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Chris Stroup got banged up in the Army special forces...so they gave him the boot.
But he turned his passion for knife-making into a booming made-in-America business.
He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building a business, the importance of community and networking, and how his passion for knife making intertwines with his family life and jiu-jitsu training.
The conversation highlights the craftsmanship involved in knife making, the evolution of his business, and future plans for innovation and growth.
Takeaways
Started knife making as a hobby to relieve stress.
Transitioned from hobby to full-time business in 2022.
Utilizes YouTube for learning and business strategies.
All knives are crafted by hand, with some processes outsourced.
Focus on high-carbon steel for durability and performance.
First knife made was kept as a personal memento.
Pricing started at $80 per knife, reflecting the time invested.
Business growth led to hiring more employees and expanding facilities.
Community engagement is crucial for business success.
Plans to innovate with new designs and materials in the future.
Visit his site: https://stroupknives.com/
Chapters
00:00 From Hobby to Business: The Knife-Making Journey
09:15 Craftsmanship and Design: The Art of Knife Making
18:30 Growing the Business: Challenges and Opportunities
27:35 Community and Legacy: Giving Back Through Knives
24:28 The Importance of Safety in Training
25:20 Community and Family in Jiu-Jitsu
26:40 Business Growth and Future Plans
27:53 Lessons Learned in Business Management
31:47 Building a Strong Team Culture
32:27 Networking and Community Engagement
34:31 Product Development and Market Trends
36:36 Planning for Product Launches
38:01 Challenges in Sourcing Materials
38:56 Future Expansion and Innovations
39:46 Upcoming Events and Trade Shows
40:42 Exploring New Opportunities in the Industry
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