The Power of Business Partnerships: Meet the Sponsors Behind The Curious Builder

When you listen to The Curious Builder, you’re tuning in to more than just great conversations—you're tapping into a network of passionate creators, industry innovators, and trusted partners who are building the future of custom homes, together. Every episode is made possible by the support of business partnerships that go far beyond advertising. These sponsors are true collaborators who share our mission of elevating the design-build community, both in Minnesota and beyond.

Pella

For over two decades, Pella has been more than just a window supplier for Mark D. Williams Custom Homes—they’ve been a foundational partner. So, when The Curious Builder launched, it was no surprise that Pella stepped up to support the podcast from day one.

“Loyalty breeds loyalty,” says host Mark Williams. “To have a great brand partner, you have to be a great brand partner.” Pella saw value not only in the content but in the community. With builders, remodelers, and industry pros listening in each week, the partnership was a natural fit. 

Pella’s lifetime warranty, forward-thinking innovation, and most importantly,  deeply committed team set them apart! With over 15 active points of contact between local reps and the corporate office, Pella and The Curious Builder represent a truly symbiotic relationship—one where both sides are invested in each other’s long-term success.

Emser Tile

Emser Tile may be one of the newer sponsors, but they’ve quickly become an integral part of the Curious Builder community. The partnership began at the International Builder Show, where we connected with Emser’s Mike Weaver—and the rest is history. Now, they’re building a relationship that’s already bearing fruit through new custom builds, like the Mysa Hus project.

Emser is a great fit because of their emphasis on personal connection and their proactive support of initiatives like the Contractor Coalition and the Collectives. They believe in being “in the room where it happens,” and they bring a collaborative spirit that aligns perfectly with The Curious Builder.

All Inc.

All Inc. has been a trusted partner for nearly a decade, and their support of the podcast and related Collectives just goes to show the strength of long-term business partnerships. They believe in the influence of designers, especially in the Twin Cities market, which made them early supporters of both the Designer and Builder Collectives.

In fact, this fall, All Inc. is co-hosting a networking trip to Chicago for members of all three collectives—designers, builders, and architects!

Greenway Solar

Solar energy is more than a trend—it's a commitment to a better future. Greenway Solar, led by owner Paul Crumrich, brings that same passion to their sponsorship. Focused particularly on Tesla solar solutions, Paul’s goal is to build personal relationships with architects and designers to spread the message of sustainable building.

Greenway is actively involved in both the Builder and Architect Collectives, understanding that trust is built over time. Their presence isn’t about quick wins—it’s about long-term impact, and they’re in it for the long haul.

River City Tile & Stone

River City Tile & Stone has been an essential part of the broader Curious Builder Collective. We go way back—we even went to high school together—and our working relationship spans over 15 years.

River City’s support of the Collective has been huge for us- and for them! In just six months of joining, they booked over $90,000 in work, showing just how powerful the right business partnerships can be when values and vision align.

Alpine Hardwood

Some sponsors go above and beyond. Alpine Hardwood is one of them! Because of the trust between us, they let us decide where to put  the money. That kind of faith and flexibility speaks volumes.

Alpine isn’t just a sponsor—they’re superfans! Their encouragement, generosity, and friendship have helped The Curious Builder reach new heights, and their support is felt in every episode.

Harnisch

Not all business partnerships are with big brands. Harnisch, a small startup focused on apparel for builders and creatives, first caught our attention through the Modern Craftsman community. Now, I regularly wear and share their gear—not just for personal use but also as gifts to builders, designers, and podcast guests.

From shirts to their innovative Creator Pants (a surprise gift for Boot Camp attendees), Harnisch represents the kind of brand The Curious Builder loves to spotlight: small, thoughtful, and full of potential.

Aurora One Lighting

Aurora One Lighting, along with sister company Admit One,is a strong presence in the luxury custom home market—and saw the Architect Collective as a perfect match. With deep roots in Minnesota’s high-end builder and architect scene, they bring both expertise and energy to the partnership.

While still new to the Curious Builder community, Aurora One has already demonstrated their commitment to connection and creativity—qualities that make them an amazing addition to the sponsorship lineup.

Buildertrend

While most of the podcast’s sponsors are based in Minnesota, Buildertrend represents national reach!  As one of only three national sponsors—alongside Pella and MSI—Buildertrend brings a high-level perspective and the infrastructure needed to help The Curious Builder grow far beyond home base.The plan is to expand to 3–4 new states per year and keep growing the Curious Collectives community!

Why These Business Partnerships Matter

At the heart of every episode of The Curious Builder is a belief in shared growth. These sponsors aren’t just funding content—they’re shaping conversations, building relationships, and helping strengthen the design-build industry. 

Through thoughtful collaboration, personal connection, and a shared passion for craftsmanship, these business partnerships are helping bring more curiosity, more creativity, and more community into every home we build.

Looking to become part of our network? Reach out today!