Episódios
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In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Cody Powers from Cap Artistry, who shares his inspiring journey from working in a hospital to becoming a successful furniture maker. Cody discusses his challenges, the importance of networking, and the breakthroughs that have driven his business growth. He emphasizes the value of community support and the mindset shifts that have propelled him forward. Cody also outlines his future goals and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the woodworking industry.
Takeaways:
Cody transitioned from a hospital job to woodworking, finding initial success on Etsy.Networking and community support were crucial to his growth.Embracing vulnerability and self-belief helped drive his business forward.Cody aims to establish a recognized American-made, tree-to-table furniture brand.Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction to Cody Powers and His Journey02:39 - Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence06:05 - The Impact of Networking and Community Support09:54 - Significant Breakthroughs in Business14:40 - Future Goals and Aspirations17:59 - Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursGet 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 Cody at:
https://www.instagram.com/capsartistry/
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In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Austin Waldo about the Texas Woodworking Festival, its origins, growth, and the vibrant community it fosters. Austin shares insights into what attendees can expect, the festival’s target audience, and the importance of community in woodworking. He discusses new features for the festival, including digital ticketing and educational sessions, as well as trends in the woodworking industry, particularly the integration of technology. The conversation concludes with details about the upcoming event and an invitation for woodworking enthusiasts to connect and participate.
Takeaways:
The Texas Woodworking Festival started as a community event.Austin runs a woodworking club and a school.The festival has doubled in attendance each year.Expect hands-on experiences and tool demonstrations.The festival caters to hobbyists and small professionals.Community building is a key focus of the festival.New digital features will enhance accessibility.Technology is increasingly integrated into woodworking.Future plans include more classes and events.The festival aims to be a reunion for woodworking friends.Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Texas Woodworking Festival
02:44 Festival Growth and Community Impact
05:11 What to Expect at the Festival
06:55 Target Audience and Community Building
08:06 Personal Insights and Experiences
09:10 New Features and Digital Expansion
10:54 Trends in Woodworking and Technology
12:11 Future Aspirations for the Festival
14:01 Event Details and Closing Remarks
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 Austin at:
https://www.instagram.com/texaswoodworkingfestival/
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In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Janice, also known as The Knotty Contessa, about her journey from broadcasting to woodworking and how it has positively impacted her mental health. What began as a hobby during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly evolved into a thriving business. Janice now runs a storefront and workshop, where she creates custom wood products and offers on-site engraving services.
One of the key factors in her business growth has been word of mouth, but Janice is also eager to expand her digital marketing efforts. Her top-selling products include cribbage boards, charcuterie boards, welcome signs, and engraved Yeti cups. She also shares the lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur—most notably, the importance of staying open to change and growth.
Janice discusses her decision to use CanCam equipment in her shop and the learning curve that came with it. She’s also added laser engraving to her services, which has opened new business opportunities, especially with corporate clients.
In the latter part of the episode, the conversation shifts to marketing strategies for reaching more corporate customers. Steve suggests creating corporate branding packages and targeting industries like mortgage and healthcare. He also recommends networking through the Chamber of Commerce and offering special deals to local businesses to build relationships and drive sales.
Key Takeaways:
Woodworking can have a calming and fulfilling effect on mental health.Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool for small businesses.Being flexible and open to change is crucial for entrepreneurial success.Offering custom products and on-site engraving can set a woodworking business apart.Expanding digital marketing can help attract a broader audience.Choosing the right equipment, like CanCam and Aeon lasers, can enhance productivity and service offerings.Adding laser engraving can create new business opportunities, especially with corporate clients.Creating corporate branding packages and targeting specific industries can help reach more corporate customers.Joining the Chamber of Commerce provides valuable networking opportunities and access to potential clients.Offering special deals to local businesses can generate interest and foster business relationships.Episode Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction and Background
00:50 - Woodworking as a Calming Hobby
02:55 - The Success of the "Welcome to Our Home" Sign
05:02 - Opening a Storefront and Workshop
09:47 - Word of Mouth Marketing and On-Site Engraving
19:39 - Top Sellers and Future Plans
22:09 - Choosing the Right Equipment
23:01 - Expanding Services with a Laser
30:22 - Reaching Corporate Customers
36:06 - Networking with the Chamber of Commerce
38:06 - Attracting Local Businesses
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 Janice at:
https://www.instagram.com/theknottycontessa_/
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In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Joe Paonessa, who shares the backstory of EdgeCroft, a CNC and injection molding business located in Tennessee. The business began as an expansion of Joe's existing CNC business in Toronto. Joe discusses how he entered the field and the challenges he faced in financing and finding a building in a new country. He also talks about the business's growth and the opportunities explored, particularly in the boating industry. Joe offers marketing advice, suggesting partnerships with interior designers or social influencers to create a high-end outdoor collection.
Takeaways:
Edgecroft is a CNC and injection molding business in Tennessee, initially an expansion of Joe's Toronto-based CNC business.
Joe faced challenges in financing and locating a building in a new country, ultimately securing one through seller financing.
The business has grown by expanding its customer base and exploring opportunities in the boating industry.
Joe recommends partnering with interior designers or social influencers to develop a high-end outdoor collection as a marketing strategy.
Chapters:
Introduction and Background of Edgecroft (00:00)
Challenges and Growth in a New Country (03:12)
Exploring Opportunities in the Boating Industry (05:52)
Financing and Finding a Building (09:30)
Overcoming Obstacles and Finding Seller Financing (11:30)
Moving to a New Country and Starting from Scratch (14:36)
Taking Risks and Finding Opportunities (18:47)
Comparing the Cost of Living in Toronto and Tennessee (21:53)
The Benefits of Taking a Chance and Reframing Your Environment (25:10)
Dealing with Skepticism and Finding Success (26:07)
Living in Flow and Embracing Serendipity (29:22)
Marketing Strategy: Partnering for a High-End Outdoor Collection (32:02)
Conclusion and Final Thoughts (33:57)
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 Joe at:
https://edgecroft.com/index.html
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In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Joey Kochlacs of Santa Cruz Sustainable Sawmill. Joey shares his journey in the wood industry, from milling and selling raw wood to crafting high-end furniture and premium guitar tops. Recently, he took a significant step by forming an LLC to expand his business, bringing on new team members in the process. While he primarily markets his products through Instagram and word of mouth, Joey is now seeking strategies to attract high-end clients, especially in a challenging economy. Steve suggests focusing on brand building, creating a strong community, and targeting affluent individuals and high-end furniture makers. You can find more about Joey's work at kochlacswood.com.
Key Takeaways:
Joey Kochlacs has operated under the name Cokeless Wood for the past 10 years and recently established his LLC, Santa Cruz Sustainable Sawmill.He sources logs from tree services and property owners, milling them into high-end wood products, including furniture and guitar tops.While Instagram and word of mouth have been his primary marketing tools, Joey is exploring ways to attract high-end clients during slower economic times.Steve advises Joey to focus on building his brand, developing a community around it, and specifically targeting affluent individuals and high-end furniture makers to grow his business.Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Background03:29 Marketing Strategies05:24 Popular Wood Species07:31 Current Marketing Channels11:38 New Members and Shop Space13:51 Strategies for Attracting High-End ClientsGet 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 Joey at:
https://www.instagram.com/joeykochlacs_furnituremaker/
https://www.instagram.com/santa_cruz_sustainable_sawmill/
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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/
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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/
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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/
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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/
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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/
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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 ProblemsGet 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/
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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 ThoughtsGet 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/
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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 InformationGet 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/
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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 BrandGet 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/
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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 InformationGet 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/
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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 NetworkJoin the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com
Connect with Aaron at:
https://www.instagram.com/finelinemillworks/
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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 IndustryJoin 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/
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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 StatesJoin the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com
Connect with BJ Chandler at:
https://www.instagram.com/millhavenhomes/
https://millhavenhomes.com
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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/
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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/
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