Episodes

  • On the Woodpreneur Podcast, Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger interview Zach Bancroft of 805 Woodworks about his transition from antique dealing to custom furniture making. Zach discusses developing his craft style, material sourcing, and the vital role of word-of-mouth marketing. He shares candid insights about pandemic-era business struggles, mental health challenges, and his passion for creating sustainable, heirloom-quality furniture in today's disposable culture. The conversation covers customer education strategies, production scaling, local collaborations, and balancing creative work with business growth.

    Key Takeaways

    Career Evolution: Zach transitioned from antique dealing to custom furniture, adapting his style based on customer needs.

    Business Challenges: He faced significant hurdles during the pandemic, including layoffs and mental health struggles.

    Sustainability & Craftsmanship: Zach advocates for heirloom-quality furniture and a shift away from disposable consumer culture.

    Customer Education: Effectively marketing handmade products requires time, online showcases, and finding the right audience.

    Growth Strategies: Scaling production, local collaborations, and balancing creativity with business logistics are key to future success.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Origins of 805 Woodworks

    02:57 Crafting a Unique Style

    05:54 Sourcing Materials and Building Relationships

    08:45 Navigating Business Challenges and Mental Health

    12:05 The Comeback Journey

    14:59 The Value of Heirloom Furniture

    17:55 Sustainability and Consumer Mindset

    20:58 Finding the Right Customers

    23:43 The Cost of Customer Education

    24:41 Building the Mantle Business

    26:44 Challenges in Scaling Production

    32:52 Exploring Collaborative Opportunities

    37:55 Finding Balance and Future Growth

    You can connect with Zach at:

    https://www.instagram.com/805woodworks/

    https://www.805woodworks.com/

    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/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, hosts Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger interview Nick Mooers from Maverick Sawmill. They discuss the growth of Nick's business during the pandemic, exciting projects, including a massive walnut table, and the development of a new shop to enhance operational efficiency. Nick shares insights on leadership, industry trends, and the balance between raw and finished products. The conversation also touches on marketing strategies for high-end builds and the importance of relationships in the luxury market.

    Takeaways

    The pandemic drove significant growth in home renovation projects and woodworking demandMaverick Sawmill specializes in oversized walnut pieces and has developed a unique 50/50 balance between raw and finished productsNick emphasizes the critical importance of team dynamics, leadership, and relationship buildingA new shop is being developed to enhance operational efficiency and support business growthEpoxy projects and home and garden shows have emerged as important trends in the woodworking industry

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Maverick Sawmill

    01:00 Business Growth During the Pandemic

    02:40 Exciting Projects and New Shop Development

    05:19 Operational Success Factors

    09:51 Leadership and Team Dynamics

    11:06 Industry Trends and Innovations

    13:12 Balancing Raw and Finished Products

    15:18 Investments in Machinery and Efficiency

    19:01 Future Plans and Moving Challenges

    20:24 Marketing Strategies for High-End Builds

    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/

    You can connect with Nick at:

    https://www.instagram.com/mavericksawmill/

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  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, hosts Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger interview Chris Hitchcock from Coyote Custom Woodwork. Chris shares his journey as a self-taught woodworker, discussing his passion for creating unique pieces and the challenges he faces in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of networking and word-of-mouth referrals in building his client base, as well as the satisfaction he derives from his craft. The conversation also touches on current trends in woodworking materials and Chris's aspirations for future growth in his business.

    Takeaways

    Chris began his woodworking journey as a self-taught craftsman, starting around 2015Networking and word-of-mouth referrals are crucial for building a successful woodworking businessWalnut remains his favorite wood to work with, despite changing industry trendsCreative satisfaction stems from the hands-on process of building unique piecesChris is focused on business growth and overcoming challenges in the woodworking industry

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Coyote Custom Woodwork

    02:04 The Journey of a Self-Taught Woodworker

    05:57 Identifying Ideal Clients and Building a Network

    09:58 Creative Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

    13:59 Trends in Woodworking and Material Preferences

    18:04 Business Growth and Future Aspirations

    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/

    You can connect with Chris at:

    https://www.instagram.com/coyotewoodwork/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere introduces new co-host Jennifer Alger, a seasoned professional in the wood industry. They discuss Jennifer's extensive experience, the importance of collaboration in the urban lumber sector, and the launch of AncesTREE, an innovative inventory management software. Steve shares his transition to focusing on designers and builders, emphasizing the need for community and support in the woodworking industry. The episode concludes with a look at the podcast's future and the exciting developments.

