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Episode Summary: In this episode, hosts Greg Woleck and Steve Wheeler welcome Nolee Anderson, a finish carpenter, business owner, educator, and passionate advocate for women in trades. Nolee shares her journey from art student to trades professional, the origin and mission of her organization GRIT (Girls Representing in Trades), and her dedication to teaching tool skills to women and young girls. The conversation explores the challenges women face in the trades, the power of mentorship, the importance of inclusive work cultures, and how everyone in the industry can foster a more welcoming environment.Key Highlights:Nolee’s Story: How a gap year and a trade school math professor's advice led her to carpentry and a fulfilling career in the trades.The Birth of GRIT: The founding and evolution of Girls Representing in Trades (GRIT), a program empowering middle and high school girls through tool skills and construction education.Challenges and Opportunities: From overcoming stereotypes to building confidence, Nolee sheds light on her experiences and offers advice for women entering the trades.Creating Inclusive Job Sites: Practical advice for employers, educators, and coworkers to foster environments where everyone can thrive.Resources for Aspiring Tradeswomen: Recommendations for trade schools, unions, and national organizations like NAWIC.Memorable Quotes:“Diversity doesn’t mean taking something away from someone else—it means expanding opportunities for everyone.”“Encourage the women in your life to pick up a tool. Learn how the world is built, and it won’t look so scary anymore.”Fun Segment - Hammer Time with Steve Wheeler:Favorite Book: Girls Garage - A comprehensive guide to tool skills and biographies of women in trades.Dream Lunch Guest: Larry Haun – A legendary carpenter known for his impactful teaching videos.Hidden Skill Aspiration: Haircutting – Nolee hopes to improve her spontaneous barber skills for her friends!Actress to Portray Her: Barbra Streisand – A nod to her iconic portrayal in Funny Girl.Where to Connect with Nolee:Instagram: @gritmissoulaWebsite: gritmissoula.comSupport GRIT: Learn more about GRIT’s work and how to support programs empowering young women in trades. Visit the website or follow them on social media.Episode Wrap-Up: Greg and Steve reflect on the inspiring work being done to pave the way for diversity and inclusivity in the trades. They emphasize the importance of breaking down barriers and fostering workplace cultures where everyone, regardless of gender or background, can succeed.Subscribe and Share: Enjoyed this episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from these insights!For more information on Remodelers Advantage programs and offerings, visit remodelersadvantage.com or email Greg at greg@remodelersadvantage.com.

Episode Summary:In this episode of the Why We Build podcast, host Greg Woleck talks to Kali Sudbrook, owner of Beachside Interiors and creator of the app-based fitness program, Built to Last. Kali shares her unique journey of transitioning from the fitness world to remodeling, with a focus on creating custom gym spaces. She discusses how her previous experience as a strength coach has helped her lead clients through the remodeling process and how she prioritizes functional and aesthetically pleasing designs in her work. Kali also introduces her app, Built to Last, aimed at helping contractors maintain their health and longevity in physically demanding careers.Key Takeaways:Career Transition: Kali opens up about leaving a corporate job in the fitness industry to follow her passion for remodeling. She shares how remodeling her own home and working on a mobile barbershop project for her brother inspired her to change careers.Transferable Skills: Kali explains how skills from her fitness career, such as leading and mentoring clients, translated well into managing construction projects and working with clients in the remodeling space.Challenges in Remodeling: She highlights the difficulties of learning both the business side of remodeling and the on-site technical skills simultaneously.Health in the Trades: Kali’s app, Built to Last, is designed specifically for contractors to build strength and reduce injury risks through fitness programs tailored to the physical demands of construction work.Custom Gym Design: Kali emphasizes her niche in creating home gym spaces that are both functional and beautiful, using thoughtful design solutions to maximize space and utility for her clients.Notable Quotes:"I had a knowingness inside myself that I could do it... I thought I need to do this.""The hardest part is learning two businesses at once—learning the on-site skills and learning how to run a business."Rapid Fire Questions (Fun Segment):What actor would play you in a movie? Kali’s choice: Uma Thurman, because of her "badass" nature.Favorite Non-Fiction Book (Other than Unreasonable Hospitality)? How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie.Dream Project: Working with Patterson Custom Homes as their go-to fitness space designer.Links:Beachside Interiors: Instagram: @beachsideinteriors_ocCallie the Contractor: Instagram: @kalithecontractorBuilt to Last: Instagram: @builttolastcrew

