Best ConGenius Podcasts (2025)

1
Ep. 83 - Why You’re Burnt Out | You’re In the Wrong Role 49:02

Play Pause

10d ago49:02

49:02

Are you a contractor feeling burnt out, stuck, or frustrated despite your hard work? This podcast explores why many contractors hit a wall as they grow, revealing the common pitfalls of trying to do it all. Learn how to identify your strengths, delegate effectively, and build a thriving business by playing to your superpowers, not your weaknesses. …

1
Ep. 82 - Should I Hire Employees or Use Subcontractors? 48:50

24d ago48:50

48:50

You’ve got work to get done—so should you hire an employee or bring in a subcontractor? In this episode of The Contractor Commute, we break down the real-world factors that help you make the right call. Whether you’re facing limited experience, a short-term project, or just trying to stay in your zone of expertise, we’ll help you think through what…

1
Ep. 81 - AI as a Supertool for Your Construction Business 44:04

1M ago44:04

44:04

In this episode, we unpack what AI really is (and isn’t), how to use it effectively in your day-to-day work, and why it’s less of a “magic button” and more like a power tool—helpful, fast, but dangerous in the wrong hands. If you’ve ever been confused or frustrated with AI responses, this one’s for you. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest…

1
Ep. 80- Tech Addiction is Stealing Your Potential 41:33

2M ago41:33

41:33

Your phone isn't evil—but it is engineered to steal your time, clarity, and focus. Everyday tech habits seem harmless but quietly rob you of rest, purpose, and human connection—especially as a business owner with no external guardrails. This episode unpacks how subtle digital distractions create compounded losses over time and how small, deliberate…

1
Ep. 79 - Dreamer to Builder: Turning Vision into Results 40:34

2M ago40:34

40:34

A dream without a plan is just a fantasy—but in this episode, we’ll help you turn that dream into a practical path forward. From assessing where you stand today to evaluating your support system and building a routine that fuels progress, we’ll walk through simple steps to help you move from vision to reality. Vision Statement Examples: We are a pr…

1
Ep. 78 - Vision or Pipe Dream? Do you have the right motivations for your business? 40:40

3M ago40:40

40:40

Why did you start your business? What keeps you pushing forward—passion, purpose, or maybe just survival? In this episode, Ben and Kinsey dive into the real reasons entrepreneurs stay motivated, breaking down the good, the bad, and everything in between. Whether you're fueled by a mission or just trying to make ends meet, this conversation will cha…

1
Ep. 77 - Fundamentals of Communication - The Right Level of Responsiveness 37:31

3M ago37:31

37:31

How much communication is too much? Should you respond to customers immediately, or set clear office hours? In this episode, we dive into the balance between being responsive and setting boundaries. We’ll explore what quality communication looks like, how to manage customer expectations, and strategies to stay available without burning out. Tune in…

1
Ep. 76 - Overpromising May Be Killing Your Business 24:38

3M ago24:38

24:38

What happens when you promise more than you can deliver? Or make promises without realizing it? In this episode of The Contractor Commute, we’re breaking down how overpromising can hurt your reputation, strain your team, and even cost you money. We’ll talk about setting realistic expectations with clients, communicating effectively, and building a …

1
Ep. 75 - We Answer Questions from Reddit 28:31

4M ago28:31

28:31

Ben and Kinsey are trying something new in this episode! We're answering construction and business questions from Reddit. Why work in construction if Walmart pays better? Does it pay better? What projects make more money? We'll be breaking down these questions and more! If you are looking for more, here is our conversation with Brent Hull over the …

1
Ep. 74 - The #1 Trait That Separates Great Builders from the Rest 33:54

4M ago33:54

33:54

What truly sets the best builders apart? It’s not just skill, experience, or pricing—it’s humility. The greatest contractors know they don’t have all the answers, and that willingness to learn, adapt, and listen is what pushes them ahead of the rest. In this episode, we dive into why humility is the secret weapon of top builders, how it impacts you…

1
Ep. 73 - Contracts, Communication, and Client Relationships with Ally Anderson 52:33

4M ago52:33

52:33

Allyson Anderson shares her journey in construction, the challenges she's faced, and how she's making an impact in the industry. Tune in for insights, advice, and inspiration for contractors looking to grow and succeed! Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew: Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Constru…

