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Why most woodworking businesses FAIL in the first 2 years

In this video William takes us through some of the ways he keeps William Douglas Co alive and relevant in our crazy times and we have built out our "million dollar" storefront. Enjoy the show.
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Пікірлер: 201

  • @Real.Estate.Report
    @Real.Estate.Report2 жыл бұрын

    Business advice, woodworking, comedy, and wisdom all packed into a video with incredible cinematography. And I can speak from first hand experience that the shop has a community feel. That’s what keeps me coming back! Great video brother.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks brotha! I’m glad you liked the vid!

  • @tomware9448

    @tomware9448

    2 жыл бұрын

    You have to have a soul to make Custom furniture

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@tomware9448 yeah that may be true. Especially from a design perspective. You should probably have a soul

  • @celticwoodworking8706
    @celticwoodworking8706 Жыл бұрын

    After woodworking for over forty years, I could not have said or explained it any better. William, your a good man , and keep strong brother. Thank you.

  • @fraout3553
    @fraout3553 Жыл бұрын

    THANK YOU ! I'm french and nobody speak about price, business in FRANCE ... I don't know why ! So, thank's again I will follow your channel !

  • @Bryan-fn6lp
    @Bryan-fn6lp2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome story and information. I was surprised when you talked about projects taking too long and the materials costing more than you estimated. I'm a software engineer and had the same experience. I've never worked on a project that was completed on budget or on schedule. Even when I figured out how to develop more realistic estimates my managers always cut them back and called it a "stretch goal." It felt like I was being setup to fail over and over again. When I was in high school I wanted to be a carpenter , but my parents and teachers talked me into "programming". I really shouldn't complain. It's good, steady income. But I'm bored to death and hollowed out. I can't even see the products I spent my life making. It's just code. It doesn't even really exist and very few people have a need for it. So I watch woodworking videos like yours and wonder if I would have been happier if I would have done what I really wanted instead of engineering. If I lived near you, I'd take your classes and drink your coffee. Thanks for all you're doing. I wish you great success.

  • @GaryKlineCA

    @GaryKlineCA

    2 жыл бұрын

    I'm a programmer as well. :) I feel much the same way, everything I create on the job just lives in a computer. I got into woodturning and making pens as gifts for family. Finally, I was making something physical I could see and hold and feel good about. It's only a hobby, but I'm making stuff that is long lasting, useful, and people really seem to appreciate. Here's a link to one of the many woodturners out there on KZread: kzread.info/dash/bejne/eo6Hysdunteqerw.html

  • @maxgoldwasser5460
    @maxgoldwasser54602 жыл бұрын

    You guys have created something phenomenal... I look forward to expanding my craft and creating such a supportive and engaged community environment that y'all have around you. Insipring. Thank you!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    We are lucky to be surrounded by so many talented people! Thanks so much for watching

  • @MaydaysCustomWoodworks
    @MaydaysCustomWoodworks2 жыл бұрын

    Hey William. Great video. I've been a pro woodworker for 12 years now. 3 years ago I quit my other jobs and made custom woodworking my only income. I've learned that building a custom woodworking business simply takes time. There is no real substitute to that factor. It takes time to build trusted clientele who will pay enough to live on. Yes, you are correct that you should not just quit all other incomes and make custom woodworking your job too early. I had another job for 9 years while I built my skills, tools, and clientele. Eventually my business grew to the place where I can choose whether or not I want to deal with the hassle of employees or not, and my business will be just fine either way. And now it doesn't make any sense for me to have other sources of income unless it's a long term strategy like making more passive income streams... But I now need to be super super careful of what I commit my time to.

  • @TWC6724
    @TWC67242 жыл бұрын

    Great video. Thanks for sharing this info. I’m 46 and have been working a job for decades I despise now. I’ve always wanted to give the thought of my own business a shot. Just never pulled the trigger. These are wise words taken to heart. Thank you.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I really appreciate you watching! I hope it is helpful to you with your future decisions

  • @arth.4196
    @arth.41962 жыл бұрын

    I love this. If my nephew's and niece's brothers and sisters enjoyed all the little or large things that that I built. My work will never die.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    A Craftsman Never Dies!!

  • @DCWoodWorking
    @DCWoodWorking Жыл бұрын

    You nailed it with the opening lines... It happens and if you don't learn you fail

  • @GustavoSantanaa
    @GustavoSantanaa2 жыл бұрын

    I'm starting on Woodworking in Brazil. It's my passion. I have found your YT and it's helping me so much. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

  • @4legdfishman
    @4legdfishman2 жыл бұрын

    Excellent advice! I've been watching you grow, slow and steady. Congrats on all of your little victories! I live in Maine, and you may be the only reason I would visit Arizona.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I’ll take that as a win! All I know is AZ. I’ve lived here my entire life

  • @MrAndrewlangner
    @MrAndrewlangner2 жыл бұрын

    that CNC V groove bit - straight to a mitre!? no one commenting on that?! that was pretty. great video

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Appreciate it! I set the cnc to mill about 1/64” higher than the table so it leaves a tiny veneer skin too.

  • @arcarioandsons
    @arcarioandsons2 жыл бұрын

    Man I really love your content, this page is gonna blow up in no time!

  • @gideon4k
    @gideon4k2 жыл бұрын

    Spot on advice. My business is making branding irons -- My business is custom and yet I also have very dialed in standard processes that make sure I can deliver without surprises. Keep up the great work!

  • @DreamWorksWoodShop
    @DreamWorksWoodShop2 жыл бұрын

    Awesome video Will! Being a full-time woodworker myself you definitely need to rely on other sources for income Waiting for that Consignment furniture piece. You provide much inspiration and vision to a lot of woodworkers including me. Thanks for sharing! Keep up the great work brother! 😎✌️

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching and we will definitely keep cranking out the videos!

  • @0313bouchey
    @0313bouchey2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you so much, I needed to hear this todays hope you have a wonderful weekend!!

  • @keithbrock6410
    @keithbrock64102 жыл бұрын

    Great video, I’m just getting started. Trying to do this part time, but it’s my passion. Learn a lot from you guys and maybe someday I’ll get to see the shop. Thanks

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I’m happy to be here to help! I wish you the best

  • @kylebrantley8556
    @kylebrantley8556 Жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing this message! Love what you guys have built! I’ve got family in the Phoenix area and will be visiting next time I’m out there!

  • @JayCWhiteCloud
    @JayCWhiteCloud2 жыл бұрын

    The comedy and humor on this channel is priceless...LMAO!!!...It will be interesting to see how soon you hit a "million subscribers!!!"

  • @kb2491
    @kb24912 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Excellent video! Keep up the awesome work! … and most of all, KEEP INSPIRING!🤙🏽

  • @arcarioandsons
    @arcarioandsons2 жыл бұрын

    Man seeing "a craftsman never does" kinda hit pretty close to home this morning.... Great video...

  • @johnnymackay4640
    @johnnymackay46402 жыл бұрын

    Informative, useful, and wise words! Thankyou. J

  • @reclaimwoodworking7538
    @reclaimwoodworking75382 жыл бұрын

    OK, but I didn't come here expecting to cry. That was very rude of you. Your passion is inspiring.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hey thanks so much! It’s good to know that our videos are appreciated 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

  • @djVania08
    @djVania082 жыл бұрын

    Dude, do more videos! I really appreciate what you do here. Greetings from Europe :)

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate you watching! We will keep the videos coming

  • @sirnearlyheadlesnick
    @sirnearlyheadlesnick2 жыл бұрын

    Well Said ! Keep On Trucking ! To many more prosperous years ahead........

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching! I will count myself lucky if I can live my life doing this!

  • @windfallwoodworking4438
    @windfallwoodworking44382 жыл бұрын

    I liked this video, subscribed to your channel, hit the notification bell, saved this to my watch later playlist, and im leaving a comment in the comment section because of how much this video has resonated with me. I just decided to pull the trigger on turning my hobby into a career in February and I needed to hear this. thank you, keep up the great work!

  • @christophermacier
    @christophermacier2 жыл бұрын

    I love going to your shop. The vibe, the coffee shop, the people... You guys have done an incredible job making your space feel welcome and it inspires creativity. Can't wait to see how it grows.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much man I really appreciate your support! Love having you guys out

  • @KamilKiedrowski
    @KamilKiedrowski2 жыл бұрын

    It's like having Malcom Gladwell narrate a woodworking video. Love the message. Couldn't agree more!

  • @bryanhall9996
    @bryanhall99962 жыл бұрын

    Pretty cool watching your channel and business grow and change. I barely do custom furniture, but I consider most of what I do to be custom carpentry. When I started out everyone kept screaming niche, niche, niche, find this one thing you can do better than anyone else. I just don't believe that's the way. I focused a ton on meeting the communities needs and grew from there. In the next three months I'll build cabinets, built-ins, a small office, a fence, deck, patio cover, restore a 1905 ceiling, build butcher block counters, and trim out 3 new homes. Totally agree with you, community and diversity goes a long way.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yeah I experienced the same thing from a lot of people. Hone in on one thing. That’s a lonely road. If You want to go fast go alone. If You want to go far go together. Honing in on one thing that only you can do really well means you will always just be trading time for money.

  • @kcraftsman6910
    @kcraftsman6910 Жыл бұрын

    Great Video! I am very early in starting my business, and this is a very reassuring video as I have been working to make a few production products to sell. Hearing that this was part of your own business's success gives me confidence! Just wanted to say thanks for the advice and confidence boost!

  • @littleleafwoodworking7868
    @littleleafwoodworking78682 жыл бұрын

    I love what you guys are doing. A flight south might be required soon. Also a 'meet your maker' of your team would be really cool.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate that! I feel like most people here have already met us so it wouldn’t be anything special

  • @littleleafwoodworking7868

    @littleleafwoodworking7868

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo A video version I mean, for those not local.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@littleleafwoodworking7868 ah yes I see. Not a bad idea

  • @almostben
    @almostben2 жыл бұрын

    It sounds like the high end custom furniture side of the business just isn’t profitable or sustainable on its own. Which is a shame, perhaps it’s is undervalued.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    That. Is. It.

  • @jimdfwwoodworks37
    @jimdfwwoodworks372 жыл бұрын

    Words of wisdom for sure! Im in Phoenix, will need to make my way down to you!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Our shop is always open! Except Sundays. Haha

  • @jimdfwwoodworks37

    @jimdfwwoodworks37

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo Cool!

  • @takeniteasyfriend
    @takeniteasyfriend2 жыл бұрын

    The best messenger heard so far. Thanks.

  • @rickdringoli9444
    @rickdringoli94442 жыл бұрын

    YOU ARE A WISE MAN....WITH COOL WOOD....

  • @dpepsta
    @dpepsta2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you mate

  • @draztiqmeshaz6226
    @draztiqmeshaz62262 жыл бұрын

    Just what I needed right now. Some confirmation that I'm thinking along the right lines in some ways, and some things I'd not considered.. None of which insurmountable. Thank you brother!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I love hearing that. We need to look out for each other! Thanks for watching!

  • @BobAbbott
    @BobAbbott2 жыл бұрын

    According to statistics published in 2019 by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Bureau of Labor & Statistics (BLS), about twenty percent of business startups fail in the first year. About half succumb to business failure within five years. By year 10, only about 33% survive. I'm a woodworker, business owner, and wish you nothing but success, mate. But let's be accurate as we present the challenges we face and what we can do about it.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the analytics! My channel is designed to inspire and is a little more light hearted. Goal: inspire people and make them feel hopeful and motivated.

  • @TheRealGOTdurrrred
    @TheRealGOTdurrrred2 жыл бұрын

    I'm still just thinking of getting started. I own a handyman business which I think can be a good safety net for a woodworking business. I also sharpen knives for money which used to be a hobby, I wanna do the same with woodworking

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Sounds like you are building pretty good financial stability that can support trying something new

  • @TheRealGOTdurrrred

    @TheRealGOTdurrrred

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo For sure. The only thing holding me back at the moment is time. With a newborn and a 22 month old it's hard to even find the time to watch a good KZread video like this one.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@TheRealGOTdurrrred sounds like me! I have a 7 months old and a 2-1/2 year old. It definitely makes me balance work with home

  • @BudjetBassin
    @BudjetBassin2 жыл бұрын

    Amazing Video!Very powerful words!

  • @Lumberox
    @Lumberox2 жыл бұрын

    I’m so darn lucky to be here in the Phoenix area just to be closer to you. I enjoyed going to your shop when KM was there and can’t wait for more. Once I get my space, I can’t wait to bring the community into it, and built it with their help.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s awesome to hear! The woodworking community is a great bunch of people

  • @mijicmugendo
    @mijicmugendo2 жыл бұрын

    Great advise

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate you watching!

  • @jbmusic4034
    @jbmusic40342 жыл бұрын

    Love your content. Underrated in the woodworking guru content creators. Keep up the good work!

