Builder Stories

Meet Roberto Rodriguez, owner of Ark Remodeling Services based in Tomball, Texas, who shares his remarkable journey from aspiring professional baseball player to successful construction business owner. Despite facing the setback of his baseball dreams not materializing, Roberto found inspiration in HGTV shows and transitioned into construction. Starting from scratch, he overcame numerous challenges, from learning the trades under his brother-in-law to building his company from the ground up. Roberto's story is one of resilience, passion, and continuous growth, emphasizing the importance of honesty, transparency, and the relentless pursuit of success.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Roberto:

• Delegating and building a support team
• Learning through experience and mistakes
• Defining success and continuous improvement

Learn more about Ark Remodeling Services here: https://arkremodelingservices.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 Debbie Adams, owner of Adams Company located in Austin, Texas. In this episode, we delve into Debbie's remarkable journey from a secretary in the construction industry to the owner of an award-winning remodeling company. Debbie shares her path to success, which began with a chance job opportunity in 1987 and evolved through years of hands-on experience, perseverance, and dedication to quality. From managing high-end custom home builds to overcoming personal tragedy, Debbie's story is one of resilience and innovation. She also explains her unique approach to managing payment schedules, where clients pay a weekly draw rather than at project milestones, ensuring smooth cash flow and avoiding disputes over incomplete stages. Listen as she discusses the importance of detailed planning, customer communication, and the value of building strong industry relationships.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Debbie:

• Empowering women in the construction industry
• Navigating challenges with resilience
• Adapting and learning along the way

Learn more about Adams Company here: https://adamscompany.biz/

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 Michael Dudonis co-owner of Dudonis Construction based in Springfield, New Jersey. Michael shares how his early experiences working with his father in residential construction set the foundation for his career. After spending 14 years in heavy civil construction, Michael and his brother started Dudonis Construction in 2018 to revive their father's legacy while focusing on higher-end residential projects. Despite initial challenges, they quickly established themselves by taking on large-scale renovations and new builds. Michael discusses their effective approach to managing projects, from meticulous planning and estimating to fostering strong relationships with architects and subcontractors. Emphasizing the importance of separating business from personal finances and investing in a dedicated office team, Michael provides insights into overcoming industry challenges, maintaining high standards, and planning for future growth.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Michael:

• Building and maintaining strong relationships
• Separating personal and business finances
• Ensuring you are always learning

Learn more about Dudonis Construction here: https://dudonisconstruction.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 Jayme Carlson, owner of Hard Decks, located in Belvidere, Illinois. Jayme shares his inspiring journey from jumping straight into construction out of high school to founding a successful deck-building business with his now business partner and father-in-law, Andy. Hear how he navigated the challenges of the 2008 economic downturn, honed his skills in roofing sales, and eventually found his niche in deck building during the COVID-19 pandemic. Jayme talks about the importance of specialization, the pivotal role of family in his business, and his commitment to delivering top-quality outdoor living spaces. Tune in for valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, building a dedicated team, and the relentless pursuit of growth and excellence in the construction industry.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Jayme:

• Adapting during economic challenges
• Investing in and delegating to your team
• Staying on top of industry trends

Learn more about Hard Decks here: https://harddecks.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 Dylan Martin from Absolute Design Build, a third-generation builder in Austin, Texas. Starting his career in construction after a stint in the military and a brief foray into the corporate world, Dylan faced numerous challenges without a mentor. His turning point came after joining forces with his partner, Thomas, and later adding a third partner, John. Their combined expertise led to the rapid growth of Absolute Design Build, with their first year's cash flow hitting $1.2 million and subsequent years seeing significant increases. Dylan's approach to business focuses on transparency, effective systems, and a strong company culture, aiming to offer exceptional home renovation services while ensuring both his team and clients are well-supported. As he plans for the future, Dylan envisions a sustainable business model that allows for both personal and professional growth, setting a course for a balanced life beyond construction.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Dylan:

• Making the transition to entrepreneurship
• Learning through experience and overcoming challenges
• Ensuring clients understand the costs and processes involved

Learn more about Absolute Design Build here: https://absolutedesignbuild.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 Mark Flanders, owner of Blue Hill Building Co. based in Bridgewater, Virginia. Mark shares his journey from growing up in the building business, taking drafting classes in high school, to eventually taking over his father's company in 1998. Mark's career saw significant evolution, including a pivotal role at CoConstruct during the Great Recession, which eventually led him to Virginia. Now, his company focuses primarily on remodeling and additions, managing projects ranging from $25,000 decks to $700,000 gut renovations. Mark emphasizes the value of networking, systems, and continuous learning, balancing the entrepreneurial spirit with practical challenges in the construction industry.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Mark:

• Building strong customer relationships
• Using subcontractors strategically
• Leveraging technology for efficiency

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 Anthony Abbott, owner of Greystone Remodeling based in North Carolina. Anthony shares his inspiring journey from his early fascination with carpentry as a child, through his military service, and onto founding his successful remodeling business. Addressing the challenges of transitioning from being an infantryman to a construction entrepreneur, Anthony highlights the importance of finding the right team and why he is always hiring. Hear how Anthony overcame initial obstacles, refined his business model, and built a brand rooted in transparency, quality, and integrity.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Anthony:

• Seeking mentorship with a growth mindset
• Leveraging technology and systems to streamline operations
• Building strong relationships and a supportive community

Learn more about Greystone Remodeling here: https://greystoneremodelinginc.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 Mike Mitchell, owner of Mitchell Construction a deck building company based in a suburb of Chicago, Illinois. Mike shares his journey from joining his father's business in high school to transforming Mitchell Construction into a niche company specializing in decks. He discusses the challenges of delegating tasks, transitioning out of the field, and the importance of networking and attending national industry event. Mike emphasizes the value of open communication, continuous learning, and creating a strong company culture.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Mike:

• Trusting your team to handle fieldwork
• Prioritizing continuous learning and industry involvement
• Adapting to market demands

Learn more about Mitchell Construction here: https://mitchellconstructioninc.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 Carlos Adame, owner of Transom Remodeling based in Richardson, Texas. Carlos shares the difficulties he's faced in growing his business and the lessons he's learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and learning from others. With a goal of reaching the $10 million mark, Carlos remains optimistic and committed, welcoming any opportunity to collaborate and strategize for future success.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Carlos:

• Learning from challenges
• Setting ambitious goals
• Collaborating with others in the industry

Learn more about Transom Remodeling here: https://transomremodeling.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 Dan Lee, owner of Kane Remodeling a luxury home remodeling company based in Austin, Texas. Dan talks to Eric about his journey from tech sales to building a remodeling company. With an emphasis on the importance of continuous growth and learning, Dan talks about how his background in sales has uniquely positioned him to compete against others in the market. Learn more about his journey and the valuable lessons he's learned, aiming to inspire and educate others in the field.

Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Dan:

• Learning from others' experiences
• Staying competitive to be successful
• Engaging with the broader community

Learn more about Kane Remodeling here: https://kaneremodeling.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