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 speaks with Alyssa Olson, a landscape architect and furniture designer, about the importance of urban, salvaged, and reclaimed wood. 

They discuss the challenges of getting these materials specified in projects, the significance of building relationships within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) community, and the role of sustainability in material choices. 

Alyssa shares her journey in the field, the need for standards and specifications for reclaimed wood, and the importance of trust in sourcing materials. 

The conversation highlights the future of urban wood and the collaborative efforts needed to promote its use in design and construction.

Takeaways

• Urban wood is crucial for sustainability and local economies.
• Alyssa Olson has a background in architecture and landscape design.
• The status quo in material sourcing often hinders the use of reclaimed wood.
• A specification for reclaimed wood is currently lacking.
• Building relationships in the AEC community is essential for sourcing materials.
• Trust is a significant factor in using new or unfamiliar materials.
• Sustainability is increasingly important in material decisions.
• Standards and chain of custody are vital for urban wood utilization.
• Education about material sourcing can help overcome barriers.
• Collaboration is key to promoting urban salvaged wood.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Urban Wood and Its Importance 

03:02 Alyssa Olson's Journey and Expertise 

05:42 Challenges in Specifying Urban Wood 

08:27 Building Relationships in the AEC Community 

11:14 The Importance of Trust in Material Sourcing 

13:55 Sustainability and Regenerative Materials 

16:33 The Role of Standards and Chain of Custody 

19:16 Future of Urban Salvaged Wood 

22:17 Conclusion and Future Collaborations

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, you'll meet Clay Miller, fifth-generation lumber professional and head of sales and purchasing at Aurora Timberland, the hardwood distribution brand of Alexandria Moulding.

Clay shares how he went from stacking lumber in his family's mill to struggling through his first months in sales—then finding success by selling authentically and building long-term relationships.

He opens up about the collapse of his family business after a fire, his path back into the industry, and what it takes to run a customer-obsessed distribution operation across time zones.

Clay also breaks down the state of the hardwood industry with striking clarity. He explains why production has fallen from roughly 16 billion board feet at the height of COVID demand to under 4 billion today, and what must happen—promotion, education, and capacity-building—to bring the market back.

You'll hear how a five-word Instagram DM led Aurora Timberland into the Vietnam market, why he answers every inquiry, and his practical advice for woodpreneurs: build relationships now, make the tough cold calls, and be ready when demand cycles back.

Top 5 Key Topics:

• Clay's path: fifth-generation lumber legacy, early sales missteps, and learning to sell "as himself"
• The industry's contraction: from ~16B to <4B board feet and the rise of substitute products
• Vietnam expansion: how a social media DM became a sold-out walnut program
• Sales lessons: persistence, cold-call wins, and positioning for the next market upcycle
• Actionable advice for woodpreneurs: expand your footprint now; don't wait for demand to return

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Clay Miller and Aurora Timberland 

03:03 Clay's Journey in the Lumber Industry 

05:58 Understanding Aurora Timberland's Operations 

08:49 The Importance of Family-Owned Businesses 

11:51 The Role of the Hardwood Industry in Rural America 

14:52 Challenges Facing the Hardwood Industry 

17:57 The Importance of Education in Promoting Wood Products 

21:07 Overcoming Challenges in the Wood Industry 

23:35 The Power of Social Media in Business 

29:05 Trends and Future of the Lumber Market 

31:30 The Art of Cold Calling 

35:21 Customer Service and Empathy in Business 

36:58 Connecting on Social Media and Final 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/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 Clay at:

Instagram @AuroraTimberland

LinkedIn: Clayton Miller

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Anthony Saraceno, the operating partner at Real Antique Wood. 

Anthony shares the journey of his family-owned business, which specializes in reclaimed wood products. He discusses the company's origins, the process of reclaiming and repurposing wood, and the importance of storytelling in their business. 

Anthony also highlights the challenges and successes of running a small, tight-knit team and their plans for the future.

Top 5 Takeaways:

1. Family-Owned Business: Real Antique Wood is a family-operated business that has been thriving for 15 years, focusing on reclaimed wood products.
2. Reclaimed Wood Process: The company sources wood from various structures, including barns and factories, and emphasizes the importance of preserving the history and provenance of each piece.
3. Operational Challenges: Anthony discusses the challenges of kiln drying and the importance of streamlining processes to improve efficiency.
4. Future Expansion: The company aims to expand its operations with additional storefronts while continuing to refine their processes.
5. Industry Collaboration: The business emphasizes the value of collaboration with like-minded individuals and companies in the industry.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Real Antique Wood

02:10 The Family-Owned Business and Its Beginnings

05:45 Reclaimed Wood Process and Challenges

10:20 Equipment and Technology in Use

15:00 Marketing and Community Engagement

20:30 Overcoming Business Obstacles

25:15 Future Aspirations and Expansion Plans

30:00 The Importance of Provenance and Storytelling

35:40 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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 Anthony at: 

https://realantiquewood.com/

https://www.instagram.com/realantiquewoodmill/

https://www.facebook.com/RealAntiqueWood/

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/