**Welcome to Scrap Life Podcast**
Welcome to a scrap life, a podcast solely focused on the hustlers, grinders, operators, and business owners who live and breathe the scrap metal industry every day. Here is your host, Brett Ehart.
**Brett Ehart**
Scrap Life podcast number 6,415 or whatever it is. I don’t really know what the number is. I don’t really care cuz I love doing this. I get to sit down with people I enjoy. Just like the old school, no sponsors, no nothing. We can say what we want, do it the way we want. And you know, we do it because we love it. I’m sitting here with Chris Demer of Lewisburg Recycling and his son. Introduce your son for me, Chris, please.
**Chris Demer**
Yeah, this is my son Austin. He’s getting ready to be a high school senior and he’s been working with me for two summers. This will be his second summer working with us.
**Brett Ehart**
Dude, that’s awesome. I grew up in the recycling center and have done most every job around here. My son started here when he was 12. I put him in the recycling center and he worked there yesterday, has basketball tryouts today and then he’ll be back tomorrow. I love the recycling center for kids especially at our Caldwell yard because you get to see everybody, from the old lady with 20 pounds of cans to the guy with the crack problem trying to scrape five bucks together and everyone in between. It’s like introducing my kids to the wild.
**Chris Demer**
Absolutely, and for me, that interaction and experience is invaluable.
**Brett Ehart**
So, Austin, what’s your experience been like working in the recycling center?
**Austin Demer**
Oh, it’s been crazy. You meet a diverse range of people and it was frustrating at first, but I’ve learned to be patient and understanding. Being nice goes a long way because customer relationships are important for growing our business.
**Brett Ehart**
That’s the long dollar. How you treat people impacts your future business opportunities. Chris, what got you hooked on the scrap metal industry?
**Chris Demer**
It was completely random. I retired from the military in 2022, and a friend of mine in the real estate industry got the listing for an existing scrapyard. We both saw potential in running it more efficiently, and it sort of became a fire sale situation where we got a great deal. I didn’t know the scrap industry would get in my blood the way it did.
**Brett Ehart**
Do you feel your military background helps you in managing the scrapyard?
**Chris Demer**
Definitely. My operations background helped set up processes needed to manage cash flow and customer service. We focused on being customer centric, which helped us grow quickly in our first year. The structure I learned in the military was beneficial for that growth and implementing systems.
**Brett Ehart**
That’s crucial. Cash flow is king in this business, and having someone manage that can prevent potential pitfalls. How did that shift in customer service impact your business?
**Chris Demer**
We put a strong emphasis on treating customers fairly, which led to word of mouth spreading quickly. It helped us grow at an unbelievable rate in the first year, even with challenges getting the metal out as fast as it was coming in.
**Brett Ehart**
That’s great. Customer service is vital, and treating people with respect can drive more business than any marketing strategy can.
**Chris Demer**
Absolutely, and sometimes it’s just about admitting mistakes and making sure the customer leaves satisfied. It pays to double-check and ensure everything is fair for both parties involved.
**Brett Ehart**
Wise words. So, what’s next for you, Austin? What are your plans post high school?
**Austin Demer**
I play baseball competitively and plan to attend a public North Carolina school thanks to my dad’s military service benefits. I aim to study business and maybe play baseball at a D2 or D3 level, utilizing the transfer portal if needed. Ultimately, I want to bring my business degree back to help expand the family business.
**Brett Ehart**
I went through a similar path. College sports taught me a lot about discipline and teamwork. It’s beneficial to go somewhere that wants you and appreciates your skillset. What’s next for Lewisburg Recycling, Chris?
**Chris Demer**
We’re looking to purchase a second, much larger yard. It will help us control our market pricing better and increase opportunities. It’s a big investment but necessary for continued growth. Our goal is to successfully replicate our existing processes.
**Brett Ehart**
Investments can be daunting but sound steps for growth. Anything else you’d like to share?
**Chris Demer**
Just grateful for the opportunities and help we’ve received. It’s important to remain humble and keep learning from those who’ve been through the hard knocks.
**Brett Ehart**
Thanks for sharing your journey with us, Chris and Austin. If anyone wants to connect with you, how should they do it?
**Chris Demer**
Reach out to us through Lewisburg Recycling’s Facebook page or give us a call at the number behind me. We pride ourselves on fair treatment and exceptional service.
**Brett Ehart**
Thanks for joining the Scrap Life Podcast. It’s been a pleasure talking with you guys. Keep pushing and making things happen.
[End of Podcast]