Builder Stories

In this conversation with Dominick Thompson, founder of Watershed Builders, listeners get a glimpse into his unconventional journey from the automotive industry and military to remodeling. He emphasizes that anyone can build a successful business, sharing insights on confidently pricing jobs and strategically hiring. Dominick discusses how trade relationships and clear team roles fueled his growth. Plus, he reveals how effective social media strategies can attract high-quality leads and the importance of solid financial management for sustained profitability.

Meet Wilbur Jennings, owner of Wilbur Design + Construct in Marquette, Michigan. Jennings started in the trades at the age of 13, and developed a passion for building. He went on to earn a degree in construction management, and founded Wilbur Design while “flying by the seat of my pants.” Over the course of his journey in leadership he incorporated a mission and vision; clear systems and processes; an intentional company culture; and new ways to look at his financials. Here, Jennings shares the most impactful lessons learned in the past ten years.   In this episode, you will learn: How to define and use a mission, vision, and values to steer your business The critical hiring lesson that helped Wilbur build a more accountable and trustworthy team The industry resources he’s found most helpful The job costing systems that have helped him maintain the right level of profitability What he would do differently if he were starting the business again today Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Wilbur Design + Construct here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Mike Claudio, owner of WinRate Consulting in Charlotte, NC. After walking away from corporate burnout, Mike built a business helping contractors scale with clarity, leadership, and systems that work. In this episode, he breaks down the three biggest reasons construction companies lose momentum, how to build core values that actually guide your team, and the biggest mistake leaders make when casting a vision. Plus, his 4-step hiring process and time management mindset that helps him lead multiple companies, including a custom home business with $60 million in annual revenue. In this episode, you will learn: The 3 biggest pitfalls that throw construction businesses off course Why most leaders miss the mark on vision, and how to do it right How to incorporate core values into your business Claudio’s 4-step hiring method that filters out bad fits fast A time management mindset for running multiple initiatives Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about WinRate Consulting here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet George Lokko, owner of Y2 Design & Build located in Westerville, Ohio. George shares how he went from a career in engineering and finance to building one of Columbus’ most process-driven and design-forward remodeling firms. After losing his job during COVID, George took the leap into construction by learning from the ground up—literally starting with demolition—and eventually launching Y2 Design & Build. He discusses the power of great design, his 54-step process that minimizes change orders, and the importance of education, communication, and trust in delivering exceptional customer experiences. George also talks about building his team, investing in marketing and SEO, and the role technology plays in streamlining operations. In this episode, you will learn: How a strong design process eliminates chaos Why you don’t need a construction background to succeed Building a marketing strategy that is intentional Using communication tools as a competitive advantage Investing in people and processes to scale Listen to the episode to learn more. Resources: Learn more about Y2 Design Build here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Johnny Buck, founder of 13 Stripes Construction in Marion, NC. In this episode, Buck shares his journey from MMA fighter to construction business owner with a mission to revolutionize the home services industry. After building a top 1% gym and navigating a hurricane that reshaped his business overnight, Buck brings a fresh perspective to construction rooted in discipline and repeatable systems and processes. He talks about scaling from the ground up, building a business designed to sell, and why customer service—not craftsmanship—is the ultimate differentiator.   In this episode, you will learn: The three things Buck put on his website that landed him his first jobs How to build a sellable construction business from day one Why thoughtful, non-branded client gifts are a game-changer, and exactly how much he spends on them What every successful business has in common (hint: it’s not tools or talent) The top two mistakes that all failing companies make How Buck is applying his personal brand to dominate a local market   Learn more about 13 Stripes Construction here: https://13stripesconstruction.com/   Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Wes Crocket, owner of Mahogany Builders located in Chicago, Illinois. Wes shares his journey from studying organizational psychology in grad school to leading a respected remodeling business in one of the country’s most competitive markets. Inspired by his father's leadership and driven by a desire to build a strong team culture, Wes opens up about his path into construction, the founding of Mahogany Builders, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Dives into what it takes to lead with purpose and build a lasting business.     In this episode, you will learn: How non-traditional paths can lead to construction Why team culture drives success Adapting during uncertain times Having a vision beyond the tools   Learn more about Mahogany Builder here: https://www.mahoganybuilders.com/     Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Brian Gottlieb, a renowned business leader, speaker, and author who built a home improvement empire from a plastic folding table and $3,000. In this episode, Brian shares his journey of growing a company to over 1,000 employees and achieving a successful exit, all while staying true to his mission of doing well and doing good. Learn how he built high-performing teams, scaled across multiple states, stayed connected to customers through every stage of growth, and created a purpose-driven culture that empowered people to thrive. Brian also offers practical insights on hiring, leadership, managing KPIs, expanding into new markets, and preparing a business for transition or sale.     In this episode, you will learn: How to build and scale high-performing teams When and how to hire the right people How to create a purpose-driven culture that fuels growth The importance of KPIs and financial transparency Smart strategies for expansion, customer, connection, and exit planning   Learn more about Brian Gottlieb here: https://briangottlieb.com/     Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Chris Moore, owner of Senior Remodeling Experts located in Salem, Virginia. Chris shares his journey from an unexpected start in construction to building a business focused on helping seniors and veterans live safely and independently in their homes. He opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his career, including the loss of his wife, the lessons learned through hardship, and his mission to create a lasting impact through aging-in-place remodeling. Chris discusses the importance of building strong systems, finding purpose through service, and how he’s turning his passion into a broader movement to help more people across the country.     In this episode, you will learn: How to build a business with a deeper mission Why systematizing your operations is essential for growth How to navigate personal tragedy while leading a business What it takes to work with VA home modification grants The mindset shifts needed to transition from craftsman to business owner   Learn more about Senior Remodeling Experts here: https://seniorremodelingexperts.com/    Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Annemarie Diaz, co-owner of TRS Build in Cedar Park, TX. In this episode, Diaz opens up about the strategies that have helped her build a thriving remodeling business powered by 80% referral work. From creating a culture where it’s okay to fail to scaling her team while also protecting the company, Diaz shares her approach to leadership, business best practices, and long-term success. She also dives into how she implements new technology, keeps her cost per lead in check, and co-leads her business alongside her husband with clarity and collaboration. In this episode, you will learn: The most significant KPI Diaz relies on for measuring leadership success How to scale your team while protecting your business The top client red flag to watch out for and when to say no to a project Strategies for controlling cost per lead Tips for implementing new technology Where Diaz focuses her marketing dollars   Learn more about TRS Build here. Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com

Meet Katie Throckmorton, owner of Distinct Builders in Charleston, South Carolina. Katie is a passionate leader with a heart for serving others and helping contractors embrace technology to grow their businesses. In this episode, she shares her journey from starting out in the industry to building a thriving business focused on support, education, and intentional service.   In this episode, you’ll learn: How a service-first mindset can transform customer relationships Ways to help team members adopt new technology with less resistance Simple tips for entrepreneurs just getting started Why leading with value is the key to long-term success   Own a construction company and want to share your story? Apply to be on an upcoming episode of Builder Stories at https://www.builderstories.com