Summary

In this conversation, Zach Shrum and Denny Jahnz discuss various topics related to coatings and woodworking. They talk about Denny's background as a mayor and EMT, and his journey into the coatings industry. They also discuss the advantages of water-based coatings, including their compatibility, environmental benefits, and the ability to achieve different effects and finishes. They highlight the importance of spraying water-based stains and using fast-curing systems to increase productivity. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the versatility and benefits of water-based coatings. They also talk about the cost savings and consistency that can be achieved by mixing your own paint and stains. They emphasize the need for painters to be adaptable and willing to learn and share knowledge within the industry. They also discuss the importance of controlling the temperature of the product during application and the impact it can have on consistency and repeatability. Denny suggests that coatings manufacturers should provide clearer information about the best applications for their products, rather than relying on confusing product numbers. Zach shares his plans for the future, which include consulting, training, and traveling in his motorhome.

Keywords

coatings, woodworking, water-based, compatibility, environmental benefits, spraying, fast-curing systems, versatility, color matching, CNA, paint mixing, stain matching, cost savings, consistency, adaptability, knowledge sharing, temperature control, product regulation, paint pumps, cleaning paint hoppers, hobbies, hunting, outdoor activities, coatings manufacturers, product numbers, applications, consulting, training, traveling

Takeaways

• Water-based coatings offer compatibility and versatility, allowing for the creation of various effects and finishes.
• Spraying water-based stains can increase productivity and achieve a more consistent look.
• Water-based coatings have environmental benefits and are safer for both workers and clients.
• Fast-curing systems can significantly reduce drying time and improve efficiency.
• The use of water-based coatings is becoming more popular in the woodworking industry. Understanding color matching and using a color system like CNA can help achieve consistent and accurate results.
• Mixing your own paint and stains can lead to cost savings and greater control over color formulations.
• Being adaptable and willing to learn and share knowledge is important in the painting industry.
• Controlling the temperature of the product during application can improve consistency and repeatability. Managing multiple paint pumps can be challenging and counterproductive.
• Cleaning paint hoppers can be difficult and time-consuming.
• Denny enjoys hunting and spending time outdoors.
• Coatings manufacturers should provide clearer information about the best applications for their products.

Titles

• The Role of Fast-Curing Systems in Woodworking
• The Environmental Benefits of Water-Based Coatings The Benefits of Mixing Your Own Paint and Stains
• The Importance of Color Matching and Using a Color System Zach's Plans for the Future
• Hobbies Outside of the Paint World

Sound Bites

• "It just gives you a lot of flexibility and freedom."
• "If you can give the customers a healthy option that is going to be less harmful on their health down the road, I'm going to do it."
• "Colors for me were like, I have no freaking idea what colors and how to do it."
• "I'm kind of working on a thing that I've got that that we'll be able to do that where you can pretty much just maybe run like one pump and switch stuff and it'll be kind of fun."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Small Talk

10:01

The Advantages of Water-Based Coatings

28:04

The Role of Fast-Curing Systems in Woodworking

36:15

The Value of Adaptability and Knowledge Sharing in the Painting Industry

56:56

Challenges of Managing Multiple Paint Pumps

01:11:53

The Importance of Clear Information from Coatings Manufacturers

Summary

Joe Julian, owner of Julian and Sons Fine Woodworking, shares his journey in the cabinet woodworking field and the challenges and successes of running a family business. He discusses the process of creating custom gun rooms and trophy rooms for clients all over the world, highlighting the importance of understanding the client's needs and creating a space that reflects their personal style. Joe also talks about the signature Danish oil finish that his company uses and the versatility and timeless appeal of hardwoods. He emphasizes the value of building relationships with designers and contractors to establish trust and long-term partnerships.

Keywords

woodworking, custom furniture, gun rooms, trophy rooms, Danish oil finish, hardwoods, family business, relationships, business growth, decision-making, partnership, sustainability, legacy, mentorship, training, trades industry

Takeaways

Building a successful family business requires hard work, dedication, and the ability to adapt to changing market demands.

Creating custom gun rooms and trophy rooms involves understanding the client's needs and preferences and designing a space that reflects their personal style.

The Danish oil finish is a versatile and timeless option for hardwood furniture, providing a beautiful patina and the ability to spot repair and maintain the finish over time.

