From Film Sets to Forging Steel – Matt Gottardi on Knife Making, Union Work, and Finding Balance in Atlanta’s Creative Grind

Sam sits down with Matthew Gottardi—union grip, knife maker, and all-around craftsman—live at Barber Vintage Fest’s 20th anniversary inside The Isle of Triumph.They talk about Matt’s journey from working film sets in Atlanta to hand-forging custom knives under MG Knifeworks, how he balances passion with steady union work, and what it takes to stay creative through life’s ups and downs.A real conversation about art, trade, survival, and the shared hustle of building something with your hands.