Inner Circle
Join Inner CircleJoin
← Back to Listen
Content

EP305: Micro Mini Reefs with Harley Finberg of PNW Customs

⏱️ 50:21 🎤 Eric Triplett, Harley Finberg
AUDIO EPISODE
EP305: Micro Mini Reefs with Harley Finberg of PNW Customs
0:00
0:00

Chapters

Click to jump to section

  • 0:00
    Introducing Micro Mini Reefs
    Eric Triplett introduces Harley Finberg and his 40-ounce micro reef tank, expressing his awe and obsession with the tiny, fully functional aquarium.
  • 4:46
    The World's Smallest Reefs
    Harley explains his specialization in micro reef tanks, revealing that the featured tank is 40 ounces (about a third of a gallon) and he even makes smaller versions.
  • 6:33
    Origin & Evolution of Micro Reefs
    Harley recounts how he started making these tiny aquariums to push his manufacturing and hobbyist skills, initially expecting failure, but eventually creating his most popular product.
  • 15:28
    Portable Reefs & Travel
    Harley details the battery-powered design of his portable reef, inspired by a customer, and explains how he travels with it on airplanes, even through TSA.
  • 31:39
    Viral Success & Business Growth
    Harley shares the unexpected viral success of his micro reef tanks, leading to significant business growth and an order of 200 units from a large retailer.
  • 45:18
    Continuous Improvement
    Harley discusses how PNW Custom Aquariums continuously updates its products based on customer feedback, highlighting changes like improved lighting and black nozzles to prevent algae.
  • 1:02:07
    Maintenance and Stability
    Harley explains the simple maintenance routine for his micro reef, which includes weekly water changes with a turkey baster and filter pad replacement, emphasizing stability over complex supplements.
  • 1:09:50
    Inspiring Success Stories
    Harley shares his favorite success story, 'Roaming Reef Mike,' a customer who travels the country with his micro reef, showcasing the tank's portability and emotional impact.
  • 1:22:25
    Accessibility for New Hobbyists
    Harley rates the micro reef's difficulty for new hobbyists as a 3 to 5 out of 10, emphasizing the importance of quality saltwater and the use of tools for intricate work.

Speakers

E
Eric Triplett
Host — The Pond Digger
H
Harley Finberg
Founder, PNW Custom Aquariums

Key Takeaways

✦

Consider offering specialized, compact products that can serve as 'traveling demos' to impress potential clients and differentiate your services.

✦

Embrace niche markets; sometimes, the smallest solutions can create the biggest impact and generate unexpected demand.

✦

Use personal passion projects as a testing ground for innovation; what starts as a hobby can evolve into a core business offering.

✦

Actively solicit and incorporate customer feedback into product development to ensure continuous improvement and relevance, especially for a small business.

✦

Simplify maintenance routines for complex systems; easy, consistent upkeep is often more effective than sporadic, intricate procedures.

✦

Leverage the 'wow' factor; a unique and highly visible product can serve as an excellent conversation starter and marketing tool in various settings.

✦

Educate your customers thoroughly on product compatibility and best practices to ensure their success and foster long-term satisfaction.

Want the full experience?

Join the Inner Circle for full access to every episode, AI-powered insights, personalized coaching, and a network of industry leaders.

Join Inner Circle →
POWER100

Inner Circle Membership Portal © 2026 Power100. All rights reserved.

power100.io