Modern Craftsman

In this episode, Tyler talks about why he made the biggest business investment of his life: buying a Kubota KX040-4 excavator. He reflects on the learning curve, the freedom it provides for building his own home, and how it’s already paying off both financially and personally. Show Notes:  Investment in an Excavator (0:00) Personal and Professional Motivations (2:26) Dealer Relationship and Purchase Experience (4:07) Equipment Features and Usage (7:32) Financial and Tax Benefits of Owning (13:22) Experience and Future Plans (23:41) Consulting Services and Podcast Feedback (24:17) Video version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3CsAASARwM The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

Wayne Feltman shares his incredible journey from building tree forts as a kid to leading skylight innovation at a global company. This episode dives into his winding career path, lessons from personal loss, and how skylights can dramatically transform a space. It’s about craftsmanship, perspective, and finding purpose on the roof and in life. Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/d8kQ0B62g0g   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Tyler talks about the critical importance of finding a hobby that provides mental reset and active presence for business owners struggling with burnout. He shares his personal journey of reconnecting with dirt biking, explaining how this hobby has transformed his mental health, business performance, and overall quality of life. Show Notes:  Finding Time for Yourself as a Business Owner (0:00) Nick's Lack of a Hobby and Tyler's Personal Experience (1:21) Impact of COVID-19 on Business and Personal Life (5:49) Reconnecting with Dirt Biking (7:04) Challenges and Successes in Dirt Biking (11:12) Flow State and Mental Health Benefits (13:27) Balancing Hobbies and Business Responsibilities (24:56) The Importance of Consistent Hobbies (26:42) Overcoming Guilt and Embracing Self-Care (26:58) Final Thoughts and Encouragement (27:14) Video version: https://youtu.be/FwJYH79dReM The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

Nick and Tyler dive deep into the challenges of scaling a construction business, balancing cash flow with long-term equity, and staying resilient through risk and uncertainty. They share personal experiences from spec builds, client interactions, and what it really means to grow a sustainable business. Whether you’re a builder, business owner, or just navigating growth, this conversation offers valuable insight into the mindset and systems needed to succeed. Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/A1lombOEMUU The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Tyler talks about breaking free from the cycle of overworking and losing sight of why he started his business. He shares personal insights on creating systems, delegating tasks, and prioritizing life balance to build a more sustainable and profitable business. Show Notes:  Escaping the Hustle Trap: Introduction and Personal Reflection (0:00) The Real Problem: Revenue vs. Freedom (2:09) The Impact of Long Hours on Personal and Business Life (4:40) Delegating Tasks and Finding Efficiency (9:52) The Importance of Saying No and Maintaining Confidence (14:18) Balancing Work and Personal Life (16:39) Consulting and Support for Business Owners (25:44) Video version: https://youtu.be/Kr7PaRjq6fY The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this conversation with Kyle Harnish, a construction entrepreneur and workwear innovator, he shares his inspiring journey from a struggling tradesman to the founder of Harnish Workwear. Kyle delves into the importance of mental health in the construction industry, discussing his personal battles with anxiety and the support from his therapist wife. He emphasizes the transformative power of risk in entrepreneurship, the significance of professional appearance, and the mission of creating stylish, functional workwear that elevates the trades profession.

In this episode, Tyler talks about the importance of perspective and resilience, using Kim Mulkey's post-game interview as a catalyst for discussing how we often focus on failures instead of appreciating the effort and growth. He shares personal stories about racing while sick, attending JLC, and emphasizes the value of putting oneself out there, learning from challenges, and not reducing complex journeys to simple win-or-lose metrics. Show notes: Tyler Grace's Introduction and Apology (0:00) Tyler's Race Experience (3:03) JLC Experience and Apology (7:22) Kim Mulkey's Post-Game Interview (8:43) Reflection on Criticism and Perspective (11:09) The Importance of Preparation and Effort (12:36) Building and Supporting Each Other (21:25) Conclusion and Future Plans (27:28) Video version: https://youtu.be/FT3YxOEKKrA The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Knips, a marketing professional with over a decade of experience in the building materials industry. From backing trailers into docks during internships to leading national campaigns at Andersen Windows, Ellie’s journey is one of grit, curiosity, and fearless growth. She shares how she transitioned from Cambria’s interior-focused marketing to Andersen’s content-driven role—despite having no formal background in social media. We dive into how she built trust with builders, navigated big career leaps, and learned to embrace uncertainty and “figure it out” moments. We also talk about the importance of authentic storytelling, building strong brand partnerships, and why betting on yourself is often the smartest move you can make. Whether you’re in construction, marketing, or just trying to level up your career, this episode is packed with real talk, insight, and inspiration. Episode Outline: Ellie Kanips' Career Journey and Role at Anderson Windows (0:00) Ellie's Transition from Cambria to Anderson (5:42) Leadership and Learning from Challenges (11:51) Storytelling and Audience Connection in Marketing (23:51) Building Strong Partnerships with Vendors (33:13) Challenges and Growth in New Roles (43:57) Final Thoughts and Reflections (46:47)   Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/T706l2dJumw Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

Join Nick and Tyler as they interview Nate Spearing, a former Army Special Forces operator turned custom home builder, exploring the parallels between military discipline and entrepreneurial success. The conversation delves deep into Nate's personal philosophy of balancing business growth, family values, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences while maintaining resilience and purpose. Episode Outline: Nick Schiffer's Introduction and Guest Background (0:00) Sponsor Mentions and Podcast Structure (2:28) Relatable Experiences and Industry Challenges (5:16) Balancing Business and Personal Life (7:08) Risk Tolerance and Business Decision-Making (8:16) Military Background and Business Adaptation (8:30) Internal and External Motivation (9:27) Building a Unique Business (1:28:19) Personal and Professional Growth (1:28:35) Final Thoughts and Future Plans (1:28:52) Balancing Work and Personal Life (1:29:12) Creating a Stress-Free Environment (1:29:29) Teaching Children Valuable Skills (1:29:43) Balancing Work and Personal Growth (1:30:02) Leveraging Media and Technology (1:30:18) Final Thoughts and Recommendations (1:30:51) Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Tvft1mAPnY0 Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

This week, Tyler discusses the importance of understanding one's business, including mission, values, and vision, in order to effectively define a brand's identity and attract the right clients. He also talks through the need to align marketing, branding, and lead generation strategies with the business' unique strengths and ideal client profile.   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media Tyler's Top Blogs: How I Started My Business Books that Build Site Protection Principles My Preconstruction Process: Part 1 Becoming Proficient in Multiple Trades