Quick update — We’re changing things up to keep this podcast going strong.
Hey everyone, quick update. The Bearded Finisher Podcast has been an absolute blast to create — I’ve loved the conversations, the guests, and connecting with all of you.
But here’s the real talk: this show isn’t without cost. And with us moving to Colorado and me juggling other business projects, I feel the best way to keep the podcast alive and strong is to switch to a biweekly release schedule.
That way I can keep the quality high, keep bringing you great guests, and make sure this thing keeps going instead of burning out.
We’ll see how you guys respond and adjust from there — but I just want to say thank you for supporting the show. It means a lot. Have a great day, and I’ll see you next Monday with a brand-new episode.
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3:43
From Business Owner to Corporate Life | Lessons with Denny Jahnz
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Denny Jahnz to explore his journey from business ownership to corporate life with SurfPrep. Denny shares candid insights on managing burnout, setting healthy boundaries, and finding balance between passion and work.
The conversation dives deep into manufacturing innovation, sanding tools, and product development, while also examining the realities of corporate culture and team dynamics. Zach and Denny reflect on the relevance of industry trade shows like AWFS, the rising costs of Vegas hospitality, and how AI and automation are reshaping craftsmanship and consumer expectations.
This episode blends personal reflection with business strategy, offering both entrepreneurs and industry professionals valuable lessons on adaptability, innovation, and sustainable growth.
Chapters:
00:00 – Transitioning from Business Owner to Corporate Life
02:59 – Understanding Burnout and Stress Management
05:56 – Finding Balance as a Business Owner
08:46 – Navigating Corporate Culture and Values
11:59 – Innovating in the Manufacturing Sector
15:01 – Pushing Boundaries in Product Development
25:33 – Understanding Team Dynamics in Business
28:13 – Innovative Approaches to Sanding Tools
30:58 – The Importance of Versatility in Tool Usage
34:05 – Navigating the Industrial and Retail Landscape
47:03 – Reflections on AWFS and Industry Trends
52:38 – The Rising Costs of Vegas Dining
54:05 – Shifts in Vegas Hospitality and Ownership
55:40 – Innovations in Technology at Trade Shows
57:47 – The Impact of AI on the Industry
01:01:55 – The Future of Craftsmanship and Technology
01:10:57 – Transitioning from Business Owner to Employee
Connect with Denny Jahnz
📸 Instagram: @surfprepsanding
🌐 Website: www.surfprepsanding.com
📧 Email: Via SurfPrep contact page
Follow Denny and the SurfPrep team for updates on sanding tools, innovations, and industry education.
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1:19:13
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1:19:13
Are You Wasting Ad Spend? | Josh Ocasio’s Guide to Local Marketing
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Josh Ocasio, a digital marketing strategist who has managed over $16 million in paid ads and generated more than $70 million in revenue for his clients. Together, they dive deep into how local, service-based businesses can build authority online, leverage social proof, and use video content to stand out in competitive markets.
Josh shares practical insights on adapting marketing strategies for today’s social media landscape, where traditional tactics often fall flat. He explains why video testimonials boost conversions, how text follow-ups outperform email, and why consistent engagement with prospects is key to nurturing leads. The conversation also highlights onboarding strategies, campaign automation, and cost-effective ways small businesses can maximize their ad spend while building trust and authority in their communities.
Whether you’re a business owner, service provider, or entrepreneur looking to strengthen your marketing, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you grow smarter, not harder.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Josh Ocasio and His Business
03:02 – Building Authority Online for Local Businesses
06:08 – The Evolution of Social Media Marketing
09:03 – Content Creation Strategies for Engagement
12:00 – Adapting Online Strategies for Local Businesses
14:57 – The Power of Testimonials and Video Content
18:14 – Nurturing Leads Through Effective Communication
24:53 – The Power of Local Authority vs. Online Presence
30:01 – Maximizing Ad Spend for Small Businesses
36:18 – Effective Onboarding for Service-Based Businesses
48:57 – Efficient Content Creation for Local Clients
53:02 – Launching Effective Campaigns
56:03 – Lead Generation and Nurturing Strategies
01:00:59 – The Value of Automation in Sales
01:05:50 – Success Stories and Overcoming Hesitations
Connect with Josh Ocasio
Instagram: @joshocasio
Website: Coming Soon
Online Article: New York Weekly
Email: Via Instagram DM
Follow Josh for insights on authority building, local marketing, and effective strategies to grow your service-based business.
