The Woodpreneur Podcast

Chris Black, Century Mill Lumber

A lumber company that's been in business since 1851 has seen it all, from economic shifts to pandemics, and its survival depends on more than just selling wood. It's about relationships, education, and adapting to change.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Chris Black, President and GM of Century Mill Lumber, to explore the remarkable history of a company that predates Canada itself. Chris shares his personal journey from selling high-end wood doors to running a lumber business with deep roots and a forward-looking vision, emphasizing how customer relationships, continuous education, and innovation have kept Century Mill thriving for over 170 years.
You'll hear about the challenges and opportunities presented by COVID-19 and how the pandemic reshaped the lumber industry, the complexities of navigating the lumber supply chain from sourcing to delivery, and the evolving trends in both hardwood and softwood markets. Chris discusses the importance of investing in quality products and employee training, the role of design aesthetics in customer preferences, and how innovative materials are meeting modern application needs.
This conversation dives into the significance of personal branding in an industry that's fundamentally about people, effective marketing strategies for connecting with customers in the lumber business, and why criticism and feedback are essential for growth and improvement. Chris also shares insights on building a strong team that will carry the company's legacy forward and ensure its success for generations to come.
Whether you're in the lumber business, interested in customer service excellence and relationship building, or looking for lessons on navigating industry challenges while maintaining quality and values, this episode offers wisdom from a leader who understands that lumber is ultimately a people business.
Tune in to discover how a company with roots in 1851 continues to innovate and lead in today's market, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more stories from industry leaders who are shaping the future of wood.
Chapters:
00:00 The Legacy of Century Mill Lumber
05:45 Customer Service and COVID-19 Challenges
14:44 The Future and Investment in Quality
22:56 Market Trends and Innovation
31:19 Relationships and Personal Branding
39:12 The People Behind the 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/sawmillsnearme/
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 Chris at:
https://www.centurymill.com/
https://www.instagram.com/centurymilllumber/
https://www.facebook.com/centurymill

Ryan Moore, Urban Wood Company

Growing a woodworking business isn't just about craftsmanship. It's about building systems, forming strategic partnerships, and adapting to unexpected opportunities that can transform your entire operation.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Ryan Moore of Urban Wood Company to explore the evolution of his Oklahoma City-based woodworking business. Ryan shares how he went from drying wood and building custom furniture to expanding into cabinet projects and developing new product lines, all while navigating the challenges of scaling a team, implementing systems, and maintaining profitability.
You'll hear about the unexpected opportunities that shaped Ryan's business growth, including how unforeseen events like house fires opened entirely new markets for cabinetry work. Ryan discusses the critical role of strategic partnerships with CNC companies and suppliers, effective use of social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook for marketing finished projects, and his approach to staffing by adding young employees and upskilling existing team members.
This conversation dives into the practical side of business operations, including implementing documentation systems to streamline workflows, setting competitive pricing using square footage models, and leveraging industry partnerships for better materials and resources. Ryan also shares valuable lessons learned from overcoming challenges like tariffs, international shipping costs, equipment repairs, and the importance of trusting your gut to avoid projects that don't align with your business goals.
Whether you're looking to scale your woodworking business, interested in cabinet making and product development, or seeking insights on team building and operational efficiency, this episode offers honest reflections and actionable strategies from someone who's experienced record growth while learning to balance business demands with personal life, family, and self-care.
Tune in to discover how systems, partnerships, and strategic growth can take your woodworking business to the next level, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about building sustainable, profitable wood businesses.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Ryan's Journey
03:15 New Opportunities and Strategic Partnerships
10:05 Building Systems and Pricing Strategies
21:07 Lessons Learned and Avoiding Bad Projects
28:06 Client Communication and Work-Life Balance
32:51 Future Projects and Closing 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/sawmillsnearme/
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 Ryan at:
https://www.theurbanwoodco.com/
https://www.instagram.com/theurbanwoodco

Simon Silver, Simon Silver Designs

The path to becoming a master woodworker doesn't always start in a workshop. Sometimes it begins on a mountain bike trail during the off-season.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger welcomes Simon Silver of Simon Silver Designs to explore his remarkable journey from mountain bike athlete to accomplished woodworker and sawmill operator. Simon shares how he discovered woodworking as a hobby during the off-season and how a pivotal class with a skilled mentor accelerated his learning and instilled a detail-oriented mindset that defines his work today.
You'll hear about Simon's commitment to creating timeless furniture pieces from urban wood, storm trees, and reclaimed materials, and his sawmill business that sources local redwood logs to provide unique lumber for custom projects. Simon discusses the balance between commissioned work and personal creative projects, the evolution of his business from small pieces to large-scale installations, and the increasing complexity and reward of challenging custom woodworking.
This conversation dives into the realities of running a custom woodworking business, including the challenges of job site work, the importance of educating clients about wood movement and natural material characteristics, and the critical skill of learning to say no to projects that don't align with your vision or values. Simon also reflects on maintaining passion for the craft when business demands threaten to overshadow creative fulfillment, and his plans to create personal pieces that reignite his love for woodworking.
Whether you're a woodworker navigating the transition from hobby to business, interested in sustainable wood sourcing and urban lumber, or looking for insights on balancing commercial success with creative satisfaction, this episode offers honest wisdom from someone who's built a thriving woodworking business while staying true to his craft.
Tune in to discover how perseverance, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn can transform a passion into a sustainable livelihood, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more inspiring stories from makers and craftspeople.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Simon Silver
01:00 Simon's Journey from Mountain Biking to Woodworking
03:58 The Importance of Mentorship in Woodworking
08:31 Exploring Custom Projects and Personal Interests
10:05 Proud Achievements in Custom Furniture
12:10 Challenges of Working with Wood
16:01 The Sawmill Business and Sourcing Logs
20:53 Urban Wood and Sustainability
24:29 Navigating Challenges in Custom Work
29:52 Maintaining Passion in Woodworking
34:14 How to Reach Simon Silver for 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/sawmillsnearme/
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 Simon at:
www.simonsilverdesigns.com
https://www.instagram.com/simonsilverdesigns
https://www.facebook.com/simonsilverdesigns/

Vadim Kovalev, Wood World Podcast

What does it take to bridge the gap between engineering precision and the living art of forestry? Vadim Kovalev, Wood World Industry Ambassador and founder of Koval Digital, shares how he traded blueprints for bark and became one of the forestry industry's most passionate storytellers.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Vadim to explore his unconventional journey from engineering to the heart of the wood industry. Vadim pulls back the curtain on the myths plaguing modern forestry, revealing why sustainable practices aren't just good ethics but smart business. He discusses how international markets are reshaping the industry landscape and why connecting with the public through authentic media and storytelling has become more critical than ever for woodworkers and forest professionals alike.
From debunking misconceptions about sustainable forestry to sharing how his personal faith guides his approach to craftsmanship and environmental stewardship, Vadim offers a refreshing perspective on building a purpose-driven business in the wood industry. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the intersection of sustainability and commerce, this conversation delivers practical insights wrapped in compelling stories.
Key Topics: Woodworking entrepreneurship, sustainable forestry practices, craftsmanship, business growth in the wood industry, storytelling for artisans, international timber markets, myth-busting forestry misconceptions, building community through media.
Chapters:
00:02 Introduction and Vadim's Background
01:18 Sustainable Practices and Myth-Busting
03:03 Storytelling and Media Connection
08:56 International Markets and Personal Faith
17:06 Public Perception and Industry 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/sawmillsnearme/
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 Vadim at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kovalevvadim/
https://www.youtube.com/@woodworldwithvadim
https://kovaldigital.com/

Allison DeFord, North American Forest Foundation

Educating the next generation about forestry and sustainable wood practices is essential for the future of the industry, but misconceptions about trees and forest management continue to create barriers.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Allison DeFord, Executive Director of the North American Forest Foundation, to explore the foundation's mission to educate young people about responsible forestry and dispel common myths surrounding the industry. Allison shares her personal journey into forestry after years of involvement through her husband's career and how that experience shaped her passion for forest education and advocacy.
You'll hear about the foundation's innovative educational programs, including K-5 teacher kits that help students understand the importance of trees and sustainable forest management, and an upcoming app designed to engage junior high students in forestry education. Allison discusses the ambitious goal of reaching one million students by 2030 through various educational initiatives, the critical role of community engagement in connecting students with forestry careers, and the diverse pathways into the industry beyond traditional degrees.
This conversation explores important topics like biophilic design and the health benefits of wood, the need for a fundamental shift in how society perceives forestry and wood products, and the opportunities available for young people considering careers in the forest industry. Allison also encourages industry professionals to open their doors for field trips and educational experiences that can inspire the next generation of foresters, loggers, and wood industry leaders.
Whether you're involved in forestry, interested in education and youth engagement, or passionate about promoting sustainable practices and the truth about responsible forest management, this episode offers valuable insights on how the industry can invest in its future by investing in education.
Tune in to discover how the North American Forest Foundation is changing perceptions and building a pipeline of informed, engaged young people who understand the value of forests and the wood industry, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about the future of forestry and wood.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the North American Forest Foundation
05:07 Educating the Next Generation
10:31 Dispelling Myths About Forestry
21:29 The Importance of Real Wood
25:56 Engaging Students with Interactive Learning
31:36 Call to Action for Support
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/sawmillsnearme/
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 Allison at:
https://northamericanforestfoundation.org/
adeford@northamericanforestfoundation.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisondeford/

