Podcast
America Builds Better
Hosted by Jared Ledford · EN
America Builds Better is a builder-focused podcast and media platform dedicated to the people, ideas, and innovations shaping how America builds.
Hosted by industry veteran Jared Ledford, the show dives into real conversations with builders, manufacturers, dealers, technology partners, and community leaders across post-frame construction, steel buildings, sheds, and beyond. This isn’t surface-level talk or sales fluff — it’s practical insight, hard-earned lessons, and honest discussions about growth, operations, marketing, leadership, and the future of the building industry.
America Builds Better is the next chapter in a journey that began with The Steel Kings Podcast, a long-running show that became a trusted voice within the steel building and shed industry. Built on that foundation, America Builds Better expands the conversation — bringing in broader perspectives, deeper strategy, and a stronger focus on education, innovation, and community impact.
Whether you’re a builder looking to scale, a manufacturer refining your systems, a dealer navigating modern marketing, or someone passionate about how local businesses and industries grow, America Builds Better is here to inform, challenge, and elevate the conversation.
Because strong communities start with strong builders — and America builds better when knowledge is shared.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Behind The Builder Show: Streamlined Systems. Scaling Your Success. - #5
1w ago00:39:56Tap to summarizeWhat separates companies that struggle to grow from companies that scale successfully?In this episode of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Trent Wagler, Marketing Director, and Cole Wolford, Outside Sales Director, of Graber Post Buildings during the 2026 Post-Frame • Rural • Plain Builder Show in York, Pennsylvania.Together, they discuss the systems, processes, and partnerships that help builders operate more efficiently, create better customer experiences, and position themselves for long-term growth.From marketing and lead generation to dealer relationships and operational excellence, this conversation provides valuable insight into what it takes to build a scalable construction business in today’s competitive marketplace.In This Episode:✔️ How Graber Post Buildings supports builders across multiple markets ✔️ The importance of streamlined systems and operational efficiency ✔️ Building strong supplier and dealer relationships ✔️ Marketing strategies that support long-term growth ✔️ The future of the post-frame construction industry ✔️ Lessons learned from working with successful builders nationwideWhether you’re a builder, contractor, supplier, salesperson, or industry professional, this episode is packed with practical takeaways that can help you grow your business and serve customers at a higher level.About Trent WaglerTrent Wagler serves as Marketing Director for Graber Post Buildings, helping lead the company’s marketing strategy, dealer support initiatives, and brand development efforts. His work focuses on connecting builders with the tools, resources, and systems needed to grow successful businesses.About Cole WolfordCole Wolford serves as Outside Sales Director for Graber Post Buildings, working directly with builders and dealer partners throughout Graber’s service territory. His experience helping customers, builders, and sales teams gives him a unique perspective on what drives growth and success in the post-frame industry.Presented By Our Title SponsorIdeaRoomhttps://idearoom.comPreferred PartnersDEFYNED SEOhttps://defynedseo.comShield Wall Mediahttps://shieldwallmedia.comFollow America Builds BetterYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetterSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAqApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/america-builds-better/id1849738908TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetterFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/americabuildsbetter/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americabuildsbetter/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/americabuildsbetter/Contact: jared@americabuildsbetter.com#AmericaBuildsBetter #GraberPostBuildings #PostFrame #PoleBarn #Construction #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Operations #BuilderShow #YorkPA #ConstructionIndustry #Builders #BuildingIndustry #Contractor #Entrepreneurship #Sales #Marketing #BuildBetter
Transcribe →Behind The Builder Show: Mastering The Elements. Eliminating Drips. - #4
