Contracting Simplified
133 episodes - English - Latest episode: over 2 years ago - ★★★★★ - 109 ratingsAn online show by contractors for contractors. We bring you the latest Inspiration, Motivation, and Education helping you use today's technology to grow your contracting business with purpose. (NOTE: This show was formerly called: Protractor Podcast)
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Episodes
We Can’t Control How People Feel But We Can Control The Process
April 24, 2019 14:00 - 1 hour - 60.6 MBSean Doyle and his wife Katie are the founders of SD Custom Homes. They call themselves a family building for families. Sean shares stories and insights he’s learned over the years that have helped him start and run a successful contracting business.
You Must Learn To Go With Your Gut Instinct
April 17, 2019 05:30 - 58 minutes - 72.9 MBIn this episode, Matt Weber of Cross Grain, LLC, tells us how he developed his work ethic as a kid working long days on his Dad’s farm. He shares key lessons, such as going with your gut instinct. If your wrong, you can refine and change your instinct for the next time.
You Have To Understand The Value You Bring And Charge Accordingly
April 10, 2019 05:30 - 1 hour - 86.3 MBFrom working on highway construction projects to high rise condominiums, Ryan Hay @oakmanbuildingco is a dynamic Protractor with a dynamic skill set. In this episode he discusses what it took to scale his contracting business in the heart of Austin, TX. Also mentioned in this episode: Toby Cornell From Cornell Custom Construction Extreme Ownership - Book about leadership Contractor Tools - Estimating software Johnny Hourihan Shawn Van Dyke
Top 5 People A Contractor Should Have On Speed Dial
April 03, 2019 05:30 - 17 minutes - 28.5 MBIn this episode Martin reads an article from the Protractor Blog entitled: [Top 5 People A Contractor Should Have On Speed Dial] written by Jonathan Walters. Protractor website client mentioned in this episode is Joe Wilkerson from Maplehurst Outdoor Living. https://www.maplehurstoutdoorliving.com Book recommended in this episode is The EMyth Revisited by Michael Gerber. You can find a link to this book on this page: https://protractorpodcast.com/resources/
Try To Be A Better Version Of Yourself Each Day
March 20, 2019 05:30 - 50 minutes - 61.5 MBAfter a hearing disability left him barred from his dream of working in law enforcement, Jesse Hoover stumbled into wood working and professional contracting. In this episode, he shares his journey and explains how Instagram has proved to be one of his most powerful marketing tools.
Keep On Learning And Progressing As You Go
March 13, 2019 05:30 - 1 hour - 80.6 MBWhen he’s not scuba diving, George is running a successful contracting business called McGarry Construction in Sydney, Australia. He shares the importance of identifying red flags when vetting new clients, finding work life balance, and explains how he is currently utilizing online marketing and project management tools to grow his business.
IBS2019 LIVE Podcast
March 06, 2019 06:30 - 38 minutes - 48.8 MBIn this episode Martin has conversations with 3 amazing people: Andy Moore, Rob Yagid, and Brad Leavitt. This was broadcast live from the International Builders show (IBS) this year in Las Vegas. Andy Moore speaks on the importance of getting to know other tradesmen. Rob Yagid introduces #keepcraftalive, an organization that helps raise awareness for the opportunities that exist in the skills trade. Brad Leavitt shares the importance of having a social media presence and a silent sa...
Why You Should Not Apologize For What You Are Charging
February 27, 2019 06:30 - 1 hour - 114 MBAfter quitting an entry job out of college, Kristen used her innate passion for art, math, and science to birth her very own design driven contracting business. It was much more successful than she ever imagined. In this episode, she shares her story and some tips that have contributed to her success.
The Difference Between An Entrepreneur And A Craftsman
February 13, 2019 06:30 - 1 hour - 71.3 MBIn this episode, Brian Kashas shares various applications he is currently using to run and grow his contracting business. In addition, he outlines the importance of systems and processes when building a business that can sustain itself. #Protractors - Making A Difference!
The Importance Of Listening To Your Client Even If You Think You Know What They Want
February 06, 2019 17:50 - 48 minutes - 45.6 MBCaesar Ruiz from Grason Construction learns the importance of client interaction, documentation, and contracts. In this episode, he offers concrete advice that has taken him from Car Salesman to CEO of Grason Homes in Fountain Valley, California.
How To Discover Your True Passion And Pursue It With All Your Heart
January 30, 2019 06:30 - 1 hour - 58.6 MBIn this episode you will be inspired by the story of Peter Bruckler from Willow Carpentry. He's had many hurdles in life, and was able to overcome them by discovering and pursuing his true passion. There is so much in this episode to get your fired up! Listen to the end and BE INSPIRED! #Protractors - Making A Difference!
The Inspiring Story Behind The Scenes Of Porter Barnwood
January 23, 2019 06:30 - 1 hour - 73.6 MBIn this episode we explore the inspiring story of Thomas Porter and how the started and grew his business, Porter Barnwood. They now occupy a few acres in downtown Phoenix and have such an amazing story! Also on today's show is a Protractor Tip by Brad Leavitt from http://www.aftconstruction.com Where talks all about the importance of Engagement on Social Media. This is a show you certainly don't want to miss! And please share about this episode on Social Media. Every little bit help...
If The Inward Is Lined Up The Outward Will Follow
January 16, 2019 08:00 - 1 hour - 80.6 MBThis is the inspiring story of Jake and Janelle Stoltzfus, and how they are enthusiastically growing their construction company together! You will be Inspired as you listen to them discuss their ups and downs together on this show. Listen today and be Inspired!
Communication And Accountability Is Key In This Business
January 09, 2019 08:00 - 1 hour - 135 MBJackson Andrews is on fire. You'll love his enthusiasm in this interview! I’ve learned how important it is to educate our clients in what they need to hold us accountable to. When going out on your own, seek council from others. Also it’s very important to trust your gut. What I wish I knew back when I started is that the right answer sometimes is “No.” When you show up when you say you are going to, and do what you say you will do, it’s easy to stand out as a contractor. I do not w...
How To Plan For Your Best Year Ever - My Step-By-Step Goal Setting Blueprint
January 02, 2019 22:15 - 32 minutes - 38.6 MBIn this episode I take you on a step-by-step journey through the exact goal setting blueprint I use to plan my year. Every year I go away for the day and work through this entire process. It's so worth it, that I continue to do it year after year. In this episode you will discover the exact blueprint I use to: Deal with the past Set the right theme for the coming year A unique strategy I use to bring future dreams and visions to my mind. The right number of goals to set Whether ...
Limit Your Work To Serve Your Priorities
December 12, 2018 09:00 - 35 minutes - 65.8 MBIn this interview Elliott Robbins from Robbins Renovation shares his story of how he started his own renovation company. He talks about: How incorporating your business can add respect to your name. When he had to learn what he was worth and how to charge for it. The importance of setting priorities. The most important thing you must acquire in this business. Something precious we all have, and it's up to us how we use it. ...and much much more!
Treat Others The Way You Want To Be Treated
December 05, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 120 MBIn this episode you get to sit down with a luxury custom home builder who not only grew up in this industry, but has 17 years of experience running his own business. He has lots of experience with running a large crew as well. At times he has more than 20 employees to keep going. He drops so many powerful words of advice... but what rings the loudest is the word to treat others the way you want to be treated. Make sure you have a notepad handy for this episode. You're going to want one...
The Most Important Thing You Can Build Is Trust - Ethan Hickey
November 28, 2018 09:00 - 1 hour - 132 MBEthan Hickey of @maderakitchens has a background in the oil and gas sector. Which has helped relieve the financial burden of starting a contracting company. His passion for all things woodworking developed when he and his wife bought their first house and took on redoing it themselves from top to bottom. That was 9 years ago... Now in a new town, new home, new 6,000 square foot cabinet shop, Madera Kitchens, Ethan and his business are still growing. It has been a journey for them but th...
The Importance Of Paying People For Your Time
November 21, 2018 06:30 - 59 minutes - 109 MBToday’s featured guest is Jason Pietruszka from @jjpconstruction, a retired musician turned contractor. Jason learned how to run a business early on while he was young and still in the music industry. However, he quickly realized that his success will only be based on someone else's output. So he decided to start on his own. It was very inspiring to talk to Jason about their business and processes. I’m sure it will be for you as well. Listen today and be INSPIRED!
[Sam Shelton] Be Willing To Adapt And Never Take Shortcuts
May 23, 2018 16:46 - 52 minutes - 97.4 MBToday's featured guest is Sam Shelton from @alaskabuilder
[Joe Edwards] Building A Real Business And Not Just A Hobby
May 16, 2018 05:30 - 1 hour - 116 MBToday’s featured guest is Joe Edwards from @elite_concepts_usa Joe is a soft spoken and a caring person. He is also a man of vision and confidence as well. One thing you will notice as you listen to his story, and it came out of some hardships he went through, is the importance of good legal contracts and sticking with them. Also you'll learn: What he did at 10 years old to earn money. Why sharing the “secret sauce” actually helps out in business, not hinders it. The ONE thing you s...
[Joe Edwards] Building A Real Business And Not Just A Hobby
May 16, 2018 05:30 - 1 hour - 116 MBToday’s featured guest is Joe Edwards from @elite_concepts_usa Joe is a soft spoken and a caring person. He is also a man of vision and confidence as well. One thing you will notice as you listen to his story, and it came out of some hardships he went through, is the importance of good legal contracts and sticking with them. Also you'll learn: What he did at 10 years old to earn money. Why sharing the “secret sauce” actually helps out in business, not hinders it. The ONE thing you s...
[Ian Cheadle] Take Time And Enjoy The Journey
May 09, 2018 05:30 - 1 hour - 117 MBToday’s featured guest is Ian Cheadle from @DaytonHardwoodCo He is actually in the process of launching his new brand name and logo this week! He has desired for a long time to narrow down and focus on a niche, and that’s exactly what he is doing. He has went from “doing it all” in construction, to specializing in hardwood floors. At the time we recorded this interview he hadn’t fully decided what he was going to do with his brand name and everything, so you will hear as we discuss how he...
[Luke Mann] Keeping The Job Site Clean and Our Customers Happy
May 02, 2018 05:30 - 55 minutes - 102 MBToday’s featured guest is Luke Mann from @rangelinehomes in the foothills of Denver Co. One thing you are going to notice as you listen to this story, is Luke’s passion for cleanliness and attention to detail. It’s one thing to have a contracting company, but it’s another thing to run it well. And that is what Luke’s story inspires us to do. I know you’ll have a takeaway from today’s story. So, listen all the way to the end. And be inspired! We have a new author on our team who just cam...
[Derek Nichelson] The Very Inspiring Story Behind Redeemed Construction
April 25, 2018 05:30 - 1 hour - 121 MBToday’s featured guest is Derek Nichelson from @redeemedconstruction ... Derek is a boutique home builder in Florida. He had kind of a rough time period in his life, and hence the name Redeemed Construction. He goes on to tell some of the insights he’s learned through the years. HIs is a very inspiring story. I know you’re going to have at least one takeaway from it today. So, listen all the way to the end. And be inspired! Announcements: First of all, We had a great response to the Pro...
[Nate Seaborn] Put A Strong Emphasis On Customer Service And Make Your Clients Happy.
April 18, 2018 05:30 - 40 minutes - 74.2 MB[New Episode!] Today’s featured guest is Nate Seaborn from @NateSeabornConstruction ... He is a general contractor who is passionate about putting a strong emphasis on customer service, and making their clients happy. Today we get to listen to his story, hear some of his ups and downs, and how his business has evolved to where it is today. For some of you this story will give you the inspiration to keep going, or the motivation to get up and try. So, listen all the way to the end. And you’ll...
[Jobson Chrisostomo] Even If You Don't Make A Profit - Keep Your Word
April 11, 2018 05:30 - 47 minutes - 88.1 MBToday’s featured guest is Jobson Crisostomo from Affordable Handyman of Greenwhich. @ahofgreenwich He came to the USA when he was 10 years old. He learned immediately that he could make a little money recycling cans. He saved up enough money to buy his first bicycle, and kept growing and learning. He learned carpentry from a high-end builder, and eventually started his own handyman company. Now, he is quite successful at it, and is making plans to open a second branch, and perhaps start a ...
[Brad Leavitt LIVE] Inside Secrets To Running A Highly Successful Contracting Company
April 04, 2018 05:30 - 55 minutes - 101 MBToday’s featured guest is Brad Leavitt from @aft_construction He runs a high end boutique building firm in Phoenix AZ. Awhile back we asked him to go LIVE on our Instagram account. He did such a great job answering questions and giving insights. ***** In fact, I’ve received messages, and he’s received messages saying that was THE BEST IG LIVE SESSION they've ever heard!!! ***** Thankfully, we were able to record it. And here it is today. ***** There’s so much insight here. Brad ha...
[Bryant Isaacs] Don’t Give Up Even If It Doesn’t Come Easily
March 28, 2018 05:30 - 48 minutes - 89 MBToday’s featured guest is Bryant Isaacs with Target Combined Services. @targetcontracting I met Bryant down in Florida at the Builder’s Show, and I was immediately impressed with his infectious smile, and his drive & determination. But what I didn’t know was the crazy story behind all this drive and determination, which has its roots all the way back when he was 16. His success certainly hasn’t came easily as you will hear throughout this interview. But even though he’s been through some ha...
[Darrin Marcure] The Importance Of Being Professional And Keeping Your Standards High
March 21, 2018 05:30 - 57 minutes - 107 MBToday’s featured guest is Darrin Marcure from @ezwindowanddoor. He specializes in high quality window and door installation, and On social media he calls himself an “Exterior Remodeling Lover.” Darrin is passionate about being a professional and Holding the profession to the highest standards. He is Trying his hardest to improve the image of this profession, and make a difference in the next generation. listen all the way through and You’ll be inspired. ***** The Protractor Tip today fro...
[Jamie Verdura] The Importance Of Building An All Star Team
March 14, 2018 05:30 - 44 minutes - 82.4 MBJamie Verdura from @verduraconstruction is our featured guest this week. He is passionate about building an all star team. You'll see what I mean as you listen through this episode. Also, be sure and listen to the #ProtractorTip at the beginning of this show by Brad Leavitt @aft_construction. He talks about the most important assets in your business. (hint: it goes right along with this show's theme) We'll be running our website promotion for 10 contractors very soon. So, if you don't wa...
New Season Updates & Announcements
February 23, 2018 21:34 - 5 minutes - 9.28 MBThis is a very short episode simply to let you know that we are working on the new season and it will be coming to you before long. Thank you! Martin
[Trevor Tipton] How Trevor Sells High End Luxury Projects
December 20, 2017 06:30 - 1 hour - 57.3 MBToday's guest is Trevor Tipton from @outdoorlivinginnovator in Scottsdale, Arizona. He has quite a story! In this episode, among other things, you'll learn: To empathize with people rather than run over them. The importance of developing a team around you. There's no amount of money that will make up for a bad client. How to get through tough situations. How to position yourself in front of the right people in marketing. The little gift he gives every homeowner after the firs...
[Lakisha Woods] An Exclusive Interview With The Senior Vice President and CMO of The National Association Of Homebuilders
December 13, 2017 06:30 - 42 minutes - 39 MBHow would you like to sit down with the senior vice president and chief marketing officer of NAHB? (National Association Of Homebuilders) Well, that's exactly what we get to do today! It is such an honor and privilege to have Lakisha Woods on the show. You get to hear some of her own story and experiences in this industry. She also shares a very experience about one contractor in Montana who is making a difference in the lives of veterans. Among other things she expounded on these im...
[Sean Collinsgru] The Importance Of Knowing WHY You Do What You Do
December 06, 2017 06:30 - 54 minutes - 49.9 MBSean Collinsgru from Premier Outdoor Living is our guest today! We had an awesome conversation. The main theme seemed to be centered around the importance of knowing why you are doing what you are doing. If you know why you are working on a project, or even why you are in this business, then it will help carry you through the inevitable hard times that come with business. Here is just a sampling of some of things we talked about in this episode: Fake it till make it. Opportunity to b...
[Lou Olerio] How To Protect Your Personal and Company Assets When Building Million Dollar Spec Homes
November 29, 2017 06:30 - 48 minutes - 44.5 MBIn this episode Lou Olerio from @oleriohomes talks about how he grew his home building business. He has definitely had his ups and downs, and he tells all about it in this episode. Listen to this episode and learn: The key to selling more and having a successful business. The best way to learn this business. The ins and outs of builder's insurance and which one to use for each situation. The difference between Builder's Risk, Home Warranty, and General Liability The importance of ...
[Kyle Stumpenhorst] An Exclusive LIVE Session With Kyle About His Business
November 22, 2017 06:30 - 26 minutes - 25.5 MBThis is a special episode where Kyle Stumpenhorst @rrbuildings goes LIVE and answers people's questions. Contractors from all over had the chance to ask Kyle questions about his post-frame building business. He took the time to answer every one. We have the entire session published here for your inspiration. He revealed such things as: How did you get started? Why did you choose Post Frame construction? Do you pay for social media advertising? The 3 things you should do to get a...
[Blake Carter] How This Contractor Deals With Difficult Situations In The Marketplace Without Losing His Mind
November 15, 2017 06:30 - 59 minutes - 56 MB[New Episode] "How This Contractor Deals With Difficult Situations In The Marketplace Without Losing His Mind" In this episode, Blake Carter @californiadeckpros and I discuss dealing with difficult people and situations in the marketplace. Plus, much more! So if you want to get through tough times victoriously, get more leads using social media, be more efficient with time management, and successfully get through hard situations in the marketplace, tune in now! In this episode, you'll...
[Alan Muncey] How Alan Is building His Business Debt Free
November 08, 2017 06:30 - 53 minutes - 50.1 MBToday our guest, coming to you all the way from Prince Edward Island is Alan Muncey. He is a carpenter, specializing in custom cabinetry and other fine finish work. In this episode we discussed many interesting things, but one thing that stands out to me is what Alan had to say about taking on debt in business. It actually came up a few times throughout our conversation. He also shared the story of how he got ripped off by another contractor, and what he learned from that hard lesson. ...
[Austin King] Our Motto Is Build And Learn
November 01, 2017 05:30 - 57 minutes - 54.1 MBToday our guest is Austin King from @_Rafterhouse_. He has worked very hard to develop the unique feel of his brand. And His work has been featured in magazines, and on HGTV. He shared openly with me about the ups and downs of his entrepreneurial journey. You’ll be inspired by the insights we discovered in his story. And as you listen through to the end, you’ll see exactly why his motto is: "Build and Learn." Here are some things you'll find inside: How he uses his athletics discipline ...
[Tim Holton] How Tim Is Carrying On His Fathers Good Reputation
October 25, 2017 05:30 - 58 minutes - 55.5 MBOur guest today is Tim Holton, from @JKHolton_inc. Tim came into the business that his father had started, which makes his story interesting… We talked about many areas of the contracting business. A couple of things that stood out to me is what he shared about, how your reputation will haunt you or carry you for the rest of your life. If you do the right thing, you won’t have a problem getting work. He shared many other excellent and inspiring tidbits such as: Why he bought the family ...
[Freddy Roman] Why It Is So Important Not To Fear The Process
October 18, 2017 05:30 - 51 minutes - 48.7 MBOur guest today is Freddy Roman, also known as “Period Craftsmen” on social media. His company makes top-of-the-line furniture and does intricate restoration work as well. He has a well-rounded background in the contractor space, and so we had many things to talk about in this interview. Such things as: How to price your work How to train a new apprentice without losing too much money in the process Building your brand on social media How to track your leads from different sources...
[Kiefer Limeback] An Inside Look At The Life And Insights Of A Tool Review Expert
October 11, 2017 05:30 - 1 hour - 59.9 MBMany of you know him online as @toolaholic - His name is Kiefer Limeback - and from a little boy he’s always loved tools. He has his own remodeling company, and he gets to try out new tools almost everyday. In this episode you will hear his thoughts on some of the latest technology, and some of his favorite tool recommendations. Here's a taste of what you'll get inside: Some tools that are important for contractors getting started His thoughts on vans versus trucks for contractors A...
[Andrew Mueller] How Andrew Is Growing His Company In Spite Of The Odds Against Him
October 04, 2017 05:30 - 57 minutes - 54.5 MBToday you will be inspired as you listen to this story of Andrew Mueller from @kustomcontractinginc Just like so many of you, He has not had an easy road, and has had to overcome many challenges. But he has developed some pretty impressive systems and procedures for his business, and I’m super excited to bring them to you today. Here’s a taste of what you’ll find inside: How a good employee is almost like having a business partner. How to make sure the work gets done exactly the way you...
[Mark Rason] How Mark Overcame Fear Of Failure and Launched Out On His Own
September 27, 2017 05:30 - 52 minutes - 49.6 MBOur guest is Mark Rason from Remarkable Woodworks. His story is very inspiring. He did not grow up using power tools, like so many of you. But rather, his background is in sales. And he had to overcame his fear of failure and launch out believing that contracting is the correct path for him and his family. In this story he shares many insights about entrepreneurship and sales. If you are a new contractor, or haven’t even launched on your own yet, you’ll love this episode. But even if you...
[Joel Grasmeyer] 5 Common Business Issues Contractors Face And What You Can Do About Them
September 20, 2017 05:30 - 54 minutes - 51.1 MBOur guest is Joel Grasmeyer. He is co-founder of the app Contractor Tools. His story is very interesting and inspiring, and I know you’ll find it fascinating. In this conversation he shared with me 5 common issues that face contractors and how to solve them. How to put together a $40,000 bathroom remodeling estimate in less than 10 minutes and have it in the hands of the customer before you leave the job site! How Millennial homeowners are going to expect contractors to present estima...
[Mike Rossi] Why Mike Is So Excited About The Limitless Potential In This Business!
September 13, 2017 05:30 - 1 hour - 58.4 MBToday our guest is Mike Rossi from @RossiConstruction near Chicago. He is very passionate about construction... as well as business and personal development, so I know you are going to love this conversation! Inside you'll learn: How they process what went right and wrong after a job gets done. How to instruct employees without being overbearing. Why it's so important to start a business with the proper funding in place. How they are creating specific web pages to reach specific tow...
[JD Dwyer] How We Are Branding Ourselves Differently To Appeal To A Younger Crowd
September 06, 2017 16:51 - 54 minutes - 50.4 MBOur guest today is JD Dwyer @sticksandbricksdev He shared with us his story about how he grew up in construction, worked for some awesome companies, and then finally took the leap and helped start a brand new company. ..... There are so many gold nuggets in this story. Here’s a small list of what you’ll learn inside: ▪ How JD’s life journey has led him to where he is today. ▪ Why they chose to brand their company they way did. ▪ How to deal with difficult clients without losing your rep...
[Ben Horning] How Do You Upsell Other Projects While Doing The Initial One?
September 04, 2017 05:30 - 15 minutes - 14.4 MBSome people are very good at showing the homeowner things they should be fixing or upgrading at some point, and other people aren't so good at it at all. That's what this episode is all about. Ben Horning @bhdb_ben shared with us how they approach their current clients with upsells. You'll learn in this episode: Why you should focus on the reason they called you and solving that issue first. To ask yourself, "If this were my house would I do it?" Why is so important to do an initial...
[Stefan Carlson] Why We Strive To Have Legacy Over Money
August 30, 2017 05:30 - 58 minutes - 53.6 MBSomeone once said... "In the construction business, you must be two things: slightly crazy and have a desire to serve people." And it is said of the Carlson family that they are a little bit of both… Whether they are crazy or not, I don't know... but one thing that came through loud and clear during this interview with Stefan Carlson, is how much they LOVE to SERVE people! There are so many things that were said that stood out to me, but here are just a few... We strive to have legacy ove...