The Curious Builder

Mark discusses strategies for managing project managers and construction supervisors, including setting realistic expectations, creating schedule buffers, and improving the punch list process. He also shares his optimism about the future of the residential construction industry, citing opportunities for mentorship, entrepreneurship, and the use of technology to address labor shortages. Sponsors fo...

In this episode, host Mark Williams and Jon Heyesen from Arbor Wood discuss the benefits and rising popularity of thermally modified wood in sustainable building. They explore the industry's challenges and how a passionate, informed younger generation is driving demand for greener materials, especially in trendy applications like saunas.   Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/s...

Este episodio de The Curious Builder en Español cubre una amplia gama de temas, desde la construcción, estrategias de negocios, crecimiento personal e iniciativas comunitarias. Jenna y Justin Bakken discuten los desafíos que enfrentan en su trabajo y en sus vidas personales, así como sus esfuerzos por mejorar la comunicación, negociar contratos e invertir en su comunidad. Anfitrión:
 Belkis Cruz 
...

In this episode, we're chatting with Alyssa Abbott, owner of Olive & Vine Socials about the magic of blogging, Pinterest, and SEO strategy. With a detailed look into how Alyssa helps businesses amplify their online presence through strategic blogging, Pinterest strategy, and keyword research. They also explore the irreplaceable human touch that AI can't replace in writing to capture brand voice. M...

Mark D. Williams answers your questions on his new solo podcast. Mark Williams discusses how to effectively manage cash flow during the pre-construction phase of a custom home project. He provides advice on charging for pre-construction work, collecting retainers upfront, and financing options for home builders. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live ev...

In this lively episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Masha Romer and Leah Krig from WINC, a dynamic women in construction organization in Minnesota. They cover everything from the origins of WINC and its mission to foster connections and mentorship among women in the building industry, to the intricacies of planning popular events like the bus tour and showroom shimmy. Plus...

Acompaña a Belkis y Miguel mientras discuten de estrategias de negocios, descubren fuentes de motivación, técnicas de marketing, navegan por las complejidades de las políticas de salud, desmitifican cuestiones legales y conoce las diferentes perspectivas culturales que Belkis y Miguel tienen en cuenta. Anfitrión:  Belkis Cruz https://lbrpartners.com/ Invitado: https://graniteplusmn.com/ 
Apoya el...

In this special LIVE episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with industry experts like Nick Schiffer, Morgan Molitor, Brad Leavitt and Tyler Grace about the essence of craftsmanship, the importance of fair compensation, and the art of building lasting client relationships. They dive into everything from navigating the challenges of legacy building and financial stability to lever...

Mark D. Williams answers your questions on his new solo podcast. Mark discusses strategies for working on a business rather than in it, such as time blocking and asking for advice from subcontractors and trade partners to improve communication, efficiency, and relationships in the construction industry. He also shares his experiences delegating responsibilities and taking breaks to recharge his cr...

In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams and guest Jackson Strom from Strom Architecture dive into the nitty-gritty of running an architecture firm. They chat about the benefits of fixed-fee billing, the importance of hand-drafting in the design process, and managing client expectations. The duo also shares insights on recruiting talent, leveraging AI, and the value of effective...

En este episodio, Belkis y Rosa hablan sobre temas como el crecimiento personal, las oportunidades empresariales y de empleo en la comunidad latina, como también las estrategias de marketing en las redes sociales y los desafíos culturales. Anfitrión: Belkis Cruz https://lbrpartners.com/ Invitado: Rosa Santiago Zimmerman https://www.rszdesigndevelopment.com/ Apoya el programa - https://www.curiousb...

In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with the dynamic Rosa Santiago Zimmerman about the power of continual self-improvement, the significance of nurturing authentic relationships, and the transformative potential of the design industry. They dive into Rosa's inspiring journey from a fitness mogul to a flourishing design expert, emphasizing the importance of passion, aut...

In this episode of The Curious Builder podcast, hosts Mark Williams sit down with guests Steve Berg and Eric Britt from Minnesota Bank & Trust to dive into the world of banking and building trust with clients. From discussing the importance of strong relationships in private banking to navigating client partnerships for large-scale projects, the episode sheds light on the essential role bankers pl...

In this engaging episode of "The Curious Builder," host Mark Williams and web design expert Katlyn Slocum dive into the intricacies of effectively combining digital marketing strategies and web design tailored for the construction industry. They cover a range of topics from the importance of email marketing and geotargeting to the nuances of SEO and the impact of website aesthetics on consumer beh...

​​In this engaging episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Amanda Maday from Studio Grey about her journey navigating the tricky waters of both commercial and residential design. They dive into the emotional connections and challenges specific to each field, with Amanda sharing insights from her TV experiences on "Rock the Block" to how these have amplified her design firm's...

In this engaging episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Dian Mullis, a true maverick in the world of concrete countertops. Dian shares her fascinating journey from engineering to pioneering innovative concrete designs, discussing everything from the hands-on creative process to the challenges of industry collaborations and her unique approach to personalizing projects. The t...

In this insightful episode, Caleb McDonald from KingsRidge Building Group joins us to chat about balancing a thriving building business with family life and personal wellness. We talk about the challenges and rewards of maintaining work-life harmony, scaling a compassionate team culture, and Caleb's passion for creating beautiful, unique homes while staying grounded in health and mindfulness pract...

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...