I didn’t grow up thinking I’d become an entrepreneur. I grew up on a dairy farm in Twin Falls, Idaho, where the work was hard, the days started early, and no one ever needed to ask what your job was—you just got it done. That environment shaped the way I think and work today. It’s where I learned discipline, grit, and how to problem-solve on the fly.

Fast forward a few decades, and I’ve built multiple businesses from the ground up—ranging from a custom home-building company to an HVAC business, and other ventures in between. It wasn’t part of some grand plan; it was a combination of vision, hard work, trial and error, and a willingness to take the next step even when I wasn’t 100% sure where it would lead.

Entrepreneurship isn’t easy. But for me, it’s been one of the most rewarding paths I could’ve taken. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way.

Start Before You Feel Ready

When I launched Iron Oaks Custom Homes in 2018, I didn’t have all the answers. I had experience in construction, a solid work ethic, and the desire to build something that reflected my values. That was enough to start.

Most people wait too long to act. They want everything to be lined up perfectly—the perfect plan, the right timing, the guaranteed success. But entrepreneurship rarely works that way. Sometimes, you just have to take the leap and figure it out as you go.

Each of my businesses started with a simple idea and a willingness to learn. I didn’t let the fear of failure stop me. I believe success often comes from just getting started and being willing to improve along the way.

Solve Real Problems

If there’s one thing every successful business has in common, it’s that it solves a problem. Whether I’m building custom homes, managing HVAC systems, or working on a solar solution for farms, I’m always asking: What problem are we solving, and how can we do it better than anyone else?

In construction, for example, the problem is often poor communication, missed deadlines, or lack of trust. I built Iron Oaks to be different. We prioritize quality, transparency, and customer relationships. People notice when you actually care.

Entrepreneurs need to listen—really listen—to what people are frustrated with or lacking. The best ideas are usually simple: do what others aren’t willing to do, or do what they’re doing—but better.

Be Willing to Work… A Lot

There’s no way around it—entrepreneurship takes time and effort. When you’re building something from the ground up, you wear every hat. You’re the boss, the employee, the bookkeeper, the marketer, and sometimes the janitor. Especially in the early days.

But here’s the thing: hard work isn’t a problem when you love what you do. I enjoy creating systems, building teams, and seeing a business grow into something real. I enjoy learning, even when I fail. And I enjoy the freedom that comes from being my own boss—even though it comes with responsibility and risk.

I’ve learned that consistency matters more than perfection. Show up every day, do the work, and eventually, things start to click.

Build a Team You Trust

No matter how driven you are, you can’t do it all alone. At some point, growth requires delegation. I’ve been fortunate to work with some incredible people—folks who share my values and bring strengths I don’t have.

Hiring right isn’t just about skill. It’s about attitude, work ethic, and trust. When you find good people, invest in them. Treat them well. Empower them to take ownership. A strong team turns a small operation into a thriving company.

I also try to lead with transparency and humility. I don’t pretend to have all the answers. I welcome ideas, feedback, and collaboration. That kind of culture keeps people engaged and makes the business stronger over time.

Stay Grounded in Your Values

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is to stay grounded. In business, it’s easy to chase every opportunity or get caught up in comparison. But I’ve found the most peace—and success—when I stay focused on why I started in the first place.

For me, that “why” is family, faith, and the desire to make a positive impact. Whether I’m mentoring a young employee, donating to a local cause, or just building a home that a family will live in for decades, I want everything I do to reflect my values.

Money is a tool—not the goal. My goal is to build businesses that matter, that serve people well, and that leave something lasting behind.

Keep Learning and Giving Back

Entrepreneurship is a constant journey. The landscape changes, the markets shift, and new challenges pop up every day. That’s why I’m always reading, listening, and looking for ways to grow—not just in business, but as a husband, father, and community member.

I also believe that success comes with a responsibility to give back. That’s why I volunteer at my church, support local charities, and started the Ryan Franklin Memorial Golf Tournament. When you’ve been blessed, you bless others. That’s how real legacy is built.

Final Thoughts

Building multiple businesses hasn’t always been easy, but it’s been worth it. I’ve learned to embrace the ups and downs, to stay true to my values, and to keep pushing forward—even when the path isn’t clear.

If you’re thinking about starting something of your own, my advice is simple: don’t wait for perfect conditions. Start small, stay focused, and be willing to learn as you go. Entrepreneurship is less about genius ideas and more about resilience, integrity, and showing up every single day.

You don’t need to know everything. You just need to believe in what you’re building—and keep building it.