Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Build Line | Construction Business Podcast
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| E24: Discounts Are Killing Your Reputation (And Why Your Customers Hate Them) | 28 Jul 2026 | 01:08:44 | |
Episode 24 of The Build Line Podcast takes a hard look at why discounting may be doing more damage to your construction business than you realize. Heather and Jerry unpack the fear behind lowering your price, the pressure to keep crews busy, and why the project you discount to get signed often becomes the project you regret taking. They share real stories about jobs priced too cheaply, how disappearing margins affect communication and morale, and why customers may trust you less when your pricing changes too quickly. This episode covers: • Why contractors discount out of fear instead of strategy Whether you're a contractor, subcontractor, business owner, or homeowner preparing for a remodel, this episode explains why competing on price rarely creates a better experience for anyone involved. The Build Line Podcast is hosted by Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer, bringing builders, trades, and homeowners together for honest conversations about construction, leadership, and business. Special thanks to our partners for supporting The Build Line Podcast: Buildertrend – Construction project management software built for better communication, organization, and more profitable projects. Panoramic Doors – Innovative door systems designed to create seamless indoor-outdoor living. Republic Elite Integration – Premium home technology, lighting, audio, networking, and smart home integration. Katlyn Slocum Design – Strategic website design and digital marketing for construction professionals. BuildBar – A community built for contractors who want to grow better businesses through proven systems, leadership, and accountability. | |||
| E23: Ask Us Anything: Lessons We've Learned Running a Construction Company | 21 Jul 2026 | 00:40:12 | |
Bonus Episode 23 of The Build Line Podcast puts Heather and Jerry in the hot seat as they answer real questions submitted by contractors, homeowners, and listeners. From knowing when to say no to a project to losing money on jobs, hiring the right people, and the biggest lessons they've learned from past guests, this candid conversation offers an unfiltered look at the realities of running a construction business. Heather shares the systems and mindset that have shaped Tankersley Build Co., while Jerry brings the subcontractor perspective on communication, relationships with general contractors, and what separates the companies he'll gladly work with again from the ones he'll avoid. This episode covers: Whether you're a contractor, subcontractor, business owner, or entrepreneur, this Ask Us Anything episode is packed with practical lessons, honest stories, and real-world advice you can apply to your own business. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Buildertrend Republic Elite Integration Panoramic Doors Katlyn Slocum Web Design Build-Bar | |||
| E14: Why Most Builders Never Break Into Ultra Luxury with David Kasavan | 07 Apr 2026 | 01:15:36 | |
What does it really take to break into ultra luxury construction markets like Pebble Beach and Carmel? In this episode of The Build Line, we sit down with David Kasavan, founder of Kasavan Construction, to talk about the real path from early hustle to building a company in some of the most competitive and relationship driven markets in the country. This is not about overnight success. It is about risk, visibility, leadership, and the moments that either push you forward or almost take you out. David shares what the early days actually looked like before the brand, the momentum, and the high end projects and the decisions that helped him earn trust in markets where reputation is everything. We get into:
If you are trying to move into bigger projects, better clients, and higher level work, this episode gives you a real look at what it takes to get there and what it costs along the way. No shortcuts. No theory. Just how it actually works. | |||
| E13: The Addiction to Risk in Entrepreneurship With John Moore | 24 Mar 2026 | 01:06:51 | |
In Episode 13 of The Build Line, Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer sit down with John Moore, founder of JM Environmental, one of California’s leading demolition and environmental abatement companies. John shares the story behind building a high risk business in one of the most demanding sectors of construction. From the early days of grinding through uncertainty to scaling a company with real systems, leadership, and accountability, he breaks down what it actually takes to grow in a high consequence industry. The conversation explores the mindset behind taking big risks in business, the moments where those bets paid off, and the times they did not. John talks candidly about leadership mistakes, growth challenges, and the lessons learned while building a company from the ground up. Outside of business, John lives life at full speed. As a racer with deep roots in motocross and NASCAR, he shares how the discipline, adrenaline, and focus required on the track mirrors the mindset needed to lead and scale a company. This episode is about betting on yourself, building something real, and learning how to operate when the stakes are high. If you are a contractor, entrepreneur, or leader trying to grow a business while managing risk and pressure, this conversation will resonate. In this episode: Learn more about John Moore and JM Environmental: Follow The Build Line: New episodes featuring builders, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders shaping the future of construction. | |||
