Join host Bob DeMarco on Episode 629 of The Knife Junkie Podcast as he sits down with legendary craftsman L.T. Wright of L.T. Wright Knives for an inspiring conversation about passion, persistence, and building a business the right way.
His remarkable journey began with a simple Christmas gift for his father and evolved into one of the most respected names in outdoor and kitchen cutlery. Starting under his front porch with improvised equipment, Wright learned knife making from master craftsman R.W. Wilson, who created the tomahawks for the 1972 film "Jeremiah Johnson."
Through creativity, determination, and an unwavering commitment to customer service, Wright transformed a weekend hobby into a thriving 10-person operation.
In this detailed conversation, Wright shares the challenges of transitioning from carpenter to full-time knife maker, the innovations that came from listening to customers, and the philosophy that guides L.T. Wright Knives today. From squared spines for ferro rods to the revolutionary slide lock sheath system, Wright's willingness to adapt and improve has left a lasting mark on the industry.
Listeners will also learn about the Pout House Forum, his unique approach to building community among knife enthusiasts, and his collaborations with survivalist Les Stroud and chef Paul Rogowski. Wright's story proves that with enough passion and persistence, any obstacle becomes a stepping stone to success.
Whether you are a knife enthusiast, aspiring maker, or entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable insights into building authentic relationships with customers while never compromising on quality. His "repair, replace, refund" philosophy and personal approach to customer service provide a masterclass in doing business the right way.
Visit theknifejunkie.com/629 for full show notes and additional resources. Connect with L.T. Wright Knives at ltwrightknives.com, on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.
Be sure to support The Knife Junkie and get in on the perks of being a patron, including early access to the podcast and exclusive bonus content. Visit https://www.theknifejunkie.com/patreon for details. You can also support The Knife Junkie channel with your next knife purchase. Find our affiliate links at https://theknifejunkie.com/knives.
Let us know what you thought about this episode and leave a rating and/or a review. Your feedback is appreciated. You can also email theknifejunkie@gmail.com with any comments, feedback, or suggestions.
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