David George shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
David, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What do the first 90 minutes of your day look like?
I like a nice morning routine.
Once the alarm goes off, I get out of bed, turn some music on and do some light stretching. I usually make a glass of golden milk or a smoothie (or both). I try to read for 15-20 minutes before diving into work. I start by checking my emails (personal, Motor City Axe and my tech job). From there I plan out my day and dive in!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is David George – born and raised in Michigan, I am the Founder of Motor City Axe. We are a company crafting one-of-a-kind custom axes and hatchets. Each tool is US-made and hand painted in Detroit. We’ve been operational for 8+ years now and create axes for all different people in all walks of life. They are great for groomsmen gifts, retirements, graduations, holidays or just the outdoor lover in your life. While fully functional, a lot of people do buy them to display if their home or office.
Outside of work I enjoy camping, hiking, craft breweries and sports. I love spending time with friends and family as well.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
I learned the most about work from my father and grandfather. Both entrepreneurs in their own right, my grandfather start a dairy company with his brother and my dad, who worked there for a handful of years, branched out and started his own telecom business.
I love the entrepreneurial spirit and the guidance they both instilled in me. While my grandfather has passed away (and his hatchet was part of the inspiration behind Motor City Axe), I still rely on my dad for business questions. He recently retired and is actually helping do some sales for me. It’s great to work with family!
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Starting a business is always a challenge – I can’t recall the exact stat, but most new businesses fail in the first 5 years. At this point I feel pretty well established, but yes, I certainly wanted to give up.
Two instances come to mind:
1. This was really before I got started – I purchased a branding iron with my logo, but for the life of me I could not get a clean brand on an axe handle. I ruined a few and became easily frustrated. Looking back on this now, it’s very silly and I’m sure I was frustrated with more than just the branding iron.
2. I entered into a partnership with a new company and it was really boosting my sales which was great. But a month went by and I didn’t get paid. They said it would be resolved soon and orders kept coming in so I filled them. Turns out they filed for bankruptcy while still selling product from other brands. I’ll never see that money and it was a few grand of inventory shipped out. I make sure to have clear parameters with all new partners.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
I had previously mentioned that I love spending time with family and friends – those are my people. I look to them for anything I am unsure about. I may just ask my wife or parents, but to get a wider reach I’ve extended questions to my friends. For example I recently polled my friends on a potential new tagline which led to the idea of a new knife coming out soon. Different perspectives are great to have. Be open to any and all of them!
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Are you tap dancing to work? Have you been that level of excited at any point in your career? If so, please tell us about those days.
As a small business owner, if you have never felt this, then I’m sorry. Maybe you need to reevaluate your situation or why you are doing what you do.
I can truthfully say this happens to me often!
I’ve had a celebrity artist order over 20 axes. AWESOME moment!
I’ve had people recognize me from my social media in public as the axe guy.
I could go on and on with instances like these.
A few months out of the year are slow. Recently I hadn’t had an order in over two weeks – then boom! One day I get three orders online, a request for 8 axes for a wedding and a potential new partnership with a new store. It makes the entire month.
Don’t forget to celebrate the little things too.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.motorcityaxe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motorcityaxe/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/motorcityaxe/
- Twitter: https://x.com/MotorCityAxe
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotorCityAxe/
Image Credits
All image from Motor City Axe
