Builder Stories
Welcome to Builder Stories, the podcast where builders, remodelers, and contractors share their personal and business journeys. Come learn from the stories of successful entrepreneurs who share how they got started, how they found success, and the lessons learned along the way. Your host, Eric Fortenberry, has successfully built two businesses, one in software and one in construction. He is now the Founder and CEO of JobTread Software, a construction estimating and project management platform that has helped thousands of builders and contractors sell and manage over $1 billion in construction jobs.
info_outline
The Power of Outside Expertise | Ben and Amy Wright of Center State Craftsmen
11/19/2025
The Power of Outside Expertise | Ben and Amy Wright of Center State Craftsmen
Ben and Amy Wright describe how a move to Nashville for music eventually led them into house flipping, and ultimately a thriving construction business. They share how years of working on their own homes helped them gain confidence, attract referrals, and step into larger projects. Coaching played a major role in shaping their mindset, improving their systems, and helping them grow into the high end work they now enjoy. Ben and Amy’s story shows how thoughtful decisions, and the willingness to learn can completely reshape a business. In this episode you will learn: Which coaches accelerated their growth How they built a website that reflects the quality of their work Which marketing efforts created the strongest return How they use networking to gain projects The sales process that changed their approach Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Center State Craftsmen .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/39090690
info_outline
Creating Order in Construction | Brandon Sinkler of Coastal Builders and Consultants
11/11/2025
Creating Order in Construction | Brandon Sinkler of Coastal Builders and Consultants
Brandon Sinkler traded firefighting for construction and built a successful remodeling company in Charleston, South Carolina. What began as a leap of faith into house flipping became a career grounded in consistency and service. Brandon shares how he grew from working solo to adding key hires who helped him bring structure and balance to his work. His story highlights how he developed clear systems and standard operating procedures that now guide every project. In this episode you will learn: How Brandon transitioned from public service to construction The lessons he learned pricing and managing his first flips Why building relationships has been key to his success How he created SOPs that keep his team aligned His future vision for building new homes in Florida Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Visit the Coastal Builders and Consultants website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/39004255
info_outline
Better Team, Better Clients | Brady Bankston of Popularis Construction
11/05/2025
Better Team, Better Clients | Brady Bankston of Popularis Construction
Brady Bankston built Popularis Construction by leading with deliberate action. He shares how early mistakes shaped the way he hires, manages, and motivates his team today. His approach to clients is equally thoughtful and relies on a unique set of requirements that every prospect must meet before becoming a customer, including visiting his office to review a sample project inside JobTread. Through consistent systems and clear communication, Brady has learned how to grow his company while keeping every project and person aligned. In this episode you will learn: How Brady uses a unique client process to build trust before every project The steps that helped him win larger and more complex projects The biggest hiring mistakes that nearly derailed his early growth The strategy he uses today to identify and develop the right people How his performance reviews strengthen accountability and communication Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Popularis Construction .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38909835
info_outline
The Strategy for Team-Driven Leadership | Jeff and Brian Shelburn of Remodelex
10/29/2025
The Strategy for Team-Driven Leadership | Jeff and Brian Shelburn of Remodelex
Brothers Jeff and Brian Shelburn turned their shared values and work ethic into a thriving remodeling business in Denver. What began with small backsplash projects has grown into full home remodels and a company built entirely on word-of-mouth referrals. In this conversation, they reveal the philosophies behind their growth and actionable tips for success. In this episode, you will learn How Remodelex thrives without a marketing budget The unconventional payroll model that keeps everyone invested What makes their company structure unlike most contractors How the company implemented a four-ten workweek The ways they use technology to operate like a much larger company Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Remodelex .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38819435
info_outline
When Taking a Chance Pays Off |Logan Judiscak of Gorilla Exterior
10/22/2025
When Taking a Chance Pays Off |Logan Judiscak of Gorilla Exterior
When Logan Judiscak left the car business for roofing, he did not expect to be running a multimillion dollar company just six years later. After learning hard lessons from previous employers, including how poor documentation can hurt cash flow, he started Gorilla Exterior in 2023 with only $4,000, a clear vision, and an even stronger work ethic. In this conversation, Logan shares how he built a profitable roofing company from the ground up, what he learned about leadership, and why he believes in growing people before profits. He explains how his team culture is built on trust, flexibility, and ownership, and why his ultimate goal is not just revenue but impact. In this episode, you will learn How Logan turned $4,000 into a multimillion dollar roofing business in under two years The biggest mistakes roofing companies make when scaling Why documenting jobs properly protects both profits and people How Logan develops his team by finding the right people and the right roles His long term vision for steady, sustainable growth Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Visit the Gorilla Exterior website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38738270
info_outline
From $50K to $30M and Counting | Fares Elsabbagh of Canadian General Contractors
10/15/2025
From $50K to $30M and Counting | Fares Elsabbagh of Canadian General Contractors
Fifteen years ago, Fares Elsabbagh launched Canadian General Contractors with only $50,000 and a background in digital marketing. Today, he leads a group of construction companies generating over $30 million in annual revenue. In this conversation, Fares shares how he turned early chaos into a scalable, system-driven business. He discusses what he learned after dealing with theft during rapid expansion, how he created systems to improve client satisfaction, and the five key things homeowners care about most during a renovation. Fares also shares the key things looks for when acquiring other design-build companies. In this episode, you will learn: How Fares achieved operational excellence after rapid growth What decisions Fares would have made differently if he had a do-over Fares’ views working on the business rather than in the business The type of construction companies he wants to acquire next Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Canadian General Contractors .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38580045
info_outline
The Future of Marketing for Builders | Danielle Russell of Builder Funnel
10/08/2025
The Future of Marketing for Builders | Danielle Russell of Builder Funnel
Danielle Russell has spent over a decade helping builders and remodelers grow through more strategic marketing. She’s seen how new technologies, and changing homeowner behavior, are transforming what it takes to stand out online. In this conversation, Danielle covers a range of topics that, taken together, form a blueprint for building a stronger marketing foundation. Broader themes include the seismic shifts happening in search, what contractors can do to make their content rise above the noise, and how to use, rather than misuse, AI as part of a broader marketing strategy. On a more granular level, she strategies for pricing transparency on your website, how to make every click count, and the ideal marketing budget. In this episode, you will learn How to calculate a marketing budget that drives consistent growth Mistakes to avoid when using AI to generate website or blog content How to design your website to convert visitors in two or three clicks Ways to use video to build credibility and connection with prospects How to structure your pricing online to attract the right clients Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Builder Funnel .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38505515
info_outline
The Daily Habit That Works | Michael James of Michael James Remodeling
10/01/2025
The Daily Habit That Works | Michael James of Michael James Remodeling
Michael James lost everything during the recession, then rebuilt his company with a new outlook on leadership and legacy. He even biked from Canada to Mexico, a journey that reshaped how he approaches business and life. In this conversation, Michael shares how shifting from a “me” mindset to a “we” mindset transformed his company. He talks about hiring lessons, working with family, and the culture-building practices that keep his team engaged. He also reveals the one thing he does every day to keep his business moving forward and the leadership habit he considers most valuable. In this episode you’ll learn: The daily practice Michael relies on to guide his business decisions How listening became his most effective leadership tool What to look for when building a strong team How to create a culture where people want to stay and grow The key to making family partnerships work in business Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Michael James Remodeling .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38418985
info_outline
The Right Clients, The Right Subs | Bob Perez
09/24/2025
The Right Clients, The Right Subs | Bob Perez
In this engaging conversation, Bob Perez shares how he left an 11-year corporate career to co-found Stephen Thomas Construction in Austin, Texas. Pairing his business background with his partner’s field expertise, Bob has built a thriving company. From navigating the risk/benefit of cost-plus projects to putting clients firmly in control of their budgets, Bob explains how a two-person team can use systems and software to achieve results that rival much larger firms. In this episode you’ll discover: How defining roles creates smoother projects What it means to truly put clients in charge of their budgets The two most important lessons Bob has learned about cost-plus How to spot client red flags before you commit A straightforward approach to finding and vetting the right subs Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Visit the Stephen Thomas Construction website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38326710
info_outline
A Roadmap for Remodeler Success | Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise
09/17/2025
A Roadmap for Remodeler Success | Kyle Hunt of Remodelers On The Rise
For more than 17 years, Kyle Hunt has been coaching remodelers to move from stressed and scattered to profitable and confident. Through Remodelers On The Rise, he guides business owners on how to take control of their numbers, implement systems, and build companies that support their lives rather than consume them. In this conversation, Kyle shares how remodelers can stop winging it and start using clear processes in sales, marketing, and leadership. He also talks about the importance of protecting personal time, strengthening family life, and actually implementing the ideas that often sit untouched in a notebook. In this episode you will learn How to create a repeatable sales process that filters out tire kickers Ways to market beyond referrals and consistently attract new leads How leadership and culture become the remodeler’s main job as the business grows Practical steps to move from collecting ideas to actually implementing them Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Visit Remodelers on the Rise website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38247825
info_outline
Turning Setbacks into Strength | Gary Muehling of MI Remodelers
09/10/2025
Turning Setbacks into Strength | Gary Muehling of MI Remodelers
Gary Muehling’s journey into construction started with failure but it was that setback that shaped his future success. After an early attempt at running his own roofing and siding business fell apart, Gary went to work for larger companies where he learned how strong processes, compliance, and sales systems create sustainable growth. In 2019, he launched MI Remodelers with a mission to combine roofing expertise with full-service residential remodeling, and today his company successfully straddles both types of work. Known as “The Integrity Guys,” Gary shares how his business balances sales and project management to earn more than $4 million in annual revenue. In this episode you will learn: How Gary maintains a $2.5 million backlog of work The process he uses to divide sales and project management for maximum efficiency How his client interactions create a higher close ratio Why he goes against an industry trend and offers free design services The systems that allow MI Remodelers to scale to $4M in annual revenue while maintaining quality Resources: Visit MI Remodelers website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38152080
info_outline
Quirky Content, Big Impact | Kaleb Lyles of Copper Masters Roofing
09/03/2025
Quirky Content, Big Impact | Kaleb Lyles of Copper Masters Roofing
Kaleb Lyles grew up working alongside his father in construction and what began as helping out during school breaks turned into a lifelong calling. Together with his wife Andrea, Kaleb launched Copper Masters Roofing with a vision to honor his family’s legacy while carving out his own path in the roofing industry. Here Kaleb shares how early financial struggles forced them to build a stronger foundation for growth. He explains the steps they took to create a loyal company culture and the ways his love of creating quirky, unique, and fun content fuels engagement for the brand. Kaleb also reveals what he has learned about balancing the office and the field, showing the ideal relationship between leading a business and wearing a tool belt. In this episode you will learn: How to turn financial struggles into growth Tips for investing in people and culture How not to treat team members A unique, strategic formula for social media that helps win projects How to scale a company without losing the personal touch Resources: Visit Copper Masters Roofing website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/38067950
info_outline
Building a Niche in Custom Gyms | Kali Sudbrook of Beachside Custom Gyms
08/27/2025
Building a Niche in Custom Gyms | Kali Sudbrook of Beachside Custom Gyms
Kali Sudbrook took an untraditional road to remodeling. After more than a decade directing university fitness programs, she made the leap into remodeling and quickly uncovered the untapped niche of custom gym design build. Today she is shaping a growing industry that spans from high end garage gyms to the increasing demand for backyard fitness sheds. Kali shares what makes gym design different from other remodeling projects, and how she built a lean team powered by a virtual assistant and a virtual designer. She also reveals the disciplined processes she has created to keep her business running smoothly, along with insights for marketing content that connects with clients. In this episode you will learn The one unique factor every gym designer must consider Ways she uses a virtual assistant and virtual designer to gain efficiency Tips for creating compelling marketing content around each project The process she follows to create repeatable systems Her vision of expanding Beachside Custom Gyms to a national presence Visit Kali Sudbrook's website
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37964475
info_outline
Fight for Your Worth
08/20/2025
Fight for Your Worth
In this episode of Builder Stories, Eric sits down for an inspiring (and blunt) conversation with Tom Reber of The Contractor Fight. A passionate advocate for the trades, Reber was host of the HGTV series Unfinished Business and today has a massive audience for his influential videos, podcast, and Facebook group. Here, Reber brings his well-known candor to the discussion with insights on why “most sales people suck” and what can be done to correct it. In this episode you will learn: Reber’s definition of success FHow to set a fifty percent gross profit target When raising prices is the right move Why most contractors leave so much money on the table Why Sales is a perishable skill Resources: Visit The Contractor Fight website .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37877270
info_outline
From Handyman to High-End Homes
08/13/2025
From Handyman to High-End Homes
In 2010, Devon Vought launched Vought Construction in Berkeley, California, starting with small handyman projects and evolving into a sought-after builder of custom luxury homes. In this episode, Devon shares how he grew his business from working solo with a motorcycle (tools in backpack) to leading a polished, brand-driven team. He discusses the marketing moves that elevated his company, how he represents his brand, and his approach to leading a team. In this episode you will learn: Ways to stretch a limited marketing budget for maximum impact How to attract steady business from top architects How to set your jobsites apart through branding and presentation How to get your team engaged in learning and using new technology Resources: Learn more about Vought Construction .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37791295
info_outline
From Reactive to Intentional
08/06/2025
From Reactive to Intentional
After earning a degree in architectural engineering, Blair Roedel became a senior estimator for a mechanical engineering firm, and eventually found her way to remodeling. In this episode, she explains how she launched BEC Innovations during the early days of the pandemic and grew it into a values-driven renovation company in the Nashville area. She shares how she defined her company standards from the beginning, built a strong internal culture, and developed a recruiting process to find team members who align with her expectations. In this episode, you will learn: How Roedel uses educational content on her website to drive leads and set expectations Roedel’s approach to recruiting and how she finds team members who share her mindset How Roedel uses personalized video messages to close more sales How creating a pricing guide on the company website has helped set expectations and filter leads The tools and communication habits that help her team stay ahead of client concerns. Learn more about BEC Innovations LLC. .
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37693355
info_outline
Earning Buyer Trust | Marcus Sheridan of IMPACT
07/30/2025
Earning Buyer Trust | Marcus Sheridan of IMPACT
Marcus Sheridan built a thriving swimming pool company in the middle of the Great Recession by understanding buyer’s questions and using his marketing to address them with complete transparency. That strategy became the foundation of They Ask, You Answer, a framework now used by leading businesses around the world. In this episode, Sheridan shares how teaching homeowners builds credibility. He reveals why most marketing fails to earn trust and what companies can do to enhance their messaging. He also breaks down how to improve your website content and stay ahead on SEO in the new era of AI-dominated page views. In this episode you’ll learn: The four pillars of a known and trusted brand What the “pride cycle” is and how it affects business decisions The ways AI effect SEO and how to stay ahead What trust signals are and where to use them How to use video to strengthen your brand Which tools can measure the authenticity of your marketing message Learn more about Marcus Sheridan Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37604645
info_outline
Scaling & Leading a Team
07/23/2025
Scaling & Leading a Team
Babak Nikraftar started in construction in 2001 after attending school in Vancouver. His first role was redoing faulty building envelopes on condos in the Pacific Northwest. He then returned to school to study construction management and later joined a local high-rise developer. Today, Nikraftar runs two companies: Forte Projects which focuses on new construction and CondoWorks for condo remodels and interior design. In this episode, Nikraftar shares how early lessons in construction failures shaped the way he builds today. He discusses how he leads his team, makes new hires, and structures two businesses for long-term growth. In this episode you’ll learn: How Nikraftar built a rigorous, multi-step hiring system that filters candidates through applications, timed testing, video submissions, and core values alignment What it takes to lead a team with structure, not control What to consider when building complementary businesses under the same leadership A simple formula Babak uses to decide when it's time make a new hire How implementing EOS brought clarity, accountability, and direction to the team Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about CondoWorks Transformations and Forte Projects Ltd . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37514710
info_outline
The Vision That Moves a Business Forward
07/16/2025
The Vision That Moves a Business Forward
What does it take to evolve from a one-man remodel crew to a high-end design-build brand built for scale? Tyler Madden launched Laurelless with a mission to raise the bar in remodeling, guided by a relentless pursuit of excellence that’s reflected in the name itself (Laurelless means no resting on laurels). Nearly a decade later, he has built a company defined by unwavering standards for both the clients they serve and the team they trust to deliver. In this episode, Tyler shares how he transitioned from self-performing to leading with vision, what systems helped him delegate without sacrificing quality, and how he is creating a company that attracts people who believe in doing things the right way. In this episode you’ll learn: How Madden designed a seamless process that guides clients from concept to completion while minimizing surprises and reducing stress What makes Laurelless stand out in a competitive market and how they sell the experience, not just the remodel The systems and forecasting tools that support sustainable and profitable growth Why vetting clients early with clear expectations around budget, timeline, and trust is key to protecting the team and delivering five-star results What it means to create true ownership within your team and why that is essential to scaling Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Laurelless . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37423395
info_outline
Pricing, Processes, and Profit: Lessons from Englewood Custom Carpentry
07/09/2025
Pricing, Processes, and Profit: Lessons from Englewood Custom Carpentry
What does it take to grow a construction business from a dream into a sought-after brand known for craftsmanship and care? Tyler Winship found out firsthand when he launched Englewood Custom Carpentry the same day he was fired from another company. Now, nearly a decade later, Winship is running a thriving business with a reputation that stretches across Florida’s Gulf Coast. In this episode, he shares the systems he used to grow his team, increase profitability, and gain lifelong customers. It’s a story of passion for one’s craft, and the ability to look at mistakes as an opportunity to grow. In this episode you’ll learn: How Winship came to charge for his expertise…not just time and labor What marketing strategies helped him expand beyond word of mouth and drive consistent inbound leads Which business systems allowed him to shift from barely breaking even to consistent profitability How Winship qualifies leads to ensures he only works with the right customers The mindset Tyler adopted to grow his team and build a sustainable company Resources: Learn more about Englewood Custom Carpentry Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37343505
info_outline
The Success Habits of Leading Remodelers
07/02/2025
The Success Habits of Leading Remodelers
What do the most successful remodelers do differently? How do smaller companies break through growth ceilings and become industry leaders? Mark Richardson has spent his career helping contractors make that leap. As the former President of Case Design Remodeling, an author, and a trusted advisor to the industry’s top companies, he shares what it really takes to grow. Richardson breaks down the specific habits, metrics, and mindset shifts that help remodeling businesses scale. Whether you’re trying to grow revenue, improve profitability, or get your time back, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice. In this episode, you will learn: How to find the sweet spot for your business How much time you should spend on marketing When to take on larger, more complex jobs Which five KPIs to track, and how often The habits that help owners lead and scale more effectively Resources: Learn more about Mark Richardson . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37251695
info_outline
How to Successfully Run a Construction Business with Your Spouse
06/25/2025
How to Successfully Run a Construction Business with Your Spouse
Working with your spouse isn’t always easy, but it can be one of your biggest strengths. Here, Dees Britt shares how she and her husband built Redeemed Decks and Outdoor Solutions in Madison, Mississippi, while raising three kids and learning to set boundaries between work and home. Britt also shares the systems and strategies that helped their business grow faster than expected. From refining the sales process to hiring the right team members and navigating growing pains, she offers practical advice for contractors who want to scale. Her story is full of insight for anyone building a business that’s built to last. In this episode you’ll learn: The 80% rule for delegating Valuable tips for managing the pre-construction process How high your goals should be if you want to grow Dees’ advice others starting their journey Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Redeemed Decks . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37148655
info_outline
How to Build Strong Profit Into Your Remodeling Business
06/18/2025
How to Build Strong Profit Into Your Remodeling Business
You don’t need a lifelong construction background to build a profitable remodeling business. In this episode of Builder Stories, Dominick Thompson shares how he went from the automotive industry and military service to learning construction and starting Watershed Builders in Charlotte. Dominick breaks down how he built strong processes and stability into his business from the very beginning. He priced jobs with confidence, hired the right people, and managed growth without overextending. He also shares how trade relationships, clear roles for sales and estimating, and simple social content helped fuel steady growth and referrals. In this episode you will learn: How to set profit margins that protect your business When to make your first hires and structure your team How trade partners can accelerate your growth Simple content strategies that attract high-quality leads Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Watershed Builders . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/37050590
info_outline
From Hands-On to High-Level | | Wilbur Jennings of Wilbur Design + Construct
06/11/2025
From Hands-On to High-Level | | Wilbur Jennings of Wilbur Design + Construct
Meet Wilbur Jennings, owner of Wilbur Design + Construct in Marquette, Michigan. Jennings started in the trades at the age of 13, and developed a passion for building. He went on to earn a degree in construction management, and founded Wilbur Design while “flying by the seat of my pants.” Over the course of his journey in leadership he incorporated a mission and vision; clear systems and processes; an intentional company culture; and new ways to look at his financials. Here, Jennings shares the most impactful lessons learned in the past ten years. In this episode, you will learn: How to define and use a mission, vision, and values to steer your business The critical hiring lesson that helped Wilbur build a more accountable and trustworthy team The industry resources he’s found most helpful The job costing systems that have helped him maintain the right level of profitability What he would do differently if he were starting the business again today Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Wilbur Design + Construct Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36947735
info_outline
From Burnout to Builder of Leaders | Mike Claudio of WinRate Consulting
06/04/2025
From Burnout to Builder of Leaders | Mike Claudio of WinRate Consulting
Meet Mike Claudio, owner of WinRate Consulting in Charlotte, NC. After walking away from corporate burnout, Mike built a business helping contractors scale with clarity, leadership, and systems that work. In this episode, he breaks down the three biggest reasons construction companies lose momentum, how to build core values that actually guide your team, and the biggest mistake leaders make when casting a vision. Plus, his 4-step hiring process and time management mindset that helps him lead multiple companies, including a custom home business with $60 million in annual revenue. In this episode, you will learn: The 3 biggest pitfalls that throw construction businesses off course Why most leaders miss the mark on vision, and how to do it right How to incorporate core values into your business Claudio’s 4-step hiring method that filters out bad fits fast A time management mindset for running multiple initiatives Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about WinRate Consulting Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36844050
info_outline
Design First, Build Better | George Lokko of Y2 Design & Build
05/28/2025
Design First, Build Better | George Lokko of Y2 Design & Build
Meet George Lokko, owner of Y2 Design & Build located in Westerville, Ohio. George shares how he went from a career in engineering and finance to building one of Columbus’ most process-driven and design-forward remodeling firms. After losing his job during COVID, George took the leap into construction by learning from the ground up—literally starting with demolition—and eventually launching Y2 Design & Build. He discusses the power of great design, his 54-step process that minimizes change orders, and the importance of education, communication, and trust in delivering exceptional customer experiences. George also talks about building his team, investing in marketing and SEO, and the role technology plays in streamlining operations. In this episode, you will learn: How a strong design process eliminates chaos Why you don’t need a construction background to succeed Building a marketing strategy that is intentional Using communication tools as a competitive advantage Investing in people and processes to scale Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Y2 Design Build . Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36741835
