The Builder Upper Show

The Builder Upper Show

The Builder Upper Show - a LumberCast production Are you ready to dig deep into the world of construction? Whether you're a seasoned pro, an aspiring builder, or just someone curious about the incredible industry that shapes our world, The Builder Upper Show is your essential source of inspiration, knowledge, and community.

Episodes

October 28, 2025 35 mins
In this episode of the Builder Upper Show, host Lou Perez welcomes John Wiley, CEO of Mangieri Electric. John shares his journey from starting in construction as a teenager to becoming a strategic advisor for private equity and a national brand ambassador for Think Realty. He dives deep into the importance of having an exit strategy for businesses, leveraging technology for scaling, and the value of building strong team relationshi...
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Brian Keller discusses QBC's focus on multi-family projects and their dedication to improving the employee experience in the construction industry. He talks about his personal start in construction, the story behind QBC, and their unique approach to recruit and mentor young talent through local school programs and apprenticeships. Brian also highlights the importance of leadership development, the integration of new technologies li...
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Jeff Makey, founder of cLearn Training, shares his journey from construction work to becoming a leader in training and consultation. In this conversation, Jeff dives deep into the workforce challenges facing the trades, the importance of emotional engagement and mutual growth in training, and practical strategies for attracting and retaining talent in a shrinking labor pool. He also discusses how cLearn’s programs go beyond standar...
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Salina Patel shares her journey into the construction software industry and provides expert advice on identifying the right time to invest in new ERP software. Learn about the red flags indicating outdated systems and the hidden costs they carry. Selena also discusses emerging trends like AI that are set to transform the construction industry. Don't miss her tips on what to consider when selecting new ERP software and how to ensure...
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In this She Builds Nation special episode, Coty Fournier, shares her inspiring journey from construction management student to senior executive and founder of a successful company. Listen as Coty discusses the seven qualities that propelled her career, her discovery of a passion for the construction industry, and her superpower of teaching and mentorship. Gain valuable insights on overcoming challenges in the industry as a woman in...
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In this She Builds Nation special episode, Irene Garcia shares her unique career path from an electrical apprentice to a project manager of a 60-story high rise, and how her experiences led to her founding a successful women in construction coaching business. Irene offers invaluable insights into overcoming challenges, building relationships, and leveraging opportunities for women in construction. Tune in to learn about emerging in...
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In this She Builds Nation special episode, Michele Heyward, founder and CEO of PositiveHire, shares her journey from being a civil engineer to creating more inclusive workplaces for women of color in STEM. Michele discusses her experiences as the only black woman on job sites during her 12-year career in construction, highlighting the challenges she faced and the lack of diversity in the industry. She emphasizes the importance of m...
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In this She Builds Nation Special episode, we talk to Andrea Janssen, a certified executive coach, founder and CEO of Ambition Theory, and host of the "Ambition Theory Women in Construction" podcast. Andrea shares her journey from career coach to construction industry leadership expert, despite having no prior construction background. She discusses the critical distinction between mentorship and sponsorship, common obstacles women ...
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A multifaceted professional with a background in welding, construction, and advocacy for women in trades, Demi Knight Clark discusses her career path, the influence of her trailblazing grandmother (one of the first female Marines and Rosie the Riveter during World War Two), and the challenges and innovations in the construction industry. From founding 'She Built This City' to promoting workforce development and engaging young girls...
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In this She Builds Nation Special episode, Stefanie Couch shares her journey as a women in construction, from growing up in her family's lumberyard to becoming a dynamic leader in the construction industry. She highlights the importance of branding and marketing in the sector, emphasizing the need for companies to tell their stories effectively. Stefanie also explores the transformative potential of AI technology in revolutionizing...
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In this episode, Kyle Young, President of Double L Management, discusses his incredible journey in the construction industry. Kyle takes us through his diverse experiences, from designing conveyor systems as a mechanical engineer to taking a leap of faith in purchasing a struggling company, now flourishing with an 800% growth. Kyle opens up about how he shifted from hands-on construction to focusing on the strategic side of busines...
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In this episode of the Builder Upper show, we speak with Josh Smyser, owner of TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration, LLC. Stepping into his family's business at just 12 years old, Josh's path came full circle when his father’s passing led him to leave his accounting career and rebuild TNT Tuckpointing & Building Restoration from the ground up. Josh highlights his focus on creating a strong company culture, investing in t...
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In this episode of the Builder Upper Show, we had an incredible conversation with Michael Essrig, founder and president of ETC Building and Design and Safe-T-Proof. Michael shares his journey from experiencing a life-changing earthquake to becoming a leader in seismic retrofitting and hospital safety compliance.
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In this episode of the Builder Upper Show, we talk to Kolby Butcher, Co-owner and Chief Idea Guy of Double Jack Industries. Kolby shares his early introduction to construction through his family, the inspiration from his mother, and the drive to own a construction company despite initial challenges. He discusses the importance of cultural fit in recruitment, his new innovative waste haul venture, and the impact of Build California’...
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In this episode, Chris Tatge, the founder and president of DC Materials & Dynamic Construction, shares his incredible journey from starting as a 20-year-old framing contractor to becoming a leader in the construction industry. We discuss the importance of mastering the office, building strong partnerships, and embracing new technologies in construction. Chris also emphasizes the significance of relationships, mentorship, and st...
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In this episode, Henry Nutt III shares his inspirational journey into the construction industry, influenced by his father's dedication and encouragement. From initially aspiring to be a mechanical engineer to becoming a sheet metal worker, he chronicles the challenges and triumphs of his career. He discusses the lessons in work ethic and resilience passed down to him by his late father, and how these have shaped his professional pa...
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In this episode, Ryan Buesser, owner of Buesser Concrete, discusses the importance of mentorship, work ethic, in-house training, and leveraging new technologies. Ryan also provides valuable advice for new construction business owners on hiring smart. Learn about the challenges and successes in the concrete industry, and discover how Buesser Concrete operates across multiple states, maintaining a family-oriented work environment.
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Kaitlin Frank, co-founder and CEO of eMOD Safety, shares her journey from construction superintendent to tech innovator. With her background as Superintendent at Dome Construction, Kaitlin discusses the challenges in construction safety, technology fatigue, and how eMod simplifies safety protocols in the field.
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In this episode, we discuss Sharron Halpert's unique journey into the construction industry and her passion for life safety and mentoring, which led her to establish Halpert Life Safety Consulting LLC. Today, she guides and supports quality control teams, tradespeople, and inspectors to build better and safer structures.

Sharon emphasizes the challenges of knowledge application in construction, the importance of continuous learning ...
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Matthew Timler shares his captivating journey, from fiddling with wires during his childhood days to being fascinated with the science behind electrical systems and eventually establishing his own company - Plug Light Bulb Electrical Services.

Discover firsthand how Matthew cultivates an environment of empowerment and growth within his team, fostering a culture where every member feels valued and inspired to excel. His approach to l...
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