Solo in the Shop

A woodworking podcast by and for solo artisans and makers.

#56 Using AI for SEO 03/26/2025

#56 Using AI for SEO In this episode of Solo in the Shop, Ronald shares how he’s been using ChatGPT to overhaul his website SEO—from writing location-specific landing pages and product descriptions to generating structured data and TL;DR summaries. He walks through his strategy for improving search visibility, creating a service area hub, and planning a virtual showroom experience. If you’re a maker trying to grow your business online, this is a behind-the-scenes look at how AI can make your marketing smarter and faster. /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35838055

#55 Meet the Grandparents 03/19/2025

#55 Meet the Grandparents How does your business name shape how customers see you? In this episode of Solo in the Shop, I share a personal story about my grandparents and how their approach to grandparenting unexpectedly connects to small business branding. From my own experience rebranding New England Table Company, I explore how your name, tone, and online presence define your business—and why being intentional about your brand identity can lead to success. Tune in for insights on crafting the right image for your business and making sure your customers see you the way you want to be seen. /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35777520

#54 Sink or Swim: Lessons from the Deep 03/12/2025

#54 Sink or Swim: Lessons from the Deep In this episode of Solo in the Shop, Ronald Lohse shares a gripping personal story of a near-drowning experience and how it serves as a powerful metaphor for running a small business. From learning to adapt and using different strategies to survive, to building systems that act as a life raft, he draws insightful parallels between navigating the unpredictable ocean and the challenges of entrepreneurship. Plus, exciting updates on the podcast’s new Patreon launch and his latest woodworking projects. Tune in for valuable lessons, humor, and motivation to keep your business afloat! /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35607870

#53 Back from WorkbenchCon 03/05/2025

#53 Back from WorkbenchCon In this episode of Solo in the Shop, I’m fresh off WorkbenchCon and ready to share my takeaways! I’ll break down the good, the bad, and the unexpected from this year’s event—covering vendor changes, networking opportunities, hands-on workshops, and valuable lessons from the classes I attended. Plus, I’ll give a quick shop update, including an epoxy mishap, upcoming projects, and a tough cash flow situation that many solo woodworkers can relate to. Whether you're considering WorkbenchCon or just looking for insights on woodworking and business, this episode has something for you! Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35515760

#52 Time for WorkbenchCon 02/26/2025

#52 Time for WorkbenchCon In this episode of Solo in the Shop, I share my excitement for WorkbenchCon 2025, reflecting on last year's experience and the connections I made with fellow makers, influencers, and industry leaders. I highlight the workshops and speakers I’m most looking forward to, covering topics like photography, website growth, AI content creation, business scaling, and video production. I also discuss the value of networking at the event and my thoughts on how WorkbenchCon compares to other maker gatherings. Tune in for my pre-conference insights, and stay tuned for my post-event recap next week! Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35424945

#51 (side) Hustling 02/19/2025

#51 (side) Hustling In this episode of Solo in the Shop, I dive into side hustles for woodworkers and DIYers looking to turn their skills into extra income. From selling small wooden goods and offering laser/CNC services to teaching classes and flipping furniture, I explore six practical ways to supplement your woodworking business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand, these ideas can help you maximize your shop’s potential and grow your revenue streams. Tune in and let's hustle! Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35335390

#50 Learn from my Mistakes 02/12/2025

#50 Learn from my Mistakes Starting a woodworking business? Learn from my mistakes! In this episode of Solo in the Shop, I share five key lessons from my journey—from choosing the wrong business name to missing out on free marketing opportunities. Avoid costly errors, improve your woodworking business strategy, and set yourself up for success. Whether you're a hobbyist thinking about going pro or a new entrepreneur looking for guidance, these insights will help you navigate the challenges of running a woodworking business. Subscribe for more tips on woodworking and entrepreneurship! Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35243535

#49 Always on Sale? 02/05/2025

#49 Always on Sale? I have noticed that there are some furniture companies who are always running a sale. Do they EVER charge full price? This week I want to discuss the pros and cons and the right and wrong of building your business with this strategy. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35145855

#48 Old School Trades 01/29/2025

#48 Old School Trades This week in my daily life seemed to have a theme around old school trades. Are these dying vocations? What can we do to encourage younger generations to work with their hands and make physical products? Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/35064005

#47 Creating Momentum 01/22/2025

#47 Creating Momentum Efficiency in the shop depends, to a great extent, on building momentum. Starting small and then rolling through a todo list is critical if you want to maximize your time in the shop. Today's episode focuses on building habits that create momentum. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34944540

#46 When to Fire a Customer 01/15/2025

#46 When to Fire a Customer As your small business grows and gains more customers, inevitably you will encounter prospects that aren't a good fit. From personality clashes, unrealistic expectations, to feeling undervalued or abused, it's important to see the red flags and know when to fire that customer. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34835915

#45 Plan to Reach Your Goals 01/08/2025

#45 Plan to Reach Your Goals As the new year starts, many of us are setting goals for 2025. Let's talk about how to move from vague unrealized goals to specific objectives with concrete action plans that can produce positive change. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34740760

#44 The Winning Environment 01/02/2025

#44 The Winning Environment This week, I focus on creating the right environment to foster success in life and business. Surrounding yourself with support, efficiency, and knowledge is key to reaching your goals. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34699905

#43 The Struggle is Real 12/27/2024

#43 The Struggle is Real Lets talk about the struggles that come with running your own small woodworking business. The end of the year is here, and financial stress can be quite powerful. I struggled a lot with that this week, and learned a bit about getting through it with family and other support. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34631715

#42 Holiday Stress 12/18/2024

#42 Holiday Stress Lets talk about end of the year commitments and how to balance those with family and friends in a way that reduces stress and prepares you for the year ahead. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34503516

#41 Gettin' Nerdy 12/11/2024

#41 Gettin' Nerdy A look at how my computer programming career prepared my for starting the woodworking business. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34395960

#40 Rest Days 12/04/2024

#40 Rest Days The importance of taking a break while building your small business - and some ideas on what you could be doing during those rest days. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34265720

#39 Facebook Marketplace 11/27/2024

#39 Facebook Marketplace Thanksgiving gratitude and lessons on Facebook Marketplace for selling my tables. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34166325

#38 Heating and Cooling It 11/20/2024

#38 Heating and Cooling It This week in the shop including deliveries, the queue, trying to slow down, getting help and adding heat to the shop. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/34022937

#37 Focusing Down 11/13/2024

#37 Focusing Down This week in the shop and a discussion about focusing your company messaging, branding, and product offerings. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33888252

#36 Money Hunt Monday 11/06/2024

#36 Money Hunt Monday This week in the shop and a discussion about my Money Hunt process on Monday mornings. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33776577

#35 Overnight success 10/30/2024

#35 Overnight success This week in the shop and a discussion about the myth of overnight success. Socials: On the web: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33683682

#34 Leveling Up 10/23/2024

#34 Leveling Up This week in the shop and a discussion about finding the resources to level up your woodworking business. Socials: On the web: Contact: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33590672

#33 Embracing Imperfection 10/16/2024

#33 Embracing Imperfection This week in the shop and a discussion about using the natural imperfections in the wood to create stunning furniture. Socials: On the web: Contact: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33483347

#32 5 Lessons Learned 10/09/2024

#32 5 Lessons Learned I wanted to share 5 lessons that I feel helped me become a better woodworker and helped keep my small business growing. Socials: On the web: Contact: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33390332

#31 Building Superfans 10/02/2024

#31 Building Superfans This episode starts in the bathroom and moves to the shop before a discussion on creating "superfans." Let's talk about how to take clients from simple customers to rabid brand advocates! Socials: On the web: Contact: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33298822

#30 The Big News! 09/25/2024

#30 The Big News! I can finally share my big news! It took a week longer than I expected, but the change is happening now! Also, more sales and my impression of the Course Confident Bootcamp from Amy Porterfield. Socials: On the web: Contact: /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33188547

#29 Conquering Fear Part 2 09/18/2024

#29 Conquering Fear Part 2 This episode's theme is further techniques for conquering the (irrational?) fear of power tools in the shop. If you or someone you know struggle to resolve your desire to create with a significant anxiety about powerful tools, let's talk about that and some approaches to conquering those fears. Socials: Contact: and [email protected] /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33097402

#28 Conquering Fear 09/11/2024

#28 Conquering Fear This episode's theme is conquering the fear of power tools in the shop. If you struggle to resolve your desire to create with a healthy anxiety about powerful tools, let's talk about that and some approaches to conquering those fears. Socials: Contact: and [email protected] /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/33006947

#27 Good Wood 09/04/2024

#27 Good Wood This week, I realized I had a few golden nuggets that I picked up in my youth that I still carry with me. On the business side, I've been struggling to find good wood for projects while staying under budget. Socials: Contact: and [email protected] /episode/index/show/edefe74a-46c6-4281-a592-61d8dad334df/id/32894297

Solo in the Shop

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