We Love Deck Builders

In this first episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast DeckExpo series, we’re thrilled to have Tony McKlem , the owner of Hollywood Decks , as our very first guest! Tony is a seasoned professional in the deck building industry, known for his expertise in creating high-end outdoor living spaces. This year, he’s bringing his knowledge to DeckExpo with sessions that focus on improving the deck-bu...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards is once again joined by Mike Beaudry, the owner of NADRA, to preview the upcoming Southern California Regional Networking Event. Set for September 4, 2025, in Carlsbad, CA, this event offers the perfect opportunity for deck builders and outdoor living professionals to connect, learn, and grow. Mike shares exciting updates on the 2025 Na...

AI isn’t just for Silicon Valley — it’s for deck builders, too. In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , April Edwards sits down with Andy Henley (Hen-House Decks) and Mike Mitchell (Mitchell Construction), the voices behind From the Field in Deck Specialist Magazine . These two seasoned pros are breaking down how they’re actually using AI — not in theory, but on the job. From estimating and quo...

In this episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast , host April Edwards sits down with Larry Collins, President of HFS Financial, to discuss how offering consumer financing can help deck builders scale their businesses and increase conversions. Larry shares insights from over 30 years in the finance industry, breaking down the process of offering financing, the benefits for deck builders, and ho...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards delivers a reality check for deck builders looking to grow their brand. If you're hoping for a marketing miracle that will magically triple your revenue overnight, this episode isn’t for you. Marketing isn’t a quick fix—it’s a vital department in your business that needs your involvement. April shares why collaboration and communica...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards sits down with Tyler Anders, owner of Hometown Builders Unlimited in Wisconsin. Tyler shares how he built a trusted deck-building brand, his approach to custom projects, and tips on growing a successful business while maintaining quality. From setting expectations with clients to marketing strategies that attract the right leads, Tyler o...

In this episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast, our host April Edwards sits down with Eric Fortenberry, founder and CEO of JobTread, to share game-changing insights. Learn how to overcome operational pitfalls, organize your processes, and drive profits with confidence. Whether you’re growing past the $1M mark or looking to streamline a booming business, this episode is packed with actionable...

In this insightful episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April welcomes Pastor Joel Phillips of Escondido Christian Church to discuss the harmonious blend of personal faith and professional endeavors. They explore how one's beliefs can authentically influence business practices, leadership styles, and interactions within the workplace. This conversation offers valuable perspectives for those...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards sits down with Jay Beswick , founder of Majestic Outdoors , to discuss his journey in the deck-building industry. Jay shares insights on crafting high-end outdoor living spaces, the role of 3D renderings in project design , and his experience serving on the Belgard Advisory Council . He also talks about the latest industry trends and ho...

Join host April Edwards live from DeckExpo 2024 in Dallas as she sits down with Mike Beaudry , a key figure in the deck building industry, for an exclusive event recap. They discuss the biggest takeaways, industry trends, standout exhibitors, and what this year's show means for the future of deck building. Whether you attended DeckExpo or missed out, this episode of We Love Deck Builders bring...

On this episode of We Love Deck Builders , join host April Edwards as she chats with Sara Graves, industry expert and managing editor of Deck Specialist Magazine! Hear them answer all your burning questions about business growth, while they discuss industry trends, getting your work noticed, overcoming challenges, and the future of deck building. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting...

Join us for an insightful conversation with the team from O'Keefe Built, leaders in the deck-building industry known for their commitment to innovation, craftsmanship, and quality. In this episode, we'll explore their journey from humble beginnings to becoming a standout in outdoor construction. Learn how they tackle challenges, create bespoke outdoor living spaces, and leverage modern marketing s...

Join host April Edwards on We Love Deck Builders as she sits down with Chris Breen, founder of Legacy Decks Academy, to explore the game-changing DECKx Talks happening at DeckExpo in Dallas on November 12th. Chris reveals the inspiration behind this dynamic series and how it’s designed to help deck builders at all stages level up their business skills. From mastering profitability and business sys...

In this We Love Deck Builders episode, we dive into the complex world of marketing and why it's not a one-person job. Just like building a deck requires a team of skilled specialists, marketing your deck business involves multiple roles that are essential for success. From the visionary who sets the big-picture goals, to the project manager who ensures all the parts work together, and the SEO expe...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards welcomes Kassaundra, one of the first and most pivotal employees at Deck Builder Marketers. Kassaundra has been with DBM from the very beginning, helping shape the company alongside April. Now working at April's second venture, AE Design Co., Kassaundra remains a crucial part of the DBM story. They’ll share the untold stories of how DBM...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards tackles a common challenge: competing with lower-priced deck builders and general contractors entering the market. April dives into strategies for standing firm on pricing while highlighting your value as a premium builder. From using lifestyle-driven messaging to building a strong online presence, she shares practical tips to attract cl...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards dives into one of the most important (and often misunderstood) topics in marketing—SEO (Search Engine Optimization). Joined by SEO expert Daniel, they explore how deck builders can use SEO to grow their business, rank higher on Google, and attract more leads. They discuss the differences between SEO and paid ads, why SEO takes time to sh...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , April Edwards breaks down the top 10 marketing mistakes that are holding back deck builders from reaching their full potential. Learn why neglecting your online presence, inconsistent branding, and failing to use social proof could be costing you leads—and how to fix it. April also shares actionable strategies to boost your SEO and leverage customer revie...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards chats with Andy Henley, the mastermind behind Hen-House Decks, one of Ohio’s top deck building companies. Andy shares his journey from house framer to award-winning deck builder, revealing the challenges, successes, and lessons learned along the way. Discover his passion for craftsmanship, community involvement, and his vision for the f...

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders , host April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, sits down with Mike Beaudry, Executive Director of the North American Deck and Railing Association (NADRA). Mike shares his inspiring journey from the ski and snowboard industry to becoming a visionary leader in the decking world. Discover how NADRA is shaping the industry, empowering deck builders, a...

In this episode, April Edwards and Alejandra Donaire, the account strategist at Deck Builder Marketers, delve into Google's Ad Recommendations. Gain a deeper understanding of how these suggestions can sometimes increase costs and learn why manual optimization is vital for achieving better ROI and higher-quality leads. Explore actionable tips and strategies to enhance your Google Ads campaigns,...

Struggling to attract top talent for your deck building company? In this insightful episode, renowned recruitment strategist Jody Underhill reveals the unconventional tactics he used to help over 300 home service businesses hire a staggering 3,500+ employees in under 3 years. Jody exposes the costly mistakes most deck builders make when recruiting and shares his proven system for landing rockstar...

Join April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, as she becomes the interviewee in a special episode led by team member Bobby Warren. April shares her journey from rural Ohio to leading a top digital marketing agency in San Diego. Discover her personal story, leadership philosophy, and the innovative strategies DBM uses to help deck builders achieve their business goals. Learn how to leverag...

Join us on 'We Love Deck Builders' as April Edwards welcomes Jeff Mudd, a fixture in the decking industry and the insightful voice behind ' The Trades Podcast .' With over 17 years of experience and a profound commitment to promoting construction trades, Jeff shares his journey, explores the current state and future of deck building, addresses the labor shortage, and offers strateg...

In this episode of "We Love Deck Builders," April Edwards interviews Tara and Tommy from Solid Ground, exploring their journey from hospitality to leading a deck building empire in St. Louis. They discuss the importance of values like honesty and trustworthiness in their work, their recognition as DuraLife Deck Specialists of the Year, and how treating clients like family has been key to...