Building Better Podcast

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker is joined by Lauren Flynn and Heidi Flake to shine a spotlight on an important but often overlooked part of the HBA: the Northwest Michigan Skilled Trades Foundation. They dive deep into the foundation's mission to support skilled trades careers across northern Michigan through scholarships, workforce development programs, and community outreach. You'll hear about the foundation's evolution, the importance of breaking down barriers to career entry, and why changing the public perception of trades is critical to solving the ongoing labor shortage. From raising scholarship funds to inspiring the next generation at events like Building Tomorrow, this conversation is all about impact, opportunity, and building a stronger future—one skilled trade at a time. 🎧 Listen now to hear how the foundation is changing lives, reshaping communities, and creating pathways to success.

In our final Parade of Homes special, Lauren Tucker sits down with Colin Herren of Greenwald & B.C. to talk about their stunning  custom cottage on Lake Michigan in Manistee. Designed as a vacation home for out-of-state clients, the build showcases laid-back luxury, with a massive butler's pantry, warm natural finishes, and a layout made for hosting. Colin shares how communication, patience, and collaboration shaped the final product. Next, Lauren is joined by Dave Schneider of Andersen Windows, a 2025 Parade sponsor. Dave explains how Andersen works hand-in-hand with builders to match performance, style, and structural goals—especially as homes trend toward larger glass, cleaner lines, and energy efficiency. Finally, Scott Norris of Scott Norris Construction walks us through his latest Parade entry: a lakefront home that blends work-from-home needs with entertaining. With expansive lake views through floor-to-ceiling windows and a layout that flows naturally to the outdoors, the home balances beauty with thoughtful function.

Lauren Tucker welcomes back longtime Parade of Homes participants Bay Area Contracting/BAC Design Group—Dean Adams, Trisha Adams, and Erica Murdock—for a look at how a passion project for Dean's brother became one of their most personal builds yet. The team reflects on the Parade's marketing power, their decades-long journey with the HBA, and how designing with family in mind changes everything. Next, Larry Mikowski of Weekes Forest Products (a Parade sponsor) joins to talk about trends in home materials and why longevity always wins. Finally, Corey Flaska of Leelanau Construction shares how he's blending custom craftsmanship with community-minded, smaller-footprint homes. His spec home in Cedar—a model for attainable housing—shows how thoughtful design and strategic density can serve both homeowners and land preservation.

In this special Parade of Homes kickoff, Lauren Tucker sits down with Colin Bushong of CMB Construction, the reigning People's Choice winner, who's doubling down this year with two featured homes—one a refined riverside retreat, the other a smartly designed, budget-friendly build with bold style. Later, Chris Ostrowski of Builders FirstSource talks sponsorship, innovation, and pricing myths, and finally, we check in with Will Saputo of Royal Stag Construction about his striking farmhouse in Yuba and how his nonprofit TCLEG is building homes and community. From dream builds to real-world budgets, this episode sets the tone for an inspiring season.

We're got a great series of programs coming up to coincide with our annual "Parade of Homes!"

  In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker welcomes Jonathan Woolfolk, co-owner of Bay View Flooring and title sponsor of this year's Parade of Homes. Lauren and John chat about the 36th annual Parade of Homes, flooring trends, and what makes this showcase of local craftsmanship such a beloved event. John shares what it's been like to take over a trusted, family-run business with his wife Margaret, and how they've embraced both tradition and innovation—from pet-friendly showrooms to an evolving apprenticeship pipeline with the Career Tech Center. They also touch on the skilled labor shortage, the importance of workforce development, and how even the smallest jobs deserve quality attention. This one blends heart, humor, and insight from two people deeply rooted in the building community. Listen to hear how a flooring company is making big impact on homes, careers, and community culture.

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker sits down with Mike Elya, owner of Elya Construction, to talk about what it really means to build something that lasts—whether it's a business, a brand, or a home for your own family. Mike shares how joining the HBA has helped accelerate his business growth through networking, education, and access to resources he didn't have when starting out. From professional development courses like CAPS and Spanish jobsite communication to volunteering at events like the Home Expo, Mike's story is a blueprint for getting the most out of your membership. We also dive into his philosophy of professionalism on the jobsite, how he's building his own family home on a multigenerational farm, and why leading with integrity is the best way to stand out in a crowded industry. Whether you're just getting started or looking to deepen your connection to the trades, Mike's story is equal parts inspiring and practical.

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker sits down with Carolyn Andrews, Program Coordinator for Construction Trades at NMC and 2023 HBA Humanitarian of the Year. Carolyn shares her inspiring journey from interior design to skilled trades advocacy, and her deep commitment to reshaping how our community sees careers in construction. From bringing local counselors into the trades lab to empowering students with hands-on experiences, she's helping lead a cultural shift. The episode also dives into one of the region's most exciting innovations: a 3D printing in construction pilot program powered by grants, community partnerships, and pure determination. Plus, Carolyn and Lauren break down why events like Building Tomorrow and Build a Better House are vital in connecting students with industry—and why your business should get involved. 🎧 Whether you're a builder, business owner, educator, or advocate, this episode will leave you energized about the future of the trades.

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, host Lauren Tucker brings you two insightful conversations with industry leaders shaping the future of home building. First, we go live from the International Builders' Show in Las Vegas to talk with Carl Harris, outgoing NAHB Chairman, about his experiences, the importance of strong industry advocacy, and what's next for the organization. Later, Bob Filka, CEO of HBA of Michigan, joins us for a second conversation to discuss the critical advocacy efforts happening at the state level. From tackling regulatory challenges to supporting Michigan builders through grassroots initiatives, Bob shares how HBA Michigan is working to strengthen the industry and make homebuilding more accessible. Plus, we celebrate Bob's recognition as Executive Officer of the Year! 🏆

Owning a home on the water is a dream for many—but what's the reality? On this episode of the HBA Building Better Podcast, Lauren Tucker sits down with Dane Englert of The Ferraro Group to discuss: ✔️ The 14% increase in waterfront property values 💰 ✔️ How to prevent water damage and structural wear 🌧️ ✔️ The remodel vs. rebuild debate for historic family cottages 🔨 ✔️ A Prohibition-era surprise found in a Long Lake renovation 🍾 Whether you're building, remodeling, or just dreaming of a lakefront home, this episode is packed with insights!  

This week, Lauren sits down with Terry Peach, Director of Sales at Kingsley Lumber to talk about the latest trends in homebuilding, Kingsley Lumber's big move to a new, expanded location and Terry's unexpected passion—BMX racing at a national level! Tune in for industry insights, hilarious stories, and a behind-the-scenes look at the HBA community.

In this episode of the Building Better Podcast, we welcome the incredible Sally Erickson, Brand Ambassador for Pella by Horne Windows & Doors. Sally brings a deep passion for the residential construction industry and a long history with the Home Builders Association of Northwest Michigan. Lauren and Sally reminisce about their first meeting, Sally's family's multi-generational involvement with the HBA, and why builders should participate in the long-standing Parade of Homes. Join us for a heartfelt and insightful conversation about leadership, community, and the impact of the HBA on the building industry!

In this week's episode, Lauren is joined by guest Julie Bravender, Loan Officer at Lake Michigan Credit Union, to preview the upcoming 2025 HBA Home Expo. They discuss the Expo's rich history and exciting new features, plus home remodeling trends . Be sure to grab your tickets for the Expo on February 15 & 16 at the Grand Traverse Resort and join in on the fun and festivities!

In our debut episode, we talk with current HBA of NW MI President Ben Maurer (also President of Paul Maurer General Contracting, Inc.) and Immediate Past-President Heidi Flake (also of CMB Construction and 45th Property and Power) about the history of our association, what we want people to know about the HBA and what somebody's name says about them. 

What's going on in the world of the building trades?  Now it's easy to find out.  Get info and expertise from host Lauren Tucker and her guests, all to keep you better informed - and entertained.