2w ago00:41:12Tap to summarizeIn Episode 3 of the Builder Show Series, Jared Ledford sits down with Brett Clary and Robert Christman of Dripstop® to discuss condensation control, moisture prevention, and why eliminating drips is critical for long-term building performance.From post-frame buildings and metal roofing systems to customer education and product innovation, this episode breaks down how Dripstop® is helping contractors and manufacturers solve one of the construction industry’s most overlooked problems. Brett and Robert also share insight into the importance of partnerships, customer relationships, and improving the overall building experience.This episode is part of the official America Builds Better Builder Show Series leading into the Post-Frame, Rural & Plain Builder Show in York, Pennsylvania.🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy condensation causes long-term issues in metal buildingsHow Dripstop® helps eliminate moisture problemsThe importance of proper building ventilation and moisture controlWhy customer education matters in constructionHow innovation is improving post-frame and metal building performanceThe role supplier partnerships play in helping builders grow👤 ABOUT THE GUESTSBrett Clary is the Business Development Manager for Dripstop® at Freudenberg Performance Materials, where he works closely with builders, manufacturers, and contractors throughout the post-frame and metal roofing industries. With decades of experience in business development and construction-related markets, Brett focuses on helping companies improve building performance through innovative moisture-control solutions.Robert Christman is the Business Development Manager for Dripstop® at Freudenberg Performance Materials. Robert works directly with builders, manufacturers, and roll formers across the metal construction industry, helping companies implement condensation-control solutions that improve long-term building durability and customer satisfaction.🔗 CONNECT WITH THE GUESTSWebsite: https://www.dripstop.com🎧 LISTEN / FOLLOW AMERICA BUILDS BETTERYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetter Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/america-builds-better/id1849738908🤝 PARTNERSIdeaRoom – Title Sponsor https://idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.comShield Wall Media https://shieldwallmedia.com📢 BUILDER SHOW SERIES📍 Post-Frame, Rural & Plain Builder Show 📍 York, Pennsylvania 📅 June 10–11, 2026Presented by Frame Building News & Shield Wall Media.📢 CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe to America Builds Better for weekly conversations with the builders, innovators, and leaders shaping the construction industry.👉 Learn more: https://americabuildsbetter.com 📩 Contact: jared@americabuildsbetter.com
Transcribe →Behind The Builder Show: Uncompromising Quality. Building Better Buildings - #3
3w ago00:31:10Tap to summarizeIn Episode 2 of the Builder Show Series, Jared Ledford sits down with Wayne Troyer, Sales Manager at Acu-Form Roll Forming Equipment, to talk about precision manufacturing, American-made quality, and the machinery helping contractors and manufacturers build better buildings.Wayne shares the story behind Acu-Form, how their roll forming equipment is built, and why quality, service, and long-term customer relationships continue to drive the company forward. From custom applications to production efficiency, this episode is packed with practical insight for anyone involved in metal buildings, post-frame construction, or manufacturing. 🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy quality roll forming equipment matters long termThe importance of precision and repeatability in manufacturingHow Acu-Form supports custom equipment applicationsWhy American-made craftsmanship still mattersWhat builders should look for when investing in production equipmentHow supplier relationships impact business growth👤 ABOUT THE GUESTWayne Troyer is the Sales Manager at Acu-Form Roll Forming Equipment, a leading manufacturer of roll forming machinery based in Millersburg, Ohio. Acu-Form specializes in custom roll forming equipment, panel lines, slitters, perforators, trim equipment, and production systems designed to help builders and manufacturers scale efficiently.🔗 CONNECT WITH THE GUESTWebsite: https://www.accuformequipment.com Phone: 330-674-4003🎧 LISTEN / FOLLOW AMERICA BUILDS BETTERYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetter Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/america-builds-better/id1849738908🤝 PARTNERSIdeaRoom – Title SponsorDEFYNED SEO Websites & Marketing Built to Generate LeadsShield Wall Media Connecting the Building Industry Through Media📢 BUILDER SHOW SERIES📍 Post-Frame, Rural & Plain Builder Show 📍 York, Pennsylvania 📅 June 10–11, 2026Presented by Frame Building News & Shield Wall Media.📢 CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe to America Builds Better for weekly conversations with the builders, innovators, and leaders shaping the construction industry.👉 Learn more: https://americabuildsbetter.com 📩 Contact: jared@americabuildsbetter.com
