Building Scale

In this episode, Nathan Piper of GRS Pros discusses his journey in the construction industry, from personal development to building a franchise model. He shares insights on recruiting, company culture, growth philosophy, and the role of creativity in scalability. Nathan also talks about leveraging technology and the impact of core values on business growth. Culture shouldn’t be forced. It should be natural and self-sustaining. There’s a huge difference between an authentic culture and a fabricated one. From the get-go, these two will look all too similar! Everyone’s saying they’re businesses are “built on trust”, and no one’s shy in showcasing this motto on every bit of Ad collateral they employ. That’s the problem…everyone’s saying the same thing! But only a rare few, like Nate Piper and GRS Pros can walk the talk! Nate is the Founder and CEO of Greenlight Restoration Solution (GRS) Pros, a remodeling company that offers services such as living space remodeling, water damage repair, mold remediation, designing and building. Here’s what makes GRS Pros the successful and trusted company that they are today… Nate has built a culture wherein “Built on Trust” IS NOT just a motto – it’s actually the (ONLY) way they do business and they’ve positively transformed countless lives as a result of their ethics! Beyond the paper and the Ad Campaigns, GRS Pros display of trust resonates with employees and clients alike, and this authentic demonstration has given birth to the scalability that their company now enjoys! The challenge in building a culture is finding the perfect fit for your people’s personalities and goals. Nate has outlined for us how culture is practically created through best practices in hiring, development of systems and processes, and leveraging technology. With a natural and sustainable culture that everyone strongly believes in, GRS Pros has become home to the “3-Right Guarantee – We’ll do the Job RIGHT, at the RIGHT price, and if anything goes wrong, we’ll make it RIGHT!” Authentic Culture VS Fabricated Culture? How does culture tie-in with people, systems and processes, and technology? What makes creativity a powerful driver for greater scalability? Check this out to learn more straight from the source! Website: Remodeling, Restoration, and Remediation Services Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: IT Support and Services LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: Spot Migration Youtube: Spot Migration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to guest Nathan Piper and GRS Pros (3:30) Personal development and identity change in the construction industry (13:59) Recruiting strategies and company culture in the construction industry (20:52) Building a franchise model in the construction industry (28:43) The philosophy of growth, scale, and mentorship in business (35:39) The role of creativity and innovation in business scalability (44:00) The impact of core values on a company's culture and growth (54:08) Leveraging technology for business success and scale (1:01:40) Reflecting on past experiences and advice for younger self (1:03:19) Contacting Nathan Piper and wrapping up the interview

Success often comes from spotting and using patterns in the chaos around us. Nature is full of examples, like fractals and waves. To most people, these patterns aren't obvious, and success seems like just luck. But if you study successful businesses and leaders, you'll find they often use these hidden patterns. This episode talks about how industry leaders use these patterns, facing challenges and shaping their mindset towards people, processes, and technology, to turn chaos into success. What’s the secret sauce to process development? What common denominator can we derive from unique minds of successful industry leaders? What are the best practices in terms of engaging technology? Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: IT Support and Services LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: Spot Migration Youtube: Spot Migration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale Podcast and Overview of the First Season (3:14) Challenges of Scaling and Integrating AEC Companies (7:10) The Crucial Role of People and Culture in Scaling an AEC Business (12:31) Upcoming Topics and Guests on the Building Scale Podcast (15:52) Utilizing Processes to Enhance Business Operations (21:02) Role of EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) in Scaling AEC Industry (27:55) Role of Technology in Scaling a Business (38:41) Cybersecurity Threats and Slow Tech Adoption in AEC Companies (44:36) Looking Towards the Future of Building Scale (48:54) Sharing Origin Stories of AEC Industry Leaders

