
Episode 106: Strategies For Long-Term Success with Christian Nickum of Rocky Mountain Hardware
Ted speaks with Christian Nickum, president of Rocky Mountain Hardware, discussing the journey of taking over the family business, navigating economic challenges, and the importance of brand identity. Christian shares insights on adapting to design trends, educating dealers and customers, and the significance of collaborations with designers in the longevity of his business. The conversation also touches on production techniques, staffing challenges, and the lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic, culminating in a vision for the future of the company.
TOPICS DISCUSSED
- [01:15] Introduction and Background
- [01:55] Taking Over the Family Business
- [04:40] Growth and Challenges in Business
- [06:25] Navigating Economic Downturns
- [11:10] Brand Identity and Market Positioning
- [14:15] Educating Dealers and Customers
- [18:40] Production Techniques and Custom Work
- [20:20] The Traveling Road Show
- [21:50] Success in High-End Markets
- [25:05] Timeless Design and Natural Materials
- [27:45] Design collaborations
- [31:40] Learning from Failure and innovation
- [36:30] Staffing Challenges in a Specialized Industry
- [38:30] Managing Sales and Production
- [40:15] Lessons from COVID-19
- [41:05] The future and wrapping up
CONNECT WITH GUEST
Christian Nickum | Rocky Mountain Hardware
KEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE
Christian Nickum | Rocky Mountain Hardware
- “I wanted to do this for years.”
- “Rocky Mountain is a household name.”
- “We never attempt not to make mistakes.”
You may also like
Episode 91: How to Navigate the Risk & Stress of the Home Building Process with Keith Galbut
Ted speaks with Keith Galbut, founder of Advocate Residential Construction Advisors. Keith shares ho
Episode 64: Renovating A Family Business with Don Richardson, of Arizona Fireplaces
Today Ted speaks with Don Richardson, founder of Arizona Fireplaces – a family business that h
Episode 67: Niche Market on the Big Island with Zak Jorski of Furnishings by Debi
Today Ted speaks with Zak Jorski of Furnishing by Debi, a consignment business set up on Hawaii’s