In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Jennifer Alger interviews Ken Breon from Lumber Capital Log Yard. 

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. 

Ken shares insights on future growth strategies, the evolution of their YouTube channel, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Key Takeaways

• Family dynamics play a crucial role in business success, requiring clear communication and defined roles.
• Investing in modern technology has significantly improved operational efficiency and safety.
• Diversification of products helps offset costs and creates additional revenue streams beyond traditional lumber.
• COVID-19 presented both challenges and unexpected growth opportunities for the business.
• Building an authentic YouTube presence requires genuine knowledge and passion for your industry.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Lumber Capital Log Yard

02:02 The Family Business Dynamics

05:32 Evolution of the Sawmill Business

12:20 Diversification and Revenue Streams

18:37 Investing in Technology and Equipment

24:27 Community and Support in the Industry

25:17 Family Legacy in the Lumber Business

28:06 Enhancing Safety and Efficiency with Technology

30:18 Future Growth and Value Addition Strategies

33:45 The Unexpected Journey of a YouTube Channel

44:53 Passion as the Driving Force in Business

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Ken at:

https://www.lumbercapital.com/

https://www.facebook.com/IronwoodAcresTimberHarvest/

https://www.instagram.com/lumbercapitallogyard/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3LT-e7q8bRr4bf2OUrglDw

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. 

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. 

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.

Takeaways

• Julie transitioned from wildlife technician to co-founding AncesTREE
• AncesTREE simplifies inventory management for sawmills
• Understanding customer needs was crucial in system development
• The marketplace allows multiple vendors to sell wood efficiently
• Embracing technology can transform sawmill operations

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Julie Stelman and Her Journey 

02:57 From Chaos to Opportunity: The Birth of AncesTREE 

05:59 Building the Inventory Management System 

08:51 Understanding Customer Needs and System Automation 

11:52 The Story Behind the Name: AncesTREE 

14:41 Overcoming Challenges in Building AncesTREE 

17:59 The Marketplace: Revolutionizing Wood Sales 

20:36 Advice for Sawmill Companies: Embracing Change

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Julie at:

AncesTREE.io

[email protected]

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-stelman-b99740162/

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.

They explore the challenges and solutions in creating a cooperative network that benefits both sawyers and designers, emphasizing the importance of collaboration over competition.

The conversation highlights the potential for a regional lumber brand and the excitement surrounding their new project.

Takeaways

• The collaboration aims to create a regional lumber ecosystem in Northern California.
• They are leveraging technology to build a community of buyers and sellers.
• The project is supported by grant funds from the Watershed Research and Training Center.
• The focus is on creating a sustainable network for urban lumber.
• The initiative promotes collaboration over competition among small businesses.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Transition of Podcast Hosting

02:34 Collaboration and New Ventures in Urban Wood

05:26 Building a Regional Lumber Ecosystem

10:53 Challenges and Solutions in the Lumber Industry

17:54 Vision for a Sustainable Future

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

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.

Discover how Zachary transitioned from remodeling homes to owning his own sawmill, and learn about his unique approach to sustainable forestry and custom milling.

Zachary shares insights into the challenges and rewards of the wood industry, emphasizing the importance of selective harvesting and the value of trees.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and the future of sustainable wood practices.

Key Takeaways:

1. Zachary Wicks transitioned from remodeling homes to full-time wood entrepreneurship, driven by his passion for milling and sustainable forestry.
2. He emphasizes the importance of selective harvesting, focusing on trees that are at the end of their life cycle or are degraded, to ensure sustainable practices.
3. Zachary's business model involves custom milling and selling dry wood, with a focus on maintaining low overhead costs and maximizing the use of each tree.
4. He highlights the challenges of the wood industry, including the need for proper equipment and the impact of external factors like weather on wood drying processes.
5. Zachary advocates for replanting trees and educating others about sustainable forestry to ensure the long-term health of forests and the wood industry.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Zach Wicks and Wick Woods

03:00 From Remodeling to Woodworking

06:00 The Decision to Buy a Sawmill 

09:00 Sustainable Forestry and Selective Harvesting 

12:00 Custom Milling and Business Model 

15:00 Challenges in the Wood Industry 

18:00 Advocacy for Replanting and Future Vision 

21:00 Personal Insights and Family Balance 

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Zachary at:

https://www.instagram.com/woodbywicks/

https://www.facebook.com/woodbywicks/?ref=_xav_ig_profile_page_web#

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.

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.

Join us as we explore their impactful initiatives and the stories of transformation that are shaping a sustainable future, featuring insights from Clarke Stevenson.

Key Takeaways:

• The Watershed Research and Training Center plays a crucial role in balancing community needs with environmental conservation
• Innovative training programs are central to empowering local communities
• Sustainable practices are essential for long-term ecological and economic resilience
• Collaboration and community involvement are key to successful environmental stewardship

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to The Watershed Research and Training Center 

02:15 Community Development Initiatives 

07:30 Environmental Stewardship Programs 

12:45 Success Stories 

18:00 Future Goals and Challenges - Understand the center's future plans and the challenges they face

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Clarke at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarke-stevenson-13046854/

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.

The conversation covers industry challenges, the importance of standards and certification, networking within the urban wood community, and exciting future developments in the field.

Key Takeaways:

• Urban wood utilization offers significant environmental benefits by repurposing trees that would otherwise become waste
• Building standards and certification systems are essential for establishing credibility in emerging industries
• Collaboration and networking are crucial for overcoming challenges in niche markets
• Sustainable business models can emerge from unconventional beginnings and creative problem-solving
• The urban wood industry has promising growth potential with exciting developments on the horizon

Chapters: 

00:00 Introduction to Urban Wood Utilization 

02:15 The Birth of Wood From the Hood 

08:45 Challenges in the Urban Wood Industry 

15:30 The Importance of Standards and Certification 

22:10 Networking and Collaboration 

30:00 Future of Urban Wood

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Rick at:

https://woodfromthehood.com/

https://www.instagram.com/woodfromthehoodmpls/

https://www.facebook.com/WoodFromtheHood/

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.

They discuss their passion for utilizing local trees, the challenges of running a woodworking business, and the importance of community partnerships.

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.

Top 5 Takeaways

• Urban Tree Merchants started from a passion for recycling wood
• The importance of community partnerships in utilizing local resources
• Innovative projects can showcase the value of urban wood
• Marketing strategies rely heavily on word of mouth and presence
• Sustainability is a key focus in the woodworking industry

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Urban Tree Merchants 

01:36 The Journey of Urban Tree Merchants 

04:25 Daily Operations and Partnerships 

07:38 Collaboration with the City of Arlington 

10:05 Exciting Projects and Innovations 

12:50 Documenting the Process 

17:10 Challenges and Growth in Business 

18:49 Overcoming Business Challenges 

21:30 Passion for Urban Wood 

23:28 Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses 

24:44 Unique Selling Points of Local Wood 

27:51 Leveraging Internships and Partnerships 

30:30 Navigating Growth and Raw Material Supply 

37:09 Collaborative Approaches to Large Projects

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Caleb and Kelly:

https://urbantreemerchants.com/about-us/

https://www.instagram.com/UrbanTreeMerchants

https://www.facebook.com/urbantreemerchants/

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.

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.

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 sustainable practices in the wood business.

Top 5 Takeaways:

• Todd Walker has been with NWH for 38 years and helped pioneer the commercialization of alder wood
• Marketing has evolved significantly with the advent of the internet and social media
• Storytelling is crucial for connecting with consumers about wood products and their benefits
• The wood industry faces challenges from substitute products and needs better education to change consumer perceptions
• Quality wood products can be more sustainable than cheaper alternatives, appealing to younger generations who value sustainability

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Todd Walker and NWH 

03:04 The Evolution of Alder and NWH's Role 

06:00 Marketing Changes Over 38 Years 

08:59 The Importance of Storytelling in Wood Marketing 

11:56 The Shift in Consumer Perception of Wood 

14:52 Challenges Facing the Wood Industry 

18:04 The Value of Quality in Wood Products 

21:02 The Role of Women in the Wood Industry 

23:52 Connecting with the Next Generation of Consumers 

26:38 Todd's Accomplishments and Leadership Philosophy 

29:38 Conclusion and How to Connect with NWH

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Todd at:

https://nwh.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-walker-505867339/

https://www.instagram.com/northwesthardwoods/

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. 

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.

Top 5 Takeaways

• Matthew Arnold is third generation in the lumber industry at KJP Select Hardwoods, a woodworking supply store in Ottawa.
• E-commerce has become a significant part of their business, though shipping lumber presents unique challenges due to its size and weight.
• Customer education is crucial in helping clients understand wood selection and finding value in lower-grade lumber.
• Design trends are shifting towards more contemporary styles over live edge furniture.
• The business experienced significant expansion during COVID-19, requiring robust marketing strategies in a competitive market.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to KJP Hardwoods

02:46 Matthew's Journey in the Lumber Industry

05:29 The Challenges of Urban Lumber

08:20 Processing and Custom Orders at KJP Hardwoods

11:11 Customer Experience and Custom Table Orders

14:01 Expansion During COVID-19

16:39 Navigating Business Growth and Challenges

19:15 Challenges in Sourcing Lumber

21:04 Shifts in Design Trends

24:03 Business Milestones and Growth

25:42 Educating Customers on Wood Buying

30:22 Navigating Cross-Border Regulations

33:03 Marketing Strategies for E-commerce

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Matthew at:

https://www.instagram.com/kjpselecthardwoods/

kjpselecthardwoods.com

https://www.facebook.com/kjpselecthardwoods

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.

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.

The conversation also touches on current design trends in woodworking and the future of his business.

Key Takeaways

• He transitioned from construction to custom furniture design
• Combining wood and steel has become his signature style
• Sourcing materials locally has been beneficial for his business
• Building relationships with clients is key to success
• Kevin's business has been full-time since 2014

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kevin Scheimreif and His Journey

05:22 Crafting with Wood and Metal

10:52 Navigating Challenges in Business

16:25 The Future of Woodworking and Design Trends

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/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Kevin at: 

https://www.instagram.com/steelandgrain/

www.steelandgrain.com