Building a Brand, a Business, and a Family Legacy with Mike Elya
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
Release Date: 04/15/2025
"Parade of Homes" Series Teaser
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
We're got a great series of programs coming up to coincide with our annual "Parade of Homes!"
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Building Community, Culture & Craftsmanship with Bay View Flooring's Jonathan Woolfolk
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker welcomes Jonathan Woolfolk, co-owner of Bay View Flooring and title sponsor of this year’s Parade of Homes. Lauren and John chat about the 36th annual Parade of Homes, flooring trends, and what makes this showcase of local craftsmanship such a beloved event. John shares what it’s been like to take over a trusted, family-run business with his wife Margaret, and how they’ve embraced both tradition and innovation—from pet-friendly showrooms to an evolving apprenticeship pipeline with the Career Tech Center....
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Lifting Up the Trades: The Story of the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker is joined by Lauren Flynn and Heidi Flake to shine a spotlight on an important but often overlooked part of the HBA: the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation. They dive deep into the foundation’s mission to support skilled trades careers across northern Michigan through scholarships, workforce development programs, and community outreach. You’ll hear about the foundation’s evolution, the importance of breaking down barriers to career entry, and why changing the public perception of trades is critical to solving...
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Building a Brand, a Business, and a Family Legacy with Mike Elya
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker sits down with Mike Elya, owner of Elya Construction, to talk about what it really means to build something that lasts—whether it's a business, a brand, or a home for your own family. Mike shares how joining the HBA has helped accelerate his business growth through networking, education, and access to resources he didn't have when starting out. From professional development courses like CAPS and Spanish jobsite communication to volunteering at events like the Home Expo, Mike's story is a blueprint for getting the most out of...
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Building Tomorrow: Workforce, Innovation & 3D Printing with Carolyn Andrews, Northwestern Michigan College
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker sits down with Carolyn Andrews, Program Coordinator for Construction Trades at NMC and 2023 HBA Humanitarian of the Year. Carolyn shares her inspiring journey from interior design to skilled trades advocacy, and her deep commitment to reshaping how our community sees careers in construction. From bringing local counselors into the trades lab to empowering students with hands-on experiences, she’s helping lead a cultural shift. The episode also dives into one of the region’s most exciting innovations: a 3D printing in...
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Leadership, Advocacy & The Future of Home Building: Carl Harris & Bob Filka
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker brings you two insightful conversations with industry leaders shaping the future of home building. First, we go live from the International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas to talk with Carl Harris, outgoing NAHB Chairman, about his experiences, the importance of strong industry advocacy, and what’s next for the organization. Later, Bob Filka, CEO of HBA of Michigan, joins us for a second conversation to discuss the critical advocacy efforts happening at the state level. From tackling regulatory challenges to supporting Michigan...
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What You Need to Know About Waterfront Property: Dane Englert, The Ferraro Group
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
Owning a home on the water is a dream for many—but what’s the reality? On this episode of the HBA Building Better Podcast, Lauren Tucker sits down with Dane Englert of The Ferraro Group to discuss: ✔️ The 14% increase in waterfront property values 💰 ✔️ How to prevent water damage and structural wear 🌧️ ✔️ The remodel vs. rebuild debate for historic family cottages 🔨 ✔️ A Prohibition-era surprise found in a Long Lake renovation 🍾 Whether you're building, remodeling, or just dreaming of a lakefront home, this episode is packed with insights!
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Terry Peach, Kingsley Lumber
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
This week, Lauren sits down with Terry Peach, Director of Sales at Kingsley Lumber to talk about the latest trends in homebuilding, Kingsley Lumber’s big move to a new, expanded location and Terry’s unexpected passion—BMX racing at a national level! Tune in for industry insights, hilarious stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at the HBA community.
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Sally Erickson, Brand Ambassador, Pella Windows
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, we welcome the incredible Sally Erickson, Brand Ambassador for Pella by Horne Windows & Doors. Sally brings a deep passion for the residential construction industry and a long history with the Home Builders Association of Northwest Michigan. Lauren and Sally reminisce about their first meeting, Sally’s family's multi-generational involvement with the HBA, and why builders should participate in the long-standing Parade of Homes. Join us for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about leadership, community, and the impact of the HBA on the...
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Expo Excitement with Julie Bravender
Building Better Podcast from HBA Northwest Michigan
In this week’s episode, Lauren is joined by guest Julie Bravender, Loan Officer at Lake Michigan Credit Union, to preview the upcoming 2025 HBA Home Expo. They discuss the Expo’s rich history and exciting new features, plus home remodeling trends . Be sure to grab your tickets for the Expo on February 15 & 16 at the Grand Traverse Resort and join in on the fun and festivities!
info_outlineIn this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker sits down with Mike Elya, owner of Elya Construction, to talk about what it really means to build something that lasts—whether it's a business, a brand, or a home for your own family.
Mike shares how joining the HBA has helped accelerate his business growth through networking, education, and access to resources he didn't have when starting out. From professional development courses like CAPS and Spanish jobsite communication to volunteering at events like the Home Expo, Mike's story is a blueprint for getting the most out of your membership.
We also dive into his philosophy of professionalism on the jobsite, how he’s building his own family home on a multigenerational farm, and why leading with integrity is the best way to stand out in a crowded industry.
Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your connection to the trades, Mike's story is equal parts inspiring and practical.