

Modern Craftsman
Modern Craftsman
The Modern Craftsman is a podcast for builders who think beyond the jobsite. Hosted by Nick Schiffer and Tyler Grace, this show explores what it takes to build a better business, a stronger team, and a more sustainable career in the trades.
Each episode features real conversations about leadership, project management, client communication, team culture, mental resilience, and long-term success in construction. Whether you’re a carpenter scaling your company, a remodeler refining your process, or a builder navigating burnout, you’ll find insight, support, and hard-earned lessons from those who’ve lived it.
Each episode features real conversations about leadership, project management, client communication, team culture, mental resilience, and long-term success in construction. Whether you’re a carpenter scaling your company, a remodeler refining your process, or a builder navigating burnout, you’ll find insight, support, and hard-earned lessons from those who’ve lived it.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 18, 2024 • 1h 40min
#304 Understanding your cash flow with Matt Calvano
The podcast delves into the challenges builders face in cash flow management and how technology is changing the game. Topics include efficient expense tracking, pricing strategy, automated receipt capture, and the importance of understanding cash flow for project success.

Mar 11, 2024 • 2h 1min
#303 Architect Vincent Appel of Of Possible
Architect Vincent Appel, AIA NCARB joins Nick and Tyler to talk about White Oak the spec build he designed for Nick. He also talks about his creative process and his agency Of Possible. https://www.ofpossible.com/ Modern Craftsman Partnerships Andersen Windows Buildertrend 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

Mar 4, 2024 • 59min
#302 Kyle Stumpenhorst of RR Buildings Joins the Guys at IBS 2024
Kyle Stumpenhorst of RR Buildings joins the guys at the International Builders Show 2024 from the ROCKWOOL booth. Kyle discusses his process for building high-performance homes using building science techniques and sharing his knowledge through social media to educate others in the industry. He also explains how he incorporates proven building methods from traditional construction while pushing the limits of what can be done with post-frame structures. Modern Craftsman Partnerships Andersen Windows Buildertrend 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 26, 2024 • 1h 35min
#301 Ryan Fink is Transforming the Homebuilding industry using AI
Ryan Fink joins to discuss his technology company Digs and how it uses AI to create a digital twin of your home, allowing builders and homeowners to collaborate virtually and streamline the construction process. https://www.buildersshow.com/moderncraftsman Modern Craftsman Partnerships Andersen Windows Buildertrend 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 23, 2024 • 23min
Endweek with Nick: Learning from leadership mistakes
Nick Schiffer discusses his obsession with detail and how it has positively and negatively impacted his construction business, sharing lessons learned about leadership, team dynamics, perfectionism, and balancing a drive for excellence with allowing others to succeed. Construction Company Handbook The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer Podcast Produced By: Motif Media Modern Craftsman Merch: 2 Pencils Stone Paper Notebook 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 22, 2024 • 53min
Midweek with Tyler: Vetting Clients Before Meeting in Person
Tyler Grace discusses vetting potential clients through email correspondence to determine fit and budget before meeting in person, to save time and ensure a successful project. He also talks about politely declining clients and offering referrals to other contractors. https://www.buildersshow.com/moderncraftsman 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 19, 2024 • 1h 33min
#300 Custom Home Builder Meg Billings
Meg Billings discusses running her construction company in Idaho and the challenges of establishing a new market, while Nick Schiffer and Tyler Grace provide advice on growing a business and creating an inclusive industry. Modern Craftsman Partnerships Andersen Windows Buildertrend 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 Modern Craftsman Merch: 2 Pencils Stone Paper Notebook Top Epiosdes of 2023: 244 Aron Jones 247 Michael Conneely 248 Jason Hibbs 250 Ken Decost 253 Rens Hayes 255 Mark D. Williams 260 Travis Brungardt & Joe Cook 259 Chris Murray 262 Kevin O'connor 274 Bryan Uhler 280 Jeff Sweenor 279 Mike Guertin 282 Jeremy Kassel 276 Josh Salinger

Feb 16, 2024 • 16min
Endweek with Nick: Networking at The International Builders' Show
Nick Schiffer shares his advice on making the most of the International Builders' Show in Las Vegas, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead, focusing on networking with vendors and other attendees, making the most of educational sessions and events, and wearing comfortable shoes. Construction Company Handbook The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer Podcast Produced By: Motif Media Modern Craftsman Merch: 2 Pencils Stone Paper Notebook 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 15, 2024 • 33min
Midweek with Tyler: Impermanence in Life & Business
Tyler Grace discusses his thoughts on the need for change after receiving insightful feedback from a listener, sharing reflections on personal growth, impermanence, and the challenges of shifting one's perspective versus making external changes. https://www.buildersshow.com/moderncraftsman 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 Modern Craftsman Merch: 2 Pencils Stone Paper Notebook

Feb 12, 2024 • 1h 36min
#299 Building Builder Websites with Katlyn Slocum
Your website should be a sales tool helping you maximize leads and close deals! Katlyn Slocum joins Nick and Tyler to talk about her website template service to help builders create professional sites. Modern Craftsman Partnerships Andersen Windows Buildertrend 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 Modern Craftsman Merch: 2 Pencils Stone Paper Notebook Top Epiosdes of 2023: 244 Aron Jones 247 Michael Conneely 248 Jason Hibbs 250 Ken Decost 253 Rens Hayes 255 Mark D. Williams 260 Travis Brungardt & Joe Cook 259 Chris Murray 262 Kevin O'connor 274 Bryan Uhler 280 Jeff Sweenor 279 Mike Guertin 282 Jeremy Kassel 276 Josh Salinger