The Building Code

Margin pressure is squeezing builders from every direction – rising costs, longer timelines and more complex projects. But profit isn’t usually lost in one big moment. It’s lost through small breakdowns in process, procurement and pricing discipline. In this episode of "The Building Code", Carly Ward is joined by Sarah Biben and returning guest Tyler Farrell, founder of Killowen Construction, to break down how builders protect profits through tighter workflows, smarter procurement and clearer pricing communication. They explore how forecasting, purchase orders, job costing and standardized processes help builders surface risks earlier, defend margins and maintain trust with clients throughout long build cycles. What you’ll learn: • Why margin squeeze often hides behind strong revenue • How disciplined process and procurement protect profitability • Where builders lose money without realizing it • How pricing clarity improves financial outcomes and client confidence Subscribe here, and never miss an episode. Got podcast topic suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@buildertrend.com. Links and more Killowen ConstructionhereIBS 2026 hereBuildertrendInstagramFacebookThe Building CodeYouTubeThe Building Code Crew #TheBuildingCode #Buildertrend #KillowenHomes #BuilderProfitability #ConstructionFinance #MarginProtection #CustomHomeBuilder #Procurement #JobCosting #ConstructionLeadership #BuildingBetter #ResidentialConstruction

Volatility in pricing, lead times and material availability isn’t going away – but the way builders and suppliers partner can determine whether projects stay on schedule and client experience can evolve. In this episode of “The Building Code”, guest host Scott Hale is joined by: Together, they break down what trust between builders and suppliers looks like in practice, including using analytics to reduce uncertainty, building discipline around selections, collaborating across the supply chain to forecast demand and why face-to-face relationships still matter in a digital-first industry. What you’ll learn: A builder-centric blog that breaks down key procurement lessons and how CBUSA’s network and strategies help builders avoid costly mistakes. Subscribe here, and never miss an episode. Got podcast topic suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@buildertrend.com. Links and more Homes by DickersonhereKohlerCBUSACBUSAInstagramFacebookThe Building CodeYouTubeThe Building Code Crew #TheBuildingCode #Buildertrend #CBUSA #HomeBuilding #ConstructionIndustry #SupplyChain #BuilderSupplier #Procurement #ConstructionLeadership #CustomHomeBuilder #Forecasting #Transparency #ClientExperience #Kohler

Finding the right builder peer group used to take years. Not anymore. In this episode of “The Building Code”, host Charley Burtwistle and Kate Vazquez sit down with builder and business owner Nick Baldo to explore how Buildertrend is transforming the way builders connect, collaborate and grow with Community by Buildertrend. Learn why digital communities are outperforming old-school networking, how curated spaces remove friction and Nick’s tips for connecting with builders at your level. Whether you're stuck on a workflow, seeking peer advice, or wanting to level up your business, this conversation shows how the right network can fast-track your success. Quotes you’ll hear: What you’ll learn: Related content A look at the future of construction networking groups with Buildertrend’s senior manager of communityFrom job site to inbox: Using AI to build smarter marketing in constructionThe State of Residential Construction Industry 2025 report Subscribe here, and never miss an episode. Got podcast topic suggestions? Reach out to us at podcast@buildertrend.com. Links and more Oakvale Homes & DevelopmentBuildertrendInstagramFacebookThe Building CodeYouTubeThe Building Code Crew #Buildertrend #TheBuildingCodePodcast #BuilderCommunity #ConstructionNetworking #ConstructionBusiness #DigitalCommunity #BuilderSuccess

