The Curious Builder

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events On this insightful episode of The Curious Builder, Aaron Eggert from Coalition9 shares his expertise on the transformative power of genuine relationship building and the significance of community building in business. We talk through Aaron's journey of creating...

Renae Keller from Renae Keller Interior Design joins us to dive into the vibrant world of interior design. Mark & Renae chat about the thrill of "always sourcing" unique pieces from places like Pagoda Red and the benefits of industry groups like the Pearl Collective for networking and growth. Renae and Mark also reflect on the importance of effective communication and decision-making in creating d...

Michael Anschel from OA Design+Build+Architecture talks about the transformative experiences of stepping away from his business to travel, the artistic influence on architecture, and the power of company culture. Mark & Michael dive deep into the importance of building sustainable systems within the business and the emotional impact of remodeling homes, all while sharing personal anecdotes, from s...

We're diving right into the nitty-gritty of construction contracts with legal eagles Tom Priebe and Alana McIntosh. They expertly unpack the essentials of subcontractor responsibilities, the life-saving grace of errors and omissions insurance, and the crucial role of clear communication to steer clear of costly litigations. Our legal gurus leave us with some golden nuggets on the power of polished...

We're diving into the inspiring journey of Belkis Cruz from LBR Partners - from her brave escape from political turmoil in Nicaragua to becoming a beacon of entrepreneurial spirit in Minnesota's construction scene. Bel shares her unique approach to handling change orders and building client relationships. At the same time, her stories of family, culture, and the embracing community in construction...

In this insightful episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams has a candid chat with John Kraemer & Sons team about their unique, customer-first approach to the family-run luxury home-building business. They dive into Kraemer's marketing strategies, the importance of reputation, and the organic growth from referrals, sprinkled with personal anecdotes and future aspirations in both life and busi...

In this heartwarming episode of The Curious Builder, we're moved by Sven Gustafson's heartfelt dedication to the 141 Project, making a real difference in the lives of families in Guatemala, one home at a time. We also peel back the layers of construction tech, marveling at how ECI Build Tools and emerging AI are revolutionizing the way we build. It's an inspiring blend of compassion and innovation...

In this eye-opening episode of The Curious Builder, we dive into Randy Jonell's transformative journey from battling addiction to helming Minnesota Custom Drywall with a focus on craftsmanship, relationships, and growth. We tackle everything from the nitty-gritty of drywall perfection to the importance of balance in business and family life, all while sharing a laugh over Randy's marathon-running...

In this dynamic episode of The Curious Builder, we dive into the details of the Contractor Coalition Summit, with industry powerhouses Brad Leavitt and Nick Schiffer sharing invaluable insights on mentorship, industry growth, and the magic of collaboration. We also get a peek into the power of seminars for personal and professional development, the shift toward a more open and supportive building...

This episode of the curious builder podcast features a conversation between host Mark D. Williams and his very first returning guest: Morgan Molitor. Morgan shares lessons learned from challenges over the years and discusses the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care for entrepreneurs. Sponsors for the Episode: CBUSA Lake Society Magazine Pella Northland Adaptive Where to find...

On this episode of the Curious Builder Podcast, guest Meg Billings talks about her unconventional path to becoming a builder. After hiring someone to build her own home who suddenly stopped work, Meg took over the project herself with no experience. She discusses how this led her to start her own construction company and shares strategies for improving business practices and profitability that she...

On this episode of the Curious Builder Podcast, a father-son duo swap stories from decades in the business. Mark talks with his dad David about the dramatic shifts that have occurred in home construction since the early days of his career. From navigating high interest rates to adapting to new technologies, they discuss the challenges and changes builders have faced over 50 years.  Sponsors for th...

This episode covers the history and expansion of Puustelli, a Finnish cabinetry company operating in the US. Founded in Finland in the 1920s, Puustelli began installing cabinets in Minnesota in 2016 and has since grown their US presence through showroom openings, partnerships with builders. CEO Ville Kämäräinen discussed Puustelli's focus on sustainability through forest certification, low-VOC mat...

Brian and Maud Duggan discuss running their interior design and home systems business Union Place in Excelsior, Minnesota for over 47 years. They talk about how they work together as a married couple to run the business and maintain client relationships. They also describe how they have expanded their services and grown their team over the decades to continue serving their community. Sponsors for...

Arik Tendler, chief sales officer of Cambria shares his journey from Israel to California, and how he came to work in the quartz industry. Arik discusses Cambria's focus on quality, innovative designs, and commitment to customers. He also shares how he utilizes his experience in sales to give insight on specific sales strategies and how Cambria continues to lead the industry in quartz countertops....

Mike Gray and Greg Vose from Unfold Architecture join Mark to discuss their design process, how they work with builders and clients, and their approach to sustainability in custom home design. They discuss bringing the right team members in at different stages of a project and making sure all parties are communicating effectively throughout the design and construction process. Sponsors for the Epi...

Dagan Koffler discusses his journey starting multiple construction and design companies in California, detailing the challenges of permitting and building in the state. He explains how he has grown his businesses over the years through self-performing work and leveraging existing relationships. Koffler also shares insights on managing a large team, improving client service, and strategies for self...

Mike and Andrew LeJeune discuss growing their family glass business, Glass Art Design, through culture, relationships, improving systems, and treating employees and customers with respect. Sponsors for the Episode: Pella Northland Adaptive Alpine Hardwood Connect with Mike & Andrew LeJeune: Where to find the Guest: Website: Glass Art Design Glass and Mirror Minnesota Instagram Glass Art Design Gla...

Alex Lelchuk joins us for the second Live Curious Builder Podcast from his event venue The Lowlands in Saint Paul, MN. He shares his inspiring story of immigrating from Belarus to the US as a young child and growing up to start his own Audio and Video company, Lelch. Alex discusses his journey as an entrepreneur and the challenges of running and growing multiple businesses. Sponsors for the Episod...

Christine Marvin discusses Marvin Windows' history starting with her great-grandfather moving to Warroad, Minnesota in 1904. She explains Marvin's product innovations over the decades and how they focus on sustainability. Christine also talks about Marvin's marketing strategies including partnerships, social media presence, and supporting local home tours.   Sponsors for the Episode: Adaptive Alpi...

Ryan Jones joins Mark to discuss his passion for construction and breaks down the multi-faceted aspects that are involved in it's process. Ryan shares how his background has benefited his work, and what he continues to learn from the community around him. As many others in the industry can attest, self-educating is almost standard for construction. Ryan discusses the pros and cons to this, and why...

Danielle Yegge and Joe Braun of Style and Structure discuss their marketing strategies on social media that have helped grow their brand, including creating fun videos. They also talk about their building process, working with clients, writing a book, and producing a podcast to help educate homeowners. Danielle and Joe describe how they continue learning in the industry through seminars, code book...

James Vagle, CEO of Housing First Minnesota, discusses the state's shortage of 60,000-90,000 housing units with builder Mark Williams. Vagle explains how modernizing zoning regulations and increasing land supply could help address high construction costs and the shortage. He also outlines Housing First Minnesota's efforts to promote careers in the trades and increase awareness of opportunities in...

On this episode of The Cursious Builder Mark Ostrom joins to discuss The Joy Collaborative . A nonprofit that designs therapeutic spaces for children with disabilities or life-limiting conditions. It describes past projects and the impact of the spaces on families. It also talks about ideas for future projects like a mobile sensory unit, collaborating with schools on building projects, and partner...