The Builders The Builder’s Dilemma: Scale Big and Chase Growth or Be the Craftsman?
In this solo episode of The Builders, Matt Levenhagen reflects on a pivotal moment in his business journey—one that many founders, creatives, and agency owners will relate to.
After years of scaling a successful agency and managing a distributed team, Matt finds himself craving the simplicity and satisfaction of doing the work again—of coding, building, and being the craftsman. In a world that glorifies growth at all costs, this episode unpacks a dilemma many builders face: Do you keep scaling big, or do you get back to the craft that started it all?
He shares what he’s rediscovered, how AI tools like Cursor have amplified his creative flow, and why being in the work can be the very thing that sets you apart. It’s raw, honest, and a powerful reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to building.
💡 Key Takeaways:
- Scaling isn’t the only measure of success—joy and fulfillment matter.
- Sometimes stepping back into the work is the best way forward.
- AI can enhance craftsmanship, not replace it.
- Being a builder again can be your differentiator in a crowded market.
- Growth is personal. The right path is the one that aligns with what lights you up.