Building Scale

Building Scale

By Will Foret, Justin NeagleBusinessEntrepreneurshipManagement
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Building Scale episodes

  • Meg Tidd is Building Scale by Focusing on Community, Sustainability, and Investing in People at VIP Structures
    Dive into our interview with Meg Tidd, CEO of VIP Structures, discussing the integration of design and construction. Explore key topics like aligning with like-minded partners, creating job opportunities in underserved communities, and the importance of self-care. Meg shares insights on making small yet impactful community and environmental changes, adapting to remote work due to COVID-19, and the challenges of scaling a business with a focus on operations and infrastructure. A must-listen for AEC professionals seeking practical advice and innovative strategies.
    (0:00) Introduction and Purpose of the Building Scale podcast
    (1:08) Guest Introduction: Meg Tidd, CEO of VIP Structures
    (6:23) Meg Tidd's Career Path and Vision for VIP Structures
    (13:09) VIP Structures' Community Engagement and Business Strategy
    (15:30) Workplace Well-being and Employee Engagement at VIP Structures
    (18:33) Scaling Business and Community Impact at VIP Structures
    (26:25) VIP Structures' Unique Approach to Scaling and Leadership Styles
    (36:03) Sponsor Break
    (36:40) Meg Tidd's Transition from CMO to COO and Challenges Faced
    (42:04) Establishing Standard Operating Procedures and Transitioning to Remote Work
    (51:32) Utilizing Technology for Business Scalability and Future Plans
    (59:09) Final Thoughts and Advice to Younger Self
    1 hr 3 min
  • Increase Cashflow, Reduce Risks, and Save Costs on Construction Projects with Cian Brennan
    In this episode of Building Scale, Wil and Justin interview Cian Brennan, the founder of Quantum Contract Solutions. Cian's company helps construction companies reduce risk on projects, help with cash flow, and cut costs. In the podcast, they talk about how he worked for many oil and gas companies and how this experience helped him create Quantum. Quantum was born in 2019 with the goal of helping smaller general contractors or subcontractors on bigger projects sign better contracts. The focus is on increasing cash.
    Connect with Cian:

    Website: https://quantumcontractsolutions.com/

    Podcast: https://constructionsecrets.io/podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/contractreviews/

    Connect with the Justin & Will

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration - Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migrationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigrationYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration

    (0:00) Introduction and Overview of Building Scale podcast
    (1:07) Guest Introduction: Cian Brennan and Quantum Contract Solutions
    (4:19) The Role of Quantum in the Construction Industry and its Global Expansion
    (13:04) Strategies for Scaling and Systemizing the Sales Team at Quantum
    (20:08) Common Traits Among Successful Construction Companies Globally
    (24:17) The Role and Challenges of Family-owned Businesses in Construction Industry
    (28:00) Understanding the Hierarchy and Profitability in Construction Contracts
    (35:10) Key Terms in Construction Contracts and Importance of Understanding Them
    (45:32) Reading Recommendation: Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
    (46:34) Leveraging Technology and AI in the AEC Business
    (56:15) Cian Brennan's Advice for Smaller Companies and Reflection on His Business Journey
    (59:00) Sign Off and Invitation for Listeners to Improve their Company's Technology Pillar
    1 hr
  • The Franchise Advantage: How it Can Help Scale Your Construction Business with Mike Peters
    This podcast is a must-listen for anyone who is looking to create freedom in their lives. In it, Mike Peters, a partner at Alair Homes, talks about the importance of freedom and how it is something everyone wants and can have. He also discusses how important it is to have trust within a company. This episode is packed with valuable insights to help you create the business and life you are dreaming about.
    Connect with Mike Peters:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-peters-76191580/

    Connecr with Alair:

    Website: https://www.alairhomes.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/alair-homes

    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Website: https://www.spotmigration.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration

    Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration

    (0:00) Introduction and Background of Guest, Mike Peters
    (6:00) The Journey of Joining and Growing with Alaire Homes
    (14:12) Introduction and Impact of Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) in Alaire Homes
    (19:45) Importance of Freedom and Innovation in Personal and Professional Growth
    (26:56) Key to Success: Right People in Right Seats and Continuous Improvement
    (44:05) Bonus Structure as a Team Motivation Tool
    (52:30) Adapting to an Intergenerational Workforce and Benefits of Franchising
    (58:30) Implementation and Management of Proprietary Project Management Software
    53 min
  • How to Create Superfans for Your Business by Focusing on What Makes You Unique with Brittany Hodak
    Are you looking for ways to make your business more successful? If so, then you won't want to miss this episode of Building Scale. In it, Brittany Hodak reveals the secrets to creating superfans for your business. You'll learn why customer feedback is so important and how you can use it to improve your business. Hodak also stresses the importance of using hyphens in your writing to make it more clear and more concise.
    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction to Building Scale podcast and guest Britney Hodak
    (8:04) Steps to creating super fans for your business and the importance of focusing on your unique 'superpower'
    (14:40) The importance of storytelling in business and implementing the SUPER model
    (20:30) Using technology to manage and enhance key client relationships
    (25:55) Sponsor: Autodesk Construction Cloud
    (27:22) Creating a positive client experience and the power of personalization
    (34:40) The importance of consistency in customer service and overcoming challenges
    (44:25) Designing intentional experiences for your clients and the concept of 'repeat' in customer service
    (54:26) Leveraging technology for customer experience and applying the SUPER framework in life
    (1:00:44) Dealing with differentiation in small and large organizations and leveraging AI technology
    (1:06:59) The importance of people and relationships in business and navigating criticism
    (1:10:10) The power of superfans in business and marketing and closing remarks.
    1 hr 12 min
  • Reflecting on what we are Learning from our Podcast Guests
    On this episode your hosts Will and Justin recap Season 3. The things that you can learn from other business owners and leaders can be second to none and the last few months have proved very fruitful to our education.
    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast
    (1:14) Scaling businesses of different sizes and goal setting
    (5:41) Acquisition process and importance of an independent fiduciary board
    (10:00) Introspection and hiring a COO for business growth
    (15:12) Mindset shift and the "yes and" attitude in AEC business growth
    (18:24) Case Study: Julian Mike from Chicago Light Foret and his unique business journey
    (22:26) Role of EOS and partnerships in AEC business success
    (26:27) Leveraging data for business agility and quick decision making in AEC businesses
    (30:16) Will Foret's speaking engagements on technology and cybersecurity in the AEC industry
    (39:07) Preview of upcoming guests and topics for the next season of Building Scale
    (41:44) Cybersecurity education for AEC businesses and episode wrap-up
    43 min
  • The Right Team Will Lead to True Freedom Matt DiBara
    Today on Building Scale our guest is Matt DiBara. Matt is a Fourth generation mason who mixed his first bag of concrete at age 9 and went on to spend most of his childhood learning the trade, eventually placing first in the national SkillsUSA masonry competition. From there, he branched out to attend the University of Massachusetts in Amherst, where he earned a degree in Construction Management and Environmental Design.

    After graduating, Matt took over his family's construction business and relocated to Los Angeles, where he went on to be mentored by the likes of marketing guru Jay Abraham and business tycoon Mike Agugilaro of CEO Warrior fame. Since then, he has built up DiBara Masonry to become the leading masonry and concrete company in the county, working on some of the most prestigious and well known celebrity homes in the city, in addition to restoring a number of Hollywood's most famous cultural landmarks.

    Matt realized that the struggles that contractors face when it comes to running a business are huge, specifically hiring qualified and reliable talent which was a massive undertaking and he quickly figured out some of the tricks and tips here. As he started building those strategies and creating scalable processes, he began finding a ton of success. So much so that he started to mentor other leaders and finally founded The Contractors Consultants.