  • @generationswoodcraft
    @generationswoodcraft2 жыл бұрын

    The philosophy behind woodworking and why we do it is so important. Love this video.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much for the support and for taking the time to drop a comment

  • @mattelias721
    @mattelias7212 жыл бұрын

    Will... this is what could be called, "Professional advice art." I put this in my watch later list, because damn, man. Everything - seriously everything - is spot on in what you said, start to finish. And hey, the intro part made me laugh out loud, literally... "...I spent all the monies!" Also, can't hurt to have someone whose nickname is 'Jedi' on the team. Please tell me all the rest of the team has Star Wars/Star Trek nicknames... ?

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hahaha thanks so much man I’m glad you liked the vid and were vibing with the message. Glad I got a few laughs as well! KZread can be a tough crown sometimes 😅 Jedi is dope. Everyone els is now going to be assigned a Star Wars nickname

  • @mattelias721

    @mattelias721

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo But you really do make art, both with wood and videos. Don't stop. So many commenters say they want to finally come to AZ and see you... I was born in Phoenix, but now am retired in VA. Last time thru was in 2000, and stopped in the Phoenix In-n-Out for a Double Double (duh, right?) on my way to my next duty station. Please introduce us all to your whole team, with nicknames of course. Definitely vibing here, dude.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@mattelias721 It really means a lot my man! My team really appreciates it as well. It keep us going 🙏🏼

  • @lowranchero
    @lowranchero2 жыл бұрын

    So let me get this straight, I can rent your truck?🤘 In all seriousness I love what you all have created. Congratulations and continued success🤙

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I rent out my F150! Not ol blue 😆

  • @TinyAcresFarmHome
    @TinyAcresFarmHome2 жыл бұрын

    Damn, this is amazing information. Definitely a million dollar answer. Thanks for the much needed info. Btw, the video was put out skillfully! Great job on the editing!

  • @BlakePizzey
    @BlakePizzey2 жыл бұрын

    Very interesting about the crew not being on payroll. I was always curious about that. I would love to know more about that situation, maybe another video introducing the crew? What their backgrounds are, their 9-5 job if it's not this, home much time they spend there, do they get any compensation? Curious!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    It’s different for everyone. A few of them come and help when they can and some of them are on a schedule. Some of them help temporarily through a break or summer and some are on staff. I only have one full timer and one part timer. We’ve had so many people come through and lend a helping hand in some way or another. Most of the time they just want to be around what we are doing and some just want to learn. Even Eric donated his time back when I was still in my backyard. He’s now my full time employee. Honestly I couldn’t have done it without everyone. We went through some really rough times these past two years. It’s not just the physical help but also the positivity that comes from them. Keeps my mental right

  • @iddesignsco
    @iddesignsco2 жыл бұрын

    I absolutely love this‼️Thank you… I feel like this was a personal pep talk 😍🥴!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I’m happy to hear it! Thank you for watching

  • @simonvoits3803
    @simonvoits38032 жыл бұрын

    Y’all are taking it up a notch and I’m here for it!!!!!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Always trying to get better! Thank you for hanging with us

  • @elonf6164
    @elonf61642 жыл бұрын

    Awesome video! Someday soon I need to head over for a coffee and to check it out in person!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes you should! You’ll dig it for sure

  • @ericsimpson4045
    @ericsimpson40452 жыл бұрын

    Very inspiring William! I thank you for this. Awesome video!

  • @colelf69
    @colelf692 жыл бұрын

    Awesome. Thanks

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching !!

  • @KOutOfMyYard
    @KOutOfMyYard2 жыл бұрын

    Here is the thing, I have never really wanted to live anywhere other than where I do but seeing what you have done sometimes make me wish I was closer. What you have built and continue to build is something that I think all self employed folks hope for. We think of others before ourselves. We think and try to lead by example and we dream big when the world is small minded. Well done. Always enjoy the videos👊🏾

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Where do you live?! I have only lived in AZ so I am very proud of my city and always try to rep it well. I appreciate the kind words!

  • @KOutOfMyYard

    @KOutOfMyYard

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo prospect ns Canada out in the middle of nowhere

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@KOutOfMyYard I’ve never been to Canada but I’ve always wanted to visit

  • @KOutOfMyYard

    @KOutOfMyYard

    2 жыл бұрын

    Well it is pretty freaking great out here. I have never lived anywhere else either, have traveled through Arizona years before we had kids coming out of our ears. I really enjoy the approach in the shop so keep it up!!!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@KOutOfMyYard we love it and will definitely keep at it! Thanks again for taking the time to drop some love

  • @mac8179
    @mac81792 жыл бұрын

    Why not supplement your income with more mundane woodworking? Built ins, barn doors, basic coffee tables, etc.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s a great question. I won’t do work that doesn’t represent us and what we want to make. For every job we take we turn away 9 others. If the mundane stuff is our style I will definitely take it. I did two basic coffee tables not too long ago and charged $6k for them. I won’t do built ins for people because that’s more on the construction / cabinet side of things and I’m not licensed for installs. Trying to stay on the up and up

  • @alibaba4063
    @alibaba40632 жыл бұрын

    Man I would love to be a part of your community, this is one area that I’m really lacking in, community and friends.

  • @WelcomeFBS
    @WelcomeFBS2 жыл бұрын

    As always I appreciate you sharing your knowledge and wisdom

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    And I appreciate you watching our vids!

  • @fiogiana7425
    @fiogiana74252 жыл бұрын

    Love what you and your team are creating! The shop looks so so good!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for taking some of our classes and bringing those cookies!!

  • @cuendetp1
    @cuendetp12 жыл бұрын

    I know that I will never be able to make it a career but watching this makes me realize that I could at least be part of others' woodworking lifestyles and be part of a community of it.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s a great way to look at it too

  • @Dan-jq8se
    @Dan-jq8se2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for sharing...good luck with your business(s).

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks so much Dan!

  • @sumosprojects
    @sumosprojects2 жыл бұрын

    Some very valid points mate, here in Australia perhaps a different point of direction is taken as we might be more cautious & use our woodworking endeavours be only supplementary income if we think it to be. It takes a load of planning as you’ve highlighted to have success so well done to your commitment 👍

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes it is not an easy path but it’s a great one. I’ve met so many amazing people

  • @BradsWorkbench
    @BradsWorkbench2 жыл бұрын

    This came out at a time when i've been struggling with the decision of stopping custom orders this year. I just dont find them as profitable yet

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I hope it helped you!

  • @MaydaysCustomWoodworks

    @MaydaysCustomWoodworks

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hey brother. It takes time, and it's all a puzzle. You need to figure out where the problem is. Sometimes you need to raise your prices, work more, be less perfectionistic, make more jigs, learn from more pros, invest in more software, build more work stations, invest in better transportation, get new equipment.... You just constantly need to identify where the biggest problem is, and keep making adjustments. My business has gone from just $1000 a year when I was 19, to last year we had about 250k of sales through all custom woodwork, and I'm 31. This year looks even better. But it's a constant slow grind. And yes, like William said... Keep your overhead super low and have other streams of income while you are building your clientele. Eventually if you do it right, the custom work will be profitable enough for you to stop most of the other streams of income

  • @codacreator6162
    @codacreator61622 жыл бұрын

    What it says about our society and the state of the market that a talented man with the support of others can’t make it on just one skill is crushing. Working ten jobs to make it with one… that’s not an accident. And it will only get worse. At some point in the not-too-distant future, there will be no more craftsmen, no more artists, no more musicians, no more writers. We, as a nation, need desperately to confront this reality or suffer the consequences. What will we do when all there is is Walmart, IKEA, auto-tune, and yellow journalism? Makes me think of the dystopian predictions of Philip K. Dick, the AI sheep in Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep (Blade Runner) and several others. I wish you all the best. Your heart is in the right place and the people who’ve invested in you are saints. Much success to you and God bless. The odds are stacked much too tightly against far too many of us, so guys like you must be our champions. Go get ‘em!

  • @simonh73
    @simonh732 жыл бұрын

    Great video of what it takes to do what you love. Your monthly walnut bill must be more expensive than a coke habit!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Especially with recent increases in lumber prices 😵‍💫

  • @scottallen606
    @scottallen606 Жыл бұрын

    sick shop! love the message

  • @MrPJM22
    @MrPJM222 жыл бұрын

    Hello! Not related to this vid, but recently received the coffee beans I ordered. Love it. Would like to order more, but can’t find the vid or product on your website. Where did you hide the beans, my man?

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    We sold the f out too fast. We are working on getting setup with our own roaster so we can keep up with demand. Sorry for that

  • @MrPJM22

    @MrPJM22

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo No need to be sorry…happy it sold well! Look forward to when it becomes available again!

  • @OzSafe1
    @OzSafe12 жыл бұрын

    After spending 20+ years building a successful non woodworking business from nothing you’re right in everything you say. The most valuable lesson I’ve learnt is that you must always give back to the community you take from. Thanks, it was a good reminder.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hey that means a lot. Thank you for dropping the love and validating the message. 🙏🏼

  • @reggiejenkins6458

    @reggiejenkins6458

    2 жыл бұрын

    What does that mean? What exactly are you “taking” from people? Aren’t you just trading (selling) with people? Why the guilty conscious?

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@reggiejenkins6458 there’s no guilty conscience. We look at it differently. The people who you are “selling” to are choosing to support you instead of someone els. Besides that, I was more referring to the countless people who have volunteered their time helping me. Most of them were woodworkers and artists that live around here and they just wanted to help and be around what we are doing. So building a place for community is important to me. The community helped bring the place to life.

  • @reggiejenkins6458

    @reggiejenkins6458

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo you guys are using language like “taking” and “giving back”. I agree if there were people helping you out for free, then there is a debt owed. But the customers? They’re just trading with you of their own free will, evidently they and you both believe it’s a fair trade. That’s the free market, and it’s wonderful. The community? I don’t get what you took originally from the community that imbues you with a need to give back to it. If you have a functioning business, make goods, employ people, etc, you are a clear net positive to the community, barring any other obscene negative community-consuming in your life. I think it’s the fact we have all been conditioned since birth to feel like successful people owe things to the non successful people. It’s basic anti-rich, anti-business, anti-capitalist sentiment. Life gets better when you realize that and break the conditioning. Coded commie-light language just contributes to the problem.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@reggiejenkins6458 I’ve heard this argument many times. I chalk it up into a difference in the way we see the world. I am grateful and thankful. The other way feels entitled. You could be right my man, but it’s my decision to see the world in a different way. A more positive way.

  • @MattBedford_Italy
    @MattBedford_Italy2 жыл бұрын

    So, to keep your custom woodworking business going, do something else? That seems sad. Challenging that, respectfully, I've seen lots of businesses go down because people were afraid to commit to it properly. It's "just a side hustle". Then it's gone. Or, the cheap/free labor turned out to be not very good so customers were left unhappy. Is it possible that the other (seemingly ROI-positive) activities are actually a distraction, holding back your business or is it just that custom woodwork is just not very in-demand? Thank you though for the insight and for starting the discussion.

  • @Thejakegee
    @Thejakegee2 жыл бұрын

    Definitely need to stop by for a cup of coffee. Cool shop.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Absolutely. We are open to the public

  • @timelesswoodworks8680
    @timelesswoodworks86802 жыл бұрын

    Awesome vid 👍🏽

  • @BigHenFor
    @BigHenFor2 жыл бұрын

    This video alone was worth a sub. 👍

  • @steelsunpi
    @steelsunpi2 жыл бұрын

    Good advice. Btw: major misspelling on your thumbnail.

  • @bvictory5698
    @bvictory56982 жыл бұрын

    Love your shop! Love your work, amazing stuff on this channel! Just curious what is “ontoro” that you spoke of that your truck is on? I’m just wondering what that is, I clearly have the spelling wrong cuz I can’t find anything online by that spelling.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Haha thanks! My 2nd truck is on Turo. It’s a platform that allows you to rent your vehicle

  • @bvictory5698

    @bvictory5698

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo oh ok so it’s like Uber but people drive it, lol, cool. I have a Toyota Tundra I may sign up for this.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@bvictory5698 it works for me because I have a 2nd truck that I don’t like to daily drive. When the f150 is rented I hop in the ol Jeep and make pretty good money!

  • @bvictory5698

    @bvictory5698

    2 жыл бұрын

    That’s pretty neat thanks for the info man!

  • @jamesprice4871
    @jamesprice48712 жыл бұрын

    Where can I get that flip board thing?

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Haha it’s called a Vestaboard

  • @timort2260
    @timort22602 жыл бұрын

    I get what your saying i truly believe it's mostly true. There's always limiting factors but what ya say is on point at least with my belief. With that said about 4 years in and failing. It's mostly my fault I get that but I'll keep taking that risk because I just want to make cool stuff. Moved into an rv beside my shop both pieces of shit but I can build. And your 100% about that whole aspect of multiple income. Idk if I could justify my truck but wishing you the best dude and you're content is always top notch so thank you.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Much appreciated Tim. I’m really sorry to hear you experienced some hard times 4 years in. I feel like I could have went under so many times but I have a lot of support from the woodworking and art community. They fight hard and always lend a helping hand when we need it

  • @timort2260

    @timort2260

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo no worries Man life is good. Well I hope those times are over for yourself. Looks like ya got a lot going for yourself. And looking forward to ordering some of that coffee soon. Have a good one man

  • @JARMade
    @JARMade2 жыл бұрын

    that intro ! 11/10 would watch again! .......just did lol

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hahaha thanks man!! Glad you like it. We need to catch up soon

  • @JARMade

    @JARMade

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo Yes! i will try to stop by before the month is over a lot of things have change for both of us lol

  • @KennyB9871
    @KennyB98712 жыл бұрын

    Very cool! Thanks for sharing!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate you taking the time to watch!

  • @gjanalog5675
    @gjanalog56752 жыл бұрын

    Good incite, great advice. I take back what i thought of you earlier……..😂

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hahah I appreciate that. I think a lot of people don’t like me until they get to know me.

  • @jordanbell3473
    @jordanbell34732 жыл бұрын

    Incredible video. is that walnut veneered MDF? how do you like it for your boxes compared to plywood? Really enjoy your insight. some of the best content on youtube.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you! Yes it is mdf. I like it better than ply for cab boxes because of consistency in thickness and stability. I suppose BB ply would be better than the mdf but we don’t hand lay up our veneer unless we are working with curved surfaces

  • @alessandrosuppini943
    @alessandrosuppini9432 жыл бұрын

    Great advices, so true what you said Will, engaging the community is key 👌

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Yes! Community and diversify

  • @davidtown6825
    @davidtown68252 жыл бұрын

    Great Video!!!!!!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for watching !

  • @jimmyz1686
    @jimmyz16862 жыл бұрын

    This is beautiful!!!😢

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Appreciate the love!!

  • @SecondSonWoodworks
    @SecondSonWoodworks2 жыл бұрын

    Supplemental income is so important and creating a place for artists and fans of the wood experience is essential! Cheers

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    No doubt. This is not only good for business but I’ve also made so many new friendships that I would have never known.

  • @SecondSonWoodworks

    @SecondSonWoodworks

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo agreed! Cheers to that

  • @sunalwaysshinesonTVs
    @sunalwaysshinesonTVs2 жыл бұрын

    TL:DR: to be successful, you need to pay labour as little as possible. I commend the idea of building community, and expect that in truth you do run your business adhering to the ideas as you articulated. However, in in the context of promoting economic ideology and your presentation, the message does seem to be, "figure out a way to get free labour". You frequently speak about "your business". I certainly hope the people who "volunteered" to help build yours get a share of the profits at the very least rather than the no=cost, "get value from your assets" like IDK... get to use your capital investments (aka machines) at no charge on their down-time. Marx wrote about this, labour competition. It's the concept that in a capitalists system, there is always someone willing to do your job for less money.

  • @alicebaladez1930
    @alicebaladez19302 жыл бұрын

    Beast! Ily! This was exactly what I needed to hear. The perfect message for me in a season such as this. Lord bless you!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    This comment will keep me making videos 🙏🏼

  • @obelusyt
    @obelusyt2 жыл бұрын

    bravo

  • @RJStockton
    @RJStockton2 жыл бұрын

    Most businesses fail in the first five years because most of them aren't actual businesses. A huge percentage of new "businesses" are actually just holding companies that are set up to handle money for a limited time. Talk to a lawyer about windfall profits or an inheritance, and he might tell you to start an LLC to receive the funds and then invest through that. After a few years, the holding company isn't being used anymore, so the founders let their registration lapse. This goes into the books as a "failed" business, when in reality it was just abandoned because it served its purpose. I don't think there's any good source for how many small businesses are actually real, and of those how many are in business after five years. Once you cut out the short-lived LLCs, however, it can't be all that high.

  • @mattmoore1731
    @mattmoore1731 Жыл бұрын

    Good job man. Not for me, but good job.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    Жыл бұрын

    Matt Moore? Mateo goods?

  • @aaronblackford981
    @aaronblackford9812 жыл бұрын

    That’s hella positive and hella commercial.

  • @ARMYStrongHOOAH17
    @ARMYStrongHOOAH172 жыл бұрын

    So basically start with with enough money and assets to keep you afloat while you waste time and money learning.

  • @luliluli1471
    @luliluli1471 Жыл бұрын

    Precisely

  • @DarKhanDahar
    @DarKhanDahar2 жыл бұрын

    Voice is the same level as music, please up the voice volume. You sound low

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thank you for the feedback!

  • @egbluesuede1220
    @egbluesuede12202 жыл бұрын

    Great advice!

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Thanks for watching!

  • @TheClayCoKid
    @TheClayCoKid2 жыл бұрын

    What a fantastic video. You sort of put all my ideas in a package I hadn't put together for myself. Im in a lower income market than where you are. But I believe there is still good potential when community is involved. Thanks for sharing this great video.

  • @DaileyWoodworks
    @DaileyWoodworks2 жыл бұрын

    Aww yes, the portfolio piece.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hahah that one strike a chord?

  • @DaileyWoodworks

    @DaileyWoodworks

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo several… 😑 the $9,000 bedroom suite that should have been $20,000 after I job costed it still hurts. But man! It was beautiful. I wish I’d filmed it.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@DaileyWoodworks oooof that’s a hard one. I have quite a few under my belt as well

  • @prof.crastinator
    @prof.crastinator2 жыл бұрын

    So to make money: you sell yourself not the furniture. Got it. Where is my damn epoxy river table!?

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    Hahaha yes that’s the spirit 🙌🏻

  • @punkrockdave1000
    @punkrockdave10002 жыл бұрын

    I will add my 2 cents in and I hope you realize my point. In this day and age of social media following makers like you really helps. The one thing i notice as of late I follow or subscribe or tap that like button I don't get the same love back from people in my field. I honestly believe that it can hinder your progress as a maker. I follow roughly 50 or so makers and I have around 5 that follow what I do. If I had big names saying something or liking something I have done it legit opens up another realm for people like me. I know all to well you can't follow everyone on social media, but this is why you get PR people to do it for you. Like I said, my 2 cents. More whisky drinking in the videos with silly jokes please.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I completely hear what you are saying but I can honestly say that there is a point we get to where it’s just impossible. When I get on IG now it’s to post something “hopefully inspiring in some way” and then to read and respond to messages. A lot of them are people asking for help or just expressing deep gratitude and I do my best to respond back with something meaningful. It’s important to me that it is genuinely from me as well. When I’m done with that I usually shut down the gram and don’t surf around unless I can’t sleep. I’ll make it a pint to look you up though. Thanks for the love and sorry for any typos in this 😬

  • @draxxx_exe
    @draxxx_exe2 жыл бұрын

    Fucking beautiful Will

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I appreciate that 🙏🏼

  • @michailkyriazanos6296
    @michailkyriazanos62962 жыл бұрын

    So you run a very succesfull yt channel plus other small/parallel businneses to keep a custom woodworking company alive and you thought that sharing tips of how to keep a custom woodworking company alive was a good idea.....oh wait, that would be a yt video success so no prblm.....hope at least woodworkers out there wont start opening coffee shops.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    I love what I do. Do you?

  • @michailkyriazanos6296

    @michailkyriazanos6296

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo you must love what you do, you are spending a lot of energy to make it work and worth. But that has nothing to do with the subject. I do run a successful business of custom furniture with solid wood only and I'm a briar pipemaker the past 12 years. Note though that I'm on Europe, with a lot different structure on the relationship between state and business, but still a fundamental part of business running is the opportunity cost term. So if the cost of running a custom furniture business is to "drain" other businesses is not a real tip, you basically just saying "do it part time". So yeah I love what I do and because I love it so much I really had to do it work well, so I don't end up doing stuff that I don't like.

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@michailkyriazanos6296 I’m happy for you. Keep pushing and thanks for watching

  • @spencer476
    @spencer4762 жыл бұрын

    Maybe it is because they can’t spell “businesses” in their title….

  • @WilliamDouglasCo

    @WilliamDouglasCo

    2 жыл бұрын

    could that have been on purpose? Got you to drop a comment and engage didn’t it? 😮‍💨

  • @BobAbbott

    @BobAbbott

    2 жыл бұрын

    @@WilliamDouglasCo are you truly saying that's your engagement strategy? typos?