The Innovative Builder podcast aims to foster discussion and education for construction professionals working in the home building industry. We sit down with a variety of trade professional to understand how they are innovating within their industries.
In Episode 43, Rachel Johnson, President and CEO of APEX, joins us to explore how Duluth is reigniting its economic momentum. We discuss how growing the economy means more than just numbers — it's about creating jobs, increasing income, attracting investment, fostering innovation, and ultimately improving quality of life across the region.
In Episode 42 of The Innovative Builder Podcast, we sit down with Thryv experts to explore how this innovative software has transformed business management for small trades. Discover Thryv's evolution, from its origins to its current state, and learn how it streamlines crucial tasks like scheduling, client communication, and invoicing. Join us to uncover how Thryv empowers small businesses, offering intuitive solutions for navigating the challenges of growth and operations in the trades industry. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode, Nate Beaulieu joins us with a presentation to address the health concerns of construction field staff. Focusing on the prevalent struggle with sugar and caffeine, Nate explores their potential benefits and drawbacks. With insightful points, he reveals how these stimulants can be both helpful and harmful, depending on their usage. Gain valuable insights on balancing sugar and caffeine for optimal health in the construction industry. We hope you enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode, Ty Sundberg chats with Connor Sundberg, a concrete expert who knows the ins and outs of the construction industry. They dive into the quality of concrete used in current building projects and how it exceeds industry standards in terms of durability and longevity. Connor also introduces some new resurfacing products that can be used for all sorts of jobs, from sprucing up old sidewalks to renovating tired old showers. Whether you're a seasoned contractor or just someone curious about the latest developments in concrete technology, this episode is packed with insights and useful tips. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/innovativebuilder/message
In this podcast episode, Ty Sundberg interviews Bridget Erickson to dive into her lifelong passion for design and her journey toward further developing her skills in this field. Bridget shares her experiences and insights about growing up with an eye for design, the various projects she has undertaken, and the steps she has taken to improve her design abilities. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/innovativebuilder/message
Why are my floors super cold in the winter? Why does my roof have ice dams? How do I figure out where all of my heat is escaping? In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast Ty Sundberg sits down with Ray Sundberg to talk about energy efficiency, and heat loss. This episode will shine a light on many questions you may have if you own a home especially in Northern Minnesota. Also Ray discusses solutions and best practices even if you have a limited budget. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Ty sits down with a fellow BNI member Joe Gonrowski from IST Crossfit to talk about the importance of networking to grow a start up business. Joe is a strength and conditioning coach at IST Crossfit (Impact Strength Conditioning). Joe earned his Masters in Exercise Physiology from St. Scholastica in 2019. Joe is from Elk River, Minnesota and went to college at Saint Scholastica where he majored in Exercise Physiology. https://www.impactsportstraining.com/home --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this Episode Ty Sundberg sits down with J&RS's Design Manager Jeannifer Ellington to discuss the value add that design brings to our customers as well as design philosophy and the fundamentals that contribute to great design. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Ty Sundberg sits down with past customer Andy Johnson. Andy shares his personal story and career as well as some entertaining stories of his travels around the world. Most of all Andy shares his experience in working with J&RS. In 2020 Andy and his Wife ended up choosing J&RS to perform an extensive remodel project on their home in Duluth MN. Andy goes into the details of what went great on the project in addition to what didn't go well or could have gone better. Overall, the remodel was a success, but every project has its challenges and J&RS has learned over the years that it isn't the challenges and mistakes that define a company's reputation, but it is the manner in which these challenges are dealt with. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Ty and Austin talk about how important it is to have a good pulse on the company's financial situation, from work in progress (WIP) processes, to the necessity of finance to help guide the company's trajectory. The stereotypical accountant is boring, loves math, and has no life. This perception is false, especially when it comes to Austin. Austin is full of passion, and his enthusiasm is contagious as he discusses his role at J&RS in finance and internal process implementation. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
