The Curious Builder
The Curious Builder
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Why You Shouldn’t Let Your Clients Buy Direct with Guest Brad Robinson
On this episode of the Curious Builder Q+A, host Mark Williams is joined by Brad Robinson of Bradford Custom Homes. They discuss a hot topic in the builder industry: direct buying. They’ll go into the details of their own experiences with clients direct buying, the pitfalls that come with it, and why they have a different approach. It’s an insightful episode into why you shouldn’t let your clients buy direct, even if on the surface it seems like a better deal for them-because it can compromise your entire project.
Support the show - www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop
See our upcoming live events - www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events
The host of the Curious Builder Posdast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. WIlliams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels - one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you’re looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life.
Sponsors for the Episode:
Lake Society Magazine:
Website: www.lakesocietymagazine.com/
Hellmuth & Johnson Law:
hjlawfirm.com/
Where to find the Host:
Website - www.mdwilliamshomes.com/
Podcast Website - www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com
Instagram - markdwilliams_customhomes
Facebook - MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/
LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/
Houzz - www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc
Переглядів: 2

Відео

3D Design Secrets Revealed: How JMAD’s Revolutionary Approach is Changing Architecture
Переглядів 217 годин тому
In this episode of "The Curious Builder," host Mark Williams chats with Rob Hull and Angela Liesmaki from JMAD Design about embracing technology and communication in architecture. They discuss the importance of using 3D models and VR to help clients visualize designs, balancing client desires with expert recommendations, and how their firm has adapted to remote work and nationwide projects. The...
How Signing a 2x4 Can Change Your Legacy Forever!
Переглядів 616 годин тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams dives into the concepts of legacy and brand experience, offering insights into what drives builders to create meaningful projects. He reflects on his own motivations, shares heartwarming anecdotes about the homes he's built, and discusses the importance of curiosity and authenticity in the building industry. It's a thought-provoking and...
Can Saying "Thank You" Transform Your Business?
Переглядів 1321 годину тому
In this special Thanksgiving edition of "Q & A with Mark D. Williams," Mark reflects on gratitude, sharing heartwarming stories of clients, friends, and colleagues who have profoundly impacted his life and career. He emphasizes the importance of relationships, community support, and the timeless value of saying thank you. Join us for a heartfelt episode filled with appreciation and inspiration!...
From Etsy to Italian Artisans - The Plaster Renaissance Begins
Переглядів 7День тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Jessica Matterson of Dolo Artisan Finishes about the art and challenges of plaster work. From its aesthetic appeal and unique application techniques to the physical demands and business hurdles, they dive into everything that makes plaster such an amazing yet misunderstood craft. Jessica also shares her journey of turning a f...
From Solar Panels to Fashion Brands: Inside Paul Krumrich’s Diverse Entrepreneurial Empire!
Переглядів 4814 днів тому
In this episode of "The Curious Builder," Mark Williams chats with Paul Krumrich of Greenway Solar about everything from the emotional ups and downs of being an entrepreneur to the nitty-gritty of solar panel efficiency in snowy Minnesota. They dive into company rebranding, the value of employee alignment, and the surprising durability of Tesla solar roofs. Plus, you’ll get a feel for the entre...
Learning from Bid Losses and Crafting Year-End Strategies
Переглядів 3521 день тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams talks about the ups and downs of losing a bid and how those experiences can actually help you improve. He shares a recent story where he missed out on a project and offers some great tips on handling rejection with class. Plus, he dives into year-end planning and setting goals, reminding us all to take a beat, reflect, and get ready for the ...
Overcoming Burnout and Boosting Wellness with Dr. Mel Krug
Переглядів 1821 день тому
In this enlightening episode of "The Curious Builder," Dr. Mel Krug joins Mark Williams to dive deep into managing burnout, the power of breathwork, and the importance of vulnerability in business. They explore boundary-setting, embracing authenticity, and scaling businesses by delegating tasks effectively. Plus, don’t miss their chat on cold exposure benefits and upcoming retreats focused on h...
Managing Time Like a Pro: Builder's Tips on Efficient Scheduling
Переглядів 2321 день тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams dishes out his favorite time management hacks that keep him sane as an entrepreneur and podcast host. He chats about everything from time blocking and tackling top tasks, to keeping a good balance between work and family. Plus, he shares how setting boundaries and squeezing in some “me” time can make all the difference. Support the show - ww...
The Power of Combining Building and Design: Insights from Marcos Santa Ana
Переглядів 37Місяць тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Marcos Santa Ana from Alloi Architecture and Construction about innovative building practices and the competitive edge of combining design and construction in-house. They dive into regional building variations, the joys and challenges of remodeling, and the benefits of using high-tech design tools. Plus, they bond over their ...
Empowering Female Builders: How The Curious Builder Podcast Plans to Shape 2025
Переглядів 20Місяць тому
In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams dives into what's next for the show and the broader Curious Builder brand in 2025. He shares goals like featuring more diverse voices, especially women in construction, and increasing nationwide reach. Plus, exciting plans for live events, wellness retreats, and small-group builder collectives are on the horizon to inspire and c...
Exploring AI in the Construction Industry
Переглядів 58Місяць тому
In this episode of "The Curious Builder," host Mark Williams chats with Katie Kath, Morgan Molitor, and Jon Walker about the growing role of AI in the housing and construction industries. They dive into practical uses of AI for improving brand consistency, managing communication, and enhancing productivity, while also addressing concerns about data privacy and the trust needed when incorporatin...
Overcoming the Beggars Can't Be Choosers Mentality
Переглядів 37Місяць тому
In this Q&A episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark jumps into the journey of transitioning from a "beggars can't be choosers" mindset to becoming a selective and niche builder. He emphasizes the importance of valuing your own time, setting boundaries, and knowing your numbers to identify and work with ideal clients. Plus, he shares personal insights on how to effectively navigate client r...
Navigating Business and Family: Nancy Nelson-Flom's Journey from Entrepreneur to Employee
Переглядів 26Місяць тому
In this episode of "The Curious Builder," Nancy Nelson-Flom shares the inspiring journey of evolving her company, discussed her landmark sale to Stark, and highlighted the importance of long-term relationships in business. We dive into life at International Market Square, the balance between work and personal life, and navigating leadership transitions. It's a great listen for anyone curious ab...
Legacy and Community Impact in Custom Home Building
Переглядів 14Місяць тому
In this Q&A Episode, we dive into the question of legacy and impact in the home-building community. He shares personal stories about the relationships he's built over the years, emphasizing how homes are more than just structures-they’re places filled with memories and love. Mark wraps it up by highlighting the importance of caring for clients, honoring the craft, and fostering collaboration in...
From Farm Shed to Success: Cabinetry Lessons from Troy and Jo Eiden
Переглядів 33Місяць тому
From Farm Shed to Success: Cabinetry Lessons from Troy and Jo Eiden
Leading by Example: Successful Strategies from Industry Experts
Переглядів 26Місяць тому
Leading by Example: Successful Strategies from Industry Experts
How Modern Technology Shapes Luxury Home Design, Construction, and Marketing
Переглядів 22Місяць тому
How Modern Technology Shapes Luxury Home Design, Construction, and Marketing
What you Missed at the CSBUA Summit and the Contractor Coalition Summit
Переглядів 232 місяці тому
What you Missed at the CSBUA Summit and the Contractor Coalition Summit
Scaling Your Business Without Losing Culture: Insights from Kate O'Hara
Переглядів 222 місяці тому
Scaling Your Business Without Losing Culture: Insights from Kate O'Hara
Enhancing Home Building Efficiency with Daran Wastchak: Navigating Codes and Energy Solutions
Переглядів 322 місяці тому
Enhancing Home Building Efficiency with Daran Wastchak: Navigating Codes and Energy Solutions
Word-of-Mouth referrals in combination with Social Media will change your business forever
Переглядів 182 місяці тому
Word-of-Mouth referrals in combination with Social Media will change your business forever
How Adaptive AI is Revolutionizing Builder Financials: A Chat with Matt Calvano & Reece Barnes
Переглядів 382 місяці тому
How Adaptive AI is Revolutionizing Builder Financials: A Chat with Matt Calvano & Reece Barnes
Mental and emotional wellness for builders: Q&A with Mark D. Williams
Переглядів 242 місяці тому
Mental and emotional wellness for builders: Q&A with Mark D. Williams
Enhancing Workplace Wellness with Biophilic Design: Jonathan Cremer’s Mission
Переглядів 222 місяці тому
Enhancing Workplace Wellness with Biophilic Design: Jonathan Cremer’s Mission
Guiding Your Client Through The Renovation Vs. New Home Decision
Переглядів 183 місяці тому
Guiding Your Client Through The Renovation Vs. New Home Decision
Levity and Lessons: Building Authenticity in Podcasting and Construction with the Levelheads
Переглядів 393 місяці тому
Levity and Lessons: Building Authenticity in Podcasting and Construction with the Levelheads
Cultivating Valuable Vendor Partnerships: Q&A with Mark D. Williams
Переглядів 223 місяці тому
Cultivating Valuable Vendor Partnerships: Q&A with Mark D. Williams
Lessons in Kindness and Financial Savvy: Jerry Beerman’s Journey to Success
Переглядів 183 місяці тому
Lessons in Kindness and Financial Savvy: Jerry Beerman’s Journey to Success
Necesitas un sitio web profesional, incluso cuando estás comenzando
Переглядів 153 місяці тому
Necesitas un sitio web profesional, incluso cuando estás comenzando

КОМЕНТАРІ

  • @koppecreative
    @koppecreative 22 години тому

    This has been a super eye opening conversation for me. I’m a youngish (31) finish carpenter / site lead with about a decade of on and off experience due to school and trying to be a photographer. Decided I’m going to be more stable jumping in with both feet into my building skills. I’ve been trying to absorb as much information about building science (which I love getting nerdy about) and also management side of building so I can have a future in my construction career past what my body allows me to do. It’s good to hear how hard it is to do business from good builders. I often have felt like the way my boss does business is the reason why things are so hard for him, which is probably partially true, but I’m glad to have heard a conversation with some more experienced folks that highlights some of the legitimate difficulties. Looking forward to perusing some of your other conversations!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 8 днів тому

    Hope you had a great thanksgiving!!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 20 днів тому

    A wise person once told me if you’re winning every client you’re not going on enough appointments. Also agreed it’s best to be 1st or last but it’s always good to know why you weren’t selected

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 22 дні тому

    interesting, thanks for sharing

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 26 днів тому

    Great advice!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 27 днів тому

    Calendly ftw

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 27 днів тому

    I’d love to collaborate with you both!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 28 днів тому

    What percentage of builders do you think do cost plus?

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Quartz really has risen in popularity the past decade, great episode!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Thanks!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Great conversation!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    What a great conversation!! One of the best episodes so far

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    The LelchAV team did a great job with our theater, we’ve also collaborated on some really interesting videos over the years. Keep up the great work

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    When I think of Warroad I think of hockey and Marvin, great conversation

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    This sounds like my dream job, we did similar projects during grad school and I really enjoyed that

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    I enjoy creating videos to educate home buyers that are curious about new construction, I’d be happy to collaborate with either of you anytime

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Keep fighting the good fight towards increasing inventory and reducing building costs, the advocacy at the state and local level is appreciated

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Knowing and effectively conveying your value proposition is an important skill in any business

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Eat the frog!!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Knowing your numbers is so important

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    I made the mistake of bringing my wife along to the artisan tour, but I also made the mistake of going on the tour myself. Once you understand what quality looks like it’s hard to accept anything else. I’d say it’s the most noticeable in cabinetry & trim

    • @MarkWilliams-wi4oo
      @MarkWilliams-wi4oo Місяць тому

      Rookie mistake!!! I agree with your assessment, that woodwork and ensuing painting is the major difference.

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Great conversation!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    There’s a lot of crossover to real estate sales with these concepts

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Love the collaboration!! I actually spotted Chad’s curious builder mug on the artisan tour :) also pretty sure I’ve met your mothers during the parades over the last few years, it’s great that they do supportive and I bet they really enjoy it

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    I’d be willing to collaborate on a behind the scenes type series that could highlight the trades and also educate viewers on what to look for in each craft to really identify quality work

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    I really need to make it out to IBS one of these times, I should able to get a media pass since I write for realtor magazine. Great job on these Q&As

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    I’d say most aren’t social media influencers or marketing specialists

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Keep up the great work!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    That’s quite the journey, congrats on all the growth

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Admit One rocks! Congrats on the new home Lance. It’s nice to see more builders embracing home tech

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Smart move

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN Місяць тому

    Interesting, thanks for sharing

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    You’re awkwardly close but I appreciate that you’ve worked with what was available

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    51:00 no one remembers to edit those things out ;)

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    I like that studio space & setup, you can really tell the difference. Great conversations as always, thank you

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for sharing

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Interesting.

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Always nice to see a collaboration between two incredible builders

  • @shawnmyhre5116
    @shawnmyhre5116 2 місяці тому

    SO good! Really enjoyed this! Worth the listen for anyone in the interior design and custom homebuilding industry but would also be great for individuals preparing to build or undergo a major renovation to get a glimpse under the hood of what is involved.

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Smart business model!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    You’ve done a great job with your branding

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    I love Amazon affiliate, the influencer program and brand sponsorship, the additional revenue streams are nice but for the time/effort, I’m better off staying focused on content that attracts clients

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Great conversation!

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Great episode, thank you

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Not sure what happened to the audio on this one but I’m having a real hard time hearing her

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    I’m high D, high I, entj… no surprise I ended up in sales

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    I’ve always been curious about the different ways someone could work with a designer and how they’re compensated

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    Yes, the partners want to know what’s in it for them, who’s the audience, what the opportunity is and they love shareable assets. The follow up and alignment on content goals is huge. That website traffic is incredible

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    I appreciate the approach to running a multi generation business

  • @BrandonDoyleMN
    @BrandonDoyleMN 2 місяці тому

    7:30 that’s a good motto live by, I’m more concerned with the structural side, the tech & future resale