Builder Stories

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

Meet Jeff Whitted and Ryan Stones, leaders of Aslan Design & Build in Sellersville, Pennsylvania. In this episode, the dynamic father-and-son-in-law team explore the challenges and triumphs of running a family business. From navigating the complexities of working with family to maintaining profitability and preventing theft, Jeff and Ryan reveal their hard-earned wisdom and experiences. They also share valuable insights into leadership, processes, and company culture. In this episode you will learn: The key to successfully working with family members The top rule for preventing theft in your business Key areas in a remodeling process where profitability can break down An important business practice Jeff and Ryan borrowed from the Navy SEALs Jeff's three essential secrets to being a great leader Learn more about Aslan Design & Build here: https://aslaninteriors.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

Fueled by passion for his work and an entrepreneurial itch, Luke left the audio industry and opened a carpentry business in 2021. Today, he's transformed the company into a thriving remodeling business that specializes in basement build-outs and bathrooms. Luke shares how focusing on a specific niche, being transparent with pricing, and properly vetting trade partners have been key to his growth. He also discusses balancing entrepreneurship with family life and how his mindset keeps him grounded through challenges. In this episode you will learn: Luke's secret to peace and joy in business Why Luke niched down to basements and bathrooms and what it's done for the company How he arrived at the right margins for his business Why he began publishing price ranges on the company website and how it's affected client conversations Tips for success for running a business with your spouse Learn more about Larson Basement & Bath here: https://www.larsoncustom.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

Wendy Marvin started out in roofing at a time when the industry wasn't as collaborative. "We saw there was one seat at the table, and we were going to elbow our way to that seat," she recalls. "And then this really beautiful thing started taking over where we realized that we can just make more seats." Since those days, the entire table has grown exponentially, and alongside that growth has come a need for a brand new skillset. In this engaging episode, Wendy reveals crucial tools for success in an era of private equity, new technologies, and the make-or-break requirement for operational excellence. In this episode, you will learn: Wendy's top source for business secrets The biggest red flags when picking a technology partner How AI can be good for a construction company…and when it could be really bad The man who used to be Wendy's roofing "tech crush," and why that changed To learn more about Matrix Roof & Home based in Vancouver, Washington, visit https://matrixroof.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