Construction Champions Podcast

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Elena Korolkova, the founder and CEO of a Kick Consulting a business that helps construction companies simplify their operations. About Elena Hi, my name is Elena, and I’m the founder of Kick Consulting. I’m a project manager and a technology lover with 15 years of experience under my belt. At Kick, we kick businesses into gear or up the backside (whichever is required at the time, and yes, the pun was intended) 😊. We work with small and large residential and commercial construction businesses to bring back a sense of control and peace with monday.com using process automation, project/job management and CRM. At Kick, we love helping businesses succeed. We believe in transparency and will always provide honest feedback, even if it means telling you that something isn’t going to work. This value, instilled by Elena, is at the core of our team's approach. Elena's link https://www.kickconsulting.com.au/construction-solutions Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 What makes a "construction champion" and the internal/external factors that contribute to success (00:02:27) The importance of building a support system and infrastructure as a business grows, rather than trying to do everything yourself (00:05:15) How lack of visibility and knowledge can quickly lead a construction business from "Superman" to financial collapse (00:07:21) How Monday.com and other simple, intuitive software can provide the visibility and control needed to steer the business (00:13:04) The benefits Alaina's clients have seen from implementing Monday.com, including over 200% ROI and 30% conversion rate improvements (00:17:26) Alaina's approach to customizing and implementing Monday.com for construction companies (00:19:09) Keywords:construction technology, simplifying construction tech, Elena Korolkova, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, tech tools, construction efficiency, technology integration, project success, construction software

In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Chris Scully, founder of Action Management Pros, a company that coaches construction professionals on business management and operations. Chris shares his insights on what it takes to be a "construction champion" and deliver an exceptional customer experience. About Chris Chris Scully owns Action Management Pros, a contractor consulting firm out of Savannah, Georgia. He has an impressive track record, with approximately 650 hours of specialized management training, combining over twelve years of experience as a consultant with over 23 years as an executive and business owner. Over the last seven years alone, his exceptional guidance has garnered positive feedback from 100+ satisfied clients, reinforcing his commitment to delivering remarkable results for contractors nationwide. Chris links Main website: actionmanagementpros.com Free Consultation form: https://actionmanagementpros.com/free-consultation/#section-4079-35676 Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 [00:01:01] Chris's background and how his company helps construction businesses improve their operations and profitability [00:02:07] What makes a "construction champion" - the importance of communication and customer experience [00:03:52] The construction industry's struggle with poor communication and customer service [00:06:25] Why many tradespeople struggle with the "people" side of running a business [00:09:01] Four key areas to focus on to become a "construction champion": Communication and accessibility Showing up on time Keeping job sites neat and orderly Finishing projects on time [00:15:32] How small operational inefficiencies can add up to big impacts on profitability Keywords: customer experience, construction industry, Chris Scully, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, client communication, customer satisfaction, project success, client relationships, construction service

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Ben Stimler, a marketing expert from One Thing Marketing. Ben Stimler shares his background in construction and marketing, and the two discuss what it takes to be a "construction champion" in today's business landscape. About Ben Ben Stimler is a veteran of the digital media industry, renowned for his expertise in driving revenue growth through strategic sales, marketing, and business development initiatives. With a career spanning over two decades, Ben has had the privilege of working closely with a vast array of C-level executives such as U.S. Bank, Toast, Regal Cinemas, Fiserv, Yahoo, AOL, MSN, and many more. Ben's links https://www.onethingmarketing.net/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-stimler-53296/ Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 Ben's background growing up in New York City and transitioning to Louisville, KY [00:00:54 - 00:01:47] The key traits of a "construction champion" - drive, communication, flexibility, leadership, and listening skills [00:02:01 - 00:02:39] The importance of adapting to new marketing and lead generation strategies, beyond just relying on referrals [00:03:07 - 00:07:07] The value of investing in a professional website and online presence to attract and convert customers [00:07:07 - 00:10:19] Treating marketing partners as an extension of your business, with open communication and aligned expectations [00:10:19 - 00:18:58] The need for construction business owners to be actively involved in their marketing efforts, not just handing it off [00:19:25 - 00:20:48] Keywords: flexibility, communication, partnerships, construction industry, Ben Stimler, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, team collaboration, stakeholder communication, successful partnerships, project outcomes, construction success

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Susan Young, a communication expert who has been helping AEC professionals improve their presentation and networking skills for over 24 years. Susan shares her background, from being a radio news anchor and reporter to now running her own communication coaching and training business. She discusses what it takes to be a "construction champion" - someone who can effectively communicate their expertise, connect with clients, and grow their business. About Susan I work with A/E/C leaders who want to develop top tier communicators so that they grow careers, impact, and profits. Today, EVERYONE is in marketing and business. A/E/C firms want clear and confident project managers, superintendents, estimators, schedulers, and program managers to win trust and help close shortlisted interviews. BD meetings that go sideways are frustrating and expensive. Susan's links https://www.aecamplify.com/top-tier-communicator https://www.linkedin.com/in/susyoungmedia/ https://www.aecamplify.com/ Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 [00:04:05] What makes a construction champion - the importance of internal communication, confidence, and connecting with people [00:11:25] Tips for overcoming fear of networking and public speaking events [00:14:52] The pressure we put on ourselves to be "perfect" and why it's okay to say "I don't know" [00:17:17] Details on Susan's upcoming "Top Tier Communicator" online training program Keywords: communication in construction, leadership, Susan Young, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, team communication, client communication, project success, verbal communication, non-verbal communication, construction leadership

In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Dan Mcllroy, the founder and president of ProAdSpec, a promotional marketing company based in Madison, Wisconsin. Dan shares his 34 years of experience helping contractors and construction companies leverage promotional products to improve their marketing and get better results. About Dan Dan continues to be involved in different community projects and generally helping others where he can. In 2022, after 10 years of service, he retired as head umpire and trainer for the City of Sun Prairie Adult Softball program. We enjoy the challenge of helping clients meet their marketing goals through the use of promotional marketing. Each day brings something different and new ways to use the thousands of products we have at our disposal. Thank you to all of our current clients for their support and trust since 1990. We could not have done this without you! Dan's links https://www.proadspec.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/danieltmcilroy/ Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 What makes a "construction champion" - taking pride in your work and providing an exceptional customer experience (00:02:43) The importance of promoting your business in the local neighborhood when working on projects (00:04:23) Using practical, useful promotional items that get placed in the kitchen or on the boss's desk (00:09:53) Strategies for effective trade show marketing beyond just handing out pens and flyers (00:13:56) Trends in promotional products, including incorporating more retail brands and electronics (00:18:06) Tips for choosing the right promotional items that will provide lasting impressions (00:19:17) Keywords: promotional marketing strategies, construction marketing, brand visibility, construction industry, Dan Mcllroy, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, digital marketing, social media marketing, SEO, brand growth

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews CJ Bachmann, the CEO of One SEO digital agency. CJ discusses the changing landscape of the construction industry, the importance of data-driven marketing, and how construction companies can prepare for consolidation and exit opportunities. About CJ As CEO at 1SEO Digital Agency, CJ understands the challenges of managing the day-to-day operations in a fast-paced environment and executes them with exceptional attention to detail. Through collaboration with executive directors in a vertical-based team structure, CJ carefully balances her knowledge, experience, and expertise with the ability to strategically manage the hundreds of clients we serve. With over two decades’ experience in sales and customer service, CJ has a passion for the old school, client-centric mentality that is the bedrock on which 1SEO Digital Agency was built. Taking great pride in mentoring the company's Directors and Leadership Team, CJ understands the importance of depending on employees' talents and providing them opportunities to develop and build on their unique skill sets. Under her leadership, 1SEO Digital Agency has grown to over 100 employees.. As a tech-savvy thought leader, CJ is continuously on the lookout to improve the company, incorporating continuing industry education through seminars and training and adopting new technology to enhance and streamline internal operations. There are no “normal” days at the office for CJ. On any given day, she can find herself sitting in on team meetings, discussing strategies with clients, overseeing in-house projects, and fulfilling other various roles. As someone who has spent the majority of her career behind the scenes, CJ’s primary goal is to ensure that operations move smoothly by helping build and manage teams that handle clients’ day-to-day needs, acting as both a strategic leader and quality assurance throughout the process. CJ’s management philosophy is simple — she believes in leadership by example. This includes having the ability to back up what she says with what she does, and her record speaks for itself. From being recognized with a Smart CEO award to helming the teams that won countless industry accolades such as the US Search Awards, the dot COMM Awards, the AVA Digital Awards, and many more, CJ has proven that she knows how to get the job done. Nowhere near your “typical” corporate boss, CJ draws on her roles outside of work as a mother and caregiver to connect with all types of individuals and their distinct personalities, bridging gaps while helping 1SEO’s clients and our employees succeed. CJ's links https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjbachmann/ https://1seo.com/ https://shehandlesit.com/ https://linktr.ee/cjbachmann https://1seo.zoom.us/webinar/register/9817236567052/WN_aMO71kXmSfqYDtK5J0kwdg#/registration Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 The definition of a "construction champion" and how the industry is evolving [00:02:23] The rise of consolidation and private equity in the construction industry, especially in sectors like roofing [00:06:43] The need for construction companies to understand their key marketing metrics and data to be prepared for exit opportunities [00:07:56] Keywords: construction industry consolidation, mergers and acquisitions, construction industry, CJ Bachmann, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, market consolidation, construction businesses, competitive strategies, industry trends

In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Kat Oldershaw, the owner and operator of Kat & Co., a business operations consultancy that specializes in supporting creative companies like interior designers, custom furniture makers, and fine artists. About Kat My name is Kat, Owner + Operator of Kat&Co. We specialize in providing full-service support for creative businesses - primarily in the interior design, custom furniture, and fine art industries. Our support can range anywhere from high-level business operations, client onboarding, improving internal processes, and updating or creating customized templates... all the way to daily project, procurement, and administrative tasks. A topic that comes up frequently with my interior design clients is how to improve communication with their build team partners, along with how to attract reliable and detail-oriented build teams. John mentioned you have developed a program to assist with this communication - would be interesting to chat further about this, whether "on air" or over the phone. I'm very focused on building out my community of like-minded business owners and was excited to learn about what you're doing to improve communication, leadership, and growth amongst our adjacent industries. Kat's links https://www.katandco.org/ https://calendly.com/katandco/discoverycall Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 [00:01:19] Kat's background and the services her company provides [00:02:00] What makes a "construction champion" - the key role of communication [00:03:32] Tips for improving communication between designers, builders, and clients [00:11:42] The value of involving all stakeholders (designers, builders, clients) in the process [00:14:50] Advice for how designers can better communicate and collaborate with their construction partners Keywords: communication in construction, improving communication, construction industry, Kat Oldershaw, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, team collaboration, client communication, project efficiency, communication tools, construction success

In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Josh Levy, the co-founder and CEO of Document Crunch - a contract intelligence and automation platform purpose-built for the construction industry. Josh shares his journey from being a construction attorney to founding a tech company aimed at de-risking the industry through better contract management. About Josh I currently serve as the CEO of Document Crunch, a contract intelligence platform for the construction industry. With a strong leadership background and expertise in construction law, I co-founded Document Crunch to bring my extensive experience to the field. Throughout my career, I have worked for top-ranking construction firms and led departments with annual revenues of $1 billion. I graduated with honors from the University of Florida, where I earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. I also hold a Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami, graduating with high honors. These educational achievements, coupled with my professional experience, have shaped my vision for Document Crunch and my desire to raise the standards of the construction industry. Document Crunch is on a mission to empower everyone in the construction industry to know what’s in their contracts. With a focus on innovation and excellence, our company strives to make a positive impact and drive industry-wide improvements. My professional background combined with my passion for transforming how the industry mitigates risk, uniquely positions Document Crunch as a trailblazer in the construction tech space. Josh's links https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-levy-/ https://www.documentcrunch.com/ Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 Josh's background in construction law and the pain points he experienced that led him to start Document Crunch (00:01:31) The importance of "construction empathy" and building a team that deeply understands the industry (00:06:17) What it means to be a "construction champion" and the need for active industry partners (00:08:46) The staggering statistic that 50% of construction projects finish over budget or schedule, and how Document Crunch aims to address this (00:15:35) The evolution of Document Crunch's product from contract review to real-time project support and automation (00:19:06) The diverse range of construction stakeholders that Document Crunch serves, from general contractors to subcontractors (00:22:06) Keywords: Document Crunch, document management, construction industry, Josh Levy, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, construction technology, project efficiency, document compliance, construction success, document processing

This podcast episode focuses on the importance of mindset, habits, and personal development for success in business and life. The hosts discuss the concept of "burning the house down" to rebuild yourself, the power of routines and habits, the value of embracing challenges and failures, and the need to balance technology with quality time with family. The guest, Austin Houser, shares his personal experiences and insights on these topics, providing practical advice for listeners to apply in their own lives and businesses. About Austin My name is Austin Houser, and I’m Chief Brainiac over here at Base Coat Marketing. Our journey began in 2008 when I founded a marketing agency called Houser Media. If you want to take a look at some work the same team behind Base Coat Marketing produced for other industries, step over here — housermedia.com Over the years we identified particular trends within the markets we served, leading us to stumble across an industry in need…Specifically, we found that Painting Business Owners often complained about a lack of support generating results for their business online. So, we decided to refocus our efforts on providing an unmatched digital marketing experience to an industry in need! Austin's links https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinhouser/ https://www.basecoatmarketing.com/Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 Importance of mindset over hard skills in business success (00:03:16) Austin's morning routine and "Core Four" habits for starting the day (00:09:34) Benefits of cold plunge/ice baths and their mental/physical impacts (00:11:41) Reducing phone/technology distractions through grayscale mode and time restrictions (00:15:59) Prioritizing family time and unplugging from devices (00:18:08) Embracing a mindset of continuous learning and growth (00:23:22) Keywords: mindset, routines, overcoming obstacles, construction industry, Austin Houser, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, resilience, daily routines, perseverance, construction success, personal development, professional growth

In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Even Hoffman, the founder of On Purpose Media, a digital marketing agency focused on the trades. Evan shares his journey from starting in HVAC sales to building a successful marketing company that helps contractors grow their businesses. About Even Evan Hoffman, Co-Founder of On Purpose Media, is a visionary professional with a proven track record of transformative leadership. Specializing in digital marketing, Evan excels at crafting customized strategies that drive tangible results. His commitment to empowering businesses led to the creation of On Purpose Media, where he currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer. During his tenure as Publisher at Best Version Media he ran the #1 market in Canada for the company. Evan demonstrated exceptional leadership by building and guiding a team publishing exclusive monthly magazines for affluent communities, showcasing his expertise in business-to-business advertising sales and effective team management. Evan has played a pivotal role in assisting corporations with long-term branding and creating lasting impressions. Evan's dedication to personal and professional growth is nurtured through his love for reading personal development books. He is an avid consumer of literature that enhances his skills and knowledge, reflecting his commitment to continuous improvement. His educational journey includes studies in Physical Education at the University of Alberta and Kinesiology at the University of Regina, where he played college football. Beyond his professional achievements, Evan is a certified Google Ads specialist, co-hosts the HVAC Success Secrets Revealed podcast which has over 175 published episodes, and was recognized as one of Cutco Corporation's top 250 sales reps. A devoted father of three, Evan has a love for philosophy, particularly inspired by Tony Robbins. Whether driving business success, fostering personal growth, or immersing himself in books, Evan Hoffman is a force of strategic acumen, passion, and is committed to making a positive impact and to helping businesses thrive. Evan's links https://onpurposemedia.ca https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCympmrPnT_5MZxEAEyyv2rw https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/hvac-success-secrets-revealed/id1566767789 Tik tok: @onpurposemedia IG: @hoffman.evanIG: @onpurposemedia_ FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hvacrevealed Website https://www.buildercoms.com/constructionchampionspodcast For CRM Solutions: BUILD12 https://www.build12.com/constructionchampions?am_id=ron625 For Picture, Video, Document, and Communication Management: BuilderComs https://go.buildercoms.com/payment-7269?am_id=podcast Association of Professional Builders Annual Report https://hubs.ly/Q02rT-1n0 Join our community: Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/957628795429538 What makes a "construction champion" - the importance of values like integrity, humility, and an abundance mindset (00:04:49) The challenges of transitioning from a technician to a business owner, and the need to delegate effectively (00:07:30) Red flags to watch out for when hiring a marketing agency, including ownership of digital assets and industry expertise (00:12:27) The importance of understanding your desired business model and lifestyle, not just chasing growth for growth's sake (00:21:17) Keywords: champion mindset, construction industry, Evan Hoffman, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, resilience, perseverance, positive attitude, proactive mindset, leadership, project success