In Part 2 of Episode 4 of The DREAM BuildCast, the conversation with Baron Hentz continues, diving even deeper into what it’s really like to navigate Milwaukee’s complex permitting, inspection, and plan review systems as a small business owner and developer.

Nicholas, Alex, and Devon explore how bureaucratic silos, inconsistent code interpretation, and lack of accountability can make or break a project and why too many owners end up feeling like they’re in a battle against the very city they’re trying to invest in.

Baron shares candidly how doing everything “by the book” often comes with more hurdles than cutting corners and the group discusses what needs to change so that city processes truly support, not stifle, community development.

In Part 1 of Episode 4 of The DREAM BuildCast, Nicholas, Alex, and Devon sit down with Baron Hentz — master electrician, business owner, and U.S. Army veteran — to unpack a real-world story of determination, red tape, and resilience in the face of bureaucracy.

Baron opens up about his experience purchasing and rehabilitating a long-vacant commercial property in Milwaukee, sharing the full picture of what happens after you win the bid — from environmental due diligence and plan review delays to unexpected fines and communication breakdowns between city departments.

This episode pulls back the curtain on what small business owners, contractors, and developers really face when working through complex municipal systems — and why better collaboration and transparency could transform the building process for everyone.

In Episode 3 of The DREAM BuildCast, Nicholas, Devon, and Alex break down one of the most misunderstood topics in real estate and design — the difference between zoning codes and building codes — and why understanding both can save you time, money, and stress before you start any project.

This episode dives into the real-world impact of zoning laws, how municipal approvals like the Board of Zoning Appeals (BOZA) shape what you can build, and why state building codes dictate how you build it. Using examples from daycares, group homes, and commercial conversions, the team explains how code compliance is less about red tape — and more about protecting your investment and community safety.

In this episode of The DREAM BuildCast, Nicholas, Alex, and Devon dive deep into the world of one- and two-family residential design, unpacking the technical, financial, and practical considerations every homeowner should know before remodeling, expanding, or finishing a space.

Building off Episode 1’s “Where Do I Start?” theme, this discussion explores how local building codes, zoning, and construction practices affect everything from finishing your attic or basement to adding a new story to your home.

In this episode, we cover:

• The differences between one- and two-family homes vs. commercial buildings under the 2021 Wisconsin Building Code.
• What you must know before finishing your attic or basement, including egress, insulation, and fire separation rules.
• The real pros and cons of going “up vs. out” when adding square footage.
• How energy efficiency standards and retroactive code updates impact homeowners.
• Basement flooding, drainage, and waterproofing tips, and how to know if your space is safe to occupy.
• Why every homeowner needs a qualified architect or structural engineer before starting a renovation.

Whether you’re a homeowner thinking about an addition, a first-time investor, or simply curious about the science behind safe residential construction, this episode is packed with real-world advice from design, engineering, and construction professionals who’ve seen it all.

In the very first episode of The DREAM BuildCast, we dive into the big question every aspiring builder, business owner, or developer faces: “Where do I start?”

Join Nicholas and guests Alex and Devon as they break down the early stages of development from feasibility and planning to architecture, engineering, and construction management. Using real-world examples like restaurants and daycares, they reveal the hidden pitfalls that can derail a project before it even begins.

You’ll learn:

• Why understanding feasibility is more important than chasing ideas.
• The crucial difference between architects, developers, and owners’ reps.
• How upfront planning saves money, time, and frustration down the line.
• The unique challenges of commercial vs. residential projects.
• Case study insights and lessons from clients who “didn’t know what they didn’t know.”

Whether you’re planning a daycare, opening a restaurant, or just curious about the process of turning an idea into reality, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, candid stories, and professional insights to guide your next step.

Don’t miss this kickoff conversation; it sets the stage for everything to come on The DREAM BuildCast.