The Contractor Commute

Wyatt has been in the construction industry for years, but it wasn't until he was laid off that he started his own company to keep moving forward. A year later, we got the chance to sit down with Wyatt to talk about his leadership, the highs, the lows, and how he kept moving forward despite it all.See some of Wyatt's work at Blacktail Builders LLC: Fine Woodworking & Custom Builds in Douglas & Coos County | Call (541) 378-6971Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

We’re busting the myth that “more jobs mean more money.” Accidental success may feel good, but it can’t support long-term growth. Scaling may lead to more business and revenue, but it could bring even bigger headaches. Discover why mastering a proven, replicable formula is the key to sustainable success, using data-driven systems, streamlined processes, and reliable checklists to deliver consistent results.We’ll also explore strategies for filling your pipeline with the right leads, confidently saying no to bad fits, and ensuring every job contributes to your bottom line.Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

We're taking a look back at one of our first episodes and giving it some new life!If you are looking to start your own construction business and strike out on your own, this episode is for you.We'll cover when to consider making the leap, what you need to get started, costs of business, and what your role might look like.Looking to get started? Here is a quick guide on how to start marketing for free!Marketing 101: A Guide for Contractors and Construction Pros - ConGeniusStay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

Travis’s journey from photography to co-founding Catalyst Construction is a testament to hard work and passion for craftsmanship. As a master electrician and HVAC professional, he shares insights on balancing technical excellence with client needs, mentoring teams, and advancing building science. Learn how his nonprofit, Building Science Symposium, has raised nearly $160,000 for skilled trades education and why he believes in committing to the process and staying passionate about your craft. Learn more about the Building Science Symposiums: https://bsandbeerkc.org/introductionSee the work that Travis and Catalyst Construction do: https://www.catalystbuilt.com/Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

Want to seem like a genius? Start by asking great questions. In this episode, we explore how the smartest people embrace what they don’t know, use curiosity as their superpower, and break communication barriers to truly understand their customers. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

In this episode, we explore managing stress and how to handle being overwhelmed by assessing emotions and separating feelings from facts. Learn to identify root causes, reset your perspective, and prioritize action steps to regain control and stay grounded—even in challenging times. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

In this episode, Brent Hull joins us as we dive into the impact of today’s quick-fix culture on quality craftsmanship, from the pressures of fast delivery to the challenges builders face as they navigate a "Snap and Place" society. We explore how Americans have become champions of the "cheap and quick," often at the expense of true quality. You will hear strategies for educating clients on the value of quality processes, ways to show clients when and why quality matters, and approaches to knowledge sharing, especially crucial as experienced teams transition and age out. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

On today's episode of The Contractor Commute, we’re diving into a critical question: "What should I charge vs. what can I charge?" Whether you’re a new contractor figuring out your pricing strategy or a seasoned pro looking to increase your value, this conversation is for you. We’ll explore how to evaluate your worth, adjust for market conditions, and assess if your value has shifted—whether for better or worse—as you navigate uncertain times. Tune in to make sure you're charging what you're truly worth! Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

What sets Brad Leavitt, and AFT Construction, apart in the construction and contracting world? We dive deep into his journey—exploring how he built his business from the ground up, the valuable lessons he’s learned along the way, and how he leads his team with vision and purpose. Check out what Brad and his team can do! AFT Construction | Luxury Custom Home Builder in ScottsdaleStay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback

Dan Parish is the Founder and CEO of Millworks by Design, a premier carpentry firm just outside Los Angeles.We’re excited to have Dan join us for this episode, where he’ll share how he's developed a unique approach to training the next generation of carpenters and craftsmen.In this conversation, we’ll dive into key topics such as:Building a training system that elevates your team while boosting your sales abilityCreating buy-in, even on a tight budgetThe crucial role of accurate estimating and its impact on successStay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew:Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, Takeoff, and Estimating Software | ConGeniusFacebook: ConGenius | Springfield MO (facebook.com)Youtube: ConGenius - YouTubeEmail podcast@congenius.com for questions and feedback