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