In this heartfelt and insightful episode of The Authentic Only Show, host Joey C sits down with Steven Zylstra to explore life beyond retirement and the challenges of navigating a changing business landscape. As the former owner of a family-run ornamental metal fabrication business, Faroe Iron, Steven shares stories about craftsmanship, the impact of cheap imports, and his ongoing involvement in his son’s business. The conversation is full of thoughtful reflections on family legacy, business challenges, and even a humorous debate over the perfect scone. Highlights - 🗣️ Guest Introduction: Steven Zylstra shares his initial hesitance to join the podcast, hinting at the vulnerability that comes with sharing personal stories. Life Experiences: Steven reflects on a lifetime of experiences, revealing the twists and turns that have shaped his journey. Retirement Conversations: Despite being retired, Steven remains deeply connected to the business world through his daily discussions with his son. Family Legacy: The transition of Faroe Iron to the next generation highlights the complexities and pride of running a family business. Craftsmanship vs. Cheap Imports: Steven delves into the impact of globalization, lamenting the decline of traditional metalwork in favor of cheaper overseas products. Sustainability in Food: A thought-provoking conversation about organic food and sustainability sheds light on how authenticity can often get lost in marketing buzzwords. Scone Showdown: A light-hearted debate about scone quality serves as a fun reminder that even simple things—like properly baking a scone—can evoke strong opinions. Key Insights - 💡 The Hesitancy to Share: Steven’s initial reluctance to open up reflects a common challenge with vulnerability, underscoring the importance of creating safe spaces for sharing stories. Retirement’s New Role: Retirement doesn’t mark the end of meaningful contributions. Steven’s mentorship role in his son’s business exemplifies the value of passing down knowledge and remaining engaged. Family Business Transitions: The conversation highlights the joys and challenges of maintaining a family-owned business while adapting to new market realities. Globalization and Craftsmanship: Steven’s reflections on the ornamental metal industry illustrate the struggles traditional artisans face against the influx of cheaper, mass-produced imports. Price vs. Quality in Food: The discussion about food sustainability demonstrates how consumers often prioritize affordability over quality, sometimes at the expense of tradition and authenticity. Authenticity in Sustainability: The exchange about organic practices emphasizes the importance of transparency and genuine sustainability in both business and food industries. Humor in Culinary Debates: The playful argument over scones adds a touch of levity, showing how food can spark passionate (and sometimes hilarious) conversations. A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Family This episode offers a window into the life of a man who has seen the evolution of business, family, and craftsmanship firsthand. Steven Zylstra’s reflections remind us that retirement is not the end of our story but a new chapter for mentorship and legacy. His thoughts on the challenges of modern business practices and the importance of quality—whether in metalwork, food, or relationships—resonate with anyone navigating change in their personal or professional lives. With a blend of wisdom, humor, and heart, this conversation invites listeners to reflect on their own journeys, family legacies, and the importance of staying true to one’s values in an ever-changing world. Tune in to The Authentic Only Show for more candid conversations like this one. And don’t forget—whether it’s a well-crafted metal piece or a perfect scone, quality matters. 🎧