The Woodpreneur Podcast Acres of Timber

In this episode, Steve LaRosiliere interviews Zach Shrum from Centurion Wood Coatings. Zach shares his journey into the wood coatings industry and how he transitioned from owning a painting business to working for Centurion. He discusses the company's focus on industrial wood coatings and their target market of professional cabinet makers and painters. Zach also talks about the importance of creating opportunities for others and the satisfaction of growing a business. He provides insights into Centurion's product line and their approach to finding and working with distributors. Lastly, he seeks advice on how to break past 10,000 followers on Instagram and improve their marketing efforts. In this conversation, Zach Shrum and Steve Larosiliere discuss the use of hashtags to build community and increase brand visibility. They explore the power of hashtags in reaching a targeted audience and share examples of how hashtags have helped businesses grow. They also discuss the importance of focusing on one's unique ability and delegating tasks to others. The conversation emphasizes the value of surrounding oneself with smart people and leveraging their expertise.


Takeaways


Zach Shrum's journey into the wood coatings industry started with owning a painting business and eventually led him to Centurion Wood Coatings.Centurion Wood Coatings focuses on industrial wood coatings for professional cabinet makers and painters.Creating opportunities for others and growing a business can be incredibly satisfying and fulfilling.Centurion Wood Coatings offers a range of products, including 2K water-based polyurethane and self-cross-linking acrylic.Finding and working with distributors is a combination of organic growth through customer referrals and targeted marketing efforts.To improve their Instagram marketing, Centurion Wood Coatings can create a branded hashtag, encourage user-generated content, and engage with their community through a private Facebook group. Hashtags are a powerful tool for building community and increasing brand visibility.By using relevant hashtags, businesses can reach a targeted audience and stand out among competitors.Tapping into local communities with hashtags can lead to new opportunities and connections.Focusing on one's unique ability and delegating tasks to others can increase productivity and success.Surrounding oneself with smart people and leveraging their expertise can lead to greater achievements.

Chapters


00:00Introduction to Centurion Wood Coatings


01:15Zach Shrum's Journey into the Industry


03:05Taking Over and Growing a Business


04:24Transition to Centurion Wood Coatings


06:47The Responsibility of Creating Opportunities for Others


11:46The Role of Director of Sales and Marketing


18:35Centurion Wood Coatings Product Line


22:55Finding and Working with Distributors


26:26Advice on Instagram Marketing


35:57Using Hashtags to Build Community


39:00The Power of Hashtags


40:20Tapping into Local Communities with Hashtags


44:45Focusing on Your Unique Ability


47:36Surrounding Yourself with Smart People


Join our Paid Community at WoodpreneurNetwork.com


Connect with Zach at: 


https://www.instagram.com/thebeardedfinisher/


www.thebeardedfinisher.com

In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, Steve Larosiliere interviews Brent from BYOT. Brent shares his journey of starting a YouTube channel focused on DIY home improvement and woodworking. He discusses how he transitioned from a full-time contractor to a content creator and the impact of COVID-19 on his business. Brent emphasizes the importance of audience-first content and the value of networking with other creators. He also shares insights on staying motivated, continuously learning, and finding success in the content creation industry. In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere speaks with Brent about time management and the importance of delegating tasks. They discuss the amount of time spent on various activities, such as emails and scheduling, and explore ways to streamline these processes. Brent expresses the need to prioritize self-care and physical well-being. Steve suggests hiring a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks and shares tips on finding the right person for the job. They highlight the benefits of outsourcing certain tasks and the potential for increased productivity and growth.






Takeaways


Transitioning from a full-time job to content creation requires dedication and perseverance.Listening to your audience and adapting your content to their needs is crucial for success.Building a supportive network of fellow creators can help combat the loneliness of entrepreneurship.Continuous learning and staying ahead of industry trends are essential for growth and success. Efficient time management and delegation of tasks can free up valuable time for other activities.Prioritizing self-care and physical well-being is essential for overall productivity and well-being.Hiring a virtual assistant can help streamline administrative tasks and allow for more focus on core responsibilities.Outsourcing low-wage tasks can save time and enable the pursuit of higher-value activities.





