In this episode, Secretary Melanie Griffin of the Department of Business and Professional Regulation joins Ryan and John at the FHBA Fall Conference to discuss her journey to becoming a state agency head, the challenges she faced in building trust within the department, and the initiatives being implemented to combat unlicensed activity in Florida. She highlights the expansion of law enforcement capabilities, modernization projects, and the importance of community engagement in ensuring a safe and regulated environment for businesses and residents alike.

In this episode of "The Buildup," hosts Ryan Benson and John Riddle welcome Representative Gentry, a former colleague and now a prominent figure in Florida politics. The conversation delves into Gentry's journey from working with the Home Builders Association to becoming a legislative leader. He shares insights into his legislative efforts, including his work on private provider bills and his experiences in the Florida House.

In this episode, the conversation delves into the background of a Florida legislator, Dan Daley. We discuss his journey into politics, legislative initiatives focused on construction fraud, challenges in building permits, and future political aspirations. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding both sides of issues in governance and the need for streamlined processes in local government.

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Benson and John Riddle welcome Buddy Hughes, the 2025 Chairman of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). They explore Buddy's journey as a third-generation builder, his advocacy for resilient construction, and the challenges facing the housing industry, including regulatory burdens and the need for affordable housing. The discussion highlights the importance of innovation in construction, the role of advocacy in shaping policy, and the future of home building in America. Recorded during the 2025 Southeast Building Conference. 

In this engaging podcast episode, Senator Tracie Davis shares her journey from being a special education teacher to becoming a state senator in Florida. She discusses the challenges and triumphs she faced in her political career, including her experiences in the House of Representatives, her legislative achievements, and her advocacy for healthcare and special needs initiatives. Senator Davis emphasizes the importance of collaboration and relationship-building in politics, as well as her commitment to serving her community. The conversation also touches on her personal insights, leadership style, and future aspirations in public service.

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Benson and John Riddle interview Past FHBA President and current chairman of the Florida Building Commission, Michael Bourré. Michael shares his journey from a Marine Corps veteran to a successful entrepreneur in construction, detailing his experiences and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion delves into his leadership roles within the Florida Home Builders Association, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the critical work of the Florida Building Commission in developing and maintaining building codes that ensure safety and resilience in the face of natural disasters. Michael emphasizes the importance of collaboration, community, and continuous improvement in the construction industry, while also reflecting on his personal life and future aspirations.

In this episode of The Build Up, John Riddle and Ryan Benson interview Tony Hartsgrove, CEO of ODC, discussing his journey in the construction industry, the growth of ODC, and the importance of company culture, technology, and relationships in business. Tony shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, addressing labor shortages, and the significance of community engagement through industry associations. He also reflects on calculated risks that have shaped ODC's success and his vision for the future.

Join us for an engaging conversation with Congressman Byron Donalds as he shares his experiences and insights from the heart of Florida's political landscape. In this episode, we explore memorable moments shared in the Oval Office, discuss the challenges and solutions in the construction permitting process, and delve into his personal journey balancing family life with a demanding political career.

In this episode of The Build Up, hosts Ryan Benson and John Riddle continue their discussion with Senator Martin on various legislative updates affecting the Florida home building industry. They delve into the importance of building codes, the challenges faced during the legislative session, and the need for effective engagement with legislators. 

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Ryan Benson and John Riddle discuss the political journey of Senator Jonathan Martin, exploring his early life, motivations for entering politics, and his experiences in the Florida Senate. The discussion delves into the dynamics of the Senate versus the House, the challenges of property tax reform, and the importance of homeownership in achieving prosperity. Senator Martin shares insights on legislative processes, the significance of community involvement, and the need for innovative solutions to address property tax issues in Florida.

This episode is the first of a two-part series!