In this episode, Tyler talks about the hidden costs of chasing large, complex jobs and why scaling back changed the game for his business. He shares how finding the right project size gave him better profit margins, more control, and a healthier work-life balance. Show Notes: Understanding Ideal Project Size and Scope (0:00) The Power of Networking and Social Aspects (1:58) The Importance of Ideal Project Fit (5:45) Strategies for Profitable Project Management (10:10) Balancing Client Needs and ...
Jul 03, 2025•27 min
Nick shares the story of a $200,000 mistake that could have been avoided with one clause in his contract. This episode unpacks the real cost of labor — from hidden overhead and labor burden to inefficient pricing strategies — and shows how even experienced builders can leave money on the table. Nick and Tyler break down how they calculate true labor costs, the ripple effect of inaccurate billing, and why it's time to rethink how you estimate, price, and protect your work. Sign up for the newslet...
Jun 30, 2025•58 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about why he stopped marking up subcontractor quotes and started charging a dedicated management fee instead. He shares how this shift helped him finally make money managing subs, offering a blueprint for small contractors to treat their time with the value it deserves. Show Notes: Managing Subcontractors: The Secret to Profitability (0:00) The Evolution of Subcontractor Management Fees (2:16) The Importance of a Separate Management Fee (5:36) Examples of Markup and ...
Jun 26, 2025•25 min
In this episode, Nick and Tyler talk to Jamie Gasparovic about what it really means to lead a business — not just through craft, but through communication. Jamie opens up about the emotional stress that comes from reactive jobs, and how she transformed her process to build clarity and trust from day one. It’s a conversation about setting expectations, building systems that actually support your team, and learning to lead by design — not by default. Show Notes: Introduction and Background of Jami...
Jun 23, 2025•1 hr 44 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about the real cost of underpricing your time — not just in money, but in missed opportunities. He shares how his mindset has shifted over the years and why learning to protect your schedule is one of the most valuable skills you can develop in the trades. Show Notes: Understanding the Value of Time (0:00) The Hustle Rate and Overhead Calculations (4:37) Transitioning from Hustle Rate to Business Owner Mentality (12:47) Capturing Invisible Work and Adjusting Pricing ...
Jun 19, 2025•37 min
In this episode, Nick and Tyler talk about the value of growing a construction business at a pace that aligns with your long-term vision — not just your short-term ambition. They reflect on the mistakes and lessons from pursuing aggressive scaling and why they’ve chosen to focus on sustainability, control, and craftsmanship. If you’ve ever felt pressure to grow faster than feels right, this conversation is a breath of fresh air. Show Notes: Prioritizing Business Growth and Personal Success (0:00...
Jun 16, 2025•1 hr 9 min
In this episode, Tyler responds to a listener question about clients offering to pay in cash — and why that might not be the win it seems like. He breaks down the risks, the optics, and the long-term damage that “under the table” work can do to both your business and your reputation. Show Notes: Cash Offers and Business Legitimacy (0:00) The Risks of Cash Transactions (6:46) Protecting the Business and Clients (18:14) The Role of Proper Documentation (26:32) Workshop & Coaching (29:12) Video...
Jun 12, 2025•32 min
In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Paul Johnson about why builder education is key to improving craftsmanship and raising the bar across the industry. Paul shares how his work with VELUX goes far beyond selling products — focusing instead on training, leadership, and building long-term relationships with tradespeople. From the role of manufacturer education to creating new opportunities for builders to grow their businesses, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, innovat...
Jun 09, 2025•1 hr 26 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about how to handle the fear and uncertainty that comes with a slow season. He shares why it’s crucial not to panic, how to stay confident in your value, and ways to use the downtime to come out stronger on the other side. Show Notes: Handling a Slow Season in the Construction Industry (0:00) Impact of Economic Factors on the Construction Industry (4:20) Strategies for Surviving a Slowdown (10:00) Long-Term Planning and Business Sustainability (16:23) Building a Sust...
Jun 05, 2025•30 min
In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to architect and entrepreneur Matt Arnold about building a business with intentional flexibility. They explore why Matt chose to create a brand that leaves space for future collaboration and growth, how building his own projects reshaped his client empathy, and the realities of launching a new firm while balancing life as a new father. From architecture to business ownership, this conversation dives into decision-making, leadership, and crafting a professio...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr 37 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about the overlooked power of simple, unglamorous jobs — the ones that never end up on Instagram but quietly build your business and bring deep satisfaction. Reflecting on past projects and client impact, he challenges the idea that only high-end, showpiece work defines success. Show Notes: Meaningful Work and Personal Fulfillment (0:00) The Value of Return Clients and B-Grade Jobs (2:08) Building a Robust Client Base (9:22) Personal Fulfillment and Business Strategy...
May 29, 2025•25 min
In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk about what it really takes to walk away from a project — and why it’s sometimes the most responsible move a builder can make. They break down a real scenario where NS Builders stepped back during pre-construction, share the signs they couldn’t ignore, and open up about the fear, second-guessing, and professionalism required to make the call. This one’s about clarity, boundaries, and protecting both your team and your reputation. Show Notes: Reputation and C...
May 26, 2025•56 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about the roads not taken — reflecting on how he almost didn’t end up in construction and why it’s worth asking what other paths might have looked like. He explores how understanding your “what if” moments can bring clarity, motivation, and renewed purpose in the work you do today. Show Notes: Exploring Alternative Career Paths (0:00) The Challenge of Career Choices (2:29) Early Career Aspirations (6:50) Passion for Nature and Landscape Design (9:38) Reflections on C...
May 22, 2025•23 min
In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk through the emotional side of building a business — the doubt, the grind, and the quiet moments where it feels like nothing is working. Inspired by a post that hits close to home, they open up about the mental weight of leadership, how to tell when “hard” is part of the process or a sign to pivot, and why success comes not from certainty, but from showing up anyway. Show Notes: Work-Life Balance and Defining Success (0:00) Sponsor Announcements and Work-Lif...
May 19, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 362
In this episode, Tyler talks about how fear of failure — not lack of skill or ambition — often shapes the decisions we make in business and life. Inspired by an off-road racing article, he reflects on how even top performers can be driven more by avoiding loss than by chasing success, and what that means for contractors navigating their own path. Show Notes: Reflecting on Fear of Failure (0:00) Caleb Russell's Retirement and Return (1:37) Personal Reflections on Fear of Failure (3:50) The Pressu...
May 15, 2025•25 min
In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Doug Duvall, co-founder of Motif Media, about how content creation is transforming the construction industry from the inside out. They discuss what it takes to tell meaningful stories on-site, why builders need to treat media as a core business function, and how the partnership between NS Builders and Motif has redefined what it means to “show your work.” Douglas Duvall Show Notes: Introduction of Doug Duvall and Episode Sponsors (0:00) Coffee Conversati...
May 12, 2025•1 hr 38 min•Ep. 361
In this episode, Tyler talks about one of the most overlooked threats to profitability in small construction businesses: failing to track your time. He shares strategies for setting your rate, managing client optics, and building a leaner, more sustainable business model that protects both your income and your energy. Show Notes: Capturing and Accounting for Time in Small Construction Businesses (0:00) The Importance of Tracking Back-End Time (4:08) Strategies for Setting and Managing Rates (16:...
May 08, 2025•26 min
Nick and Tyler talk about what it really costs to grow a business—and why scaling back might be the smartest move you can make. They unpack the illusion that more work equals more success, the hidden costs of chasing bigger numbers, and how to build a company that actually works for you, not just your spreadsheet. From forecasting cash flow to facing the uncomfortable truths behind low-margin projects, this episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling the pressure to grow without a plan. Whether ...
May 05, 2025•1 hr 21 min•Ep. 360
In this episode, Tyler talks about the misconceptions around scaling a small construction business and why chasing bigger projects isn’t always the right move. He shares how owner-operators can achieve better margins, flexibility, and true growth by optimizing smaller projects and building efficient systems. Video Notes: Scaling Businesses Efficiently (0:00) Upcoming Workshop and Consulting Call (2:14) Alternative Scaling Options (5:37) Consulting Client's Dilemma (6:14) The Importance of System...
May 01, 2025•25 min
Tim McNamara joins Tyler to share the mindset shifts that have shaped his construction business journey. They dig into lessons from scaling, the price of early mistakes, and what it takes to build a company that lasts — without burning out. Show Notes: Introduction to the Podcast and Guest (0:00) Project Overview: Mullen Building Condo Project (1:11) Sponsor Messages and Industry Insights (2:17) Tim's Background and Early Career (3:46) Challenges of Building Tighter Homes (5:33) Tim's Transition...
Apr 28, 2025•1 hr 36 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about why he made the biggest business investment of his life: buying a Kubota KX040-4 excavator. He reflects on the learning curve, the freedom it provides for building his own home, and how it’s already paying off both financially and personally. Show Notes: Investment in an Excavator (0:00) Personal and Professional Motivations (2:26) Dealer Relationship and Purchase Experience (4:07) Equipment Features and Usage (7:32) Financial and Tax Benefits of Owning (13:22)...
Apr 24, 2025•29 min
Wayne Feltman shares his incredible journey from building tree forts as a kid to leading skylight innovation at a global company. This episode dives into his winding career path, lessons from personal loss, and how skylights can dramatically transform a space. It’s about craftsmanship, perspective, and finding purpose on the roof and in life. Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/d8kQ0B62g0g...
Apr 21, 2025•1 hr 40 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about the critical importance of finding a hobby that provides mental reset and active presence for business owners struggling with burnout. He shares his personal journey of reconnecting with dirt biking, explaining how this hobby has transformed his mental health, business performance, and overall quality of life. Show Notes: Finding Time for Yourself as a Business Owner (0:00) Nick's Lack of a Hobby and Tyler's Personal Experience (1:21) Impact of COVID-19 on Busi...
Apr 17, 2025•29 min
Nick and Tyler dive deep into the challenges of scaling a construction business, balancing cash flow with long-term equity, and staying resilient through risk and uncertainty. They share personal experiences from spec builds, client interactions, and what it really means to grow a sustainable business. Whether you’re a builder, business owner, or just navigating growth, this conversation offers valuable insight into the mindset and systems needed to succeed. Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertre...
Apr 14, 2025•1 hr 25 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about breaking free from the cycle of overworking and losing sight of why he started his business. He shares personal insights on creating systems, delegating tasks, and prioritizing life balance to build a more sustainable and profitable business. Show Notes: Escaping the Hustle Trap: Introduction and Personal Reflection (0:00) The Real Problem: Revenue vs. Freedom (2:09) The Impact of Long Hours on Personal and Business Life (4:40) Delegating Tasks and Finding Effi...
Apr 10, 2025•28 min
In this episode Nick and Tyler interview Kyle Harnish, exploring his transformative journey from a struggling tradesman to a successful construction entrepreneur and workwear innovator, diving deep into topics of mental health, business risk, personal growth, and his mission to revolutionize professional attire for tradespeople. The conversation weaves through Kyle's personal struggles with anxiety and depression, his partnership with his therapist wife, and his passionate development of Harnish...
Apr 07, 2025•1 hr 36 min
In this episode, Tyler talks about the importance of perspective and resilience, using Kim Mulkey's post-game interview as a catalyst for discussing how we often focus on failures instead of appreciating the effort and growth. He shares personal stories about racing while sick, attending JLC, and emphasizes the value of putting oneself out there, learning from challenges, and not reducing complex journeys to simple win-or-lose metrics. Show notes: Tyler Grace's Introduction and Apology (0:00) Ty...
Apr 03, 2025•31 min
In this episode, we sit down with Ellie Knips, a marketing professional with over a decade of experience in the building materials industry. From backing trailers into docks during internships to leading national campaigns at Andersen Windows, Ellie’s journey is one of grit, curiosity, and fearless growth. She shares how she transitioned from Cambria’s interior-focused marketing to Andersen’s content-driven role—despite having no formal background in social media. We dive into how she built trus...
Mar 31, 2025•48 min
Join Nick and Tyler as they interview Nate Spearing, a former Army Special Forces operator turned custom home builder, exploring the parallels between military discipline and entrepreneurial success. The conversation delves deep into Nate's personal philosophy of balancing business growth, family values, and the importance of creating meaningful experiences while maintaining resilience and purpose. Episode Outline: Nick Schiffer's Introduction and Guest Background (0:00) Sponsor Mentions and Pod...
Mar 24, 2025•1 hr 32 min
This week, Tyler discusses the importance of understanding one's business, including mission, values, and vision, in order to effectively define a brand's identity and attract the right clients. He also talks through the need to align marketing, branding, and lead generation strategies with the business' unique strengths and ideal client profile. The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media Tyler's Top Blogs : How I Started...
Mar 20, 2025•26 min
