We had the good fortune of connecting with John Metcalf and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi John, other than deciding to work for yourself, what else do you think played a pivotal role in your story?
Selecting the best team I could assemble. I think just as important (if not more important) as “what I’m doing” is, “with whom I’m doing it”.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I got started in pottery when a friend took me to a one-time class. I took to the craft in a way that was much more obsessive than the painting classes I was taking prior to getting my hands on clay. Over the past several months, I’ve been more focused on getting other people exposed to the craft. Throw Clay LA just had our 1 year birthday! I’m very much looking forward to hiring another couple people soon, then spending more of my time on my own art. I do love the studio operations part though. There’s always a project to do. There have been challenges. My two main points of focus when dealing with challenges are: communication and curiosity. Many challenges could have been avoided with better communication, and many challenges can instantly become less daunting with better communication. Coupled with communication is curiosity, thinking outside the box to work toward finding a creative solution.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My main attractions would be outside. A drive up Angeles Crest Highway and a hike to the top of Mt. Waterman or Kratka Ridge. Walking along the LA River in a rainstorm is always fun. Amazing what floats by. It’s great on sunny days too though. The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My parents. Both have encouraged me from day one. My mom does a ton of behind the scenes work as my “remote office manager. Dad keeps an eye on the financial picture for me.

Website: www.throwclayla.com

Instagram: @throwclayla

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/public-profile/in/john-prescott-1629a119b?challengeId=AQFNlK94bCvqDQAAAXdlSJhaC6913q95Lyfb1d78NCk6XKOkRqz2q__4wLZBrlRuWTYzJPFhm647hDbUc2ZjedfD3Th4U09L6w&submissionId=0e1b79e5-3615-6016-e5d4-ff255b38ad39

Twitter: @throwclayla
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/throwclayla/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/throw-clay-la-los-angeles

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.