Episode 9: From Corporate America To Handmade in America With Tom Wirt

As you have probably figured out by now, I love a good conversation.

For this week’s episode I am pleased to welcome Tom Wirt. We gathered in Tom’s studio – he was sitting at his potter’s wheel during our conversation – for a conversation we titled From Corporate America to Handmade in America. During the 1990-1991 mild recession, Tom was downsized from the marketing department at Bakers Square.That experience was the catalyst that moved him – full time – into the world of pottery. He turned to his passion – pottery – and, along with his partner Betsy Price, leveraged his business and marketing experience to build a successful business.

During our conversation, we explore this process, the transition from his corporate job and the new life he’s created for himself. Throughout our conversation, Tom shares practical advice for people who are facing a change in their work life as a result of the current recession.

I hope you enjoy the conversation!

About Tom Wirt And Clay Coyote Pottery

Tom has worked as a potter since 1992, following a career in marketing and advertising. Work focuses on pieces for everyday use; casseroles, vases, tableware, oil lamps, mugs, bowls, etc. All work is highfire stoneware, and is dishwasher, microwave and oven safe. He started doing shows in 1992, and went to full time as a potter in 1993.

In throwing, Tom avoids use of tools, preferring to form pots solely with his hands. He feels this increases the potter-user communication in a way that use of ribs and other tools cannot.

To learn more about Tom and his partner Betsy, visit The Clay Coyote Pottery and Gallery.