Most industries don’t discriminate. People do! There are hardly any jobs that require a specific gender (think of roles in the entertainment sector, a few sport careers, catholic priests). And so, one might wonder: “Why are most industries/jobs male-dominated?” The truth is that it has nothing to do with the capacity of women. This phenomenon is more related to the amount of guidance and support that women receive in terms of finding a career/securing their place in almost any given industry, including the AEC. Thankfully, many agencies in the private and public sectors have been working on ways to tear down these barriers! Educational institutions have come up with better programs, like career counseling and mentorship programs, that provide women with the knowledge and information they need to be competitive in different male-dominated industries. The government has also done its part by passing laws that combat discrimination. However, we’ve still got ways to go before we can achieve a state of equity in career opportunities. This issue isn’t a single organization’s battle…it’s ours, as a society, as humans. Tiffany Sharp, Owner of Sharp Construction, LLC, a young woman-led fast-growing commercial general contractor in Phoenix, AZ, is one of many great leaders attending to this cause. Sharp Construction pioneered the “Girls Can Build” Initiative – a program for girls with workshops, tools and mentorship that teach building skills, basics of the design and build process and career opportunities in the industry – in partnership with the Girl Scouts – Arizona Cactus-Pine Council. The hope is that these programs will empower women, even from an early age, to pursue careers in AEC, find success in the industry, all while filling a huge gap in the demand for multiple positions across the industry. This initiative is but one of many benefits that Sharp Construction gets to experience (and share with the community) as a result of scaling their business! What experiences paved the way for Sharp Construction’s success? How has the company’s investment choices impacted their scalability? What other benefits come from scaling your business? Learn more from the source! Check these out to learn more about Tiffany Sharp, Sharp Construction, and Girls Can Build Initiative: Connect with Tiffany: Arizona Business Initiative | Girls Can Build Commercial General Contractor | Sharp Construction | Arizona https://www.linkedin.com/company/girls-can-build/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanypixler https://www.linkedin.com/company/sharpconstruction/ Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: https://spotmigration.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to the podcast, hosts, and guest Tiffany Sharp (7:32) Transitioning to commercial construction and decision to start Sharp Construction (14:33) Vision for Sharp Construction's future and importance of empowering employees (17:10) Tiffany's use of Procore in managing projects and the role of technology in growth (27:31) Discussing the Girls Can Build initiative and addressing the gender gap in AEC (30:08) Importance of a board of advisors and succession planning for business success (38:52) Labor shortages in the construction industry and the solution through Girls Can Build (43:28) Partnership between Sharp Construction and the Girl Scouts: the birth of Girls Can Build (49:20) Reflection on a 20-year career and overcoming barriers as a woman in construction (54:50) How to contact Tiffany Sharp and get involved with Girls Can Build (55:57) Mention of AEC resources page at spotmigration.com (Sponsor: Spot Migration)

On this episode, we’ve got Greg Patch from LJA Engineering, an Engineering News-Record Top 100 National Firm offering full-service engineering and consulting services to public and private sector clients, to share with us the best way to empower your people and make them accountable for theirs and your business’s futures, ultimately leading to continuous growth and success of the business. Greg is the VP of Land Development in the Houston office of LJA Engineering. He has more than 25 years of design-build, development, and construction experience in the civil engineering field. He has provided a complete spectrum of design capabilities for complex site development projects including commercial, industrial, manufacturing, institutional, multi-family, and retail developments in the United States and internationally. Greg shares that as an entity, LJA is on a mission to design results and deliver purpose-driven projects for their clients and employee-owners in all communities they serve. Why have employee-owners? Because company ownership builds loyalty, motivates people to perform their best, and fosters an environment where employees and clients have mutual respect and interest in the successful outcome of each project. Satisfied, fulfilled personnel care about the jobs they do and the future of their company. LJA takes care of their employees, so their employees can devote their best to taking care of the clients. Simply put, LJA best achieves their mission by creating an environment that fosters holistic growth for each participant in the business, directly resulting in the continuous success and growth of their business. How does employee-ownership work? What does it mean to be in the business of setting expectations? Why should you adopt this culture in your business? Learn more from the source! Check these out to discover more about employee-ownership from LJA Engineering and Greg Patch: Website: lja.comEmail: gpatch@lja.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/greg-patch-5993518 Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: https://spotmigration.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to the show, hosts, and guest: Greg Patch, Vice President of Site International Groups for LJA Engineering (5:17) Greg's career insights and advice for young engineers (15:01) Greg's journey in opening a new office from scratch and the challenges of scaling an AEC business (21:22) The importance of people, trust, and client relationships in the AEC industry (30:02) Scaling: Management style, communication, and transparency in growing companies (37:33) Navigating surprises in project proposals and the importance of continuously filling the work pipeline (42:01) Leveraging technology in project management and handling different formats in architecture (46:56) Greg's favorite design elements in architecture and unique considerations in designing specific buildings (52:41) Contacting Greg Patch and his upcoming book (55:31) End of interview with Greg Patch and podcast hosts sign off

