In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Adam Janney, co-founder of Tuska Outdoors, about his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative products his company creates. Adam shares how he and his partner, Josh, built a business manufacturing hunting blinds and lightweight insulated campers using a unique material made of high-density EPS foam with a hard coating. The discussion highlights their early struggles, such as self-funding by selling their homes, navigating manufacturing challenges, and tackling logistical hurdles.

Adam describes how they developed their standout product, the Hitchhiker camper, which originated from a personal need for a lightweight, insulated solution during hunting trips. After showcasing the product at a major outdoor trade show and launching an initial pre-order campaign, the camper gained significant traction, resulting in rapid growth for the company. Adam explains how their product’s unique lightweight and insulated design allows for direct-to-consumer shipping, a rarity in the camper industry.

The conversation delves into the dynamics of Adam’s partnership with Josh, emphasizing the importance of complementary skills and clear division of responsibilities. Adam also credits their success to a trusted third-party mentor who provides valuable guidance and perspective.

Looking ahead, Adam shares the challenges of scaling their business, including expanding their team and production space, and the need to implement standardized processes to sustain growth. He reflects on their evolution from survival mode in the first year to building a sustainable business in the years ahead.

The episode concludes with insights into the value of adaptability, blind faith, and resourcefulness in entrepreneurship. Listeners are encouraged to check out Tuska Outdoors on social media and their website to explore the innovative products that have captivated outdoor enthusiasts.

• 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #605 for Casual Friday, December 6th, 2024
  • December 6th: National Microwave Oven Day
• 00:01:26 Special Guest: Adam Janney from Tusca Outdoors
  • From College Baseball to EPS Foam…a business partnership is made!
  • Sold their houses for seed capital
  • Gary Arndt on Business Brain
  • The Right Spouse is a Force-Multiplier
  • “Too cheap to buy a teardrop trailer”…and now you have a business!
• 00:11:29 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
• 00:13:17 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
• 00:14:36 The value of splitting a business partnership early in the process
• 00:17:00 Finding that third-party business therapist
• 00:21:24 Properly managing growth
  • Using Notion to codify your processes
• 00:24:10 Business Brain 605 Outtro
  • Review Business Brain
  • Subscribe to the show
  • feedback@businessbrain.show
  • Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
  • X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
  • LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
  • Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain

The post Tusca Outdoors Co-founder Adam Janney – Business Brain 605 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.