Summary:

Jim Carrigan, owner of Jeco Finishing, shares his journey into the world of finishing and the benefits of pre-finishing cabinets. He emphasizes the importance of systemizing processes and using a consistent product line to maintain high quality and craftsmanship. The conversation covers various topics related to the woodworking and finishing industry. Some of the main themes include the challenges of moving to a new location, the importance of building relationships with clients, the shift towards stains and away from paint, the use of Vero and other special effects in finishing, and the potential of micronized pigment stains. The conversation also touches on the benefits of making your own colors and the need for a larger skilled finishing base in the industry. In this final part of the conversation, Jim Carrigan and Zach Shrum discuss the challenges of stain matching and the preferences of North American customers. They also touch on the importance of continuous learning and the need for more training and accreditation in the finishing industry. Jim shares his advice for those wanting to get into the finishing game and emphasizes the importance of staying teachable and finding a niche. They also discuss the role of social media in the industry.

Keywords:

finishing, pre-finishing, cabinet finishing, wood finishing, solvent 2K coatings, craftsmanship, quality, systemizing processes, customer expectations, woodworking, finishing, challenges, moving, building relationships, stains, paint, Vero, special effects, micronized pigment stains, making colors, skilled finishing base, stain matching, North American market, continuous learning, training, accreditation, finishing industry, social media, coaching

Takeaways:

Pre-finishing cabinets can shorten the construction cycle and improve overall project efficiency.

Systemizing processes and using a consistent product line are key to maintaining high quality and craftsmanship.

Solvent 2K coatings offer flexibility and durability, making them a preferred choice for finishing cabinets.

Building strong relationships with clients is crucial for maintaining goodwill and customer loyalty.

Vero and other special effects in finishing are becoming popular, allowing for unique and creative designs.

Making your own colors can significantly reduce material costs and provide more flexibility in color matching.

Continuous learning and staying teachable are crucial in the finishing industry.

More training and accreditation are needed in the finishing industry.

Social media can be a valuable tool for learning and connecting with others in the industry.

Titles:

Managing a High-Volume Finishing Shop

The Benefits of Pre-Finishing Cabinets The Shift Towards Stains

The Benefits of Making Your Own Colors Jim Carrigan's Involvement in Coaching

Transitioning Customers to DIY Staining

Sound Bites:

"Pre-finishing is the way to go. It shortens the construction cycle and improves efficiency."

"Systemize, systemize, systemize. Follow the same steps every time for consistent results."

"Solvent 2K coatings are a game changer. There's no better product for finishing cabinets."

"Your clients probably don't even consider going anywhere because it hasn't changed anything."

Chapters:

00:00

Introduction and Personal Background

03:03

Getting into Finishing and the Transition to Pre-Finishing

11:58

Systemizing Processes for High Quality

18:58

Managing a High-Volume Finishing Shop

31:12

Building Strong Relationships with Clients

33:35

The Shift Towards Stains

39:09

Exploring Vero and Special Effects in Finishing

52:39

The Need for a Larger Skilled Finishing Base

55:08

Continuous Learning and Staying Teachable

01:03:36

The Need for More Training and Accreditation & Social Media

01:15:17

Jim Carrigan's Involvement in Coaching

Summary:

Robert Chickey shares his journey in the coatings industry and how he got involved with Vero Metals. He started as a painting contractor and transitioned to wood finishes, specializing in historically accurate coatings. After a career-ending injury, he shut down his company and became a consultant. He later became the trainer for Vero Metal and worked on getting the product spec'd by architects and designers. He emphasizes the importance of learning the language of architects and designers and building a certified application specialist program. In this part of the conversation, Robert Chickey discusses the importance of community and knowledge sharing in the finishing industry. He emphasizes the need for finishers to invest in their own education and skill development. Robert explains the features and applications of VeroMetal, a liquid metal coating, and how it offers advantages over traditional metals. He shares lessons he has learned in business, including the importance of knowing your costs and pricing your services accordingly. In this final part of the conversation, Robert Chickey emphasizes the importance of mindset and willingness to change in achieving elite-level success. He encourages finishers to invest in themselves and seek guidance from coaches or consultants to accelerate their growth. Robert also discusses the need for training and education in the coatings industry. The conversation concludes with Robert sharing his social media profiles for those interested in following his work.

Keywords:

coatings industry, Vero Metals, painting contractor, wood finishes, historically accurate coatings, consultant, trainer, spec'd, architects, designers, certified application specialist, community, knowledge sharing, education, skill development, color skills, business principles, VeroMetal, liquid metal coating, advantages, lessons learned, costs, pricing, mindset, elite-level success, investment, guidance, training, education, coatings industry, color matching, stain clarity, Adler, grinding pigments, social media

Takeaways:

VeroMetal offers advantages over traditional metals, such as the ability to create complex shapes and lighter weight options.

Knowing your costs and pricing your services accordingly is key to running a successful business. Mindset is crucial for achieving elite-level success in any industry.

Investing in oneself and seeking guidance from coaches or consultants can accelerate growth and success.

Training and education are essential in the coatings industry, particularly in areas like color matching and stain clarity.

Titles:

Advantages of VeroMetal as a Liquid Metal Coating Investing in Yourself for Accelerated Growth

The Power of Mindset and Willingness to Change

Sound Bites:

"The community aspect is super important to me."

"Investing in yourself is a gauge for me to say, you are worthy of my time."

"Lots of people are good at building shit and suck at finishing."

"The difference between average or above average and elite is not skill set. It's mindset."

"We need more women to want to come in this space."

Chapters:

00:00:00

Introduction & Part 2 Intro

01:17:01

Advantages of VeroMetal as a Liquid Metal Coating

10:15:20

Lessons Learned in Business: Knowing Your Costs and Pricing Your Services

25:22:32

The Power of Mindset and Willingness to Change

40:45:01

Advancements in Grinding Pigments for Better Coatings

Summary:

Robert Chickey shares his journey in the coatings industry and how he got involved with Vero Metals. He started as a painting contractor and transitioned to wood finishes, specializing in historically accurate coatings. After a career-ending injury, he shut down his company and became a consultant. He later became the trainer for Vero Metal and worked on getting the product spec'd by architects and designers. He emphasizes the importance of learning the language of architects and designers and building a certified application specialist program. In this part of the conversation, Robert Chickey discusses the importance of community and knowledge sharing in the finishing industry. He emphasizes the need for finishers to invest in their own education and skill development. He also highlights the significance of color skills in finishing and the value of understanding business principles. Robert explains the features and applications of VeroMetal, a liquid metal coating, and how it offers advantages over traditional metals. He shares lessons he has learned in business, including the importance of knowing your costs and pricing your services accordingly. In this final part of the conversation, Robert Chickey emphasizes the importance of mindset and willingness to change in achieving elite-level success. He encourages finishers to invest in themselves and seek guidance from coaches or consultants to accelerate their growth. The conversation concludes with Robert sharing his social media profiles for those interested in following his work.

Keywords:

coatings industry, Vero Metals, painting contractor, wood finishes, historically accurate coatings, consultant, trainer, spec'd, architects, designers, certified application specialist, community, knowledge sharing, education, skill development, color skills, business principles, VeroMetal, liquid metal coating, advantages, lessons learned, costs, pricing, mindset, elite-level success, investment, guidance, training, education, coatings industry, color matching, stain clarity, Adler, grinding pigments, social media

Takeaways:

The importance of having separate skill sets when starting a business partnership

The value of learning from failures and being willing to take risks

The significance of being able to control the outcome in the wood finishing industry

The challenges and rewards of working at an elite level in the coatings industry

The need to adapt and persevere in the face of obstacles

The importance of learning the language of architects and designers to establish credibility

The process of building a certified application specialist program

The significance of getting the product spec'd by architects and designers

The role of social media in promoting and growing a business Investing in education and skill development is crucial for finishers in the industry.

Color skills are highly valuable in finishing, and understanding business principles is essential for success.

Titles:

Becoming the Trainer for Vero Metal

Growing a Business through Social Media The Significance of Color Skills in Finishing

Sound Bites:

"You can't have two people to do the same thing. You have to have two people that have separate skill sets that can play nice together."

"I started my second company in 1991 and we started out as painters, painting contractors. We did mostly paint, but back in the 90s, at least in Minnesota where I'm based, everything was white."

"The path for getting wood to look like that was not possible with what was in the marketplace. So I pretty much disregarded what was in the marketplace and went kind of down the rabbit hole."

Chapters:

00:00

Introduction and Background

10:19

Challenges and Perseverance

30:37

Building a Certified Application Specialist Program

39:24

Advantages of VeroMetal as a Liquid Metal Coating

Summary:

In this episode of the Beard and Finisher podcast, host Zach interviews Alex Koves, the founder of Markov, a company that specializes in ERP software for manufacturing. They discuss Alex's background and how Markov focuses on simplifying complex manufacturing processes, particularly in the coatings and batch processing industry. They talk about the challenges of ERP implementations and the importance of investing in change and having knowledgeable implementers. They also touch on the trend of integrating more technology, such as mobile devices, into the manufacturing process. In this conversation, Zach and Alex discuss the challenges and lessons learned in running a small business, including the importance of delegation and trusting your team. They also explore strategies for finding the best clients and staying ahead of technology. Alex shares his passion for judo and the importance of balancing work and family life. They also discuss the need for solutions in creating safety data sheets and accessing quality control results in a more efficient manner.

Keywords:

ERP software, manufacturing, coatings, batch processing, complexity, implementation, technology integration, small business, delegation, trust, clients, technology, judo, work-life balance, safety data sheets, quality control

Takeaways:

Markov specializes in ERP software for manufacturing, particularly in the coatings and batch processing industry.

ERP implementations can be challenging, but investing in change and having knowledgeable implementers can increase the success rate.

Integrating technology, such as mobile devices, into the manufacturing process can improve efficiency and accuracy.

Markov focuses on providing solutions that simplify complex manufacturing processes and help companies stay organized as they scale up. Delegation and trusting your team are crucial for business growth and success.

Focus and specialization are key to attracting the best clients and staying ahead of technology.

Balancing work and family life is important for personal well-being and happiness.

Creating efficient solutions for safety data sheets and accessing quality control results can greatly benefit manufacturers.

Titles:

The Benefits of Integrating Technology in Manufacturing

Markov: Helping Manufacturers Stay Organized and Scale Up Balancing Work and Family Life: The Key to Personal Well-being

Efficient Solutions for Safety Data Sheets and Quality Control

Sound Bites:

"Where you find complexity, there's usually value buried there, and when you can tame it."

"Being a smaller niche supplier and developer definitely has its privileges and advantages."

"The average implementation time for an ERP is nine months."

"That's huge."

"Right, who's checking the grades? Yeah."

"Now it feels easy to do that, but that was a real challenge."

Chapters:

00:00

Introduction and Background

07:00

The Benefits of Being a Niche Supplier

14:30

The Average Implementation Time for an ERP

30:28

Simplifying ERP Implementations

Summary:

In this episode of the Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Kevin Shimmer, a high-end finisher in the cabinet industry. Kevin shares his journey from being a cabinet maker to becoming a full-time finisher. They discuss the tools and equipment they use, including drum sanders and spray guns. They also talk about the challenges and trends in the finishing industry, such as working with different wood species and using different types of coatings. Overall, the conversation provides insights into the world of high-end finishing and the importance of continuous learning and collaboration within the industry. In this part of the conversation, they talk about using water-based stains and the importance of spraying them instead of wiping them. They also mention different brands and kits available for creating custom stains. They discuss the benefits of using a spray booth for finishing and the challenges of onsite touch-up work. Kevin shares the importance of taking time with the finishing process and the value of asking questions and seeking advice from experienced professionals. Zach and Kevin discuss their experiences in the finishing industry, including challenges with finding and using certain products. They also talk about the importance of training and mentorship in the industry. Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his family and doing side projects. They wrap up the conversation by discussing future plans.

Keywords:

Bearded Finisher Podcast, Kevin Shimmer, high-end finishing, cabinet industry, tools, equipment, drum sanders, spray guns, challenges, trends, wood species, coatings, continuous learning, collaboration, staining, finishing, cabinets, water-based stains, spraying, wiping, custom stains, spray booth, touch-up, time management, asking questions, finishing industry, challenges, products, training, mentorship, family, side projects, future plans, collaborations

Takeaways:

They discuss the tools and equipment used in the finishing industry, including drum sanders and spray guns.

Continuous learning and collaboration are important in the finishing industry. Water-based stains are better sprayed than wiped

There are different brands and kits available for creating custom stains

Onsite touch-up work can be challenging and requires attention to detail

Taking time with the finishing process is important for achieving a high-quality result

Asking questions and seeking advice from experienced professionals is valuable Finding and using certain finishing products can be challenging, especially when it comes to getting accurate information and data sheets.

Training and mentorship are valuable in the finishing industry, as they can help improve skills and provide guidance.

Outside of work, Kevin enjoys spending time with his family and doing side projects.

Preparation and attention to detail are key in achieving a high-quality finish.

Collaboration and sharing knowledge within the industry can lead to new opportunities and growth.

Titles:

Challenges and Trends in Finishing

The Rise of Colors and High-Gloss Finishes Creating Custom Stains with Kits

Challenges of Onsite Touch-Up Work Balancing Work and Family Life

The Importance of Training and Mentorship

Sound Bites:

"I bought a drum sander."

"All cabinetry. Yeah. No, no, correct. Yep."

"You want to close that knee quite a bit."

"There's a lot of new ones out there."

"Luckily it's a very forgiving product."

Chapters:

00:00

Introduction and Background

06:47

Tools and Equipment

14:01

Working with Different Wood Species

30:42

Challenges of Onsite Touch-Up Work

47:05

Challenges in Finding and Using Finishing Products

55:27

Balancing Work and Family Life

01:02:43

Exploring Future Plans and Collaborations

Summary

In this episode of the Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum interviews Chad Khalaf from Surf Prep Sanding. They discuss Chad's journey in the painting business, his transition to working at Surf Prep, and the importance of relationships and having fun in the industry. They also touch on the core values of Surf Prep and the innovative products they offer. The conversation highlights the significance of process efficiency and the impact it can have on a business's bottom line. In this conversation, Chad Khalaf discusses some of the new products and developments at Surf Prep. He mentions the release of a new red paper disc that is more aggressive and tear-resistant than the yellow paper disc. He also talks about the universal hole pattern that fits every five-inch orbital sander on the market, making it easier for painters and finishers who have multiple sanders. Chad also mentions the new names for their abrasives, such as Riptide, Blizzard, and White Lightning. He discusses the importance of investing in your business and not being afraid of change. Chad's passion is adventure, and he shares his love for extreme activities like Ironman races. He encourages listeners to work harder, not quit, and educate themselves and their customers about the benefits of using high-quality products.

Keywords

Bearded Finisher Podcast, Chad Khalaf, Surf Prep Sanding, painting business, journey, relationships, having fun, core values, process efficiency, innovative products, Surf Prep, new products, red paper disc, aggressive sanding, tear-resistant, universal hole pattern, abrasive names, investing in your business, not quitting, education, adventure

Takeaways

Building relationships and having fun are key aspects of the painting industry.

Efficiency in processes can save time and money, leading to increased profits.

Surf Prep Sanding offers innovative products that help improve surface preparation.

Core values are important in guiding a company's identity and decision-making.

Learning from others and being open to different perspectives can lead to personal and professional growth. Surf Prep has released a new red paper disc that is more aggressive and tear-resistant than the yellow paper disc.

They have developed a universal hole pattern that fits every five-inch orbital sander on the market, making it easier for painters and finishers who have multiple sanders.

Surf Prep has given names to their abrasives, such as Riptide, Blizzard, and White Lightning.

Chad emphasizes the importance of investing in your business and not being afraid of change.

His passion is adventure, and he encourages listeners to work harder, not quit, and educate themselves and their customers about the benefits of using high-quality products.

Titles

Innovative Products for Surface Preparation

The Role of Core Values in Company Identity Embracing Change and Working Harder

Chad Khalaf's Passion for Adventure

Sound Bites

"It's okay to be different, just don't be weird."

"Work hard, play harder."

"Building relationships and having fun are key."

"Our new hole pattern that Skylar just created is a universal hole pattern that fits for the five-inch disk. It fits every single sander on the market. So no matter what tool you have, this one disc will fit every five-inch orbital sander hole pattern."

"Our new red paper will be called Riptide. Our film is now going to be called Blizzard. Our new white lightning is a ceramic blend disc."

Chapters

00:00

Introduction and Background

08:15

Transition to Surf Prep

26:09

Company Culture and Core Values

32:58

The Fun and Stories in the Painting Industry

40:57

The Importance of Investing in Your Business

51:20

Embracing Change and Working Harder

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/