Builder Stories

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 here.

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 here.

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 here.

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 here.

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 here.  

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 here.

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 here.  

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. here.

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here and Forte Projects Ltd here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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 here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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: https://13stripesconstruction.com/   Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

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: https://www.mahoganybuilders.com/     Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com