The Builder Upper Show

On this episode of The Builder Upper Show, host Lou Perez talks with Bob Schafer, President of Ranger Construction, about his path from project manager to president of a fourth-generation, family-owned asphalt and paving company. Bob shares how mentors shaped his career, why industry relationships matter, and what Ranger is exploring in construction technology, from roller guidance and grade control to an app for asphalt delivery logistics. They also discuss the challenge of bringing younger workers into the trades, the value of learning in the field, and a Florida beach restoration project Bob’s crew still talks about today.

What does it take to build a successful construction business from the ground up? For Chris Estrada, CEO of Team Extreme and Extreme Drywall Concepts, it took decades of hard work, learning, resilience, faith, and a willingness to keep pushing through the tough seasons. In this episode of The Builder Upper Show, Lou Perez sits down with Chris to talk about his unconventional path into construction, from dropping out of high school and attending Phoenix Job Corps to becoming a commercial drywall and painting contractor operating with more than 100 employees and averaging eight-figure revenue.

In this episode of The Builder Upper Show, host Lou Perez travels to Gaylor Electric's headquarters in Indianapolis to sit down with Chuck Goodrich, CEO of Gaylor Electric, for an inspiring conversation on leadership, innovation, mentorship, and the future of construction. Chuck shares his incredible journey from intern to CEO, the people-first culture that has fueled Gaylor's growth, and why investing in apprenticeships, workforce development, and continuous learning is essential to building the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Bradley King, COO of Horseshoe Construction shares about his journey from military service to leading one of the nation's top trenchless contractors. Bradley dives into Horseshoe’s evolution from pipe bursting and slip lining to water rehabilitation and design-build projects, explains key trenchless technologies, and discusses why the company exited the CIPP market. He also explores how AI is improving municipal infrastructure planning and risk assessment, the importance of responsible stewardship of taxpayer funds, Horseshoe’s commitment to industry leadership and culture, and offers advice for the next generation of construction professionals.

In this episode of The Builder Upper Show, host Lou Perez sits down with Scott Kimpland, Partner at FMI Corporation, to dive deep into what it really takes to achieve operational excellence in construction. Scott brings decades of experience working with some of the most high-performing contractors in the industry through FMI Corporation, a leading management consulting and investment banking firm focused on the built environment. Together, they explore the real drivers behind productivity, field leadership, and long-term business success in construction.