“Instead of being in a classroom, I could be out in the field on-site doing stuff. And so I spent three years doing that. And from there, it just kept going.” Cody Hansen Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Cody Hansen from Plate and Nail. Cody's journey into carpentry didn't just start with swinging hammers and cutting wood. It began with a family legacy of craftsmanship and a deep-rooted passion for creating with his hands. His father, a seasoned handyman for over four decades, instilled in him the value of hard work and the satisfaction of building something from scratch. Cody's story is one of blending tradition with innovation, of finding purpose in passion, and of crafting dreams one nail at a time. Listen now and get the whole story! “You've got to know your numbers, especially for me, like you, you have to understand that it is a business. No matter how good you are at the trade or whatever you're delivering, if you can't manage that business part successfully, and you have, you can't intelligently discern what you need as a business.” Cody Hansen Embracing the Craft: The Birth of Plate and Nail After years of honing his skills under the guidance of seasoned professionals, Cody decided to take the leap and start his own business. Plate and Nail wasn't just about building houses; it was about crafting homes where memories would flourish. With a focus on custom home framing, renovation, and a penchant for finishing basements and building pergolas, Cody's vision was clear: to create spaces that resonated with the warmth of craftsmanship and the precision of artistry. Lessons in Entrepreneurship: Navigating the First Year The first year of any business is a rollercoaster ride of challenges and triumphs. Cody's journey was no different. From securing his first clients to learning the ropes of business management, every hurdle became a stepping stone towards growth. Cody's humility and willingness to learn from mistakes paved the way for Plate and Nail's success. As Cody reflects on his journey, he emphasizes the importance of patience, reputation, and collaboration in the world of entrepreneurship. Expanding Horizons: Looking Towards the Future For Cody, the future holds endless possibilities. As he sets his sights on expanding Plate and Nail's services, his vision goes beyond just building houses; it's about building communities and inspiring the next generation of craftsmen. With a focus on sustainability and quality craftsmanship, Cody aims to redefine the standards of residential construction. His passion for the craft and dedication to excellence serve as guiding beacons as Plate and Nail embarks on its next chapter. Crafting Dreams, One Nail at a Time Cody's journey exemplifies the transformative power of passion and perseverance. From humble beginnings to burgeoning success, his story is a testament to the timeless art of craftsmanship. As Plate and Nail continue to carve its legacy in the world of construction, one thing remains certain: Cody's unwavering commitment to his craft and his community will continue to inspire generations to come. After all, in the hands of a true craftsman, every nail is not just a tool but a symbol of dreams taking shape. "Start looking for people to hire. I would start by getting into the zone where you're not building all the time—you're the one bidding and overseeing. Right? Because that's where you're going to get the highest leverage." Steve Larosiliere Want to get in touch with Cody Hansen? Contact him through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plateandnail/