The Build Show Podcast

After a brief summer break, The Build Show Podcast is back! Matt talks to Danny from Breakthrough Academy about key strategies for contractors and businesses to thrive in a slower economic market. They focus on lead generation and marketing optimization, offering actionable advice to maintain a steady flow of leads even in uncertain times.

Danny highlights the importance of tracking lead sources and calculating return on investment (ROI) to focus marketing efforts on high-performing channels. He also emphasizes the value of branding and networking, sharing tips on attending industry events, fostering relationships with referral partners, and leveraging social media to stay top of mind with clients.

Matt and Danny explore both active and passive marketing strategies, such as door-to-door outreach, signage in local neighborhoods, and using social media for brand visibility. Additionally, Danny discusses the importance of maintaining a healthy sales pipeline, advising contractors to regularly follow up with potential clients and track “no for now” prospects who may convert later.

For businesses looking to optimize their marketing strategies in a softer market, Danny suggests tools like a simple lead tracking system to measure performance and adjust marketing spend effectively. Tune in for a comprehensive guide to ensuring business growth, even in challenging economic conditions, with a strong focus on lead management, pipeline development, and ROI optimization.

Resources:

• To help make more sense of your ROI per Lead Source, download BTA’s LEAD SOURCE DISTRIBUTION TRACKER
• Breakthrough Academy
• Contractor Quick Tools

Find Danny & Breakthrough Academy on the Web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/breakthroughacademy
• Instagram: @btacademy and @dkerr1127
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebreakthroughacademy/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/breakthroughacademy/
• YouTube: @BreakthroughAcademy

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Bryan & Tim Uhler, second-generation builders and business-owners, return to The Build Show Podcast. Matt and the Uhlers discuss the future of the construction industry, emphasizing technological advancements and sustainability.

Matt, Bryan, and Tim consider the impact of 3D printing in construction; both Bryan and Tim are skeptical about its widespread adoption due to site-specific challenges and aesthetic preferences. They advocate for traditional wood framing, noting its sustainability and efficiency, supported by responsible forest management practices.

All three builders outline the benefits of pre-assembled framing packages like Ready Frame, which streamline the building process without compromising craftsmanship.

This episode underscores the importance of long-term relationships with tradespeople and inspectors, which enhances project quality and efficiency.

Looking ahead, the Bryan and Tim are optimistic about the industry's future, seeing potential in blending traditional craftsmanship with new technologies. They believe social media is reshaping perceptions of construction careers, making them more appealing to younger generations. Both Matt and the Uhlers express confidence in a promising future for the construction industry, driven by passion, innovation, and sustainable practices.

Find Bryan & Tim on the Web:

• Instagram: @pioneerbuilders & @awesomeframers
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pioneerbuilders
• Website: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/profile/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now!

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Join Matt and Breakthrough Academy (BTA) co-founder Igor Trninic in a conversation about financial management and the consequences of being financially disorganized in the construction industry. BTA is not only part of The Build Show Expert team, but also a company that helps contractors streamline their operations and achieve financial stability. They delve into three main consequences of poor financial management: having to let go of valuable employees due to financial instability, being surprised by poor financial performance at year-end, and unknowingly working on unprofitable projects.

Igor shares his background, highlighting his early experiences with financial mismanagement and the lessons he learned. He emphasizes the importance of annual budgeting and monthly financial reviews to keep a business on track. They also discuss the significance of understanding gross profit margins by job type to ensure profitability. Igor provides insights into how BTA assists contractors in systematizing their businesses through a structured program that includes pre-produced content, biweekly coaching, and a supportive community of contractors. If you want to start getting control of your finances, download BTA's Budget Tool, free for BuildShow listeners. https://trybta.com/BSN-Financial.

Resources:

• Breakthrough Academy
• Contractor Quick Tools
• The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber

Find Igor & Breakthrough Academy on the Web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/breakthroughacademy
• Instagram: @btacademy and @igor.trninic
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebreakthroughacademy/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/breakthroughacademy/
• YouTube: @BreakthroughAcademy

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now!

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Matt dives into speculative building and budgeting with Tim and Bryan Uhler of Pioneer Builders. Pioneer Builders, founded in 1978 by Tim and Bryan's parents, has built a reputation for efficient and high-quality speculative homes in Seattle, Washington. The Uhler brothers explain that speculative building involves constructing homes without a committed buyer, which requires smart land purchases and thorough feasibility studies to ensure profitability.

The Uhlers emphasize the importance of buying land at a low price to maximize profit and avoiding emotional decisions, making informed, data-driven choices instead. Efficient building practices are crucial, and Tim highlights the benefits of self-performing labor tasks such as framing and concrete work to control costs. Investing in productivity-enhancing tools is essential for efficient operations, and when it comes to material choices, the Uhlers recommend selecting materials that balance cost and performance.

Clear, simple communication with clients is also vital to justify costs, according to Bryan. Educating clients on the long-term benefits of quality construction can help differentiate their homes from competitors. This episode offers valuable advice for builders on managing costs, making informed material choices, and effectively communicating value to clients.

Find Bryan & Tim on the Web:

• Instagram: @pioneerbuilders & @awesomeframers
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pioneerbuilders
• Website: https://pioneerbuildersonline.com/profile/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now!

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Steven Shafer, co-founder of Jobsite Codes, joins Matt in studio to discuss innovative jobsite organization. Matt confesses his lack of organizational skills and introduces Steven's digital solution, which uses QR codes to replace traditional three-ring binders for construction documents.

Jobsite Codes simplifies document access with QR codes, eliminating the need for apps or logins. This user-friendly system is especially beneficial for trade workers. The digital platform ensures the most current files are available on the job site, reducing errors and miscommunication.

Steven explains how Jobsite Codes provides unlimited storage for files, photos, videos, and more, offering an organized solution from project start to finish.  Be sure to check it out!

Resources: 

• https://jobsitecodes.com
• Jobsite Codes on Instagram: @jobsitecodes

Find Steven on the Web:

• Instagram: @shafer214
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shafer214
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-shafer-99685831/
• Website: https://grizzlyhabits.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to register now!

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

The moment you’ve all been waiting for is finally here…registration for Build Show LIVE is open now! Matt is joined by Mark Wille to bring you an insider’s guide to all thing’s Build Show LIVE. Taking place in Austin, TX from November 7-9, 2024, Build Show LIVE promises to be the premier trade show for the building industry. The event will feature a unique blend of educational sessions, networking opportunities, and exclusive tours. 

There’s an option for everyone…

• Expo Tickets: With acccess to the show floor on November 8-9, you can connect with well over 100 manufacturers, plus you can pick from nearly 30 educational sessions across 3 stages. Can’t attend on Friday? Good news! There’s a Saturday-only option.
• Classroom + Expo: Take your education to the next level with access to everything on the show floor, plus over 20 classroom sessions covering building science, construction, and design as well as business processes, tools, and management. Check out all classroom session descriptions on the conference schedule: https://www.buildshowlive.com/en/conference-schedule.html.
• Tours: A limited-capacity tour to learn how to build the Build Show way includes Matt’s personal home and The Risinger Build House – a new build with plans available through our partnership with Builders FirstSource.
• VIP: VIPs get an extra day of classroom content with the premiere of Build Science 301™, tours of two job sites curated by Matt and the team (includes Matt’s personal home and The Risinger Build House), exclusive VIP reception on Thursday evening, plus access to Friday & Saturday classroom sessions as well as everything on the Expo floor

Don’t wait to get your tickets, especially VIP! There are only 301 VIP Tickets, and you don’t want to miss out on this amazing opportunity. Go to buildshowlive.com to register now!

Find Mark on the web:

• Instagram: @engineeredwoodwork

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Don't miss a single Build Show video; sign up for our twice-weekly newsletter here.

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

On this episode of The Build Show Podcast, Matt discusses the importance of ventilation with expert Corbett Lunsford, who you may know from his PBS Series Home Diagnosis. They explore the critical role ventilation plays in maintaining healthy indoor air quality and Corbett shares insights into designing effective HVAC systems.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of air circulation, pollution capture, and filtration in residential buildings. They highlight the advantages of using Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) over traditional ventilation methods, particularly in tightly built homes. Corbett explains how ERVs can improve air quality and balance humidity, making homes more comfortable and energy efficient.

Matt shares his personal experience with different ventilation strategies. They discuss practical tips for installing and commissioning ERVs, emphasizing the need for proper ductwork and air balancing. Corbett advises builders to prioritize mechanical ventilation systems that go beyond basic bath fans to ensure whole-house air quality.

The episode also touches on the importance of kitchen exhaust systems and makeup air solutions. Corbett recommends consulting tools like RedCalc for accurate ventilation design and encourages builders to stay informed through educational resources.

Resources:

• RedCalc(Ventilation calculators): https://redcalc.com
• ASHRAE Weather Data App: https://ashrae-medio.info
• Home Diagnosis(PBS series): https://homediagnosis.tv

Find Corbett on the Web:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/HomePerformance
• LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/corbettlunsford/
• Website - https://buildingperformanceworkshop.com

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to stay in the know.

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Matt and fellow Build Show Expert Allyson Anderson discuss the BuildHer Executive Retreat, a new initiative focused on the therapeutic benefits of networking for women in construction. They underscore the value of shared experiences and learning opportunities among builders.

They delve into the complexities of managing multiple construction projects, stressing the delicate balance between quality and business demands. Allyson shares her personal challenges, from handling intricate client relationships to streamlining project processes across various scales, from large builds to renovations.

The discussion expands to the trials of business expansion, including the constant employee queries and the allure of downsizing for manageability. Strategic planning and contingency preparation emerge as essential strategies. They emphasize clear project requirements, like architectural drawings, as crucial foundations for successful builds.

Scaling challenges in construction, such as managing employee influx and strategic hiring decisions, are also explored. Allyson underscores the importance of robust planning and adaptation amidst project size shifts. Both Matt and Allyson highlight networking and mentorship as critical for professional advancement, particularly for women in the industry, teasing upcoming events like Build Show LIVE and the 2025 BuildHer Executive Retreat as prime opportunities for growth and connection.

Resources:

• Build Show LIVE: November 7-9, 2024 in Austin, TX
• BuildHer Executive Retreat: March 16-21, 2025 in Queopos, Costa Rica
• Instagram: @buildher_retreat

Find Allyson on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/allysoncaseanderson
• Instagram: @integrobuilders
• Website: https://www.integrobuilders.com/

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Build Show Expert Steve Baczek joins Matt to discuss the most recent Build Original Series, Multigenerational Home on a Budget. Initially, the discussion highlights how remodeling projects reveal past construction flaws, emphasizing the need for proper techniques to avoid future issues. Experts like Energy Vanguard are praised for their precise HVAC system designs, which ensure air tightness and energy efficiency, avoiding the costly mistakes of oversizing equipment. Matt & Steve encourage builders to invest in better materials and planning to save costs in the long run, advocating for smaller, well-built homes rather than larger, poorly constructed ones.

Further, the Experts touch on the European approach to housing, where quality and longevity are prioritized over mere cost per square foot. They provide examples of smart budgeting, such as using cost-effective materials and designs that do not compromise on air quality or insulation. Since they are talking about a project for a multigenerational home, Steve & Matt delve into family dynamics in home design, suggesting shared spaces for children to foster closer relationships. This approach contrasts with the American tendency to prioritize space and cost over quality and interaction.

Overall, both emphasize the value of thoughtful, quality-focused construction and remodeling. They advocate for hiring knowledgeable professionals, investing in durable materials, and considering family needs in design. Finally, Steve & Matt emphasize the value of educational events and resources for builders, underlining the importance of passing on expertise to ensure better building practices in the industry.

Resources:

• Energy Vanguard: https://www.energyvanguard.com/
• “Not So Big House” & More by Sarah Susanka: https://susanka.com/

Find Steve Baczek on the web:

• Steve’s Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/stevebaczek
• Instagram: @stevenbaczekarchitect
• Website: https://stevenbaczekarchitect.com/info/
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stevenbaczekarchitect9431
• UnBuild It Podcast: https://buildshownetwork.com/podcast/unbuildit-podcast

Find Matt and The Build Show on the web:

• Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger
• Instagram: @risingerbuild and @thebuildshow
• TikTok: @thebuildshow
• YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@buildshow
• Website: https://risingerbuild.com/ and https://buildshownetwork.com/

Join us at Build Show LIVE this November 7-9 in Austin, TX. Click here to stay in the know.

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.

Are you loving the Building Consensus Podcast? Be sure to follow the Building Consensus Podcast's feed on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! There are two additional episodes already live on the new Building Consensus feed, and new episodes will be released bi-weekly. Or, you can watch Building Consensus on thebuildshow.com.

Travis and Brandon jump into a discussion on building permits and energy regulations in Kansas City, Missouri. They delve into the complexities of meeting energy code requirements, particularly regarding insulation standards and their impact on construction costs and affordability.

Exploring the trade-offs between upfront costs and long-term benefits of energy-efficient housing, they emphasize the importance of durable structures and low operational costs mandated by the energy code. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by builders in adapting to evolving building codes, but also highlights successful examples, like high school students building energy-efficient houses annually. While there's a debate on the necessity of certain specifications, consensus is reached on the importance of caring about the job and delivering quality homes to clients.

Find Travis & Brandon on the Web

• Travis’ Build Show Videos: https://buildshownetwork.com/go/travisbrungardt
• Travis’ Instagram: @catalystbuilt
• Travis’ Website: https://www.catalystbuilt.com/
• Brandon’s Instagram: @joneshomeskc

Watch full episodes of Matt on Facebook, Instagram and Build Show Network.

https://www.facebook.com/buildshownetwork

https://www.instagram.com/risingerbuild/

https://buildshownetwork.com/go/mattrisinger

Don't miss a single episode of Build Show content. Sign up for our newsletter.