Meridian Pursuit Builders

The Secret to Better Margins: Niching Down Your Construction Business - Michelangelo DeCaro

Jesse Sampley — Sat, 09 May 2026 11:00:00 GMT

Are you a builder tired of doing a little bit of everything? In this episode, we explore why niching down might be the best decision you can make for your construction business. Discover how focusing on one specific trade can improve your margins, elevate your client experience, and set you apart from the competition.

Key Topics:
• The transition from general remodeling to specializing in decks
• Why niching down allows for a higher pursuit of excellence
• Educating clients on material choices and longevity
• Setting clear expectations and boundaries with clients
• The importance of healthy profit margins over vanity revenue
• Leveraging tools like JobTread for professional proposals

Guest: Michelangelo DeCaro, Renaissance Deck Builders
Website: https://www.renaissancedecks.com/
Instagram: @renaissancedeckbuilders

Subscribe to The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast for more insights on growing your construction business!

How to Buy a Roofing Business and Grow It Smartly - Nicholas Riley

Jesse Sampley — Wed, 06 May 2026 18:44:40 GMT

Are you a builder or home services contractor looking to grow your business the right way? In this episode of The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, we sit down with Nick Riley, CEO of Driftwood Builders Roofing, to discuss his journey of acquiring a 20-year-old roofing company and his strategies for long-term success. Nick shares why he prioritizes community involvement and education over paid ads, and how building a strong local reputation is the key to sustainable growth.

Key Topics Covered:
The process of acquiring an established roofing business
Why community involvement beats paid advertising
The impact of private equity on the roofing industry
How to build trust through customer education
The difference between short-term profits and long-term reputation
Using AI tools like ChatGPT and note-takers in home services

Guest: Nick Riley, CEO of Driftwood Builders Roofing
Website: DriftwoodBuildersRoofing.com
Instagram: @DriftwoodBuildersRoofing

Subscribe to The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast for more real conversations with builders and construction pros!

From Production to Custom Homes: Builder Growth Lessons - Chris George Custom Homes

Jesse Sampley — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:45:29 GMT

Scaling a home building company isn’t just about building more homes. It’s about systems, hiring the right people, and creating a consistent client experience without burning out. In this episode, we sit down with a third-generation builder to break down how they transitioned from high-volume production building to a more profitable custom home model, what they learned about hiring and leadership, and how systems and AI are changing the way builders operate. If you’re trying to grow your construction business while maintaining quality and reputation, this conversation gives you a clear look at what actually works in the field.

Key Topics Covered
• Transitioning from production building to custom homes
• Why strategic hiring changes everything
• How SOPs and systems help builders scale
• Using AI to streamline operations and communication
• Improving customer experience through consistent touchpoints
• Why builders must track numbers and metrics
• Building a reputation through reviews and client experience

Guest Credit & Resources

Chris III & Caleb George
Chris George Custom Homes
https://www.chrisgeorgecustomhomes.com/
(Kansas City-based custom home builder)

Instagram: / chrisgeorgecustomhomes
Facebook: / chrisgeorgecustomhomes

Break Through Academy
https://www.btacademy.com/?source=Mer ...

Subscribe for more real conversations with builders, contractors, and construction professionals sharing what’s actually working in today’s market.

New Home Sales Strategies That Actually Work - Kelsey Spray

Jesse Sampley — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 11:51:45 GMT

Are you struggling to stand out against big box builders? In this episode of The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, we sit down with Kelsey Spray to uncover the strategies that help custom home builders win more clients. We dive deep into the importance of communication, setting expectations, and why your marketing needs to be different.

Key Topics Covered:
• How to compete with production builders
• The power of setting clear expectations early
• Why communication is your best sales tool
• Using social media to educate home buyers
• The importance of knowing your competition

Guest: Kelsey Spray, New Homes Sales Consultant at Miranda Homes.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelseysellsswfl/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kelseyspray37
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelsey-spray-998a40182/
Email: sprayk@maronda.com

How to Build a Custom Home Brand That Attracts High-End Clients - Mark D. Williams

Jesse Sampley — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Are you tired of competing on price and losing bids to cheaper contractors? In this episode of The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, we sit down with Mark Williams of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes to uncover the exact marketing and branding strategies he uses to attract high-end clients in the Twin Cities. Mark shares his journey from selling copiers to building multi-million dollar luxury homes, and why your brand is the most important asset your construction business has.

