Building Scale

In this episode, Andrea Piering, President of Sun State Builders, shares her career journey, insights on fostering a distinctive company culture, and advice for future AEC leaders. She discusses the importance of technology in construction, strategies for business growth, and creating a customer-centric culture. The episode concludes with reflections on scaling a business. Connect with Andrea -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-piering-55b14880/   Website: https://sunstatebuilders.com/   Connect with Justin - Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Website: https://www.spotmigration.com    Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to guest, Andrea Piering, President of Sun State Builders (2:20) Andrea's career journey and transition into leadership (9:30) The unique company culture at Sun State Builders (15:01) Andrea's advice for aspiring AEC industry leaders (17:40) The role of technology and innovation in construction (20:23) Strategies for business growth and customer relationship management (27:22) Building a customer-oriented culture and networking through Key Makers (30:27) Final thoughts and future commitments from Andrea Piering (31:01) Reflections on the pillars of scaling a business (31:16) Sponsor: Building Scale's IT cybersecurity strategy service (31:34) Closing remarks from Will Foret and Justin Neagle

In this episode, guest Don Zuidema shares his business journey and how he scaled his AEC business. He discusses the significance of relationship building, the role of marketing, benefits of a seasonal model, and the value of outsourcing CFO and CMO roles. Zuidema also highlights the importance of reliable service delivery, and the use of technology in the AEC industry. Connect with Don Zuidema -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donzuidema/  Website: https://www.restoreworks.com/     Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction and guest Don Zuidema's business journey (7:27) Scaling the business in three chapters: learning, scaling light, and heavy-duty scaling (18:37) The importance of building relationships and the role of marketing in the AEC industry (27:37) The benefits of a seasonal business model and decision to outsource CFO and CMO roles (35:09) Learning from marketing experiments, refining strategies and the role of a CMO (44:30) Ensuring reliability and consistency in service delivery, and building trust in outsourcing roles (50:24) Embracing technology in AEC businesses and viewing safety as an investment (59:55) Reflecting on 20 years in the AEC industry and the value of peer groups for business owners (1:03:59) How to connect with Don Zuidema and closing remarks

Lee Benson joins Justin Neagle to discuss the role of continuous learning, business systems, and team chemistry in scaling businesses. The episode delves into the MIND methodology, the significance of CEO masterminds, and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership. The conversation also covers cultivating a positive work environment and improving spiritual energy as a leader. Connect with Lee Benson -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-j-benson/  Website: https://etw.com/   Connect with Justin - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/ Website: https://www.spotmigration.com   Learn More about Keymakers -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/keymakers-az/about/ Website: https://keymakers.org/   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction and guest introduction: Lee Benson (3:10) Importance of continuous learning and business systems (8:35) Role of team chemistry and opportunities in business success (10:24) Introduction to the mind methodology and holistic value creation (29:00) Understanding the value of masterminds for CEOs and overcoming confirmation bias - Lee Benson & Justin Neagle (42:50) Cultivating a positive environment and the nuances of leadership - Justin Neagle & Lee Benson (1:02:45) Evaluating leadership styles and the role of emotional intelligence - Justin Neagle & Lee Benson (1:12:15) Improving emotional and spiritual energy as a leader - Justin Neagle

In this episode, Heather Lennon shares her journey in the AEC industry, her expertise in construction management, and her experiences as a woman in a male-dominated field. They discuss staffing strategies for growth, the importance of historic preservation, and navigating material procurement challenges. Heather also talks about striving for impact and purpose in business and empowering women in the AEC industry. (0:00) Introduction and mission of the podcast (3:02) Heather Leonard's journey in the AEC industry (9:33) Adaptive reuse: transforming spaces for revenue (15:27) Heather's expertise and fearlessness in construction management (24:32) Heather's experience as a woman in a male-dominated industry (31:02) Impact of COVID-19 on the AEC industry: the concept of "compression" (35:01) Staffing strategies for business growth (39:26) Importance of preserving historic buildings (44:19) Navigating material procurement challenges during COVID-19 (57:00) Striving for impact and purpose in business (1:00:04) Empowering women in the AEC industry (1:05:00) Mission to help the AEC industry with technology (1:05:23) Closing remarks by Justin and Will

