Don't Sell Firewood!!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Here is the link to our online store!! Check us out for your super cool, iconic OWB Tshirts and stickers! ohiowoodburner.square.site/

[@davesoutdoorsnmore9049]

Definitely be getting some new firewood merch from you, Happy Holidays to you and your family

[@leahmodesitt5560]

A sycamore trees good for burning if it's dried out good

[@ohiowoodburner]

@@leahmodesitt5560 Hi Leah... thanks for watching. Not sure if you are asking a question or making a statement. I believe that all wood is good to burn as long as it's dry. Compared to all the other hardwoods Sycamore is regarded as a light hardwood and doesn't give as much heat as oak, ash, locust etc. Thanks for watching. Joe

[@fricknjeep]

thank you john

[@lumberjack24.a.theoldschoo24]

Okay do this KZbin West Coast muscle saws and that guy there is the chainsaw guy watch his videos then you can make your determination he's actually my go-to guy for repairs when I can't do it myself he walks me through it but rich is the best that you can get hands down he's got business from all over the world believe it or not so obviously he's good but he's quick and he'll walk you through what he's got to do West Coast muscle saws KZbin check him out make your own decision

[@lylewitt8417]

I grew up helping cut wood. From the time I was big enough to help, I worked the end of the buzz rig throwing if in the wagon. My older brother and dad used a two man crosscut. I remember him hauling logs up by the buzz rig and splitting them up like rails, then buzzing them up. When he got his first chainsaw, we cut blocks and split them with an axe or mall and wedges. Still buzzed up the smaller limbs. When he got a small saw, the buzz rig was not used anymore. We still had to split the wood, no wood splitter. The only heat in the old farmhouse was in the dining room, the stovepipe went through the ceiling and into the chimney in the room upstairs. My one sister had that room, so there was some heat. My older sisters room and my older brother and my room had no heat. There would be thick frost on the inside of the windows, sometimes ice. We had heavy quilts on our beds. We would back up to the stove before bed, get warm and hurry up and jump in bed. You lay in bed and see your breath. Had an outhouse also. Thought nothing of it. Even after I moved out, still went and helped my dad cut wood. He put a furnace in when he was in his 70s, after a heart attack. My younger brother moved out in the middle 70s and my dad put in a bathroom after that. Best part of my life growing up then. I don't burn wood now though. My dad died in 2002 at 94. I'm 75 now.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Wow that is a great story and thanks for sharing some of your life story Lyle. Isn't it neat how firewood can elicit such fond memories of our past? I have a lot of those same memories with my childhood and working with my dad. I still have our first family chainsaw too! I'm curious where did you grow up? It sounds a little of how my dad grew up in the 30's Joe

[@lylewitt8417]

@@ohiowoodburner I grew up on my parents farm in central Michigan. My dad milked about 20 cows by hand, raised sheep, had one tractor- - - which I have. He pretty much quit farming when I was in high school. All the small farmers are gone now, only a couple people living in the area that I know. The house and one barn are gone. My oldest sister and older brother are both gone. Just three of us kids left. I retired just before I turned 61, when I hit 70, time has really gone by fast. It makes you realize how short life is, even if you live into your 90s like both my parents!

[@allenschmitz9644]

Nothing romantic about them old houses...witt's telling it like it really cold/dark was.

[@ethenv.4717]

I like those types of story's

[@FatherOfTheParty]

Joe, my business partner and I have started, built, and sold a number of small businesses (in the process of starting another as a matter of fact) and he has had a saying that we live by. "There are problems, and there are expenses. People will pay you to turn a problem into an expense.". I think this meshes nicely with your message.

[@justinjustin337]

I like that quote!!!! And I’ve been there and said I don’t want to deal with it and paid someone else to do it. Lol

[@joecombs7468]

That is the best advice to give to ANYONE wanting to start their own business. Not just the fire wood business, but any business.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Joe!

[@matthewbeaver5026]

Just turned 31 and I've been selling wood since I was 14 or 15 It's great when you can be paid to remove it then paid again to off load it.

[@Running_With_Scissors]

You’re what I consider old school business. The ideology of business in the 21st century is to “process” customers. Process as many customers as you can and cash in at the highest monetary amount you can possibly grab. Granted, it makes money usually on the short term, or until the market turns, but we grab whatever we can at anyone’s expense. We used to “service” our customers in the past, sometimes for generations of repeat business. They knew who we were and our names. Not today, but YOU are different. You’re “servicing” your customers. Taking on what brings you acceptable long term profit and reputation. When was the last time you remembered someone’s name who just “processed” your business? But, we typically remember and recommend those who “service” us with a great experience. We lack this today. I’m glad to be a new subscriber and wish you the greatest of success!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the kind words Col Prepper. In a way I think you summarized my approach to the delivery service. I just want to treat people the way I want to be treated, hold up my promises, and solve problems. I think too that modern retail/business has gotten away from that. They squeeze profits, try to buy customers thru mergers, and go for short term success. Joe

[@Running_With_Scissors]

@@ohiowoodburner thanks for sharing and keep at it! You’re bound for success!

[@paulrosebush9137]

You have publicly traded companies to thank for that.

[@TheFamilyFarmOn42]

You might attribute your success to your humility, that's what I like about you. Humility is the greatest virtue.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I am the most humble person in the world!! No one is more humble than me! LOL. Just kidding RovrR... Thanks for the kind words. I think sharing my successes and set backs keeps me that way. At the end of the day I'm just a simple man from Ohio! Joe

[@davemo04]

You sir are the kind of person that made and will keep this country awesome!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Dave for the kind words. I'm just simple guy from NE Ohio. I'm glad to be able to bring the vids to you. They are a lot of fun to be involved with. Joe

[@baldthebuilder2588]

I'm a residential builder , last 2 houses I did , I had to clear the lots and I GAVE the wood away , cut , split , gave it away to friends . I heat my house with wood , but I'm stacked up for next winter already

[@henryburke8426]

