Remodelers On The Rise

In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle sits down with Dan Ford of Ford Custom Renovations for an honest and insightful conversation about the evolution of his remodeling business. Daniel shares how he went from hustling in the field to building a thriving team, making key shifts like getting off the tools, understanding his numbers, investing in culture, and finding balance between work and family. If you’re a remodeler working hard but wondering what’s next, this episode is packed with relatable stories and practical lessons to help you take your business, and leadership, to the next level. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit RemodelersOnTheRise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways: Build a business with intention, not just a job that keeps you busy. Create a clear vision and company culture that people want to be part of. Understand your numbers—especially job costing and gross profit—to make smarter decisions and grow sustainably. Invest in coaching, peer support, and education to accelerate your growth as a leader. Recognize burnout early and take steps to prioritize health, family, and long-term sustainability. Practice servant leadership by listening well and helping your team grow. Leverage branding, video, and marketing to attract both ideal clients and top-tier employees. Pursue balance by building a business that thrives without relying on you for everything.

In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, we’re sharing a recent conversation where Kyle joined Curtis Lawson on the Your Project Shepherd podcast. Together, they dig into understanding financials, improving sales, building strong teams, and why coaching and peer groups can make all the difference. Curtis also shares some of his own hard-earned lessons as a remodeler and business owner. ----- Ready to connect, learn, and grow alongside other remodelers? Join us at the Rise Conference on August 5–6 for two days of practical insight, real conversations, and proven strategies to build a better remodeling business. Sign up here: https://remodelersontherise.com/rise/ ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways The RISE Conference is designed to energize and inspire remodelers. Kyle Hunt has a rich background in remodeling and business coaching. Many remodelers excel in their craft but struggle with business skills. Peer groups provide invaluable support and accountability. Financial literacy is crucial for business success in remodeling. Coaching can significantly speed up the learning curve for remodelers. Leadership skills are essential as businesses grow and evolve. Marketing is a necessary investment for business growth. Identifying the next right step is key for business improvement. Community support can help overcome common struggles in the industry. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Remodelers on the Rise 02:52 Kyle's Journey in the Remodeling Industry 05:26 The Importance of Business Skills for Remodelers 08:43 Upcoming RISE Conference and Its Benefits 11:25 Understanding Different Types of Business Owners 14:30 The Value of Coaching and Peer Groups 17:44 Financial Literacy for Business Success 21:46 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned 24:38 Resources and Support for Remodelers 27:43 The Impact of Coaching on Performance 31:28 Understanding Financial Struggles in Remodeling 34:17 Sales Process Improvements for Success 35:41 The Importance of Marketing in Business Growth 39:43 Leadership Challenges in Business 46:47 Advice for Established and New Business Owners

In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle sits down with Tony Hughes of Urban Refurbishment for an honest and inspiring conversation about stepping off the job site and stepping into true business ownership! Tony shares what it took to finally get off the tools after 12 years, how a team transition became the catalyst for real growth, and why he now tracks financials with enthusiasm (yes, really)! You’ll hear how strategic hires, smart marketing (including a surprising use of permanent bracelets), and a clear vision helped Tony break past the million-dollar ceiling and build a business that empowers his team and supports his family. If you’re stuck in the “do-it-all” phase and want to learn what it looks like to shift into leadership, this one’s for you. ----- Today’s episode is sponsored by Builder Funnel! They help remodelers grow through strategic digital marketing — and if you’re ready to stop guessing and start growing, don’t miss their Remodeler Growth Workshop this October 14–15 in Colorado Springs. This hands-on event will help you identify what’s holding your business back and equip you with proven strategies in marketing, sales, culture, and AI. ROTR listeners get 1 year of Remodeler Growth Community+ FREE with registration. Spots are limited — grab yours now at builderfunnel.com/ROTR. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Transitioning roles can be daunting but necessary for growth. Empowering team members can lead to greater business efficiency. Understanding financials is crucial for business success. Innovative marketing strategies can open new avenues for leads. A structured sales process can save time and energy. Building relationships with strategic partners is key. Setting clear financial goals can help overcome barriers. Effective communication with clients enhances trust and satisfaction. Investing in coaching can lead to significant business improvements. Maintaining a focus on company culture is essential for long-term success. ----- Chapters 00:00 Transitioning Roles in Business 10:12 Empowering Team Members 13:20 Financial Growth and Management 16:14 Innovative Marketing Strategies 19:10 Sales Process Evolution 21:59 Vision for the Future

