The Curious Builder

The Curious Builder is a podcast that gives a voice to Minnesota building industry professionals, providing them a platform to tell their stories about starting and growing their businesses, highlighting challenges and wins, and revealing insights listeners may apply to their own businesses and experiences.

#150 | Devry Boughner Vorwerk | Stewardverse Strategies | How Your Trash Could Be Your Biggest Moneymaker 01/26/2026

#150 | Devry Boughner Vorwerk | Stewardverse Strategies | How Your Trash Could Be Your Biggest Moneymaker In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams sits down with sustainability pro Devry Boughner Vorwerk to talk all things waste, stewardship, and how even small businesses can turn their “trash into treasure.” Devry Boughner Vorwerk shares awesome stories from her global adventures—think negotiating at the World Bank and helping companies go green—and gives tons of down-to-earth advice for making any business more efficient, sustainable, and even profitable. It’s a super approachable chat full of real-world examples, fresh ideas, and lots of encouragement for anyone who wants to do good and do well at the same time. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.stewardverse.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devryboughnervorwerk/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39817670

Losers are Winners | How Risky Moves and Epic Mistakes Fueled David Werschay’s Success Stories 01/22/2026

#149 | Sara and Jeremy Imhoff | Imprint Architecture + Design | From Losing It All to Building the Dream: The Untold Secrets Behind Imprint Architecture’s Success 01/19/2026

#149 | Sara and Jeremy Imhoff | Imprint Architecture + Design | From Losing It All to Building the Dream: The Untold Secrets Behind Imprint Architecture’s Success In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark sits down with Sara and Jeremy Imhoff from Imprint Architecture, and together they dive into what it's really like running a business as a married couple—complete with all the ups, downs, and teamwork moments. They swap stories about starting their firm during tough times, the creative ways they keep pushing their designs, and why storytelling matters so much in architecture. It's a super relatable and inspiring chat about taking risks, trusting your gut, and finding joy in the creative process. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.imprintarchitecture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imprint.architecture/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39750580

Q & A | Mental Health, Money, & the Power of Real Talk: Trapper Roderick Gets Raw About Life in the Trades 01/15/2026

#148 | Vincent Longo | Longo Custom Builders | Framing Parties, Gap Years, and Bidding Wars: Behind the Scenes with Vincent Longo 01/12/2026

#148 | Vincent Longo | Longo Custom Builders | Framing Parties, Gap Years, and Bidding Wars: Behind the Scenes with Vincent Longo On this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams chats with his good friend Vincent Longo about all things building, balancing work and family, and learning from the ones that got away (including a wild story where Vince literally got knocked to the ground by fate!). They swap stories about growing their businesses, keeping family first, and even throw in some fun ideas like gap years and house signing parties. To top it off, Vince gives us some live play-by-play while he bids—and hilariously loses—on a house during the podcast. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://longocustombuilders.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/longocustombuilders/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@buildingbrewsandbbq Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39671770

Q & A | The Curious Builder’s Secret Network: Why Your Friends Determine Your Future 01/08/2026

#147 | Amanda Birnie | Curio Rugs | From Burnout to Boutique: The Grit Behind Curio Rugs 01/05/2026

#147 | Amanda Birnie | Curio Rugs | From Burnout to Boutique: The Grit Behind Curio Rugs This week on The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark welcomes Amanda Birnie of Curio Rugs—a one-time wedding photographer turned full-time rug curator and entrepreneur. Amanda walks us through the early chaos of launching her business during the pandemic, why she believes rugs are personal works of art, and how sourcing trips, storytelling, and small-business hustle helped her carve out a niche in a saturated industry. It’s real, raw, and ridiculously fun (with bonus talk of doc martens, rug mediums, and a few true crime vibes). Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.curiorugs.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curio_rugs Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39587730

Losers are Winners | When Your Dream Job Ghosts You… and It’s a Gift in Disguise with Trapper Roderick 01/01/2026

#146 | Kelly Grace | Travis Price Architects | LED Lights, Moldy Coffee, and Kill Switches—Is Your House Making You Sick? 12/29/2025

