The Builder’s Edge - Mastering the Business Side of Building

One accident can change everything for a contractor, an employee, and their family. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we talk with Yvette Kahn about how contractors can protect their crews with affordable supplemental insurance options that help cover out-of-pocket costs, accidents, illness, short-term disability, and the financial gaps traditional health insurance and workers’ comp may not fully solve. If you own a construction company, painting business, moving company, remodeling company, or any trade-based business, this conversation is for you. Hiring good workers is hard, but keeping them is even harder when employees do not feel protected or supported. Yvette explains how benefits like accident insurance, cancer coverage, critical care, and short-term disability can help contractors build stronger teams, improve employee retention, reduce stress after injuries, and create a culture where workers feel valued. You will hear how supplemental insurance works, why it can be surprisingly affordable, how it pays employees directly, and why small contractors with as few as three employees may be able to offer better protection without adding heavy overhead. In this episode, you’ll learn:  → How supplemental insurance helps contractors close the financial gap when employees get hurt on or off the job → Why workers’ comp alone may not be enough to protect your crew or your business → How offering benefits can help attract better employees, improve retention, and show your team that you care about their future → How accident plans, cancer plans, critical care coverage, and short-term disability can support workers when life happens Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most contractors are working harder than ever, but still watching profit disappear every month. One reason? Hidden payment processing fees from platforms like Stripe, Square, PayPal, and outdated merchant systems may be quietly draining thousands from your business without you realizing it. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we sit down with Gannon Young, entrepreneur, business owner, and payment processing consultant, to talk about how contractors, HVAC companies, pest control businesses, gyms, restaurants, and service-based businesses can reduce unnecessary payment fees, improve cash flow, and simplify the way they get paid. If you accept credit cards, send invoices, use recurring billing, or rely on online payments, this conversation could help you uncover money leaks hiding inside your business. Gannon explains how merchant statement reviews work, why many business owners are shocked when they finally see their numbers, and how options like dual pricing, surcharging, automated invoicing, text-to-pay, and better payment workflows can help contractors keep more of what they earn. You’ll also learn why customer service matters in payment processing and how faster funding can make a major difference in your cash flow. You’ll learn: → How payment processing fees affect contractor profits → Why Stripe and Square may not be the best fit for growing businesses → How merchant statement analysis can reveal hidden fees → How smarter invoicing and automation can help you get paid faster without chasing customers manually Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you getting leads but still not seeing the growth, profit, or cash flow your business should have? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas talks with business growth expert Mickey Lyles about why more marketing is not always the answer and how business owners can uncover hidden revenue, fix operational leaks, improve leadership, and build scalable systems behind the scenes. If you own a construction company, home service business, contracting business, plumbing company, HVAC company, pest control company, remodeling business, or trade-based company, this conversation will show you how to stop staying busy and start building a real business. Mickey breaks down how to identify revenue leaks, understand your market cap, improve your average ticket, raise prices with confidence, track KPIs, build stronger teams, and create systems that support real growth.  Before you spend more money on lead generation, SEO, ads, or marketing, you need to make sure your business can actually handle and maximize the opportunity. Highlights: → You’ll learn why many business owners are leaving money on the table after the lead comes in. → How revenue harvesting can increase profit without adding more customers. → Why leadership and culture set the ceiling for growth. → How better data, pricing, and operational structure can help you scale smarter. → Mickey also shares real examples, including how one pest control company grew from $5.5 million to $21 million, how plumbing companies can increase average ticket size, and why contractors must understand cash flow, labor, pricing, and efficiency if they want to grow. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rising material costs, labor costs, fuel prices, banking fees, and unpredictable market shifts are squeezing contractors harder than ever. If you run a construction business, remodeling company, HVAC company, roofing company, landscaping business, or any trade-based service, this episode is about protecting your profit before rising costs eat it alive. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we sit down with Mike Milligan of One Oak Financial to talk about how contractors can stay profitable, manage cash flow, fix financial leaks, price jobs smarter, and build long-term wealth without just working more hours. We break down why so many contractors confuse cash flow with profit, why old quotes can destroy margins, how banking and insurance relationships may be costing you thousands, and why business owners need better systems, strategy, and key performance indicators. This conversation is for contractors who are tired of being busy but still stressed about money. Learn how to stop owning a paycheck and start building a real business that creates freedom, stability, and long-term wealth. You’ll learn: → Why honoring outdated bids can quietly drain profit → How contractors can adjust pricing when material costs keep changing → Why cash in the bank does not always mean the business is healthy → How weekly financial check-ins can help you take control without getting buried in spreadsheets → How contractors can use AI, smarter partnerships, and better systems → Wealth-building habits to create more freedom outside the job site. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your day starts with gas station breakfast, energy drinks, job sites, long drives, and ends with you completely drained, this episode is for you. Today we’re talking about how busy contractors, entrepreneurs, truckers, and working professionals can take back control of their energy, health, discipline, nutrition, and performance without overcomplicating life. Remi Rory, founder of the MNE Method, breaks down why discipline alone is not enough, how systems create lasting habits, and why your mindset is the foundation for better health. With a background in the Air Force, Remi brings a practical approach to fitness, nutrition, mobility, and daily performance for people who don’t have perfect schedules or easy routines. This conversation is for anyone who feels burned out, lives out of the truck, grabs food on the go, skips workouts, or keeps falling back into the same habits even though they know what they should be doing. You’ll learn: → How to fuel your body better, build small habits that stick, improve mobility, avoid burnout, and stop using your busy schedule as the reason your health keeps slipping. → Why gas stations should fuel your truck, not your body, and how busy workers can make better nutrition choices without needing a perfect meal plan.  → Why contractors and physically active workers may need more mobility, stretching, and recovery instead of more heavy lifting.  → How the MNE Method uses mindset, nutrition, and exercise to create real change. → How the FAR Framework helps people build a foundation, accelerate progress, and create lasting results.  → The hard truth about health and performance: your results are up to you, and the way you talk to yourself shapes the life you build. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Contractors build America, but too many contractors, builders, and trades business owners never get taught how to build wealth. If you work long hours, bring in money, and still feel unsure about retirement, taxes, savings, or protecting your family, this episode is for you.  In this conversation, financial advisor and former pipe fitter Ron Beckner shares the financial blueprint working-class Americans were never shown. You’ll learn how contractors can avoid the biggest money mistakes, make smarter financial decisions, protect income from unexpected setbacks, and create a long-term wealth plan that actually fits the trades. Whether you run a construction company, own a local service business, or work in the skilled trades, this episode will help you think differently about financial planning for contractors, retirement planning, tax strategy, and wealth building for blue-collar business owners.  This is about turning hard work into lasting security, more freedom, and a future you can actually enjoy. You’ll learn: → Why so many contractors stay stuck financially even while earning good money → How the rule of 72 changes the way you think about investing and time → Why protection planning matters if an injury or health issue stops you from working → How the four tax quadrants and three buckets of money can help you make better financial decisions Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re a builder, contractor, or service pro struggling to close more deals without feeling pushy, this episode is your blueprint. The truth is, sales have changed. Today’s buyers are more informed, more skeptical, and less responsive to outdated “follow-up” tactics. If your pipeline is full but your close rate is low, the problem isn’t your leads… it’s your sales process. In this episode of the Builder’s Edge, sales expert Daniel Street breaks down a modern, value-first sales approach designed specifically for contractors and service businesses. You’ll learn how to stand out in crowded markets, build trust faster, and turn conversations into committed clients, without pressure or awkward selling. Whether you’re trying to increase your close rate, improve your follow-up strategy, or create better offers that actually convert, this episode will give you actionable steps you can implement immediately. If you want to grow your business, attract better clients, and win more jobs in 2026, start here. What You’ll Learn: → You’ll discover Daniel’s proven 4-step discovery process that helps contractors qualify better leads, uncover real client motivations, and tailor solutions that actually convert. The conversation also dives into the “good, better, best” offer strategy and how it shifts the customer mindset from yes/no decisions to empowered buying choices that increase your chances of closing. → You’ll also learn how to follow up without sounding desperate by using value-driven touchpoints that keep you top of mind, plus why most sales are lost simply because businesses stop following up too early. On top of that, Daniel explains how to identify your ideal customer profile so your marketing and sales finally align, and stop wasting time on the wrong clients. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:12 How Buying Behavior Has Changed 05:33 Value-First Sales Explained 11:20 The 4-Step Discovery Process 18:45 How to Identify Your Ideal Customer 25:10 Good Better Best Offer Strategy 32:40 Why Most Follow-Up Fails 38:15 The Right Follow-Up System 45:20 Metrics That Actually Matter 50:10 How to Build Sales Momentum Fast 55:30 Final Takeaways Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your Google Business Profile might be the reason you are losing local jobs, missing calls, and leaving serious revenue on the table. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we break down how to optimize your Google Business Profile so your local service business can get found more often, look more trustworthy, and convert more searchers into real paying customers.  If you are a contractor, handyman, home service company, or local business owner trying to improve local SEO, Google Maps visibility, online authority, and lead generation, this episode walks you through the exact fixes that matter most. We cover the sections of your profile that affect rankings, clicks, reviews, trust, and conversion so you can stop guessing and start using this free Google tool the right way.  If your business depends on local leads, this is one of the most important visibility strategies you can implement this year. You’ll Learn:  → How to write a keyword-rich business description that helps Google understand what you do and where you do it.  → How to choose and expand your services the right way so you show up for more local searches.  → How photos, cover images, geo-tagged jobsite pictures, and before-and-after content can increase trust and improve conversion.  → How to get more Google reviews, how to respond to reviews in a way that builds authority, and how posting regularly on your Google Business Profile helps keep your business relevant, active, and visible in local search. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tired of paying for shared leads, fighting competitors to the phone, and wasting money on platforms that send the same job to everyone?  In this episode, contractors, HVAC companies, roofers, plumbers, electricians, remodelers, and home service businesses will see a smarter way to grow with exclusive realtor referrals, formal real estate partnerships, and a lead generation system built for real ROI. Grant Wise breaks down how co-marketing helps contractors connect with top real estate agents, get in front of motivated homeowners, and turn local realtor relationships into a consistent source of high-quality home service leads.  If you want more local leads, better conversion rates, stronger referral partnerships, and a way to grow your contracting business without paying upfront just to join, this conversation is for you. You’ll also see how this platform helps track return on investment, control lead pricing, build exclusive partnerships, and create a repeatable contractor marketing strategy that beats shared lead services. For contractors looking to scale, dominate local visibility, and become the go-to pro realtors recommend first, this episode shows a practical path to more jobs, better clients, and profitable business growth. You’ll Learn: → How the co-marketing platform works from both the contractor side and the real estate agent side,  → Why exclusive leads convert better than shared leads,  → How contractors can set lead pricing and track ROI by partnership, and  → How the platform helps connect service providers with top-producing realtors in their market.  → How inspection repair workflows, AI-powered partner finding, and formalized referrals can save time, reduce wasted estimates, and create a better experience for the contractor, the realtor, and the homeowner. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most contractors and service business owners think they get denied funding because banks do not like construction companies. But that is not always the real problem. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas sits down with Paul Childers of Blue Sky Biz Solutions to break down why so many blue-collar entrepreneurs struggle to access business funding, how personal credit gets mixed into business finances, and what it really means to become capital ready. If you run a construction business, HVAC company, plumbing business, landscaping company, electrical company, or any service-based business, this conversation will help you understand how business credit works, why lenders make the decisions they do, and how to build a stronger financial foundation for long-term growth. This episode is for contractors who want to stop relying on personal credit, protect what they have built, and create a business that is set up to qualify for better funding, lower rates, and bigger opportunities. Highlights: → The difference between personal credit and business credit, why your EIN matters more than most owners realize, and the simple business setup details that can affect approvals.  → The biggest mistakes contractors make when applying for loans, why merchant cash advances can trap businesses in bad cycles, and how messy books, mismatched business details, and poor financial structure can quietly hurt your growth.  → Practical steps to start building business credit, improve your financial credibility, and position your company for better lending options without putting your personal finances on the line. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re great at what you do but your business still feels invisible online, this episode is for you.  In today’s AI-driven search world, Google and AI don’t reward skill, they reward visible authority. That means you can be the best contractor, builder, handyman, or service pro in town… and still lose work to someone newer who simply looks like the obvious choice online.  In Part 1 of the AI Visibility Blueprint Training, Deanna Lucas breaks down the real difference between skill vs authority, why your website might be acting like a “fancy business card,” and what authority signals make AI, search engines, and clients trust you instantly. You’ll see real before-and-after homepage examples, learn how to build credibility above the fold, and discover the authority triggers that turn clicks into calls.  If you want better leads, higher trust, and a digital presence that actually matches your real-world reputation, this is the foundation. Grab the AI Visibility Scorecard and Blueprint (linked in the show notes) and follow along step-by-step as you build the kind of online authority that gets you seen, chosen, and booked. Highlights: → You’ll learn the key difference between being skilled and being seen as the trusted expert, plus how to make your homepage communicate a clear result with strong credibility signals.  → Deanna walks through authority triggers like testimonials (including video testimonials), certifications, consistent branding, case studies, FAQs, blog content, and clear calls-to-action that AI can understand fast.  → You’ll also see how “search everywhere optimization” goes beyond your website into your Google Business Profile, social media, email, and every place clients interact with you.  → Finally, you’ll get a practical homepage audit checklist so you can spot exactly what’s making your business look generic, and fix it quickly. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: AI Visibility Scorecard Builders Visibility Blueprint DND Website DND Youtube Email Template for 5 Star Reviews  Facebook Facebook Group LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your business is “successful” but you feel trapped, exhausted, and strangely unmotivated… it’s probably not a strategy problem. It’s an identity problem.  In this episode, business coach Caleb Nelson (Naked Sunday Studios / Naked Sunday Podcast) breaks down why real business growth is rarely about tactics, and almost always about mindset, self-worth, survival patterns, and the stories you’re repeating on autopilot. We talk about burnout symptoms, self-sabotage, confidence, and what happens when you build a life to prove something instead of building a purpose-driven business that fits who you actually are. Caleb shares the moment that forced him to confront the truth (a “mirror” experience he calls Naked Sunday), how he rebuilt his self-concept, and why your calendar is the clearest evidence of what you truly value, family, freedom, health, or hustle.  If you’re a service-based business owner, contractor, coach, or founder who’s juggling clients, marriage, kids, and chaos… this will hit hard. You’ll learn how to get your time back, clean up your calendar, stop taking low-value work, and reconnect to what actually matters, so you can scale without losing yourself. Highlights: → You’ll hear why burnout isn’t caused by hard work, it’s caused by working toward the wrong thing, and how to spot that early.  → Caleb explains how self-talk and identity drive business decisions, pricing, boundaries, and the clients you tolerate.  → You’ll learn why your calendar reveals your true priorities (and how to rebuild it to protect energy, family time, and high-value work).  → Finally, we dig into the real root of self-sabotage, and the clarity exercise that pulls you back to who you are when business titles and public identity get stripped away. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint https://www.youtube.com/@DND-Business-Systems Ai Visibility scorecard: https://www.ai-visibility-fix.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-lucas-b30938303/ Email Template for 5 Star Reviews: ttps://docs.google.com/document/d/1Vl2HpZLDoXUWLW-tCdlvUFmx_3ECppZR_Q6omqkXAXw/edit?usp=sharing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If your business is doing “well” on paper but you still feel stressed, behind, and cash-tight… this episode is for you.  Many contractors and small business owners have an accountant, get monthly financial statements, and still feel unclear, because numbers alone don’t create confidence. In this conversation, we break down how cash flow, budgeting, forecasting, and daily financial visibility work together to stop survival mode and give you control. Jason Tantlinger (Founder of TABS Advisory LLC) shares what he learned from manufacturing finance, where disciplined execution, standard work, and daily scorekeeping are non-negotiable, and how business owners can use the same principles without getting overwhelmed. We talk about why profit is a theory but cash is reality, how timing gaps (receivables, inventory, payment terms) create stress, and why waiting until tax time to “see how you’re doing” is too late.  If you’re buried in admin, reacting to every issue, and can’t step away for two days without things breaking, this episode will help you build a simple financial system that supports your life, not consumes it. You’ll learn: → You’ll learn how to spot the early warning signs that you’re stuck working in the business instead of leading it, and why mindset usually breaks before cash does.  → Jason explains how to turn financial statements into a story you can actually use for decision making, so you know what levers to pull and when.  → We cover a simple way to start budgeting without fear by building from “keep the lights on” costs, then layering in variable costs and goals.  → You’ll also hear why forecasting 3–6 months ahead makes hiring, pricing, inventory decisions, and marketing spend feel less risky, because you’re grounded in data, not emotion. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tired of the 9–5 grind… but scared to start a business that turns into another job? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, business strategist Jonah Cascio (founder of Employee Escape Plan) breaks down how to escape a soul-sucking job and build a business that gives you freedom, profit, and actual happiness. If you’re a contractor, builder, service business owner, or future entrepreneur who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what business model to choose—this is your roadmap. You’ll learn why “accidental entrepreneurship” fails, how to pick the right business that fits your values, and how to build a simple framework for leads, sales, and delivery. We also talk about the biggest mindset shift when going from employee to business owner, how to handle income ambiguity, and why most people burn out without systems. If you want more clients, better marketing, a clearer message, and a business that runs by design—not default—this conversation will change how you think about growth, branding, and scaling. What You’ll Learn / Highlights You’ll learn how to choose the right business so you’re not forcing a model that fights your personality and values, how to clarify your message so people instantly understand what you do, and how to use lead nurturing to warm prospects before a sales call (so you’re booking “8–10 temperature” buyers).  We break down the four content types that build trust fast—connection, proof, teaching, and invitation—so your marketing becomes binge-worthy instead of salesy.  You’ll also hear how to design time freedom with a “pre-loaded year,” plus the simple scaling truth: multiply what’s already working and keep it simple so your business doesn’t break when growth hits. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the hardest moment of your life is the moment God uses to activate your calling? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas sits down with Victor Dawson, author of As You Go, to talk about faith, obedience, and evangelism in everyday life. After surviving emergency open-heart surgery with a 90% blockage in the “Widowmaker” artery, Victor heard God tell him to write a book… and he couldn’t ignore it. This conversation is for Christian business owners, contractors, leaders, and builders who want to live out their faith beyond Sunday. If you’ve felt afraid to share the gospel, unsure what to say, or worried about rejection, Victor brings practical steps, real stories from around the world, and a simple mindset shift: your business is God’s business, and your workplace is your mission field. You’ll hear why most believers never share their faith, how to start natural conversations, and how God often brings the person to you. If you want boldness, clarity, and a faith-driven purpose in your work, this episode will light a fire. You'll Hear: → The moment Victor heard God say, “Write a book called As You Go” → How a health crisis can redirect your calling, not cancel it → Why “as you go” evangelism is for every believer (not just pastors) → Simple ways to start faith conversations at work, restaurants, or travel → What to do when fear of rejection keeps you silent → A powerful story: 11 people received Christ in 20–30 minutes → Why discipleship is missing, and how to find your “Paul” mentor → How Victor’s book became a course + small group curriculum for churches Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re a contractor or service pro tired of competing on price, chasing low-quality leads, and feeling stuck in feast-or-famine… this episode will flip the way you think about growth. Veteran drywall repair specialist and business leader Daniel Osborne built a premium trades business by obsessing over craftsmanship, communication, and excellence—and by targeting the right client instead of trying to win everyone. In this Builders Edge Podcast conversation, Daniel breaks down what it really takes to build a high-standard contracting business: charging what you’re worth, delivering a “hand them the keys” experience, and building a reputation so strong people call you for precision—not discounts. But this isn’t just business talk. Daniel shares his personal transformation through faith, leadership, and relationships, how he went from anger and fractured seasons to purpose and stability, and why “don’t talk about it—be about it” is the real blueprint for legacy. If you want better clients, stronger referrals, higher profit, and a business that supports your life (not steals it), take notes—this episode is packed with real-world contractor mindset, pricing strategy, and leadership lessons. What You’ll Learn / Highlights How to charge premium prices without racing to the bottom The difference between being hardheaded vs determined in business Why the right client beats “more leads” every time The “hunter vs farmer” mindset shift for relationship marketing How to build a reputation for precision, communication, and timeliness Lessons on faith, marriage, leadership, and personal growth that translate to business How Daniel turned expertise into continuing education + passive income A simple way to raise your standard and create better referrals Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve been watching Airbnb / short-term rental videos that make success look instant, this episode will save you years (and expensive mistakes). Josh Hatter—CEO in the hospitality space and founder of Keys Collective—explains how he went from a corporate layoff to building real wealth by “playing Monopoly in real life,” scaling from short-term rentals into boutique hotels in Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA. You’ll hear what most influencers skip: why STR is not a “light switch,” how long-term compounding actually works, how to evaluate deals when inflation and returns don’t match, and why banks increasingly look at STR like a business (not just a house). Josh also shares the systems that keep everything from collapsing, the painful leadership lesson about giving away equity too early, and how he built Keys Collective as a nonprofit alternative to “course culture.” If you want cash flow, hospitality investing, and a real-world blueprint for scaling with purpose—this one’s for you. 2) What You’ll Learn / Highlights Why STR success is not instant (and what “long term” really means) The deal filter pros use: cash-on-cash return vs inflation reality check How boutique hotels change the game (density, staffing, operations) The systems principle: “If you don’t have systems, everything collapses” The leadership lesson: incentivize great people—don’t rush equity Why banks value STR based on income/business performance How Keys Collective is built to mentor without becoming a “course business” 3) Chapters (timestamps) 00:00 Intro + “Monopoly in real life” + $30K → $10M story 01:46 The layoff that started it + first Vrbo attempt 06:15 How Covid shifted the strategy (mid-term stays) 07:21 Why boutique hotels were the next evolution 08:41 $800K renovation + 1852 historic property play 09:13 Hotel names + where they are (Charleston + Savannah) 16:12 Systems or collapse + “Buy Back Your Time” approach 19:54 The abundance mindset (from $1M → $10M thinking) 24:42 Deal analysis: cash-on-cash vs inflation example 25:51 Leadership lesson: giving away equity too early 30:15 Biggest misconception: STR isn’t a light switch 33:14 STR as a business + taxes + bank valuation shift 38:29 Keys Collective: mentoring from 1 property → VC scale 40:12 Building Keys as a 501(c)(3) + why it matters 47:21 Final takeaway: play Monopoly with purpose + strategy #ShortTermRentals #AirbnbBusiness #RealEstateInvesting #BoutiqueHotel #PassiveIncome Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re a contractor or builder wearing every hat in your business, this episode will feel like a wake-up call—in the best way. You didn’t start a contracting business to live inside email, scheduling, DMs, invoicing, recruiting, and admin… but that’s where most owners get trapped. In today’s Builder’s Edge episode, Philip Sessions (founder of Refine VA and host of Unfiltered Sessions) breaks down the leadership shift that helps contractors stop drowning in $10/hour tasks so you can finally operate in your $1,000/hour owner role. You’ll learn why delegation isn’t “letting go,” it’s scaling with systems—and why communication is leadership when you’re managing a virtual assistant (VA) team. Philip shares the real reason owners hold onto the wrong tasks (hint: ego + unclear expectations), plus practical ways to delegate without losing control. If you want to grow your construction or home service company, free up your schedule, and build a team that executes, this is your step-by-step conversation to get started this week.  The #1 mindset shift contractors need to scale with a VA The first tasks to delegate (email, calendar, social, screening calls) Why VAs aren’t “plug-and-play” and how to onboard correctly How to communicate priorities, deadlines, and what “done” means The hidden bottleneck: trying to do recruiting/screening yourself Philip’s simple “delegation muscle” method you can use this week Tools Philip uses daily: GoHighLevel + Asana 00:00 Intro: Stop drowning in $10/hr tasks01:15 Philip’s background (engineering → business)02:04 How he got into virtual assistants04:44 Reinventing yourself as an owner06:54 The first “real” delegation move (process + recruiting)10:38 Why owners hold onto the wrong tasks (ego)13:03 First tasks to hand off to a VA15:40 Communication tips for virtual teams17:55 Personal growth → business growth19:35 3 steps to start delegating this week21:31 Tools contractors should use (GoHighLevel, Asana)22:43 VA mistakes that kill results (expectations + onboarding)24:13 Philip’s personal edge25:17 Where to find Philip26:14 AI visibility scorecard mention + close #ContractorBusiness #VirtualAssistant #Delegation #ConstructionBusiness #Leadership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re winning on paper but feeling empty, stressed, or burned out, this conversation is for you. In this episode of The Builders Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with Zachary Roberts, a certified Christian coach and founder of CJR Coaching, to unpack what it really means to build a business that aligns with your God-given purpose. We talk about why so many entrepreneurs, contractors, builders, and real estate professionals achieve the “wrong” goals—and how clarity of vision changes everything. You’ll learn practical coaching frameworks like The 5 Whys, why clarity comes by reducing (not adding), and how to integrate faith and business without forcing it or sounding fake. Zach also shares real-world business strategy—systems, operations, and performance—so you can grow with integrity and peace. If you want purpose-driven leadership, better decision-making, and a business that creates impact (not just profit), this is your step-by-step mindset + strategy reset.2) What You’ll Learn / HighlightsHow to know you’re chasing the wrong goals (even if you’re “successful”)The 5 Whys clarity exercise to find your real motivation“Audio has to match your video” (alignment that builds trust + authenticity)The difference between a salesperson and a true business ownerHow to integrate faith into business in a way that feels naturalThe 5x5 discipleship model (who you learn from + who you teach)“Performance = Potential − Interference” (what’s blocking you)The POP model: People → Operations → PerformanceZach’s twist on SMART goals: making goals Altar-WorthyThe 3-part burnout reset: vision check, schedule audit, leverage3) Chapters (timestamps)00:00 Intro01:10 Chasing the wrong goals + defining “achievement”02:40 The 5 Whys: clarity comes from reducing04:20 Audio must match video (alignment + authenticity)07:05 Salesperson vs business owner mindset09:10 Integrating faith + business (inner work first)10:30 The 5x5 discipleship model12:40 Performance = Potential − Interference13:45 POP model: People, Operations, Performance14:20 Bank account + calendar audit (time/money systems)15:40 “Altar-worthy” goals (faith-aligned SMART)17:50 Friendships + your personal board of advisors20:10 Transformation stories + map & mirror25:20 Burnout reset: vision, schedule creep, leverage27:55 When faith-based entrepreneurship feels lonely30:00 Zach’s long-term vision + kingdom impact33:15 No is a complete sentence34:55 How to connect with Zach + outro#ChristianEntrepreneur #FaithBasedBusiness #PurposeDrivenLeadership #BusinessCoaching #BuildersEdgePodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’re a builder trying to stay steady in an uncertain market, this episode is for you. In this Christmas solo episode of The Builder’s Edge, we talk about the business side of building, and why mastering visibility, systems, and marketing can help you build a business that supports your family, faith, and future.What You’ll LearnWhy builders often struggle with marketing (and why it’s not your fault)What the housing market crash taught me about sustainabilityThe shift from “just doing great work” to building systems that support youHow local contractors can improve visibility and communicate value clearlyWhy community matters when you’re building through hard seasonsA Christmas encouragement: what you build matters—and you matterChapters 00:00 Intro + Christmas message00:58 Why I started The Builder’s Edge01:05 Growing up in construction + early career01:30 When the housing market crashed02:28 Learning the business side: marketing + systems02:56 Why this show is for builders + local service pros04:06 Faith + why builders matter05:19 Share this with a builder + stay connected05:44 Merry Christmas + closing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you want effortless goal achievement without the hustle-and-burnout cycle, this episode breaks down the simple system that creates real momentum.Learn how to use clarity, flow, and leverage to grow your business—even when you’re overwhelmed, distracted, or wearing every hat.2) What You’ll Learn Why clarity doesn’t come from thinking—it comes from actionHow to shrink any goal into a 10-minute (or 1-minute) daily stepA simple way to build focus when distractions keep winningHow to identify high-leverage tasks vs. “busy work”The “don’t miss two days” rule (and what to do if you do)A practical daily habit for local business owners: follow-up = revenueHow community + coaching accelerates growth for high performers3) Chapters (timestamps)00:00 Intro: Real goal achievement without burnout00:19 What clarity actually means (and the misconception)02:12 Knowledge vs. action (the swimming analogy)02:30 The “pick ONE thing” momentum method03:16 Shrink the step to 10 minutes (or less)04:28 Flow state + deep work for busy entrepreneurs05:46 Turn a long to-do list into focused momentum07:10 Build focus capacity (even 1 minute counts)08:26 Leverage: working higher, not harder09:34 High-leverage habit for local business: one follow-up/day11:28 How to discover your true highest-leverage activity12:59 Tie it together: clarity + flow + leverage system15:02 Daily reminders + don’t miss two days rule17:34 Jesse’s Inner Circle: calls, systems, accountability22:28 Live coaching walkthrough: stuck → next daily action26:42 Weekly action steps + outro + how to join Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever looked at a tool on your jobsite and thought, there’s got to be a better way? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, painting contractor turned inventor Laurence Ash shares how he turned a simple jobsite hack into the patented Diplomat Brush — and how you can turn your jobsite idea into a real product. If you’re a builder, contractor, or trades pro with an idea for a better tool or system, this one’s for you.2. What You’ll Learn / HighlightsThe exact job in Hingham, MA that sparked the idea for a brush with an internal spray tip.How Laurence hacked a standard brush onto a spray gun and realized he’d built a better way to work.What the “poor man’s patent” looks like and how he documented his idea when he couldn’t afford legal fees.Why the prototype sat on a shelf for 10–12 years — and what finally pushed him to secure multiple patents.The reality of chasing licensing deals with big companies (and why most want proof of concept first).How a single dad contractor bootstrapped manufacturing, partnered up, and turned his invention into a real business.The productivity gains from the Diplomat Brush — including applying and back-brushing 15+ gallons in 7 hours solo.Laurence’s simple first step for builders with an idea: how to move from “someday” to written, real, and actionable.3. Chapters (Timestamps)00:00 Intro – The Builder’s Edge & “there’s got to be a better way”00:21 Meet Laurence Ash & the Diplomat Brush origin story01:14 The Hingham, MA job that sparked a new kind of paint brush01:42 Strapping a brush to a spray gun: the first jobsite hack02:50 Realizing the potential of an internally fed brush03:40 Early prototypes and DIY attachments for spray equipment04:20 Sketches, photos, and the “poor man’s patent”05:13 Shoebox on the shelf: 10+ years before taking action06:29 Why he kept the brush as his secret advantage on jobs07:01 Chasing licensing deals & trips to the National Hardware Show07:55 Hitting a wall and the shift in licensing expectations08:28 Partnering up, finding manufacturers, and going all-in09:00 Filing patents, waiting years, and finally getting them granted10:12 Bootstrapping: paying cash, no investors, and pushing through doubt11:31 Marketing a niche tool & fighting for product awareness12:45 Real-world results: 15+ gallons in 7 hours on a two-story garage13:39 User feedback, testimonials, and skeptics who never tried it14:05 First steps if you’ve got a tool or system idea14:45 Mindset shift: from tradesperson using tools to inventor building them15:39 Where to find the Diplomat Brush online and on social16:20 Host’s challenge: write your idea down and build a prototype16:45 The AI Visibility Scorecard for builders & final send-off Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it really take to reinvent yourself, scale a contracting business, and break into high-end commercial construction? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we sit down with Nathan Dockery, a civil engineer turned top-tier developer, to unpack the systems, mindset, and leadership that built the Dockery Group. Commercial construction, design-build, and contractor growth strategies—this one hits them all.What You’ll Learn / HighlightsHow Nathan went from designing bridges to running a full design-build firmThe mindset shift required to go from worker → leader → developerWhy niche focus makes scaling easier (and what to say no to)The design-build advantage and why premium clients prefer itSystems, technology, and delegation habits that protect qualityHow to build a subcontractor network that actually represents your brandThe leadership traits that separate average contractors from industry leaders00:00 Intro00:08 Meet Nathan Dockery00:38 Dockery Group Overview01:10 From Engineering to Development02:20 The Moment He Took Ownership03:09 Reinventing Into a GC & Developer03:52 Mindset Shifts for Business Growth05:00 Breaking Into High-End Commercial Work06:01 Guiding First-Time Medical & Dental Owners07:17 Relationships vs. Reputation vs. Results08:27 Why Design-Build Wins10:17 How Contractors Can Start in Design-Build12:36 Building the Right Team13:59 Managing Growth Without Losing Quality15:23 Leadership With Subs & Teams17:41 Hiring People Who Hold Your Values18:32 Challenging Projects & Lessons Learned20:36 Standing Out in a Competitive Market22:42 Tools & Tech That Changed Everything27:06 Delegation & Leadership Systems29:46 Scaling Without Sacrificing Your Brand31:14 Picking Your Lane as a Commercial GC32:44 Defining Success & Core Work Ethic34:37 How to Reach the Dockery Group35:50 His Advice to Contractors Ready to Grow37:04 Final Challenge to Builders#ConstructionBusiness#CommercialConstruction#DesignBuild#ContractorGrowth#ConstructionLeadership#BuildersEdgePodcast#EntrepreneurMindset#ScalingAConstructionBusiness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Starting a business at 40 with $0 in a crowded HVAC market sounds crazy… until you hear Tim Harrell’s story. From a near-death experience in the ICU to launching Giddy Up HVAC in Temple, Texas, Tim built everything on faith, integrity, and old-school word of mouth.If you’re a contractor, builder, or service business owner wondering if you’ve “missed your chance,” this episode of The Builder’s Edge is for you.What You’ll Learn / Episode HighlightsHow Tim built trust as “the new guy” in a skeptical HVAC market using honesty, photos, and education instead of hard sells.Why he refuses investors and private equity—even when money is on the table—and what it’s allowed him to protect.The ICU moment that completely reset his life, faith, and purpose (and how HVAC became his unexpected ministry).The simple, $0-cost moves he used to launch Giddy Up HVAC: maintenance visits, door hangers, Facebook, and the “Winner’s Circle” club.How his family (wife, in-laws, friends) became the backbone of the business—handling books, website, and support while he’s in the field.The mindset shift you need if you’re starting later in life and worried the “entrepreneurship train” has already left the station.Practical advice for any contractor or service pro who wants to build a legacy business on faith, service, and integrity—not just revenue.Chapters / Timestamps00:00 – Intro: From ICU to CEO & why this story matters01:01 – Building trust as the new HVAC guy in a crowded market03:30 – Honesty, photos & education: how Tim sells without “selling”05:12 – Giddy Up as a family operation & the realities of money and numbers07:30 – Faith, support systems, and keeping God at the center08:35 – Why Tim refuses investors & private equity offers10:30 – The toxic relationship, the cross, and the night that almost killed him13:20 – Finding HVAC, discovering his calling, and “ministry in the home”15:10 – Getting licensed, starting Giddy Up HVAC, and growing from $017:10 – $0-cost strategies: maintenance, Winner’s Circle, door hangers & Facebook18:45 – Starting at 40: Have you really missed your chance?20:04 – How to reach Tim Harrell & final words for late-start entrepreneurs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He moved to a city where he knew no one, bought a roofing company that was already dead… and resurrected it. Twice.In this episode, you’ll learn how to build a profitable roofing business without being “the cheapest guy” on the bid sheet.Perfect for roofing contractors, home service business owners, and anyone tired of racing to the bottom on price.What You’ll Learn / HighlightsHow Chuck “accidentally” got into the roofing business after years as a truck driverThe crazy story of buying a shut-down roofing company and bringing it back to life (two times)Why chasing cheap clients almost guarantees burnout and failureHow he landed his first San Antonio roofing jobs using nothing but FacebookThe mindset shift that helped him say no to insurance fraud and underpriced workHow to choose (and keep) premium roofing clients who value quality over discountsDaily habits (3am wakeups, gym, 200+ miles walked) that keep his energy and focus highThe painful lesson of trying to “do it all” vs. partnering around your strengthsA simple exercise to figure out what you should stop doing in your businessChapters (Timestamps)00:00 – Intro & why his roofing story is so wild01:15 – How he “accidentally” got into the roofing business in 199804:38 – Moving states, opening branches, and the San Antonio opportunity08:22 – Buying a dead roofing company and starting over in a city with zero contacts11:50 – Living in the office, using Facebook, and landing the first few jobs16:40 – Why he refuses to be the cheapest roofer (and still wins the job)21:05 – Firing bad fit clients & shifting to a premium clientele25:33 – Saying no to insurance fraud and standing on ethics29:10 – How social media still drives most of his roofing leads32:45 – Keeping high energy: mindset, loss, and choosing positivity37:02 – 3am mornings, gym routine, and walking 200+ miles in a month41:30 – Shutting the company down, buying it back, and starting again45:18 – The #1 lesson: double down on your strengths, delegate your weaknesses49:05 – Practical advice for stuck business owners ready to scale52:10 – Where to find Chuck online & closing thoughts for builders and roofers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Entrepreneurship isn’t about more “hustle”—it’s about better systems, mindset, and marketing. In this episode, Certified Master Inspector and founder of I Am Home Inspections, Ian Mayer, shows exactly how he went from laid off to leading a team, with balance.  