Episode 6: Anthony Sims (Lucky Dog Guitars)

The Journey of Faith, Craftsmanship, and Integrity: An Interview with Anthony Sims of Lucky Dog Guitars

Introduction

In this episode of the Fully Armed Podcast, host Chris Hennessee sits down with Anthony Sims, the mastermind behind Lucky Dog Guitars. Known for creating some of the finest guitars in the industry, Anthony’s reputation precedes him. Over the past six months, Chris has gotten to know Anthony personally, and this episode delves into the life, faith, and passion that drive the man behind the guitars.

The Roots of Craftsmanship: Sim’s Holler

Anthony begins by sharing the history of Sim’s Holler, the place where his family’s story began. Located in Birchwood, Tennessee, Sim’s Holler was home to a mix of country music players, gamblers, drinkers, and racers. It was a rough-and-tumble environment that deeply influenced Anthony’s life and his connection to music. His grandmother, however, chose a different path, turning towards faith and bringing a sense of Christian values to the family. This transformation had a profound impact on Anthony, shaping both his personal life and his career.

The Birth of Lucky Dog Guitars

The conversation shifts to how Lucky Dog Guitars came to be. After spending 25 years playing music in honky-tonks and clubs, Anthony found himself at a crossroads. Boredom and a desire for something new led him to build his first guitar. He wanted to create something unique—guitars that reflected his family’s history and the high-end custom guitars he admired but couldn’t afford. This personal project quickly turned into a full-fledged business as more people noticed his work and started placing orders.

A Moment of Spiritual Clarity

Anthony recounts a pivotal moment in his life when he was performing at a sold-out show in Chattanooga. Mid-song, the world seemed to go silent, and he felt as though he was being called home—not in the literal sense, but spiritually. The next morning, he woke up with a feeling that his addiction to performing had been “deleted.” This experience led him to step away from music and focus on building guitars. He realized that this was part of God’s plan for him, opening new avenues in his life.

Building a Business on Faith and Integrity

As the business grew, Anthony faced many challenges. He speaks candidly about the struggles of starting a business from scratch, from working late into the night in his laundry room to moving operations into a garage and dealing with the pressures of entrepreneurship. Despite the hardships, Anthony’s faith remained central to his journey. He credits his success to God’s guidance and the unwavering support of his wife, who believed in his vision and encouraged him to pursue it full-time.

Crafting Guitars for Legends

One of the most defining moments for Anthony was when he had the opportunity to build guitars for music legends like Garth Brooks and Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott and Phil Collen. These experiences validated his work and solidified Lucky Dog Guitars’ place in the industry. However, Anthony remains humble, acknowledging that the real reward comes from the connection he forms with his customers—ordinary people who share a love for quality craftsmanship and music.

The Role of Faith in Business

Throughout the interview, Anthony emphasizes the role of faith in his business. He strives to reach people for Jesus not by preaching, but by example—through integrity, kindness, and genuine care for others. His approach has resonated with many, including atheists who have come to faith after working with him. Anthony’s story is a testament to the power of living a life guided by faith, where actions speak louder than words.

Conclusion

Anthony Sims’ journey is one of faith, craftsmanship, and unwavering integrity. From the humble beginnings in Sim’s Holler to building guitars for some of the biggest names in music, Anthony’s story is a powerful example of how God’s guidance can lead to unexpected and fulfilling paths. The Fully Armed Podcast offers a glimpse into the life of a man who has not only mastered his craft but has also remained true to his values, inspiring others along the way.

If you haven’t yet, be sure to check out Lucky Dog Guitars and follow Anthony’s journey as he continues to create beautiful, custom instruments that are as unique as the people who play them.