Built Without Permission

In episode 10 of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak interviews Luke Potter, a seasoned leader who transformed his career from corporate stability to entrepreneurial success by taking bold action. Luke shares how he uses process automation not just to replace tasks, but to fuel team growth, enable real implementation, and help business owners refocus on what truly moves the needle.  Tune in for...

In episode 9 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Nathan Lewis, founder of Nonpareil Roofing, as he shares his compelling journey from project manager—overworked and underpaid—to thriving roofing business owner serving all of Southern Ontario.   Tune in for wisdom on transforming obstacles into opportunities and how to build—without permission—from those who are making it happen.  T...

In episode 8 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Alisha Esmail, Founder of Latch AI, as she shares how she navigated business pivots, overcame setbacks—including losing vital support and enduring rocky partnerships—and found new strength through elite networking and the right partners.   Tune in to level up your approach, spark new ideas, and start building—without waiting for perm...

In episode 7 of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak interviews David Hori, an elite business acquirer and coach, as we discover his powerful transformation from a secure, corporate legal and tech career to taking the ultimate entrepreneurial leap: betting on himself and building companies that reflect his personal vision and values. Tune in to learn from elite performers who don’t just talk abo...

In episode 6 of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak interviews Mauricio Perez, founder of Northside Contracting Corporation, as they discuss strategies for overcoming self-doubt, the value of hard-won experience, and why the most powerful successes often happen behind the scenes. Tune in to learn how to turn every challenge into a stepping stone, nurture your team, and start making your own blu...

In episode 4 of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak interviews Antone Harb, a powerhouse contractor and entrepreneur, about how he leverages mentorship, networks, and relentless goal-setting to fuel personal transformation and expansion—while constantly improving relationships, communication, and accountability with both employees and clients.  Tune in to learn how to lead with integrity, maste...

In episode 3 of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak interviews Liz Pead, a Textile artist, jacquard loom lover, and landscape painter, as she shares her approach to goal-setting, learning from setbacks, and scaling her operation—moving from hand-woven art to industry-level manufacturing with a 3-meter-wide, fully digital Jacquard loom (worth millions).  Tune in for a powerful conversation on le...

In this first-ever episode of Built Without Permission , Matthew Mak, co-founder of J & J Equipment Rental, discusses his transition into architecture and his commitment to building a life and career without waiting for the perfect moment—because he believes the right moment is always now. Tune in for real stories and insights on building your own success without needing permission. TIMESTAMPS...

In episode 2 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak discusses the importance of commitment and vision, detailing how he crafted a life plan in his teenage years that included milestones such as marriage and becoming a parent. Tune in to hear inspiring stories and insights on what it truly takes to build something from nothing. TIMESTAMPS [00:01:44] The power of belief. [00:06:04] Building withou...

Everyone loves the idea of building a business… Until it’s time to actually do it. No one talks about the part where you quit the “safe” thing… Pick up something completely different… And figure it out while the bills are still due. That’s where this show lives. Built Without Permission isn’t about theory. It’s not another “10 steps to success” podcast from someone who’s never had to pivot mid-mon...