Luthier Otto D’Ambrosio has had quite a journey: He started working at Staten Island’s Mandolin Brothers when he was just 13 years old. After learning the fretted instrument ropes from Stan Jay, he apprenticed with Flip Scipio, worked for John Monteleone, did some time at Guild’s Westerly plant and, of course, eventually set out on his own as a builder and repairman.

On this week’s podcast, D’Ambrosio tell us about his colorful back story and describes the ongoing evolution of his archtop models. He also describes his unique relationship with Eastman Guitars and the ongoing (and evolving) role he has at the company. It’s an informative and frank chat with one of the fretted instrument world’s best craftsmen.