In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, Jennifer Alger interviews Julie Stelman, co-founder of AncesTREE, discussing her journey from a background in forestry and education to creating an innovative inventory management system for the wood industry. 

They explore the challenges faced in building AncesTREE, the importance of understanding customer needs, and the revolutionary marketplace that allows multiple sawmills to sell their products efficiently. 

Julie shares insights on overcoming personal and professional obstacles, the significance of the name AncesTREE, and offers advice for sawmill companies hesitant to adopt new technologies.

Takeaways

• Julie transitioned from wildlife technician to co-founding AncesTREE
• AncesTREE simplifies inventory management for sawmills
• Understanding customer needs was crucial in system development
• The marketplace allows multiple vendors to sell wood efficiently
• Embracing technology can transform sawmill operations

Chapters 

00:00 Introduction to Julie Stelman and Her Journey 

02:57 From Chaos to Opportunity: The Birth of AncesTREE 

05:59 Building the Inventory Management System 

08:51 Understanding Customer Needs and System Automation 

11:52 The Story Behind the Name: AncesTREE 

14:41 Overcoming Challenges in Building AncesTREE 

17:59 The Marketplace: Revolutionizing Wood Sales 

20:36 Advice for Sawmill Companies: Embracing Change

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 

For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com

See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com

Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: podcast.woodpreneur.com/

You can connect with Julie at:

AncesTREE.io

Julie@ancestree.org

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-stelman-b99740162/