What if you could track every piece of wood in your inventory from the moment it's cut to the day it's sold, all with a simple scan?

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Andrew Bragg to explore how QR code technology is revolutionizing inventory management in the wood industry. Andrew shares insights on AncesTREE™, an innovative system that allows woodworkers, sawmills, and lumber dealers to track the complete history and details of their wood products (from tree to marketplace) transforming how businesses manage inventory, engage customers, and boost sales.

You'll hear about the powerful benefits of real-time data access for better decision-making, how tracking the story behind each piece of wood creates meaningful customer engagement, and why efficient inventory systems can save time while increasing profitability. Andrew explains practical solutions like batch QR codes that simplify the tagging process, marketplace integration that boosts product visibility, and custom features designed to meet the unique needs of wood businesses of all sizes.

This conversation dives into the technical and business advantages of modern inventory management, including how proper onboarding sets businesses up for success and why continuous improvement is essential for long-term optimization. Whether you're struggling with disorganized inventory, looking to enhance your customer experience, or want to showcase the unique story behind your wood products, this episode offers actionable insights on leveraging technology to transform your operation.

Tune in to discover how QR codes and smart inventory systems can streamline your business from tree to sale, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more innovative conversations from the wood industry.

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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Andrew at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-bragg-762658339/

https://ancestree.org/

Running a sawmill efficiently isn't just about having the right equipment. It's about optimizing every aspect of your operation, from layout to blade selection to seasonal maintenance.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Justin McMinds from Wood-Mizer Industrial to explore the ins and outs of sawmill optimization. Justin shares his unique journey from operating his own sawmill business, WoodMinds, to working with Wood-Mizer in Blades and Industrial Equipment Sales, bringing a wealth of hands-on experience to help sawmill operators maximize efficiency and profitability.

You'll hear practical insights on creating efficient sawmill layouts that improve workflow, the game-changing benefits of advanced blades like bi-metal and carbide for cost savings, and essential strategies for winterizing equipment to maintain peak performance. Justin also dives into exciting topics like urban wood salvage and the unique opportunities it presents, optimizing quarter sawing techniques, and how multi-rip machines can drastically reduce labor costs and cutting time.

This conversation goes beyond technical advice to explore the creative problem-solving required in the sawmill industry, the importance of personal connections in building business opportunities, and why sharing knowledge strengthens the entire woodworking community. Justin even shares how his ADHD has become a strength in tackling complex challenges and finding innovative solutions.

Whether you're a sawmill operator looking to improve efficiency, considering equipment upgrades, or interested in urban wood salvage and sustainable milling practices, this episode is packed with actionable advice and industry insights that can transform your operation.

Tune in to learn how to optimize your sawmill for maximum productivity and profitability and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more expert conversations from the wood industry.

Chapters:

00:00:04 Introduction to the Episode

00:02:09 Justin McMinds' Background

00:03:33 Transition to Wood-Mizer

00:04:30 Optimizing Sawmill Operations

00:08:47 Efficiency Tips and Tricks

00:12:55 Advanced Blades and Cost Savings

00:18:42 Multi-Rip Machines and Labor Costs

00:23:46 Winterizing Equipment

00:26:46 Exciting Projects and Challenges

00:30:53 Creative Problem-Solving 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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Justin at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mcminds-567265222/

Building a cabin from real wood isn't just about construction—it's about craftsmanship, storytelling, and creating spaces that connect people to nature.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Paul Shandel of Mendo Cabins to explore the art and business of building custom redwood cabins. Paul shares what sets Mendo Cabins apart, from their commitment to using locally sourced redwood to their unique business model that offers everything from fully built custom cabins to DIY cabin kits for the hands-on builder.

You'll hear about the surprising realities of insulation in small wood structures, why storytelling has become a powerful marketing tool for connecting with customers, and how using authentic local materials adds both value and character to every project. Paul also discusses exciting new ventures, including expanding into sauna production, and the importance of organization and inventory management in scaling a woodworking business.

This conversation dives into the evolving landscape of the wood industry, where quality craftsmanship and sustainability are more important than ever. Whether you're interested in custom building, sustainable materials, cabin construction, or growing a woodworking business with authenticity and purpose, this episode offers valuable insights on innovation, marketing, and the power of building with real wood from foundation to roof.

Tune in to discover how one company is redefining what it means to build cabins with intention—and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more stories from makers and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future of the wood industry.

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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Paul at:

https://www.facebook.com/paul.shandel.2025

https://www.instagram.com/mendocabins/

https://mendocabins.com/

Running a business isn't always smooth sailing, and sometimes the toughest challenges come from within your own team.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Bryan Alger, Business Consultant and Leadership Trainer, for a candid conversation about the struggles many business owners face but rarely talk about openly. Together, they dive into the difficult world of staffing issues, employee conflicts, and the critical importance of hiring people who are not just talented, but truly aligned with your company's vision and values.

Jennifer and Bryan explore the realities of navigating team dynamics, including moments of self-doubt and the frustration that comes with trying to build a cohesive team. You'll hear honest reflections on what happens when great individual contributors don't work well together, and why finding people who are motivated, hungry, and believe in what you're building makes all the difference.

This conversation goes beyond typical business advice to address the emotional toll of leadership and the reality that comparing yourself to other seemingly successful businesses can leave you feeling inadequate. Whether you're a business owner struggling with team challenges, considering your first hire, or trying to navigate employee conflicts, this episode offers validation, insight, and practical wisdom on building a team that works.

Tune in for an honest conversation about the messy, human side of entrepreneurship and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more real talk from makers and business owners who are figuring it out as they go.

Chapters:

00:00 Facing Business Challenges

00:44 The Importance of Leadership

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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Bryan at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryan-alger-96135947/

When a Forest Service background meets a passion for salvaging urban trees, you get furniture that tells a story and a business built on sustainability, craftsmanship, and community.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Christy Covington, founder of Tree to Table PDX, to explore her inspiring journey from conservation work to entrepreneurship. Christy shares how she transformed salvaged urban wood into heirloom-quality furniture, launched her woodworking business from her backyard, and turned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic into unexpected opportunities for growth.

You'll hear about the innovative projects that put Tree to Table on the map—including the world's largest charcuterie board—and learn how collaboration with local businesses and mentoring young woodworkers became central to Christy's mission.

This conversation dives deep into sustainable woodworking practices, the art of custom craftsmanship, and what it takes to build a business that honors both the environment and the community.

Whether you're a woodworker, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who values sustainability and quality craftsmanship, this episode is packed with insights on business growth, creative problem-solving, and the power of giving new life to urban wood that would otherwise go to waste.

Tune in to discover how passion, purpose, and a commitment to heirloom-quality work can shape a thriving woodworking business and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more stories from makers and entrepreneurs who are building something meaningful.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Tree to Table PDX

05:09 Christy's Journey: From Forest Service to Woodworking

09:52 The Birth of Tree to Table: A New Business Venture

14:53 Creating Unique Wood Products and Community Engagement

20:05 The World's Largest Charcuterie Board Event

24:45 Future Aspirations and Community Collaboration

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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Christy at:

https://treetotablepdx.com/

https://www.instagram.com/treetotablepdx

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger speaks with Trevor Thayer from Worldwide Burl, a former contractor who transitioned into the world of woodworking, specifically focusing on burls. 

Trevor shares his journey from contracting to woodworking during the pandemic, the challenges he faced in sourcing and milling wood, and the innovative techniques he employs in his business. He discusses the importance of social media in building his brand, the obstacles of hiring in the industry, and the significance of woodworking education for the younger generation. 

The conversation highlights the personal touch in customer service and his future aspirations for the woodworking community.

Takeaways

• Trevor transitioned from contracting to woodworking during the pandemic.
• He started sourcing and milling burls to create unique wood products.
• Social media, especially Instagram, plays a crucial role in his business.
• Trevor emphasizes the importance of customer service and personal interaction.
• He faces challenges with hiring motivated workers in the industry.
• Woodworking education is vital for inspiring the next generation.
• Trevor's innovative drying techniques improve wood quality.
• He ships internationally, facing challenges with customs in certain countries.
• The woodworking community values honesty and collaboration.
• Trevor's passion for woodworking is evident in his excitement for each new piece.

Chapters

00:00 From Contractor to Woodworker: A Journey of Passion

03:03 The Art of Sourcing and Milling Burls

05:48 Innovative Techniques in Wood Drying

08:52 Building a Brand: The Power of Social Media

11:51 Navigating Challenges in the Woodworking Industry

14:47 The Importance of Woodworking Education

17:43 Overcoming Obstacles in Business Growth

20:52 Connecting with Customers: The Personal Touch

23:48 Future Aspirations and Industry Insights

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 Trevor at:

https://www.worldwideburl.com/

https://www.instagram.com/worldwide_burl/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Colin Davis of Tahoe Slab Furniture, an innovative woodworking business focused on salvaging waste wood to create beautiful products. 

Colin shares his journey from a background in physics and engineering to the world of woodworking, emphasizing sustainability and energy efficiency challenges. The conversation explores the importance of networking, building customer relationships, and the unique challenges faced in the wood industry. 

Colin also discusses his experiences in Europe, marketing strategies, and lessons learned from failures along the way, highlighting the excitement and challenges of entrepreneurial ventures in woodworking.

Takeaways

• Colin's journey into woodworking began with a desire to solve real-world problems.
• Tahoe Slab Furniture focuses on salvaging waste wood to create useful products.
• Sustainability is a core value, but energy efficiency remains a challenge.
• Milling equipment choices significantly impact business efficiency.
• Networking within the wood community is essential for growth.
• Building relationships with customers is key to success.
• Marketing through local Facebook groups can reach a wide audience.
• Specialization in services can lead to better business outcomes.
• Understanding customer needs is crucial for effective sales.
• Exciting projects often come with significant challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tahoe Slab Furniture and Its Mission 

02:59 Colin's Journey into the Wood Industry 

05:57 Milling Equipment and Techniques 

09:01 Exploring Wood Trade in Europe 

12:01 Sustainability and Shipping Challenges 

14:57 Industry Challenges and Specialization 

17:55 Networking in the Wood Industry 

22:15 The Competitive Landscape of Wood Business 

23:29 Learning from Failures in Business 

25:34 Educating Customers on Wood Industry Values 

28:27 Understanding Customer Priorities 

29:30 Building Trust and Relationships with Clients 

31:55 Exciting Projects and Challenges in Woodworking 

36:04 Marketing Strategies for Wood Businesses 

39:54 Connecting with Tahoe Slab Furniture

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 Colin at:

https://www.instagram.com/tahoeslab/

https://tahoeslab.com/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Kyle Jeske, the sales and purchasing manager of Richardson Hardwoods. 

They discuss Kyle's journey into the lumber industry, the unique business model of Richardson Hardwoods, and the challenges and opportunities facing the lumber sector today. 

Kyle shares insights on the importance of sustainability, the legacy of Richardson Industries, and the need for new talent in the industry. 

The conversation also touches on networking, industry conferences, and the economic challenges that impact sales. 

Kyle emphasizes the value of education in promoting sustainable forestry practices and the importance of building relationships in the business.

Takeaways

• Kyle Jeske is a sales and purchasing manager at Richardson Hardwoods LLC.
• He has a background in business and marketing education.
• Kyle lived in Spain for several years, teaching English before entering the lumber industry.
• His Spanish skills may help in future market expansions.
• Richardson Hardwoods has a unique three-pronged business model.
• The company partners with a sawmill in Kentucky for kiln-dried inventory.
• Kyle aims to help smaller sawmills expand their market reach.
• The lumber industry faces challenges due to an aging workforce.
• Sustainability in forestry is crucial for the future of the industry.
• Building relationships and trust is essential in the lumber business.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Richardson Hardwoods
• 02:52 Kyle's Journey into the Lumber Industry
• 05:45 The Business Model of Richardson Hardwoods
• 08:51 Challenges and Opportunities in the Lumber Industry
• 11:45 The Legacy of Richardson Industries
• 14:46 Exciting Developments in the Lumber Sector
• 17:57 Future Growth and Market Expansion
• 20:34 Networking and Industry Conferences
• 23:41 The Aging Industry and Need for New Blood
• 26:42 Sustainability and Education in Forestry
• 29:40 Overcoming Economic Challenges
• 32:37 Reflections on Career Growth
• 35:10 Connecting with Richardson Hardwoods

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 Kyle at: 

www.richardsonhardwoods.com

https://www.instagram.com/richardsonhardwoodsllc/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Patrick Chovan from Omega Lumber.

They discuss the history and growth of Omega Lumber, the challenges and opportunities in the lumber industry, and the importance of sustainable forestry practices. Patrick shares insights into the company's operations, including their focus on industrial-grade lumber and the impact of tariffs on the export market.

The conversation also touches on the future of the industry and the role of smaller producers in filling gaps left by larger mills.

Takeaways

• Omega Lumber is celebrating its 50th year in business.
• The company operates five facilities and manages 5,000-10,000 acres of timberland.
• Patrick Chovan emphasizes the importance of sustainable forestry practices.
• The export market is challenging due to tariffs and market unpredictability.
• Omega Lumber focuses on industrial-grade lumber and specialty products.
• Patrick Chovan grew up in the logging industry and took over the company 10 years ago.
• The lumber industry has seen massive consolidation, with a 75% reduction in production.
• Smaller producers may play a key role in the industry's future.
• Sustainable forestry is better for the environment than poor forest management.
• Personal relationships and integrity are crucial in the lumber business.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 01:00 History of Omega Lumber
• 03:00 Operations and Facilities
• 05:00 Sustainable Practices and Challenges
• 08:00 Industry Trends and Future Outlook
• 11:00 Personal Journey and Leadership

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 Patrick at:

https://www.omegalumber.com/

https://www.instagram.com/omegalumber/

https://www.instagram.com/direct/t/106488327415632/

In this episode of the Woodpreneur podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Patrick Chovan from Omega Lumber.

They discuss the history and growth of Omega Lumber, the challenges and opportunities in the lumber industry, and the importance of sustainable forestry practices. Patrick shares insights into the company's operations, including their focus on industrial-grade lumber and the impact of tariffs on the export market.

The conversation also touches on the future of the industry and the role of smaller producers in filling gaps left by larger mills.

Takeaways

• Omega Lumber is celebrating its 50th year in business.
• The company operates five facilities and manages 5,000-10,000 acres of timberland.
• Patrick Chovan emphasizes the importance of sustainable forestry practices.
• The export market is challenging due to tariffs and market unpredictability.
• Omega Lumber focuses on industrial-grade lumber and specialty products.
• Patrick Chovan grew up in the logging industry and took over the company 10 years ago.
• The lumber industry has seen massive consolidation, with a 75% reduction in production.
• Smaller producers may play a key role in the industry's future.
• Sustainable forestry is better for the environment than poor forest management.
• Personal relationships and integrity are crucial in the lumber business.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Welcome
• 01:00 History of Omega Lumber
• 03:00 Operations and Facilities
• 05:00 Sustainable Practices and Challenges
• 08:00 Industry Trends and Future Outlook
• 11:00 Personal Journey and Leadership

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 Patrick at:

https://www.omegalumber.com/

https://www.instagram.com/omegalumber/

https://www.instagram.com/direct/t/106488327415632/