In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Travis DeVine, a custom woodworker based in New York City. Travis shares his journey from California to New York, detailing his diverse background in art, carpentry, and the film industry. He discusses the challenges of starting a business in a competitive market, the role of gratitude in his personal and professional life, and his vision for the future of Divine Woodworking. The conversation also explores social media strategies for business growth and the importance of personal branding in the woodworking industry.

Takeaways

• Travis founded Divine Woodworking during the pandemic, specializing in custom built-ins.
• Building client relationships and maintaining gratitude are core to his success.
• Social media is a key tool for showcasing work and attracting new clients.
• Travis is booked nearly a year in advance and aims to grow his team.
• New York City’s woodworking scene presents unique challenges, like limited space.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Travis DeVine and His Journey

05:03 The Evolution of Divine Woodworking

10:04 Challenges and Triumphs in New York City

14:59 Vision for the Future and Business Growth

19:54 Social Media Strategy and Personal Branding

25:00 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Rick and Jacob from Dendro Technology, exploring their journey from a successful architectural woodworking business to a new venture focused on live edge slabs and sustainable practices. They discuss the origins of their business, the current operations, and their goals for sustainability and community engagement. The conversation also delves into marketing strategies and the importance of storytelling in promoting their work.

takeaways

• Rick started as a hippie carpenter and evolved into a successful business owner.
• Dendro Technology was born out of a shared passion for woodworking between Rick and Jacob.
• The business model includes custom milling, drying services, and furniture commissions.
• Sustainability is a core value, with efforts to be carbon neutral.
• Rick aims to pass the business to Jacob, focusing on mentorship and legacy.
• Marketing is primarily through word of mouth, with potential for improvement.
• The shop environment is dynamic, with always something to do.
• Rick's previous success was built on being indispensable in the local market.
• Storytelling is a key strategy for engaging customers and promoting the business.
• Building a community of woodworkers can enhance business growth.

Sound Bites

• "We discovered that we had a business"
• "I just didn't have the fire in my belly anymore"
• "We could do a better job at marketing"
• "My goal is to help my son build something"
• "I wanted to make it something carbon neutral"
• "There's always something to do in the shop"
• "You should be the documentary"

Chapters

00:00The Origin Story of Dendro Technology

10:01Business Model and Operations

20:09Sustainability and Future Goals

30:01Marketing Strategies and Community Building

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Rick & Jacob at:

https://www.instagram.com/p/DBhwauJMXIN/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Eric Capolino, a general contractor from Structure NYC. Eric shares his journey in the construction industry, detailing the evolution of his business, the challenges of operating in New York City, and the importance of building strong client relationships. He discusses the significance of quality assurance, the role of technology in modern construction, and the value of maintaining a dedicated team culture. Eric also touches on his marketing strategies, particularly the impact of social media, and concludes with insights on personal growth and future aspirations.

Takeaways:

• Eric Capolino's journey in construction began with his father's influence.
• Structure NYC evolved to specialize in high-end construction and millwork.
• Navigating New York City's construction complexities requires a strong team culture.
• Quality assurance is driven by education, communication, and technology.
• Social media plays a growing role in visibility and marketing.

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Structure NYC
• 02:25 – The Evolution of Services and Products
• 05:10 – Leadership and Navigating Challenges
• 09:00 – Building a Strong Team and Culture
• 12:15 – Ensuring Quality and Communication
• 15:56 – The Role of Technology in Construction
• 18:33 – Work Ethic and Personal Growth
• 21:31 – Maintaining Client Relationships
• 24:07 – The Importance of Availability
• 26:45 – Social Media and Marketing Strategies
• 30:11 – Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Eric at:

https://www.instagram.com/structurenyc/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-capolino/

https://www.structure-nyc.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaKt1R6AUgto0yx4X-h8rX1hjKjQPwwLYXLsioWID4Imxv38qlXb23Shtw_aem_nBaaUGM7GYRqpKocH7qxXg

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews George Peña, who shares his journey as an urban logger and woodworker. George explains how his passions for woodworking and falconry intersect, offering a unique perspective on craftsmanship. He discusses the complexities of running a sawmill, the challenges of marketing his business, and his goals for future growth. George highlights the value of collaboration with other trades, old-world techniques, and the philosophy of pursuing work that you love.

Key Takeaways

• George has been in the urban logging business for seven years, primarily milling redwood for outdoor structures.
• His interest in woodworking began with creating equipment for falconry, which he also practices professionally.
• He operates a portable sawmill and is searching for a permanent location to expand his operations.
• Marketing remains a significant challenge, though his business thrives on word-of-mouth and local referrals.
• George emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community, and the philosophy of loving your work.

