The Curious Builder

Latest Episodes:

#99 | Brien Gearin | Ricochet Digital Marketing | Why Every Small Business Must Prioritize Google Business Profiles Feb 03, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, host Mark Williams chats with Brien Gearin from Ricochet Digital Marketing about the essentials of modern digital marketing. They dive into critical strategies for optimizing Google Business Profiles, the importance of engaging email newsletters, and how AI can streamline your marketing game. If you're looking to level up your marketing tactics, this episode is packed with actionable insights and a whole lot of fun!

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

The host of the Curious Builder Podcast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. Williams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life.

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://ricochetdm.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RicochetDM/

Ricochet Digital Marketing's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ricochet-digital-marketing/

Brien's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brien-gearin/

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Q & A | Culture vs. Strategy: Brad and Mark Talk Shop Jan 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams chats with Brad Robinson Bradford from Bradford Custom Homes and Remodeling about the importance of setting goals, maintaining robust team communication, and the challenges of scaling a business. They dive into personal anecdotes about balancing work and life, the significance of regular employee check-ins, and the influence of leadership styles on team performance. Plus, they share some fun and quirky moments about Minnesota's chilly adventures and the power of collective inspiration.

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

#98 | Andy Pace | Green Design Center | Is Your Home Toxic? The Truth Behind Common Building Materials Jan 27, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams sits down with Andy Pace from the Green Design Center to dig into the world of healthy building versus energy efficiency. Andy drops some serious knowledge from his 33 years in the biz, pointing out how using non-toxic materials can open up a whole new market for builders. They also cover practical tips to make homes healthier, like tackling formaldehyde and EMF issues, making it a must-listen for anyone in the building game!

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

The host of the Curious Builder Posdast is Mark D. Williams, the founder of Mark D. WIlliams Custom Homes Inc. They are an award-winning Twin Cities-based home builder, creating quality custom homes and remodels — one-of-a-kind dream homes of all styles and scopes. Whether you're looking to reimagine your current space or start fresh with a new construction, we build homes that reflect how you live your everyday life.

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Lake Society Magazine:

Website: https://www.lakesocietymagazine.com/

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://www.thegreendesigncenter.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nontoxicenvironments/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greendesigncenter/

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Q & A | From Failures to Success: Insider Tips from a Veteran Builder Jan 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams talks about the ups and downs of running a business and why it's crucial to stay steady during tough times. He shares some personal stories about navigating a challenging year, the importance of persistence, and how small builders make a big impact on society. Plus, Mark highlights the benefits of joining the Curious Collectives for those looking to connect and grow with other like-minded pros.

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

#97 | Brody Tschida | Urban Elite | Motivating the Youth: Brody Tschida's Unique Path in Fashion and Entrepreneurship Jan 20, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of "The Curious Builder," Mark Williams sits down with 17-year-old dynamo Brody Tschida to unpack his journey of launching the Urban Elite clothing brand while still in high school. Brody spills on everything from navigating school obstacles to balancing business with having fun, and his big dreams of becoming a motivational speaker. And hey, don't miss out on the deets about their awesome upcoming Sauna Camp retreat at Lake Minnewasha!

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://www.urbaneliteunite.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanelitestore/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Brody-Tschida/61559172398527/

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Q & A | How Sauna Camp Can Kickstart Your 2025 Goal Setting! Jan 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams kicks off the new year with a sneak peek into his ambitious goal-setting strategies and exciting plans for 2025. From launching the Mysa Hus project to training for a 100-mile trail run, Mark shares how he intends to stay focused and energized both personally and professionally. Plus, don't miss the scoop on the upcoming Sauna Camp wellness retreat at Lake Minnewashta and other inspiring events.

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

#96 | Drew Beson | Drew Beson Art | Art, Wealth, and Strategy: How to Succeed Without a "Day Job" Jan 13, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams catches up with artist Drew Beson to chat about how he's shaking things up in the art biz, like leasing his awesome artwork for commercial spaces and teaming up with pros like restaurant guru Gavin Kaysen from Spoon and Stable. They dive into Drew's artistic journey, from his Minnesota roots to his cool new studio. It's a fun, laid-back convo about balancing passion with business smarts and making those important connections along the way.

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Lake Society Magazine:

Website: https://www.lakesocietymagazine.com/

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://www.drewbesonart.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewbesonart

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

Q & A | Little Builders with Big Dreams: You Won't Believe Their Answers! Jan 09, 2025

Show notes

In this fun and heartwarming kids edition of The Curious Builder Podcast, May, Simon, and Tate share their adorable and creative business ideas, who they'd love to work with, and the books that inspire them. The episode kicks off with Mark announcing an exciting wellness retreat. Join us for a dose of youthful imagination and community spirit!

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

#95 | Christopher Strom | CSA (Christopher Strom Architects) | Revolutionizing Home Design with Minnestoa's Top Architect Jan 06, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder, Mark Williams chats with Christopher Strom about the beauty and challenges of custom home-building, emphasizing the importance of taking time with decisions and enjoying the process. They dive into Christopher's work with Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), highlight iconic projects, and discuss the nuances of building a business that's not solely reliant on its owner's personal brand. With laughs about skiing, insights into family life, and a sprinkle of industry expertise, this episode is a heartfelt look into architecture and entrepreneurship.

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://christopherstrom.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherstromarchitects/

Where to find the Host:

Website - https://www.mdwilliamshomes.com/

Podcast Website - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/markdwilliams_customhomes/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/MarkDWilliamsCustomHomesInc/

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-williams-968a3420/

Houzz - https://www.houzz.com/pro/markdwilliamscustomhomes/mark-d-williams-custom-homes-inc

#94 | Jacob Zikmund and David Booth | Double Jack Design | Solving the Housing Crisis: The Ingenious Co-Living Concept You Need to Know! Dec 30, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Curious Builder Podcast, host Mark Williams chats with Jacob Zikmund and David Booth from Double Jack Design about the nitty-gritty of creative constraints and the importance of personal connection in building trusted client relationships. They dive into fascinating projects like the NatureLink Resort and innovative co-living designs, while also touching on the rewarding nature of seeing their work come to life and the impact of embracing sustainable practices in the construction industry. Tune in for some laughs about golfing skills and exciting updates on their community-driven developments!

Support the show - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/shop

See our upcoming live events - https://www.curiousbuilderpodcast.com/events

Sponsors for the Episode:

Pella

Website: https://www.pella.com/ppc/professionals/why-wood/

Adaptive

https://www.adaptive.build

Lake Society Magazine:

Website: https://www.lakesocietymagazine.com/

Where to find the Guest:

Website: https://doublejackdesign.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doublejackdw/