#146 | Kelly Grace | Travis Price Architects | LED Lights, Moldy Coffee, and Kill Switches—Is Your House Making You Sick? On this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams and Kelly Grace talk all about building healthier, more intentional homes—think real materials, great natural light, and actually creating spaces that help you unplug and feel good. They swap stories about everything from s'mores by the fire to keeping tech out of bedrooms and why less stuff is almost always better. The conversation is filled with practical tips, personal stories, and a shared passion for creating spaces that truly support health, happiness, and connection. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://travispricearchitects.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nontoxarchitect/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39510340

Q & A | The Curious Kid: A Christmas Takeover Q&A with May 12/25/2025

#145 | Ted Sihpol | Renaissance Partners, LLC | From Wall Street to Rock Bottom: How a $2.3 Billion Indictment Changed Everything 12/22/2025

#145 | Ted Sihpol | Renaissance Partners, LLC | From Wall Street to Rock Bottom: How a $2.3 Billion Indictment Changed Everything In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams sits down with Ted Sihpol for an incredible, rollercoaster story of resilience, mental health, and overcoming adversity. Teddy opens up about being indicted for a $2.3 billion lawsuit, facing possible prison time, losing everything—including his job and dream house—only to find a new path forward in construction. Through all the chaos, Teddy’s story is equal parts gripping and inspiring, reminding listeners that even in the worst of times, community, family, and inner strength can get you through anything. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://renaissancepartnersnc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/renaissancepartnersllc Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39459140

Losers are Winners | How a $5,000 Toilet Changed My Life—And Made My Kids Laugh Hysterically 12/18/2025

#144 | Mark D. Williams & Mysa Hus | Cozy Spaces and Smart Design: Inside the Making of Mysa Hus 12/15/2025

Losers are Winners | The Costly Confusion That Nearly Sank My Business 12/11/2025

#143 | Chris Freytag | Get Healthy U | Getting Strong, Staying Real, & Growing in Every Season 12/08/2025

#143 | Chris Freytag | Get Healthy U | Getting Strong, Staying Real, & Growing in Every Season “You don’t just want more years—you want good years.” That’s the mindset Chris Freytag brings to wellness, content creation, and building a life you love. In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark sits down with the powerhouse behind Get Healthy U TV to talk about entrepreneurship, reinvention, and why failure is often the start of your best chapter. From selling workout DVDs in the 90s to surviving Google algorithm chaos, Chris shares how she’s stayed ahead in the digital fitness space—and what builders and designers should consider when creating truly healthy homes. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.gethealthyutv.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisfreytag Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chrisfreytagpage Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39290545

#142 | Live at Roth Living | Women in Construction Spill: How Empathy, Integrity, & Guts Change the Game 12/01/2025

#142 | Live at Roth Living | Women in Construction Spill: How Empathy, Integrity, & Guts Change the Game This episode of The Curious Builder Podcast is a masterclass in building (and keeping) awesome relationships in the design and construction world. Mark Williams gets real with Amy Hendel, Melissa Oholendt, and Kristine Anderson live at Roth Living as they swap stories about winning dream clients, surviving tricky situations, and why being honest and caring always pays off. If you want to hear what really makes a job memorable (hint: it’s the people!), you’ll love all the insights and laughs in this episode. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guests: Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors: https://www.ohointeriors.com/ Amy Hendel of Hendel Homes: https://hendelhomes.com/ Kristine Anderson of PKA Architecture: https://pkarch.com/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39172050

Losers are Winners | Losing the Unicorn: What I Learned When My VA Quit 11/27/2025

Losers are Winners | Losing the Unicorn: What I Learned When My VA Quit In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast - Losers Are Winners, Alyssa Abbott of Olive and Vine Socials joins Mark to talk through the real challenges of building a business you love while raising kids. We talk about everything from from hiring mistakes to breakthrough systems and finally building a team that works. Alyssa shares how loosing her “unicorn” VA was the best (and most stressful) thing that happened this year and why structure and trust matter more than sparkle. It’s the open and honest pep talk every entrepreneur needs. Enjoy! Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: www.oliveandvinesocials.com Instagram: @oliveandvinesocials Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39172285

#141 | Karl Adalbert | KA Design | Backyard Buddies to Ultra Running: The Mysa Hus Story with Karl Adalbert 11/24/2025

#141 | Karl Adalbert | KA Design | Backyard Buddies to Ultra Running: The Mysa Hus Story with Karl Adalbert What happens when your neighbor becomes your running buddy, your architectural designer, and your partner in building one of the most exciting homes of your career? In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark sits down with longtime friend and collaborator Karl Adalbert of KA Design to talk about architecture, wellness, and the magic of designing Mysa Hus—a one-of-a-kind home rooted in nature, story, and soul. From a treehouse gone rogue to 50-mile trail runs, this conversation is full of laughs, lessons, and real talk about what makes good design... and good neighbors. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Alpine Hardwood Website: https://www.alpinehardwoodmn.com/ Where to find the Guest: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karladalbert Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38856140

Thursday Therapy | Vulnerability, Grief, & Surviving the Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship 11/20/2025

Thursday Therapy | Vulnerability, Grief, & Surviving the Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship In this heartfelt episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams and Morgan Molitor dive into the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship and building, highlighting the importance of community, mental health, and real connection in the industry. They share personal stories about the challenges and joys of running a business, emphasize the value of vulnerability, and discuss how vital it is to support one another—especially during tough times. Listeners walk away reminded that while the journey can be incredibly hard, no one truly has to go it alone. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://construction2style.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/construction2style/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-molitor Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39066090

#140 | Nick Schiffer | NS Builders | From Haters to Headlines: How Nick Schiffer Turned Skepticism Into a Masterpiece 11/17/2025

#140 | Nick Schiffer | NS Builders | From Haters to Headlines: How Nick Schiffer Turned Skepticism Into a Masterpiece In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams sits down with Nick Schiffer of NS Builders to dive deep into the journey of building the iconic 45 White Oak home. They chat about the challenges of pushing boundaries in luxury spec building, the importance of team effort and relentless vision, and how storytelling and true craftsmanship can shape both a project and an industry. Along the way, they share lots of behind-the-scenes insights, funny stories, and talk about the ripple effect that comes from following your passion—even when it makes you look a little crazy. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Nick Schiffer's Website: https://www.nickschiffer.com/ NS Builders' Website: https://www.nsbuilders.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nsbuilders/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/39013200

Q & A | How a $2.4 Billion Lawsuit Led to a Builder’s Comeback: Chicago Summit Stories You Need to Hear 11/13/2025

#139 | Live from Mysa Hus | The Calm You Crave, The Craft That Created It: Mysa Hus | with Marc Cabrera and Mark Brandenhoff of Pella Windows, Alex Sernick of Huber Engineered Woods, and Chris Jessen of Rockwool In this live episode of The Curious Builder podcast, Mark brings together his crew from Pella Windows, Huber & Zip, and Rockwool for a fun and lively chat at Mysa Hus. They dig into what makes this build stand out—think cozy vibes, wellness-driven design, and the power of working with partners you actually like. It's all about pushing home building forward with teamwork, quality materials, and a genuine passion for creating spaces that just feel amazing. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guests: Mysa Hus: https://www.mysahus.com/ Pella Windows: https://www.pella.com/ Huber & Zip: https://www.huberwood.com/zip-system Rockwool: https://www.rockwool.com/north-america/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38947325

Q & A | Inside 45 White Oak: Staircases, Skylights, & Serious Craftsmanship 11/06/2025

#138 | Alex Little | Little Financial | From Broke to Booked: Builder Finance Hacks 11/03/2025