| E12: Why People Buy YOU Before Your Company With Rob Laird | 10 Mar 2026 | 01:03:09 | |
What if the thing holding your business back isn’t systems, leads, or capital - but your brand? In Episode 12 of The Build Line, Heather and Jerry sit down with Rob Laird, a multi-industry entrepreneur who has built businesses across real estate, lending, and consumer products by leading with trust, visibility, and reputation. Rob breaks down why brand must come before scale, how a visible leader creates confidence in uncertain markets, and why most construction and service business owners struggle to show up publicly. They dig into failure, pressure, and what happens when your reputation is tested—and how strong brands recover faster. The conversation also explores what Rob learned building Dios Azul and which consumer-brand lessons directly apply to contractors, builders, and service professionals. If you want growth that compounds, and not just attention, this episode will change how you think about branding. Contact Rob: https://www.instagram.com/lairdlife/ Dios Azul Tequila: | |||
| E11: The Best Salespeople Don’t Sound Like Salespeople With Matt Saia | 24 Feb 2026 | 01:14:19 | |
Most contractors are great builders and terrible salespeople and it is costing them time, margin, and confidence. In this episode of The Build Line, we sit down with Matt Saia, independent consultant and sales trainer with Sandler Sales, for a deep dive into why traditional contractor sales conversations fail and what the top performers do differently. Matt breaks down the typical contractor sales process and explains where trust is lost before it is ever built. We talk about why pitching too early kills confidence, how price becomes the only differentiator, and why strong operators often struggle the most in sales conversations. The episode also explores money beliefs, profit guilt in construction, and the responsibility builders have to run profitable companies. We discuss how mission, core values, and vision must be defined before growth, and why the ability to say no is one of the most powerful skills a leader can develop. You will learn: This episode is essential listening for builders, remodelers, and business owners who want better clients, stronger margins, and sales conversations that actually work. Key takeaway: Sales is not convincing. It is clarity, confidence, and discipline. Contact Matt at: https://go.sandler.com/salesleadership/about-us/meet-our-team/ | |||
| E10: Your Friends Might Be Killing Your Growth | 10 Feb 2026 | 01:02:44 | |
In this episode of The Build Line, Jerry and Heather go solo for an unfiltered conversation about finding the right room and why staying loyal to the wrong one can cost you more than you realize. They share personal stories of doubt from people closest to them, how confidence was rebuilt outside familiar circles, and why growth often creates tension in relationships that once felt safe. This episode dives into the uncomfortable truth that some people love you more when you stay small. You’ll hear a raw breakdown of: The episode closes with real questions from the audience and a hard truth segment that challenges listeners to take ownership of their environment and future. This episode is for builders, entrepreneurs, and leaders who feel stuck, underestimated, or conflicted about outgrowing familiar spaces. Key takeaway: Staying loyal to the wrong room is disloyal to your future. | |||
| E9: From Intern to CEO - Building a $100M Construction Company with Chris Cormier | 27 Jan 2026 | 01:08:17 | |
What does it actually take to rise from intern to CEO inside an established construction company? In this episode of The Build Line, we sit down with Chris Cormier, CEO and co owner of Tricorp Group, to unpack a rare leadership journey built from the inside out. Chris shares how he started at the bottom, earned trust over time, and navigated the difficult transition from employee to owner. We talk candidly about leadership mistakes, pressure moments, imposter syndrome, and what it’s like leading people who were once your peers. The conversation also dives into: This episode is for builders, entrepreneurs, and professionals who are ambitious, hungry to grow, and questioning whether leadership and ownership are possible without starting from scratch. Key takeaway: You don’t have to start something to build something meaningful. | |||
| E8: Why Most Builders Lose Control as They Grow With Ryan Kelly | 13 Jan 2026 | 01:03:52 | |
Ryan Kelly, owner of KHB Construction, joins Heather and Jerry to talk about what it really takes to grow a construction company without losing control, culture, or profitability. Ryan shares lessons learned while scaling KHB Construction, the systems that brought clarity instead of complexity, and how strong leadership creates accountability at every level. They dive into hiring the right people, letting go of day to day control without lowering standards, and building a business that can grow beyond the owner. This episode is a must listen for builders who are serious about sustainable growth and long term success. | |||
| E7: Why Most GC and Sub Relationships Fail and How to Fix Them | 30 Dec 2025 | 01:08:30 | |
Most GC and Sub relationships do not fail because of bad work. They fail because of broken trust, poor communication, and unmet expectations. In this episode of The Build Line, Heather and Jerry sit down for a raw, unfiltered GC versus Sub conversation with no prep and no script. They openly share what drives each side crazy, why trust matters more than the lowest bid, and how respect on the job site directly impacts profit, efficiency, and long term survival. They dive into why communication breaks down on both sides of the job, where entitlement quietly shows up and erodes trust, how GCs and Subs can actually set each other up for success instead of working at odds, and why strong relationships are ultimately what carry businesses through the slow seasons and into long term stability. This is not about picking sides. It is about fixing what is broken so everyone wins. If you are a GC, a subcontractor, or a business owner who depends on strong partnerships, this episode is for you. | |||
| E6: Why Building in California Is So Expensive With Senator Roger Niello | 16 Dec 2025 | 01:02:56 | |
What really happens when a lifelong business leader steps into public office? In this episode of The Build Line, Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer sit down with California State Senator Roger Niello for a candid, insightful conversation at the intersection of business, construction, and public policy. Roger shares his journey from leading a multi generation family business to shaping legislation at the state level, including the real story behind SB517 and the fight for transparency and accountability in the construction industry. The conversation dives deep into the realities of running a business in California, the challenges of regulation, the impact of unlicensed contracting, and what true “good policy” looks like for homeowners and contractors alike. They also explore why Roger chose public service, what gives him optimism for California’s future, and how entrepreneurs can play a meaningful role in shaping the communities they live and build in. From the underground economy to the power of public private partnerships like the Rancho Cordova Community Food Hub, this episode delivers both hard truths and real hope. If you care about business, leadership, construction, and the future of California, this is an episode you do not want to miss. | |||
| E5: What Separates Average Builders From Elite Builders With Brad Leavitt | 02 Dec 2025 | 00:53:45 | |
Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction joins Heather and Jerry for an honest conversation about what it takes to build one of the best run companies in the construction industry. We talk about managing clients without getting pulled into drama, the emotional difference between residential and commercial work, and how to scale responsibly with solid systems. Brad also shares how AFT uses social media as a real business tool and why culture has become their biggest advantage. A packed episode full of practical insight for builders, leaders, and anyone growing a company. | |||
| E22: The Contract You Didn't Read Could Cost You Everything | 14 Jul 2026 | 01:19:08 | |
Episode 22 of The Build Line Podcast tackles one of the most overlooked risks in construction: the contracts you sign before the work ever begins. Hosts Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer sit down with construction attorney Greg Wayland to discuss the legal mistakes contractors make every day, why so many disputes could have been prevented, and how better documentation protects both contractors and clients. Greg breaks down complex legal concepts into plain English, explaining indemnification, subcontractor agreements, change orders, payment terms, and why communication failures are at the center of so many construction disputes. Heather shares how Tankersley Build Co. structures its contracts, purchase orders, and project documentation to reduce risk, while Jerry brings the subcontractor perspective on payment schedules, general contractor relationships, and the realities of working in the field. This episode covers: Whether you're a general contractor, subcontractor, or construction business owner, this episode offers practical advice that could save your business from costly disputes and strengthen the way you manage every project. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Buildertrend Republic Elite Integration Panoramic Doors Katlyn Slocum Web Design Build-Bar | |||
| E4: Why Most Builders Stay Stuck | 18 Nov 2025 | 01:07:19 | |
Episode 4 of the Build Line is out now and we get into the real version of entrepreneurship. Not the highlight reel. The wins. The weight. The why. We talk about the myths people buy into, the pros that keep you going, and the cons that no one warns you about. Risk, responsibility, burnout, flexibility, pride, and the honest truth of building something from the ground up. Heather and Jerry share real stories from missed weekends, big swings, close calls, the pressure of feeding families, and the pride of seeing a project succeed. Heather and Jerry dig into the guru culture online and why so much of what you see on social media is not the real thing. If you have ever built something, wanted to start something, or felt the tension between freedom and responsibility, this one will hit home. Stream Episode 4 and get ready for an honest conversation. | |||