Key Topics Covered:
• Why competing on price is a race to the bottom for builders
• How to use a 15-minute qualification call to weed out bad leads
• The power of storytelling and branding in luxury home building
• Why you need to treat your construction company like a real business
• How Mark uses social media, blogs, and podcasts to generate leads
• The 'Mysa Hus concept and building a home around a feeling

Guest: Mark Williams, Founder of @MarkDWilliamsCustomHomes and Host of @curiousbuilder
Website: mdwilliamshomes.com | mysahus.com/ | curiousbuilder.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/
Pintrest: https://www.pinterest.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/
Houzz: https://www.houzz.com/professionals/design-build-firms/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc-pfvwus-pf~1921007998=

Subscribe to The Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast for more real conversations with top builders and construction pros.

How Builders Can Avoid Costly Design Mistakes Before Framing - Brooke Coty

Jesse Sampley — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:34:22 GMT

Most custom home builds run into problems not because of bad craftsmanship, but because of decisions that were made too late or communication that broke down somewhere along the way. In this episode, Jesse sits down with Brooke Coty, co-owner of Hawkins and Gray Design, to talk about what it actually looks like when a designer and builder work together well. Brooke shares practical insight on when to bring a designer in, how to manage client expectations around budget, what decisions need to be locked in before framing, and how consistent communication keeps a build running smoothly from start to finish.

Key Topics Covered
Why designers should be involved before plans are finalized, not after framing
How to navigate budget conversations with clients when vision and allowance don't match
The design decisions that must be made before concrete is poured
How to build strong relationships with trades and subcontractors
What 'clarity is kindness' means on a job site and why it matters
How social media and authenticity are driving real leads for design firms and builders
What 'plans to pillows' service looks like and why it produces the best results

Guest Credit
Brooke Coty, COO of Hawkins + Gray Design
Website: https://www.hawkinsandgray.com
Instagram: @hawkinsandgraydesign

What Builders Can Learn From Dallas New Development Deals - Jake Rodriguez

Jesse Sampley — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 18:52:37 GMT

If you're a builder trying to grow in a competitive market, this episode gets into the real work behind it. From raising capital and managing subs to building trust and staying visible, this conversation covers what actually helps construction businesses move forward.

In this episode, Jesse Sampley sits down with Jake Rodriguez to talk about making the jump from a W-2 construction career into real estate development. Jake shares what he’s learning in the Dallas market, how he’s using social media to build credibility, why follow-up matters when raising money, and what builders should pay attention to when pricing jobs, choosing subs, and managing risk.

Key Topics Covered

How builders can build investor trust before they have a huge track record
Why follow-up and visibility matter more than constant selling
Lessons from moving from general contracting into development
How to find, keep, and manage quality subcontractors
Why smart specs and market research matter before you build
How branding and social proof can help win deals
The role of partnerships, communication, and risk management in growth

Guest Credit
Jake Rodriguez
Dallas-based real estate developer / builder

Instagram: @JakeRodriguez22

Subscribe for real conversations with builders, contractors, developers, architects, designers, and construction pros. This show is built around practical lessons, real-world business insight, and honest conversations from people actually doing the work.

The Hurricane That Started a Barndominium Construction Business - Levi & Josh Curnel

Jesse Sampley — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 12:45:00 GMT

Levi & Josh Curnel, of 7C Construction, joins Jesse Sampley on Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast to share how a devastating hurricane became the unexpected starting point of his construction career. What began as rebuilding after a storm eventually turned into a growing construction company focused on barndominiums and residential projects.

In this episode, Levi and Jesse talk through the realities of building a construction company from the ground up. Levi shares how early challenges, lessons from working with subcontractors, and learning how to manage projects shaped the way he runs his company today.

The conversation explores the importance of relationships, clear communication with clients, and creating systems that allow a builder to grow without losing control of their projects. Builders listening will take away practical insights about scaling a construction business, navigating growth, and staying focused on quality while demand increases.

