29 March 2016
An Outsider's Take on Grovemade
At Grovemade, we pride ourselves on cultivating a positive environment. We think it’s vital to the energy of our company, and the inspiration behind our products, that we come to work each day with a passion for what we’re doing, and a respect and appreciation for the people we’re working with. But we don’t want to assume we’re always getting that right. So, for an unbiased evaluation, we invited our friend Thomas McCracken to our workshop, to talk to a few employees and give us his observations—an outsider’s take on the Grovemade company culture.
Let me start by saying that Grovemade is a bunch of cool people, making some really unique stuff, using some very uncommon tools and techniques. So when they asked me to spend a day with them, I jumped at the chance. I spoke with nine people over the course of three hours, and I got a lot of interesting stuff. And I realized that, when writing an article on culture, for a group of smart, talented, and articulate people who truly love their jobs, it’s best to just get out of the way and let them tell their own story.
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When I first walk into the Grovemade workshop, I’m greeted by an announcement from somewhere near the shipping desk.
"Thomas is here!"
Followed by a few more stray shouts. "Thomas!" "Hi, Thomas!"
I wave ambiguously and yell hello to the room. I can’t help but smile.
I’m here to try and pinpoint what makes this place special. In a city teeming with creativity and opportunity in industrial design, machining, and handmaking, how does this company attract and retain such talented and vibrant people? How do they stay so small, while producing at such a high level? And, most impressively, how do they continue to advance their brand, and maintain their place in the elite of handcrafting merchants? I’m about to learn that it’s not an amazing company yielding a brilliant staff, it’s the opposite.
Not long after I arrive, Ken walks in the front door, bundled against the cold in a stocking cap and scarf. He’s sick—out today with a head cold—but he stops by to check on the team.
The shouting is back. "Ken’s here!" "Ken’s here!" "Hi, Ken!"
Ken stops by his desk, an unassuming station near the center of the room, and I make my first observation: the actual layout of the Grovemade workshop is symbolic of the culture. It’s open, it’s cohesive, everyone works together, and everything is closely connected. It defies the standard for what a company should look like.
Turns out, this is no coincidence.
Followed by a few more stray shouts. "Thomas!" "Hi, Thomas!"
I wave ambiguously and yell hello to the room. I can’t help but smile.
I’m here to try and pinpoint what makes this place special. In a city teeming with creativity and opportunity in industrial design, machining, and handmaking, how does this company attract and retain such talented and vibrant people? How do they stay so small, while producing at such a high level? And, most impressively, how do they continue to advance their brand, and maintain their place in the elite of handcrafting merchants? I’m about to learn that it’s not an amazing company yielding a brilliant staff, it’s the opposite.
Not long after I arrive, Ken walks in the front door, bundled against the cold in a stocking cap and scarf. He’s sick—out today with a head cold—but he stops by to check on the team.
The shouting is back. "Ken’s here!" "Ken’s here!" "Hi, Ken!"
Ken stops by his desk, an unassuming station near the center of the room, and I make my first observation: the actual layout of the Grovemade workshop is symbolic of the culture. It’s open, it’s cohesive, everyone works together, and everything is closely connected. It defies the standard for what a company should look like.
Turns out, this is no coincidence.
ASHLEY RUNION, PURCHASING / INVENTORY MANAGER:
It’s really nice that design and production can flow together. Maybe production is doing something and it doesn’t make sense and we need to talk to design about it, we can literally walk across the building and get an answer.
It’s really nice that design and production can flow together. Maybe production is doing something and it doesn’t make sense and we need to talk to design about it, we can literally walk across the building and get an answer.
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BEN WOOD, ENGINEERING / IMPLEMENTATION:
We’re able to make these very tight loops of design and prototyping; we can go through these cycles really fast. That enables us to do polished products. We can keep making little revisions—even after a product launches we can keep making little improvements.
We’re able to make these very tight loops of design and prototyping; we can go through these cycles really fast. That enables us to do polished products. We can keep making little revisions—even after a product launches we can keep making little improvements.
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To fully appreciate this environment, let’s take a step back.
The company’s origin story goes back to Joe Mansfield, one of the co-founders of Grovemade, purchasing a laser-engraving machine in 2007.
The company’s origin story goes back to Joe Mansfield, one of the co-founders of Grovemade, purchasing a laser-engraving machine in 2007.
MAX BROWN, PHOTOGRAPHER / GRAPHIC DESIGNER:
We went out for drinks one night. He was like, “I’m gonna buy a laser. This is my life now.” A week later we were in his house screwing around with a laser. It was like, “mess with the laser until stuff doesn’t catch on fire.” You know? This is something I really like—we make up a lot of stuff from scratch, and I think it makes our flavor really unique. We didn’t buy the starter package.
We went out for drinks one night. He was like, “I’m gonna buy a laser. This is my life now.” A week later we were in his house screwing around with a laser. It was like, “mess with the laser until stuff doesn’t catch on fire.” You know? This is something I really like—we make up a lot of stuff from scratch, and I think it makes our flavor really unique. We didn’t buy the starter package.
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Ken and Joe then founded Grovemade in 2009. At first the company was split into two locations—the CNC milling machine in the back of Ken’s cabinetry shop in southeast Portland, and the production facility several miles away, in the inner-eastside warehouse district.
SEAN KELLY, LEAD PRODUCT DESIGNER:
We had this very small space with the CNC and a table that we sanded cases at. We were driving cases over and taking them up the five flights of stairs.
We had this very small space with the CNC and a table that we sanded cases at. We were driving cases over and taking them up the five flights of stairs.
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The company moved into their current home in southeast Portland in the summer of 2013 and they immediately embraced the cohesive team environment it created.
EDMUND SANDOVAL, COPYWRITER / EVENTS COORDINATOR / PRODUCTION:
Everything truly is done here. I talk to the designers a lot; I watch the whole design process beginning to end and get to know it intimately. And that lends itself well to writing about these products. That’s really different. It’s a really special thing.
Everything truly is done here. I talk to the designers a lot; I watch the whole design process beginning to end and get to know it intimately. And that lends itself well to writing about these products. That’s really different. It’s a really special thing.
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MAX BROWN: There’s just so much crossover. Being in the same space, always being in the thick of it every day, it definitely makes me feel super connected to the rest of the process.
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GALEN LEE, ENGINEERING / IMPLEMENTATION:
"We can always walk over—ten steps away—and say, 'Hey, what do you think about this.' We don’t have to drive a couple miles, or run up and down ninety-nine stairs."
(I interrupt—is that an embellishment, or did you actually count? Galen responds with a deadpan gaze.)
"It was literally ninety-nine stairs.
"We can always walk over—ten steps away—and say, 'Hey, what do you think about this.' We don’t have to drive a couple miles, or run up and down ninety-nine stairs."
(I interrupt—is that an embellishment, or did you actually count? Galen responds with a deadpan gaze.)
"It was literally ninety-nine stairs.
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SEAN KELLY: We’ve just been constantly improving. Every space we’ve moved to has given us giant leaps in how we do business and how we connect with one another and how we learn.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=39e7aebb92f3cfd2a534da1e6beaa1a9 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=477ecbeaf2d21e5d3d4b5e07240ad7dd 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=a968a466bb944793aa8b7a2e779be57c 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=b8a91b1ced5a505348963b2416a498ad 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=8c3deb511eeb08a7b895e4059f6c3185 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=bbf93f44f78be1911b5371bac2728287 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=27e47cbcc71867f668094dd9d326ad94 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=86da8ee049a9d32f6b7baacac71f9627 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=c34184559327f13b8bf647bfc0e28bbb 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=ea3603773151a023ecd66be02d151115 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=83699d435401b43ca7ff7fb0d97bfc2d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=2a65bca8d31babed82e3e4d79d309ca1 3000w)
JIM HASSERT, OPERATIONS MANAGER:
This space is in direct alignment with how much more integrated and focused our values and principles are. Physically we’ve come together, and mentally—what we focus on and who we are has come together into a really tight focus and understanding as well.
This space is in direct alignment with how much more integrated and focused our values and principles are. Physically we’ve come together, and mentally—what we focus on and who we are has come together into a really tight focus and understanding as well.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=c6be5679db2730852f6940f22b5db42e 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=7a0782da94b4c31856528cbe12a6fc3c 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=78234a826d79e2af6a5be5905bc8cd8a 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=0f54d2f7c08d1a5a1d4237a3eaca4490 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=d13c5f087a423f5b690fb9748023002c 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=a58eac5bc10930a79b10635688372883 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=ec83f6abaf62286ad1f8a16d8d2b04cf 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=86f60df7c3221f7b9ad6a84e9ee2591f 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=8a7dfa18816577872d580ce916304079 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=96c12ea6aa09e796a6759c04e02a7c56 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=d238bcf963cf422b99ad23df279d1e06 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fjim-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=64bd928a48bad9f079fbab152c174b8c 3000w)
This is one of the things that really set Grovemade apart—every action is purposeful. They call that the Campaign of Intentionality. Its evident in how they run their shop, how they interact with each other, and how their product line continues to evolve.
JIM HASSERT: Our campaign of intentionality started with this space, asking, “Why is the broom there? Why is this box here? Why are we making this product?” Through that, the way we think was transformed. … We just replaced all these giant, heavy racks that couldn’t move, with racks that have wheels and can be used in any part of the space. We want our space and our minds to be flexible.
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GALEN LEE: If one of us says, “I think this area can be improved,” we’ll start by asking, “why.” We’ll track it back as far as we can, and if we can find the root of the problem, that allows us to have a better understanding, and make our tweaks accordingly. We don’t do anything haphazardly.
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ASHLEY RUNION: We just work together, like, “these are the things we want to improve on, how are we going to do it?” And sometimes it’s like, “hey I have this idea, I noticed this process we’re doing is not working.” So we’re constantly doing that, always trying to be better in each department. It’s a real team effort.
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![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=aaf4cdf2d32dbbb5a85a9c65988314e4 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=55c38955999614fe8ba555cc4ec11d51 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=ca7c358c98e090bd311b9dcbae6e81a6 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=ebf669f0d64364f1a8a0b6d6f2e3b8af 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=ba65b668f6ddf87ff0d4cecbbe5a41ee 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=5ab1e95e8af614b89cd46e73d4d40c7c 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=e4f5aac55955517a0746121161f14817 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=a5c9d03d63da7496f85d4375cc21fcdc 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=8bd24f8baf547948e39e2d00fa58ec35 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=d7262b8362f849bbf3232f0a1b3a636d 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=15abd6bfe354b876fb37db9be94a2f9f 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fgrovemade-tm-culture-B1.jpg?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=fb3d5f73e943431cd48936edd349ff19 3000w)
It is a team effort—but not in the traditional sense. It’s a team effort in that, while everyone has a role, most people here don’t have just one job. A lot of people told me, “I started out doing X, but they needed help in Y one day, so I jumped over there. Now I sort of do both.”
MISBAH AFSHARI, PRODUCTION:
I started working here in 2014, with hand sanding; it’s now been about four or five months that I’ve been in lasers. We do all different things, every day.
I started working here in 2014, with hand sanding; it’s now been about four or five months that I’ve been in lasers. We do all different things, every day.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=e7efdc286ee0f5fceb2b755e52d8c219 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=ec6082900424e9b8fb41a42e562a2e4e 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=944003432570c89d170c8887557c3710 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=a7a8b4767eda821528030dc039f848bc 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=656db636c57e42b8bd1d650bed5abd9a 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=6430edfaed46f4db9fb1ee2f6c37991f 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=6296e95e795c3c13f5961076076d0fc2 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=06293070cd0e494b971853c2b95a8e0a 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=d79bd8d55d04ef9c42c414a9b4511739 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=55d1aef3fe4d3e7bfe6f093fb99fd0b6 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=ad803eaa6b113a55dbd394f05264e466 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmisbah-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=bb6bfe2bdd6e83bf4393386f2cccd2ea 3000w)
It’s fascinating.
As a company committed to staying small and nimble, they always have to operate at maximum efficiency. If one person is out sick, that might be the entire order fulfillment department. That could be a disaster for most businesses, but not this one.
As a company committed to staying small and nimble, they always have to operate at maximum efficiency. If one person is out sick, that might be the entire order fulfillment department. That could be a disaster for most businesses, but not this one.
EDMUND SANDOVAL: We do a lot of cross training, so everybody can step in and make sure everything gets done. We have production guys that go to lasers; lasers go to production. Today we’re short in customer service, so I’m going help out with them, and we have other production guys who have already gone through customer service. There’s a great amount of trust put in every employee that we’re going to get the work done.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=4f2e7cdea9c04f951752135d56d768a3 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=ff94a8757618dbc3f07483a4c2d8dd53 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=748e2c7cdfadee9f01ce670bd0bb62bd 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=6da1f61278dad0fc451b7fb29a4e9d70 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=c8f46bc2445c09fa9b349f087fae8f6a 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=a8ab6d4f984184bfc2448b5539dcc968 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=cc0b8d0759d41ba4ada6138efcb3e50e 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=733657dde2b4972bf881f5306f2feeb8 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=0abe7b36496f0d2cd4a3cae62d2b2376 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=e09b9958321532270d8f544fef3cfca5 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=3b05140bc4d8d301349a323c39a71d9d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fedmund-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=681f414b3a32f69ac2231f01b0bbb98e 3000w)
This system not only makes the team better at filling occasional gaps in the production line, it also makes them more effective, as each person better understand the complete system.
KEVIN DO, PRODUCT DESIGNER:
You understand the process, and with that you can close the loop between design, engineering, and production. You have a better understanding of how things run, you understand the price of materials, and you’re not designing things that are impossible. That makes everything more fluid.
You understand the process, and with that you can close the loop between design, engineering, and production. You have a better understanding of how things run, you understand the price of materials, and you’re not designing things that are impossible. That makes everything more fluid.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=4e9deebc226ca3be561d53a29aec8727 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=a04f0f38303aa31df22c93a070c112ae 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=dd64071fb2e27fc4023fa7e3771f7994 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=1c6ef619c0cb960b75d991bea5b8705f 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=82d6ef219442aa496a560958a1ac29e6 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=b70a9179e97da7dd714e51a0b30f6612 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=98b43d2c03c11df319cbfe13c137f382 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=5472b9d185868c0ebeef0d1a4e30d674 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=7cd1a537c57a78936516e10c13ce837a 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=079bba9f292706d2f0e3befe93c3f12e 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=feb1758813fb224adebe931e4cf9dfd8 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=327cfa9db35d348b8f8a223ffcdf5fb7 3000w)
ASHLEY RUNION: Every time we think of a new way to be more efficient, it’s so fulfilling. Because some tasks can seem so daunting and overwhelming, it’s nice to know you have a team behind you.
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And, ultimately, it just makes people happier.
BEN WOOD: My role would definitely be one step removed in a bigger company. I’d never have the experience of going out and running the CNC mills. And that hands-on stuff, I just have to do it to keep invested in what I do.
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MISBAH AFSHARI: In every department, every person is so happy, all the time. They have these smiles on their faces and they love what they do. Including myself.
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KEVIN DO: People get excited when you have ideas. People will drop what they’re doing and we’ll jump in a little design session and talk about it.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=4e9deebc226ca3be561d53a29aec8727 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=a04f0f38303aa31df22c93a070c112ae 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=dd64071fb2e27fc4023fa7e3771f7994 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=1c6ef619c0cb960b75d991bea5b8705f 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=82d6ef219442aa496a560958a1ac29e6 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=b70a9179e97da7dd714e51a0b30f6612 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=98b43d2c03c11df319cbfe13c137f382 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=5472b9d185868c0ebeef0d1a4e30d674 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=7cd1a537c57a78936516e10c13ce837a 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=079bba9f292706d2f0e3befe93c3f12e 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=feb1758813fb224adebe931e4cf9dfd8 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fkevin-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=327cfa9db35d348b8f8a223ffcdf5fb7 3000w)
MAX BROWN: My role has really evolved over time; I can’t imagine it being that way many places. I started as the only laser operator. We had a camera sitting around and I had never shot a photo, but I took the camera out for the weekend. I had no idea what I was doing. That was like three or four years ago and photography is now, really, the main thing I do. It comes down to just trusting people, you know?
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=d267978fb4e2f8a4794fd7a8651ab0d6 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=f412ef5138dc797c3346b8f26a6b8d5d 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=f2cb1a6523d1cc0b56ad286c287046fb 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=abc1752de4d6bc2d0e2184b53ef348c8 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=29726e0646ea376b6a626d39d575e062 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=0486907eef9926ec25aecb044f989bf1 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=dece55e8f038942f003ad43854893507 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=f8d0cac9905d80983b32b6fec289d0e6 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=4c80a455e03fed08e1a46f659e3fad02 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=13ad7acb6d3229ea4153846678e3904a 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=edbf4f7c3e6d0c6844cf2be5da140636 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fmax-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=86fe00f9c040f989f2a9d769397dd5ca 3000w)
At this point, I take a break between interviews. I get up and stretch my legs and inspect a display shelf by the front door. Four employees sit in the lounge and fabricate dialogue for the pigeons outside the window, squabbling over scraps. This moment says a lot about this place. When these guys aren’t talking about form factors and design inspiration, they’re making karate chop noises to flapping pigeon wings. They’re a bunch of people who like each other, which gives them the license to push each other, hold each other accountable, take chances, and take pride in their work. And that shows.
SEAN KELLY: We have this thing called Noodle Quest. We go out and get noodles together. Because most of us really, really like noodles. When we’re at work, we’re constantly trying to lift each other up and push each other forward and work together as a team. …And then we go on field trips.
![](https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=200&s=39e7aebb92f3cfd2a534da1e6beaa1a9 200w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=300&s=477ecbeaf2d21e5d3d4b5e07240ad7dd 300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=500&s=a968a466bb944793aa8b7a2e779be57c 500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=700&s=b8a91b1ced5a505348963b2416a498ad 700w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=900&s=8c3deb511eeb08a7b895e4059f6c3185 900w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1100&s=bbf93f44f78be1911b5371bac2728287 1100w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1300&s=27e47cbcc71867f668094dd9d326ad94 1300w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1500&s=86da8ee049a9d32f6b7baacac71f9627 1500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=1800&s=c34184559327f13b8bf647bfc0e28bbb 1800w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2250&s=ea3603773151a023ecd66be02d151115 2250w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=2500&s=83699d435401b43ca7ff7fb0d97bfc2d 2500w,https://grovemade.imgix.net/https%3A%2F%2Fsiteleaf.grovemade.com%2Fuploads%2Fsean-A2.png?auto=format&ixlib=python-1.1.2&w=3000&s=2a65bca8d31babed82e3e4d79d309ca1 3000w)
KEVIN DO: Ken uses the analogy of a maze versus a labyrinth. A maze is an obstacle with many dead ends, but only one correct path. With a labyrinth, if you stay focused, you can pivot as many times as you need to get to the solution. That’s how we view things here. That helps you make decisions and not really second-guess yourself. So, we pivot.
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ASHLEY RUNION: Ken and Jim are big on constantly improving. Because when you’re constantly improving yourself, the team is improving as well. It’s nice to have the owner of a company sit you down and take the time to listen and find out how you learn. It’s nice to have that personal level.
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I feel like I understand what this place is all about; how they continue to inspire each other, and continue to push the aesthetic and functionality of their products. And if there was ever a doubt about the future, they’re thinking about that too. Always. Thinking.
JIM HASSERT: We always want to improve, but we also want to know when to stop investing in a product. The really interesting work is that paradox. There’s no right or wrong answer, it’s just a matter of finding the sweet spot. That’s where work happens, where those things collide. You can’t move forward without friction.
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GALEN LEE: The one constant is change. Not just change for change’s sake, but a drive to constantly improve everything around us. We’re addressing what’s in front of us, and also addressing the future. As Ken likes to say, 'Without the present there is no future; without the future, there is no present.
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As I’m packing up my things at the end of the day, Galen has fallen asleep in the lounge. Ken calls a few coworkers over, they exchange a laugh and get back to work. I get the feeling I’d have fun hanging out with these people. They’re passionate about doing great work, and they take that very seriously, but they don’t take themselves seriously. There’s a camaraderie and a kinship here. It’s what creates the amazing culture that this place exudes, and it’s a big reason their products continue to delight and inspire us.
That’s something you can’t fake, and you can’t manufacture. That’s as real as it gets.
One last chorus of shouts as I hit the front door.
“Thomas is leaving!” “Bye, Thomas!” “Thanks, Thomas!”
That’s something you can’t fake, and you can’t manufacture. That’s as real as it gets.
One last chorus of shouts as I hit the front door.
“Thomas is leaving!” “Bye, Thomas!” “Thanks, Thomas!”