Developing relationships with designers and contractors can lead to long-term partnerships and a steady stream of projects.

Using traditional craftsmanship techniques combined with modern processes and finishes allows for the creation of unique and high-quality furniture pieces.

The death of Joe Julian's father was a pivotal moment in the business, leading to a decision to continue and grow the company.

Bringing in a partner with complementary skills and a clear direction helped strengthen the company and prepare for future growth.

Transitioning from an owner-operator mentality to an owner mentality can be challenging but necessary for sustainability and legacy.

Mentorship and training are crucial in the trades industry to pass on knowledge and maintain quality standards.

Titles

Creating Custom Gun Rooms and Trophy Rooms

The Journey of a Family Woodworking Business

The Pivotal Moment: Continuing and Growing the Business

Transitioning to an Owner Mentality: Challenges and Growth

Sound Bites

"We're woodworkers, not businessmen."

"Family businesses are really hard and the dynamics are challenging."

"This is where they find their happy place. This is where they get the solace."

"The death of my father was really the pivotal moment... when I had to make a serious decision of continuing the business, what direction I was going to go in with it."

"We went from three owners to one and we were able to get a clear direction... versus three strong-headed individuals who are very closely related."

"He's the integrator to me being the innovator... every good company's based on two people with distinct skill sets."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

07:38

Working with Family and Transitioning to the Next Generation

13:12

Creating Spaces for Clients' Personal Retreats

23:50

Building Relationships with Designers and Contractors

31:29

The Importance of Trust and Long-Term Partnerships

37:29

Transitioning to an Owner Mentality: Challenges and Growth

47:52

Mentorship and Training: Ensuring Quality Standards in the Trades Industry

Links:

https://www.instagram.com/julian_and_sons/

https://julianandsons.com/

Rob Martinez, owner of Rob's Kitchen Remodel and Cabinet Painting, shares his journey in the finishing industry and the challenges he faced when starting to paint cabinets. He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and seeking guidance from experienced professionals. Rob also discusses the evolution of wood coatings, particularly water-based products, and the advantages they offer in terms of health and environmental impact. He mentions the current trends in the coatings world, including high-gloss finishes and the comeback of stained cabinets. Rob's goal is to build a brand and leave a legacy in the industry. Rob shares his experience of pushing himself during tough times and finding different fields of work to stay consistent. He started focusing on other things besides painting cabinets, which led him to full kitchen remodels. This shift has brought more stability and consistent work for him and his team. Rob emphasizes the importance of being efficient and constantly learning to stay competitive in the industry. He also enjoys hiking as a way to relax and disconnect from work.

Key Takeaways:

Learning from Mistakes and Seeking Guidance: Rob Martinez emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and seeking guidance from experienced professionals in the finishing industry. His growth in painting cabinets and mastering wood coatings highlights the value of hands-on experience and mentorship.

Advantages of Water-Based Wood Coatings: Rob advocates for water-based wood coatings, which offer significant health and environmental benefits compared to solvent-based products. These coatings improve indoor air quality and are safer for the environment.

Current Trends in the Coatings World: Staying updated with industry trends is crucial. Rob highlights the popularity of high-gloss finishes and the resurgence of stained cabinets, which influence customer preferences and drive innovation.

Pushing Through Tough Times and Finding New Opportunities: Rob's journey underscores the importance of resilience. By diversifying his skills and exploring different fields of work, he maintained consistent work and navigated business challenges.

Expanding Services for Stability and Consistent Work: Rob expanded his services from painting cabinets to full kitchen remodels, providing more consistent work and enhancing business resilience.

Efficiency and Constant Learning: In an industry where "time is money," Rob stresses the need for efficiency and continuous learning. Embracing new techniques and staying informed keeps him competitive and ensures high-quality results.

Relaxation and Mental Well-Being through Hiking: Rob finds time to relax and disconnect from work through hiking, helping him maintain a healthy work-life balance and mental clarity. Relaxation is crucial for overall well-being and productivity.

Episode Hihglights:

00:00 - Introduction and Background

06:56 - The Evolution of Wood Coatings

14:01 - Personal Background and Goals

30:01 - Importance of Efficiency and Learning

36:20 - Staying Competitive in the Industry

42:38 - Relaxation and Disconnecting from Work

Connect with Rob:

https://www.instagram.com/robs_cabinet_painting_remodel/

Check out his Google Profile