The Real Build

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Gregory Sofranko and Alexander Deron, two top-performing luxury real estate professionals in Naples, Florida. Alexander is known for his innovative Host Tour Videos, where he has featured over $500 million in luxury homes, yachts, and private jets. With a background in law, he brings strong negotiation skills and attention to detail that sets him...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with my sister, Jenna Popoff, who turned the tables and interviewed me on what it really means to lead R.K. Reiman Construction. We had a real conversation about what goes on behind the scenes as a builder, business owner, and leader. Topics we covered include: How I handle initial client conversations What it's like working in a family business Why ou...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Kathy Ward, who is our warranty administrator at R.K. Reiman Construction. Kathy and I discussed the commitment we have to our clients after closing on their house and how she consistently goes above and beyond to resolve any issues. We discussed delivering a Ritz-Carlton experience and consistently helping the client even after the warranty has e...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Jenn Wideburg, publisher of Paradise Coast Magazine, to talk about whether print advertising still has a place in today’s digital world. We explored why it’s not just about exposure, it’s about building real, lasting relationships with your audience and advertisers. Jenn also shared what makes her networking events so powerful, and why the local c...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Andrew Regenhard, publisher of Real Producers Magazine, to discuss what truly drives business growth and the relationships that matter.“You don’t need 100 agents. You need five good ones who see you as a business partner, not just another vendor.” Remington RamseyAndrew shared how Real Producers flips the script by highlighting the best of the bes...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sit down with our superintendent Mason, who came to RK Reiman Construction after working at 1stPhorm, a company known for its elite culture and high standards. We talk about what it means to lead from the front, hold the line on excellence, and create a job site where accountability isn’t optional. This one’s all about raising the standard in construction and b...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Richie Breaux, Owner of All Things New and the host of the Builder of All Things Podcast. He's a husband, father, builder, and Kingdom-focused leader who is passionate about helping men in the trades rise up and lead with purpose. At ATN, he isn't just building structures — he's building people. His mission is clear: to bring faith, le...

In this live episode of The Real Build, my wife and I sat down to talk about what work-life balance really looks like when you live and work together. We got real about the importance of communication, setting expectations in a relationship, and learning how to be present, not just as business partners, but as a couple and as parents. We also shared how we set goals, make sacrifices, and deal with...

In this episode of The Real Build, we’re going behind the scenes of a family-run construction business. I sit down with my sister to talk about what it was like growing up in the middle of a job site, learning the ropes of the industry, and now working together to carry on the legacy at RK Reiman Construction. We discuss the real challenges and rewards of running a family business, how we navigate...

In this solo episode, I break down the core of a recent talk I gave at the Top Contractor School Meetup in Pittsburgh. This is a message every contractor, builder, and entrepreneur needs to hear: if you don’t lead with process, chaos will run your business for you. I dive into the exact systems we use at RK Reiman Construction to deliver consistency, scale without burnout, and protect our brand fr...

Buying a home is one of the biggest investments of your life, but most people go in blind. In this episode, I talk with Bob Frady, founder of PropertyLens, a platform giving buyers the detailed insights they actually need before making a purchase. From roof age to risk factors and permitting gaps, Bob shares how PropertyLens is helping people make smarter, safer real estate decisions and avoid maj...

Hiring the wrong contractor can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. In this solo episode of The Real Build, I’m breaking down the biggest red flags to watch for, so you don’t get burned. From too-good-to-be-true bids to vague communication and missing processes, I walk you through exactly what to look out for when interviewing a builder or contractor. Whether you're planning a custom home...

Ever dreamed of having a hidden room, secret passageway, or bookshelf that swings open to reveal something epic? In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Steve Humble, the founder of Creative Home Engineering, the global leader in custom hidden doors, secret rooms, and high-security safe rooms for luxury homes and high-profile clients. Steve has turned childhood imagination into real-wor...

For the first time on The Real Build, we’re heading to the water. I sat down with Kienan Streed, owner of KC Marine, to break down the world of marine construction, a space that most homeowners know little about but need to understand if they’re planning to build or maintain a dock, seawall, or waterfront structure. In this episode, we cover: What sets great marine contractors apart from the rest...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Derek Morton, founder of Netgain Property Management, to talk about what it really means to manage properties with both heart and strategy. Derek’s approach is simple but powerful: take care of the property, serve the owner, and respect the tenant. We discussed how his team: Streamlines maintenance and operations to protect the owner's investment...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Dan Pascone, founder of Tailored Wealth, a wealth management firm that’s changing the game when it comes to client-focused financial planning. Dan’s approach is all about coaching over selling, helping people live better lives by aligning their money with their values and long-term goals. Tailored Wealth operates 100% virtually, giving clients per...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Stone Shew, owner of Gutters OK, to talk about how he’s reshaping what it means to run a top-tier service business in the trades. Stone built his company by refusing to play the volume game instead, he focused on high-quality jobs, tight systems, and customer satisfaction that actually means something. We got into what it really takes to stand out...

Building a custom home should be one of the most exciting things you ever do, but for a lot of people, it turns into stress, unexpected costs, and major headaches. In this solo episode, I’m breaking down the hidden costs that most builders don’t tell you about… and how you can avoid getting burned. From vague contracts and unrealistic allowances to surprise site work and change orders — I’m coveri...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Tyler Dunagin, the founder and CEO of Turnserv, a company that’s changing the game when it comes to apartment turnovers. Under his leadership, Turnserv ranked #459 on the Inc. 5000 list of the fastest-growing companies in America. Tyler’s also been nominated for Entrepreneur of the Year and has built multiple seven-figure businesses from the groun...

Tariffs. Rising costs. Supply chain pressure. The headlines in 2025 are loud — but what’s really going on in the homebuilding industry? In this episode of The Real Build, I break down how the latest round of tariffs is impacting construction across the country, and more importantly, how experienced builders are stepping up and adapting. From rising material costs and affordability concerns to smar...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Jason Waugh, President of Caldwell Banker Affiliates. With a distinguished career spanning over two decades in real estate, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision. In his current role, Jason oversees the brand’s marketing, franchise sales, and operations teams, supporting a vast network of 100,000 affiliated sales professi...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with my good friend and returning guest, Nate Swink. Nate is the owner of Swink's Welding out in California and last came on the show back in February of 2023. Anytime Nate and I talk, it's always a real and honest conversation about what it takes to build a business the right way, and this one was no different. Nate's built a solid company by staying...

In this powerful episode of The Real Build , I sit down with the incredible Shivani Peterson—award-winning mortgage advisor, content creator, and mom of three. Shivani is more than just a top producer at All Western Mortgage; she’s a true leader in helping people build wealth through homeownership and financial literacy. Licensed in Nevada and California, Shivani is known for breaking down complex...

In this episode of The Real Build, I sat down with Cole Davis, the founder and visionary behind Stone Peak Landscape & Design, a company known for crafting personalized and functional outdoor living spaces throughout Colorado. With a strong reputation for professionalism and attention to detail, Cole ensures that every project aligns perfectly with his clients’ visions. At Stone Peak, Cole and...

Not all contractors are built the same, and hiring the wrong one can lead to budget blowouts, poor craftsmanship, and broken promises. In this episode of The Real Build, I sit down with Quaid Houskeeper, owner of Q&R Construction Services Inc., a trusted Salem, Oregon-based company specializing in residential and commercial remodeling projects. From custom homes and remodels to fences, decks,...