In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger speaks with Alyssa Olson, a landscape architect and furniture designer, about the importance of urban, salvaged, and reclaimed wood. 

They discuss the challenges of getting these materials specified in projects, the significance of building relationships within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) community, and the role of sustainability in material choices. 

Alyssa shares her journey in the field, the need for standards and specifications for reclaimed wood, and the importance of trust in sourcing materials. 

The conversation highlights the future of urban wood and the collaborative efforts needed to promote its use in design and construction.

Takeaways

• Urban wood is crucial for sustainability and local economies.
• Alyssa Olson has a background in architecture and landscape design.
• The status quo in material sourcing often hinders the use of reclaimed wood.
• A specification for reclaimed wood is currently lacking.
• Building relationships in the AEC community is essential for sourcing materials.
• Trust is a significant factor in using new or unfamiliar materials.
• Sustainability is increasingly important in material decisions.
• Standards and chain of custody are vital for urban wood utilization.
• Education about material sourcing can help overcome barriers.
• Collaboration is key to promoting urban salvaged wood.

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Urban Wood and Its Importance 

03:02 Alyssa Olson's Journey and Expertise 

05:42 Challenges in Specifying Urban Wood 

08:27 Building Relationships in the AEC Community 

11:14 The Importance of Trust in Material Sourcing 

13:55 Sustainability and Regenerative Materials 

16:33 The Role of Standards and Chain of Custody 

19:16 Future of Urban Salvaged Wood 

22:17 Conclusion and Future Collaborations

The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger 

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