In this episode, Matt Aston, founder of GPRS, shares his strategies for geographic expansion and raising awareness of GPRS services. He discusses the impact of partnering with a private equity firm, the importance of safety in construction, and implementation of the SIM process. Aston also talks about GPRS's hiring philosophy, the introduction of a subscription model, and offers advice to his younger self. (0:00) Introduction and mission of the podcast (2:19) Interview with Matt Aston, founder of GPRS (9:26) Strategy for GPRS's geographic expansion and business growth (13:23) Challenges and strategy of creating awareness and understanding of GPRS services (20:06) GPRS's partnership with a private equity firm to accelerate growth (27:56) Evolution of GPRS's strategy post-private equity partnership (31:42) Safety in construction: A cost or an investment? (34:33) Implementation and evolution of the SIM process in GPRS (39:30) GPRS's hiring philosophy and staff diversity (44:10) Introduction of a subscription model for the construction industry and future plans (45:30) Matt Aston's advice to his younger self and how to get in touch (47:11) Closing words and outro

In this episode, Casey Clark, CEO of Cultivate Advisors, discusses the importance of a shared vision, the entrepreneurial mindset, and the value of partnerships in business growth. He also elaborates on the five stages of business evolution, the role of technology in systemization, and the transition to the influencer stage. The episode concludes with insights into owner and group advisory, the significance of cybersecurity, and empowering your people. Connect with Casey Clark -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseybusinessadvisor/  Website: https://cultivateadvisors.com/ Email: casey@cultivateadvisors.com    Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast and guest Casey Clark, CEO of Cultivate Advisors (7:45) The importance of casting a shared vision in a company and measuring ROI (12:06) Exploration of the nature and impact of entrepreneurship (15:55) Discovering your entrepreneurial superpower and the role of company culture (21:15) The entrepreneur's mindset and the importance of self-awareness (24:43) The value of partnerships in business growth and the loneliness of leadership (27:11) The five stages of business evolution and the transition from business owner to CEO (34:02) The role of a leader and the importance of focus in the visionary stage (40:10) The role of technology in business systemization and the shift to specialists (44:39) Transitioning to the influencer stage and understanding your superpowers (48:01) How Cultimate Advisors assists businesses in their growth journey (53:22) Advantages of owner advisory and group advisory for business growth (57:01) The importance of technology and cybersecurity in business (1:00:53) Advice to younger self and the importance of empowering your people (1:03:29) Reflections on the value of the episode and closing remarks from Justin and Will

In this episode, guest Jeff Dickson, VP of Marketing at Harling Masonry Restoration, shares his journey into construction and building Harling's brand. Topics include challenges of implementing a new CRM system, impactful technologies in the industry, understanding target clientele pain points, and utilizing visual content for marketing. The importance of quality opportunities for business growth and IT cybersecurity strategies are also discussed. Connect with Jeff Dickson -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-dickson-51138613/   Website: https://www.harlinginc.com/Phone: 312-228-4849   Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to the podcast and the importance of people, process, and technology in scaling businesses (0:52) Sponsor: Building Scale (1:07) Guest Introduction: Jeff Dickson, Vice President of Marketing at Harling Masonry Restoration (2:55) Jeff's journey into the construction industry and building Harling's brand (12:03) The process and challenges of implementing a new CRM system at Harling (19:10) Differences in CRM usage between the software and construction industries (21:37) Impactful technologies in the construction industry (26:14) Understanding the target clientele: Condo Boards and property managers' pain points (34:55) The potential of using visual content for marketing in the construction industry (39:26) The importance of quality in opportunities and the significance of better quality opportunities for business growth (1:00:22) Introduction to the AEC industry's technology pillar and IT cybersecurity strategy consultation

