Why Innovation Starts in the Shop | Dino Kouros (Part 2)

Episode Summary: In part two of this incredible conversation, Zach sits back down with Dino Kouros, founder of Kuros Tools, to explore what it really takes to bring innovation to the finishing and woodworking trades. From product development and prototyping to trust in the supply chain and navigating tough partnerships, Dino shares what he's learned through trial, error, and pure passion. They also dig into the importance of choosing the right customers, building transformative relationships, and letting quality lead in every area of business. If you’ve ever had a tool idea, struggled with delegation, or wondered if experience matters more than credentials—this episode delivers.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction to the Bearded Finisher Podcast 00:30 – Quality Over Cost in Finishing Products 01:52 – The Value of Transformative Relationships 05:11 – Community Support and Growth 07:08 – The Importance of Who, Not How 08:31 – Creating Practical Finishing Tools 09:54 – Innovations in Finishing Products 17:10 – Expanding Product Distribution 20:57 – Understanding Market Value in Finishing Tools 25:08 – The Process of Product Development 27:46 – Building Trust in the Supply Chain 28:44 – Creating Markets for Innovative Products 30:09 – Navigating Partnerships and Business Ventures 32:57 – The Importance of Experience Over Credentials 34:52 – The Journey of Invention and Prototyping 37:18 – Streamlining Production and Family Dynamics 39:12 – Advice to My Younger Self 42:08 – Taking Risks and Embracing Trades 44:00 – Understanding Business and Delegation 46:29 – Collaborating on New Tool Innovations

Connect with Dino Kouros

🌐 Website: kurostools.com 📸 Instagram: @kourostools ✉️ Email: [e-mail]