#85 Top Builders-Don Weiler (Bailey Weiler), Adam Hehlke (Built QC), and Dan Geis (SummitRidge Custom Homes)

#85 Top Builders-Don Weiler (Bailey Weiler), Adam Hehlke (Built QC), and Dan Geis (SummitRidge Custom Homes)

In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland welcomes fellow custom home builders Don Weiler of Bailey Weiler Design|Build|Renovate [https://bailey-weiler.com/] (Bloomington, Indiana), Adam Hehlke of Built QC [https://www.builtqc.com/](Davenport, Iowa), and Dan Geis of SummitRidge Custom Homes [https://www.summitridgecustomhomes.com/](Golden, Colorado). As members of a Builder 20 peer group, these industry leaders come together to share real-world insights, challenges, and opportunities shaping the custom home building industry across the country. The conversation highlights the value of collaboration, accountability, and friendship among builders who rely on one another for support and continuous improvement. The group begins by discussing current market trends and evolving design preferences. Adam Hehlke shares how homeowners are embracing a wide range of architectural styles, from modern farmhouse to contemporary and uniquely personalized homes. Don Weiler notes a shift toward quality over quantity, with homeowners investing more in renovations, outdoor living spaces, and thoughtfully designed homes. The builders also discuss the growing popularity of warmer color palettes, natural materials, and mixed textures as homeowners move away from the gray-and-white trends that dominated recent years. Jeff and his guests dive into financing and pricing strategies, comparing cost-plus and fixed-price contracts. Don explains how cost-plus pricing provides transparency and flexibility for clients, while Adam discusses using fixed-price contracts for smaller remodels and cost-plus agreements for larger custom projects. The discussion highlights the challenges builders face in managing costs and client expectations in today's volatile market. The conversation turns to the biggest challenges affecting builders today, including fluctuating material costs, labor shortages, project delays, regulatory hurdles, and increasingly strict energy code requirements. Don discusses the difficulties of finding build-ready lots and navigating local development regulations, while Dan shares insights on rising construction costs and the impact of changing energy standards. Together, they agree that maintaining schedules, controlling costs, and finding skilled trade partners remain among the industry's greatest challenges. Relationships and networking are recurring themes throughout the episode. Jeff emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with trusted peers, while Don highlights the tremendous value of Builder 20 groups for sharing experiences, solving problems, and improving business operations. Adam and Dan discuss how local and state associations provide additional opportunities for education, mentorship, and industry advocacy. The builders also share their marketing philosophies and customer engagement strategies. Don explains that face-to-face meetings and personal relationships remain their most effective marketing tools. Adam discusses the growing role of social media in generating leads and connecting with prospective clients, while Dan shares how jobsite signage, branded vehicles, and neighborhood marketing help maintain visibility. Despite changing marketing channels, all agree that referrals driven by exceptional customer experiences remain the most powerful source of new business. Jeff then leads a conversation on quality control and the systems required to consistently deliver exceptional homes. The group discusses maintaining standards through punch lists, field training, team walk-throughs, and detailed inspections. They stress the importance of protecting schedules, setting realistic expectations, and having the discipline to say "no" when unrealistic timelines threaten quality. Jeff shares how ongoing education, peer reviews, team training, and third-party inspections help maintain accountability and craftsmanship throughout the building process. As the episode wraps up, the builders reflect on lessons learned throughout their careers and the advice they would give their younger selves. Their recommendations include valuing free time, avoiding pride, surrounding yourself with great people, finding mentors, continuing to learn, and trusting that challenges will work themselves out over time. Jeff adds that hard work, honesty, respect, and learning from those who have gone before you remain foundational principles for long-term success. The episode concludes with reflections on the friendships built through the industry, excitement about upcoming Builder 20 meetings, and gratitude for the relationships that make both business and life more rewarding. Topics Covered: • Current custom home design trends and homeowner preferences • Modern farmhouse, contemporary, and personalized home styles • Cost-plus versus fixed-price construction contracts • Construction financing and managing client expectations • Material costs, labor shortages, and project scheduling • Build-ready lots, development challenges, and energy codes • Builder 20 groups and industry networking • Marketing strategies, social media, and referral generation • Appreciation, homeowner gifts, and relationship building • Quality control systems, inspections, and team walk-throughs • Continuous education, peer reviews, and leadership development • Lessons learned and advice for future generations of builders Whether you're a homeowner, builder, architect, designer, remodeler, or trade partner, this episode offers valuable insights into the business, craftsmanship, and relationships that drive success in the custom home building industry.  Bailey Weiler Design|Build|Renovate [https://bailey-weiler.com/] Built QC [https://www.builtqc.com/] SummitRidge Custom Homes [https://www.summitridgecustomhomes.com/] Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download. Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  [http://www.wielandbuilders.com/]www.wielandbuilders.com [http://www.wielandbuilders.com] Receive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter  [https://mailchi.mp/wielandbuilders/newslettersignup] See podcast behind the scenes photos [https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/WielandBuildersLLC/?ref=ts], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wielandbuilders/?hl=en], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@wielandbuildersllc2301/featured], Houzz [https://www.houzz.com/pro/wielandbuilders/wieland-builders-llc] , https://www.linkedin.com/company/35476396/LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/wieland-builders-llc/] or Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/w3860/]

#84 A1 Mechanical Heating and Cooling, Trent Morris

In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland sits down with Trent Morris of A1  Mechanical Heating and Cooling to explore one of the most important components of any custom home, heating, cooling, and indoor comfort. With nearly four decades of HVAC experience, Trent shares why comfort should always take priority over efficiency when designing a home's mechanical systems. He walks listeners through the HVAC design process, explaining the importance of detailed load calculations, proper ductwork design, static pressure, air filtration, zoning, insulation, and window performance. Trent also discusses the evolution of heating and cooling technology, including the benefits of multi-stage and variable-capacity equipment, smart thermostats, and modern indoor air quality solutions. Beyond the technical side, Trent shares his personal journey into the HVAC industry, the mentors who shaped his career, and how A1 Mechanical invests in training, workforce development, and giving people second chances through meaningful careers in the trades. Key Topics Covered: * HVAC design for custom homes * Load calculations and comfort-driven system sizing * Static pressure and ductwork design * Multi-stage and variable-capacity equipment * Indoor air quality and air filtration * Zoning systems and smart thermostats * Maintenance best practices * Workforce development in the skilled trades Whether you're planning a custom home, interested in building science, or simply want to understand how to create a healthier, more comfortable living environment, this episode is packed with valuable insights from one of the industry's most experienced professionals. A1 Mechanical Heating and Cooling Website [https://a1mechanicalus.com/] or call 937-865-2325 Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download. Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  [http://www.wielandbuilders.com/]www.wielandbuilders.com [http://www.wielandbuilders.com] Receive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter  [https://mailchi.mp/wielandbuilders/newslettersignup] See podcast behind the scenes photos [https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/WielandBuildersLLC/?ref=ts], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wielandbuilders/?hl=en], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@wielandbuildersllc2301/featured], Houzz [https://www.houzz.com/pro/wielandbuilders/wieland-builders-llc] , https://www.linkedin.com/company/35476396/LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/wieland-builders-llc/] or Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/w3860/]

#83 Associates and Enzweiler, Tim Enzweiler and Gabrielle Stadtmiller

Jeff Wieland, host of the WB Download, welcomes Residential Design Specialists, Tim Enzweiler and Gabrielle Stadtmiller of Associates and Enzweiler for a wide-ranging conversation on custom home design, energy performance, creativity, and the collaborative process behind building exceptional homes. The episode dives into the often-overlooked complexity behind structural integrity, and the countless calculations required to create a high-performing custom home. Jeff and his guests discuss why homeowners often don’t realize how much planning goes into balancing beauty, comfort, efficiency, and functionality. Jeff, Tim, and Gabrielle discuss the collaborative culture at Associates and Enzweiler, where six diverse designers work together in an open, relaxed environment focused on creativity and client relationships. The conversation dives into the importance of walking a homesite before purchasing land, understanding grading and driveway usability, and designing homes that respond to both the property and the client’s lifestyle. Drawing from backgrounds in industrial design and theme park design, Tim and Gabrielle explain how creativity, problem-solving, and artistic thinking shape their residential projects. The episode also explores how practical elements like HVAC planning, structural integrity, and exterior design play a critical role in creating beautiful, functional homes. Tim and Gabrielle share insights into presenting ideas effectively, finding creative design solutions, and balancing aesthetics with real-world construction considerations. The conversation also highlights the realities of custom design, balancing budgets, client expectations, utilities, and construction challenges while still creating homes that feel personal and timeless. Jeff and his guests discuss the importance of asking the right questions, adapting designs to fit each family’s lifestyle, and using technology like CAD systems and virtual meetings to improve communication and visualization throughout the process. Along the way, the trio reflects on the challenges and rewards of working as family, the importance of trust and communication in business, and the lasting impact custom homes have on the families who live in them. Filled with behind-the-scenes stories, practical advice, and design insight, this episode of the WB Download showcases how great custom homes are built through teamwork, trust, innovation, and a relentless commitment to solving problems creatively.  Associates and Enzweiler  [https://enzweilerdesign.com/] Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download. Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  [http://www.wielandbuilders.com/]www.wielandbuilders.com [http://www.wielandbuilders.com] Receive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter  [https://mailchi.mp/wielandbuilders/newslettersignup] See podcast behind the scenes photos [https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/WielandBuildersLLC/?ref=ts], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wielandbuilders/?hl=en], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@wielandbuildersllc2301/featured], Houzz [https://www.houzz.com/pro/wielandbuilders/wieland-builders-llc] , https://www.linkedin.com/company/35476396/LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/wieland-builders-llc/] or Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/w3860/]

#82 Focus Energy, Brad Elkowitz

On this episode of The WB Download, host Jeff Wieland is joined by Brad Elkowitz of Focus Energy to break down what really goes into building an energy-efficient home. Their conversation goes back to where it all started, working together on the 2008 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition project and how that experience shaped a long-standing custom home building partnership focused on doing things the right way. Brad shares how Focus Energy works alongside builders from the very beginning, using tools like REM Rate and Ekotrope to model a home’s performance before it’s even built and then testing it in the field with blower door testing to make sure it performs as expected. Jeff and Brad walk through the details that matter most, including insulation, air sealing, HVAC design, and how small gaps or missed steps can impact the entire home. They also dig into real-world challenges like changing building codes, climate zone differences here in Ohio, and what it actually takes to push toward net-zero energy. From can lights and attic ventilation to foam insulation and airflow balance, this episode is full of practical insight for homeowners and builders alike. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a home truly efficient or how to make sure your builder is getting it right, this episode delivers the inside perspective from the field. Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download. Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  [http://www.wielandbuilders.com/]www.wielandbuilders.com [http://www.wielandbuilders.com] Receive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter  [https://mailchi.mp/wielandbuilders/newslettersignup] See podcast behind the scenes photos [https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/WielandBuildersLLC/?ref=ts], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wielandbuilders/?hl=en], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@wielandbuildersllc2301/featured], Houzz [https://www.houzz.com/pro/wielandbuilders/wieland-builders-llc], LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/company/wieland-builders-llc/] or Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/w3860/]

#81 SRS Distribution, Brad Fisher and CertainTeed, Jeff Herkins

On this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland sits down with Brad Fisher of SRS Distribution and Jeff Herkins of CertainTeed to dive into the critical role roofing plays in the overall performance and longevity of a home. Brad shares his journey in the industry, which began in 1996, and reflects on the impressive growth of SRS, including its acquisition by Home Depot in 2024. Jeff provides insight into CertainTeed’s long-standing reputation for quality, innovation, and its wide range of products from roofing and siding to insulation, all backed by rigorous standards like UL certification. The conversation highlights the importance of doing things the right way the first time, with a strong focus on proper installation techniques, ventilation, and contractor training. Jeff explains CertainTeed’s hands-on training programs and certification opportunities, while Brad emphasizes the role of distribution in ensuring builders and contractors have the support they need on every job. They also explore emerging trends in the industry, including solar shingles, impact-resistant products, and even the potential for robotics to help solve labor shortages. Beyond products and technology, the episode centers on relationships and how transparency, communication, and problem-solving are essential to maintaining trust with customers, especially during challenging times like the pandemic. This episode is a great listen for anyone building, remodeling, or simply wanting to better understand what goes into a high-quality roofing system and the partnerships behind it. SRS Distribution Website [https://www.srsdistribution.com/en/markets/our-brands/srs-building-products/srs-building-products---cincinnati/] CertainTeed Website [https://www.certainteed.com/] Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download. Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com See Wieland Builders custom home gallery  [http://www.wielandbuilders.com/]www.wielandbuilders.com [http://www.wielandbuilders.com] Receive inspiration monthly in our monthly newsletter  [https://mailchi.mp/wielandbuilders/newslettersignup] See podcast behind the scenes photos [https://www.wielandbuilders.com/podcasts/] Follow us on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/WielandBuildersLLC/?ref=ts], Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/wielandbuilders/?hl=en], YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@wielandbuildersllc2301/featured], Houzz [https://www.houzz.com/pro/wielandbuilders/wieland-builders-llc] or Pinterest [https://www.pinterest.com/w3860/]