Ken Sanginario is the founder of Corporate Value Metrics and the architect behind the Value Opportunity Profile and the Certified Value Growth Advisor program. With an extensive career spanning over four decades, Ken began as a CPA before transitioning into the corporate world as a controller and CFO. He has a profound background in turnaround management, business valuation, and M&A advisory. Ken's expertise lies in guiding companies through periods of distress, identifying business gaps, and creating value growth strategies that significantly enhance enterprise value.

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes engages with Ken Sanginario, a seasoned business transformation expert, to dissect the complex world of value growth and company turnarounds. Ken shares his profound insights on improving enterprise value, shaping high-powered organizations, and leading them out of the brink of extinction.

The conversation gravitates towards Ken's exceptional programs: the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP) and the Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA). These initiatives have been instrumental in providing a structured approach for business leaders and advisors to diagnose company health across multiple areas, spot weaknesses, and craft precise roadmaps to success.

Listeners gain a wealth of knowledge from Ken's experiences, learning the importance of objective analysis, the significance of intrinsic value, and the art of turning potential company failures into opportunities for growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Company Balance: Understanding and balancing the eight core functional areas of a business is essential for growth and increasing enterprise value.
• Business Risk: Ken emphasizes the relationship between quality and risk, illustrating how underdeveloped areas contribute to company-specific risk, inversely affecting value.
• Intrinsic Value: Ken debunks the fallacy of EBITDA multiples and champions the concept of building companies for peak performance to achieve maximum intrinsic value, regardless of transaction value.
• Preparation for Transition: Ken advises business owners to begin planning an ownership transition three to five years in advance to ensure a successful and value-driven outcome.
• Lifelong Learning: Both the podcast host and Ken advocate for ongoing business education to fill gaps, maintain objectivity, and identify opportunities within an organization.

Notable Quotes:

• "Virtually all private companies are underperforming." - Ken Sanginario
• "Revenue and profitability are not inputs, they are outputs." - Ken Sanginario
• "Most private companies could double or triple the value of the companies over a three to five year double in two to three." - Ken Sanginario

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Krysta Van Ranst is the founder of Building PPL, an innovative company specializing in outsourced learning and development programs, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry. With her early career beginning in event planning, Krysta quickly discovered her passion for learning and development during her tenure at Suffolk Construction. Her dedication to enhancing organizational cultures through learning opportunities has established her as a key figure in the field. Krysta’s work now involves aiding companies in obtaining training funds through grants, emphasizing the importance of investing in team competencies for corporate growth.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes converses with Krysta Van Ranst, a leading authority on organizational learning and development, and founder of Building PPL. Listeners are invited to explore the often-underestimated role of learning and development in the growth and success of organizations within the real estate development and construction industries.

Right from the onset, Rens underlines how significant learning and development opportunities are for employees' roles and the consequent growth of a company. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by an aging workforce in the construction industry and the strategic importance of preparing the next generation through intentional learning programs. Krysta emphasizes the need for companies to strike a balance between goals, relationships, and processes, which she explicates with a compelling equilateral triangle analogy.

Key elements these show notes wrap into the episode include strategies for improving employee onboarding, utilizing government training grants effectively, and cultivating a robust learning culture. Through the dialogue, we receive invaluable insights into how businesses can foster environments of lifelong learning and development while driving strategic outcomes.

Key Takeaways:

• Emphasizing the importance of a balanced focus on goals, relationships, and processes can lead to more successful teams.
• Training grants are a valuable resource for companies, allowing them to invest in their employees' learning and development proactively.
• Creating a positive and personalized onboarding experience is crucial for setting the tone for new employees' journeys.
• Companies should have systems to document and transfer the invaluable knowledge of long-tenured employees.
• Building career roadmaps is essential in helping employees understand their growth potential within an organization.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Kirstin Brown is the principal and president of Northstar Project and Real Estate Services, a consultancy firm based in Greater Boston. With a tenure of over a decade at Northstar, Kirstin has been instrumental in steering the company's growth and solidifying its presence across various market sectors. She holds a degree in finance and a master's in real estate development. Prior to her current role, Kirstin gained valuable experience at Spaulding and Sly, specifically in land evaluation and development processes, notably in the Seaport district's fan pier project.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes delves into a conversation with Kirstin Brown, an influential leader in the realm of real estate development. As the president of Northstar Project and Real Estate Services, Kirstin offers her profound insights into the industry, sharing her journey and growth through the ranks to become a significant figure in the field.

The episode provides a comprehensive look at Northstar's approach to project management, development management, and advisory services, touching on the sectors they cater to and the methodology behind their corporate structure. Emphasizing their core values, Rens and Kirstin discuss Northstar's commitment to business development training, ensuring that each team member is equipped to contribute effectively throughout their careers.

Key Takeaways:

• Northstar is dedicated to cross-collaborative work within the firm, allowing team members to gain experience in various sectors by working with multiple principals.
• Kirstin highlights the importance of principal involvement in projects, particularly during the initial stages, and explains how strategic decision-making in early phases is crucial for project success.
• The firm places a strong emphasis on business development training from the start of one's career, fostering a culture of relationship-building and network expansion.
• Kirstin's journey through different sectors of the real estate industry, including her work at Spaulding and Sly with the fan pier project, showcases her adaptability and expertise.
• The conversation also touches upon the challenges and evolution of property development in response to environmental sustainability requirements.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Nick Igel is a seasoned professional with an impressive track record in real estate development, design, and construction. As a principal of 505Design at Cooper Carry and a founding partner of 505Design, Nick brings vast experience and expertise from his entrepreneurial journey. With a career spanning over two decades, Nick has been instrumental in establishing a multidisciplinary approach at 505Design that includes interior design, graphic design, planning, and architecture. Now part of Cooper Carry, he continues to infuse leadership, emphasizing building solid partnerships and cultures within organizations.

Episode Summary:

In this enthralling episode of Design Development, we are introduced to Nick Eigel, a foundational leader in the design and construction industry. His story is one of an unwavering drive for excellence and a commitment to creating spaces that resonate with people. As we navigate through Nick's professional journey, we uncover the strategic decisions behind founding 505Design and the subsequent acquisition by Cooper Carry.

The conversation unveils the core principles that guided 505 Design from its inception—a company that p essence over mere aesthetics. Nick shares his unique perspective on fostering business culture and what it takes to keep a team united across geographic divides. With his profound insights into the evolution of retail design and the emergence of mixed-use developments, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Key Takeaways:

• 505Design's naming strategy was a conscious decision to ensure longevity and flexibility beyond the founders' tenure.
• The multidisciplinary approach to projects at 505Design brings together diverse perspectives for richer solutions.
• Importance of company culture, curiosity, and understanding of societal contexts in the hiring process.
• The organic nature of the acquisition by Cooper Carry and what it means for future growth and market expansion.
• Building and maintaining solid partnerships necessitates nurturing relationships and aligning core company values.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Lizetta Fennesey is the General Manager of the Eastern Business Unit for Haley and Aldrich, a national environmental and geotechnical firm known for its expertise and substantial footprint across the United States. Her tenure at Haley and Aldrich has seen her rise through the ranks, beginning as a geotechnical engineer, evolving through project management, and overseeing substantial growth within the company. Lizetta boasts a rich professional history that includes a stint in real estate development, providing her with a unique perspective on creating customer value. Her leadership has been instrumental in the firm's growth from around 400 employees to approaching a thousand.

Episode Summary:

In this gripping episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes delves into the dynamic world of engineering and consultancy with the proficient Lizetta Fennesey of Haley and Aldrich. The conversation opens up pathways into the niche yet crucial realms of real estate development, underpinning the massive influence geotechnical expertise has on building the future's infrastructure.

Lizetta pulls back the curtain on the intricate operations of a geotechnical firm, shedding light on the strategic evolution of Haley and Aldrich. From its historical roots to its colossal rise as an industry champion, listeners are led through a journey marked by innovation, adaptability, and unwavering client focus. Join her as she discusses the balancing act of professional ambition with personal fulfillment, providing a masterclass in navigating career growth alongside the joys of parenthood and the diverse paths leading to professional achievement within the engineering sphere.

Key Takeaways:

• Comprehensive Understanding of Haley and Aldrich's Services: Lizetta discusses the various markets and sectors served by Haley and Aldrich, including implications of geotechnical work in construction.
• Importance of Contaminated Soils Investigation: The risks and due diligence associated with contaminated soils are central to real estate development and are thoroughly examined.
• Influence of Diverse Educational Backgrounds: From aspiring architect to geotechnical engineer, Lizetta’s personal career journey reveals the importance of educational choices on professional pursuits.
• Employee Ownership and Cultural Diversity: The episode uncovers how employee ownership serves as a retention tool and the emphasis Haley and Aldrich place on diversity and inclusion.
• Cultivating Leadership and Profound Learning: Insights into leadership development, personal mastery, and lean fundamentals as key to nurturing a productive and emotionally intelligent workforce.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Mike Kunz is a principal partner at Maugel DeStefano Architects, a well-established architectural firm with offices in Harvard, Massachusetts, and Portsmouth, NH. With a professional journey spanning over 25 years at the company, Mike Kunz started his career in architecture when emails and the internet were beginning to emerge. Having climbed the ranks within the firm from entry-level beginnings to eventual co-ownership and executive roles, Kunz's dedication exemplifies a 'started from the bottom' success story. An avid reader and enthusiast for personal growth, he also embraces practices like cold plunging for discipline and focus.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Design Development," we dive into the intricate world of architecture with Mike Kunz of Maugel Destefano Architects. This show peels back the layers of leadership, company growth, and the foundational culture that drives a successful architectural firm. From discussing how to navigate ownership transition to leveraging business development and the impact of remote work, this episode is rich with insights from Kunz's robust experience.

