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.

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

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

Q & A | 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

Q & A | Unlocking Success: Lessons Learned at the Contractor Coalition Summit 10/09/2025

#134 | Alex Chou | Harnish Workwear | Wearing Your Brand (Literally): Harnish and the Power of Jobsite Style 10/06/2025

#134 | Alex Chou | Harnish Workwear | Wearing Your Brand (Literally): Harnish and the Power of Jobsite Style How do you reinvent the world’s most basic item—a T-shirt—and make pants that actually fight back against plumber’s crack? In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark sits down with Alex Chou, co-founder of Harnish Workwear, to talk about premium workwear, design snags, field testing with framers, and why durability shouldn’t mean looking like a walking sandbag. From sourcing Cordura to building a cult following in Canada, this episode has everything: branding, community, custom tags, and a spam-surfing sidetrack you didn’t see coming. 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/ **Anyone who signs up to CCS between 10/6/2025 and 10/13/2025 gets a free apparel kit from Harnish Adaptive Website: https://referrals.adaptive.build/u8Gkiaev Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.harnishworkwear.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harnishworkwear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/harnishworkwear 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/38357930

Q & A | Losers are Winners Part 9: Burnout, Boundaries, & the Wake-Up Call That Changed Everything with Tyler Grace 10/02/2025

#133 | Todd Milburn | Edina Chief of Police | Break-Ins & Builder Blunders: Straight Talk with Edina’s Police Chief Todd Milburn 09/29/2025

#133 | Todd Milburn | Edina Chief of Police | Break-Ins & Builder Blunders: Straight Talk with Edina’s Police Chief Todd Milburn In this out-of-the-box episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark sits down with Chief Todd Milburn of Edina to talk jobsite theft, neighborhood safety, and what builders and homeowners should really be thinking about when it comes to security. They dive into public safety tech (like license plate readers), the rise of crime-of-opportunity, and how the police force recruits like a modern business. Come for the garage door break-ins, stay for the chipmunk invasion and Faraday cage jokes. 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: www.edinamn.gov/274/Police 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/38269770

Q & A | Losers are Winners Part 8: From Massive Debt to Entrepreneurial Wisdom with Paul Krumrich 09/25/2025

#132 | Martin Davies O'Connor | Mill City Restoration | Punk Rock, Paint, & Pivot Tables: Meet Construction’s True Renaissance Man 09/22/2025

#132 | Martin Davies O'Connor | Mill City Restoration | Punk Rock, Paint, & Pivot Tables: Meet Construction’s True Renaissance Man In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams sits down with Martin Davies O'Connor from Mill City Restoration for a lively chat about Martin's fascinating career path—from punk rock and Excel training to importing tequila from Mexico and ultimately running a successful commercial painting business in Minnesota. They dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, the challenge of cash flow (especially in commercial construction), the importance of work-life balance, and why understanding your numbers is key for any business owner. It's an energetic, honest conversation full of great stories and practical advice for anyone interested in building a business or just curious about unique career journeys! 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://www.millcityrestoration.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MillCityRestoration/ 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/38258895

Q & A | Losers are Winners Part 7: How Admitting Failure Built a Million-Dollar Business with Mike Weaver 09/18/2025

Q & A | Losers are Winners Part 7: How Admitting Failure Built a Million-Dollar Business with Mike Weaver In this Q&A episode, Mark sits down with his friend Mike Weaver for a really honest chat about learning from mistakes—both at work and in life. Mike opens up about a big blunder early in his career that taught him why being upfront with clients matters so much, and he also shares his incredible journey losing 170 pounds (seriously impressive!). It’s a fun, down-to-earth conversation with plenty of laughs, hard-earned wisdom, and tips for turning your biggest fails into wins. 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://www.emser.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michealweaver289/ 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/38244925

The Curious Builder

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