Talking Timber Podcast Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:27:52 +0100 https://talkingtimber.co.uk en-gb © 2026 Talking Timber Podcast yes b2450b8a-baa7-5643-83a9-98d15109abf0 Talking Timber Podcast episodic false Welcome to Talking Timber, the podcast where we explore everything wood—its role in the building industry, its impact on the environment, and the innovations shaping its future. Each episode features in-depth conversations with industry experts, sustainable forestry advocates, architects, and timber innovators, diving into the latest trends and challenges in the timber and wood products sector. From traditional craftsmanship to cutting-edge timber technologies like cross-laminated timber (CLT) and engineered wood, we’re here to unpack how this versatile material is transforming construction.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Talking Timber Podcast https://storage.buzzsprout.com/puinsl2o3pqi0mrpd8tin06en2c3?.jpg Talking Timber Podcast https://talkingtimber.co.uk How Naked Kitchens Combines High-Tech Machinery with Handcrafted Detail | Alex Everett How Naked Kitchens Combines High-Tech Machinery with Handcrafted Detail | Alex Everett Most kitchens are fixtures — Naked Kitchens sees through the surface with a radical approach that combines technology and craftsmanship to create bespoke timber masterpieces.

In this episode, CEO Alex Everett reveals how a Norfolk-based family business transformed from solid timber worktops to a high-tech, design-led kitchen powerhouse - without sacrificing its roots in craftsmanship. Discover the surprising origins, innovative processes, and future ambitions behind one of the UK’s most distinctive bespoke kitchens brands. And trust us when we say distinct!

You'll learn how Naked Kitchens balances automation with artisan skills, using a 120,000 sq ft facility in RAF hangars packed with CNC machines, robotic spray lines, and talented craftspeople. Alex uncovers their secret to delivering ultra-practical, beautifully crafted kitchens that push the limits of design while managing expectations around natural timber - from walnut’s resurgence to character veneers and textured finishes.

We also break down:

  • The core principles that set Naked apart: a no-limit problem-solving mindset and tailored solutions.
  • The importance of supply chain relationships in maintaining quality amidst global timber challenges.
  • Trends shaping today’s timber choices, from unstained walnut to painted finishes, and the rising demand for sustainable, FSC-certified materials.
  • How their bespoke process works, from the client’s vision to complex structural solutions like unsupported overhangs supported by stainless steel rods.
  • The future of high-tech craftsmanship with robotic manufacturing, precision record-keeping, and future international projects.

This episode is essential listening if you’re passionate about luxury bespoke interiors, sustainable timber, and the intersection of tradition with cutting-edge manufacturing. Whether you’re a timber supplier, designer, or homeowner, Alex Everett’s insights reveal the craftsmanship, innovation, and values driving the future of high-end kitchens.

Perfect for industry insiders and design enthusiasts alike, this is your inside look at a business redefining what’s possible in timber and luxury interiors.

Join us to explore a company with big ambitions, a commitment to quality, and a fresh vision for the timeless appeal of wood.

]]> Most kitchens are fixtures — Naked Kitchens sees through the surface with a radical approach that combines technology and craftsmanship to create bespoke timber masterpieces.

In this episode, CEO Alex Everett reveals how a Norfolk-based family business transformed from solid timber worktops to a high-tech, design-led kitchen powerhouse - without sacrificing its roots in craftsmanship. Discover the surprising origins, innovative processes, and future ambitions behind one of the UK’s most distinctive bespoke kitchens brands. And trust us when we say distinct!

You'll learn how Naked Kitchens balances automation with artisan skills, using a 120,000 sq ft facility in RAF hangars packed with CNC machines, robotic spray lines, and talented craftspeople. Alex uncovers their secret to delivering ultra-practical, beautifully crafted kitchens that push the limits of design while managing expectations around natural timber - from walnut’s resurgence to character veneers and textured finishes.

