TheBeardedFinisher Podcast

• Why Sanding Matters More Than You Think | Mike Ziegler on Furniture Refinishing (Part 1)

  Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum welcomes Mike Ziegler, veteran refinisher and Klingspore rep, for Part 1 of a two-part deep dive into all things sanding, finishing, and furniture craftsmanship. From humble beginnings in his father’s garage to becoming a trusted voice in the coatings and abrasives world, Mike brings decades of wisdom to the mic. They break down the do’s and don’ts of sanding, the difference between refinishing and restoring, and why pine furniture continues to humble even the most experienced pros. You’ll also hear how customer interactions can shape your process, why prep work is everything, and what role 2K finishes do—or don’t—play in the furniture world. Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned finisher, this episode is packed with valuable reminders and industry gold. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to the Bearded Finisher Podcast 01:21 – Mike Ziegler's Journey in Refinishing 04:01 – Transitioning to Furniture Refinishing 06:43 – Exploring Cabinet Refinishing Techniques 09:22 – Challenges with Pine Furniture 11:22 – Finishing Techniques and Preferences 14:06 – The Role of 2K Finishes in Furniture 16:23 – Sanding Techniques and Best Practices 19:08 – The Shift Towards Natural Wood Finishes 22:17 – Understanding the Importance of Prep Work 25:07 – Sanding and Coating Insights 28:45 – Customer Interactions and Problem Solving 32:28 – Klingspore Woodworking Overview 34:42 – The Evolution of Klingspore Abrasives 37:43 – The Fun of Customer Interactions 40:19 – Creative Solutions for Wood Finishing 42:54 – The Impact of Light on Wood Finishes 46:39 – Exploring Stains and Dyes 50:10 – Inspiring Others in the Woodworking Community Connect with Mike Ziegler  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-zieg/ Instagram: @duffstyle  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FinishingFromAToZieg Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/70m4V4lXhTiLJlpzBTylv6 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Relovedshabbychicfurniture

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• 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: [email protected]

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• Simplify the Job, Amplify the Craft: Dino Kouros Talks Shop (Part 1)

  In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Dino Kouros, a second-generation cabinet maker, craftsman, and the mind behind Kouros Tools, to explore the intersection of tradition, innovation, and entrepreneurship. With stories ranging from working under his father’s guidance to battling road rage with podcasts, Dino opens up about his transition from commercial to residential work—and from builder to toolmaker. In Part 1 of this two-part series, Dino shares how parenting and craftsmanship go hand-in-hand, why simple tools are often the most powerful, and what it really takes to innovate in a saturated industry. From the early days of cabinetry to prototyping new tools for painters and finishers, this episode highlights the foundational mindset shifts required to build a business with legacy and purpose. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Technical Difficulties 06:04 – Dino's Background and Tool Innovations 11:59 – Dino's Family Legacy in Cabinet Making 14:56 – Transitioning from Commercial to Residential Work 18:04 – The Journey to Independence in Business 20:55 – Design Philosophy and Client Interaction 24:00 – Parenting and Learning from Experience 25:56 – Navigating Parenting Challenges 28:10 – The Journey into Woodworking and Tool Creation 32:37 – Transitioning from Carpentry to Tool Innovation 35:30 – The Evolution of Kuros Tools 37:19 – Balancing Carpentry and Tool Business 49:34 – The Impact of Mentorship in Craftsmanship 55:25 – Exploring New Finishing Techniques and Tools 55:53 – Finding Quality Finishes 58:47 – The Importance of Product Quality 01:00:06 – Educating Customers on Value Connect with Dino Kouros 🛠️ Kouros Tools Website: https://kourostools.com/ 📸 Instagram: @kourostools 📧 Email: Via Instagram DM Follow Dino for behind-the-scenes looks at tool innovation, craftsmanship, and the mindset behind building products by tradespeople, for tradespeople.

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• Furniture Refinishing 101 (Part 1) | What You Need to Know & Buy with Aaron Moore

  In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum welcomes back Aaron Moore, a seasoned expert in furniture refinishing and restoration, for a deep-dive conversation full of valuable takeaways for both beginners and pros. From stripping techniques and adhesive choices to pricing strategies and delivery challenges, Aaron shares practical knowledge from the trenches of the trade. This conversation covers the delicate balance between craftsmanship and business, offering a transparent look at mistakes, bidding, and learning through experience. Aaron and Zach talk about tools you actually need (including budget options), how to build trust with clients, and the role of social media in growing a refinishing brand. Whether you’re just starting your side hustle or already running a full-fledged shop, this episode is packed with insight, humor, and hard-earned wisdom. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Furniture Refinishing 02:58 – Common Mistakes in Furniture Refinishing 06:02 – Understanding Refinishing vs. Restoration 09:00 – The Role of Strippers in Refinishing 12:09 – Safety and Health Considerations 14:58 – Essential Tools for Beginners 17:55 – Techniques and Tips for Successful Refinishing 25:48 – Essential Tools for Furniture Refinishing 28:40 – Choosing the Right Adhesives 32:57 – Techniques for Repairing Veneer 35:18 – Cleaning and Maintaining Finished Furniture 46:09 – Pricing Strategies for Furniture Refinishing 54:46 – Understanding Pricing and Bidding Strategies 57:16 – Building Trust Through Transparency 01:00:35 – Learning from Mistakes and Education Costs 01:01:31 – Under-Promise and Over-Deliver 01:03:07 – Starting Small and Nurturing Passion 01:06:52 – Outsourcing and Specialization 01:10:01 – The Importance of Reliable Delivery 01:17:21 – Leveraging Social Media for Business Growth Connect with Aaron Moore 📸 Instagram: @moores_refinishing 🌐 Website: www.mooresrefinishing.com 📧 Email: Via Instagram DM Follow Aaron for behind-the-scenes looks at stunning refinishing work, DIY tips, and practical guidance on launching or leveling up your furniture business.

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• From Painting to Purpose | Brian from Pretty Boy Products on Growth, Sobriety & Community

  Episode Summary: In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Brian, the founder of Pretty Boy Products, for a powerful and wide-ranging conversation on entrepreneurship, craftsmanship, and personal growth. From the early challenges of launching a brand to finding deeper meaning through sobriety and community, Brian opens up about his journey through the painting industry—and beyond. This episode covers everything from international insights and family life to delegation, brand building, and the creation of a versatile cleaning product that’s changing the game. Whether you're a solo painter, a growing entrepreneur, or someone looking for real stories of grit and growth, this one will hit home. Brian doesn’t just talk shop—he shares how purpose and perseverance fuel a better business and a better life. Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Setup 06:02 – International Perspectives on Painting Industry 12:01 – Family Life and Parenting 18:12 – Challenges in the Painting Industry 24:05 – Success Mindset and Persistence 29:54 – Journey Through the Painting Industry 37:41 – The Power of Delegation and Team Building 43:35 – Community and Connection in the Painting World 51:42 – The Joy of Craftsmanship and Customer Satisfaction 01:00:13 – Innovative Cleaning Solutions 01:05:56 – Life Lessons and Personal Growth 01:11:59 – Passions Beyond Painting Connect with Pretty Boy Products 📸 Instagram: @prettyboyproducts 🌐 Website: www.prettyboyproducts.com 📧 Email: Via Instagram DM Follow Brian and the Pretty Boy journey for tips on cleaning, entrepreneurship, personal development, and elevating the painting craft with purpose.

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