Cash flow isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. It’s the lifeblood of every construction business. Get it wrong and you’re stuck chasing checks and juggling credit lines. Get it right and you unlock growth, stability and peace of mind. In this episode of The Building Code by Buildertrend, host Charley Burtwistle, VP of Core Operations at Buildertrend, and guest host, Sarah Kate Hartt, Senior Product Manager at Buildertrend, sit down with Elizabeth Splan, Director of Finance and HR at Basements Plus. Elizabeth pulls back the curtain on how her company turned cash management form a stress point to a growth engine. 💬 Quotes you’ll hear in this episode: 🔑 What you’ll learn: Elizabeth’s real-world playbook proves that strong processes create steady cash flow — and Buildertrend Payments makes it easier than ever to get paid up to 3x faster. Related Content Simplify your payment process with BuildertrendModernize your construction payment processThe full guide to construction project forecasting Links and More Basements PlusBuildertrendInstagramFacebookThe Building CodeYouTubeThe Building Code Crew #Buildertrend #TheBuildingCodePodcast #CashFlow #ConstructionBusiness #ConstructionFinance #Payments

Today on “The Building Code”, Charley sits down in studio with two of the best in the business: Brad Leavitt of AFT Construction and Tim Coughran of Alderview Construction. Brad and Tim pull back the curtain on how they went from lone-wolf contractors to respected leaders of systemized, scalable construction companies. From In-N-Out-inspired SOPs to onboarding processes that rival luxury brands, they share practical strategies for building smarter – not harder. In this episode, you'll learn: Whether you're hiring your first office manager or juggling million-dollar builds, this episode will show you the power of process-driven growth. Follow Brad and Tim on their Instagrams @aft_construction@alderviewconstruction Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #TheBuildingCodePodcast #ConstructionLeadership #CustomHomes #BuilderLife #ConstructionBusiness #AFTConstruction #AlderviewConstruction #Homebuilders

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley and Carly are sitting down with Ryan and Hannah Schwanbeck – the husband-and-wife duo behind Our House Your Home, a Fort Worth-based design-build company known for their curated style, meaningful process and people-first approach. What started as Hannah selling fully styled rooms out of their home quickly evolved into a booming business – with Ryan leaving his corporate job to help scale their passion into a purpose-driven company. In this episode, the couple shares how they’ve built a brand that blends creativity and craftsmanship, while maintaining a strong marriage, a growing team and a clear vision for the future. They also share exciting news: the launch of two luxury spec homes – designed and built 100% in-house. Tune in to hear how Ryan and Hannah navigate business and life as partners, why Buildertrend is key to setting boundaries and how they're redefining what it means to build a home – and a legacy. Follow Our House Your Home on their social channels: https://www.instagram.com/ourhouseyourhome/https://www.facebook.com/OHYH.ourhouseyourhome/https://www.youtube.com/@ourhouseyourhome Read the shownotes for this episode here: (add page link here) Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #DesignBuild #TheBuildingCodePodcast #HomeDesign #BuilderLife #OurHouseYourHome #SpecHomes #BuilderCouple

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by a brand-new cohost, Shelbie Hoggatt, community strategist at Buildertrend and host of Buildertrend University. They’re sitting down with Leah Gonzalez of San Antonio, Texas – a second-generation builder who recently jumped full-time into the family construction business, Pencsak Builders. Hear how Leah is making her mark by diving deep into Buildertrend, managing job site schedules, leading client communication and modernizing their social media. She shares how she balances learning from her parents while bringing fresh ideas to the table – and what it’s like being coached to one day take the reins. Tune in for a refreshing and insightful take on legacy, leadership and embracing your next chapter. Follow Pencsak Builders on their social channels: http://instagram.com/pencsakbuilders/https://www.facebook.com/pencsakbuilders/https://www.youtube.com/@PencsakBuilder Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #SecondGenBuilders #TheBuildingCodePodcast

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by returning co-host, Carly Ward, partnerships manager here at Buildertrend. They’re sitting down with Katlyn Slocum, creative director at Katlyn Slocum Design, a web design agency that builds strategy-driven websites for home builders and contractors. Listen to the full episode to hear how builders can turn their websites into powerful tools for streamlining communication and boosting client satisfaction from the very start. Learn more about Katlyn Slocum Design: https://www.katlynslocumdesign.com/ Get Katlyn’s free guide “10 Things Every Home Builder Website Needs”: https://www.katlynslocumdesign.com/freebies Follow Katlyn on her social channels: https://www.instagram.com/katlynslocumdesign/https://www.facebook.com/katlynslocumdesign/https://www.linkedin.com/in/katlynslocum/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: (add page link here) Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #BreakthroughAcademy

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by returning co-host, Kate Vazquez, senior manager of community here at Buildertrend. They’re chatting with Roberto Gutierrez, co-founder of Jackson Builders. Since helping launch the company in 2016, Roberto has helped deliver more than 500 homes and is actively leading mixed-use developments across the city, with a focus on revitalizing neighborhoods. Tune in to the full episode to hear how intentional systems and streamlined processes can fuel sustainable growth in home building – from custom jobs to high-volume production. Learn more about Jackson Builders: https://www.jbgbuilt.com/ Systemize your construction processes with Buildertrend’s project management software: https://buildertrend.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: (add page link here) Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #BreakthroughAcademy

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by returning co-host, Carly Ward, partnerships manager here at Buildertrend. They’re sitting down with Eric Stenger and Preston Reed, co-founders of Seed Development + Design. Together, they lead SEED with a vision rooted in friendship, craftsmanship and a desire to create spaces that enhance everyday life. Listen to hear how Seed Development + Design got back on the path to profitability with the help of Breakthrough Academy and Buildertrend. Learn more about Seed Development + Design: https://www.seed2d.com/ Check out Breakthrough Academy and the services they offer for construction businesses: https://www.btacademy.com/ Systemize your construction processes with Buildertrend’s project management software: https://buildertrend.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/269-eric-stenger-preston-reed/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #BreakthroughAcademy

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by co-host, Sagar Disai, group product manager at Buildertrend. They’re chatting with podcast regular, Adam Copenhaver, co-founder of CopeGrand Homes. Adaam, with his passion for creating unique living spaces, brings a hands-on approach to every project from concept to completion. Tune in to the full episode to discover how Buildertrend’s new AI-generated summaries are reshaping communication for home builders – making it faster, more personalized and easier than ever to keep clients in the loop. Learn more about Buildertrend’s enhanced client experience with new Client Updates and AI summaries: https://buildertrend.com/communication/construction-client-portal/ Check out the beautiful work of CopeGrand Homes: https://www.copegrandhomes.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/268-adam-copenhaver/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #AI

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is joined by guest co-host Carly Ward, partnerships manager here at Buildertrend. They’re chatting with Carla Merrill, Owner of Builder’s GoTo. Carla is a trusted resource connecting builders with top products like QuickBooks and Buildertrend to streamline their operations and drive growth. Listen to the full episode to discover the hidden factors that drain profits – and walk away with practical strategies you can implement immediately to build smarter. Learn more about Builder’s GoTo: https://www.buildersgoto.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/267-carla-merrill/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #AI

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley is sitting down with Elias Rhett, owner of Luxe Builders. With a passion for the construction, Elias took the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the industry before setting out on his own to establish his own company. Today, his dedication to client satisfaction and attention to detail have earned him a reputation for excellence. Tune in to the full episode to hear Elias’s inspiring story and how his relationships with other leading builders led to the success of his own construction business. Learn more about Luxe Builders: https://www.luxebuilders.co/ Follow along with Luxe Builders on their Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l.u.x.e.builders/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/266-elias-rhett/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #AI

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is chatting with Jana Brost, chief operating officer at myCOI, a market leader in certificate of insurance compliance, where she oversees customer delivery and operational excellence. She is a seasoned software operator with a proven track record of founding, leading and scaling businesses from inception to acquisition. Listen to the full episode to hear how AI is helping construction businesses streamline insurance compliance and risk management. Learn more about myCOI: https://mycoitracking.com/ Follow myCOI on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mycoi/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/265-jana-brost/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #AI