I stumbled onto this video and something had me hit "play". As one poster related "no saw was run, no wood was cut... but lessons learned" is the best comment I've read in some time. I appreciate your humility and sincere desire to not only take care of your family but in helping others to do the same. Subbed. Keep up the good work and stay safe out there. Hank

[@ohiowoodburner]

This was an awesome post Hank. I am dealing with a headache this morn and you made me feel much better! LOL. I'm glad you found this channel and hope you come back for our future vids. Joe

[@alexanderthesalz396]

Cool story Joe! Thanks! We launched our business in September & have sold about 85 cord since then. It’s been a real challenge but we love it! And we aim to solve problems for folks wanting to stay warm here in Montana. You had a restaurant; we had a hot springs resort get us in with the right logging outfit & a manufacturer of fireplace glass doors is buying bulk cords... but the best advertising has been Facebook Marketplace & our location along US Hwy 93. I started selling firewood on the side a couple years ago, but have no regrets throwing all of my time & energy into growing HomeAgain Firewood.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Great story Alex and I also love the name of your company. If you haven't come up with a logo yet call my lady from my branding video and she can hook you up very inexpensive. You can make this into something huge. Joe

[@justtinkering6054]

I don't sell firewood. I burn wood and hate making firewood. After watching a few of your videos, I'm reigning myself in from starting a firewood business. You are a straight shooter and make firewood seem very interesting. Thank you for making entertaining videos.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Sure thing JT. It's funny in just this short time I have developed skills in entrepreneurship to where I think I could do the same thing with other stuff like I am with firewood. I don't think I will but I do think I could pull it off if I tried. Whichever direction you chose to go just be sure to enjoy every step. Joe

[@iceroad416]

We had a 455 rancher for one year that was enough of that. Bought a 357 xp and could not be happier same weight lots more horsepower

[@YourThermalWorld]

My first car was a Chevy Vega too! 1973 and light blue. Weighed about as much as my log splitter. Very economical for a college student - 30 miles to the quart. If you are reading this and have no clue about Vega’s, they are the only vehicle in world history to be made 100% compressed rust.

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Now...that's a good one.

[@thecorrecter]

Solid advise Sir, nice to see some honesty and open support on this site! Low 20's...really that is tropical! Remember no one else on earth uses the Fahrenheit scale for temperature, only Americans and random old Canadians who were born in 1922! :) Joking aside solid advice and thank you for sharing! FYI 20 degrees F is -6.66 degrees in the rest of the world! :)

[@shanechostetler9997]

I’m 58 and we live on 32 acres and burn wood every winter, we can’t burn enough wood to keep up with all of the growth in the trees. I can’t convince any of my 4 sons to get ambitious to cut and deliver firewood. There are lots of opportunities around if you are willing.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I totally agree Shane. The shame of it is people look at firewood as a hobby and struggle to shift gears towards making it a business. I see firewood not as a commodity but as a value added product. Joe

[@VaranusVideos]

I'm on 2 acres and I cut and stacked 5 cords this year I wish I had that much land. I enjoy it myself cant imagine 32 acres.

[@anthonydinsmore5617]

I use to sell firewood for 4 years I average 1000 cords a year

[@njonebale7889]

just subscribed, great words to a lot of people out there, i started selling cords of wood as a side hustle about five years ago and now currently deliver a few hundred throughout the year and it basically consumes almost every minute of time after the work day, and i couldn’t be happier, if your happy then your successful...joe you look very successful!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks NJ. What I tell people is I quit my good paying career and became the richest man in the world! Joe

[@WoodisGood82]

Started my business 14 years ago and your words ring true for me too. We solved problems and now we are a very successful company!

[@DanielAtkinsFirewood]

Roy what does your company do?? If you dont mind me asking??

[@WoodisGood82]

@@DanielAtkinsFirewood we are in the water and wastewater services business. Its been a great career and even better owning the business.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Awesome post Roy. I'm glad that you are doing well and can relate to the vid. I am still figuring things out and trying to get this company hitting on all cylinders! I wish you the best. Joe

[@SoBeastSkillzZ]

I would like to say thank you for your words of wisdom, I have been in business for approx 30 years and agree totally on how to serve others needs while accomplishing my family needs. That being said you have helped me remember what I have envisioned all along. Even the seasoned people need to be reminded from time to time. Keep it simple and honest to yourself and others can't help but notice who you are and what your true intent is helping each other. Thanks again Kevin C

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the nice words Kevin and thanks for watching the vids. I just say what comes to my mind but it is simply what I am experiencing and my lessons learned! Joe

[@lanceharsh7025]

Ans so this is why I subscribed to you. No I'm not doing firewood but have a side hustle I've just started. You are one of my 3 mentors. Thank you.

[@ohiowoodburner]

That is awesome to hear Lance. Thanks for the nice words and it means a lot that you are finding value with the vids. What are you doing for your side hustle? Joe

[@lanceharsh7025]

Soooo...... there's a retirement village about a mile down the road, So I'm just a Jack of all trades and master of none. Started as a fluke as 2 ladies were needing just a picture hung and no one would do it for under $50.00 I did it for much less. Got tipped and now 3 days a week I'm bundling my time for 3 hours on each day just helping small tasks to small for a handy man but still needed. Even with covid I just wear ppe and away I go. Been about 8 months now.

[@ohiowoodburner]

@@lanceharsh7025 That is a great story Lance. If you have the time and desire you certainly could turn that into a business. I am sure there are others with the same needs that you can solve. Go for it! Call my lady to get a logo and some business cards. You can do it! Joe

[@haroldanderson2781]

Not one saw was ran and not one piece of wood split yet great lessons learned. Many avenues can benefit from your lessons and that is why the subscribers are growing like crazy. Thanks Joe and God bless you.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks so much Harold. I was just thinking of you bc I am doing some repairs to my SS. I will try to film and post. I hope you are doing well and getting back into the splitting thing. Joe

[@richiecarroll4315]

Man ur video really moved me. Lol, I been mowing yards around my block for my neighbors for about 4-5 years now. It's a struggle but a blast as well. Keep up the good work my friend.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I watch a channel called Make Money Mowing. Check him out. I like his method. Joe

[@davideyt1242]

Your tip is being discussed around making and selling firewood, but the lesson is applicable to all niches, everybody can take this advice and utilize it with their own "gift" of whatever they do best, and as you said - finding a need that is not being met, and serving it. well said Sir !

