From Warthogs to Writing: USAF Veteran & Author Douglas Berry In Episode 27 of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with retired United States Air Force veteran, songwriter, and author Douglas Berry, creator of the beloved Jasper the Rabbit children's book series. Douglas shares stories from his 20-year Air Force career, including four deployments to the Middle East and his time working on the legendary A-10 Warthog. From maintaining the aircraft's massive 30mm cannon to loading ordnance and supporting pilots in combat operations, Doug provides a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of America's most iconic military aircraft. The conversation then shifts from military service to creative storytelling as Doug discusses how a simple experience involving his son's pet rabbit inspired the creation of Jasper the Rabbit and Friends. Doug opens up about the challenges of publishing children's books, working with illustrators, building a brand, and bringing his characters to life through books, merchandise, music, and emerging AI tools. Michael and Doug also dive into the realities of writing fiction, including Michael's post-apocalyptic novel project and Doug's science-fiction series, Guardians of the Unknown. Together they discuss the opportunities and limitations of AI-assisted writing, the importance of human creativity, and the determination required to finish a book. The episode wraps up with stories from Doug's songwriting career, including award-nominated music, upcoming projects, and words of encouragement for aspiring authors, creators, and dreamers. Whether you're a veteran, writer, aircraft enthusiast, or parent looking for wholesome children's books, this episode is packed with inspiration, creativity, and life lessons from a man who has served his country and continues to inspire others through storytelling. Follow Douglas Berry & Jasper the Rabbit Jasper the Rabbit & Friends Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/JasperNFriends Jasper the Rabbit Website: https://www.jaspernfriends.com Douglas Berry Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Douglas-Berry

Hosted by Michael Peterson Mike's Damascus Knives LLC New episodes of Behind The Anvil Podcast every Monday morning

Behind The Anvil Podcast – Special Edition Episode 26 Forging the Future: Dustin Rhodes Launches Smoky Mountain Forge Works & Trading Post In this special edition of Behind The Anvil Podcast, host Michael Peterson sits down with bladesmith and educator Dustin Rhodes to discuss an exciting new chapter in his journey. Formerly known as Axes on Main and Dustin Rhodes Forge Works, Dustin shares the story behind his transition to the newly established Smoky Mountain Forge Works & Trading Post in Sevierville, Tennessee. Dustin talks about purchasing property in Tennessee and opening his new forging destination at 2320 Winfield Dunn Parkway, where visitors can experience hands-on blacksmithing and knife-making adventures through the popular Forge a Memory family program. From railroad spike knives and horseshoe knives to family-friendly forging experiences, Dustin explains how his mission remains centered on creating lasting memories for people of all ages. The new location sits near Smoky Mountain Knife Works and is scheduled for its official Grand Opening on July 1st. The investment represents a major step forward for the business and its future growth. Michael and Dustin also dive into the realities of being full-time knife makers, discussing the challenges of running a small business, balancing custom work with production pieces, teaching blacksmithing classes, and managing customer expectations. The conversation covers Dustin's plans to pursue Journeyman Smith status, his recent LASIK surgery, and how teaching forging experiences is helping him further develop his skills. The two craftsmen also discuss custom sheath making, shop safety, dust collection systems, and the importance of creating an efficient workspace. Dustin gives listeners a virtual tour of the new shop, including displays of handmade tomahawks, beadwork, trading post merchandise, and his modular forging setup. The episode wraps up with exciting updates about Dustin's increased involvement with Turtle Island Preserve, upcoming classes, and the future of Smoky Mountain Forge Works & Trading Post. It's an inspiring conversation about taking risks, investing in your dreams, and building a business that creates memories while preserving traditional craftsmanship. A special thank you to Mike's Damascus Knives LLC for sponsoring this episode. Follow Dustin Rhodes and Smoky Mountain Forge Works & Trading Post: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmokyMountainForgeWorks Learn more about Mike's Damascus Knives: https://www.MikesDamascusKnives.com

On this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Mandy Thomas of Dragon City Resort and Mission Phoenix, along with Mission Phoenix founder Josh Gagne, for a powerful conversation about serving those who have served our nation. Mandy shares the incredible journey of acquiring Dragon City Resort along Tennessee's famous Tail of the Dragon and transforming it into more than just a destination for motor enthusiasts. What started as a resort has grown into a vision for helping veterans through community, purpose, and housing initiatives designed to support those struggling with PTSD, homelessness, and the challenges of transitioning back into civilian life. Josh opens up about the personal tragedy that inspired him to create Mission Phoenix after losing his father to undiagnosed post-traumatic stress. He discusses the organization's mission to combat veteran suicide, the development of the Invictus Initiative that trains law enforcement officers to better understand and assist veterans in crisis, and the lives that have already been saved through the program. Together, Mandy and Josh discuss the challenges veterans face after service, including PTSD, homelessness, broken relationships, and the stigma surrounding mental health. They share how Mission Phoenix and the upcoming Bunker 22 housing project aim to provide temporary housing, counseling, job readiness, networking opportunities, and a supportive veteran community to help veterans rebuild their lives. The conversation also explores the therapeutic benefits of craftsmanship, community connections, peer-to-peer support, and innovative ideas such as a future veteran networking app designed to connect veterans with others who understand their struggles. This episode is an inspiring look at what happens when people refuse to stand by and instead dedicate themselves to helping veterans find purpose, healing, and hope. Learn more about Dragon City Resort: https://dragoncityresort.com Learn more about Mission Phoenix: https://missionphoenix.org