Salish Wolf

Simon Kehl is a master bowyer based in Buhler, Switzerland. He has been making selfbows and laminate bows since 2014, blending physics with aesthetics to make increasingly faster and more beautiful bows. He sells his bows under the brand of Selfbow.ch.Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Simon Kehl.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/selfbow.ch/ https://selfbow.ch/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Jake Fenwick is a full-time bowyer based in Sackville, New Brunswick on the east coast of Canada. Jake has a long and diverse history of bow making, which dates back to 2011 and includes mentors from around the world. Through his family business known as Fenwick Bows, he specializes in historically-accurate English longbows and warbows.Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/fenwickbows/ https://www.fenwickbows.com/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this engaging conversation, Todd and Jake explore the fascinating world of archery and bow making, discussing their personal journeys, the significance of historical homes, and the unique experiences that come with working with different types of wood. They delve into the importance of bow societies and the camaraderie among bowyers, as well as the thrill of flight shooting and archery competitions. The dialogue highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating bows and the deep connection between the bowyer and the materials they work with. In this conversation, Jake and Todd explore the intricate world of archery and bow making, They also discuss the technical aspects of archery, the journey of crafting bows, and the spiritual connection that comes with the practice. They delve into the importance of teaching and sharing knowledge, the evolution of skills, and the impact of travel on personal growth. The discussion also touches on parenting, encouraging children to follow their passions, and the value of authentic experiences in life.Show Notes:Jake's journey into archery began with a deep dive into family history.The importance of community and learning from other bowyers is emphasized.Jake's passion for bow making led him to start his own business at a young age.The conversation highlights the significance of wood selection in bow making.Jake discusses the unique properties of various woods used in archery.The role of bow societies in fostering community and sharing knowledge is explored.Flight shooting provides valuable data for archers and bowyers alike.The conversation touches on the historical significance of homes and properties.Todd and Jake reflect on their shared experiences in the world of archery. Archery combines art and science, requiring precision and skill.Bow making can be a fulfilling lifelong journey.Teaching archery can enhance the experience for both teacher and student.Archery serves as a meditative practice, connecting body and mind.Traveling can provide invaluable life lessons and experiences.Parenting should focus on encouraging children's passions.Authentic experiences often come from discomfort and challenges.Resilience is built through following one's interests and passions.The craft of bow making is deeply rooted in tradition and personal expression.Community and collaboration are essential in the world of craftsmanship.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Connection03:40 Exploring the History of Homes06:37 The Journey into Archery09:23 The Evolution of Bow Making12:48 Traveling and Learning from Masters13:52 Building a Business in Bow Making18:34 Exploring Archery's Roots in Australia and New Zealand19:40 The Quest for Local Woods: Bow Making in Costa Rica21:43 The Endangered Lemonwood: A Bow Maker's Dilemma23:25 Harvesting Yew: Insights from the Bowyer's Journey26:04 The Economics of Bow Staves: Quality vs. Cost28:03 The Reverence for Wood: Harvesting and Crafting Bows30:28 Cultural Significance of Yew: Myths and Legends31:48 The Evolution of Bow Making: Techniques and Materials37:43 Building Community: The Canadian Warbow Society40:52 The Art and Science of Archery44:27 The Journey of Bow Making48:57 Teaching and Sharing the Craft55:22 The Meditative Aspect of Archery01:06:03 The Spiritual Connection in Archery01:08:25 The Meditative Art of Bow Carving01:12:02 Exploring Different Archery Styles01:17:08 The Journey of Bowyers and Community01:24:10 Traveling with Purpose and Passion

Stefan Tim has been hand carving traditional bows for two decades in Arnhem, the Netherlands. Under his brand, Bamboo Bows, he crafts and sells traditional Japanese Yumi bows and stunning horn bows that combine bamboo, wood, and horn. Additionally, Stefan is passionate about history and teaches history at a local high school. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Stefan Tim.          Episode Links: https://www.instagram.com/bamboo.bows/ https://www.facebook.com/bamboo.bows/ Bamboo Bows on EtsyProject Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Todd and Stefan discuss the art of bow making, the influence of history and culture on archery, and the techniques involved in crafting bows, particularly the Japanese Yumi bow. Stefan shares his journey from teaching history to becoming a bow maker, his experiences with students, and the impact of historical films on his passion for archery. They delve into the specifics of bow construction, the materials used, and the unique techniques of shooting with a Yumi bow. They also discuss the intricacies of archery, focusing on the psychological aspects of target panic, and the art of arrow release. Lastly, they explore the therapeutic nature of woodworking and the need for alternative educational paths that prioritize passion and fulfillment over traditional schooling.Show Notes:Stefan teaches history and incorporates archery into his lessons.Engaging students with hands-on history makes learning memorable.Stefan has been making bows since he was 12 years old.The Yumi bow is a unique Japanese bow with specific construction techniques.Bamboo is a key material in Yumi bow making.The release technique in archery is crucial for accuracy.Stefan learned bow making from a mentor in the US.Cultural influences shape the materials and techniques used in bow making.Archery techniques vary significantly between cultures.The draw weight and length of Yumi bows are distinct from Western bows. Everybody struggles with target panic, even if you never heard about it.You have to trick your mind into not knowing that you're going to release.Making stuff is cool and fulfilling.There's a lot of things to say about the school system that doesn't work for everyone.Do what you love to do and there'll be a market for it.Bow making is not a static thing; it evolves with experience.There's always somebody interested in handmade products if you want to sell them.The therapeutic aspect of bow making connects with a deeper nature of ourselves.The journey of becoming a bowyer is filled with learning and experimentation.Workshops and community are essential for passing on skills and knowledge.Chapters:00:00 Introduction and Background02:50 Teaching History and Engaging Students05:42 Life in Arnhem and Travel Experiences08:46 Family Life and Archery with Children11:37 The Influence of History on Bow Making14:26 Understanding Japanese Bow Making Techniques17:31 Materials and Construction of Bows20:30 The Art of Yumi Bow Carving26:21 Mentorship and Learning from a Master Bowmaker29:08 Exploring Traditional Japanese Archery31:49 Understanding the Kido Technique35:50 The Art of Releasing the Arrow38:29 Target Panic and Mental Aspects of Archery43:26 Crafting Unique Bow Designs49:29 The Journey to Becoming a Bowyer53:00 The Therapeutic Nature of Crafting56:39 The Art and Science of Bow Making59:16 Inspiration and Family Influence in Craftsmanship01:00:58 Teaching and Passing on the Craft01:07:06 The Journey of Selling Bows01:11:21 Education Beyond Traditional Systems

Jamie MacDonald is a world-renowned bowyer who carves primitive bows primarily from Pacific yew. He is most known for his English longbows, which he and his wife Jenna meticulously craft under the brand name of Ravenbeak Natureworks in Powell River, British Columbia. Together they offer regular bow carving workshops and sell Ravenbeak bows to discerning customers around the globe. Keeping Ravenbeak all in the family, they have brought all of the family into Ravenbeak: their daughter and son craft beautiful arrows and also trinkets from the leftover bits of yew. Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Jamie MacDonald.          Links:https://www.ravenbeak.com/http://salishwolf.com/http://projectquiver.com/Summary:In this engaging conversation, Jamie and Todd reconnect after several years, discussing the growth of their eco-conscious community, their recent family adventures in South America, and the intricacies of bow making. They explore themes of sustainability, community living, and the importance of family bonding through travel and shared experiences. The conversation also delves into the craftsmanship of bow making, highlighting innovative techniques and the significance of naming each bow, reflecting their unique stories and the connection to nature. This conversation also explores the origins of the Ravenbeak brand and the unique qualities of yew wood. They discuss the transition into bow making, the challenges and joys of running a family business, and the deep connections formed through archery. The conversation highlights the craftsmanship involved in creating traditional bows and the personal stories that shape the art of bow making.Show Notes:The community has grown to include eight full-time families.They focus on natural building techniques and sustainability.The community is currently in a 'nourishment phase' to reconnect and stabilize.They have built six new houses using eco-friendly materials.The family took a five-month trip to South America for surfing and cultural experiences.They prioritize affordability and support within the community.The bow-making business has been running for over a decade.Jenna and Ravenbeak collaborate effectively in their bow-making business.They have introduced innovative designs in bow craftsmanship.The naming of bows reflects a deep connection to history and mythology. Naming bows helps in teaching and communication.Ravenbeak's brand story is deeply connected to nature.Yew wood is the primary material for bow making.The journey of bow making began with a significant yew tree.Teaching workshops has been a fulfilling part of the business.Building bows requires a blend of art and science.The importance of community and connections in archery.Family involvement is crucial in the business.The transition to full-time bow making was supported by parental leave.Craftsmanship in bow making is a lifelong learning process.Chapters:00:00 Reconnecting and Community Updates02:37 Building an Eco-Conscious Community05:40 Community Dynamics and Growth08:38 Sustainable Living and Natural Building11:32 Traveling to South America17:25 Surfing Adventures and Family Bonding23:16 Homeschooling Journey and Future Plans26:27 Bow Making Business Insights29:15 The Art of Collaboration in Bow Making30:38 Transitioning from Custom to Stock Bows33:02 Workshops: Teaching the Craft of Bow Making34:53 The Journey of Bow Ownership and Teaching36:24 Innovations in Bow Design: Mosaic Inlays40:56 The Significance of Naming Bows44:40 The Craft of Wood Burning and Personalization48:16 The Genesis of the Ravenbeak Brand54:16 The Connection to Yew Wood and Bow Making59:42 The Journey of Bow Making01:04:21 Learning and Teaching Bow Making01:09:03 Transitioning to Full-Time Bowyer01:15:40 Building a Bow Business01:22:55 Exploring Bow Design and Materials01:30:11 The Art of Tiller and War Bows01:37:18 Family and Community in Bow Making

Pete Woodland is an incredible bowyer based on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, nestled in a Douglas fir forest on the Saanich Peninsula. Pete was spellbound by the first primitive bow he ever saw: a Pacific yew flatbow carved by master bowyer Andreas Uetendorfer, a family friend who spent much of his life in Haida Gwaii, a legendary archipelago off the coast of Northern British Columbia. Pete has since become a master bowyer in his own right, selling his bows under the brand name of Heritage Bows and offering intimate bow carving workshops. In addition to his passion for bow carving and archery, Pete is obsessed with bonsai, the Japanese art of growing miniature trees, and has dozens of bonsai trees growing on his property.  Please enjoy this episode of Project Quiver on Salish Wolf with Pete Woodland.          Episode Links: http://heritagebows.com/ https://www.instagram.com/heritagebows/ Project Quiver at Anchor Point ExpeditionsSummary:In this conversation, Pete Woodland and I delve into the intricate world of bow making, sharing our experiences, techniques, and the cultural significance behind the craft. We discuss various bow styles, materials, and the creative process involved in crafting bows. We explore the multifaceted world of archery, discussing its therapeutic benefits, the meditative aspects of shooting, and the intricate physics behind bow making. We also delve into the artistry of woodworking, Pete’s passion for bonsai, and the importance of community and collaboration among bow makers. Show Notes:TakeawaysThe journey of bow making is filled with unexpected experiences.Different bow styles and techniques can enhance performance.The creative process is as important as the final product.Materials used in bow making significantly impact performance.Cultural influences shape the design and function of bows.Workshops provide an opportunity for community engagement.Social media plays a crucial role in promoting bow making.Personal stories and connections enrich the bow making experience.Experimentation is key to evolving as a bow maker.Understanding the relationship between bow making and the ecosystem is vital. Archery serves as a powerful therapeutic tool for many, including those with PTSD.Shooting a bow can be a form of meditation, providing mental clarity and focus.The physics of archery involves fascinating concepts like the Archer's Paradox.Crafting bows is an art that combines woodworking skills with creativity.Bonsai cultivation reflects a deep appreciation for nature and ancient trees.Collaboration among bow makers fosters innovation and community.Exploring different bow styles can enhance one's skills and understanding of archery.The journey of bow making is intertwined with personal growth and exploration.Archery can be a healing practice, promoting mindfulness and relaxation.Engaging in hands-on crafts like bow making is essential for personal fulfillment. Chapters:00:00 The Journey of Bow Making Begins03:54 Exploring Bow Styles and Techniques06:49 The Influence of Wood on Bow Design09:36 Innovations in Bow Making12:28 Cultural Significance of Bow Styles15:25 Personal Experiences in Bow Making18:12 The Evolution of Bow Making Skills21:04 The Future of Bow Making25:57 The Journey of Bow Making30:16 Workshops and Community Engagement34:43 The Art of Bow Making vs. Custom Orders37:40 Archery as Meditation and Empowerment44:00 Balancing Life: From Bow Making to Landscaping46:06 The Passion for Bonsai and Nature47:47 The Essence of Bonsai50:12 Artistry in Bow Making51:30 Collaboration and Community in Craftsmanship52:03 The Connection Between Hunting and Bonsai53:23 Exploring Leather Work in Bow Making55:39 Sourcing Materials for Crafting57:16 Innovations in Bow Styles01:00:47 The Journey of Bow Making Across Cultures01:04:13 The Vision for Future Projects01:06:00 The Therapeutic Aspects of Archery

