Peter Spychala, Company Founder, Two Fussy Blokes
My name is Peter Spychala, and I'm one of the founders of Two Fussy Blokes. I currently wear a few hats as I look after purchasing, international sales and product development. Working on new products gives me the most motivation and enjoyment. It is a great journey to see the progress starting from an idea and eventuating it as the product is ready for sale. "Yes, I'm fussy, and this is how I work.
Being involved in the painting industry for almost two decades gave me a great platform to start a new business adventure known as Two Fussy Blokes. As a result, I'm able to understand the industry's needs based on my experience and continually listen to people involved in the painting and decorating industry.
As a result, we have built Two Fussy Blokes from the ground up. I'm proud to see how far we have gone starting with the literal idea of creating a company which slowly getting recognised around the globe for its unique approach to the industry. In five years, we have become a premium brand to go, and the goal is to become an industry-leading company with innovations never seen before. It all comes down to values, and I'm not scared of having bold ideas or goals that seem to be galaxies away, as perseverance is the key to achieving them.
We work with industry best like Dulux in the UK and Dulux in the NZ, and I'm proud to be part of that success. In that short period, we put Two Fussy Blokes on the world map, with nine countries selling our product and more coming on board soon.
Outside work, travel and football are my biggest life passions. I travel and discover places whenever possible as it helps me be inspired and learn about people and places I visit. I also actively play football which gives me a sense of belonging, and I love being part of the football community. Dream big, achieve your goals but never forget who you are and where you came from.
What is your favourite social media platform, and why?
I really enjoy Instagram, even though I don't have a personal account. I like visual content, and there is a lot to appreciate on that platform. So, many creative minds inspire others.
Tell us about you and your current role or area of interest.
I primarily look after purchasing and international sales, and product development.
What do you like about your career or area of focus?
Product development is my favourite area of work. The entire process is extremely challenging but very rewarding. Nothing beats the feeling when customers love your product. It is the testimony we do something right.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Money doesn't bring happiness but gives you choices.
What are you proud of in your life so far?
My two beautiful daughters!
What is your preferred way to meet new people/network?
I like casual settings, so meeting over coffee or beer works for me best.
What skills or qualities do you feel have helped you?
Independent thinker and strong personality, I don't give up easily, and most importantly, I dream big!
What do you wish you had known when you started out?
I wish I knew how hard and challenging it would be to work on Two Fussy Blokes. Actually, not as I would most likely stick with my painting company. (hahaha).
Who do you most admire in business, academic or creative circles and why?
My biggest inspiration comes from Richard Branson. He is my business idol. Reading his book "Losing My Virginity" inspired me; his journey to success wasn't easy, and now I know that it is never easy and is not meant to be.
We need constant challenges and failures to become better versions of ourselves. It is a never-ending process, and Richard Branson is living proof of that.
Outside of your professional/work area, what hobbies or interests do you have or what other areas of your life are of real importance to you?
My two biggest life passions would be football and travelling. So, if I can combine two of these, it is a superfood for my soul.
Has the pandemic had a positive or a negative effect on you and/or your business, and how have you managed it?
Mainly positive as the challenges thrown at us made us stronger, more innovative and helped us make decisions quicker, more efficiently and act swiftly when the challange arises.
Do you have a mentor, or have you ever mentored anyone?
I have a mentor with whom I have been working for the past three years. One of the best decisions I made in the past few years.
What advice would you have for someone looking to get into the same area of work or interests?
If you are not prepared to sacrifice your life, as you know, it doesn't even start as this industry is extremely hard to break through. You will need to be innovative and think outside the box. You will need luck and lots of it.
What do you feel is the most common reason for people failing or giving up?
Thinking of short-term rewards. Creating a successful business requires many sacrifices. Unfortunately, many people are not prepared to do that as they look for instant rewards.
Is there a phrase, quote or a saying that you really like?
"Nothing last forever" - you can apply this to negative or positive life settings. It always helps me to move forward as everything comes to an end one day!
What companies, brands, or institutions do you like or do you think are getting it right?
Apple and Singapore Airlines. I'm sure there are more, but these two are very obvious ones.
How do you define success, and what lessons have you learned so far that you could share with our audience/readership?
I don't believe that success is a tangible thing. Everyone sees success differently, as our experiences are unique to each of us. What is a success!