The Construction Cowboy Show

In this episode, insurance expert Cheri Martinen shares insights on construction insurance, common gaps, risk management, and how contractors can better protect their businesses. Jeff Williams hosts a practical discussion aimed at helping business owners understand and optimize their coverage.

In the construction industry, insurance is more than just a safety net; it's a critical component of your business strategy. In this episode of the Construction Cowboy Show, host Jeff Williams speaks with Cheri Martinen, a fourth-generation insurance agent from Oregon, about the complexities of contractor insurance and the common pitfalls that many business owners face.  

Cheri emphasizes the necessity of understanding how your business structure—whether a partnership, S Corp, or sole proprietorship—affects your insurance needs. "Learning about them is the first step," she states, adding that income and employee structure play significant roles in determining the right coverage.  

One of Cheri's unique niches is insuring wildland firefighter contractors. "We started with one or two and now we insure more of them than any other agent in the Pacific Northwest," she shares. This specialization showcases the importance of knowing your industry and the specific risks associated with it.

Cheri points out critical areas where contractors often misjudge their insurance coverage:  

• Tools Coverage: Many don’t realize that standard policies may not cover tools stolen from job sites unless you add specific endorsements.  
• Vehicle Insurance: Using personal vehicles for business purposes without proper commercial coverage can expose personal assets in the event of a lawsuit.  

"If you’re using that truck for work, you want it covered under your business policy," she advises.  

Contractors often discover gaps in their policies when it's too late. Cheri highlights the dangers of assuming coverage based on past experiences. “When a claim arises because they were doing more than originally insured for, they’re surprised when it’s not covered,” she explains. 

Maintaining an open line of communication with your insurance agent is crucial as your business grows and changes.  

Discussing the truth about policy gaps, Cheri warns of the risks associated with growing businesses. As contractors expand their services, they may inadvertently expose themselves to liabilities that their current policies don’t cover. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your insurance based on your evolving business model is essential to avoid financial pitfalls.

With numerous changes in the industry, Cheri encourages business owners to reach out to their insurance professionals regularly, especially when they add equipment or take on subcontractors.  

For a deeper dive into insurance insights tailored for contractors, tune into the full episode with Cheri Martinen.

Key Topics:

• Common insurance gaps in construction
• Risk management strategies for contractors
• How to evaluate and update insurance policies
• Specialized insurance for wildland firefighter contractors
• The importance of regular policy reviews and updates

Chapters:

Introduction to construction insurance and guest Cheri Martinen

Cheri explains her unique focus on wildland firefighter contractors

Types of construction risks and how insurance covers them

Common gaps between perceived and actual insurance coverage

The importance of policy reviews and updates as your business grows

How to handle policy exclusions and avoid surprises

Examples of coverage mistakes contractors often make

Nationwide insurance options and working with multiple states

Questions to ask your insurance agent for better protection

Cheri shares her book and additional services offered by One Digital

Cheri discusses her personal life and hobbies

Keywords:

construction insurance, risk management, policy gaps, contractor coverage, insurance tips, wildland firefighter insurance, business protection, insurance questions, policy review, insurance advice

Connect with Jeff Williams:                             

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O. (630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Javier Velasquez, owner of Max Power Technology, shares essential cybersecurity strategies for small and medium-sized businesses, especially in the construction industry. Learn how to protect your business from cyber threats, manage risks across multiple sites, and ensure quick recovery from incidents.

key topics:

• Cybersecurity importance for small businesses
• Proactive vs reactive IT support
• Managing cybersecurity across multiple sites
• Employee training and awareness in cybersecurity
• Disaster recovery planning and response
• Monitoring and managing remote devices
• Tailored cybersecurity solutions for different industries
• Building trust with cybersecurity providers

Sound Bites:

• "Protect the business you work so hard to build"
• "Fixing a computer is not the same as protecting your business"
• "You have to invest in your security to stay protected"

Chapters:

Introduction to cybersecurity for construction businesses

Difference between fixing and protecting business systems

Common client needs and initial cybersecurity concerns

Hidden threats and background malware in business systems

Managing cybersecurity for multiple construction sites

Monitoring employee activity and internal security

Response time and disaster recovery planning

Industry-specific cybersecurity considerations

Training employees to recognize cyber threats

Regular review of employee access and permissions

Backup vs disaster recovery solutions

Actions to take during a cyber incident

Contact information and how to reach Max Power Technology

Budget considerations for cybersecurity services

Bilingual support and communication in cybersecurity

Building trust with cybersecurity providers

The company's approach to contracts and support

Details of the free cybersecurity assessment

Ideal clients for Max Power Technology

Key takeaway: Protect your business like your most valuable asset

Connect with Jeff Williams:                             

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O. (630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Williams shares a personal road trip story from the Construction Cowboys Show about visiting Virginia City, Nevada, and reflecting on the town’s mining-era history, rugged architecture, and the mindset it took to build something lasting in hard conditions. This is a solo episode centered on storytelling, with a strong practical takeaway for anyone who works in construction or takes on ambitious projects: opportunity usually comes to the people willing to climb, endure, and keep digging.

Key topics:

chapters:

Back in the saddle after time away

Driving the winding mountain road into Virginia City

First view of the historic town on the mountainside

Walking the wooden sidewalks and old C Street buildings

The town’s storefronts, hotels, and layered history

A builder’s eye on how Virginia City was constructed

Old saloons, mining stories, and rough realities

Ghosts, change orders, and construction humor

The people who came chasing silver and gold

Built by people who took risks without guarantees

Why Virginia City still represents courage and hard work

The lesson: opportunity is rarely waiting at the bottom

Final encouragement to keep digging for the dream

Notable quotes:

Connect with Jeff Williams:                              

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.(630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

https://the-construction-cowboy-show.simplecast.com/episodes

https://www.calendarpa.com/@theconstructioncowboyshow/theconstructioncowboyshow

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Jeff Williams shares practical insights on how construction and other businesses can scale effectively without sacrificing their culture, control, or sanity. Whether you're a contractor or business owner, learn the fundamentals of sustainable growth and avoid common pitfalls.

This episode emphasizes sustainable growth through systems, leadership, and mindset—crucial for any contractor or entrepreneur aiming to scale effectively.

Takeaways:

Chapters:

Introduction: How to scale without losing control or sanity

WhyScaling Means Handling More Without Extra Work

Systems Before Sales: Documentation & Processes

Building Leaders: From Technicians to Visionaries

Know Your Numbers: Financial Metrics for Growth

Standardize Your Offerings for Better Margins

Common Failures During Scaling: Communication, Culture, Cash Flow

The Importance of Overcommunication & Core Values

Mindset Shift: Structure, Discipline, Letting Go

What Do You Really Want? Growth or Better Lifestyle?

Final Tips: Build Intentionally, Focus Narrow, Grow Purposefully

Titles:

Connect with Jeff:                            

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.(630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Construction Cowboy Show, host Jeff Williams speaks with Andrew Preze, a seasoned real estate agent and property manager in the Chicago suburbs. They discuss the intricacies of property management, the differences between suburban and city properties, common issues faced by landlords, and the importance of reliable vendors. Andrew shares insights on the challenges of managing properties, the impact of market trends, and offers advice for first-time buyers and investors. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper maintenance, understanding regulations, and the evolving landscape of real estate investment.

Takeaways:

• Andrew Preze has 25 years of experience in real estate.
• Managing properties involves dealing with emergencies and tenant issues.
• Suburban properties have different management challenges compared to city properties.
• HVAC issues are often neglected by property owners until it's too late.
• Young investors are increasingly entering the real estate market.
• New property owners often make mistakes in tenant selection.
• Reliable vendors can save money in the long run despite higher upfront costs.
• Preventative maintenance is crucial for property longevity.
• Understanding local regulations is essential for property management.
• The real estate market is expected to correct itself in the coming years.

Chapters

Introduction to the Construction Cowboy Show

Meet Andrew Preece: Real Estate Expert

Challenges Faced by Property Owners

Differences in Managing Suburban vs. City Properties

Common Maintenance Issues and Owner Neglect

Managing Emergency Repairs and Vendor Relationships

Navigating Government Regulations and Owner Involvement

Balancing Work and Personal Life in Property Management

Technology and Communication with Clients

The Rise of Young Investors in Real Estate

Common Mistakes Made by Property Owners

Managing Costs and Material Expenses

Preventative Maintenance Strategies for Property Owners

Advising Clients on Property Purchases

The Importance of Reliable Vendors

Future Trends in the Real Estate Market

Utility Costs and Their Impact on Renters

Spring Maintenance Tips for Property Owners

Final Advice for First-Time Property Owners

Connect with Jeff:                            

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.(630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Construction Cowboy Show, host Jeff Williams breaks down how construction companies often struggle not from lack of jobs, but from poor strategic processes. Discover how to evaluate your business health, implement systems, and focus on key fundamentals to grow profitably and sustainably. Jeff Williams is a seasoned construction business advisor known for helping contractors stop guessing and start thriving through practical, proven frameworks that deliver measurable results. 

What if your construction business isn’t overwhelmed by lack of work—but by lack of strategy? Most contractors believe more jobs equal more success, but the truth is, piling on work without the right systems can bury you alive. Jeff Williams exposes the hidden mistakes that keep many contractors stuck in a cycle of stress and narrow margins—and shows you how to break free.

In this episode, you'll discover the 357 Construction Advisor Model—an actionable framework that transforms chaos into clarity. Jeff shares the real reason busy contractors fail to grow profitably, and how a focus on discovery rather than solutions can save your business. From aligning your key disciplines like estimating and project management to leveraging technology, the episode reveals concrete steps to build sustainable growth.

You’ll also learn about the seven indicators of a healthy construction business—beyond just being busy—covering cash flow, risk management, market strategies, and leadership accountability. Jeff illustrates how real companies have grown revenue and profit without adding extra work—just by fixing internal systems and clarifying strategies.

If you're tired of feeling overwhelmed or stuck in reactive firefighting, this episode is your blueprint for intentional growth. Perfect for contractors, project managers, and business owners ready to lead with confidence and build a resilient, profitable construction company. 

Stop running blind. Tune in now and discover the strategic edge that turns chaos into construction success—because being busy isn’t the same as being profitable.

Takeaways:

Why more jobs won’t solve your construction business problems
Real stories: busy but stressed contractors outside Chicago
The core issue: strategy, not workload
The mistake: thinking more work fixes broken processes
Introducing the 357 Construction Advisor Model
Discovery first: understanding choke points and gut feelings
The three approaches to business validation
Understanding the five fundamentals for growth
The importance of systems over spreadsheets
Case study: turning a spreadsheet-driven firm into profitable growth
The seven indicators of business health
How better financial storytelling improves access to capital
Key advisor responsibilities: market analysis and opportunity spotting
Strategic risk management and leadership advising
Implementing focus areas for ongoing success
Why lack of strategy makes growth impossible
Contact information and closing thoughts

Chapters:

Why More Jobs Won't Grow Your Construction Business — Without a Better Strategy

The 357 Model Reveals the Hidden System Builders Use to Stop Guessing and Start Profiting

How a Construction Business Built on Spreadsheets Turned Profit-Driven — When They Changed Key Disciplines

The Seven Indicators That Show if Your Construction Business Is Truly Healthy — Or Just Busy

The Biggest Construction Industry Lie: More Work Fixes Nothing Without Strategy

Connect with Jeff:                         

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.       (630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

Alignable: https://www.alignable.com/sheridan-wy/merchant-commodities-llc?user=17404768

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Bill Caton is the founder of Caton Commercial Real Estate Group, based in Naperville, Illinois. The group comprises about 25 agents specializing exclusively in commercial real estate. They have expertise across various asset classes, providing comprehensive support for any issues that arise. In addition to brokerage services, the company operates a property management division managing significant assets. Caton Commercial conducts business nationwide and serves international clients, offering a wide range of services including appraisal support to bolster their operations. Bill shares his extensive experience in construction, focusing on single-family and multi-family development projects. He discusses the benefits for construction owners, builders, GCs, framers, and subs, as well as real estate agents. Key topics include utility capacity issues, budget challenges, and impactful projects in medical and industrial areas.

Takeaways:

Bill Caton applies his experience to construction topics.

Construction owners and builders can benefit from this information.

