We Love Deck Builders

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards is once again joined by Mike Beaudry, the owner of NADRA, to preview the upcoming Southern California Regional Networking Event. Set for September 4, 2025, in Carlsbad, CA, this event offers the perfect opportunity for deck builders and outdoor living professionals to connect, learn, and grow. Mike shares exciting updates on the 2025 National+ Deck Competition, DeckExpo 2025, and the latest industry trends. Whether you’re new to NADRA or a returning member, this event promises something for everyone. Tune in to hear how you can make the most of this networking opportunity and stay ahead in the decking industry!

AI isn’t just for Silicon Valley — it’s for deck builders, too. In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, April Edwards sits down with Andy Henley (Hen-House Decks) and Mike Mitchell (Mitchell Construction), the voices behind From the Field in Deck Specialist Magazine. These two seasoned pros are breaking down how they’re actually using AI — not in theory, but on the job. From estimating and quoting to marketing and project management, we dig into the real wins, lessons learned, and how AI is helping them scale smarter. If you’ve been curious about AI but unsure where to start, this episode is packed with practical insights. Because here’s the truth: AI isn’t optional anymore. It’s a tool — just like your saw or CRM — and the builders who learn how to use it will grow. The ones who don’t? They’ll fall behind.

In this episode of the We Love Deck Builders Podcast, host April Edwards sits down with Larry Collins, President of HFS Financial, to discuss how offering consumer financing can help deck builders scale their businesses and increase conversions. Larry shares insights from over 30 years in the finance industry, breaking down the process of offering financing, the benefits for deck builders, and how it can significantly boost business growth.   You’ll learn how to integrate financing seamlessly into your business, the importance of providing financing options to your customers, and how HFS Financial supports contractors with free marketing materials to make the process even easier. If you’re ready to take your deck-building business to the next level, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards delivers a reality check for deck builders looking to grow their brand. If you're hoping for a marketing miracle that will magically triple your revenue overnight, this episode isn’t for you. Marketing isn’t a quick fix—it’s a vital department in your business that needs your involvement. April shares why collaboration and communication with your marketing team are essential for success and how showing up can lead to bigger projects and better clients. Tune in to learn why investing in marketing is a long-term strategy that pays off when you treat it like a true business department.

In this episode of We Love Deck Builders, host April Edwards sits down with Tyler Anders, owner of Hometown Builders Unlimited in Wisconsin. Tyler shares how he built a trusted deck-building brand, his approach to custom projects, and tips on growing a successful business while maintaining quality. From setting expectations with clients to marketing strategies that attract the right leads, Tyler offers valuable insights for deck builders looking to scale. If you want to grow your brand and deliver exceptional work, this episode is for you! Check out Hometown Builders Unlimited at hometownbuildersunlimited.com.