In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle sits down with Rob Fisher of Fisher Custom Builders for a refreshingly honest look at what it’s like to start and grow a remodeling business from the ground up. Just three years in, Rob shares what sparked his entrepreneurial journey, the hard (and expensive) lessons he’s learned about pricing and profit margins, and the steps he’s taking to build a business that runs without him on-site every day. From mentorship and mindset to systems, sales, and stepping back from the tools, this conversation is packed with insights for any remodeler in the trenches asking, “Am I doing this right?” Spoiler: You’re not alone—and Rob proves it. ----- Ready to connect, learn, and grow alongside other remodelers? Join us at the Rise Conference on August 5–6 for two days of practical insight, real conversations, and proven strategies to build a better remodeling business. Sign up here: https://remodelersontherise.com/rise/ ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways The Rice Conference is a source of energy and inspiration. Building relationships is key in the remodeling business. Understanding financials is crucial for success. It took Rob two years to figure out his pricing strategy. Delegating responsibilities is essential for business growth. Mentorship can provide valuable insights and encouragement. Patience is necessary when building a business. Creating a positive work environment leads to better employee retention. Rob's journey reflects the common struggles of new entrepreneurs. Continuous learning and adaptation are vital for success. ----- Chapters 02:46 From Ministry to Remodeling: Rob's Path 05:45 Lessons from Phil: The Entrepreneurial Seed 08:58 Building Experience: The Early Years in Construction 12:01 The Reality of Business: Hard Work and Patience 14:53 Understanding Financials: The Importance of Margins 17:53 Sales Process: Tracking and Accountability 20:47 Implementing Changes: Design and Project Development 23:55 Final Thoughts: Confidence and Growth 26:50 Lessons Learned the Hard Way 29:03 Transitioning from Field to Office 30:20 Building a Team and Delegating Responsibilities 36:18 The Importance of Mentorship 42:05 Vision for the Future and Business Growth

In this episode, Peter Ranney of Ranney Blair Weidman Remodeling shares how he moved beyond DIY marketing and partnered with Contractor Growth Network (CGN) to create a website and marketing strategy that truly reflects his business. Peter and Kyle dive into the strategy-first approach CGN used to uncover ideal clients, address homeowner fears, and build trust through clear messaging, SEO, video, and featured project pages. If you’re looking for a smarter, more holistic way to market your remodeling business, this conversation offers a real-world look at what’s possible—and why it matters. Peter also shares common pain points homeowners face during the remodeling process—and how his team proactively solves them through communication, planning, and transparency. ----- Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Visit Contractor Growth Network to see how they help remodelers like you build marketing that works. And for weekly insights that actually move the needle, tune into their podcast: https://www.contractorgrowthnetwork.com/podcast/ ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Marketing is essential for remodeling businesses. A strong online presence helps attract ideal clients. Education builds trust with potential clients. Understanding client fears is crucial for effective marketing. Content should address client needs and concerns. Strategy should precede tactics in marketing efforts. Emotional connections enhance client relationships. Video marketing can effectively convey messages. SEO is vital for generating leads. A unique selling proposition differentiates your business. ----- Chapters 01:51 The Importance of Marketing in Remodeling 03:13 Peter Ranney's Marketing Philosophy 04:55 Transitioning to CGN for Website Development 07:00 Understanding Client Needs and Fears 10:01 The Role of Education in Remodeling Marketing 12:58 Addressing Client Concerns Through Content 16:02 Strategy Before Tactics in Marketing 18:02 Creating an Emotional Journey for Clients 20:37 The Importance of Feature Projects 23:20 Showroom as a Marketing Differentiator 25:02 The Role of Video in Marketing 27:22 SEO Strategies and Results 32:50 Revamping Unique Selling Propositions 36:47 Tracking and Analytics for Improvement

In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, Chris Howlett of Diamond Hill Builders shares how he took action to build team culture by creating the Ultimate Building Experience (UBE). With clear expectations, team-driven values, and a simple reward system, Chris saw a complete shift in morale, communication, and team unity. If you’re a remodeler looking for practical ways to improve your company culture, this episode is a must-listen. ----- Today's episode is sponsored by Builder Funnel! Click here to learn more about how Builder Funnel helps remodelers and home builders grow through strategic digital marketing. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Humility is crucial in leadership. Company culture can significantly impact employee performance. Identifying problems is the first step to finding solutions. Creating a positive work environment enhances teamwork. Clear expectations are essential for employee engagement. Exceptional customer experience starts with a motivated team. Recognition and rewards can transform workplace dynamics. Team bonding leads to improved communication and collaboration. A positive culture attracts talent and improves retention. Investing in employee satisfaction pays off in productivity. ----- Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Humility 02:02 Introducing Chris Howlett and Diamond Hill Builders 04:01 Identifying Company Culture Challenges 05:57 Creating the Ultimate Building Experience (UBE) 09:43 Core Values and Expectations of UBE 12:03 Exceptional Customer Experience 16:54 Implementing the UBE Award System 22:32 The Impact of UBE on Team Dynamics 30:09 Transforming Negativity into Positivity 36:52 Creating a Career, Not Just a Job

In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, we’re giving you a sneak peek inside a recent VIP Club call focused on leadership. Kyle breaks down four key traits of great leaders: listening well, knowing your people, leaning into healthy conflict, and casting a clear vision for the future. Leadership isn’t one-size-fits-all—it’s nuanced. It shifts based on who you’re leading and what the situation calls for. You’ll hear real-world examples and honest reflection on what it means to lead a remodeling team with clarity, compassion, and accountability.  Want the full list of six leadership characteristics? You’ll need to join the VIP Club. Get access to weekly live calls, 70+ hours of on-demand training, and a community of remodelers who are committed to leading well. Learn more and join the VIP Club at RemodelersOnTheRise.com. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Great leaders listen well and seek to understand their team. Leadership is nuanced and varies based on individual team members. Leaders should lean into healthy conflict rather than avoid it. Providing a clear vision is crucial for team motivation. Understanding your team's workload and stress levels is essential. Effective leaders ask the right questions to encourage team growth. Being present in conversations enhances communication. Caring about team members fosters loyalty and engagement. Regular check-ins with employees can improve morale and productivity. Leaders must create opportunities for growth to retain top talent. ----- Chapters 00:00 Navigating Nervousness and Delegation 00:31 Leadership Essentials: The People Side 00:37 Characteristics of Great Leaders 03:20 Listening: The Key to Effective Leadership 05:15 Understanding Your Team: Knowing Your People 07:54 Leaning into Healthy Conflict 16:32 Confronting Issues Head-On 16:51 The Importance of Vision in Leadership

Feeling the weight of a slow season or just a tough week in business? You’re not alone. In this solo episode, Kyle shares 10 practical, encouraging, and energizing strategies to help remodelers stay positive, focused, and productive—especially when business feels harder than usual. From sharpening your sales skills to improving cash flow clarity, leaning into marketing, and even adjusting your daily routine, Kyle offers a rapid-fire list of action items to help you regain momentum. Whether you’re thriving right now or trudging through a tough patch, this episode is packed with perspective and tools to help you lead with confidence and keep moving forward. Highlights include: Why practicing your sales process is essential—even when leads are slow Smart ways to use tech (like Zoom and Loom) to shorten your sales cycle How balancing out bad news and surrounding yourself with positivity matters more than ever The power of focusing on one weak spot in your business and making real progress A reminder that it’s okay to slow down, reset your routine, and show yourself grace It’s not about ignoring the hard stuff—it’s about showing up stronger because of it. Which of the 10 stood out to you? Email Kyle at kyle@remodelersontherise.com and let him know! ----- What if you had a tight-knit group of 10 smart, experienced remodelers from across the country to support you—personally and professionally? That’s what the Remodelers Peer Groups are all about. Twice a year, we meet in person. Each month, we check in virtually. And throughout the year, we dig deep into the things that actually move the needle—your numbers, your team, your sales process, your marketing, and your life. This is a place to be challenged, encouraged, and reminded that you’re not in it alone. If you’re doing $1.5M+ in revenue, leading a growing team, and ready for clarity, accountability, and connection—reach out and join one of our new peer groups starting this July. remodelersontherise.com/peer-group ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Stay motivated and encouraged by setting clear goals. Join peer groups for accountability and support. Sharpen your sales skills to improve conversion rates. Use technology to streamline processes and communication. Balance out negative news with positive content. Understand your cash flow for better decision-making. Identify weaknesses in your business and work on them. Develop a comprehensive marketing plan to attract leads. Create valuable content that addresses client questions. Establish a routine and practice self-care for better productivity. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Staying Upbeat 02:57 Sharpening Sales Skills 05:51 Leveraging Technology 07:18 Balancing Bad News 10:38 Understanding Cash Flow 11:41 Identifying Weaknesses 13:38 Developing a Marketing Plan 16:00 Creating Valuable Content 17:26 Decisiveness in Business 18:53 Establishing a Routine 20:18 Long-Term Perspective

In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, Kyle Hunt sits down with attorney Jennifer Winegardner to discuss a critical topic many remodelers overlook—estate planning and business succession. From wills to trusts, powers of attorney to living wills, Jennifer explains the five essential documents every business owner should have in place. Hear real-life stories, practical insights, and why preparing for the unexpected (yes, even a rogue flock of turkeys) is one of the best gifts you can give your family and your team. Whether you’re just starting your business or you’ve been running it for decades, this episode will help you avoid unnecessary legal headaches—and leave a legacy that’s organized, not chaotic. ----- Today's episode is sponsored by Builder Funnel! Click here to learn more about how Builder Funnel helps remodelers and home builders grow through strategic digital marketing. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Estate planning is essential for everyone, not just the wealthy. Trusts can help avoid the probate process. A will alone may not be sufficient for effective estate planning. Funding your trust is crucial for it to be effective. Regularly updating your estate plan is necessary as life changes occur. Business succession planning is vital for business owners. An inventory of assets is a helpful first step in planning. Having a good relationship with a lawyer is important for effective planning. Keep your family out of conflict and court by planning ahead. Estate planning can save your family from costly probate fees. ----- Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Estate Planning and Business Succession 05:48 Understanding the Importance of Estate Planning 08:45 Key Components of an Estate Plan 09:39 The Role of Trusts in Estate Planning

Who is your next hire, and why? In this episode of Remodelers On The Rise, Kyle Hunt tackles this critical question! Learn how to evaluate your current and future org charts, identify bottlenecks, and make hiring decisions based on strategy—not guesswork. Whether you're considering a designer, bookkeeper, or office assistant, Kyle shares real client stories and actionable advice to help you hire with confidence and clarity. Plus, discover why knowing your numbers is key to making it all work financially. ----- Today's episode is sponsored by Contractor Growth Network. Discover how to build a brand that stands out at contractorgrowthnetwork.com. ----- Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights! ----- Takeaways Create your current org chart to visualize roles. Identify bottlenecks in your business processes. Consider hiring an office manager to handle low-value tasks. Evaluate the need for a designer to streamline projects. Understand the financial implications of new hires. Strategically plan for future hires based on business growth. Don't rely solely on referrals for business growth. Know your numbers to make informed hiring decisions. Consider part-time hires as a step towards growth. Your team is essential for the success of your business. ----- Chapters 04:13 Creating Your Current Org Chart 09:40 Identifying Your Next Hire 17:36 Strategizing for New Positions 21:33 Conclusion and Call to Action