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In this episode, James and Christian are joined by Daniel Loney, Principal at Excelsior Measuring, to discuss the labor gap, generational differences and current culture in the workplace. 

Daniel Loney, a financial advisor by trade, shares his experience managing different age groups and working in construction and his family's foster care background, which led him to work with young adults. The conversation covers various topics, from construction and culture to family and financial planning. They discuss the importance of collaboration and finding one's strengths, as well as the cultural issues in the workplace, such as imposter syndrome and creating a positive work culture. They also discuss the issue of people being scared to work in construction due to its perceived "low" status and how those who commit to the trades early on often life, don't reap the benefits until later in life. They agreed that this is completely untrue. Daniel shares a story from his Financial Planning days of a client who had a goal of making $400,000 a year, which he thought was called a "stupid" goal, but in no way flippantly. Loney explains that such a goal is easily achievable for someone in a specific profession and that people are often misled into thinking that money is what they want. Instead, Loney suggests setting lifestyle goals, such as what a person wants their life to look like when they wake up and finding their "why." 

Daniel Loney is the principal at Excelsior Measuring Inc., a family-owned and operated professional measuring business based in Langley, British Columbia. Established in 2014, Excelsior Measuring provides thorough 3D scanning services to create plan drafts/exact specs for clients' current or future projects. Their commitment to quality work and top-notch customer service is evident in their 100% Canadian-based business.

EPISODE LINKS:
Daniel Loney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielloney
Excelsior Measuring Website: https://excelsiorlevel.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

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In this episode, James and Christian are joined by Donna Grant, President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA).

Their wide-ranging conversation highlights everything from education around small business ownership and the financial upside of a career in construction to supporting individuals in the trades who struggle with traditional learning methods, something that could be applied to many forms of secondary education, to challenges around mental health and the need for increased representation of the right people, both women and men, in the field. Donna shares a specific story about a recent VRCA event which hosted 180 women in construction and saw nearly every role in the field and the office, from trades to administration, represented. This conversation is recommended for anyone interested in leadership, education, and advocacy in the construction industry. The truth is, construction isn't just about playing in the dirt; a career in the trades now looks as good as ever.

Donna Grant is a well-respected construction industry figure with over a decade of experience as a board member, director, manager, and volunteer in various organizations. In June 2021, she was appointed the President of the Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) after an extensive hiring search. Donna is known for her advocacy work for mental health in the industry and her participation in many VRCA and industry events as a keynote speaker and panellist. She also served as the director of community for the Canadian Construction Women's Association. As the president of VRCA, Donna is committed to advocating for the needs of the construction industry in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada and providing meaningful support to its members. 

The Vancouver Regional Construction Association (VRCA) is the go-to resource for businesses in British Columbia's construction industry. With over 750 members, VRCA represents diverse professionals, including general contractors, trade contractors, manufacturers, suppliers, and professional service providers. As a union and open-shop employer, the association represents the industrial, commercial, institutional, and high-rise residential construction industry. The association provides valuable networking opportunities, educational programs, and events that bring together professionals from all aspects of the construction industry.

EPISODE LINKS:
Donna Grant LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-grant-86993474/
VRCA Website: https://vrca.ca/
VRCA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vancouver-regional-construction-association/
VRCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanconstruct/
VRCA Twi

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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In this episode, James and Christian are joined by Curt Janzen, Co-Owner & CEO of Beyond Group, to discuss building high-performing teams. Curt shares his background story growing up in a construction family, his experience working for a home builder and how he and his brother-in-law started Beyond Group. They discuss the importance of culture in building a high-performing team and the values that guide their work. They also discuss the characteristics of high-performing people and how to identify them in the recruitment process. They talk about the importance of having high-performing people on the team, what Curt calls "12 out of 10's," and the wrong people or "turds," and their impact on the team. Lastly,  Curt shares his approach to leadership and how he empowers his team to take ownership and make decisions. This is a must-listen episode on building a high-performing team, culture and approach to recruitment and leadership.

Curt Janzen is a co-owner of Beyond Group, a leading spray foam insulation and specialty contracting company based in Calgary, Alberta. With over two decades of experience in the construction industry, Curt has become an expert in the field of insulation. In 2000, as Curt was a site superintendent for a home builder, overseeing the installation of a rim joist insulation package on every home, he quickly became aware that very few contractors did this work and that they charged an awful lot to do it. These challenges inspired him to team up with his brother-in-law, Kevin Boschee, to establish Beyond Foam Insulation Ltd. Today, they are a reputable company with a team of experienced and qualified contractors who provide efficient, cost-effective and reliable insulation solutions to residential and commercial clients in Calgary and the surrounding areas.

