The Real MF'ers

Big things are coming to our podcast!We're gearing up for a powerful new chapter: sharper conversations, bold new voices, and no-nonsense insights crafted for construction and manufacturing leaders who want to build smarter, lead stronger, and grow with intention.This next phase will dive deeper into the challenges that define your reality—workforce shortages, mental health pressures, leadership gaps, cash flow stress, communication breakdowns, and the culture shifts reshaping how companies thrive.What's ahead?✅

Tired of pouring cash into SEO, ads, and “full-service” marketing agencies—yet seeing no proof it actually pays off?In this episode, our CEO, Scott Peper, sits down with Phil Risher, CEO & Founder of Phlash Consulting, to rip apart the cookie-cutter contractor marketing tactics that burn contractors and lay out a field-tested framework anyone can run.You'll learn:

There's this idea in construction that if you use financing, you're not doing well. That idea is wrong. And here is why.In new solo podcast episode, Scott Peper (CEO of Mobilization Funding) sets the record straight. Financing doesn't make you weak—it's a sign you're building something real. He breaks down exactly why cash is the most important tool in your business, what happens when you grow without the right structure in place, and how to actually talk about financing to your team and your customers.Here's what's inside:

If you've ever felt like the bank just doesn't get how construction works, you're not alone.Every contractor has heard it: “Great project…

You're bidding like crazy, your team's finally gaining traction, and then... one line in the fine print knocks you out of the running: Bid bond required.In this new solo episode, Scott Peper (CEO & Founder of Mobilization Funding) breaks down exactly what a bid bond is, why you need one, and how getting one ahead of time can be the edge you didn't even know you needed. Because here's the thing: a bid bond isn't just a formality. It can separate you from the pack, protect your margins, and show serious GCs and owners that you're someone they can bet on when it matters most.Scott walks through:

You want to sell your business—but not to some corporate buyer who's going to gut your team and toss your legacy aside. What if there's another way?In this episode, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Manny Calzon, Managing Director at Ambrose Advisors, to unpack ESOPs—Employee Stock Ownership Plans—and why they're one of the most misunderstood (but powerful) exit options for construction business owners.You'll learn:

You want a bond, but the underwriter says, “Only if you use funds control.” Now you're thinking—does that mean I'm not qualified?In this episode, Scott Peper (our CEO and Founder) sits down with Nolen Tuttle, a former surety underwriter turned funds administrator, who explains in detail what underwriters actually look for—and how funds administration, done right, can help you stay in control instead of feeling handcuffed.You'll learn:

When that “golden ticket” moment arrives—with a contract vastly larger than anything previously undertaken—how can contractors finance the upfront costs without draining their cash flow? In this episode, we explain purchase order financing, offering clear insights specifically tailored for contractors and manufacturers.For instance, a $100K contract may require covering 70–80% in material, labor, and packaging costs before invoicing begins. This gap in the revenue cycle—from the moment a purchase order is secured until payment is received—can cripple growth if there isn't a solid financing strategy in place. Scott explains how PO financing provides access to essential funds exactly when needed while only costing a few percentage points of the contractor's margin.Key episode insights also include:

Are you losing top talent or missing out on lucrative contracts because your healthcare benefits aren't competitive—or are too expensive?In the latest episode of the Construction MF'ers podcast, we sit down with Mike DeVoe, founder and CEO of Keystone Benefit Group, to unpack how government contractors can offer best-in-class benefits without breaking the bank. Whether you're grappling with high-cost plans for a 20-person team or leveraging data analytics to manage a 100+ employee workforce, Mike has practical strategies you can start using right away.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

What do you do when a single project threatens to sink your contractor business?Rick McGill, founder and president of Rick's Electrical, faced exactly that and he shares his stories in the new episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast. Six months into a multi-family project, payments stopped coming, communication broke down, and the job site turned toxic. Facing the possibility of a catastrophic loss, Rick made a calculated decision: to finish the project, secure payment, and protect his business and employees.In this episode, Rick opens up about the brutal reality of construction cash flow and how he pulled his company back from the edge:

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A bad construction contract isn't just a headache—it can wreck your cash flow, lock you into risky commitments, and leave you exposed when things go wrong.In this solo episode of Construction MF'ers, Scott Peper breaks down the three critical contract elements every subcontractor needs to review before signing. These simple steps can be the difference between a profitable job and a financial disaster.