Show Notes: The Why We Build Podcast with Todd SchulteEpisode Title: Company Culture w/ Todd SchulteHosts:Greg WoleckSteve WheelerGuest:Todd Schulte, Founder and Owner of Schulte Design Build, an award-winning residential remodeling contractor in Seattle, Washington.Key Topics Covered:The Role of Culture in Remodeling Companies:Culture as the foundation of trust and accountability.How culture impacts both team dynamics and client relationships.Building intentional company culture to align with core values and goals.Todd’s Leadership Journey:Transitioning from a carpenter to a business owner.Evolving the company into a design-build model for holistic residential remodeling.The importance of showing up authentically as a leader.Creating a Safe and Trusting Workplace:Emphasizing safety and open communication within the team.Encouraging accountability and learning from mistakes without fear of judgment.Developing strong, long-lasting relationships with employees, including those who leave and return.Intentional Culture Building:How strategic planning shaped Todd’s approach to culture.Inviting team members to contribute to defining company culture.Balancing fun, safety, and performance in the workplace.Community Involvement:Todd’s involvement in the Ballard Seafood Festival and supporting local skateboarding culture.How community engagement aligns with personal passions and company values.Insights for Remodelers and Leaders:Trust and transparency as key components of client relationships.Using conflict as an opportunity for growth and improved processes.The importance of hiring for culture fit and defining organizational values.Fun Highlights from the Episode:The most interesting discovery during a home remodel: uncovering a basement fire from the 1920s tied to Prohibition-era cooking.Todd’s backyard half-pipe built for his kids and his connection to skateboarding culture.Who would play Todd in a movie? Robert De Niro!Top Leadership Tips from Todd:Create a workplace where people feel valued and safe.Approach mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures.Build a culture of trust by leading authentically and encouraging open communication.Book Recommendations:The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey.The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni.Aztec by Gary Jennings (Todd’s favorite fiction).Connect with Todd Schulte:Website: Schulte Design BuildLearn More About Remodelers Advantage:Website: Remodelers AdvantageEmail: Greg at remodelersadvantage.com

Episode Summary:In this episode, Greg Woleck and Steve Wheeler are joined by Renee Richardson, Director of Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation. They dive deep into the foundation’s unique, multi-faceted mission, which includes fighting hunger, supporting disaster relief, and investing in workforce development. Renee shares her journey from a successful radio career to leading philanthropy efforts alongside one of the world’s most famous rock bands. She reveals how Metallica’s commitment to giving back has grown over the years, rooted in the band’s long-standing values and fueled by their international fanbase.Key Takeaways:Workforce Development and the Trades: Initiated by Metallica’s James Hetfield, the foundation’s commitment to workforce development focuses on trade education, from welding to truck driving. Renee discusses how the Metallica Scholars Initiative partners with community colleges to train skilled laborers, closing the gap in the trades.Disaster Relief and Hunger Relief Efforts: Metallica’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond borders, with strategic partnerships with organizations like Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen to swiftly address hunger and disaster needs worldwide.Fan Engagement and Fundraising: The episode highlights the crucial role of Metallica’s fans and fan clubs in supporting the foundation, particularly through initiatives like the “Month of Giving” and volunteer activations around tour stops.Memorable Quotes:“Every act of service, big or small, can change and uplift a community.” — Greg Woleck“When we give back locally on each tour stop, the impact on the organizations we support is often life-changing.” — Renee Richardson“Our Metallica Scholars are everyday people working to create better lives and sustainable careers—welders, carpenters, truck drivers, they’re all heroes.” — Steve WheelerRapid-Fire with Renee:Most Rewarding Part of the Job: “Giving money away and seeing the real-time impact.”Dream Dinner Guest: Janis JoplinFavorite Metallica Song: "Seek and Destroy" (Renee shares how it’s become the unofficial anthem for their workforce initiative, “Seek and Employ”)Learn More and Get Involved:Visit the All Within My Hands Foundation: allwithinmyhands.orgFollow on Social Media: Stay updated with stories of the Metallica Scholars and local heroes making a difference.Support the Foundation: Fans can get involved by donating, attending benefit concerts, joining local fan clubs, or participating in volunteer events.Closing:This episode reminds us that workforce development, hunger relief, and disaster response can empower individuals and transform communities. Join us in celebrating the hands that build and uplift us all. Thank you, Metallica and Renee, for your inspiring dedication to a better world.

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Episode: Effective Communication with Nicole SandowRelease Date: November 25, 2024 Episode OverviewIn this episode of The Why We Build Podcast, host Greg Woleck and co-host Steve Wheeler are joined by Nicole Sandow, a Leadership and Performance Coach with Dale Carnegie. Together, they unpack the art of effective communication and its transformative role in personal and professional growth. Nicole shares actionable insights, tools, and strategies to help listeners improve their communication skills, build confidence, and foster stronger relationships.Key Topics CoveredGrowth and Comfort Cannot Coexist: Nicole's life mantra emphasizes that real growth requires stepping outside your comfort zone.The Three Elements of Communication: Learn how words, tone, and body language work together to build trust and credibility.Overcoming Communication Barriers: Strategies for addressing fear, judgment, and lack of confidence.Effective Virtual Communication: Tips for maintaining connection and clarity in digital interactions.The Power of Listening: Exploring empathetic listening and its role in effective communication.The Five Drivers of Success: Confidence, communication, human relations, leadership, and stress management as the foundation for growth.Managing Stress and Worry: Practical ways to stay composed and focused under pressure.Actionable TakeawaysPractice Congruence: Align your words, tone, and body language to build trust and rapport.Overcome Fear Through Action: Don’t wait for perfect conditions; start practicing and learning as you go.Improve Listening Skills: Move beyond selective listening to empathetic listening for deeper connections.Manage Stress Proactively: Focus on what you can control and take action in the present moment.Define Your Vision: Create a clear and compelling roadmap for personal and professional growth.About the GuestNicole Sandow is a Leadership and Performance Coach with Dale Carnegie. With over 20 years of experience in personal and professional development, Nicole specializes in helping individuals and organizations master skills in confidence, communication, leadership, and stress management.Connect with Nicole:LinkedIn: Nicole SandowEmail: nicole@dalecarnegie.caAdditional ResourcesNext StepsSubscribe: Never miss an episode of The Why We Build Podcast.Feedback: Have ideas or suggestions? Email Greg at greg@remodelersadvantage.com.Learn More: Explore the resources and services offered by Remodelers Advantage at www.remodelersadvantage.com.Thank you for listening to The Why We Build Podcast! Tune in next time for more inspiring conversations and insights to elevate your work and life.

Podcast Show Notes: Why We Build Podcast - Episode on MindsetEpisode Title: Mindset: Building Resilience and Unlocking PotentialEpisode Summary for Marketing: Join Greg Woleck and Steve Wheeler as they dive into the power of mindset and its critical role in personal and professional success. In this inspiring episode, Greg and Steve explore how cultivating a positive and growth-oriented mindset can help individuals overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and lead with intention. Drawing on personal experiences, practical tips, and compelling metaphors like the "coffee bean mindset," they demonstrate how mindset shapes every aspect of our lives. Discover actionable strategies like gratitude practices, journaling, vision boards, and mindfulness to enhance resilience, maintain focus, and drive continuous improvement. Whether you're a leader in the remodeling industry or on a journey of self-discovery, this episode is packed with insights to empower your path forward.Key Topics Covered:The "coffee bean" metaphor: Transforming challenges into opportunities.Positive thinking and the law of attraction in professional life.The role of gratitude, mindfulness, and meditation in mindset development.Practical strategies to reframe negative thoughts into positive outcomes.Creating and using vision boards to manifest goals and enhance focus.The importance of routines and rituals, such as morning savers and journaling.Mindset as a key differentiator in high-performing companies.Reticular Activation: Why what you focus on expands in your reality.The critical connection between mindset and hard work for achieving goals.Notable Quotes:"We can't always control what life throws at us, but we can control how we respond.""Mindset isn't about pretending things are easy—it's about deciding to create something good, even in tough situations.""If you focus on what can go wrong, you're likely to find it. But what if you focus on what can go right?""Discipline and regimen are the backbones of achieving your goals."Actionable Takeaways:Start a gratitude practice: Write down three things you’re thankful for daily.Create a vision board with both tangible and intangible goals.Establish a morning routine using the SAVERS method (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, Scribing).Audit what you consume daily—news, social media, and conversations—and ensure it aligns with a positive mindset.Use journaling to process challenges and reflect on outcomes over time.Guest Bio: Steve Wheeler, a veteran facilitator and advocate for continuous improvement, brings his deep insights into how mindset shapes leaders and organizations. With a focus on the remodeling industry, he shares practical tools and personal anecdotes to inspire growth and resilience.How to Connect with Us:Website: Remodelers AdvantageEmail: greg@remodelersadvantage.comThank You for Listening! Your feedback matters—send us ideas for future episodes or let us know what resonated with you from this one. Together, we’re building something extraordinary.

Why We Build Podcast - Episode: All Within My HandsAir Date: November 4, 2024 Duration: 39:36Episode Summary:In this impactful episode, Greg Woleck and Steve Wheeler are joined by Renee Richardson, Associate Director of Metallica's All Within My Hands Foundation. They dive deep into the foundation’s unique, multi-faceted mission, which includes fighting hunger, supporting disaster relief, and investing in workforce development. Renee shares her journey from a successful radio career to leading philanthropy efforts alongside one of the world’s most famous rock bands. She reveals how Metallica’s commitment to giving back has grown over the years, rooted in the band’s long-standing values and fueled by their international fanbase.Key Takeaways:Workforce Development and the Trades: Initiated by Metallica’s James Hetfield, the foundation’s commitment to workforce development focuses on trade education, from welding to truck driving. Renee discusses how the Metallica Scholars Initiative partners with community colleges to train skilled laborers, closing the gap in the trades.Disaster Relief and Hunger Relief Efforts: Metallica’s philanthropic efforts extend beyond borders, with strategic partnerships with organizations like Direct Relief and World Central Kitchen to swiftly address hunger and disaster needs worldwide.Fan Engagement and Fundraising: The episode highlights the crucial role of Metallica’s fans and fan clubs in supporting the foundation, particularly through initiatives like the “Month of Giving” and volunteer activations around tour stops.Memorable Quotes:“Every act of service, big or small, can change and uplift a community.” — Greg Woleck“When we give back locally on each tour stop, the impact on the organizations we support is often life-changing.” — Renee Richardson“Our Metallica Scholars are everyday people working to create better lives and sustainable careers—welders, carpenters, truck drivers, they’re all heroes.” — Steve WheelerRapid-Fire with Renee:Most Rewarding Part of the Job: “Giving money away and seeing the real-time impact.”Dream Dinner Guest: Janis JoplinFavorite Metallica Song: "Seek and Destroy" (Renee shares how it’s become the unofficial anthem for their workforce initiative, “Seek and Employ”)Learn More and Get Involved:Visit the All Within My Hands Foundation: allwithinmyhands.orgFollow on Social Media: Stay updated with stories of the Metallica Scholars and local heroes making a difference.Support the Foundation: Fans can get involved by donating, attending benefit concerts, joining local fan clubs, or participating in volunteer events.Closing:This episode reminds us that workforce development, hunger relief, and disaster response can empower individuals and transform communities. Join us in celebrating the hands that build and uplift us all. Thank you, Metallica and Renee, for your inspiring dedication to a better world.

Guests:Ace McCarlton (New Frameworks)Greg Bossy (Rare Forms)Episode Overview:In this episode of Why We Build, host Greg Woleck delves into the world of sustainable and regenerative construction. Featuring industry pioneers Ace McCarlton and Greg Bossy, this discussion covers innovative eco-friendly building solutions, with a deep dive into the Seed Panel Program and straw bale panel technology. The conversation explores the importance of creating healthy, energy-efficient spaces that are both beautiful and durable, and offers insights into how the building industry is evolving to meet modern environmental challenges.Key Topics Discussed:The Mission and Vision of Sustainable BuildingAce introduces New Frameworks as a worker cooperative based in Vermont focused on bridging green and natural building practices.Greg discusses Rare Forms’ values-driven approach to integrating high-performance and natural building principles.Straw Bale and Seed Panel TechnologyStraw Bale Panels: These panels use renewable, natural materials, which help reduce carbon footprints and create healthier living environments.Seed Panel Program: A collaborative approach to distributed manufacturing, enabling smaller companies to use local resources to create sustainable building panels without centralized mass production.The Seed Program’s goals of scaling nationwide and fostering resilience through shared designs and local material sourcing.Advantages of Local and Natural Building MaterialsNew Frameworks’ use of regional materials like clay, lime, local woods, and plant-based oils to enhance building sustainability.The significance of creating non-toxic, renewable structures that reduce environmental impact and support regional economies.Workforce Development and the Future of ConstructionThe potential of off-site construction and prefab panels to address workforce shortages by creating accessible, comfortable work environments.Importance of diverse and inclusive workplaces in attracting the next generation to sustainable construction practices.Addressing Common Misconceptions Around Straw as a Building MaterialStraw bale structures are resilient and highly fire-resistant, with performance comparable to wood in fire safety.Case studies show straw’s durability over 100+ years, with added benefits of fire resistance due to straw's high silica content and density.Environmental Impact and Climate ChangeThe building industry’s contribution to global carbon emissions (around 40%) and how natural building practices can mitigate this impact.Use of the BEAM calculator to measure a building’s carbon footprint and show how straw panels offer the best carbon offset per dollar invested.Future of the Seed Network and Collaborative ConstructionExpansion plans for the Seed Network across North America and beyond, with goals to create regional building solutions that support local economies and reduce long supply chains.Availability of design and fabrication tracks within the Seed Network for builders, designers, and architects interested in adopting straw bale and natural material construction.