Beyond Group is a family-owned company established in 2006 based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. The company offers a one-stop shop for building owners and property managers looking for construction, maintenance, and repair services. Their extensive services help maintain a healthy building structure, including concrete lifting, thermal sealant replacement, roof structure coatings, spray foam insulation, drywall, and more. Beyond Group is known for being the problem solvers on the jobsite and has built a reputation as a trusted expert building service provider. They are committed to creating happy people and helping businesses save time and money, keeping their properties well-looked after and with preventative measures in their property maintenance schedule.

EPISODE LINKS:
Curt Janzen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curt-janzen-45029448/
Beyond Foam Website: https://www.beyondfoam.com/
Beyond Foam Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondfoam/
Beyond Foam YouTube:

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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In this episode, James and Christian are joined by Joshua Gaglardi, the Founder & President of Orion Construction. In just four years, Orion has grown from a team of 4 to over 40 and was recently recognized as the fastest-growing company in Canada.

The trio covers a wide range of topics, beginning with Josh's involvement in bringing a new Junior B hockey team to Port Coquitlam. They go on to discuss his background in construction, including his experience as an electrical apprentice and his time at UBC studying economics. Josh then explains that timing, a unique service offering, and the ability to offer pre-construction services have been significant factors in the success of Orion Construction and that growth over the past four and a half years, has been made possible by frequent hiring in order to build a high-performing team, and attract top talent. The conversation also covers industrial construction and the company's strategy of diversifying its services within its current projects and the geographical market in which they now operate, having six new projects starting in 2023 between Kelowna, Kamloops, Langford, and Colwood. Overall, the interview provides valuable insights into the construction industry, innovation in industrial spaces, and the strategies a successful company uses to grow and maintain its reputation in a highly competitive market.

Josh Gagarldi is an experienced construction professional with a wealth of knowledge in building light industrial projects in Western Canada. At Orion Construction, Josh plays a key role in each project from start to finish. With a strong focus on project management and negotiation, he has secured over $1 billion in construction projects throughout Western Canada.

Orion Construction is an award-winning company that brings new construction projects to life with an exceptional team of experts. Their preconstruction process is well-defined, ensuring each step proceeds as planned, while their full-service construction management services oversee the entire construction process with a focus on quality and efficiency, building lasting relationships with clients. With over four million square feet of designed space, Orion provides creative solutions that meet all project requirements, including budget and timeline.

EPISODE LINKS:
Joshua Gaglardi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-gaglardi-73978025/
Orion Construction Website: https://orionconstruction.ca/
Orion Construction LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/orion-constructionca/
Orion Construction Instagram:

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 2 Episode 4 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James, Christian and Andrew are joined by Sanjeev Dhillon from the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association.

They explore the importance of building a strong professional network in the construction industry and how leveraging LinkedIn can help strengthen that network and deliver results for your business and personal brand. Their guest, Sanjeev Dhillon, a construction networking legend, shares his insights and experiences, discussing his unique approach to construction marketing and networking. Sanjeev highlights the power of LinkedIn as a tool for connecting with industry professionals, promoting collaboration and innovation, and creating value for your network. They have some fun with a tangent on the possibilities of remote human-controlled robotics on jobsites and theorize how far away the world is from this scenario. Whether you are just starting out in the construction industry or looking to take your business to the next level, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable strategies for building a strong professional network and utilizing LinkedIn to its full potential.

Sanjeev Dhillon is a construction networking legend with over two decades of experience in the industry. Having immigrated to Canada from Kenya, Sanjeev began his career in construction by managing the construction of four Pizza Hut locations in Northern BC. He then worked for the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, Procore Technologies, Chandos Construction, and the ICBA. Throughout his career, Sanjeev has developed a unique approach to construction marketing and networking, earning his approach and resulting impact its own nickname, "6 Degrees of Sanjeev". With over 25,000 followers on LinkedIn, Sanjeev is a relentless connector within the construction industry, consistently forging new relationships and creating value for his network and others.

The ICBA is proud to represent over 4,000 entrepreneurs, businesspeople, skilled construction professionals, independent contractors, sub-trades, and responsible resource development companies who together employ 150,000 Canadians. They are the open shop companies' independent contractors who treat their workers well, build incredible projects, seek fair bidding opportunities, and create our communities’ homes, schools, roads, services, and much more. They also offer services that help businesses grow, including human resources help, wellness programs, innovative professional development courses, wage and benefit surveys, job boards, and more. The ICBA is dedicated to serving these open shop businesses, protecting their workers and their families, and building a strong economy they know is vital to creating opportunities for projects and jobs.