    Takeaways

    Jennifer Alger brings extensive experience to the Woodpreneur Podcast as a seasoned wood industry professionalAncesTREE emerges as an innovative inventory management solution for the woodworking industrySteve is strategically transitioning to focus more on designers and buildersCollaboration and community-building are highlighted as crucial elements in the urban lumber sectorThe podcast demonstrates a commitment to evolving and exploring new opportunities in woodworking

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to the New Era of Woodpreneur Podcast

    04:14 Jennifer's Journey in the Wood Industry

    08:51 Steve's Transition and New Ventures

    12:22 Collaborative Opportunities in the Urban Lumber Industry

    15:18 AncesTREE: Revolutionizing Inventory Management

    18:22 Looking Ahead: Future of the Podcast and Community

    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/

    You can connect with Jennifer at:

    https://www.instagram.com/jenniferlynnalger/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Juan Bruera from Reclaimed Wood Source. Juan shares his journey from construction to entrepreneurship, discussing how he built his reclaimed wood business. The conversation covers business operations, family-work balance, material sourcing, and digital marketing strategies, highlighting how creating engaging content and building community relationships have contributed to his success.

    Key Takeaways:

    Juan's journey into reclaimed wood began with construction experience and grew through his passion for recycling materials and preserving history.Building a successful reclaimed wood business requires balancing multiple operations, from sourcing and production to marketing and sales.The unique value of reclaimed wood comes from its history and character, though this makes it more expensive due to labor-intensive sourcing and preparation.Digital marketing, particularly through social media and blogging, plays a crucial role in business growth and customer engagement.Creating engaging content and building community relationships are essential for long-term business success in the reclaimed wood industry.

    Chapters:

    00:00 The Journey Begins: From Construction to Reclaimed Wood

    09:15 Building a Business: Operations and Growth

    13:38 Vision and Reality: Reflecting on Progress

    19:06 Family and Business: Balancing Priorities

    22:19 Sourcing Materials: The Story Behind the Wood

    26:32 Exploring the Hutterite and Mennonite Communities

    28:22 Insights from Reclaimed Wood Projects

    29:12 Navigating Google AdWords Challenges

    30:28 Leveraging Social Media for Business Growth

    31:52 The Importance of Blogging for Visibility

    34:02 Creating Engaging Content and Community Building

    37:34 Maximizing YouTube and Video 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/

    You can connect with Juan at:

    https://reclaimedwoodsource.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/reclaimedwoodsource/?hl=en

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Katie Nagji, the founder of Swann Closet Design. Katie shares her journey from working in a larger closet company in New York City to starting her own business in Austin, Texas. She discusses the challenges and rewards of building a new client base, the evolving trends in closet design, and her creative process in delivering high-end, customized storage solutions. The conversation highlights the importance of referrals, the luxury market's demands, and the personal touch she brings to each project.

    Key Takeaways

    Katie Nagji successfully transitioned from a corporate position in New York to establishing her own business in Austin, TexasHer business thrives primarily through referrals and focuses on high-end, custom millwork for various storage spacesCurrent trends in closet design are shifting towards more luxurious and colorful optionsHer creative process involves extensive client interaction and mood board developmentShe has developed effective strategies for managing client relationships and budget discussions while maintaining high-quality standards.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Origin of Swann Closet Design

    03:07 Transitioning to a New Market

    06:08 Trends in Closet Design

    09:04 Building a Client Base

    12:07 The Creative Process

    14:56 Navigating Client Relationships

    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 Katie at:

    https://www.swannclosetdesign.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/austinclosetdesign/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Christopher Anderson from Saltwater and Sawdust Woodworks. Christopher shares his inspiring journey from military service to starting a woodworking business. He discusses the challenges of pricing, the evolution of his projects, and the critical role of community and social media in building his brand. Christopher highlights the value of learning through diverse projects and emphasizes the importance of cultivating strong client relationships in the woodworking industry. The conversation also explores marketing strategies and the potential of referral programs to boost business growth.

    Takeaways

    Christopher transitioned from military service to woodworking, starting with cutting boards and evolving into custom furniture.Social media, especially YouTube, has been essential for marketing and brand growth.Pricing remains one of the biggest challenges for small woodworking businesses.Building strong client relationships leads to repeat business and referrals.Community engagement and referral programs are effective for expanding the client base.

