Sawmill Business Podcast

“Once you get into that design kind of mind frame, it just stays with you 100% You become a magpie of, you know, choosing things, and storing things away for free. “ Dan Bullen Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Dan Bullen from Iluka London. Dan's journey began with a desire for change, a longing to shift from the digital realm to the tactile world of creating physical products. As a graphic designer and with his wife, Sarah, an interior designer, they embarked on a quest to blend their talents with their passion for woodworking. Iluka derives its name from an Australian Aboriginal word meaning "by the sea," paying homage to Dan's roots and his connection to a little fishing village near his hometown on the east coast of Australia. The company specializes in crafting exquisite pieces predominantly from wood, complemented by acrylic, resin, and metals. Their signature creations include table lamps, furniture, lighting, and accesso

Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Cam Anderson from Blacktail Studio. Cam reflects on the changes and challenges he faced over the past few years, especially during the global pandemic. He made the daring decision to quit his full-time job as a life flight pilot to pursue woodworking and content creation. Cam shares the challenges and uncertainties he faced during this transition, especially considering his wife's business and the state of the world at the time. Despite the initial uncertainty, Cam's decision paid off as he witnessed a significant surge in his YouTube channel's popularity during the pandemic. With dedication and hard work, Cam managed to replace his income and even surpass it through his woodworking projects and YouTube content. Listen now and get the whole story! “I need to find this voice because I want to be like this person. And for me, this is the only one I know how to do. You know, if you had me in charge of a

“I probably am exaggerating, all the clients we've gotten thus far have been primarily word of mouth and recommendation.” Tony Mcklem Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host, Steve Larosiliere, is joined by Tony Mcklem from Hollywood Decks, a leading outdoor living company based out of Northeast Florida. In this blog, we delve into the insightful conversation from The Woodburner Podcast featuring Tony Mcklem, the founder of Hollywood Decks, as he shares his remarkable journey and the keys to their success. Tony Mcklem, along with his wife, embarked on a journey to establish Hollywood Decks, an outdoor living company, after moving from Los Angeles to Northeast Florida. With a background in finance and a passion for hands-on construction, Tony found himself seeking a change from the office world to the outdoors. Inspired by his volunteer experiences and driven by a desire for a new beginning, Tony took the leap into the construction industry. Listen now and get th

“If we can really put heirloom pieces into people's homes, so that should anything happen—whether they need to move, sell, or pass things down to family—those cabinetry pieces could arguably be uninstalled, moved to new locations, and reinstalled, allowing people to carry them with them for decades.” -Kattie Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Kattie & Jesse from JKath Design + Build. We delve into the fascinating journey of Kattie and Jesse from Jay Kath Design Build. From the origins of their business to their approach to craftsmanship and client relationships, there's much to uncover. Kattie and Jesse's journey began nearly 15 years ago with a passion for cabinetry. What started as a custom cabinetry shop evolved into a full-fledged design-build firm, fueled by a blend of craftsmanship and a keen eye for design. Their foray into Instagram marked a turning point, opening doors to new opportunities and expanding their reach. Liste

"The best way for you to do that is to tell more stories. Optimize your bio and post more frequently. You could even revisit your old posts and turn them into videos. Essentially, you just need to post more videos." Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. In this episode, I’m going to help you unlock growth for your wood business. In the fast-paced world of marketing and business, finding the right advice can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But what if I told you that sometimes, the most invaluable insights come from unexpected places? Steve Larosiliere's insights provide a roadmap for the growth and prosperity of your woodworking business. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to attracting and serving the right clientele, ensuring the long-term success of your business. It's time to hear the complete story now! Embracing Imperfection: The Power of Unveiling the Process David from Amelia Cabinet Company deals with a dilemma that many

“When you start spending, you know, an infinite amount of time doing so, you might as well build it yourself in the first place. “ -David Vincenzi Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by David Vincenzi from Amelia Cabinet Company. David's journey begins with his father, an architect with a passion for cabinetry. Over 30 years ago, his father made a pivotal decision to specialize in cabinetry, laying the foundation for what would become Amelia Cabinet Company. Growing up immersed in the business, David learned the ropes, from installation to manufacturing, paving the way for his future role.  The 2007 financial crisis brought about significant changes for Amelia Cabinet Company. Forced to adapt, they shifted focus to in-house manufacturing to maintain control over quality and margins. David's resilience and determination led him to take the reins fully in 2012, driving the company forward amidst adversity. Listen now and get the who

"Imagine a thank you note with a poem or quote, to the client, or the GC. Right? Imagine your brand, with your, like, most famous quote, or like one of your quotes, or sayings or what have you." -Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. In this episode, I’m going to help you learn how to carve your niche in carpentry. In the bustling world of carpentry and construction, standing out can feel like an uphill battle. But what if I told you that your true brand lies not just in your craftsmanship, but in the essence of who you are? Let's delve into a transformative conversation between Cod from Plate and Nail on the cusp of discovery, and his mentor, unraveling the art of building a brand that resonates. Steve Larosiliere's insights provide a roadmap for the growth and prosperity of your woodworking business. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to attracting and serving the right clientele, ensuring the long-term success of your business. Now, let's delve

“Instead of being in a classroom, I could be out in the field on-site doing stuff. And so I spent three years doing that. And from there, it just kept going.” Cody Hansen Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Cody Hansen from Plate and Nail. Cody's journey into carpentry didn't just start with swinging hammers and cutting wood. It began with a family legacy of craftsmanship and a deep-rooted passion for creating with his hands. His father, a seasoned handyman for over four decades, instilled in him the value of hard work and the satisfaction of building something from scratch. Cody's story is one of blending tradition with innovation, of finding purpose in passion, and of crafting dreams one nail at a time. Listen now and get the whole story! “You've got to know your numbers, especially for me, like you, you have to understand that it is a business. No matter how good you are at the trade or whatever you're delivering, if you can't

“The reason for the appointment is to book another appointment. Never walk out of the appointment without booking another point. It could be if you sold the job, it could be an installation. It could be a remeasure.” Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. In this episode I’m going to help you with unlocking growth for your wood business. In the fast-paced world of marketing and business, finding the right advice can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But what if I told you that sometimes, the most invaluable insights come from unexpected places?  Steve Larosiliere's insights provide a roadmap for your woodworking business's growth and prosperity. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to attracting and serving the right clientele, ensuring the long-term success of your business. It's time to hear the complete story now! Abundance Mentality: The Key to Success What truly struck me about Steve's approach is his unwavering commit

"I am still not afraid of change, because everybody tells me once you just go get another job like, well, I really like what I do. Working in closets is different from everything else; we work with different people. People who want to organize themselves are of a different caliber than those who are messy." -Eric Marshall "Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Eric Marshall. Eric's love for woodworking ignited during his high school days in Hawaii, where he honed his skills in the art of crafting. Little did he know that this passion would lead him into a lifelong career in the closet industry. His journey began when he transitioned from Hawaii to California, where he found himself immersed in the world of closets. Fast forward twenty years, Eric's expertise grew as he ventured from one company to another, eventually establishing his own business. What sets Eric's approach apart is his deep understanding of his clientele. He highl

"I would build a specialty website and potentially, you know, either through it or just have it, like, just build a community around parents that, and parents of special needs, and custom furniture just for them." Steve Larosiliere Embracing Authenticity in Marketing The conversation begins with a refreshing honesty about discomfort with traditional marketing approaches. Jeff, despite his expertise, prefers to keep things real, admitting to his own uncertainties and mistakes. This raw authenticity serves as the cornerstone of his business philosophy, resonating deeply with his audience. In a world dominated by social media and constant innovation, staying true to oneself can be a challenge. Yet, this individual's commitment to honesty and transparency has cultivated a loyal following, driven not by flashy ads but by genuine connection. Nurturing a Niche Market The focus then shifts to a unique business venture: creating custom furniture to make homes more accessible for those with special need

“It wasn't even about the money. It was just like, my brain was so screwed up, and it was always sick. I needed to pick a spot where I needed to be, so I had a drop dead date. And that helped a lot. But those people who just make the jump, they don't have to, like, that's pretty good stuff." Jeff Himstedt Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Jeff Himstedt from JHimWoodworking. Jeff's journey into woodworking began in a humble setting. Growing up on a farm near Springfield, Illinois, and later enlisting in the US military, Jeff's path eventually led him to woodworking. He recalls the pivotal moment when he decided to leave farming behind and pursue his passion for woodworking full-time. It all started with a few projects here and there, building furniture pieces for himself and sharing them on social media. What began as a hobby soon evolved into a thriving business. Jeff's transition from farming to woodworking wasn't without chall

"If you don't show up, if you don't show up on time, you're out. If you don't do this, you're out. Like, you're like, 'Yeah, this is how we feed our family.' Like, this isn't a game, right?" -Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. In this episode I’m going to help you with the secret of attracting more clients for your wood business. Hartman Cabinetry grapples with a common rural dilemma – a scarcity of skilled labor. Despite a bustling business driven by word-of-mouth referrals, the need for more hands on deck is undeniable. Recognizing this bottleneck, the owner sought guidance on how to attract talent to their doorstep. Steve Larosiliere's insights provide a roadmap for your woodworking business's growth and prosperity. By following these steps, you'll be on your way to attracting and serving the right clientele, ensuring the long-term success of your business. It's time to hear the complete story now! “I would put together a PowerPoint, and do an over

“I came on full time in May. Working for my dad. He started making cabinets when he was in high school. Basically went to college and said, that isn't for him. He got into it full time in 1993. And it's been doing really good, and that's where we are right now. I’m working with my dad everyday and love it.” -Issac Hartman Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Issac Hartman from Hartman Cabinetry. Isaac's introduction to woodworking diverged from the conventional path of apprenticeship, instead evolving naturally from his upbringing. Growing up surrounded by sawdust and craftsmanship, he joined his father's cabinetry business at the age of 16, gradually honing his skills in the workshop. However, it was during the COVID-19 pandemic that Isaac's passion for the trade truly ignited. With schools closed, he found himself fully immersed in the family business, realizing his aptitude for woodworking and the potential for growth in this field

“So for folks like for businesses like yours, it's about the same amount of exposure that you have, right? So this is a good way to look at is like, how many people are seeing your name and your brand?” -Steve Larosiliere Unveiling the Struggles of Entrepreneurship The conversation opens with a candid revelation of the struggles faced by many entrepreneurs, particularly in marketing and business investment. The guest reflects on past experiences, admitting to investing significant time, money, and effort into various avenues without tangible returns. However, a strategic shift in focus towards website development, SEO optimization, and a diversified approach to marketing brought about a new perspective. Embracing the Power of Community and Mentorship Amidst the challenges lies a beacon of hope: the Woodpreneur Network. This comprehensive community hub, designed for woodworkers, furniture makers, contractors, and millworkers, offers a sanctuary for growth and collaboration. Recognizing the nee

“My first couple of years as I was doing that, Steve, I was running so hard that I had no idea what the hell made me money. What didn't make me money.” -Sinan Music Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Sinan Music from SMC Construction. Sinan shares insights into his journey, starting from a painting company that transitioned into construction amidst the economic downturn of 2008-2009. As new construction projects waned, remodeling opportunities emerged, prompting Sinan to diversify his services. Through adaptability and perseverance, SMC Construction was born. Listen now and get the whole story! “We did a couple of local stores that we converted, like one of their entire departments into a makeup department, you know, or rebranding on restaurants, and stuff like that, as they are kind of out there.” -Sinan Music Adversity and Growth: Lessons Learned Sinan's personal journey took an unexpected turn when he faced a life-al

“You need to stay in touch with every single one of your customers on a regular basis. Like friend him on Facebook, friend him on Twitter, on Instagram, just like, literally stay, stay on top of them.“ -Steve Larosiliere Exploring New Horizons: In today's segment, we had the privilege of conversing with Carrie, a seasoned artisan who shared her journey navigating the evolving landscape of marketing and business in the woodworking industry. Carrie shed light on the challenges she faced, particularly amidst economic shifts, and sought advice on how to adapt her strategies effectively. Embracing Authentic Connections: One aspect that resonated throughout our discussion was Carrie's commitment to cultivating meaningful relationships, both in business and personal life. Recognizing the significance of authenticity and genuine connections, she emphasized the value of staying in touch with customers and fostering a sense of community around her brand. Crafting a Personal Brand: As we delved de

“I could figure out how to make something out of, and kind of just one thing led to another, and a friend of mine suggested that maybe I start doing this for other people.” -Carrie Nelson Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Carrie Nelson from 4 Chicks Furniture & Wood Art. Carrie  shares her inspiring journey from woodworking enthusiast to successful business owner. We delve into Carrie's origin story, her entrepreneurial spirit, and the lessons learned along the way. Carrie's journey into woodworking and entrepreneurship began with humble roots, nurtured by her upbringing in a farmhouse south of Chicago. Learning the ropes from her father, she developed a knack for woodworking, which blossomed further after she found herself as the primary furniture maker following a divorce. With determination and creativity, Carrie began crafting furniture pieces from reclaimed materials, igniting the spark for what would become 4Chicks Fur

“You want to shift from social into marketing, your personal Facebook page is more than a social space. It's a marketing asset, this mindset shift is going to be crucial for you. “ -Steve Larosiliere Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today's guest is none other than Steve Larosiliere himself! Today's workshop is all about personal branding, a topic close to my heart. I've dubbed it "Organic Lead Mastery," and trust me, the strategies I'll be sharing have helped my clients generate millions of dollars. So buckle up; we're in for a ride! Personal branding isn't just about promoting your business; it's about amplifying your growth, nurturing client relations, and maximizing cost efficiency. Your personal brand is your beacon, guiding opportunities not only within your industry but beyond. It's time to hear the complete story now! “Once you start putting limits to life, or conditions in which you operate in this world, it makes it really hard to just just exist. Okay, big t

“ We got to let people know who we are, and started talking to folks and we had some success doing, you know, like, we had some, we started talking to people and we just started to make connections. “ -Mathew Roth Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Mathew Roth from Hawthorn Builders. Mathew Roth's journey into the world of real estate began soon after college. With a background in investment development from NYU, he initially ventured into the realm of real estate analysis in New York City. However, it was his move to Boston that paved the way for something truly remarkable. Teaming up with his neighbor and business partner, Mathew embarked on a journey fueled by ambition and a desire to carve their path in the industry. Their initial foray into flipping properties was met with challenges, yet they persisted, honing their focus on the suburban landscape outside Boston. Listen now and get the whole story! “We've had a pretty