In this episode, host Gavin Coyle talks with Duane C. Barney, a construction industry veteran from Connecticut, USA. Duane shares his journey from starting in construction at 14, to building and losing businesses, and ultimately deciding to step away from the industry. If you're struggling with burnout, financial uncertainty, or deciding when to exit, this episode is packed with real-world lessons and hard truths.

They discuss:

The realities of running a construction business, from cash flow struggles and customer payment issues to the mental and physical toll of staying in the game too long. Duane opens up about when he knew it was time to leave, why some construction businesses are unsellable, and how contractors can create a sustainable exit strategy.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Introduction & welcoming of guest Duane C. Barney 

02:10 – How Duane got started in construction at 14 years old

06:30 – The biggest changes in construction tools & technology

12:15 – Why Duane left commercial construction for residential

17:45 – The hard reality of running a break-even business

23:20 – How customer payment issues can destroy a construction company

28:05 – Burnout and mental health: When the stress outweighs the rewards

34:00 – The challenge of selling a construction business with no solid framework

40:25 – Why cash flow and reserves are crucial for survival

46:10 – Work-life balance & the personal sacrifices of entrepreneurship

51:40 – Final thoughts: How to plan an exit strategy the right way

For more information about anything in this episode, head to https://www.gavin-coyle.com/ 

I'm The Gaffer, hosted by industry expert Gavin Coyle, is the essential podcast for construction people, offering insider insights, expert interviews, and actionable strategies to blueprint unprecedented success in the dynamic world of construction. Whether you are still ‘on the tools’, just getting started, a seasoned site manager focused on large-scale project management, or a fast-growth building industry entrepreneur/developer this podcast is for you. Gavin's guests, ranging from influential thought leaders to boots-on-the-ground practitioners, share their stories, successes, and failures and offer invaluable lessons and tips, allowing you to have a 360-degree view of the construction landscape. This podcast is a must-have shared learning space for any person looking to achieve success in the building industry. As a construction person, this podcast is your go-to source for navigating the complexities of the construction industry, where success is not just built; it's crafted with precision, passion, and the right knowledge. 

 I’m The Gaffer, available on: 

Apple https://bit.ly/ImTheGaffer 

Spotify https://bit.ly/ImTheGafferSpotify 

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@gavincoylesafety 

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