The Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast is a show for knife and tool sharpening professionals, and those curious about the craft, who want to build skill, confidence, and a sustainable sharpening business on their own terms. Hosted by Matthew Rowell, the podcast features conversations with working sharpeners, shop owners, craftspeople, and industry voices from around the world. Episodes explore real-world sharpening methods, equipment, materials, and edge geometry, alongside the practical realities of running a sharpening business: pricing, marketing, customer service, niches, and designing a business that fits your life. Rather than chasing trends or gimmicks, this podcast focuses on service-first craftsmanship , continuous learning, and the idea that success looks different for every sharpener. Whether you’re sharpening from a garage, a mobile setup, a retail shop, or considering sharpening as a second career or retirement path, you’ll
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The Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast is a business podcast hosted by Matt Rowell, with 12 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.
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Matt Rowell hosts The Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast, a business show with 12 episodes published.
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The Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast
How to Make More Money Doing What You Already Do
Aug 12, 202652 min
Send us Fan Mail Greg Reichmann of The Polished Edge joins me to talk about something that almost every sharpening business struggles with: charging enough. Greg started sharpening as a side business while working full-time as a mortgage loan officer. Today he has built a thriving reputation in Connecticut, earned more than 160 five-star Google reviews, and recently made a simple change that dramatically increased his revenue without working more hours. In this conversation we discuss: How Greg built his sharpening business from scratch Why he decided to raise his prices Premium pricing versus the race to the bottom Building a retirement business you enjoy Google reviews and local SEO that consistently bring in customers Why helping your competitors can actually strengthen the entire industry Farmers markets, restoration work, and finding profitable niches Creating a business that grows with you for decades If you've ever struggled with raising your prices this episode is for you.
Guild Updates, Shop Growth & The Future of Knife Sharpening
Aug 8, 202620 min
Send us Fan Mail In this update, I take you behind the scenes in my sharpening shop while working through a batch of commercial kitchen knives and sharing what's happening inside the Guild of Professional Sharpeners. In this video you'll hear about: Recent Guild group call discussions on scissor sharpening, vendor accounts, Twice As Sharp wheels, and dry ride line systems What we learned during our lead detection presentation with Eric from DetectLead Upcoming guest speakers, office hours, and future Guild events My upcoming podcast with Greg Reichman on how to make more money doing what you already do Why demand for professional sharpeners continues to increase How I'm growing The American Edge through knife and accessory sales A look at my current workflow for restaurant knives, serrations, scissors, and packaging finished orders Some closing thoughts on building a sharpening business with intention and staying focused on what really matters If you're interested in starting a sharpening business, improving your sharpening skills, or connecting with a community of professional sharpeners, I'd love to have you join us. Guild of Professional Sharpeners https://guildofsharpeners.org ️ Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast The American Edge https://americanedgesharpening.com If you enjoyed the video, please consider subscribing and leave a comment letting me know what topics you'd like to see covered in a future episode. Stay sharp!
Send us Fan Mail This month, I'm flying solo. Instead of a guest interview, I wanted to share what's been on my mind after a busy summer running my sharpening business, leading the Guild of Professional Sharpeners, and experimenting with new ideas. In this episode we discuss: Why I'm changing the way I use AI and why I don't want it replacing my authentic voice. How AI can make your work better without doing your work for you. Selling premium knives and tools as a way to genuinely improve your customers' lives. Why quality products are easier to stand behind than cheap alternatives. Lessons from recent Guild guest speakers Buzz and Jerad on building thriving sharpening businesses. The surprising opportunities that still exist in sharpening, whether you work locally or by mail. Why every sharpening customer is also a potential product customer. Passing along credit card processing fees and other small business lessons that protect your profits. The value of community, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with people who are already succeeding. Updates on Guild membership, discount programs, and our growing scholarship initiative. If you've been thinking about growing your sharpening business or simply trying to build a business that reflects your values I hope you'll find something useful in this conversation. Learn more about the Guild of Professional Sharpeners at guildofsharpeners.org .
From Military Service to Sharpening Success with Jason Meredith of Veteran's Edge
Jun 17, 20261h 29m
Send us Fan Mail What does military service have to do with building a successful sharpening business? In this episode of the Knife and Tool Sharpening Podcast, I sit down with fellow veteran and sharpener Jason Meredith of Veteran's Edge Sharpening to discuss why the sharpening trade can be an excellent fit for veterans transitioning into civilian life. Jason shares his journey from the United States Air Force to becoming the sharpening provider for multiple Ace Hardware locations, building a mobile sharpening business, and creating a reputation for quality work and exceptional customer service. Along the way, we explore the skills many veterans already possess that translate directly into sharpening and entrepreneurship, including discipline, problem solving, adaptability, accountability, attention to detail, and a commitment to continuous learning. We also discuss: • How Jason built relationships that led to major business opportunities • Why there is still tremendous demand for professional sharpening services • The value of mentorship, training, and community in the sharpening industry • Equipment recommendations for veterans looking to get started • The Guild of Professional Sharpeners and the role it can play in shortening the learning curve • Veteran resources including VR&E (Chapter 31), Veteran Service Officers, and other programs that may help veterans pursue business ownership Whether you're a veteran looking for a new mission, a sharpener interested in growing your business, or someone curious about the opportunities available in the trade, this conversation is packed with practical advice and encouragement. If you know a veteran who may be looking for purpose, community, or a path toward self employment, please share this episode with them. Guest: Jason Meredith, Veteran's Edge Sharpening Website: veteransedgesharpening.com Learn more about the Guild of Professional Sharpeners: guildofsharpeners.org Listen, learn, and keep sharpening.
The Real Tools Behind a Successful Sharpening Business
May 13, 202649 minS0
<p>Send us Fan Mail</p><p>What tools do you REALLY need to start a sharpening business?</p><p>In this episode of Tool Talk, Matt sits down with Grant Lauinger of Custom Edge Sharpening to discuss sharpening systems, tool philosophy, guided vs freehand sharpening, business growth, and the reality of building a sharpening business part-time.</p><p>Grant shares how he started with a simple 1x30 setup and gradually expanded into clipper blades, salon shears, garden tools, mower blades, and professional belt systems including CutterMaster, AmeriBrade, BuckTool, Tormek, and more.</p><p>Topics include:</p>Beginner sharpening setupsGuided...
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