In this episode, Peter Morandi, CEO of Eastman Cook & Associates, discusses the intersection of construction and technology, the role of AI in site safety, and how tech impacts company culture. He also shares insights on pre-job planning, project management, and addressing the labor crisis in construction. Connect with Peter Morandi -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-morandi-leed-ap-4135086/   Website: https://eastmancooke.com/ Email: peter@eastmancooke.com    Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to Building Scale podcast and guest Peter Morandi, CEO of Eastman Cooke And Associates (9:02) Comparison of the construction and technology industry and the importance of tech in construction (14:05) Exploring the role of AI and technology in construction site safety and efficiency (21:34) Impact of safety technology on company culture and the future of construction with tech integration (28:20) Discussion on the role of pre-job planning and project management in successful construction projects (35:14) Influence of Jim Collins' "Good to Great" on business operations and the value of peer group benchmarking (41:31) Addressing the labor crisis in construction through education, training, and the use of virtual assistants (47:24) The importance of fast feedback in project management and addressing hesitations around employing remote workers (56:46) Sharing industry evolution stories and advice for younger self (1:01:30) Closing the podcast: Final advice for listeners and how to get in touch with Peter Morandi

In this episode, guest Jon O’Brien shares his journey into the construction industry, discusses the impact of opioids on the workforce, and the role of outreach, doctors, and companies in addiction prevention. He emphasizes the importance of employee assistance programs and introduces mental health awareness initiatives. O’Brien also discusses his legislative work, issues with Pennsylvania's separations act, and efforts to change outdated construction laws. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth. Connect with Jon O'Brien and KCA -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonobrien7/  Website: https://keystonecontractors.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/KCA_builds Phone: (717) 884-2801    Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to the podcast and hosts (1:07) Introduction of the guest, John O’Brien, and his journey into the construction industry (9:07) The impact of opioids on the construction workforce and the role of outreach in addressing addiction (20:14) The role of doctors and construction companies in opioid addiction prevention (29:10) The importance of employee assistance programs in managing addiction and mental health issues (33:30) Introduction of mental health awareness magnets and state level resolutions for construction workers (39:25) Jon O’Brien's work in different legislations and the issue with Pennsylvania's separations act (46:54) Current efforts to change outdated construction laws and the role of universities in researching construction models (50:21) Reflection on personal growth and the value of embracing good advice (53:00) Closing remarks and contact information for Jon O’Brien

In this episode, we welcome back Joe Furey, President of Michael Graves Architecture & Design. We discuss his journey in the AEC sector, the growth of Michael Graves, and their future plans. We delve into acquisition processes, learning from past experiences, and the strategy of partnering with architecture firms. We also talk about integrating new departments and personnel, and reflect on lessons from their first acquisition. Connect with Joe Furey and Michael Graves Architecture & Design -  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jfurey/  Website: https://michaelgraves.com/ Email: jfurey@michaelgraves.com     Connect with Justin & Will - Will's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willforet/ Justin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justneagle/   Learn More & Connect With Spot Migration -  Website: https://www.spotmigration.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spot-migration Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/spotmigration Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Spotmigration   Do you want to be a guest on the show? Go to https://buildingscale.net/guests Need to discuss your IT and Cybersecurity Strategy? Go to https://buildingscale.net/help (0:00) Introduction to the Building Scale podcast and hosts (1:07) Introduction of guest, Joe Furey, president of Michael Graves Architecture & Design (2:15) Joe Furey's journey in the AEC sector and the expansion of Michael Graves (5:49) Recap of Michael Graves' growth and future expectations (11:41) Deep dive into the acquisition process and deal structure (18:27) Identifying and approaching potential companies for acquisition (28:26) Learning from past acquisitions and the uniqueness of each process (33:42) Growth strategy: Partnering with architecture firms and expanding physical locations (45:32) Integrating new departments and personnel into the firm (54:19) Lessons from the first acquisition and vision for the company's future (57:58) Wrap up, reflections on the interview, and promoting the Building Scale podcast