Podcasts about Houzz

Wilson Harwood has thought about nothing but soundproofing for six years, and Mark gave him a full hour to prove it. They cover why the quietest room in the world makes people fall over, how a perfectly square tile shower becomes an acoustic disaster, and what builders can actually do to make homes meaningfully quieter without going full recording studio. Mark even brings up Mysa Hus and gets his work graded live, which takes some guts. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Olive and Vine Socials Website- https://oliveandvinesocials.com/ ReadWoodFloors Website: https://realwoodfloors.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.soundproofyourstudio.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@soundproofyourstudio Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Losers are Winners is back with Adam McChesney, who signed away equity in his business for what sounded like a great deal and ended up in an eight month legal battle instead. Mark and Adam talk about the self confidence gap that almost sank him, why he rebuilt bigger and better once the dust settled, and why he now believes collaboration happens at the top while competition happens at the bottom. Mark even breaks out a horse analogy about pulling three times the weight together, and somehow it lands perfectly. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Olive and Vine Socials Website- https://oliveandvinesocials.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://buildauthority.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildersofauthority_/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Lauren Riddei's body basically staged an intervention on her career, and the fallout turned her into one of the sharpest voices in healthy home design working today. She and Mark talk biomimicry, why your front door should act like a filter, and why bigger houses might be making us sicker instead of happier. It ends on birds building the perfect nest, which somehow makes total sense by the time you get there. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Real Wood Floors  Website: https://realwoodfloors.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.hausholistics.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hausholistics/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Mark brought Gabe back to Mysa Hus one more time to talk about the thing that actually makes a house feel like a home, and it is not the granite. They dig into why cracked plaster is a compliment, why Gabe writes hidden notes inside the walls he builds, and why Mark thinks every builder is secretly a choir conductor. It ends on a tattered flag analogy that will hit different if you have ever weathered a storm of your own. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.norcrossbuildersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norcross_builders/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

This Week In Startups is made possible by: Vanta https://www.vanta.com/twist Agree https://agree.com YSecurity https://YSecurity.io/TWIST   Today's show: Frontier AI models can ace PhD-level exams, but it's still bad at tracking down the product you want in the style that suits you. Onton's Zach Hudson tell us that the problem is that models are a black box. His solution? A neurosymbolic model, Ontology 1, that learns about your taste and preferred aesthetic over time, then produces product searches tailored specifically to you, rather than just using keywords and relevant tags. How do neurosymbolic models work, and how does Onton understand your prompts and favorite design trends? And why aren't the frontier labs working on neurosymbolic models of their own? Zach joins Jason and Lon to discuss. PLUS, following a record-smashing SpaceX IPO, Ashi Dissanayake of Spacium makes the case that the real bottleneck in space isn't launching rockets off the ground any more. It's refueling in orbit. Guests Zach Hudson on X: ****https://x.com/nosduhz Onton: https://onton.com/ Spacium: https://spaceium.com/ Spacium on X: https://x.com/SpaceiumInc Relevant Links Poolside's journey to AGI: https://poolside.ai/vision/purpose Startup Archive: Sam Altman on the Paul Graham advice that saved OpenAI: https://www.startuparchive.org/p/sam-altman-on-the-paul-graham-advice-that-saved-open-ai-always-make-an-api Kelly Wearstler: https://www.kellywearstler.com/ Ennis House: https://franklloydwright.org/site/ennis-house/ Los Feliz Living: Ennis House profile: https://www.losfelizliving.com/los-feliz-historic-homes/ennis-house-los-feliz-hcm-149 Indiewire: Ennis-inspired "The Studio" offices: https://www.indiewire.com/features/craft/the-studio-production-design-interview-seth-rogen-1235114365/ Monocle Magazine: https://monocle.com/ Spaceium on Y Combinator: https://www.ycombinator.com/companies/spaceium-inc Orbit Fab's RAFTI: https://www.orbitfab.com/rafti/ James Webb Space Telescope: https://science.nasa.gov/mission/webb/ Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/ Timestamps: 0:00 Zach Hudson joins: What is "neurosymbolic search" 4:03 Ontology 1 isn't a black box 6:31 Who is using Onton? 9:36 Vanta - Get $1000 off your SOC 2 at https://www.vanta.com/twist 11:35 Could neurosymbolic models reach AGI? 13:19 Jason loves Wright's Ennis House 17:03 The shape of AI companies is changing 19:28 Agree.com - Stop chasing invoices and automate your entire contract-to-cash stack. Go to https://agree.com and tell them Jason sent you to get 50% off for life! 22:32 UGC as a data moat 26:03 The Dead Internet Theory 28:13 Ashi Dissanayake of Spacium joins 29:52 YSecurity - The on-demand security team for startups. Need enterprise-grade security without hiring a $400k CISO? YSecurity gives you 40+ expert engineers, matched to exactly what you need, by the hour, with your first six hours completely free. Go to https://YSecurity.io/TWIST 31:50 Storables vs. cryogenics: the zero-boil-off breakthrough 34:11 All kinds of propulsion requires refueling 36:09 Getting more value from LEO to GEO 38:28 Moving at rocket speed 44:54 Why demand is so acute 49:37 The investing climate for space, post-SpaceX Subscribe to the TWiST500 newsletter: https://ticker.thisweekinstartups.com Check out the TWIST500: https://www.twist500.com Subscribe to This Week in Startups on Apple: https://rb.gy/v19fcp   Follow Lon: X: https://x.com/lons   Follow Jason: X: https://twitter.com/Jason LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncalacanis   Check out all our partner offers: https://partners.launch.co/   Great TWIST interviews: Will Guidara, Eoghan McCabe, Steve Huffman, Brian Chesky, Bob Moesta, Aaron Levie, Sophia Amoruso, Reid Hoffman, Frank Slootman, Billy McFarland   Check out Jason's suite of newsletters: https://substack.com/@calacanis   Follow TWiST: Twitter: https://twitter.com/TWiStartups YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/thisweekin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinstartups TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisweekinstartups Substack: https://twistartups.substack.com

Mark spends half this episode geeking out over where lumber actually comes from, and honestly, so will you. John Brenard breaks down why the southeast grows the best trees in the world, why his fund treats a forest like a factory and a warehouse in one, and why a 1919 two by six might just be tougher than anything framing a house today. Mark even brings up Settlers of Catan to explain it, so buckle up. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.southviewtimber.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbrenard/  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Gabe Norcross is back for part two of Losers are Winners, and Mark doesn't let him off easy this time. They get into why raising his rates cost him a client but saved his business, the difference between bending and breaking, and how losing his house three years ago cracked open a whole new set of dreams he never would have found otherwise. It ends on a quote Gabe carries with him now, broken crayons still color, and honestly Mark's already designing the merch in his head. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.norcrossbuildersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norcross_builders/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

 In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland, President of Wieland Builders, welcomes Carmen Hickerson, Executive Officer of the Home Builders Association of Greater Cincinnati, for an insightful conversation about the people and advocacy behind the home building industry.Carmen shares her journey from growing up in Northern Kentucky to leading one of the region's most influential industry associations. Drawing on her background in public relations, public policy, and association leadership, she discusses what it takes to advocate for builders, educate elected officials, and strengthen the voice of the residential construction industry.Jeff and Carmen explore why advocacy matters at the local, state, and national levels, how coalitions with other industries help advance housing initiatives, and why it's critical for builders to have representation when decisions affecting housing and development are made. They also discuss the value of trade association membership, member engagement, leadership development, and the importance of networking within the industry.The conversation also takes a behind-the-scenes look at Homearama, Greater Cincinnati's premier new home showcase. Carmen explains how host communities are selected, what builders invest to participate, and why Homearama continues to inspire homeowners while driving economic development throughout the region. Jeff and Carmen discuss this year's exciting event, the variety of homes on display, and the lasting impact custom home building has on communities.Whether you're a builder, industry professional, homeowner, or simply interested in what goes into creating thriving neighborhoods, this episode offers valuable insight into the leadership, collaboration, and advocacy that help shape the future of home building.Topics Covered:Carmen Hickerson's path to leading the Home Builders AssociationWhy advocacy is essential for the home building industryEducating policymakers and building industry coalitionsThe value of trade association membershipLeadership, volunteerism, and member engagementBehind the scenes of HomearamaThe economic and community impact of residential constructionThe future of housing and industry advocacyTune in for an engaging conversation about the work happening behind the scenes to support builders, strengthen communities, and advance the future of home building.Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comHome Builders Association of Greater Cincinnati websiteHomearama 2026 show information and ticketsSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz , LinkedIn or Pinterest 

Tanner Konrady swore he'd never be a builder, then one Christmas break with a hammer changed his mind for good. Now he runs a 26 person company in coastal North Carolina, building healthy homes and a property services business, all while handing his eight year old a sledgehammer on weekends. Mark and Tanner talk windows nobody should open, hiring, and the leadership lesson hiding in a butt joint. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://konradyandsonconstruction.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/konradyandson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/konradyandson/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Gabe Norcross came back from Contractor Coalition, fired a bad client, set up an investment account, and hired a bookkeeper, all before the next coalition. He and Mark talk through the quiet financial discipline that finally started working, why most builders become the bank for their own clients without realizing it, and what it actually feels like to turn a profit and not feel guilty about it. Short, practical, and genuinely useful. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.norcrossbuildersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norcross_builders/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Gabe Norcross built other people's dreams while quietly drowning in his own, and for eight months he told nobody. He and Mark talk through the project that cost him everything, the photo he took of himself on a beach that he still pulls up when he needs it, and what it looks like to rebuild a life from the inside out when you finally decide you are worth saving. This one will stay with you. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.norcrossbuildersinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/norcross_builders/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

The Digital Foundation for High-Ticket Contractors: Driving Lead Velocity and Building Unshakeable Authority with Matt DeLongIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Podcast, host Josh Elledge sat down with Matt DeLong, the CEO of United Foundry, to unpack the digital marketing mechanics required for home builders, high-end remodelers, and trade contractors to command premium market positioning. Matt, a seasoned agency architect and digital marketing pioneer specializing in the home services sector, details how construction and remodeling businesses can break free from unpredictable word-of-mouth cycles. This conversation delivers an intentional operational roadmap for contractors looking to leverage local AI data, build high-converting digital storefronts, dominate regional Google search rankings, and establish long-term pipeline velocity.The Architectural Advantage: Converting Digital Proof into High-Ticket Client PipelinesRelying solely on organic referrals and unpredictable word-of-mouth client acquisition routinely exposes high-ticket home service businesses to dangerous feast-or-famine revenue cycles. Matt DeLong explains that when a custom builder or luxury remodeling firm presents an outdated, amateurish online footprint, it instantly erodes prospective buyer trust and stalls conversion timelines. To capture high-net-worth homeowners, contractors must treat their digital properties as high-converting storefronts, complete with high-resolution project galleries, detailed case studies, and clear calls-to-action. Elevating basic operational touchpoints—such as replacing generic email domains with professional company email addresses—creates immediate psychological alignment between the contractor's online branding and the multi-million dollar physical projects they deliver.To build a sustainable client acquisition engine, home service companies must combine targeted pay-per-click advertising with hyper-local search engine optimization and automated social proof systems. Securing top-of-page visibility through Google Local Service Ads and localized PPC campaigns ensures a steady flow of high-intent search traffic, while active review management on platforms like Google and Houzz validates contractor credibility in real time. Search algorithms heavily favor local businesses with frequent, positive client feedback, making post-project review collection a non-negotiable component of local SEO. By featuring authentic video testimonials, recent project awards, and before-and-after galleries directly across digital ad landing pages, contractors eliminate buyer hesitation and dramatically shorten high-ticket sales cycles.Furthermore, integrating advanced AI tools with publicly accessible property data enables forward-thinking contractors to execute hyper-personalized, targeted community outreach. By utilizing artificial intelligence software to filter regional property records, trade leaders can map out specific target neighborhoods, isolate ideal homeowner demographics, and remove non-relevant corporate properties. This data-backed approach allows contractors to craft personalized messaging that transforms cold geographic outreach into warm, relationship-driven business opportunities. When custom builders synthesize professional digital design, automated review collection, hyper-local paid search, and targeted data mining into a unified marketing architecture, they eliminate pipeline friction, protect profit margins, and predictably scale enterprise value.About Matt DeLongMatt DeLong is the CEO of United Foundry, a prominent digital marketing strategist, speaker, and expert in contractor lead generation ecosystems. Drawing from years of hands-on experience helping home builders, remodelers, and trade contractors scale their regional operations, Matt specializes in building custom digital infrastructures that convert online traffic into high-value clients. He is a TEDx speaker, author of "Learning to Dream Again," and a recognized industry thought leader focused on helping contractors build resilient, data-driven revenue systems.About United FoundryUnited Foundry is an elite digital marketing agency and lead generation consultancy engineered specifically to help home service professionals, remodelers, and custom builders scale their market presence. The agency specializes in delivering custom website design, Google Local Service Ads management, localized SEO architecture, and automated client review acquisition playbooks. Through tailored digital strategies and data-driven marketing campaigns, United Foundry enables contractors across the home services industry to remove customer acquisition bottlenecks, capture high-value projects, and maximize enterprise valuation.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeUnited Foundry Official Website: unitedfoundry.comMatt DeLong on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matt-delongKey Episode HighlightsThe Digital Storefront Standard: Aligning your website's visual quality and user experience with the high-ticket physical projects your company builds.Hyper-Local Data Mining with AI: Utilizing artificial intelligence and public property records to filter target neighborhoods and personalize homeowner outreach.The Review Verification Engine: Leveraging Google reviews and video testimonials to boost local SEO rankings and build instant buyer trust.Targeted Paid Media Acquisition: Combining Google Local Service Ads with geo-targeted PPC campaigns to stabilize pipeline velocity and eliminate revenue swings.Professional Touchpoint Governance: Standardizing branded domain emails and prompt client communication to reinforce credibility across every touchpoint.ConclusionThe conversation with Matt DeLong reinforces that scaling a successful contracting business requires an intentional balance of high-end craftsmanship, digital authority, and data-driven marketing systems. By standardizing internal web design, deploying targeted local ad strategies, and actively collecting customer reviews, contractors can transform an unpredictable referral stream into a highly structured, self-sustaining corporate growth engine.More from The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Ashley Ortiz joined the podcast with a client story so fresh the paint was still wet, and somehow it only got worse from there. She and Mark swap war stories about nightmare clients, whether specifying coat counts in your contract actually protects you, and why the painter always gets blamed even when it is the drywaller's fault. It ends with a mutual agreement that some jobs you just have to get out of as fast as possible and count the lessons instead of the losses. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://bellavistanw.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellavistanw/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BellaVistaNW/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

What separates a beautiful custom home from an unforgettable one? The details.In Episode #87 of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland welcomes Interior Trim Specialists, Corey and Jim Vallandingham for an engaging conversation about the craftsmanship, collaboration, and creativity behind interior trim and finish carpentry.With decades of experience in the building industry, Corey and Jim share their unique journey into interior trim sales and explain why communication, passion, and attention to detail are just as important as the materials themselves. From helping homeowners choose the right trim package to coordinating with builders and skilled craftsmen, they reveal what it takes to bring a custom home's interior to life.The discussion covers everything from selecting the right wood species to today's evolving design trends, the rise (and debate!) over shiplap, and why timeless craftsmanship always outlasts passing fads.Jeff and his guests also dive into:The art and skill behind finish carpentryWhy proper material handling and acclimation are critical for qualityInterior trim trends that are shaping today's luxury custom homesCustom closets, pantries, and staircases that combine beauty with functionalityChoosing materials that complement your home's architectureThe importance of early planning and collaboration between tradesHow teamwork creates a smoother building experience and a better finished productAlong the way, listeners will enjoy stories about music, craftsmanship, career journeys, and the passion that drives everyone involved in building exceptional custom homes.Whether you're planning a custom home, remodeling your current home, or simply appreciate fine craftsmanship and thoughtful design, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most important finishing stages of the homebuilding process.Listen now to discover why the smallest details often make the biggest impact and how great trim work helps create a custom home that stands the test of time. Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comK&I Millwork - https://www.ki-lumber.com/products/millwork-mouldings/Koetter Woodworking - https://koetterwoodworking.com/Cox Interior - https://coxinterior.com/See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz or Pinterest  

Louise Woehrle is a passionate storyteller whose mission is to shine a light on stories that need to be told with the hope they will serve as catalysts for change. In addition to her work as a documentary filmmaker, she is an Emmy regional award-winning Executive Producer (Grandfather's Birthday), book publisher/editor for Suicide Survivors' Club - A Family's Journey Through the Death of Their Loved One - awarded first place in the Midwest Book Award, and co-founder of the Collaborative Theater that produced an award-winning all-women original play, Women: Scenes From Life.   Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop   See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events   The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life.   Sponsors for the Episode:   Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/   Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/   Where to find the Guest: Website: https://www.whirlygigproductions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whirlygigproductions/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/whirlygigproductions Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whirlygigproductions/   Where to find the Host: Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/ Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/ Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

What happens when two marketing minds start talking about failure? A surprisingly fun conversation about growth, trust, data, and why "measure, learn, change" beats chasing the perfect plan every time. Chad Guillory of CARD Companies shares hard-earned lessons from 30 years in sales and business development, proving that today's mistakes often become tomorrow's competitive advantage. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadguillory/  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Most business owners underprice their work not because the math is wrong but because their fears show up in the numbers, and Etinosa Agbonlahor has built an entire firm around fixing exactly that. She and Mark talk through the psychology of pricing, how to have money conversations with the people who matter most before it becomes an emergency, and why a blank price tag on a truly unique home might actually work against you. It is one of the most fascinating episodes in recent memory, and the wine study alone is worth the full hour. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://decisionalpha.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/etinosasere/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

SPAN is the smart electrical panel that tells you exactly which circuit is draining your wallet, can charge your car only on solar power, and somehow also looks cool enough that homeowners show it off to their friends. Reina Smyth and Mark cover the origin story behind the product, the wrong QR code that caused two weeks of frustration, and Mark's very ambitious idea to turn his wellness home into a Faraday cage for family quiet time. The idea did not pan out, but it did lead to one of the better rabbit holes in recent podcast history. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.span.io/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/get_span/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reinasmyth/  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Payton's Lemonade Stand Returns: Growing a Movement That Changes LivesPayton Obert and Jess Obert are back on the WB Download, and what a difference a year has made.Since their first appearance on the podcast, Payton's Lemonade Stand has continued to inspire communities across Greater Cincinnati while making an incredible impact. What began as one little girl's lemonade stand at just six years old has grown into a movement with more than 100 lemonade stand hosts, over $5 million raised for children facing medical, personal, and economic hardships, and more than 18,000 books donated to the Queen City Book Bank.Jeff Wieland sits down with Payton and Jess to discuss how the organization has grown, the leadership lessons learned along the way, and what's next—including a new scholarship program for young hosts, expanding volunteer opportunities, and exciting community partnerships.The conversation also covers:The inspiring story behind Payton's Lemonade Stand and how one lemonade stand became a regional movement.Payton's journey into high school while balancing cross country, volunteering, babysitting, and philanthropy.The impact of collecting thousands of books to promote childhood literacy through Queen City Book Bank.A new collaboration with Chowdown Cincinnati featuring Payton's Lemonade-inspired cocktails that give back to the mission.The Cincinnati Open and Fifth Third Bank's "Cincy Serves" community recognizes Payton Obert as a nominee.How Wieland Builders proudly supports Payton's Lemonade through fundraising events, donations, and its annual lemonade stand.Last year's Annual Payton's Lemonade Stand raised an incredible $150,000 in just three hours, and Jeff shares why supporting Payton's mission has become such an important part of Wieland Builders' culture and community involvement. This episode is filled with inspiring stories, laughter, community partnerships, and a reminder that one simple idea can create extraordinary change. Whether you're looking to host a lemonade stand, support a meaningful cause, or simply hear an uplifting story about leadership and giving back, you won't want to miss this conversation.Listen now and discover how Payton's Lemonade Stand continues to sweeten lives, empower the next generation of young philanthropists, and make a lasting impact throughout our community.Donate/Website: Payton's Lemonade Stand WebsiteEmail Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz , LinkedIn or Pinterest  

Don Forsman has 45 years of building homes and is currently building his own, which means he has never been more dangerous in a conversation about never evers and always always. He and Mark cover why you can't blame the drywaller for a bad HVAC vent, how external insulation brought wood siding back from the dead, and why precision is the goal and perfection is a trap. This one is basically a masterclass disguised as two guys talking in a sunroom. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.welchforsman.com/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/welchforsman Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Josh Frei spent 17 years as a firefighter before pivoting to custom saunas, which means he already knew how to show up calm, problem solve fast, and never leave a job half done. He and Mark talk through the lessons learned when too many cooks in the kitchen cost a project days of rework, why a quick phone call beats an email thread every single time, and how Symmetry earned a lifetime partnership by driving benches across the country in a rental truck. Also: a former firefighter helping people sweat on purpose is the kind of career pivot that writes its own theme song, and yes, his crew actually made one. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.symmetrysauna.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/symmetrysauna/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Billy Beson walked into a million dollar hotel pitch with nothing but a museum poster, told the client he could make the place look like a million bucks for a million bucks, and got the job anyway. He and Mark spend an hour trading stories about Minnesota's quietest billionaires, 46,000 square foot homes with bowling alleys and car simulators, and why designing toward feelings instead of materials is the real secret to a legendary career. This one will make you laugh, make you think, and make you wish you had been a fly on the wall at every dinner party Billy's ever thrown. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.theartemaxgallery.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BillyBesonCo Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

After pulling off six events in seven days, Mark sits down with Alyssa Abbott and Mary Clark to talk about why in-person connection is still the most underrated marketing strategy in the building industry. They cover everything from swag as a love language to why empowering your community to be your advocates beats any ad spend, and Alyssa makes the very good point that sometimes the best business move is just grilling hot dogs and saying thank you to your subs. Turns out the guy who invented fire was an influencer too, and Mark has the quotes to prove it. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Alyssa Abbott Website: https://oliveandvinesocials.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliveandvinesocials/ Mary Clark Website: https://www.pella.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-clark-9b45b2119/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

PLAAD's Mark Stankey and Matthew Byers join Mark for a deep dive into what actually makes a home authentic, and it turns out the answer has a lot more to do with composition than cost. They talk through never evers like windows to nowhere, soffit returns gone wrong, and why a quiet, well composed exterior beats a gable smashed mansion every time. Stick around for the courtyard story that proves the best design lessons sometimes come straight from the client. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.plaadoffice.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plaadoffice/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/plaadoffice  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Two social media experts walk into Mysa Hus, and what comes out is a refreshingly honest take on the wins, the flops, and the algorithm mysteries nobody can fully explain. Alyssa Abbott from Olive and Vine Socials and Mary Clark from Pella swap stories about overworked carousels that flopped, lazy Saturday posts that crushed it, and why chasing every trending audio clip is a great way to end up in murky water. They also tackle the AI elephant in the room, and spoiler, authenticity wins every single time. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Alyssa Abbott Website: https://oliveandvinesocials.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oliveandvinesocials/ Mary Clark Website: https://www.pella.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-clark-9b45b2119/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

As housing preferences evolve, more buyers look beyond traditional subdivisions in search of greater privacy, flexibility and personalization. For many, that means building a custom home on land they already own or plan to purchase.  This week on Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, Dean Cowart, principal of Cowart Residential, joins Host Carol Morgan to discuss the growing appeal of build-on-your-lot homes, the custom home building process and how today’s luxury buyers are redefining what they want from their living spaces.  The Growing Demand for Build-on-Your-Lot Homes  Build-on-your-lot construction continues to attract buyers entering a new phase of life. Many homeowners leave behind larger family homes and pursue a more intentional lifestyle on property that offers additional space and privacy. Many of these buyers gravitate toward North Georgia’s mountains and rural landscapes for a quieter pace of life.  “I think it’s a demand that people love to sort of get out of the rat race of Metro Atlanta into something that’s more tranquil,” said Cowart.  Build-on-your-lot opportunities give them the ability to create a residence tailored to their lifestyle without sacrificing location.  Navigating the Challenges of Building on Private Land  While selecting a floor plan excites many buyers, building on private property introduces several variables that they often underestimate. Soil conditions, topography, setback requirements and stormwater regulations all create unique considerations that can affect construction costs and timelines.  “What can be really scary is thinking about placing that on your lot and figuring out what are the nuances to this land that are going to affect the ultimate cost of my house,” said Cowart.  Cowart Residential guides clients through property evaluations before construction begins, helping them understand how factors like home placement, site development costs, surveys and municipal requirements all come together. By taking this proactive approach, the team ensures homeowners have a clearer picture of their overall investment and can move forward with greater confidence, avoiding unexpected challenges later in the process.  More Land Means More Freedom  Build-on-your-lot construction gives homeowners greater freedom. Unlike traditional neighborhoods with HOA restrictions, larger homesites allow homeowners to design a property around their unique needs and interests.  Whether homeowners want a detached workshop, RV storage, an accessory dwelling unit or a hobby farm, they gain significantly more flexibility than they would in a conventional subdivision.  “It [build-on-your-lot construction] really gives you the opportunity to be extremely creative with how you want to use the land and what your family needs are,” said Cowart.  This growing interest in flexibility continues to drive demand for larger homesites and homesteading-style living, trends Cowart expects to gain even more momentum.  Outdoor Living Remains a Top Priority  The pandemic sparked a renewed focus on outdoor living, and that trend continues to shape home design decisions today. Luxury buyers now prioritize seamless connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. Many request outdoor kitchens, covered living areas and expansive patios.  What Luxury Home Buyers Want in 2026  Platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram and Houzz influence how homeowners make design decisions and select products. Instead of relying on magazines and model homes, buyers now arrive with curated ideas and highly specific preferences.  Beyond personalization, buyers also prioritize flexibility during the design process. Cowart Residential often collaborates with homeowners’ interior designers to streamline selections and ensure the finished home reflects the client’s vision.  While kitchens and bathrooms remain focal points, homeowners increasingly seek unique finishes, specialty materials and customized features that set their homes apart.  Balancing Personalization & Budget  Although buyers have access to more inspiration than ever, they must still manage expectations and budgets throughout the custom home process. Cowart emphasizes the importance of involving the builder early, especially when working with an architect on a fully custom design. This collaboration helps align design decisions with financial goals before plans progress too far.  “We like to take an opportunity to have a discovery period,” said Cowart. “The builder can sort of guide you as the designs are getting created, knowing what your ultimate budget is.”  By establishing priorities early and creating a clear roadmap for finishes and selections, builders help homeowners make informed decisions and avoid costly redesigns later in the process.  Building Community at Enclave at Mill Creek  In addition to custom homes and build-on-your-lot opportunities, Cowart Residential is developing Enclave at Mill Creek, a new community in the City of Mulberry near Hamilton Mill.  The community features detached single-family homes in a thoughtfully planned setting that offers privacy, quiet streetscapes and attainable pricing in a highly desirable location. Designed with today's buyers in mind, the homes emphasize functional layouts, modern finishes and low-maintenance living, making them appealing to a wide range of homeowners, from young professionals to those looking to downsize.  Residents will also benefit from convenient access to nearby shopping, dining and major transportation corridors, while still enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of a smaller, emerging city. This balance of accessibility and tranquility has made the area especially attractive to buyers seeking both convenience and a sense of community.  The project has already proven successful due to its unique product offering and strategic location within one of metro Atlanta’s newest cities.  About Cowart Residential  For more than 40 years and across three generations, the Cowart family has built homes and communities throughout metro Atlanta and North Georgia. Led by Dean Cowart and Nick Williams, Cowart Residential specializes in custom homes, build-on-your-lot opportunities and thoughtfully designed residential communities tailored to today’s lifestyles. Drawing on decades of experience in homebuilding, land development and construction, Cowart Residential guides clients through every stage of the process, from site evaluation and design to construction and completion. Whether building on private land or within one of its communities, Cowart Residential is committed to delivering homes that reflect each homeowner’s vision while maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship, quality and attention to detail. For more information about Cowart Residential, visit the website. Podcast Thanks       Thank you to Denim Marketing for sponsoring Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio. Known as a trendsetter, Denim Marketing has been blogging since 2006 and podcasting since 2011. Contact them when you need quality, original content for social media, public relations, blogging, email marketing and promotions. A comfortable fit for companies of all shapes and sizes, Denim Marketing understands marketing strategies are not one-size-fits-all. The agency works with your company to create a perfectly tailored marketing strategy that will suit your needs and niche. Try Denim Marketing on for size by calling 770-383-3360 or by visiting www.DenimMarketing.com.        About Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio       Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio, presented by Denim Marketing, highlights the movers and shakers in the Atlanta real estate industry – the home builders, developers, Realtors and suppliers working to provide the American dream for Atlantans. For more information on how you can be featured as a guest, contact Denim Marketing at 770-383-3360 or fill out the Atlanta Real Estate Forum contact form. Subscribe to the Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio podcast on iTunes, and if you like this week's show, be sure to rate it. Atlanta Real Estate Forum Radio was recently honored on FeedSpot's Top 100 Atlanta Podcasts, ranking 16th overall and number one out of all ranked real estate podcasts.  The post Cowart Residential: Build-on-Your-Lot Homes in North Georgia appeared first on Atlanta Real Estate Forum.

In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland welcomes fellow custom home builders Don Weiler of Bailey Weiler Design|Build|Renovate (Bloomington, Indiana), Adam Hehlke of Built QC (Davenport, Iowa), and Dan Geis of SummitRidge Custom Homes (Golden, Colorado).As members of a Builder 20 peer group, these industry leaders come together to share real-world insights, challenges, and opportunities shaping the custom home building industry across the country. The conversation highlights the value of collaboration, accountability, and friendship among builders who rely on one another for support and continuous improvement.The group begins by discussing current market trends and evolving design preferences. Adam Hehlke shares how homeowners are embracing a wide range of architectural styles, from modern farmhouse to contemporary and uniquely personalized homes. Don Weiler notes a shift toward quality over quantity, with homeowners investing more in renovations, outdoor living spaces, and thoughtfully designed homes. The builders also discuss the growing popularity of warmer color palettes, natural materials, and mixed textures as homeowners move away from the gray-and-white trends that dominated recent years.Jeff and his guests dive into financing and pricing strategies, comparing cost-plus and fixed-price contracts. Don explains how cost-plus pricing provides transparency and flexibility for clients, while Adam discusses using fixed-price contracts for smaller remodels and cost-plus agreements for larger custom projects. The discussion highlights the challenges builders face in managing costs and client expectations in today's volatile market.The conversation turns to the biggest challenges affecting builders today, including fluctuating material costs, labor shortages, project delays, regulatory hurdles, and increasingly strict energy code requirements. Don discusses the difficulties of finding build-ready lots and navigating local development regulations, while Dan shares insights on rising construction costs and the impact of changing energy standards. Together, they agree that maintaining schedules, controlling costs, and finding skilled trade partners remain among the industry's greatest challenges.Relationships and networking are recurring themes throughout the episode. Jeff emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with trusted peers, while Don highlights the tremendous value of Builder 20 groups for sharing experiences, solving problems, and improving business operations. Adam and Dan discuss how local and state associations provide additional opportunities for education, mentorship, and industry advocacy.The builders also share their marketing philosophies and customer engagement strategies. Don explains that face-to-face meetings and personal relationships remain their most effective marketing tools. Adam discusses the growing role of social media in generating leads and connecting with prospective clients, while Dan shares how jobsite signage, branded vehicles, and neighborhood marketing help maintain visibility. Despite changing marketing channels, all agree that referrals driven by exceptional customer experiences remain the most powerful source of new business.Jeff then leads a conversation on quality control and the systems required to consistently deliver exceptional homes. The group discusses maintaining standards through punch lists, field training, team walk-throughs, and detailed inspections. They stress the importance of protecting schedules, setting realistic expectations, and having the discipline to say "no" when unrealistic timelines threaten quality. Jeff shares how ongoing education, peer reviews, team training, and third-party inspections help maintain accountability and craftsmanship throughout the building process.As the episode wraps up, the builders reflect on lessons learned throughout their careers and the advice they would give their younger selves. Their recommendations include valuing free time, avoiding pride, surrounding yourself with great people, finding mentors, continuing to learn, and trusting that challenges will work themselves out over time. Jeff adds that hard work, honesty, respect, and learning from those who have gone before you remain foundational principles for long-term success.The episode concludes with reflections on the friendships built through the industry, excitement about upcoming Builder 20 meetings, and gratitude for the relationships that make both business and life more rewarding.Topics Covered:• Current custom home design trends and homeowner preferences• Modern farmhouse, contemporary, and personalized home styles• Cost-plus versus fixed-price construction contracts• Construction financing and managing client expectations• Material costs, labor shortages, and project scheduling• Build-ready lots, development challenges, and energy codes• Builder 20 groups and industry networking• Marketing strategies, social media, and referral generation• Appreciation, homeowner gifts, and relationship building• Quality control systems, inspections, and team walk-throughs• Continuous education, peer reviews, and leadership development• Lessons learned and advice for future generations of buildersWhether you're a homeowner, builder, architect, designer, remodeler, or trade partner, this episode offers valuable insights into the business, craftsmanship, and relationships that drive success in the custom home building industry. Bailey Weiler Design|Build|RenovateBuilt QCSummitRidge Custom HomesEmail Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz , LinkedIn or Pinterest 

Forget renderings, Taylor Hall O'Brien is making the case for real light, real rooms, and real collaboration in an industry that AI is circling like a hawk. He and Mark talk through the art of consistent storytelling across a photo gallery, how Taylor built relationships with top editors one Instagram follow at a time, and why being easy to work with matters more than being the most talented person in the room. It's part photography lesson, part business strategy session, and part really lovely conversation over Diet Coke at sunrise. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: http://taylorhallobrien.com/ Instagram: http://instagram.com/taylorhallobrien Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Twenty years, 30 employees, and one very real fire that nearly took out a parquet floor a month before a major photo shoot. Anthony Janckila and Mark trade stories about clients going dark, why the GC ends up responsible for literally everything whether they get paid for it or not, and the kind of loyalty that shows up at a funeral instead of just sending flowers. This one's got heart, a little chaos, and a genuinely great pitch for a Curious Builder retirement home. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.alpinehardwoodmn.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alpinehardwoodmn/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Your website can be polished and still quietly leak leads. We see it all the time: great designers and remodelers doing strong work, but their site doesn't show it clearly, doesn't earn trust fast enough, or doesn't tell visitors what to do next. So we break down five website upgrades for 2026 that make an immediate difference for the remodeling industry and design professionals who want better inquiries, better fit clients, and a stronger first impression.We start with high quality photography, because your images are your credibility. We talk about why professional project photos change how homeowners judge your craftsmanship and taste, and what to do if you're still shooting work yourself. Then we get practical about conversion: a clear call to action that tells people to book a consultation, submit a project form, or take the next step, instead of leaving them to guess. If you've ever wondered why traffic doesn't turn into leads, this is often the missing piece.From there, we dig into trust and visibility. We explain how to use social proof the right way, including linking out to authentic Google reviews or Houzz reviews, and why third party validation beats self promotion every time. We also make the SEO case for location specific pages and detailed project pages, where you describe materials, phases, and product choices so search engines and AI search can actually understand your work. Finally, we talk video marketing for your website, even simple Canva slideshows, to increase time on page and help people stop scrolling and start picturing themselves hiring you.If you want the other five tips, we point you to where to find them. Subscribe, share the show with a design friend, and leave a review so more remodelers and designers can find us.Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.htmlDesigner Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. Download our FREE Client Avatar GuideDesigner Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Six months into the Smile Tour, Mark parks himself inside Mysa Hus with a heavily highlighted copies of Buy Back Your Time and Psychology of Money, and he has a lot of thoughts about money, time, and why your inbox should not be your boss. He hits the big ideas from both Dan Martell and Morgan Housel, connects them to real moments from his career, and reminds everyone that a $10 million company was not built on $10 tasks. Consider this your permission slip to hire help, go to bed at 8:30, and stop letting your calendar run your life. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Hans Frees of Outdoor Escapes has been in business 25 years, filed Chapter 7 bankruptcy, lost money on a spec home during the 2008 crash, and came out the other side with better relationships, a better location, and a much healthier respect for staying in his lane. He and Mark swap war stories about building spec homes they probably shouldn't have, losing sleep over unpaid subcontractors, and why the small-town bank that bet on them at rock bottom is still their bank today. It's 32 minutes of hard-won wisdom from someone who learned most of it the expensive way. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.outdoorexcapes.com/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/outdoorexcapes Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/outdoorexcapes/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

The guest is Jen (Bean) DeLalio, a high school friend of Caroline's. They reminisce about shared Boston summers and Caroline's multi-day Cape wedding. Jen describes her early career as an econ major who entered tech consulting in 1998, later working as a systems analyst at The New York Times before moving full-time to Southampton. After taking an NYU night class in interior design and working in an antique shop and design showroom, she returned to remote web-based software work as a contractor for about 10 years while renovating her own home and helping friends. In 2015 she launched JKate Designs via a Houzz profile, balancing demanding early projects with consulting and parenting. She explains how the Haven Workshop in 2022 helped her adopt stronger business systems, marketing, and financial goals, prompting her to leave consulting and scale with subcontracted procurement, bookkeeping, and CAD support. Find Jen on the socials at @jkatedesigns or at https://jkate-designs.com/ Topics 00:33 Guest Arrival 01:19 Jen Bean Backstory 02:20 Wedding Weekend Tales 03:42 Career Pivot Begins 05:34 Hamptons Design Roots 06:44 Launching JKate Designs 07:42 First Clients Juggling 09:43 Haven Workshop Breakthrough 11:02 Systems Strategy Lessons 12:37 Building The Team 13:53 Where To Find Jen

In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland sits down with Trent Morris of A1  Mechanical Heating and Cooling to explore one of the most important components of any custom home, heating, cooling, and indoor comfort.With nearly four decades of HVAC experience, Trent shares why comfort should always take priority over efficiency when designing a home's mechanical systems. He walks listeners through the HVAC design process, explaining the importance of detailed load calculations, proper ductwork design, static pressure, air filtration, zoning, insulation, and window performance. Trent also discusses the evolution of heating and cooling technology, including the benefits of multi-stage and variable-capacity equipment, smart thermostats, and modern indoor air quality solutions.Beyond the technical side, Trent shares his personal journey into the HVAC industry, the mentors who shaped his career, and how A1 Mechanical invests in training, workforce development, and giving people second chances through meaningful careers in the trades.Key Topics Covered:HVAC design for custom homesLoad calculations and comfort-driven system sizingStatic pressure and ductwork designMulti-stage and variable-capacity equipmentIndoor air quality and air filtrationZoning systems and smart thermostatsMaintenance best practicesWorkforce development in the skilled tradesWhether you're planning a custom home, interested in building science, or simply want to understand how to create a healthier, more comfortable living environment, this episode is packed with valuable insights from one of the industry's most experienced professionals.A1 Mechanical Heating and Cooling Website or call 937-865-2325Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz , LinkedIn or Pinterest 

In this episode, Jason and Tara Di-Cristo-Schmitt from Houzz talk about her journey from rep at ADP to CRO, what she learned about authentic leadership and transparency at HubSpot, how she prioritized her first 90 days as a first-time CRO, and her weekly rhythm for managing hundreds of reps. Check out more free content and get help with outbound at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://outboundsquad.com.⁠

Documentary filmmaker Jude Charles came to Minnesota to flip the script and road map the emotional soul of Mysa Hus, and what started as a brand conversation turned into the deepest dive yet into why Mark built the thing in the first place. Jude's "but why does that matter to you" energy draws out stories about childhood cabins, slow mornings, and what it actually means to build a home as a personal thesis. Buckle up, this one earns every one of its 90 minutes. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.mysahus.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mysahus/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Paul Cramer sold his business, hit rock bottom, and discovered that being sober for decades doesn't automatically mean you have your stuff together, which is a humbling plot twist for anyone keeping score at home. Round two gets into the real work: two weeks of intensive therapy, rebuilding from scratch, and why the way you survive something becomes the way you live everything. Buckle up, this one hits different. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.pauljcramer.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pauljcramer/  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Five days before the Artisan Home Tour, Mark and Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors snuck away from a live photo shoot to talk about what the final stretch of Mysa Hus actually looks like — wrong-sized sectionals, a Hail Mary pass to a UK lighting CEOs, and a third-generation plumber who showed up unannounced and left with chocolate-covered strawberries. They walk through the 60-day countdown, three photo shoots with three different photographers, and what it means to build something hard with people you genuinely trust. It's raw, real, and recorded while the house is literally still being shot. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: http://ohointeriors.com/  Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/oho_interiors Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

What happens when the entrepreneur dream becomes the thing quietly eating you alive? In this episode of Losers Are Winners, Mark sits down with author and recovering entrepreneur Paul Cramer to unpack startup highs, brutal lows, identity loss, therapy, and the emotional cost of building something from nothing. It's equal parts business therapy session, cautionary tale, and "oh crap… that sounds familiar" moment for every business owner who's ever brought work stress to the dinner table. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.pauljcramer.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pauljcramer/  Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Is your remodeling company being recommended by ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude — or would you even know if it was? In this episode of the Contractor Growth Network podcast, Logan sits down with Patrick Sculley, CGN's in-house SEO lead, to walk through a 90-day plan for getting cited in AI search. They start with the basics — what "cited" actually means, why personalization is making AI results different for every searcher, and why the old SEO formula of "more reviews + more backlinks = trust" doesn't hold the same weight anymore. Then they break the 90 days into three sprints. Days 1–30: run a visibility audit, fix your service pages and About page, and figure out what the LLMs already know about you. Days 31–60: build first-party content — call recordings, FAQs, cost articles, project pages, and YouTube videos that AI can pull from. Days 61–90: spread your influence beyond your own website with reviews on Houzz and Angie, Reddit answers, association memberships, and press mentions. The conversation also gets into CGN's "client brain" — the system we've been building so that every blog, page, and ad we write for a client is sourced from their actual transcripts, calls, and brand voice instead of generic keyword targeting. If you've ever opened ChatGPT, asked "who's a good remodeler in my area," and not seen your name come up — this episode lays out the exact 90-day path to fix that.

Jeff Wieland, host of the WB Download, welcomes Residential Design Specialists, Tim Enzweiler and Gabrielle Stadtmiller of Associates and Enzweiler for a wide-ranging conversation on custom home design, energy performance, creativity, and the collaborative process behind building exceptional homes.The episode dives into the often-overlooked complexity behind structural integrity, and the countless calculations required to create a high-performing custom home. Jeff and his guests discuss why homeowners often don't realize how much planning goes into balancing beauty, comfort, efficiency, and functionality.Jeff, Tim, and Gabrielle discuss the collaborative culture at Associates and Enzweiler, where six diverse designers work together in an open, relaxed environment focused on creativity and client relationships. The conversation dives into the importance of walking a homesite before purchasing land, understanding grading and driveway usability, and designing homes that respond to both the property and the client's lifestyle.Drawing from backgrounds in industrial design and theme park design, Tim and Gabrielle explain how creativity, problem-solving, and artistic thinking shape their residential projects. The episode also explores how practical elements like HVAC planning, structural integrity, and exterior design play a critical role in creating beautiful, functional homes. Tim and Gabrielle share insights into presenting ideas effectively, finding creative design solutions, and balancing aesthetics with real-world construction considerations.The conversation also highlights the realities of custom design, balancing budgets, client expectations, utilities, and construction challenges while still creating homes that feel personal and timeless. Jeff and his guests discuss the importance of asking the right questions, adapting designs to fit each family's lifestyle, and using technology like CAD systems and virtual meetings to improve communication and visualization throughout the process.Along the way, the trio reflects on the challenges and rewards of working as family, the importance of trust and communication in business, and the lasting impact custom homes have on the families who live in them. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories, practical advice, and design insight, this episode of the WB Download showcases how great custom homes are built through teamwork, trust, innovation, and a relentless commitment to solving problems creatively. Associates and Enzweiler Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.comSee Wieland Builders custom home gallery  www.wielandbuilders.comReceive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter See podcast behind the scenes photosFollow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz , LinkedIn or Pinterest 

Most people don't think about what happens to their business when their one critical supplier goes down — Tyler Webster of Old Mill Building Products lived that nightmare firsthand and spent the last three years making sure it never happens again. Mark and Tyler get into the nuts and bolts of supplier diversification, why just-in-time manufacturing sounds great until a robot breaks in a brick kiln, and how the lessons from a fifth-generation Idaho potato farm shaped Tyler's entire philosophy on risk, resilience, and what it means to save for the rainy day. The bonus? Tyler's personal definition of "enough" might be the most quietly powerful answer this season. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://oldmillbuildingproducts.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldmillbp/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oldmilltyler/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Host Dennis Scully and BOH executive editor Fred Nicolaus discuss the biggest news in the design world, including an executive shake-up at Holly Hunt, the shutdown of Houzz's shopping site and dispatches from New York Design Week. Later, Susan Clark of Radnor shares her take on design centers, trade shows, and collectible furniture.  This episode is sponsored by Loloi and Resource FurnitureLINKSRadnorBusiness of Home

Kyle Schlesser is back in studio, and this time the conversation goes somewhere most business podcasts are too afraid to go — marriage, guardrails, and what it actually looks like to run a company with your spouse without turning into glorified roommates. Kyle shares the three daily non-negotiables that keep him grounded, why he journals notes for each of his kids and his wife on his phone, and what his wife Katie meant when she looked him in the eye and said "we deserve your best, and we're not getting it." It's equal parts raw, practical, and the kind of conversation that makes you want to put your phone down and go bounce on the trampoline with your five-year-old. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://solidgroundconstructionco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solidgroundconstructionco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solidgroundconstructionco Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Casey Cloward doesn't build the most homes, doesn't chase the biggest numbers, and isn't trying to be the loudest guy in the room — and that exact philosophy has built Raykon Construction into one of Utah's most respected custom home firms. Mark and Casey dig into what it actually means to run a lean business on purpose, why Casey treats his five project managers like five in-house general contractors, and how building his own 11,200-square-foot home — after swearing it would only be 6,000 — turned into the best financial decision of his career. There's also a running joke about two builders racing to finish their spec homes before photo day, and it's as chaotic as it sounds. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://raykonconstruction.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raykon_construction/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RaykonConstruction LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-cloward-3684498/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Kyle Schlesser left a six-figure finance career, convinced his wife Katie to leave her executive marketing role, and launched Solid Ground Construction in 2019 with nothing but a leap of faith and a neighbor's porch swing job — and the next few years were exactly as humbling as that sounds. Mark and Kyle dig into the white-knuckle years of doing everything himself, the moment he nearly buried the company by refusing to ask for help, and why hiring for your greatest weakness is the hardest and most valuable thing a business owner can do. It's raw, it's real, and it's the kind of conversation that makes you want to text your spouse and say sorry. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://solidgroundconstructionco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/solidgroundconstructionco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/solidgroundconstructionco Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Scott Jaffa is a rare breed — an architect who's also a GC with an in-house interior design team — and the way he talks about money, value, and client relationships makes it immediately clear why his clients are willing to watch a $3 million remodel quietly become a $10 million one. Mark and Scott dig into why the farm-to-table model works better than assembling a team of strangers, how Scott used a Botox analogy to shut down a client's appliance markup complaint, and why believing in your own value is the most underrated business skill nobody teaches you. This one's equal parts architecture masterclass and hard-won entrepreneurial wisdom. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://www.jaffagroup.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jaffagroup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jaffagroupdb/ YouTube: youtube.com/@jaffagroupdesignandbuild   Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Josh Ferri of Lakeside Decking didn't set out to build decks — he started with a cabinet shop, pivoted when he realized where the real money was, and ended up running one of the most buttoned-up outdoor living companies in the Twin Cities. Mark and Josh dig into the hiring mistakes that come with growing too fast, why Josh tells every single client "I never want to see you again" with a straight face, and how a $750 design fee weeds out the tire kickers before they waste anyone's time. It's a masterclass in running a tight ship in a very crowded trade. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://lakesidedecking.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lakesidedecking Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Melanie Hartwig-Davis, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C, is the Founder and President of HD Squared Architects, an award-winning architecture, interiors, and consulting firm based in Annapolis, Maryland. With more than 25 years of practice, Melanie has built a reputation for design that is both beautiful and purposeful — integrating sustainability and resiliency into every project so that clients and communities are equipped to thrive for generations to come. A licensed architect in Maryland and D.C. with reciprocity in all states, Melanie brings a rare combination of design creativity and civic leadership to her work. She has been recognized as Architect of the Year by the AIA Chesapeake Bay Chapter, earned sustainability and other awards for her projects, and has been featured in publications including Annapolis Home Magazine and Green Building and Design. She has served as Vice Chair of the Anne Arundel County Planning Advisory Board and is Policy Chair of the Arundel Rivers Federation.  She is an active voice in environmental policy at the state and county levels. Melanie believes that everyone — regardless of background — deserves a well-designed, nurturing environment. It's a philosophy that shapes not only her architecture practice, but her ongoing work consulting with nonprofits, government agencies, and community organizations aligned around sustainable policy.   In this episode, Karen and Melanie discuss: Success Story of Melanie Commit to Get Leads Be part of your community and follow your passion. As you are out in the community, you'll be amazed at what can come for your business.  Consult to Sell Be conscious of people's needs. You have to be aware of what they love already and what their pain points are. Without understanding where they are at, you may step over what matters most to them.  Connect to Build and Grow Work with a business coach - it is good to have a sounding board who can help you see the wider perspective of your business when you can't see the forest for the trees.  Success Thinking, Activities, and Vision When things are hard, focus on your core - your passions and core beliefs and values. When you're moving in the right direction with that focus, you will find growth and success.  Sweet Spot of Success   "Live a life of service, and that service will give you life. Know your core. Stay centered." - Melanie Hartwig-Davis    Connect with Melanie Hartwig-Davis: Website: https://hd2architects.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hd-squared-architects/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/HD2_Architects  Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/HelloHDSquared  Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/pro/melaniehd/hd-squared-architects-llc     About the Podcast Join host Karen Briscoe each month to learn how you can achieve success at a higher level by investing just 5 minutes a day! Tune in to hear powerful, inspirational success stories and expert insights from entrepreneurs, business owners, industry leaders, and real estate agents that will transform your business and life. Karen shares a-ha moments that have shaped her career and discusses key concepts from her book Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day: Secrets of a Top Agent Revealed. Here's to your success in business and in life!   Connect with Karen Briscoe: Facebook: 5MinuteSuccess Website: 5MinuteSuccess.com Email: Karen@5MinuteSuccess.com   5 Minute Success Links Learn more about Karen's book, Real Estate Success in 5 Minutes a Day Karen also recommends Moira Lethbridge's book "Savvy Woman in 5 Minutes a Day." Subscribe to the 5 Minute Success Podcast   Spread the love and share the secrets of 5 Minute Success with your friends and colleagues!     Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.

From rallying women across the country to build the nation's first all-female built house, to turning a social media following into 50% of her business leads, Stephanie Dailey has never done things the conventional way — and it shows. Mark and Stephanie get into the real stuff: the emotional weight of watching a parent's identity become intertwined with a business they built from nothing, why more women in construction changes everything, and how losing Ron Jensen at a Contractor Coalition Summit changed the way Mark thinks about open mic night forever. Bring a tissue. Seriously. Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life. Sponsors for the Episode:  Pella Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/  Contractor Coalition Summit: Website: https://www.contractorscoalitionsummit.com/ Where to find the Guest:  Website: https://stevendailey.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniebuildsit/ Where to find the Host:  Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/  Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/  Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/  Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc