The Woodpreneur Podcast

Acres of Timber
  • 5.0 (2)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We cover the business and marketing side of the woodworking, sawmill, tree service, furniture making, Urban Wood, and woodworking industry. If you're a woodworker, sawmill owner, or any other entrepreneur and/or business owner in the wood industry, you need to check out this podcast. Each week, we interview business owners, large-scale companies, entrepreneurs, makers, and designers while also offering marketing and business advice that will help you grow your business and increase your profits. Tune in every week! www.builldergrowth.io www.woodpreneurlife.com Join our free and private Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurlife

  1. Justin Czar, Liberty Lumber Products

    5D AGO

    Justin Czar, Liberty Lumber Products

    Sometimes it's the catalyst that leads you to build the business and life you've always wanted. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Justin Czar of Liberty Lumber Products to explore his journey from working in fencing to establishing a thriving custom woodworking business. Justin shares the pivotal moment that pushed him to start side hustling and eventually transition full-time into woodworking, proving that it's never too late to pursue your passion. You'll hear about the real challenges Justin has faced in the wood industry, including sourcing lumber during supply shortages, navigating the impact of tariffs on materials and pricing, and adapting to economic pressures that affect sales and customer demand. Justin discusses his focus on custom builds and innovative projects, the importance of social media (particularly his successful YouTube channel) in his marketing strategy, and how community engagement through charity events has helped raise significant funds while building local connections. This conversation also covers critical topics like workshop safety, especially following Justin's personal injury experience, the process of sourcing and processing lumber for unique projects, and strategies for increasing local visibility in a competitive market. Justin shares his excitement about future collaborations with local universities and his vision for growing Liberty Lumber Products while staying true to the craft and community values that define his business. Whether you're considering a career change into woodworking, navigating the challenges of sourcing materials and pricing in today's market, or looking for effective marketing strategies to grow your wood business, this episode offers honest insights and practical wisdom from someone who's building success one project at a time. Tune in to discover how passion, perseverance, and community engagement can transform a side hustle into a sustainable woodworking business, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more inspiring stories from makers and entrepreneurs in the wood industry. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Liberty Lumber Products 03:01 From Fencing to Woodworking  06:00 Industry Challenges and Sourcing 11:58 Innovative Projects and Safety 18:26 Marketing and Social Media Growth 25:17 Future Goals and Community Engagement The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Justin at: https://libertylumberproducts.com/ https://www.instagram.com/libertylumberproducts https://www.facebook.com/libertylumberproducts

    32 min
  2. Chris Black, Century Mill Lumber

    FEB 5

    Chris Black, Century Mill Lumber

    A lumber company that's been in business since 1851 has seen it all, from economic shifts to pandemics, and its survival depends on more than just selling wood. It's about relationships, education, and adapting to change. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Chris Black, President and GM of Century Mill Lumber, to explore the remarkable history of a company that predates Canada itself. Chris shares his personal journey from selling high-end wood doors to running a lumber business with deep roots and a forward-looking vision, emphasizing how customer relationships, continuous education, and innovation have kept Century Mill thriving for over 170 years. You'll hear about the challenges and opportunities presented by COVID-19 and how the pandemic reshaped the lumber industry, the complexities of navigating the lumber supply chain from sourcing to delivery, and the evolving trends in both hardwood and softwood markets. Chris discusses the importance of investing in quality products and employee training, the role of design aesthetics in customer preferences, and how innovative materials are meeting modern application needs. This conversation dives into the significance of personal branding in an industry that's fundamentally about people, effective marketing strategies for connecting with customers in the lumber business, and why criticism and feedback are essential for growth and improvement. Chris also shares insights on building a strong team that will carry the company's legacy forward and ensure its success for generations to come. Whether you're in the lumber business, interested in customer service excellence and relationship building, or looking for lessons on navigating industry challenges while maintaining quality and values, this episode offers wisdom from a leader who understands that lumber is ultimately a people business. Tune in to discover how a company with roots in 1851 continues to innovate and lead in today's market, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more stories from industry leaders who are shaping the future of wood. Chapters: 00:00 The Legacy of Century Mill Lumber 05:45 Customer Service and COVID-19 Challenges 14:44 The Future and Investment in Quality 22:56 Market Trends and Innovation 31:19 Relationships and Personal Branding 39:12 The People Behind the Business The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Chris at: https://www.centurymill.com/ https://www.instagram.com/centurymilllumber/ https://www.facebook.com/centurymill

    41 min
  3. Ryan Moore, Urban Wood Company

    JAN 29

    Ryan Moore, Urban Wood Company

    Growing a woodworking business isn't just about craftsmanship. It's about building systems, forming strategic partnerships, and adapting to unexpected opportunities that can transform your entire operation. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Ryan Moore of Urban Wood Company to explore the evolution of his Oklahoma City-based woodworking business. Ryan shares how he went from drying wood and building custom furniture to expanding into cabinet projects and developing new product lines, all while navigating the challenges of scaling a team, implementing systems, and maintaining profitability. You'll hear about the unexpected opportunities that shaped Ryan's business growth, including how unforeseen events like house fires opened entirely new markets for cabinetry work. Ryan discusses the critical role of strategic partnerships with CNC companies and suppliers, effective use of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook for marketing finished projects, and his approach to staffing by adding young employees and upskilling existing team members. This conversation dives into the practical side of business operations, including implementing documentation systems to streamline workflows, setting competitive pricing using square footage models, and leveraging industry partnerships for better materials and resources. Ryan also shares valuable lessons learned from overcoming challenges like tariffs, international shipping costs, equipment repairs, and the importance of trusting your gut to avoid projects that don't align with your business goals. Whether you're looking to scale your woodworking business, interested in cabinet making and product development, or seeking insights on team building and operational efficiency, this episode offers honest reflections and actionable strategies from someone who's experienced record growth while learning to balance business demands with personal life, family, and self-care. Tune in to discover how systems, partnerships, and strategic growth can take your woodworking business to the next level, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about building sustainable, profitable wood businesses. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Ryan's Journey 03:15 New Opportunities and Strategic Partnerships 10:05 Building Systems and Pricing Strategies 21:07 Lessons Learned and Avoiding Bad Projects 28:06 Client Communication and Work-Life Balance 32:51 Future Projects and Closing Thoughts The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Ryan at: https://www.theurbanwoodco.com/ https://www.instagram.com/theurbanwoodco

    35 min
  4. Simon Silver, Simon Silver Designs

    JAN 22

    Simon Silver, Simon Silver Designs

    The path to becoming a master woodworker doesn't always start in a workshop. Sometimes it begins on a mountain bike trail during the off-season. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger welcomes Simon Silver of Simon Silver Designs to explore his remarkable journey from mountain bike athlete to accomplished woodworker and sawmill operator. Simon shares how he discovered woodworking as a hobby during the off-season and how a pivotal class with a skilled mentor accelerated his learning and instilled a detail-oriented mindset that defines his work today. You'll hear about Simon's commitment to creating timeless furniture pieces from urban wood, storm trees, and reclaimed materials, and his sawmill business that sources local redwood logs to provide unique lumber for custom projects. Simon discusses the balance between commissioned work and personal creative projects, the evolution of his business from small pieces to large-scale installations, and the increasing complexity and reward of challenging custom woodworking. This conversation dives into the realities of running a custom woodworking business, including the challenges of job site work, the importance of educating clients about wood movement and natural material characteristics, and the critical skill of learning to say no to projects that don't align with your vision or values. Simon also reflects on maintaining passion for the craft when business demands threaten to overshadow creative fulfillment, and his plans to create personal pieces that reignite his love for woodworking. Whether you're a woodworker navigating the transition from hobby to business, interested in sustainable wood sourcing and urban lumber, or looking for insights on balancing commercial success with creative satisfaction, this episode offers honest wisdom from someone who's built a thriving woodworking business while staying true to his craft. Tune in to discover how perseverance, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn can transform a passion into a sustainable livelihood, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more inspiring stories from makers and craftspeople. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Simon Silver 01:00 Simon's Journey from Mountain Biking to Woodworking 03:58 The Importance of Mentorship in Woodworking 08:31 Exploring Custom Projects and Personal Interests 10:05 Proud Achievements in Custom Furniture 12:10 Challenges of Working with Wood 16:01 The Sawmill Business and Sourcing Logs 20:53 Urban Wood and Sustainability 24:29 Navigating Challenges in Custom Work 29:52 Maintaining Passion in Woodworking 34:14 How to Reach Simon Silver for Projects The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Simon at: www.simonsilverdesigns.com https://www.instagram.com/simonsilverdesigns https://www.facebook.com/simonsilverdesigns/

