The Builder Upper Show

In this She Builds Nation Special episode, Stefanie Couch shares her journey as a women in construction, from growing up in her family's lumberyard to becoming a dynamic leader in the construction industry. She highlights the importance of branding and marketing in the sector, emphasizing the need for companies to tell their stories effectively. Stefanie also explores the transformative potential of AI technology in revolutionizing marketing and operations, highlighting its ability to enhance customer experience and provide a competitive edge. Additionally, she delves into her mission to empower women in construction through Build Women, sharing success stories and insights on promoting inclusion and innovation in the sector.

In this episode, Kyle Young, President of Double L Management, discusses his incredible journey in the construction industry. Kyle takes us through his diverse experiences, from designing conveyor systems as a mechanical engineer to taking a leap of faith in purchasing a struggling company, now flourishing with an 800% growth. Kyle opens up about how he shifted from hands-on construction to focusing on the strategic side of business.

In this episode of the Builder Upper show, we speak with Josh Smyser, owner of TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration, LLC. Stepping into his family's business at just 12 years old, Josh's path came full circle when his father’s passing led him to leave his accounting career and rebuild TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration from the ground up. Josh highlights his focus on creating a strong company culture, investing in technology, and developing key employees. He also talks about the importance of character over skills in hiring and shares insights on using drones, construction cameras, and CRM systems to improve business operations.

In this episode of the Builder Upper Show, we had an incredible conversation with Michael Essrig, founder and president of ETC Building and Design and Safe-T-Proof. Michael shares his journey from experiencing a life-changing earthquake to becoming a leader in seismic retrofitting and hospital safety compliance.

In this episode of the Builder Upper Show, we talk to Kolby Butcher, Co-owner and Chief Idea Guy of Double Jack Industries. Kolby shares his early introduction to construction through his family, the inspiration from his mother, and the drive to own a construction company despite initial challenges. He discusses the importance of cultural fit in recruitment, his new innovative waste haul venture, and the impact of Build California’s workforce initiative. Kolby also highlights the value of networking, technology, and authenticity in business success while offering valuable advice to new construction business owners.

In this episode, Chris Tatge, the founder and president of DC Materials & Dynamic Construction, shares his incredible journey from starting as a 20-year-old framing contractor to becoming a leader in the construction industry. We discuss the importance of mastering the office, building strong partnerships, and embracing new technologies in construction. Chris also emphasizes the significance of relationships, mentorship, and staying true to commitments in achieving success.

In this episode, Henry Nutt III shares his inspirational journey into the construction industry, influenced by his father's dedication and encouragement. From initially aspiring to be a mechanical engineer to becoming a sheet metal worker, he chronicles the challenges and triumphs of his career. He discusses the lessons in work ethic and resilience passed down to him by his late father, and how these have shaped his professional path.

The conversation further explores his role as a Pre-Construction Executive at Southland Industries, the importance of technology and training in the field, his involvement with industry organizations like the Lean Construction Institute and AGC, and his advocacy for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the significance of believing in oneself, taking risks, and the power of mentorship and leadership in creating a successful career.

In this episode, Ryan Buesser, owner of Buesser Concrete, discusses the importance of mentorship, work ethic, in-house training, and leveraging new technologies. Ryan also provides valuable advice for new construction business owners on hiring smart. Learn about the challenges and successes in the concrete industry, and discover how Buesser Concrete operates across multiple states, maintaining a family-oriented work environment.

Kaitlin Frank, co-founder and CEO of eMOD Safety, shares her journey from construction superintendent to tech innovator. With her background as Superintendent at Dome Construction, Kaitlin discusses the challenges in construction safety, technology fatigue, and how eMod simplifies safety protocols in the field.

In this episode, we discuss Sharron Halpert's unique journey into the construction industry and her passion for life safety and mentoring, which led her to establish Halpert Life Safety Consulting LLC. Today, she guides and supports quality control teams, tradespeople, and inspectors to build better and safer structures.

Sharon emphasizes the challenges of knowledge application in construction, the importance of continuous learning amidst changing codes, and encourages embracing new technologies and products for better building safety standards. Her dedication to education and improvement shines through, offering valuable insights and encouragement for construction professionals.