#138 | Alex Little | Little Financial | From Broke to Booked: Builder Finance Hacks What does a recovering accountant, a fractional CFO, and a former would-be pararescue jumper have in common? It’s all Alex Little of Little Financial. In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark and Alex dive into the silent profit killers hiding in your business, what the heck a 2% leak is, and why cash in the bank doesn’t always mean profit. Alex drops gold on everything from project KPIs to better billing habits and why you can’t delegate your wealth. If you’re making money but feel broke—this one’s for you. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Sauna Camp Website: https://www.saunacamps.com/ Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.little-financial.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562216836302 Little Financial's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/little-financial-services Alex Little's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamalexlittle/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38876945

Q & A | Behind the Scenes at Sauna Camp 2.0: How Builders Build Community (and Sweat Together) 10/30/2025

#137 | Ami Harari | LA Build Corp | Recession, Failure, & $12,000 Mistakes: Inside the Grit of L.A. Build Corp 10/27/2025

#137 | Ami Harari | LA Build Corp | Recession, Failure, & $12,000 Mistakes: Inside the Grit of L.A. Build Corp In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark sits down with Ami Harari from L.A. Build Corp and gets real about what it’s like to build homes (and a business) in Los Angeles. Ami shares his journey from the Israeli military to moving trucks to leading a top-notch construction company—and all the wild twists along the way. They swap stories about hustling through hard times, learning from mistakes, building great teams, and keeping clients happy. Plus, a few laughs about dirt biking and life in LA! If you want some honest insight and good energy, this one's a fun listen. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Where to find the Guest: Website: https://labuildcorp.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labuildcorp/ Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38747555

Q & A | Closing Out the Year With a Bang: The Builder’s Playbook for Success, Strategy, & Sanity 10/23/2025

#136 | Ali Awad | Awad Architects | Architects vs. Builders: How Ali Awad Thrived Where Most Clash 10/20/2025

#136 | Ali Awad | Awad Architects | Architects vs. Builders: How Ali Awad Thrived Where Most Clash On this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark hangs out with Ali Awad from Awad Architects and they dive into Ali’s journey—everything from running a design-build partnership for 25 years to the behind-the-scenes of working on tons of homes in Southwest Minneapolis. They swap stories about what makes partnerships work, why good client relationships matter, and even talk about bringing personality into architectural design. If you’re into building, designing, or just love a good “how’d they do that?” chat, this episode’s packed with cool insights and real talk. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Where to find the Guest: Website: https://awadarchitects.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/awadarchitects Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38358000

Q & A | From Imposter Syndrome to Profit: Alumni Share Real Lessons from the Contractor Coalition Summit 10/16/2025

Q & A | From Imposter Syndrome to Profit: Alumni Share Real Lessons from the Contractor Coalition Summit On this Q&A episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams sits down with alumni from the Contractor Coalition Summit—Brad Robinson, Danielle and Michael Gutelli, and Jared Miller—to talk about how the summit totally changed the game for their businesses and personal lives. They swap stories about learning from top builders, building real friendships, leveling up with new business strategies like pre-construction agreements, and even discovering the magic of setting boundaries. If you’ve ever wondered if investing in industry events is worth it, their stories say “absolutely!” Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38588465

#135 | Kali Sudbrook | Beachside Custom Gyms | Home Gyms Are More Than Dumbbells: How the Wellness Boom Is Changing Homebuilding 10/13/2025

#135 | Kali Sudbrook | Beachside Custom Gyms | Home Gyms Are More Than Dumbbells: How the Wellness Boom Is Changing Homebuilding In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark hangs out with Kali Sudbrook from Beachside Custom Gyms to talk all things home wellness and fitness spaces. They share Kali’s wild leap from a cushy corporate job to designing killer custom gyms, and chat about how the wellness industry is exploding in homebuilding right now. If you’re into building, designing, or just want your own awesome home gym, tune in for plenty of laughs, some great advice, and why wellness spaces are absolutely the next big thing. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/ Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Where to find the Guest: Website: https://beachsidegyms.com/ Beachside Custom Gyms' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beachsidecustomgyms Kali's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kalithecontractor Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc /episode/index/show/9c6db08e-27e0-4152-a36e-34560fa6f4f4/id/38357985

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