The Why We Build Podcast!

summaryIn this episode of the Why We Build Podcast, host Greg Waller and guest Gates Bryan discuss the evolution of the remodeling industry, focusing on succession planning, family dynamics in business, and the importance of maintaining company culture. Gates shares her personal journey into the family business, the challenges of balancing family relationships with professional responsibilities, and her vision for the future of Black Dog Builders. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mentorship, positive reinforcement, and the need to prioritize personal relationships alongside business success.takeawaysRemodeling is evolving, with many founders approaching retirement.Succession planning is crucial for maintaining company culture and legacy.Gates Bryan found her passion in design after a challenging start in marketing.Family dynamics can enhance or complicate business relationships.Maintaining a positive company culture is essential for employee satisfaction.Mentorship and learning from others are vital for personal and professional growth.Design philosophy can influence leadership style and business optimization.Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in business management.Balancing personal and professional life is key to long-term success.Networking with peers in the industry can provide valuable insights.Sound Bites"Remodeling as a profession is coming of age.""I really kind of like this. This is kind of super fun.""I love coming to work every day.""The culture that has been developed at Black Dog is great.""I think my design philosophy is, I'm a puzzle person."Chapters00:00Introduction to the Podcast and Guests01:03The Future of Remodeling and Succession Planning03:08Gates Bryan's Journey into Remodeling05:48Family Dynamics in Business09:45Maintaining Company Culture and Values12:52Preparing for Leadership Transition16:06The Role of Mentorship and Coaching19:13Optimizing Business Processes21:45Design Philosophy and Future Vision25:01Final Thoughts and Advice

Summary In this episode of the Why We Build Podcast, Greg Woleck discusses the importance of commitments in project management, particularly within the context of peer groups. He introduces the SMARTR framework for creating meaningful commitments and emphasizes the need for accountability and urgency. The conversation also highlights the role of micro boards in maintaining engagement and support among peers, ensuring that commitments are not just goals but actionable steps towards success.TakeawaysCommitments are more powerful than goals.Specificity in commitments provides clarity and direction.Measurable commitments allow for tracking progress.Achievable commitments empower individuals to take control.Relevant commitments align with one's role and responsibilities.Time-bound commitments create urgency and accountability.Resources are essential for fulfilling commitments.Micro boards enhance accountability and support among peers.Regular check-ins help maintain momentum and focus.Celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation.titlesThe Power of Commitments in Project ManagementUnlocking Success with the SMARTR FrameworkSound Bites"Commitment is something you own.""A vague commitment is a wasted commitment.""Achievable commitments give us power.""Celebrate progress along the way."Chapters00:00Introduction to Commitments and Peer Groups03:06Understanding the SMARTR Framework for Commitments05:53Breaking Down Commitments into Actionable Steps08:52Creating Urgency and Accountability in Commitments11:58The Role of Micro Boards in Driving Success18:05Maximizing the Value of Micro Boards

In this solo episode, host Greg Woleck tackles a growing challenge in the remodeling industry: over-processing. You’ve likely heard the phrase “over-analysis leads to paralysis”—and Greg dives deep into how that shows up in remodeling businesses that are trying to grow, professionalize, and protect the client experience.Greg shares a powerful message: systems are meant to support your team—not stall them out. Drawing on real-world experience, the 80/20 Rule (Pareto Principle), and the concept of Minimum Viable Process, he breaks down how to simplify your systems while maintaining clarity, quality, and results.Key Topics Covered:Why too much process can become a problemThe difference between helpful structure and paralyzing bureaucracy“Systemize the predictable so you can humanize the exceptional”Applying the Pareto Principle to your business systemsHow to identify the “vital few” systems that actually move the needleThe power of Minimum Viable ProcessSmall, repeatable habits that outperform overbuilt systemsExamples of daily huddles, Friday reviews, and verbal confirmation loopsHow to create a living system your team can evolve in the fieldActionable Takeaways:Identify and simplify one process in your business this week that feels too heavy or overly complex.Use Greg’s filter: Does this process create clarity, save time, or reduce risk?Focus on building systems that are used, not just documented.Empower your team to improve systems from the field.Got a Story or Feedback? Greg wants to hear from you! Email your thoughts, process wins or fails, or guest suggestions to greg@remodelersadvantage.comResources & Links:Learn more about Remodelers Advantage programsJoin a Production Manager or Design Manager Roundtable GroupExplore consulting services and tactical supportDon’t Miss an Episode! Subscribe, leave a review, and share the Why We Build Podcast with your team. Let's keep building better together.#WhyWeBuild #RemodelingBusiness #ProcessImprovement #RemodelersAdvantage #ProductionManagement #DesignBuildLeadership #RemodelingSystems #ParetoPrinciple #MinimumViableProcess #BUILTFramework

In this episode, Greg Woleck explores a recurring theme in residential remodeling: the tension—and the potential—for collaboration between design and production teams. Drawing from his nationwide experience working with remodelers and the latest insights from Remodelers Advantage Roundtables, Greg outlines the small but powerful habits that can transform conflict into cooperation. Whether it's scope creep, last-minute changes, or mismatched expectations, most issues trace back to missed opportunities for early alignment.With references to Dan Heath’s Upstream, Greg urges remodelers to solve problems before they show up on-site. From shared walkthroughs to weekly design-production check-ins and field feedback loops, this episode is packed with practical steps you can take to unify your team and improve the client experience.Episode OutlineIntro to the PodcastPurpose: Build a community for remodelers, designers, and production prosCall for listener feedback, stories, and guest ideasGreg’s Industry InsightsOn-the-road observations: same friction, different zip codesShared challenges between design and productionBoth sides want a great project—just approach it differentlyCommon ChallengesScope creep, unclear expectations, late-stage changesCommunication gaps leading to frustration and finger-pointingFriction born from assumptions, not intentBuilding Better CollaborationDebunking the myth of “creatives vs. pragmatists”Highlighting mutual creativity and problem-solvingReal-world strategies from high-performing firmsUpstream ThinkingInspired by Dan Heath’s Upstream: fix it before it’s a problemStart collaboration in the pre-construction phaseUse early meetings to align expectations and ask the hard questionsHabits That Make It WorkShared pre-construction walkthroughsQuick weekly check-ins between design and productionBuildability reviews during design developmentFeedback and Language MatterEncourage field teams to share photos, videos, and solutionsCreate feedback loops so designers understand what gets changedLanguage shift: “we” over “they” to reinforce shared ownershipFinal TakeawayCollaboration isn’t a department—it’s a habitAsk your counterpart: “What’s one thing I can do to make your job easier?”Trust is built in small stepsAction ItemsStart one new collaborative habit this weekReach out to your design/production counterpartShare your story or question with Greg for a future episodeLinks & ResourcesBook Mentioned: Upstream by Dan HeathLearn more: www.whywebuild.comConnect with Greg: greg@remodelersadvantage.comStay ConnectedIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with your team. Got an idea for a guest or topic? We’d love to hear from you.

In this episode of The Why We Build Podcast, host Greg Woleck and co-host Steve Wheeler sit down with Jon Pereira, Production Manager at MAK Design Build, to talk about crew culture — that hard-to-define jobsite magic that makes the workday flow better, teams feel stronger, and clients feel more confident.Jon shares practical, low-cost ways to build jobsite engagement and morale through intentional leadership and simple human moments — like sharing a burrito at a concrete pour or role-playing tough conversations during Taco Tuesday (spelled TALK-O Tuesday for a reason).From modeling great client communication to integrating trade partners into the company culture, Jon offers a masterclass in leadership from the jobsite out.🔑 Key Takeaways:Crew Culture = Jobsite Family: Culture isn’t a buzzword at MAK Design Build — it’s a daily practice rooted in trust, laughter, mutual support, and respect among carpenters, PMs, designers, and trade partners.Burrito Days & Milestone Meals: A concrete pour isn't just a production milestone — it’s Burrito Day, where team members (including clients and kids!) gather, break bread, share stories, and align goals. It’s simple, memorable, and reinforces schedule accountability and camaraderie.Talk-O Tuesday (Taco Tuesday): This initiative brings production team members into the office for lunch and role-playing sessions on handling tough client conversations. It’s training disguised as tacos — building emotional intelligence and shared language.Integrating Trade Partners into Culture: Even though 85% of MAK’s work is completed by trade partners, they’re treated like family — invited to events, engaged in team rituals, and included in communication loops.Communicating with Clients: Jon coaches his team using templates and validation techniques to defuse tense moments. Core message: validate first, answer later. Avoid cornering yourself with premature promises.Using Numbers to Drive Ownership: Through the Great Game of Business framework, team members learn how their roles directly impact profitability. This creates healthy accountability and team incentives (like lunch and bonuses).🛠️ Best Quote:“The magic you’re looking for is in the work you’re not doing.” — Unknown📚 Lightning Round with Jon Pereira:Favorite Book: The HobbitFamous Builder to Lunch With: Frank Lloyd WrightDream Superpower: InvisibilityRandom Skill to Learn: Fly fishingCats or Dogs? DogsFavorite Vacation Spot: Hawaii📣 Call to Action:If you’re a production manager, design lead, or company owner in the remodeling space — this episode is a must-listen. Share it with your team and ask: What’s our burrito day?Related Resources:Learn more about Remodelers Advantage RoundtablesConnect with Greg: greg@remodelersadvantage.comwww,MAKdesignbuild.comDiscover how you can bring culture, accountability, and momentum to your remodeling team

Episode Summary: In this episode, host Greg Woleck welcomes Ian Schwandt, a 20-year construction veteran and passionate advocate for financial literacy in the remodeling industry. Ian shares how understanding numbers and fostering financial transparency can strengthen companies through both good times and bad. From open-book management to key financial metrics, Ian offers valuable insights into building resilient businesses—and resilient teams—through a deeper understanding of money. Plus, Ian talks mentorship, mental health in the trades, and his favorite books and movie picks.Key Topics Discussed:Why financial literacy is foundational for a sustainable remodeling businessHow momentum can mask financial fragility in the industryCreating a culture of financial transparency within a companyTools and metrics Ian uses to manage projects and forecast performanceThe importance of mentorship, mental health, and continual learning in the tradesTranslating economic theories into real-world project management practicesGuest Bio: Ian Schwandt is a 20-year construction professional whose career has spanned union carpentry, site supervision in healthcare projects, architectural woodworking, and leadership roles in high-performance homebuilding. Ian is passionate about building systems, teaching financial literacy to production teams, and ensuring the long-term health of construction businesses. When he’s not managing projects or spreadsheets, Ian enjoys gardening, woodworking, and living in the high-performance home he built on his family's farm in Wisconsin.Memorable Quotes:"Knowing your numbers goes beyond just making a profit—it's what helps you stay strong through ups and downs and build a business that lasts." "Focus on gross profit. Revenue is almost meaningless on a day-to-day operational level." "Take care of your mental health. You can't take care of your team if you don't take care of yourself first."Resources & Tools Mentioned:Books:The Most Important Thing by Howard MarksSimple Numbers, Straight Talk, Big Profits by Greg CrabtreeThe Infinite Game by Simon SinekThe Great Gatsby by F. Scott FitzgeraldFinancial Tools:Volume-per-week tracking for project forecastingThe “Big Board” KPI tracking spreadsheetDirect Labor Efficiency Ratio (DLER) for understanding labor profitabilityFun Facts About Ian:If his life were made into a movie, he’d want Harrison Ford or Liam Neeson to play him.His dream casual dinner would be a shawarma on the streets of Midtown Manhattan with a favorite mentor from the architecture world.Believes that mentorship and peer support were critical influences on his career trajectory.Where to Connect with Ian: 📸 Instagram: @ijswoodworking – Reach out via DM to talk life, building, or business!

In this episode of the Why We Build Podcast, Greg Woleck discusses the importance of commitments in project management, particularly within the context of peer groups. He introduces the SMARTR framework for creating meaningful commitments and emphasizes the need for accountability and urgency. The conversation also highlights the role of micro boards in maintaining engagement and support among peers, ensuring that commitments are not just goals but actionable steps towards success.takeawaysCommitments are more powerful than goals.Specificity in commitments provides clarity and direction.Measurable commitments allow for tracking progress.Achievable commitments empower individuals to take control.Relevant commitments align with one's role and responsibilities.Time-bound commitments create urgency and accountability.Resources are essential for fulfilling commitments.Micro boards enhance accountability and support among peers.Regular check-ins help maintain momentum and focus.Celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation.titlesThe Power of Commitments in Project ManagementUnlocking Success with the SMARTR FrameworkSound Bites"Commitment is something you own.""A vague commitment is a wasted commitment.""Achievable commitments give us power.""Celebrate progress along the way."Chapters00:00Introduction to Commitments and Peer Groups03:06Understanding the SMARTR Framework for Commitments05:53Breaking Down Commitments into Actionable Steps08:52Creating Urgency and Accountability in Commitments11:58The Role of Micro Boards in Driving Success18:05Maximizing the Value of Micro Boards

Profit Sharing: Transforming Your Team into Business OwnersGuest: Rob Gallaher, CEO of Gallaher CoEpisode OverviewIn this episode, Rob Gallaher shares how profit sharing can turn employees into true business owners. He explains his personal journey—from early lessons in teamwork to refining a profit sharing model that drives both business success and personal empowerment. The conversation reveals 10 essential rules for integrating profit sharing into a company’s culture, ensuring that every team member benefits and grows.Key Segments & Timestamps00:31 – Business Owner Mindset: Imagine if every employee cared about the business as much as the owner—actively improving and innovating every day.01:46 – Guest Spotlight: Meet Rob Gallaher, who has spent over a decade building businesses and perfecting his profit sharing system.02:30 – Early Lessons: Rob’s childhood of teamwork and early leadership in the trades set the foundation for his approach.05:00 – Finding Balance: A candid look at how early success led to burnout, prompting Rob to seek a more sustainable model.07:47 – The Start of Profit Sharing: Rob recounts the early trials, mistakes, and gradual improvements that shaped his program.10:00 – Embedding Profit Sharing in Culture: Discover why monthly, substantial payouts—tied directly to daily financial impacts—are key to success.15:25 – The 10 Rules: From monthly payouts and clarity to attainable goals and protecting cash flow, Rob breaks down his blueprint for success.26:00 – Leadership & Financial Wellness: How strong leadership and practical financial education create an empowered, unified team.45:15 – How to Connect: Find Rob on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn (search “Rob Gallaher”). His book is on Amazon, and he’s launching an extensive course on profit sharing soon.Key TakeawaysEmpowerment: Profit sharing motivates employees to think and act like business owners.Consistency: Monthly payouts tied to daily expenses create real impact.Foundation: A successful program starts with solid operations, clear leadership, and accurate accounting.Culture: Integrating financial wellness into the workplace transforms both business results and personal lives.Call to ActionGet Rob’s Book: Profit-Sharing-Power-Shared-SuccessSubscribe & Review: Enjoyed the episode? Subscribe and leave a review!Connect: Visit remodelersadvantage.com or email greg@remodelersadvantage.com for more info and resources.

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