    36 min
  5. Vadim Kovalev, Wood World Podcast

    JAN 15

    Vadim Kovalev, Wood World Podcast

    What does it take to bridge the gap between engineering precision and the living art of forestry? Vadim Kovalev, Wood World Industry Ambassador and founder of Koval Digital, shares how he traded blueprints for bark and became one of the forestry industry's most passionate storytellers. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Vadim to explore his unconventional journey from engineering to the heart of the wood industry. Vadim pulls back the curtain on the myths plaguing modern forestry, revealing why sustainable practices aren't just good ethics but smart business. He discusses how international markets are reshaping the industry landscape and why connecting with the public through authentic media and storytelling has become more critical than ever for woodworkers and forest professionals alike. From debunking misconceptions about sustainable forestry to sharing how his personal faith guides his approach to craftsmanship and environmental stewardship, Vadim offers a refreshing perspective on building a purpose-driven business in the wood industry. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the intersection of sustainability and commerce, this conversation delivers practical insights wrapped in compelling stories. Key Topics: Woodworking entrepreneurship, sustainable forestry practices, craftsmanship, business growth in the wood industry, storytelling for artisans, international timber markets, myth-busting forestry misconceptions, building community through media. Chapters: 00:02 Introduction and Vadim's Background 01:18 Sustainable Practices and Myth-Busting 03:03 Storytelling and Media Connection 08:56 International Markets and Personal Faith 17:06 Public Perception and Industry Trends The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Vadim at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kovalevvadim/ https://www.youtube.com/@woodworldwithvadim https://kovaldigital.com/

    41 min
  6. Allison DeFord, North American Forest Foundation

    JAN 8

    Allison DeFord, North American Forest Foundation

    Educating the next generation about forestry and sustainable wood practices is essential for the future of the industry, but misconceptions about trees and forest management continue to create barriers. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Allison DeFord, Executive Director of the North American Forest Foundation, to explore the foundation's mission to educate young people about responsible forestry and dispel common myths surrounding the industry. Allison shares her personal journey into forestry after years of involvement through her husband's career and how that experience shaped her passion for forest education and advocacy. You'll hear about the foundation's innovative educational programs, including K-5 teacher kits that help students understand the importance of trees and sustainable forest management, and an upcoming app designed to engage junior high students in forestry education. Allison discusses the ambitious goal of reaching one million students by 2030 through various educational initiatives, the critical role of community engagement in connecting students with forestry careers, and the diverse pathways into the industry beyond traditional degrees. This conversation explores important topics like biophilic design and the health benefits of wood, the need for a fundamental shift in how society perceives forestry and wood products, and the opportunities available for young people considering careers in the forest industry. Allison also encourages industry professionals to open their doors for field trips and educational experiences that can inspire the next generation of foresters, loggers, and wood industry leaders. Whether you're involved in forestry, interested in education and youth engagement, or passionate about promoting sustainable practices and the truth about responsible forest management, this episode offers valuable insights on how the industry can invest in its future by investing in education. Tune in to discover how the North American Forest Foundation is changing perceptions and building a pipeline of informed, engaged young people who understand the value of forests and the wood industry, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about the future of forestry and wood. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the North American Forest Foundation 05:07 Educating the Next Generation 10:31 Dispelling Myths About Forestry 21:29 The Importance of Real Wood 25:56 Engaging Students with Interactive Learning 31:36 Call to Action for Support The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sawmillsnearme/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Allison at: https://northamericanforestfoundation.org/ adeford@northamericanforestfoundation.org https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisondeford/

    29 min
  7. Six Strategies for Your Best Year Yet: Jennifer Alger on Business Growth, Goal Setting, and Building Systems

    JAN 1

    Six Strategies for Your Best Year Yet: Jennifer Alger on Business Growth, Goal Setting, and Building Systems

    The new year is the perfect time to reflect on what's working in your business and what needs to change if you want to see better results. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger shares her approach to planning for 2026, focusing on personal growth and implementing strategic changes that lead to real business transformation. Drawing from her experience with Alger Coaching and running her own wood business, Jennifer reveals six key strategies that have helped her business thrive and can do the same for yours. You'll hear practical advice on leveraging social media for visibility and relationship building, the essential role of networking in creating business opportunities, and why telling the backstory of your products adds value and creates deeper connections with customers. Jennifer discusses the importance of establishing a chain of custody to build trust and differentiate your business, effective inventory management techniques that can significantly improve profitability, and how coaching and mentorship can accelerate your growth by helping you avoid common pitfalls. This conversation emphasizes the power of setting measurable goals for the first quarter to create momentum and the importance of small, consistent actions that lead to significant changes over time. Jennifer encourages listeners to focus on building systems that support sustainable business growth rather than chasing quick fixes or overnight success. Whether you're looking to grow your wood business, improve your operations, or finally implement the changes you've been putting off, this episode offers a practical roadmap for starting the year with clarity and purpose. Jennifer's straightforward approach and real-world experience make these strategies accessible and actionable for woodworkers, sawmill operators, and lumber dealers at any stage of business. Tune in to discover how to set yourself up for the best year ever, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more actionable advice on building a successful wood business. Chapters: 00:00 New Year, New Goals 02:53 Harnessing the Power of Social Media 06:09 The Importance of Networking 09:04 Crafting a Compelling Backstory 11:51 Establishing Chain of Custody 14:44 Mastering Inventory Management 17:44 The Value of Coaching and Mentorship 20:44 Setting Up for Success in Q1 The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

    25 min
  8. Dallin Brooks, National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA)

    12/25/2025

    Dallin Brooks, National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA)

    Standardization in the hardwood industry isn't just about measurements and grades. It's the foundation that enables fair trade, quality control, and growth across the entire wood supply chain. In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Dallin Brooks, Executive Director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), to explore the history, role, and future of this essential industry organization. Dallin shares how the NHLA was founded to create standards that ensure quality and uniformity in wood products, and why those standards remain crucial for advocacy, quality control, and the success of hardwood businesses today. You'll hear about the significant challenges and opportunities facing the hardwood industry, including the impact of tariffs on domestic producers, the rise of urban wood as a mainstream complement to rural wood sourcing, and how thermal modification is expanding the outdoor applications of hardwoods. Dallin discusses the benefits of NHLA membership, from access to industry resources and education to networking opportunities and quality assurance programs. This conversation dives into the critical need for legislation that supports wood use and promotes sustainability, the importance of education and storytelling in advocating for the wood industry, and how telling the wood story can drive economic growth while highlighting environmental benefits. Whether you're a hardwood producer, lumber dealer, woodworker, or anyone involved in the supply chain, Dallin offers valuable insights on navigating industry challenges and positioning yourself for success. Tune in to discover how the NHLA is supporting the hardwood industry through standards, advocacy, and education, and learn how you can leverage these resources to grow your business. Don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about the future of the wood industry. Chapters: 00:02 Introduction and Guest Introduction 04:51 History and Role of NHLA 09:42 Standardization in the Hardwood Industry 16:29 Challenges and Opportunities 22:56 Urban Wood and Thermal Modification 30:09 Legislation and Advocacy 36:31 Conclusion The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger  For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io Connect with us at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/ Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork You can connect with Dallin at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dallinbrooks/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/1490362/ https://www.nhla.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nhla_official/ https://www.facebook.com/NHLAOfficial

    37 min
See All (487)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

We cover the business and marketing side of the woodworking, sawmill, tree service, furniture making, Urban Wood, and woodworking industry. If you're a woodworker, sawmill owner, or any other entrepreneur and/or business owner in the wood industry, you need to check out this podcast. Each week, we interview business owners, large-scale companies, entrepreneurs, makers, and designers while also offering marketing and business advice that will help you grow your business and increase your profits. Tune in every week! www.builldergrowth.io www.woodpreneurlife.com Join our free and private Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurlife

Information

  • Creator
    Acres of Timber
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    487
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2020 Hustle for Good Network
  • Show Website
    The Woodpreneur Podcast