The Why We Build Podcast - Company Culture w/ Todd Schulte

Show Notes: The Why We Build Podcast with Todd Schulte

Episode Title: Company Culture w/ Todd Schulte

Hosts:

• Greg Woleck
• Steve Wheeler

Guest:

• Todd Schulte, Founder and Owner of Schulte Design Build, an award-winning residential remodeling contractor in Seattle, Washington.

Key Topics Covered:

1. The Role of Culture in Remodeling Companies:
   • Culture as the foundation of trust and accountability.
   • How culture impacts both team dynamics and client relationships.
   • Building intentional company culture to align with core values and goals.
2. Todd’s Leadership Journey:
   • Transitioning from a carpenter to a business owner.
   • Evolving the company into a design-build model for holistic residential remodeling.
   • The importance of showing up authentically as a leader.
3. Creating a Safe and Trusting Workplace:
   • Emphasizing safety and open communication within the team.
   • Encouraging accountability and learning from mistakes without fear of judgment.
   • Developing strong, long-lasting relationships with employees, including those who leave and return.
4. Intentional Culture Building:
   • How strategic planning shaped Todd’s approach to culture.
   • Inviting team members to contribute to defining company culture.
   • Balancing fun, safety, and performance in the workplace.
5. Community Involvement:
   • Todd’s involvement in the Ballard Seafood Festival and supporting local skateboarding culture.
   • How community engagement aligns with personal passions and company values.
6. Insights for Remodelers and Leaders:
   • Trust and transparency as key components of client relationships.
   • Using conflict as an opportunity for growth and improved processes.
   • The importance of hiring for culture fit and defining organizational values.

Fun Highlights from the Episode:

• The most interesting discovery during a home remodel: uncovering a basement fire from the 1920s tied to Prohibition-era cooking.
• Todd’s backyard half-pipe built for his kids and his connection to skateboarding culture.
• Who would play Todd in a movie? Robert De Niro!

Top Leadership Tips from Todd:

• Create a workplace where people feel valued and safe.
• Approach mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures.
• Build a culture of trust by leading authentically and encouraging open communication.

Book Recommendations:

• The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey.
• The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni.
• Aztec by Gary Jennings (Todd’s favorite fiction).

Connect with Todd Schulte:

• Website: Schulte Design Build

Learn More About Remodelers Advantage:

• Website: Remodelers Advantage
• Email: Greg at remodelersadvantage.com