a small operation.It’s a laid-back episode full of shop talk, career updates, and a look at what’s next for both the firehouse and the shop.

This episode brought to you by:First Due Construction and MillworksMounds View RoastersTami at Step Into AdventureIn this episode of Oak & Steel, Michael and Matt kick off 2026 with a wide-ranging catch-up. From shipping out a K-Cup machine in high winds and diving headfirst into 3D printing, to farm projects on pause, uncertain work schedules, and creative plans that may (or may not) come together this year.They talk coffee (of course), shop organization, CNC machines, Make What You Fear, home projects, fire service realities, and the constant balancing act between work, creativity, and real life. No big announcements — just two friends checking in, sharing what’s working, what’s stuck, and what might be coming next.

POWERED BY:First Due Construction & MillworksMounds View RoastersTami at Step Into AdventureIn the final Oak and Steel episode of the year, Michael and Matt reflect on what they call “the year that got away.” From finally getting the band saw mill running and wrapping up long-term shop projects to building machines, writing manuals, and juggling too many irons at once, the guys talk honestly about progress, burnout, and unfinished lists. Along the way, they cover coffee, tools, shop organization, winter resets, Christmas food traditions, and what it means to slow down before turning the page to a new year. A laid-back, reflective sendoff — sawdust, steel, and perspective.

After a long hiatus, Michael and Matt return to Oak & Steel with a life update–filled episode that swings from sawdust to roller coasters to the deer woods. Michael kicks things off with turning 40, grinding through K-cup machine manuals, and a couples getaway to Universal (complete with questionable airplane neighbors). Matt dives into a busy season of firefighter promotions, winter prep on the farm, and the growing operation behind his log-milling side hustle—including the story of a homeowner who wanted to mill right alongside him.The guys dig into tree care, timber framing plans, prepping for winter machines, and reflect on why the podcast is more than just “maker talk”—it’s two friends catching up on life as they barrel toward 40.And of course, Matt shares the full play-by-play of harvesting his first-ever buck on opening morning—plus the family banter and farm history that came with it.It’s a laid-back, honest, season-shifting episode full of woodworking, wildlife, theme parks, and the joys (and pains) of getting older.

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersFirst Due Construction & MillworksTami - Step Into AdventureMichael and Matt dive into the great shop debate — clean and organized or functional chaos? Between prepping for a Canadian hunting trip, wrapping up the milling season, and tackling new shop builds, the guys cover it all. From Trailside coffee and sunflower seeds to K-Cup machines and sawdust, this episode proves that every maker’s rhythm is a little different — and that’s what makes it work.

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersFirst Due Construction & MillworksTami @ Step Into AdventureThis week, the guys recap Matt's whirlwind trip through Yellowstone—complete with grizzly country hikes, wolf watching at sunrise, and a bison traffic jam or two. Michael and Matt swap stories about bad hotel coffee, Culver’s butter burgers, and fresh grinds from Mounds View Roasters. They also dive into shop updates, fundraiser plans, and the chaos of balancing business, family, and fall projects.

POWERED BY:First Due Construction and Millworks Mounds View RoastersTami @ Step Into AdventureThis week on Oak and Steel, Matt celebrates finally cutting his first slab with the Granberg mill, complete with a surprise Budweiser can hidden inside the log. The guys dig into welding log levelers, shop projects, and what it takes to stack lumber right. Michael talks about the scramble of finishing up an old Bosch packaging machine and a few too many crickets in the shop. Along the way, they share laughs about apple orchards, Bloody Mary's, and the quirks of Wisconsin life.

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersFirst Due ConstructionTami @ Step Into Adventure Matt fires up his smoker and shares some success from his bandsaw mill, while Michael recaps his never-ending yard work. The guys also take a hilarious detour into the less glamorous side of life—covering everything from dog poop dilemmas to shaving struggles. It’s a mix of sawdust, smoke, and everyday real talk on this episode of Oak and Steel.

Mounds View RoastersTami @ Step Into AdventureFirst Due Construction & Millworks In this episode of Oak and Steel, Matt shares updates from his dehumidifying kiln and the challenge of finding project components that used to be easy to source.   He also fills us in on where things stand with his boat and what steps are next.  Michael dives into part-making, his trip to the Wisconsin State Fair, and his ongoing grass pre-germination experiment.  Grab a coffee and tune in.  

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersTami @ Step Into AdventureFirst Due ConstructionOn this episode of Oak and Steel, the guys catch up on life and shop updates. Matt shares the latest upgrades to his saw shop, while Michael breaks down the process of building a denester for his machine build. Then things heat up—breakfast style—as the two dive into a hearty debate over their favorite morning meals. Whether it's bacon or blueprints, this episode has something sizzling for everyone.

POWERED BY:First Due Construction and MillworksMounds View RoastersTami at Step Into AdventureThis week on Oak and Steel, Matt walks us through his DIY wood-drying setup and shares lessons from the farm. Then we dive into the fiery world of firefighter training—yep, they really do burn down abandoned houses (on purpose). We close things out with a sugar-fueled reflection on gas station cookies and the undeniable charm of Menards. It’s sawdust, sirens, and snacks—just another week with the crew.

POWERED BY:Mounds View RoastersFirst Due ConstructionTami @ Step into Adventure In this episode of Oak and Steel, Michael shares highlights from his recent trip to Disneyland, while Matt catches us up on his latest projects and adventures. The guys dive deep into the rise of commercetainment—where shopping and entertainment collide—and how it contrasts with traditional influencer marketing. What does this shift mean for businesses and online shoppers? Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on where e-commerce is headed and how brands can keep up in a rapidly changing digital world.

Powered By:Mounds View RoastersTami - Step into AdventureFirst Due Construction & MillworkIn this episode of Oak and Steel, Matt takes us through the transformation of his grandpa Ed’s barn—blending heritage with fresh construction and new electrical work. Michael shares stories from his Minnesota trip, where he installed a new coffee roaster and helped bring a fresh operation to life. The episode wraps with a thoughtful discussion on branding—why it matters, how it shapes perception, and how it can set your business apart in a crowded market.

POWERED BY: Mounds View RoastersTami's - Step in AdventureFirst Due ConstructionIn this episode of Oak and Steel, Matt celebrates the completion of his sawmill and shares what’s next now that it’s up and running. Michael dives into the power and potential of his laser welder, along with a preview of some exciting projects on the horizon. The guys also take a break from the shop talk to discuss their upcoming travel adventures. It’s a mix of craftsmanship, tech, and well-earned downtime—classic Oak and Steel.

Powered By: moundsviewroasters.comIn this week’s episode of Oak and Steel, Matt takes us deep into the rugged trails of West Virginia with stories from his off-road riding adventure, while Michael shares highlights from his recent trip to Houston. We also dive into some work topics about work habits and some fun AI chatter.Weigh in on the 100 men vs Gorilla topic on our social media accounts.  

Powered by: moundsviewroasters.com & Tami- Step into AdventureThis week on Oak and Steel, Matt gets into the dirt—literally and figuratively. From rock crushers and laser welding to daily life around the farm, it's all about the grind. But the real heart of the episode? A candid conversation about the importance of setting high expectations and producing work that truly meets a high standard. Whether you’re building, creating, or growing, this one’s for the makers who care about doing it right.

POWERED BY: MOUNDS VIEW ROASTERSmoundsviewroasters.comThis week on Oak and Steel, we’re diving into what’s new in the shops with our weekly updates—projects, progress, and a few surprises. We take a deep dive into Essentialism by Greg McKeown, unpacking how its core principles are reshaping how we think about time, energy, and priorities. Plus, Michael shares the story behind his unexpected Facebook snafu and what it taught him about the digital world.Whether you’re here for inspiration, laughs, or just some good conversation over coffee, this one’s worth a listen.

POWERED BY MOUNDS VIEW ROASTERShttps://moundsviewroasters.com/In this episode of Oak and Steel, we dive into the tough decision Matt made to step away from his Make What You Fear project and what led to it. We also share tips and experiences on selling things through eBay and Facebook Marketplace—what works, what doesn’t, and how to maximize your success. Finally, we explore Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown and how its principles apply to creativity, productivity, and everyday life. Tune in for a candid discussion on knowing when to let go, simplifying your focus, and making space for what truly matters.

The King is back. Another vacation episode to round out February and kick of March. We DO mix in a little shop talk. Matt recaps the finish to the front of his shop. A little chat about MWYF. We learn a little more about Mr. Sutter. GET TO WORK.