Episode 123 - CCS Omaha Build Buzz - Building for the Future: How Contractors Stay Relevant and Resilient in Uncertain Times
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams shares the Build Buzz pannel conversation at The Contractor Coalition Summit in Omaha. The panel of top-notch builders (Morgan Molitor, Brad Leavitt, Nick Shiffer, and Tyler Grace all dove into highlights, including lessons on scaling your business, smart risk-taking, and the future of contracting. They share real-world stories about everything from onboarding key staff and leveraging AI tools, to future-proofing your business and building a brand that stands out. If you're looking to learn from people who've been through industry ups and downs—and want some actionable tips for thriving in construction—this episode is one you won’t want to miss!
Episode 122 - The Secret Ingredient Behind Tays & Co’s Award-Winning Design Magic
In this heartwarming episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams chats with Laura and Joshua Tays of Tays and Co about their journey from humble beginnings and career pivots to becoming award-winning designers. They share the story of building their business, the challenges and joys of working as a couple, and their passion for creating timeless, welcoming spaces that feel like a big hug. The episode is equal parts inspiration, relationship goals, and behind-the-scenes look at the creative process—from humble playrooms to stunning dream homes.
Episode 121 - 43 Years, No Website, All Word of Mouth—Mary Wozniak’s Surprising Path to Design Success
In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams sits down with longtime family friend and uber-talented designer Mary Wozniak from Shadow Falls Design. Mary shares her journey from running a bustling paint and design store on Grand Avenue in St. Paul to building a personal, client-centered design business and reflects on key lessons learned, from valuing relationships and privacy to navigating challenges and embracing the changing design industry. The conversation is full of warmth, personal anecdotes (including the famous inside-out couch!), and offers great advice on staying true to your values while growing as an entrepreneur.
Episode 120 - Creating with Heart: Billy Beson on Authentic Design, Family, and Setting Boundaries
In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams sits down with legendary Minneapolis interior designer Billy Beson for a heartfelt and lighthearted conversation. They explore Billy's journey in design, the importance of setting boundaries for work-life balance, the value of mentorship and genuine relationships, and the impact of building with heart rather than just for scale. With touching stories, laughs, and some honest takes on today’s design trends, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about the people side of building beautiful homes.
Episode 17 - Michael + Danielle Gutelli of Clark + Aldine
Michael and Danielle outline their unique branding and how each project has a naming strategy that makes them unique and special. A 2nd-grade teacher and a marketing and advertising guru left what they knew while having their first child to start a new business. 5 years and 10,000 hours of practicing their art form in the form of an informative blog transformed into a top-notch residential design and build team.