    Connect with Matt:

    https://www.thecontractorconsultants.com/

    https://www.dibaramasonry.com/
    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction and Guest: Matt DiBara's Journey
    (7:54) Craftsmanship and Work Culture in Construction
    (16:07) Overcoming Challenges and Communication Styles in Construction
    (24:15) Contractor Consultants and Balancing Multiple Projects
    (26:14) Shift in Traditional Hiring Methods and Labor Market
    (31:27) Retention and Building a Positive Workplace Culture
    (38:04) Importance of the Right Team and Decision to Venture into Consulting
    (43:32) Role of Technology in Business Growth and Efficiency
    (46:17) Evolution of Advertising and Overcoming Fear of New Technology
    (52:32) Reflecting on Past Business Experiences and Importance of Innovation
    56 min
  • Relationships Through Design Halie Chandler and Blake Daniels
    Daniels + Chandler Architects formed out of a close friendship between two friend that were passionate about design and the impact it can have on the community. With the vast amount of construction taking place, they felt that the camaraderie between owners, builders, and designers could be enhanced to positively affect the overall design process.

    Guest number one; Halie Chandler is a Registered Architect and founding member of Daniels + Chandler Architects. With a focus primarily in healthcare and education following her studies, Halie has coordinated complex problems on both a large and small scale and values a team approach to create an effective solution. Halie holds a BArch from The University of Tennessee – Knoxville and holds certificates with NCARB and CDT. Halie volunteers as a team leader for the Nashville Affiliate of ACE Mentoring, is the AIA Emerging Professionals Committee Chair and WIA Committee Member, and is involved with ULI Nashville.

    Guest number two; Blake Daniels is a Registered Architect and founding member of Daniels + Chandler Architects. After spending nearly a decade working in the architectural field, Blake continues to develop extensive knowledge of the built environment and enjoys working with teams to turn client visions into reality. Blake holds a BArch from Mississippi State University and holds certificates with NCARB and CDT. Blake is active in the Nashville community as a member of The Phoenix Club of Nashville, AIA Middle Tennessee, and West End Community Church.

    So many great nuggets from Halie and Blake in this episode and you will see how you can run a great business being great at what you do, such as being amazing Architects in this case, and have people as the primary focus for your success. Incredible culture, incredible relationships with vendors, clients and team members. Truly a model for success.

    Connect with Halie and Blake:

    https://danielschandler.com/

    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast and guests Blake Daniels and Haley Champ
    (5:00) Inception and growth of Daniels and Chandler Architects
    (10:00) Philosophy and experience of hiring at Daniels and Chandler Architects
    (15:00) Cultivating leadership and setting company goals
    (20:00) Navigating leadership challenges and the importance of training
    (25:00) Employee well-being, personal goal setting, and teamwork in portfolio projects
    (30:00) The concept of entrepreneurial tax and vetting advisors for business growth
    (35:00) Leveraging technology for business success and scalability
    (40:00) The importance of staying updated with latest technology in the AEC industry
    (45:00) Creating a supportive work culture and tracking key metrics for business success
    (50:00) Personal advice to younger selves and closing remarks
    (54:37) Thanks, invitation to share the podcast, and additional help for AEC companies
    56 min
  • Chicago Lightworks Leads with Creative and Unrivaled Service Julie Blankenheim and Mike Nykaza
    Discover the story of Julie Blankenheim and Mike Nykaza, who since 2017 have spearheaded Chicago Lightworks, a leading lighting sales agency in Chicago. They share insights on their 15% annual growth, rooted in a strong internal culture of trust, respect, and empathy. Learn how their expertise in lighting design, marketing, and robust education contributed to building a dynamic and successful team, representing over 100 manufacturers including Signify and Legrand. A must-listen for insights on leadership and innovative growth strategies in the industry.
    Connect with Julie or Mike:

    https://www.chicagolightworks.com/

    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction and background of guests - Julie Blankenheim and Mike Nykaza
    (6:37) The unique beginnings and growth strategy of Chicago Lightworks
    (13:15) Importance of company culture and training in business success
    (20:03) Changing the perception of sales through customer-focused selling
    (26:14) The role of a lighting agency in balancing the design and construction goals
    (29:08) Transition from startup to a larger business and the role of leadership
    (32:35) Navigating big decisions in technology implementation for business growth
    (39:19) Addressing invisible issues in the business and prioritizing employee wellbeing
    (43:45) Reflections: The true culture of the company, advice to their younger selves, and the power of teamwork
    (48:08) Contact information for Chicago Light Works and closing remarks
    50 min
  • Driving Excellence through Data with Bradley Tassin
    "Building Scale: Insights from MAPP's EVP Bradley Tassin" - Join us for an enlightening episode with Bradley Tassin, Executive Vice President of MAPP. With a 17-year tenure at MAPP, Bradley brings a wealth of experience in various aspects of commercial construction, including preconstruction, project management, quality control, and more. Covering diverse project types from office to petrochemical facilities, he brings a unique perspective. A Baton Rouge native and LSU graduate, Bradley is a LEED Accredited Professional and actively involved in multiple industry organizations like ICSC, ULI, TEXO, and the Dallas Regional Chamber. Stay tuned for key insights that make this episode essential for those in the construction industry.

    MAPP is hyperfocused on data analytics to give their customers the best possible outcome

    MAPP is hyperfocused on making sure that they have "Happy Mappies" and are doing all sorts of amazing things for their team
    MAPP is leading the way with different technologies and they are truly thinking differently than most companies.

    Connect with Bradley:
    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction and sponsor acknowledgement
    (5:00) Guest Bradley Tassin's journey in the construction industry and MAP
    (12:00) Role of client service and data management in MAP
    (20:00) The impact of technology on MAP's operations and decision-making
    (30:00) Addressing employee well-being and fostering a supportive culture at MAP
    (40:00) Future vision for MAP: Embracing technology and innovation
    (48:00) Bradley's advice for young professionals in the construction industry
    (52:00) Q&A session with Bradley Tassin
    (57:00) Closing remarks from hosts Justin Neagle and Will Foret
    (57:26) Mention of AEC Resources page
    58 min
  • EOS – Entrepreneurial Operating System with Dan Zawacki
    Today on Building Scale we are joined Dan Zawacki. Dan is a Certified Traction/EOS Implementer whose passion is teaching, facilitating and coaching business owners and their leadership teams on how to get the most out of their companies and live a better life.

    Being in the trenches for over 35 years as an entrepreneur has allowed him to help business owners and their leadership teams get what they want from their businesses.

    His 30 years of creating and owning LobsterGram.com has given him the knowledge, both the good, bad and ugly. He knows what it’s like to own and operate a business. After creating, building, and selling Lobster Gram, his mission is now to be a resource for entrepreneurial companies.

    Dan shares his story about creating Lobster Gram with only $1,000. Lobster Gram started in his parents 2-car garage and bootstrapped it into a $15 million dollar company.

    Lobster Gram was one of the first companies to have a website way back in 1996 and the FIRST company to use Google AdWords (I know, sounds crazy.) It was a great 30 year run that has allowed him to successfully implement EOS in all of his clients’ organizations.

    Connect with Dan:

    https://www.eosworldwide.com/

    Phone: 847-814-4123

    Connect with the Justin & Will:

    Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/

    Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/

    Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration:

    Managed IT Services & Support In Chicago, IL

    https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration

    (0:00) Introduction and Guest Dan Zawacki
    (7:29) Transition from LobsterGram to EOS Implementer
    (13:08) Business Culture, Core Values and Right People in Right Seats
    (21:44) Uncovering Issues During EOS Implementation and Accountability Chart
    (30:16) Setting and Achieving Company Goals with EOS
    (33:47) The Structure and Value of the Level 10 Meeting
    (44:56) Implementation and Importance of Core Processes
    (53:45) Common Issues in Early and Mature Stages of Companies
    (57:59) Role of Technology and Cybersecurity in Business
    (1:07:38) Dan's Personal Advice and Lessons Learned over 20 years
    (1:12:39) End of Episode and Invitation for Guest Appearances
    1 hr 14 min

About Building Scale

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We interview successful Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) business leaders to learn how they use people, processes, and technology to scale their businesses.