Q & A Episode 31 - Sales: Tips + Takeaways #1
In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, Mark Williams gets into some seriously game-changing sales tips for builders. He shares insights from recent Curious Builder Collective meet-ups, where they chatted about everything from asking for referrals (seriously, just ask!) to using educational blog content and staying consistent on social media. Mark also highlights the magic of authentic storytelling and learning from both wins and mess-ups to boost future sales.
Q & A Episode 30 - Beyond Aesthetics: How Luxury Homes Are Prioritizing Health
In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams chats about the latest buzz in luxury homes—wellness suites! These are all about blending saunas, cold plunges, and good vibes with smart home designs to boost health and happiness. Mark also dishes on the importance of choosing materials that are kind to both us and the planet and how storytelling can really help clients get on board with these wellness trends.
Q & A Episode 29 - Culture vs. Strategy: Brad and Mark Talk Shop
In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams chats with Brad Robinson Bradford from Bradford Custom Homes and Remodeling about the importance of setting goals, maintaining robust team communication, and the challenges of scaling a business. They dive into personal anecdotes about balancing work and life, the significance of regular employee check-ins, and the influence of leadership styles on team performance. Plus, they share some fun and quirky moments about Minnesota's chilly adventures and the power of collective inspiration.
Q & A Episode 28 - From Failures to Success: Insider Tips from a Veteran Builder
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams talks about the ups and downs of running a business and why it's crucial to stay steady during tough times. He shares some personal stories about navigating a challenging year, the importance of persistence, and how small builders make a big impact on society. Plus, Mark highlights the benefits of joining the Curious Collectives for those looking to connect and grow with other like-minded pros.
Q & A Episode 27 - How Sauna Camp Can Kickstart Your 2025 Goal Setting!
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams kicks off the new year with a sneak peek into his ambitious goal-setting strategies and exciting plans for 2025. From launching the Mysa Hus project to training for a 100-mile trail run, Mark shares how he intends to stay focused and energized both personally and professionally. Plus, don’t miss the scoop on the upcoming Sauna Camp wellness retreat at Lake Minnewashta and other inspiring events.
Q & A Episode 26 - Little Builders with Big Dreams: You Won't Believe Their Answers!
In this fun and heartwarming kids edition of The Curious Builder Podcast, May, Simon, and Tate share their adorable and creative business ideas, who they’d love to work with, and the books that inspire them. The episode kicks off with Mark announcing an exciting wellness retreat. Join us for a dose of youthful imagination and community spirit!
Q & A Episode 25 - The Power of One: How One Scary Goal Can Change Everything in 2025!
In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams dives deep into the idea of Misogi, a Japanese tradition of taking on one challenging task each year to shape the remaining days positively. Reflecting on his own past year and pondering goals for 2025, Mark emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, facing fears, and striving for personal growth, while also keeping us excited about the upcoming Sauna Camp in Minnesota.
Q & A Episode 24 - 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.
Q & A Episode 23 - How Signing a 2x4 Can Change Your Legacy Forever!
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 heartfelt exploration of what it means to leave a lasting impact through one's work.
Q & A Episode 22 - Can Saying "Thank You" Transform Your Business?
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!
Q & A Episode 21 - Learning from Bid Losses and Crafting Year-End Strategies
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.
Q & A Episode 20 - Managing Time Like a Pro: Builder's Tips on Efficient Scheduling
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.
Q & A Episode 19 - Empowering Female Builders: How The Curious Builder Podcast Plans to Shape 2025
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 connect industry professionals. Tune in to catch all the details!
Q & A Episode 18 - Overcoming the Beggars Can't Be Choosers Mentality
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 relationships and the power of asking for help.
Q & A Episode 17 - Legacy and Community Impact in Custom Home Building
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 the industry.
Q & A Episode 16 - How Modern Technology Shapes Luxury Home Design, Construction, and Marketing
Mark discusses strategies for managing project managers and construction supervisors, including setting realistic expectations, creating schedule buffers, and improving the punch list process. He also shares his optimism about the future of the residential construction industry, citing opportunities for mentorship, entrepreneurship, and the use of technology to address labor shortages.
Q & A Episode 15 - What You Missed at the CSBUA Summit and the Contractor Coalition Summit
We are breaking down the breaking down the key takeaways from the recent CBUSA Summit in Minneapolis and the Contractors Coalition Summit in Boston. Don't miss it!
Q & A Episode 14 - Word-of-Mouth Referrals in Combination with Social Media will Change Your Business Forever
Mark Shares the role of social media influence and word-of-mouth marketing in the building industry. He discusses the varying approaches builders can take, from embracing social media to relying on reputation and personal relationships, and the importance of providing exceptional client experiences to encourage positive recommendations.
Q & A Episode 13 - Mental and Emotional Wellness for Builders
Mark discusses the launch of two new events - Sauna Camp and Boot Camp - aimed at promoting wellness, community, and personal growth within the construction industry. He also announces the expansion of the Curious Builder Collective to include a group for designers.
Q & A Episode 12 - Guiding Your Client Through The Renovation Vs. New Home Decision
Mark Shares the key considerations in determining the right time to transition a client from a renovation to a new home, emphasizing the importance of long-term trade partner relationships, setting client expectations, and implementing effective communication strategies throughout the project management process.