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Never Been Promoted Podcast with Thomas Helfrich

John Nicholas, founder of East Hampton Shucker Company and Seascape Aquatec Inc., joins Thomas Helfrich to share his entrepreneurial journey. From growing oysters in the waters of East Hampton, New York, to designing innovative shucking tools, John brings a unique blend of passion for aquaculture and invention. Together, they discuss the challenges of building a business around a niche product and the future of oyster farming with autonomous technology.

About John Nicholas:

John Nicholas is the founder of East Hampton Shucker Company, a business that produces innovative oyster shucking tools, and Seascape Aquatec Inc., which focuses on the future of aquaculture using autonomous technology. With a deep connection to the waters of East Hampton, John grew his businesses from his personal experiences harvesting oysters with his father and turned his passion into thriving ventures. His inventions, including unique oyster shucking devices, are now helping both casual oyster lovers and professionals alike.

In this episode, Thomas and John discuss:

• The Origins of East Hampton Shucker Company: John shares how his love for oysters started when he was a child, opening oysters with his father. He discusses how this passion turned into a business and how he developed shucking tools that make it easier and safer to enjoy oysters.
• Innovating During COVID: John talks about how he invented a new oyster-shucking device during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a desire to make shucking safer and easier, he tested various materials and designs until he created the East Hampton Shucker, a product that allows anyone to open oysters without risking injury.
• The Business of Oyster Farming: John dives into the details of oyster farming, explaining the different processes involved in growing oysters and how the taste of oysters is affected by where they are grown.
• Autonomous Aquaculture and Seascape Aquatec Inc.: John shares his vision for the future of aquaculture with the development of autonomous oyster farming technology. By partnering with a robotics company, John hopes to revolutionize the industry, reducing labor costs while improving the quality of oysters.

Key Takeaways:

• Innovation Can Start with a Simple Problem:
  John’s invention of the East Hampton Shucker stemmed from the simple problem of not wanting to injure his hand while shucking oysters. His story demonstrates how identifying a small but important issue can lead to a successful product.
• Scaling a Niche Business:
  By focusing on his local market first, John was able to establish his products and reputation in the Hamptons before planning expansion into New York City and beyond. This careful scaling approach has been key to his success.
• Autonomous Technology and the Future of Oyster Farming:
  John’s work with Seascape Aquatec Inc. aims to bring automation to oyster farming, significantly reducing labor costs and improving efficiency. This innovative approach could transform the aquaculture industry.

"When people can open an oyster safely and enjoy it themselves, it's a fantastic feeling. That’s what motivates me every day." — John Nicholas

CONNECT WITH JOHN NICHOLAS:

Website: https://www.easthamptonshucker.com/
LinkedIn:

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