In this conversation, Ryan Kelly and Nate Burket discuss the complexities of home improvement projects, particularly the balance between DIY efforts and hiring professionals. They explore the pros and cons of DIY, the risks involved, and the importance of accountability in construction. The discussion also touches on project timelines, costs, and the value of professional advice for homeowners. In this conversation, Ryan Kelly and Nate Burket discuss the complexities of hiring professionals for construction projects, the risks associated with DIY approaches, and the importance of managing client expectations. They emphasize the need for quality, timeline, and price considerations in project management, and the value of structured processes to ensure successful outcomes. The discussion also highlights the challenges contractors face in communicating effectively with clients and the potential consequences of poor planning. In this conversation, Nate Burket and Ryan Kelly delve into the complexities of the contracting and remodeling industry, focusing on client expectations, the bidding process, and the importance of professional guidance. They discuss the financial relationships between contractors and clients, particularly in California, and explore various financing options available for home renovations. The dialogue emphasizes the need for clear communication, proper planning, and leveraging financial tools to ensure successful project outcomes.

Scaling a Construction Business: Sales, Systems & Profit Strategies That Actually Work | Above Industry Standards (AIS) Podcast

If you're running a construction company and wondering why growth isn’t translating into profit… this episode is for you.

On the Above Industry Standards (AIS) Podcast, hosts Ryan Kelly and Nate Burket break down what it really takes to scale a construction business—without losing control of your margins, team, or sanity.

Whether you're a contractor, remodeler, or business owner, this episode delivers real-world strategies for sales, operations, and long-term profitability.

In this engaging Episode of the AIS Podcast the boys has a welcome, former NFL quarterback Eric Ainge as he shares his journey from football to broadcasting, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, leadership, and the mental game in both sports and business. Ainge reflects on his college football experience, the significance of servant leadership, and the dynamics of hiring and team culture. He also shares personal stories from his time in the NFL, including insights about legendary players like Brett Favre and Mark Sanchez, while exploring the future of work in the age of AI.

In this conversation, Ryan Kelly and Nate Burket discuss various aspects of running a successful construction business, focusing on the importance of people and processes, the challenges of growth, and the integration of technology and AI. They explore hiring practices, sales strategies, and the significance of core values in shaping company culture and client relationships. The discussion also touches on the future of AI in the construction industry and the need for businesses to adapt to changing market dynamics.

In this episode of the AIS Podcast, host Ryan Kelly delves into the common disputes between clients and contractors in the construction industry. He discusses the reasons behind these conflicts, emphasizing the importance of setting proper expectations, effective communication, and the role of money in these relationships. Ryan also highlights the need for detailed proposals to avoid misunderstandings and protect both parties involved. Ultimately, he calls for accountability among contractors to improve the industry's reputation.

In this episode, Ryan discusses the strategic planning process for 2026, sharing insights from his company's planning session involving 15 team members. He emphasizes the importance of personal reflections, team involvement, and the need for clear organizational structures. The conversation covers financial goals, budgeting strategies, sales tactics, and innovative tools that enhance project management. Ryan also highlights the significance of setting anti-goals to avoid pitfalls and encourages listeners to engage their teams in planning for better outcomes.

In this episode of the AIS podcast, Ryan Kelly and Nate Burket discuss various aspects of remodeling, sales strategies, cash flow management, and the importance of productizing services. They share insights from their experiences in the construction industry, emphasizing the need for clear communication, effective marketing, and understanding financial dynamics. The conversation also touches on the challenges of custom projects, the significance of client relationships, and strategies for building a scalable business model. Overall, the episode provides valuable tips and tricks for contractors looking to enhance their operations and improve profitability.

In this episode, Ryan Kelly discusses the winter slowdown in the construction industry, exploring its causes and how contractors can mitigate its effects through effective marketing and planning. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the client conversion cycle, implementing robust business systems, and proactive marketing strategies to ensure a steady flow of work even during the slow months. The conversation provides actionable insights for contractors to thrive in a seasonal business environment.

• Construction employment drops 8-15% every winter.
• New project inquiries fall 20-30% from November to February.
• Most homeowners avoid major work during the holidays.
• Understanding client lifecycle is crucial for marketing.
• Marketing should begin months in advance of peak seasons.
• Educating clients on timelines is key to conversions.
• Seasonal services can help maintain cash flow in winter.
• Building effective systems is essential for business success.
• Tracking marketing effectiveness helps refine strategies.
• Planning ahead is vital to avoid winter slowdowns.

• Navigating the Winter Slowdown in Construction
• Mastering Client Conversion Cycles

• "Don't run discounts. Don't buy work."
• "You need to know your client lifecycle."
• "It's a math game, a math game in parameters."

00:00Understanding the Winter Slowdown in Construction

06:59Client Conversion Cycle and Marketing Strategies

15:40Building Effective Systems for Business Success

27:34Planning for Success: The Importance of Strategy

In this episode of The AIs Podcast, Nate joins host Ryan for a deep dive into what it takes to grow and sustain a successful construction business in today’s competitive market.

From productizing services and aligning sales processes with client expectations to overcoming operational challenges, the conversation explores how data-driven decisions and continuous learning drive business success. The Deck King shares personal updates — new trucks, new office, new staff — while offering insights into market adaptation, client relationships, and the importance of clarity between design and production.

The discussion also ventures into the philanthropic motivations behind business leadership and how maintaining a competitive mindset fuels innovation and growth. Whether you’re in construction, entrepreneurship, or leadership, this episode delivers actionable lessons on scaling your business and building a lasting legacy.

Ryan Kelly and Nate Dogg don’t sugarcoat the world of home sales. They call out the lack of accountability, expose how easily homeowners get misunderstood, and tear into the chaos caused by sloppy communication and weak contracts. The two hammer on why most sales training falls flat and why reps keep stumbling on the same objections. They dig into the psychology behind the deal, unpack the games homeowners play, and lay out how tech can be a weapon instead of a crutch.