The Construction Leading Edge Podcast

EPISODE 243: "Why won't my team take ownership and solve problems on their own? Why does every problem land back in my lap?" You could be surprised to find out what (and who) the real problems are. What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: The real reasons your team may not be taking ownership and solving problems on their own. How you may be your own worst enemy. The question your team desperately wants an answer to. What, Why and How: Which should you focus on, and which should you stay out of. The danger of having a specific mindset. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Delegate to Elevate: Free ebook from Belay Solutions - https://resources.belaysolutions.com/edge Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year -Free online training workshop - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout

EPISODE 242: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode with Levi Benkert, Founder/CEO of Harbor Capital: Levi's advice if you need to hire someone smarter than you. What he learned from being a production homebuilder when 2008 hit. Why he focuses on buying real estate and avoids building it. The difference between Just in Time and Just in Case delivery, and the impact on industrial real estate. Why "I have no idea what's going to happen next" is a great approach to the future. The business case for extending the space between stimulus and response. What happens when you take ownership for problems. How to prepare for a Black Swan event in your business. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle How you can connect with Levi Benkert: Company website: www.harborcap.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/Levijameshere

EPISODE 241: What is the Law of Compensation? How do you know if you're even solving the right problem? What if you don't even understand what you're disagreeing about? Are you about to start a business that's a waste of time? What if you're about to lose a good employee but you could avoid it? In this episode you'll learn one of the most important questions you can ask in 8 crucial situations. In this episode you'll learn about 8 situations you may want to ask this question: "What the #$%& is the REAL problem?" When you find yourself in any sort of disagreement or negotiation If you're planning to start a business. If you want to make more money as an employee. Why you want to ask it when you're selling. Problems you can avoid when you think you have an employee performance issue. A few situations you may be dealing with, where the real problem isn't so obvious. You'll also learn about the Law of Compensation. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Apparatus Contractor Services: Offload Your Bookkeeping Headaches - www.goapparatus.com 3 Questions To Get Paid for Estimates: Don't write up another free estimate until you watch this free training video - www.buildermasterclass.com/script Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year: Free online training workshop - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout

EPISODE 240: Here's what you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: 3 things that determine how much your business is worth to an investor. How long should you expect to stick around after you sell your business? Why you should never list a price on your business. Who actually determines what your business is worth? Who is willing to pay a premium to buy your business? The one surprising thing you need to know when you go to market. Biggest mistake owners make when they try to sell it. A few things to look at when considering a buyer. Benefits of putting your business on the market the moment you're thinking about selling. When you should start thinking about your exit strategy. #1 thing to increase the valuation. Constructive criticism is self love. #1 mistake to avoid when selling. When you need to make sure and maintain focus when selling your business. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd's Team - www.constructionleadingedge.com How to connect with Kimia Shadrokh of EBIT Associates LTD: Company website: www.EBITassociates.com Email: [email protected]

EPISODE 239: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: "The data was staggering to me." Why a contractor said that after reviewing his GPS reports. One profit gusher that plagues many small construction businesses. A few questions about your crew's productivity you may NOT want to answer. 9 practical strategies you can use to stimulate productivity. A policy from Chick-fil-a you may want to adopt The best way to spend 5 minutes at the beginning of every shift One question you should ask your crew today. A great solution for eliminating this profit gusher Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Curri - Sign up to get $40 of free credit. Use Curri to deliver your materials. https://www.constructionleadingedge.com/curri

EPISODE 238: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: What's in it for you to learn about sustainability and start incorporating it into your projects. Where the growing pressure is coming from, and what could happen to those who get left behind. What is a home energy management system, and why do homeowners want it? How to future-proof your projects The type of green that everybody loves The carrots that are out there when it comes to sustainability, as well as the sticks that could be coming soon. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year - www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout Schedule a Strategy Call with Our Team - www.constructionleadingedge.com CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Schneider Electric Connected Home - https://www.se.com/us/en/home/offers/connected-home/ KB Home Sustainability reports - www.kbhome.com/sustainability

EPISODE 237: There are 3 things most business owners want, however they're handcuffed from achieving them. What are those handcuffs? How are they affecting you? Here's what you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: A potentially offensive philosophy about growing your business. 3 things nearly all business owners want How your "I Don't Want's" could be keeping you from your "I Want's" Some lies you my need to stop listening to Growing a business is like doing a backflip off a diving board The secret to getting everything you want, according to Zi Ziglar. A surprising way selfishness shows up Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Get Out of Your Business: Make it Run Without You This Year [Free Online Workshop] - Register at www.constructionleadingedge.com/getout

EPISODE 236: Why is giving work away such a good idea if you want to grow your business? What's the business case for "corporate social responsibility?" How did an encounter with a little girl affect Charles early in his career? What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: What happens when an entrepreneur gets clarity on their vision. There is something that is better to get wrong than to not try at all. What is it? "Doing well by doing good." What that belief model means, and how an encounter with a little girl started it. The business case for corporate social responsibility...why it's good for your business to give work away. The power of authenticity and how you should be using it to connect with your employees and customers. Other resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Curri - Sign up to get $40 of free credit. Use Curri to deliver your materials. https://www.constructionleadingedge.com/curri Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com How to connect with Charles Antis: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-antis-a3b6637/ Antis Roofing website: www.antisroofing.com/

EPISODE 235: Want results? At a certain point you need to forget about setting goals. There's something else you should focus on instead. In this episode we'll talk about Right to Left Goal setting, and the right time to forget about setting goals. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Flexbase the card built for construction companies - https://www.flexbase.app/todd Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com

EPISODE 234: Hiring high level talent required overcoming a few limiting beliefs, and it's been a key to growing revenue 26% in a year. What else has Michael Moore done to grow his business and why does he say "success and failure aren't too far apart"? What you'll take away from this construction podcast episode with Michael Moore, owner of Waterton Construction Group: Advice from a couple of guys who have been fired. The benefits of letting go of your business. Two things he's done to increase revenue 26% in a year. Two places you need to go if you're ever in McKinney, TX. Your definition of success is up to you. The right way to define success. Why success and failure aren't too far apart. Myths about hiring high level talent and the truth about leading people who are better than you. Limiting beliefs around attracting talent and growing your team. The difference between building houses and building a business that builds houses. A few keys to cracking the code on selling. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Waterton Construction Group - https://watertonconstruction.com/ Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com Move the Needle 90 Day Accountability Challenge - https://buildermastermindgroup.com/move CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Curri - Sign up to get $40 of free credit. Use Curri to deliver your materials. https://www.constructionleadingedge.com/curri Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com

EPISODE 233: Figuring out the 20% of activities that will yield 80% of results is good. Figuring out the 5% that will give you 95% is even better, which is what these 5 Big Levers will do for you. What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: The 5 Biggest Levers you can pull to get 95/5 results in your business. Painful problems don't necessarily require painful solutions. Why you need to elevate and detach from your business. The two biggest human motivators, and how to leverage them. The first law of combat according to Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. How to design your company for the future. The "Nail the Handoff" process, and how to do it with your team. The #1 sales process lever to pull for homebuilders, remodelers and small commercial GCs. The difference between two personal trainers, and the lesson I learned. How to improve the chances of achieving your goals to 95%. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com Move the Needle 90 Day Accountability Challenge - https://buildermastermindgroup.com/move CompanyCam - The photo app every contractor needs - https://companycam.com/cle Curri - Sign up to get $40 of free credit. Use Curri to deliver your materials. https://www.constructionleadingedge.com/curri

EPISODE 232: There's a hidden profit bleed that is killing contractors. They can feel it but can't see it because it never shows up on an invoice or a bank statement. The worst effects can last a lifetime... What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: - Bagpipes in Nebraska. - What is this hidden profit bleed? - How your future wealth is affected by it. - The only thing you may need to do in order to get paid more. - A lesson from physics. - What you should give the grave, and what you shouldn't take with you. - One form of this profit bleed that can't be measured, but could have the most impact on your life. - A simple 3 step process you can use to start reducing the effect of this profit bleed in your business and life. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast: The Builder Mastermind Group - Avoid costly mistakes by sharing ideas with a group of like minded construction business owners. https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://www.constructionleadingedge.com/ Infratech Outdoor Heaters - https://infratech-usa.com/leadingedge CompanyCam - Document your jobs and protect your company - https://companycam.com/cle

EPISODE 231: Neil Sundresh has grown Glacier West Construction dramatically in recent years. How has his approach to quality control, delegation and the "fat steaks and bourbon" strategy helped him do it? Listen to my conversation with Neil to learn that...and a lot more. What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode with Neil Sundresh, owner of Glacier West Construction: The "Fat Steaks and Bourbon strategy" and how Neil uses it to rob his clients. Stealing the magic sushi sauce How do you really scratch a client's itch? Working with customers who can't have mistakes. Why Neil says every builder should be a designer. A top down approach to quality control, and how it ties into sales. Importance of staying the heck out of the way. Delegation is not the same as autonomy. How to be insulated from problems. Sometimes you're not in charge of your growth How to connect with Neil Sundresh: Company website: https://www.glacierwest.ca/ Resources mentioned in this construction podcast: The Builder Mastermind Group - Avoid costly mistakes by sharing ideas with a group of like minded construction business owners. https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://constructionleadingedge.as.me/freesession Infratech Outdoor Heaters - https://infratech-usa.com/leadingedge

EPISODE 230: What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode with Monish Khadye: - The business case for happiness - What are "dinner date" clients and why you want them - His rule for emails that don't allow him to be a jerk - Being happy to ask foolish questions. - When your goals aren't really YOUR goals - Keys to working with your spouse in a true partnership - The only way you're guaranteed not to fail - Embracing technology to make subcontractors more profitable and compress schedules. - Their upside down approach to business goal setting. - How he uses automation to deliver a higher volume of projects. - How he's cracked the code on performance reviews and peer reviews. How to connect with Monish Khadye: Company website: https://www.khadye.com.au Resources mentioned in this construction podcast: The Builder Mastermind Group - Avoid costly mistakes by sharing ideas with a group of like minded construction business owners. https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://constructionleadingedge.as.me/freesession Start using the Preconstruction Services Agreement to Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script

EPISODE 229: What were the benefits of starting his homebuilding business in 2008? Alex Gregg explains, and also discusses some keys to setting expectations with multi-million dollar customers and knowing when to say "No." Here's what you're going to learn about in this construction podcast episode with Alex Gregg: - The benefits of starting a homebuilding business in 2008. - Keys to communicating with customers on multi-million dollar projects. - Expectations he sets with his clients. - How Alex thinks about failure, and a term that's better than failure. - How being part of the Builder Mastermind Group has re-energized him. - How using templates helps him automate his projects, avoid reinventing the wheel every time, and which templates he's been focused on. - The importance of knowing your costs. - How to know when to say No. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Live Meetup November 11-12 in Sarasota, FL - https://buildermasterclass.com/live The Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com How to connect with Alex Gregg: Website - https://gregghomebuilding.com/ FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/gregghomebuilding Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregghomebuilding

EPISODE 228: What you're going to learn from this construction podcast episode with Tom Reber: -Your customers are always feeling something. Whose job is it to be in control of what they're feeling? - What is the Contractor Fight? The person you're fighting may surprise you. - Some of the common self-imposed struggles you may be dealing with. - Why Tom says it's a 100% guarantee you're the problem. - Why you shouldn't wish it was easier. - How things are probably much simpler than you're making them. - Tom explains the question, "Can you win six seconds?" - Tom also talks about his book and a TV show that are coming out soon. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Free copy of Winning the Contractor Fight by Tom Reber - https://thecontractorfight.com/book/ Live Meetup November 11-12 in Sarasota, FL - https://buildermasterclass.com/live The Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com

EPISODE 227: What is "Right to Left" thinking, and how can it help you scale your business, nail the handoff, avoid hiring mistakes, and get buy-in on your project schedules? What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: - The common symptoms of Left to Right operation in a construction business. How "Right to Left" thinking can be used: - Strategic planning for your business. - Setting and achieving your financial targets. - Creating a system for sales and lead generation. - Nailing the handoff to eliminate chaos on your jobsites. - Hiring for a newly created role. - Getting your field team bought into your project schedules. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Live Meetup November 11-12 in Sarasota, FL - https://buildermasterclass.com/live Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - www.constructionleadingedge.com

EPISODE 226: Most contractors aren't really in the building business. Why did John Wojtas downsize from 40 employees in 19 states, and how has he scaled his custom homebuilding business in the last year? What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode with John Wojtas of Paxis Group: - Why John downsized from 40 employees working in 19 states. - How he has grown from 4 to 13 employees in about 14 months. - When 80% of schedule overruns can be prevented - Why his company doesn't bid on projects. - A surprising benefit of using a Preconstruction Services Agreement. - Why John says he's not really in the building business, as a custom home builder. - The power of the pause. - Why he joined the Builder Mastermind Group, and the benefits he's seen as a member. - Crack the Code segment: One surprising strategy John uses with his people. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: The Builder Mastermind Group - Avoid costly mistakes by sharing ideas with a group of like minded construction business owners. https://buildermastermindgroup.com Schedule a Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://constructionleadingedge.as.me/freesession Start using the Preconstruction Services Agreement to Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script

EPISODE 225: What you'll learn from this construction podcast episode with Jerry McDaniels, owner of McDaniels Construction: - The benefits of starting a business twice. - Ghost expenses. - How and why Jerry is so focused on improving lives. - What burning the ships looked like for Jerry. - How Jerry knew he had to start his own business. - Why bigger is not better, and what actually is better. - The often-overlooked thing Jerry does that gets him more work than anything. - How Jerry's employees do self-evaluations. - One thing Jerry and his team have cracked the code on in business. - What led Jerry to join the Builder Mastermind Group, and the connection between strength in numbers and confidence. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: The Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com

EPISODE 224: Bobby Williams was a teacher and football coach with a side-hustle construction business. How did he grow the business, how is he turning customers into disciples and what is the change he made recently that revolutionized the business? Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode: - How football coaching strategies apply to running a construction business. - How and why Bobby turned his side hustle construction business into a full time job. - Developing mental toughness. - Benefits of having a clearly defined and tight radius. - How to turn clients into disciples. - How a TV show cost him $22,000. - One thing BGW Construction has cracked the code on that has revolutionized their business. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: The Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermastermindgroup.com How to Get Paid for Estimates - Watch this free training video before you do another free estimate - https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Bobby Williams and BGW Construction: Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bgwconstruction Website - www.bgwconstructionllc.com

EPISODE 223: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode from The Construction Leading Edge Podcast: - Benefits of starting a business in an economic downturn. - Unique challenges of building on an island. - When you have to taper your opinions. - Benefits of starting a business during an economic downturn. - The specific software and systems Ryan runs his business with. - Big differences between Quickbooks and Sage. - Setting expectations leads to happy customers. - What's in it for you to care about other people's feelings. - Finding shorter routes in your processes, and how to do it. - Why and how Ryan is constantly trying to work himself out of a job. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: 3 Minute Survey for the Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermasterclass.com/mastermind 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Apparatus Contractor Services - Bookkeeping, financial reporting and payroll service for contractors - https://goapparatus.com How to connect with Ryan Perrone of Nautilus Homes: Company website: www.Nautilus-homes.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nautilushomessrq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nautiluscustomhomes

EPISODE 222: Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode: Creating a trust based organization, and how conflict helps create trust. How Reconstruction Experts has scaled to over $100 million in a short time. What are some common mistakes businesses make when trying to scale up? How important are systems and processes to scaling up, and why? Why do some people leave when you implement processes? What are some key differences between the CFO role and the CEO role, and what advice would you offer to someone who wants to make that transition? Rich's favorite failure. We go deep into the process of implementing systems and processes in your business. Where do you start? How do you get your team to implement it? What mistakes should you avoid? Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: 3 Minute Survey for the Builder Mastermind Group - https://buildermasterclass.com/mastermind 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Apparatus Contractor Services - Bookkeeping, financial reporting and payroll service for contractors - https://goapparatus.com How to connect with Reconstruction Experts: Website: https://www.reconexp.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reconstruction_experts/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/ReconstructionExpertsInc/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/reconexphq

EPISODE 221: John Warrillow is an expert in the mechanics of selling a business. He's helped thousands of business owners build and harvest the value of a business, and his written several books on the subject. Here's what you're going to learn about in this construction podcast episode: - Why most construction businesses are unsellable, and what to do to fix it. - What is TVR? - Trojan Horse effect of a subscription model. - The "Freedom Point", and how it relates to the right time to sell your business. - What John calls the "Pull Factor" and why it's important if you're planning to sell...or even retire. - Disastrous mistakes to avoid when selling a business. - Due diligence you should be doing as the seller. - Clauses to watch out for during a transaction. - I asked John what the #1 thing sellers do to sabotage themselves. - The question you don't want to answer during the negotiation. - Why the value of your business is in the eye of the beholder. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup Schedule Your Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://buildermasterclass.com/apply Connect with John Warrillow and get some of his resources - https://learn.builttosell.com/construction

EPISODE 220: Mike Brewer is CEO of a plumbing business in Arizona with 400 employees. They stopped trying to find plumbers. Now they're creating them. What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: - How one word on your business card can steer business decisions. - The unique solution Mike's company is using to solve the skilled labor shortage. They're not trying to find plumbers...they're making them. - The piece of information that would have prevented Mike from starting his training program if he had known about it. - How he almost went out of business three times, and a couple of the reasons behind the near failure. - Importance of attaching actions to outcomes. - Why they provide financial management training for their new hires. - "Not having cash puts you out of business faster than anything else." - Importance of staying in your lane, understanding your limits. - MIke's thoughts on having a business coach and a system to follow. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup Schedule Your Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://buildermasterclass.com/apply Brewer Companies website: www.brewercompanies.com Brewer University: www.breweruniversity.com Brewer Craftsman Academy Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BrewerCraftsmanAcademy Build Your Future Arizona: www.BYFAZ.org

EPISODE 219: What you're going to hear about in this construction podcast episode with Kevin Oakley of Doyouconver.com: - How to avoid "selling yourself into bankruptcy." - Why advertising has zero momentum. - Tips on talking to your customers about problems caused by material delays and price increases. - What's happening with the Build to Rent market. - The most interesting trends Kevin is seeing with builders across the country right now. - Why now is a good time to pace yourself, no matter how badly you feel like you need to grow. - Some of the biggest mistakes many contractors are making, that you want to avoid. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup Schedule Your Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://buildermasterclass.com/apply How to connect with Kevin Oakley: Company website: https://www.doyouconvert.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinoakley/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/koakley81

EPISODE 218: How did a moped accident set Connor Crook up for success? Why did an attorney buy a toolbelt company, and why is having an audience such a great idea? What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode with Connor Crook, CEO of Diamondback Tool Co.: - Why should a business create an audience, and how do you go about building that audience? - Connor's process for creating new products, and why you might want to try it. - How do you know when to say no? - Some bad jokes about being an attorney with the last name Crook, and how he ended up owning a toolbelt business. - They Diamondback is doing about helping the skilled labor shortage. - The difference between IG and LI marketing - How a moped accident changed his life and set him up for success. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup Schedule Your Strategy Call with Todd Dawalt - https://buildermasterclass.com/apply How to connect with Connor Crook: Diamondback Tool - https://toolbelts.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/diamondback.toolbelts/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/connor-crook-bb82b110/

EPISODE 217: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: - Four steps construction business owners need to take in order to create financial freedom. - Four situations many contractors are stuck in, that you want to avoid. - How to get in the driver's seat with your cash flow. - The difference between insights and information. - Biggest mistakes that lead to "impossibly priced" projects that have no chance of profitability. -Where to start if you have plenty of work and your jobs are profitable, but not enough money in the bank. - Why cash flow problems aren't really problems. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: How to Drive Your Cash Flow - https://buildermasterclass.com/drive Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo

EPISODE 216: Kyle Little is the COO of Sherwood Lumber, one of the largest lumber distributors in the US. What you're doing to get out of this construction podcast episode: - What's going on behind the scenes of skyrocketing lumber prices...that most people don't know? - How the fallout from 2008 connects to what's going on now. - Is this the new norm with lumber prices? - Is there a bubble coming? - What does the supply chain working itself out look like? - How can developer or contractor lock in price for a project in a year? - Transitioning leadership to a new generation - What does the future of the lumber prices look like from Kyle's perspective? - What is Sherwood Lumber doing to help address the problem with lumber prices? Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com Apparatus Bookkeeping Service - https://goapparatus.com Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo How to connect with Kyle Little: Company website - https://sherwoodlumber.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-little-71547837/

EPISODE 215: What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: - 3 DNA statements at Western Allied. - Keys to successful transition of leadership from one generation to the next. - One of Angie's favorite failures, and what she learned about rolling out a new process. - One thing that surprised her about being CEO, and her top priorities in that role. - Unconscious biases. - Angie's advice to young women who want to move into senior leadership. - The difference between diversity and inclusion. - A summer camp she's running to get young people into the trades. - Why helping your competitors get better is good for you. How to connect with Angie Simon: Company website - www.westernallied.com SMACNA - www.smacna.org Let's Talk Shop Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-talk-shop/id1462173868 Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com Apparatus Bookkeeping Service - https://goapparatus.com Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo

EPISODE 214: Mike is the CEO of MaterialsXchange, the digital marketplace to buy and sell wood products, bringing e-commerce efficiency to the process. What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: -What's going on behind the scenes of skyrocketing lumber prices...that most people don't know? - How John Deere was going to wreck the economy. - The difference between a supply web and supply chain. - Where's all the money going? - What does the future of the lumber prices look like from Mike's perspective? - Difference between a supply web and a supply chain. - Mike explains what he means when he said, "When there's this much money laying around, someone's going to come pick it up." - Democratization of the market, and what it means. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com Apparatus Bookkeeping Service - https://goapparatus.com Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo How to connect with Mike Wisnefski: Company website - www.materialsxchange.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wisnefski-6b32b57/

EPISODE 213: What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: - Why Margaret Whelan says we have a process constraint, not a labor constraint. - What's going on with the build to rent product. - How to be a thought leader. - Creating demand vs. adding to supply. - The builders who are disrupting housing. - The best career advice Margaret received. - Why some of the biggest homebuilders aren't really homebuilders. - Why successful builders build every house twice -The biggest risk to the homebuilding industry right now? - What are some things going on at the macro level of the housing industry Margaret is most interested in? -The biggest opportunities builders should prepare to jump on over the next few years. - Autopsy accounting - What you need to do if you want to sell your business. How to connect with Margaret Whelan: Company website - https://www.whelanadvisoryllc.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/whelanmargaret Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: STRUXI Labor Productivity Software - https://struxi.com Apparatus Bookkeeping Service - https://goapparatus.com Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo

EPISODE 212: Ward Schraeder is a venture capitalist who has done bankruptcy turnarounds on 30+ businesses. He's a real estate developer and most recently, host of the HGTV show Bargain Mansions Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode: - Common factors among 30+ businesses in bankruptcy he was tasked with turning around. - The one reason that led him to shut down more businesses than anything else. - How he analyzes a business venture right off the bat. - How he accidentally became a TV personality. - Failure might be a myth. - What he's learned from working with people in the TV business. - Most common mistakes he sees contractors making. How to connect with Ward Schraeder: Website - https://wardschraeder.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wardschraeder/ Vaya Space Rocket Company - https://www.vayaspace.com/ Brookfield Assisted Living in Arkansas - www.brookfieldseniors.com Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Approval: Get Paid Faster Based on Project Milestones - https://www.withapproval.com Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script

