

Builder Stories
Eric Fortenberry
Welcome to Builder Stories, the podcast where builders, remodelers, and contractors share their personal and business journeys. Come learn from the stories of successful entrepreneurs who share how they got started, how they found success, and the lessons learned along the way.
Your host, Eric Fortenberry, has successfully built two businesses, one in software and one in construction. He is now the Founder and CEO of JobTread Software, a construction estimating and project management platform that has helped thousands of builders and contractors sell and manage over $1 billion in construction jobs.
Your host, Eric Fortenberry, has successfully built two businesses, one in software and one in construction. He is now the Founder and CEO of JobTread Software, a construction estimating and project management platform that has helped thousands of builders and contractors sell and manage over $1 billion in construction jobs.
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 22, 2024 • 51min
Reaching for $10 Million | Carlos Adame with Transom Remodeling
Meet Carlos Adame, owner of Transom Remodeling based in Richardson, Texas. Carlos shares the difficulties he's faced in growing his business and the lessons he's learned along the way. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and learning from others. With a goal of reaching the $10 million mark, Carlos remains optimistic and committed, welcoming any opportunity to collaborate and strategize for future success. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Carlos: Learning from challenges Setting ambitious goals Collaborating with others in the industry Learn more about Transom Remodeling here: https://transomremodeling.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

May 15, 2024 • 1h
Meet People Where They Are | Dan Lee with Kane Remodeling
Meet Dan Lee, owner of Kane Remodeling a luxury home remodeling company based in Austin, Texas. Dan talks to Eric about his journey from tech sales to building a remodeling company. With an emphasis on the importance of continuous growth and learning, Dan talks about how his background in sales has uniquely positioned him to compete against others in the market. Learn more about his journey and the valuable lessons he's learned, aiming to inspire and educate others in the field. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Dan: Learning from others' experiences Staying competitive to be successful Engaging with the broader community Learn more about Kane Remodeling here: https://kaneremodeling.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

May 8, 2024 • 46min
Building Resilience | Stephanie Burgess with Burgess Construction
Meet Stephanie Burgess, owner of Burgess Construction, a deck building company based in Snohomish, Washington. Stephanie explores her relentless pursuit of success as a rising entrepreneur in the construction industry, highlighting the importance of perseverance and a positive mindset amidst the hurdles. This episode not only celebrates Stephanie's achievements but also emphasizes that the road to success is seldom a smooth one, yet always rewarding for those who dare to continue pressing forward. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Stephanie: Managing the ups and downs of business ownership Creating a fun company culture Investing in yourself to gain skills Learn more about Burgess Construction here: https://burgessconstructionllc.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

May 1, 2024 • 1h 2min
Harnessing AI for Smarter Contracting | Edward Rivera and Eddie Cruz with Ion Electrical
Meet Edward Rivera and Eddie Cruz from Ion Electrical as they discuss harnessing AI for smarter contracting. They share insights on streamlining processes with AI, integrating IoT into homes, and collaborating with industry peers. Learn about their unique approach to customer service, job estimation, and standing out in the electrical industry.

Apr 24, 2024 • 59min
Integrity, Craftsmanship, Growth | Darin Kuns with D-K Construction, Inc.
Meet Darin Kuns owner of D-K Construction, Inc. based in Flora, Indiana. Darin shares his personal journey, highlighting the decision to follow in his father's footsteps and the enduring philosophy of client relationships over specialization. Explore the company's growth, marked by the seamless integration of cutting-edge technologies for enhanced efficiency and communication. Through this conversation, Darin reinforces the values that guide D-K Construction: integrity, unrivaled craftsmanship, and sustainable growth. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Darin: Joining the family company Maintaining strong relationships with partners and subs Adopting new technologies Learn more about D-K Construction, Inc. here: https://www.guildquality.com/pro/d-k-construction-inc 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

Apr 17, 2024 • 44min
Focus Drives Success | Steve Kirk with Premier Deck
Meet Steve Kirk, the founder of Premier Deck based in Rochester, New Hampshire. After an early career in general remodeling, Steve narrowed his focus to decks, finding both passion and profitability. In this episode, he delves into the complexities of growing a business, from choosing the right marketing tactics and hiring the best employees to optimizing project management. Listen now to learn the strategies that have helped Premier Deck expand their reach and reputation, offering valuable lessons for other entrepreneurs looking to scale their operations efficiently. Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion with Steve: • Leveraging digital marketing and SEO to attract quality leads • Utilizing software to increase efficiency • Emphasizing a strong team culture • Building a support system Visit the Premier Deck website here: https://www.premierdecknh.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

Apr 10, 2024 • 1h 2min
Make Your Own Luck | Marcus Hampton with Hampton Construction and Hampton Outdoor
Meet Marcus Hampton owner of Hampton Construction and Hampton Outdoor based in Phoenix and doing work all over Arizona. In his inspiring story of perseverance and growth in the face of challenges, Marcus shares his struggles from starting the business as a homeless teen to producing large-scale projects at just under 30 years of age. Approaching life with a resilient mindset, Marcus reminds us why it is important to always be ready for anything that may come your way. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion with Marcus: Managing risk in the business Putting the right people in the right positions Living outside of your comfort zone Visit the Hampton Construction website here: hamptondesignbuild.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

Apr 3, 2024 • 52min
Make Money to Grow | Rick Williams with Williams Professional Painting
Meet Rick Williams owner of Williams Professional Painting serving the DC metro area. Rick shares his belief that taking the extra time to do a job right not only builds a positive reputation but also pays off in the long run through increased business opportunities. Rick delves into the nuanced art of knowing when to compromise and when to stand firm in the industry, highlighting the significance of maintaining a broad perspective without getting bogged down in minutiae. Listen to discover why you don't grow to make money, you make money to grow. Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion with Rick: Utilizing full-time employees and subs Walking away from jobs that don't work Pricing in residential vs. commercial work Visit the Williams Professional Painting website here: williamsprofessionalpainting.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

Mar 27, 2024 • 58min
Building a Legacy | Scott & Zach Heinold with Heinold Homes and Renovations
Meet Scott and Zach Heinold a father-son duo working together on home builds and renovations in Washington, Illinois. They share the joys and challenges of building a business with family, emphasizing the rarity and blessing of such a partnership. As Scott envisions the future handover of the business, his optimism and support for the next generation shines through. Listen to this inspiring narrative of familial dedication and entrepreneurial spirit, reminding us that with unity and determination, greatness is inevitable. Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion with Scott and Zach: Working with family, successfully Focusing on people, employees and customers Finding community and support Visit the Heinold Homes and Renovations website here: https://heinoldhomes.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

Mar 20, 2024 • 1h 17min
From Teacher to Lifelong Student | Elliott Wittstruck with Built with Love
Meet Elliott Wittstruck owner of Built with Love, a remodeling company based in Nashville, Tennessee. Beginning his journey as a music teacher, Elliott's path took a dynamic turn through roles as a landlord and handyman, eventually leading him to spearhead whole home remodels. At the core of Built with Love's ethos is a steadfast commitment to a growth mindset, a principle that Elliott has woven into the fabric of his business operations. With a dedicated team of twelve, Elliott champions the value of lifelong learning among his staff, ensuring that each member is not just building homes, but also building their future. Here are a few key takeaways from our discussion with Elliott: Nurturing growth in your own community Mentoring others in the industry Focusing on the customer experience Earning referrals to grow the business Pricing jobs accurately Visit the Built with Love website here: https://www.builtwithlovellc.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


