The Woodpreneur Podcast

Alyssa Olson, Designers and Builders Podcast

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/

Clay Miller, Aurora Timberland

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 productsVietnam expansion: how a social media DM became a sold-out walnut programSales lessons: persistence, cold-call wins, and positioning for the next market upcycleActionable 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

Anthony Saraceno, Real Antique Wood

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:
Family-Owned Business: Real Antique Wood is a family-operated business that has been thriving for 15 years, focusing on reclaimed wood products.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.Operational Challenges: Anthony discusses the challenges of kiln drying and the importance of streamlining processes to improve efficiency.Future Expansion: The company aims to expand its operations with additional storefronts while continuing to refine their processes.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/

Ken Breon, Lumber Capital Log Yard

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

Julie Stelman, AncesTREE

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 AncesTREEAncesTREE simplifies inventory management for sawmillsUnderstanding customer needs was crucial in system developmentThe marketplace allows multiple vendors to sell wood efficientlyEmbracing 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
Julie@ancestree.org
https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-stelman-b99740162/

Jennifer & Steve, Woodpreneur Podcast

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/

Zachary Wicks, Wood by Wicks

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:
Zachary Wicks transitioned from remodeling homes to full-time wood entrepreneurship, driven by his passion for milling and sustainable forestry.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.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.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.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#

Clarke Stevenson, The Watershed Research and Training Center

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 conservationInnovative training programs are central to empowering local communitiesSustainable practices are essential for long-term ecological and economic resilienceCollaboration 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/

Rick Siewert, Wood From the Hood

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 wasteBuilding standards and certification systems are essential for establishing credibility in emerging industriesCollaboration and networking are crucial for overcoming challenges in niche marketsSustainable business models can emerge from unconventional beginnings and creative problem-solvingThe 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/

Kelly and Caleb Geer, Urban Tree Merchants

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger speaks with Caleb and Kelly Geer of Urban Tree Merchants about their journey in the urban wood industry.
They discuss their passion for utilizing local trees, the challenges of running a woodworking business, and the importance of community partnerships.
The conversation highlights innovative projects, marketing strategies, and the significance of sustainability in woodworking. The Geers share insights on their experiences, the value of collaboration, and their vision for the future of urban wood utilization.
Top 5 Takeaways
Urban Tree Merchants started from a passion for recycling woodThe importance of community partnerships in utilizing local resourcesInnovative projects can showcase the value of urban woodMarketing strategies rely heavily on word of mouth and presenceSustainability is a key focus in the woodworking industry
Chapters 
00:00 Introduction to Urban Tree Merchants 
01:36 The Journey of Urban Tree Merchants 
04:25 Daily Operations and Partnerships 
07:38 Collaboration with the City of Arlington 
10:05 Exciting Projects and Innovations 
12:50 Documenting the Process 
17:10 Challenges and Growth in Business 
18:49 Overcoming Business Challenges 
21:30 Passion for Urban Wood 
23:28 Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses 
24:44 Unique Selling Points of Local Wood 
27:51 Leveraging Internships and Partnerships 
30:30 Navigating Growth and Raw Material Supply 
37:09 Collaborative Approaches to Large Projects
The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger 
For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com
See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com
Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io
Connect with us at: 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/
Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork
Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/
You can connect with Caleb and Kelly:
https://urbantreemerchants.com/about-us/
https://www.instagram.com/UrbanTreeMerchants
https://www.facebook.com/urbantreemerchants/