Chuck Loeffler is a professional bowyer specializing in the replication of sinew-backed and self wood bows of North America and around the world. For more than 30 years, he has been meticulously conducting research of materials, methods, and construction of ancient bows and arrows. Through his company, Heartwood Bows, he sells replica bows to collectors, bighorn sheep bows, and high end hunting bows that blend the best of all the designs that he has studied. Chuck also holds 4 world records in the Primitive bow class for flight shooting, with the longest shot of 343 yards using a sinew-backed juniper bow. Links:https://heartwoodbows.com/http://salishwolf.com/http://projectquiver.com/

Weylin Olive is a professional bowyer based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Through his company, Swiftwood Bows, he sells world-class handmade primitive bows, offers bow carving workshops, and provides content for amateur bowyers. Episode Links: swiftwoodbows.comProject Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Correy Hawk is a professional bowyer who comes from a long line of outdoorsmen. He grew up in a small village in Southeast Nebraska, where, along with his siblings, he was raised to hunt, fish, forage for wild foods, and navigate the wilderness. His father put a bow and arrows in his hands as soon as he could understand their utility. Now he is the owner of Organic Archery, where he runs a bow making school and sells custom bows. Episode Links: www.organicarchery.comProject Quiver at Anchor Point Expeditions

Jake Roussos is on a mission to help people live their best lives by living his best. Early on he found a powerful tool that was available to him wherever he went and in any interaction: his smile. Since then, he has been positively impacting others through the simple gesture of a genuine a smile. Jake’s professional focus is on empowering children to be leaders of their own happy, resilient, and authentic lives. He helps them to live from the inside out, finding fulfillment from within instead of seeking externally. From the very beginning, Jake lights up this interview, with a smile of course, sharing his rich perspectives on things such as the importance of play, growth through adversity, facing fears, and surrendering. His ultimate playground is in the water, which has been a core component of his life journey. Whether surfing, swimming, paddleboarding, or playing on the beach, Jake taps into the life force of water to enrich his life. He not only coaches children, but also men, and has been leading men’s retreats to help men return to play and find healing through it. Jake is one of the guides of The Balanced Man retreats that are based in Nosara, Costa Rica. With its manifesto of “Freedom Through Discipline,” The Balanced Man retreats offer a combination of physical and emotional experiences to help men break through into their best lives. Jake is living proof. Please enjoy this episode of Salish Wolf with Jake Roussos.          Episode Links: thebalancedman.life jakeroussos.com Anchor Point Links: Men’s Retreats at Anchor Point Expeditions Book Reviews at Anchor Point Expeditions

Terry Bullman has been a fighter most of his life. As an only child growing up on a farm in North Carolina, he used to watch martial arts movies and dream of fighting like Chuck Norris or Bruce Lee. He began training on his own, and then with clubs and gyms to earn black belts in Taekwondo, Karate, and Krav Maga. He eventually made it to the ring, octagon and mat as a competitor and started winning his way into bigger venues and fighting in different disciplines. With 16 years as a professional fighter, Terry has experienced the sting of pain, the sweetness of victory, and the humbling of defeat. He takes us on a journey of his fight career, sharing both the highlights and lowlights. We discuss “The Human Weapon,” a popular television series on the history and efficacy of martial arts around the world that he created for the History Channel. And he shares his “why” for his newest pursuit, which is helping men live fuller, happier, healthier lives by becoming more balanced. Just before the global lockdowns that changed everything for many of us, Terry and his wife made their own decision to change everything by purchasing a retreat center on the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica. Even though they were locked out of the country for much of the first year of ownership, they kept the dream alive and now run an incredible boutique hotel and retreat center. The Balanced Man is a passion-project of Terry’s that has now come fully to life and will hold its first men’s retreat this October at his center. With its manifesto of “Freedom Through Discipline,” The Balanced Man retreats offer a combination of physical and emotional experiences to help men break through into their best lives. Terry practices what he teaches, and through his example and leadership, he is having a profound impact on men. Please enjoy this episode of Salish Wolf with Terry Bullman.          Episode Links: thebalancedman.life FB and IG: @terrybullman Anchor Point Links: Men’s Retreats at Anchor Point Expeditions Book Reviews at Anchor Point Expeditions