Contractor Networking, Redefined: Inside the Curious Builder Boot Camp
In an industry where networking often means exchanging business cards at loud conferences or trading surface-level pleasantries over coffee, the Curious Builder Boot Camp offers something far more meaningful. This multi-day retreat reimagines contractor networking as an immersive, off-grid experience rooted in movement, mindset, genuine relationships, and real conversation.
A Grounded Beginning
The event, set just outside of Zion National Park, began Thursday afternoon with a relaxed campfire meet-and-greet. Participants settled into their “glampy” accommodations—high-end tents that offered all the comforts of home without removing them from the natural setting.
Each morning started at 6 AM with coffee, small bites, and a fire. Before jumping into physical challenges, the group engaged in a quiet practice called absolute journaling. Unlike traditional journaling, this approach focuses purely on facts without interpretation or emotion. It’s designed to keep participants grounded, reflective, and honest.
Foundational Movement
Fitness wasn’t just part of the itinerary—it was the foundation. Mornings included structured workouts led by Addison Bain, with sessions focused on functional strength, kettlebells, and dynamic stretching. On Friday, the group completed a water challenge: a 1.3-mile loop carrying both cups and gallons of water, with the goal of minimizing spillage. It was a physical test with numerous benefits including teamwork, genuine connections, balance, and persistence.
That afternoon, we laced up our boots and headed into Zion National Park for a demanding 10.5-mile hike. Walking side by side, we talked about life, business, and purpose—conversations that wouldn’t have happened in a typical boardroom or showroom. In these settings, building relationships come naturally, one of the many benefits of networking reimagined!
Saturday followed a similar rhythm with a more intense twist: a dumbbell complex workout, a weighted 1.3-mile run, and then a reverse run without weights. After lunch, the team went canyoneering, rappelling through narrow sandstone canyons, climbing rock walls, and navigating rugged terrain. It may seem like a daunting task, but the physical adventure was more than adrenaline—it was a metaphor for stepping outside your comfort zone and building trust, not just in others, but in yourself!
Meaningful Conversations
In the evenings, the group circled up again for Jeffersonian-style dinners—a format that encouraged thoughtful discussion rather than idle chatter. Each attendee brought a personal quote and shared what it meant to them.
My contribution, “Boundaries create freedom,” sparked a conversation about how professionals in high-demand roles can reclaim time and energy through intentional structure. The vibe was never forced. With no phones in hand and no timelines to keep, the group sank into deep, honest dialogue about the challenges and rewards of their work and lives!
The Power of Going Phone-Free
One of the most impactful decisions of the Boot Camp was to collect everyone’s phones at the start of the weekend. In a world dominated by constant notifications and digital noise, this choice created a rare kind of presence. Without screens to distract us, participants were fully immersed—in nature, in conversation, and in connection. It turns out that relationship building comes easily when you can focus on each other!
Curious about other opportunities? Check out this recap from our sauna camp!
Small Groups, Big Impact
The group was intentionally kept small—just 10 to 20 people—to foster real connection. That intimacy made it easier for participants to share openly, ask hard questions, and support one another. The chemistry in this group was amazing! Everyone showed up curious, reflective, and ready to grow.
Built with Support
The Boot Camp wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of sponsors like Buildertrend, Donkey Label, and Paul Krumrich. From providing meals and gear to underwriting key parts of the event, these partners made the experience!
What’s Next?
Future opportunities to join the boot camp will include Costa Rica, Mexico, and Montana, with each offering a slightly different flavor. But the heart of the experience remains the same: intentional time, physical challenge, real conversation, and connection.
If you’re a builder, contractor, or creative professional looking to join networking opportunities with industry experts that go a little deeper than your average event, the Curious Builder Boot Camp might be exactly what you’ve been missing. Because when you push your body, unplug your phone, and surround yourself with like-minded leaders—you don’t just network. You grow.
