Pro Construction Guide Podcast for Pros

ProConstruction Guide Podcasts

A podcast is a radio show you can listen to from your computer, phone, tablet, or other device any time you want. You won’t want to miss what thousands of pros across America have already discovered; the Pro Construction Guide podcast brings the magazines and newsletters to life. Listen to the Pro Construction Guide Podcast for Prost for valuable insights from interviews of construction, remodeling, and maintenance pros. Hosts John and Dave bring decades of experience from the jobsite and will entertain while they educate. Pro Construction Guide Podcast for Pros is free. Subscribe today.

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You can always listen to our weekly podcasts on this page. If you prefer to listen and learn on the go, subscribe free at iTunes or Stitcher using the icons below, or in any other podcast app or aggregator. Once you’ve subscribed, all episodes will be delivered straight to your phone, tablet or other device automatically.

Now sure how to subscribe? Check out the videos on the right.

Episodes

Latest Episode 69: Growth hacks for contractors, Part 1

Construct-Ed.com Co-founder Jeremiah Rizzo joins us for the first of two episodes that cover 10 steps contractors can take to optimize their customer acquisition, retention and sales efforts. In this episode, Rizzo talks about why websites and SEO remain critical, why most contractor’s websites still fall short and what you can do to outclass the competition.

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Construction Podcast 68: Outdated telemarketing pose big risks

In his latest appearance on PROcast, construction attorney D.S. Berenson explains why remodelers and other contractors who don’t update their contracts and telemarketing practices risk being hit with big fines and multi-million-dollar civil judgements and what they can do to protect themselves.

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Construction Podcast 67: How to make money on every job

Ryan Parsons and his brother have made all kinds of mistakes growing their business, The Brothers That Just Do Gutters. Parsons shares his hard-earned formula and lessons for making money on any remodeling project.

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Construction Podcast 66: Welcome to the new Pro Masonry Guide

Kevin Kilpatrick, founder and publisher, introduces Pros to a new media platform – Pro Masonry Guide – that provides how-to construction articles, tools and products, and much more. It’s the first bi-lingual masonry magazines, newsletter and website. Kilpatrick also updates listeners about Pro Construction Guide and Constru-Guia al dia.

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Construction Podcast 65: Social media tools for remodelers

In this podcast about social media toolbox for remodelers, Andy Bergren of Group Two Advertising, an agency that specializes in remodeler and construction contractors, tells Pros what social media platforms they should use to boost leads and sales – plus which ones not to bother with. Bergren also provides great easy – and free – ideas for what to post.

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Construction Podcast 64: Easy weatherization projects = profits for Pros

Todd Cox, owner of Weaterization Experts, tells Pros about the low-hanging fruit projects – mastic ducts, seal penetrations, install insulation, seal doors and windows – that are highly profitable for contractor. Cox says the project that provides the best “bang for the buck” for clients is sealing ducts with mastic.

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Construction Podcast 63: 10 great tool gifts for $25, $50 and $100

Clint DeBoer, editor-in-chief of Pro Tool Reviews, presents 10 great holiday tool gifts for the Pro. The tools run the gamut from a 15-inch prybar to a box level to an ultra-lightweight portable jacket. There’s something for every contractor on your gift list – including you.
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Construction Podcast 62: How to select the right engineered wood for the job

Renee Morgan, a structural frame engineer at Weyerhaeuser, provides the features and benefits of the different types of engineered woods, and describes which types of are right for your jobs. Also, Ron Jumper, founder of ProFinder USA, talks about how his new service can help Pros easily find jobs in the construction industry. Visit profinderusa.com. PROcast sponsored by ProFinder USA.
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Construction Podcast 61: Remodeling packages increase revenues

Bob Knight has a sure-fire way to increase revenues. Instead of using traditional markup practices, the Pro sells his customers on packages of products and services for set prices. Listen to how Knight and his team have been using this successful sales technique for decades. To learn more about Knight’s company, Paul Homes, click here.
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Construction Podcast 60: Free content and rebates for Pros