How Builders Scale Without Losing Control of Their Business - Tim Winters

Jesse Sampley — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMT

Tim Winter, founder of Paradigm Homes, shares his journey from starting a company right before the 2008 crash to building a scalable, system-driven construction business.

This conversation dives into the real challenges builders face, including hiring mistakes, lack of accountability, and operating without structure. Tim breaks down what actually changed his business and how builders can apply the same principles to grow without being owned by their company.

From marketing and referrals to AI and project management tools, this episode gives a practical look at what it takes to run a modern construction business.

Custom Builder Secrets for Client Trust and Referrals - Travis Braxton

Jesse Sampley — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:36:44 GMT

What separates a good builder from a great one? It’s not just craftsmanship. It’s communication, process, and how you treat clients and trade partners over the long run.

In this episode, Jesse Sampley talks with Travis Braxton of RMB Building & Design about what it really takes to run a successful custom home and renovation company. They dive into builder–client communication, managing subs, using tools like Buildertrend, and how digital presence is reshaping builder marketing. Travis shares practical lessons from growing up in a family building business, transitioning into leadership, and maintaining a strong reputation in a competitive market.
If you’re a builder, remodeler, or construction business owner, this conversation is packed with real-world insight you can apply immediately.

Key Topics Covered
• Building long-term trust with clients and subs
• Why communication prevents costly mistakes
• Using Buildertrend for transparency and organization
• Renovation vs. custom home profitability
• How social media is driving real builder referrals
• Managing scope creep and client expectations
• The role of green building and energy efficiency

Guest Credit:
Travis Braxton
RMB Building & Design - Wilmington, NC
https://rmbbuildinganddesign.com/
https://www.instagram.com/rmb_building/
https://www.facebook.com/RMBBuildingandDesign/

#customhomebuilder
#buildermarketing
#constructionbusiness
#homebuilder
#remodelingbusiness
#constructionmanagement
#designbuild

Brad Bachand - From Personal Content to Million-View Reactions: A Contractor Mastering Short Videos

Jesse Sampley — Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:27:24 GMT

In this episode, Jesse Sampley sits down with Brad Bachand, a former Army officer turned construction entrepreneur and owner of Home Love Construction. Brad shares how he transitioned from military service into leading his family’s construction business and what it took to grow it into a more structured, scalable company.

They talk about the role family support played in his journey, the early marketing struggles he faced, and how implementing a clear pricing system helped improve profitability and operations. Brad also explains how social media and paid advertising became key drivers for new clients, especially during the surge in online activity during COVID-19.

If you’re a builder, contractor, or construction business owner looking to grow, this episode is packed with real-world lessons.

Building Waterfront Legacy Homes in Muskoka, Ontario, Canada - Emerson Bredin

Jesse Sampley — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 21:24:33 GMT

In this conversation, Jesse Sampley and Emerson Bredin, from Bredin Brother Construction, discuss the intricacies of branding, leadership, and client relationships in the construction industry. Emerson shares his journey as a young builder, emphasizing the importance of transparency, effective marketing strategies, and the role of technology in construction management. They also explore future growth plans, including the expansion into affordable housing developments, and the significance of fostering a positive team culture.

Parade Pressure, 10,000 Walk-Throughs, and What We Learned - Jeff Tait

Jesse Sampley — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 18:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Jesse Sampley and Jeff Tait discuss the journey of transitioning from corporate life to the construction industry, the challenges and rewards of building custom homes, and the importance of community and design in the digital age. They explore the balance between custom and spec homes, the significance of strong relationships with subcontractors, and the evolving marketing strategies in the construction business, particularly through social media. Jeff shares insights on navigating changes during construction projects and emphasizes the need for effective project management systems.

Navigating Florida's Construction Licensing Maze - Anthony Gizze

Jesse Sampley — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 17:30:00 GMT

In this conversation, Anthony Gizze shares his journey into the construction industry, detailing his experiences with licensing challenges in Florida, the importance of building trust with clients, and his future plans for spec homes and in-house licensing. He emphasizes the need for education and empowerment within the industry, discusses the volatility of the construction market, and advocates for changes to improve accountability and oversight. The conversation also highlights the role of social media in attracting clients and the importance of commitment to the construction profession.

