From Injured Special Forces Soldier To Knife Business Success // Chris Stroup Knives Made In America

28/09/2025 53 min Temporada 1 Episodio 8

Listen "From Injured Special Forces Soldier To Knife Business Success // Chris Stroup Knives Made In America"

Episode Synopsis

#TheBJJandBIZPodcast #BJJ #lead generation #personalbranding 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.TakeawaysStarted 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/Chapters00:00 From Hobby to Business: The Knife-Making Journey09:15 Craftsmanship and Design: The Art of Knife Making18:30 Growing the Business: Challenges and Opportunities27:35 Community and Legacy: Giving Back Through Knives24:28 The Importance of Safety in Training25:20 Community and Family in Jiu-Jitsu26:40 Business Growth and Future Plans27:53 Lessons Learned in Business Management31:47 Building a Strong Team Culture32:27 Networking and Community Engagement34:31 Product Development and Market Trends36:36 Planning for Product Launches38:01 Challenges in Sourcing Materials38:56 Future Expansion and Innovations39:46 Upcoming Events and Trade Shows40:42 Exploring New Opportunities in the IndustryTake control of your life with ⁠⁠12 Weeks To Peak™⁠⁠: 12WeeksToPeak.comNeed a CRM? ⁠⁠Check out this marketing automation⁠⁠ tool for $19/mo. Connect with me:⁠⁠X⁠⁠: https://x.com/bjjandbiz⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook Group⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠#TheBJJandBIZPodcast #12WeeksToPeak #SalesTraining #GoalSetting #PersonalDevelopment #GrowthMindset