Live from the RISE Conference: Ask Kyle Anything (and Everything)

Recorded live in front of an energetic and idea-filled crowd at the first-ever RISE Conference, this episode captures the real-time laughs, insights, and off-the-cuff wisdom of Kyle Hunt. From basketball stories and trumpet solos gone wrong to deep dives on estimating, hiring, and the heart behind how much is enough, this live Q&A hits both the practical and personal sides of remodeling business ownership.

Plus, you’ll hear:

• Why gray socks might be Kyle’s golf superpower

• The lessons of playing it safe in business—and what finally pushed Kyle to grow

• Insights on brilliant jerks, design-to-production breakdowns, and raising a teenage entrepreneur

• An emotional tribute to the clients and community that made the RISE Conference possible

Let’s just say—next year’s live podcast might need a video camera.

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Thank you to our RISE Conference Sponsors:

• CGN (Contractor Growth Network)

• Builder Funnel

• JobTread

• DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen

• Contractor in Charge

• Squirrel Solutions

• Seabrook Design Co.

Also highlighted in this episode:

• Homes for Hope – a nonprofit organization fighting global poverty through microfinancing and training in partnership with the building industry. Learn more at homes4hope.org

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Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights!

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Takeaways

This conference is not about me. It's about you. Building a remodeling business is a long-term game. I have not been a very heavy risk. Charging for design and project development has a positive ripple effect. How much is enough? Brilliant jerks need to change from brilliant jerks to brilliant, not as jerky. The quality of your team is a huge indicator of success. Every moment is holy and should be cherished. Think differently about a showroom to enhance client experience. I get emotional easily when expressing gratitude. 

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Rise Conference 00:09 Kickoff of the Live Podcast Recording 01:12 Reflections on the Conference Experience 06:12 Personal Stories and Lessons Learned 08:45 Business Growth and Hiring Strategies 10:33 Operational Changes for Efficiency 13:13 Understanding Financial Goals 15:27 Client Relationships and Marketing 16:45 Estimating and Project Management 19:52 Strengthening Design to Production Connections 21:43 Promoting from Within vs. Hiring Externally 24:34 Golf Game and Personal Growth 27:23 Coaching and Improvement in Business 28:31 Exciting Raffle Drawings 30:38 Unreasonable Hospitality in Business 32:39 Nonprofit Impact in the Building Industry 33:49 Engaging with Sponsors and Partners 36:14 Maintaining Energy at Conferences 36:40 Addressing Team Negativity 40:38 Creating a Positive Work Environment 43:26 The Role of Showrooms in Business 46:11 Future Plans and Peer Groups 47:44 Kyle's Journey to Business Coaching 50:23 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Moments 56:41 Gratitude and Closing Remarks