EPISODE LINKS:
Sanjeev Dhillon LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/s

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 2 Episode 3 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James and Christian are joined by Russell Hixson from SiteNews. 

They quickly jump into the fascinating world of AI and machine learning in construction, particularly as it relates to robotics applications. They discuss the latest advancements in this field, including how critical contract and documentation reviews could be streamlined through the use of these technologies. They also explore how AI can aid in the future designs of buildings and drawing coordination, making construction processes more efficient and cost-effective. Plus, they take a random tangent into the topic of unidentified flying objects and throw out some hilarious, and serious, theories around the recent "Balloon" saga. Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about the intersection of technology and construction.

Russell Hixson is an award-winning investigative journalist who spent the early parts of his career doing crime and court reporting in the U.S. before stumbling into covering Canada’s construction sector. He spent eight years writing for the Journal of Commerce, where he became well-versed in the industry and its issues. He’s covered the federal budget from Ottawa and documented the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic while locked down in his bedroom. Hixson has developed a passion for the construction industry and seeks to convert others by sharing its stories through SiteNews. When he’s not writing stories, the East Vancouver resident enjoys kayaking, skateboarding and avoiding the neighbourhood skunks.

SiteNews is the modern voice of Canadian Construction and the pulse of what’s really happening in the industry—reporting, informing & inspiring in real-time.


EPISODE LINKS:
Russell Hixson LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-hixson-a8082572/
SiteNews Website: https://readsitenews.com/
SiteNews LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/site-news/
SiteNews Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/readsitenews/
SiteNews Twitter: https://twitter.com/ReadSiteNews

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 2 Episode 2 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James and Christian are joined by David (Dave) Bouwman, from Midland Appliance. 

The trio begins their conversation by touching on Dave’s successful music career as a member of the pop sensation Soul Decision. They then turn the discussion to the delivery of high-end appliances to custom homes and multi-family projects where Dave has nearly 20 years of experience in the industry. They discuss the challenges of installing luxury appliances and ensuring they work efficiently to meet client expectations. Additionally, they provide valuable insights into the recent global supply chain disruptions that have impacted the delivery of furniture, fixtures, and equipment to projects all over the globe. 

David Bouwman has nearly 20 years of experience supplying luxury appliances to high-end homes and multi-family residential projects on the West Coast. Prior to his career in the appliance industry, he enjoyed success as a singer for a popular Canadian pop sensation and "boy band," if you will, Soul Decision. Dave's passion for excellence and dedication to providing the highest level of service has been a hallmark of his success in both his music career and his work in the appliance industry. With his unique blend of creativity, business acumen, and passion for quality, Dave Bowman is a true industry leader who delivers exceptional results.

Midland Appliance is a trusted and reputable dealer of luxury appliances in British Columbia, with over 35 years of experience in the industry. They have built a reputation as the preferred choice for builders, designers, and homeowners alike by offering industry-leading brands and a custom approach to appliance shopping. Known for their stylish showrooms, attentive professionals, and commitment to quality, they strive to provide uncompromising service. With convenient locations serving communities near Vancouver, Richmond, and Langley, they provide customers with a top-quality experience, helping to build dream homes worth living in.


EPISODE LINKS:
David Bouwman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-bouwman-95797520
Midland Appliance Website: https://www.midlandappliance.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 2 Episode 1 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James and Christian are joined by Jordan Bateman from the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association.

They discuss, in one of the most powerful long-form discussions on the podcast to date, the importance of mental health and mentorship in the construction industry. They share their perspective on how politics and messaging play a crucial role in shaping the future of the construction industry. They talk about the challenges faced by many businesses in the construction industry, with succession planning and brand messaging and how the ICBA subsequently advocates on their behalf. Jordan also emphasizes the need for open and honest communication to address the stigma around mental health and create a positive and inclusive work culture.

Jordan Bateman has a wealth of experience in the field of public policy. He has a proven track record of advocating for small businesses and promoting fiscal responsibility. As the Vice President of Communications & Marketing at the Independent Contractors and Business Association (ICBA), he brings his expertise to the forefront in championing the cause of the independent contractors and small businesses. Prior to his current role, Jordan Bateman also served as the B.C. Director of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and as a two-term Langley Township Councillor.

The Independent Contractors and Businesses Association is proud to represent more than 4,000 entrepreneurs, businesspeople, skilled construction professionals, independent contractors, sub-trades, and responsible resource development companies who together employ 150,000 Canadians. They are the open shop companies' independent contractors who treat their workers well, build incredible projects, seek fair bidding opportunities, and create our communities’ homes, schools, roads, services, and much more. They also offer services that have proven to help businesses grow, including human resources help, wellness programs, innovative professional development courses, wage and benefit surveys, job boards, and much more. The ICBA is dedicated to serving these open shop businesses, protecting their workers and their families, and building a strong economy they know is vital to creating opportunities for projects and jobs.


EPISODE LINKS:
Jordan Bateman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanbatemanlangley/
ICBA Website: https://icba.ca/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 1 Episode 6 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James and Christian are joined by Carrie Hunter from Sensera Systems. 

They discuss utilizing jobsite cameras for data collection, compliance, and project management in construction. Carrie explains how cameras can help contractors improve safety, project management, and collaboration while staying compliant with regulations and managing risk more effectively. Additionally, Carrie delves into the value of analyzing data captured by jobsite cameras to gain insights into project performance, resource allocation, and progress tracking. By selecting the right camera technology and software, contractors and project managers can ensure a seamless implementation process and maximize the benefits of visual monitoring. This episode provides practical advice for utilizing jobsite cameras in construction to enhance operations and drive success. Sensera's cameras are all made in the United States, require no power established on-site and can be installed by the end user, a General Contractor or Developer. When it comes to Sensera Systems, remember this, no infrastructure, no problem.

Carrie Hunter has over 25 years of experience in sales, management and training for companies ranging from tech startups to Fortune 100 companies with international reach in the construction, textile and communications industries. Hunter has spent the last 20 years in senior leadership positions focused on technology in the communications and construction industries. Hunter joined Sensera Systems shortly after its inception and has led the way in growing the company from a tech start-up, to one of the leading manufacturers of solar-powered battery cameras.

Sensera Systems is a leading provider of real-time job site intelligence solutions for Construction, Government, Energy & Utilities, and other industrial markets. Their compact-solar/wireless cameras and software offer end-to-end solutions for visual monitoring that improve productivity, safety, risk, security, and collaboration on construction job sites. Sensera's integrations with Procore, Autodesk, PlanGrid, and other platforms provide a comprehensive solution that simplifies workflow. With over 1,000 general contractors and 100 cities and municipalities across the U.S. using their technology, Sensera Systems is dedicated to delivering flexible, reliable, and affordable solutions through innovation, design, and listening to customers to understand their unique challenges.


EPISODE LINKS:
Carrie Hunter LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriehunter/
Sensera Systems Website: https://www.senserasystems.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit

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Day 1 Episode 5 | In this episode, live from the tradeshow floor at Buildex 2023, James and Christian are joined by Enoque Panzo from Kiese Technologies. 

They discuss effective business development strategies for winning better work in the construction industry. They draw on their experience to offer practical tips for contractors looking to grow their business and improve their bottom line. Topics include developing relationships with key stakeholders, leveraging technology to stay ahead of the competition, and improving historical project data tracking to make informed future decisions. Whether you're a small contractor or a well-established General Contracting business, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable advice for building a successful and sustainable construction business.

Enoque Panzo is a construction industry veteran and former United States Airforce member, hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. With over 9 years of experience in construction, Enoque founded Kiese Technologies, a company committed to revolutionizing the industry through dedicated CRM platforms. Kiese Technologies' solutions are easy, accessible, and reliable, designed to meet the specific needs of construction companies. Enoque's passion for an active lifestyle extends to sports and outdoor activities in his free time.

Kiese Technologies is a company founded in 2019 with a mission to revolutionize the construction industry through the use of technology. Our team, made up of builders, programmers, software developers, and innovators, is passionate about creating easy, accessible, and reliable CRM platforms specifically tailored to the needs of construction companies. We believe that by challenging the status quo and working closely with industry professionals, we can provide cost-effective solutions that benefit the entire construction industry, not just the top-tier companies. Join us on our journey to change the way construction companies utilize technology!


EPISODE LINKS:
Enoque Panzo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/enoque-panzo-b115aa99/
Kiese Technologies Website: https://www.kiesetechnologies.com/

PODCAST INFO:
the Site Visit Website: https://www.sitemaxsystems.com/podcast
the Site Visit on Buzzsprout: https://thesitevisit.buzzsprout.com/269424
the Site Visit on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-site-visit/id1456494446
the Site Visit on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5cp4qJE5ExZmO3EwldN1HH

FOLLOW ALONG:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thesitevisit
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesitevisit