We had the good fortune of connecting with Mike Kremsreiter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mike, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
The most difficult decision I’ve ever made was in 2020 when my wife and I decided to move from the Chicago suburbs to Colorado. At the time, I was running a successful residential painting company, which I had built over 17 years. The business wasn’t perfect, but it had a solid brand, good online presence, and a loyal customer base. My wife had an opportunity with her company, but she needed to be in market to take the position, which sparked the conversation.

We had just finished renovating our home—though the process had been ongoing for five years, as we were updating a 1990s house that hadn’t been touched much by the previous owners. It was supposed to be our “forever” home.

The decision was difficult for several reasons. I’d lived in the Chicago area my whole life, and I was deeply connected to my family, friends, and community. Plus, there was the matter of my employees—how would they react? What would become of the business I’d worked so hard to build? I spent weeks weighing the pros and cons, trying to balance what was best for us with the impact it would have on others.

Ultimately, the decision came down to what was best for our family, especially our kids. I had to set aside my fears and not let concerns about what others might think or what would happen to my employees dictate my choice.

Once we made the decision, everything fell into place surprisingly quickly. In less than three months, we sold our business, our house, purchased a new home in Colorado, and moved. Looking back, it was the hardest decision I’ve ever made, and while we do miss family, friends, and our old home, it was the right choice for us.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
A career in the painting industry isn’t something most kids dream about, but for me, it was a natural fit. I’ve always enjoyed home improvement, working with my hands, and the satisfaction that comes from manual labor. The continual learning and challenges of the home services industry also drew me in.

I started painting professionally in college, and after earning a studio art degree from a small liberal arts college, I didn’t have a clear plan for the future. I continued working in the painting industry, while also taking on short stints at Home Depot, in the hospitality industry, and in corporate inside sales. But no matter where I went, I always found my way back to painting. Eventually, I left the corporate world and started my own painting business. With no formal business training, I had to learn everything on the job. I quickly realized the importance of asking questions, seeking mentorship, and learning from others in both the painting industry and the broader world of small business.

The journey wasn’t easy. There were plenty of setbacks and challenges along the way. I had to learn to embrace mistakes as opportunities to improve and find the patience to keep moving forward, even when progress felt slow. Humility was a key factor in my growth. I realized early on that I could always learn something new from someone with more experience, whether it was about paint application, business operations, or new technologies. Over time, I implemented systems, such as estimating software and automation tools, to improve efficiency and keep the business running smoothly.

After nearly 30 years in the painting industry, working in roles ranging from painter to business owner, production manager, sales manager, and consultant, I’m passionate about sharing the knowledge I’ve gained. I enjoy answering questions about paint application, product knowledge, estimating, business growth, and marketing. This desire to help others led me to create content for homeowners, professional painters, and paint business owners. When I first started, there wasn’t easy access to information about painting techniques or how to market a painting business. Today, while there are endless resources, much of the information is confusing or unclear. I aim to share my insights in an unbiased, straightforward, and humble way to help others save time and avoid unnecessary challenges.

What sets me apart is my commitment to continual learning and my drive to help others succeed. The lessons I’ve learned—patience, humility, the importance of mentorship, and the value of new technologies—have shaped both my career and my business. I want people to know that I’m passionate about making the painting industry more accessible and easier to navigate for everyone, whether you’re a homeowner or a professional.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am not a huge city person, but depending on time of year I would plan on a Rockies game or a Broncos game in the city. Seeing Union Station is also a historic place worth a stop to see. We would also have to visit Red Rocks for a concert or to simply run the steps for some morning exercise. I am not partial to any one brewery, but a short brewery tour would be a must.

A quick trip up to Boulder for a hike of the Flatirons from the Chautauqua Trailhead would be another must do thing to do.

A trip west on I-70 into the mountains would be on the list as well. A day trip for fly fishing on the Colorado River during the summer or Skiing in the winter tops the other outdoor items we would want to do.

Lastly, a trip south along I-25 down to Colorado Springs for a stop at the Garden of the Gods, the Manitou Incline or a drive up Pikes Peak would be other things to check out if time.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would say my wife, family and friends. Without my supportive wife, I wouldn’t be able to take the risks that are necessary for success. I also had great support from my parents, my brothers (both worked with me at one time and were great mentors) and my sister. Lastly, friends and family were my first customers; they believed in me when no one else knew who I was or what services I provide.

Website: https://www.homepaintingadvice.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homepaintingadvice/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekremsreiter/

Twitter: https://x.com/homepaintadvice

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568507934655

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HomePaintingAdvice

Other: Email: contact@homepaintingadvice.com

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.