[@eddiemortontapman7252]

Congratulations for working though all the challenges to get your operation as efficient as possible, then finding a customer base for the profit you need , And still getting it done as a one man band operation! The hard work looks to have paid off . Wishing you good health and a Merry Christmas Joe !

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks so much Eddie. I'm very appreciative of you and your nice posts. Merry christmas to you too. Joe

[@jayschafer1760]

When a customer walks into a local hardware store on Main Street and asks for a shovel, a good hardware store owner or clerk doesn't just point the customer towards the rack of shovels. Instead they ask the customer a few questions to figure out that type of hole the customer needs to make, get to the root of the problem, and find the best solution for that. A customer may ask for a shovel, but what they really need is a hole in the ground. SELL THE HOLE, NOT THE SHOVEL. The best solution to the customer's problem may be to suggest that the customer rent an auger (if, for example, digging holes for fence posts), or buy another hand tool like a hoe or rake if they are looking to move dirt to smooth out a spot in their garden. It's selling by solving problems, and it's personalized service that the big companies often can't (or won't) provide.

[@paranoidballoon8190]

Excellent example any hardware shop that sells you a shovel to dig a hole should be given a miss. A spade is the tool for digging a hole and a shovel is for shovelling snow etc.

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Yeah..."Sell the 'sizzle ' and not the 'steak.' "

[@hamillforestryproducts3719]

Joe. I love your message. You are a clearly a very smart business man. I’m sure that any of your subscribers can learn from you, weather you are a teenager starting a business to a 40 yr old who’s done wood all their lives. ( Lol I’m one of those 40 yr olds) . I watch a lot of KZbin channels and you have a top notch channel. You don’t preach about “ how it’s the buyers responsibility to season there wood” as an example. Or because you seasoned your wood it should be worth $1000 a face cord and so on. Your clearly polite to customers and recommended other local business who could provide services that aren’t in your scope of business. I honestly believe you could be a motivational speaker. Thank you for your messages and keep them coming.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the great post HFP. I really believe that if you are going to take the steps to go into business why not put that energy to be something new, unique? There is WAY too much copy cat stuff out there. All the cars look alike, all the tractors look the same, splitter, airplanes etc. We need innovation and the courage to think differently. Joe

[@Endymion5000]

Excellent insight!! Think of a problem to be solved, not a product to be sold. That advice applies to anything, whether it is firewood, drugs to cure cancer, or building a rocket ship.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Nice post Robert. Thanks for watching! Joe

[@DerricTubbs0x00]

I'm not a subscriber but stumbled on your channel. Great message here and I think something that many struggling small business owners miss.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the nice comment Derric. I really think what type of business a person is in the same thing goes for all. In the firewood industry I really think we struggle with customer service instead focusing too much on the joys of production. Joe

[@mvblitzyo]

such a beautiful way to look at any business , i like the firewood wood part iv been a tree guy for many years ..

[@ohiowoodburner]

I LOVE what I do. Working with firewood for a living?!?! I'm in! Joe

[@davesrvchannel4717]

I stack my firewood going east to west to get as much sun exposure as possible. I keep my rows at least 4’ apart so they don’t get shaded by row in front. Speeds up drying process quite a bit. I sold firewood for years, great way to stay in shape. Never owned hydraulic splitter, all by hand. Great news about channel growth. Best wishes

[@ohiowoodburner]

That is awesome that you hand split. I love hand splitting for about 5 minutes and then I'm done! lol. Great workout however. Thanks for your kind words Dave. I subscribed to your channel. I just sold our old Jayco Hawk it seemed we had our fun with it and was time for a new family to enjoy it. Great little camper. My new idea is to do a Transit van stealth conversion... I love watching those builds on KZbin. . Joe

[@waynerowan290]

Joe, that is the best advice you could give anybody. The saws and splitters are immaterial if you don't find your own market. Great video.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Great comment Wayne. Most the people I talk to about getting into the industry seem to focus on the production. I think I look at it the opposite way. Make the sale, then go find some wood to deliver! Joe

[@jk3dad]

Its funny you mentioned owning a Vega. Back in 1979 I traded a face cord of firewood which I cut and split by hand for an orange Vega. I parted the car out. A face cord was selling for about $ 45 at the time. I made around $250 selling the parts. my Grandfather and myself used the front wheel bearings and tires/ rims on a log splitter we built together. My Grandfather passed away in 1981. I still have the splitter and do occasionally sell a few face cords of firewood from ash trees that succumbed to the Ash borer.

[@ohiowoodburner]

That is a great story Jeff. You still are using the splitter with Vega parts! Amazing. I only have pictures of mine. Left it at the junk yard back in 1989

[@jk3dad]

@@ohiowoodburner I did donate the aluminum engine block to my high school metal class. I also used the gas tank filler neck for the hydraulic oil tank. I worked part time for a friend's father cutting, stacking and delivering firewood. We moved about a thousand face cords a year. He bought most of the wood already split from all over western New York and northern Pennsylvania. No worries of Emerald ash borer back in the 70's and 80's. He did offer special services such as stacking, 1/2 face cords and delivery to basements - he made a chute to go down through windows or in some older houses down old coal chutes.

[@jasonpeterson9276]

It's always amazing how god will bless us in ways we didnt know.. did the same as you years ago and found the niche in the markets.. let it grow!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the nice comment Jason. Isn't it a great industry? Joe

[@jasonpeterson9276]

@@ohiowoodburner it sure is and it changes from year to year.. but like ya said dont sell firewood, sell your product and ya can sell less for more once they know the product.

[@patrickwoite7188]

Being late to watching this video, with a little bit of thinking, I have to agree with you: find your niche is the money. I run a VERY small tree care business and my "mentors" tried to talk me into being a company with a bucket. We have 3 of those in my region. I climb and reluctantly ise ladders. I serve allotments and residential (single) trees. No roadside or "industrial" style work. In humble terms, it works well for me. Word of mouth is my best advertisement after delivering a good product.

[@edwaggoner7403]

I burned firewood to heat my home all my life. At home on the farm then after I got out of the service. I sold just a small amount over the years not on a regular business, most was just for me. Up in years now and just bought my first hydraulic splitter, previous did all the splitting with a maul to help stay in shape.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for sharing Ed. I love to split with a maul for about 5 minutes then I lose all interest! LOL. I have a hydraulic splitter but never use it anymore bc of my Super Splitter. Joe

[@EastonmadeWoodSplitters]

That's some of the best advice I think you could give joe. A lot of guys miss the exceptional part of business. When you put forth the extra effort you can do more with less and have happy customers and be healthy and happy yourself. Keep up the good work joe.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the kind words Andrew. Stay safe and healthy! Joe

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Amen!

[@reesegary]

I bought a Honda Rancher brand new in 2001. Same problem, wants to stahl. I just pull the chock out a little and it runs fine. Been doing it for the last 10 yrs.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I'm wondering if mine is sucking air from somewhere? It runs fine, just idles poorly when at operating temp. Joe

[@wickedgoodtraderjoe2670]

Thanks for this video. I've been an entrepreneur my whole life. And I used to own a lawn service! Built it to where I cut 70 yards in 1 neighborhood. Nice half acre yards. That was my thing. Just got into a little firewood thing to show my kids the entrepreneurial spirit and try and keep them off the video games and was about to give it up because it's turning into too much work for not so much money. Easy answer. JUST RAISE THE PRICE. We've learned the demand for firewood is massive. I can't feel bad charging $40 for 1/4 facecord. Just do it. As long as I'm providing a quality product, people will pay that premium as long as I deliver. They've been screwed over by 8 wood guys before me at an inferior price and they've learned their lesson.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Good post Joe. It seems the more you increase your company's perceived and actual value the more customers you will attract. Hopefully you can get to customers who have never purchased wood before and you will have a customer for life. Joe

[@simplelifewithrobertpusate294]

Great advice. I’m just starting my side hustle and my main draw is toward clean, boxed bundles to keep the house clean….and then I watched this video👍

[@AmpOverdriveCA]

My father owns 40 acres of farmland and wooded lot for deer hunting. I've started taking the time into cleaning up the woods. Since we don't have any use for this much firewood I've started selling it. Now that you have said your message I'm debating on how I'd want to move forward for the 2021 season. We have a lot of people who sell firewood around us and we don't live on the property so it is making it difficult since we can't deliver whenever. I would love to talk to you more in depth and hopefully figure what we should do. Thanks for all your helpful videos

[@ohiowoodburner]

If you don't have a truck i would bundle it and sell it to weekend burners. You could deliver in your trunk. $10 a bundle is a good value to the customer if it is good, clean wood, delivered to their door. Joe

[@AmpOverdriveCA]

I was thinking about trying to bundle the wood to get more money for it. We do have a few campgrounds around us that are fairly close but the campgrounds also sell wood.

[@ohiowoodburner]

@@AmpOverdriveCA You may be able to get their business however. Simply they may not enjoy doing the firewood but just do it bc their customers need it. Find out how much they sell the wood for. If you can still get your price without raising the price of the bundle sold to the camper the owner may give you the business simply to quit making the wood themselves. Joe

[@hskaushikmurthy89]

Title made me sad but the content made me smile. Way to go OWB. Wish you all the best.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Kaushik! I hope you didn't think i was telling people to not bother starting a firewood business! LOL. Aim for the stars! Joe

[@TheTorkerman]

Joe, you talk about ‘exceptional’ to me, that’s what this video is! Exceptional. Best firewood video I have seen yet. And trust me, I have seen MANY! Adam

[@ohiowoodburner]

Wow! Thanks for the nice words MO. It is great to know the vids are being well received. Joe

[@Bill-rs3mj]

Great video! I have over 25 year in firewood and have 2 wood yards now. You can not do it all in firewood, pike wot you can do will and have fun with it. Thank you Joe you are doing it right.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the nice words Bill! I seem to avoid stressing where I'm going. It's almost like I am just enjoying my time where I am now. Joe

[@MamboCurto]

Mark Twain once said "The more a Man talks, the less he is understood !!!" Amen

[@ohiowoodburner]

LOL... I get it. You will like my video coming this Sunday Mambo. Check it out and let me know what you think. Joe

[@maplebones]

@@ohiowoodburner thanks anyways, but i have better thing to do

[@lumber-jackha5123]

Hey Mambo Curto, your so wrong in what you said to Joe, it goes like this “The more a man speaks the less he is understood, Abraham Lincoln”. Joe your doing great keep it up, this guy is your topical uneducated critic.

[@MrDistech]

Joe, I too believe in exactly what you are "talking" about... And with the "Tube"... Better yet! Best of luck 👍

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Well, when you have something wonderful to say, a few extra words is "A-OKAY." THANKS

[@wheelinndealin]

When I close my eyes I hear the voice of Will Farrel. It took me about 5 minutes to realize why your voice sounded familiar. But you have an awesome thing going, it takes a lot to commit this much and it’s paying off!!!

[@rumrun11]

Ya, NO

[@backontrackaustralia3973]

g'day Joe, Great advice there. I run a mowing , property service business here in Australia. Your message rings true for me, keep it up and thanks yet again...

[@hairy-dairyman]

I've taken to selling wood. More as a by-product of getting fit. Loved chopping wood as a kid. Took it up again when I bought the farm and had to clear up some scrub and bush that was overcrowding.

[@nclife7032]

32 here in NC. I have modeled my small firewood business after many things I’ve learned from you here on this channel. I even use the bundle wrap you promoted. Thank you for the continued mentoring, it may go unseen but it is helping many of us many many miles from you!

[@tomhuff9712]

Great message Joe. Something that I expounded upon during my 20 plus years in the mechanical construction trades. I wish that I was 30 years younger and could start anew again. Keep up the great videos and enjoy life, it passes quickly.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Well said Tom. I wish I had got started out of college but I certainly didn't have the skills or the network in place to let me get something like this started. I am enjoying every thing I do however! Joe

[@MsSoccerbabe2]

my son started firewood buisness 2 years ago now he cant keep up , so far this season he is over 70 cords with the help of dad

[@ohiowoodburner]

Great to hear about your son. The best advice I got when I couldn't keep up with demand was to raise my prices 25% . I still couldn't keep up with demand so I raised it another 25% Very profitable with less work. Joe

[@67Jazzmaster]

I just happened upon this video and am glad I watched it. You can apply your advice to basically everything in life. Find a problem and solve it! Great advice and thank you!!!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks so much 67JM. I'm glad you liked the vid. Joe

[@TheDoItYourselfWorld]

I just got into firewood. It sort of just happened. I was shocked by your title at first but now it makes sense. I bought some logs from a family to saw up into firewood. While there someone asked if I could cut some trees for them. Then another and another and another. Now I have jobs lined up all winter. And firewood to sell.

[@andrewviperpingel9565]

This is gold, thank you so much for a new thought on my goals. Awesome!!!!!

[@peterschulze4975]

This was informative and interresting. Greetings from Germany. And yes, entrepreneur is a French word and you are pronouncing it right.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for watching Peter.

[@benbarnes2819]

Very good video. The firewood will sell itself you just have to have the reputation of being dependable. That’s with any business. Very well said.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Ben. Good comment. I have always said it is easy to sell firewood. The trick is to find a niche that can sustain you and help grow the business. Joe

[@rlyman111]

Well said! Right on point. Biblical instruction: “A persons gift makes room for them and ...”. You can find the rest in Proverbs. Nice to have friends to encourage you.

[@lumber-jackha5123]

Joe, your friend is absolutely right, I would suggest to you this, teach fireplace owners how to operate a fire place or stove, this will truly open your options, Ron

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the comment LJHa. Hope you are staying warm. Joe

[@johnmorse5617]

Good morning Ohio wood burner . I happened across your channel and listened to ya talk about auntapurner , man that spll. , anyway your vary down to earth and correct in what you said . Your friend you spoke of has lots of wisdom. Thank you for taking the time to speak real honest about the firewood industry, it needed to be addressed. Be safe .

[@RHall1]

If you are watching these videos and not subscribing you are doing yourself a disservice. This is not a JUST a wood splitting or fire wood selling channel. This channel is a free entrepreneurial course in how to start, run and grow your own personal business. The nuggets of advise and experience are priceless.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Wow! thanks for the kind words Randal! I try to give a good mix of content to appeal to all the areas of firewood but the one thing I have tried to do is focus on the business side of things and what I have learned in starting this enterprise. Reading your comment makes me want to keep this going! Thanks. Joe

[@dustyholt1642]

Great message! This applies to everyone no matter what they are doing. Be excellent in all we do. Be the best, whatever ever it is that you do. Thanks again for the great video!

[@ohiowoodburner]

You got it Dusty. I do what I can to live up to that. It's not easy for sure! Joe

[@LDBoone]

Jack of all trades here. Great advice.

[@kellylee1028]

Thanks for your advice I am just getting started in the firewood business and this gives me a new insight on things

[@peterclark4565]

Awesome motivational video. I am in the same boat as you 20 years working for a company. Been hustling firewood for 3 years. Can't keep up with demand. New stage in life pull the plug enjoy what I really like to do cutting and selling firewood. Nothing like being your own entrepreneur. Keep up the good work.

[@michaelcary5144]

Been running firewood for the last 7 years. Have seen it go from just running maybe 30 rick (15 truck loads) a year last year ran 130 rick. This year had issues with equipment so mainly took care of all of the main people while fighting with saws and splitter issues. Back into the grind next year hopefully it will grow yet again

[@michaelcary5144]

But as far as the main point of the video i get alot of business with a couple local campgrounds throughout spring and summer which is mainly pine that has been down for a few years so it burns great. Can run alot cheaper and still make good money then buying bundles at gas stations. Row at a time off the truck.

[@rodneysweetnam8653]

Hi Joe - it's Big Rodders in Ireland. Reminds me of an old story, which I'll try to paraphrase here. A visitor to a construction site asked stone masons what they were up to. First one said he was earning $10 a day. The second said he was contracted to work 40 hours a week to Joe Bloggs Constuction. The third looked up and said proudly "I'm building a cathedral". I can guess who had the greatest job contentment.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Excellent story and insight Big Rodders. I may use that sometime! Joe

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Or...there is a similar story about two railroad workers, one replied he was making x amount a day, the other replied that he was building a railroad...and went on to be the President of it. Thanks.

[@outdoorswithlarryrobin]

Joe! You just let the secret out! Find a Glitch, and serve all demand. We sell bags, 1/4 cords, 1/2 cords. Free delivery for 20mile radius! No full cords, No Stacking. Sales on Fire! 👍🏼🇱🇷

[@ohiowoodburner]

I love your videos and I love that truck! We need to put an OWB sign on the door and drive that to Ohio! Good job with your deliveries. I hope you both stay well and safe. Joe

[@outdoorswithlarryrobin]

@@ohiowoodburner Joe, Thanks, Have a Merry Christmas! We enjoy your videos also, Glad mine is a Hobby!Lol👍🏼🎄

[@GeoffPSU]

Just found your channel, great message and it’s nice to watch a well spoken man talk about how he enjoys his work. I’ve been toying with starting my own channel, and I’m watching a lot of videos lately to gain some insight on different ways people use videos to get their point across while making it interesting and entertaining. Well done!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the kind words Denny. I would tell you what I would also tell someone thinking of selling firewood. START selling firewood! Or in your case, START posting videos! No better time exists like NOW. Don't worry about not being ready or all set up. Get it going now! Joe

[@troop755northville2]

I think we found a market for small amounts of wood delivered by scouts as a fundraiser. I think this video presented some thoughtful insight as to what we should be doing--providing a service that just happens to be firewood.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Best of luck for your efforts. My motto is "Givers Give!" Joe

[@ishure8849]

G'day Joe, your channel is doing well because your a good bloke. There's an old saying down under there's money in firewood but it's well hidden, I don't like cutting firewood anymore it's taken it's toll on my body. If I may Joe I'd like to commiserate the passing of Tranquillo (happy) Corridin 84 died last week and one of the best wood cutters around he would process by hand 250000 pounds of the hardest heaviest wood on this planet per season which ran only nine months because we can't run saws in summer, he pulled his own tooth with pliers nearly cut his arm off at the shoulder and drove himself to the nearest hospital that had a micro surgeon that happened to be visiting he stitched him up then he went back the next day and loaded the rest one handed no rest, he's resting now.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Corridin sounded like the real deal! A regular Paul Bunyan except not a folk tale. Sounds like he lived a full life. Thanks for posting and I hope you are staying well. Joe.

[@GGg-ug3jr]

Why can't you run saws in the summertime?

[@ishure8849]

G'day G gd, the state that I live in is Victoria it's the worst place on Earth for bush fires wild fires forest fires. California is probably second as they planted our Eucalypts in the 19th century we have what's called TFB days totalise ban no fires or BBQ or chainsaws or grinders out side tractors must have a knapsack and should only be operated if there's no other option.the fines are servere including jail, in 2009 the black Saturday fires killed hundreds the cars melt and so do the teeth.

[@joesargent1621]

Thanks for video I'm 52 and still cutting trees for a living I think forgot about the passion of the trade smart advance.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I think you have the best job in the world Joe. Think of all the office rats that would give their left arm to change places with you!

[@aldredske6197]

Hi Joe!!😀😀 My very first car was a 1974 orange Chevy Vega too. LOL!! I bought it for 100 dollars in 1983. Take care my friend!! Logger Al

[@daveholmes123]

Morning Joe, you are exceptional ! You made a complete firewood video and never had to touch a piece firewood. 🔥😁👍 you have a great day my friend 👍

[@ohiowoodburner]

LOL good catch Dave! I call that a good day! Joe

[@countrycuz10]

This reminds me of Jordan Belfort answering "how to sell this pen." You don't sell the pen to someone who isn't interested or doesn't have a need for the pen. You ask person by person, what they need, and if they need a pen, you provide them with one. Find a problem, and solve it for that group of people. Very good video!

[@S_man89]

Awesome. Joe. This is what I’m trying to tap into. People sell it all over where I live, in trying to get into selling small quantity wood such as a face load and bundles. I’ve recently ask my boss who also happens to be the owner of the company about setting up a bundle stand at our store ( he even mentioned that they have been asked about firewood but we never sold it before) I think if I can get a foot in the with this opportunity I could try and set up some more wood stalls. I’m working on a business card to give to some friends because funny enough while delivering a load to my friend an older man asked me if I had a card but I didn’t have one so now I got to get some! I too only have a small on hand quantity of wood cut split and stacked right now. I’m working on getting more split so I can work from that while I get a place to pile up the wood and get a commercial splitter ( I’m really set in the Eastonmade 12-22 it’s a beast!). Love the vids Joe!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Sounds like you are working on a good business model Seth. All you mention above are problems that you are in the process of solving. Sounds like you have an entrepreneurial side to you. Keep it going. Joe

[@S_man89]

@@ohiowoodburner well I got the verdict back it was turned down by my boss but that’s ok it was a step forward for me. I have a couple leads to track down I’ll let you know how they go.

[@ohiowoodburner]

@@S_man89 Don't let this, or anything like it discourage you. You have just now become a better business owner. Keep it going. Joe

[@S_man89]

@@ohiowoodburner thanks joe.

[@markw2266]

Seth, I have a 12-22 and might be selling it for a axis. You have much better control on wood size with the axis. The 12-22 is fast with the box wedge but puts 10% of your wood on the ground as waste. I use it as kindling but when doing large quantities it really adds up. Hope that helps you out. Eastonmade is a great product and they have something for most splitting needs. My problem is I get into a lot of free big wood which can be a tad problematic if you want to do bundle wood.

[@danielboles6195]

Great video, when I was younger I'd thought about doing this in East Tn, and selling to apt and condo/ high enders. Sounds like I wasn't too far off the mark at the time. I'm glad you are doing well and thank you for taking the time to share on your channel! Cheers!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the comment Daniel!

[@Wild_Bill57]

One of the things that I like about KZbin is channels like yours. My only thing is that I tend to like a little faster talker than you are. I just push the speed up to 1.25. You deliver at your speed, I listen at my speed, I get excellent information, opinion, and the voice of experience, you get another dedicated follower. Win - Win, hope to see your channel grow and grow.

[@bradywatcherson498]

Great message and attitude. Couldn't agree with you more, I have a similar philosophy regarding firewood. You have to start with a quality product but you're really selling a service. I enjoy you're channel, Merry Christmas from Oregon!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Well said Brady. I see firewood as a vehicle for a quality service...not simply the only thing that matters. Joe

[@rickjackson3631]

I retired two years ago. I had a multi-tek, 2 kenworth t-300 delivery trucks, a tanguay loader and two JD 440c. We processed around 2700 cord a year. The crazy things I saw. I guess this video got me thinking about entrepreneurship and motivated me to write. "Don't sell firewood". I agree with all said but on top of it all, do something you love. Time after time I saw people get in to the business at a spike in demand. They hated the business, didn't care about customers and ruined the trust people had in firewood guys. Plus, undercut the market. Fortunately during those spikes my business thrived based on longevity and reputation. Secondly, if you do get into the business mind your own business. Always charge for what you sell today to replace tomorrow and make money. That includes every piece of equipment replacement cost, real estate..chainsaws..everything. I've seen a lot of people come and go. Their leaving was as catastrophic as a truck breaking down to the sadness of a chainsaw dying and no money to replace. Anyway, I digress. Good video. Oh, when you get buying tree length, have a processor and loader, get a bandsaw mill. I made a fortune on specialty hardwood by sorting out the good stuff (birdseye, curly, tiger, flame etc etc) and milling it to rough sawn. That's where the $6,000 a week fun gets real.

[@PaulA-ul2vd]

You made 6 g a week?

[@rickjackson3631]

@@PaulA-ul2vd Yes. Sometimes more with milling specialty hardwood lumber picked from the tree length. A huge advantage a firewood processor has over lumber mills. I cant imagine a processor NOT having a bandsaw mill like a woodmizer on site.

[@PaulA-ul2vd]

@Rick Jackson I'm a former firefighter/paramedic from a major city but just moved to montana. I was thinking about starting a firewood business but looks like they sell $150 a cord out here so it doesn't seem like that much work is worth the money since people are poor in my area.

[@rickjackson3631]

@@PaulA-ul2vd That's insane. The paper mills in our area are paying $210 for tree length. The last time I saw processed firewood, delivered for $150 a cord was when heating oil was $1.60 a gallon. 2003 ish? I don't blame you. I'd pass too. You won't even break even if you're buying your wood in to process. You can't even justify losing the cost of a gym membership. wow. seasoned wood is going for $375 here in Maine, this month. I'm glad for the buyers...they are getting one heck of a bargain. In fact, I have to ask...because it's the obvious,...but is that a face cord or a full (128 c.ft)? That's how much your price quote spins my mind!

[@PaulA-ul2vd]

@Rick Jackson that's for a full cord of wood. Going from 150 to 200 in my area. I have everything I need and plenty of wood in my area for no cost but sounds like too much work with little pay off.

[@shartne]

Try cleaning the exhaust pipe on the Rancher. Or a new fuel and filter install might help or maybe a new spark plug.

[@treed5679]

Very interesting and informative I enjoyed the video,, I was born and raised in S Michigan and I could see the ppl there paying a little more to get what they want, I moved to Oklahoma 10+ years ago and I can tell you people here can and will do it all to make a buck so the service industry is a tough one to make it in.

[@johnlarose9786]

Change out the fuel tank vacuum filter. It’s located behind the crank case cover.

[@aldiminico6513]

Good morning Joe. You made me laugh about the Vega. My friend bought one back in the 70’s. He commuted from New Hampshire to Boston every day. That car had an aluminum block engine, that warped and burned oil to no end. It some how made it to 50K and died. Have a great day and thanks for the firewood story👍

[@ohiowoodburner]

My Vega was certainly high maintenance but at the end of the day was a very good car. Why doesn't Detroit build hatchbacks anymore? Such a practical car. My Vega had holes in the floor, wouldn't idle, leaked gas over 5 gallons, and burnt a quart of oil every week. LOL. Loved that car however. Joe

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

Oh...so that's why one of the other guys said "It got 30 miles to the quart. " Thanks.

[@johnduffey2409]

You just being a real American man doing your thing great job for the entrepreneurs!!!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks John. And I'm having A LOT of fun!

[@pinestandcoffeeco.4468]

I own a coffee shop in North Carolina. I really enjoy and appreciate your input on business. Thank you.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Great to know. What part of NC are you? Joe

[@pinestandcoffeeco.4468]

@@ohiowoodburner Jacksonville, I operate my coffee truck on Camp LeJeune.

[@Freetheworldnow]

Glad to follow your enthusiastic journey Joe! Have a great day as well! God Bless.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Pierre. I am so glad to have you here and I wish you well. Joe

[@tommielee8]

As a firewood guy myself here in NE illinois we sell the wood bundles but there is scant profit because it's difficult finding new customers. The market is saturated. I did notice though that few places sell the kindling bundles. It's an idea we are exploring... We originally got into the commercial space in order to promote the tree care business. Lots of tree guys in this region but few timber/lumber producing outfits. They mainly grind good quality lumber into mulch or make pallet wood if they are into the sawmilling arena. Shameful what's happening to some of the most decorative and desirable timber here. SMH ... Lots of by products from wood. Thinkin' about bagging up the apple and cherry wood chips...and selling as smoker material. Some guys sell the driftwood they collect. Sometimes making furniture or birdhouses, etc.

[@dorothybrannam1198]

⁰you made a great point but a little long winded. You made the little hamster wheel in my head start spinning. How you look at something can change everything. Thank you very much. Just a thought think about 8th and 9th graders. Go to your local schools 🏫 and ask too speak to them. The tunge is like a rudder it may be small but it can make great chores changes.

[@ScottJClark-kr8rb]

That's a great quote from the book of "James " I believe? Thank you.

[@goingoutdoorswithmatt7962]

Hey Joe, Great message! I am starting up a small firewood business amd I told my wife I'm not selling firewood. She looks at me like I am crazy. I told her I am selling customer service, I am selling piece of mind, and I am selling my labor of getting wood, cutting it, splitting it, stacking it, seasoning it, and them bringing it to them as needed. The wood is free. You are paying for everything else. That is my approach to it amd hope I can make a few bucks off of it. It will be a side thing for now. Just starting up a KZbin channel as well. Will see how that goes. Happy New Year and hope you have much continued success.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for sharing Matt and I wish you nothing but success. Best advice is to get a website. No need to advertise if you have one. Joe

[@PurpleCollarLife]

As you may have seen in our last few videos, I've been thinking about selling firewood. Thankfully, I watched this video first. :) Great job.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Give it a try. If you have smaller supply try the bundles. You can brand them and grow that way. Joe

[@AmericanPiddler]

Well said! This is exactly what I do for a living & for my side hustle here on KZbin!

[@ohiowoodburner]

Nice to hear AP. I will check out your channel. I hope you are well. Joe

[@AmericanPiddler]

@@ohiowoodburner same to you! We are both Buckeyes just completely opposite sides of the state you're north east & we're south west corner! Happy New Year's let's stay in touch!

[@Learnmartialartsandparkour]

Absolutely loved this info, from one NE Ohio tree business to another wood business brother thank you! Tree Bandits LLC - Dylan

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks for the comment Dylan. What part of town are you from? Joe

[@Learnmartialartsandparkour]

@@ohiowoodburner live in Twinsburg, have land in Leavistburg

[@chocrow]

the point comes across at 10:11. you're all welcome

[@ohiowoodburner]

LOL I know what you mean. I was watching this thinking.."when is this guy going to get to the point!" If I were better at editing i could have placed it closer to the start! Joe

[@lannyseals2084]

People like to rush through life too much..

