The Woodpreneur Podcast Acres of Timber

Dagan Koffler, owner of Dagan Design Construction, shares his journey in the design and construction industry. He discusses how he got into the business, the challenges he faced, and the growth of his company. Dagan emphasizes the importance of building a strong team and creating a positive company culture. He also talks about the benefits of being a design-build firm and the value of social media in marketing his business. Overall, Dagan's story highlights the rewards and challenges of running a successful design and construction company. The conversation covers various strategies for showcasing and promoting design projects. It emphasizes the importance of creating articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio. The discussion also highlights the value of featuring customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content. Additionally, the conversation explores the idea of deepening storytelling and expanding into furniture design. However, challenges with client participation in terms of privacy concerns are acknowledged.


Takeaways


Building a strong team and creating a positive company culture are essential for business growth.Being a design-build firm can provide a competitive advantage and streamline the construction process.Social media is a valuable tool for marketing and connecting with potential clients.Continual learning and self-improvement are key to success in the design and construction industry. Create articles and case studies based on each project in the portfolio.Feature customers in videos and social media to provide relatable content.Deepen storytelling by showcasing the people behind the projects.Consider expanding into furniture design to offer a broader range of services.

Chapters


00:00Introduction and Background


01:13Getting into Design and Construction


04:06Growing the Business and Hiring Staff


07:10Taking the Business Seriously and Making Investments


09:05Building a Team and Delegating Responsibilities


11:51Learning and Growing as a Leader


15:14Focus on Remodeling and Design-Build


17:12The Reward of Creating and Building


18:23Differentiating from Competitors


21:12Maximizing Social Media and Marketing


25:05Building a Strong Company Culture


26:59Expanding into Other Business Ventures


27:41Advice on Social Media and Marketing


33:12Creating Articles and Case Studies


33:57Featuring Customers in Videos and Social Media


35:25Deepening the Storytelling


36:23Expanding into Furniture Design


37:34Challenges with Client Participation


Connect with Steve:


BuilderGrowth.io


Instagram.com/thelarosiliere


Instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork


Join our Paid Community at WoodpreneurNetwork.com


Connect with Dagen at: 


dagandesignconstruction.com


https://www.instagram.com/dagandesign/

"I read a fair amount, like pretty much everybody. What I have is a great ability to see what other people are doing, to observe what people are working on, and to understand techniques or things that can work for us."






Miles Janes





Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Miles Janes from Vermont Heavy Timber. Miles grew up surrounded by the aroma of sawdust and the intricate beauty of woodwork, thanks to his father, a skilled cabinet maker and woodworker. Despite initially considering a career in kitchens.






Miles found his true passion in the realm of timber frame restoration. His journey began when he joined a timber frame restoration company in his hometown, Building Heritage, owned by his now good friend, La Lothrop. Little did he know, this would mark the beginning of a remarkable journey in the world of heavy timber.






Listen now and get the whole story!






“I love challenges. And so that's really exciting. And also, what's exciting is that we're finally like, we're doing well. It's been a grind for like, three years, I'd say, you know, we're always growing.”






Miles Janes





Lessons Carved in Wood






Reflecting on his decade-long journey in the business, Miles shares some invaluable lessons. One of the core principles guiding his business is a commitment to integrity and quality. Refusing to compromise on the type of work they undertake and the standard of craftsmanship they deliver has been key to their success. Additionally, Miles emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and seeking wisdom from those who have walked the path before.






Facing Challenges with Grit and Determination






While the road hasn't always been smooth, Miles navigated through uncertain times with resilience and determination. From tight financial spots to daunting projects, he faced each challenge head-on, always maintaining his commitment to excellence and integrity.






Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future






As Vermont Heavy Timber celebrates its 10th year, Miles is excited about the future. With a stellar crew and a solid reputation, the business is poised for growth. Miles envisions expanding into new territories, potentially transitioning into an ESOP model, and taking on even more challenging projects.






Crafting Success Through Storytelling






In the ever-evolving world of business, Miles understands the power of storytelling as a tool for growth. By documenting their projects, sharing their journey, and showcasing their expertise, Vermont Heavy Timber aims to solidify its position as a leader in the industry. From captivating website narratives to engaging social media content, Miles is determined to let their work speak for itself.






Want to get in touch with Miles Janes?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vtheavytimber/

“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 accessories, with a spotlight on the coveted river tables.






Listen now and get the whole story!






“I've always had this flattening jig, right for flattening, which is a manual that runs off extruded aluminum, but you manually push it back and forth, right, and it's just mind numbingly repetitive. And I thought, you know, it's all set up to roll smoothly. “


Dan Bullen





Embracing Innovation:


What sets Iluka apart is its commitment to innovation. Dan's journey took a new turn when he ventured into the realm of tool design. What started as a personal endeavor to enhance his woodworking experience evolved into Iluka Tools—a venture aimed at revolutionizing woodworking processes. From automated sanding to CNC-inspired solutions, Iluka Tools embodies efficiency and craftsmanship.






Building a Brand:


Dan's background in graphic design instilled in him a keen eye for branding and aesthetics. With Iluka, he has crafted not just products but a brand synonymous with creativity and quality. By understanding his audience intimately and fostering a vibrant community, Dan has laid the foundation for sustainable growth.






Future Directions:


As Iluka Tools gains traction, Dan faces the exciting challenge of scaling the venture. Balancing affordability with innovation, he aims to democratize access to advanced woodworking tools. From affiliate-driven guides to turnkey solutions, Dan explores various avenues to expand the reach of Iluka Tools while staying true to its ethos.






Conclusion:


In the world of woodworking, Iluka London and Iluka Tools stand as beacons of innovation and craftsmanship. Dan Bullen Webb's journey exemplifies the power of passion, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Whether it's crafting stunning furniture or designing cutting-edge tools, Iluka continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in woodworking. Visit Iluka London and Iluka Tools online to experience the intersection of artistry and innovation firsthand.






Want to get in touch with Dan Bullen?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ilukalondon/


Website: https://www.ilukalondon.com/

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 TV show, and I had to create a character? I couldn't do it. Because it would just be the one.” -Cam Anderson


The Creative Process:


Cam delves into his creative process, highlighting his approach to finding inspiration for his woodworking projects and YouTube videos. He emphasizes the importance of staying open to new ideas and leveraging various sources for inspiration, such as social media platforms like TikTok.


Branding and Authenticity:


Cam discusses his branding strategy, which revolves around simplicity and authenticity. He shares insights into his snarky humor and how it resonates with his audience, leading to increased engagement and brand loyalty.


Expanding Horizons:


Apart from YouTube, Cam has ventured into other entrepreneurial endeavors, such as launching Maker Book—a directory of woodworking spaces—and creating his own product line, including the successful Three Nana ceramic finish.


Lessons Learned and Future Plans:


As Cam reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of focus, commitment, and embracing change. He discusses his future plans, including further expanding his YouTube channel, growing his product line, and staying relevant in the ever-evolving world of content creation.


Conclusion:


Cam's story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and resilience. From quitting his job to pursue his dreams to building a successful brand and product line, Cam's journey inspires aspiring creators and entrepreneurs to follow their passions and carve their own path to success.


“It's about getting their name and their brand out there and getting their unique perspective out there, like that's what a woodpreneur to me is like, because woodpreneurs do things that not a lot of people can do.” 


-Steve Larosiliere






Want to get in touch with Cam Anderson?






Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacktailstudio/

“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 the whole story!






“We're just sharing who we are, our purpose, our mission, and our goals, and why we do things the way we do. And we're fortunate to have such good feedback, such good support from some of these folks in the social media world.” - Tony Mcklem






Networking and Relationship Building:


Recognizing the importance of networking and building relationships, Tony focused on connecting with industry professionals, suppliers, and representatives in the area. Leveraging his connections from Los Angeles, Tony sought out key individuals who could support Hollywood Decks' growth in the new market. Through strategic networking and word-of-mouth referrals, Hollywood Decks began to establish its presence and reputation in the community.






Transitioning to High-End Projects:


As Hollywood Decks gained traction, Tony identified a niche market for high-end deck building in Northeast Florida. Rather than competing in the saturated market of pressure-treated decks, Tony positioned Hollywood Decks as a provider of premium, elaborate outdoor living spaces. This strategic differentiation allowed Hollywood Decks to stand out and attract clients seeking quality craftsmanship and personalized designs.






Investing in Growth:


With the success of their initial projects, Hollywood Decks began to invest in their business expansion. Tony recognized the need to scale operations and enhance their capabilities to meet growing demand. This included bringing in experienced team members and investing in equipment and resources to deliver exceptional results. By prioritizing quality and customer satisfaction, Hollywood Decks solidified its position as a trusted provider in the industry.






Content Creation and Brand Partnerships:


In addition to their on-site projects, Hollywood Decks ventured into content creation and brand partnerships to further elevate their brand presence. Collaborating with reputable companies and brands in the outdoor living space, Hollywood Decks produced engaging content to showcase their expertise and showcase their projects. Through strategic collaborations and content marketing efforts, Hollywood Decks expanded its reach and connected with like-minded partners who shared their vision and values.






Embracing the Journey:


Today, Tony Mcklem and the Hollywood Decks team continue to pursue their passion for creating stunning outdoor living spaces while fostering meaningful connections within the community. Their journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, strategic networking, and a commitment to excellence in craftsmanship. As they look ahead to the future, Hollywood Decks remains dedicated to pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering unparalleled outdoor experiences for their clients.






Want to get in touch with Tony Mcklem?










Contact him through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollywooddecks/


Website: https://hollywooddec

“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.”


-Katie


Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Katie& Jesse from JKath Design + Build. We delve into the fascinating journey of Katie 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.


Katie 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.


Listen now and get the whole story!


“I think what's been really fun in the last few years is that we've gained all of our clients' trust. You know, they just seem to allow us to do our job versus questioning everything, including pricing.”


-Jesse


Finding Their Niche:


In a saturated market, JKath Design + Build stands out for its commitment to quality and its ability to cultivate trust with clients. With a focus on high-end remodeling and big additions, they've carved a niche for themselves, attracting clients who value expertise and reliability.


Building Trust Through Experience:


Their ideal clients are those who have navigated renovations before, understanding the intricacies and challenges involved. By curating the design process from the outset, they build trust early on, fostering smoother collaborations and successful outcomes.


Crafting the Jay Kath Brand:


For Katie and Jesse, the brand extends beyond aesthetics—it's about embodying values of integrity, attention to detail, and enduring quality. From branded vehicles to meticulous project management, every aspect reflects their commitment to excellence.


Balancing Business and Family:


As a couple running a business together, Katie and Jesse have learned to navigate the delicate balance between work and family life. With three children and a blended family dynamic, they prioritize communication, delegation, and intentional time together.


Scaling the Business:


As JKath Design + Build continues to grow, the challenge lies in replicating their expertise and ethos. Hiring and delegation are crucial, yet daunting tasks, requiring careful consideration and a commitment to nurturing talent.


Seeking Advice and Growth:


Despite their success, Katie and Jesse recognize the need for continual improvement. From streamlining operations to enhancing their marketing efforts, they remain open to learning and evolving in their journey.


Conclusion:


The story of JKath Design + Build is one of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. Through their dedication to craftsmanship, integrity, and family, Katie and Jesse have built not just a business but a legacy of timeless design and unwavering commitment to their clients.






Want to get in touch with Katie & Jesse?






Contact them through:


Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jkath_designbuild/