Ever find yourself scrolling through LinkedIn and wondering how some contractors just seem to “get it” on social media? In this episode of The Construction MF'ers, our CEO and Founder Scott Peper sits down with Jonathan Cor—an experienced construction content creator and marketing strategist—to discuss what it really takes to make social media work for your business.Jonathan shares his personal journey, starting from when he was stuck with heavy, text-only posts and a modest 30K yearly impression count, to reinventing his approach with dynamic graphics, video downloads, and Twitter-style headlines that have pushed his reach into the millions. He talks about the everyday reality of getting “in the flow” on LinkedIn—even when distractions hit—and how a consistent, authentic message, repackaged in fresh ways, is what truly resonates with audiences.In this candid conversation, you'll learn:•

Are hidden fees and misaligned cash flow turning your “savings” loan into a money pit? Are you sure that a low APR is saving you money? Taking a large lump sum upfront—even with a low advertised APR—may force you to pay interest on money you aren't using immediately, creating an opportunity cost that erodes your bottom line. This Construction MFers podcast episode explores how a seemingly attractive construction loan can come with hidden costs that end up draining your cash flow.Tune in to find out:•

Are your construction profits disappearing despite winning bids at 20% margins? Do you know what your projects are actually costing you? In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Lisa Robles and Stacie Gaffrey, CPAs from Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund, to reveal why most contractors are missing critical financial insights that determine success or failure.This episode is more than catching fraud in your construction business (though that's covered too)—and is about transforming how you understand your business finances. Lisa and Stacie explore why your WIP schedule matters more than your income statement, how overhead calculations make or break profitability, and why that concrete contractor who built a multi-million dollar business through hard work might still be making uninformed decisions that cost him thousands.Here's what you'll learn:

When rapid growth hits your construction business, cash flow challenges can quickly derail even your best-laid plans. In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, shares in-depth strategies to tackle the unique cash flow challenges of scaling projects—whether it's organic growth or the sudden surge of multiple projects starting at once.In this episode, you'll learn:

Thinking about growing or selling your marine construction business? Or maybe you're just curious about how to navigate the challenges of the construction industry? In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, CEO and Founder of Mobilization Funding, sits down with Trey Lomel, a marine construction entrepreneur who shares his incredible journey of buying, growing, and innovating in the marine construction space.Trey's story isn't some polished TED Talk. He's lived the chaos: from sweating bullets over payroll during hurricane season to breaking the ‘we've always done it this way' habits that sink most construction companies. You'll walk away with gritty takeaways on turning docks into 20-year assets, why smiling beats cussing on job sites, and how flipping boats taught him more about cash flow than corporate America ever did.Here's what you'll learn:

Landing that big construction contract is supposed to feel like a win, but what happens when your cash is locked up in other projects?In this week's Construction MF'ers podcast, we share the full story of a subcontractor who finally secured the client they'd been pursuing for years, only to face an all-too-common challenge: How do you start a project when your resources are already stretched thin?Here's what we unpack:

Federal construction is a different beast. With strict compliance requirements, short lead times, and high stakes, success requires more than technical know-how—it demands exceptional planning, execution, and leadership.In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Scott Arias, CEO of ACE Consulting, to explore how federal contractors can excel in this high-pressure space and why these lessons are critical for every construction business. With 27 years in the construction industry, Scott brings nuanced experience from both federal and commercial projects. His journey spans building embassies overseas, teaching construction management, and growing ACE Consulting into a $25M company, making him a valuable voice on the complexities of planning, compliance, and leadership in construction.Here's what you'll learn:

Many construction business owners struggle to grow, not because they can't make tough decisions, but because they lack the clear, organized information needed to make those decisions effectively. In the latest episode of Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, breaks down how to move from chaos to clarity by setting up systems, gathering the right data, and leveraging expert support. With examples from real construction businesses and stories, he explores how even overwhelmed business owners can turn things around by organizing their processes and accessing the right information.Key insights include:

Hiring a CPA might tick the tax box, but it's far from enough to secure your business's future. In this week's Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper dives deep with Jeremy Johnson, CPA, into why small businesses need more than basic bookkeeping to truly thrive. They unpack how shifting from reactive to proactive financial management can set you up for growth, resilience, and long-term success.Jeremy brings fresh, actionable insights to the table, such as:

What does it really take to stay alive and grow over the long haul in business? In this new episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, CEO and Founder of Mobilization Funding, reveals how twelve years of hard-earned mistakes became the best teacher—shaping his approach to financing, integrity, and consistent growth. If business lessons learned through pain, stress, and a few near-disasters sound familiar, this episode offers a clear roadmap to skip some of the toughest pitfalls.Here's a look at the six key lessons Scott breaks down:

Launching any startup is tough. Launching a plant-based cheese startup brand is even tougher. Losing a two-year retail contract after just four months in business—and taking a $300K hit on unsold inventory—can feel like a knockout blow and can derail any business. In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper sits down with Never Better Foods founder Doug Kantner to talk about the challenges and strategies of launching Never Better Foods, who dissects how his plant-based cheese brand (under AME Nutrition) navigated that crisis and found a new path forward.Doug explains:- Why too many product lines dilute your focus—and your budget.- How distributors, buying groups, and end customers each have different demands.- The role of financing and purchase-order funding in weathering unexpected hits.- How donating stranded inventory turned a bad situation into new opportunities.If you're tackling manufacturing, distribution, or financing hurdles, Doug's story shows that a major setback doesn't have to kill your brand. Learn how he stayed afloat—and where Never Better Foods is headed next.

Focusing on price alone in construction bidding might seem like a quick way to win more work, but it can quickly erode your margins, stunt your growth, and jeopardize your ability to perform. In the new episode of The Construction MF'ers Podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, explores this all-too-common practice and breaks down why underbidding is one of the biggest threats to your contracting business—and how shifting your focus to performance, costs, and cash flow can turn things around.Scott dives into:

What if safety wasn't just a compliance checkbox but a true competitive advantage in construction?In Episode 83 of the Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper is joined by David Cook, President of Safety Solutions & Supply, to explore the real impact of safety and OSHA compliance in the construction industry. With over three decades of experience and a company he founded in the wake of the 2009 recession, David shares hard-won insights into creating systems that not only keep teams safe but also save time, money, and reputations.Here's what you'll learn in this episode:

Starting a construction business is hard. Keeping it running after the first year is even harder.In the new solo episode of The Construction MF'ers Podcast, Scott Peper, CEO and Founder of Mobilization Funding, breaks down real cash flow challenges contractors daily face—and how to solve them before they derail your projects.Scott shares lessons learned from working with thousands of contractors and from his own experiences, including:

What does it take to save $500k on a $2M construction project—and avoid cash flow disasters?In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, interviews Gene Vandi, our VP of Business Development and long time team member. Starting his career in sales internships, Gene quickly realized the importance of providing real solutions to critical business challenges. Now, with years of experience working directly with contractors, he specializes in simplifying complex financial problems and equipping business owners with practical strategies to succeed. Together, they break down cash flow and financial strategies contractors can use to thrive, even in challenging markets:

Turning the spotlight on skilled trades reveals opportunities many people never hear about—and that's exactly the focus of this Construction MF'ers Podcast episode!Join our CEO and Founder, Scott Peper, as he speaks with Stacey Holsinger, Founder of Steel Toe Communications and Chat CTE. Stacey is leading the charge to attract young, diverse talent into construction by sharing real stories and transparent insights about the benefits, salaries, and career paths in skilled trades.This episode arrives just in time for #NationalApprenticeshipWeek (November 17-23), a celebration of the value apprentices add to our workforce, where Stacey and Scott explore key topics for anyone curious about a career in construction:

From balancing cash flow to dealing with every setback that could delay or derail a project, resilience is the name of the construction game. In the 79th podcast episode, Scott Peper sits down with Ryan Blankers and Eric Diaz, founders of Cattlemen Construction, who share hard-won insights from their dual roles as contractors and consultants—true Construction MF'ers who know the ins and outs of managing high-stakes projects.Starting with a $500 million development and moving to their own company focused on QSR and retail projects, Ryan and Eric reveal what it takes to thrive when every detail counts—and every dollar matters. But it doesn't stop there. Ryan and Eric bring experience from all sides, from large-scale builds to single-tenant projects, working across the entire construction chain. They've built their reputation on two core principles: finding creative ways to save clients money and delivering value through partnership, even as the construction landscape constantly evolves.Closer look in the episode:

Starting and scaling a business isn't all success stories and smooth sailing—it's filled with tough choices, setbacks, and the real-life challenges most entrepreneurs face. In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Todd Schweitzer, an accomplished entrepreneur with a track record of building and selling multiple companies. Together, they go beyond the wins, diving into the decisions, failures, and personal sacrifices that define real business growth.Todd and Scott cover key insights for anyone navigating the entrepreneurial journey:

Stalled projects, slow payments, and an aging workforce—if you're in construction, you know these are more than just buzzwords. They're the reality. And the cash flow issues plaguing the industry? Those go deeper than just late payments or retainage.In this podcast episode, our CEO, Scott Peper, goes straight to the heart of the problem:

Navigating the world of government contracting can be daunting. The maze of regulations, the unique bidding processes, and the stark differences from private sector business models often leave even seasoned entrepreneurs scratching their heads. Have you ever wondered why successful private businesses struggle when they venture into government contracts? Or why submitting dozens of RFPs hasn't yielded a single win?In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Michael LeJeune, a leading expert in government contracting, a best-selling author, Partner at RSM Federal, and the voice behind the Game Changers podcast. Michael pull back the curtain on why so many businesses stumble in government contracting arena and explore actionable strategies that can lead to real success.Key Takeaways:

Ever been in the middle of a project, wondering how you're going to keep it moving because cash flow is tight? Maybe you've landed some big contracts but now feel like you're out over your skis, unsure how to handle the upfront costs and keep the momentum going. Or perhaps a bad project set you back, and you're questioning if now is the right time to push forward again.All of those doubts? They're normal in construction.In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, CEO of Mobilization Funding, talks directly to you if you've ever asked yourself, “Am I good enough to keep this project or business moving forward?”. Scott shares how and why Mobilization Funding's lending program was designed to fix the cash flow struggles that subcontractors face over and over again—especially in the construction industry, where milestone-based billing and progress invoicing create cash flow nightmares.Episode Highlights:

Are you looking to unlock the next level of growth for your construction business but aren't sure what's holding you back? In this episode of the Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Thomas Gilman, owner of Driving Business Growth, who shares how his unique background as a chemical engineer and MBA graduate equips him to help businesses understand how they appear from the outside looking in—and why that's crucial for growth.Together, they explore the often-overlooked aspects of business that can hinder growth, such as compliance issues, business credit, and banking behaviors. Thomas reveals his process for scanning businesses to identify these hidden obstacles and offers practical solutions to overcome them. If you've ever felt like you're grinding away without seeing the results you want, this episode is packed with insights to help you break through those barriers.Episode Highlights:

Cash flow is more than just numbers on a spreadsheet—it's the backbone of your construction business, and one wrong move can send your entire operation into chaos. In this episode, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, reveals what it really takes to manage cash flow and stay profitable, especially in a volatile market.Scott shares the stories and lessons learned from financing hundreds of construction projects over the last decade—often learned from painful mistakes. Whether it's managing delays, dealing with inefficiencies, or navigating the massive financial swings that come with large commercial contracts, we have seen it all, and now we are breaking it down for you.Episode Highlights:

What does it take to make it in the high-stress, ever-changing world of construction? In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with Lee Mudd, President and Founder of RLM Underground, to discuss the real-life obstacles contractors face every day. From figuring out how to handle tricky cash flow situations to managing a growing team, Lee breaks down the raw reality of what it's like to run a construction business in an industry known for its unpredictability. Their conversation uncovers the mindset and grit needed to get through the hardest challenges—when failure isn't an option, and the stakes are higher than ever. Lee also shares the story of building RLM Underground, a company that handles everything from underground telecom work to aerial construction and project engineering, and the tough lessons he's learned along the way.Episode Highlights:

Cash flow is the lifeblood of any construction business and the deciding factor between keeping your doors open or shutting them for good. In the latest podcast episode, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, talks straight about the three biggest cash flow mistakes contractors make—and how they can literally wreck your business.

What happens when you combine faith, business, and a commitment to community transformation? In this episode of The Construction MF'ers Podcast, Scott Peper, Founder & CEO of Mobilization Funding, sits down with Rob Reynolds, Founder and President of Cross Boss Media. Rob shares his journey from co-founding Avesta, a real estate company with $1.7 billion in assets and $200 million in revenue, to launching Studio 3:16, a faith-based media program for children.Episode Highlights:

Why can't construction contractors—and most business owners—sleep peacefully at night? It's more than just the complexities of running a business; it's the constant fear and anxiety about cash flow, revenue cycles, and the immense pressure to make the right decisions.In this episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, explore the underlying reasons behind sleepless nights in the construction industry. Scott shares his personal experiences and the lessons he learned from working with hundreds of businesses and thousands of projects. He reveals how these feelings of doubt and anxiety are common, and how to manage them effectively by putting the right systems, processes, and people in place.Episode Highlights:

Curious about how Bitcoin and emerging technologies are impacting your construction business? Wondering how to protect your finances against inflation? Interested in learning how Bitcoin can be integrated into your business and financial strategy?In the latest episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, CEO and Founder of Mobilization Funding, tackles these questions in detail with Eric Moorman, Owner and Founder of 21M Consulting. Eric shares his journey from a real estate investor in Illinois to becoming a Bitcoin consultant, helping construction companies utilize this new technology for better financial management.Episode Highlights:

You can't stop a recession, but with the right preparation, you can survive and even thrive. Is your construction business prepared for the next recession?In this episode of the Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, shares essential strategies to recession-proof your construction business. Learn how to identify early signs of economic downturns and what proactive steps you can take to protect your business.Episode Highlights:

As a business leader, have you ever thought about how military discipline principles can fuel business success? Join Scott Peper, Founder & CEO of Mobilization Funding, as he sits down with Tim Wakefield, the CEO and Founder of Dead Calm Seas Marine Services and RTI Onshore, to uncover this powerful transformation from both theory and real-life practical experiences.In this episode, Tim shares how his military background, marked by resilience and leadership, has been instrumental in building and growing his businesses. You'll get exclusive insights into the ethical principles that drive his operations, how he navigates challenges, and the importance of continuous learning.Episode Highlights:

Struggling to keep your construction cash flow in check? Do last-minute financial decisions put your projects at risk? Are unexpected expenses causing sleepless nights?In this episode of Тhe Construction MF'ers podcast, our Founder & CEO, Scott Peper, explains the dangers of improvising with cash in the construction industry. Scott outlines crucial pitfalls to avoid and shares expert tips on maintaining a healthy cash flow to ensure your projects succeed.Episode Highlights:

The latest episode of Construction MF'ers podcast is all about becoming bankable as a government contractor!In this episode, Scott Peper, Founder and CEO of Mobilization Funding, sits down with Christa Williams, VP of Government Contracting and Regional SME in Business Banking, and Chris Patty, SVP of Government Contracting and Regional SME in Commercial Banking at Bank of America, to uncover essential banking insights.Christa and Chris share their extensive expertise in navigating the complex and often challenging world of traditional and private finance, specifically tailored for government contractors. They dive into the critical importance of building solid financial foundations, maintaining precise and accurate financial records, and leveraging the benefits of establishing strong, trustworthy relationships with financial institutions.If you're eager to learn more, here are the key episode highlights:

Ever faced a cash flow crisis that jeopardized your entire project? In the latest episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, Founder and CEO of Mobilization Funding, shares an eye-opening story about the harsh lessons learned in construction cash flow management. Discover how a perfect storm of financing delays, cost overruns, and hasty decisions can spiral into a financial nightmare. This episode is packed full of stories, critical insights, and actionable strategies to safeguard your projects from similar pitfalls.Episode Highlights:

Welcome back to The Construction MF'ers! In the latest episode, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, sits down with industry expert McLean Wilson, Co-CEO & President of Breakout Finance and Co-CEO & Managing Partner of Altriarch. Both Breakout Finance and Altriarch specialize in alternative lending and construction financing, making this episode essential for those in the construction industry looking for practical financing strategies.The episode starts out with an amazing story about how Scott and McLean met, through a disastrous business deal involving a fraudulent client, which ultimately led them to collaborate and recover their losses together, and started a strong friendship.If that got you interested, here are the key episode highlights:

Welcome to another episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast! In episode 61, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, reveals how you can turn major hurdles on a construction project into profitable opportunities.Are you struggling with project constraints? Scott shares real-world strategies to save six weeks of labor costs and boost your project's profitability. Learn how shifting your mindset and leveraging cash flow tools can transform your approach to construction management.Episode Highlights:

Welcome to another exciting episode of The Construction MF'ers! In podcast episode 60, Scott Peper, our CEO and Founder, has an inspiring and engaging chat with July Franco. July's story is one of true determination and grit - turning her military discipline and determination into a successful business!July served in the Marine Corps for 16 years, reaching the rank of Gunnery Sergeant and participating in Operation Enduring Freedom and key operations in Okinawa, Japan. After her military career, she teamed up with her brother to start Franco Hauling LLC in the Chicagoland area, breaking stereotypes and inspiring others along the way.Here are the episode highlights:

Are you finding it tough to keep your cash flow under control? Are traditional cash flow models holding you back from making better decisions?In this episode of the Construction MF'ers podcast, our Founder & CEO, Scott Peper, dives deep into the benefits of using a cash flow forecast at the project level. He breaks down how starting at the project level gives you better control, helps you make proactive decisions, and ultimately leads to greater profitability than sticking with the old methods.Episode Highlights:

Ever heard a story of a construction company that grew from a single used dump truck to 475 employees, with an almost 100-year history and heritage? This episode is packed with construction insights from Herb Sargent!In the latest episode of The Construction MF'ers podcast, Scott Peper, our Founder and CEO, sits down with Herb Sargent, CEO of Sargent. Founded by Herbert E. Sargent in 1926 with a used Reo dump truck, Sargent has grown into a full-service contractor serving the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Herb brings a wealth of experience and construction insights from his long career in the industry. He started young, grew the business through mergers, expanded the team to nearly 500 employees, and navigated the complexities of managing large teams, cash flows, lines of credit, surety relationships, government contracting, and bonding, to name just a few!Episode Highlights:

Have you ever struggled to manage cash flow while juggling multiple projects? Do schedule changes leave you scrambling to keep everything on track?In the latest episode our Founder & CEO, Scott Peper, dives into the complexities of managing cash flow in several construction projects simultaneously. Scott discusses the challenges of overlapping schedules, the need for robust systems, and how to ensure profitability despite the chaos. He offers practical advice on handling the financial complexities of multiple projects, emphasizing the importance of real-time information for making informed decisions and avoiding common pitfalls!Episode Highlights: