The Dr Decks Podcast

Coy Pence spent a year following Bob Weir's touring band across 15-20 states, selling Kirkland water and grilled cheese in parking lots to fund his travels. He was a Deadhead by culture and a hustler by necessity.That chapter ended in Louisville, Kentucky, where his first construction job was rebuilding rotten apartment decks. One move to Minnesota, two years of framing log homes near Leech Lake, and a relocation to Tennessee later, Coy started Rough Ashlar Construction.Three months in, his business partner Lucas relapsed and overdosed the week before Christmas. Coy rebuilt alone.Now he's consistently booked six to eight months out in the Nashville area, focusing exclusively on high-complexity custom builds; compass rose inlays, steel framing, premium mineral composite boards. He doesn't take cheap jobs. He doesn't chase volume. He built his name one conversation and one difficult project at a time.The company name comes from a Masonic symbol: a rough ashlar is a stone not yet carved into its final form. Always a work in progress. Always striving to be better.This is one of the more quietly powerful stories we've had on the podcast.

Todd Roe grew up in Brady, Nebraska. A town of 200 people where he genuinely thought North Platte (population 25,000) was the biggest city in America. After graduating second in a class of 11 and playing all-state basketball, he spent a year working on Ted Turner's 88,000-acre bison ranch. One day in the field, Todd calculated the remaining diesel in a 500-gallon tank using improvised geometry. Turner walked over, asked what he was doing out of school, and said nothing else. A week later a $2,500 check arrived from T.E. Enterprises; "This should cover your deposit and first month's rent." Now Todd is the Technical Specialist for Pacific Wood Tech's engineering department; the person who bridges contractors, salesmen, and engineers in a way most companies haven't figured out how to do. He spent 15 years framing and building 26 homes in Nebraska before finding the role he was built for. He also owns approximately 168 guns in seven safes. His wife knows about most of them. This is one of the most colorful backstories the Doctor Dax Podcast has hosted.

Leo Adorno was making six figures at 17 years old running a moving company through U-Haul's partner program. By 18 he was losing everything he'd built. By 26, he had his own deck company in Massachusetts with a website generating 2-10 leads per week, seven months after forming the LLC. In this conversation, Leo shares what happened in between: dropping out of high school at 16 after his school refused to sign the transfer papers for an early college program, working under the table as an electrical apprentice at 16 for a boss whose equipment kept getting repossessed, the moving business that made him more money than he knew what to do with, and the spiral that followed. His dad has been sober for 30 years and runs the largest homeless shelter in Boston. A backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail helped Leo find his way back. So did mountain biking, his dog, and eventually a job building decks for a house flipper who taught him the rest. This is a young guy who went the hard way before finding the right path.

Nick Waters from Waters Woodworking Corp joins Dr Decks, who we met at the International Builder Show at the FastenMaster Booth. Nick is 32 years old, born in Kentucky, raised in New Hampshire. His mother relocated constantly during his childhood: sixth grade in Florida, eighth grade in Mississippi, finally settling in Exeter, New Hampshire for high school. Nick graduated through an alternative program for students who couldn't function in a traditional school environment, got into drugs at 17, became a full-blown heroin addict, went through rehab and a sober house at 21, worked at Dunkin Donuts and a factory making giant Jenga blocks, discovered framing at 22, spent four years framing houses, three years in remodeling (including work on a $30 million home where every wall was a radius), and started Waters Woodworking Corp around age 28-29. He now builds 20 decks a year in New Hampshire with a small crew.

Keith Camacho's grandfather drove a school bus converted into a pizza restaurant. His grandmother drove a box truck converted into a calzone stand. They traveled state fairs and bazaars across the tri-state area and Keith grew up behind the counter. That's the kind of upbringing that makes someone impossible to stop. Keith shares the colorful path that eventually led him to deck building: making 700 weight loss muffins a day, spending two weeks inside airplane bellies loading luggage, ten years as a car mechanic, two years in Miami selling Coca-Cola from 5am to 11am, and a corporate territory management career cut short by 9/11. A chance encounter at Home Depot introduced him to deck building. Ten years working for Long Island Decking followed. Then Stellar Decks in 2010, built from the trunk of a Jetta. #KeithCamacho #StellarDecks #ArizonaContractor #DeckBuilder #NorthPhoenix #LongIslandDecks #TimberTech #PlatinumBuilder #EpisodeOneYear #9_11Story #CocaColaStory #BrooklynBorn #PizzaBus #CalzoneTruck #ContractorLife #DrDecksPodcast #ConstructionPodcast #FamilyBusiness #StateFair #StartingOver

In 2019, Lake Michigan hit the highest water level ever recorded in history. Shoreline bluffs were eroding, homes were sliding toward the water, and property values were collapsing. Mason Kuipers was a senior at Hope College when a family friend's house was about to fall into the lake.That emergency phone call started Lakeshore Customs.Mason and his brother Clayton began filling 50-foot-long geotextile sandbags using a sand-water slurry technique and Honda trash pumps to protect the toe of Lake Michigan bluffs from further erosion. They worked through winter nights, waded into the lake in wetsuits, and eventually bought the equipment themselves in April 2020, right as COVID shut everything down.Six years later, they have 20 employees, a new showroom with VR technology, and one of the most specialized luxury outdoor living companies on the Great Lakes.We met Mason at the International Builder Show after Mason donated $1,000 to Saint Jude's Children's Hospital. That kind of character demands a conversation and this episode delivers it.

Sam got expelled from three schools before he turned 16. He stole the master key at boarding school in Asheville. He skateboarded instead of studying and didn't care about traditional education. His Cuban mom and Mexican dad didn't know what to do with him.Now he builds some of the most technically sophisticated homes and decks in North Carolina and he's studying to become a certified passive home builder.In this conversation, Sam shares how his father's 100+ employee drywall business collapsed in 2008, how he worked at a car wash while bouncing through six different college majors, and how he finally decided at 24 that he wanted to be a builder. He pledged five years to a local contractor to learn the trade, got his license at 30, and started Crews Built with a neighbor's custom home and a one-and-a-half page contract that he's embarrassed about today.Sam explains why he prioritizes high-performance building over square footage, what passive home certification actually means, and why he'd rather build a small, scientifically advanced home than a big traditional one any day.#CrewsBuilt #SamCrewsBuilt #NorthCarolinaContractor #CustomBuilder #GreensboroNC #HighPerformanceHomes #PassiveHouse #DeckBuilder #ExepelledFromSchool #SecondChance #TradesCareer #ContractorLife #BoardingSchool #SkateboardingLife #CubanAmerican #MexicanAmerican #DrDecksPodcast #ConstructionPodcast #CustomHomes #BuildingScience

Travis Collins has been posting on Instagram for nine years. He started with 16,000 followers when companies first noticed him. Today he has nearly 2 million followers across platforms and creates the "F.U.K.I.T Friday" videos that contractors obsessively wait for every week. But he still shows up to remodel houses. In this conversation, Travis shares his journey from a small town in upstate New York where he learned to rebuild bikes in sixth grade, to getting a psychology degree at the University of Hawaii, to working seven years turning over 26 new homes for a general contractor, to accidentally becoming one of the most influential tool reviewers on the internet. Travis explains why he took tools apart to show internal build quality, how he changed his handle from an unpronounceable French word to "Tools by Design," why companies started sending him products but Instagram paid nothing for years, and how his wife Liana (a licensed CPA) runs the business side while he creates content and builds. This episode covers the reality of being a "tool influencer" while still living in the trades and why he wouldn't have it any other way.

Zach Burnop had full ride offers from Michigan, Florida State, Stanford, and Georgia Tech. He kicked a 57-yard field goal which is still one of the longest in North Carolina high school history. Then things went sideways.In this conversation, Zach opens up about leaving Appalachian State after two years, becoming a prison guard at a medium security facility (including getting pepper sprayed during training), and eventually finding his way to deck building through Doctor Dax's YouTube videos. He's now the owner of On Deck Construction where he builds 10-12 premium decks a year with a one-to-two man crew.Zach shares the story of reconnecting with his middle school sweetheart at a gas station, getting engaged two weeks later, and being married for almost 20 years. He talks about his father's 45 years of drywall work, his service in Vietnam, Agent Orange exposure, and the physical toll the trades took on his body. This episode covers small-town hustle, building in extreme cold, and why quality matters more than quantity.#ZachBurnup #OnDeckConstruction #NorthCarolinaContractor #DeckBuilder #AveryCounty #AppalachianState #FootballKicker #TimberTech #WesternNC #ChristmasTreeFarm #FraserFir #PrisonGuard #SmallBusinessOwner #DeckBuilding #ContractorLife #DrDecksPodcast #ConstructionPodcast #FamilyBusiness #TradesCareer #SmallTownHustle

Jeremy Wilkins woke up in a Baltimore jail cell on April 20th, 2004. He was 18 years old, and that morning changed everything.In this conversation, the man known online as Deck Master J shares the story he's kept private for over 20 years. You'll hear about the kid who was repairing computers with spare parts at age eight, building robots in middle school, and playing soccer year-round before depression and bad decisions nearly destroyed him.Jeremy explains how he cut off everyone he knew, moved to western Maryland alone, and rebuilt himself through construction. From Office Depot to Home Depot to insurance restoration to kitchens and baths to home inspections, he tried everything before landing at Legacy Decks and discovering his true calling.Now he's training the next generation of builders through the Deck Van Gogh brand and developing software tools to help contractors sell and manage projects more efficiently. This is an honest conversation about failure, reinvention, and the trades saving someone's life.

Mike Malkin spent 15 years installing doors for his parents' Home Depot contract; 35 stores, 15 crews, thousands of installations. In 2020, that all ended with a phone call. The corporate rep told him walking away would be the biggest mistake of his life. Instead, it became his best decision.In this conversation, Mike shares his journey from a skateboarding dropout to deck building business owner. You'll hear about skating with guys who became Olympians, dropping out in 11th grade before his dad convinced him to finish, and making $200 a day at 17 years old installing storm doors.The episode takes an unexpected turn when Mike reveals he met his wife in Mexico, proposed there, and actually lived in the country twice before settling back in Massachusetts. His company name, Malkin and Daughters, is a nod to his parents' Malkin and Sons, updated for his two girls.Now 37 and running his own deck business, Mike hasn't stopped working since he posted that first $50 wine rack on Instagram. This is a story about family legacy, taking risks, and building something of your own.

Robbin Havasi has only been in the United States for six years and the story of how he got here is unlike anything you've heard on this podcast. Born in Sweden to an Air Force family, Robin spent a decade working for Scandinavian Airlines before his construction side hustle took over. But here's the part that caught us off guard: Robin has made about 2,000 skydives, competed on the Swedish national skydiving team, and won a bronze medal at the Indoor Skydiving World Cup in Austin. In February 2020, Robin and his family packed 14 suitcases, flew to Los Angeles with nowhere to live, and landed two weeks before COVID shut everything down. His plan to become a commercial pilot evaporated overnight. So he grabbed the one bag that had his tools, bought a bike for $50, and started doing handyman work around Santa Monica with his tools in a backpack. This conversation covers his Swedish upbringing, the woman who gave him her business card twice before he took the hint, and the hustle that built MORE Design Build in one of America's most competitive markets. #MoreDesignBuild #SwedishContractor #LAContractor #DeckBuilder #Skydiving #SwedishNationalTeam #ImmigrantStory #COVIDStory #RedondoBeach #ConstructionBusiness #DesignBuild #ContractorLife #SkydivingLife #WorldCupMedal #StartingOver #AmericanDream #DrDecksPodcast #ConstructionPodcast #LADecks

Andrew and Benjamin Schoonover are identical twins who built Twin Brothers Construction into a $2.5 million deck company before turning 26. Based in Minnesota's south metro, they've been hustling together since middle school; flipping limited Jordans on Facebook, buying and selling pickup trucks at 15, and finishing high school online in three months.This conversation goes deep into their journey from troubled kids to Timber Tech Platinum builders. Ben shares how he lost his Army Ranger contract to pneumonia days before shipping out. Andrew opens up about the workplace injury that lit a fire under both of them to start their own company. You'll hear about drawing their first logo on a napkin in their grandmother's kitchen, taking any job they could find on Next Door, and hitting platinum status at just 19 years old.This is a raw conversation about brotherhood, hustle, and building something that matters.

Sam Royer is 24 years old, French Canadian, and about to lead his own deck building crew for the first time. In this conversation, he shares his journey from shy kid who struggled in school to confident team leader at his father's company, Pro Deck, near Montreal.Sam opens up about the learning difficulties that made him feel different from other students, choosing carpentry over becoming a mechanic, and how COVID stretched his trade school from 18 months to three years. You'll hear about building an entire house inside a warehouse for his final project, why the stairs lesson mattered most, and starting at Pro Deck doing cleanup before earning his way to framing.The emotional core of this episode comes when Sam reveals that losing his best friend two years ago completely changed his outlook on life. That loss pushed him to stop being shy, start saying yes to opportunities, and embrace moments like appearing on this podcast.This is a conversation about growing up in the trades, finding your confidence, and building something that matters, both in decks and in life.

Chad Hillweh builds decks in one of the most challenging construction environments in America. Based on Oahu's windward side, his company Hawaii Deck Builders faces 8-month permit waits, materials that cost double the mainland price, and freight timelines that stretch 6-8 weeks for basic supplies.In this conversation, Chad shares his unlikely path from Vermont-born son of a Palestinian refugee to psychology graduate to licensed general contractor. You'll hear how his father's convenience store in Waikiki funded the family's real estate investments, why his graduating class had only 12 students, and the dangerous surf breaks where locals learn respect for the ocean.Chad explains how he spent seven years turning over 26 new home builds for another contractor before starting Hillweh Builders in 2019—right before COVID hit. His wife Liana, a licensed CPA, handles everything from taxes to website design to social media. Together they've built a company that's now booked 4-5 months out despite being in business only a few years.This episode covers island life, construction realities, and what it takes to build a deck business in paradise.

Levi Tibbetts from TC Decks joins Dr Decks to share his remarkable journey from Mormon missionary in Brazil to building a million-dollar deck company in Utah. This conversation goes deep into the personal side of construction entrepreneurship.Levi opens up about his darkest days during the 2008 recession when he lost vehicles, equipment, and nearly everything he built. He shares how growing his framing company to 50 employees actually made less money than when he had six, the breaking point that almost ended his marriage, and the single deck project that redirected his entire career. You'll hear about his two-year mission in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, how an Ambien-fueled idea saved his business, and why he finally walked away from framing after 15 years.This episode offers real talk about employee management struggles, the hidden costs of rapid growth, and finding your actual niche after years in the trades. Perfect for contractors questioning their current path or anyone interested in the human side of building a construction business.

Meet Marcello Guimarães, whose path through Brazilian advertising's highest levels led him to become marketing director for GMX Group and the brands underneath that umbrella including Maximo Wood. In this first hour, Marcello shares his unconventional upbringing; growing up as the son of a video rental empire owner in Brazil, spending two years in Orlando learning English through immersion and Hot Wheels rewards, and watching his family go from penthouse to sleeping on office floors after bankruptcy. You'll hear about his father's pioneering video rental business (modeled after Blockbuster before Blockbuster came to Brazil), the decision to stay in Brazil for love while his entire family moved to the US, and his rise through Brazilian advertising agencies to win international awards. Marcello also shares the story of starting his own creative boutique and why he ultimately chose to leave that behind for a marketing role with a lumber company, a decision that seemed crazy at first. This conversation covers international upbringing, creative excellence, family resilience through financial collapse, and choosing love over opportunity. Whether you're interested in advertising, Brazilian culture, or just appreciate stories about building a career across continents, Marcello's journey offers unique insights.

Meet Steele Roberts, whose name alone makes him unforgettable, but his story is what keeps you listening. Growing up in Eastern Washington's Tri-Cities with brothers named Stone and Sterling, Steel's mom knew exactly what she wanted when picking names for her sons. In this first hour, Steel shares his journey through Richland High School football (2017 state champions), his early days working demo on apartment complexes, and what it's like working for the family construction business. You'll hear about winning the Super Bowl in fifth grade peewee league, being the biggest kid in junior high before everyone caught up, and graduating in the largest class in Richland High history. Steel also talks about his first job right out of high school, just one week of summer before diving into construction full-time, and how the business grew during Covid when apartment work kept the crew busy with three major projects. #drdecks #drdeckspodcast #SteeleRoberts #RobertsConstruction #TriCities #EasternWashington #DeckBuilder #ConstructionStory #RichlandBombers #StateChampions #FamilyBusiness #ConstructionCareer #WashingtonBuilder #TradesLife #ConstructionBusiness #DeckConstruction #BuilderStory #ConstructionIndustry #PacificNorthwest #CareerJourney #ConstructionPodcast #TradesCareer

Meet Chad Furley, whose 30-year journey through lumber, windows, packaging, and engineered wood products led him to become Pacific Wood Tech's outdoor living specialist. In this first hour, Chad shares his path starting with a paper route at age 8 in Nebraska, running cross country in high school, and attending trade school where 98% job placement was guaranteed, not something you get with a four-year degree. You'll hear about his time managing 40 employees at Menards, selling Pella windows to architects and landing a $2 million dorm project by simply fixing a homeowner's service issues, and his decade in the packaging industry where he built businesses from $200k to over $1.4 million. Chad also shares the story of getting fired and immediately taking $1.6 million in clients with him, proving that relationships matter more than company loyalty when you treat customers right. This conversation covers entrepreneurship, sales mastery, and the power of building genuine relationships in business. Whether you're in sales, construction, or just appreciate stories about building your way to success, Chad's journey offers valuable lessons about persistence and customer service.

Meet Lainie Slevin, whose 25-year journey through the decking industry has taken her through manufacturing, distribution, and now territory sales for Decks and Docks. Lainie shares her unconventional path growing up taking city buses to school in Queens, moving to Lake Hopatcong where water sports became her passion, and eventually finding her way into the construction industry through a job selling contractor leads. You'll hear about her early days at Trex when composite decking was plagued with mold and mildew issues, her transition to distribution at Parksite, and the competitive drive that led her to bodybuilding competitions for six years. Lainie opens up about the extreme discipline required to compete: eating precisely weighed meals for 16 weeks, painting herself with tanning solution, and the moment she broke someone's arm during arm wrestling practice that ended that competitive chapter. This conversation covers career evolution, competitive sports, and the determination it takes to succeed in a male-dominated industry. Whether you're in the trades or just appreciate stories of perseverance and finding your niche, Lainie's journey offers insights about building expertise over decades while maintaining passion for life outside work.

Meet Jason Varney of Docks And Decks, whose journey through the construction trades led him to a unique specialty: building custom boat docks on Tennessee's waterways. Jason shares his path through framing carpentry in upstate New York, surviving the 2008 recession with eight employees, and discovering his niche in the specialized world of marine construction.You'll hear about his childhood building tree forts and flying RC airplanes, leaving college to pursue framing full-time, and the pivotal moment when someone asked him to build a boat dock; a request that changed everything. Jason opens up about starting with just a pontoon boat, slowly acquiring the barges and excavators needed to drive pilings into river bottoms, and developing a business model that now ships pre-cut dock systems nationwide.This conversation covers finding your specialty, the equipment investment required for marine construction, and building a social media presence that led to becoming a Stabila ambassador. Whether you're in construction or just appreciate stories about finding your niche, Jason's journey shows how specialization can set you apart in a crowded industry.

Meet Clint Holsing, a third-generation contractor whose path through the construction industry took him from framing and siding to becoming one of the top Aero Barrier dealers in the United States. Clint shares his unconventional upbringing, moving 11 times before age 15 as his builder father sold the family home repeatedly, always living in show-ready houses that felt like museums.You'll hear about his early passion for dirt bikes, his brief stint learning welding in Arizona, and the pivotal moment he cut off two fingers on the last day of his first custom home build. Clint opens up about working alongside his brother and the devastating loss when his brother died in a motorcycle accident in 2009, just as the economy crashed. These experiences shaped not just his career, but his approach to business and life.This conversation covers family legacy, personal tragedy, and the resilience needed to keep building when everything falls apart. Whether you're in the trades or just appreciate stories of perseverance, Clint's journey offers raw honesty about the highs and lows of a construction career.

Meet Chris Breen, whose journey from living in a camper at a storage facility to running Legacy Decks and the Legacy Decks Academy is one of the most inspiring stories in the deck building industry. In this episode, Chris opens up about his unconventional path - from growing up in Michigan with a firefighter/builder/racecar driver dad, to his quarter midget racing childhood, to eventually finding himself living in a camper with his family after returning from missionary work.You'll hear about his early entrepreneurial ventures including lawn service and snow plowing as a teenager, his brief stint in art school and the financial struggles that led to bankruptcy in 2011. Chris doesn't hold back about the mistakes he made, the lessons learned the hard way, and how hitting rock bottom became the foundation for building something remarkable.This conversation covers family, faith, failure, and the resilience it takes to start over when everything falls apart. Whether you're facing your own struggles or just love a good comeback story, Chris's journey offers hope and practical wisdom for anyone trying to build something meaningful.

Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of LA Decks, a company that transformed dreams into reality. Discover how founders Noah and Victor navigated their path from Israel to Los Angeles, overcoming challenges and building a successful business in the decking industry. This episode explores their personal stories, the hurdles they faced, and the determination that fueled their success. Tune in to learn about their unique approach to business and the lessons they've learned along the way.

Meet Ryan Smith, better known as "Roof Slayer" on social media, whose journey from building childhood tree forts to running a nationwide roof cutting business is nothing short of remarkable. In this episode, Ryan shares his 30-year evolution in the trades, from his early days as a framing carpenter in upstate New York to developing a unique business model that ships pre-cut roof systems across America.You'll hear about his unconventional path through the trades, including leaving college to pursue carpentry full-time, surviving the 2008 recession with eight employees, and ultimately finding his niche in the specialized world of complex roof cutting. Ryan also opens up about his passion for RC airplanes, his approach to social media as a teaching tool rather than a popularity contest, and the recent honor of becoming a Stabila ambassador.Whether you're interested in innovative construction business models, social media strategies for tradespeople, or just love a good story about perseverance and finding your specialty, Ryan's journey offers valuable insights for anyone in the building trades.

Join us as we dive into the world of outdoor innovation with Andrea, a key player at Outdure. Discover how Andrea's passion for adventure and her unique insights have shaped her journey in the outdoor living industry. From the challenges of transitioning from a professional wakeboarding career to making a significant impact at Outdure, Andrea shares her experiences and the innovative solutions that Outdure brings to the market.

In this week's episode of the DDP, Diamondback Damani shares his incredible journey from humble beginnings to becoming a key figure at Diamondback. Through candid conversations with Calvin, Damani opens up about his experiences growing up as a military brat, his passion for soccer, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Listeners will be inspired by Damani's resilience and determination as he navigates challenges, learns from mentors, and ultimately finds his calling in the trades industry. This episode is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of seizing opportunities.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Mike Young, a dedicated entrepreneur who transitioned from the bustling life in Utah to the serene landscapes of Kauai. Discover how Mike built his construction business from the ground up, navigated the challenges of island life, and embraced his rich family heritage. This episode is a testament to resilience, hard work, and the power of community. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with personal anecdotes and valuable insights.

Meet Frankie Emerson, StrongTie's event marketing powerhouse who took an unconventional path from the cheerleading sidelines to the trade show floor. In this engaging conversation, Frankie reveals how her background in cheerleading actually prepared her for the high-energy world of event marketing and relationship building.You'll discover the strategies behind StrongTie's commanding presence at major industry trade shows, learn how to build meaningful connections in crowded exhibition halls, and get insider tips on creating memorable brand experiences. Frankie shares the challenges of coordinating large-scale events, the evolution of trade show marketing, and why personal connections still matter most in our digital age.Whether you're in marketing, curious about StrongTie's success, or looking to improve your own event networking skills, Frankie's journey and expertise offer valuable insights for anyone wanting to make a bigger impact at industry events.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Sven Kysar, the innovative mind behind Squi.Jigs. From his early days riding dirt bikes to becoming a successful entrepreneur, Sven shares his experiences, challenges, and the passion that drives his craftsmanship. Discover how he turned a simple idea into a thriving business, all while staying true to his roots and values. #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #Craftsmanship #SquidJigs #SvenKysar

Dr Decks and Jeffrey Beck engage in a lively conversation that covers a range of topics. They begin by discussing their personal histories and connections. The conversation then shifts to Jeffrey's professional journey, highlighting his role as President and CEO of Stabila North America and his previous experience at DeWalt. They delve into the intricacies of the Stabila brand, its high-quality German-made products, and the unique challenges and successes Jeffrey has encountered in his career. The discussion is peppered with anecdotes about product development, industry insights, and personal stories.

Meet Marty, a man whose early life reads like a cautionary tale that somehow turned into a success story. Kicked out of his house at 14, Marty's teenage years were filled with explosives experiments, CB radio interference, and run-ins with the FBI. But this rebel's story takes an unexpected turn as he channels his entrepreneurial spirit into the lumber industry, where he spent over 30 years mastering the trade.In this episode, Marty shares incredible stories from his youth - from living with his genius engineer father who invented everything from the Space Needle's revolving restaurant to NASA shuttle hangar doors, to his own adventures in demolitions and early real estate deals. You'll hear about his journey from homeless teenager to successful lumber salesman, his encounters with law enforcement, and how a troubled kid from Washington found his way to building a new life in Kansas.This is a raw, honest conversation about overcoming adversity, finding your path despite early mistakes, and the power of persistence. Whether you're interested in personal transformation stories, lumber industry insights, or just incredible life tales, Marty's journey will both entertain and inspire.----------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: 🛠️ https://www.instagram.com/drdecks 🪚 The Dr Decks Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/mee3nzc5 💻 http://www.drdecks.com 👕Dr Decks merch: https://drdecks.bigcartel.com/ 📹 Recorded & Edited By: https://linktr.ee/calvinrussellrings -----------------------------------------------------------------

Join us as we explore the inspiring journey of Jon Witt, who transitioned from a passionate deck builder to a successful business owner with Q-Tek Wood Solutions. Discover how Jon's innovative spirit and dedication to quality transformed the wood industry, and learn about the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way.

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Joseph, the visionary behind Outdoor Space Builders. Discover how Joseph transitioned from a culinary career to mastering the art of deck building, creating unique outdoor spaces that blend innovation and craftsmanship. In this episode, Joseph shares insights into his creative process, the challenges of running a family-owned business, and the passion that drives his success.

Join us in this illuminating episode as we sit down with Ryan Guidry from InLight and Dr Decks. Discover Ryan's fascinating journey from his early days in the lighting industry to his current role at InLight, where he brings innovation and passion to outdoor lighting. Dr Decks and Ryan delve into the challenges and triumphs of their careers, sharing insights on the evolving landscape of lighting technology. Whether you're a lighting enthusiast or just curious about the industry, this episode offers a unique glimpse into the world of InLight.Thanks to Ryan to coming on the pod!Disclaimer: This episode was not sponsored by InLite

Join Dr. Deck and special guest Peter Kirst from RTA Outdoor Living as they explore the world of outdoor kitchens. Discover the secrets behind RTA's custom concrete designs, learn about the latest in grilling technology, and get tips on creating your perfect outdoor cooking space. Whether you're a seasoned chef or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to elevate your outdoor entertaining game. Don't miss out on this exciting conversation

In this episode, we interview April Edwards, founder of Deck Builder Marketers, exploring her unique path from humble beginnings in Ohio to becoming a leading marketing expert specializing in the deck building industry. April shares how her background in culinary arts and passion for art and design shaped her approach to digital marketing, and discusses her transition into serving the specific needs of deck builders. The conversation delves into the power of storytelling in business and how the marketing landscape continues to evolve, offering valuable insights for contractors looking to grow their businesses through effective marketing strategies.Thanks so much to April to coming on the pod! Check out her company: https://deckbuildermarketers.com/

In this episode of the Dr Decks podcast, we interview Robert Hodachak, a master digital deck designer with a rich background in sales, graphic design, and landscaping. Robert shares his journey from retail sales to the construction industry, highlighting his passion for design and innovation. He discusses his experiences in the artificial grass market, his time at the Deck Store, and the importance of social media in promoting his work. The conversation culminates in Robert's decision to create 33 North, a company aimed at expanding his design services across North America. Thanks to Robert For Coming on the pod! Check him out: https://www.instagram.com/deckdavinci/ https://www.instagram.com/33_northdesign/

Today we host Blake Carter from California Deck Pros in this podcast episode discussing various deck projects. They share valuable tips and tricks about deck building using different decking material, from cedar decking to composite decking. It's a great episode for anyone interested in DIY or hiring deck contractors. ----------------------------------------------------------------- Connect with us: 🛠️ https://www.instagram.com/drdecks 🪚 The Dr Decks Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/mee3nzc5 💻 http://www.drdecks.com 👕Dr Decks merch: https://drdecks.bigcartel.com/ 📹 Recorded & Edited By: https://linktr.ee/calvinrussellrings -----------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Dr Decks Podcast, we interview Andrew Panalitis, the executive vice president of Regal Ideas. The conversation explores Andrew's background, including his family's immigration from Cyprus to Canada, his childhood experiences, and his artistic journey. Andrew shares insights into his career development, including his time in the fashion industry and his transition to Home Depot, where he learned valuable lessons from industry leaders.Thanks Andrew for coming on the pod!Check out Regal Ideas: https://regalideas.com/

In this episode of the podcast, we interview Anthony DiSanto, a key figure at FastenMaster. They discuss Anthony's journey from a music career to a successful role in marketing and product management within the construction industry. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding contractor needs, the evolution of FastenMaster products, and the significance of education and personal experiences in shaping career paths. In this engaging conversation, Anthony explores the intricacies of craftsmanship in the construction industry, the importance of learning from failures, and the evolution of Anthony's musical journey. Thanks Anthony for coming on the pod: Anthony's band: https://www.instagram.com/craiwellband/

In this episode of the Dr. Decks podcast, Calvin Russell interviews Kevin Haney, also known as the Handsome Viking, who shares his journey from a childhood in New Hampshire to becoming a successful construction entrepreneur. Kevin discusses his academic achievements, including 14 varsity letters in high school, his extensive studies in engineering, and his transition from banking to teaching. He also talks about his passion for building outdoor spaces and his venture into adventure gear design.Thank you to Kevin for coming on the pod! Skål! Find him here: https://www.instagram.com/haneyconstruction/

In this episode of the Dr Decks Podcast, Gordon South, aka the Wood Bully, shares his journey from a challenging upbringing in Toronto to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the construction industry. He discusses the importance of quality in his work, the impact of media on the construction landscape, and the lessons learned from his early experiences. Gordon emphasizes resilience, adaptability, and the value of self-education in navigating the complexities of business and life.

Today we're sitting down with Tony McKlem from Hollywood decks. In this conversation, Tony shares his journey from a banking career to the construction industry, detailing his experiences in various roles and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses the importance of volunteering, personal transformation, and the establishment of his company, Hollywood Decks, in Florida. The conversation also touches on innovations in decking materials, the significance of mentorship, and the future of the building industry.Huge shoutout to Tony for coming on the pod! Find him here: https://www.instagram.com/hollywooddecks/

In this episode of the Dr. Decks Podcast, host we welcome Dave Fraser, owner of Fraser Decks and Patio Covers. The conversation covers Dave's journey from a multi-sport athlete to a successful entrepreneur in the construction industry. They discuss the challenges Dave faced in his early career, including a significant setback that led him to pivot into deck building. The episode also highlights the importance of family in Dave's business, his marketing strategies, and the accolades he has received in the industryThanks to dave for coming on the pod! Find him here: https://fraserdecksandpatiocovers.com/ https://www.instagram.com/fraserdecksandpatiocovers/

In this episode of the Dr. Decks podcast, we interview Scot Sheffield, an industry professional with a diverse background. Scott shares his journey from a lower-income upbringing in Texas to joining the Marine Corps, where he gained valuable life experiences and traveled extensively. After his military service, he transitioned into retail management at Lowe's, where he spent 15 years before moving into lumber brokering and eventually joining Fortress Building Products.

In this episode, we interview John Malecki, a former NFL player and current woodworker and Youtuber, discussing his journey from a blue-collar upbringing in Pittsburgh to playing professional football. John shares insights about his childhood, high school sports, college football, and the challenges he faced in the NFL. He discusses discovering woodworking and how it became a new passion for him, leading to the creation of custom furniture and leveraging social media to build a brand.Huge thanks to John for coming on the pod!Follow him: @John_Malecki @JohnMaleckiUnscrewed https://www.instagram.com/john_malecki/

In this episode of the Dr Decks Podcast we talk to Kyle from RR Buildings. Kyle talks about his history from excelling in school, to being a star athlete, to eventually finding his thing building the highest quality barns imaginable. Huge thank you to Kyle for joining us on the podcast! @RRBuildings https://www.instagram.com/rrbuildings/

In this episode of the Dr. Decks podcast, we interview Garrett Davis, also known as Bub, exploring his life journey from growing up in a small town in Maine to becoming a successful contractor. The conversation delves into Garrett's early passion for skateboarding, his experiences with sponsorships, and the transition to working in construction. They discuss the challenges and lessons learned along the way, including the impact of personal choices and the importance of building skills and confidence in the trades.Thanks so much to Garrett for coming on the pod! Check him out here: https://www.instagram.com/thelifeofbub/ https://www.instagram.com/gwcustomdecks/ https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealLifeofBub

In today's episode, the Dr just got back from JLC live. We talk about flights and trade shows and what it's like to go to these events.