Meet Kyle Levy | Custom Woodworker/ Business Owner

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kyle Levy and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kyle, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I think the thought process here ebbs and flows so much. The truth is you don’t always know. But it’s important to remain self aware. Don’t lie to yourself. Is what you’re doing sustainable? Is it causing more stress then peace? Do you ACTUALLY like or love what you are doing or are you afraid to fail or give up? You have to be in tune with how you as a person are doing. And obviously the health of your business. Owning a business is like a relationship. Like, love. Love is a choice. Sometimes, that choice is a no brainer. Easy. Sometimes its the hardest choice to make in the world. So you just have to be honest about what it’s all worth to you.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I am a custom woodworker in Nashville, TN. I specialize in custom furniture for interior design firms, and other word-of-mouth clients. I think what sets me apart is my attention to detail. In the trade industry its easy to assumes or hope people don’t see the little mistakes. But, I will rebuild an entire project before you catch me lazily overlooking an imperfection that shouldn’t be there.

I moved here in 2013 to pursue a music career. In order to supplement income while at home from tour, I started a handyman service called I Can Fix That For You. Doing small jobs became doing big jobs like remodeling whole kitchens or bathrooms by myself. Being spread so thin, I was burnt out and miserable. I was given a chance to make a table for a friend and BAM! I was hooked. It was terrible, to say the least, and thank God it has now been returned to the earth by way of fire. But that was my jumping off point. My tables are good now, I swear. Now you can find my work in many high end custom homes, as well as in some features in a few magazines. Was it easy? Well no. I will say that I have been very fortunate to have the opportunities that have been given to me. But I worked very hard to be presented those opportunities.

My biggest challenge is my ADHD. I’ve spent a lot of time cultivating habits, and routines that help counteract the symptoms that come with it. Getting good sleep, eating well, and accountability are so important. I’ve also been on a journey through trying different supplements.

I’ve learned that comparison is the thief of all joy. You should only compare yourself to who you were yesterday and work from there. Rest is just as important as hard work. And it’s ok to ask for help.

My brand is built around creating beautiful quality furniture but also awareness for the struggles of mental health. I speak a lot about both on social media and I want to create a safe, authentic place, to ask questions, answer them. To listen. But also be heard. There is so much shame ties to mental health and how it can affect a business or business owner. And I want it to be normal to talk about uncomfortable things while still being seen as a professional.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Nashville is a wealth of good food, drinks, and rich history. I am very introverted. So, I’m not the going out type. Too many idiots, drunk tourists and bachelorette parties to dodge. But, If you do find me out. You can find me getting an Old Fashioned at, Bourbon Steak, Pinewood, Old Glory, and Smokers Abbey. I am also a connoisseur of aromatic pipe tobacco. So you can find me at Smokers Abbey getting my favorite, Prayer of the Saints, blend and smoking a few bowls. Virago has the best sushi, Bad Luck Burger is the best burger in town. And Jackelope is the best beer. What about Broadway you ask? Let me tell you something. No one who actually resides in Nashville spends time on Broadway. It is…the worst. But lets not forget the street tacos. If you see a taco truck and think, ” looks a little shooty/stabby”, you’re in the right place. Slim and Husky is the best Pizza. Princes is the best hot chicken. I’d say the best pour over coffee is The Well. Others would fight me on that. But that’s a hill I’m willing to die on. Thai Esane is the only place to get real Khao Soi. And Two Ten Jack has the best Ramen. I was a touring musician for many years and I’m shockingly not a live music guy. Too many people touching me. Plus what if your favorite band sucks? However, I think Marathon and Basement East are great medium venues.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Man, so many people. My wife is often the unsung hero in all this. She is the one on the receiving on of all my bad days. She’s been there to remind of the good days, when the bad days are being a bit noisy. I’d like to acknowledge, Lynn Graber, Steve Adams, Brian Hood, Brandon Brown, and Trevor Hinesley. For your friendship. For always being there to encourage, give business advice, and just be an example of what it means to hustle and get shit done. I’d like to thank the great Kenneth Bauman, my part time employee, and dear friend for helping me see that I can do this, and for holding me accountable, and helping me see clearly and steer my business in the right direction. Thanks to my most frequent clients, Paige Williams Interior Design, Adams Pro Finish, and Peach&Pine Interiors. You literally put a roof over my head by trusting that I can do what you need me to. Mike Michalowicz, the auther of “Profit First”. Thanks for writing an unconventional book for my unconventional brain that helps understand business accounting. My ADHD coach, Valerie for being one of my biggest cheerleaders and helping me see that this disability can be a gift.
And lastly, my mother. For giving my the most stubborn can do attitude that you ever saw. For all the tough love. For encouraging me to chase my dreams. To always work hard, be kind, and be generous.

Website: www.brokencompasswoodworking.com

Instagram: @brokencompasswoodworking

Image Credits
Joseph Bradshaw Tausha Dickensen