    Chapters

    00:00 - Introduction to Saltwater and Sawdust Woodworks

    02:15 - The Journey from Military to Woodworking

    04:19 - Navigating Business Challenges and Pricing

    06:47 - Popular Products and Unique Projects

    09:20 - Investments and Exciting Achievements

    13:21 - Overcoming Challenges in Custom Requests

    16:24 - The Role of Social Media in Woodworking

    18:18 - Understanding the Craft and Client Expectations

    21:11 - Learning and Growth Through Diverse Projects

    24:07 - Marketing Strategies for Growth

    30:41 - Referral Programs and Client Engagement

    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/

    You can contact Christopher at:

    https://www.saltwaterandsawdustwoodworking.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/saltwater_and_sawdust/

    https://www.facebook.com/TheAndersonWoodshop

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Joe Trave from Village Handcrafted, who shares his inspiring journey from building furniture in his backyard to managing a thriving manufacturing operation. Joe discusses the challenges of scaling his business, the importance of craftsmanship, and the future of American manufacturing. He highlights the necessity of obsessing over quality, navigating economic difficulties, and the hustle required to thrive in the woodworking industry. The conversation also explores the impact of policies on business growth, the need for vocational training to address workforce shortages, and the importance of apprenticeship programs to nurture future talent.

    Takeaways

    Joe began building furniture in his backyard and pivoted to cabinetry after recognizing market challenges.Village Handcrafted grew from $200,000 to $5 million in sales, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship.Policies, including tax breaks and tariffs, are critical in supporting American manufacturing.Vocational training and apprenticeship programs are essential for addressing the skilled labor shortage.Scaling a business requires balancing quality of life, business demands, and adaptability to economic shifts.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Journey of Village Handcrafted

    09:57 - Scaling the Business

    20:10 - Navigating Challenges and Growth

    29:59 - The Future of American Manufacturing

    37:55 - Creating a Pipeline for Future Talent

    43:57 - The Misconceptions of Custom Pricing

    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/

    You can contact Joe at:

    https://villagehandcrafted.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/village_handcrafted/

    https://www.facebook.com/Villagehandcraftedcabinetry/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Taylor Rachko from Distinctive Design Storage Solutions. Taylor shares her company's origin, which began with her father's epoxy flooring business and evolved into a full-service design and storage solution provider. The conversation explores the growth of the closet industry, the importance of networking and professional development, and the shift in client preferences toward more personalized and functional designs. Taylor highlights the importance of understanding client needs and the role of technology in enhancing the customer experience. The episode concludes with insights on marketing strategies and community engagement to drive business growth.

    Takeaways

    Taylor’s father started the company, leading to her involvement.Networking is crucial for business development and success.The closet industry is experiencing significant growth and innovation.Technology enhances the client experience by helping visualize designs.Community engagement fosters brand loyalty and business growth.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Origin Story of Distinctive Design Storage Solutions

    02:48 - Growth and Evolution in the Closet Industry

    06:01 - Networking and Professional Development

    09:03 - The Rise of Closet Design

    11:58 - Client-Centric Design Approach

    15:03 - Future Trends and Innovations

    18:06 - Marketing Strategies and Community Engagement

    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 Taylor at:

    https://www.distinctivedesignstoragesolutions.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/distinctive_closets/#

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Jeff Perry from Angel City Lumber about the devastating impact of the recent Los Angeles fires and how his company is navigating this challenging landscape. They discuss Angel City Lumber's growth, its mission to reconnect the community with local trees, and the opportunities within urban lumber. Jeff shares insights on innovative products, operational strategies, and the importance of storytelling in raising awareness about tree conservation and community rebuilding efforts.

    Takeaways

    The recent fires in Los Angeles have devastated communities, highlighting the need for support and rebuilding efforts.Angel City Lumber has experienced significant growth, focusing on local sourcing and sustainability.Collaboration with the U.S. Forest Service is addressing forest management challenges.Trees are more than just a resource; they represent history, connection, and the opportunity to rebuild community bonds.Storytelling and community engagement are essential for fostering awareness, conservation, and recovery.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Impact of Los Angeles Fires

    03:04 - Angel City Lumber's Growth and Mission

    06:08 - Urban Lumber: Opportunities and Challenges

    08:53 - Connecting Community and Trees

    12:06 - Innovative Products and Services

    14:57 - Operational Growth and Team Dynamics

    18:12 - Future Planning and Community Engagement

    21:00 - Storytelling and Awareness

    23:59 - Rebuilding and Recovery 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 Jeff at:

    https://www.instagram.com/angelcitylumber/

    https://www.angelcitylumber.com/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Eric Gummer from Thomas Philips Woodworking. Eric shares his journey from being a high school woodworking enthusiast to becoming a successful business owner. He discusses the challenges and opportunities he encountered while building his company, the importance of branding, and the critical hires that helped his business grow.

    The conversation explores the dynamics of running a woodworking business, defining roles within a partnership, and the key investments that significantly impacted their operations. Eric provides insights on navigating market fluctuations, maintaining quality while expanding, and the potential investment in CNC machinery to boost productivity. The dialogue also touches on employee management, marketing strategies, and balancing growth with operational efficiency.

    Takeaways

    Eric’s woodworking journey began in high school and evolved into founding Thomas Philips Woodworking with his business partner, Derek.Networking and building relationships have been vital to their growth.Early projects, though small, laid a strong foundation for future success.Investments in branding, tools, and shop space were pivotal to establishing market identity and growth.Balancing growth with quality remains essential for long-term success.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Journey to Thomas Philips Woodworking

    06:07 - Building a Business from the Ground Up

    09:08 - Navigating Early Challenges and Opportunities

    12:05 - Establishing a Brand and Identity

    15:10 - Finding Focus in Product Offerings

    18:02 - Critical Hires and Team Dynamics

    20:55 - Defining Roles and Responsibilities

    23:58 - Investments That Made a Difference

    24:28 - Expansion and Growth Strategies

    27:10 - Navigating Market Challenges

    28:15 - Future Goals and Productivity

    30:28 - Balancing Growth and Quality

    33:39 - Investment Decisions 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 Eric at:

    https://thomasphilipswoodworking.com/

    https://www.facebook.com/ThomasPhilipsWoodworkingLtd

    https://www.instagram.com/thomasphilipswoodworking/?hl=en

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Karen McWilliams, founder of Closets by Karen. Karen shares her journey from studying fashion merchandising to starting her own closet design business. She highlights the power of word-of-mouth marketing, defines her ideal client profile, and explores evolving trends in closet design. The conversation touches on the emotional impact of organized spaces, effective marketing strategies for growth, and Karen's aspirations for the future of her business.

    Takeaways

    Karen’s journey into closet design began as she sought more flexibility as a new mother.Word-of-mouth remains a powerful marketing tool for Closets by Karen.Her ideal client is often building a new home or renovating an existing one.Trends in closet design are shifting toward lighter colors and better organization.The emotional satisfaction of clients is a key motivator for Karen.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Genesis of Closets by Karen

    03:02 - Building a Brand Through Word of Mouth

    05:55 - Understanding the Ideal Client

    09:02 - Trends in Closet Design

    12:01 - The Emotional Impact of Closet Design

    15:02 - Marketing Strategies for Growth

    18:01 - Future Aspirations and Collaborations

    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 Karen at:

    https://closetsbykaren.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/closetsbykaren/?hl=en

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Bucky and Melissa Miller of Miller's Rustic Sawmill. They share their journey from tree work to establishing a successful sawmill business, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, innovative marketing strategies, and balancing roles within their partnership. The Millers discuss their product offerings, including live-edge slabs and custom furniture, and how they’ve revitalized their small town while navigating growth challenges and opportunities.

    Takeaways

    Starting a sawmill allowed them to stay closer to home.Community engagement has been a cornerstone of their success.Facebook Live sales boosted visibility and expanded their market.High-quality, custom products set them apart.Balancing risks and opportunities drives their strategy.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Journey Begins: From Tree Work to Sawmill

    02:56 - Building a Business: The Early Years

    05:47 - Community Impact: Revitalizing King City

    09:01 - Product Offerings: From Slabs to Custom Builds

    11:54 - Navigating Risks and Opportunities

    15:12 - Innovative Sales Strategies: Live Sales and Beyond

    17:55 - Balancing Roles: The Power of Partnership

    21:11 - Future Growth: Expanding the Brand

    24:05 - Final Thoughts: Building a Legacy

    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 Millers:

    https://millersrusticsawmill.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/millersrusticsawmill

    https://www.facebook.com/millersrusticsawmill

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Clark Cottongim, owner of Woodstock Cabinets, about his journey in transforming a family business. They explore the company's history, founded in the 1960s, and discuss the challenges Clark faced after inheriting the business following his father’s passing in 2021. The conversation highlights the emotional and strategic aspects of managing a legacy business, from navigating grief to making pivotal decisions like adopting CNC technology and focusing on custom cabinetry. Clark also shares insights into marketing, cash flow management, and the importance of building a strong team to ensure growth and sustainability in a competitive market.

    Takeaways

    Legacy and Innovation: Balancing a family business’s heritage with modern advancements, such as CNC technology, is key to staying competitive.Focused Strategy: Saying no to projects outside the company’s niche has strengthened their brand and improved operational efficiency.Marketing Matters: Word-of-mouth remains a cornerstone of their success, but social media and storytelling amplify brand awareness.Team and Cash Flow: Building the right team and growing at the speed of cash are essential for sustainable, long-term business growth.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Legacy of Woodstock Cabinets

    12:41 - Navigating Grief and Business

    25:45 - The Evolution of Products and Services

    31:05 - Marketing Strategies and Business Growth

    34:47 - Embracing Technology: The CNC Revolution

    38:26 - Scaling Up: From Small Shop to Large Facility

    40:51 - Growing with Cash Flow: A Legacy of Frugality

    43:55 - The Power of People: Building a Strong Team

    48:38 - Marketing Strategies: Driving Awareness and Engagement

    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 Clark at:

    https://www.woodstockcabinets.com/

    https://www.instagram.com/woodstockcabinets/

    https://www.facebook.com/WoodstockCabinets/?pnref=lhc

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Travis DeVine, a custom woodworker based in New York City. Travis shares his journey from California to New York, detailing his diverse background in art, carpentry, and the film industry. He discusses the challenges of starting a business in a competitive market, the role of gratitude in his personal and professional life, and his vision for the future of Divine Woodworking. The conversation also explores social media strategies for business growth and the importance of personal branding in the woodworking industry.

    Takeaways

    Travis founded Divine Woodworking during the pandemic, specializing in custom built-ins.Building client relationships and maintaining gratitude are core to his success.Social media is a key tool for showcasing work and attracting new clients.Travis is booked nearly a year in advance and aims to grow his team.New York City’s woodworking scene presents unique challenges, like limited space.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Travis DeVine and His Journey

    05:03 The Evolution of Divine Woodworking

    10:04 Challenges and Triumphs in New York City

    14:59 Vision for the Future and Business Growth

    19:54 Social Media Strategy and Personal Branding

    25:00 Final Thoughts and Advice

    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 Travis at:

    https://www.instagram.com/devinewoodworking/?hl=en

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Rick and Jacob from Dendro Technology, exploring their journey from a successful architectural woodworking business to a new venture focused on live edge slabs and sustainable practices. They discuss the origins of their business, the current operations, and their goals for sustainability and community engagement. The conversation also delves into marketing strategies and the importance of storytelling in promoting their work.

    takeaways

    Rick started as a hippie carpenter and evolved into a successful business owner.Dendro Technology was born out of a shared passion for woodworking between Rick and Jacob.The business model includes custom milling, drying services, and furniture commissions.Sustainability is a core value, with efforts to be carbon neutral.Rick aims to pass the business to Jacob, focusing on mentorship and legacy.Marketing is primarily through word of mouth, with potential for improvement.The shop environment is dynamic, with always something to do.Rick's previous success was built on being indispensable in the local market.Storytelling is a key strategy for engaging customers and promoting the business.Building a community of woodworkers can enhance business growth.

    Sound Bites

    "We discovered that we had a business""I just didn't have the fire in my belly anymore""We could do a better job at marketing""My goal is to help my son build something""I wanted to make it something carbon neutral""There's always something to do in the shop""You should be the documentary"

    Chapters

    00:00The Origin Story of Dendro Technology

    10:01Business Model and Operations

    20:09Sustainability and Future Goals

    30:01Marketing Strategies and Community Building

    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 Rick & Jacob at:

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DBhwauJMXIN/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Eric Capolino, a general contractor from Structure NYC. Eric shares his journey in the construction industry, detailing the evolution of his business, the challenges of operating in New York City, and the importance of building strong client relationships. He discusses the significance of quality assurance, the role of technology in modern construction, and the value of maintaining a dedicated team culture. Eric also touches on his marketing strategies, particularly the impact of social media, and concludes with insights on personal growth and future aspirations.

    Takeaways:

    Eric Capolino's journey in construction began with his father's influence.Structure NYC evolved to specialize in high-end construction and millwork.Navigating New York City's construction complexities requires a strong team culture.Quality assurance is driven by education, communication, and technology.Social media plays a growing role in visibility and marketing.

