In this episode, Steve Larosiliere interviews Chris Huguet, founder of The Lumber Lab. Chris shares his journey from studying microbiology and neuroscience to starting his own woodworking business. He discusses the challenges he faced, including switching career paths and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Chris highlights the importance of finding a niche market, focusing on high-end products, and maintaining safety precautions and financial stability. He recounts the fire that destroyed his shop and the support from the woodworking community. Despite setbacks, Chris has built a thriving business through word-of-mouth marketing and exceptional customer service. He emphasizes communication and attention to detail to stand out from competitors. Steve advises him to hire a part-time employee and explore expansion opportunities like offering accent walls and partnering with other professionals. Chris’s story is a testament to perseverance and innovation in a competitive market.
Takeaways
- Don’t be afraid to switch career paths and pursue your passion.
- Focus on high-end, custom products for sustainability.
- Build a strong support network within the woodworking community.
- Prioritize safety precautions and have a financial safety net.
- Resilience and perseverance are key to overcoming setbacks.
- Exceptional customer service and attention to detail set a business apart.
- Word-of-mouth marketing can significantly grow a business.
- Hiring help can free up time for business expansion.
- Explore complementary services and partnerships for growth.
Chapters
00:0 - Introduction and Background
02:59 - Switching Career Paths and Starting The Lumber Lab
09:06 - Finding a Niche Market and Focusing on High-End Products
12:14 - Overcoming Adversity: The Fire Incident
27:19 - Resilience and Success
30:30 - Word-of-Mouth Marketing
32:26 - Business Growth and Hiring Help
39:32 - Buying Back Time
48:09 - Exploring New Opportunities
Join the Woodpreneur Network and Community at Woodpreneur.com or Woodpreneurnetwork.com
Connect with Chris at:
https://www.instagram.com/lumberlabinc/
The Woodpreneur Podcast
We cover the business and marketing side of the sawmill, tree service, furniture making, Urban Wood, and woodworking industry. If you're a woodworker, sawmill owner, or any other entrepreneur and/or business owner in the wood industry, you need to check out this podcast.
Each week, we interview business owners, large-scale companies, entrepreneurs, makers, and designers while also offering marketing and business advice that will help you grow your business and increase your profits. Tune in every Thursday!
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