Builder Stories

Meet Sherrie Derr from Schlick Construction, located in Omaha, Nebraska. As General Manager, Sherry has played a pivotal role in transforming the company's operations, implementing systems to streamline estimating, project management, and communication. With a lifelong passion for construction, she shares how her journey—from growing up around the trades to overseeing business growth—has shaped her leadership approach. Hear how Sherry is building a stronger, more organized company while setting the stage for future success!   Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with Sherry: Developing internal systems Setting expectations from the start Problem-solving for continuous improvement Learn more about Schlick Construction here: https://schlickconstruction.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 Matt Millsap, founder and CEO of Building Company Number 7 based in Nashville, Tennessee. Starting during the 2008 recession, Matt built his design-build firm on a foundation of craftsmanship and professionalism, focusing on large-format historic renovations, additions, and custom homes. With 16 years in the industry, Matt’s journey reflects a commitment to people and processes. Drawing inspiration from early experiences with his father and lessons learned as a vice president managing 400 homes annually, Matt emphasizes the importance of culture, systems, and client-centric design. His innovative approach has positioned Building Company Number 7 as a trusted name in Nashville, renowned for its attention to detail and ability to scale while maintaining high standards.   Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with Matt: Focusing on people before profit Defining your systems and processes Starting with the end in mind Learn more about Building Company Number 7 here: https://nashvillegeneralcontracting.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

In this special episode of Builder Stories, we bring you one of the keynotes from last week’s JobTread Connect conference, delivered by our host and JobTread Founder & CEO, Eric Fortenberry. Drawing from conversations with some of the most inspiring contractors and builders featured on the podcast, Eric shares actionable lessons on how to scale your business, strengthen leadership, and achieve lasting success in the construction industry.   Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just getting started, this episode is packed with insights to help you build a stronger future for your business.   Key takeaways: Navigating challenges and adapting to changing markets Creating processes to drive sustainable growth Finding the right team members   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 Jeff and Chantal Ballantyne owners of Ballantyne Builds, located in Toronto, Canada. They share their inspiring journey of turning their passion for building into a thriving family business. From Jeff’s hands-on beginnings in construction and Chantal’s leap from corporate life to managing finances, to overcoming early challenges and learning from their first tough client, their story is one of perseverance, growth, and transformation. Hear how they navigated financial struggles, embraced mentorship, and implemented systems like JobTread to streamline their operations, ultimately doubling their revenue and redefining success.     Here are some of the key takeaways form our discussion with Jeff and Chantal: Accelerating growth through mentorship Focusing on the client experience Driving efficiency with systems and tools   Learn more about Ballantyne Builds here: https://ballantynebuilds.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 Greg DiBernardo, owner of Peachtree Decks and Porches based in Alpharetta, Georgia. Greg recounts how he transitioned from a corporate career in video production to becoming a highly successful deck builder specializing in high-end outdoor living spaces. From his early days as a clean-cut handyman to purchasing the established Peachtree Decks and Porches, Greg reveals how strategic marketing, meticulous client vetting, and a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences have driven his success. He also discusses the value of knowing your numbers, implementing systems like JobTread to manage projects efficiently, and positioning his company as a premium builder.     Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussions with Greg: Qualifying clients saves times Adapting and pivoting during market shifts Investing in professionalism and marketing   Learn more about Peachtree Decks and Porches here: https://peachtreedecksandporches.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 Kyle Bridgan owner of NNS Home located in Tacoma, Washington. Kyle shares his journey from selling countertops on OfferUp to running a thriving design-build firm with branches in Tacoma and Bellevue. He opens up about the challenges of scaling a construction business, lessons learned from costly projects, and how he's leveraging partnerships with designers and architects to drive success. Discover Kyle’s unique strategies for networking, marketing, and project management, and how he’s crafting a blueprint for expansion.     Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with Kyle: Leveraging social media and marketing Evolving from small beginnings Learning from failures   Learn more about NNS Home here: https://nsshome.co/     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 Mark Conrad, owner of Schnarr Legacy Craftsmen located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Mark shares his journey from a career in agriculture to taking the reins of a renowned 40-year-old renovation business. Discover how he merged expertise from a painting company, embraced innovative management techniques, and navigated the challenges of running both a handyman and renovation division. From learning the ropes with a trusted mentor to leveraging technology and building a family-oriented culture, Mark’s story is an inspiring blueprint for anyone looking to transform their passion into a thriving construction business.     Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with Mark: Prioritizing the customer experience Embracing opportunities for growth Building on existing systems   Learn more about Schnarr Legacy Craftsmen here: https://schnarrlegacycraftsmen.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

John Utter, the owner of StrongTower Build and Remodeling, shares his remarkable journey from carpentry to leading a successful construction business in Cadiz, Kentucky. He discusses the importance of mastering job costing for efficiency and the challenges of evolving from a one-man operation to managing subcontractors. John emphasizes prioritizing quality and strong relationships with clients while navigating the complexities of business finances. His insights on mentorship, effective communication, and building a positive company culture are truly inspiring.

Meet Al Aldrete, owner of Black Lab Remodeling based in Woodland, California. Al shares his incredible journey from being fired as a plant operations manager to building a thriving remodeling business. Learn how Al transitioned from running a solo handyman operation to managing kitchen and bath remodels with a trusted team of trade partners. Discover his sales strategies, lessons learned in cash flow management, and the importance of clear communication with clients and contractors. Al’s story is one of resilience, growth, and creating homes that truly bring families together. Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with Al: Listening to clients to learn their motives and goals Prioritizing cash flow management Building relationships with trade partners   Learn more about Black Lab Remodeling here: https://blacklabremodeling.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 LeAnn Luedeker from Luedeker Homes, located in Belleville, Texas. LeAnn shares her inspiring journey from supporting her husband’s construction passion part-time to taking the reins alongside him in their successful custom home-building business. She talks about navigating the challenges of small-town construction, balancing quality craftsmanship with high client expectations, and building lasting relationships with trade partners. With a people-centered approach and a commitment to excellence, LeAnn reveals her path through personal hardships, embracing a partnership approach in all aspects of her business. Listen as she details the importance of clear communication, a meticulous focus on financial management, and the powerful impact of community connections in creating her unique boutique-style business.     Here are some of the key takeaways from our discussion with LeAnn: Valuing relationships over transactions Balancing relationships in business and in life Prioritizing and empowering trade partners   Learn more about Luedeker Homes here: https://www.luedekerhomes.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