The Real Build

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Kyle Stevens. He is the visionary founder of Stonewood and Waters Craftsmen, a premier landscape design firm based in Honeoye Falls, New York.  Since 1992, his company has been renowned for creating unique and distinctive designs for luxury residential properties throughout the greater Rochester and Finger Lakes region.  His leadership philosophy...

In this episode of The Real Build, I dive into one of the most critical factors when hiring a contractor: trust. Trust is the foundation of every great client relationship. When clients trust you, they become lifelong advocates. But if that trust is broken, the experience can quickly turn into a nightmare. I break down how to earn and maintain a client’s trust by focusing on key principles, includ...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sit down with Ken Rusk, an entrepreneur, mentor, and advocate for blue-collar success. Ken isn't just someone who talks about the potential of the trades; he's lived it. Starting at just 15 years old as a ditch digger, Ken worked his way up to become a highly successful business owner, proving that hard work, determination, and the right mindset can lead to fin...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Sam Zale, the owner of Zale's Lawn and Landscaping. Sam's company offers full-design landscaping, retaining walls, fencing, patios, mulching, outdoor kitchens, fire pits, ponds, garden bed installations, and tree removal. Sam started in landscape at the age of 16. His dad started the company in 1986, and Sam made it a point to be his fathe...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Michael Hartel, the founder and CEO of Hartel Homes and Cabinet IQ. With a Ph. D. in engineering from the University of Florida, he transitioned from the semiconductor industry to real estate, where he discovered his passion for remodeling and flipping houses. His commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design has earned Hartel Homes a...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Amber Boskers. Amber is the co-owner of KohlerHaus Remodeling. With over a decade of experience in real estate investment, portfolio management, and residential remodeling project coordination, She is passionate about empowering others to live intentionally and build a family legacy of abundance. Amber's commitment to integrity, craftsmanship,...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Lior Arussy. Lior is one of the world’s leading authorities on customer experience, business strategy, and organizational transformation. Lior is a sought-after speaker, consultant, and the founder of Strativity Group, where he’s helped Fortune 500 companies shift their mindset and strategy to achieve breakthrough results. He’s authored several in...

In this episode of The Real Build, I recap the Top Contractor School Inner Circle Retreat in Tampa, Florida. This was another amazing event, and the overall focus was on "Relentless Vision." There were some amazing keynote speakers, including myself, and some of the topics we covered included the following: Starting your year strong with Austin Duchaine. Relentless Commitment with Keith...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Jonathan Fedora, the owner of Integrated Business Financing. Jonathan is an experienced Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the financial services industry. Skilled in Banking, Sales, Business Development, Entrepreneurship, and Strategic Planning. He is a Strong consulting professional with a Bachelor of Science (BS) focused in Ec...

In this special year-end episode of The Real Build, we’re celebrating the best moments from an incredible year. Join us as we revisit some of the most inspiring, insightful, and impactful clips from all our amazing guests in 2024. These highlights are packed with valuable takeaways to help you kick off 2025 with focus, determination, and clarity. We’ve been fortunate to have an outstanding lineup...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Jason Lemay, owner of CITE Solutions. Jason has 25+ years of experience in custom home lighting control, home automation, and residential electrical systems. Jason Specializes in Lutron and Crestron systems. He is experienced with all home automation and lighting platforms. Jason and I touched on a few different topics like: Listening to your clie...

In this episode of The Real Build (Real Talk), I sat down with Chris Arzberger, an Air Force veteran and owner of IB Logistics. Chris emphasizes the importance of integrating faith into business practices, creating lifelong employees and customers, and addressing various forms of poverty, including faith, relationships, and financial health. He shares his approach to managing anxiety by dedicating...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with TJ Vitense. With decades of experience in real estate, TJ launched Sanctified Homes & Construction with a mission to raise industry standards . Sanctified Homes as a featured Parade of Homes Builder. He is also an Amazon Best Selling Author about real estate and how to position homes to sell in any marketplace for top dollar. TJ and I had a gr...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Chris Tatge, owner of Dynamic Construction and DC Materials. Dynamic Construction is a turnkey framer/lumberyard focused on providing labor and materials for large wood framed buildings. They are one of the Inc. 5000, fastest-growing private companies. Chris and I talked about: How to stand out as a contractor. Getting in front of people to grow y...

In this episode of The Real Build, I wanted to discuss what you will see from a Value builder. I'm always searching for ways to add more value than the competition. Value is what you get for the overall price you pay.  How can I give my clients the most value as a custom builder? Beginning stages - What do you offer? It isn't always just what it is - Cost cutting - Meeting today with Licari - Wher...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Mark Ferrelli. Mark is a fitness coach, leader of Top Contractor School Fit, host of The This New Day Podcast, and husband and father. Mark has also competed in many bodybuilding competitions over the years and is a leader in the fitness industry. Mark and I talked about many great topics like being consistent with fitness, How your training style...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sit down with Roy Edwards, the Chief Operations Officer at Capital Presence, where he's leading the charge in automation, CRM solutions, and the world of AI. Roy brings a ton of IT expertise and deep insights into how technology can empower businesses. We dive into the evolving landscape of remote work versus traditional office settings, unpacking why working f...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with returning guest and friend Jay Doran, CEO of Culture Matters, where he helps businesses build better cultures. He also hosts The Culture Matters Podcast. Jay and I discussed culture and leadership in more detail. We also talked more about Jay's life and how Jay was adopted and did not grow up with a father. We discussed how this impacted Jay and i...

In this inspiring episode of The Real Build, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Josh Kosnick, the owner of Kairos Coaching and Consulting. A seasoned entrepreneur and leadership coach, Josh has carved out a remarkable journey of success, and now he’s on a mission to empower others to reach their full potential and build a brighter future. Join us as we dive deep into Josh’s transformative con...

"' For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11 In this episode of The Real Build, I had the privilege of sitting down with Pastor Anthony Hart, the Lead Pastor at Greenbrier Community Church in Virginia. Over the past couple of years, Anthony and I have developed a strong connection throu...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Jamie Berger. Jamie Berger is a seasoned Financial Advisor with nearly two decades of experience, specializing in providing tailored financial solutions to clients. Originally from New York, Jamie relocated to Marco Island with her family in 1997, where she has since become an integral part of the Southwest Florida community. Jamie earned her Bach...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Vinnie Candelore, the creative director at 1 Team Media and owner of VC2 Art. Vinnie specializes in a wide range of artistic mediums, including paintings, custom shoes, art prints, and murals. He also hosts The Athletic Aesthetic Podcast, where art and sports connect through engaging conversations. Vinnie grew up working from a young age, and afte...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with my former high school football coach, friend, and mentor Coach Chris Metzger. Coach Metzger made a huge impact on my life growing up. He not only coached me in football but also instilled in me the values of hard work, discipline, and perseverance that have carried me throughout my life and career. His Leadership on and off the field helped shape...

In this episode of The Real Build , I sat down with Daniel Wright, the owner of Proline Parking Lot Maintenance. Daniel and I have been friends for a couple of years now, having met through Top Contractor School. Daniel has experienced significant short-term growth and success with his business, and I was excited to have him on. We discussed topics like working with your significant other and the...

In this episode of The Real Build , I sat down with returning guest Ryan Austin to talk about how to overcome tough moments in life. As entrepreneurs, we experience a lot of ups and downs, balancing business, employees, family, and friends. The stress can be overwhelming, but there’s always a way to get back up when you're feeling down. Ryan and I talked about the importance of taking mental b...