TheBeardedFinisher Podcast

Can Paint Be Beautiful, Safe, and Sustainable? Inside Alkemis Paint with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, co-founders of Alkemis Paint, a wellness-driven paint brand transforming how we think about coatings. With backgrounds in art, design, and finance, Maya and Price are leading the charge toward safer, more sustainable paint options—without compromising on beauty or performance.
They dive into the environmental impact of traditional paints, the power of Cradle to Cradle certification, and how mineral-based pigments are changing the game. You'll hear how Alkemis is leveraging direct-to-consumer strategies, balancing growth with integrity, and using customer feedback to improve everything from product to palette. This is more than just paint—it’s a movement toward healthier, more thoughtful design.
Whether you’re in the coatings industry or just passionate about sustainability, this episode will inspire you to rethink what’s possible with paint.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Background 02:57 – The Genesis of Alkemis Paint 05:56 – Art and Design Journey 09:02 – The Need for Wellness Paint 11:53 – Cradle to Cradle Certification Explained 15:06 – Environmental Impact of Conventional Paints 18:00 – The Future of Sustainable Paints 23:31 – Exploring Food Grade Coatings 26:01 – Cradle to Cradle Certification Explained (Part 2) 27:34 – In-House Manufacturing vs. Partnerships 30:01 – Direct to Consumer Sales Strategy 35:52 – Innovations in Paint Technology 41:55 – Feedback from the Field: Real World Applications 46:05 – The Science of Paint Pigments 49:24 – Innovative Projects and Collaborations 51:51 – Future Directions and Industry Partnerships 54:51 – The Importance of Education in the Paint Industry 59:45 – Personal Passions and Creative Outlets
Connect with Alkemis Paint
🌐 Website: www.alkemispaint.com 📸 Instagram: @alkemispaint 📧 Email: support@alkemispaint.com 🛍️ Shop Direct: shop.alkemispaint.com
Follow Alkemis Paint for updates on new product drops, collaborations, and their mission to make healthy, beautiful design more accessible.

Can Passion, Loss, and Craftsmanship Shape a Life? Chade Turner's Story

Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Chade Turner to explore his deeply personal journey from growing up on West Texas job sites to running a family painting business—and everything in between. Chade opens up about his early resistance to the trade, his pursuit of music, and the life-altering moments that pulled him back home.
Together, Zach and Chade talk about loss, addiction, fatherhood, and finding purpose through craftsmanship. They unpack how community, creativity, and collaboration became cornerstones of Chade’s life and business. Chade also shares how products like Vero Metal opened new doors in finishing, and how social media has helped him reconnect with the passion behind the brush.
This episode is raw, real, and relatable for anyone who’s ever juggled personal growth, professional legacy, and the pursuit of peace.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Background 06:15 – Chade's Early Life and Family Business 10:03 – Transition to Music and Marriage 14:05 – Life on the Road and Touring 18:27 – Return to Family Business and Father's Influence 21:54 – Reflections on Loss and Regret 24:47 – Taking Over the Family Business 29:17 – Navigating Challenges in a Small Town 31:10 – The Importance of Community Connections 32:37 – Overcoming Personal Struggles 37:21 – Rediscovering Passion and Purpose 38:35 – Embracing New Opportunities in the Industry 45:19 – Exploring New Materials and Techniques 47:56 – The Journey of Discovery in Painting 48:57 – Memorable Projects and Collaborations 50:49 – Teamwork and Respect in High-Level Execution 51:58 – International Experiences and Opportunities 52:53 – Finding the Right People for the Right Job 53:40 – Current Projects and Future Endeavors 01:01:41 – Balancing Passion and Work 01:02:38 – Advice to a Younger Self 01:04:29 – Hobbies and Finding Peace

Mastering the Art of Plaster with Jeremy Mastretta

In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Jeremy Mastretta to explore his journey from the painting trade in Connecticut to launching a plaster-focused brand in Bozeman, Montana. Jeremy opens up about his early days as a young worker, the move west that changed his life, and how he embraced the art of plastering through hard work and constant learning.
You’ll hear how Jeremy navigated the transition into manufacturing, dealt with the challenges of scaling production, and tapped into plaster trends that appeal to today’s high-end markets. The episode also dives into topics like the importance of mentorship, community training, staying true to craftsmanship, and what it means to balance personal philosophy with business growth.
Whether you're a finisher, a creative entrepreneur, or just someone fascinated by trades done well, this one is packed with insight, storytelling, and practical lessons.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to The Bearded Finisher Podcast01:12 – Jeremy Mastretta’s Journey in Finishing04:05 – Discovering Plaster and Craftsmanship06:50 – Trends in the Plaster Industry09:16 – Transitioning to Manufacturing12:47 – The Challenges of Manufacturing14:44 – Building Relationships in Business16:34 – Vision and Leadership in Business18:01 – The Future of Production vs. Service26:47 – Community and Training in Plaster33:59 – Unique Techniques and Finishes37:25 – Insights on Customer Relationships42:42 – The Philosophy of Business59:55 – Hobbies and Personal Passions01:05:17 – Conclusion and Episode Wrap-Up

What/Who is Behind the Rise of Rise Up Labels in the Woodworking World?

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with the team from Rise Up Labels to explore how a sticky label problem turned into a full-fledged business revolutionizing the woodworking industry. From the creation of their residue-free RiseClean labels to the evolution of their product line, Rise Up Labels has become known for delivering innovative, high-performance solutions for shops and manufacturers.
Brad Klingman and the team share their journey of growth, their experience at events like WorkbenchCon, and how in-person connections and social media have driven deeper relationships across the industry. This conversation dives into manufacturing challenges, product development, entrepreneurship, and family culture, all wrapped in a mission to serve and elevate the woodworking community.
Key Takeaways:
Rise Up Labels started to solve the sticky residue issue for woodworkers.
Their RiseClean label eliminates time-consuming cleanup, saving shops money and hassle.
Social media is a powerful tool for growth and brand connection in woodworking.
The team emphasizes customer service, tailored solutions, and direct conversations with shops.
Upcoming innovations include a paint mask label and expanded educational content.
Trade shows like WorkbenchCon allow for impactful, in-person relationships.
Rise Up operates with a focus on family values, mentorship, and integrity.
Understanding client-specific machines and needs drives their innovation.
They’ve grown to serve over 250 clients, with a mission to be a resource—not just a vendor.
Sound Bites:
“This is healing my heart.”
“We have over 250 clients now.”
“They can go and do what they do best.”
“This industry has long needed it.”
“People buy from those they know, like, and trust.”
“Always have a hand up and a hand down.”
Chapters:
00:00 — Introduction to Rise Up Labels 06:04 — Founding the Company and Solving Sticky Problems 11:58 — Social Media’s Role in Brand Growth 17:49 — Building Relationships and Networking 21:59 — Inside Label Manufacturing for Woodworking 22:58 — Evolving Client Conversations 26:33 — The RiseClean Label: Innovation in Action 32:49 — Label Residue Costs and Solutions 37:00 — New Product Development: Paint Mask Label & More 40:06 — Vision for the Company and Industry Support 45:07 — The Power of In-Person Connections 46:59 — WorkbenchCon and Community Engagement 49:27 — Advice for Young Entrepreneurs and Builders 53:10 — Personal Stories, Hobbies, and Family Life 01:05:49 — Final Thoughts and What's Next for Rise Up
Connect with Rise Up Labels:
Website: riseuplabels.com
Instagram: @riseuplabels
Facebook: facebook.com/riseuplabels
TikTok: @riseuplabels
Printer Recommendations:
https://www.riseuplabel.com/blog/our-printer-recommendations-for-thermal-labels
Follow them for updates, product tips, and to see how they’re helping shops finish stronger—without the sticky mess.

How Did Jamie Bourne Transform Decorating with Spray Finishing?

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Beard and Finisher Podcast, Zach Shrum welcomes Jamie Bourne of Abode Academy to talk about his journey from traditional decorator to one of the UK’s leading trainers in spray finishing. Jamie shares how he transitioned into education, the rise of spray techniques across the UK, and why specialty finishes like liquid metal and spray stone are creating new income streams for decorators.
The conversation dives into training standards, equipment needs, and product innovations decorators face today, especially as the industry shifts from solvent to water-based technologies. Jamie also offers advice on marketing, personal branding, and balancing business with life outside the booth. This episode is packed with practical knowledge, mindset shifts, and insights for decorators looking to grow both in skill and in business.
Key Takeaways:
Jamie went from full-time decorator to full-time trainer after mastering spray techniques.
Spray finishing is growing rapidly in the UK, especially with high-end specialty finishes.
Abode Academy offers in-depth training and aftercare support to elevate the industry.
Liquid metals, granite spray, and faux stone finishes are becoming highly profitable niches.
Water-based products are growing, but safety and education are lagging behind.
Personal branding and social media consistency are essential to standing out in the market.
Sales and communication matter just as much as technical decorating skills.
Jamie emphasizes balance, especially family time, as a key part of long-term success.
Sound Bites:
"It's a niche market."
"It looks like real stone."
"People think it’s safe, but it’s not."
"Consistency is key for social media growth."
"You’ve got to be dedicated to it like hard."
"My whole life is about them really."
Chapters:
00:00 — Weather Talk and Intro to Jamie Bourne 02:05 — Jamie’s Journey into the Decorating Industry 04:51 — The Rise of Spray Finishing in the UK 09:53 — Abode Academy: Training Decorators for Success 14:58 — Specialty Finishes: Liquid Metals, Spray Stone, and More 20:10 — Tools and Techniques for Spray Finishing 25:03 — Support Systems and Equipment Aftercare 30:31 — Coating Innovations and Industry Shifts 31:59 — Water-Based vs. Solvent-Based Products: Pros and Cons 39:44 — Challenges in Product Education and Application 43:15 — Advice for Aspiring Painters and Decorators 44:50 — Social Media Strategy and Building a Brand 53:47 — Fishing, Family, and Life Outside the Booth
Connect with Jamie and Abode Academy:
Instagram: @abode_academy
Website: abodeacademy.co.uk
YouTube: Abode Academy
Follow Jamie for more updates on training, product innovation, and finishing inspiration.

What Inspired Gary LeClerc to Launch Stripwell and Redefine Furniture Stripping?

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Beard and Finisher Podcast, Zach Shrum sits down with Gary LeClerc, founder of Stripwell, to discuss his journey from furniture restoration to developing eco-friendly stripping solutions that challenge industry norms. Gary shares the inspiration behind Stripwell, the challenges of educating consumers on innovative products, and the importance of versatility in restoration materials.
The conversation explores business growth through simplicity, the role of social media in brand building, and the shift in consumer demand for sustainable products. Gary also discusses customer engagement, navigating safety regulations, and the power of community in business success. His insights highlight the need for entrepreneurs to adapt, build strong relationships, and embrace new ways of thinking in order to thrive.
Whether you're in furniture restoration, product development, or looking to scale a business, this episode offers actionable strategies for innovation, marketing, and long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
Innovation in Restoration: Stripwell focuses on eco-friendly solutions that prioritize safety and efficiency.
Consumer Education: The biggest challenge in launching a new product is teaching customers how to use it effectively.
The Power of Social Media: Content creation can transform a brand’s reach and credibility.
Simplicity Over Complexity: Business growth doesn’t always mean expansion—it can mean eliminating waste and focusing on what truly matters.
Success Beyond Wealth: Entrepreneurship should be about freedom and purpose, not just financial gain.
Retail Challenges: Entering big-box stores isn’t always the best move—sometimes micro-distribution and direct sales work better.
The Role of Customer Feedback: Negative reviews can be a goldmine for improving a product and refining marketing strategies.
Ethical Restoration: Honoring craftsmanship and reversibility is key to maintaining integrity in restoration work.
Sound Bites:
"Money is just fuel for freedom."
"Perfection is the enemy of execution."
"You have to think of the next person in restoration."
"If the product works, nobody cares about the packaging."
"Negative reviews tell you what needs to improve."
Chapters:
00:00 — Introduction to Stripwell and Its Mission 04:35 — The Evolution of Stripwell’s Product Development 10:34 — Targeting the Right Market for Eco-Friendly Solutions 14:54 — Navigating Safety Regulations and Industry Challenges 20:39 — Simplicity and Efficiency: Stripwell’s Business Philosophy 24:18 — Social Media’s Role in Building Brand Awareness 29:39 — Micro-Distribution vs. Traditional Retail Strategies 33:49 — The Importance of Customer Retention Over Acquisition 39:37 — Turning Negative Feedback into Business Growth 48:54 — Ethical Considerations in Restoration Work 54:56 — The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Lessons from Failure and Success 01:05:33 — How Automation and AI Are Changing the Industry 01:15:40 — The Future of Estimating and Business Scaling 01:20:25 — Reverse Engineering Goals for Success
Connect with Stripwell:
Website: stripwell.com
Instagram: @stripwell
Facebook: facebook.com/stripwell
TikTok: @stripwell
For more insights and updates, follow Stripwell on social media!

How Did Jamie Neville-Young Turn Dealing in Design into a Restoration Success?

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Beard and Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Jamie Neville-Young, founder of Dealing in Design, to discuss his journey into furniture restoration, the evolution of his business, and the unique challenges of working with both antique and modern pieces. Jamie shares insights into his mobile lifestyle, the intricacies of finishing techniques, and the importance of reversibility in restoration work. His passion for the craft shines through as he emphasizes the artistic nature of restoration and the problem-solving skills required in the industry.
Key Takeaways:
Early Beginnings: Jamie began his journey in furniture restoration at 18 and worked under a mentor for nine years before starting his own business.
Business Evolution: The Dealing in Design podcast served as a catalyst for his business growth, allowing him to connect with a broader audience.
Mobile Lifestyle: Living in a mobile home provides Jamie with flexibility and adventure, influencing his approach to design and restoration.
Finishing Techniques: He emphasizes that preparation constitutes 95% of the work in finishing, highlighting the importance of meticulous groundwork.
Artistic Pursuit: Jamie views restoration as an artistic endeavor, valuing the creative process over the business aspects.
Sound Bites:
"I started my own podcast."
"Shellac is the most used finish."
"Prep is 95% of the work."
"It's an artistic creative pursuit."
"I love having fun with the content."
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Jamie and His Journey
05:57 – The Evolution of Jamie's Business
11:53 – Living the Mobile Life
18:09 – Coatings and Finishing Techniques
24:03 – The Art of Restoration and Problem Solving
28:07 – Understanding Paint Chemistry and Techniques
31:35 – The Journey of Social Media Growth
36:40 – Content Creation Strategies and Audience Engagement
42:12 – Cultural Differences in Business and Content Creation
46:08 – Transitioning to a High-End Business Model
51:41 – Defining Entrepreneurial Success
54:57 – The Cost of Labor and Business Structure
58:12 – Exploring Innovative Finishing Techniques
01:01:45 – The Importance of Continuous Learning
01:03:36 – Future Aspirations and Creative Projects
01:09:00 – Personal Insights and Hobbies
Connect with Jamie and Dealing in Design:
Website: dealingindesign.com
Instagram: @dealingindesign
Spotify Podcast: DEALING in DESIGN with Jamie Neville-Young
For more insights and updates, follow Dealing in Design on their social media platforms.
 

Is Diversification the Key to Success? Vince Todd Jr. on Building a Stronger Business!

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Beard and Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Vince Todd Jr., Vice President and Principal at Accessa Coatings Solutions. They discuss Vince's journey in the coatings industry, the evolution of his family business, and the importance of innovation and problem-solving. The conversation delves into strategies for business growth, the significance of building a strong team, and the balance between diversification and maintaining core competencies. Vince also shares personal experiences, including his battle with cancer and the founding of the Heroes Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting cancer awareness and research.
Key Takeaways:
Innovation and Problem-Solving: Emphasizing the need for continuous innovation to address challenges in the coatings industry.
Strategic Diversification: Balancing diversification with a focus on core business strengths to drive growth.
Team Building: The critical role of assembling a dedicated and skilled team for business success.
Leadership Transition: Shifting from working within the business to overseeing and guiding its strategic direction.
Personal Resilience: Drawing from personal experiences, such as overcoming cancer, to inspire and lead with empathy.
Sound Bites:
"We want to put our own stamp on it."
"Set a high standard."
"It's all relationship-based, 100%."
"Follow your passion, number one."
"Control the controllables."
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Vince Todd Jr. and Accessa Coatings Solutions
03:01 – Evolution of the Family Business
06:13 – Insights into the Coatings Industry
09:04 – Embracing Innovation and Problem-Solving
12:01 – Balancing Diversification with Core Focus
15:09 – Building and Leading a Strong Team
18:00 – Strategies for Business Expansion
23:51 – Transitioning to Strategic Leadership
29:17 – Adapting to Market Trends and Consumer Preferences
35:53 – Personal Journey: Overcoming Cancer and Founding the Heroes Foundation
50:59 – Future Outlook for Accessa and the Coatings Industry
56:10 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Connect with Accessa Coatings Solutions:
Website: accessa.com
Facebook: facebook.com/AccessaCorp
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/accessa-coatings-solutions
Connect with the Heroes Foundation:
Website: heroesfoundation.org
Facebook: facebook.com/HeroesFoundation
Instagram: instagram.com/heroesfoundation
For more insights and updates, follow Accessa Coatings Solutions and the Heroes Foundation on their social media platforms.

Struggling to Scale Your Painting Business? Here’s How Oram Painting Did It!

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Beard and Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Joshua Lamoureux, owner of Oram Painting in Calgary, to discuss his journey from student painter to successful entrepreneur. Joshua shares the challenges he faced and the strategies he used to build a thriving painting business. They dive into topics like team management, production strategies, financial oversight, and client relationships, offering valuable insights for anyone in the service industry.
The conversation also explores the evolving labor market, cash flow challenges, and the role of fitness in employee well-being. Joshua explains how investing in branding and perceived value can set a painting business apart and how collaboration within the industry can lead to stronger pricing strategies.
Key Takeaways:
From Student Painter to Business Owner: Joshua transitioned to entrepreneurship after realizing his values didn’t align with his previous employer.
Scaling a Business: Achieved $300K in revenue within the first three quarters.
Client Relationships: Strong personal relationships and trust are key to business growth.
Team Loyalty: Paying employees even during downtime helps maintain a committed workforce.
Production Strategies: Uses a just-in-time model for high-end finishing work.
Cash Flow & Pricing: Payment delays are a common challenge, and understanding pricing structures is critical.
Leadership & Wellness: Investing in employee fitness can improve morale and productivity.
Branding & Perceived Value: Creating an exclusive brand helps attract premium clients.
Sound Bites:
"I hit $300K my first three quarters."
"A lot of guys out there are hesitant to hire people."
"I'm not leaving until I get a check."
"We went all in on fitness in our company."
"Your finish coat should be the fastest thing you do."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Joshua Lamoureux and Oram Painting 03:03 — Joshua’s Journey: From Student Painter to Entrepreneur 08:28 — Scaling a Business: Challenges and Early Success 11:01 — Building a Painting Business with Oram Painting 14:12 — Production Strategies and Team Management 19:55 — Business Models and Financial Management 25:06 — Client Relationships and Estimation Practices 30:07 — The Value of Skilled Labor in Painting 31:22 — Understanding Payment Structures 32:31 — Time and Material Contracts Explained 34:31 — Why Trust Is Essential in Client Relationships 35:31 — Commercial vs. Residential Work: Key Differences 39:39 — How to Handle Payment Delays in Construction 40:20 — Assessing Client Trustworthiness Before Taking Jobs 42:23 — Why Timely Payments Are Crucial for Growth 45:36 — Challenges in Custom Home Painting Projects 49:06 — Pricing Strategies: Balancing Quality and Cost 52:20 — The Changing Landscape of Labor Costs 01:00:50 — How Cash Flow Impacts Wages in the Painting Industry 01:01:45 — Solving Labor Shortages with Innovation 01:02:46 — Investing in Employee Wellness and Fitness 01:04:59 — Reframing Leadership to Maximize Employee Potential 01:06:57 — How Fitness Can Improve Work Performance 01:09:17 — Navigating Market Pressures and Pricing Strategies 01:11:47 — How Camaraderie Among Business Owners Helps Pricing 01:13:30 — Shifting Mindsets in the Painting Industry 01:15:43 — The Role of Experience in Service-Based Businesses 01:19:49 — Branding and Perceived Value in a Competitive Market 01:21:10 — Creating an Exclusive Brand to Attract Premium Clients 01:23:53 — Should You Charge for Estimates? How It Impacts Business
Connect with Oram Painting:
Website: orampainting.com
Facebook: facebook.com/orampainting
Instagram: instagram.com/orampainting
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/oram-painting
For more insights and updates, follow Oram Painting on their social media platforms!

Why Is Wood Finishing the Most Misunderstood Part of the Industry with Joseph Baggett?

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Joseph Baggett, founder of Innovative Wood Process (IWPS), to discuss his journey in the wood finishing industry and the critical role of training and education. Joseph shares insights on the transition to modern finishing technologies like 2K urethanes, the challenges of supply chain management, and the importance of leadership in fostering a learning culture.
The conversation explores the least understood aspects of woodworking, the need for vocational training in finishing, and the significance of cash flow in entrepreneurship. Joseph also highlights the importance of engaging younger generations in the industry, incentivizing training for better worker retention, and balancing work and personal life. Whether you’re a manufacturer, finisher, or business owner, this episode offers valuable lessons on technology adoption, industry leadership, and continuous learning.
Key Takeaways:
Wood finishing remains one of the least understood aspects of woodworking.
IWPS provides a holistic approach to improving the finishing industry.
The demand for vocational training in finishing is growing.
Strong leadership and knowledge sharing improve industry standards.
The transition to 2K urethanes enhances quality and efficiency.
Understanding pot life is crucial for successful product application.
Cash flow management is essential for sustaining a business.
A solid supply chain is key to ensuring product availability and consistency.
Engaging younger generations is necessary for the future of the industry.
Work-life balance is critical for long-term success.
Titles:
Innovating Wood Finishing: Joseph Baggett on Training, Leadership, and 2K Urethanes
The Future of Finishing: Education, Supply Chains, and Industry Growth with Joseph Baggett
Mastering Wood Finishing: Vocational Training, Technology, and Business Success
Sound Bites:
"Finishing is often the least understood part of woodworking."
"Younger generations must be engaged in the industry."
"Quality in finishing can make or break a business."
"A strong supply chain builds trust and ensures growth."
"Leadership in the wood industry requires humility and learning."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Joseph Baggett and Innovative Wood Process 06:03 — The Role of Finishing in Woodworking 11:59 — The Growing Need for Vocational Training in Finishing 18:10 — Leadership and Learning in the Wood Industry 23:59 — The Future of Finishing Technologies and 2K Urethanes 30:26 — Understanding Pot Life and Overcoming Industry Challenges 40:20 — The Importance of Building Trust in the Supply Chain 48:40 — Entrepreneurship: Managing Cash Flow and Scaling a Business 56:13 — Balancing Work, Personal Life, and Industry Commitments