The Woodpreneur Podcast

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Jamie Stebenne, owner of JPS Construction and Design, as he shares the journey of starting and growing his construction business. Jamie discusses how he entered the industry, the niche he carved out in high-end residential projects, and the crucial role that design plays in his work. He also delves into the challenges of project management and the strategies his team employs to improve efficiency. Jamie provides insights on leadership development, effective client communication, and recognizing the early signs of a project going off track. Additionally, he highlights the importance of building strong relationships and leveraging word-of-mouth referrals to acquire new clients. Jamie also shares his future plans, which include expanding the business into property management and interior design. Takeaways Finding a niche in high-end residential projects can help sustain a construction business during economic downturns.Design is a crucial aspect of construction, and having a team with a background in architecture can set a company apart.Efficiency in project management can be improved through the use of technology and clear communication with clients.Word-of-mouth referrals and building relationships in the community are effective ways to attract new clients.Expanding into related businesses, such as property management and interior design, can provide additional revenue streams and support the core construction business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:00 Starting and Growing the Business 06:02 Improving Efficiency in Project Management 10:00 The Role of Design and Client Communication 14:18 Challenges and Signs of a Project Not Going Well 16:52 Acquiring New Clients and Projects 20:14 Expanding into Related Businesses 24:43 Current State of the Business 27:06 Leadership Development and Motivation 28:14 Advice for Starting Over and Marketing Strategies Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Jamie at: https://www.instagram.com/jpsconstdesign/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Ben Deumling from Zena Forest Products as he discusses the journey of his company, which specializes in producing hardwood flooring from Oregon oak. The business started as a way to utilize the oak trees on their family’s forest lands and has grown into a vertically integrated operation. They have developed the infrastructure to process hardwoods, with a primary focus on producing hardwood flooring. A pivotal moment for the company was securing a contract to provide flooring for the Portland airport, which led to the development of a new type of flooring. Zena Forest Products is now focused on scaling and marketing this innovative product. Takeaways Zena Forest Products is a vertically integrated company that specializes in producing hardwood flooring from Oregon oak.The company started by utilizing oak trees from their family forest lands and has grown significantly over the years.Securing a contract to provide flooring for the Portland airport was a pivotal moment that led to the development of a new flooring product.The company is currently focused on scaling and marketing this unique and innovative product. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zena Forest Products 02:10 Starting the Mill Side of the Business 04:36 Providing Flooring for the Portland Airport 07:10 Transforming the Business with a Big Project 10:05 Primary Product and Target Customers 12:15 Demand and Market Expansion 13:22 Exploring Other Byproducts and Product Lines 16:28 Satisfying Aspects of Running the Business 18:47 Utilizing Video and Photography for Marketing 19:37 The Origin of the Name Zena 20:43 Seeking Advice on Scaling and Marketing a New Product Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Ben at: https://www.instagram.com/zenaforestproducts/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Corey Tighe, owner of CT Woodwork, as he shares his journey of starting a woodworking business and teaching woodworking classes. He began working full-time in 2019 and has since grown his business by offering a variety of services, including custom furniture, built-ins, and classes. Corey finds teaching to be the most rewarding aspect of his business and has fostered a positive, collaborative community in his shop. He emphasizes the importance of word-of-mouth referrals and has recently started using Google Ads to promote his classes. Corey’s future plans include expanding his services to offer lumber milling and promoting his business on Instagram. Takeaways Starting a woodworking business requires bold moves and finding ways to balance different income streams.Teaching woodworking classes can be both rewarding and profitable.Word-of-mouth referrals and local connections are essential for growing a woodworking business.Expanding services, such as lumber milling, can be a key goal for future growth.Promoting the business through platforms like Google Ads and Instagram can help attract new customers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Corey’s Background 01:08 Starting the Business and Teaching Classes 03:21 Balancing Income Streams 05:12 Focus on Custom Furniture 07:22 Word-of-Mouth Referrals and Marketing 08:00 Teaching as a Source of Inspiration 10:27 Growing the Business and Future Plans 12:10 Upcoming Projects 13:26 The Importance of Community 14:08 Continual Learning and Exploring New Projects 16:34 Milling Lumber and Future Expansion 17:44 Promoting the Business Through Instagram 19:38 Finding a Work-Life Balance 22:11 Direct Marketing and Its Impressive Results 23:20 Contact Information and Conclusion Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Corey at: https://www.instagram.com/ctwoodwork/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Matthew Gutchess from Gutchess Lumber. They discuss the company's 120-year history, which began in 1904, and its evolution from building barns to manufacturing kiln-dried hardwood lumber. Gutchess Lumber now produces 100 million feet of lumber annually and employs 460 people across seven locations. Gutchess emphasizes the importance of storytelling in educating consumers about the environmental benefits of hardwoods, such as carbon sequestration. He also highlights their ESOP model, which involves employees owning 30% of the business. The conversation concludes with advice on leveraging social media and content creation to enhance the company's brand and customer engagement. Key Takeaways: Use storytelling to promote Gutchess Lumber and educate consumers.Create a media department or branded content like "Gutches TV."Write a book to document the company's history.Highlight hardwoods' environmental benefits to strengthen the brand.An ESOP model can boost employee investment and company culture.Leverage social media for increased brand awareness and engagement. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:15 The Evolution of Gutchess Lumber 09:32 The Importance of Storytelling in Business 14:08 Environmental Benefits of Hardwoods 18:45 The ESOP Model and Employee Ownership 22:17 Leveraging Social Media and Content Creation 26:50 Future Plans and Brand Building 29:03 Conclusion Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Matthew at: https://www.instagram.com/gutchesslumbercoinc/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews John Bohman, a carpenter and furniture maker. John shares his journey of starting and growing his business. He discusses the challenges he faced, the mistakes he made, and the lessons he learned along the way. Bohman emphasizes the importance of finding one's specialization and focusing on it, as well as the value of word-of-mouth marketing and building a strong reputation. He also highlights the significance of work-life balance and the impact of family on his success. Bohman shares his passion for creating unique, custom furniture pieces and his joy in making sales and seeing clients excited about his work. Key Takeaways: Finding a specialization and focusing on it can lead to business success.Word-of-mouth marketing and building a strong reputation are effective for attracting clients.Maintaining work-life balance is crucial for overall success and well-being.Passion for the work and the joy of making sales can drive motivation and satisfaction.Learning from mistakes and continuously improving are essential for growth and success. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:39 Defining Success and Finding Specialization 07:19 Balancing Work and Life 12:51 The Importance of Reputation 19:31 Learning from Mistakes and Building a Business 24:13 Passion for the Work and Making Sales 28:32 Future Plans and Expansion 29:05 Conclusion Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with John at: https://www.instagram.com/dovetail_furniture_company/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Shaun Burroughs from Build Nashville. Shaun shares his journey of starting a construction company in Nashville and growing it into a successful custom home-building business. He discusses the challenges he faced, including a lawsuit on his first deal, and how he overcame them. Shaun emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and incorporating unique design features in his homes, which has helped him stand out in the market. He also highlights the need for consistent communication and problem-solving when managing multiple builds simultaneously. Takeaways: Starting a construction company at a young age and learning on the job.Overcoming challenges and setbacks, such as a lawsuit on the first deal.The importance of attention to detail and unique design features in custom home building.The need for consistent communication and problem-solving when managing multiple builds. Chapters: 00:00 Starting in Construction02:38 Building a Successful Construction Company04:06 Growing the Business and Overcoming Challenges09:49 Dealing with Lawsuits and Setbacks13:47 Recognition and Success as a Builder15:24 Attention to Detail and Unique Design19:33 Constant Growth and Leveling Up23:06 The Challenge of Consistent Actions28:36 Continuing to Solve New Problems Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Shaun at: https://www.instagram.com/buildnashville/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Tom Addison, a furniture maker, who shares his journey in the industry and his passion for creating unique, handcrafted pieces. He began his career as an apprentice, gaining valuable experience working alongside skilled craftsmen. Tom emphasizes the importance of networking and building a social media presence to attract clients. He discusses the challenges of balancing work and personal life and his satisfaction in delivering high-quality furniture. Tom also explores the potential for collaborations with interior designers and draws inspiration from the beautiful countryside where his workshop is located. Takeaways: Building a social media presence and marketing oneself online can help attract clients and generate sales.Word-of-mouth referrals and personal connections are valuable in the furniture-making industry.Balancing work and personal life can be challenging but is crucial for overall well-being.Collaborating with professionals like interior designers can lead to new opportunities and growth.Drawing inspiration from surroundings can result in unique and meaningful designs. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background Story06:26 Tom's Passion for Crafting Unique Furniture09:21 Building a Social Media Presence and Networking14:18 Balancing Work and Personal Life25:43 Exploring Collaborations with Interior Designers27:56 Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Advice35:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with TOM at: https://www.instagram.com/tomaddisonfinefurniture/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Adam Hicks, founder of Cooper Build, who shares his journey from finance to real estate development and contracting. He started Cooper Build to address his challenges with property renovations. Over the years, the business has evolved into a customer-facing general contracting and millwork operation in New York City and the Hamptons. Adam discusses the challenges of managing costs and delivering value to clients in the expensive New York City market. He also highlights the importance of continuous learning and adapting to different trades and processes in the construction industry. Takeaways: Cooper Build was founded to solve Adam Hicks' challenges with property renovations.Managing costs and providing value for clients is a continuous challenge in the costly New York City market.Continuous learning and adaptability are essential in the construction industry.Building a strong network and forging relationships with architects and designers is key to success in contracting.Developing a semi-autonomous business structure within Cooper Build can empower employees and fuel growth. Chapters: Introduction and BackgroundTransition from Finance to Real Estate DevelopmentChallenges of Managing Costs in the New York City MarketContinuous Learning and Adaptation in the Construction IndustryHarnessing Digital Footprint for Business GrowthImportance of Infrastructure and Process in ContractingWorking with Architects and Designers in the New York City MarketSatisfying Moments in the Construction ProcessAdding Energy and Fire to ProjectsEmpowering Employees and Driving Growth at Cooper BuildMarketing Strategies for ContractorsClosing Remarks and Contact Information Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with ADAM at: https://www.instagram.com/cooper_build/ https://cooperbuild.com/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Adam from Pompous Fox Wood Co. Adam shares his journey of starting a high-end luxury furniture business, from crafting furniture in his garage to leaving his engineering career and launching his shop. He discusses the challenges he faced, such as targeting interior designers as clients and investing in machinery. Adam also talks about hiring employees and stresses the importance of budgeting and saving. He shares his marketing strategies, including cold calling and attending trade shows, and provides insights into the custom furniture industry. Takeaways: Starting a niche business demands passion, determination, and hard work.Targeting interior designers can yield substantial sales for high-end furniture.Budgeting and saving are critical when transitioning from a full-time job to entrepreneurship.Investing in machinery enhances workshop efficiency and product quality.Cold calling and attending trade shows are effective for client acquisition.Continuous employee training fosters skill development.Establishing a strong brand and online presence is essential for attracting customers. Chapters: Starting a Passion ProjectBudgeting and SavingTargeting Interior DesignersHiring EmployeesInvesting in MachineryBuilding a Strong Brand Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Adam at: https://www.instagram.com/pompousfoxwoodco/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Nate Schuele, the owner of Full Tilt Timber Framing, a traditional timber framing company specializing in mortise and tenon joinery. Nate learned the craft from his father and has been running the business since 2019. He primarily generates leads through Instagram and collaborates with general contractors on timber design elements that are too complicated for them to execute. Nate has invested heavily in tools and is constantly working on improving his skills. He also has plans to expand his business into mass timber production and is considering investing in a CNC machine. Takeaways: Traditional timber framing focuses on mortise and tenon joinery and European-style designs.Instagram is a valuable platform for generating leads in the timber framing industry.Investing in tools and continuously improving skills is essential for success in the business.Expanding into mass timber production and investing in a CNC machine can open up new opportunities. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Full Tilt Timber Framing02:23 Using Instagram for Lead Generation03:19 Investing in Tools and Skills14:24 Venturing into Mass Timber Production27:06 The Challenges of Partnerships29:13 Conclusion and Contact Information Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/ Connect with Nate at: https://www.instagram.com/full.tilt.timber.framing/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Aaron Cash from Fine Line Millworks, who shares his journey of starting the company and navigating various challenges, including the impact of COVID-19. They focused on creating a customer-centric experience and developed a process to understand and meet their clients' needs. They also leveraged online platforms like Zoom to connect with customers and showcase their work. Through strategic partnerships and exposure on HGTV and Magnolia Network, they gained recognition and expanded their client base. Currently, they are working on developing new products and finding the balance between custom work and scalability. Takeaways: Focus on creating a customer-centric experience and understanding your clients' needs.Leverage online platforms like Zoom to connect with customers and showcase your work.Strategic partnerships and exposure on popular networks can help gain recognition and expand your client base.Find the balance between custom work and scalability to ensure profitability and growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background of Fine Line Millworks09:18 Adapting to COVID-19 and Creating a Predictable Process14:08 Strategic Partnerships and Exposure on HGTV and Magnolia Network Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Aaron at: https://www.instagram.com/finelinemillworks/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Tedd Benson, founder of Bensonwood and Unity Homes. Tedd shares the history and mission of his companies. He discusses his passion for carpentry and timber framing and his desire to bring high-quality, energy-efficient homes to more people. Bensonwood focuses on craftsmanship and uses natural and organic materials in its building process. Unity Homes, a separate brand within the company, offers standardized, energy-efficient homes that are affordable and customizable. Benson emphasizes the importance of company culture and teamwork, aiming to create a lasting legacy. Takeaways: Tedd Benson's passion for carpentry and timber framing led him to found Bensonwood and Unity Homes.Bensonwood focuses on craftsmanship and uses natural and organic materials in its building process.Unity Homes offers standardized, energy-efficient homes that are affordable and customizable.Benson emphasizes the importance of company culture and teamwork in achieving the company's mission.He is working on succession planning to ensure the company's long-term success and legacy. Chapters: 00:00 The Origin of Bensonwood and Unity Homes03:29 The Evolution of Bensonwood and Unity Homes07:05 The Creation of Unity Homes10:33 Key Moments in the Company's Growth11:02 Developing New Skills and Learning from Other Countries13:20 Transitioning to Offsite Building Practices15:22 The Importance of a Strong Team16:20 Tedd Benson's Transition from Carpenter to Leader20:46 Navigating Economic Challenges22:27 Writing Books on Timber Framing23:30 Tedd Benson's Role in the Company Today24:28 Planning for Succession and the Future29:12 Collaboration and Sharing Knowledge32:03 The Importance of Company Culture33:28 The Everlasting Path of Bensonwood and Unity Homes35:25 Transitioning to a Chairman of the Board Role37:06 Continuing to Learn and Grow38:59 Partnerships with Developers43:34 Advice for Others in the Industry Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Ben at: 2 COMPANIES https://www.instagram.com/beam_team/ https://www.instagram.com/unity_homes/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews BJ Chandler from Millhaven Homes. Millhaven Homes is a custom home builder that takes a comprehensive approach to home building, managing everything from start to finish. They offer development, plan design, interior design, landscape architecture, construction, furniture, and landscape installation services. The company evolved to address gaps in the custom home market, aiming to enhance the customer experience. They prioritize storytelling and creating a strong connection with clients, emphasizing the reasons behind the home-building process. Millhaven Homes also fosters a positive company culture and builds robust relationships with clients and team members. Takeaways: Millhaven Homes offers a comprehensive approach to custom home building, managing every aspect of the project from start to finish.The company prioritizes creating a positive customer experience and has evolved to address gaps in the custom home market.Storytelling and fostering a connection with clients are central to their approach.They value a strong company culture and focus on building meaningful relationships with both clients and team members. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Overview of Millhaven Homes03:11 Changing the Narrative in Custom Home Building09:28 The Importance of Reputation and Marketing12:12 The Power of Storytelling in Home Building24:02 Creating a Positive Company Culture25:26 Protecting Team Members' Work-Life Balance29:00 Ensuring Accurate Budgeting and Cost Management32:12 Marketing the Importance of Accurate Budgeting35:20 Online Presence and Expansion into Other States Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with BJ Chandler at: https://www.instagram.com/millhavenhomes/ https://millhavenhomes.com