Chapters






00:00Introduction and Background






03:00Creating the BYOT Brand






06:54Navigating Challenges and Unexpected Success






10:45Finding the Right Audience






13:42Balancing Personal and Professional Life






18:34The Loneliness of Content Creation






23:08Motivation and Overcoming Challenges






28:59Staying Ahead and Continuous Learning






30:45Plans for the Future






37:09Advice on Hiring






41:21Managing Time and Tasks






43:04Taking Care of Yourself






45:11Delegating Tasks to Assistants






47:38Benefits of Hiring Assistants






48:50Maximizing Time and Productivity






Join our Paid Community at WoodpreneurNetwork.com


Connect with Brent at: 


https://byotools.me/


https://www.instagram.com/byotools/

Dagan Koffler, owner of Dagan Design Construction, shares his journey in the design and construction industry. He discusses how he got into the business, the challenges he faced, and the growth of his company. Dagan emphasizes the importance of building a strong team and creating a positive company culture. He also talks about the benefits of being a design-build firm and the value of social media in marketing his business. Overall, Dagan's story highlights the rewards and challenges of running a successful design and construction company. The conversation covers various strategies for showcasing and promoting design projects. It emphasizes the importance of creating articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio. The discussion also highlights the value of featuring customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content. Additionally, the conversation explores the idea of deepening storytelling and expanding into furniture design. However, challenges with client participation in terms of privacy concerns are acknowledged.


Takeaways


Building a strong team and creating a positive company culture are essential for business growth.Being a design-build firm can provide a competitive advantage and streamline the construction process.Social media is a valuable tool for marketing and connecting with potential clients.Continual learning and self-improvement are key to success in the design and construction industry. Create articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio.Feature customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content.Deepen storytelling by showcasing the people behind the projects.Consider expanding into furniture design to offer a broader range of services.

Chapters


00:00Introduction and Background


01:13Getting into Design and Construction


04:06Growing the Business and Hiring Staff


07:10Taking the Business Seriously and Making Investments


09:05Building a Team and Delegating Responsibilities


11:51Learning and Growing as a Leader


15:14Focus on Remodeling and Design-Build


17:12The Reward of Creating and Building


18:23Differentiating from Competitors


21:12Maximizing Social Media and Marketing


25:05Building a Strong Company Culture


26:59Expanding into Other Business Ventures


27:41Advice on Social Media and Marketing


33:12Creating Articles and Case Studies


33:57Featuring Customers in Videos and Social Media


35:25Deepening the Storytelling


36:23Expanding into Furniture Design


37:34Challenges with Client Participation


Connect with Steve:


BuilderGrowth.io


Instagram.com/thelarosiliere


Instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork


Join our Paid Community at WoodpreneurNetwork.com


Connect with Dagen at: 


dagandesignconstruction.com


https://www.instagram.com/dagandesign/

"I read a fair amount, like pretty much everybody. What I have is a great ability to see what other people are doing, to observe what people are working on, and to understand techniques or things that can work for us."






Miles Janes





Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Miles Janes from Vermont Heavy Timber. Miles grew up surrounded by the aroma of sawdust and the intricate beauty of woodwork, thanks to his father, a skilled cabinet maker and woodworker. Despite initially considering a career in kitchens.






Miles found his true passion in the realm of timber frame restoration. His journey began when he joined a timber frame restoration company in his hometown, Building Heritage, owned by his now good friend, La Lothrop. Little did he know, this would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of heavy timber.






Listen now and get the whole story!






“I love challenges. And so that's really exciting. And also, what's exciting is that we're finally like, we're doing well. It's been a grind for like, three years, I'd say, you know, we're always growing.”






Miles Janes





Lessons Carved in Wood






Reflecting on his decade-long journey in the business, Miles shares some invaluable lessons. One of the core principles guiding his business is a commitment to integrity and quality. Refusing to compromise on the type of work they undertake and the standard of craftsmanship they deliver has been key to their success. Additionally, Miles emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and seeking wisdom from those who have walked the path before.






Facing Challenges with Grit and Determination






While the road hasn't always been smooth, Miles navigated through uncertain times with resilience and determination. From tight financial spots to daunting projects, he faced each challenge head-on, always maintaining his commitment to excellence and integrity.






Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future






As Vermont Heavy Timber celebrates its 10th year, Miles is excited about the future. With a stellar crew and a solid reputation, the business is poised for growth. Miles envisions expanding into new territories, potentially transitioning into an ESOP model, and taking on even more challenging projects.






Crafting Success Through Storytelling






In the ever-evolving world of business, Miles understands the power of storytelling as a tool for growth. By documenting their projects, sharing their journey, and showcasing their expertise, Vermont Heavy Timber aims to solidify its position as a leader in the industry. From captivating website narratives to engaging social media content, Miles is determined to let their work speak for itself.






