
Construction Champions Podcast
What does it take to be a Construction Champion?
Welcome to Construction Champions Podcast, where the top minds in construction share the strategies, mindset, and innovations needed to win every day. Hosted by Ron Nussbaum, this podcast delivers real, unfiltered conversations with builders, contractors, home service professionals, thought leaders, disruptors, and visionaries who are redefining the industry.
Join the Construction Champions movement. Subscribe now and be part of a community committed to building a stronger, smarter, and more successful construction industry.
Latest episodes

Aug 19, 2024 • 37min
Purpose, Relationships, and Personal Growth! Construction Champions Podcast 2-67 Kevin Carey
This episode of the Construction Champions podcast features a deep discussion with guest Kevin Carey on what it means to be a true construction champion. They explore the importance of building a powerful network and using it to connect and positively impact people, stepping out of your comfort zone to continue growing, and prioritizing family and the whole person rather than just the professional side. The conversation provides valuable insights for construction professionals looking to elevate themselves and their industry.
About Kevin
KEVIN’S PURPOSE IS TO BUILD AN ARMY OF MOUNTAIN MOVERS, ONE PERSON AT A TIME. He is blessed to walk in his purpose every single day. He is the proud husband to his beautiful wife, Sadie and father to his princess, Quinn. He is the author of the book Mountain Mover Manual – How to Live Intentionally, Lead with Purpose, and Achieve Your Greatest Potential. His company, Mountain Movers, focuses on speaking, group workshops, executive coaching, and mentoring, predominantly in the construction industry. Kevin is the cohost of the 17Twenty podcast which has reached over 80 countries, 1,700 cities, and countless stories of impact. He is also part owner of several construction companies.
Kevin's links
www.mountainmoverarmy.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-j-carey/
Book - https://a.co/d/0DsvUH2Website
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" (00:02:58)
The importance of building a powerful network and connecting people (00:06:21)
The construction industry's tendency to rally around and support local causes (00:10:26)
The challenge of balancing work and family life, and making family the top priority (00:17:27)
The value of stepping out of your comfort zone and taking on new challenges (00:13:47)
The concept of "rocking chair moments" and living with no regrets (00:12:37
Keywords:purpose, relationships, personal growth, construction industry, Kevin Carey, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, aligning goals, meaningful relationships, professional development, self-improvement, achieving balance

Aug 15, 2024 • 30min
Constructing a Better Life! Construction Champions Podcast 2-66 Steve Dell'Orto
In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Steve Dell'Orto, the CEO and founder of ConCntric . Steve spent 26 years in the construction industry, leading a top 10 general contractor and building up a multi-billion dollar division on the West Coast.
About Steve
Steve Dell’Orto is the founder and CEO of ConCntric, a preconstruction platform that is transforming the fractured preconstruction environment by unifying data, people and processes. ConCntric acts as a single source of truth for all preconstruction stakeholders by providing a dynamic view of the project that ensures a certainty of outcome. As a 26-year construction industry veteran who has lived and breathed the world of delivering preconstruction projects, Steve is uniquely positioned to bring digital transformation to the industry.
Steve's links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedellorto/
https://concntric.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
What makes a "construction champion" - the importance of being a great team player and bringing stakeholders together (00:03:41)
The communication challenges in construction and the need for a "single source of truth" to avoid disputes (00:08:28)
How Concentric is helping the construction industry by improving planning, collaboration, and efficiency through technology (00:13:02)
The benefits of construction technology being built by those with industry experience, rather than outsiders (00:18:15)
The need to make technology that reduces steps and saves time, not adds more work for construction professionals (00:22:45)
Keywords:constructing a better life, personal growth, construction industry, Steve Dell'Orto, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, construction methodologies, life transformation, building success, continuous improvement, balanced life

Aug 12, 2024 • 27min
Balancing Discipline and Flexibility! Construction Champions Podcast 2-65 Alisha Jha
In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum is joined by Alicia Jha, a finance professional who has transitioned into working with construction companies. Alicia shares her insights on what makes a "construction champion" - someone who balances discipline and flexibility in managing their construction business finances.
About Alisha
Experience and education are predominantly in Finance, and I'm currently leveraging these skills to help growth and operations @ LiveFlow, a Fintech startup that wants to automate financial reporting. I'm mainly based in London, but frequently travel to EU/US/India for work and otherwise - if you'd like to have a chat in person (preferred!) then please reach out and we can schedule something!
Alisha's links
https://www.liveflow.io/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisha-jha-cfa/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 importance of financial discipline and tracking in construction, even for smaller companies (00:04:23)
How construction companies can benefit from automating their financial reporting and analysis (00:11:11)
Barriers to adoption of financial technology in the construction industry, and how to overcome them (00:15:55)
The need for construction companies to think of themselves as businesses, not just "doing construction" (00:07:31)
The value of data and metrics for construction companies, especially when working with investors (00:20:34)
Keywords:discipline and flexibility, construction industry, Alisha Jha, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, structured processes, adaptable processes, resilient work environment, dynamic work environment, construction success, balancing discipline

Aug 8, 2024 • 36min
Consolidation and Preserving the American Dream Construction Champions Podcast 2-64 Brock Fankhauser
In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Brock Fankhauser, a veteran home builder with over 25 years of experience building subdivisions and communities across North and South Carolina. Brock shares his insights on what it takes to be a "construction champion" and discusses the challenges and opportunities facing the industry, including the trend of consolidation among large home builders.
About Brock
Today, we'll learn about the inspiring story of Brock Fankhauser, a visionary real estate developer, homebuilder, and business entrepreneur. With over two decades of experience in the industry, Brock has made a name for himself by creating innovative, maintenance-free residential developments designed specifically for the active adult demographic. His passion for fostering a strong sense of community and celebrating American values shines through in his latest venture, The 1776® Community. The 1776® Community is more than just 55+ neighborhoods; they are a testament to Brock's commitment to honoring the country's founding principles and creating an environment that promotes patriotism and a shared love for America.
Brock's links
https://1776community.com/
https://open.spotify.com/show/4f8GvCZ4kcy29P7TUZ3D7U
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
Introduction to the Construction Champions Podcast (00:00:00) - The host, Ron Nussbaum, introduces the podcast and the guest, Brock, who has been building subdivisions and communities for 25 years.
What Makes a Construction Champion? (00:01:52) - Brock discusses the key attributes of a construction champion, including the ability to respond to setbacks, having good people, products, and processes, and being part of a network of builders who can learn from each other.
The Importance of Processes and Learning from Others (00:02:56) - Brock emphasizes the need for having a process for every aspect of the business and being willing to learn from other builders who are experts in certain areas.
Transitioning from a Top-Down Management Approach to a Servant Leadership Model (00:06:13) - Brock shares his experience of moving away from a top-down management style to one where he surrounds himself with the best people and learns from them.
Negotiating and Pushing Boundaries (00:09:18) - Brock discusses the importance of negotiating and pushing boundaries with suppliers, trades, and even bankers to get the best deals for the business.
The Threat of Consolidation in the Construction Industry (00:16:24) - Brock expresses concern about the consolidation happening in the construction industry, where larger companies are gaining more market share and potentially treating trades like "bullies".
The 1776 Brand and Preserving the American Dream (00:22:33) - Brock introduces the 1776 brand, a community-based initiative that aims to celebrate patriotism and the founding ideals of the country, as a way to hedge against the threat of consolidation and manufactured housing.
Keywords:industry consolidation, preserving the American Dream, construction industry, Brock Fankhauser, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, sustainable growth, navigating consolidation, market opportunities, construction success, industry changes

Aug 5, 2024 • 33min
Building a Championship Culture! Construction Champions Podcast 2-53 Jim Tracy
In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Jim Tracy, a construction industry veteran with over 40 years of experience. Jim shares his insights on what it takes to build a championship culture in the construction business, from setting high standards to investing in and caring for your team.
About Jim
Mr. Tracy is the Founder of The Legacy Companies and has 30+ years of experience in Senior and C-Suite Management of commercial development, construction and engineered products manufacturing firms. As the 23-year Chief Executive and founding partner of Legacy Telecommunications, Inc, Jim focused on creating a team vision for the people who execute projects in Legacy’s diverse areas of expertise. Jim has 24+ years of experience in tower and power line infrastructure construction, including managing multiple site and extremely remote projects. Jim is an instrument rated Pilot with 2000+ hours of flight time in high performance, complex, multi-engine & jet aircraft. He is a frequent author and keynote speaker and lecturer on a select variety of topics. He hosts a weekly podcast; The Grampion.
Jim's links
https://thejimtracy.com
https://thegrampion.com
http://www.youtube.com/@JimTracyGrampion
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
[00:01:38] Jim Tracy introduces himself and his background in the construction industry
[00:03:02] What makes a "construction champion" - setting higher standards than those around you
[00:04:44] Importance of leading by example and physically showing up on job sites to demonstrate safety and quality standards
[00:07:48] The value of "generous listening" and teaching rather than just demanding
[00:12:55] The challenge of creating lasting change in a construction business - it takes time and consistency
[00:16:45] Making small, incremental corrections to stay on course rather than big, disruptive changes
[00:20:26] Showing genuine care and love for your team as a way to build loyalty and commitment
Keywords:championship culture, construction industry, Jim Tracy, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, team motivation, building culture, team success, winning environment, construction success, leadership strategies

Aug 1, 2024 • 41min
Unlocking Explosive Growth for Your Business! Construction Champions Podcast 2-62 Scott Andreasen
This podcast episode provides a wealth of practical, actionable advice for construction business owners looking to grow their companies. The discussion covers topics like defining success, overcoming growth challenges, leveraging online marketing tactics, and building a strong online presence and reputation. The host and guest offer numerous specific tips and strategies that construction professionals can implement to attract more high-value customers and take their businesses to the next level.
www.excavationmarketingpros.com/champion
About Scott
Scott Andreasen is a renowned expert in excavation & septic business development and branding, with a distinguished career in marketing for the excavating, septic and outdoor construction industries. Since 2022, he has specialized in crafting innovative marketing strategies tailored to the unique needs of excavation & septic businesses, helping them establish a robust online presence and achieve substantial growth.Scott's marketing journey began in 2009, focusing on the outdoor construction sector. His extensive experience laid a solid foundation for his transition to the septic industry, where he quickly became a trusted advisor and strategist. His deep understanding of the industry's nuances has enabled him to devise effective marketing campaigns that drive significant results.In 2022, Scott published Excavation & Septic Internet Marketing Profits, a valuable resource for business owners seeking to enhance their online visibility and profitability. The book outlines practical strategies and insights from Scott's extensive experience to help excavation & septic businesses navigate digital marketing complexities.Scott leverages the latest digital tools and platforms to create comprehensive branding strategies that resonate with target audiences. His client-centric approach and dedication to excellence have earned him a reputation as a leading figure in septic business development and branding.Through his consultancy, Scott has transformed numerous businesses, enabling them to dominate their local markets and achieve sustained growth. His innovative methods and commitment to client success continue to drive his prominence in the industry, making him a sought-after expert in excavation & septic business marketing.
Scott's links
https://excavationmarketingpros.com/
https://podcast.excavationmarketingpros.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottandreasenofficial/
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" (00:02:10)
The importance of growing all aspects of your business, not just the construction work (00:03:26)
Tips for getting high-value customers through your website: Personalize your website with team photos, equipment, etc. (00:11:10)
Offer multiple ways for customers to contact you (phone, text, email, chat) (00:13:46)
Use the Google Keyword Planner to target the right search terms (00:21:49)
Optimize your Google Business Profile for local search (00:26:58)
Proactively ask customers for reviews and use them as social proof (00:31:20)
Keywords:explosive business growth, construction industry, Scott Andreasen, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, business scaling, growth strategies, growth opportunities, long-term success, business development, construction success

Jul 29, 2024 • 25min
Embracing Technology to Revolutionize the Industry! Construction Champions Podcast 2-61Eric Helitzer
In this episode, host Ron Nussbaum interviews Eric, the founder and CEO of SubBase, a construction technology company. Eric shares his passion for the construction industry, having grown up in a 3rd generation construction family. They discuss the challenges of technology adoption in construction, the importance of understanding industry workflows, and the potential of AI to revolutionize the industry.
About Eric
Eric Helitzer is a visionary entrepreneur and accomplished professional in the construction industry. With a background deeply rooted in building construction and a commitment to innovation, he is a third-generation builder and a proud alumnus of the University of Florida Rinker School of Building Construction, where he earned the distinction of being a double gator.
Eric's links
https://www.subbase.io/
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
Eric's background and love for the construction industry (00:00:49)
What makes a "construction champion" - the passion for building (00:02:03)
Differences in construction methods across different regions (00:04:25)
Strategies for successful construction technology adoption (00:06:23)
Common pain points and challenges in construction workflows (00:09:13)
The role of AI and data in improving construction processes (00:17:20)
Keywords:embracing technology, construction technology, industry revolution, Eric Helitzer, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, tech integration, construction innovation, project efficiency, technological trends, construction growth, advanced technology

Jul 25, 2024 • 35min
Intentionality, Relationships, High Performance! Construction Champions Podcast 2-60 Jake Thompson
Jake Thompson is a leadership performance coach who works extensively in the construction industry. He helps teams and leaders develop the mindset and skills to become "construction champions" - high-performing individuals and organizations that excel both on the job site and in their personal lives.
About Jake
Jake Thompson is a leadership performance coach and the Chief Encouragement Officer at Compete Every Day, a brand he started in 2011 by first selling t-shirts out of the trunk of his car. Jake has spent more than a decade working with leaders and organizations all over the world on how they can get better results for themselves and their teams. He has been featured in Forbes, hosts a weekly podcast closing in on one million downloads, and has directly impacted over 80,000 ambitious leaders.Through his entrepreneurial sales experience, client work, and research, Jake has built a proven C.E.D. framework that helps leaders improve their grit, productive habits, and leadership influence to create a more positive impact as leaders within their organizations. Jake lives in Dallas/Fort Worth with his wife, Elena and their rescue dogs, Sugar, Donut, & Snacks.
Jake's links
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakethompson4/
https://jakeathompson.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
What makes a "construction champion" and the importance of intentionality (00:02:11)
Responding vs. reacting to challenges and setbacks on the job site (00:03:35)
Maintaining a positive attitude and being present for family after work (00:05:39)
The importance of investing in relationships and developing people, not just focusing on the work (00:07:40)
How top construction leaders are differentiating themselves by getting to know their teams, providing feedback, and developing future leaders (00:24:10)
Keywords:intentionality, high performance, building relationships, construction industry, Jake Thompson, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, goal achievement, professional development, relationship building, success strategies, high-performance mindset, construction success

Jul 22, 2024 • 36min
Becoming a True Leader in the Construction Industry! Construction Champions Podcast 2-59 Mick Hawes
In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum sits down with Mick Hawes, founder of Builders Business Black Belt. Mick shares his journey from being an electrician to becoming a business coach for residential builders, with a mission to eliminate pain points in the construction industry.
About Mick
Mick Hawes is a seasoned coach, entrepreneur, and host of the podcast The Toolshed dedicated to helping builders and building business owners achieve greater success. With over 20 years in the industry, Mick transforms the way builders operate, focusing on increasing profits, reclaiming time, and fostering personal growth. Mick's holistic approach emphasizes positive mindset, efficient processes, and strong client relationships. Mick’s practical strategies and insightful coaching have made Builders Business Blackbelt a trusted resource for builders looking to transform their businesses.
Mick's links
https://buildersbusinessblackbelt.com.au
https://bit.ly/JoinTheToolshed
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
Introduction to the Construction Champions Podcast (00:00:00) - The host, Ron Nussbaum, introduces the Construction Champions podcast and welcomes the guest, Mick, to discuss what it means to be a construction champion.
Mick's Background and Journey (00:00:53) - Mick shares his background, including how he got into the construction industry, his experience as a professional musician and insurance salesman, and how he eventually started his own coaching business for residential builders.
What Makes a Construction Champion? (00:04:20) - Mick discusses the importance of construction business owners and leaders working on themselves first in order to be a great example and leader for their team. He emphasizes the need to prioritize self-care and not neglect one's own well-being.
The Management Matrix and Treating Team Members as Individuals (00:09:52) - Mick explains a management matrix framework that looks at four different levels of team member experience and maturity, and the importance of tailoring one's leadership approach to each individual rather than treating everyone the same.
Promoting the Wrong People and Discovering Team Member Passions (00:13:17) - The discussion turns to the common construction industry practice of promoting top performers into leadership roles without considering if they actually want or are suited for that responsibility. Mick emphasizes the importance of having open conversations to understand each team member's true interests and abilities.
The 6 Types of Working Genius and Aligning Team Members (00:16:12) - Mick introduces the concept of the 6 types of working genius from Patrick Lencioni's work, and how understanding one's own and one's team's strengths and weaknesses can help align people in the right roles.
Creating a Fun, Productive Work Environment (00:25:39) - The conversation concludes by discussing ways to make the construction work environment more fun and enjoyable for employees, without sacrificing productivity, through open communication, creative ideas, and focusing on team member happiness.
Keywords:construction leadership, true leader, construction industry, Mick Hawes, Ron Nussbaum, Construction Champions Podcast, leadership qualities, team inspiration, successful projects, leadership development, construction management, effective leadership

Jul 18, 2024 • 31min
Embracing Technology and Professionalism! Construction Champions Podcast 2-58 David Hurley
In this episode of the Construction Champions podcast, host Ron Nussbaum interviews David Hurley, the founder of Home Pro Booster - a company that partners with construction and home service professionals to help them build an online presence and boost their marketing.
About David
David Hurley, a successful tech entrepreneur who has had 3 successful exits. He grew up in a construction family (dad and mom), and has done everything from electrical to framing, roofing to plumbing. Knowing, firsthand, the pitfalls business owners face when it comes to marketing their home service business, David put his knowledge and experience in the website and marketing field to good use and started Home Pro Booster.
David's links
http://homeprobooster.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
David Hurley's background and journey into the web/marketing industry (00:01:19)
What makes a "construction champion" - the 4 key pillars (00:05:14)
The construction industry's resistance to technology and digital marketing (00:10:08)
The importance of a professional online presence and branding for contractors (00:13:46)
How HomePro Booster simplifies digital marketing for construction businesses (00:21:25)
Keywords:
embracing technology, professionalism in construction, construction industry, David Hurley, Construction Champions Podcast, tech adoption, professional standards, construction success, modernizing construction, project outcomes, Ron Nussbaum, construction practices, balancing innovation and tradition