
Woodworking is BULLSHIT!
A podcast centered around design, creativity, and the search for authentic inspiration in woodworking and beyond, hosted by Paul Jasper, Erik Curtis, and Mary Tsai.Join our Patreon for a VIDEO FEED of the show on YOUTUBE, and the ever lively AFTERSHOW:https://patreon.com/user?u=91688467&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=join_link
Latest episodes

Sep 4, 2024 • 1h 8min
Episode 18 - Is "DIY" Bullshit?
The current crop of DIY shows make us feel as though we can build anything quickly and easily over the course of a weekend with only a few tools. But is this ACTUALLY TRUE??? Are DIY influencers selling us a fantasy as a form of entertainment or are they really teaching us how to make things and improve our homes? In this episode, we review a brief history of DIY culture and how it developed, which helps us to understand the complex nature of DIY as it exists today. We have a ROUSING episode of WIBS Debate Club, where Erik and Mary pick sides of the DIY argument and the GLOVES COME OFF!To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467

Aug 21, 2024 • 1h 23min
Episode 17 - PERFECTIONISM: Friend or Foe?
Are you a PERFECTIONIST? Do you have tendencies toward perfectionism? Does it steal the joy of making things? Does it make it difficult to start or finish anything because it's so built up in your mind how AMAZING the next project needs to be? OR does it make you a better maker/artist with a higher standard of excellence who improves very quickly after each project? In this episode we consider the double-edged sword that is PERFECTIONISM and how to identify and deal with it.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467

Aug 7, 2024 • 1h 12min
Episode 16 - CAN WE TRUST Content Creators?
In this lively discussion, Erik, a self-proclaimed content creator, dives into the ethics of content creation and the tension between artistry and financial gain. With Jen DiArenzo joining, they question the trustworthiness of advice from creators driven by ad revenue. The conversation also touches on humorous aspects of social media ethics and the absurdity of pricing for attention. Plus, Erik shares a hilarious tale of a woodworking mishap, reminding us that creativity often leads to unexpected, laugh-out-loud outcomes.

Jul 24, 2024 • 1h 19min
Episode 15 - The Master Series: The Shakers & Their Amazing Furniture
Dive into the Shaker philosophy, where craftsmanship meets spirituality. Discover how their pursuit of perfection served as a form of worship, reflecting their unique beliefs. Learn about their groundbreaking gender equality ideals and innovations, including the invention of the circular saw by a Shaker woman. Explore the minimalist beauty of Shaker furniture and its profound impact on modern design. Plus, enjoy light-hearted debates on ornamentation and community engagement through creative peer reviews.

Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 16min
Episode 14 - Stay Hobbyist or go Full Time Professional?
Is being a HOBBYIST enough?? Or should you lay down all the chips and go FULL TIME PROFESSIONAL?? Today we discuss the pros/cons of this critical decision faced by so many artists to help you evaluate your own decision. Paul & Mary are hobbyists while Erik is a full time professional, so we have all the viewpoints covered and get INTO IT. Join us for this important and lively discussion.To watch the YOUTUBE VIDEO of this episode and the irreverent & somewhat unpredictable AFTERSHOW, subscribe to our Patreon: http://patreon.com/user?u=91688467

Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 11min
Episode 13 - Death and Legacy
Exploring the concept of death and legacy in woodworking, reflecting on the emotional attachment to creations that outlive their creators. Discussing personal, social, and cultural legacies, the impact of art on humanity, and the desire for creations to be passed down through generations. Touching on the top regrets of the dying and embracing present happiness in the moment.

Jun 12, 2024 • 1h 4min
Episode 12 - Pursue Passion or Profit?
Join the discussion on balancing passion and profit in woodworking. Explore pricing strategies, income statistics for artists, and the evolution of pricing strategies for pet portraits. Enjoy a light-hearted banter on wood identification and mermaid erotica in a playful after show.

8 snips
May 29, 2024 • 1h 2min
Episode 11 - Is CNC Woodworking?
Exploring the debate on CNC woodworking, the podcast analyzes the clash between tradition and technology in the craft. It delves into the resistance to CNC tools, the fear of technology in art, and the balance between innovation and caution. The hosts discuss the intersection of tradition and technology in woodworking, the value of craftsmanship over mass production, and the beauty of embracing imperfections in machine-made items.

May 15, 2024 • 1h 9min
Episode 10 - Creative Burnout: Signs, Symptoms, & Solutions
The podcast discusses creative burnout in artists/makers, sharing personal experiences and research-based solutions. They explore identifying burnout symptoms, self-care, and setting boundaries. Additionally, they delve into wood finishing options in woodworking, including oils, waxes, and accelerators, and the complexities of selecting the right finish for projects.

5 snips
May 1, 2024 • 56min
Episode 9 - Artificial Intelligence (AI)
This podcast delves into the world of Artificial Intelligence (AI), covering topics like its integration into daily life, societal implications, ethical dilemmas, and creative design possibilities. The hosts explore using AI in everyday tasks, discuss the impact of biases in decision-making, and reflect on the changing nature of work in the era of technology. They also touch on the humor and challenges associated with names, as well as the potential of AI to enhance creative pursuits like woodworking.