09/19/2026
This carving symbolizes freedom.
It was made by my father, Phil Chapman, and it was something he had actually never done before.
(Fun fact: The name Philmans is an easy nod to his name.)
While this piece has nothing to do with what the business actually does, it has everything to do with what it represents. To me, it stands for the freedom to choose your own path, build what you love, choose who you surround yourself with, and chase whatever makes you happy. It’s a constant reminder that if you believe in yourself, stand strong, and weather whatever storm comes your way, you can achieve anything.
Most importantly: Do what you love. Don’t waver, don’t flex, and don't bend on what you stand for—we will support you.
Support your colleagues. Whether you’re a one-person show or running a whole team, you are surrounded by other small business owners who truly get it.
Just like nurses understand nursing, truckers understand life on the road, teachers get the classroom, or chefs get the kitchen—other entrepreneurs are the only ones who truly know what it takes to run a brand day in and day out. We have a whole network walking this exact same path.
You are not, and will never be, alone in this. Which brings me back: Be kind. Be true. Think of those around you, not just yourself.
We talk a lot about "community," yet there’s often an unspoken tension between small businesses—even when we aren't competing. It shouldn't be that way!
Small business owners are fiercely proud and rarely ask for help when they need it most. Don't wait for them to ask. Check in, pitch in, and seek out those who might need a hand. When one of us stumbles, if we band together, we can pick each other up and get back to business without skipping a beat.
If this resonates, share it with a fellow business owner or creator who needs a reminder that they aren't in this alone. Let's build each other up. 🪵✨