1
Ep. 72 - The #1 Mistake in Pricing (And How to Fix It) 34:53

4M ago34:53

34:53

Many contractors make the mistake of racing to the bottom on price—but if you’re not covering your costs and making a profit, you’re not running a business—you’re just keeping busy. So, if you want to win more bids without leaving money on the table, this episode is for you. Let’s dive in! Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contra…

1
Ep. 71 - How to Get Paid 33:55

5M ago33:55

33:55

Cash flow is the lifeblood of your business—so how do you ensure you get paid on time? In this episode, we break down the key steps to prompt payment, from setting clear expectations in the presale process to invoicing with consistency and urgency. Plus, we dive into handling late payments, effective communication strategies, and why you should nev…

1
Ep. 70 - Finding Your Value: Secrets to Success Without Experience 47:20

5M ago47:20

47:20

Pricing your work can make or break your business. In this episode, we dive into the real cost of setting your rates too high—or too low. How do you price your services as a growing contractor? What’s the balance between being competitive and making good money? If you’re in it for the long haul, building a business with integrity and lasting reputa…

1
Ep. 69 - Companies Are Limited by the Character of the Owner 29:45

5M ago29:45

29:45

The owner’s character defines the ceiling for a company’s growth, culture, and success. Trust, reputation, and respect start at the top, setting the tone for everything that follows. If you’ve ever worked for someone else, you’ve seen firsthand how leadership shapes the entire organization. So, how can you make your character shine? This episode br…

1
Ep. 68 - One Year After Taking The Leap | Wyatt with Blacktail Builders 54:39

5M ago54:39

54:39

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…

1
Ep. 67 - More Jobs Doesn't Equal More Money 27:27

5M ago27:27

27:27

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 proce…

1
Ep. 66 - Starting Your Own Construction Company 101 42:35

6M ago42:35

42:35

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? …

1
Ep. 65 - Discipline, Integrity, and Building Science with Travis Brungardt 54:24

6M ago54:24

54:24

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,…

1
Ep. 64 - Ask Questions Before You Make Statements 35:53

7M ago35:53

35:53

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 a…

1
Ep. 63 - I’m Drowning! — Managing Stress and Pressure 29:21

7M ago29:21

29:21

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 Co…

1
Ep. 62 - Quality Craftsmanship in a Fast and Cheap Culture with Brent Hull 43:45

8M ago43:45

43:45

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 wil…

1
Ep. 61 - Understanding Your Value as a Contractor 35:32

8M ago35:32

35:32

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, …

1
Ep. 60 - Secrets to Building a Great Team with Brad Leavitt from AFT Construction 32:58

9M ago32:58

32:58

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 Cu…

1
Ep. 59 - Training the Next Generation | Interview with Dan Parish 47:51

9M ago47:51

47:51

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 trai…

1
Ep. 58 - I’m Overwhelmed! Do I Need an Office Manager? 33:26

9M ago33:26

33:26

If you don’t know what you’re doing with your business before you hire an office manager, you’re not going to know what to do afterward. Be cautious about hiring for an ill-defined position when your processes might be what are running you dry! This episode will help you break down if you need to hire an office manager or if you need to work on you…

1
Ep. 57 - Building New Habits in Your Team 31:18

10M ago31:18

31:18

Creating new habits within your team demands commitment, a clear strategy, and a compelling incentive. To gain buy-in, you'll often need to effectively "sell" the benefits of these changes. In this episode, Ben and Kinsey dive into practical steps for building new habits and cementing your team's participation. By fostering a culture of positive ha…

1
Ep. 56 - Are You Being Cheated? 30:25

10M ago30:25

30:25

Customers can purposefully and unknowingly take advantage of you if you let them! In this episode, Ben and Kinsey talk about the subtle ways that you frame your business to ensure you aren't being cheated whether that is how you talk about getting work, negotiating price, or moving around your schedule. Take ownership of your business and walk tall…

1
Ep. 55 - Working With Designers Can Be Amazing or a Disaster 28:48

11M ago28:48

28:48

Designers can help elevate your work to new heights, or they can be another bump in the road. Ben and Kinsey talk about working with designers, how to foster a healthy relationship, and the pros and cons that can come with it. Like any professional relationship, there is a lot you can do to help it succeed. If you haven't worked with a designer, th…

1
Ep. 54 - What to Do When Your Construction Company is Broke | Practical Steps to Take 42:39

11M ago42:39

42:39

Take the time to learn "why" your business could end up broke and take the practical lessons from this episode to ensure it doesn't happen! Ben and Kinsey cover items like invoicing on time, getting paid for the work that you do, taking inventory, asset management, and more! Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute cr…

1
Ep. 53 - What to Do When Your Construction Company is Broke | Symptoms of Being Broke 35:19

12M ago35:19

35:19

Being broke is overwhelming, whether it's in your personal life or your business. In this episode, Ben and Kinsey talk about how to ensure you know your worth, even if your bank account is empty. This is the first part of a two-part series where we look at how being broke is often a sign of bigger issues—issues that you have control over! We'll dis…

1
Ep. 52 - What I Wish I Knew When I Started My Construction Business 32:44

1y ago32:44

32:44

Ben started his construction business after growing up in the industry. He learned quite a bit over his years running his own business and wanted to share some of the best (and worst) lessons that he has to share. This episode hopefully acts as a shortcut to save you some pain as you navigate owning and operating a small construction business. Stay…

1
Ep. 51 - Manage Construction Projects Like a Boss | How to Be a Hero 33:17

1y ago33:17

33:17

Standing out in the construction industry means becoming a hero to both your team and your customers. In this episode, Ben and Kinsey continue our project management mini-series by exploring the critical role of effective communication and showcasing various tools to improve your communication skills. Whether you rely on software, a whiteboard, or …

1
Ep. 50 - Manage Construction Projects Like a Boss | Checklists, Calendars, & Communication 32:33

1y ago32:33

32:33

Imagine a world where you’re consistently beating the schedule, you’re under budget, your team functions like a well-oiled machine. They’re efficient, they’re energized, they’re happy. You are meeting deadlines. You’re a hero to your customers. You're making money. You’re achieving your goals and dreams. This doesn't have to be hypothetical and it …

1
Ep. 49 - Manage Construction Projects like a Boss | Why You Need a Process 27:51

1y ago27:51

27:51

With this episode, we're starting a new miniseries on Project Management in Construction. Today's episode covers processes and the impact they can have on you and your business. Processes can impact these four areas: -Customer Experience -Financial Health -Employee Satisfaction -Job Consistency Listen to the episode to learn how! Stay connected wit…

1
Ep. 48 - $500 of Free Advice from a Small Construction Business Attorney 44:40

1y ago44:40

44:40

On this episode of The Contractor Commute, we're joined by Will Worsham to explore the essential steps in legally structuring your business for success, from startup to handling challenges. We delve into the costs involved in legal work, key considerations for business owners, and common pitfalls to steer clear of. Tune in as we guide you through t…

1
Ep. 47 - Getting Legit in Your Construction Business - LLCs and Legalities 30:54

1y ago30:54

30:54

What do you need to make sure your business is set up well? In this episode, we look at what legal steps you need to take to ensure your business's legitimacy, safety, and future! 9 things you need to do: Create your entity Get insured Get licensed Open a bank account Set up accounting software Set up payroll provider (if you have employees) Busine…

1
Ep. 46 - The Power of Saying No 30:05

1y ago30:05

30:05

For every yes you give, in business and in life, you're saying no to something else. This episode dives into learning when and how to say no to customers, to projects, and even when to say no to your team. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute crew: Website for Estimating and Takeoff Software: Construction Sales, T…

1
Ep. 45 - When Should You Hire Your First Employee? 39:19

1+ y ago39:19

39:19

Is it time for you to hire your first employee? This episode breaks down what to do if you feel like it is time for your business to grow. We'll talk through how to define a role, hiring for projects over long-lasting purpose, and deciding whether you mine for talent or hire it out of the gates. Whether you're on the brink of growth or just explori…

1
Ep. 44 - Get Your Life Back with Shawn Van Dyke 53:35

1+ y ago53:35

53:35

Shawn Van Dyke is joining us for this episode of The Contractor Commute! Shawn wrote Profit First for Contractors and is a business consultant for many in the construction industry. He wants contractors to run successful businesses and level up wherever they can while realizing that they aren't meant to do everything for their business all the time…

1
Ep. 43 - How to Get More Customers 45:12

1+ y ago45:12

45:12

This episode is a hands-on approach to marketing that will help you get more customers, build a brand, and establish a reliable business. Whether you are just getting started with your construction business, or you're trying to reinvigorate what you have, this episode is for you! Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commu…

1
Ep. 42 - Managing Your Worst Customers & Identifying Red Flags 38:41

1+ y ago38:41

38:41

Everyone who has ever worked in construction or some form of sales has stories of clients that they wish they would have avoided. In this episode, Ben and Kinsey talk about steps you can take to minimize the impact red flag clients can have, and some steps you can take to avoid working for them entirely. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the res…

1
Ep. 41 - Getting Started with Sales and Marketing 36:54

1+ y ago36:54

36:54

Sales and marketing for your company could become a full-time position, but it doesn't need to start out that way! In this episode, Ben and Kinsey talk about key strategies and tangible options that you can start working on today to sell better and start marketing your business. There's more to sales than closing jobs and there is more to marketing…

1
Ep. 40 - Navigating Construction Job Estimating | Why Is It So Hard? 38:14

1+ y ago38:14

38:14

In this episode of The Contractor Commute, Ben gives some of the backstory behind ConGenius and how that has impacted what he wants his business to do. Estimating construction jobs is an increasingly difficult task, but it can be one that saves your business and livelihood. Stay connected with Kinsey, Ben, and the rest of The Contractor Commute cre…

1
Ep. 39 - Dodging Disasters and Chasing Dreams: End of Year Wrap Up 36:21

1+ y ago36:21

36:21

With 2023 coming to a close, Ben and Kinsey have a discussion on near-death experiences, New Year's Resolutions, and what is next for The Contractor Commute and ConGenius. Thank you for making the past three dozen+ episodes of this show so fun! We've connected with many contractors trying to make their way and have been able to offer them advice an…

1
Ep. 38 - How Should Contractors Manage Their Back-office Processes? 38:57

1+ y ago38:57

38:57

The back office...not quite the place that many production-oriented contractors like finding themselves. It doesn't mean it isn't important and shouldn't be thought about. That's why we're here! Establishing back office processes is vital to the success of your business and your role in leading or working in it. You don't have to do everything imme…

1
Ep. 37 - Growing as a Craftsman 25:51

1+ y ago25:51

25:51

Whether you're up and coming or you've been in for a while, it can feel like the number of true craftsmen is dwindling. To grow yourself as a craftsman and prepare for more to come, here are a few tips that we walk through this episode: - Grow in humility - Practice the right things - Find the best way to learn - Learn a complete process at a time …

1
Ep. 36 - Keep Your Construction Business from Failing 30:01

1+ y ago30:01

30:01

There are so many factors in play for business owners. How much time do you have? What skills are at your disposal? Are you prepared to be a leader or hire others? Running a construction business is hard. In this episode, Ben and Kinsey talk about what it takes to make it work and what happens when you can't. You can do it! You've just got to set t…

1
Ep. 35 - Stop Ballparking Your Bids! 25:28

1+ y ago25:28

25:28

Ballparking bids is normal. Everyone does it or has done it, but if you want to grow your business or move forward with confidence, you've got to take the time to learn your numbers and the cost of your business. This episode breaks down why we ballpark bids, the thought process of moving beyond them, how to do bids better, and why it matters! Stay…

1
Ep. 34 - Business Tips from a Master Builder | Interview with Brent Hull 43:32

1+ y ago43:32

43:32

Brent Hull is a master builder and craftsman. He has a sharp focus on bringing passion to his craft, showcasing how buildings can be a form of artistry, and appreciating the historical nature of buildings and construction forms. If you've ever felt like there was more for you in the construction world, Brent is the guy to light that fire. Stay conn…