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Take a seat in the Batcave as Shannon pulls back the curtain on five years of podcasting journey and the evolving shed industry landscape of 2025. This rare monologue episode offers an intimate look at where Shed Geek started, where it's heading, and the philosophy driving its growth.

Shannon extends a heartfelt invitation to everyone in the shed world—dealers, manufacturers, haulers, and service providers—to share their unique stories on the podcast. "Everyone is welcome, even if we compete," he emphasizes, believing that transparent conversations benefit the entire industry. The podcast has become more than just interviews; it's a digital magazine where shed professionals can showcase their expertise while helping others grow.

The conversation explores exciting developments across multiple business fronts. From the new office space (converted from an old church) to the evolution of Shed Geek Marketing's approach that prioritizes education over sales tactics, Shannon reveals how their client-focused philosophy has fueled 187% growth. He also dives into the RTO business transformation, ShedHub's powerful SEO potential, and upcoming industry events that signal a maturing, more organized shed community.

Throughout the episode runs a thread of genuine gratitude—to listeners, advertisers, family members, and ultimately to finding purpose through serving the shed industry. Shannon's perspective on marketing as an investment rather than an expense offers valuable insight for any business owner looking to grow strategically.

Whether you're a shed industry veteran or newcomer, this candid conversation offers both practical business wisdom and a reminder of the community-building power of shared knowledge. Ready to share your story or learn more about the services discussed? Reach out to [email protected] and become part of the ongoing conversation.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

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To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

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Gary Reichert, owner of Shield Wall Media, joins Jared Ledford on the Steel Kings podcast to reveal the powerful strategies behind his company's success in construction industry publishing and trade show management. What began as a job selling advertising has transformed into ownership of a media conglomerate that's reshaping how construction professionals connect and do business.

Shield Wall Media has found remarkable success by focusing on underserved market niches within construction. Their flagship publications - including Rural Builder (celebrating nearly 60 years), Frame Building News, Metal Roofing Magazine, and Roll Forming Magazine - provide specialized content unavailable elsewhere. But what truly sets them apart is their approach to trade shows, particularly the upcoming Construction Role Forming Show in Dayton (October 1-2).

Unlike typical industry events that welcome anyone with an entrance fee, Shield Wall's shows strictly target qualified attendees who possess real purchasing power. "We go for the people that sign in front of the check, not the back of the check," Reichert explains, ensuring exhibitors connect with potential customers capable of making substantial purchases. This laser-focused approach has yielded impressive results, with manufacturers reporting closing significant deals directly at these events.

Transparency permeates everything Shield Wall does. They provide complete attendee lists to exhibitors at no additional charge, donate all entrance fees to charity (over $30,000 last year), and produce detailed industry data reports broken down by region - filling crucial information gaps for specialized construction segments typically overlooked by broader market analyses.

Perhaps most fascinating is Shield Wall's newest initiative: children's books about construction trades. With "Max Builds a Metal Roof" nearing publication, this innovative approach addresses the critical shortage of young people entering the trades by creating positive emotional connections early in life, potentially inspiring future career interests while helping family-owned construction businesses build meaningful connections with the next generation.

Ready to experience the Shield Wall difference? Visit constructionroleformingshow to register for their upcoming event and discover why industry professionals consider their trade shows the most productive in the business.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Would you like to receive our weekly newsletter?  Sign up here.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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Coach David J. Greer joins us to share wisdom gleaned from his remarkable 40-year entrepreneurial journey and decade of business coaching. Our conversation dives deep into what truly drives business success beyond conventional growth metrics.

David introduces us to the power of the one-page strategic plan, a methodology that transforms business planning by starting with your desired future state and working backward. Rather than focusing on incremental improvements, this approach creates clarity around markets, capabilities, and quarterly goals that align with your true vision. It's a refreshing departure from the reactive planning most entrepreneurs default to.

One of the most thought-provoking moments comes when David challenges the "if you're not growing, you're dying" mentality that permeates many industries. He makes a compelling case that success should be defined by the entrepreneur, not industry standards or societal expectations. For shed business owners feeling pressured to constantly expand, this perspective offers permission to pursue profitability and personal fulfillment instead of growth for growth's sake.

The conversation takes a powerful turn when David courageously shares his recovery journey from alcoholism, illustrating how seeking help—whether for personal challenges or business growth—can be transformative. His vulnerability reveals a truth many entrepreneurs resist: we cannot solve every problem alone, and sometimes our fear of success proves more limiting than our fear of failure.

For shed industry professionals specifically, David offers strategic insights on navigating the shift to online retail, helping second-generation owners find their "why," and addressing industry fragmentation. His suggestion to focus excellently on serving the majority of customers rather than attempting to accommodate every unique case strikes a practical balance between growth and sustainability.

Whether you're struggling with strategic planning, defining success on your terms, or simply finding joy in your business again, this conversation will leave you with practical tools and a fresh perspective. And don't miss David's generous offer of a free one-hour coaching session—sometimes, an outside perspective is exactly what's needed to transform your business journey.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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What happens when two industry veterans sit down for an unscripted, heart-to-heart conversation about business sustainability, faith, and life? This month's Sambassador podcast delivers exactly that as Shannon and Sam reflect on five years of podcasting while sharing hard-earned wisdom about diversification in challenging economic times.

Sam Byler pulls back the curtain on his business approach, revealing how he maintains multiple smaller income streams instead of relying on one primary source. "If I accidentally throw one egg and it breaks, I haven't lost everything," he explains. This practical philosophy proves especially relevant as many in the shed industry face uncertain markets. Sam offers actionable advice for haulers and dealers feeling the pressure – from expanding service offerings to reconsidering pricing structures that still maintain profitability.

The conversation takes a deeper turn as both men discuss the integration of faith into their business lives. Rather than compartmentalizing spirituality, they share how their relationship with God fundamentally shapes their decision-making, business ethics, and response to industry conflicts. Shannon's recent purchase of a 100-year-old church building as office space becomes a fascinating metaphor for honoring tradition while embracing new possibilities.

Perhaps most compelling is Sam's vulnerable insight about relationships: "The number one tool my wife has to make our marriage strong is that she lets me fail." This perspective on giving partners space to take risks and learn from mistakes offers profound implications for both personal and business relationships. Their authentic exchange demonstrates why the Shed Geek podcast has remained a trusted industry resource for half a decade.

Whether you're facing business challenges, navigating complex relationships, or seeking to integrate your values more fully into your work, this conversation offers both practical strategies and philosophical depth. As Sam's podcast transitions to a monthly format, Shannon and Sam remind us that sometimes the most valuable business lessons come from simply being human with one another. Subscribe now to ensure you don't miss future episodes of this industry-favorite conversation.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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The digital transformation wave has finally crashed into the shed industry's shores, and it's bringing video technology that could revolutionize how we connect with customers. In this eye-opening conversation with LiveSwitch founder James Hatfield, we journey from his humble beginnings as a painter with a ladder to becoming a tech innovator helping businesses harness the power of real-time video.

James shares his fascinating story of unexpected entrepreneurship – from running painting crews to building tech companies valued in the billions. His latest venture, LiveSwitch, solves a surprisingly simple problem with profound implications: how to instantly connect with customers through the cameras everyone already carries in their pockets, without requiring app downloads or complicated setups.

For shed builders and dealers, the applications are game-changing. Imagine documenting every stage of delivery with video evidence, creating what James calls an "NFL instant replay" that shows exactly when and where issues might have occurred. This accountability system protects businesses while dramatically improving customer experience. Even more compelling is how video connections are revolutionizing sales – in many industries, video interactions close at rates comparable to or even higher than in-person meetings, while saving time and expanding your effective service area.

What resonates throughout this conversation is that digital adoption isn't about abandoning traditional values or craftsmanship – it's about enhancing them. The most successful businesses will blend the reliability of time-tested practices with the efficiency of modern tools. As James puts it, "We're going from ears to eyes," creating connections that build trust faster and solve problems more efficiently than ever before.

Ready to see how video technology could transform your shed business? Visit LiveSwitch's website and discover how simple tools can create extraordinary connections with your customers. The future is visual – and it's already here. Book a DEMO

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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Ever wondered why some building dealers thrive while others struggle to stay afloat? The answer might be simpler than you think.

When Jared sits down with Shannon "The Shed Geek" for this captivating conversation, they cut through industry noise to reveal what's really happening in steel structure and shed sales. Shannon brings his years of experience building the Shed Geek brand and community to share wisdom that applies across the construction space.

Their honest discussion tackles the dangerous "race to the bottom" mentality plaguing dealers and manufacturers alike. "You want to know why you don't make money selling steel buildings? Because you're selling cheap steel buildings," Jared points out, highlighting how quality-focused businesses ultimately win the long game while fly-by-night operations eventually disappear—often leaving customers stranded with warranties that can't be honored.

The duo doesn't shy away from challenging topics, including how technology and AI are reshaping the industry landscape. Rather than fearing these changes, they encourage dealers to embrace them as tools that enhance rather than replace human expertise. Shannon frames it perfectly: "I find that the industry does that because we simply insult what we don't understand."

Perhaps most valuable is their exploration of how personal values shape business success. Both hosts share candidly about standing firm in their beliefs while building genuinely helpful communities through the Steel Structure Sales Professionals and Shed Sales Professionals Facebook groups—spaces where competitors come together to elevate the entire industry rather than just their individual businesses.

Ready to transform your approach to selling buildings? Listen now, then join these thriving communities where rising tides truly do lift all boats.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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When Steve Coughran started his first business at 16 from his sister's garage, little did he know this would lead to a career transforming how construction companies understand their finances. Today, as a fractional CFO who provides what he calls "CFO services reimagined," Steve brings a refreshing clarity to the often mystifying world of business finance.

The most eye-opening revelation from our conversation? Seventy percent of companies that go bankrupt actually show profit on their books when they close their doors. This paradox exists because profit on paper doesn't guarantee healthy cash flow – a distinction that has saved countless businesses Steve has worked with. Using vivid examples (including asking audience members for cash during presentations), Steve demystifies concepts like return on invested capital in ways that make immediate, practical sense.

We explore the concept of business "death zones" – those revenue thresholds where companies get stuck because their overhead structure doesn't align with their income. For construction businesses, these typically fall between $1-3 million, $3-10 million, and $10-25 million. Without proper financial planning, companies can find themselves trapped, unable to grow further or even maintain their position. One company Steve advised wanted to triple in size quickly – his financial models showed they'd be bankrupt within 18 months if they pursued that strategy.

Beyond the numbers, Steve offers refreshing wisdom on business growth itself. Having risen from blue-collar beginnings (much like myself) to advising billion-dollar companies, he emphasizes that bigger isn't always better. Sometimes your calling might be to build a $20 million company that blesses employees' lives, not to scale indefinitely. His "Boosting Your Financial IQ" podcast has reached over 1.3 million downloads worldwide, and he recently made his financial literacy course completely free – demonstrating his belief that money should be a vehicle to bless others' lives.

Connect with Steve on LinkedIn or visit cultivar.com to learn more about his approach to financial management. And if you're struggling with financial literacy, check out his free resources at byfiq.com – no strings attached.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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The headlines warned of economic disaster when steel tariffs were announced, but what's actually happening on the ground? The Steel Kings dig deep with Ohio State Representative Rodney Creech to separate market reality from media hype.

Representative Creech brings a unique perspective as both a fourth-generation farmer and state legislator, offering candid insights about American manufacturing's future. "Although there was some short-term pain, possibly some mid-term pain for long-term gain, I think we're there," Creech explains, highlighting companies that have already begun returning to the United States after previously moving operations overseas.

For Jared and Eric, the tariff situation prompted strategic innovation rather than surrender. They share how they're expanding their business model to include pole barns while maintaining their core steel building operations. This adaptability showcases what's happening across American small businesses – finding creative solutions that prioritize domestically-produced materials without passing dramatic price increases to customers.

The conversation reveals a significant disconnect between apocalyptic news predictions and actual market conditions. While initial reports suggested potential price increases up to 50% for steel products, businesses working with American-made steel are experiencing only marginal adjustments driven by demand. This practical reality check offers valuable perspective for anyone trying to understand how Washington policy translates into Main Street impact.

Perhaps most compelling is the discussion around America's renewed interest in supporting local businesses. As Rep. Creech puts it with stark simplicity: "Turn your news off. Buy local. Enjoy life." It's a philosophy that represents growing consumer awareness about the value of knowing who stands behind the products they purchase.

Ready to hear authentic insights about manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and the resilience of American business? Listen now and discover why the Steel Kings believe adaptation and authenticity are the keys to thriving in today's changing economic landscape.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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What happens when life brings you to your breaking point? For shed hauler Daniel, a catastrophic injury left him bedridden for six months, plunging him into depression that nearly destroyed his business. Just when recovery seemed possible, tragedy struck again with the death of a beloved employee in a car accident. Yet today, he runs a thriving operation with a surprising sense of peace and purpose.

The secret? A complete transformation in thinking about business, leadership, and life itself. "The power of letting your yes be yes and your no be no, leaving emotions out of it, is amazing," Daniel shares, describing how setting clear boundaries without emotional charge revolutionized his customer interactions. This philosophy extends beyond business to personal challenges, including navigating his wife's cancer treatment by maintaining an even keel through both good and bad news.

Daniel's story challenges conventional wisdom about business success. When he gathered his team to announce he was quitting, he discovered there was nowhere else to go. This moment of being trapped became the catalyst for working with a coach who helped develop company values and a mission statement: "Our purpose is to offer high-quality customer service." This foundation created what Daniel calls "a more freeing" approach to business where team members operate with ownership mentality.

Most powerfully, Daniel reveals how the shed industry became the backdrop for deeper life lessons about significance and legacy. "If I died today, have I done the best with what I knew?" he asks, transforming everyday operations into opportunities for meaningful impact. His vulnerability about physical pain, emotional darkness, and business uncertainty demonstrates how our hardest experiences often become our greatest points of connection when shared openly.

Ready to transform your own business approach? This episode offers practical wisdom for anyone facing challenges in business or life. Subscribe now for more inspiring stories and actionable insights from leaders in the shed industry who've discovered success goes far beyond the bottom line.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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What does it take to build a successful shed transport business from scratch? For Daniel Yoder, founder of GDR Transport / Shed Movers, the answer lies not just in logistics and equipment, but in something far more fundamental—personal development.

Daniel's journey begins far from the shed industry, with military service in the 82nd Airborne Division and deployment to Afghanistan in 2009-2010. Through an unexpected opportunity, he received CDL training courtesy of the military, though at that point, hauling sheds wasn't remotely on his radar. Fresh from deployment and focused on healing, Daniel initially pursued biblical studies at Liberty University while working at a lumber yard. A series of connections eventually led him to drive for a shed manufacturer before taking the leap to start his own transport business in 2016.

With remarkable candor, Daniel shares how he launched his business with minimal savings, securing financing for equipment—a move he describes as potentially "dangerously stupid" yet born from the confidence his military experience and newfound independence had instilled. Now in his tenth year with multiple trucks on the road, he reflects on the growth that's occurred not just in his business but within himself.

The podcast delves into powerful metaphors that have shaped Daniel's philosophy: people as tea bags that reveal their true flavor when placed in hot water, the shed industry providing plenty of challenging "hot water" moments that reveal character. Through equipment breakdowns, difficult customers, and even a severe personal injury that required years of recovery, Daniel emphasizes taking responsibility for our responses rather than blaming circumstances.

For those in the shed hauling business or considering entering it, this conversation offers invaluable wisdom about maintenance practices, business relationships, and the mindset required for long-term success. Daniel's story demonstrates that sometimes, the path to professional achievement runs directly through personal growth and development—a journey well worth taking for anyone in the shed industry.

For more information or to know more about the Shed Geek Podcast visit us at our website.

Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube at the handle @shedgeekpodcast.

To be a guest on the Shed Geek Podcast visit our website and fill out the "Contact Us" form.

To suggest show topics or ask questions you want answered email us at [email protected].

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