Travis Ross shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Travis, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about your customers?
My customers often say they trust me around their home and believe I work like a craftsman. I’m also suprised by the number of customers who have said I’m too expensive and they hire me anyway.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I amI’m a home renovation and repair professional based in Middle Tennessee. Some people call me a handyman—and I’m good with that—because I genuinely enjoy being a jack of all trades. My business, Red Dog Renovation, carries the tagline “A Homeowner’s Best Friend.” That’s because I strive to be approachable, reliable, and resourceful—someone you can count on when home projects feel overwhelming.
What makes my story a little different is that I spent 25 years in the tech industry before being laid off in late 2023. That pivot pushed me to finally take the leap and build something of my own. The job market was uncertain, but instead of waiting for another opportunity, I created one. I launched Red Dog Renovation to combine my love for working with my hands and serving people in meaningful ways.
Now, I get to do work I love, and often include my teenage kids on job sites when possible—which makes it even more rewarding. I’ve also made it a point to encourage others who’ve been displaced from tech to explore new paths, including self-employment. There’s real satisfaction in using your skills to build something lasting, both for yourself and your clients.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My dad. He showed me what it means to work hard—no matter the task. He didn’t just tell me what to do; he invited me into the work. He let me try, let me fail, and never gave up on me. That kind of steady presence shaped the way I work today and how I try to show up for others—whether it’s my own kids, my clients, or folks starting over in a new career like I did.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely. There are plenty of moments where I’ve felt like giving up—especially in this line of work. Running a business like Red Dog Renovation means working in tough conditions, and sometimes my body pushes back. I’ve got a few chronic injuries (note to self: take it easy on the mountain bike next time), and lately, with the extreme summer heat, it’s been brutal.
After a long day—when things haven’t gone as planned, the conversations have been tough, and I’m physically and emotionally spent—I start to wonder if I can keep going. But then I remind myself: that’s just the exhaustion talking. Even my 17-year-old son will say, “Don’t make a long-term decision based on short-term emotions.”
So I rest, reset, and get back up the next day. And the amazing thing is, the hard moments always pass. The lessons eventually show up. And every time, I come out the other side stronger—both as a person and a business owner.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What truths are so foundational in your life that you rarely articulate them?
“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord…” — Colossians 3:23.
This verse is the foundation of my work ethic and the lens through which I see my business and my life. My faith in God shapes how I approach each project, how I treat people, and why I show up with integrity—even when no one’s watching.
This is who I am, and it’s the reason I do what I do. I’m not in this for praise or admiration—but I won’t lie—it’s deeply rewarding when a client lights up with satisfaction or gratitude. That, to me, is just a glimpse of something bigger.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What light inside you have you been dimming?
The light I’ve been dimming is my desire to become a true craftsman—someone who creates lasting beauty and function with their hands. I dream of building furniture and even homes inspired by the old-world craftsmanship of the Arts and Crafts movement, like the work of Frank Lloyd Wright and the skilled tradesmen of the early 1900s. I’m drawn to that grounded, solid aesthetic—where form follows function, and everything has both meaning and longevity.
But the reality is, most of the projects I work on don’t allow space for that kind of detail or material. Today’s homes are often built with cheaper products and tighter timelines, which can make it hard to lean into the artistry I crave. And while I’d love to start a business focused on restoring and building architectural pieces and heirloom furniture, it feels overwhelming. The cost, the learning curve, even finding clients—it all feels like a mountain I haven’t figured out how to climb.
I’ve looked into classes, training, or a starting point, but haven’t found the right fit yet. So for now, this dream stays tucked in the background. But it’s still there, flickering quietly, and I haven’t given up on the idea that someday I’ll find a way to bring it into the light.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.reddogrenovation.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/red.dog.renovation/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisross/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/red.dog.renovation