We also break down:

  • The core principles that set Naked apart: a no-limit problem-solving mindset and tailored solutions.
  • The importance of supply chain relationships in maintaining quality amidst global timber challenges.
  • Trends shaping today’s timber choices, from unstained walnut to painted finishes, and the rising demand for sustainable, FSC-certified materials.
  • How their bespoke process works, from the client’s vision to complex structural solutions like unsupported overhangs supported by stainless steel rods.
  • The future of high-tech craftsmanship with robotic manufacturing, precision record-keeping, and future international projects.

This episode is essential listening if you’re passionate about luxury bespoke interiors, sustainable timber, and the intersection of tradition with cutting-edge manufacturing. Whether you’re a timber supplier, designer, or homeowner, Alex Everett’s insights reveal the craftsmanship, innovation, and values driving the future of high-end kitchens.

Perfect for industry insiders and design enthusiasts alike, this is your inside look at a business redefining what’s possible in timber and luxury interiors.

Join us to explore a company with big ambitions, a commitment to quality, and a fresh vision for the timeless appeal of wood.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-19293969 Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:00:00 +0100 2251 2 11 full false Inside the Carrefour International Du Bois: A Timber Industry Powerhouse Inside the Carrefour International Du Bois: A Timber Industry Powerhouse Join us as we explore the Carrefour International Du Bois exhibition in Nantes, France, with Samantha Padden, the event's international business manager. Discover the show's history, its focus on timber, and why it's a must-visit for industry professionals worldwide.

Carrefour International Du Bois runs between June 2nd, 3rd and 4th 2026 in Nantes, France.

]]> Join us as we explore the Carrefour International Du Bois exhibition in Nantes, France, with Samantha Padden, the event's international business manager. Discover the show's history, its focus on timber, and why it's a must-visit for industry professionals worldwide.

Carrefour International Du Bois runs between June 2nd, 3rd and 4th 2026 in Nantes, France.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-19013391 Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:00:00 +0100 2236 2 10 full false Adapting to Industry Changes | Nick Boulton Adapting to Industry Changes | Nick Boulton In the ever-evolving landscape of the timber industry, understanding trade policy and supply trends is essential for stakeholders. In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer chat to Nick Boulton, head of technical and trade policy at Timber Development UK, to gain insights into his long-standing career and the current state of the industry.

]]> In the ever-evolving landscape of the timber industry, understanding trade policy and supply trends is essential for stakeholders. In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer chat to Nick Boulton, head of technical and trade policy at Timber Development UK, to gain insights into his long-standing career and the current state of the industry.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18584566 Wed, 01 Apr 2026 06:00:00 +0100 2171 2 9 full false Embracing Innovation and Sustainability: The Evolution of Piveteau Bois | Elisabeth Piveteau Embracing Innovation and Sustainability: The Evolution of Piveteau Bois | Elisabeth Piveteau In the world of timber production, few stories encapsulate the blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability like that of Piveteaubois. Founded in 1948, the company has transformed from its humble beginnings as a one-man operation into one of France's leading softwood manufacturers. In this episode, we delve into the insights shared by Elisabeth Piveteau, the UK and Ireland sales director.

Ever wondered how a sawmill thrives in a non-forested area? 🤔🌲 Join us on the Talking Timber podcast as we chat with Elizabeth Piveteau about how Piveteaubois adds value to timber and innovates in the wood industry!  💡  
What’s your take on sustainability in timber sourcing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!  
#SustainableTimber #PiveteauBois #Innovation #WoodIndustry #TimberTalk #EcoConscious #SawmillLife #Construction #WoodWorking #TalkingTimber  

]]> In the world of timber production, few stories encapsulate the blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability like that of Piveteaubois. Founded in 1948, the company has transformed from its humble beginnings as a one-man operation into one of France's leading softwood manufacturers. In this episode, we delve into the insights shared by Elisabeth Piveteau, the UK and Ireland sales director.

