TheBeardedFinisher Podcast
Welcome to TheBeardedFinisher Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of finishing, painting, manufacturing, and supply chain. Join me as I chat with finishers, painters, manufacturers, and suppliers, sharing their stories, insights, and expertise. It’s like sitting down with old friends over a beer, where every conversation is filled with valuable nuggets of wisdom and experience. At TBF LLC, I offer bespoke consulting and coaching services tailored to the needs of businesses in the painting and finishing industry. With a focus on sales growth, technical training, production efficiency, and employment services, my aim is to empower companies to thrive in this dynamic sector. Let’s work together to elevate your business to new heights. Connect with me to stay updated on the latest episodes of TheBeardedFinisher Podcast and explore how TBF LLC can support your business goals.
Episodes

4 days ago
4 days ago
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.

Monday Mar 03, 2025
Monday Mar 03, 2025
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.

Monday Feb 24, 2025
Struggling to Scale Your Painting Business? Here’s How Oram Painting Did It!
Monday Feb 24, 2025
Monday Feb 24, 2025
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!

Monday Feb 17, 2025
Monday Feb 17, 2025
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

Monday Feb 10, 2025
Mastering Customer Engagement & Business Efficiency with Tanner Mullen
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Monday Feb 10, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Tanner Mullen, founder of DripJobs, to discuss his journey from running a painting business to developing a software solution tailored for contractors. Tanner shares how his firsthand experience in the painting industry led him to recognize the need for automation, customer engagement strategies, and streamlined project management.
The conversation dives into the importance of setting clear expectations, aligning sales and production, and managing difficult customers. Tanner also highlights the power of follow-ups, systemizing estimates for consistency, and using technology to scale a business effectively. He shares insights on leadership, extreme accountability, and balancing entrepreneurship with family life. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for painting contractors looking to grow their business through automation and smarter customer interactions.
Key Takeaways:
Tanner transitioned from a corporate job to owning a painting business before launching DripJobs.
Automating customer follow-ups can significantly improve lead conversion.
Understanding the customer journey helps refine engagement and sales strategies.
Systemizing estimates ensures consistency and accuracy in pricing.
Aligning sales and production expectations is crucial for customer satisfaction.
Managing difficult customers requires patience and strong communication skills.
Leveraging technology can streamline operations and help scale a business.
Extreme accountability is essential for leadership and business success.
Balancing work and family life is key to long-term fulfillment.
Titles:
From Painter to Software Innovator: Tanner Mullen’s Journey with DripJobs
Automating Success: How DripJobs is Changing the Painting Industry
Mastering Customer Engagement and Business Growth with Tanner Mullen
Sound Bites:
"I always wanted to own a business."
"It's like crafting a masterpiece."
"How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time."
"You can charge more."
"Family is number one on my list."
"Embrace technology."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Tanner Mullen 01:14 — From Painting to Business Ownership 04:32 — The Birth of DripJobs and Its Mission 10:32 — Understanding Customer Engagement and Follow-Ups 16:38 — Transitioning from Painting to Software Development 20:31 — Challenges in Software and Business Management 23:38 — Taking It One Step at a Time in Business Growth 24:08 — Setting Expectations for Better Leadership 25:02 — The Joy of Transforming Spaces Through Business 26:32 — Managing Difficult Customers with Patience 28:43 — Extreme Accountability and Leadership Lessons 30:34 — Aligning Sales and Production for Efficiency 32:32 — The Importance of Customer Venting and Listening 33:31 — Setting Expectations in Estimates for Clarity 36:55 — Synchronizing Sales and Production Teams 40:00 — Leveraging Technology for Business Efficiency 42:59 — Understanding and Implementing Production Rate Estimating 46:32 — Why Systemizing Estimates Improves Consistency 51:54 — Exclusive Offer for Podcast Listeners 01:01:07 — Enhancing Customer Engagement with Technology 01:04:14 — Balancing Work, Family, and Business Growth

Monday Feb 03, 2025
Monday Feb 03, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Jeff Halonen, co-founder of Steelhead Technologies, to discuss how digital solutions are transforming job shop and service-based manufacturing. Jeff shares his journey from a mechanical engineering background at General Motors to building Steelhead, a software platform designed to improve workflow efficiency, job costing, and communication in the coatings and manufacturing industries.
The conversation highlights the complexities of coating processes and the growing need for automation and professionalization in the industry. Jeff explains how Steelhead reduces transaction costs, enhances customer experience through real-time visibility, and provides scalable solutions for businesses looking to grow. They also discuss how implementing the right software can improve work-life balance, streamline bidding and tracking, and ultimately drive long-term business success.
Key Takeaways:
Steelhead Technologies provides a purpose-built platform for job shop manufacturing.
The software integrates ERP and MES functionalities to enhance efficiency.
Digital solutions are essential for managing complex coating processes.
Job costing, real-time visibility, and workflow automation improve profitability.
Reducing transaction costs leads to greater productivity and customer satisfaction.
Implementing software involves mapping key processes for seamless adoption.
Scaling a painting or coating business requires effective job tracking and automation.
Professionalizing the industry through technology leads to long-term growth.
A well-integrated system allows for better work-life balance and business control.
Titles:
Revolutionizing Coatings & Manufacturing: Jeff Halonen on Steelhead Technologies
Scaling Job Shops Through Automation & Digital Solutions
How Steelhead Technologies is Transforming the Coatings Industry
Sound Bites:
"Where were you 10 years ago?"
"You make money by shipping goods."
"We want to cut transaction costs."
"You have to automate a lot of tasks."
"This is going to be a game changer."
"Your work should be able to double."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Steelhead Technologies 03:03 — Jeff Halonen’s Background & Journey from GM to Software Innovation 06:06 — The Need for Digital Solutions in Manufacturing 08:59 — Addressing the Complexity of Coating Processes 12:11 — Steelhead’s Key Features & Industry Impact 15:01 — Workflow Management & Automation in Coating Shops 18:07 — Software Implementation & Customization 20:46 — Tracking Costs & Business Performance in Job Shops 24:00 — The Future of Custom Production & Finishing 28:40 — Scaling Painting Businesses Through Automation 30:05 — Transforming Workloads & Work-Life Balance 32:00 — Professionalizing the Painting Industry with Technology 35:17 — Streamlining Software Implementation for Efficiency 39:13 — Integrating Systems to Reduce Operational Costs 45:45 — Investment & Cost-Effectiveness of Software Solutions 48:34 — Enhancing Customer Experience & Community Engagement 51:31 — Navigating Competition in the Coatings Industry

Monday Jan 27, 2025
From Mortgages to Paint Cans: Kyle Hansen’s Journey in Distribution
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Monday Jan 27, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Kyle Hansen, a paint distributor from Calgary and owner of a Benjamin Moore paint store. Kyle shares his journey from the mortgage industry to the paint distribution world, detailing the challenges of inventory management, understanding product lines, and the critical role of market research. The conversation dives into lessons Kyle has learned about navigating the paint business, including mastering the art and science of color and stain matching, building a strong support network, and adapting to the industry’s shift toward water-based coatings. Kyle also offers practical advice for aspiring distributors and insights into future trends shaping the paint industry.
Key Takeaways:
Kyle transitioned from the mortgage industry to paint distribution, gaining hands-on experience in running a retail business.
Effective inventory management is crucial for maintaining cash flow and business success.
Understanding product lines and building strong partnerships with suppliers is key.
Market research and forecasting help in making informed business decisions.
The paint industry requires a balance between offering product variety and specialization.
Customer service and relationship building are vital in a small and interconnected industry.
Color matching is both an art and a science, and finding skilled matchers is rare and valuable.
The industry is shifting toward water-based coatings due to environmental and performance advantages.
Building personal equity, a supportive network, and continuously learning are essential for long-term success.
Titles:
From Mortgages to Paint: Kyle Hansen’s Journey in Distribution
Mastering Inventory, Color Matching, and Industry Trends with Kyle Hansen
Navigating the Paint Business: Insights from a Calgary Distributor
Sound Bites:
"My savings account is sitting in paint cans."
"I wouldn't let anybody pay me to paint their house."
"The most important thing is to try to absorb as much as possible."
"You never want to be the smartest person in the room."
"The industry is small, and relationships matter."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Kyle Hansen and His Paint Industry Journey 06:04 — Transitioning from Mortgages to Paint Distribution 11:58 — Overcoming Inventory Management Challenges 18:06 — Understanding Product Lines and Supplier Partnerships 24:01 — The Role of Market Research and Forecasting 29:57 — Lessons Learned from Running a Retail Business 35:52 — Navigating the Learning Curve in Paint Distribution 39:26 — Building a Support Network for Success 43:01 — The Art and Science of Color Matching 49:51 — Tackling Challenges in Stain Matching 55:36 — The Rise and Adoption of Water-Based Coatings 01:00:08 — Advice for Aspiring Paint Distributors 01:03:08 — Industry Insights and Future Trends

Monday Jan 20, 2025
The Fine Finish Institute: Shane Woods’ Journey of Redemption and Advocacy
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Monday Jan 20, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Shane Woods, founder of the Fine Finish Institute, a non-profit organization dedicated to vocational training and community support in the finishing industry. Shane shares his powerful story of overcoming addiction and finding purpose through service, emphasizing the transformative power of education and collaboration. The conversation explores Shane’s vision for an inclusive and supportive industry, innovative finishing techniques, and the importance of certification in the trade. Shane also discusses his personal health journey, his passion for teaching, and the mindset shift required to view money as a tool for success.
Key Takeaways:
Shane Woods grew up in a family of craftsmen and artists, which shaped his career.
He overcame significant struggles with addiction, finding purpose through service.
The Fine Finish Institute offers vocational training to those in recovery and the broader community.
Foundational skills and education are critical to success in the finishing industry.
Shane aims to address the lack of formal certification for craftsmen.
Collaboration and compassion are vital for fostering a supportive industry.
An online platform for training and resources is part of Shane’s vision.
Preparation and cleaning are essential steps in the finishing process.
Shane’s health journey underscores the importance of personal growth alongside professional success.
Titles:
From Addiction to Advocacy: Shane Woods’ Mission for the Finishing Industry
Empowering Craftsmen Through Education and Service: Shane Woods’ Story
The Fine Finish Institute: Transforming Lives and the Finishing Industry
Sound Bites:
"I just needed, you know, get out of my way."
"I was actually searching for that feeling of servitude."
"Cleaning is the most important part."
"Money isn't mine; it's a tool."
"This will be something that will be there forever."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Shane Woods and His Journey 01:00 — Early Life and Influences in Craftsmanship 02:56 — Career Beginnings and Initial Challenges 05:59 — Struggles with Addiction and Recovery Journey 10:10 — Finding Purpose Through Service to Others 11:58 — Founding the Fine Finish Institute 19:02 — Building a Non-Profit for Vocational Training 22:00 — The Importance of Certification in the Finishing Industry 27:59 — Transforming the Industry with Education and Collaboration 32:11 — Innovative Finishing Techniques and Tools 34:40 — The Role of Training and Community Support 36:57 — Adopting New Coatings and Techniques 48:44 — Business Coaching and Insights for Contractors 51:32 — Personal Growth and Shane’s Health Journey 59:03 — Connecting with the Community and Shared Resources

Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Aaron Moore from Moore’s Refinishing to discuss his journey from high school woodshop enthusiast to successful business owner. Aaron shares his insights on the transformative role of social media in business growth, the importance of building client relationships, and adapting to market changes. They delve into niche markets, the challenges and strategies of content creation, and the rewarding process of teaching and mentoring others in the woodworking and refinishing community.
The conversation explores the philosophy behind finishing product selection, emphasizing quality and technique, with a special nod to Mohawk products. Aaron and Zach discuss the patience required in refinishing, the significance of branding and legacy, and the value of collaboration within the coatings industry. They also touch on Aaron’s desire to write a book to share his knowledge and inspire the next generation of finishers.
Key Takeaways:
Aaron started his journey as a high school woodshop student and worked his way up through hard work.
Social media has revolutionized how refinishing businesses connect with customers and grow.
Building strong client relationships and staying adaptable is key to navigating market changes.
Content creation requires authenticity and consistency to reach niche markets.
Teaching and mentoring not only help others but also deepen personal understanding and skills.
Writing a book can be a powerful tool for sharing knowledge and building a legacy.
Quality finishing products like Mohawk can significantly enhance results.
Refinishing requires patience, preparation, and a commitment to technique.
Collaboration and community building are vital in the coatings industry.
Titles:
Building a Refinishing Legacy: Aaron Moore’s Path to Success
Social Media, Technique, and Mentorship: Insights from Moore’s Refinishing
Mastering Refinishing: Aaron Moore on Business, Branding, and Community
Sound Bites:
"I was the grunt."
"You have to show the work and you have to prove yourself."
"I just want to see everyone succeed."
"It's all in the technique."
"Mohawk has the market on touch-up stuff."
"The coatings world is an incestuous community."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Moore’s Refinishing 02:12 — Aaron’s Journey into Refinishing 09:10 — Transitioning to Business Ownership 18:01 — The Impact of Social Media on Business Growth 25:32 — Navigating Market Changes and Embracing Competition 26:24 — Leveraging Social Media for Success 30:17 — Understanding Niche Markets and Content Creation 34:16 — Writing a Book: Sharing Knowledge and Experience 39:55 — The Value of Teaching and Mentoring in Refinishing 45:24 — Selecting the Right Finishing Products for Quality Results 53:58 — Mastering Technique in the Art of Finishing 56:42 — Exploring the Benefits of Mohawk Products 01:00:39 — The Interconnected Nature of the Coatings Industry 01:02:48 — The Patience and Skill Behind Refinishing 01:07:20 — Legacy and Branding in Refinishing Businesses 01:10:10 — Teaching and Inspiring the Next Generation

Monday Jan 06, 2025
Building Success Through Relationships: Louis Jasso’s Journey in Finishing
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Monday Jan 06, 2025
Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Louis Jasso, a seasoned expert in the finishing and manufacturing industry. Louis shares his journey from working in the family business to transitioning into manufacturing and distribution, emphasizing the importance of building strong relationships in business. He discusses the unique challenges of the coatings industry, the critical role of social media in driving growth, and advice for newcomers on simplifying processes and finding trustworthy partners. Louis also opens up about his personal passions, particularly his love for cars and connecting with his six children through automotive projects.
Key Takeaways:
Louis transitioned from the family finishing business to focus on manufacturing and distribution.
Relationships are essential for success in the coatings and manufacturing industries.
Social media has significantly contributed to Louis’s business growth and product promotion.
Newcomers to the finishing business should prioritize finding a reliable distribution partner.
Simplifying processes and focusing on strategies are key to sustainable growth.
The finishing industry presents unique challenges, requiring resilience and adaptability.
Louis connects with his children through automotive projects, blending his passion for cars with family bonding.
Personal connections are vital in business as people buy from people.
Louis believes in doing the right thing to build trust and long-term success.
Titles:
Building Relationships and Growing Business: Insights from Louis Jasso
Navigating Challenges and Simplifying Success in the Finishing Industry
Cars, Coatings, and Connections: The Journey of Louis Jasso
Sound Bites:
"I refuse to do any residential cabinet work."
"I got PTSD from that shit."
"Do the right thing and the right thing will happen."
Chapters: 00:00 — Introduction to Louis Jasso and His Business Journey 03:01 — Transitioning from Finishing to Manufacturing and Distribution 06:00 — The Importance of Building Strong Relationships in Business 08:53 — Challenges in the Coating Industry and How to Overcome Them 11:59 — Leveraging Social Media for Business Growth 15:07 — Advice for Newcomers: Simplifying and Partnering for Success 18:12 — Louis’s Personal Passions: Cars and Family Connections