Episode 22 – Behind The Anvil Podcast: Faith, Forging, and the Supernatural with Pastor Ryan Shaddix In this inspiring and deeply personal episode, host Michael Peterson welcomes Pastor Ryan Shaddix, who moved to Sevier County in 2014 with his wife to plant a church focused on reaching those often overlooked by mainstream religious communities. Together, they explore faith, purpose, and the unseen spiritual realities that shape our lives. Pastor Ryan opens up about his past struggles with addiction and how a life-changing turning point — through the love and support of his wife — led him to a saving relationship with Jesus Christ. His story is one of redemption, resilience, and the transforming power of grace. He also shares his heart for youth and those marginalized by religion, and his passion for teaching the Bible in the Calvary Chapel style, including his current study through the Book of Acts. Michael and Pastor Ryan dive into discussions on the supernatural worldview, the influence of spiritual forces in today’s world, and resources like Dr. Michael Heiser’s teachings and The Bible Project. They also explore thought-provoking topics such as the Shroud of Turin, creation, and how faith shapes our understanding of truth and purpose. Filled with honest conversation, deep theology, and powerful testimony, this episode shines a light on how God redeems broken lives and calls believers to live with integrity and courage in a spiritual battle for the soul. Listen to Episode 22 of Behind The Anvil with Michael Peterson and guest Pastor Ryan Shaddix — available Monday morning on all podcast platforms. #BehindTheAnvilPodcast #FaithAndForging #MichaelPeterson #PastorRyanShaddix #CalvaryChapel #TestimonyOfGrace #ChristianPodcast #SpiritualWarfare #RedemptionThroughChrist #SupernaturalFaith

Crafting Beauty in Resin: Emily’s Journey from Bulgaria to the Knife-Making World In this inspiring episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson sits down with Emily from CastingCraft, a talented resin artist known for her stunning custom knife handle scales. Emily shares her incredible journey from growing up in socialist-era Bulgaria to immigrating to the United States after winning the green card lottery in 1999. She opens up about the challenges of starting over in a new country, the importance of perseverance, and how her love of creativity eventually led her into the world of knife-making. Emily discusses her path from working as a veterinary technician to becoming a resin entrepreneur, crafting unique and artistic handle scales that have captured the attention of makers across the globe. From embedding fish scales, ostrich feet, and even pet ashes into her resin designs, to developing more than 500 unique patterns, Emily’s innovation and craftsmanship shine through. Michael and Emily also talk about the supportive knife-making community, the value of collaboration over competition, and her experiences attending Blade Shows across the U.S. Emily reflects on her roots, her daughter’s connection to Bulgarian culture, and her growing business that now feels like a true family within the knife world. Join Michael and Emily for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation that celebrates creativity, perseverance, and community—a perfect reminder that every artisan’s story begins with a spark and a willingness to take the first step. Listen now to Episode 21 of Behind The Anvil with special guest Emily from CastingCraft.

Forging Stories and Steel — with Mark Holt... During An Mike's Damascus Knives knife making class for more go to www.mikesdamascusknives.com...

In this episode of Behind The Anvil, host Michael Peterson wraps up a knife-making class with Mark Holt, a programmer and fantasy novelist from Salt Lake City. What started as a simple search for a blacksmithing class turned into a weekend of sparks, steel, and storytelling. Mark shares how he discovered Michael’s shop through Google Maps, chose to take the class after comparing other local options, and ended up not just making a knife—but rediscovering a love for hands-on craftsmanship. The two dive into Mark’s family’s upcoming move, and even his son’s unusual bedtime routine of watching blacksmithing videos to fall asleep. Mark reflects on the knife-making experience, discussing forging techniques, grinding and beveling tips, and the satisfaction of shaping Purple Heart wood handles by hand. This episode captures the rhythm of the forge and the imagination of storytelling—where metal, fire, and creativity meet. Whether you’re a maker, writer, or dreamer, this one’s about finding meaning in the process of creation itself.