What You’ll Learn / Highlights The day a layoff on Ventura Blvd became the launchpad for a home inspection business Why marketing (not technical skill) is your first-year full-time job—and how to treat it that way The mindset switch from doing the work to leading the vision (E-Myth & Rocket Fuel takeaways) Practical steps to hire, train, and spot-check quality without losing your standards How Ian protects work–life balance in a hustle-glorifying world The “education-first” strategy that makes clients trust you (and choose you) Using social media to drive bookings when ads aren’t the answer Chapters (timestamps)00:00 Intro01:12 Laid Off → Leap to Self-Employment05:33 The Marketing Wake-Up Call10:25 Mindset Shifts: Operator vs. Owner15:48 Hiring, Training & Quality Control21:30 Beating Fear: Coaching, Books & Breakthroughs27:02 Work–Life Balance (and Parenting as a North Star)32:40 Redefining Success: From Mortgage Money to Vacations38:05 Setbacks: When the Phone Doesn’t Ring43:17 Education-First Differentiator49:10 Social Media Visibility Done Right55:22 The Builder’s Edge: Next Steps & Scorecard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If “success” is costing your soul, this is your reset. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we sit down with Darryl Dudley, founder of She’s My Daughter, to unpack purpose-driven leadership that protects women, strengthens communities, and kills burnout at the root. Leading with purpose starts here.What You’ll Learn / Highlights • The origin of She’s My Daughter and the mindset that actually reduces violence against women • “Honor as a leadership skill”: how men can model dignity at home, work, and in community • Practical first steps for dads and male mentors to protect, encourage, and reconnect • The programs: The Tea, Reconnect, Operation Job Readiness, and Club Free—what they do and why they work • From business to movement: Darryl’s music/entrepreneurship background and building systems that last • Gen Z activation & “reverse peer pressure”: changing what’s “cool” in male circles • Powerful transformation stories—and why small, consistent actions beat grand gesturesChapters (timestamps)00:00 Intro — Why The Builder’s Edge exists00:36 Meet Darryl Dudley & She’s My Daughter01:24 Origin story: from youth advocacy to a global mission02:10 The dignity gap in media & culture03:15 The mission in action: “Treat every woman like your own daughter”04:02 A father’s hope: sending his daughter across the country06:19 Modeling respect at home and in business07:11 How fathers shape daughters’ confidence09:54 Programs overview: The Tea, Reconnect, Operation Job Readiness, Club Free11:10 Building self-esteem to prevent exploitation12:34 Reconnect: helping fathers & incarcerated dads re-engage14:12 Trauma’s generational impact—and why it matters at work15:26 Darryl’s business & music background → movement leadership17:40 “All Be Free” clothing line: funding impact & teaching entrepreneurship19:18 Design contests: activating Gen Z for change20:07 Impact stories that still move us24:30 Confidence vs. predation: why voice matters27:38 Where men start: Chief Encouragement Officer & shared activities30:42 Vision: clubs in schools and reverse peer pressure35:24 Builder’s Edge challenge + call to action36:21 How to get involved & closing#ProtectWomen #MenAsAllies #PositiveMasculinity #Honor #Respect #Fatherhood #Mentorship #GirlsEmpowerment #WomenSafety #DomesticViolenceAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Too many skilled contractors are hidden in plain sight, working hard, doing great work, but wondering why the phone’s not ringing. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we’re unpacking a hard truth: if your face isn’t visible, neither is your business. Amon Medinger , founder of Home Healer Handyman Service, returns for a powerful conversation on visibility, authenticity, and the game-changing impact of showing up as yourself. From his first nervous Facebook Live to building a client base that feels like family, Amon shares how simple smartphone videos and genuine presence have skyrocketed his business, and why this isn't just a social media trend; it's the future of trust-building in the trades. We also dive into the "FACE Principle", a memorable framework for becoming the most trusted name in your neighborhood, without needing fancy gear or flawless content. Plus, Eamon shares how our new CRM, The Client Edge, is helping him scale without losing that personal touch. 5 Takeaways You Don’t Want to Miss: Visibility creates credibility, clients want to see who they’re hiring. Short videos outperform static posts every time. Going live may be scary, but it breaks the “bot barrier” in today’s AI-driven world. Authentic content (even bloopers!) makes you more human, and more hireable. Managing content and client follow-up is easier than ever with the right tools. "I'm not the Home Healer. I'm just His handyman." - Amon Medinger  Challenge for Today: Start with one 10-second video. Introduce yourself. Post it. Then tag a friend in the trades and challenge them to do the same. Subscribe to The Builder’s Edge, share this episode with someone who needs to be seen, and start journaling about how you’ll put the FACE Principle into action this week. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when life tells you you’re worthless? In this raw and hope-filled episode of The Builder’s Edge, we sit down with Larry Crespin, a contractor, electrician, home and pool builder, and full-time disciple of Jesus, whose story proves that God really can turn trash into treasure. Larry grew up fatherless, faith-tested, and written off by most… but he refused to be defined by his past. Today, he leads with purpose, mentors young men, builds homes and businesses, and lives by a calling: “Do everything on purpose, with purpose, for a purpose.” This isn’t just a story of surviving hard times, it’s a blueprint for thriving in your purpose when everything seems stacked against you. Larry opens up about growing up an outsider, facing addiction in his crews, losing businesses, surviving a hit-and-run accident, and still waking up every day to a calling, not an alarm clock. His message? You can’t fake purpose, but if you ask God for it, He’ll give it. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why purpose isn’t just for pastors, it's for tradesmen, too How faith can reframe failure, and how grit keeps you going The importance of working unto the Lord, even when others don’t notice How to recognize when a job or client isn’t aligned with your values What it really means to build people, not just structures “Inspiration will come, but it has to find you working.” -Larry Crespin This week, ask yourself: Am I doing this on purpose, with purpose, for a purpose? Journal it, share this episode with a fellow builder, and subscribe for more real conversations that fuel your mission. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the leap you’ve been dreaming about didn’t need to be perfect, just courageous? In this powerful episode of The Builder's Edge, we're catching entrepreneur Cain McWilliams right in the middle of his jump from employee to business owner. No hindsight wisdom here, just raw honesty, real strategy, and the mindset shifts happening in real time. After years in law enforcement, manufacturing, and managing major steel fabrication projects, Cain is stepping out to launch his commercial and residential painting company: Action Plan Painting. Why painting? Why now? What’s it really like to walk away from security to bet on yourself? Cain shares the personal and professional journey behind this bold move, how years of “painting on the side” laid the groundwork, what it took to finally say yes, and how he’s navigating everything from startup fears to finding the right crews. Whether you're in the early planning stages of your own business or teetering on the edge of your first big leap, this episode will both inspire and equip you. Here’s what you’ll take away: Why “too much planning” can kill a dream, and how action is the antidote How Cain is self-funding his launch (and why he skipped the loan route) The power of a name: what “Action Plan” really means Smart moves for building trust in a saturated industry Why certifications and systems matter more than you think—especially early on “You can talk all day long, but action is what proves things.” - Cain McWilliams Call to Action: If you’re planning your own move, take 15 minutes today to evaluate one part of your business. Ask: “Is this set up to support growth, or will I have to fix it later?” Then make one small change to build it right. And don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who’s on the edge of launching something new! Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you turn five layoffs into a thriving business that empowers others to succeed? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with Jeff Wisdom, founder of Wise Design & Management, to explore the power of resilience, design strategy, and kingdom-minded building. Jeff shares how his 18-year journey in the AEC (architecture, engineering, construction) world, and five unexpected layoffs, led him to a faith-filled leap into entrepreneurship. Now, he's helping new business owners, franchisees, and nonprofits turn empty spaces into income-generating, mission-driven environments. From tenant improvements to church builds, Jeff’s full-service firm simplifies the complex maze of permitting, design, and construction management so clients can focus on growth. In this episode, you’ll learn: The biggest hurdles in tenant improvement projects, and how to clear them fast How to scale a small business or franchise with smart design standards Why churches and nonprofits need future-focused designs that grow with them The surprising impact of a single restroom code, how it cost one project $20K! What you can do this week to move your renovation or build forward wisely “I truly believe it was God kicking me in the butt, saying you’re not supposed to work for someone, you’re supposed to be out there helping people make things happen in their lives.” -Jeff Wisdom If you're dreaming of scaling smarter, this conversation is your blueprint. Hit subscribe, share with a fellow builder, and take one action step this week, because at The Builder’s Edge, the edge is your action. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your marketing stuck in the past? Here’s why your funnel isn’t working, and how to fix it. For years, contractors and service pros have been taught to rely on the trusty old sales funnel, awareness, interest, decision, action. But if you’ve ever had a lead ghost you after a quote or disappear after saying “I’ll think about it,” you already know something’s off. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas challenges one of the most sacred cows in marketing: the linear sales funnel. Spoiler alert, it’s not how real people buy anymore. Deanna introduces a game-changing idea straight from Google’s latest research: “The Messy Middle.” Instead of a straight path, buyers now loop through exploration and evaluation, often for weeks or months. Think figure-eight, not funnel. This episode breaks down what that means for your marketing strategy and gives you actionable tools to stay relevant, trusted, and chosen, even when the buyer seems to disappear. You’ll also learn: Why customers ghost quotes and how to keep them engaged How to stay top-of-mind during the “explore and evaluate” loop What kinds of free resources build trust (and which don’t) A better way to structure lead magnets using scorecards, quizzes, and more How to assess your own visibility with Deanna’s free AI-powered scorecard “Your job isn’t to push people down a funnel. It’s to stay visible, stay credible, and give them reasons to keep coming back until they’re ready to say, ‘I pick you.’” -Deanna Lucas  Call to Action: Take Deanna’s free AI Visibility Scorecard today and find out exactly where your business is standing strong, and where you're getting lost in the messy middle. Then share this episode with a fellow builder who’s tired of hearing crickets after sending a quote. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Homeowners everywhere have felt the anxiety. Can I really trust this contractor? Horror stories of unfinished projects, hidden costs, and broken promises echo through the industry. But what if building a home addition could feel different, not just structurally sound, but relationally solid? That’s the story today’s guest is living out. In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with James Miller, founder of Valiant Home Additions in Northwest Arkansas. James isn’t just building homes, he’s reshaping what it means to build trust in an industry where trust doesn’t come easy. From his painful childhood watching his father abandon jobs and clients, to building a family-run company rooted in transparency, James shares how honesty, communication, and customization are the real foundations of his work. But James’s vision extends beyond construction. As he transitions leadership of Valiant to his son, he’s also stepping into a new calling: speaking on trauma-informed leadership. He reveals how his own healing journey has shaped the way he leads, connects with clients, and sees the power of hope in any situation. 5 Key Takeaways: Why ignoring distrust in the construction industry only makes it worse, and how James tackles it head-on. How asking “What problem are we really solving?” transforms client relationships and project outcomes. The difference between building a home and building a lifestyle. What it really takes to pass a family business on as a gift, not a burden. How being trauma-informed helps leaders spot self-sabotage and unlock hope for themselves and others. “The bigger the problem you solve, the more impact you make. For us, that means building spaces where families can lay down the weight of the world and finally feel at peace.” - James Miller Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a fellow builder, and journal one way you’ll build with purpose this week. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your next breakthrough in business wasn’t about doing more, but doing less, more consistently? So many builders, contractors, and entrepreneurs find themselves stuck, not from laziness, but from trying to do everything perfectly. In this powerful episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with coach Jesse Holmes, a master at helping six-figure entrepreneurs overcome the #1 hidden obstacle to growth: procrastination. But what if procrastination isn’t the problem... just a symptom? Jesse unpacks the real reasons even high-achievers get stuck and shows us how to break through by taking just one embarrassingly small, consistent step each day. This isn’t about hustle or hype, it’s about building momentum that lasts without burning out. Whether you're launching a new system, revamping your operations, or just trying to send that one email you’ve been avoiding, this episode will reframe how you move forward. 5 Takeaways to Build With Today: Procrastination is a symptom, not the root problem. Perfectionism often masks fear and delays action. Failure is not final, it’s just feedback to guide your next move. The best habits start with tiny, daily steps you could do on autopilot. Sustainable momentum is built by being pulled by your goal, not pushing toward it. "Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly, just get started." – Jesse Holmes Pick one tiny step you can take today. Complete it. Repeat it. Then, subscribe to The Builder’s Edge, share this episode with a fellow business owner, and start stacking progress like a pro. Builders don’t wait, they build. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the biggest leak in your construction business wasn’t in your pipes, but in your books? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, we expose a hidden accounting mistake that’s draining the bank accounts of nearly 9 out of 10 builders: the miscalculated Work In Progress Adjustment (WIPAA). You’re working hard, winning jobs, and sending invoices, but if you’re not tracking this one financial metric correctly, you could be handing tens of thousands of dollars to the IRS that you don’t actually owe. We’ll break down the WIPAA in simple, real-world terms so you can finally make sense of how your revenue, expenses, and progress align. From understanding the difference between billed and earned revenue to knowing why cash in the bank does NOT mean profit, this episode is your builder’s guide to accurate accounting that protects your bottom line. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why 88% of builders are overpaying on their taxes, and how not to be one of them What the Work In Progress Adjustment (WIPAA) is and how it works A step-by-step formula to calculate your percent complete and earned revenue How to spot overbilling and underbilling before they hurt your business What to do if your accountant isn’t familiar with construction-specific reporting “Taxes on fake profits can bury a construction business.” Don’t let bad books rob your business. Subscribe now, share this episode with your builder crew, and head to D&D Business Systems for more resources to sharpen your financial edge. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is your remodeling business stuck in old-school marketing, and missing out on modern lead-gen magic? This episode of The Builder’s Edge unpacks how to create experiences that don’t just attract customers, but empower them. We sit down with Tony Hoty, a Cleveland-based innovator who transformed his door-to-door hustle into an $11 million remodeling empire. From pioneering the first-ever 24-hour showroom to mastering trade shows that actually convert, Tony is rewriting the playbook on what it means to connect with homeowners, online and in person. In this conversation, we explore how Tony built scalable, repeatable systems for lead generation, why your sales team might be killing conversions at trade shows, and how a mindset shift toward “serving, not selling” changes everything. You’ll also hear how Tony’s review strategy led to a rare 5.0 rating, and why he believes personal connection, not automation, will define the next wave of growth in the trades. What You’ll Learn: The #1 mistake most contractors make at trade shows, and how to fix it How Tony’s 24-hour showroom is changing how homeowners shop for renovations Why attraction beats pursuit in both digital and physical marketing The power of systemizing your lead generation, even down to phone scripts How blending AI with authenticity is the real competitive edge "Being an entrepreneur is about optimism, focusing on the opportunity, not the obstacle."  If this episode challenged your thinking, share it with another builder or contractor. And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss practical strategies that give your business the edge. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your biggest mistake became the blueprint for your greatest success? In this inspiring and candid episode of The Builder’s Edge, we dive into the remarkable story of Carl Petite, founder of Columbia Water Gardens. From accidentally flooding his backyard as a kid to becoming a nationally recognized water feature artist and educator, Carl shares how a painful pivot from the car business led to a thriving brand in a niche industry. You’ll hear the real, unvarnished story of how Carl built Columbia Water Gardens from the ground up, complete with personal sacrifices, failed expectations, and a relentless belief in teaching others. His journey is packed with wisdom for anyone building a trade-based business, especially in a tough economy like 2025. Carl breaks down how he uses YouTube not just to promote but to educate, building trust and authority that has led to over $7 million in directly attributed projects. Whether you’re a contractor, creator, or entrepreneur, Carl’s insights will challenge you to stop waiting for perfect and start showing up authentically, flaws, stumbles, and all. 5 Key Takeaways: Authenticity wins. Be yourself on camera, your ideal clients want real, not perfect. Teach to attract. Educational content outperforms sales pitches every time. YouTube is a local trust builder. Use it to establish yourself as the expert in your market. SEO and captions matter. Don’t ignore the behind-the-scenes tools that get you found. Pain can be a motivator. Carl’s business was born out of financial hardship and a refusal to quit. “People don't change until the pain of being the same gets great enough.” - Carl Petite 👉 Your next step: Pick one lesson from Carl’s story and put it into action this week. Record a 5-minute tip, share a behind-the-scenes look, or teach a simple skill in your trade. Then subscribe to The Builder’s Edge and share this episode with a friend in the field who needs a spark of motivation. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the real problem isn't too many leads, but the fear of what they'll bring? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas tackles one of the most common (and limiting) beliefs in the trades: “If I get more leads, I won’t be able to keep up.” Sound familiar? You’re not alone, and you’re also not stuck. Deanna dismantles the myth that an overflowing pipeline leads to overwhelm, and shows you how more leads can actually mean more freedom. Deanna dives into the real fears behind this mindset, like capacity limits, past bad experiences, and control issues, and why they’re keeping you playing small. Then, you’ll learn how to flip the script and use smart systems to turn your lead generation into a tool for choice, confidence, and growth. Because the truth is, abundance isn’t scary when you know how to handle it. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why fearing more leads is actually rooted in fear of poor systems, not growth How more leads give you freedom to choose better clients and raise your prices The power of pre-qualifying leads and how to do it right The importance of automation and follow-up to manage your pipeline effortlessly How to build strategic partnerships that pay off when you’re too booked “More leads don’t mean chaos. They mean you get to pick the clients you want, the jobs that pay what you’re worth, and the schedule that works for your life.” If this mindset shift lit a fire under you, don’t let it fade, subscribe, share this episode with another builder, and journal what systems you need to put in place today to prepare for overflow.  This is your edge, don’t waste it. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the secret to scaling your business isn’t working harder, but thinking differently? In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas sits down with AC Lockyer; entrepreneur, author, speaker, and yes, the undisputed Soft Wash King. From humble beginnings sweeping his father's floors to building a global network of 150+ soft wash companies, AC shares how he turned pressure washing into an empire, and how you can do the same in your own industry. We unpack the Five Keys to Pattern Success, the repeatable framework behind AC’s decades of entrepreneurial wins. But this episode goes way beyond cleaning techniques, it’s about building businesses that last, and lives that matter. AC explains how being deliberate, executing with discipline, analyzing data, replicating what works, and systemizing for scale can transform not just your revenue, but your lifestyle. And yes, he breaks down the Million Dollar Map, his visual planning tool that’s changing how builders and tradespeople map out growth. 5 Takeaways: You don’t have a marketing problem, you have a failure-to-implement problem. Most contractors miss the momentum hidden in seasonal revenue cycles, start mapping! Your business only has 200 real production days a year. Use them on purpose. Systemizing isn’t about automation, it’s about making impact repeatable. Scaling your craft starts with knowing what to replicate, and what to leave behind. “You are your company’s greatest asset, and greatest bottleneck. Take a morning off, take an afternoon off, take a three-day weekend, and you’ll grow more than ever.” - AC Lockyer 🎧 Subscribe now, grab The Five Keys to Pattern Success, and journal one key you’ll implement this week. Then share this episode with one builder or contractor who needs to hear it. Let’s build something that lasts. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s halftime, builders. The calendar says August, and that means it’s time for a gut check, not a guilt trip. In this solo episode of The Builder’s Edge, we’re not panicking, we’re taking back power. Host Deanna Lucas walks you through a practical, powerful mid-year audit to help you hit reset on what’s dragging your business down. Because if you don’t pause and pivot now, you’ll coast into Q4 on fumes, and that’s not what legacy builders do. We start with The Builder’s Mirror, where you’ll face the tough (but necessary) questions: Where has your time gone? What’s working? What’s just busywork? From there, we dig into three essential areas to reset, your time, your team, and your tools. You’ll walk away with tangible strategies like batching tasks, identifying weak links in your crew, and upgrading one broken system that’s been holding you back. Key Takeaways: Do a 7-day time audit to reveal where your hours, and profits, are going. Reclaim 5–10 hours a week by cutting just one time-waster. Batch tasks like estimates for deeper focus and stronger close rates. Use the “rehire test” to evaluate who’s truly pulling weight on your team. Pick one broken system and upgrade it, just one. “If the plan you’ve been following has you exhausted, that’s not failure, it’s feedback.” 🎯 Set your 90-day focus goal. Schedule your CEO day. And if you’re ready to stop guessing and start building smarter, book your free Business Auto Audit at DNDbusinesssystems.com. Let’s build forward, on purpose. Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with bookkeeping expert Deborah Gustin to expose the real cost of messy finances in your business. If you’ve ever avoided your books out of guilt, overwhelm, or straight-up confusion; this one’s for you. Deborah breaks it down so even the busiest contractor can understand why clean books are a game changer. It's not about perfection. It's about clarity, confidence, and control. Key Takeaways: Why checking your bank balance is NOT a financial strategy The hidden cost of ignoring your books; and your stress levels Simple systems that make receipts, reports, and taxes easier How clean books build confidence and better bids Why partnering with the right bookkeeper could change everything “If your numbers aren’t clear, your decisions won’t be either.” Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge podcast, host Deanna Lucas delivers a powerful breakdown of the five essential systems every trades business needs to scale efficiently and reduce chaos. From solo operators to those managing full crews, Deanna outlines how to transform your business with systems that ensure you get found, chosen, and paid; consistently. She dives into the critical components of online presence, lead generation, conversion, reputation management, and visibility, offering practical insights to help contractors attract the right clients, boost profitability, and build sustainable growth. This episode is a roadmap for trades people looking to streamline operations and elevate their business with purpose. Deanna emphasizes that systems, not trends, are the backbone of a thriving trades business. Using vivid analogies like a mattress store storefront, she illustrates how a professional online presence and strategic lead generation can make or break your credibility. From leveraging referral loops with realtors to automating review requests, Deanna shares actionable strategies to retain clients and stay top of mind. Packed with real-world examples and a call to action for a free systems checklist, this episode is a must-listen for contractors ready to level up their business with clarity and confidence. Key Takeaways Online Presence: A professional, consistent digital footprint across Google Business Profile, directories, and your website is your modern storefront, building trust and credibility. Lead Generation: Use targeted SEO, paid ads, and referral loops to attract high-quality leads, avoiding clients who shop solely on price. Conversion System: Implement call scripts, fast response times, and a strong digital brand to turn leads into booked jobs efficiently. Reputation and Retention: Automate review requests and maintain client relationships to secure repeat business and referrals. Visibility System: Consistent, authentic content across platforms builds authority and familiarity, ensuring clients think of you before they need you. "Your online presence is your storefront. If it looks messy, outdated, or hard to find, you’re losing business before they even walk through the door." - Deanna Lucas Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint THE 5 SYSTEMS EVERY TRADE BUSINESS NEEDS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas sits down with Benson Fechter, the visionary founder of Legacy Paint Holdings, who transformed a high school side hustle into a multi-company empire. Starting with a ladder and a minivan, Benson scaled his painting business into a national platform by leveraging systems, strategic acquisitions, and a passion for empowering contractors. He shares his journey from knocking on doors to leading a holding company, offering insights into his five pillars of success; sales and marketing, HR, operations, systems, and finance; that drive efficiency and growth. Benson’s story is a masterclass in blending entrepreneurial grit with disciplined processes, making this a must-listen for contractors and business owners aiming to build sustainable, scalable enterprises. Benson dives into the importance of hyper-targeted marketing, employee retention through equity and benefits, and the art of acquiring companies with strong cultural fit. He also reflects on how his faith and love for reading shape his leadership, ensuring Legacy Paint Holdings not only grows but creates lasting value for its people and partners. Whether you’re a trades person looking to refine your operations or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, this episode offers actionable strategies and a compelling vision for building a legacy in the skilled trades. Key Takeaways Hyper-Targeted Marketing: Focus on specific zip codes using data like household income and home value to maximize lead generation and capture rates. Employee Retention: Offering equity, health insurance, and a 7% 401(k) match reduces turnover and builds loyalty in a transient industry. Production Rate Pricing: Use industry-standard production rates to estimate project time accurately, ensuring consistent 40% gross profit margins. Cultural Fit in Acquisitions: Prioritize companies with ambitious owners and strong community reputations to ensure seamless integration. Long-Term Vision: Build businesses with enterprise value for future liquidity events, creating generational wealth for contractors. "If you can figure out your production rate, it’s going to be a positive effect for the rest of the business. You’re going to start to realize I’m making more money on my projects, and everything will positively benefit from there." – Benson Fechter Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder's Edge podcast, host Deanna Lucas speaks to business builders, tradespeople, and entrepreneurs facing setbacks, drawing from her own experience during the 2008 housing market crash when her thriving business came to a halt. This episode is for anyone who’s been shaken, slowed, or sidelined, wondering if their dream is still alive or if failure is final. Deanna reframes setbacks as refining moments, not endings, and shares practical steps to plan a comeback with clarity, faith, and intention. With a spiritual anchor in God’s purpose, she encourages listeners to see setbacks as opportunities for growth and redirection. Deanna shares a story of a client whose service-based business grew too fast, leading to a quality slip and a need to restart. She emphasizes that setbacks are not failures but moments to realign and build stronger foundations. Through reflective questions like “What am I being shown here?” and “What will I never build the same way again?” she guides listeners to learn from challenges and plan intentional comebacks. Rooted in the belief that God uses setbacks for preparation, not punishment, this episode inspires builders to trust the process and move forward with faith. Key Takeaways: Reframe Setbacks: View setbacks as pruning seasons for growth, not as punishments or failures. Reflect and Learn: Ask, “What am I being shown here?” and “What needs realignment?” to gain clarity from challenges. Plan Your Comeback: Intentional comebacks require prayer, preparation, and a focus on moving forward, not returning to the past. Trust God’s Purpose: God doesn’t waste setbacks; He uses them to build lasting impact (spiritual anchor). Take Action: Start with a clear morning mindset and assess your business strategy to ensure a sustainable comeback. “Setbacks only refine the builder, but it’s the comeback that defines them.” – Deanna Lucas Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dive into this episode of The Builder's Edge, where host Deanna Lucas speaks with returning guest Amon Medinger, a thriving handyman business owner whose journey exemplifies the power of personal growth. This episode shifts gears from tools and trades to the mindset that drives success, offering contractors and tradesmen actionable insights to build not just stronger businesses, but richer lives. Amon shares how a life-changing injury forced him to slow down, leading to profound mental breakthroughs that reshaped his approach to business and leadership. With heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to elevate their mindset and transform their life. Discover how intentional self-development can unlock new levels of empathy, purpose, and resilience. Amon reveals strategies like habit stacking, asking better questions, and curating positive inputs to navigate the entrepreneurial roller coaster. From leading his family and social media "tribe" with positivity to embracing AI as a tool for growth, Amon’s insights are both relatable and forward-thinking. Packed with faith-driven perspective and real-world advice, this episode will leave you motivated to invest in yourself as the foundation for lasting success. Key Takeaways: Embrace Daily Self-Development: Commit to small, consistent habits like listening to podcasts during commutes to fuel personal growth. Ask Better Questions: Shift from "Why is this happening to me?" to "How can I grow through this?" to reframe challenges and unlock solutions. Curate Your Inputs: Be mindful of the media, music, and conversations you consume, as they shape your thoughts and actions. Build a Supportive Tribe: Surround yourself with mentors and a community who inspire and pull you forward during tough times. Stay Open to Growth: Whether it’s adopting AI or deepening empathy, remain adaptable to evolve personally and professionally. "Personal development is an intentional process of becoming a better version of who God created you to be." – Amon Medinger Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas dives into a critical mistake that could be draining your business budget and stunting growth: running ads before your digital presence is ready. Deanna breaks down why more traffic doesn’t always mean more clients, using the story of a business owner whose ad spend led to clicks but no conversions. From outdated websites to missing reviews and unclear branding, she reveals the trust and authority gaps that sabotage ad campaigns. This episode is packed with actionable advice to ensure your digital house—your website, reviews, and Google Business Profile—is in order before you invest in ads. Tune in to learn how to align your message, build trust, and turn clicks into loyal customers, ensuring every ad dollar amplifies your business. Deanna emphasizes that ads only work when your digital foundation is strong, offering practical steps to create a customer-focused online presence that converts. She shares insights on crafting a clear website, leveraging recent reviews, optimizing your Google Business Profile, and ensuring consistent follow-up systems. Whether you’re a builder, contractor, or service provider, this episode will help you avoid wasting money on ads and instead create a digital strategy that scales. Don’t miss Deanna’s free resource, the Builder’s Digital House Checklist, to guide you in tightening your online presence and building trust that turns prospects into clients. Main Points Featured in the Episode: Digital Foundation First: Ads amplify existing problems if your website, reviews, or branding lack clarity or trust signals. Customer-Focused Website: Ensure your homepage clearly states what you do, who you serve, and the next steps for customers to avoid confusion. Reviews as Trust Signals: Recent, responded-to reviews on your Google Business Profile act as digital referrals to build credibility. Optimized Google Business Profile: Include hours, location, recent photos, keywords, and Q&A to answer customer questions and boost trust. Consistent Follow-Ups: Implement email sequences or callback systems to engage prospects quickly and maintain trust. “People don’t buy when they understand you. They buy when they feel like you understand them.” - Deanna Lucas Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, Deanna Lucas honors Military Appreciation Month by spotlighting Matt Anderson, a veteran with six years of active duty in the Army and one year in the National Guard, now thriving as the owner of a SunMed Health and Wellness in Quincy, Illinois. Matt shares his remarkable transition from military service to entrepreneurship, driven by a personal mission to educate his community about holistic wellness. Reflecting on his journey, from his time in military intelligence to navigating the challenges of opening a retail business during the 2020 pandemic, Matt reveals how his military-honed values - loyalty, duty, respect, honor, integrity, selfless service, and personal courage - shape his business and advocacy for responsible cannabis regulations. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, purpose, and the pursuit of continuous learning. Matt dives into practical strategies for building a mission-driven business, from demystifying cannabis through transparent education to fostering community through events like the Army-Navy Showdown. He also shares insights on balancing the demands of entrepreneurship with personal life, emphasizing mindfulness and adaptability. With real-world examples, like third-party lab testing for product safety and community-driven initiatives, Matt offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs looking to make an impact. Whether you’re a veteran, a business owner, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will motivate you to build with intention and lead with integrity. Key Takeaways: Military Values in Business: Leverage core Army values like loyalty, duty, and integrity to create a strong foundation for ethical entrepreneurship. Transparency and Education: Build trust by prioritizing transparency, such as third-party lab testing, and educate consumers to demystify complex products like CBD. Community Engagement: Strengthen your brand through community events, like the Army-Navy Showdown, to foster camaraderie and drive local impact. Advocacy for Industry Standards: Advocate for responsible regulations to ensure safe, accessible products, reflecting a commitment to consumer well-being. Work-Life Balance: Embrace mindfulness and adaptability to navigate the ever-changing demands of business and personal life. “The military taught me to live with transparency and discipline, and I carry that into my business. Whether it’s third-party testing our products or advocating for safe access, it’s about building trust with every step.” — Matt Anderson Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna Lucas dives into the art of writing Google reviews that make a real impact for both customers and businesses. Far from being just a star rating, a well-crafted review is a digital testimony that builds trust, drives business, and multiplies impact within your community. Deanna shares a powerful parable of two farmers at a well; one who simply takes what they need and leaves, and another who places stones to guide others: illustrating how a thoughtful review can lead more people to quality services. With practical tips and a downloadable email template, this episode equips business owners, particularly contractors, with the tools to encourage meaningful reviews that elevate their online presence. Deanna emphasizes the importance of storytelling in reviews, guiding listeners on how to teach clients to share specific, impactful experiences rather than vague praise. She breaks down a simple yet effective email template designed to prompt clients to leave detailed five-star reviews, complete with QR codes for ease and suggestions for highlighting quality, timeliness, and problem-solving. By fostering a culture of “sowing honor” through reviews, businesses can become local guides on Google, gaining authority and visibility. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to transform their online reputation and stand out in a competitive market. Key Takeaways: Storytelling in Reviews: Encourage clients to share specific stories about their experience - before, during, and after - to create trust and connection. Simplify the Process: Use QR codes, short links, and clear instructions to make leaving reviews frictionless for clients. Guide Client Feedback: Provide suggestions for reviews, like mentioning quality, timeliness, communication, and location, to ensure impactful content. Build Community Authority: Consistent, detailed reviews elevate your Google ranking and establish you as a trusted local guide. Reciprocity of Reviews: Sowing honor through reviews for others encourages reciprocal reviews, amplifying your business’s visibility. “A good Google review isn’t just a pat on the back—it’s a bridge that connects someone with a problem to your solution, multiplying impact and building trust in your community.” — Deanna Lucas Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Builder’s Edge, host Deanna shares a powerful re-frame for business owners who feel invisible online despite having a quality offer. She flips the typical marketing script, reminding listeners that Google doesn’t reward noise; it rewards answers. If your content isn’t solving real problems, you're just adding to the clutter. Instead of chasing likes, clicks, and shallow visibility, Deanna offers a framework for building lasting authority by becoming the guide, not the guru, in your space. Through practical stories, from painters to home builders, Deanna challenges business owners to move beyond trying to be seen and start serving more deeply. If you're posting content that flatters your ego but fails to meet your client’s needs, it’s time to shift. The good news? You don’t need more gimmicks. You need more consistency, clarity, and courage to create content that educates, empowers, and builds trust. Key Takeaways: Google mirrors value, not volume: visibility is earned by solving real problems. Stop chasing followers and start creating content that builds trust and authority. Search engines reward relevance, which is just another word for service. When your message shifts from “look at me” to “here’s help,” you attract more than attention: you build impact. Your visibility tomorrow is built by the value you create today. “God didn’t call you to be loud. He called you to be a light. And light doesn’t beg for attention, it shines.” Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, host Deanna Lucas shares how a simple shift in mindset can become the game-changer your building business needs. With over 30 years in the industry, she dives into the hidden mindset mistakes that quietly sabotage your growth—and how to fix them. Whether you're stuck in stagnant strategies, overwhelmed with lead management, or simply blending in with your competitors, this episode gives you the mental reset to break free and build a magnetic, high-visibility brand. Deanna also shares the inspiring turnaround of a client who went from stuck and stagnant to standing out as the go-to expert in his field—just by changing how he thought. This is your call to think differently, lead boldly, and let your mindset lead the way to growth. KEY TAKEAWAYS: Repeating the same strategies without innovation stalls growth More leads don’t mean more chaos—they mean more opportunity to choose better clients Conforming to the industry norm makes you invisible; differentiation builds demand Posting more content doesn’t equal progress—meaningful engagement does A mindset shift can open doors to markets, clients, and influence you never imagined “When you open your mind, you don’t just adapt—you lead.” - Deanna Lucas Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links: DND Website Facebook Group Facebook Builders Visibility Blueprint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices