It’s one thing to be good at your craft. It’s another to turn it into a business that actually works. Kurt knows that tension well. After years of watching talented people burn out or walk away because the numbers didn’t add up, he stepped in to offer something different. Through his company, Schmidt Consulting Group, his books, and his podcast, he is helping others grow sustainable businesses while staying true to what they love.

Kurt, tell us about your passion. 

I’ve always been passionate about helping craftspeople turn their skills into sustainable businesses. It’s not always easy, and I’ve seen firsthand the challenges that come with balancing creativity and profitability. But I truly believe that with the right support and tools, it’s possible to build something that not only thrives but lasts. My goal is to share what I’ve learned, help others avoid common pitfalls, and encourage more makers to embrace the business side without losing their passion for their craft.

How did you discover your passion, and how long have you been practicing it? Was there a big "aha moment" or did you realize it more slowly?

As a craftsperson, I spent years grappling with how to turn my passion into a business that wasn’t just creative but also profitable, scalable, and sustainable. It wasn’t easy—there were plenty of mistakes and lessons along the way. Now, I use what I’ve learned to help others facing those same challenges. If you’re in that spot, know that it’s possible to build something incredible while staying true to your craft. It takes focus, strategy, and a little bit of trial and error, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone.

What was happening in your life when you began to discover this passion?

I found myself working with people who let things like a scarcity mindset, resistance to personal growth, and, frankly, a bit of hubris steer incredible businesses into trouble. These were businesses that didn’t just produce great work but also created fantastic cultures and jobs for people who depended on the founders to take their responsibilities seriously. Watching this happen over and over made me realize something: if I wanted to see workplaces that truly valued growth, sustainability, and leadership, I needed to create that environment myself. And not just build it. I wanted to learn how to teach others to do the same. It wasn’t an easy decision, but it felt like the right one.

Have you ever hesitated in pursuing your passion? Why? What support has helped you continue?

At first, I was hesitant. Really hesitant. I worried about whether I could still provide for my family and how it would feel to walk away from people who had trusted me and given me great opportunities as an employee. It wasn’t an easy decision, and I wrestled with a lot of doubt. But ultimately, I realized something important: I could make a bigger impact, do more good in the world, and create a stronger, lasting legacy by stepping into the challenge of building a sustainable business on my own. It wasn’t about turning my back—it was about taking a step forward.

Where have you needed to invest your time, energy, or other resources to pursue this passion? What have you removed from your life so that you could pursue it?

Your network really does shape your net worth. I’ve learned that being intentional about who I surround myself with has made a huge difference in how I approach my passions. By prioritizing relationships with the right people and stepping away from those who didn’t align with my goals, I’ve been able to focus more clearly and move forward with purpose. It’s not always an easy process, but it’s worth it. The people around you have a big impact on your energy and direction, so choose wisely!

Tell us about one challenge you've encountered as you've pursued this passion.

I’ve never been great with numbers. Math and equations have always been a bit of a struggle for me. But here’s what I’ve learned: finding the right help and leaning on support can make all the difference. For me, that support came from my wife, whose patience and guidance helped me tackle what felt impossible at times. If you’re facing something similar, don’t hesitate to ask for help. You don’t have to do it alone, and with the RIGHT people in your corner, you can overcome just about anything.

Look back at the “you” before you started this passion. Is your life different now? How?

Absolutely! I feel much more confident now than I ever have about what I’m doing. It’s been a journey, and while I’ve had my fair share of trial and error, the experience has taught me a lot. If you’re in a similar situation, my advice is to trust the process, seek feedback, and persevere. Even when it feels challenging. Confidence builds over time, and every step forward, no matter how small, makes a difference.

KURT SCHMIDT SPEAKING

Has your passion helped others? How?

I’ve always believed in the power of giving back, which is why I’ve spent time helping solopreneurs, new business owners, and people in transition who are looking for support and a network to build on. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how a little guidance can make a big difference.

That’s also what inspired me to write The Little Book of Networking. Networking doesn’t come naturally to everyone; in fact, it can be downright intimidating. But my goal with this book was to make it approachable, even enjoyable, for anyone struggling with it. I’ve been thrilled to hear how it’s helped hundreds of people not only get better at networking but actually start to like it, watching their ""networking net worth"" grow in the process.

If you’re finding networking a challenge, don’t worry, you’re not alone, and it’s absolutely something you can get better at with the right mindset and tools.

What is one “life lesson” you’re learning as you pursue this passion?

Nobody is going to swoop in and save the day for you—mostly because you haven’t told anyone what you actually need. People aren’t mind readers.

Nobody’s going to care about your goals, projects, or ideas unless you give them a reason to. Why should they care? What’s in it for them? Take the time to connect the dots.

And here’s a tough one: get over yourself. Nobody cares about your thing as much as you do, and that’s okay. It’s not personal. It’s just life.

The truth is, you can’t make an impact just by thinking about it or waiting for the stars to align. It takes action, communication, and a little perspective. Is that one thing? Ha!

What would you say to a friend or colleague who is considering exploring a passion?

Getting started is always the hardest part, but remember, you’re already ahead of someone else who hasn’t taken that first step yet.

As you make progress, don’t forget to lend a hand to those coming up behind you. Helping others doesn’t slow you down; in fact, it creates momentum for everyone. After all, a rising tide lifts all boats.

Keep going, and don’t underestimate the power of collaboration and generosity along the way.

Follow Kurt at: https://schmidtconsulting.group/ and listen to the Schmidt List podcast at: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/schmidt-list-entrepreneurial-insights/id1286383143