The Builder’s Edge – Mastering the Business Side of Building

The Builder’s Edge - Mastering the Business Side of Building
Podcast Description
Are you a small business owner, contractor, or entrepreneur in the construction industry struggling to manage and grow your business? The Builder’s Edge is here to help you create the business you want, one that doesn’t consume your life but works for you.
Hosted by an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, this podcast dives into the real challenges business owners face, too few leads, too many leads with no system, overwhelming workloads, pricing struggles, staffing headaches, and managing your reputation.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show addresses specific challenges faced by construction business owners, such as lead generation, pricing strategies, staffing issues, and management of reputation. Episodes include discussions on the transformative power of mentorship, the significance of consistency over motivation, leadership techniques for long-term success, and the necessity of embracing social media. For instance, one episode highlights the importance of systematic business processes to avoid pitfalls in the construction industry.

Are you a small business owner, contractor, or entrepreneur in the construction industry struggling to manage and grow your business? The Builder’s Edge is here to help you create the business you want, one that doesn’t consume your life but works for you.
Hosted by an industry veteran with over 30 years of experience, this podcast dives into the real challenges business owners face, too few leads, too many leads with no system, overwhelming workloads, pricing struggles, staffing headaches, and managing your reputation.
In this episode of the Builder’s Edge Podcast, host Deanna Lucas sits down with Raymond Mertens, founder of Wildwood Flooring, to uncover how niching down to exclusively offer pre-finished wood flooring completely transformed his business. With over 25 years in the trades, Ray shares how a return to his roots—literally the scent of sawdust from childhood—led to simplifying his services, cutting clutter, and ultimately doubling his monthly revenue.
You’ll hear how Ray went from juggling every flooring type to intentionally walking away from profitable jobs that didn’t align with his niche. He shares how specialization improved workflow, gave him more time back with family, reduced stress, and boosted profits. You’ll also get insight into his growing digital presence, the importance of hiring a social media manager, and how fun and craftsmanship remain core values in his business. Plus, a hilarious “seafood biscuit” story you don’t want to miss!
Key Takeaways:
Why niching down makes you more referable and profitable
The unexpected freedom that comes from saying no
How simplifying your tools, offers, and team can create business clarity
The power of storytelling and digital branding—even for contractors
How to shift from chaos to a business built for life and legacy
“Niching down isn’t a limitation; it’s a liberation. It frees your mind, your time, and your brand.” – Ray Mertens
Learn more about Deanna Lucas through the following links:

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