What are the guys on the ground saying? It is always fascinating to get the perspective from the field, especially the newest hires. Their first impressions hold a lot of weight, as their view of the company and its culture are unbiased as they try to navigate uncharted waters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Micki grew up in the Duluth area and she started out her career in the medical field. After about a decade in the medical field as a transcriptionist she made the transition to her husband's family business (Reliable Insurance Agency). Micki loves spending time with her family, she enjoys watching her kids sports and being in the outdoors. In this episode Ty sits down with Micki Wojtysiak and they discuss the difficulties of a growing business, scaling positive culture, and the importance of good relationships with clients and co-workers. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Lampert Lumbers Ron Leslie gives valuable insight into how the building materials industry has been affected in the last couple of years by Covid-19, from increases in demand and lack of people in the work force. Ron breaks down the many factors that contribute to longer lead times on not only building materials but products in every industry. Although times may have been tough in the last couple of years, Ron tends to be optimistic about the future of housing and building materials. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Ty sits down with marketing assistant Louie Sundberg. Louie started out like the rest of his brothers. After high school if no plan is solidified yet, you go work for the family construction company. Louie did well with trim carpentry, but when the opportunity arose for him to join marketing, he gladly obliged. Today Louie is a crucial member of the marketing team at J&RS, his passion for photo and video along with graphic design helps to ensure that J&RS is putting their best foot forward when it comes to content and marketing. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
"The best way to achieve personal growth is by putting yourself in those uncomfortable situations" - Matthew Ward In this episode Ty gets to know Trim Supervisor Matt Ward on a deeper level, Matt shares insight into his personal trials, dreams, and passions. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Last week in episode 27 part 1. our design team went live at the International Builders Show in Orlando Florida to discuss some of the highlights of the show and what they were seeing. In this episode Ty sits down with Sam, Max, and Nate to recap their trip and to gather the perspective of the Build team. They discuss everything from new innovative products to the latest and greatest construction software's. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
We sat down during our trip to Orlando Florida for the International Builders Show to discuss what we're seeing and our biggest highlights. We caught up with the design team to talk about some of their favorite parts thus far! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Jeff Aili is a sales coach by day and a multi-family real estate investor by night. He started his career in the HVAC business and from there went on to work for a basement repair company. His experience as a salesman in the trades has been monumental in the development of his sales coaching career. In this episode the host Ty Sundberg discusses Jeffs passion for real-estate and his role at J&RS. Here are some of the questions that Jeff covers in this episode. Are salesmen shady? Is a very high closing rate a good thing? Should we keep score? --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Max, Ty, and Ray reflect on the craziness of 2021 where J&RS opened up a new showroom and design studio in West Duluth and started a marketing and branding company (Framework). They also discuss their annual business meeting and the goals that were set for 2022. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Ty Sundberg sits down with J&RS Supervisor Mike Shaeffer. Mike is one of the seasoned veterans at J&RS, and his insight and pleasant demeanor are highly respected. In today's fast paced world of social media, instant gratification, and philosophical & intellectual superiority we often overlook the simple value of basic human decency and leadership. Listen to this episode to get to know Mike, and to receive a refreshing dose of timeless wisdom. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Max discusses his winding journey to J&RS. From creating music videos for big names in Washington DC to ending up in Duluth MN, as a Brand & Marketing Director for a residential construction company. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Ty Sundberg sits down with J&RS Foreman Tyler Jablonski and discusses Tylers recent promotion and the challenges of learning to lead a crew. To learn more about our company visit JRSDuluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder we sit down and have a conversation about our decision to step out of the new home industry and put our focus into remodeling and other services in the hope of positively impacting more homes and customers around us. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder we had the privilege's of hosting the author of the best selling marketing book "They Ask You Answer", Marcus Sheridan. In our conversation we pick Marcus's brain about marketing, sales, and how to be truly honest with customers. Marcus discusses his book "They Ask You Answer" and gave us some great advice on how we can apply the principles in his book to our website. To learn more about Marcus visit his LinkedIn page or visit him online at marcussheridan.com. The Innovative Builder Podcast features conversations with professional individuals in the residential construction industry who are moving their way forward through hard work and creativity. Stay tuned and subscribe to stay up to date on our latest episodes. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcasting App. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Our new host Rory Sundberg sits down with Jeannifer Ellington who is one of our most recent hires for J&RS Finish and she has started as a kitchen & bath designer. Jeannifer talks about her decision to move to Duluth from South Carolina to start a new chapter in her life. The Innovative Builder Podcast features conversations with professional individuals in the residential construction industry who are moving their way forward through hard work and creativity. Stay tuned and subscribe to stay up to date on our latest episodes. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcasting App. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode Rory Sundberg (Project Manager) sits down with Marlin Sundberg (Plumbing & HVAC Supervisor) and they discuss Marlins past at J&RS and how his career has progressed in the plumbing and HVAC field. The Innovative Builder Podcast features conversations with professional individuals in the residential construction industry who are moving their way forward through hard work and creativity. Stay tuned and subscribe to stay up to date on our latest episodes. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcasting App. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast, Max Haben sits down with our new interior design assistant Abigail Bartikoski where they talk about her interest in interior design. The Innovative Builder Podcast features conversations with professional individuals in the residential construction industry who are moving their way forward through hard work and creativity. Stay tuned and subscribe to stay up to date on our latest episodes. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcasting App. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode we sit down with Jayd Sundberg the newest member of the J&RS Finish team. Jayd is leading the showroom sales team and helping customers experience a better way to remodel and renovate their homes. Jayd talks about his background in creative arts and how he's finding passion in his new role. Tune in for more episodes in the future and make sure to subscribe to your favorite podcasting platform. For more info on our company visit jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Hello everyone and welcome back to the innovative builder podcast, where we foster discussions with the next generation of home building professionals. On this episode welcome back our very own Ray Sundberg on the show. Ray is the founder and owner here at J&RS and we wanted to sit down with Ray to talk about the recent opening of the J&RS Finish Showroom. Ray and I talked about why a construction company would open a design showroom, and how J&RS can integrate both the build and finish divisions to make the customer experience more enjoyable and efficient. We also got a little bit into the state of material prices and how J&RS is overcoming some of the challenges related to price increases. Thanks for joining us, and enjoy the show. As always feel free to visit us online at jrsduluth.com or follow along with us over on instagram @jrs.build and @jrs.finish. For more info email us at info@jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder Podcast we sat down with interior designer Aubrey DeBettignies, owner and designer at The Alter Abode. Aubrey has a growing social media following after she flipped her 135 year-old fixer upper into a rustic-boho-framhouse paradise. Aubrey's opinion is that your home can serve as your greatest act of self care. In our discussion we cover Aubrey's story of how she got into interior design (it wasn't her first career path), and how she balances style and budget. For more info on Aubrey you can visit her website thealterabode.com or on IG @thealterabode The Innovative Builder Podcast is hosted by J&RS, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. For more info on our company and the work we do, visit jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast we sit down with local Duluth Relator Kevin Kalligher of Remax Results to discuss the insane real estate market. As a general contractor we've been very much affected by the rise in cost for housing materials. It was extremely interesting to discuss the intersection of real estate and new home construction with Kevin and get his thoughts on the current state of affairs. For more info on our company, visit jrsduluth.com Make sure to subscribe on your favorite podcasting platform so that you don't miss future episodes of the Innovative Builder. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast we sit down to catch up with J&RS Finish designer Bridget Erickson to discuss her new role as Kitchen & Bath Designer at our showroom in Duluth, Minnesota. Bridget is somewhat new to the design industry, but has been using her creative eye and design skills through photography and wood working for the past several years. In our discussion Bridget talks about becoming a kitchen & bath designer, and what she's learning along the way. The Innovative Builder Podcast aims to foster discussion and educational content with the next generation of construction workers and home building professionals. The podcast is hosted by Max Haben of J&RS Build and J&RS Finish Showroom in Duluth, Minnesota. You can learn more about our company at jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder Podcast, we sat down with founder of Bearded Builders Eric Price. Bearded Builders are an award winning remodel company based in Omaha Nebraska. Eric and his team have been taking the industry by storm with their beautiful builds and epic beards. In our discussion Eric talks to us about his journey to starting his construction company, and what makes them different. Make sure you follow along to the Bearded Builders Instagram account @beardedbuilders for an entertaining mixture of gorgeous remodels and funny comic sketches. The Innovative Builder is hosted by J&RS Build, a start-to-finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. For more info on us visit jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast, we sit down with 23 year old Rory Sundberg who was recently promoted to Project Manager at J&RS Build. In our discussion Rory discusses the importance of leadership on a job site, and why young people should consider a career in the trades. The Innovative Builder Podcast features conversations with residential construction workers who are moving their industry forward through hard work and creativity. Stay tuned and subscribe to stay up to date on our latest episodes. The podcast is sponsored by J&RS Build, a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. To learn more visit jrsduluth.com. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder Podcast, we sat down with the founders of Graphic Science, Cody Paulson and Stephen Pestalozzi to discuss brand identify and why it's important for contractors to invest in their brand if they want to grow their business. Graphic Science is a graphic design company located in Duluth, Minnesota. They formulate identities, clarify communications and produce content to help businesses and organizations connect with their audience. Cody and Stephen worked with us at J&RS over this past year to revamp our branding and they did an excellent job. This went far beyond just creating a logo and really extended into every aspect of the business. Thanks to Graphic Science for joining us. You can find more info on their company at www.grsc.design or follow them on instagram @graphic.science This podcast is hosted by J&RS Build and J&RS Finish Showroom. We are a start to finish construction company and design showroom located in Duluth, Minnesota. Find out more at jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder we sit down and talk to Taryl Massie, the Business Development manager for Compass Co, a full-service landscaping company located in Duluth, MN. In our conversation, Taryl explains how he got into the company, and why he thinks there's great opportunity to innovate and improve the landscaping industry. For more info on our company, visit jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode from the Innovative Builder Podcast we talk to Business Development Manager of JRK Steel Nathan Erickson about his company and how they're aiming to foster innovation in the steel industry. The Innovative Builder Podcast is a podcast that highlights trades men and woman who are working to move the industry forward through innovation and empowerment. jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder podcast we sit down with Project Manager Nate Hilson to discuss what he's learned about successful project management. From client relationships to coordinating crews, Nate discusses some of the most important factors in making sure projects get done well and on time. Nate Hilson has been working in the remodel and new home construction industry for over a decade. He has been apart of the J&RS team for the past five years and lives with his wife Amanda in Duluth, Minnesota. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
Are you wondering which type of cabinet or countertop to choose? How about what makes a good kitchen design come together? In this clip from the Innovative Builder, we sit down with our very own in-house designer Heidi to talk about her approach to kitchen design. She also shares some insight into the different options for countertop and cabinets that are available for modern homes. Heidi also shares what it's been like to build and design her own dream home. Visit us at jrsduluth.com if you're interested in discussing a home design or building project. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of the Innovative Builder, we sit down to talk with Ty Sundberg, owner and operations manager of J&RS Build and J&RS Finish Showroom. In our discussion, we talk about his experience in the construction industry and why after 25 years as a general contractor, J&RS decided to open up a design showroom. J&RS Build is a start to finish construction company and design showroom based in Duluth, Minnesota. Our goal is to educated and inspire people to think differently about their future home. Check out more at jrsduluth.com and be sure to hit subscribe to receive updates on future episodes. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovator Builder, Max and Ray discuss why transparency in the bidding process is important, and how J&RS builds trust with clients. The conversation covers topics like estimations, cost-value of construction, and why J&RS uses a non-refundable deposit to create a better experience for clients. J&RS Build is a start to finish construction company and design showroom based in Duluth, Minnesota. Our goal is to educated and inspire people to think differently about their future home. Check out more at jrsduluth.com and be sure to hit subscribe at our youtube channel for more content like this. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
In this episode of The Innovative Builder Podcast, Max and Ray discuss the pros and cons of remodeling vs. building a new home. The answer for that question will be different for everybody depending on what's important to them. In our conversation, we cover some key areas such as affordability, equity, and location. The Innovative Builder is hosted by J&RS, a start to finish construction company and design showroom based in Duluth, Minnesota. Our goal is to inspire people to think differently about their future home. Head over to jrsduluth.com where you can see our work and check out more content like this. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
The Innovative Builder podcast aims to educate and inspire people to rethink their future home. We believe a better home is within reach for everybody. In the first ever episode Max and Ray discuss the various costs of building a new home, and 5 major factors to consider when thinking about your budget. In this episode we cover... 1. CHOOSING THE RIGHT LAND 2. FOUNDATION (SLAB VS. ICF) 3. DESIGN & LAYOUT 4. FINISHES & APPLIANCES 5. HARDSCAPES & LANDSCAPES For more information homebuilding and remodeling please visit our website at jrsduluth.com --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/innovativebuilder/message
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