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
Jul 9, 2017 • 55min
#12 @alex7020 of Central PA builds homes on the side with his brothers
Today we chat w/ @alex7020 of Central PA. Alex along w/ his brothers are building homes on the side while keeping full-time jobs. We touch on how their first spec home burned to the ground weeks before closing and we drill down on the "why" they aren't committing full-time to the spec/ custom home gig they are so passionate about.
Jul 1, 2017 • 1h 18min
#11 Ryan Mulkeen the man who united The Modern Craftsman
We sit down w/ the guy responsible for connecting the three of us and inspiring The Modern Craftsman movement. Ryan Mulkeen, Director of Marketing Kuiken Brothers Company, Inc. We talk trim, history of it, what's changed and what needs to be done to bring the craftsmanship & details BACK!!! Another amazing episode!!!!
Jun 21, 2017 • 1h 21min
#10 Jason Black from Artisan Signature Homes talks shop
Our good friend Jason Black from Artisan Signature Homes sits down with us and talks shop. We get Jason's views on architecture, management and everything in-between from a Builder that's built over 100 HOMES!!!!
Jun 13, 2017 • 38min
#9 Q&A with Kevin Schuh from @Kmsconstructionllc
Kevin Schuh from @Kmsconstructionllc calls in with a question for the guys: "When you start transitioning more into the management side of construction, how do you ensure that the employees/subcontractors performing the day to day work stay true to pride, workmanship and quality craftsmanship?" John, Nick and Tyler share tips and tricks on how they manage their subcontractors. Even when a product lacks quality, its ok to step back/stop, and work with the employee/subcontractor on correcting. Teaching and educating the individual will help with better execution on future projects.
Jun 6, 2017 • 1h 17min
#8 The guys go deep with Q&As
We don't just answer questions sent in from IG by email. We call the tradesman & builders/contractors and work through their questions submitted!!!!
May 30, 2017 • 1h 3min
#7 Mike Grainger of @Transformationbytcs talks shop
Today we talk shop w/ Mike Grainger of @Transformationbytcs. We hit topics like growth, training employees, design, vetting process for potential jobs and how to say "no" to a client.
May 23, 2017 • 51min
#6 John Marley shares what it takes to keep high quality
John Marley superintendent for Spire Builders out of Bucks County, PA sits with the boys to discuss what it takes to keep quality high, and the importance of leaving no detail to chance on their multi million dollar build. John also talks about his early years in the business and how he started his own company - Marley Builders, which today, he still runs on the side as a woodworking company.
May 16, 2017 • 23min
#5 Road Trip!
Did someone say road trip?? John and Nick pack up the truck and head to Pennsylvania to visit with John Marley from Spire Builders. John is working on a large private custom home and the guys are amazed at the level of detail throughout the project, and the thought process that John Marley brings to the table. After a busy day, John and Nick recap their site visit on the long ride home.
May 9, 2017 • 53min
#4 Stephen King from Sap Woodworks calls in to the guys
Stephen King from Sap Woodworks calls in from the NWFA Expo in Phoenix, AZ and joins the guys for a chat about his hardwood flooring business. Stephen is at the forefront leading the way on educating people about his craft. Many of us take this trade for granted until something goes wrong, but Stephen walks us through every step of the process and why he loves what he does day in and day out.
May 1, 2017 • 41min
#3 Stan Romanek talks about transitioning from employee to owner
As day one of the JLC Live comes to a close, the boys sit down at the FastenMaster booth and chat with Stan Romanek from Level Home Improvements. Stan talks about his early start in the industry and how he transitioned from working for someone, to owning his own business.