| E3: Longevity in the Remodel Game with Dave Hollars of Kitchen Mart | 04 Nov 2025 | 00:59:00 | |
In this episode, Heather and Jerry welcome Dave Hollars, the man behind Kitchen Mart’s decades of success. They dig into how to balance quality and volume, why integrity still matters most, and what it takes to lead a team that truly stands the test of time. A masterclass in business endurance and staying true to your brand—this one’s for every builder or business owner looking to play the long game. | |||
| E2: Hiring, Firing, and Knowing When to Cut Ties | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:50:44 | |
In this episode of The Build Line, Heather and Jerry dig into one of the most defining parts of leadership — managing people and relationships. From the highs of hiring the right fit to the gut-check moments of letting someone go, they share personal stories about some of the toughest calls they’ve had to make. You’ll hear what they’ve learned about leading with integrity, when to fire fast, and even how to recognize when it’s time to “fire” a client. Real stories, real lessons, and a few laughs from the field and office alike. | |||
| E1: From the Truck to the Mic | 24 Oct 2025 | 00:45:41 | |
Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer share how The Build Line began — and why the construction industry needs more real, unfiltered conversations. From leadership and team growth to the funny chaos that happens off script, this episode sets the tone for what’s ahead. New episodes every other Tuesday. | |||
| E21: Cheap Is Killing Your Business | Candace & AJ Samrai | 30 Jun 2026 | 01:02:32 | |
Not every contractor earns a realtor's recommendation. And it's usually not about price. This week on The Build Line, Heather and Jerry sit down with luxury real estate team Candace and AJ Samrai to talk about what actually makes professionals referable. From creating an unforgettable client experience to protecting your reputation, qualifying clients, and knowing when to walk away from the wrong deal, this conversation is packed with lessons that apply far beyond real estate. Candace and AJ share how they brought a Southern California level of service to the Sacramento market, why the cheapest contractor often becomes the most expensive referral mistake, and how businesses can stand out by delivering value long after the transaction is complete. Whether you're a contractor, realtor, designer, or business owner, this episode will challenge the way you think about trust, communication, relationships, and building a business people can't stop recommending. In this episode:
Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Buildertrend – The leading construction management software helping contractors streamline projects, improve communication, and grow their businesses. Build-Bar – Helping contractors build stronger businesses through coaching, consulting, and proven operational systems. Panoramic Doors – Redefining indoor-outdoor living with beautifully engineered folding door systems. If you're enjoying The Build Line, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone in construction or real estate. Your support helps us continue bringing real conversations with the builders, leaders, and entrepreneurs shaping our industry. | |||
| E20: What We Wish We Knew Before Our First $1M Project | 16 Jun 2026 | 01:02:02 | |
Episode 20 of The Build Line Podcast tackles one of the biggest myths in construction: bigger projects do not automatically mean bigger profits. Hosts Heather Tankersley and Jerry Brewer pull back the curtain on what really happens when contractors land their first million-dollar project and why many builders aren't as ready as they think they are. Heather shares hard-earned lessons from managing large-scale remodels, including the financial exposure, client expectations, staffing challenges, and operational demands that come with bigger jobs. Jerry brings the subcontractor perspective, discussing where communication breaks down, how mistakes become more expensive, and why many contractors underestimate what it takes to successfully manage work at this scale. This episode covers: If you're chasing larger projects, this episode offers an honest look at the realities behind the numbers and the lessons every builder should learn before taking on their first million-dollar job. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Buildertrend Build Bar Panoramic Doors | |||
| E19: The Hardest Skill in Construction Isn’t Construction With Jennifer Edwards | 02 Jun 2026 | 01:17:52 | |
Episode 19 of The Build Line Podcast turns into a much deeper conversation than construction and business alone. Hosts Heather Tankersley of Tankersley Build Co. and Jerry Brewer sit down with Jennifer Edwards to talk about communication, structure, leadership, relationships, and the psychology behind how people operate at a high level. The conversation explores why the brain craves clear expectations, how structure actually creates more freedom, and why emotional intelligence and communication are becoming some of the most valuable skills in business today. Heather shares how parenting mirrors leadership inside a company, Jennifer explains why people perform better when expectations are clearly defined, and Jerry opens up about discomfort, growth, and learning to navigate different rooms and personalities. This episode covers: If you are a contractor, entrepreneur, leader, or someone trying to improve how you communicate and show up for others, this episode is a candid conversation about the human side of performance, relationships, and business growth. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Where to find Jennifer: Website: https://howtobridgethegap.com/about-us/about-jennifer/ | |||
| E18: Why Contractors Lie to Win Jobs and Why It Always Backfires | 19 May 2026 | 01:04:00 | |
Episode 18 of The Build Line Podcast dives into one of the biggest problems in construction: telling clients what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear. Hosts Heather Tankersley of Tankersley Build Co. and Jerry Brewer break down the real cost of unrealistic budgets, impossible timelines, and cutting corners just to win a project. They share firsthand stories about losing jobs by being honest, why some contractors overpromise early, and how those decisions almost always catch up to the client later. This episode covers: If you are a contractor, business owner, or homeowner navigating a construction project, this episode is a candid conversation about why honesty matters more than ever in today’s market. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: | |||
| E17: Your Bank Account is Your Scorecard - and Why You're Losing - With Tom Reber | 12 May 2026 | 01:09:24 | |
Tom Reber from The Contractor Fight joins The Build Line for a blunt conversation about the uncomfortable truths contractors need to face around margins, money, mindset, and growth. Heather, Jerry, and Tom get into revenue versus profit, why being busy does not mean being profitable, how contractors underprice out of fear, and why your bank account is one of the clearest scoreboards in your business. This episode covers pricing, sales, cash flow, job costing, labor burden, client boundaries, and the head trash that keeps contractors playing small. If you are growing fast but still feel broke, defending your price, avoiding your numbers, or wondering why the business feels harder than it should, this one is worth the listen. Special thanks to our episode sponsors: Find Tom: https://thecontractorfight.com/ | |||
| E16: Why A Players Quit Construction Companies - And How to Keep Them | 05 May 2026 | 01:11:50 | |
What does it actually take to build a strong management team in construction—and why do so many owners struggle to find great leaders? In this episode of The Build Line, we break down the real reason most companies can’t attract or retain high-level managers. It’s not a recruiting issue. It’s a leadership issue. The best operators evaluate your business before they ever consider joining it—and if there’s no clarity, discipline, or direction, they’re out. This conversation is about raising the standard—starting with yourself. We dig into what strong leadership actually looks like under pressure and why your habits set the ceiling for your entire organization. From there, we unpack why resumes can be misleading, how to spot true ownership and hunger in candidates, and what separates operators who drive results from those who just participate. We get into:
If you’re trying to build a company that can run without you, this episode is a direct look at what’s required—and where most owners fall short. No shortcuts. No theory. Just how it actually works. | |||
| E15: The Psychology Behind Million Dollar Advertising With Anh Phoong | 21 Apr 2026 | 01:12:03 | |
Everybody knows the name. Not everybody understands the business behind it. In this episode of The Build Line, we sit down with Anh Phoong, one of the most recognizable personal brands in Sacramento, to break down what it actually took to build it. From starting out with nothing but grit and showing up face to face in the community, to becoming a household name through bold marketing and consistency, Anh shares what most people never see. The early work, the risk of putting your name on the business, and the pressure that comes with it. We also get into what happens after the growth. Building systems to support scale, expanding into new markets like Houston, and why more opportunity doesn’t fix broken operations, it exposes them. This conversation goes beyond marketing. It’s about responsibility, leadership, and not forgetting where you came from. Anh opens up about her family’s experience immigrating to the United States and how the Sacramento community shaped her commitment to giving back. If you’re a business owner trying to grow, build a real brand, or scale without losing what made you successful in the first place, this one hits. In this episode, we cover: The Build Line is about real conversations with real operators. What’s working, what’s not, and what we all wish we knew sooner. Official Website: Instagram (Personal): Instagram (Phoong Law): | |||