    Chapters:

    00:00 – Introduction to Structure NYC02:25 – The Evolution of Services and Products05:10 – Leadership and Navigating Challenges09:00 – Building a Strong Team and Culture12:15 – Ensuring Quality and Communication15:56 – The Role of Technology in Construction18:33 – Work Ethic and Personal Growth21:31 – Maintaining Client Relationships24:07 – The Importance of Availability26:45 – Social Media and Marketing Strategies30:11 – Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

    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 Eric at:

    https://www.instagram.com/structurenyc/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-capolino/

    https://www.structure-nyc.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaKt1R6AUgto0yx4X-h8rX1hjKjQPwwLYXLsioWID4Imxv38qlXb23Shtw_aem_nBaaUGM7GYRqpKocH7qxXg

  • In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews George Peña, who shares his journey as an urban logger and woodworker. George explains how his passions for woodworking and falconry intersect, offering a unique perspective on craftsmanship. He discusses the complexities of running a sawmill, the challenges of marketing his business, and his goals for future growth. George highlights the value of collaboration with other trades, old-world techniques, and the philosophy of pursuing work that you love.

    Key Takeaways

    George has been in the urban logging business for seven years, primarily milling redwood for outdoor structures.His interest in woodworking began with creating equipment for falconry, which he also practices professionally.He operates a portable sawmill and is searching for a permanent location to expand his operations.Marketing remains a significant challenge, though his business thrives on word-of-mouth and local referrals.George emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community, and the philosophy of loving your work.

    Chapters

    00:00 - The Journey of an Urban Logger

    02:52 - Milling and Woodworking: A Craftsmanship Perspective

    06:04 - Falconry: A Unique Profession

    09:08 - The Business of Sawmilling

    11:56 - Marketing Challenges and Strategies

    14:58 - Future Aspirations and Growth

    17:57 - Collaboration and Community in Craftsmanship

    20:51 - The Philosophy of Work and Passion

    FULL PODCAST FOLDER: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1X2dyqIdD1ls0nDLQU1u33NuwFis8Bhw-?usp=drive_link

    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 George at:

    https://www.instagram.com/oldlakemillandlumber/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Brad and Hannah from Rise Up Label, a company dedicated to providing innovative labelling solutions for the woodworking industry. They discuss the challenges of residue left by standard labels, the importance of quality equipment, and their marketing strategies to reach potential clients. The conversation also explores the ideal client profile, operational challenges faced by cabinet makers, and future growth strategies for Rise Up Label.

    Takeaways

    Rise Up Label addresses the residue problem in woodworking labels with innovative solutions.Their marketing has shifted from traditional methods to leveraging social media and online sales.Ideal clients range from small woodworking shops to large cabinet manufacturers.Future growth involves expanding offerings, building a community, and fostering partnerships.Labels, though small, are a vital component of the manufacturing process.

    Chapters

    00:00 – Introduction to Rise Up Label

    02:11 – Solving the Residue Problem

    06:11 – Marketing the Solution

    09:41 – Growth and Operations

    12:10 – Understanding the Ideal Client

    13:46 – Operational Challenges in Cabinet Making

    16:14 – Investing in Quality Equipment

    18:33 – Expanding Beyond Labels

    22:19 – Future Growth Strategies

    23:22 – Advice for Online Presence

    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 Brad & Hannah at:

    https://www.instagram.com/riseupenterprise/

  • In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Dan Sullivan, the founder of Navillus Woodworks. Dan shares his journey from starting a remodelling business to transitioning into custom fabrication and woodworking. He discusses the importance of building a strong team, the challenges of marketing in a competitive landscape, and the artistry involved in creating custom furniture. The conversation also covers daily operations, management strategies, and navigating the furniture market, offering valuable insights for aspiring woodworkers and business owners.

    Takeaways

    Navillus Woodworks focuses on custom fabrication and millwork, blending artistic influences with practical design.

    Building a trusted team and securing strong client relationships have been key to Dan Sullivan's success.

    Effective marketing and compelling designs help Navillus stand out in a competitive furniture market.

    Organic growth and collaboration with artists enhance both project quality and business reach.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Navillus Woodworks

    01:49 The Journey of Dan Sullivan

    05:49 Transitioning to Custom Fabrication

    09:46 Building a Team and Infrastructure

    14:13 Artistry in Woodworking

    18:11 Marketing Strategies and Challenges

    21:59 Daily Operations and Management

    25:49 Navigating the Furniture Market

    30:01 Future Directions and Opportunities

    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 Dan at:

    https://www.instagram.com/navillus_woodworks/?hl=en