In this episode of Raising the Grade, we sit down with Michael Borgeson, founder of Sonoran Lighting Supply, to explore the business of lighting, the value of relationships, and what it takes to build trust in a tight-knit industry. From growing up in a small California town to launching one of Arizona’s most respected lighting supply companies, Mike shares how his work ethic, industry experience, and commitment to doing things the right way have shaped his entrepreneurial journey.

We dive deep into how Sonoran Lighting Supply became more than just a distributor—offering hands-on support, custom lighting designs, and full specification services to contractors across Arizona. Mike opens up about what it’s like to break into the wholesale space without massive funding, how he builds meaningful relationships with his customers, and the challenges of scaling without sacrificing quality. Plus, we explore his side venture in excavation, his vision for S3 Design Services, and the balance of family, faith, and business. This is a must-listen for anyone in the trades looking to grow with integrity.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Meet Mike and the origins of Sonoran Lighting Supply
 1:16 – Early influences, family values, and learning from his father
 3:04 – Why Mike left corporate to bet on himself
 6:11 – Lessons from working in the lighting industry
 9:32 – Starting Sonoran Lighting Supply and launching during uncertainty
 11:05 – Challenges of wholesaling and breaking into tight-knit contractor networks
 14:31 – Why design support makes the difference
 17:01 – Outdoor audio, strip lighting, and tech innovations
 21:48 – Common lighting mistakes and how to educate homeowners
 26:01 – Managing expectations and working within budget
 29:15 – The value of brass fixtures vs aluminum
 32:06 – What makes Sonoran Lighting different
 35:02 – Scaling, hiring, and preserving company culture
 39:00 – Supporting local and serving with integrity
 40:01 – The story behind S3: Specification Support Services
 44:12 – Lighting design, wiring schematics, and real-time engineering
 47:03 – Future plans, e-commerce goals, and staying personal
 50:01 – Balancing business with family and buying back your time
 52:06 – Launching Paydirt Services and starting a second business
 54:00 – Mike’s unexpected path and future aspirations
 57:00 – Final thoughts on leadership, legacy, and living intentionally

If you're in the trades or building something that matters, Mike’s story will resonate. His approach to business—rooted in service, transparency, and craftsmanship—offers a blueprint for building something meaningful. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Michael Borgeson:
Instagram: @lightingwholesaler
Website: lightingwholesaler.com
LinkedIn: Michael Borgeson & Sonoran Lighting Supply

Promo: Mention this podcast to receive personalized support, custom design services, and exclusive lighting system solutions for your next project.

#LightingDesign #OutdoorLighting #Entrepreneurship #ServiceBusiness #FaithInBusiness #RaisingTheGrade #LightingContractors #Tradesmen #ArizonaBusiness #LeadershipJourney

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In this episode of Raising the Grade, we sit down with Anthony Vickman, founder of Dino Turf Cleaning, to talk about entrepreneurship, work ethic, and how turf cleaning became his unexpected path to success. From growing up in a family carpet cleaning business to scaling and selling a wedding rental company, Anthony’s journey is marked by hard work, intentionality, and faith.

We dive into how Dino Turf was built from the ground up—literally—and how Anthony has turned a one-man operation into a growing company with multiple trucks and a vision for national expansion. Along the way, we discuss the challenges of building with family, finding the right people, staying grounded in your purpose, and why hiring your first employee can be the biggest leap in business. Whether you're a solo operator or looking to grow your service business, this episode offers relatable insight and honest perspective from someone in the trenches.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Introduction to Anthony Vickman and Dino Turf
 2:21 – How Anthony and Eric first connected
 4:52 – Early work ethic and learning from his father’s carpet cleaning business
 6:01 – Getting serious about business through structure and leadership
 8:13 – Scaling challenges and mindset shifts
 10:27 – Running a wedding rental company with his wife
 13:01 – Lessons learned from selling their first business
 15:04 – Starting Dino Turf and transferring carpet skills to turf
 17:00 – Finding the right tools and building a process
 19:02 – Letting go of control and trusting employees
 21:00 – Buying back time and learning to delegate
 23:34 – Why turf cleaning is essential maintenance
 25:09 – Dino Shield and Dino Odor Extinction Treatment explained
 28:03 – Expanding Dino Turf across Arizona and beyond
 30:14 – Why Tucson is a strategic next step
 34:22 – Faith, family, and finding balance in business
 39:04 – Letting go of anxiety and trusting God
 42:01 – The difference between contentment and complacency
 45:02 – Final thoughts and Dino Turf takeaway

If you’re building a service-based business or navigating the transition from operator to owner, Anthony’s story is a must-listen. His honesty about the highs and lows, plus his faith-driven mindset, offers powerful takeaways for entrepreneurs ready to grow with purpose. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Anthony Vickman:
Instagram: @dinoturfcleaning
Website: www.dinoturfcare.com
Promo: Mention this podcast and receive a $98 discount on your turf cleaning

#TurfCleaning #Entrepreneurship #ServiceBusiness #RaisingTheGrade #LeadershipJourney #FaithInBusiness #TurfCare #SmallBusinessOwner #ArizonaBusiness #WorkLifeBalance

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In this episode of Raising the Grade, we sit down with Gerise Montoya, an experienced professional in the construction industry and an advocate for workforce development and training. Gerise shares her journey from the field to the office, discussing how she built her career by seizing opportunities and pushing through challenges. Her passion for empowering others is evident as she dives into strategies for training, mentorship, and leadership within the construction sector.

We discuss the importance of workforce development in an industry that is constantly evolving, as well as the need to create opportunities for women and minorities. Gerise emphasizes how technology, adaptability, and a proactive mindset are essential in staying ahead of industry trends and meeting the needs of modern projects. Whether you're a contractor, business owner, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with insights on how to build a successful career while uplifting others along the way.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Introduction to Gerise Montoya and Her Journey
 3:30 – From Field Work to Office Leadership: Career Transition
 8:15 – Overcoming Challenges as a Woman in Construction
 12:45 – The Importance of Workforce Development and Training
 17:20 – Navigating Industry Changes and Staying Relevant
 21:50 – Building Leadership Skills and Empowering Others
 27:10 – Creating Mentorship Opportunities in Construction
 32:30 – Utilizing Technology to Bridge Knowledge Gaps
 37:00 – Building Diverse Teams and Inclusive Environments
 42:45 – Strategies for Retaining Skilled Workers
 48:15 – How to Inspire the Next Generation of Construction Leaders
 52:30 – Tips for Women Looking to Enter the Industry
 56:45 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Aspiring Professionals
 59:00 – Closing Remarks and Call to Action

If you’re passionate about construction, leadership, or creating opportunities within your industry, this episode is a must-listen. Gerise’s dedication to empowering others and her insights on workforce development offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to make an impact. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Gerise Montoya:

Instagram: @GeriseMontoya
LinkedIn: Gerise Montoya
Website: www.RaisingTheGrade.com

#ConstructionLeadership #WomenInConstruction #WorkforceDevelopment #Mentorship #LeadershipSkills #RaisingTheGrade #IndustryGrowth #BuildingSuccess #InspireChange #ProfessionalDevelopment

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This week on Raising the Grade, we sit down with Megan Pratt, Hardscapes Sales Manager at Superlite, a division of Oldcastle APG. Megan's journey from the power sports industry to leading the charge at Belgard is nothing short of impressive. We dive into her passion for training, the evolution of hardscape design trends, and how Belgard is making waves in the Arizona market by emphasizing innovation and quality.

Megan shares her unique perspective as a woman thriving in a male-dominated industry, the importance of building human connections, and how leveraging new technologies like AI and 3D renderings will shape the future of outdoor living. Whether you're a contractor, business owner, or hardscape enthusiast, this episode is packed with insights on how to elevate your craft and set yourself apart from the competition.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Introduction and Greeting Megan Pratt
 0:17 – Who is Megan Pratt? Background and Career Journey
 1:07 – Transition from Power Sports to Hardscapes
 2:26 – Joining Old Castle and Belgard
 3:57 – The Role of Training in the Hardscape Industry
 5:09 – Supporting Contractors and Building Relationships
 6:45 – The Importance of Being a Resource, Not Just a Manufacturer
 8:23 – Being a Woman in a Male-Dominated Industry
 10:01 – Design Trends for 2025: Large Formats and Tone-on-Tone
 12:40 – New Products: Instadeck and Composite Decking
 14:53 – AI and Technology Shaping the Future of Hardscaping
 17:11 – Challenges in the Hardscape Industry and Addressing Misconceptions
 20:01 – Setting Realistic Expectations for Clients and Contractors
 23:18 – Elevating Your Business: Competing with Design, Not Just Price
 25:27 – Human Connection in Business: The Key to Lasting Relationships
 28:33 – Best Practices for Contractors to Stand Out
 30:15 – Understanding Color Variations and Production Challenges
 32:11 – The Importance of Setting Client Expectations
 34:30 – Final Thoughts and Megan's Message to the Industry

If you’re passionate about hardscape design or running a construction business, this episode is a must-watch. Megan’s dedication to quality and connection offers valuable lessons for anyone in the field. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

Connect with Megan Pratt & Belgard:

• Website: Belgard.com
• Instagram: @Belgard_Arizona
• LinkedIn: Megan Pratt

#RaisingTheGrade #HardscapeDesign #Belgard #OutdoorLiving #ConstructionIndustry #ContractorTips #LandscapeTrends #DesignInnovation #TrainingAndSupport #CustomerConnection

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In this episode of Raising the Grade, we dive deep into the real challenges and opportunities facing the construction industry—focusing on workforce development, training, and innovative recruitment solutions. Join us as we explore how small, local construction companies can overcome the persistent workforce shortages that have long plagued the industry. We discuss the importance of proactive planning, the role of technology in streamlining operations, and the power of building strong, employee-centric cultures that not only attract but also retain top talent.

Our conversation covers everything from the pitfalls of reactive management to the benefits of investing in on-the-job training and creating clear career paths. Whether you’re a contractor, business owner, or aspiring tradesperson, you'll gain actionable insights and inspiring ideas to help your business thrive in today’s competitive market.

Key Moments:
0:00 – Introduction to the challenges of workforce management in construction
6:00 – The critical need for training and development in small shops
12:00 – Innovative recruitment models and leveraging technology
20:00 – The importance of local community engagement for sustainable growth
28:00 – Strategies to shift from reactive to proactive management
35:00 – Building an employee-centric, future-focused construction business

If you’re ready to transform your company from the ground up and create a better future for the industry, this episode is a must-watch. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with anyone who’s looking to make a real impact in construction.

Connect with Ground Up Careers and learn more about how we’re helping businesses thrive: Website: www.groundupcareers.com
Instagram: @groundupcareers
LinkedIn: Ground Up Careers

#ConstructionIndustry #WorkforceDevelopment #TrainingAndDevelopment #InnovativeRecruitment #GroundUpCareers #ConstructionManagement #EmployeeCentric #ProactivePlanning #IndustryGrowth #RaisingTheGrade

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This week on Raising the Grade, we sit down with Steve Meyer from LATICRETE, a company at the forefront of tile installation materials and innovation. Steve shares his unique journey into the industry, from growing up with a chemist father who pioneered coatings and underlayments to developing expertise in concrete chemistry, tile installation, and coatings.

We cover game-changing advancements in the trade, including the evolution of setting materials, polymer-modified thinset, and AI-driven technology in construction. Steve breaks down the importance of proper installation techniques, common job site failures, and how LATICRETE helps contractors with education, training programs, and system warranties to avoid costly mistakes.

Whether you’re a tile contractor, business owner, or someone passionate about quality construction, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your work.

Key Moments:

0:00 – Who is Steve Meyer? His journey into the tile industry
 4:20 – The evolution of tile installation & modern advancements
 9:35 – Common job site failures & how to avoid them
 14:50 – Why full system warranties are critical for contractors
 20:25 – Training programs & educational resources from LATICRETE
 27:40 – AI & technology shaping the future of construction
 35:15 – Best LATICRETE products for durability & efficiency
 42:00 – Why business skills are just as important as trade skills
 48:00 – How to access free training through LATICRETE University

If you’re looking to stay ahead in the tile and construction industry, this episode is a must-watch. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share!

📩 Connect with Steve Meyer & LATICRETE:
 🔗 Website: Laticrete.com
📸 Instagram: @LaticreteSteve
📍 LinkedIn: Steve Meyer
📚 LATICRETE University: Free Online Training

📞 Contact Steve Meyer
 📍 Technical Sales Representative, Arizona
 📲 Cell: +1.203.800.5621

LATICRETE International, Inc. | Globally Proven Construction Solutions

#TileInstallation #LATICRETE #ConstructionTech #AIinConstruction #TileContractors #HomeImprovement #FlooringExperts #BuildingBetter #AvoidTileFailures #RaisingTheGrade

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This week on Raising the Grade Podcast, we sit down with Matt Sharp, Regional Sales Manager at PebbleTec, to dive deep into the pool construction industry, the importance of quality craftsmanship, and what sets PebbleTec apart from the competition.

Matt shares his incredible journey from pool repair technician to business owner and now a leader in the pool finishing industry. We explore the challenges of running a construction business, the lessons learned from on-the-job experience, and why education is key to raising industry standards.

From pool tile selection to water chemistry insights, Matt breaks down why material quality and proper installation techniques matter, the most common mistakes builders make, and how PebbleTec ensures superior finishes. Whether you’re a pool builder, contractor, or homeowner, this episode is packed with valuable insights into what it really takes to build a high-quality, long-lasting pool.

Key Moments:

0:30 – Who is Matt Sharp?
9:40 – The unexpected path to the pool industry
18:20 – Starting and scaling a pool service & repair business
27:15 – The transition into pool remodeling and building
36:00 – Challenges of running a business during COVID
45:20 – The importance of education and proper installation techniques
52:00 – What sets PebbleTec apart from the competition?
1:01:30 – The future of pool construction

Watch the full episode on YouTube! (Link in bio)

📩 Connect with Matt Sharp & PebbleTec:
🔗 Website: https://www.pebbletec.com
📸 Instagram: @PebbleTecOfficial
📍 LinkedIn: Matt Sharp

#PoolConstruction #PebbleTec #LuxuryPools #ConstructionBusiness #PoolDesign #HomeImprovement #SwimmingPools #BuildingBetter #PoolRemodeling #Entrepreneurship #RaisingTheGrade

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In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with Jack Dyer from Innovative by Design to talk about the future of landscaping, construction, and the power of design in shaping outdoor spaces.

Jack is an industry expert who has worked across multiple companies and recently earned his KA dual engineering license, allowing him to take on a vast range of construction projects—from pools and outdoor living spaces to public works and beyond. We discuss the importance of blending natural landscapes with modern home design, the role of AI in design and construction, and the challenges and rewards of pushing industry standards forward.

Jack shares his insights on:

• The evolution of landscape architecture and outdoor living
• Why technology and AI are changing the game for designers
• How real client needs should shape the way we design and build
• The biggest mistakes young contractors and designers make
• Why phasing projects can be a smart move for homeowners
• His long-term goal of reshaping how people think about their homes

Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or someone passionate about elevating the industry, this conversation is full of valuable insights and fresh perspectives.

Key Moments

0:00 Intro to Jack Dyer & Innovative by Design
2:30 Jack’s Background & Journey into Construction
6:45 The Importance of the KA License & What It Covers
12:20 AI in Design & The Future of Construction Tech
19:45 Phasing Projects & Planning for Long-Term Success
28:30 Why Client-Centric Design is the Key to Success
36:00 Common Pitfalls in the Construction Industry
45:15 The Changing Landscape of Outdoor Design Trends
52:00 The Role of Integrity & Customer Relationships in Business
1:00:30 Jack’s Vision for the Future of Design & Construction

Connect with Jack & Innovative by Design

Website: www.innovativeby.design
Instagram: @innovativexdesign | @yeeyeelandscapeme
YouTube: Innovative by Design

#RaisingTheGrade #LandscapeDesign #OutdoorLiving #ConstructionTech #AIinDesign #InnovativeDesign #LandscapingExperts #ArizonaConstruction #JackDyer #InnovativeByDesign

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What does it take to build lasting partnerships, grow an industry, and deliver world-class hardscapes? In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sat down with Antonio Fernandez, Hardscapes Sales Manager for Mirage Porcelain & Bellegarde, to talk about the evolution of the industry, the power of collaboration, and the importance of quality over quick wins.

Antonio’s journey from IT to the world of building materials is nothing short of inspiring. From his early days at Thompson Building Materials to becoming a key player in Mirage Porcelain & Bellegarde’s hardscape solutions, Antonio has seen firsthand how education, innovation, and strong relationships can shape a thriving industry.

In this episode, we dive into:
- The rise of porcelain pavers and their impact on the industry
- Why training and education are crucial for contractors
- The biggest mistakes in hardscape installations (and how to avoid them)
- How industry partnerships are reshaping the way we build outdoor spaces

If you're a contractor, landscaper, or just someone looking to learn more about quality materials, installation best practices, and the future of hardscapes, this episode is a must-watch.

Watch the full episode now and drop your thoughts in the comments!

Key Moments:
0:10 – Who is Antonio Fernandez?
3:50 – From IT to Hardscapes: Antonio’s Journey
11:00 – The Evolution of Porcelain Pavers
17:00 – The Importance of Vendor & Contractor Relationships
25:30 – Common Installation Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
35:00 – Training & Education: Why It Matters
42:30 – How Quality Materials Affect Long-Term Results
57:00 – Future Innovations in Hardscaping

Subscribe for more conversations with industry leaders & innovators!

 Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content!

#RaisingTheGrade #MiragePorcelain #Bellegarde #Hardscapes #Landscaping #OutdoorLiving #PorcelainPavers #ContractorLife #IndustryGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #ArizonaLandscaping #BuildBetter #LandscapeDesign 

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In this episode of Raising the Grade, I’m joined by CJ and Derin from ANS Mermer, and let me tell you it’s a conversation that goes way beyond stone and pavers. We dive into their fascinating journey of importing Turkish natural stone, a family business that’s not only survived but thrived through economic shifts, personal challenges, and ever-changing industry trends.

Derin shares how his parents’ entrepreneurial leap during the 2008 housing crisis transformed their business, while CJ reflects on his bold move to the U.S., turning what started as a tough, unfamiliar job into a passion for quality craftsmanship. Together, they break down what makes Turkish natural stone unique, from hot and cold travertine to marble innovations that are setting new trends in the hardscaping world.

We also dig into the artistry behind their custom designs, the intricacies of sourcing and quality control, and the unexpected lessons they’ve learned along the way. Whether you’re in the industry or just love a good entrepreneurial story, this episode will leave you inspired—] and maybe even looking at your pool deck in a whole new light.

Key Moments:
0:00 Intro to CJ and Derin from ANS Mermer
2:00 Derin's Backstory and Family Business Journey
6:37 CJ’s Journey to the U.S.
14:10 How Turkish Natural Stone is Sourced and Graded
20:46 Key Tips for Contractors to Avoid Quality Issues
29:17 Explaining Grades and Quality of Natural Stone
43:53 Unique Features of Turkish Travertine
59:30 Advantages of Natural Stone and Its Uniqueness

ANS Mermer info:
Website - https://ansmermer.com/dl/b33482
IG - @ansmermer

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