In this episode Steve Larosiliere interviews Ben and Nick from Fresh Start Contracting. They share how they started the business while in college and the challenges they faced along the way. They emphasize the importance of their partnership and how they complement each other's strengths. They also talk about their focus on custom remodeling and the preferences of their high-end clientele. Ben and Nick discuss their marketing strategies, including social media and word-of-mouth referrals. They share their goals for the future and their commitment to staying ahead in the industry. keywordsconstruction, business partnership, remodeling, custom builders, marketing, high-end clientele, goals takeaways Starting a business with a trusted partner can provide support and complementary skills. Custom remodeling is a significant part of their business, catering to high-end clientele. Marketing strategies include social media presence and word-of-mouth referrals. Adapting to industry trends and staying ahead of the competition is crucial for success. Their goal is to become a $50 million annual company and be the best in their area. titles Marketing Strategies: Building a Strong Presence Custom Remodeling: Catering to High-End Clientele Sound Bites "We started this little, you know, painting and handyman business. And that was about 18 years ago." "There is power in being two of us. So if somebody quit, they quit both of us." "We want to be a $50 million annual company, do an annual $50 million a year." Chapters 00:00Childhood Friends to Business Partners 05:28The Power of Partnership 09:32Goals and Aspirations 13:33Marketing Strategies 22:05Catering to High-End Clientele 23:17Working with Smart Clients 28:34Focus on Custom Remodeling 32:32Building a Strong Online Presence 33:43The Future of Fresh Start Contracting Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Nick and Ben at: https://www.instagram.com/freshstartcorp/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Jonathan Orpin, CEO and founder of New Energy Works and Pioneer Millworks. Jonathan shares his journey of starting and growing his companies. He discusses the challenges of being an entrepreneur and deciding to move from New York to Portland. He also talks about the impact of the 2008 recession on his business and the strategies they implemented to survive and thrive. Jonathan emphasizes the importance of building relationships with clients and the value of word-of-mouth referrals. He also highlights the triple-bottom-line approach to business, focusing on people, the planet, and profit. Jonathan shares his experience of transitioning to an employee-owned company and the benefits it brings. He concludes by discussing his plans and the importance of finding the right people for his team. Takeaways: Entrepreneurs often need to step back from day-to-day operations to gain a fresh perspective and explore new opportunities.Navigating a recession requires creativity, resilience, and adaptability.Building strong relationships with clients and delivering high-quality work leads to repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.Adopting a triple bottom line approach to business, focusing on people, the planet, and profit, can lead to long-term success.Transitioning to an employee-owned company can empower employees and create a sense of ownership and accountability.Finding the right people for your team is crucial for business growth and success. Chapters: 00:00 From New York to Portland: A Journey of Entrepreneurship 02:14 Surviving and Thriving Through the 2008 Recession 04:26 Building Relationships and Word-of-Mouth Referrals 08:05 The Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, and Profit 13:15 The Benefits of Employee Ownership Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Jonathan at: 2 COMPANIES : https://www.instagram.com/newenergyworks/ https://www.instagram.com/pioneermillworks/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Elvin Hurst, the founder of Kountry Kraft. Elvin shares his journey of building a successful kitchen cabinet business over 65 years, discussing the company's humble beginnings, growth, and the principles that have contributed to its longevity and success. Takeaways: Vision and ambition are essential for building a successful business.Putting customers and employees first, and oneself last is a key principle for business success.Treating customers and employees fairly and doing good work are crucial for any industry, including the wood industry. Chapters: Building a Legacy: The Country Craft StoryThe Power of Vision and Ambition in Business Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Elvin at: https://www.instagram.com/kountrykraftcabinetry/ https://www.kountrykraft.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Daniel Dodd from Hudson Builders in Austin, Texas. Daniel shares the story of starting his construction business during the pandemic and the challenges he faced. He discusses the importance of customer experience and the key roles in his team. Daniel talks about his role in estimating, client interaction, and networking with architects and builders. He emphasizes the value of networking and collaboration in the Austin community. He also shares insights into the progression of his business through various projects and the importance of work-life balance and personal development. Takeaways: Starting a construction business during the pandemic presented unique challenges and opportunities.Customer experience is a top priority for Hudson Builders, focusing on trust, collaboration, and professionalism.The key roles in the team include a project manager and a project coordinator, each playing a crucial part in the success of the business.Networking and collaboration are valuable in the construction industry.The progression of a construction business through various projects is essential for growth.Work-life balance and personal development are important for business owners.Considerations for technology and project management are crucial in the construction industry. Chapters: 00:00 Navigating the Pandemic: Starting a Construction Business03:01 Prioritizing Customer Experience in Construction05:57 Building a Strong Team: Key Roles and Responsibilities24:48 Project Progression and Business Growth34:23 Balancing Work and Personal Development in Construction Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with DANIEL at: https://www.instagram.com/hudson.builders/ https://www.hudsonbuilderstx.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Jo Huddle, the owner of 5'1 Perspective. Jo shares her journey as a small business owner in the woodworking industry. She discusses how she started her business during the COVID-19 pandemic and the challenges she faced. Jo talks about reinvesting in a laser machine to scale her business and streamline her production process. She also highlights the rewards of being able to bring her customers' visions to life and the satisfaction of creating personalized keepsakes. Jo shares her experiences with marketing and the need to improve in that area. She expresses her desire to find more passive income streams and considers the possibility of hiring help in the future. Overall, Jo's story is a testament to the resilience and creativity of small business owners. Takeaways: Starting a small business during challenging times is possible with determination and resourcefulness.Investing in the right tools, like a laser machine, can help streamline production and scale the business.Marketing is a crucial aspect of running a small business and requires continuous improvement and adaptation.Finding passive income streams can provide stability and growth opportunities.Knowing when to hire help and delegate tasks is essential for business growth and personal well-being.Creativity and the ability to bring customers' visions to life are rewarding aspects of being a small business owner. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background02:16 Starting a Small Business During Challenging Times03:36 Scaling and Streamlining Production with a Laser Machine09:03 The Challenges and Importance of Marketing11:17 Exploring Passive Income Opportunities11:43 Considering Hiring Help for Business Growth19:37 The Benefits of a Reliable Laser Machine26:19 Business Performance and Seasonality31:30 The Importance of Marketing and Branding33:49 Overcoming Mental Blocks and Embracing Growth39:02 Conclusion and Future Plans Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Jo at: https://www.instagram.com/51perspective/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Carter C from 1BENMU Millworks Design & Studio. Carter started his business by building custom live edge tables. He then transitioned into furniture making and eventually embraced CNC machining and software technology for custom millwork. He emphasized the importance of value-added products and efficient processes. Carter's company focuses on commercial projects and offers project management services. They also specialize in micro cement finishing. Carter discussed the challenges of marketing and the need for a strong online presence. Takeaways: Starting small and building a reputation for quality can lead to business growth.Embracing technology can streamline processes and improve efficiency.Value-added products are essential for sustainability in the market.Project management services can enhance the customer experience.Micro cement finishing offers seamless and waterproof solutions for interior design.A strong online presence and effective marketing strategies are crucial for success. Chapters: 00:00 From Custom Tables to Furniture Making04:02 Embracing Technology for Custom Millwork05:10 The Importance of Value-Added Products09:17 Project Management for Commercial Projects Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Carter at: https://www.instagram.com/1benmu/ https://www.1benmu.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Peter Pomerantz, a custom cabinet maker based in Vermont. He primarily works with contractors, designers, and architects to create custom kitchen cabinetry. Peter's journey into cabinet-making started as a hobby and eventually turned into a successful business. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong team and fostering good relationships with clients. Peter's business has grown over the years, and he is currently in the process of building a new shop to accommodate the increasing demand. He is looking to expand his client base by connecting with designers and contractors in other areas. Takeaways: Building a strong team is crucial for the success of a business.Fostering good relationships with clients leads to word-of-mouth referrals.Scaling up and expanding a business requires careful planning and investment.Staying up-to-date with technology can give a competitive edge in the industry.Finding ways to balance work and personal interests contributes to a fulfilling life. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:59 - Building a Business and Growing the Team 09:31 - Fostering Relationships and Word-of-Mouth Referrals 13:22 - Finding Fulfillment in the Work 15:22 - Investing in Employees 25:26 - Future Plans and Growth 30:26 - Conclusion Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Peter at: https://www.instagram.com/pomerantz_cabinetry/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Colton Broadbent, the creative director of an architectural design firm. He shares his journey of starting the firm right out of college and how it has grown over the years. Colton emphasizes the importance of rooting designs in traditional values while also being creative and thinking outside the box. He discusses the need for the architectural industry to evolve and adapt to new technology and resources, while also focusing on education and creativity. Colton shares his goal of helping change the culture of architectural design and ushering in a renaissance of better design. He also talks about the impact of architecture on mental health and the importance of creating inspiring spaces. Takeaways: Starting an architectural design firm right out of college is possible and can lead to significant growth.Rooting designs in traditional values while being creative and thinking outside the box is a winning combination.The architectural industry needs to evolve and adapt to new technology and resources, while also focusing on education and creativity.Changing the culture of architectural design and ushering in a renaissance of better design is a goal worth pursuing.Architecture has a significant impact on mental health, and creating inspiring spaces is essential. Chapters: 00:00 - Starting an Architectural Design Firm 04:01 - Rooted in Tradition, Creative in Design 08:49 - Evolution and Education in Architectural Design 13:22 - Changing the Culture of Architectural Design 26:15 - Balancing Online Presence and Design Work 33:17 - Spreading the Word and Inspiring Others Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Colton at: https://www.instagram.com/cbroadbentdesign/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Tanner Rowley. He shares his journey from biomedical engineering to woodworking, starting his own business, Outer Woods. He discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and the need to find ways to scale his business. Tanner also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and being all-in on your dream. Takeaways: The journey to entrepreneurship can be lonely, but social media and connecting with others in the industry can help create a sense of connection.Starting a business that aligns with your passion and values allows you to build your dream rather than someone else's.Entrepreneurship is a constant battle of finding motivation and consistency in doing mundane and repetitive tasks.Building a successful business requires finding ways to scale revenue without proportionally increasing stress and labour.Hiring employees and outsourcing certain tasks can help free up time and allow for more focus on scaling the business.Perseverance and being all-in on your dream are essential for success in entrepreneurship Chapters: 00:00 - Tanner's Background and Introduction to Woodworking 02:21 - Transitioning to Entrepreneurship and Starting Outer Woods 05:38 - Building a Business Aligned with Passion and Values 10:24 - Challenges of Motivation and Consistency in Entrepreneurship 16:37 - Scaling a Business: Increasing Revenue without Increasing Stress 25:17 - Perseverance and Being All-In on Your Dream Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Tanner at: https://www.outerwoods.net https://www.instagram.com/outer_woods/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Nick from Oakvale Homes and Development, a large remodel and new construction business in Buffalo, New York. It began as real estate investors and transitioned into working for other homeowners. Oakvale Homes focuses on high-quality craftsmanship and delivering a positive customer experience. It uses project management software like BuilderTrend to streamline its processes. The company has hired carpenters, implemented a lead carpenter system, and employed a dedicated project manager to manage its growth. Oakvale Homes targets customers who have previous renovation experience and understand the process. The company is considering expanding into custom home building and educating their audience through content creation. Takeaways Oakvale Homes started as a real estate investor and transitioned into a remodel and new construction business.They focus on high-quality craftsmanship and delivering a positive customer experience.Oakvale Homes uses project management software to streamline their processes.They have hired carpenters, implemented a lead carpenter system, and hired a dedicated project manager to handle their growth.Oakvale Homes targets customers who have renovated before and understand the process.They are considering expanding into custom home building and educating their audience through content creation. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Oakvale Homes and Development 04:07 The Value of an Outside Perspective in the Construction Industry 04:35 The Challenges and Learning Curve of Starting a Construction Business 06:26 The Thrill of Selling a Project and Shifting the Risk to the Customer 07:22 Building a Team and Delegating Responsibilities 08:23 The Consulting Background and its Influence on the Construction Business 09:49 The Evolution of Oakvale Homes' Services and Focus 10:30 Implementing Project Management Software and Overcoming Resistance to Change 12:26 Hiring and Training Carpenters and Project Managers 14:40 The Importance of the Customer Journey and Transparency 20:21 Dealing with Challenging Projects and Learning from Mistakes 22:18 Word of Mouth Referrals and Targeted Print Advertising 24:53 Managing Multiple Projects and Planning for Growth 26:06 Considering Differentiation Between Remodelling and Custom Home Building 26:15 Exploring the Strategy of House Flipping 27:07 The Current State and Future Outlook of Oakvale Homes 28:26 Targeting Customers Who Have Renovated Before 29:22 Educating Customers and Expanding Content Creation 32:11 The Ideal Customer Profile for Oakvale Homes Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Nick at: https://www.instagram.com/oakvalehomes/ https://www.oakvalehome.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Andrew Bateman from Bateman Labs. Andrew discusses the development and launch of their VRM chair, a comfortable and technology-focused workstation designed to replace traditional desks. The chair is modular and customizable, with various accessories available. Andrew shares the challenges of transitioning from custom cabinetry to a single product focus and the positive reception they have received at gaming conventions. He seeks advice on marketing strategies to reach a wider audience of work-from-home professionals. Takeaways: Bateman Labs developed the VRM chair, a comfortable, technology-focused workstation designed to replace traditional desks.The chair is modular and customizable, with accessories like cup holders, headphone hooks, and monitor stands.The company transitioned from custom cabinetry to focusing on the VRM chair.The VRM chair received positive feedback at gaming conventions.Marketing strategies could include partnering with work-from-home influencers and highlighting the chair's ability to solve common workspace problems. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Bateman Labs and the VRM Chair 03:09 Development and Features of the VRM Chair 06:07 Transition from Custom Cabinetry to Single Product Focus 11:11 Positive Reception at Gaming Conventions Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Andrew at: https://www.instagram.com/batemanlabsinc/

In this episode Steve Larosiliere interviews Kory Robison, owner of Robison Home Builders. Kory shares his journey in the construction industry and his company's growth. He grew up in the industry, working for his father's custom home-building company. After a few years of college, he decided to join the family business and eventually took over the company. He emphasizes maintaining core values and quality as the company grows. He discusses the challenges of scaling the business and the need for effective systems and subcontractor relationships. Kory also highlights the impact of word-of-mouth marketing and the influx of out-of-state clients. Kory also shares his goals for growth and how he measures success based on client satisfaction. He discusses the communication cadence with clients and the use of technology in his business. Finally, he seeks advice on marketing strategies for his custom home-building company. Takeaways: Growing up in a family construction business provides valuable experience.Maintaining core values and quality is crucial for growth.Scaling requires effective systems and strong subcontractor relationships.Word-of-mouth marketing and referrals are powerful for growth.Out-of-state clients can drive business expansion.Custom home construction demands problem-solving and flexibility.Success is measured by client satisfaction.Effective client communication is essential.Technology can streamline construction operations.Marketing strategies include storytelling, community involvement, and targeted advertising. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background05:37 Seeking Mentorship and Business Coaching10:21 Lessons Learned from Scaling Too Fast14:50 Pride in Sustaining Growth and Core Values23:48 Effective Communication32:39 Marketing Strategies Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Kory at: https://www.instagram.com/robisonhomebuilders/ https://www.robisonhomebuilders.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Steve Yi, founder of SpeTools. Steve shares his journey of starting the company and creating woodworking tools to meet customer demands. The company started on Amazon in 2006 and quickly gained popularity. Steve discusses the challenges they faced in developing new products and the importance of customer feedback. He also mentions their focus on CNC tools for woodworking and their plans to expand their product range. Steve highlights the satisfaction he gets from solving problems for woodworkers and the excitement of identifying new opportunities in the market. Takeaways SpeTools started on Amazon in 2006 and quickly gained popularity by offering affordable woodworking tools that met customer demands.The company focuses on developing CNC tools for woodworking and plans to expand its product range to include jigs and gauges.Customer feedback plays a crucial role in product development, and SpeTools actively listens to customer needs and preferences.Steve Yi finds satisfaction in solving problems for woodworkers and is excited about identifying new market opportunities. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Starting SpeTools on Amazon 06:42 - Listening to Customers: The Key to Product Development Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with STEVE at: https://www.instagram.com/spetool_cnc/?hl=en https://spetools.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Jake Frampton. Jake shares his journey from corporate HR to starting his own remodelling business. Discovering his passion for project management and hands-on work, he was inspired to leap the COVID-19 pandemic. Jake emphasizes the role of social media, especially Instagram, in growing his business and connecting with designers and architects. He highlights the importance of showcasing the people behind the business and building a personal brand. Jake discusses the challenges of managing a growing team and large projects, and how therapy has helped him find balance and fulfillment. The conversation touches on empathy, intentionality, and conveying value in business. Steve advises on increasing perceived value through storytelling, clear processes, and testimonials, and suggests creating content to educate and engage customers. Takeaways The COVID-19 pandemic can inspire starting your own business and pursuing your passion.Instagram is a powerful tool for growing your business and connecting with clients and industry professionals.Showcasing the people behind your business and building a personal brand can attract clients.Effective project management and team empowerment can help manage growth and large projects.Prioritizing mental health and seeking therapy can improve work-life balance and personal growth.Empathy leads to better decision-making and intentional actions.Conveying value to clients is crucial for business success.Storytelling, clear processes, and testimonials increase perceived value.Creating videos and photos can educate and engage customers. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Jake Frampton's Origin Story 07:58 - Harnessing the Power of Social Media for Business Growth 15:04 - Challenges and Rewards of Managing a Growing Business Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with JAKE at: https://www.instagram.com/frampton.remodeling/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews JT Belknap from DFM Toolworks. JT shares his journey of starting a woodworking tool business. He discusses the challenges of entering a market dominated by overseas sellers and the importance of making their products in the US. JT talks about the initial funding and the use of credit cards and partnerships to bootstrap the business. He also highlights the benefits of selling on Amazon and the scalability it offers. JT shares his experience with automation and the use of robots in manufacturing. He also mentions the challenges of expanding into other product lines and the importance of focusing on woodworking to pay the bills. JT discusses the challenges of selling on Amazon and the importance of data analysis. He considers the benefits of starting a podcast for brand building and lead generation. Takeaways: Selling on Amazon provides scalability and the ability to experiment with new products.Automation, including robots, has helped improve efficiency in manufacturing.Expanding into other product lines can be challenging, and it's important to focus on the core business to generate revenue.Selling on Amazon has become more competitive, with increased competition and carbon copies of products.Analyzing data on Amazon can provide valuable insights into market size and market share.Podcasting can be a powerful tool for brand building and lead generation.Building a community around a brand and providing value upfront can help attract and retain customers.Utilizing data and databases can provide valuable insights for business growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:21 Managing a Team of Part-Time Employees 11:41 Scalability and Automation with Amazon 16:23 Challenges of Expanding into Other Product Lines 30:24 Building a Community and Providing Value Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with JT at: https://www.instagram.com/dfmtoolworks/

Ken DeCost from Materia Millwork shares his journey of starting the company and the challenges of finding skilled cabinet makers. He emphasizes the importance of branding and creating a luxury image for the company. Ken also discusses upcoming projects and the value of attention to detail in their work. Steve provides advice on talent acquisition, suggesting networking events, Facebook groups, and hosting a paid apprentice program. Takeaways - Materia Millwork was born from NS Builders and has since opened its doors to other builders and direct-to-homeowners. - Ken emphasizes the importance of attention to detail and grain matching in their work, even though it may not always be the most profitable. - Finding skilled cabinet makers has been a challenge for Materia Millwork. They have tried posting on social media and job platforms. - Building a strong brand image and creating a luxury feel has been a priority for Materia Millwork. Chapters - 00:00 - Introduction and Background of Materia Millwork - 03:03 - Challenges in Finding Skilled Cabinet Makers - 06:26 - Attention to Detail and Grain Matching in Cabinetry - 08:13 - Creative Talent Acquisition Strategies - 11:06 - The Value of Networking and Building a Community - 14:03 - Creating a Strong Brand Image for Materia Millwork Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Ken at: https://www.instagram.com/kendecost/ https://www.materiamillwork.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Chris Huguet, founder of The Lumber Lab. Chris shares his journey from studying microbiology and neuroscience to starting his own woodworking business. He discusses the challenges he faced, including switching career paths and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris highlights the importance of finding a niche market, focusing on high-end products, and maintaining safety precautions and financial stability. He recounts the fire that destroyed his shop and the support from the woodworking community. Despite setbacks, Chris has built a thriving business through word-of-mouth marketing and exceptional customer service. He emphasizes communication and attention to detail to stand out from competitors. Steve advises him to hire a part-time employee and explore expansion opportunities like offering accent walls and partnering with other professionals. Chris’s story is a testament to perseverance and innovation in a competitive market. Takeaways Don’t be afraid to switch career paths and pursue your passion.Focus on high-end, custom products for sustainability.Build a strong support network within the woodworking community.Prioritize safety precautions and have a financial safety net.Resilience and perseverance are key to overcoming setbacks.Exceptional customer service and attention to detail set a business apart.Word-of-mouth marketing can significantly grow a business.Hiring help can free up time for business expansion.Explore complementary services and partnerships for growth. Chapters 00:0 - Introduction and Background 02:59 - Switching Career Paths and Starting The Lumber Lab 09:06 - Finding a Niche Market and Focusing on High-End Products 12:14 - Overcoming Adversity: The Fire Incident 27:19 - Resilience and Success 30:30 - Word-of-Mouth Marketing 32:26 - Business Growth and Hiring Help 39:32 - Buying Back Time 48:09 - Exploring New Opportunities Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Chris at: https://www.instagram.com/lumberlabinc/ https://www.lumberlabinc.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Derek Wyman from Cali Hardwoods. Derek shares his background in the lumber industry and the evolution of his family business. He discusses the unique wood species found in Northern California and the challenges of transitioning from custom furniture to lumber sales. Derek also talks about starting a retail lumber store and the partnerships he has formed. He highlights the underutilized wood resources in California and seeks advice on e-commerce and marketing strategies. The conversation concludes with a discussion on building a community and offering exclusive deals to customers. Takeaways Transitioning from custom furniture to lumber sales can be challenging due to the complexities of custom projects and tight profit margins.Starting a retail lumber store requires careful planning and considering location, marketing, and e-commerce strategies.There are underutilized wood resources in California, and partnerships with other sawmills can help scale up operations.Building a community around a brand and offering exclusive deals can create a sense of urgency and customer loyalty. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:01 California Hardwoods and Unique Wood Species 06:30 Transition from Furniture to Lumber Sales 09:29 Challenges of Custom Furniture 10:28 Starting a Lumber Store Retail 19:26 Underutilized Wood Resources 21:22 Marketing and Business Advice 26:15 Building a Community and Exclusive Offers 28:12 Conclusion Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Derick at: https://www.instagram.com/calihardwoods/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Cam Read from Cread Wood and shares his journey of starting a woodworking business and the role of CNC machines in his work. He discusses how he got started during the COVID-19 pandemic and the support he received from friends and family. Cam talks about the expansion of his product line and building relationships with customers. He also shares his plans for the future and the challenges of balancing work and family life. Finally, he receives advice on organizing his back office and using a CRM to manage his workload. Takeaways Starting a business based on your passion can lead to success and fulfillment.Building relationships with customers and providing excellent service can lead to word-of-mouth referrals.Investing in the right tools, such as a CNC machine, can greatly enhance productivity and expand the range of products and services offered.Organizing the back office and using a CRM can help manage leads, projects, and customer communication more effectively. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:51 Starting Cread Wood 05:58 Getting a CNC Machine 09:05 Building Relationships and Expanding Product Line 12:06 Using the CNC Machine for Custom Furniture 14:58 Future Plans and Growth 21:06 Advice for Managing Workload 23:59 Organizing Back Office and CRM 25:59 Conclusion and Contact Information Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Cam at: https://www.instagram.com/cread.wood/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Jack Forsberg, a carpenter, cabinet maker, and designer. Jack shares his journey in the woodworking business and how he evolved from furniture making to specializing in historical renovation. He also discusses the Rust Fest, an annual community gathering he organizes, and the importance of social media in connecting with like-minded individuals. Jack emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to assess their goals and determine if they are more inclined to be artists or entrepreneurs. He advises entrepreneurs to move up during recessions and stay true to their values. Takeaways - Specialize in a niche and focus on high-quality work to stand out in the market. - Assess your goals and determine if you are more inclined towards being an artist or an entrepreneur. - During recessions, move up and offer value instead of lowering prices. - Use social media to connect with like-minded individuals and showcase your work. - Continuously adapt and adjust your business model to stay relevant and successful. Chapters - 00:00 Introduction and Background - 00:22 Jack's Business and Specialization - 04:17 Early Years and Starting the Business - 05:32 The Rust Fest and Community Gathering - 21:53 Advice for Entrepreneurs - 28:22 Assessing Goals and Moving Forward Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Jack at: https://www.instagram.com/jackenglishmachines/ https://jforsberg.ca

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Laura Basili, the Deck Diva. She shares her journey in the decking industry and the growth of her business, Brazilian Lumber. She discusses the challenges of marketing niche products and the importance of training the marketing team. Laura emphasizes the significance of personal development and staying grounded as a business leader. She also highlights the impact of the economy on the industry and the plans for her business. Takeaways Focus on personal development as a foundation for business success.Create training materials and online courses to onboard new team members and share industry knowledge.Stay grounded and present to approach challenges with a clear mind.Emphasize the importance of good service and building relationships with customers.Adapt to market trends and expand product offerings to meet customer demands. Chapters 00:00 - Origin Story and Deck Diva Name 01:03 - Getting into the Industry 03:46 - Trends in the Decking Industry 05:42 - Business Operations and Team 06:58 - Marketing and Building a Customer Base 08:46 - Challenges in Running the Business 09:58 - Personal and Professional Development 11:14 - Expanding to a Second Location 12:18 - Exciting Aspects of the Business 13:51 - Importance of Being Grounded and Present 16:04 - Impact of the Economy on the Business 20:16 - Approach to Personal and Professional Development 25:32 - Perspective on Life and Business 29:35 - Marketing Advice and Training the Marketing Team Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Laura at: https://www.instagram.com/brazilian_lumber/ https://www.instagram.com/realdeckdiva/ https://brazilianlumber.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Eric Marton from Shoreline Custom Cabinetry. Eric shares how he and his partner Jason Jarrold started their business after meeting through the Kijiji app. They took a leap of faith and invested all their money into the business. Eric talks about the importance of networking and word-of-mouth marketing in growing their customer base. He also discusses the benefits of using a CNC machine and other investments they have made in their business. Eric shares their plans for future growth, including expanding into light renovations. In this conversation, Eric Marton, co-owner of Shoreline Custom Cabinetry, discusses the origin of the company's name and its location in Windsor, Canada. He shares insights into Windsor's growing population and the impact of EV battery plants on the local economy. Eric also talks about the benefits of using CanCam CNC machines and the importance of programming. He seeks advice on improving Instagram engagement and discusses the balance between direct customers and contractors. Steve emphasizes the value of documenting the process and creating content to showcase the company's values and attract customers. He also highlights the importance of optimizing the website and engaging with customers through social media. Takeaways: - Taking a leap of faith and investing in your business can lead to success. - Networking and word-of-mouth marketing are powerful tools for growing a customer base. - Using a CNC machine can greatly improve efficiency and accuracy in cabinetry work. - Investing in the right tools and equipment can help streamline operations and improve productivity. - Expanding into related services, such as light renovations, can open up new opportunities for business growth. - Choose a name that reflects the location and surroundings of your business. - Consider the impact of local factors, such as population growth and economic developments, on your business. - Invest in high-quality machinery and focus on programming to ensure efficient and accurate production. - Document your process and create engaging content to showcase your work and attract customers. - Optimize your website with testimonials, videos, and engaging content to make it easy for customers to choose your business. **Chapters:** 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Starting Shoreline Custom Cabinetry 05:06 - Building the Brand and Getting Customers 07:26 - Partnership and Networking 09:02 - Benefits of a CNC Machine 12:09 - Semi-Partnership and Sharing Space 13:07 - Choosing a CanCam CNC Machine 14:01 - Impact of the CanCam CNC Machine 19:10 - Business Growth and Future Plans 20:26 - Expanding into Light Renovations 21:36 - The Origin of the Name Shoreline 22:22 - Location and Proximity to the United States 23:24 - Windsor's Growing Population 24:08 - Visiting Windsor and Getting a CanCam CNC 25:05 - The Importance of Programming in CNC Machines 25:23 - Advice for Improving Instagram Engagement 26:19 - Balancing Direct Customers and Contractors 27:17 - Dealing with Potential Time-Wasting Customers 28:19 - Customer Acquisition and Word of Mouth 29:17 - Documenting the Process and Creating Content 30:11 - Injecting Values and Storytelling in Content 31:08 - Optimizing the Website and Engaging with Customers 33:01 - Continuously Improving and Doubling Down on Success 34:06 - Investing in Testimonials and Organic Content 36:53 - Improving the Website and Adding Personal Photos 37:18 - Final Advice: Don't Give Up and Focus on Quality Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Eric at: https://www.instagram.com/shorelinecustomcabinetry/ https://shorelinecustomcabinetry.ca

In this episode, David Hoffman shares his journey from starting woodworking in 2019 to becoming a full-time woodworker. He began with small projects for his own home and gradually built up his skills and tools. David's obsession with woodworking led him to take on bigger projects, including his first kitchen job. He credits his success to his consistency in posting on social media and building a supportive community. While he may not be making more money than in his previous job, he values the freedom and fulfillment that woodworking brings him. In this conversation, David discusses his experience with different social media platforms, the importance of word-of-mouth and referrals, and his plans for his business. He also talks about the surprises and freedom of being his own boss and the challenges of scaling his business. Steve provides advice on outsourcing installations, identifying tasks to delegate, and building systems and processes. They also discuss the integration of content creation and business and the importance of feeding the social media beast Takeaways Consistency and obsession are key to success in woodworking.Building a supportive community and sharing knowledge can help grow a social media following.Woodworking provides a sense of fulfillment and freedom.Combining woodworking with social media can create new opportunities and revenue streams.Different social media platforms serve different purposes for businesses.Word-of-mouth and referrals are valuable sources of clients.Consider the balance between building a business and being a full-time content creator.Being your own boss provides freedom but also comes with challenges.Outsourcing installations can free up time for other important tasks.Identify tasks you love, hate, and should eventually replace yourself in.Think long-term and start building systems and processes.Integrate content creation into your business strategy.Feeding the social media beast is essential for growth and success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:19 David's Obsession with Woodworking 07:13 Choosing the Niche of Cabinetry 09:06 Getting the First Kitchen Job 10:12 Investing in Tools 11:02 The Jump to Full-Time Woodworking 13:08 Building a Social Media Following 15:19 Expressing Yourself and Building a Community 21:13 Combining Woodworking and Social Media 22:50 Different Social Media Platforms 23:17 Word of Mouth and Referrals 23:57 Future Plans: Building a Business or Content Creation 26:19 Surprises and Freedom of Being Your Own Boss 28:46 Scaling the Business 29:47 Outsourcing Installations 31:22 Identifying Tasks to Delegate 33:15 Thinking Long-Term and Building Systems 36:14 Content Creation and Business Integration 38:46 Building Systems and Processes 40:17 Feeding the Social Media Beast 42:20 Promoting Timberdust Woodworking Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with David at: https://www.instagram.com/timberdustwoodworking/ https://www.timberdustwoodworking.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Nick Gonzalez from San Diego Custom Cabinets. Nick shares the history of his company and how he started in the cabinetry business. He discusses his early years' challenges and his strategies to get customers, including attending trade shows. Nick also highlights the competitive advantage of manufacturing in Mexico and using conversion varnish for finishes. He talks about the importance of giving back to the Mexican community and the growth of his team. Finally, Nick shares his experience in managing and balancing his role as a leader. In this conversation, Nick, the owner of San Diego Custom Cabinets, discusses his journey of finding work-life balance and striving to be the best in his industry. He shares how he prayed for growth and focused on providing exceptional customer service. Nick also talks about the importance of marketing and acquiring customers through social media, and explores the potential of search engine optimization. He discusses the value of storytelling and dominating local markets, as well as the idea of segmenting product lines. Finally, he learns about engaging with followers and building an email list to grow his business further. Takeaways Attending trade shows can be an effective strategy for getting customers in the cabinetry business.Manufacturing in Mexico can provide a competitive advantage, such as using conversion varnish for finishes.Giving back to the community and providing employment opportunities can be a rewarding aspect of running a business.Building a strong team and relying on mentors can help in managing and growing an enterprise. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:36 History of San Diego Custom Cabinets 03:32 Trade Shows as a Growth Strategy 04:58 Differentiating Factors and Competitive Advantage 06:20 Using Conversion Varnish and California Regulations 07:39 Transitioning to Manufacturing in Mexico 09:19 Early Challenges and Learning on the Job 10:26 Transitioning to Manufacturing in Mexico (Continued) 13:14 Size and Structure of the Company 15:12 Giving Back to the Mexican Community 16:37 Quality and Perception of Manufacturing in Mexico 19:40 Learning to Manage and Grow the Enterprise 21:11 Mentors and Learning from Others 23:36 Maintaining Sanity and Self-Care as a Leader 24:51 Finding Work-Life Balance 26:01 Striving to Be the Best 27:21 Praying for Growth 28:10 Personal Success and Gratification 29:21 Putting Customers First 30:01 Balancing Workload and Hiring 31:26 Marketing and Acquiring Customers 34:05 Next Steps in Marketing 36:10 The Value of Search Engine Optimization 38:15 Telling Stories and Dominating Local Markets 41:31 Segmenting Product Lines 44:16 Engaging with Followers and Building an Email List 48:21 Expanding the Brand and Targeting New Markets Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Nick at: https://www.instagram.com/sandiegocustomcabinets/ https://sdcustomcabinets.com

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Steve Larosiliere interviews Mac Sheldon and John Henry from the Pantorouter. They discuss the origin story of the Pantorouter and how it evolved into a highly valued woodworking joinery machine. The Pantorouter solves the problem of joinery by providing a dedicated joinery machine that is safe and easy to use. It is accessible to a wide range of customers, including hobbyists, boutique furniture makers, and schools. The Pantorouter allows woodworkers to create high-quality furniture at an affordable price. The challenge lies in marketing and educating potential customers about the capabilities and benefits of the Pantorouter. In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere discusses how to get the most talented people to use the Pantorouter and replace their existing systems. They also explore the power of sharing the Pantorouter videos and building a community around the product. Takeaways The Pantorouter is a highly valued woodworking joinery machine that solves the problem of joinery by providing a dedicated and safe tool.The Pantorouter is accessible to a wide range of customers, including hobbyists, boutique furniture makers, and schools.The Pantorouter allows woodworkers to create high-quality furniture at an affordable price, making custom furniture more accessible.Marketing and educating potential customers about the capabilities and benefits of the Pantorouter is a challenge that can be addressed through branding, customer testimonials, and community building. Focus on getting the most talented people to use your product and showcase their work.Highlight the advantages of your product over existing systems to encourage adoption.Encourage customers to share their experiences and videos to create a sense of pride and community.Create a user gallery or platform where customers can upload and showcase their projects. Chapters 00:00 - Origin Story of Pantorouter 03:00 - Development and Improvement of the Pantorouter 04:44 - Background of the Founders 06:01 - Introduction of John Henry 07:43 - Problem Solved by the Pantorouter 08:48 - Benefits and Safety of Using the Pantorouter 11:28 - Affordability and Value of the Pantorouter 14:42 - Challenges in Marketing the Pantorouter 17:11 - Accessibility and Democratization of Custom Furniture 19:40 - Customer Demographics 21:00 - Applications of the Pantorouter 23:25 - Expanding the Market and Supporting Customers 29:04 - Features and Capabilities of the Pantorouter 31:28 - Making Custom Furniture More Accessible 35:55 - Marketing and Business Advice 44:47 - Getting the Most Talented People to Use Pantorouter 46:03 - Replacing Existing Systems with Pantorouter 47:14 - The Power of Sharing Pantorouter Videos 49:15 - Building a Community Around Pantorouter Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Mac & John at: https://www.instagram.com/pantorouter.usa/ https://www.pantorouter.com

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Steve Larosiliere interviews Mike McCormack from McCormack Builders. Mike shares how he started his custom home-building company and the challenges and successes he has experienced over the years. He discusses the importance of self-education and continuous improvement in the construction industry. Mike also talks about the plans for his company, including moving to a new headquarters and implementing more efficient building practices. Steve provides feedback on marketing strategies, emphasizing the importance of storytelling and building relationships with clients. Takeaways: Continuous self-education is crucial in the construction industry.Building strong relationships with clients is essential for success.Telling stories and showcasing the process behind builds can attract potential clients.Optimizing marketing strategies can lead to increased visibility and growth. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:20 - Getting Started in the Construction Industry 03:11 - Taking a Chance and Starting McCormack Builders 06:22 - Building a Dream Headquarters 08:46 - Growth and Scaling the Business 09:59 - The First Critical Hire 13:09 - Realizing the Potential of the Business 15:42 - No Imposter Syndrome 17:23 - The Importance of Self-Education 19:05 - Attracting the Right Clients 21:08 - Future Plans and Growth 23:48 - Marketing and Business Advice 26:28 - Telling More Stories and Building Relationships 28:00 - Feedback on Marketing Strategy Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Mike at: https://www.instagram.com/mccormackbuilders/ https://mccormackbuilders.com

Ben Uyeda, a designer and content creator, shares his journey from architecture to building a successful media company. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from client-based work to pursuing personal projects and monetizing through online platforms. Ben emphasizes the importance of aligning personal interests with financial opportunities and the value of authenticity in creative work. He also talks about his current project of building a hotel and the balance between work and personal life. Ben's approach to growth is driven by curiosity, interest, and the desire for continual escalation in his projects. The conversation explores interesting ways to source raw materials, such as logs for woodworking and fabrication. It discusses overlooked species with heavy uses, unique sources of logs, logs with a story, and the value in unconventional wood. The conversation also highlights the importance of creativity in finding extraordinary margins and mentions specific woods like eucalyptus. Takeaways Align personal interests with financial opportunities to create fulfilling work.Demonstrate value and curiosity in your projects to attract opportunities.Focus on authenticity and genuine interests rather than seeking external validation.Continually challenge yourself and escalate projects to foster growth and motivation.Maintain balance by evaluating and adjusting priorities regularly. Consider exploring overlooked wood species with heavy uses, such as Sycamore, Hemlock, Cedar, Doug Fir, and Osage Orange.Look for unique sources of logs, such as salvaging bog logs or partnering with tree services that have contracts with state and local governments.Seek out logs with a story or historical significance to add character and value to your woodworking projects.Embrace the potential of unconventional wood materials, as they can offer unique aesthetics and high margins. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 03:00Transition from Design to Content Creation 06:17Challenges in Pursuing Personal Projects 09:13Demonstrating Value and Attracting Opportunities 11:14Authenticity and Genuine Interests 14:21Choosing Brand Partnerships 18:20Escalating Projects and Continual Growth 22:26Building a Hotel Project 25:34Maintaining Balance and Self-Care 29:59Completion and Launch of the Hotel 35:18Evaluating Personal and Professional Growth 37:14Advice and Struggles 38:29Sourcing Raw Materials: Types of Logs 39:45Overlooked Species with Heavy Uses 41:15Unique Sources of Logs 42:24Logs with a Story 44:06Value in Unconventional Wood 45:07Creativity and Extraordinary Margins 46:36Eucalyptus and Other Interesting Woods Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Ben at: https://www.instagram.com/benjaminuyeda/ https://www.benuyeda.com

Rohan Ward, a furniture maker and designer, shares his journey of starting and growing his business in Chicago. He discusses his background in woodworking and furniture design and the influence of his childhood and education on his craft. Rohan emphasizes the importance of personal branding and standing behind the quality of his work. He also talks about the challenges and rewards of running a small business, including managing a team and maintaining a high level of craftsmanship. Rohan shares his approach to marketing and finding clients and his interest in exploring AI in furniture design. In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere and Rohan Ward discuss strategies for scaling up and making more money in the furniture-making business. They explore the importance of recognizing expertise, increasing prices, and nurturing and optimizing the brand. They also discuss the potential for expanding the product line and branding, and the idea of creating a line of furniture. Finally, they explore the concept of building a product that pays without requiring physical labour. Takeaways Personal branding and standing behind the quality of your work can be powerful marketing tools.Craftsmanship and attention to detail are essential in the furniture-making industry.Word-of-mouth referrals and building relationships with designers can lead to new clients.Exploring AI in furniture design can offer new possibilities for creativity and efficiency. Scaling up and making more money in a business often involves finding the right recipe for growth and expanding labor.Recognizing expertise and increasing prices can help position a brand as elite and attract higher-paying clients.Nurturing and optimizing a brand is essential for long-term success and increased recognition.Expanding the product line and branding can help reach a wider audience and increase revenue.Creating a line of furniture based on years of knowledge and experience can be a lucrative venture.Building a product that pays without physical labor can provide a sustainable income stream. Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Rohan at: https://www.instagram.com/rohanwarddesigns/ https://rohanwarddesigns.com

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Zach Shrum from Centurion Wood Coatings. Zach shares his journey into the wood coatings industry and how he transitioned from owning a painting business to working for Centurion. He discusses the company's focus on industrial wood coatings and its target market of professional cabinet makers and painters. Zach also talks about the importance of creating opportunities for others and the satisfaction of growing a business. He provides insights into Centurion's product line and their approach to finding and working with distributors. Lastly, he seeks advice on how to break past 10,000 followers on Instagram and improve their marketing efforts. In this conversation, Zach Shrum and Steve Larosiliere discuss the use of hashtags to build community and increase brand visibility. They explore the power of hashtags in reaching a targeted audience and share examples of how hashtags have helped businesses grow. They also discuss the importance of focusing on one's unique ability and delegating tasks to others. The conversation emphasizes the value of surrounding oneself with smart people and leveraging their expertise. Takeaways Zach Shrum's journey into the wood coatings industry started with owning a painting business and eventually led him to Centurion Wood Coatings.Centurion Wood Coatings focuses on industrial wood coatings for professional cabinet makers and painters.Creating opportunities for others and growing a business can be incredibly satisfying and fulfilling.Centurion Wood Coatings offers a range of products, including 2K water-based polyurethane and self-cross-linking acrylic.Finding and working with distributors is a combination of organic growth through customer referrals and targeted marketing efforts.To improve their Instagram marketing, Centurion Wood Coatings can create a branded hashtag, encourage user-generated content, and engage with their community through a private Facebook group. Hashtags are a powerful tool for building community and increasing brand visibility.By using relevant hashtags, businesses can reach a targeted audience and stand out among competitors.Tapping into local communities with hashtags can lead to new opportunities and connections.Focusing on one's unique ability and delegating tasks to others can increase productivity and success.Surrounding oneself with smart people and leveraging their expertise can lead to greater achievements. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Centurion Wood Coatings 01:15Zach Shrum's Journey into the Industry 03:05Taking Over and Growing a Business 04:24Transition to Centurion Wood Coatings 06:47The Responsibility of Creating Opportunities for Others 11:46The Role of Director of Sales and Marketing 18:35Centurion Wood Coatings Product Line 22:55Finding and Working with Distributors 26:26Advice on Instagram Marketing 35:57Using Hashtags to Build Community 39:00The Power of Hashtags 40:20Tapping into Local Communities with Hashtags 44:45Focusing on Your Unique Ability 47:36Surrounding Yourself with Smart People Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Zach at: https://www.instagram.com/thebeardedfinisher/ www.thebeardedfinisher.com

In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, Steve Larosiliere interviews Brent from BYOT. Brent shares his journey of starting a YouTube channel focused on DIY home improvement and woodworking. He discusses how he transitioned from a full-time contractor to a content creator and the impact of COVID-19 on his business. Brent emphasizes the importance of audience-first content and the value of networking with other creators. He also shares insights on staying motivated, continuously learning, and finding success in the content creation industry. In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere speaks with Brent about time management and the importance of delegating tasks. They discuss the amount of time spent on various activities, such as emails and scheduling, and explore ways to streamline these processes. Brent expresses the need to prioritize self-care and physical well-being. Steve suggests hiring a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks and shares tips on finding the right person for the job. They highlight the benefits of outsourcing certain tasks and the potential for increased productivity and growth. Takeaways Transitioning from a full-time job to content creation requires dedication and perseverance.Listening to your audience and adapting your content to their needs is crucial for success.Building a supportive network of fellow creators can help combat the loneliness of entrepreneurship.Continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends are essential for growth and success. Efficient time management and delegation of tasks can free up valuable time for other activities.Prioritizing self-care and physical well-being is essential for overall productivity and well-being.Hiring a virtual assistant can help streamline administrative tasks and allow for more focus on core responsibilities.Outsourcing low-wage tasks can save time and enable the pursuit of higher-value activities. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 03:00Creating the BYOT Brand 06:54Navigating Challenges and Unexpected Success 10:45Finding the Right Audience 13:42Balancing Personal and Professional Life 18:34The Loneliness of Content Creation 23:08Motivation and Overcoming Challenges 28:59Staying Ahead and Continuous Learning 30:45Plans for the Future 37:09Advice on Hiring 41:21Managing Time and Tasks 43:04Taking Care of Yourself 45:11Delegating Tasks to Assistants 47:38Benefits of Hiring Assistants 48:50Maximizing Time and Productivity Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Brent at: https://byotools.me/ https://www.instagram.com/byotools/

Dagan Koffler, owner of Dagan Design Construction, shares his journey in the design and construction industry. He discusses how he got into the business, the challenges he faced, and the growth of his company. Dagan emphasizes the importance of building a strong team and creating a positive company culture. He also talks about the benefits of being a design-build firm and the value of social media in marketing his business. Overall, Dagan's story highlights the rewards and challenges of running a successful design and construction company. The conversation covers various strategies for showcasing and promoting design projects. It emphasizes the importance of creating articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio. The discussion also highlights the value of featuring customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content. Additionally, the conversation explores the idea of deepening storytelling and expanding into furniture design. However, challenges with client participation in terms of privacy concerns are acknowledged. Takeaways Building a strong team and creating a positive company culture are essential for business growth.Being a design-build firm can provide a competitive advantage and streamline the construction process.Social media is a valuable tool for marketing and connecting with potential clients.Continual learning and self-improvement are key to success in the design and construction industry. Create articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio.Feature customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content.Deepen storytelling by showcasing the people behind the projects.Consider expanding into furniture design to offer a broader range of services. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 01:13Getting into Design and Construction 04:06Growing the Business and Hiring Staff 07:10Taking the Business Seriously and Making Investments 09:05Building a Team and Delegating Responsibilities 11:51Learning and Growing as a Leader 15:14Focus on Remodeling and Design-Build 17:12The Reward of Creating and Building 18:23Differentiating from Competitors 21:12Maximizing Social Media and Marketing 25:05Building a Strong Company Culture 26:59Expanding into Other Business Ventures 27:41Advice on Social Media and Marketing 33:12Creating Articles and Case Studies 33:57Featuring Customers in Videos and Social Media 35:25Deepening the Storytelling 36:23Expanding into Furniture Design 37:34Challenges with Client Participation Connect with Steve: BuilderGrowth.io Instagram.com/thelarosiliere Instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com Connect with Dagen at: dagandesignconstruction.com https://www.instagram.com/dagandesign/

"I read a fair amount, like pretty much everybody. What I have is a great ability to see what other people are doing, to observe what people are working on, and to understand techniques or things that can work for us." Miles Janes Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Miles Janes from Vermont Heavy Timber. Miles grew up surrounded by the aroma of sawdust and the intricate beauty of woodwork, thanks to his father, a skilled cabinet maker and woodworker. Despite initially considering a career in kitchens. Miles found his true passion in the realm of timber frame restoration. His journey began when he joined a timber frame restoration company in his hometown, Building Heritage, owned by his now good friend, La Lothrop. Little did he know, this would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of heavy timber. Listen now and get the whole story! “I love challenges. And so that's really exciting. And also, what's exciting is that we're finally like, we're doing well. It's been a grind for like, three years, I'd say, you know, we're always growing.” Miles Janes Lessons Carved in Wood Reflecting on his decade-long journey in the business, Miles shares some invaluable lessons. One of the core principles guiding his business is a commitment to integrity and quality. Refusing to compromise on the type of work they undertake and the standard of craftsmanship they deliver has been key to their success. Additionally, Miles emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and seeking wisdom from those who have walked the path before. Facing Challenges with Grit and Determination While the road hasn't always been smooth, Miles navigated through uncertain times with resilience and determination. From tight financial spots to daunting projects, he faced each challenge head-on, always maintaining his commitment to excellence and integrity. Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future As Vermont Heavy Timber celebrates its 10th year, Miles is excited about the future. With a stellar crew and a solid reputation, the business is poised for growth. Miles envisions expanding into new territories, potentially transitioning into an ESOP model, and taking on even more challenging projects. Crafting Success Through Storytelling In the ever-evolving world of business, Miles understands the power of storytelling as a tool for growth. By documenting their projects, sharing their journey, and showcasing their expertise, Vermont Heavy Timber aims to solidify its position as a leader in the industry. From captivating website narratives to engaging social media content, Miles is determined to let their work speak for itself. Want to get in touch with Miles Janes? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vtheavytimber/

“Once you get into that design kind of mind frame, it just stays with you 100% You become a magpie of, you know, choosing things, and storing things away for free. “ Dan Bullen Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Dan Bullen from Iluka London. Dan's journey began with a desire for change, a longing to shift from the digital realm to the tactile world of creating physical products. As a graphic designer and with his wife, Sarah, an interior designer, they embarked on a quest to blend their talents with their passion for woodworking. Iluka derives its name from an Australian Aboriginal word meaning "by the sea," paying homage to Dan's roots and his connection to a little fishing village near his hometown on the east coast of Australia. The company specializes in crafting exquisite pieces predominantly from wood, complemented by acrylic, resin, and metals. Their signature creations include table lamps, furniture, lighting, and accessories, with a spotlight on the coveted river tables. Listen now and get the whole story! “I've always had this flattening jig, right for flattening, which is a manual that runs off extruded aluminum, but you manually push it back and forth, right, and it's just mind numbingly repetitive. And I thought, you know, it's all set up to roll smoothly. “ Dan Bullen Embracing Innovation: What sets Iluka apart is its commitment to innovation. Dan's journey took a new turn when he ventured into the realm of tool design. What started as a personal endeavor to enhance his woodworking experience evolved into Iluka Tools—a venture aimed at revolutionizing woodworking processes. From automated sanding to CNC-inspired solutions, Iluka Tools embodies efficiency and craftsmanship. Building a Brand: Dan's background in graphic design instilled in him a keen eye for branding and aesthetics. With Iluka, he has crafted not just products but a brand synonymous with creativity and quality. By understanding his audience intimately and fostering a vibrant community, Dan has laid the foundation for sustainable growth. Future Directions: As Iluka Tools gains traction, Dan faces the exciting challenge of scaling the venture. Balancing affordability with innovation, he aims to democratize access to advanced woodworking tools. From affiliate-driven guides to turnkey solutions, Dan explores various avenues to expand the reach of Iluka Tools while staying true to its ethos. Conclusion: In the world of woodworking, Iluka London and Iluka Tools stand as beacons of innovation and craftsmanship. Dan Bullen Webb's journey exemplifies the power of passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether it's crafting stunning furniture or designing cutting-edge tools, Iluka continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in woodworking. Visit Iluka London and Iluka Tools online to experience the intersection of artistry and innovation firsthand. Want to get in touch with Dan Bullen? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilukalondon/ Website: https://www.ilukalondon.com/

