Crafting a Life Series: The Alchemy of Making
Download MP3This episode discusses how creating physical objects in the world—from woodworking to 3D printing—builds a problem-solving capacity that translates across all domains of life.
High-Value Quotables
[00:12] "One of the most profound ways to really grow and develop as a person... is to make something... literally physical objects in the world."
[01:51] "Because you are put in this situation to create little problems that you then have to figure out how to solve... and they are in a very narrow context window."
[03:46] "The problem-solving process is its own form of discovery."
[05:34] "This problem-solving capacity, when you start making stuff on a regular basis, increases, becomes cross-functional and enhances your ability to solve problems that you didn't create."
The Core Concept: Solving Problems in Context
Making something—whether it’s a recipe or a 3D-printed object—creates a series of "micro-problems" that must be solved within specific design constraints. This process is a form of active discovery that builds "agility" and "capacity," teaching you how to iterate through solutions until you find the right answer.
Key Takeaways:
- Low Risk, High Reward: The risk of making something is low (bad taste, ugly look), but the upside is the potential for a life-changing peak experience.
- Peak Experiences: Using a tool like a 3D printer to watch an object you designed materialize can be a "profound" moment of discovery.
- Solution Maturation: Through making, you learn to start with the "right answer" next time, rather than repeating the same trial-and-error process.
- Cross-Functional Skills: The logic you use to fix a "too spicy" dish can unexpectedly translate to a "fishing solution" or a problem that life tosses at you.
Creators and Guests
Host
Brian Mattocks
Host and Founder of A Mason's Work - a podcast designed to help you use symbolism to grow. He's been working in the craft for over a decade and served as WM, trustee, and sat in every appointed chair in a lodge - at least once :D
