Episode 326: Story Driven Design with Jen Davidson
Brad sits down with Jen Davidson of Interiors by Jen Davidson to talk about what it really takes to run a high performing design firm. They discuss CEO mindset shifts, process and SOPs, setting expectations early, and how story driven design builds trust and joy for clients. If you want smoother projects and stronger builder designer collaboration, this one is packed with practical takeaways.
Episode 325: Finding Your Place with Greg Villafana
Brad sits down with Greg Villafana of J Max Plumbing to talk about why not everyone needs to own a business and how to build a great career inside the trades. They discuss intrapreneurship, respecting the weight owners carry, and the discipline it takes to run clean, organized jobs. Greg shares lessons from military logistics, pool plumbing, and content creation that builders can use to tighten systems and tell better stories about their work. If you care about culture, process, and finding your right place, this one is worth a listen.
Episode 324: Upfront Clarity Builds Better Projects with Burdette Cabinet Co.
Brad sits down with Cortny and Justin Murdock from Burdette Custom Cabinetry to unpack what it really takes to deliver high end cabinets on complex custom homes. They get into early involvement, realistic scheduling, and why the right designer and builder make or break a project. Builders and designers will hear hard earned lessons on drawings, field conditions, material limits, and client expectations that can save months of chaos. If this episode hits home, share it with a trade partner you want in your inner circle.
Episode 323: Redefining Home Wellness with Stu Gadd
In this episode, Stu Gadd shares the story behind DivFit Gyms and how the company is reshaping wellness by designing bespoke, high-end home fitness spaces. He discusses the entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned, and the innovations driving today's surge in luxury wellness environments.
Episode 322: Foundations of Integrity with Carlson Projects Inc
Stefan and Scott Carlson of Carlson Projects Inc, explore their journey of transforming a family business through trust, problem-solving, and cultural values, all while navigating significant financial challenges. The discussion highlights the importance of company culture and strong client relationships in their continuing success.
Episode 321: Curb Appeal Meets Ecology with Michael Desplaines
In this conversation, Michael Desplaines and Brad Leavitt explore the art and science of landscape architecture, focusing on the importance of plants, sustainability, and thoughtful design tailored to diverse environments and client needs. They discuss the value of collaboration, the challenges of working in desert climates, client education, and the balance between aesthetics, practicality, and budget.
Episode 320: Innovation in Action, Building a Powerhouse Franchise with Ace Rodrigues
Ace Rodrigues, founder of Pickleball Kingdom, shares how innovative thinking and a relentless focus on customer needs turned a simple idea into a booming franchise. His journey highlights how strategic execution and a clear vision can transform an emerging trend into nationwide success.
Episode 319: Systems, Sales, and Scale with Jason Payne
Jason Payne breaks down how he scaled from scrappy door-to-door to a repeatable, systems-driven roofing business—covering hiring, SOPs, margins, and turning marketing into a true engine. If you want practical, unvarnished steps to grow a trades company without burning it down, this playbook is for you.
Episode 318: The Secret Power of Group Buying with Bill Smithers
CBUSA founder Bill Smithers joins Brad to discuss how group purchasing, collaboration, and strong vendor relationships empower independent builders to compete and thrive in a fragmented industry. Their conversation highlights the importance of trust, efficiency, and continuous improvement for building long-term business success.
Episode 317: What Builders Miss About Garage Doors with Dan Cummings
Southwest Garage Doors’ Dan Cummings joins Brad to break down what most builders overlook about garage doors—materials, airflow, desert heat, and why the garage should be treated like a real room. They get into service-to-custom workflows, hiring and training, saying no to bad fits, and how an Instagram DM turned into a trusted trade partnership.
Episode 316: Build the Leader, Then the House with Scott Glynn
Scott Glynn, VP of Construction at Resurrection Builders, digs into leadership, culture, and plan-first habits that cut change orders and protect the client experience. He and Brad cover careers in the trades, aligning incentives, and the on-site standards that separate good builders from great ones.
Episode 315: Navigating Business Growth with Katlyn Slocum
In this engaging conversation, Katlyn Slocum shares her journey as a creative director and the evolution of her business. She discusses the importance of understanding client needs, effective branding, and the role of technology in modern business practices. Katlyn emphasizes the significance of website optimization for lead generation and the necessity of clear deliverables in client relationships. The discussion also touches on personal growth, family concerns, and the impact of AI on the industry, providing valuable insights for builders and entrepreneurs alike.

