Modern Craftsman

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Paul Johnson about why builder education is key to improving craftsmanship and raising the bar across the industry. Paul shares how his work with VELUX goes far beyond selling products — focusing instead on training, leadership, and building long-term relationships with tradespeople. From the role of manufacturer education to creating new opportunities for builders to grow their businesses, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, innovation, and elevating the craft.   Show Notes: Velux's Market Share and Installation Importance (0:00) Paul Johnson's Career Journey and Entrepreneurial Influence (14:24) Velux's Training Academy and Installer Engagement (16:06) The Importance of Skylights in Home Building (38:36) Unique Skylight Installations (40:15) Current and Favorite Projects (1:06:48) Career Path and Company Culture (1:08:48) Partnership and Training Opportunities (1:20:43) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/5LLSwFnrVYg   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media  

In this episode, Tyler talks about how to handle the fear and uncertainty that comes with a slow season. He shares why it’s crucial not to panic, how to stay confident in your value, and ways to use the downtime to come out stronger on the other side. Show Notes:  Handling a Slow Season in the Construction Industry (0:00) Impact of Economic Factors on the Construction Industry (4:20) Strategies for Surviving a Slowdown (10:00) Long-Term Planning and Business Sustainability (16:23) Building a Sustainable Business Model (18:42) Preparing for Future Slowdowns (24:54) Final Thoughts and Encouragement (26:04) Video Version: https://youtu.be/a1ArdeZ089s   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to architect and entrepreneur Matt Arnold about building a business with intentional flexibility. They explore why Matt chose to create a brand that leaves space for future collaboration and growth, how building his own projects reshaped his client empathy, and the realities of launching a new firm while balancing life as a new father. From architecture to business ownership, this conversation dives into decision-making, leadership, and crafting a professional path that evolves with you. Guest Matt Arnold https://arnoldand.com/ Show Notes: Designing and Constructing with Care (0:00) Blending Architecture, Interiors, and Brand (5:02) Boston's Design Aesthetic  (11:17) Being Open to Collaboration, by Design (19:50) Why Not Having a Business Plan is Good (25:29) The Extrovert vs Introvert Business Owner (29:25) The Benefit of Working on Your Own Projects (30:57) The Journey to Entrepreneurship (52:28) The Importance of Early Mornings (56:30) Setting Up a Work Schedule for Deep Work (1:12:37) Balancing Work and Personal Life (1:17:32) Understanding Business Metrics and Lead Tracking (1:25:21) Building a Brand and Future Plans (1:32:36) Final Thoughts and Future Projects (1:34:58) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/c6nA99ovS3Y   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   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 overlooked power of simple, unglamorous jobs — the ones that never end up on Instagram but quietly build your business and bring deep satisfaction. Reflecting on past projects and client impact, he challenges the idea that only high-end, showpiece work defines success. Show Notes:  Meaningful Work and Personal Fulfillment (0:00) The Value of Return Clients and B-Grade Jobs (2:08) Building a Robust Client Base (9:22) Personal Fulfillment and Business Strategy (12:08) Upcoming Workshops and Consulting Services (21:18)   Video Version: https://youtu.be/8FW3uunLQnQ   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk about what it really takes to walk away from a project — and why it’s sometimes the most responsible move a builder can make. They break down a real scenario where NS Builders stepped back during pre-construction, share the signs they couldn’t ignore, and open up about the fear, second-guessing, and professionalism required to make the call. This one’s about clarity, boundaries, and protecting both your team and your reputation.   Show Notes: Reputation and Client Selection (0:00) Sponsors and Product Promotions (1:18) Client Communication and Project Challenges (4:46) Unrealistic Expectations and Project Management (11:53) Client Behavior and Professionalism (27:52) Owner-Supplied Materials and Project Management (38:21) Reputation and Future Business (47:37)   VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/jXEt7T3BDn4   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   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 roads not taken — reflecting on how he almost didn’t end up in construction and why it’s worth asking what other paths might have looked like. He explores how understanding your “what if” moments can bring clarity, motivation, and renewed purpose in the work you do today. Show Notes: Exploring Alternative Career Paths (0:00) The Challenge of Career Choices (2:29) Early Career Aspirations (6:50) Passion for Nature and Landscape Design (9:38) Reflections on Career Satisfaction (11:52) Workshops and Resources for Scaling (18:08) Consulting Services and Future Plans (20:20) Video Version: https://youtu.be/0tGbAjk-Yg0   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk through the emotional side of building a business — the doubt, the grind, and the quiet moments where it feels like nothing is working. Inspired by a post that hits close to home, they open up about the mental weight of leadership, how to tell when “hard” is part of the process or a sign to pivot, and why success comes not from certainty, but from showing up anyway. Show Notes:  Work-Life Balance and Defining Success (0:00) Sponsor Announcements and Work-Life Balance (1:48) Challenges of Pricing and Market Conditions (12:59) Balancing Business and Personal Life (17:30) The Role of AI in Business Efficiency (54:50) Actionable Steps for Business Growth (57:30) Future Plans and AI in Construction (1:03:13) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/UPRf5g4Z8v8   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Tyler talks about how fear of failure — not lack of skill or ambition — often shapes the decisions we make in business and life. Inspired by an off-road racing article, he reflects on how even top performers can be driven more by avoiding loss than by chasing success, and what that means for contractors navigating their own path. Show Notes: Reflecting on Fear of Failure (0:00) Caleb Russell's Retirement and Return (1:37) Personal Reflections on Fear of Failure (3:50) The Pressure of Being the Best (7:00) Tyler Grace's Consulting Services (10:16) The Importance of Preparation and Self-Acceptance (12:48) Monthly Online Workshops (21:05) Final Thoughts and Encouragement (24:16) Video Version: https://youtu.be/zbMHx9a9qqw   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Doug Duvall, co-founder of Motif Media, about how content creation is transforming the construction industry from the inside out. They discuss what it takes to tell meaningful stories on-site, why builders need to treat media as a core business function, and how the partnership between NS Builders and Motif has redefined what it means to “show your work.” Douglas Duvall    Show Notes:  Introduction of Doug Duvall and Episode Sponsors (0:00) Coffee Conversation and Personal Anecdotes (6:24) Challenges of Running a Business (15:43) Pricing and Profitability in the Building Industry (28:47) Impact of Experience and Market Positioning (54:30) Balancing Quality and Efficiency in Media Production (1:01:43) Final Thoughts on Business Growth and Efficiency (1:11:15) Balancing Content Production and Efficiency (1:15:06) Podcasting and Business Insights (1:18:48) Adapting and Evolving Content Strategies (1:32:47) Final Thoughts and Future Plans (1:36:51) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/CoHAqwVhOp4   Partners:  Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear  Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Nick Schiffer  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

In this episode, Tyler talks about one of the most overlooked threats to profitability in small construction businesses: failing to track your time. He shares strategies for setting your rate, managing client optics, and building a leaner, more sustainable business model that protects both your income and your energy. Show Notes: Capturing and Accounting for Time in Small Construction Businesses (0:00) The Importance of Tracking Back-End Time (4:08) Strategies for Setting and Managing Rates (16:17) The Role of Consulting and Coaching (23:10) Video Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SYPQqc7z1ig   The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts:  Tyler Grace  Podcast Produced By: Motif Media