[@chocrow]

@@lannyseals2084 people like to blab too much

[@BKD70]

@@ohiowoodburner Don't worry about the ADHD folks... keep it real. They all want a 30 second video to tell them what to do, they don't want to invest the time or the effort.

[@normbograham3]

lol. I've known two people to do very well "mowing". one guy went into a community, and figured he could unload once, and mow every home in the community. He went to every home, told them his plan and gave them a price of $10/lawn. He did them all. The went up from there every year. what you also need to realize, is that raking the leaves, is another project, and you're there. His price went up every year from there, but people are reluctant to quit. Both guys, used lots of helpers. And didnt push a mower themselves.

[@jasone9]

Well I hate to say it (not really) but I told you so! Just a few months back I congratulated you on 1k or 2k subs, I forget which, and I told you 5k would be just around the corner. I'm very happy for your success and I know this is just the beginning. I feel the reason this is such a good community is because anybody that makes firewood, whether to sell or just for themselves knows how to work and isnt afraid to get out there and get their hands dirty, face sweaty, and be shaking the ant out of their pant leg all at the same time. It's a group of people who say 30 degrees is the perfect working weather, it's a group of people who will work all morning to fill their truck with firewood and then hear about someone down on their luck or having health problems and will take that load of firewood and give it to that person, it's a group of quality people... enough said

[@ohiowoodburner]

Jason this is an excellent post. It is guys like you that make me want to get even better with what we are doing. I remember your 5k comment back in the summer and I would never have thought this was possible for so many to have an interest in a simple company from NE Ohio. I wish you well. Joe

[@davidblackmore1227]

Again, thank you. I'm recently a retired school teacher and wondering what's next? I like your thought process. Trying to figure out what my next opportunity will be. I appreciate your work ethic and enjoy the videos.

[@ohiowoodburner]

I think you do something that you find "fun" David. I am working on a vid discussing the hobby/business experience. Look for it in the coming weeks. Joe

[@DanielAtkinsFirewood]

Joe. This is why my parents started there company.. Back in 1980 dad took his Mazda rx4 to the dealer for sone suspension work, he requested the camber to,be adjusted and they told my dad that was not possible.. After dad got home he told my mom that he needs to open an auto repair shop for the Mazdas and do it in a way where someone cares about the coustomer and there car.. That happened in 1981 when they opened. The 1st life long coustomer that walked in told me dad to do an engine rebuild.. So dad quoted he for one. A few hours later it was fixed and it was a vaccuum solenoid making the engine run funny. Dad could have changed her for an engine rebuild and she would have spent it no problem. But she was super happy on a 25dollar fix. Fast forward to 1998 when they closed the auto repair she was upset\ sad as she didn't want anyone else to work on her Mazda,s.. Now that I am slowly taking over I am the guy that can sell you a rebuild kit and give you all the technical help over the phone or net with out looking at the car.. Not many can do that and I am proud of that accomplishment..

[@ohiowoodburner]

That sounds awesome Dan. The reputation Atkins has developed hasn't happened by accident. I'm sure the company is in good hands with you! Joe

[@ridingwithdan1337]

Hi Joe, I would even talk about what "problem solving" means. Problem solving takes incredible amount of empathy because without being able to relate to why that person is suffering a lack of solutions, there's no way you can solve their problem! This definitely sounds like you are an empathetic type of person as you look for the deeper solutions you are trying to help your customers with. I would also like to add that "being a problem solver" also means "to critically think of oneself's biases." This means to look at yourself critically and ask the question "well, why do I have a preference for this? or "why is it that I'm always suffering [problem x]?" I think a lot of people in the firewood business is not as open as you are, and I have a feeling that their businesses will fail to adapt to their customers.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Excellent insight Dan. At least for me I started selling firewood with the same business model paradigm that just about everyone else has. I would just sell to the open market and pocket the profit. I was hit VERY quickly with the restaurant opportunity and the high-end residential...I made a quick pivot...learned, improved, and never looked back. here I am!

[@ejkjr.4694]

That was a great inspiration to people that want to get into a business, love your channel

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks EJK! I'm glad you liked it. Joe

[@michaelmaxwell5516]

That answers the questions that keep going through my mind. I was wondering how the math would ever work out if you purchase logs at roughly $600.00 per truck load that produces approximately 6 cord and sell firewood at the going rate in my area for $125-$175 per cord. You answered my question. Have to have a targeted customer that you can fill the need for. Thank you OWB!

[@ohiowoodburner]

That was what I was scratching my head at when I was figuring out how...or why...to sell firewood. I don't think it's reasonable for a sole proprietor to make big $$ selling volume. The key is margin. Find a way to sell your firewood at a premium price and you can do it! Joe

[@michaelmaxwell5516]

@@ohiowoodburner Yes Sir, have to find your niche and not do the same thing as everyone else in that field. I live in South Carolina so the demand isn’t nearly as strong for burning firewood to heat homes like it is in your area. However, I do think that there’s quite a demand for pleasure burning in backyard pits and camp fires. Your videos are an inspiration! I think I’ve watched about all of them and rewatch a few as well. Thank you for your willingness and desire to pass on such great advice. I’ll keep watching.

[@notachance374]

Can u advise whether a city cord or real cord? We sell for 250$split delivered green 16" 4'x24' Soon to be 270$

[@ohiowoodburner]

@@notachance374 I don't deliver cords (128cf) to residential...just half and less. I am not familiar with the term "city cord." I assume this is 1/3 cord or what some call a "face cord", or "rick." Joe

[@notachance374]

@@ohiowoodburner yessir, city cord is a 1/3 cord, 16”x 4’x8’

[@marcstecker746]

Good video & a very good message for those thinking of starting some kind of business.

[@ohiowoodburner]

Thanks Marc. I'm glad you like it. Joe