Why Innovation Starts in the Shop | Dino Kouros (Part 2)

Episode Summary:
In part two of this incredible conversation, Zach sits back down with Dino Kouros, founder of Kuros Tools, to explore what it really takes to bring innovation to the finishing and woodworking trades. From product development and prototyping to trust in the supply chain and navigating tough partnerships, Dino shares what he's learned through trial, error, and pure passion. They also dig into the importance of choosing the right customers, building transformative relationships, and letting quality lead in every area of business. If you’ve ever had a tool idea, struggled with delegation, or wondered if experience matters more than credentials—this episode delivers.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to the Bearded Finisher Podcast
00:30 – Quality Over Cost in Finishing Products
01:52 – The Value of Transformative Relationships
05:11 – Community Support and Growth
07:08 – The Importance of Who, Not How
08:31 – Creating Practical Finishing Tools
09:54 – Innovations in Finishing Products
17:10 – Expanding Product Distribution
20:57 – Understanding Market Value in Finishing Tools
25:08 – The Process of Product Development
27:46 – Building Trust in the Supply Chain
28:44 – Creating Markets for Innovative Products
30:09 – Navigating Partnerships and Business Ventures
32:57 – The Importance of Experience Over Credentials
34:52 – The Journey of Invention and Prototyping
37:18 – Streamlining Production and Family Dynamics
39:12 – Advice to My Younger Self
42:08 – Taking Risks and Embracing Trades
44:00 – Understanding Business and Delegation
46:29 – Collaborating on New Tool Innovations

Connect with Dino Kouros

🌐 Website: kurostools.com
📸 Instagram: @kourostools
✉️ Email: info@kurostools.com