How I Built My Woodworking Business

[@luisurbina5115]

Brilliant! "Pesimism is a zero sum game against yourself, where the only way you can proof yourself correct is by letting yourself down" - Matt Estlea

[@MattEstlea]

You have no idea how long it took me to figure out the wording for that one 😂 Thanks mate!

[@luisurbina5115]

@@MattEstlea it went straight to my “Best quotes” collection

[@TheBizLens]

@@MattEstlea this is going on my workshop wall with your name tag! great Vid Matt

[@dougwardle2175]

Matt, this is probably the most thought provoking video you’ve done. Well done and thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas. You’re absolutely right about the optimism v pessimism thing.

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you :)

[@MrBradleykeith]

This is the type of video / message that needs to be given at schools during career orienteering day. Well done Matt

[@MattEstlea]

Fortunately there's lots of great people and teachers already doing this, but they're certainly in the minority. I do hope that changes someday. Really appreciate it mate :)

[@peterrhodes6683]

Absolutely, we need schools to show that career options are far wider than what job to get.

[@W4ldgeist]

He starts as a woodworking KZbinr. Then he grew his hair out, now he is business Jesus. And I am all here for it. All hail Matt, may his hair continue to be glorious and lush.

[@davebuffam319]

I’ve been watching you for years… This has to be the best video you’ve produced. Very raw and motivating. Great stuff.

[@VeretenoVids]

I've been following you for a few years now and WOW! Your growth and change has been remarkable to watch. May you continue to have a steady upward trajectory in your life!

[@MrBrewzr]

What a fantastic video, I feel inspired! Your wisdom and outlook on life are beyond your years. I really, really, enjoyed this video. Thank you.

[@jmwww1]

Matt, so glad to hear you’ve turned a corner and it’s clear from your video that you have your mojo and enthusiasm back on volume 11. Loved the content, sentiment and heartfelt advice in this video. Few people could’ve expressed it so well and I hope a lot of young folk see this and are inspired to follow their dreams with their eyes wide open and their stacked skills at the ready in their armoury. Good luck with all you do and hope you still find time to do enough of what really gives you the fizz as you grow your business.

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you! Really appreciate the kind words :)

[@PGeraghtyrebel]

I've just gotten into skill stacking within my career in the past 5-7 years. I'm a cabinet maker by trade. I worked in factories doing commercial and residential cabinets and a bit of fine furniture. I also LOVE concerts and festivals and any event. I then got a rare opportunity to start working for an event supply company and got to begin working on large interactive (mostly wood) photo-op props for festivals and events (which really doesn't feel like work because at the end of the day I get to make really cool stuff). My other skill set is in music (12 years in piano lessons, a decade as a church organist and also 20 years as a drummer) and in the near future I plan on studying instrument repair and making and blending that into my skill set. It's surprising how easy it is to become successful (successful meaning: "experiencing fulfillment from your career" and not financial success) when you are constantly open to learning new skills and applying them to your passions. Eventually you become specialized in certain "stacked" skills and can find niche markets where you can be very valuable. I'm sure I have sacrificed many opportunities to become rich in a field I don't enjoy and it has always been a grind but with a career I am passionate about I can honestly say I haven't "worked" a day in 5 years and I am blessed to enjoy waking up and doing my craft. I almost lost hope with my career after my apprenticeship due to monotonous factory jobs. Looking back, however, I DID end up working almost every position in woodworking factories and I invested 10's of thousands of dollars into my own tooling. I just underestimated the skills and knowledge until I tried to have a go at working on my own as a contractor and realized how much people appreciated my knowledge and skills and are happy to pay whatever rates I charged. It was an eye opener and a huge boost in confidence the first month I realized that I wasn't employed by anyone but I made enough to pay the bills. There are still sacrifices to be made to become even more self sufficient in my job but right now I am truly happy with how I got where I am today and no longer stressed about the future job/financial security I can get from doing what I love. "...the key to achieving true expertise in any skill is simply a matter of practicing, albeit in the correct way, for at least 10 000 hours." So choose the things you love and practice them and share them with the world and you will be surprised where it will lead you. I love your Channel Matt! You are an inspiration and a great teacher! Looking forward to more videos and watching you continue to succeed!

[@MattEstlea]

Yes yes yes! This is so fricking cool to read. So much I want to respond to here but I'll just sum it up by agreeing to everything you've said, and also express my appreciation for taking the time to share this. Thank you so much. Congratulations with everything and best of luck in the future :)

[@roddtober8945]

During the pandemic times I worked for a carpenter and joinery firm (quite a nasty toxic one) and they would never teach me just shout if I made a mistake. It killed my confidence and lead me to a nasty place but I would learn stuff through your videos so I’m always grateful for that and I’m so happy to see your channel/business grow over the years.

[@skewwhiff9423]

You’re an incredibly bright bloke. I’m almost 55 and in the last ten years have become completely lost. It’s inspiring (and challenging in some ways) to hear your words. Of course, luck has a certain part to play in life and it’s interesting to consider just how great a leverage your teacher’s words about ‘not working a day in your life’ played in your journey (there’s a great book on this kind of earlier life influence by the late Ken Robinson called ‘The Element’). Anyhow - I found your enthusiasm and insights compelling. Not what I was expecting after originally just searching for a planing set up video. Wishing you continued success.

[@darronsmall6321]

Hi Matt thankyou for this amazing video I'm a late bloomer in woodworking after 30+ years of working in social care I desperately needed a change of direction I've always had a passion for wood furniture but due to my own mindset I kept putting mental obstacles in my own way and allowing others to confirm it but I've finally decided at the age of 51 to face it head on and try and start my own woodworking business I've just finished a collage course in carpentry as well as taken a course in digital marketing now I'm working on acquiring a workshop it's a massive challange for me personally as I'm having to use the bootstrapping method due to already having debts and health issues which is why I felt I had to change my direction in life, watching this video has given me the positive reinforcement that I have made the right choice and has also inspired me to keep pushing forward so a massive thankyou to you and keep up the great work

[@DaisyTempest]

Loved every part of this Matt, thanks so much for sharing this personal journey - it’s so inspiring. So proud to call you a mate ❤

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you Daisy :) I certainly had you in mind when I mentioned about surrounding yourself with people who are better than you.

[@SJWardBuilders]

From watching Matts truly inspiring video I discovered you Daisy and your channel. And I'm blown away!! You are so talented!! Thank you both so much!

[@DaisyTempest]

@@MattEstlea omg you’ll make me cry! Hope everyone sees this video and teaches with it in schools and retirement homes alike. ❤️

[@DaisyTempest]

@@SJWardBuilders aw thank you so much!

[@stuartmckee1655]

I shared this video with my son. Despite him having no interest in woodwork, your message on positivity and attitude resonates at many different levels. He struggles with self belief and I think what you've articulated will hopefully help and inspire him. It's helped me regardless. Stay strong and good luck.

[@pedullastudio]

Great video mate! Well done for putting yourself and your knowledge out there for others to see. Awesome!

[@educatednumpty71]

As one of the many who have watched you grow over the years. Who have watched the struggles of setting up the first workshop, and suffering at the hands of text to speak on live streams. To plough through the tears of laughter of Rob's Belvita Challenge song and the joy of breaking the Dovetail Record to get to where you are now. Know the many are here to back you up whenever they can so you don't have to struggle alone.

[@MattEstlea]

Warren! Could't help but include the clip of you interrupting my flow while filming. Such a funny moment 😂 Really appreciate your support over the years mate. Always a pleasure to have you around and catch up with you.

[@PeterNowelly]

Hi Matt, only at 13:05 but loving the video so far. Just wanted to say that, as someone who just left work due to mental health and has been working every day since on woodworking projects in my shed, this video is extremely inspiring. I don't know your channel well and will have to watch some more vids, but its nice to know there are people out there who have made their passion for woodworking into a viable business and living. Cheers, Peter

[@michaelrafferty7898]

Dude, I loved watching this. I did a very similar thing out here in Southern California. Lived in my car and then in my shop while running my business. 20 years later, I am telling you, wherever you end up in a couple of decades, you’ll always have the professional skills to make you an amazing problem solver. Also, almost nobody will understand. It’s a good thing: it’s what makes you exceptional, my man.

[@JamesDeanDesigns]

I have told you before, but you were one of the main influences for starting my channel which continues to grow, has turned into a business, has taken me up on stages, even taken me to America and helped me build a community of people around the world I now call friends whilst still working a full time job. 60-70 hours weeks are a regular, sacrifices have to be made. So many things in this video I can relate to on my journey so far. Thank you for another great video and hope you continue to see your own sacrifices as being worth it.

[@mon3d-designs]

Probably the best, truthful and heartfelt video you have produced. Sacrifice, mine was putting my creativity to one side to raise a family, am 57 now, and enjoying my business doing what I love, combining my traditional sculpture and 'making' with the digital world, through laser scanner, laser cutters cnc and digital 3d, keep going, your doing great :) your work is outstanding by the way :)

[@CheeseSauceLaChedda]

i watched you videos on building your own bass and followed it to build a bass of my own for my final project in college needless to say it did very well, great advice and glad to see your doing well

[@bobbeckman3735]

Thanks Matt. Glad to see you back. Hope to see more videos

[@MattEstlea]

Cheers Bob, thank you for the support over the years :)

[@jimrosson6702]

Thank you Matt for sharing this video about your journey. I’m older and have had a lot of disappointment in my life failed business, injuries, health issues and I’m trying to find something in my life to look forward to and watching this video has been an eye opener. That I’m the only one that can make myself happy and get what I want out of life. Thank you for sharing your journey. I hope things are getting better for you in your life.

[@garykidson]

Thanks Matt, great video and solid advice. I ended a 20year career to become a stay home dad, and took up woodworking as a hobby. Slowly starting to consider Turing it into more when my eldest goes to highschool next year

[@LucDekens]

I like the honest and inspiring message. Looking forward to your future progress.

[@BvictoryforChrist]

I agree about pessimism, it’s such a rotten way of thinking. No matter WHAT you want to do in life, you cannot be the thing holding you back or you will go NOWHERE. Optimism is the way to go, no matter how silly it might feel, just be brave! Nice video man, great message.

[@jc-qc3yk]

Thank you, this was actually what i needed. The overlap in areas of business and not seeing the niche as saturated. But actually seeing it as a place to have less “competition” to be at the top of “the game” . That really hit me in a good way. This made me see my future project in a whole new positive light. Again, thanks.

[@pk.finger]

Hey Matt, you video comes right in time! I am in the middle of setting up my future and make use of the skills I collected over the past few years. As many others I am trying to escape an corporate job through woodworking. It’s unbelievable how often you here the same line of how this is not going to end well, but I resist to believe that story. You inspired a few very valuable ideas with your video. Thanks for everything you give to the community!

[@roblee799]

Very nicely done, Matt! I get the sense you were a little hesitant about putting this out while relatively early in your career. I’ve been a business leader and occasional entrepreneur for about 25 yrs now and, for what it’s worth, I don’t think you overextended at all. Everything you said reflected your journey with authenticity and was bang on. I’m teaching business now and also a student in a cabinetry and furniture making program in Ottawa, Canada. I’m going to share this with my classmates!

[@annietempest1]

One of the most inspiring videos I’ve ever watched. Everything this guy says is, in my long experience, absolutely accurate. The gift of energy is not given to everyone. If you have it like this, nothing can stop you if you put the work in. Bravo.

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you so much Annie! I really, really appreciate it :)

[@Dan-Chrssy]

This is a great video for anyone starting a business. You can apply this to whatever you are trying to build. Most people give up that’s why a high percentage of businesses fail within the first five years.

[@johna.9742]

I have been watching you for some time now and have always been impressed with your teaching skills and craftsmanship. I reference a lot of your videos frequently when working on projects of various types. I am 71 and have been woodworking as a hobby for well over 30 years and still find your video content informative and helpful. Thanks Matt.

[@edwinb.140]

Proud of you for carving your path, brother! Keep up the hard work. You are truly an inspiration in your dedication to living your dreams.

[@addisontaylor5979]

Matt, welcome back! And I can't tell you how much I needed this video for a while. You rock! God bless.

[@bobgaines2399]

My friend, You are an excellent motivational speaker! I have learned so much from you, and now I feel more motivated to continue growing my woodworking hobby!

[@RuudInTheWood]

So, having watched this video I am struck by how your teaching career gets no mention. For me, that is one of the outstdanding skills that you possess. I learned a lot from your online instruction and it was, at least for me, better than anyone else's. And you had a lot of competition. I can see that your teaching fits in under "coming along side the people you want to reach" but it was much more than that for me. Cheers!

[@MattEstlea]

Yea I guess I lump that in with public speaking to some extent, but perhaps it should have got an honourable mention. Really appreciate the kind words. Thank you!

[@snowboardkid27]

Awesome video, Matt. Your videos have always been a great training aid. This is the most refreshing take on the reality of woodworking but the joy that comes through it. Blessings to you and your business, man.

[@lukenelson1298]

Wow. This is easily some of the best youtube content I've seen from anyone ever in years. Thank you Matt, keep up the great work!

[@ianlockwood7842]

Thanks for sharing this Matt. A real inspiration and reality check. I would mention as a victim at Harrogate of you being an Axminster presenter you are very good at it and very patient with a mix if customers from all walks of life. From the genuinely curious, the eager to learn all the way to the "Harry Enfield esq" " Oh! You don't want to do it like that son, you want to do it like this!" Its a difficult balance between doing what you love and putting food on the table (in your case having a table) I wish you all the best for the future I hope you can continue to "live to work" doing what you love and sharing with us, envious of your skill, on You Tube. Best Wishes Ian

[@briefwechsel]

Number one video on self-employment and small businesses. I hardly ever find people who so accurately understand my life and my business. Thank you.🎉

[@Augcliffe]

I’ve always loved your videos Matt. I had no idea you were struggling if I can put it that way. Your perseverance is admirable.

[@milkovangool2070]

Great to see you back in great shape and what a superb video! Thanks Matt.

[@MarkHudson-o9v]

As a retired DT teacher I wish I could have played this to my students years ago. I can think of quite a few who shone though. Honest and revealing. Well done!

[@simonh6873]

this resonated with me. Most of the things you said in this video are things i think of constantly. I have so many different skills im averagely good at but i think the combination of different skills is the things that make me unique. Seeing your story just inspired me to actually go out and take some risk... at least in a business sense and actually do the things i dream about and i am passionate about

[@rogerrobinson5123]

Great video! A lot of young people just starting out should see this. Your a great teacher. Carry on Matt - we’re all pulling for you.

[@andygrayson7485]

Weirdly, just what I needed to listen to, some really great points I've never thought of, your honesty is remarkable and wishing you great success ✌

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you Andy, really appreciate it mate! Glad to hear it came at a good time.

[@andygrayson7485]

@@MattEstlea I also went to Rycote wood in the days of Peter Kue and Andy Jackson , great days !

[@tereisias]

Matt, this is my first time watching you. This video was super inspiring. Thank you for the time you spent making it.

[@concierj7993]

Brilliant bit of content, Matt. Some of, if not, your best work to date. Great to see the hard work and passion bearing fruit for you again.

[@Toolmancer]

Great video; coming from a billion-dollar company and seeing how they raise capital to solve their challenges, it's refreshing to see how small businesses can still be successful with their own unique recipe of leverage. This is a brilliant approach to evolving your own business. I've always looked forward to your content; they were the first woodworking vids I found on KZbin years ago and are the reason why I fell in love with woodworking. That being said, I'd love to see more videos like this; it's great seeing this kind of behind-the-scenes content and not the usual "Top 10 tools every woodworker needs" that fills 99% of my feed.

[@TheAkturus]

Lovely video, where you manage to walk a very fine line insisting on optimism while also having a realistic view on things. I find that much more inspiring than all the aggressive sales optimism one bumps into, particularly on KZbin.

[@gentleimpact3580]

Great video Matt! Highly appreciate you taking the deep dive on your journey and bringing all your experiences into this. All the best for your future!

[@SwimBikeRunFastest]

I binged all your videos a few years ago. Great to see you back. Wishing you every success

[@paco_vazquez]

Dude, I’ve been following your channel since stupid covid bound me to my tinny home. I found joy and motivation to do woodworking. Woodworking pull me out of my depression. So, thank you for that.

[@MattEstlea]

Craft has an incredible ability to do just that. I'm really glad to hear it helped you out :)

[@markduggan3451]

I'm 61,and I have never been so amazed at how motivated a young man, like you can be. I wish I could go back in time and have that much motivation. Having met you twice at Makers Central, I can honestly say that you truly deserve success.

[@MattEstlea]

There's plenty of us out there, but unfortunately it's a mindset and ethods that's seldom cultivated at a young age in todays world. I think that will change though. Really appreciate it mate!

[@bryanmartin8336]

Attitude, drive, smarts, and work ethic are all super evident here. Thank you for sharing.

[@dainermade]

That was just what I needed. Great advice and video 🎉

[@eddiepemberton1406]

Matt, this spot-on video has lots of good and useful information covering people of any age.

[@donaldowens3743]

First video I have watched on your channel, Matt. I will certainly be back for more. One thing I will say to help encourage you to 'let go' of some of the tasks you enjoy. If you can train and develop your team to get the same results on your products (ones you would be proud of yourself), you will still get immense satisfaction. Both from the results and also from the growth you will see in the people. I also really struggled (still do) with moving from 'doing' to 'delegating'. But once you start to see that it can also be enjoyable, you'll keep doing it. Keep up the great content!

[@paulbramhall9157]

Matt glad to see you back and thank you this video has been so helpful.. Keep up the good work you are a great woodworker and good guy..

[@paulfriedman4767]

You are a brave man. Not only for stubbornly following your dream, but also for being willing to talk to talk in public about your mental struggles. Fair play to you.

[@MattEstlea]

Thanks Paul. There's always temporary anxiety and discomfort in the lead up to talking, but the payoff is always worth it :)

[@katzmosestools]

Great Story Matt. The Marking Knife display behind your bench looks like a menorah haha. Loved watching your journey over the years and can't wait to see what you make next.

[@MattEstlea]

I knew I'd seen it somewhere! Really appreciate the kind words mate. It's childsplay in comparison to what you're doing over there! Always inspiring to watch you grow and do what you do. I'm getting all excited here about my new Bambu Labs printer on it's way, meanwhile you've got a whole army of the things on the go! 😂

[@thomasweller1321]

Matt. As I have never purchased anything from you, you have given me much information about how to do some woodworking techniques, i.e., dove tailing. As a subscriber of your channel, I have helped you build your business through the capital You Tube gets with advertising. It is a relationship that has benefitted us both. I really liked this video as it gives me, a man of 74 years old, a snapshot of person who is from a far different generation that I am. I took up woodworking to fill a void in my life as far as an activity I could do by myself. As a former teacher, I needed a teacher to help guide me through my learning process. You have filled that role. Thank you for your woodworking guidance, and thanks for sharing your life's story with me.

[@StrawbyteWorkshop]

Hi Matt - a great take, and I enjoyed you taking us through your journey over the last few years. I do agree with how you described skill-stacking as a way of differentiating yourself and finding your market/audience/unique-thing.

[@peterdesroches5607]

Matt, I just watched this video and I just needed to say that it and you are inspiring to say the least. It is both sad and great to hear that you are getting your life and housing in order. The passion you have for your business and videos has always been there, but this video was even more apparent. Keep up the graft and I hope things keep trending in the right direction for you!

[@MattEstlea]

Thank you!

[@andycrosby2212]

Matt, thanks mate! This is one of the most useful videos I’ve seen in a while. Just what I needed to see and hear.

[@Velly_drums]

Matt, this is the first time I see one of your videos and hits like a freight train of reality and also of inspiration! I started woodworking just a little over a year ago and what I have learned has been from KZbin only. This is a video I’m going to have to hear a few more times because it encompasses a lot. I really like that you gave the info without the hype, loud music and flashing lights which I like depending on the topic. I was installing metal L brackets because we are at a point where we are stocking up with our common wood for projects so I know there’s a fair bit that I missed. You got my subscription for sure!! Looking towards the next one, thank you 🙏🏼

[@philipwilliams8114]

I’m so pleased that I watched this. Matt, this is a superb piece of work. Thank you

[@JoshuaWyborn]

I love this! People say my job as a photographer is the best but they dont see the sacrifice or the stress of self employment. keep it up!

[@TiffanyPalmer-j2v]

Thank-you! Your carefully considered & clearly presented reflections of your journey have really given me something to think about. Really impressed by your dedication, hard work ethic & tenacity to make things work 👏

[@jonhoward1455]

This should be required viewing for all kids of school leaving / college age. Super super video - this should go viral.

[@canuslupis3343]

The timing of this is really relevant to me. I’m being made redundant at the end of this month, so it has given me the opportunity to take a furniture making course; i have wanted to do one for quite some time but work was the priority. I don’t know where i’ll be at the end of that course, but I’m looking forward to taking decisions about my working life rather than someone else do it.

[@MattEstlea]

Not sure where you're based, but apparently the industry is crying out for makers in the UK. Just keep plugging away at it!

[@rivergate]

Wise, inspirational, and motivational. Congratulations on all that you've achieved through your impressive tenancy, determination, and focus on the long game.

[@richardforge6914]

Thank you for this Matt, it came just at the right time, at the perfect point of my life. Awesome video and really great advises what fully resonates. Thanks!

[@freddy228asac8]

Just wanted to say that I have learned so much about using my hand tools over the past 6 years mate. I had the pleasure of meeting you last year when you were out here in Oz at the Timbecon event. You actually took the time to have a chat with me. Keep it up mate.

[@MattEstlea]

One of the best bits of the job is getting to meet new people. So thank you for coming up and saying hi!

[@akewt]

First minute and this video hit pretty real. Sacrifice is most assuredly the key word here. A word I am still struggling to action in my late 40s. I want and need to make the jump!! Thanks for candidly sharing your experience.

[@PrestosTimberFurnitureAU]

Great video, crammed full of excellent advice and guidance. Great work Matt and Rob.

[@DavidATakes]

SACRIFICE is a common denominator behind so many established successful businesses. I own a business that is the envy of many who would love to do what I do. Some have tried but failed because they expect to have immediate success. They don't have the fortitude to take on the commitment and sacrifice that is necessary. I haven't watched a movie or taken a meaningful vacation in well over two decades. People say that type of commitment will lead to burnout. I say hogwash to that if you truly love what you do. You still need to dedicate time to family and carve out meaningful time to maintain a great relationship with your spouse, but outside of that you need to be all-in. You've already proven to me that you've got the brass that it takes to polish and shine along the way. I wish you continue growth and unlimited successes along the way.

[@smopoo]

This is a video that everyone could do with watching. You are an inspiration, buddy.

[@barabasszabo7279]

Hey Matt, As a fellow Rycotewood student, just starting my long 6 years as a part timer and working on the other days to support myself, when you had your last year I think, this video hits me heavy. First, I always admired your work and second the tutors, supervisors always talked highly about you. I went through something similar at the end of my studies too. Girlfriend leaving, my dad dying and all of that almost at the same time. Just ask Drew he defiantly had a hard time with me but he was helpful and understanding, love him for it. It's been 3 years and I feel I've just started to climb out of the deep hole that I created for myself by blaming everything and everybody. So when I am saying it hits me heavy it's because you literarily described my last 3 years and attitude towards everything really. That is why I think this video is so inspiring, helpful and reassuring, at least for me but I am certain that there are other people in the same shoe as me. Thank you sharing this! Keep up the good work and amazing creations and might see you in the future. Better to go now and get some stuff done. 😉

[@MattEstlea]

Great to hear from you Barabas and sorry to hear about everything landing on you at once. Everyones got their own ways of processing and recovering from these things, but whats most important is figuring a way out of it, and it sounds like you're doing just that. I'm glad to hear this video helped keep you aligned on that journey :)

[@longline]

Cabinetmaker of 22 years here. Starting a furniture business is definitely a terrible idea, but there are more cabinetmaking jobs than there are trained people to take those jobs. So I'm grateful that hard working crazy people are willing to run businesses. It means that I've had skilled employment available to me for 22 years. I highly recommend having a job.

[@newdutchworkshop7026]

Running a business is not for everyone, nor is being an employee. Don't get pushed into being one or the other but try new things and find out for yourself. There's nothing wrong with starting or running a business, you'll find out if it suits you soon enough :)

[@longline]

​@@newdutchworkshop7026You are correct. I was referring to the economic reality of a furniture business. When Matt tells the story of industry figures saying "it's gonna be hard", ironically they were only describing their own experience. Small number of furniture businesses survive. So say someone would like to have a lovely life making stuff, the possible answer I don't see mentioned hardly ever, is get a job with one of the businesses that survived. Make stuff out of wood, pay rent, eat food, drink wine, and chill. Employment isn't for everyone, but given how few people say it, I just wanted to say "employment can be good actually".

[@newdutchworkshop7026]

@@longline that's true, I don't know of many high-end furniture companies here in the Netherlands but I bet there's plenty of wonderful jobs to be found in the UK, USA and countries like Germany and Italy. If you manage to find a nice company to work for, it must be great to be able to do the work you love without the madness that seems to come with running a business.

[@longline]

@@newdutchworkshop7026 There's a whole mega yaught industry in the Netherlands. There will be an industry related to fine woodwork on yaughts. Wooden windows and doors is interesting work, but you're right that there's less of that in the Netherlands. Still some though. But mostly you need companies that reach the market of millionaires and billionaires. And it's not the end users that you need to reach, it's their interior designers. A company that has successfully connected with interior designers is stable enough to employ woodworkers, broadly speaking.

[@Kikilang60]

Oh my God, I wrote a dumbass comment before. Thanks Matt. You're a real help.

[@HRConsultant_Jeff]

I have to agree with most of your comments. I would add one thing that some people are over confident that they are top tier when they really are not. From many years of being a public speaker you possess many important qualities. You have humility and a sense of humor as well as a grasp of the English language and a certain confidence. Knowledge is your base. I can put together a one hour seminar on almost anything as long as I have the basic knowledge and can tie it to common experiences. You have all of that and it is why I enjoy watching your videos, even if it is not a topic I am truly looking for.

[@MattEstlea]

Absolutely. I thought I had it all figured out in my early 20's and turns out I couldn't have been more wrong. Was part of my hesitation and anxiety about posting this video too, as I know most of what I'm saying will feel redundant or outdated 5 years from now. But at the very least it was nice to capture my thoughts at this moment in time so I can reflect and learn from them later. Really appreciate it mate!

[@viliusmarcinkevicius4747]

Coming from an architectural background I worked cnc prior to starting my woodworking business. Currently I'm trying to stay afloat, it's hard at times, but year after year (going on my 4th) it's getting better, without any need for advertising or social media. Just word of mouth. I remember I used to watch your videos before undertaking woodworking and they really helped me grow, so I appreciate you striving for quality and joy that work brings. Hopefully someday I'll be well enough financially to be able to support you in return. If you ever happen to van through the Baltics give me a holler, I would be glad to host you!

[@ChristopherRNeumann]

I really enjoyed this video. Thank for for the hard work in everything associated with it, and good luck as you move forward.

[@sawdustwoodchips]

Brilliant! I’ve been a woodworker for over 45 years (off and on) and you have pretty much summed up all that it takes to ‘make a go of it’ I would just add 10 little words IF IT IS TO BE IT IS UP TO ME. Thanks!

[@MattEstlea]

Love it. Cheers mate!

[@mattbinge5832]

Great video matt, and thank you for sharing on your personal life, im looking at going into making my own cabinet making business, but also work as an engineer, so making the transition is going to be hard, but without risk there is no reward

[@gonegliding2966]

A great video Matt. Whilst I haven't bought anything from you (shipping is a killer to Aus) I appreciate your efforts in sharing of your knowledge and your honesty! I was watching your channel many years ago when you suddenly went quiet. Thanks for giving us an insight as to what happened. Good luck and great success!

[@johnfitzpatrick2083]

What a fantastic video with lots of great advice and thanks for putting it out there, well done.

[@JasonandRachelOlson]

that was great Matt! thank you for sharing this!

[@adrianbrewer1708]

Wow Matt that was a great video. Thank you and keep up the good work. Ade

[@jeremiahgriffin9428]

Wow! That was definitely the best shop tour video I've ever seen! Thank you so much for all of that

[@MattEstlea]

So glad to hear it. Rob and I were both concerned that it went a little off the rails compared to our original vision. Thank you for the kind words :)

[@scottrichards3937]

Thank you so much. I needed to hear this today. My first viewing of your channel. You rock!

[@graemewilson8423]

Been following you since the start mate. This is the best film you've ever done. Fascinating stuff. Keep up the great work 👍

[@billbris]

I knew that there was a truly thoughtful and interesting person inside of that quirky, young woodworker I found online all those years ago. I am 61 years old, and I may have learned (or re-learned) more from this one video than any previous video. Thank you.

[@MattEstlea]

Haha yea the character is becoming harder and harder to maintain these days. It's nice to be a little more real!

[@WoodcraftBySuman]

Exotic diplomas or exotic woods? One is way prettier. As a side note - genuinely appreciate how real you are. Giving up comforts of a 9-5 to take a leap like this takes balls of steel filled with frequent nervous breakdowns. I wish you nothing but continued success!

[@MattEstlea]

Thanks Suman! Always a pleasure to see you here :)

[@stevenbishop7083]

Thanks Matt, somehow needed to hear this today

[@jeffkeylock441]

I really enjoyed this Matt. A great message and a positive outlook. All the best for your future. Although I'm a little disappointed you didn't acknowledge the support of Belvita 😄

[@MattEstlea]

They refused to sponsor me a few years ago. They're dead to me.

[@stevebulach5198]

WELL SAID MATT, I sincerely hope people take on board what you have said & put it into practice!!!! 😃👍

[@dpmeyer4867]

Great points. I am cheering for you!

[@newdutchworkshop7026]

Incredible video Matt! It takes some guts to dive deep into your personal situation and development like you do in the first half. I recognize a lot of what you say as I too run a woodworking business, use skill stacking and seem to have found a sweet spot of overlapping skills. It sort of comes naturally (and with the 7-day work weeks) but this video actually pinpoints why things work the way they do for me.

[@MattEstlea]

Exactly! I feel like the blending of skills is why I've been able to sustain my love for woodworking over the years. Because doing nothing else but that could have become tiring and/or boring. Best of luck with everything in the future mate :)

[@lukeeson]

What is the jacket you’re wearing in the opening scene? Thanks!