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley is sitting down with Sean Supple, president of Supple Homes. Sean leads the company with a commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design. With a hands-on approach, he works closely with clients and trades to build homes that are both functional and timeless. Tune in to the full episode to hear how the Supple Homes team maximized the power of project management software with Buildertrend Onsite Consulting. Learn more about Supple Homes: https://www.supplehomesinc.com/ Read Sean’s case study to learn more about his story and success with Onsite Consulting: https://buildertrend.com/case-study/supple-homes/ Explore Buildertrend Onsite Consulting: https://buildertrend.com/onsite-consulting/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/264-sean-supple/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #ADUs

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley is chatting with Allyson Case Anderson, founder and CEO of Integro Builders. As a builder, developer and advocate for better construction practices, Allyson is committed to reshaping the industry through collaboration, cutting-edge technology and a relentless focus on quality. Listen to the full episode to learn strategies for setting boundaries, improving communication and staying professional under pressure. Check out Integro Builders: https://www.integrobuilders.com/ Learn more about Allyson’s speaking engagements: https://www.integrobuilders.com/speaking-engagements Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/263-allyson-anderson/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #ADUs

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley is sitting down with returning guest Estie Briggs, emotional intelligence coach and consultant at Briggs Performance Consulting. Estie helps professionals develop self-awareness, resilience and leadership skills to navigate high-pressure situations with confidence. Tune in to the full episode to hear more about imposter syndrome, why it’s so common in construction (especially for women) and strategies to overcome it with confidence. Learn more about Briggs Performance Consulting: https://www.briggsperformanceconsulting.com/ Get Estie’s free guide: Flip the Script – The Power of Reframing Negative Self-Talk: https://estiebriggs.notion.site/Flip-the-Script-1c1997b256e380ca8ea3e66845850b93 Access the recording for Estie’s latest webinar on imposter syndrome: https://agilechangemanagement.co.uk/event/imposter-syndrome-with-estie-briggs/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/262-estie-briggs/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #ADUs

Today on “The Building Code,” Courtney flying solo with Alexandra Martinez-Villarroel, founder of AMV Business Solutions. Alex is a distinguished human resources expert with over 25 years of experience in organizational development, regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, talent management, employee relations, workers’ compensation and policy development. Listen to the full episode to hear about how AI-powered human resources is changing the game for safety and compliance in construction. Learn more about AMV Business Solutions: https://www.amvbusinesssolutions.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/261-alexandra-martinez-villarroel/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #ADUs

On this episode of “The Building Code,” Charley and Courtney are connecting with Cameron Meredith, partner and director at ADU West Coast. With over 18 years of experience as a licensed general contractor, he leads a team dedicated to creating affordable housing solutions through expert design and construction. Tune in to the full episode to hear about the growing demand for ADUs and the financial and lifestyle benefits they offer. Learn more about ADU West Coast: https://aduwestcoast.com/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/260-cameron-meredith/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #ADUs

Today on “The Building Code,” Charley and Courtney are chatting with long-time podcast listener, Lucas Comstock, owner and superintendent at JC Builders. Lucas’s career began at a young age, working summers during high school under his father. Since 2010, he has worked in various capacities to help guide the business into the next generation. Listen to the full episode to hear more about Lucas’s story and how he’s using Buildertrend’s Group Purchasing feature to save with cashback and discounts. Learn more about JC Builders: https://www.jcbuilds4u.com/ Check out the benefits of Buildertrend Group Purchasing: https://buildertrend.com/materials-builders/ Read the shownotes for this episode here: https://buildertrend.com/podcast/the-building-code/259-lucas-comstock/ Join “The Building Code” Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thebuildingcodecrew/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/buildertrend/ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/buildertrend/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Buildertrend/ YOUTUBE: / @buildertrend LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildertrend #Buildertrend #BuiltWithBuildertrend #ConstructionSoftware #GroupPurchasing