Transcribe →Behind the Builder Show: Building Connections. Building the Future - #2
May 1100:44:35Tap to summarizeIn this episode of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Gary Reichart, CEO of Shield Wall Media, to kick off our Builder Show Series (1 of 6) leading up to the Post-Frame Builder Show in York, Pennsylvania.This conversation goes beyond the typical trade show talk. It’s about how real relationships are built in this industry, why that matters more than ever, and how events like the Builder Show create opportunities that simply don’t happen anywhere else.We cover:What makes the Builder Show different from traditional trade showsWhy relationships — not transactions — drive long-term successHow builders, dealers, and contractors should approach industry eventsThe role of media, education, and connection in shaping the future of constructionWhy getting in the room still matters in a digital-first worldIf you’re in post-frame, steel buildings, sheds, or construction — this is a conversation that will shift how you think about growth in this industry.📍 Join us in York, PA — June 10–11, 2026 The Post-Frame Builder Show is where the industry comes together.🤝 Powered By:IdeaRoom (Title Sponsor) https://idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.comShield Wall Media https://shieldwallmedia.com🎧 Follow America Builds Better:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetter Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/america-builds-better/id1849738908💬 Get out in your communities and do something good for somebody else — it will make you feel better.This is America Builds Better — where the industry talks back.
Transcribe →The Future Of Post Frame Starts Here - #1
May 100:46:13Tap to summarize🇺🇸 America Builds Better #1 — Future Of Post Frame Starts Here🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARYIn the first official episode of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Dan VanOrden, CEO and Co-Founder of IdeaRoom, to talk about the future of the post-frame industry.They break down how 3D design tools are transforming the way builders generate leads, sell projects, and scale their businesses. From lessons learned at NFBA to real-world application of IdeaRoom and SmartBuild, this episode sets the foundation for what’s next in construction.If you’re a builder, contractor, or business owner looking to grow, this episode delivers practical insight you can use right now.🎯 KEY TAKEAWAYSWhy post-frame is positioned for major growth in the coming yearsHow 3D configurators increase customer engagement and conversionThe power of integrating IdeaRoom with SmartBuildWhy most builders are behind on websites and lead generationHow mobile-first design is changing the sales process👤 ABOUT THE GUESTDan VanOrden is the CEO and Co-Founder of IdeaRoom, a leading 3D design and configurator platform serving the shed, steel building, and post-frame industries. He has played a key role in helping modernize how builders connect with customers online by turning design into an interactive sales experience.🔗 CONNECT WITH THE GUESTWebsite: https://idearoom.com🎧 LISTEN / FOLLOW AMERICA BUILDS BETTERYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetter Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/america-builds-better/id1849738908🤝 PARTNERSIdeaRoom – Title Sponsor https://idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.comShield Wall Media https://shieldwallmedia.com📢 CALL TO ACTIONSubscribe to America Builds Better for weekly conversations with the builders, innovators, and leaders shaping the construction industry.👉 Learn more: https://americabuildsbetter.com 📩 Contact: jared@americabuildsbetter.com
Transcribe →VAULT: The Steel Kings #43 - Post Frame WINS w/Randy Chafee
Jan 1300:38:43Tap to summarizeReady to sell buildings people actually feel safe choosing? On this episode of the Steel Kings Podcast, we sit down with industry veteran Randy Chaffee to break down how post-frame construction can unlock bigger, cleaner wins for dealers who currently sell sheds or tubular steel.The through-line is trust. Customers buy from people they know, like, trust, and feel safe with—and the fastest way to earn that confidence is by pairing real expertise with credible partners and a clear path through codes, engineering, and permitting.We unpack a hybrid sales playbook that blends road relationships with digital leverage. Trade shows still matter, but video calls, configurators, and podcast content accelerate follow-through and keep projects moving when decisions stall. That force multiplier lets you serve more customers without sacrificing the personal touch