The Story of Sawyer Paddles and Oars with Bruce Bergstrom | Ep 19

For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ YouTube Playlist🔗 Episode Links: Sawyer Paddles and Oars: https://paddlesandoars.com📝 SummaryIn this episode, Zac interviews Bruce Bergstrom, the second owner of Sawyer, discussing the history of the company, the impact of Ralph Sawyer, and the innovations in paddle and oar production. Bruce shares insights on the challenges of transitioning ownership, the importance of family and community in the business, and the merger with Smoker Oars. The conversation also touches on manufacturing processes, staff training, and the legacy of quality craftsmanship that continues to define Sawyer today.🎬 Chapters 00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast 00:26 Bruce Bergstrom: Sawyer's 2nd Owner02:46 Transitioning Ownership from Ralph Sawyer to Bruce10:05 The Connection of Bruce and Zac 15:58 Relocating the Sawyer Factory20:48 Staffing Challenges23:20 Optimizing Production26:03 The Merger of Sawyer and Smoker32:55 The SOU Paddle Art Project 34:43 The Art of Varnishing38:23 Blending Wood and Composite40:35 The Story of the Sawyer SquareTop 43:06 Sawyer's Production Manager 46:46 The Legacy of Ralph Sawyer 51:36 See you on the water! 52:58 Rapid Rapid QuestionsSawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: YouTube PlaylistSee you on the water! 🌊