EP.05 - Building Beyond Boundaries: Kurt Schnakenberg's Journey from Chicago Brass to ADBM

Retained Trust

In this episode of Retained Trust, host Karl Hughes sits down with Kurt Schnakenberg, co-founder of Chicago Brass and ADBM, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative approaches he’s using to redefine his industries. From building a niche architectural consulting firm to launching ADBM—a pioneering agency offering ethical offshore staffing solutions—Kurt shares insights into scaling businesses, creating value through specialization, and maintaining authenticity in leadership. He emphasizes the importance of empathy in global workforces and discusses how to navigate challenges like onboarding, customer resistance, and balancing multiple ventures. Tune in for actionable strategies, hard-won lessons, and a candid look at the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.

Key Points From This Episode:

[00:00:00] Karl introduces Kurt Schnakenberg and starts with a light-hearted conversation about hats and personal presentation.

[00:02:45] Kurt discusses his role at Chicago Brass and how appearance has influenced his interactions in the industry.

[00:05:12] Kurt describes the founding of Chicago Brass and its focus on high-end architectural hardware.

[00:06:58] Challenges in the building materials industry spark the creation of ADBM to address inefficiencies.

[00:08:42] Kurt explains the pivot to staffing and the importance of simplicity in the business model.

[00:10:33] Indicators of product-market fit: strong early demand and straightforward sales conversations.

[00:13:17] Ethical offshoring: maintaining fair wages, treating offshore staff with respect, and building long-term relationships.

[00:17:05] Navigating challenges in onboarding remote staff and addressing resistance within client companies.

[00:18:55] Tapping Kurt's network for initial growth and scaling the new business.

[00:24:05] Balancing time and emotional energy between Chicago Brass and ADBM.

[00:30:02] The advantages of niche focus and how it strengthens credibility and client trust.

[00:36:15] Managing the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship through metrics and reflection.

[00:40:15] Structured decision-making through assigning roles like optimist, pessimist, and pragmatist.

[00:43:50] Book recommendations for entrepreneurs: Rework by Jason Fried and Boutique by Greg Alexander.

[00:46:15] Kurt shares his one-year goals for ADBM: reaching 150 placements and delegating the sales role.

Links:

• Kurt Schnakenberg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtschnakenberg/
• ADBM: https://adbm.agency/
• Karl Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karllhughes
• Production and editing by The Podcast Consultant: https://thepodcastconsultant.com