Getting my Raised Roof Skoolie - Shop Tour

[@Linneaandakela]

Yay! You’re so loved and appreciated by many, can’t wait to see you in a few days ❤

[@debbierelph9715]

Good leaders know they need to continue to learn - sounds like you're on the right track.

[@LittlesandRachael]

The bus for sale first... dreamy!

[@nancyvoigt9199]

Linnea is right! Glad to see your shop. Your no dummy Chris, people are people and it is difficult when we have to deal with those who don't understand that treating others poorly WILL not end well for them, and people like yourself, who's intentions are to treat others as you wish to be treated, ultimately deal with their fallout. The hard part is letting it go. Forgive them and forget them. You are loved and appreciated by many like minded people. Blessings to you and yours! And! Stay safe out there.

[@chrisbaker5077]

❤ love the open honesty, be kind to yourself we are all learning and growing as humans😊

[@OurAdventure_Awaits]

Don't be hard on yourself. You need to understand that people that work for you will not have the same love and desire for the business as you do. Their goal in life is different than yours. Your best hope is that you find a group of people that work well together and pay them what they are worth.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Yeah, for sure. I never look for 100%, but 70% would be nice :-)

[@ALMAPAGAN]

Just the fact that you are aware of your own gap in leadership will make you an open canvas for growth and change. I am excited to see your future journey. Every season as they come and go we change because of our current life experiences. Give yourself grace and know you are doing the best you can with where you are and with what you know.

[@marirose19]

Hey Chris, love the shop. Lots of love & hard work there. At approx 8:00 mins, go easy on yourself. Even the genius Albert Einstein said & felt, "The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know." So see. You're in excellent company.🫂

[@tinadmusa]

Chris, we all love your spirit, content and enjoy you sharing your life. I truly enjoy!

[@didevilliers1238]

How interesting to see your "shop" and what you do there. What a multi-faceted person you are and what a lot you have accomplished and still so young ! I love your "Tiny Home Tours" channel and always look out for the latest one. Stay true to yourself as obviously what you are doing with your life WORKS !

[@patriciatwalsh4479]

I liked the one you are selling with the elevator bed. It sounds like a nice idea . Freeing up the area for day time use. Chris don’t be so hard on yourself . Life is a journey it’s a constant learning process. We had a business for 44 years. Now retired but when you are kind to people they often perceive you as weak and try and began to take advantage of you. My husband and son learned quickly when you spot a I call sour apple in the group . You need to purge it quickly before it infects the rest of your group of people in your work environment. Best of luck with your future plans. You have a beautiful dog. 😊

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Congrats on the business success! I'm learning that, hard lessons learned.

[@nsharveyful]

You are so NOT a dummy. Life is continuously learning. You have a big heart and it makes leading people so much more difficult. Please don’t change your heart, it is beautiful. 🪷 Love the Budweiser shirt 😄

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Thank you so much!

[@myweeskoolie7504]

An honest description of how to run a successful business. It has its high 's & lows. Ur core team is key. ♡

[@CelticMairi]

You could not be more right in what you say about looking after your core circle. You do have to let go of those who take advantage, or who don't value your efforts. Because you appreciate that you will always be learning how to do something, you're on the right path, Chris.

[@GrantTravels23]

Zep was the good ol' days 😅

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Yes sir, he will be back!

[@divinewrath3142]

It is not easy to run a business. There can be a steep learning curve, especially when you operate on a certain level and expect the same in return. Good luck on your new ventures!

[@anthonyrodriguez4381]

You have been one of the main inspirations for our family. We've been living the fulltime rv life going on four years now. We were even blessed to meet you and Linnea out in Arizona a few years ago. Update: I finished RV Technician school and have been in business over 2 years now. And yes...that circle of people you keep, either personal or in business is so important.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Awesome, congrats on the business success!

[@omavicmcmurray2893]

Love the tour❤ As far as employees, I’m an old hippy and love to believe in peace and love and humanity and integrity… there are some folks who can meet on zoom and work independently…but in my experience most can’t/won’t…they may have good intentions but daily ‘lulls’ can bring bad habits. Maybe if someone was partying the night before and they need a nap, or they started late and need food…then they get caught up on their gizmo…it happens to the best of them. I tried keeping my business going in my absence, the environment was awesome and I had great staff but daily ‘lulls’ can bring bad habits. Rare are the ‘type A’ employees, maybe thats a good thing for humanity but it’s hard on a small business. I just think it’s hard to be an effective and respectful leader from a distance. I can imagine you are a great lead in person and may have to figure a way to bring your business with you. IMHO I do believe 4 day work weeks are best for everyone❤

[@tmcbgrrl0074]

Yes! I work 4x 10/hr days/wk as a landscaper. I do love having all Fridays off to take care of my personal life stuff~~ 🙂

[@jenw1116]

I can't believe how many projects you're involved in. You make it look so easy ❤ A great leader looks in at themselves and learns from their mistakes. You're already there! Great job. Love watching the introspection and the focus on your mental health. Much love from NZ ❤

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@mikesoule1761]

Stay the course, you are doing great as a leader. Keep your core team tight, keep faith in yourself!

[@nancyvoigt9199]

Greetings to Wes! Good to see him too!

[@jmink]

I've been a subscriber for many years, and honestly, it's quite impressive to see the shop/crew/business you've assembled. As someone who also holds a management position, I understand that people will always be a wild card. We can learn about their personalities, what motivates them, and so forth, but it's important to remember that they will always find ways to surprise us! Keep on keeping on and enjoy life!

[@theoffgridskoolie]

It's all part of the rodeo, lot's of lessons learned and thanks for the positivity!

[@maryantosz6195]

It was really cool to see your shop!! Thank you!

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@NatalieServello-j8q]

All those lessons add up! Soon you will revel in success, don't give up! Sleep is underrated, prioritize it =) Thanks for the update. Ciao!

[@ritajean2695]

Chris, I’m so jealous. I love Colorado. I lived there for many years and regret leaving. I live in Tennessee now but return to Colorado every September. My sister and I bought a retired ambulance. Good to see Wes. Hey Wes!

[@sugarology]

I am on my 7th business, my 5th with employees. The hardest balancing act is showing employees that you care while maintaining the boundaries and expectations and finding each person’s personal motivations. Some employees are very $ driven. Some need public praise. Some are embarrassed by public praise. Some want more balance with their personal lives. I had to learn that just because something is important to me, I can’t expect that same thing to be important to my employees, especially if I don’t communicate it well. Over communication has also helped. I used to think if I said something once, that should be enough. Now I repeat until I see the results I want actually happening. And then repeat some more at intervals so that they don’t “forget”. You are on the right track, we all need to keep learning and improving as leaders.

[@KKAfterDark]

Nice to see a video from you.

[@片岡義男-v2b]

I'll be cheering for you from Japan! Good luck!

[@DonMcConaughy]

Don't be too hard on yourself, you will get there!

[@legalpuppy8602]

Managing people is really rough. I'm not talking about a-holes. I mean just normal and good people still require time and effort and it can be very frustrating. I hope you end up with a good manager there that works as you do and you can hang with Linnea at the property.

[@BricksofHappiness]

I know exactly how you feel! 15+ years doing what I do and it's still the same issues. Hope it all irons out soon! Miss you guys ❤❤

[@juicie25bt]

Very inspirational episode, u confirmed a lot of thoughts I've had in my own life. Thanks for sharing/giving us a tour, Love ur Love for Life & how u execute it 🚍

[@tammycruz8189]

Great to see ya Chris . So happy to see u back in the big bus . U Just look right in that beautiful Bus . Those buses are beautiful also . Thanks for sharing. Safe Travels Always. God Bless Ya'll. Mucho Love Always ❤️ ❤

[@shuper2010]

Hey Chris......Looking good with the workouts. I have been adding body mass, too. Unfortunately, the mass is more body rust. Later....The Oro Valley Rust Bucket.

[@nancyschad2969]

Neat the see the shop. I'll be in the market for THOW in September, so I'll keep you'll in mind. Good luck finding a replacement person for the all wood working.

[@Happycamper1998]

Chris, leadership is a lonely and thankless position. There is a quote that I thought you would like; “ A Leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way. Also, author Jim Sullivan has some great leadership books that you may find helpful. Remember that what doesn’t kill you, will make you stronger.

[@lynellethompson5521]

Safe travels!!

[@paulmfti]

Formula for a guiding philosophy as a Leander...top down approach...mission....goals...values as a company...skills, work ethic and relational communication competency of workers...that are in a alignment with mission, goals and values of company...and structure for growth as an employee...to grow,skills,and career..something I've learned throughout the years...

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Well said!

[@TracieLindsey-c8n]

I had employees for 30 years. In June 2021, we sold our grooming shop and I started a grooming shop at my house with NO employees. Employees are hard. They are stressful, expensive, and draining. The biggest lesson I learned in that time is the more you do for an employee the less they do for you. You aren't stupid you are compassionate.

[@soleillebolduc2448]

The more you do for an employee the less they do for you? Sounds like that’s coming from someone that’s always been the boss. A good employee greatly appreciates being appreciated and taken care of.

[@TracieLindsey-c8n]

@@soleillebolduc2448 I've been both an employee and a boss. I'm still in touch with 90% of my employees years later. I took care of all of my employees. The employees that I went above and beyond for are the employees that bit me in the ass. It's fact. I lived it.

[@JimbleKimble769]

@@TracieLindsey-c8n Agree - from a landlord standpoint. "Friends" are the worst! Never hire or rent to a friend, they will treat you like you are their rich dad and rarely give anything thing in return. Low rent, no rent or "housesitting" for a few months, only to return to a complete disaster. You definitely see a side of people when you are the Provider.

[@tynitahaines4012]

I think I either want to get one of your buses or ambulance. Not sure which one I want. I will definitely let you know they look good inside.

[@frankgtrucks200]

Business/friendship/family seldom works....eventually one of the relationships suffers a hard and painful death....give employees the respect they deserve by not trying to impose personal issues. Always make your expectations very clear and manageable...and treat them the way you appreciate being treated....and good luck...

[@margysfavourites8444]

Another great video ! So appreciated

[@l.b.3148]

Good video.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mattcook5302]

That area was part of my FedEx Ground route. Small world 🤙

[@puro_randomness]

Amazing video Chris, got some shop and projects envy, totally agree with the business management aspect advice, stooked to see you keeping your mind occupied one thing I fail at lately

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Yeah, it helps!

[@Ivansgarage]

Your indecision is impeccable, treat people the way you would like to be treated, until they prove you wrong...

[@aaronriedel5372]

Good video!

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Thanks for the visit!

[@simply.leen.]

As a person who has "managed" a team for years, I can tell you that people management is literally the worst part of my job. Don't beat yourself up for believing in the people that you've hired. I find that 75% of the time, people do the job they're hired to do but there's that 25% who will surprise and disappoint you no matter how thorough you vet them. I try not to let that disappointment change who I am as a person - which is someone who believes that the majority of folks won't let you down. Don't beat yourself up. :) All the unfinished products you have there look amazing. That ambulance is so cool.

[@richardbalding1101]

Interested in how the busses will be sold. Did I hear one was set up for off-road? With managing people, it can always be tough. There are some people who need a leash. One thing I have noticed in hiring is the people that are best without micromanagement used to do their own thing and know what that takes so they give more when hired.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

I'll post them when available :-)

[@ricklenser3323]

I've been managing since 1985 in video but also doing it virtual since the pandemic so I understand how tricky it can be . It's a balancing act.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

It's a rough road, for sure.

[@TatteredRagDoll13]

I recommend looking into "situational leadership". The short version, pulled from Wikipedia; "The fundamental principle of the Situational Leadership Model is that there is no single "best" style of leadership. Effective leadership is task-relevant, and the most successful leaders are those who adapt their leadership style to the Performance Readiness level (ability and willingness) of the individual or group they are attempting to lead or influence. Effective leadership varies, not only with the person or group that is being influenced, but it also depends on the task, job, or function that needs to be accomplished." Leadership isn't a one-size-fits-all model, but judging from some other comments some people manage their teams like it is. Leadership also is a constant learning experience, and sometimes that alone can be draining and exhausting. I get it. I absolutely believe you're doing the best you can with what you have though, and sometimes people just don't fit. Sending you all the positive vibes though.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Thanks for sharing that, much appreciated!

[@Lynn7015hb]

Former business owner here. I agree that along w/ looking at the employee, we must look at ourselves. There's always going to be something for both parties to learn. Also, we're each very different & it's probably just going to be a matter of finding ppl that are on the same page w/ you. Just my opinion.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

I try to practice extreme ownership, it helps a ton!

[@RobC41]

Enjoyed the Shop tour and video as a whole, thanks! Why do I feel like saying Welcome Back?

[@theoffgridskoolie]

It has been a little while since I posted a video, maybe that's why?

[@yieldforpeace]

Yeah man learning usually sucks 😅 I've been thinking lately, after spending much of my life depressed and building my way out of it, that maybe it's ok to feel shitty. Life will always have contrast, especially if we're seeking growth. I have a hard time understanding most people, and often feel the pain of trying to figure out my role in it. But allowing that feeling space to be what it is seems to help it flow easier. Peopling is hard, learning hurts, it's ok to feel it all, it won't last forever 💜

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Glad to hear you're building out of it. I think these lessons have contributed to a bit of my own depression.

[@yieldforpeace]

That's understandable. It's kinda like the system has to shut down a bit to rearrange its understanding of the world, retool how it operates within it. I used to feel like I kept trying to claw my way out of that pit and every time I was near the top I would get pulled back down. I finally gave up and decided to try to 'build my home where I am' - which coincidentally coincided with building out my van and spending a few years on the road.. We are blessed to have such easy access to the bedrock of our souls. We have the opportunity to build a foundation rooted in the darkness of chaos, of creation. It is a gift to feel this pain. I hope you find a metaphor that helps you make sense of it all. Sorry it sucks, but also I'm excited to see who you'll emerge as when you get through it. And you will get through it.

[@JimbleKimble769]

I don't live close, but id love to find out more about the buseses for sale. Are you going to part with Big Zep?

[@theoffgridskoolie]

If the need arises :-)

[@Gal_a_Van_ting]

Don't be too hard on yourself, managing people is one of the most challenging skills. Sadly, not everyone aspires to work at their best. Keep around the people who have proven themselves to be trustworthy and don't try to take on the world alone...

[@RomanLambert]

Awesome video! I just started vanlife myself as well! I’m a personal trainer who lives in his van in south Florida! Definitely love this lifestyle and freedom it brings! I also share videos on my page :)

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Cool, keep it up!

[@RomanLambert]

@@theoffgridskoolie appreciate it brother

[@JohnS-zq8ks]

Suuuuuuuuuuuuuuup Chris? Managing expectations with employees and other stakeholders comes with time. You got what it takes. Just stay focused on your business plan, setting appropriate employee-employer boundaries and effective communication. And crack a whip on that bearded boy for me; Wes! He's a slacker!!!!!!!! Say hello to Wes for me! Rock on!! 💪💪 And get some sleep dude!

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Hey bud, I hope all is well! Make it down south yet?

[@JohnS-zq8ks]

@@theoffgridskoolie not yet, but the stars have aligned to let me leave this year.

[@nahornig]

Behind the driver's seat? :)

[@petra6099]

❤

[@michelevincent8958]

I'd like to get a small one. Do you send it to France? 😉

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Anything is possible with $ LOL

[@TradShowTom]

Is the 4x4 bus for sale?

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Possibly, still on the fence with that one.

[@TooLazyToFail]

Oh man, I feel all those lessons you're learning about managing people. It really stings to learn that you can't invest in someone enough to make them trustworthy. You really grow to care about people and then when you have to cut them loose it's gut-wrenching.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Yeah, a hard lesson learned, but a valuable one.

[@traciandstevie1312]

Hi, how much for bus with elevator bed? How many miles on it? Interested... Thanks

[@theoffgridskoolie]

We are thinking around $75k. I think it has 100k

[@traciandstevie1312]

@theoffgridskoolie I would definitely like more information then. How do I best contact you in regard to questions and possible purchase? Do you have approximate mileage?

[@traciandstevie1312]

@@theoffgridskoolie sorry just saw mileage you mentioned.

[@awesomeniecy9242]

Yeah it sucks when people don't reciprocate good intentions and it makes one more guarded 🥴...so is the plan to live in the bus while you and Linnea work on the recently purchased land 🤔

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Yep, that's the plan!

[@kelvinquesenberry1503]

Be good to your employees be fair with them tell them what you want done give them the tools to do it and then if they don’t work for you send them down the road that simple

[@pollyhaselnut]

When needing to confront/correct employees: Take out the emotions. Give the facts and data. Tell them clearly what you saw and what needs to be done differently.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

For sure, thanks!

[@JelleDHulster]

For me no employees anymore. Only co-workers!

[@tonydavis8650]

Don’t let your business changed you, be a plumber deal with the crap as you go!

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Totally true!

[@jmubreader]

Dale Carnegie how to Win friends and influence people. It all comes down to the fruits of the spirit. Dale Carnegie figured out how to apply the fruits of the spirit before you actually have the fruits of the spirit. Once you see the astonishing results you will adopt and hone the fruits of the spirit. The bonus is that by doing all of this, you become an eternal being a spirit personality, and you have eternity to get things right.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

I'll check out that book, thanks!

[@msvg3]

Cool tour of the shop. What a cool selection of inventory. Chris, sometimes you can do all the right things as a leader and an employee just doesn’t fit. Ask questions and see if there was something you can learn from the situation. (Sometimes the rest of the team is loyal to you and wouldn’t want to say anything until you ask.). Then release it and move on, if you can. Looking forward to more cool content. ✌️❤️🚐

[@theoffgridskoolie]

So very true, thanks!

[@sugarology]

I am on my 7th business, my 5th with employees. The hardest balancing act is showing employees that you care while maintaining the boundaries and expectations and finding each person’s personal motivations. Some employees are very $ driven. Some need public praise. Some are embarrassed by public praise. Some want more balance with their personal lives. I had to learn that just because something is important to me, I can’t expect that same thing to be important to my employees, especially if I don’t communicate it well. Over communication has also helped. I used to think if I said something once, that should be enough. Now I repeat until I see the results I want actually happening. And then repeat some more at intervals so that they don’t “forget”. You are on the right track, we all need to keep learning and improving as leaders.

[@theoffgridskoolie]

Thanks for the info and insights, much appreciated!