Working Towards Our Purpose

Cory gave one of his custom built guitars to one of his favorite bands after a show.

In this episode I sit down with Cory Reynolds, the founder and owner of CRC Guitars, who shares his inspiring journey of turning his passion for music and woodworking into a business.  We discuss the challenges teaching yourself how to build a guitar, the impact of human connection has on his craft, and the importance of doing work that involves the things you love. From his humble beginnings, to his plans for the future, Cory's story is a testament to the power of self-belief and determination. Join us as we delve into the world of guitar building and the pursuit of purpose!

Bio: Cory Reynolds spent years working in construction before finding himself in a job of a different industry he didn't enjoy very much.  This pushed him to search for something more.  After thinking about his two passions, music and working with his hands, he decided to teach himself how to build a guitar.  After the first failed guitar, he had a friend buy the parts so he could build his second, and he's been building guitars for people ever since.  Cory has blended his passion for working with his hands and his love for music with his business CRC Guitars.   
 
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00:00 – Introduction
00:53 – Cory’s Background: Homeschooling and Early Interests
01:44 – Growing Up Homeschooled: Flexibility & Family
02:33 – Finishing School Early & Starting Work in Construction
03:25 – Homeschool Curriculum and Learning Approach
04:18 – Perspectives on Higher Education
05:16 – Early Career: Construction Work and Transitioning
06:01 – Job Struggles and the Spark Toward Guitar Building
07:22 – Diving Into Building Guitars: First Steps
08:43 – Creativity, ADHD, and Hyperfocus
09:47 – The Role of Music in Cory’s Life
12:23 – Woodworking vs. Carpentry: Lessons Learned
14:09 – Garden Structures & Small Business Operation
15:09 – Building the First Guitar: Lessons and Mistakes
16:18 – Iterative Process and Early Commissions
19:07 – Mindset: Believing in Yourself & Learning by Doing
21:56 – Importance of Community & Support Systems
23:04 – Starting and Growing CRC Guitars: Business Vision
24:06 – Scaling Up: Tools, CNC Machines, and Production
25:54 – Guitar Design Process and Ergonomics
28:23 – Models, Customization, and Customer Requests
29:01 – Challenges: Learning, Patience & Passion
30:41 – The Viral Reel: Social Media Growth
31:40 – Wood Types: Flame Maple & Burl Explained
32:37 – Onboarding New Customers: The Custom Build Process
34:13 – Building for Artists & Special Projects
36:10 – Legacy & The Joy of Watching Guitars Played Live
40:36 – Future Plans: YouTube Channel & Educational Content
44:24 – Purpose: Music, Passion, and Connection
50:15 – Where to Find CRC Guitars

In this episode you'll learn:

How to nurture creativity
How to find self driven learning
How to build custom guitars with your hands
How to face challenges with technical mastery
How to use a manual skill to make something with passion
How to use social media to market a business
How to use a passion to build a business 

 

1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: How to Trust Your Success as a High-Achiever | EP 45

2. Overcoming Others' Expectations: 3 Stages to Living an Authentic Life | EP 48

3. Should You Quit Your Job? How to Know When it’s Time for a Career Pivot | EP 39

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