In this episode, the focus is on the rising importance of cybersecurity in Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) businesses. Topics include the role of cyber insurance, the need for multi-factor authentication, and the potential risks of outdated hardware/software. The discussion also covers ransomware, the cost of cybersecurity, and the crucial role of IT companies in protecting AEC businesses. The episode concludes with a special offer for a one-hour cybersecurity assessment. What is CyberSec? What is Ransomware as a Service? How are cyber threats toppling even the powerhouses in the AEC industry? At the end of the day, you need to understand that your business can easily be caught in the crossfire in an “invisible war”. Learning more about the online space and investing in CyberSec has become non-negotiable and is key for business continuity and future success! Discover how to future-proof your business today! Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: https://spotmigration.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast (1:00) The surge in cyber liability and the role of cyber insurance (3:01) Exploring technical versus operational truths in cybersecurity (8:00) Requirements and importance of multi-factor authentication for cyber insurance (12:36) The role of automation, training, and policy enforcement in business continuity (16:04) The vulnerabilities of VPNs and risks of outdated hardware/software in cybersecurity (22:02) The non-negotiable need for implementing cybersecurity measures (24:05) Understanding ransomware and its rise as a service (32:26) The cost of cybersecurity for business owners and the necessity of cyber liability insurance (34:33) The risks AEC businesses face in cybersecurity and the role of IT companies (39:57) Sponsor: Special offer for the Building Scale community: a one-hour cybersecurity assessment (40:10) Wrap up and conclusion of the episode

In this episode, guest Sam Clark discusses the traits of white male culture, the significance of diversity in business, and the concept of 'Big Hairy Audacious Goal'. He also explores the role of business development and technology in business growth, the importance of leadership training, and the impact of the White Men's Caucus on diversity. DIVERSITY should not be a mere trend… It should be part of a way of life – that which promotes individual growth of employees, high quality services leading to TRUE customer satisfaction, and scaling your business. The problem is ever since the executives and business owners caught wind of the term, “Diversity” has been thrown around a lot until it lost its true meaning and value. It’s easy create a business that employs people from different background, sex and gender, ethnicity, etc., but is that the end-all and be-all? What most entrepreneurs fail to see is that diversity, on its own, cannot create the huge impact you expect it to have in your KPIs, and ultimately, your business’s health. Creating an environment where your diverse work force can thrive is crucial to creating that impact; that environment can be achieved when you build a culture that practices EQUITY and INCLUSION! And that’s exactly what Sam Clark had in mind as he led Clark Construction Company to its current state of success! Sam Clark is part of the 3rd generation in his family to manage Clark Construction, and is the current President and CEO of the company. He served in the U. S. Army from 1991 to 1994 and was stationed in Fort Lewis, Washington. Upon his honorable discharge, Sam enrolled in Northern Michigan University where he obtained a B. S. in Building Construction Management. Sam joined Clark Construction Company as a Project Manager in 1996 and has held progressive roles during his rise to President/CEO. During his career, Sam has been involved in many market sectors and is most notably known for his expertise in casino, resort venues. Through developing, implementing, and living our core values, Sam has proven himself as a visionary leader within the organization. The company mission “We Build on a Foundation of Trust” aligns the team in success. Sam has led the organization through significant cultural changes with a strategic focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Today Clark Construction reaps the many benefits of DEI integration. How does DEI impact company KPIs? What other benefits is there when you infuse DEI into the company culture? What other key ideas contributed to Clark Construction’s massive growth and current success? Learn more from the source! Reach out to Sam Clark or learn more about Clark Construction Company here: Email: sclark@clarkcc.com Website: Clark Construction Company - Professional Construction Management Services Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! Connect with the Justin & Will: Website: https://spotmigration.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Tune in to learn about the Hottest Insider News | Tips | Tricks | Hacks, and everything you need to know on Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Technology! (0:00) Introduction to the episode and guest Sam Clark (4:52) Understanding the concept and traits of white male culture (8:46) The importance and benefits of diversity, equity, and inclusion in business (16:38) The term 'Big Hairy Audacious Goal' and impact of scaling up in the company (23:32) Role of business development, marketing, and IT systems overhaul in business growth (28:07) Encouraging vulnerability in the construction industry and the role of technology in business growth (33:35) Implementing a risk list and indirect benefits of investing in technology (35:53) Importance of leadership training and diversity, equity, and inclusion (37:40) Impact of the White Men's Caucus on diversity and inclusion (39:20) Closing remarks and contact information for Sam Clark