Six Strategies for Your Best Year Yet: Jennifer Alger on Business Growth, Goal Setting, and Building Systems

The new year is the perfect time to reflect on what's working in your business and what needs to change if you want to see better results.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger shares her approach to planning for 2026, focusing on personal growth and implementing strategic changes that lead to real business transformation. Drawing from her experience with Alger Coaching and running her own wood business, Jennifer reveals six key strategies that have helped her business thrive and can do the same for yours.
You'll hear practical advice on leveraging social media for visibility and relationship building, the essential role of networking in creating business opportunities, and why telling the backstory of your products adds value and creates deeper connections with customers. Jennifer discusses the importance of establishing a chain of custody to build trust and differentiate your business, effective inventory management techniques that can significantly improve profitability, and how coaching and mentorship can accelerate your growth by helping you avoid common pitfalls.
This conversation emphasizes the power of setting measurable goals for the first quarter to create momentum and the importance of small, consistent actions that lead to significant changes over time. Jennifer encourages listeners to focus on building systems that support sustainable business growth rather than chasing quick fixes or overnight success.
Whether you're looking to grow your wood business, improve your operations, or finally implement the changes you've been putting off, this episode offers a practical roadmap for starting the year with clarity and purpose. Jennifer's straightforward approach and real-world experience make these strategies accessible and actionable for woodworkers, sawmill operators, and lumber dealers at any stage of business.
Tune in to discover how to set yourself up for the best year ever, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more actionable advice on building a successful wood business.
Chapters:
00:00 New Year, New Goals
02:53 Harnessing the Power of Social Media
06:09 The Importance of Networking
09:04 Crafting a Compelling Backstory
11:51 Establishing Chain of Custody
14:44 Mastering Inventory Management
17:44 The Value of Coaching and Mentorship
20:44 Setting Up for Success in Q1
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

Dallin Brooks, National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA)

Standardization in the hardwood industry isn't just about measurements and grades. It's the foundation that enables fair trade, quality control, and growth across the entire wood supply chain.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Dallin Brooks, Executive Director of the National Hardwood Lumber Association (NHLA), to explore the history, role, and future of this essential industry organization. Dallin shares how the NHLA was founded to create standards that ensure quality and uniformity in wood products, and why those standards remain crucial for advocacy, quality control, and the success of hardwood businesses today.
You'll hear about the significant challenges and opportunities facing the hardwood industry, including the impact of tariffs on domestic producers, the rise of urban wood as a mainstream complement to rural wood sourcing, and how thermal modification is expanding the outdoor applications of hardwoods. Dallin discusses the benefits of NHLA membership, from access to industry resources and education to networking opportunities and quality assurance programs.
This conversation dives into the critical need for legislation that supports wood use and promotes sustainability, the importance of education and storytelling in advocating for the wood industry, and how telling the wood story can drive economic growth while highlighting environmental benefits. Whether you're a hardwood producer, lumber dealer, woodworker, or anyone involved in the supply chain, Dallin offers valuable insights on navigating industry challenges and positioning yourself for success.
Tune in to discover how the NHLA is supporting the hardwood industry through standards, advocacy, and education, and learn how you can leverage these resources to grow your business. Don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about the future of the wood industry.
Chapters:
00:02 Introduction and Guest Introduction
04:51 History and Role of NHLA
09:42 Standardization in the Hardwood Industry
16:29 Challenges and Opportunities
22:56 Urban Wood and Thermal Modification
30:09 Legislation and Advocacy
36:31 Conclusion
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 Dallin at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dallinbrooks/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/1490362/
https://www.nhla.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nhla_official/
https://www.facebook.com/NHLAOfficial