Chapters

00:00 - The Journey of an Urban Logger

02:52 - Milling and Woodworking: A Craftsmanship Perspective

06:04 - Falconry: A Unique Profession

09:08 - The Business of Sawmilling

11:56 - Marketing Challenges and Strategies

14:58 - Future Aspirations and Growth

17:57 - Collaboration and Community in Craftsmanship

20:51 - The Philosophy of Work and Passion

FULL PODCAST FOLDER: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1X2dyqIdD1ls0nDLQU1u33NuwFis8Bhw-?usp=drive_link

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with George at:

https://www.instagram.com/oldlakemillandlumber/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Brad and Hannah from Rise Up Label, a company dedicated to providing innovative labelling solutions for the woodworking industry. They discuss the challenges of residue left by standard labels, the importance of quality equipment, and their marketing strategies to reach potential clients. The conversation also explores the ideal client profile, operational challenges faced by cabinet makers, and future growth strategies for Rise Up Label.

Takeaways

• Rise Up Label addresses the residue problem in woodworking labels with innovative solutions.
• Their marketing has shifted from traditional methods to leveraging social media and online sales.
• Ideal clients range from small woodworking shops to large cabinet manufacturers.
• Future growth involves expanding offerings, building a community, and fostering partnerships.
• Labels, though small, are a vital component of the manufacturing process.

Chapters

00:00 – Introduction to Rise Up Label

02:11 – Solving the Residue Problem

06:11 – Marketing the Solution

09:41 – Growth and Operations

12:10 – Understanding the Ideal Client

13:46 – Operational Challenges in Cabinet Making

16:14 – Investing in Quality Equipment

18:33 – Expanding Beyond Labels

22:19 – Future Growth Strategies

23:22 – Advice for Online Presence

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Brad & Hannah at:

https://www.instagram.com/riseupenterprise/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Dan Sullivan, the founder of Navillus Woodworks. Dan shares his journey from starting a remodelling business to transitioning into custom fabrication and woodworking. He discusses the importance of building a strong team, the challenges of marketing in a competitive landscape, and the artistry involved in creating custom furniture. The conversation also covers daily operations, management strategies, and navigating the furniture market, offering valuable insights for aspiring woodworkers and business owners.

Takeaways

Navillus Woodworks focuses on custom fabrication and millwork, blending artistic influences with practical design.

Building a trusted team and securing strong client relationships have been key to Dan Sullivan's success.

Effective marketing and compelling designs help Navillus stand out in a competitive furniture market.

Organic growth and collaboration with artists enhance both project quality and business reach.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Navillus Woodworks

01:49 The Journey of Dan Sullivan

05:49 Transitioning to Custom Fabrication

09:46 Building a Team and Infrastructure

14:13 Artistry in Woodworking

18:11 Marketing Strategies and Challenges

21:59 Daily Operations and Management

25:49 Navigating the Furniture Market

30:01 Future Directions and Opportunities

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Dan at:

https://www.instagram.com/navillus_woodworks/?hl=en

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Garrett Magnuson from Raw Heartwood, a log-to-table woodworking company. Garrett shares his journey into woodworking, the challenges he faced in the early years of his business, and how he found his passion for creating beautiful wood products. The conversation explores the daily operations of Raw Heartwood, the importance of mentorship, and the lessons Garrett has learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey. They also discuss marketing strategies, community engagement, and future growth opportunities for the business.

Takeaways:

• Raw Heartwood processes wood from logs to finished pieces.
• Garrett transitioned to woodworking after working as a park foreman.
• Woodworking is challenging but fulfilling.
• Garrett’s passion lies in transforming raw wood into art.
• He enjoys every part of the business, from milling to epoxy tables.
• COVID-19 created early business challenges.
• Community engagement is key to Raw Heartwood’s success.
• Mentorship has been crucial to Garrett’s growth.
• Marketing should focus on local outreach and community ties.
• Key lessons include problem-solving and adaptability.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Raw Heartwood
• 03:02 The Journey into Woodworking
• 06:00 Finding Passion in Woodworking
• 09:01 The Growth of Raw Heartwood
• 12:13 Daily Operations and Community Engagement
• 14:56 Mentorship and Learning
• 18:01 Marketing Strategies and Community Building
• 21:03 Lessons Learned in Business
• 23:58 Future Growth and Scaling Opportunities

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Garrett at:

https://www.instagram.com/raw_heartwood/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere interviews Cody Powers from Cap Artistry, who shares his inspiring journey from working in a hospital to becoming a successful furniture maker. Cody discusses his challenges, the importance of networking, and the breakthroughs that have driven his business growth. He emphasizes the value of community support and the mindset shifts that have propelled him forward. Cody also outlines his future goals and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make their mark in the woodworking industry.

Takeaways:

• Cody transitioned from a hospital job to woodworking, finding initial success on Etsy.
• Networking and community support were crucial to his growth.
• Embracing vulnerability and self-belief helped drive his business forward.
• Cody aims to establish a recognized American-made, tree-to-table furniture brand.

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction to Cody Powers and His Journey
• 02:39 - Overcoming Challenges and Building Confidence
• 06:05 - The Impact of Networking and Community Support
• 09:54 - Significant Breakthroughs in Business
• 14:40 - Future Goals and Aspirations
• 17:59 - Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Cody at:

https://www.instagram.com/capsartistry/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere speaks with Austin Waldo about the Texas Woodworking Festival, its origins, growth, and the vibrant community it fosters. Austin shares insights into what attendees can expect, the festival’s target audience, and the importance of community in woodworking. He discusses new features for the festival, including digital ticketing and educational sessions, as well as trends in the woodworking industry, particularly the integration of technology. The conversation concludes with details about the upcoming event and an invitation for woodworking enthusiasts to connect and participate.

Takeaways:

• The Texas Woodworking Festival started as a community event.
• Austin runs a woodworking club and a school.
• The festival has doubled in attendance each year.
• Expect hands-on experiences and tool demonstrations.
• The festival caters to hobbyists and small professionals.
• Community building is a key focus of the festival.
• New digital features will enhance accessibility.
• Technology is increasingly integrated into woodworking.
• Future plans include more classes and events.
• The festival aims to be a reunion for woodworking friends.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Texas Woodworking Festival

02:44 Festival Growth and Community Impact

05:11 What to Expect at the Festival

06:55 Target Audience and Community Building

08:06 Personal Insights and Experiences

09:10 New Features and Digital Expansion

10:54 Trends in Woodworking and Technology

12:11 Future Aspirations for the Festival

14:01 Event Details and Closing Remarks

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Austin at:

https://www.instagram.com/texaswoodworkingfestival/

In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Janice, also known as The Knotty Contessa, about her journey from broadcasting to woodworking and how it has positively impacted her mental health. What began as a hobby during the COVID-19 pandemic quickly evolved into a thriving business. Janice now runs a storefront and workshop, where she creates custom wood products and offers on-site engraving services.

One of the key factors in her business growth has been word of mouth, but Janice is also eager to expand her digital marketing efforts. Her top-selling products include cribbage boards, charcuterie boards, welcome signs, and engraved Yeti cups. She also shares the lessons she’s learned as an entrepreneur—most notably, the importance of staying open to change and growth.

Janice discusses her decision to use CanCam equipment in her shop and the learning curve that came with it. She’s also added laser engraving to her services, which has opened new business opportunities, especially with corporate clients.

In the latter part of the episode, the conversation shifts to marketing strategies for reaching more corporate customers. Steve suggests creating corporate branding packages and targeting industries like mortgage and healthcare. He also recommends networking through the Chamber of Commerce and offering special deals to local businesses to build relationships and drive sales.

Key Takeaways:

• Woodworking can have a calming and fulfilling effect on mental health.
• Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool for small businesses.
• Being flexible and open to change is crucial for entrepreneurial success.
• Offering custom products and on-site engraving can set a woodworking business apart.
• Expanding digital marketing can help attract a broader audience.
• Choosing the right equipment, like CanCam and Aeon lasers, can enhance productivity and service offerings.
• Adding laser engraving can create new business opportunities, especially with corporate clients.
• Creating corporate branding packages and targeting specific industries can help reach more corporate customers.
• Joining the Chamber of Commerce provides valuable networking opportunities and access to potential clients.
• Offering special deals to local businesses can generate interest and foster business relationships.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Background

00:50 - Woodworking as a Calming Hobby

02:55 - The Success of the "Welcome to Our Home" Sign

05:02 - Opening a Storefront and Workshop

09:47 - Word of Mouth Marketing and On-Site Engraving

19:39 - Top Sellers and Future Plans

22:09 - Choosing the Right Equipment

23:01 - Expanding Services with a Laser

30:22 - Reaching Corporate Customers

36:06 - Networking with the Chamber of Commerce

38:06 - Attracting Local Businesses

Get a FREE Trial to our Woodpreneur Network Community and get the skills, network, and mentoring to level up your business join here: https://woodpreneurnetwork.com/

Connect with Janice at:

https://www.instagram.com/theknottycontessa_/