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Cam Anderson from Blacktail Studio. Cam reflects on the changes and challenges he faced over the past few years, especially during the global pandemic. He made the daring decision to quit his full-time job as a life flight pilot to pursue woodworking and content creation. Cam shares the challenges and uncertainties he faced during this transition, especially considering his wife's business and the state of the world at the time. Despite the initial uncertainty, Cam's decision paid off as he witnessed a significant surge in his YouTube channel's popularity during the pandemic. With dedication and hard work, Cam managed to replace his income and even surpass it through his woodworking projects and YouTube content. Listen now and get the whole story! “I need to find this voice because I want to be like this person. And for me, this is the only one I know how to do. You know, if you had me in charge of a TV show, and I had to create a character? I couldn't do it. Because it would just be the one.” -Cam Anderson The Creative Process: Cam delves into his creative process, highlighting his approach to finding inspiration for his woodworking projects and YouTube videos. He emphasizes the importance of staying open to new ideas and leveraging various sources for inspiration, such as social media platforms like TikTok. Branding and Authenticity: Cam discusses his branding strategy, which revolves around simplicity and authenticity. He shares insights into his snarky humor and how it resonates with his audience, leading to increased engagement and brand loyalty. Expanding Horizons: Apart from YouTube, Cam has ventured into other entrepreneurial endeavors, such as launching Maker Book—a directory of woodworking spaces—and creating his own product line, including the successful Three Nana ceramic finish. Lessons Learned and Future Plans: As Cam reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of focus, commitment, and embracing change. He discusses his future plans, including further expanding his YouTube channel, growing his product line, and staying relevant in the ever-evolving world of content creation. Conclusion: Cam's story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and resilience. From quitting his job to pursue his dreams to building a successful brand and product line, Cam's journey inspires aspiring creators and entrepreneurs to follow their passions and carve their own path to success. “It's about getting their name and their brand out there and getting their unique perspective out there, like that's what a woodpreneur to me is like, because woodpreneurs do things that not a lot of people can do.” -Steve Larosiliere Want to get in touch with Cam Anderson? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacktailstudio/

“I probably am exaggerating, all the clients we've gotten thus far have been primarily word of mouth and recommendation.” Tony Mcklem Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host, Steve Larosiliere, is joined by Tony Mcklem from Hollywood Decks, a leading outdoor living company based out of Northeast Florida. In this blog, we delve into the insightful conversation from The Woodburner Podcast featuring Tony Mcklem, the founder of Hollywood Decks, as he shares his remarkable journey and the keys to their success. Tony Mcklem, along with his wife, embarked on a journey to establish Hollywood Decks, an outdoor living company, after moving from Los Angeles to Northeast Florida. With a background in finance and a passion for hands-on construction, Tony found himself seeking a change from the office world to the outdoors. Inspired by his volunteer experiences and driven by a desire for a new beginning, Tony took the leap into the construction industry. Listen now and get the whole story! “We're just sharing who we are, our purpose, our mission, and our goals, and why we do things the way we do. And we're fortunate to have such good feedback, such good support from some of these folks in the social media world.” - Tony Mcklem Networking and Relationship Building: Recognizing the importance of networking and building relationships, Tony focused on connecting with industry professionals, suppliers, and representatives in the area. Leveraging his connections from Los Angeles, Tony sought out key individuals who could support Hollywood Decks' growth in the new market. Through strategic networking and word-of-mouth referrals, Hollywood Decks began to establish its presence and reputation in the community. Transitioning to High-End Projects: As Hollywood Decks gained traction, Tony identified a niche market for high-end deck building in Northeast Florida. Rather than competing in the saturated market of pressure-treated decks, Tony positioned Hollywood Decks as a provider of premium, elaborate outdoor living spaces. This strategic differentiation allowed Hollywood Decks to stand out and attract clients seeking quality craftsmanship and personalized designs. Investing in Growth: With the success of their initial projects, Hollywood Decks began to invest in their business expansion. Tony recognized the need to scale operations and enhance their capabilities to meet growing demand. This included bringing in experienced team members and investing in equipment and resources to deliver exceptional results. By prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction, Hollywood Decks solidified its position as a trusted provider in the industry. Content Creation and Brand Partnerships: In addition to their on-site projects, Hollywood Decks ventured into content creation and brand partnerships to further elevate their brand presence. Collaborating with reputable companies and brands in the outdoor living space, Hollywood Decks produced engaging content to showcase their expertise and showcase their projects. Through strategic collaborations and content marketing efforts, Hollywood Decks expanded its reach and connected with like-minded partners who shared their vision and values. Embracing the Journey: Today, Tony Mcklem and the Hollywood Decks team continue to pursue their passion for creating stunning outdoor living spaces while fostering meaningful connections within the community. Their journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic networking, and a commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. As they look ahead to the future, Hollywood Decks remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering unparalleled outdoor experiences for their clients. Want to get in touch with Tony Mcklem? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollywooddecks/ Website: https://hollywooddecks.com/

“If we can really put heirloom pieces into people's homes, so that should anything happen—whether they need to move, sell, or pass things down to family—those cabinetry pieces could arguably be uninstalled, moved to new locations, and reinstalled, allowing people to carry them with them for decades.” -Katie Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Katie& Jesse from JKath Design + Build. We delve into the fascinating journey of Katie and Jesse from Jay Kath Design Build. From the origins of their business to their approach to craftsmanship and client relationships, there's much to uncover. Katie and Jesse's journey began nearly 15 years ago with a passion for cabinetry. What started as a custom cabinetry shop evolved into a full-fledged design-build firm, fueled by a blend of craftsmanship and a keen eye for design. Their foray into Instagram marked a turning point, opening doors to new opportunities and expanding their reach. Listen now and get the whole story! “I think what's been really fun in the last few years is that we've gained all of our clients' trust. You know, they just seem to allow us to do our job versus questioning everything, including pricing.” -Jesse Finding Their Niche: In a saturated market, JKath Design + Build stands out for its commitment to quality and its ability to cultivate trust with clients. With a focus on high-end remodeling and big additions, they've carved a niche for themselves, attracting clients who value expertise and reliability. Building Trust Through Experience: Their ideal clients are those who have navigated renovations before, understanding the intricacies and challenges involved. By curating the design process from the outset, they build trust early on, fostering smoother collaborations and successful outcomes. Crafting the Jay Kath Brand: For Katie and Jesse, the brand extends beyond aesthetics—it's about embodying values of integrity, attention to detail, and enduring quality. From branded vehicles to meticulous project management, every aspect reflects their commitment to excellence. Balancing Business and Family: As a couple running a business together, Katie and Jesse have learned to navigate the delicate balance between work and family life. With three children and a blended family dynamic, they prioritize communication, delegation, and intentional time together. Scaling the Business: As JKath Design + Build continues to grow, the challenge lies in replicating their expertise and ethos. Hiring and delegation are crucial, yet daunting tasks, requiring careful consideration and a commitment to nurturing talent. Seeking Advice and Growth: Despite their success, Katie and Jesse recognize the need for continual improvement. From streamlining operations to enhancing their marketing efforts, they remain open to learning and evolving in their journey. Conclusion: The story of JKath Design + Build is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Through their dedication to craftsmanship, integrity, and family, Katie and Jesse have built not just a business but a legacy of timeless design and unwavering commitment to their clients. Want to get in touch with Katie & Jesse? Contact them through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkath_designbuild/

"The best way for you to do that is to tell more stories. Optimize your bio and post more frequently. You could even revisit your old posts and turn them into videos. Essentially, you just need to post more videos." Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. In this episode, I’m going to help you unlock growth for your wood business. In the fast-paced world of marketing and business, finding the right advice can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But what if I told you that sometimes, the most invaluable insights come from unexpected places? Steve Larosiliere's insights provide a roadmap for the growth and prosperity of your woodworking business. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to attracting and serving the right clientele, ensuring the long-term success of your business. It's time to hear the complete story now! Embracing Imperfection: The Power of Unveiling the Process David from Amelia Cabinet Company deals with a dilemma that many artisans face: the reluctance to share unfinished work. With a commitment to high-end craftsmanship, he often finds himself hesitant to showcase his projects until they're near perfection. However, Steve offers a different perspective—one that emphasizes the value of transparency and storytelling. They urge David to embrace the journey, to document the process, and to share the stories behind each creation. Instagram as a Platform for Connection and Growth Instagram, often hailed as a powerful marketing tool, serves as a double-edged sword for David. While he acknowledges its potential to attract clients and foster connections, he grapples with the frequency and content of his posts. Steve advocates for a more consistent and narrative-driven approach. By sharing daily stories and highlighting the behind-the-scenes moments, David can deepen his engagement with his audience and amplify his brand's presence. The Impact of Storytelling on Client Relationships The conversation delves deeper into the significance of storytelling in building client relationships. Steve emphasizes the emotional resonance of narratives and the potential to convert leads into loyal patrons. By infusing his brand with personal anecdotes, family legacies, and philanthropic endeavors, David can create a compelling narrative that transcends mere transactions. His clients aren't just purchasing cabinets; they're investing in a legacy, supporting a cause, and becoming part of a community. Honoring Heritage: From Branding to Giving Back Central to David's journey is the legacy of his sister, Amelia, whose name adorns his company. While initially hesitant to capitalize on her memory for commercial gain, David's mentor reframes it as a tribute to her legacy. By amplifying the brand with Amelia's name and integrating her story into its fabric, David can honor her memory while propelling his business forward. Moreover, by aligning his company with charitable initiatives close to his heart, David can imbue his work with a sense of purpose and impact. Charting a New Course: Post-Podcast Reflections As the podcast draws to a close, David reflects on the transformative insights he's gained. Inspired by Steve’s guidance, he envisions a future where Amelia Cabinet Company isn't just a purveyor of fine craftsmanship but a beacon of storytelling and community engagement. From over-branded hoodies to heartfelt narratives, Contact Steve through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelarosiliere/ Woodpreneur Network IG: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevelarosiliere/ Acres of Timber Website: https://www.acresoftimber.com/ Stoked Website: https://www.stoked.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/SteveLarosiliere Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevelarosiliere1/ Woodpreneurlife Website: https://www.woodpreneurlife.com/