Robert Lennon, ThermalWood Canada

Wood modification technology is changing the game for woodworkers, builders, and manufacturers who need materials that are more stable, durable, and environmentally friendly than traditional lumber.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger interviews Robert Lennon from ThermalWood Canada to explore the innovative world of thermal modification. Robert shares his unique journey from spending 33 years in the mining industry to becoming a leader in the wood business, focusing on a process that transforms wood at a molecular level to enhance its properties and performance.
You'll hear how thermal modification makes wood more stable, aesthetically pleasing, and environmentally sustainable, while also improving its resistance to moisture, decay, and dimensional changes. Robert explains the diverse applications of thermally modified wood, from guitar necks and musical instruments to outdoor furniture and architectural projects, and discusses the expanding market opportunities for this technology.
This conversation dives into customer engagement strategies, the importance of education in helping clients understand the value of thermally modified wood, and why establishing industry standards is crucial for continued growth. Robert also addresses the pricing considerations (thermal modification can double the price of wood), the environmental benefits including carbon storage, and what the future holds for this sustainable wood technology.
Whether you're a woodworker looking for more stable materials, interested in sustainable wood products and environmental benefits, or curious about emerging technologies in the wood industry, this episode offers valuable insights into how thermal modification is revolutionizing what's possible with wood.
Tune in to discover how this innovative process is creating new opportunities for the wood industry and opening up markets that were previously difficult to serve, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about innovation and sustainability in woodworking.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to ThermalWood Canada
02:45 The Process of Thermal Modification
05:42 Applications and Benefits of Thermally Modified Wood
08:42 Market Opportunities and Challenges
11:44 Customer Engagement and Marketing Strategies
14:50 The Future of Thermal Modification and Standards
17:33 Conclusion 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: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork
You can connect with Robert at: 
https://thermalwoodcanada.com/
https://www.instagram.com/tmwoodcanada/
https://www.facebook.com/ThermalWoodCanada
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thermalwoodcanada/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCevIorvyoyi91SFyPb5XCrw

Paul Hickman, Urban Ashes

Urban trees don't have to become waste. With the right approach, they can be transformed into sustainable, high-quality wood products that reduce carbon footprints and strengthen local communities.
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Paul Hickman, founder of Urban Ashes, to explore the critical importance of urban wood utilization. Paul shares his fascinating journey from the scenic arts industry to creating sustainable products from urban wood, with a particular focus on ash trees affected by the devastating Emerald Ash Borer. His work demonstrates how trees that would otherwise end up in landfills can become valuable resources for woodworkers, builders, and communities.
You'll hear about the Urban Wood Project and its impact on local communities, Paul's transition from manufacturing wood products to consulting and education, and why urban wood utilization is essential for reducing carbon footprints. Paul emphasizes the need for increased education and awareness about urban wood, the importance of establishing industry standards, and the valuable role organizations like the Climate Smart Wood Group play in promoting sustainable practices.
This conversation dives into both the challenges and opportunities facing the urban wood movement, from building market demand to creating infrastructure that supports salvage and milling operations. Whether you're a woodworker looking for sustainable materials, interested in urban forestry and environmental impact, or curious about how communities can turn a tree crisis into economic opportunity, this episode offers compelling insights and actionable ideas.
Tune in to discover how urban wood utilization is revolutionizing sustainability in the wood industry and creating new possibilities for local economies, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about innovation and sustainability in woodworking and forestry.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Urban Wood Utilization
02:52 Paul Hickman's Journey into Urban Wood
06:01 The Evolution of Urban Ashes
09:03 Urban Wood Project and Community Impact
12:01 Transitioning from Manufacturing to Consulting
14:54 Urban Wood Utilization and Carbon Footprint
17:50 Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Wood
21:06 Education and Standards in Urban Wood
23:52 Future of Urban Wood and Climate Smart Wood Group
26:55 Conclusion and Call to Action
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/sawmillsnearme/
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.urbanashes.com/
https://www.instagram.com/urbanashes/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmhickman

Jennifer and Steve, Woodpreneur Podcast

Small-scale wood producers across California are facing a challenge: how do you compete in a market dominated by larger operations while showcasing the unique value of locally sourced, sustainable wood?
In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger reconnects with Steve Larosiliere, founder of the Woodpreneur community, to discuss key insights and developments from the Forest Products Week conference. Steve shares his journey and the exciting collaborative efforts taking shape in the wood industry, with a special focus on the California Wood Supply Group, an initiative aimed at unifying small-scale wood producers under a common brand and vision.
You'll hear about the specific challenges small producers face in marketing and sales, and why storytelling has become a crucial tool for communicating the value and sustainability of wood products. Steve and Jennifer explore how collaboration can drive economic development in the wood industry, the importance of creating a unified brand that elevates all participants, and the strategies that can help small-scale operations thrive in a competitive marketplace.
This conversation dives into the power of community in building a stronger wood industry, the role of sustainability as both a practice and a marketing message, and how the California Wood Supply Group is working to create new opportunities for sawyers, lumber dealers, and woodworkers across the state. Whether you're a small-scale producer looking for support and resources, interested in sustainable forestry and wood sourcing, or curious about innovative approaches to marketing and collaboration in the wood industry, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.
Tune in to discover how unity, storytelling, and community are shaping the future of wood production in California and beyond, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more conversations about building a thriving and sustainable wood industry.
Chapters:
00:02 Introduction to the Woodpreneur Podcast
01:32 Steve Larosiliere's Journey
03:25 California Wood Supply Group
05:24 Challenges and Opportunities
08:25 The Importance of Storytelling
12:18 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/farwestforest/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/
Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork
Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork