The Wood Care Podcast- Where Experts Talk Wood

Caleb Roth, Staining University and Fence Install School, Stain & Seal Supply
  • 4.9 (46)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

Where Experts Talk Wood is a professional wood care podcast featuring unfiltered conversations with industry leaders, contractors, manufacturers, educators, and innovators shaping the future of exterior wood. From staining and sealing systems to coatings science, business strategy, compliance, sales, and craftsmanship — this is where the real conversations happen. If you’re serious about wood care — whether you’re building a business, refining your craft, or leading in the coatings space — this podcast exists to elevate your thinking, your standards, and your results.

  1. Apr 20

    28 Years in Deck Staining & Inventing the Stain Paddle | Richard Hochanedel | Wood Care Podcast

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast, Caleb sits down with Richard Hochanedel, owner of Deck Revive and inventor of the Stain Paddle. Rich brings over 28 years of experience in the wood care industry, starting in 1998 as a side hustle before eventually transitioning into a full-time business. Today, Deck Revive serves customers across Kansas, with a strong reputation built on repeat clients and referrals. In this episode we discuss: • Growing a staining business through referrals and repeat customers • Building partnerships with other contractors to generate leads • Navigating a challenging 2025 season with weather and economic shifts • Transitioning to more efficient products and processes • The story behind inventing the Stain Paddle to improve application quality Rich also shares his approach to customer education, why he prefers oil-based stains for long-term performance, and how proper process and communication lead to better results. With decades of experience, Rich offers practical advice for contractors looking to build a long-term, sustainable business — including investing in quality equipment, staying committed through early challenges, and solving problems in the field. 🎙️ Brought to you by Stain & Seal Supply Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    57 min

  2. Apr 16

    Army Veteran Turned Franchise Owner | Jeff Konopack of Deck Medic | The Wood Care Podcast

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast, Caleb sits down with Jeff Konopack of Deck Medic to talk about building a scalable deck care business. Jeff began his career in exterior painting before transitioning into specialized deck restoration, where he quickly realized the importance of creating systems, processes, and data-driven decision-making to grow the business. Over time, those systems helped transform the operation into a franchise model, allowing proven methods and processes to be shared with other operators. In this episode, we discuss: • Transitioning from general exterior painting to deck restoration • Creating repeatable business systems and quoting processes • Employee retention strategies in a seasonal industry • Commission-based team leadership and accountability • Building long-term customer relationships through maintenance services Jeff also shares why communication is the most important skill for contractors—whether it’s managing customer expectations or building trust with employees. For Jeff, the goal isn’t just landing a single job, but building long-term clients who return for maintenance every few years. He also encourages contractors to focus on building brand equity through five-star reviews, continuous education, and networking within the industry. 🎙️ Brought to you by StainAndSealSupply.com Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    42 min

  3. Apr 14

    From Side Hustle to $500K+ Staining Business | Ian Whitcomb | The Wood Care Podcast

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast, Caleb sits down with Ian Whitcomb, owner of Patriot Stain & Seal based in Oklahoma City. Ian entered the fence staining industry in 2015 as a side hustle, purchasing a used stain trailer and working evenings and weekends while serving as a 22-year military veteran and airline pilot. With some local advertising in his first year, he generated over $100,000 in revenue while still working another career. Today, the business has grown into a highly efficient operation generating between $450,000 and $675,000 annually. In this episode we discuss: • Building a staining business while working a full-time career • Operational systems that allow small crews to work efficiently • Labor strategies that retain skilled workers • Remote quoting using digital tools like Google Earth • Transitioning from traditional marketing to a 100% digital strategy • Using AI to streamline administrative and marketing tasks Ian also shares insights on business systems, CRM integration, job costing, and why contractors must know their numbers to stay profitable in a competitive market. This episode is packed with practical insight for contractors looking to build a scalable wood care business while improving operations and efficiency. 🎙️ Brought to you by StainAndSealSupply.com Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    58 min

  4. Apr 14

    10+ Years in the Staining Industry | Justen Meneses & Caleb Roth | The Wood Care Podcast

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast, Caleb sits down with Justen Coelho Meneses, a contractor with more than a decade of experience in the wood staining industry. Justen shares the evolution of his company — originally launched as Making All Things New before rebranding to Omaha Deck and Fence Staining for 2026. In this episode we discuss: Rebranding a staining company for long-term growth The challenges contractors faced during the 2025 season Adjusting marketing strategies when leads suddenly slow down Managing crews and maintaining accountability in the field Strategic decisions heading into 2026 This episode is packed with insight for contractors looking to grow their business while navigating an increasingly competitive market. 🎙️ Brought to you by StainAndSealSupply.com Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    1h 37m
  5. From the Ground Up with Will Wright from Integrity Exterior Cleaningg

    Feb 28

    From the Ground Up with Will Wright from Integrity Exterior Cleaningg

    Contractor Interview: Will Wright – Integrity Exterior Cleaning On this episode of The Wood Care Podcast — Where Experts Talk Wood — we sit down with Will Wright of Integrity Exterior Cleaning. Will shares his journey in the exterior cleaning and wood care space, including how he built momentum in a competitive market and developed systems that support consistent growth. We dive into what it takes to build trust with customers, balance production with leadership, and create a business that operates beyond just daily labor. This conversation covers: • Building a reputation in exterior cleaning and wood care • Creating systems that support steady growth • The transition from operator to business leader • Maintaining quality standards while scaling • Lessons learned from real-world projects and customer relationships This episode is about discipline, long-term thinking, and doing the work that most people avoid. If you’re serious about building a sustainable service business in the wood care or exterior cleaning space, this conversation will challenge and sharpen you. Watch the Full Video Version See the full conversation on YouTube on the Stain & Seal Supply channel and on The Wood Care Podcast Facebook page. Join the Conversation Join our Facebook group, Stain & Seal University, to connect with other wood care professionals, share insights, and continue learning. Become a Pro Partner The Pro Partner Program is built for serious wood care professionals who want better margins, priority access, and direct expert support. It’s a working partnership designed to help you grow smarter and more profitably. See if you qualify here:https://stainandsealsupply.com/pages/become-a-pro-partner Download the App Download the Stain & Seal Experts iOS app for access to our stain calculator, virtual fan deck, product ordering, tools, social channels, and podcast access — all in one place. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    57 min
  6. MAKING YOUR PATH IN THE TRADES | Chris Olsen, Madison Stain & Seal | The Wood Care Podcast

    Feb 26

    MAKING YOUR PATH IN THE TRADES | Chris Olsen, Madison Stain & Seal | The Wood Care Podcast

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast(previously known as the Stain & Seal Experts' Podcast), we sit down with Chris Olsen of Madison Stain & Seal. Chris shares how he started his staining business about five years ago after realizing a traditional education path wasn’t for him. At just 27 years old, Chris took an unconventional route into business — beginning with videography, photography, and storytelling, including wedding videography, which he often did for free early on to build his portfolio and experience. This episode is about transitioning career paths, learning in the first year, and building momentum in your local market. 🎙️ Brought to you by StainAndSealSupply.com Join us for Staining University March 4-5, 2026: StainingUniversity.com The Pro Partner Program is built for serious wood care professionals who want better margins, priority access, and direct expert support. It’s not a club — it’s a working partnership designed to help you grow smarter and more profitably. Think you’re a fit? See if you qualify here: https://stainandsealsupply.com/pages/become-a-pro-partner Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    1 hr
  7. Contractor Interview | Darren Pollon of 1st Place Finishing

    Feb 25

    Contractor Interview | Darren Pollon of 1st Place Finishing

    On this episode of the Wood Care Podcast(previously known as the Stain & Seal Experts' Podcast), we sit down with Darren Pollen of 1st Place Finishing! Darren shares his journey in the wood finishing industry, from spotting the opportunity in staining fences and decks to building a business that keeps jobs rolling. We talk about building your brand, earning trust, and finding the balance between working in the field and running the business behind the scenes. This episode is about growth, consistency, and doing the work it takes to move forward. 🎙️ Brought to you by StainAndSealSupply.com Join us for Staining University March 4-5, 2026: StainingUniversity.com Follow us on social: / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply / stainandsealsupply #WoodCarePodcast #FenceStaining #DeckStaining #WoodFinishing #PreFinishing #ContractorInterview #CanadianContractor #StainingBusiness #FenceIndustry #DeckRestoration #TradeEntrepreneur #StainAndSealSupply #StainingUniversity #ContractorGrowth DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this series are those of the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of Caleb Roth, Stain & Seal Supply, or the Wood Care Podcast. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Always evaluate methods, products, and strategies based on your own business needs and local regulations. Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    39 min

  8. Jan 6

    Kick Off 2026 Strong: Stain & Seal University + The Contractor Interview Series

    We’re kicking off the end of the year with two big announcements for wood care contractors. Stain & Seal University is back — March 4–5. This year is the biggest one we’ve ever done. We’ve outgrown our past venues, and we’re taking it to the next level with a true expo-style event: vendors, exhibitors, demos, and hands-on training classes covering fence install, fence staining, deck staining, wood restoration, and a strong focus on pre-staining. If you want to get your team trained up and start the 2026 season with momentum, this is the event. Contractor Interview Series is here. This winter, I’m sitting down with 100 contractors to talk through the real lessons from the 2025 season—wins, losses, what changed, what worked, and what didn’t—so we can compile the data and share it with the industry. No scripts, no fluff—just real conversations with people in the field. Learn more about Stain & Seal University (attendee, exhibitor, and sponsor info): staininguniversity.com Sign up for the Contractor Interview Series: stainandsealsupply.com/contractor-interviews Episode SponsorsThis episode is brought to you by: Stain & Seal SupplyProfessional-grade stains, tools, and equipment for serious contractors.StainandSealSupply.com EXPERT Professional Wood CareAdvanced wood stains, cleaners, and protection systems trusted by contractors worldwide.EXPERTWoodCare.com Gopher WoodFactory-finished and pre-stained lumber solutions for builders and wood care professionals.GopherWood.us If this episode brought value, leave a review and share it with another wood care professional.

    14 min
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4.9
out of 5
46 Ratings

About

Where Experts Talk Wood is a professional wood care podcast featuring unfiltered conversations with industry leaders, contractors, manufacturers, educators, and innovators shaping the future of exterior wood. From staining and sealing systems to coatings science, business strategy, compliance, sales, and craftsmanship — this is where the real conversations happen. If you’re serious about wood care — whether you’re building a business, refining your craft, or leading in the coatings space — this podcast exists to elevate your thinking, your standards, and your results.

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