Follow along as we visit with entrepreneurs ranging from main street makers to international business owners. The stories are diverse but the principal is that same. There is a certain mental toughness that comes with entrepreneurship. Some people have it going in, some develop it along the way, while others get discouraged and quit before reaching their full potential. When we face troubles and bumps in the road, its helpful to pull strength from another person&#39;s testimony. If someone has made it through something similar to what you&#39;re facing then that&#39;s proof enough that you can do it too. Even stories from other industries can parallel the struggles, thoughts, emotions, and situations that you have or might run into. Join us as we pull strength and encouragement from amazing people willing to share their stories, setbacks, and strategies.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/8/3/20/45cfcaa6-9414-4a24-b9c6-1c0e47e61ce7_ep_30_ben_longwell.mp3

In this episode, I sit down with Ben Longwell of True West Horsemanship to talk about his journey through horses, business, family, and faith. Ben shares some of the risks he has taken along the way, why those decisions were still terrifying, and how faith gave him the courage to move forward anyway. We also talk about perseverance, doing the hard things when you don’t feel like it, and what it takes to keep building a life and business around the values that matter most.

True West Horsemanship: A Journey of Faith, Family, & Perseverance

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In this episode, I sit down with my friend Nick McCormack to talk about what he’s learned building three very different businesses—from custom leatherwork to cattle and outfitting. We get into finding the products that actually make money, narrowing your niche, knowing your numbers, building repeat customers, handling burnout, and why good customer service doesn’t have to cost you anything. Nick shares some practical lessons from years of figuring out what works, what doesn’t, and how the same core business principles can carry across completely different industries.

Find What Makes Money: Building 3 Businesses with Nick McCormack

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In this episode we talk about the realities of quarter 4 in a craft business. There are lessons we’ve learned over the years from both being prepared and not being prepared. If you’re not prepared for what’s to come, you can find yourself in a place of panic. It’s really hard to make good strategic decisions for your business when you are operating out of reactionary mode.

Preparing For The Future Rather Than Reacting To The Present

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/28/23/138637e6-b276-44bb-9661-21530958f19a_ep_29_trade_show_prep.mp3

After years of setting up at trade shows, we’ve developed a checklist that helps us stay organized, avoid last-minute problems, and make sure nothing important gets left behind. In this episode, I walk through how we prepare for a trade show, explain why different items are on our list, and share some of the lessons we’ve learned through experience. Whether you’re preparing for your first show or trying to improve your current system, this episode will help you arrive more prepared and ready to sell.

How We Prepare for a Trade Show: Our Complete Checklist

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Have you ever wondered why customers say your product or service is too expensive, even when you know the price is fair? In this episode, I’m talking about the gap between price and perceived value, and how that gap affects whether someone feels like they’re getting a great deal or being overcharged. We’ll look at what shapes customer perception, why people hesitate to buy, and how better communication, positioning, trust, and presentation can help customers understand what your offer is really worth.

Why Customers Think You’re Too Expensive

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/8/6/d775324d-0cc3-43e8-bac4-d65694cfa256_ep_27_a_fresh_perspective_on_vendor_shows.mp3

In this episode we talk about lessons we’ve learned at vendor shows and markets. It is a different experience at a show depending on what perspective you approach it from. We’ve been shoppers, vendors, and now have been on the production end. Those experiences are all different but they all tie together. After being in those different roles, it gives you more perspective and a deeper appreciation for the other positions. Our experience as a vendor makes us better producers and our experience as producers makes us better vendors. Both of these roles has made us more aware and appreciative shoppers.

A New Perspective On Vendor Events

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/7/8/6/90f11f99-1206-483c-88a8-8af9327e9b32_ep_27_a_fresh_perspective_on_vendor_shows.mp3

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It’s easy to get so focused on the next big goal in your business that you forget to enjoy the process of building it. Whether the goal is more sales, more products, more profit, or more growth, the goalpost usually moves as soon as you reach it. In this episode I talk about why business owners need to give themselves credit for the work, habits, and skills that create momentum along the way. Instead of only measuring success by the final number, this episode encourages you to set process goals, celebrate consistency, and recognize the new skills you’re building as you solve new problems. If you’re growing a leather business, maker business, or any creative business, this is a reminder to find joy in the build—not just the finish line.

Enjoy The Process While Building Your Business

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/23/23/c88a68a6-ba55-4d89-9935-2a7220645cd3_moting_your_products_so_people_beg_you_to_sell.mp3

In this episode, I’m talking about how to promote your products in a way that makes people want to buy without feeling like you’re constantly selling. Using an example from a one-on-one coaching call about dog collars and leashes, we’ll look at how answering real customer questions, giving helpful advice, and showing your expertise can naturally lead people toward the products you offer.

Promoting Your Products So People Beg You To Sell

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In this episode, I sit down with Drew Gulick, president and CEO of Hermann Oak Leather, to talk about what makes great leather truly great. As the fifth-generation owner of one of the most respected tanneries in the industry, Drew gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the quality, care, and tanning process that have made Hermann Oak a trusted name among leather crafters for generations.But this conversation goes far beyond leather. We also dig into the business principles, generational leadership, and strong foundation that have allowed Hermann Oak to continue growing and serving makers for more than a century. Whether you are a beginning leather crafter trying to understand better materials or a business owner wanting to build something that lasts, this episode is packed with insight on craftsmanship, consistency, and building a business the right way.

The Legacy Behind Hermann Oak Leather with Drew Gulick

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/6/9/20/d948147c-5d21-4b21-a250-b091b1fae209__why_beginner_leather_crafters_get_discouraged.mp3

In this episode, I’m talking about why beginner leather crafters often get discouraged and how managing expectations can make a big difference. We’ll look at skill growth, project quality, business results, and social media comparisons, along with practical ways to keep practicing, build confidence, and stack small wins over time.If you’re serious about wanting to move leather craft from a hobby to a business, join me for my next online even, Craft a Strong Business. Click the link below for more information. <a href="https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business" rel="nofollow">https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business</a>

Why Beginner Leather Crafters Get Discouraged

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In this episode, Marti and I sit down to talk through five lessons we’ve learned the hard way while running a family business. We share an honest look at what it takes to build a business together, from learning that just because we can do everything doesn’t mean we should, to understanding the real cost of chasing every new idea. We also talk about communication, protecting family time, building better systems, and why profit matters more than just chasing revenue. If you’re building a craft business, working with family, or trying to grow without burning out, this conversation is a reminder that success is not just about working harder—it’s about getting clearer on what really matters.

5 Things We’ve Learned The Hard Way While Running A Family Business

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/26/20/79a7490d-e743-4676-ae87-b0f9c50168ec_ep_21_making_the_most_of_your_time.mp3

In this solo episode of Pivot, Prosper, and Persevere, we’re diving into one of the biggest excuses that holds entrepreneurs back: “I just don’t have enough time.” The truth is, we all get the same 24 hours—it’s not about finding more time, it’s about making better decisions with the time we already have. If you’ve been waiting for the “right season” to start your business, grow your skills, or take the next step, this episode is the reminder that the perfect time rarely shows up—you have to intentionally make time for what matters most.

Making The Most of Your Time

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It’s not the desire to start a business that gets the job done. The willingness to take a chance and the resilience to push forward when it’s hard is what actually leads to success. Scott set out a goal to start a leather business and has followed through. He decided on a product line, refined his skills, and took it to the marketplace. In this episode we talk about taking calculated risk, understanding your customer, and being willing to fail &amp; adjust. If you are looking to survive your first year in business and want a healthy dose of inspiration, then this episode is for you.

Surviving The First Year of Business

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/5/5/6/b3342e15-8cfd-420e-82a7-c69e4e204d68_ep_19_joe_meling_stacking_skillsmp3.mp3

Most people think success in leathercraft comes down to talent—but that belief is exactly what holds them back. In this episode, we break down the real path to growth: skill stacking. From learning the fundamentals of tooling to building pricing, marketing, and production skills, success isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about doing the right things in the right order. If you’re serious about growing your business and want help stacking the right skills, check out my workshop, Craft a Strong Business here:<a href="https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business" rel="nofollow">https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business</a>

Success Isn’t Talent—It’s Skill Stacking

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What does it really take to run a business? In this episode, we sit down with a second-generation business owner who grew up in the trenches, stepped away, and came back to take the reins. We talk about the reality behind the “freedom” of ownership, why discipline matters more than flexibility, and what it looks like to lead a team without losing respect. From pushing through hard days to taking calculated risks and honoring the legacy you’ve been given, this conversation takes a look at what it actually takes to build something that lasts.

The Reality of Owning a Business: Discipline Over Freedom

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/28/17/36d587b7-69bf-40cf-92e3-9a6fd76fafca_ep_17_joe_meling_-_branding.mp3

Most beginner leathercrafters think branding starts with a logo—but that’s not what actually drives sales. In this episode, I break down why your brand is really your reputation, whether you’ve been intentional about it or not, and how it’s already shaping the way customers see your work. We’ll walk through four key questions—what you make, who you make it for, what problem it solves, and how you serve your customers—that will give you clarity and direction so your brand starts working for you instead of against you. If you’re serious about building a leathercraft business that actually grows, not just making products, I want to invite you to my online workshop, Craft a Strong Business—check it out here:  <a href="https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business" rel="nofollow">https://twentythreeplus.com/pages/craft-a-strong-business</a>

Your Brand Is More Important Than Your Logo

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If you’re not consistently reviewing your pricing, your craft business could be losing money without you even realizing it. In this episode, I sit down with a professional machinist from the metal fabrication industry to break down how rising costs, overlooked expenses, and emotional decision-making can slowly destroy your margins. We talk through both the technical side of pricing your work correctly and the mindset shift required to confidently raise your prices. Whether you’re just starting your craft business or you’ve been at it for years, this episode will help you protect your profits and build a business that actually lasts.

The Pricing Mistake That’s Quietly Killing Your Craft Business

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/14/18/1d950250-8682-4943-90e2-30325ed8b8f3_ep_15_standing_out_in_a_crowded_market.mp3

Does it feel like it’s hard to stand out and sell in a crowded market? In this episode, I break down why low barrier of entry products create crowded markets and what you can do to stand out. Whether it’s focusing on one product, leveling up your skills, or adding capabilities others don’t have, I’ll show you simple ways to separate yourself and start selling more.

The Secret to Standing Out in a Crowded Leathercraft Market

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2026/4/7/16/556c050c-2c35-496d-a780-5c1aadfc3e1a_ep_14_joe_meling.mp3

If you’re trying to grow your leathercraft business and feel like you’re spinning your wheels, this episode is for you. One of the biggest mistakes beginner leathercrafters make is trying to build everything—wallets, belts, bags, custom orders—without ever developing or focusing on one product line. In this episode of Pivot, Prosper, and Persevere, I break down why doing less is actually the fastest path to growth and how narrowing your focus can help you build skill, consistency, and real momentum in your business.

How to Grow Your Leathercraft Business Faster by Focusing on ONE Product

Follow along as we visit with entrepreneurs ranging from main street makers to international business owners. The stories are diverse but the principal is that same. There is a certain mental toughness that comes with entrepreneurship. Some people have it going in, some develop it along the way, while others get discouraged and quit before reaching their full potential.

When we face troubles and bumps in the road, its helpful to pull strength from another person's testimony. If someone has made it through something similar to what you're facing then that's proof enough that you can do it too. Even stories from other industries can parallel the struggles, thoughts, emotions, and situations that you have or might run into.

Join us as we pull strength and encouragement from amazing people willing to share their stories, setbacks, and strategies.