The Why We Build Podcast!

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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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