From Remodeling to Custom Homes: A Builder's Journey (Corey Amira Custom Homes)

Jesse Sampley — Wed, 07 Jan 2026 14:20:37 GMT

In this episode of the Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, guest Corey Amira discusses his journey from remodeling to custom home building. He shares insights on the construction process, client expectations, and the importance of quality materials. Corey emphasizes the significance of building a strong reputation and maintaining good relationships with subcontractors. He also offers advice for new builders and reflects on his favorite projects, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of custom home building.

The “No Excuses” Contractor Playbook (KL Builders Scottsdale, AZ)

Jesse Sampley — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 21:22:01 GMT

In this episode of the Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, host Jesse Sampley engages with Kasey and Kendrick from KL Builders, discussing their journey in the construction industry. They share insights on building trust with clients, the importance of word-of-mouth referrals, and the evolving role of social media in marketing. The conversation also dives into the challenges of team dynamics and the future aspirations of KL Builders, emphasizing the significance of genuine care in fostering long-term relationships with clients and subcontractors.

What Builders Want from Partners: Quality, Communication, Corvin’s

Jesse Sampley — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 16:46:04 GMT

In this episode of the Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, host Jesse Sampley interviews Tony and Megan McPeak, third-generation owners of Corvin's General Store. They discuss the origins of their family business, the importance of hard work and family values, and how they navigate the home building market. The conversation covers homeowner expectations, challenges in the flooring industry, and the significance of building strong relationships with builders. They also touch on marketing strategies, the importance of reputation, and the future of their business.

Tampa Builder Playbook: Lots, Permits & Buyer Demand with Broker Elena Mijias (M Six Realty)

Jesse Sampley — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 15:15:49 GMT

In this episode of the Meridian Pursuit Builders Podcast, host Jesse Sampley engages in a deep conversation about the real estate market, particularly focusing on the Tampa Bay area. The discussion covers the journey of transitioning from a legal career to real estate, the dynamics of the current market, the importance of builders' reputations, and the role of social media in marketing. The conversation emphasizes the need for builders to understand their communities, build strong relationships, and adapt to changing market conditions to succeed.

Crafting Lasting Homes: A Builder's Perspective - Jamey Sampley

Jesse Sampley — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 20:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Jamey Sampley discusses the profound significance of home investment, emphasizing the importance of quality and permanence in construction. He reflects on the emotional and financial implications of building a home, highlighting the satisfaction that comes from creating lasting structures that meet the needs of families.

From EMT to Custom Home Builder: The Inspiring Journey of Chuck Foushee

Jesse Sampley — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 18:55:05 GMT

In this conversation, Chuck Foushee shares his journey from being an EMT to becoming one of Hardin County's premier custom builders. He discusses the evolution of the building industry, the importance of client relationships, and the need for quality in construction. Chuck emphasizes the significance of trust and communication with clients, as well as the challenges and rewards of the building process. He also touches on modern marketing strategies and the importance of maintaining a strong reputation in the industry. Throughout the discussion, Chuck provides valuable insights and advice for both new and experienced builders.

What 20 Years in Homebuilding Really Teaches You Smith Family Homes

Jesse Sampley — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:39:23 GMT

In this conversation, Clay Smith of Smith Family Homes walks through his journey from demolition work and long nights at UPS to building one of Hardin County’s most trusted custom home companies. Clay shares what he learned surviving the 2008 downturn, how he built a reputation on communication and follow-through, and why quality projects—not volume—drive his business. He also opens up about preparing the next generation, including his son, to step into the industry with confidence and humility.

Brantingham Builders: 50+ Years of Custom Home Building

Jesse Sampley — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:23:37 GMT

This conversation delves into the intricacies of home building, emphasizing the importance of quality craftsmanship, client relationships, and the role of subcontractors. Rachel and Mike Brantingham share insights on navigating challenges in the home building industry, the significance of transparency and communication, and the legacy of passion that drives their work. They discuss the future vision for Brantingham Builders, focusing on maintaining high standards and adapting to technological advancements while fostering a community-oriented approach.