Creating a sustainable, inclusive company culture is more than a trend; it's a lifelong commitment. Modern entrepreneurs often mention 'culture' in meetings and press events, but it's frequently just lip service. True company culture isn't about superficial perks like pinball machines or fancy lounges. It's about nurturing interactions and systems that balance business needs with employee well-being. John Arndt and DWC Construction stand out for genuinely embodying this culture. As the current CEO and a 41-year veteran of DWC, John has helped shape a culture that's tangible to everyone involved, marking DWC's 75th anniversary as a leader in Tennessee’s commercial interior space construction. (0:00) Introduction to the podcast, hosts, and guest John Arnold, CEO of DWC Construction (6:20) The importance of company culture and strong relationships in hiring and retention (14:05) The role of passion, teamwork, and corporate culture in business success (20:25) The significance of core values and personal touches in building company culture (26:06) Introduction and benefits of DWC University and the Rockefeller Habit (33:23) The value of open communication, team meetings, and fun activities in fostering team harmony (38:50) The role of technology and strategic planning in scaling a business (42:44) Advice to young and entrepreneurial selves from John Arnold (48:38) Contact details for John Arndt and closing remarks (50:03) Mention of AEC resources page at spotmigration.comback/aec hyphen resources

In this episode, guest Chris Winterhalter shares his transition from real estate to hotel renovation. He discusses his business's success strategy, tackling labor shortages, and the benefits of technology in construction. The conversation also covers niche focus in the hotel renovation industry and reflections on personal growth. (0:00) Introduction to the show, hosts, and guest Chris Winterhalter (2:26) Chris Winterhalter's journey from real estate investment to hotel renovation business (8:35) Addressing industry flaws and the success strategy of Chris's renovation business (14:11) Opportunities, challenges, and strategies for scaling construction companies (22:44) Tackling the labor shortage in construction and the role of recruitment in growth (27:02) The benefits of a paperless construction company and leveraging technology (34:04) Niche focus and purchasing power: Scaling in the hotel renovation industry (40:08) Reflections on personal growth and business development (42:17) Wrapping up the episode and future plans with Chris Winterhalter

In this episode, Jim Dvorchak, the founder of Hard Rock Concrete Cutters, shares his entrepreneurial journey, the importance of perseverance, and how technology aids in business growth. He discusses how leadership impacts company culture, the challenges of losing a business partner, and the value of processes in operations. Jim also explores his potential career as a business consultant and the role of faith in his journey. (0:00) Introduction to podcast and guest, Jim Dvorchak (3:09) The journey of starting Hard Rock Concrete Cutters and the role of perseverance (10:00) Evolution of communication technology in business and strategies for acquiring new business (15:16) Scaling a business through large projects and decision-making process for taking on new jobs (17:47) Impact of leadership on company culture and encouraging entrepreneurial spirit among employees (25:49) Navigating the passing of a business partner and the importance of clear business agreements (31:58) Dealing with the aftermath of a business partner's death and focusing on core business (35:00) Confidence, perseverance, and vision for success, importance of processes in business operations (41:18) Potential career as a business consultant, influence of the Bible and Christian worship music on Jim's journey (43:16) Prioritizing relationships over busyness, learning from past difficulties and looking forward to a brighter future (45:29) How to get in contact with Jim or Hard Rock

In this episode, Aaron Mills, a CFO in the construction industry, discusses the common financial issues in a construction business, the concept of 'growing broke', and key financial KPIs. He also talks about the illusion of success, the importance of a strong management team and continuous learning. (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast and guest Aaron Mills (2:38) Role of a CFO in a construction business and common financial issues (7:32) The strategy for financial clarity: Breaking down the company into silos (10:19) Exploring the concept of 'growing broke' in the construction industry (13:30) The 'contractor dilemma' and the importance of client relationships (15:30) Key financial KPIs for business owners and understanding your financials (18:29) Indicators that you need a CFO and managing cash flow (21:19) Revenue vs Profitability: The illusion of success (23:08) The importance of a strong management team, HR function, and goal setting (25:06) Personal growth: Investing in yourself and the importance of continuous learning.