Want to get in touch with Miles Janes?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vtheavytimber/

“Once you get into that design kind of mind frame, it just stays with you 100% You become a magpie of, you know, choosing things, and storing things away for free. “






Dan Bullen





Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Dan Bullen from Iluka London. Dan's journey began with a desire for change, a longing to shift from the digital realm to the tactile world of creating physical products. As a graphic designer and with his wife, Sarah, an interior designer, they embarked on a quest to blend their talents with their passion for woodworking.






Iluka derives its name from an Australian Aboriginal word meaning "by the sea," paying homage to Dan's roots and his connection to a little fishing village near his hometown on the east coast of Australia. The company specializes in crafting exquisite pieces predominantly from wood, complemented by acrylic, resin, and metals. Their signature creations include table lamps, furniture, lighting, and accessories, with a spotlight on the coveted river tables.






Listen now and get the whole story!






“I've always had this flattening jig, right for flattening, which is a manual that runs off extruded aluminum, but you manually push it back and forth, right, and it's just mind numbingly repetitive. And I thought, you know, it's all set up to roll smoothly. “


Dan Bullen





Embracing Innovation:


What sets Iluka apart is its commitment to innovation. Dan's journey took a new turn when he ventured into the realm of tool design. What started as a personal endeavor to enhance his woodworking experience evolved into Iluka Tools—a venture aimed at revolutionizing woodworking processes. From automated sanding to CNC-inspired solutions, Iluka Tools embodies efficiency and craftsmanship.






Building a Brand:


Dan's background in graphic design instilled in him a keen eye for branding and aesthetics. With Iluka, he has crafted not just products but a brand synonymous with creativity and quality. By understanding his audience intimately and fostering a vibrant community, Dan has laid the foundation for sustainable growth.






Future Directions:


As Iluka Tools gains traction, Dan faces the exciting challenge of scaling the venture. Balancing affordability with innovation, he aims to democratize access to advanced woodworking tools. From affiliate-driven guides to turnkey solutions, Dan explores various avenues to expand the reach of Iluka Tools while staying true to its ethos.






Conclusion:


In the world of woodworking, Iluka London and Iluka Tools stand as beacons of innovation and craftsmanship. Dan Bullen Webb's journey exemplifies the power of passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether it's crafting stunning furniture or designing cutting-edge tools, Iluka continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in woodworking. Visit Iluka London and Iluka Tools online to experience the intersection of artistry and innovation firsthand.






Want to get in touch with Dan Bullen?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilukalondon/


Website: https://www.ilukalondon.com/

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Cam Anderson from Blacktail Studio. Cam reflects on the changes and challenges he faced over the past few years, especially during the global pandemic. He made the daring decision to quit his full-time job as a life flight pilot to pursue woodworking and content creation. Cam shares the challenges and uncertainties he faced during this transition, especially considering his wife's business and the state of the world at the time.


Despite the initial uncertainty, Cam's decision paid off as he witnessed a significant surge in his YouTube channel's popularity during the pandemic. With dedication and hard work, Cam managed to replace his income and even surpass it through his woodworking projects and YouTube content.


Listen now and get the whole story!


“I need to find this voice because I want to be like this person. And for me, this is the only one I know how to do. You know, if you had me in charge of a TV show, and I had to create a character? I couldn't do it. Because it would just be the one.” -Cam Anderson


The Creative Process:


Cam delves into his creative process, highlighting his approach to finding inspiration for his woodworking projects and YouTube videos. He emphasizes the importance of staying open to new ideas and leveraging various sources for inspiration, such as social media platforms like TikTok.


Branding and Authenticity:


Cam discusses his branding strategy, which revolves around simplicity and authenticity. He shares insights into his snarky humor and how it resonates with his audience, leading to increased engagement and brand loyalty.


Expanding Horizons:


Apart from YouTube, Cam has ventured into other entrepreneurial endeavors, such as launching Maker Book—a directory of woodworking spaces—and creating his own product line, including the successful Three Nana ceramic finish.


Lessons Learned and Future Plans:


As Cam reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of focus, commitment, and embracing change. He discusses his future plans, including further expanding his YouTube channel, growing his product line, and staying relevant in the ever-evolving world of content creation.


Conclusion:


Cam's story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and resilience. From quitting his job to pursue his dreams to building a successful brand and product line, Cam's journey inspires aspiring creators and entrepreneurs to follow their passions and carve their own path to success.


“It's about getting their name and their brand out there and getting their unique perspective out there, like that's what a woodpreneur to me is like, because woodpreneurs do things that not a lot of people can do.” 


-Steve Larosiliere






Want to get in touch with Cam Anderson?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacktailstudio/