When a Forest Service background meets a passion for salvaging urban trees, you get furniture that tells a story and a business built on sustainability, craftsmanship, and community.

In this episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast, host Jennifer Alger sits down with Christy Covington, founder of Tree to Table PDX, to explore her inspiring journey from conservation work to entrepreneurship. Christy shares how she transformed salvaged urban wood into heirloom-quality furniture, launched her woodworking business from her backyard, and turned the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic into unexpected opportunities for growth.

You'll hear about the innovative projects that put Tree to Table on the map—including the world's largest charcuterie board—and learn how collaboration with local businesses and mentoring young woodworkers became central to Christy's mission.

This conversation dives deep into sustainable woodworking practices, the art of custom craftsmanship, and what it takes to build a business that honors both the environment and the community.

Whether you're a woodworker, an aspiring entrepreneur, or someone who values sustainability and quality craftsmanship, this episode is packed with insights on business growth, creative problem-solving, and the power of giving new life to urban wood that would otherwise go to waste.

Tune in to discover how passion, purpose, and a commitment to heirloom-quality work can shape a thriving woodworking business and don't forget to follow the Woodpreneur Podcast for more stories from makers and entrepreneurs who are building something meaningful.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Tree to Table PDX

05:09 Christy's Journey: From Forest Service to Woodworking

09:52 The Birth of Tree to Table: A New Business Venture

14:53 Creating Unique Wood Products and Community Engagement

20:05 The World's Largest Charcuterie Board Event

24:45 Future Aspirations and Community Collaboration

The Woodpreneur Podcast brings stories of woodworkers, makers, and entrepreneurs turning their passion for wood into successful businesses - from inspiration to education to actionable advice. Hosted by Steve Larosiliere and Jennifer Alger

For blog posts and updates: woodpreneur.com

See how we helped woodworkers, furniture-makers, millwork and lumber businesses grow to the next level: woodpreneurnetwork.com

Empowering woodpreneurs and building companies to grow and scale: buildergrowth.io

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woodpreneurnetwork/?hl=en

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/woodpreneurnetwork/

Join Our Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/woodpreneurnetwork

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@woodpreneurnetwork

You can connect with Christy at:

https://treetotablepdx.com/

https://www.instagram.com/treetotablepdx