Late discoveries in projects often cause hiccups.

Utility capacity issues are common challenges.

Budget is a critical issue in any project.

Understanding the best deals is essential in the industry.

Impactful projects include medical and veterinarian clinics.

Industrial and QSR projects are also significant.

Confusion can arise in project planning.

Real estate agents can also benefit from this knowledge.

Chapters:

Introduction to Bill Caton's Experience

Challenges in Construction Projects

Budget and Utility Issues

Industry Insights and Best Deals

Impactful Projects in Medical and Industrial Areas

Conclusion and Real Estate Benefits

Connect with Jeff:                         

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.       (630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: 

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of the Construction Cowboy Show, Mark James, founder and president of Performance Advisors, shares his extensive experience in business advisory, focusing on employee engagement, cultural improvement, and change management. He discusses the common barriers to effective operations and people performance, emphasizing the importance of managing change and improving employee and customer experiences.

Takeaways:

• Mark James has over 40 years of experience in business advisory.
• He specializes in employee engagement and cultural improvement.
• Change management is a key focus area for Mark.
• Stress is a major cause of workplace accidents and absenteeism.
• High turnover is often linked to poor management and lack of engagement.
• Engaged employees are more observant and connected to the organization.
• Customer loyalty is tied to employee satisfaction and engagement.
• The cost of replacing a customer is significantly higher than retaining one.
• Effective change management requires transparency and addressing perceived losses.
• Middle management plays a critical role in organizational performance.

Chapters:

• Introduction to Mark James
• Employee Engagement and Cultural Improvement
• Managing Change and Overcoming Barriers
• The Impact of Stress in the Workplace
• Customer Loyalty and Employee Satisfaction
• The Role of Middle Management

Connect with Jeff:                         

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.       (630) 973-6481 D.

Website: www.merchantcommodites.co

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The episode "The $600 Screw Up" explores a pivotal mistake that led to a significant learning experience and ultimately built the speaker's business. The story revolves around a $600 error in material costs due to rushing and not double-checking details. Despite the initial setback, the speaker reflects on how this mistake became the most profitable loss ever taken, offering valuable lessons in attention to detail and resilience.

Takeaways

• The $600 mistake that built my business.
• Rushing led to a costly error.
• Double-checking details is crucial.
• Mistakes can lead to growth.
• The most profitable loss I ever took.
• Learning from errors is key.
• Resilience in business is vital.
• Attention to detail saves money.
• Turning setbacks into opportunities.
• Embracing mistakes for success.

Chapters

• Introduction to the $600 Mistake
• The Story Unfolds
• Realization of the Error
• Acknowledging the Mistake
• Lessons Learned
• The Profitable Loss

Connect with Jeff:                         

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.       (630) 973-6481 D.

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode focuses on building strong, long-term relationships with suppliers, emphasizing the importance of professionalism, loyalty, and mutual investment. Key strategies include showing up as a professional, being loyal, maintaining consistent business, setting clear expectations, and fostering mutual transparency and shared wins. The discussion highlights the underrated advantage of suppliers in construction and trades, and the need to communicate like a partner, solve problems together, and be easy to work with.

Takeaways

Show up as a professional, not a problem.

Be loyal to your suppliers.

Build relationships that create leverage, trust, and better outcomes.

A strong supplier relationship is built on consistent business and clear expectations.

Mutual transparency and shared wins are key to strong relationships.

Suppliers invest in customers who invest in them.

Communicate like a partner, not a customer.

Solve problems together with your suppliers.

Suppliers are an underrated advantage in construction and trades.

Be professional and easy to work with.

Chapters

Introduction to Supplier Relationships

Building Strong, Long-term Relationships

Key Elements of Supplier Communication

The Underrated Advantage of Suppliers

Connect with Jeff:                         

Contact: (307) 372-9052 O.       (630) 973-6481 D.

Email: [email protected]

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-williams-merchant-commodities/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559698873942

This Podcast is proudly sponsored by Merchant Commodities – www.merchantcommodities.co

Your "Builders Material Wholesale Supplier"

If you need help or just advice with any business or construction topic you can book a meeting with me here on this Calendly Link-https://calendly.com/jeff-merchantcommodities/30min

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.