Sometimes it's the catalyst that leads you to build the business and life you've always wanted.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Justin Czar of Liberty Lumber Products to explore his journey from working in fencing to establishing a thriving custom woodworking business. Justin shares the pivotal moment that pushed him to start side hustling and eventually transition full-time into woodworking, proving that it's never too late to pursue your passion.

You'll hear about the real challenges Justin has faced in the wood industry, including sourcing lumber during supply shortages, navigating the impact of tariffs on materials and pricing, and adapting to economic pressures that affect sales and customer demand. Justin discusses his focus on custom builds and innovative projects, the importance of social media (particularly his successful YouTube channel) in his marketing strategy, and how community engagement through charity events has helped raise significant funds while building local connections.

This conversation also covers critical topics like workshop safety, especially following Justin's personal injury experience, the process of sourcing and processing lumber for unique projects, and strategies for increasing local visibility in a competitive market. Justin shares his excitement about future collaborations with local universities and his vision for growing Liberty Lumber Products while staying true to the craft and community values that define his business.

Whether you're considering a career change into woodworking, navigating the challenges of sourcing materials and pricing in today's market, or looking for effective marketing strategies to grow your wood business, this episode offers honest insights and practical wisdom from someone who's building success one project at a time.

Tune in to discover how passion, perseverance, and community engagement can transform a side hustle into a sustainable woodworking business, and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more inspiring stories from makers and entrepreneurs in the wood industry.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Liberty Lumber Products

03:01 From Fencing to Woodworking 

06:00 Industry Challenges and Sourcing

11:58 Innovative Projects and Safety

18:26 Marketing and Social Media Growth

25:17 Future Goals and Community Engagement

The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger 

For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com

See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com

Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io

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Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Justin at:

https://libertylumberproducts.com/

https://www.instagram.com/libertylumberproducts

https://www.facebook.com/libertylumberproducts