Mike Kunz shares his journey, detailing how Maugel DeStefano Architects has navigated various economic downturns, embracing diversification as a strategy for resilience. The firm's growth, including a recent acquisition, is also unpacked, revealing a mindset geared towards continuous expansion while maintaining the heart of its successful business—client-centered design services. Discussions on the importance of healthy company culture and managing burnout highlight the human aspect of the architectural industry.

Key Takeaways:

• Diversification and client-centered services have been vital to Maugel DeStefano Architects' resilience in the face of economic downturns.
• The ownership transition process within the firm is a testament to the balance of growth aspirations and preserving core company values.
• Active business development and marketing strategies keep the firm's engine running, fueling constant growth.
• Acknowledging the importance of culture, Kunz emphasizes the organic development of a team-focused environment.
• Effective remote work management has been achieved by balancing in-office collaboration benefits and at-home flexibility.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Bill Weber and Mike Weber are the dynamic brother duo who have propelled Gaston Electrical Services to notable success in the electrical construction industry. Joining their father's business in the early 2000s, they acquired the company a few years later and embarked on a transformative journey. Under their leadership, Gaston Electrical Services saw exponential growth, skyrocketing from $6 million to over $140 million in revenue by 2022. Their roles as CEO and President respectively were instrumental in the company's acquisition by the public company EMCOR , an accomplishment that speaks volumes about their commitment to excellence and the fostering of an enduring legacy in the construction sector.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes sits down with Bill and Mike Weber to delve into the trajectory of their family business, Gaston Electrical Services, and the strategic growth that led to its landmark acquisition by EMCOR . From the company's modest beginnings to the cusp of industry leadership, we gain an insider's view into the challenges and accomplishments along their ascent.

The Webers share vital lessons on scaling a business, including the pivotal decision to hire an HR professional, investing in employee training and development, and navigating the complexities of growing from 100 to 400 employees. Their forward-thinking approach towards prefabrication and adapting to the evolving dynamics in the labor market illustrates the necessity of innovation in sustaining competitive growth. Integral to their progress has been the formidable relationship with Local 103, ensuring a steady supply of skilled labor.

Key Takeaways:

• Gaston Electrical Services grew from a $6 million to over $140 million revenue, highlighting the importance of strategic growth and reinvestment in the company.
• Implementing prefabrication and investing in technology are key factors in remaining competitive in the fast-paced electrical construction industry.
• Nurturing talent within the company, particularly in creating exceptional field managers and executives, is crucial for scaling a business.
• Building a strong relationship with labor unions like Local 103 can significantly streamline recruitment and provide a skilled workforce.
• Succession planning and considering structure for enterprise value are embedded in the company's philosophy from early on.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Hannes Blass is the CEO of Rothoblaas USA, a multifaceted company that provides a wide range of products for the construction industry, including fasteners and connectors, building envelope products, acoustics, safety equipment, and tools. Founded in the Alps of Italy in 1991, Rothoblaas has expanded to service over 100 countries with employees in about 70 of them. Hannes has been responsible for the company's tremendous growth in the US market since their first project in Montana in 2011. Under his leadership, the company maintains a forward-thinking approach and invests heavily in its people, contributing to its growth-oriented strategy.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, Rens Hayes welcomes Hannes Blass, Rothoblaas USA's CEO, whose company's origins trace back to the scenic Italian Alps. With a knack for innovation and serving a global market, Rothoblaas has established itself as a dominant player in the realm of construction, particularly in the mass timber and building practice sectors. This snapshot delves into the inspirational climb of a company that began with two brothers and a truck and became a global phenomena with over 5000 SKUs.

A highlight of the episode includes Hannes' personal journey. Crafting a narrative from sweeping warehouse floors to spearheading the company's expansion into new territories. The story of Rothoblaas is a testament to strategic vision and adaptation, showcasing a transformation from tool resellers to innovators and thought leaders in the construction supply industry. Key moments reveal insight into the challenges of international logistics, cultural adaptability, and fostering a culture grounded in team unity and relentless improvement.

Key Takeaways:

• Rothoblaas started as a small tool importing business and evolved into a global leader in building products, emphasizing mass timber.
• Hannes Blass played a pivotal role in expanding the company's footprint, navigating challenges like cross-continental logistics and cultural barriers.
• The company invests in close relationships with its clients, differentiating itself by emphasizing in-person connections over remote sales.
• Rothoblaas is committed to continuous innovation, expanding product lines, and improving logistics to cater to growing markets like the US.
• The podcast underlines the importance of adaptability in growth, both from an organizational and individual leadership perspective.

Tune in to the full episode to witness the inspiring evolution of Rothoblaas and gain a deeper understanding of what drives innovation and growth in the fast-paced world of construction. Stay connected for more engaging and informative sessions here at Design Development.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Don Briggs is a seasoned veteran in the real estate development industry, with a robust career spanning nearly three decades. He co-founded and serves as the managing partner at Hg 80. Previously, Don was the director of development for Federal Realty Investment Trust and played a pivotal role in creating iconic retail-anchored mixed-use developments, including Assembly Row in Greater Boston. An Army brat with roots in various parts of the United States, Don studied architecture, moved into construction, and ultimately found his passion in development. He's respected for his ability to engage with a broad spectrum of disciplines, from design to politics, and for creating immersive, walkable places in first-tier suburbs around major cities.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, the rendezvous with Don Briggs unfurls a tapestry of industry insights from the realm of real estate development, design, and construction. Our host, Renz Hayes, invites listeners on a journey beside the co-founder and managing partner at Hg 80, who possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of the development sector, particularly in the vertiginous climbs of mixed-use space.

Don Briggs shares his compelling narrative, beginning as an Army brat and self-professed lifelong learner, leading up to his status as an influential figure in real estate development. His architectural background and construction experience paved the way for a prestigious career in REITs. The conversation delves into the philosophy and the fine mechanics of creating large-scale, retail-anchored, mixed-use developments, with a spotlight on iconic projects like Assembly Row.

• The intricacies of Don's strategic moves, such as navigating the complexities of physical properties in shifting markets, reveal a deliberate approach to development.
• Insights into the transition from private enterprises to publicly traded REIT structures detail how financial strategies fuel large-scale projects.

Key Takeaways:

• Don Briggs brings unique insights from his rich experience in creating retail-anchored mixed-use developments.
• The episode uncovers the importance of community-focused projects that invite human interaction and create neighborhoods.
• The show explores the challenges and strategies entailed in real estate development amid economic contractions and expansions.
• Discussion on the role of capital allocation and real estate execution underlines future trends and opportunities in development.
• The multidisciplinary approach in real estate is emphasized, requiring skills in design, politics, finance, and community engagement.

To grasp the entirety of wisdom shared by Don Briggs about the art and science of property development, tune in to the full episode of Design Development. Stay connected for more enriching dialogues that bring to light the leaders shaping our built environment.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Anthony Amenta is a Founding Member and Principal at Amenta Emma Architects, a full-service architecture firm headquartered in Hartford, Connecticut, with branch offices in New York and Boston. Approaching 40 years in business, Anthony has led his firm through a landscape of changes, ensuring growth and market resilience. Under his guidance, Amenta Emma has cultivated a reputation for creating inspiring spaces and building strong client relationships.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes sits down with Anthony Amenta, the seasoned architecture professional whose almost four decades in the business offer a wealth of industry insights. Rens and Anthony explore the entrepreneurial journey of establishing and growing a successful architecture firm in changing markets.

Anthony discusses Amenta Emma's beginnings, their mission to create inspiring spaces, and the strategic expansion to new cities like New York and Boston. With a deep dive into geographic expansion, business development, and company culture, the conversation uncovers lessons on client concentration risk, navigating recessions, and the power of personal connections in business growth endeavors.

• Establishing A Firm: Anthony reflects on the early days of Amenta Emma, revealing the strategies and challenges they faced initiating their business in Hartford.
• Growth and Expansion: The episode delves into the firm's growth, including the strategic decisions leading to their geographic expansion to Boston and New York.

Key Takeaways:

• Insights into the entrepreneurial journey of starting and growing an architecture firm, highlighting the significance of building relationships and adapting to market changes.
• Lessons on managing client concentration risk and the importance of diversifying projects to ensure firm stability and longevity.
• The strategic approach to geographic expansion, emphasizing the need to understand local markets and build networks.
• The impact of a company's culture on employee satisfaction and client relations, and the ongoing need to challenge and provide growth opportunities for team members.
• The value of mentorship in business development and the importance of continuous learning within an organization.

Thank you for joining the Design Development community. Subscribe to capture insight from the latest episodes dropping every Wednesday. 

Our goal is to help people like you identify opportunities for growth by sharing the journey of industry leaders. There is no one path. Success isn't a straight line. There is something to learn from everyone's story.  Let's go!

Leave your thoughts in the comments and reach out if you want to be a valuable guest on the show!

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/