In episode 23, guest host Randy Niewind, president of Randy’s Cabinets and Woodworks and the Cabinet Makers Association, sits down with AJ Durkton, co-founder of Live Oak Fine Cabinetry & Millwork in San Rafael, CA. AJ shares the story behind starting the company, its growth through a partnership with Julian Gaul who formerly owned Halocline Studio, and how that collaboration has boosted both capacity and efficiency. The discussion dives into operations, from outsourcing and project management to going paperless after being inspired by another shop. AJ also spotlights a large-scale project that pushed their systems to the limit, reflects on the value of CMA membership and industry events, and gives a preview of exciting new business expansions on the horizon.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In Episode 22, guest host Amy Thrasher-Price, owner of D&H Quality Cabinets and CMA board member, talks with Connor Allen, manager of software and process at Boxwood Cabinetry in Oklahoma City. Connor shares the story of his family’s business, founded by his father in 1993, and how multiple family members play a role in its success. He dives into Boxwood’s unique operations, and how automation, bots, and data analytics are transforming their workflow. From his career shift in software development to leading process innovation at Boxwood, Connor reflects on balancing tradition with tech and the value of CMA membership in shaping the future of cabinetry.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 21, guest host Randy Niewind, president of Randy's Cabinets and Woodworks and president of the Cabinet Makers Association. He chats with Bobby Miller, a dedicated woodshop teacher from Coon Rapids High School in Minnesota. Bobby shares how his program goes beyond the basics, guiding students from beginner projects to advanced builds like entertainment centers and instruments. They dive into the power of hands-on learning, real-world industry exposure through events and tours, and how today’s students value workplace culture just as much as pay. Bobby also discusses how he brings tech, business, and networking into the shop to help students find purpose.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 20, Gregory Paolini, founder of Gregory Paolini Design and secretary of the Cabinet Makers Association (CMA), takes over as host to chat with fellow board member Jason Norvell, owner of Norvell Inc. in Slidell, Louisiana. Jason shares the journey of his family-owned shop, founded in 1978, and how implementing a CNC router transformed efficiency. They discuss the value of CMA membership, best practices for employee management, navigating market challenges, and the role of SOPs in ensuring consistency. Whether you're a seasoned CMA member or exploring the organization, this episode is packed with insights to enhance cabinet shop operations and business growth.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 19, we give the hosting reins to Terry Steffey, owner of Dibbleville Woodworks in Fenton, MI, and board member of the Cabinet Makers Association. He chats with fellow board member Amy Thrasher-Price,  owner of D&H Quality Cabinets in Lindale, Texas.  Amy shares her inspiring journey in the woodworking industry, including taking over her family's cabinet business in 2018. Since then, the company has grown significantly, now operating across two buildings with a combined 16,500 square feet and a team of 24 employees. Amy opens up about the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field, the value of mastering every aspect of the business, and her insights as a new board member of the Cabinet Makers Association.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 18, we give the hosting reins to Randy Niewind, president of Randy's Cabinets and Woodworks and board member of the Cabinet Makers Association. He chats with Samuel Oprea, CEO of the Kitchen & Bath Design Group in Atlanta, GA. Samuel shares his inspiring journey, from his family's move from Romania to the U.S. to launching a small cabinet shop in 1996 that grew to 80,000 square feet before the 2008 recession. He discusses the critical role of automation and robotic systems, the impact of having a showroom for client education, and the advantages of outsourcing wood doors. Samuel also highlights the value of industry collaboration and education through the Cabinet Makers Association.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In this episode, Ken Kumph, founder and president of Premier Builders in Georgetown, MA, takes over hosting duties. He chats with Matthew Schroeder, wealth advisor and director of financial planning at Great Point Wealth Advisors. Together, they dive into the intricacies of succession planning, offering valuable advice for younger professionals and aspiring entrepreneurs. From establishing standard operating procedures to gaining a comprehensive understanding of business financials, they share practical strategies to enhance business performance and ensure long-term success. Tune in to gain expert insights on valuating your business and implementing effective business practices in today's dynamic market landscape.

In the season 2 premiere, James Fox, owner and president of Fox Woodworking at Darkhorse Woodworks in Phoenixville, PA, takes the hosting helm. He engages in a lively discussion with Jenny Rhead, Project and Marketing Manager at Designs of Distinction by Brownwood Incorporated in Chicago. Together, they delve into the recent success of the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) held in Las Vegas, exploring its appeal to the woodworking industry, uncovering the latest trends in kitchen and bath design, and pondering the future of KBIS.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

In episode 15, we give the hosting reins to Chris Dehmer, owner of Darkhorse Woodworks in Atlanta and past president of the Cabinet Makers Association. He chats with Mike Carson, owner of Inspired Closets Chicago. The two talk about the closet market, including the differences between closets and cabinets, project turnaround times, design elements, how to get started, standards, and a preview of the upcoming Closets Conference & Expo in Chicago.

PRO Cabinet Maker is produced by Association Briefings.

Show notes

For more information about the Closets Conference & Expo, visit closets.org.

In episode 14, we give the hosting reins to Lois Snyder, founder, designer and leader of Periwinklers, and board member of the Cabinet Makers Association. She chats with Marc Sanderson, president of Wilkie Sanderson, one of the most profitable millwork companies in the U.S. The two talk about the current workforce issues and strategically thinking about recruitment and retention, creating an employee value proposition, and differentiating yourself from your competition. Sanderson also provides an 8-point problem solving rubric and explains how to apply that rubric to millennials in the workforce.