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1:09:57
From Athlete to Painter: Matt’s Journey of Growth and Craftsmanship
Episode Summary
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Matt from MF Paint to explore his remarkable journey from endurance athlete to painter and entrepreneur. Growing up in a family of contractors, Matt’s early life was shaped by construction and craftsmanship, but health challenges forced him to pivot and ultimately led him to discover his passion for painting.
Matt opens up about the struggles of starting a business in harsh conditions, the lessons learned from home renovation, and the realities of navigating new construction. Together, Zach and Matt dive into the challenges and opportunities in today’s painting industry, including the importance of pricing strategies, mentorship, and focusing on the 20% of work that brings 80% of the profit. Matt also reflects on fatherhood, community, and the personal growth that comes from learning to prioritize what truly matters in life and business.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction and Setting the Scene
02:23 – Matt's Background and Early Influences
05:13 – Athletic Pursuits and Their Impact
08:03 – Transitioning to the Paint Business
10:52 – Challenges and Growth in the Painting Industry
13:53 – Building a Business and Learning Experiences
16:46 – Navigating New Construction and Trim Carpentry
19:25 – Efficiency in Work and Quality Control
22:05 – Final Thoughts and Future Aspirations
31:15 – Balancing Efficiency and Quality in Painting
35:58 – Transitioning from New Construction to Remodeling
39:49 – Investing in Business Growth and Equipment
44:35 – Exploring New Techniques and Materials
51:08 – Understanding the Business of Painting
56:16 – Resetting Business Focus for Greater Profitability
01:04:16 – The Challenges of New Construction
01:07:41 – Building Relationships and Networking in the Industry
01:09:04 – The Importance of Saying No
01:12:58 – Investing in Your Business
01:17:17 – Personal Growth and Life Lessons
01:20:50 – Advice to My Younger Self
01:23:55 – Finding Balance Between Work and Family
Connect with Matt (MF Paint)
Instagram: @mf_paint
Facebook: MF Paint
Follow Matt for insights on painting, remodeling, and balancing craftsmanship with personal growth.
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1:37:10
From Youth Pastor to Paint Sales: Ryan Huisman’s Journey
In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Ryan Huisman to explore his remarkable journey from youth pastor to powerhouse in the paint and coatings industry. Ryan reflects on his early days working at Sherwin Williams, building a $6 million store, navigating corporate politics, and eventually transitioning to Miller Paint. From challenges in wood coatings logistics to the growing popularity of water-based products, this episode dives deep into the ever-evolving landscape of paint sales, customer relationships, and staying adaptable in a consolidating market. Ryan’s story is filled with real-world wisdom for anyone in the coatings industry.
Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction to Ryan Huisman
02:40 – Ryan's Journey in the Paint Industry
13:31 – Transitioning Through Various Roles
22:47 – Becoming a Store Manager at Sherwin Williams
29:11 – The Rise of a Paint Store
32:29 – Navigating Corporate Challenges
36:05 – Transitioning to Miller Paint
44:11 – From Store Manager to Sales Rep
49:56 – The Impact of Corporate Changes
56:03 – The Paint Industry Landscape
58:35 – Challenges of Transporting Wood Coatings
01:00:11 – Sales Strategies in the Wood Coatings Market
01:04:10 – Impact of Acquisitions on Wood Coatings
01:07:33 – The Shift to Water-Based Products
01:10:02 – Exploring Solvent-Based Innovations
01:14:31 – Common Misconceptions in the Painting Industry
01:19:12 – The Importance of Continuous Learning
01:21:00 – Advice to My Younger Self
Connect with Ryan Huisman
📱 Instagram:Instgram/huismanryan
Welcome to TheBeardedFinisher Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of finishing, painting, manufacturing, and supply chain. Join me as I chat with finishers, painters, manufacturers, and suppliers, sharing their stories, insights, and expertise. It’s like sitting down with old friends over a beer, where every conversation is filled with valuable nuggets of wisdom and experience.
At TBF LLC, I offer bespoke consulting and coaching services tailored to the needs of businesses in the painting and finishing industry. With a focus on sales growth, technical training, production efficiency, and employment services, my aim is to empower companies to thrive in this dynamic sector. Let’s work together to elevate your business to new heights.
Connect with me to stay updated on the latest episodes of TheBeardedFinisher Podcast and explore how TBF LLC can support your business goals.