In this episode of The Bearded Finisher Podcast, host Zach Shrum sits down with Ryan Huisman to explore his remarkable journey from youth pastor to powerhouse in the paint and coatings industry. Ryan reflects on his early days working at Sherwin Williams, building a $6 million store, navigating corporate politics, and eventually transitioning to Miller Paint. From challenges in wood coatings logistics to the growing popularity of water-based products, this episode dives deep into the ever-evolving landscape of paint sales, customer relationships, and staying adaptable in a consolidating market. Ryan’s story is filled with real-world wisdom for anyone in the coatings industry.
00:00 – Introduction to Ryan Huisman
02:40 – Ryan's Journey in the Paint Industry
13:31 – Transitioning Through Various Roles
22:47 – Becoming a Store Manager at Sherwin Williams
29:11 – The Rise of a Paint Store
32:29 – Navigating Corporate Challenges
36:05 – Transitioning to Miller Paint
44:11 – From Store Manager to Sales Rep
49:56 – The Impact of Corporate Changes
56:03 – The Paint Industry Landscape
58:35 – Challenges of Transporting Wood Coatings
01:00:11 – Sales Strategies in the Wood Coatings Market
01:04:10 – Impact of Acquisitions on Wood Coatings
01:07:33 – The Shift to Water-Based Products
01:10:02 – Exploring Solvent-Based Innovations
01:14:31 – Common Misconceptions in the Painting Industry
01:19:12 – The Importance of Continuous Learning
01:21:00 – Advice to My Younger Self
📱 Instagram:Instgram/huismanryan
