Behind the Scenes: Matt's Podcasting Table (Patreon)

I hosted Michael, my brother Daniel, and his wife Laura for Christmas. Michael had built a gaming table earlier this year and we had the idea to build a podcasting table. I haven't built anything out of wood since 1997 but I was eager for the excuse to get back to it. Building stuff with your hands brings a special kind of satisfaction.

I had no idea how useful clamps can be. I'm going to name my future children "Clamp." Also, sanding. Aggressive sanding covers all manner of sins. You have no idea.

We stained the visible surfaces a deep cherry-wood red and eventually I would apply a coat of polyurethane to the tabletop to make it more scratch- and water-resistant. My friends had to leave before we completed a the final details, such as the trim that the inset board would sit on. So this is us in our 90% triumph.

The overall idea was to have a large table that could be used for multi-person podcast recording sessions, with an central recessed space where I could store cumbersome recording equipment.

Then the recessed area can be covered with a pleasing and well-fitted cover which allows the table to be used for other purposes when podcasting is not actively happening.

I haven't yet put the table to use because I will need to install sound dampening for the new podcasting room and then move in all my equipment. But at some point in the year future, you'll see me 'casting from this glorious edifice.

 - Matt