Ever wondered how a sawmill thrives in a non-forested area? 🤔🌲 Join us on the Talking Timber podcast as we chat with Elizabeth Piveteau about how Piveteaubois adds value to timber and innovates in the wood industry!  💡  
What’s your take on sustainability in timber sourcing? We’d love to hear your thoughts!  
#SustainableTimber #PiveteauBois #Innovation #WoodIndustry #TimberTalk #EcoConscious #SawmillLife #Construction #WoodWorking #TalkingTimber  

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18583801 Mon, 02 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000 2191 2 8 full false The Evolution of MDF: A Journey Through the Timber Industry | Geoff Rhodes The Evolution of MDF: A Journey Through the Timber Industry | Geoff Rhodes In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer interview Geoff Rhodes, a pioneer in the MDF industry. They discuss the origins of MDF, its introduction to the UK market, and Geoff's extensive career in the timber industry, including his time at Seaboard International. This engaging conversation highlights the evolution of MDF and its significance in the timber sector.


]]> In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffree and Keith Fryer interview Geoff Rhodes, a pioneer in the MDF industry. They discuss the origins of MDF, its introduction to the UK market, and Geoff's extensive career in the timber industry, including his time at Seaboard International. This engaging conversation highlights the evolution of MDF and its significance in the timber sector.


]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18583426 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 11:00:00 +0000 2280 2 7 full false Bridging the Gender Gap: The Women in Timber Initiative Bridging the Gender Gap: The Women in Timber Initiative In a world where diversity and inclusion are paramount, the timber industry is taking significant strides to encourage more women to join its ranks. The Women in Timber Initiative is a groundbreaking effort aimed at transforming the traditionally male-dominated sector into a welcoming space for women.

Laura Qualters, membership development manager at the Timber Development UK Trade Association, together with committee members Chidi Adilih-Osim, group sales manager at the Timber Trades Journal, and Sian Morton, head of sales at the BSW sawmill group, organise events that celebrate and promote women in the industry.

We talk about the rise of Women in the Timber and how women can get in the industry and thrive.

]]> In a world where diversity and inclusion are paramount, the timber industry is taking significant strides to encourage more women to join its ranks. The Women in Timber Initiative is a groundbreaking effort aimed at transforming the traditionally male-dominated sector into a welcoming space for women.

Laura Qualters, membership development manager at the Timber Development UK Trade Association, together with committee members Chidi Adilih-Osim, group sales manager at the Timber Trades Journal, and Sian Morton, head of sales at the BSW sawmill group, organise events that celebrate and promote women in the industry.

We talk about the rise of Women in the Timber and how women can get in the industry and thrive.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18253994 Mon, 05 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000 1970 2 6 full true Understanding the American Hardwood Assurance Scheme with Rupert Oliver Understanding the American Hardwood Assurance Scheme with Rupert Oliver In this episode we talk with Rupert Oliver about the significant economic impact of hardwood exports from the US, highlighting the potential for efficient verification models that could be funded at a fraction of the current market value. We chat about the implications of these practices on global markets and the importance of sustainable funding models.

]]> In this episode we talk with Rupert Oliver about the significant economic impact of hardwood exports from the US, highlighting the potential for efficient verification models that could be funded at a fraction of the current market value. We chat about the implications of these practices on global markets and the importance of sustainable funding models.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18253879 Mon, 01 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000 1975 2 5 full false Timber: The Key to Climate Solutions | Paul Brannen Timber: The Key to Climate Solutions | Paul Brannen In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffrey and Keith Fryer engage with Paul Brannen, author of 'Timber: How Wood Can Help Save the World from Climate Breakdown.'

The conversation explores the critical role of timber in addressing climate change, the importance of decarbonising the construction industry, and the innovations in timber construction that can lead to a more sustainable built environment.

Paul discusses the target audience for his book, the challenges of fire safety in timber buildings, and the need for political intervention to promote timber use in construction. The episode concludes with a positive outlook on the future of timber in the construction industry and the potential for sustainable timber supply.

00:00
Introduction

02:20
The Importance of Timber in Climate Action

06:08
Timber: How Wood Can Help Save The World From Climate Breakdown

10:23
Decarbonising the Built Environment

15:58
Innovations in Timber Construction

20:46
Fire Safety in Timber Buildings

28:25
Political Intervention and Timber Legislation

33:10
Sustainability and Timber Supply

36:49
Outro



]]> In this episode of the Talking Timber podcast, hosts Mike Jeffrey and Keith Fryer engage with Paul Brannen, author of 'Timber: How Wood Can Help Save the World from Climate Breakdown.'

The conversation explores the critical role of timber in addressing climate change, the importance of decarbonising the construction industry, and the innovations in timber construction that can lead to a more sustainable built environment.

Paul discusses the target audience for his book, the challenges of fire safety in timber buildings, and the need for political intervention to promote timber use in construction. The episode concludes with a positive outlook on the future of timber in the construction industry and the potential for sustainable timber supply.

00:00
Introduction

02:20
The Importance of Timber in Climate Action

06:08
Timber: How Wood Can Help Save The World From Climate Breakdown

10:23
Decarbonising the Built Environment

15:58
Innovations in Timber Construction

20:46
Fire Safety in Timber Buildings

28:25
Political Intervention and Timber Legislation

33:10
Sustainability and Timber Supply

36:49
Outro



]]> Talking Timber Podcast Buzzsprout-18130826 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000 2360 2 4 full false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 3 - Featuring - Arclin Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 3 - Featuring - Arclin Keith and Mike are joined by Arclin.

]]> Keith and Mike are joined by Arclin.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast f996605c-2bd6-49b3-89bc-5d616a7e51ed Mon, 08 Sep 2025 12:00:00 +0100 2331 2 3 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 2 - Women in Timber - Featuring Chidi Adilih-Osim Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 2 - Women in Timber - Featuring Chidi Adilih-Osim Keith and Mike talk to Chidi Adilih-Osim about the Women in Timber conference in Leeds September 2025.

]]> Keith and Mike talk to Chidi Adilih-Osim about the Women in Timber conference in Leeds September 2025.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 44551f58-4d6a-4f52-bf6e-a5fb371ea032 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 10:17:29 +0100 2046 2 2 false Talking Timber - Salisbury Cathedral Talking Timber - Salisbury Cathedral Keith & Mike head to Salisbury Cathedral in Salisbury to check out the timber structures and head to the top of the spire.

]]> Keith & Mike head to Salisbury Cathedral in Salisbury to check out the timber structures and head to the top of the spire.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 8c8aec73-7349-4002-adf7-0331d4b1a345 Tue, 12 Aug 2025 11:13:31 +0100 1476 2 1 false Talking Timber - Series 2 Trailer 2025 Talking Timber - Series 2 Trailer 2025 Keith & Mike talk all things new coming up in Series 2 of the Talking Timber Podcast!

]]> Keith & Mike talk all things new coming up in Series 2 of the Talking Timber Podcast!

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 06155ad6-aa51-4d6a-ac5b-448f8f8a3947 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100 110 false Talking Timber - End of Series 1 (2025 Recap) Talking Timber - End of Series 1 (2025 Recap) Keith & Mike talk about Series One and everything that has happened during the process, all that has been achieved including guests that have made it onto the show and more!

]]> Keith & Mike talk about Series One and everything that has happened during the process, all that has been achieved including guests that have made it onto the show and more!

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 2ad424a5-c89a-4b73-b287-ba4884ec5631 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100 202 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 8 - Woodscanner (Feat Andy Ferguson) Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 8 - Woodscanner (Feat Andy Ferguson) Keith and Mike talk to founder Andy Ferguson about WoodScanner,  a transparent digital market place for sellers and buyers to make contact and communicate, ultimately a forum to facilitate timber business. 

]]> Keith and Mike talk to founder Andy Ferguson about WoodScanner,  a transparent digital market place for sellers and buyers to make contact and communicate, ultimately a forum to facilitate timber business. 

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 88e22112-e4e9-4ad3-986c-6462057d6478 Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:00:00 +0100 2165 1 8 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 7 - English Woodlands Timber (Featuring Tom Compton) Video Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 7 - English Woodlands Timber (Featuring Tom Compton) Video Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

]]> Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

]]> Talking Timber Podcast d3512938-ea84-4289-8bce-4809e5b2171c Wed, 25 Jun 2025 17:26:34 +0100 2163 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 7 - English Woodlands Timber (Featuring Tom Compton) Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 7 - English Woodlands Timber (Featuring Tom Compton) Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

]]> Mike and Keith talk to Tom Compton of English Woodlands Timber, a leading supplier of European temperate hardwoods and specialist in UK homegrown varieties .

]]> Talking Timber Podcast a015e50e-7933-447f-a8ee-f4c4e9d26ad3 Tue, 03 Jun 2025 10:07:56 +0100 2317 1 7 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 6 - Automation, Anthropomorphic Robots & Ai (Featuring Gabriele de Col) Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 6 - Automation, Anthropomorphic Robots & Ai (Featuring Gabriele de Col) Keith & Mike talk to Gabriele de Col of wood processing machine giant SCM about latest advances in timber technology - from automation, to remote machine monitoring and Ai's potential to pre-empt machine problems and enhance reliability. 

]]> Keith & Mike talk to Gabriele de Col of wood processing machine giant SCM about latest advances in timber technology - from automation, to remote machine monitoring and Ai's potential to pre-empt machine problems and enhance reliability. 

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 9ec5a43e-fe68-4418-826e-883e2bd74697 Tue, 06 May 2025 15:51:07 +0100 2239 1 6 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 5 - Hardwood Plywood: Still The #1 Choice? Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 5 - Hardwood Plywood: Still The #1 Choice? Mike & Keith discuss plywood, from its early history, through to today. The discussion moves onto the specification and quality of hardwood plywood, how that has changed and whether for the better, or not! The podcast looks at alternative products and where hardwood plywood might be heading.

]]> Mike & Keith discuss plywood, from its early history, through to today. The discussion moves onto the specification and quality of hardwood plywood, how that has changed and whether for the better, or not! The podcast looks at alternative products and where hardwood plywood might be heading.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 9eaad098-c006-4ad6-98fd-7d495481ebe7 Tue, 01 Apr 2025 17:15:35 +0100 1661 1 5 false A Warm Welcome From Talking Timber Hosts Keith & Mike! A Warm Welcome From Talking Timber Hosts Keith & Mike! A Warm Welcome From Keith & Mike!

]]> A Warm Welcome From Keith & Mike!

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 3157ffb7-a5db-46a5-8b31-b531c843d214 Tue, 04 Mar 2025 14:14:19 +0000 148 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 4 - AHEC - Featuring David Venables Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 4 - AHEC - Featuring David Venables Keith and Mike talk to David Venables discussing the AHEC

]]> Keith and Mike talk to David Venables discussing the AHEC

]]> Talking Timber Podcast f8a5212b-5a95-4cf3-a2bb-5d8a67bd20a6 Sun, 02 Mar 2025 12:00:00 +0000 1649 1 4 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 3 - EUDR Challenges & Opportunities (Featuring: Nils Peterson) Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 3 - EUDR Challenges & Opportunities (Featuring: Nils Peterson) Mike and Keith discuss with Nils Peterson about the EUDR and it's challenges and opportunies.

]]> Mike and Keith discuss with Nils Peterson about the EUDR and it's challenges and opportunies.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 2874a6dd-0a39-4a3c-8151-8947e73f03c9 Mon, 03 Feb 2025 12:00:00 +0000 2120 1 3 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 2 - Global Timber Availability (Featuring: Dave Hopkins) Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 2 - Global Timber Availability (Featuring: Dave Hopkins) Join Keith and Mike with Dave Hopkins the Chief Executive of Timber Development U.K discussing Global Timber Availability.

]]> Join Keith and Mike with Dave Hopkins the Chief Executive of Timber Development U.K discussing Global Timber Availability.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast e8241a59-b15c-413f-b87f-1b63a8ab1689 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 12:00:00 +0000 1722 1 2 false Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 1 - User Classes Talking Timber Podcast - Episode 1 - User Classes Join Keith and Mike for the first episode in Talking Timber discussing user class specifications.

]]> Join Keith and Mike for the first episode in Talking Timber discussing user class specifications.

]]> Talking Timber Podcast 80b0bba8-6b93-4cd5-9358-df1782d5adeb Sun, 01 Dec 2024 12:00:00 +0000 1496 1 1 false