that built your reputation in the first place.We also get practical about the differences between steel and post-frame—where each system shines, where approvals slow things down, and why standards, education, and advocacy supported by the National Frame Building Association give post-frame a smoother runway for mid- and high-ticket projects.If you’ve ever lost a bid at the last minute because a customer “thought it would be wood,” this conversation is your pivot plan. We map a smart on-ramp from small outbuildings to complex shops and barndominiums, explain when to say no to protect your brand, and show how to borrow credibility from established manufacturers as you level up. We also spotlight NFBA certification, peer networking, and the Women in Post-Frame community helping shape the industry’s future.Join us in Oklahoma City, February 25–27, for the NFBA Conference & Expo to meet the people, tools, and ideas that can raise margins and reduce friction in your sales process.If this episode sparked ideas, subscribe to the Steel Kings Podcast, share it with a builder who’s ready to grow, and leave a quick review. Then tell us the one obstacle keeping you from adding post-frame this quarter.This episode’s sponsor:Studio Sponsor — J Money LLC🔗 Subscribe for More:👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesteelkings🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-steel-kings-podcast/id1849738908Watch This Episode on YouTube > https://youtu.be/ktOqkH8CAQE
Transcribe →VAULT: The Steel Kings #36: Getting Past Burnout Finding Your Why w/Carly Peppin
Nov 2400:37:21Tap to summarizeEP36 – Burnout-Proof Leadership: Systems, Delegation & Legacy Building with Carly Pepin🎧 Watch now: how to reduce burnout, build stronger teams, and lead with clarity through every season.As the busy season slows and pressure builds, are you working harder but getting less done? In this episode of The Steel Kings Podcast, we sit down with business coach and human behavior expert Carly Pepin to explore the real cause of burnout—and why it’s not about doing too much, but doing the wrong things.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: • Why burnout stems from misalignment, not effort • How a simple task audit can clarify your focus • The art of smart delegation & hiring for your gaps • How to protect culture through intentional interviewing • Building systems that make work easier, not heavier • Designing operations for slow seasons & strong cash flow • Preparing your business to thrive without owner dependencyWe dive deep into the challenges shed and steel building pros face—long cycles, off-season lulls, and the leadership load of doing it all. Carly lays out practical strategies for building a resilient, culture-driven, and scalable business—whether your goal is growth, succession, or just sanity.📈 From task clarity to legacy planning, this episode is packed with actionable insights for contractors, builders, and entrepreneurs ready to evolve from doer to builder.⸻🔗 Subscribe for More:👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesteelkings🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-steel-kings-podcast/id1849738908Watch This Episode on YouTube > https://youtu.be/muNWdffzhQM
Transcribe →VAULT: The Steel Kings #24: Navigating the Construction Industry with Shield Wall Media
Aug 2500:41:10Tap to summarizeNavigating the Construction Industry with Shield Wall MediaGary Reichert, owner of Shield Wall Media, joins Jared Ledford on the Steel Kings podcast to reveal the powerful strategies behind his company's success in construction industry publishing and trade show management. What began as a job selling advertising has transformed into ownership of a media conglomerate that's reshaping how construction professionals connect and do business.Shield Wall Media has found remarkable success by focusing on underserved market niches within construction. Their flagship publications - including Rural Builder (celebrating nearly 60 years), Frame Building News, Metal Roofing Magazine, and Roll Forming Magazine - provide specialized content unavailable elsewhere. But what truly sets them apart is their approach to trade shows, particularly the upcoming Construction Role Forming Show in Dayton (October 1-2).Unlike typical industry events that welcome anyone with an entrance fee, Shield Wall's shows strictly target qualified attendees who possess real purchasing power. We go for the people that sign in front of the check, not the back of the check, Reichert explains, ensuring exhibitors connect with potential customers capable of making substantial purchases. This laser-focused approach has yielded impressive results, with manufacturers reporting closing significant deals directly at these events.Transparency permeates everything Shield