MEET YOUR MAKER: Jamie S.

Building pedals is not for the faint of heart. It takes concentration, skill, precision, artistry and magic. If all our builders did was build pedals, you’d be like, well that makes sense. Building pedals is hard AF. But all the pedal angels building your EarthQuaker Devices do equally amazing things outside of EarthQuaker, and the extent of their creativity and skill never ceases to amaze us.

Today’s pedal angel is Jamie, who is not only checking that your pedals are of thee highest quality - she also takes most of the photos of our shop and pedal people that you see on our social media, is an incredible visual artist, and probably coolest of all, a roller derby queen. In other words, do not fuck with her! Not that you would, cause she’s one of the nicest people you’ll ever meet. But still, don’t!

Role at EarthQuaker?

Solder Jockey (circuit builder)

How long have you been at EarthQuaker?

A little over five years now.

What’s a typical (non-quarantine) work day for you like?

I’m one of the first few in the building so the mornings are extremely low-key and quiet. Not all of the overhead lights are on and the few of us that are there just sort of huddle around the coffee pot and shoot the shit before we begin the day.

I mostly work in quality control so a lot of pedals visit my desk throughout the day while I listen to podcasts and music. Mostly podcasts though. I take a lot of in-shop photos when I’m needed too so I’ll juggle my time between soldering and photographing.

What’s your favorite thing about working at EarthQuaker?

The people. We’re a family. A very goofy and large family.

What instrument(s) do you play, and what band(s) are you in?

I wouldn’t consider myself a musician but I’ll fiddle on a guitar a bit from time to time. Most of my creative time is put towards visual art.

Best thing to eat in Akron?

Lock 15 has some amazing beer and their food is so fucking good.

Favorite Ohio city, after Akron?

Cleveland! I grew up closer to there so it’s my second home.

Pre-EarthQuaker job?

I was a barista slinging coffee for the locals.

Favorite band?

This question will always be difficult to answer because the answer will always be evolving. Currently I’ve been listening to a lot of Mannequin Pussy, Cherry Glazerr, and GRLwood. Never changing favorites would definitely be Germs and The Damned.

Favorite podcast?

Up First, My Favorite Murder, This Podcast Will Kill You

Favorite book?

I’m such a dweeb for Harry Potter.

Favorite movie?

I’m such a dweeb for Star Wars.

Coolest skill, besides pedal building?

Roller Derby, ceramics, and painting.

Favorite holiday, and why?

Thanksgiving! Why? Food. Lots of it.

Do you have a pet?

Yep! A dog named Fox Mulder and a cat named Lorca. They’re both on Prozac. The cat is on it because it prevents him from killing the dog. The dog is on it because it helps alleviate the trauma of his attempted murder by the cat.

Dumbest thing you ever bought?

Animal Crossing New Horizons because a lot of my time is being sucked by this game.

Best Halloween costume you ever wore?

I was a Jawa a few years ago for our work party. Glowing eyes and all. I won first place in our costume party!

Best beauty tip?

Drink lots of water!! Moisturizer with SPF and a nice exfoliant every so often.

Favorite EarthQuaker pedal?

Disaster Transport SR

Quarantine survival tips?

Stock up on Cheez-Its, stay home, stay home, stay home, watch Ghost Adventures, stay home, stay home, and stay home.

---