EPISODE 211: Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode with Russ Little, of Jones Lang LaSalle: - Why "Coopetition" is better than competition. - How and why to get started with "relationship mining." - One common mistake to avoid when you start working with a new client... or change jobs. - Some changes Russ would suggest to contractors who want to be more successful. - The most challenging aspects of working inside large client organizations. - One particularly difficult employee Russ managed the most difficult situation he caused for Russ. - How an apparent failure turned out to be a setup for later success. - Red flags that tell you it's time to have a talk with an employee. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Approval: Get Paid Faster Based on Project Milestones - https://www.withapproval.com Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Russ Little: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russ-little-1a60b44/ Company website: www.us.jll.com

EPISODE 210: Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode with Justin Bride of Ascent Contracting: - The difference between commercial and residential construction, and what each can learn from the other. - The importance of preconstruction in the residential construction industry. What happens when it's NOT done well? - How to market to architects and build relationships with them. - How Justin and his team get referrals from clients. - One specific red flag Justin looks for when talking to prospects. - One thing he focuses on showing homeowners and architects, so he can ignore his competition. - One key to a successful project that is often overlooked. - What Justin believes the role of the general contractor to be, which might surprise you. - A couple of things he feels like his company has cracked the code on. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Approval: Get Paid Faster Based on Project Milestones - https://www.withapproval.com Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Justin Bride: Company website - www.ascentcontractinginc.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ascentcontractinginc/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/ascentcontracting

EPISODE 209: Here's what you're going to get out of this construction podcast episode: - Things to stop doing if you want to recruit and hire young people. - What do most people get wrong about the skilled labor situation? - What is CREW Collaborative? - How the Build My Future event is different from other career fairs. - What ISN'T working when it comes to attracting young people? - What are some out of the box approaches Brandon recommends? - Why you need to stop letting people tell your stories and some advice on how you can get started. - Keys to retaining employees once they come on board. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Approval: Get Paid Faster Based on Project Milestones - https://www.withapproval.com Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Brandon Patterson: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonmpatterson/ Iowa Skilled Trades - www.iowaskilledtrades.com Crew Collaborative - https://crewcollab.org/

EPISODE 208: What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - The Art Of Delegation: How To Get Out Of Your Own Way - Addition Through Subtraction: How To Compound Your Results - Cost-Plus vs. Fixed-Cost projects. - The top one or two root cause problems builders and remodelers should focus on. - Putting systems and processes in place. - The problem with free estimates Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Fieldchat: Messaging built for construction teams - https://get.fieldchat.com/edge GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Bryan Kaplan: Bryan's website - https://constructionconsulting.co/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/constructionconsulting.co

EPISODE 207: What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - Kristin Larson's top priorities as a CEO of Southwest Industrial Electric. - The keys to growing from 10 employees to 50, and the failure cycle she had to stop. - The few things on her financial dashboard she uses to keep tabs on her business. - A mindset shift that is common to most successful construction business owners. - How Southwest Electric uses games to achieve targets. - Communicating to a resolution with family members. - The system they SimPro for managing projects and maintenance work. - A situation where they made a mistake with a client, and how they dealt with it. totally honest with a customer when we make a mistake. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Fieldchat: Messaging built for construction teams - https://get.fieldchat.com/edge GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Construction Financial Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script How to connect with Kristin Larson: Company website - https://www.southwestelectric.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-larson-718106b7/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/southwestindustrialelectric/

EPISODE 206: What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: What does Spencer Powell mean when he says to become "the Red Bull of the construction space." How the "script has flipped" when it comes to sales and marketing. Marketing activities that are mistakes and wastes of time. What a marketing funnel is, and the keys to a good one. Why did Spencer write an open letter to Houzz? Where you should focus efforts and resources to get the most bang for your marketing buck. How to get started creating content for your website and social media. A genius strategy for building referral partner relationships. The "Do More of What's Working" philosophy. The difference between the design of your website and the performance of your website. Spencer's new book - The Remodeler Marketing Blueprint Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Fieldchat: Messaging built for construction teams - https://get.fieldchat.com/edge GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script The Remodeler Marketing Blueprint Book - https://remodelermarketingblueprint.com How to connect with Spencer Powell: Builder Funnel website - https://www.builderfunnel.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerwpowell/

EPISODE 205: 64% of construction companies fail in the first five years, usually because of cash flow problems. In this construction podcast episode you'll learn about: 8 mistakes construction business owners make when trying to solve their cash flow problems. What "Right to Left" operation looks like, and how it solved cash flow problems for one business. Some of the most common side effects of cash flow struggles. Details on The Construction Financial Masterclass - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo What will you learn in this Masterclass: 1. Optimize your bookkeeping setup. 2. How to analyze your financial statements. 3. Pricing your work for profit 4. Maximizing your cash flow Get all the details on the Construction Financial Masterclass at https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo

EPISODE 204: What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - How can going modular help builders deal with the current lumber price situation? - "All modular homes are prefab homes but not all prefab homes are modular homes." What does that mean? - What's in it for the homeowner in the way of indoor air quality? - What is the business opportunity in the modular business? - A few misconceptions and myths about modular? - How are permitting and inspections handled on modular homes? - If a builder wants to build either a spec or custom modular home, how would they get started? - What is going on at the macro-level in the industry? - Escalation clauses and contingency fee in financing to mitigate the risk of skyrocketing lumber prices. - The confusing "M" words. - Is modular is a type of home or a construction method? - Modular math allows for speed. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Fieldchat: Messaging built for construction teams - https://get.fieldchat.com/edge GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Be Your Own CFO Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script Impresa Modular: https://impresamodular.com/ Connect with Ken Semler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kensemler/

EPISODE 203: What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - Unique challenges of a project that is over 1,000,000 sf on a 125 acre site. - How to get people to fill out daily reports. - The tools two superintendents from Willmeng Construction are using to keep up with hundreds of employees on a massive project. - How they're using FieldChat and ProCore to revolutionize their operation. - A few ingenious ways to use QR codes on your jobsites. - Tips for getting people on board with using new technology or processes. - Some of the common misconceptions about being a construction superintendent, and what Jeremy and Derek think it's about. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Fieldchat: Messaging built for construction teams - https://get.fieldchat.com/edge GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Be Your Own CFO Masterclass: Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates: https://buildermasterclass.com/script

EPISODE 202: What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: "Stop screwing around with symptoms" How to get to the root cause of just about any problem. The "Systems Mindset" and what it looks like. Top 4 Profit Bleeds most contractors suffer from. Two big profit bleeds that can't be quantified, but are incredibly expensive. Answer to the question, "Where do I start putting systems in place?" Right to Left Thinking Five areas of your business to systematize, and how to get some quick wins. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: CoConstruct Masterclass - Eliminate bleeds to maximize your bottom line profits - https://buildermasterclass.com/coconstruct 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script GoSite: Take Control of Customer Reviews - https://www.gosite.com/podcast Apparatus Contractor Services: Bookkeeping, Payroll and Financial Reporting for Small Construction Businesses - https://goapparatus.com Be Your Own CFO Masterclass - Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo

EPISODE 201: What does a Navy SEAL strategy for raiding insurgent houses have to do with minimizing chaos for you? I'll try to explain... What you'll learn about in this construction podcast episode: How a "touch it once" system helped Navy SEALs catch more insurgents during the war on terror. How "Point of Sale Thinking" will help you eliminate chaos in your business...even if you never use a cash register. How to use technology to automate your remembering and reminding. What an automated sales process looks like. How to set up a change order request process. An ingenious way of eliminating the headache of tracking PTO and vacation time. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: The Sales Autopilot Funnel - How to automate your sales process - https://buildermasterclass.com/autopilot Be Your Own CFO Masterclass - Master the financial side of the business - https://buildermasterclass.com/cfo CoConstruct Masterclass - Eliminate bleeds to maximize your bottom line profits - https://buildermasterclass.com/coconstruct Work The System: The Simple Mechanics of Making More and Working Less by Sam Carpenter Extreme Ownership: Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

EPISODE 200: Martha Weidmann - CEO and Co-Founder at NINE dot ARTS | Art Consultants and Curators. NINE dot ARTS uses the power of original art to transform spaces (office buildings, multifamily, large land developments, healthcare facilities, to name a few, into experiences. They bridge the gap between arts and business. What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - Martha's advice on selling to developers and project owners. -How does art pay for itself? - The difference between spaces and experience, and the business case for investing in that. - Creative placemaking. - A few difficult project situations she has worked through. - What makes a contractor successful, and why she hired the most expensive GC on her own commercial renovation project. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Bosch Bluehound Asset Management - https://bluehound.boschtools.com/ 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users - https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How to connect with Martha Weidmann: Company website - https://ninedotarts.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-weidmann-b112396/

How many referrals are you losing because of your warranty process? Matt Hobbs shares some keys to a rock solid warranty program. What you'll hear about in this construction podcast episode: - The surprising connection between your referrals and the warranty period. - How to prevent warranty claims, regardless of the type of work you do. - Four keys to a rock solid warranty program -The biggest challenges builders are facing right now. - Root causes behind warranty issues - Four wall execution as a business development strategy - The benefits of finding a partner to handle your warranty program Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Bosch Bluehound Asset Management - https://bluehound.boschtools.com/ 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users - https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How to connect with Matt Hobbs: Company website - www.prohome.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-hobbs-87706b198/ Email: matt(at)prohome.com

What you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - How creating space to fail allows for innovation. - The surprising connection between safety and asset tracking. - Problems with the typical approaches to asset tracking on jobsites. - One way to create a culture of accountability. - An interesting jobsite Innovation Lab Oracle created, and some surprising things they learned from watching real life construction folks in the wild. - Which assets make sense to track on your jobsites, and what doesn't make sense. - How a platform can be leadership's "single point of truth." Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Bosch Bluehound Asset Tracking - https://Bluehound.boschtools.com 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users - https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup

You should walk into every contract expecting to negotiate? Learn what to look for and how to quit getting screwed. What you'll get from this construction podcast episode with construction attorney Karalynn Cromeens: - The bid and scope are never the same, and not understanding the difference has cost some people their business. - There's no room for charity in a business transaction. - What is the first rule of subcontracts? - Common misconceptions about subcontracts. - How liens work and why they are leverage. - You should walk into every subcontract expecting to negotiate. What are some negotiation strategies? - Clauses to look out for in subcontract agreements - How to negotiate a "Pay when paid" clause - "Being clear is kind." - You say that "the bid and scope are never the same" and that you've had clients lose their entire business because they didn't realize this. - Tell us about the Subcontractor Institute - Talk about your book - Quit Getting Screwed Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Quit Getting Screwed: Understanding and Negotiating the Subcontract by Karalynn Cromeens- https://amzn.to/2Z2n725 Billd - They'll pay your supplier up front and give you 120 day terms. Learn more and estimate your cash flow needs at http://www.billd.com/CLE 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How you can connect with Karalynn Cromeens https://subcontractorinstitute.com/ Karalynn Cromeens on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/karalynn-cromeens-55ba216/ Company website - https://cromeenslawfirm.com

In this episode you'll hear my conversation with Ken Kucera, Vice President of Installed Sales and Manufacturing at 84 Lumber. What you'll learn from this construction podcast episode: - How you, the contractor, can get better value from your supplier. Info to share, questions to ask. - How will the lumber supply business look different to builders in the next 5 years? - Tips for nailing the handoff from design to manufacturing to supplier to the field. His team does a couple of innovative things. - Behind the scenes effects of COVID on a manufacturer and supplier like 84 Lumber. - Servant leadership - Why is 84 Lumber investing so much in manufacturing facilities? - What are some misconceptions builders have about 84 Lumber's manufacturing capability? - What capabilities 84 has that builders are missing out on? -How does 84 Lumber want to partner with builders? Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Billd - They'll pay your supplier up front and give you 120 day terms. Learn more and estimate your cash flow needs at http://www.billd.com/CLE 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How to connect with Ken Kucera, Vice President of Installed Sales and Manufacturing at 84 Lumber: Ken's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-kucera-37981331/ 84 Lumber website - https://www.84lumber.com

Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas survived her brother's suicide and is now a subject matter expert in workplace suicide prevention, men's mental health and resilience. What you'll learn from this construction podcast episode: - Why a business owner said to her over coffee, "I don't want to wait until an employees dies." - Story about what a police chief said to one of his officers after he attempted suicide. - Why does the construction industry have one of the highest suicide rates? - What is the #1 canary in the coal mine, so to speak, when it comes to suicide. - How do issues of mental health connect with jobsite safety? - A few things to think about if you're within 10 years of retirement. - Behaviors that are early indicators you want to watch out for. - Crisis Inoculation Plan Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Workplace Suicide Prevention- https://workplacesuicideprevention.com/ Billd - They'll pay your supplier up front and give you 120 day terms. Learn more and estimate your cash flow needs at http://www.billd.com/CLE 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How to connect with Dr. Sally Spencer-Thomas: https://www.sallyspencerthomas.com/

Here's what you'll get out of this construction podcast episode: - What is the #1 mistake small business owners make when recruiting for a new employee? - Questions you can ask to determine culture fit. - What is the #1 mistake small business owners make during the first week? - Why is the first week for an employee so critical? - What's the 80/20 on onboarding? - When and how do you introduce objectives and performance metrics to new hires? - How to keep your good employees. - How can companies tie employee performance into the compensation strategy? - What is your employer brand and why does it matter? - Tips and tricks for finding new employees. Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Resources mentioned in this construction podcast episode: Download the 5 Steps to Align & Amplify Your Employer Brand - https://www.essentialhr.ca/leadingedge LL Flooring - http://www.llflooring.com/pro Billd - They'll pay your supplier up front and give you 120 day terms. Learn more at http://www.billd.com/CLE 3 Questions to Help You Get Paid for Estimates - https://buildermasterclass.com/script Mastermind Group for CoConstruct Users- https://buildermasterclass.com/cogroup How to connect with Laura Tolhoek of Essential HR: Email- [email protected] Website - https://essentialhr.ca LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/company/essential-hr-canada/