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

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Garrett Magnuson from Raw Heartwood, a log-to-table woodworking company. Garrett shares his journey into woodworking, the challenges he faced in the early years of his business, and how he found his passion for creating beautiful wood products. The conversation explores the daily operations of Raw Heartwood, the importance of mentorship, and the lessons Garrett has learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey. They also discuss marketing strategies, community engagement, and future growth opportunities for the business.

Takeaways:

• Raw Heartwood processes wood from logs to finished pieces.
• Garrett transitioned to woodworking after working as a park foreman.
• Woodworking is challenging but fulfilling.
• Garrett’s passion lies in transforming raw wood into art.
• He enjoys every part of the business, from milling to epoxy tables.
• COVID-19 created early business challenges.
• Community engagement is key to Raw Heartwood’s success.
• Mentorship has been crucial to Garrett’s growth.
• Marketing should focus on local outreach and community ties.
• Key lessons include problem-solving and adaptability.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Raw Heartwood
• 03:02 The Journey into Woodworking
• 06:00 Finding Passion in Woodworking
• 09:01 The Growth of Raw Heartwood
• 12:13 Daily Operations and Community Engagement
• 14:56 Mentorship and Learning
• 18:01 Marketing Strategies and Community Building
• 21:03 Lessons Learned in Business
• 23:58 Future Growth and Scaling 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 Garrett at:

https://www.instagram.com/raw_heartwood/

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 Journey
• 02:39 - Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
• 06:05 - The Impact of Networking and Community Support
• 09:54 - Significant Breakthroughs in Business
• 14:40 - Future Goals and Aspirations
• 17:59 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

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 Cody at:

https://www.instagram.com/capsartistry/

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/

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_/

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

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 Background
• 03:29 Marketing Strategies
• 05:24 Popular Wood Species
• 07:31 Current Marketing Channels
• 11:38 New Members and Shop Space
• 13:51 Strategies for Attracting High-End Clients

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 Joey at:

https://www.instagram.com/joeykochlacs_furnituremaker/

https://www.instagram.com/santa_cruz_sustainable_sawmill/

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/