Wall does. They provide complete attendee lists to exhibitors at no additional charge, donate all entrance fees to charity (over $30,000 last year), and produce detailed industry data reports broken down by region - filling crucial information gaps for specialized construction segments typically overlooked by broader market analyses.Perhaps most fascinating is Shield Wall's newest initiative: children's books about construction trades. With Max Builds a Metal Roof nearing publication, this innovative approach addresses the critical shortage of young people entering the trades by creating positive emotional connections early in life, potentially inspiring future career interests while helping family-owned construction businesses build meaningful connections with the next generation.Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/ZW1yyIXwtiI?si=iJGQD96LKCODiHSW
Transcribe →VAULT: The Steel Kings #23: Building Community Through Steel w/Shannon Latham The Shed Geek
Aug 1100:55:27Tap to summarizeEver wondered why some building dealers thrive while others struggle to stay afloat? The answer might be simpler than you think.When Jared sits down with Shannon The Shed Geek for this captivating conversation, they cut through industry noise to reveal what's really happening in steel structure and shed sales. Shannon brings his years of experience building the Shed Geek brand and community to share wisdom that applies across the construction space.Their honest discussion tackles the dangerous race to the bottom mentality plaguing dealers and manufacturers alike. You want to know why you don't make money selling steel buildings? Because you're selling cheap steel buildings, Jared points out, highlighting how quality-focused businesses ultimately win the long game while fly-by-night operations eventually disappear—often leaving customers stranded with warranties that can't be honored.The duo doesn't shy away from challenging topics, including how technology and AI are reshaping the industry landscape. Rather than fearing these changes, they encourage dealers to embrace them as tools that enhance rather than replace human expertise. Shannon frames it perfectly: I find that the industry does that because we simply insult what we don't understand.Perhaps most valuable is their exploration of how personal values shape business success. Both hosts share candidly about standing firm in their beliefs while building genuinely helpful communities through the Steel Structure Sales Professionals and Shed Sales Professionals Facebook groups—spaces where competitors come together to elevate the entire industry rather than just their individual businesses.Ready to transform your approach to selling buildings? Listen now, then join these thriving communities where rising tides truly do lift all boats.Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/TjO5m_aW8tY?si=f14iYsDt5IKmAXy2
Transcribe →VAULT: The Steel Kings #14: Metal to Marketing w/Shannon Latham The Shed Geek (Part 2)
Jun 2, 202500:31:09Tap to summarizeMetal Meets Marketing Part 2The building industry's best-kept secret isn't about materials or designs—it's about the relationship between manufacturers and dealers. In this revealing conversation, Jared Ledford welcomes Shannon The Shed Geek to dive deep into what truly makes a successful dealer network tick.What happens when 10% of dealers sell 90% of the product while the other 90% struggle to make an impact? This fascinating imbalance creates ripple effects throughout the industry, affecting everything from customer service to pricing strategy. Shannon and Jared don't just identify the problem—they explore how professionals can elevate standards across the board.The discussion pulls back the curtain on controversial practices like rock-bottom down payments that create a race to the bottom, devaluing products industry-wide. You'll hear candid insights about the challenges of building loyal teams, whether W2 employees offer advantages over 1099 contractors, and how to prevent training your future competition.Most compelling is their call for a mindset shift from pure competition to strategic collaboration. By working together rather than against each other, dealers can create more value for customers and potentially even approach manufacturers with greater collective influence. Their philosophy — No one hates it when you help them serves as a guidepost for building stronger industry relationships.Whether you're a building professional looking to improve your business model or simply curious about the inner workings of the metal building industry, this conversation offers rare insights from two veterans willing to share their hard-earned wisdom.Watch On YouTube: https://youtu.be/XPju9_D4ank
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