The Woodpreneur Podcast
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
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Ken Breon, Lumber Capital Log Yard
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Jennifer Alger interviews Ken Breon from Lumber Capital Log Yard. </p> <p>They discuss the journey of transforming a small family-run sawmill into a successful business, the dynamics of working as a family, the importance of technology and diversification in the lumber industry, and the impact of COVID-19 on their operations. </p> <p>Ken shares insights on future growth strategies, the evolution of their YouTube channel, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.</p> <p><b>Key Takeaways</b></p> Family dynamics play a crucial role in business success, requiring clear communication an...
Julie Stelman, AncesTREE
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Jennifer Alger interviews Julie Stelman, co-founder of AncesTREE, discussing her journey from a background in forestry and education to creating an innovative inventory management system for the wood industry. </p> <p>They explore the challenges faced in building AncesTREE, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the revolutionary marketplace that allows multiple sawmills to sell their products efficiently. </p> <p>Julie shares insights on overcoming personal and professional obstacles, the significance of the name AncesTREE, and offers advice for sawmill companies hesitant to adopt new technologies.</p> <p><b>Takeaways</b></p> Ju...
Jennifer & Steve, Woodpreneur Podcast
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Jennifer Alger and Steve Larosiliere discuss the transition of hosting duties, new ventures in the wood industry, and collaborative efforts to build a sustainable lumber ecosystem in Northern California. </p> <p>They explore the challenges and solutions in creating a cooperative network that benefits both sawyers and designers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition. </p> <p>The conversation highlights the potential for a regional lumber brand and the excitement surrounding their new project.</p> <p><b>Takeaways</b></p> The collaboration aims to create a regional lumber ecosystem in Northern California...
Zachary Wicks, Wood by Wicks
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Zachary Wicks of Wood by Wicks to explore his journey from salvaging cedar trees to becoming a full-time wood entrepreneur. </p> <p>Discover how Zachary transitioned from remodeling homes to owning his own sawmill, and learn about his unique approach to sustainable forestry and custom milling. </p> <p>Zachary shares insights into the challenges and rewards of the wood industry, emphasizing the importance of selective harvesting and the value of trees. </p> <p>Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the future of...
Clarke Stevenson, The Watershed Research and Training Center
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, we delve into the inspiring work of The Watershed Research and Training Center, a beacon of community development and environmental stewardship. </p> <p>Discover how this organization empowers local communities through innovative training programs and sustainable practices. From restoring natural habitats to fostering economic resilience, The Watershed Research and Training Center is at the forefront of creating a harmonious balance between people and nature. </p> <p>Join us as we explore their impactful initiatives and the stories of transformation that are shaping a sustainable future, featuring insights from Clarke Stevenson.</p> <p><...
Rick Siewert, Wood From the Hood
<p>In this episode, host Jennifer Alger explores urban wood utilization with Rick Siewert from Wood From the Hood. Rick shares how his business started from a simple dare and grew into a successful enterprise focused on sustainability and innovation in woodworking. </p> <p>The conversation covers industry challenges, the importance of standards and certification, networking within the urban wood community, and exciting future developments in the field.</p> <p><b>Key Takeaways:</b></p> Urban wood utilization offers significant environmental benefits by repurposing trees that would otherwise become wasteBuilding standards and certification systems are essential for establishing credibility in...
Kelly and Caleb Geer, Urban Tree Merchants
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger speaks with Caleb and Kelly Geer of Urban Tree Merchants about their journey in the urban wood industry. </p> <p>They discuss their passion for utilizing local trees, the challenges of running a woodworking business, and the importance of community partnerships. </p> <p>The conversation highlights innovative projects, marketing strategies, and the significance of sustainability in woodworking. The Geers share insights on their experiences, the value of collaboration, and their vision for the future of urban wood utilization.</p> <p><b>Top 5 Takeaways</b></p> Urban Tree Merchants started...
Todd Walker, NWH
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger speaks with Todd Walker, the director of marketing at NWH, who has been with the company for 38 years. </p> <p>They discuss the evolution of the wood industry, particularly the commercialization of alder, changes in marketing strategies over the decades, and the importance of storytelling in connecting with consumers. </p> <p>Todd shares insights on the challenges facing the wood industry, the value of quality products, and the role of women in the industry. The conversation emphasizes the need for education and communication to shift consumer perceptions and promote...
Matthew Arnold, KJP Select Hardwoods
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Matthew Arnold from KJP Select Hardwoods. They discuss Matthew's journey in the lumber industry, the evolution of e-commerce in woodworking, and the challenges of shipping and regulations. </p> <p>Matthew shares insights on customer education, custom orders, and trends in the woodworking industry, including the shift away from live edge designs. The conversation also touches on the importance of marketing strategies and the unique stories that shape their business.</p> <p><b>Top 5 Takeaways</b></p> Matthew Arnold is third generation in the lumber industry at KJP Select H...
Kevin Scheimreif, Steel and Grain
<p>In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Kevin Scheimreif, the owner of Steel and Grain. Kevin shares his journey from woodworking as a child to establishing his own custom furniture business.</p> <p>He discusses the challenges he faced in pricing, sourcing materials, and navigating the woodworking industry. Kevin emphasizes the importance of creativity in his work, particularly in combining wood and steel, and shares insights on marketing strategies and customer engagement. </p> <p>The conversation also touches on current design trends in woodworking and the future of his business.</p> <p><b>Key Takeaways<...
