Navigating Water-Based Coatings: Challenges, Trends, and Industry Insights with Matt Ryan

Summary: In this episode of the Bearded Finisher Podcast, Zach interviews Matt Ryan, a paint industry veteran. They discuss their preference for interior or exterior painting, Matt's journey in the painting business, his transition to the distribution world, and his passion for water-based wood coatings. The conversation highlights the importance of finding passion in your work and the value of time versus money. The conversation revolves around the longevity and success of the paint store, Johnston Paint & Decorating, which has been in business for 99 years. The key themes include the importance of community involvement, building relationships with customers, and the challenges of working with water-based coatings. The conversation also touches on trends in the painting industry, such as the popularity of green cabinets and the comeback of stain. The most common question the speaker receives is about micro bubbles in water-based coatings. In this conversation, They discuss the importance of education and continuous learning in the coatings industry. They emphasize the need for painters to find a product that works for them and stick with it, rather than constantly switching products. They also highlight the value of helping others and providing guidance and support to those who are new to the industry. Matt shares his passion for elevating the trades and promoting respect for the painting profession. They discuss the changing perception of painters and the need to attract younger people to the industry. Matt also reveals his love for sports and his involvement in the recovery community. Keywords: painting business, weather, interior painting, exterior painting, water-based wood coatings, distribution, VRBO, entrepreneurship, paint store, longevity, success, community involvement, relationships, water-based coatings, trends, green cabinets, stain, micro bubbles, education, continuous learning, coatings industry, product selection, helping others, trades, respect, painting profession, attracting younger people, sports, recovery community Takeaways: Find passion in your work and do what you love. Value your time and understand the importance of time versus money. Explore different opportunities and be open to new ventures. Helping others and providing guidance and support is a valuable aspect of the coatings industry. Elevate the trades and promote respect for the painting profession. Attract younger people to the industry by showcasing the opportunities and fun it offers. Continuous learning and self-education are essential for success in the industry. Matt Ryan is passionate about sports and is involved in the recovery community. Titles: The Value of Time versus Money Building a Backup Plan for the Future Challenges and Considerations with Water-Based Coatings The Importance of Community Involvement and Building Relationships Attracting Younger People to the Coatings Industry The Importance of Product Selection and Consistency Sound Bites: "There's something called the black hole of paint and you never get out of it." "Find a product that works for you and stick with it." "Sometimes you just need to put the paint in the hopper and shoot it and it comes out perfect." Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Preference for Interior or Exterior Painting 05:23 The Transition to Water-Based Wood Coatings 08:09 The Value of Time versus Money 22:52 The Importance of Community Involvement and Building Relationships 28:34 Challenges and Considerations with Water-Based Coatings 31:23 Trends in the Painting Industry & Product Selection 55:42 Elevating the Trades and Promoting Respect 01:06:26 Matt Ryan's Passion for Sports and Recovery Community