Kevin Kilpatrick, founder and publisher of Pro Construction Guide, tells listeners about the latest happenings with the brand, including why Pros should subscribe to the free newsletters and a new savings program called Rebates for Pros. To sign up for the newsletter click here.
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Construction Podcast 59: How to close more remodeling sales

Andy Wells, president of Normandy Remodeling, tells Pros how to clinch more sales. First, he says, you have to win the homeowners’ trust, then they won’t be focused on price. The second thing potential clients buy on are your design work. For more information about Wells’ company visit normandyremodeling.com.
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Construction Podcast 58: Effective communication, key for productive work relationship

Elizabeth and Anthony Wilder have owned a successful remodeling firm for decades — and they’re still married. They say the key to a productive work relationship with relatives and staff is effective communication. Learn tips from this dynamic husband-and-wife team.
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Construction Podcast 57: Building profits by building composite decks

Tim Stephens of Archadeck talks about why homeowners love composite decks and how easy they are to build. Best of all, Stephens, who has been building decks for decades, says composite materials reduce callbacks and warrantee claims. You can find our more information about composite decking at his website: west-central-ohio.archadeck.com.
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Construction Podcast 56: Best new tools for the Pro

Clint DeBoer, editor in chief of Pro Tool Reviews, talks about the best new tools for professional contractors, including DeWalt’s FlexVolt technology and ones from RIDGID and RYOBI. He also reveals the winners of a 12V drill shoot out, and EGO’s move into snowblowers and backpack blowers. For more information about these and other tools visit protoolreviews.com. This podcast was sponsored by GE Appliances.
Click here to listen or download.

Construction Podcast 55: How to improve indoor air quality

Gord Cooke, an engineer and building scientist, provides Pros with easy ways to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) of clients’ homes so that the homeowners and houses both remain healthy. Cooke, a partner in Construction Instruction, has worked in the construction industry for decades. You can find our more information about IAQ at his website: constructioninstruction.com
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Construction Podcast 54: Hardwood flooring installation problems and solutions

Ken Fisher has been installing and selling hardwood flooring for decades. He provides Pros expert tips for avoiding installation woes, especially ones due to excessive moisture in basements and crawlspaces.
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Construction Podcast 53: How to spot clients from hell

Jeb Breithaupt has a name for clients you just can’t seem to satisfy: He calls them “clients from hell.” This third-generation builder/remodeler tells Pros how to spot these these homeowners and how to avoid signing contracts with them. Podcast sponsored by Ram.
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Construction Podcast 52: Kitchen remodeling dos and don’ts

Award-winning remodeler Bob Gockeler provides Pros with step-by-step instructions for remodeling any size kitchen within any budget. Gockeler’s proven approach creates profits and happy clients. One great tip: set up a low-cost kitchen in another room during construction. Customers will love you. Check out Gockeler’s work at kmrenovate.com. Podcast sponsored by Delta.
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Construction Podcast 51: How to boost revenues by renovating homes for sale

Greg Hanner tells Pros how they can discover a new stream of revenues and profits by helping homeowners and realtors repair and remodel homes for sale. Greg is a custom builder and a realtor with years of experience doing this work. Greg’s website is gardenrealty.com.
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Construction Podcast 50: How to install the best mechanical system

In this episode, building scientist Justin Wilson discusses the importance of properly sizing HVAC systems, system efficiency, improving air distribution throughout a home and educating homeowners about SEER ratings and why bigger HVAC systems aren’t necessarily better. Wilson is a partner in Construction Instruction, which provides building science consulting and other services to builders, remodelers and manufacturers. He can be reached at 719-375-9300. Also, check out the free CI app that provides construction details and animated and narrated videos.
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Construction Podcast 49: How to install a leak-proof window

In this episode sponsored by GE Appliances, building scientist Mark LaLiberte discusses how to properly install a window, including air sealing, flexible membranes and caulks. LaLiberte is a partner in Construction Instruction, which provides building science consulting and other services to builders, remodelers and manufacturers. He can be reached at 719-375-9300. Also, check out the free CI app that provides construction details and animated and narrated videos.
Click here to listen or download.

Construction Podcast 48: Paint trends and application tips

In this episode, Jerry Rabushka, editor of The Paint Contractor and The Paint Dealer, updates Pros on the latest paint trends and formulations that they need to know about, as well as providing tips about how to choose the right brushes and providing great service. For more information about painting and color trends, visit To learn more about paints and applications, visit The Paint Dealer at paintdealer.com or The Paint Contractor at tpcmag.com. Or, contact Jerry at jrabushka@painterdealer.com or at 314-984-0800.
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Construction Podcast 47: Should you buy a construction franchise?

In this episode, remodeler Ryan Parsons shares the pros and cons of owning a franchise business, and helps you determine if you should buy a construction franchise. The firm that Ryan Parsons owns with his brother, Ken, the Brothers Who Just Do Gutters, almost shut down during the recession. He said he and Ken learned a lot from their mistakes, and began developing and implementing systems so that their company could thrive during a down turn, and most important, without them their every day. Brothers Gutters, now an award-winning remodeling company, started franchising its successful business in 201. For more information about Ryan and the Brothers Who Just Do Gutters, visit www.brothersgutters.com or call 866-550-3569.
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Construction Podcast 46: Best insurance policies for Pros

Kevin Glaser, an insurance expert who works with Pros, provides an overview of insurance policy types and how to select the best policies for construction businesses. Kevin encourages Pros to visit his website www.riscllc.com for general insurance information. His book, “Inside the Insurance Industry,” is available on Amazon.
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Construction Podcast 45: Benefits of working with an architect

Lee Calisti, a long-time successful architect, tells Pros about the benefits of working with an architect, and how a collaborative relationship can increase customer satisfaction and help boost contractors’ profits.
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Construction Podcast 44: Common builder mistakes – foundations and framing

Matt Risinger, a remodeler and builder in Austin, tells Pros that the best way to reduce mistakes and callbacks in these categories is by hiring a top-notch framer, paying attention to the details during the framing process, and installing quality products, especially engineered lumber subfloors.
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Construction Podcast 43: Best new tools for Construction Pros

Clint DeBoer, founder of Pro Tool Reviews, shares the best new contractor-grade tools he and his team have seen and tested in recent months, including an oil pulse driver and a cordless dual-slide miter saw and bunch of great hammer drills and LED lights. Click here to listen or download.

Construction Podcast 42: Remodeling a home with lead-based paint

The EPA’s Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) rule has been in effect since 2010, but a lot of Pros don’t know much about it. It applies to homes and apartments built before 1978 that contain lead-based paint. Remodeler David Merrick tells you how to protect your clients and your workers when remodeling a home with lead-based paint so you don’t get fined.
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Construction Podcast 41: Legal issues affecting construction contractors

There are two big legal issues affecting construction contractors that all construction company owners need know about: how to properly classify 1099 installation workers and how to create a project contract that’s legal in the state you do business. Attorney D.S. Berenson, who works exclusively with Pros, says owners who don’t classify workers correctly or who don’t have plain-English contracts that protect their businesses potentially face tens of thousands of dollars in fines, taxes and legal fees. Berenson tells Pros how to stay out of trouble.
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Construction Podcast 40: Hot product trends in the construction industry

Building Products expert Katy Tomasulo talks about the hot product trends in the construction industry that all contractors should know about. She focuses on products that customers are craving for their homes – and will pay extra for – such as bigger pantries, quartz countertops, spa-like showers, pet baths and charging stations.
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Construction Podcast 39: Benefits of modular buildings

Modular housing is gaining ground with remodelers and builders nationwide. Chip Lofton, owner of Cardinal Homes, a modular homebuilder, explains the features and benefits of modular building for contractors and homeowners. Modular houses and additions are built in a factory to exacting specifications. The homes are delivered to the jobsite and are erected quickly. And although there is a labor shortage, the builder doesn’t need a large crew to finish the home on site, saving the contractor time and labor costs. Finally, the homeowner gets a house that is extremely tight, uses less heating and air conditioning per tonnage and that is perfectly square.
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Construction Podcast 38: Creating a low-cost marketing/advertising plan

Andy Bergren discusses why remodelers and other contractors should write a marketing/advertising plan, and what are the most important things that should be included in that plan. Bergren, who works for Group Two, a Philadephia-based agency that works exclusively with remodelers and builders, recommends components for every plan.
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Construction Podcast 37: How to avoid construction business pitfalls

Hosts John Gordon and David Dovell, who have worked in the housing industry for more than 30 years each, discuss the top reasons construction businesses fail and speak to key elements of the business that position companies to avoid the typical pitfalls.
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Construction Podcast 36: How contractors can create great customer experiences

Geoff Graham, founder of GuildQuality, tells professional contractors how they can boost referrals and revenues by creating great experiences for customers. Graham says the first step is to ask some customers if you could spend a little time with them so you can hear first-hand what it’s like to deal with you and your team. Second, create a survey. Ask your customers to give you a rating on a four-point scale and to provide written comments. Send the survey to customers via email. Finally, share the survey results with your staff.
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Construction Podcast 35: Hidden costs of remodeling

Remodelers and other contractors can lose a lot of money if they don’t know the hidden costs in remodeling projects. Debra Moore, who has been a remodeler for decades, tells listeners how to eliminate the hidden costs and make more money. Moore, owner of Custom Design/Build, says the hidden costs show up in five areas: the clients, the project, the sales and marketing process, site supervision and site specifications. The ideal project is the one that makes you the most profit with the least stress, so you need to assess your team’s strengths and weakness with each project.
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Construction Podcast 34: Light commercial remodeling equals more profits

John Price, owner of Artisan Construction & Design, describes why his firm started doing light commercial work in addition to residential remodeling, and how it helped his company survive – and thrive – during the recession. He told host David Dovell and John Gordon that the benefits of commercial work include having contracts that are bigger and longer and less “hand holding” of clients, and that working with other pros is very gratifying. But you have to demonstrate you can do that level of work, you must document everything, and you must carry more insurance. Plus, you have to find subs who can work at a higher level, and you have to pay close attention to the architect’s plan and notes.
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Construction Podcast 33: Make money with your construction business

Ryan Parsons, the co-owner of the Brothers That Just Do Gutters, advises contractors how to get out of the field and into the office in order to run their construction businesses more effectively and profitably. Parsons said Pros need to know their numbers, train their staffs like it’s their own job and manage production efficiently. Parsons says one of the biggest issues small contracting businesses face is that their owners charge by the square foot, not by the hour, and they don’t have a clue what their production costs are. They end up in business just to pay employees. Once the owners understand the numbers, they need to train their employees so that they can grow the company, easily replace workers who resign and add more teams. If a guy isn’t willing to come to meetings and learn, fire him, Parsons says.
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Construction Podcast 32: Cordless power tool trends

Clint DeBoer, of Pro Tool Reviews, provides contractors with information about and insights into latest trends in this tool category. In this PROcast, DeBoer, whose team at the tool review website tests hundreds of tools each year, talks about the explosion of power tools — especially tools that were once exclusively corded now going cordless. He also talks about the trends in lighter weight and lithium-ion (LI) batteries, especially how LI batteries provide longer run times. Finally, he tells hosts John Gordon and David Dovell that the NiCad batteries are done, but that some companies still are committed to the technology for older tools.
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Construction Podcast 31: How to install a skylight

In this PROcast, Remodeler Jim Hicks tells contractors how to sell skylights to clients, and provides Pros step-by-step instructions and tips on how to expertly install a skylight. Hicks also reviews the various types of skylights on the market: conventional, deck, curve-mounted and cathedral; adjustable with blinds or vents; manual, electric and solar powered; and sun tunnels, which are not really skylights but cost much less. Plus, the remodeler explains why it’s important to show homeowners how to operate their new skylights when the installation is completed.
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Construction Podcast 30: How to prevent common HVAC mistakes

Carl Seville, a former remodeler and an expert in sustainable building, reviewed some common HVAC installation mistakes, and provided tips on how contractors can correct or prevent them.
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Construction Podcast 29: Get your remodeling projects published

Stacey Freed, former senior editor at Remodeling magazine, explains the benefits to remodelers and other contractors of getting their projects published in magazines and online. Articles can serve as an extension of a Pro’s website, and can inspire clients. If the article is published in a magazine, Freed advised contractors to place copies of the publication in local doctors’ and dentists’ offices and other places with heavy customer traffic. Freed laid out a step-by-step approach for researching the best publications for specific contractors’ needs, and then how to reach out to those media companies with story ideas and photographs.
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Construction Podcast 28: How to ventilate a crawlspace

Building science expert Justin Wilson talks with host David Dovell about the importance of properly ventilating a crawlspace, explaining the damage moisture can cause and how it negatively affects indoor air quality — what gets in the crawlspace, gets in the house.
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Episode 27: How to grow your construction business

Ryan Parsons, co-owner of the Brothers That Just Do Gutters, tells you how to expand your sales and profits through employee training.
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Construction Podcast 26: Smart home technologies

Explore the latest technologies that integrate appliances and equipment from Wink’s Brett Worthington.
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Construction Podcast 25: What’s cooking with kitchen trends

Guest Bethany Major, GE Appliances, talks about the latest kitchen trends. She notes that homeowners want their smart phones and tablets with them at all times, so GE is producing remote-controlled, Wi-Fi-connected appliances. She also says that transitional-style kitchens are popular because they aren’t as stark as contemporary kitchens and are less formal than traditional ones. Another trend across the industry as baby boomers grow older is “aging-in-place” concepts, which inspire adjustments in washers and dryers, among other appliances, and in kitchen design.
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Construction Podcast 24: Best practices for eliminating mold

Building scientist Gord Cooke provides expert advice about how to clean up mold and keep it from coming back.
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Construction Podcast 23: Profiting through social media

In this PROcast, David Dovell talks to marketing/advertising expert Mollie Elkman about using free social media to boost sales. The website Houzz is specifically about housing, and Elkman recommends contractors begin by posting their company’s work there because Houzz can direct web traffic back to your homepage. Elkman also says good photography is key; it doesn’t have be taken by a professional, but you should consider investing in a high-quality camera. Elkman also says it’s important to keep your Facebook posts positive, and that it’s important to review Facebook analytics to understand your web traffic and to track ads.
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Construction Podcast 22: Profiting from aging in place services

Remodeler/lawyer Dan Bawden has found a successful niche focusing on projects that keep older people in their homes. Click here to listen or download.

Construction Podcast 21: How to build a website for contractors

Guest Bethany Major, an account manager for GE Appliances, talks about the latest kitchen trends with PROcast hosts John Gordon and David Dovell. She notes that homeowners want their smart phones and tablets with them at all times, so GE is producing remote-controlled, Wi-Fi-connected appliances. She also says that transitional-style kitchens are popular because they aren’t as stark as contemporary kitchens and are less formal than traditional ones. Another trend across the industry as baby boomers grow older is “aging-in-place” concepts, which inspire adjustments in washers and dryers, among other appliances, and in kitchen design. Finally, Major mentions that open living spaces still are very popular, and that they call for quiet appliances and simple looks.
Click here to listen or download