
Modern Craftsman
Modern Craftsman is more than just a podcast. It’s a community. A hub for those in this industry to promote excellence, education, knowledge and respect. To share what they’ve done right and what they’ve done wrong. To talk about building, life, leadership, mental health and everything in between. And we want to partner with vendors, brands and people that share the same goals: to make people better, to make the industry better and to advocate for a better life in the trades.
Latest episodes

Mar 20, 2025 • 26min
Midweek with Tyler: How to Find Clients Who Truly Fit
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

Mar 17, 2025 • 1h 18min
#353 The Nuances of Scaling a Construction Business
In this episode, Nick and Tyler discuss the nuances of scaling a construction business, emphasizing the importance of separating personal emotions from objective business decisions to ensure long-term profitability and sustainable growth. Scaling a Construction Business (0:00) Understanding Scaling and Business Growth (3:11) Personal Motivations and Risks of Scaling (5:13) Subjective Decisions and Objective Metrics (14:43) Challenges of Hiring and Managing Employees (23:03) Balancing Profitability and Growth (25:31) The Importance of Systems and Processes (25:49) Scaling Based on Market Conditions (26:04) The Role of Emotions in Business Decisions (46:27) Overhead and Decision-Making (46:55) Business Model Sustainability and Hourly Rates (1:12:02) Systems and Coordination for Scaling (1:14:33) Visiting Anderson Windows in Arizona (1:16:19) Watch this episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/phbqWAGr7iM Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

Mar 13, 2025 • 26min
Midweek with Tyler: All About the Wetlands Approval Process
Tyler Grace discusses his recent enduro race experience and an upcoming business trip to Arizona. He also provides detailed insights into the process of purchasing a property without approvals, including the steps taken to secure the necessary permits and approvals for building on the land. 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

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 52min
#352 Embracing Pre-Construction with Marty Zahr
In this episode, Nick and Tyler have an in-depth conversation with Marty Zahr, co-founder of the Sydney-based construction company Austral Build. They discuss Marty's unconventional path to success, the challenges and strategies of running a family business, and the importance of implementing systems and technology to drive growth. AustralBuild.com.au Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media

Mar 6, 2025 • 25min
Midweek with Tyler: The Takeaway From the International Builders' Show
Tyler Grace shares his experience attending the International Builders' Show, highlighting the impact of the event on his perspective and the importance of the relationships and community within the industry. He emphasizes the unique nature of the industry and the value of collaboration and support. 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

Feb 24, 2025 • 1h 39min
Elevating the Client Experience with Danette Beal
Nick and Tyler sit down with Danette Beal, VP of Marketing at Alosant, to explore how home builders and developers can elevate the client experience. They dive into the role of technology in streamlining the customer journey, strategies for reducing decision fatigue, and how these efforts build trust and set businesses apart in a competitive market. www.alosant.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/danette-beal/ Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer 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

Feb 20, 2025 • 31min
Midweek with Tyler: Tracking Hours for Profitability
This week, Tyler focuses on the importance of tracking hours and managing projects effectively to ensure profitability. He discusses strategies for budgeting, scheduling, and holding trades accountable to avoid cost overruns and maximize margins. 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

Feb 17, 2025 • 1h 53min
A Blueprint for Building with the Best Architects with Brady Fry
Brady Fry, the founder of Fry Classic Homes in Nashville, shares his insights and experiences on building a successful custom home construction business. He discusses the evolution of Nashville's real estate market, the importance of building relationships with elite architects, and the strategies he has employed to overcome obstacles and achieve long-term success. https://fryclassicconstruction.com Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer 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

Feb 13, 2025 • 19min
Midweek with Tyler: Home Building Update and a Big, Exciting Purchase
Tyler Grace discusses his exciting plans to build a new home, including the challenges of a high water table and the detailed thought process behind his decision to purchase an excavator to assist with site work. 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

Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 38min
Scaling a Debt-Free Construction Empire with Brad Leavitt
Brad Leavitt, owner of AFT Construction, shares his journey from a one-man operation to leading a 28-member team in high-end residential construction. He emphasizes the importance of developing effective systems and prioritizing exceptional customer service. Leavitt highlights strategic hiring practices and the evolution of technology for better communication. He also discusses financial management in scaling a construction business, pointing out the significance of cash flow and clever marketing strategies. Humor and camaraderie play a role in creating a positive work culture.
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