info_outline
From the Mat to the Market | Johnny Buck of 13 Stripes Construction
05/21/2025
From the Mat to the Market | Johnny Buck of 13 Stripes Construction
Meet Johnny Buck, founder of 13 Stripes Construction in Marion, NC. In this episode, Buck shares his journey from MMA fighter to construction business owner with a mission to revolutionize the home services industry. After building a top 1% gym and navigating a hurricane that reshaped his business overnight, Buck brings a fresh perspective to construction rooted in discipline and repeatable systems and processes. He talks about scaling from the ground up, building a business designed to sell, and why customer service—not craftsmanship—is the ultimate differentiator. In this episode, you will learn: The three things Buck put on his website that landed him his first jobs How to build a sellable construction business from day one Why thoughtful, non-branded client gifts are a game-changer, and exactly how much he spends on them What every successful business has in common (hint: it’s not tools or talent) The top two mistakes that all failing companies make How Buck is applying his personal brand to dominate a local market Learn more about 13 Stripes Construction here: Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36656120
info_outline
A Vision Beyond the Tools | Wes Crocket with Mahogany Builders
05/14/2025
A Vision Beyond the Tools | Wes Crocket with Mahogany Builders
Meet Wes Crocket, owner of Mahogany Builders located in Chicago, Illinois. Wes shares his journey from studying organizational psychology in grad school to leading a respected remodeling business in one of the country’s most competitive markets. Inspired by his father's leadership and driven by a desire to build a strong team culture, Wes opens up about his path into construction, the founding of Mahogany Builders, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Dives into what it takes to lead with purpose and build a lasting business. In this episode, you will learn: How non-traditional paths can lead to construction Why team culture drives success Adapting during uncertain times Having a vision beyond the tools Learn more about Mahogany Builder here: Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36554830
info_outline
Culture, KPIs, and The Customer | Brian Gottlieb Renowned Business Leader, Speaker, & Author
05/07/2025
Culture, KPIs, and The Customer | Brian Gottlieb Renowned Business Leader, Speaker, & Author
Meet Brian Gottlieb, a renowned business leader, speaker, and author who built a home improvement empire from a plastic folding table and $3,000. In this episode, Brian shares his journey of growing a company to over 1,000 employees and achieving a successful exit, all while staying true to his mission of doing well and doing good. Learn how he built high-performing teams, scaled across multiple states, stayed connected to customers through every stage of growth, and created a purpose-driven culture that empowered people to thrive. Brian also offers practical insights on hiring, leadership, managing KPIs, expanding into new markets, and preparing a business for transition or sale. In this episode, you will learn: How to build and scale high-performing teams When and how to hire the right people How to create a purpose-driven culture that fuels growth The importance of KPIs and financial transparency Smart strategies for expansion, customer, connection, and exit planning Learn more about Brian Gottlieb here: Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36461725
info_outline
Growth Through Adversity | Chris Moore with Senior Remodeling Experts
04/30/2025
Growth Through Adversity | Chris Moore with Senior Remodeling Experts
Meet Chris Moore, owner of Senior Remodeling Experts located in Salem, Virginia. Chris shares his journey from an unexpected start in construction to building a business focused on helping seniors and veterans live safely and independently in their homes. He opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the loss of his wife, the lessons learned through hardship, and his mission to create a lasting impact through aging-in-place remodeling. Chris discusses the importance of building strong systems, finding purpose through service, and how he’s turning his passion into a broader movement to help more people across the country. In this episode, you will learn: How to build a business with a deeper mission Why systematizing your operations is essential for growth How to navigate personal tragedy while leading a business What it takes to work with VA home modification grants The mindset shifts needed to transition from craftsman to business owner Learn more about Senior Remodeling Experts here: Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at
/episode/index/show/339ef2b4-1be2-4c20-aa0f-eb10e660761a/id/36364085