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.
15episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
America Builds Better #10 — Loyalty, Leadership & Business In America
Yesterday00:41:04Tap to summarizeWhat does loyalty really mean in business today, and how do you build a company, a team, and a reputation people actually want to stay loyal to?In Episode #10 of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Ohio State Representative, fourth-generation farmer, and longtime business owner Rodney Creech for a wide-ranging conversation about loyalty, leadership, customer service, competition, and the realities of doing business in America.Rodney brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Before serving in the Ohio House, he spent 20 years building a lawn-care business that grew to nearly 50 employees and more than 40 trucks. He and Jared dig into what those years in business taught him about earning loyalty rather than expecting it.As Rodney puts it:“If you want to build loyalty, I think you need to build value.”The conversation explores the relationship between manufacturers and dealers, what happens when markets become oversaturated, why competing solely on price can become a race to the bottom, and how businesses can differentiate themselves through service, knowledge, relationships, and genuine value.Jared and Rodney also discuss the responsibility business owners have to their employees. Taking care of customers matters, but taking care of the people who serve those customers is just as important.From farming and small business to politics and community leadership, the same principles continue to surface: do what you say you’re going to do, treat people the way you want to be treated, take care of your people, and never allow someone else’s disloyalty to change the kind of person you are.This episode is about more than business. It’s about building something worth being loyal to.In this episode:Why loyalty has to be earned, not expectedBuilding value instead of competing only on priceCustomer service as a competitive advantageTaking care of employees so they can take care of customersDealer and manufacturer relationshipsFree markets, competition, and oversaturationWhy the race to the bottom ultimately hurts an industryLessons from 20 years of business ownershipThe similarities between serving customers and serving constituentsLeadership, friendship, community, and doing the right thing when nobody is watchingAmerica Builds Better is presented by IdeaRoom and supported by our industry partners at Shield Wall Media and DEFYNED SEO.🌐 America Builds Better: https://americabuildsbetter.com▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@americabuildsbetter📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/americabuildsbetter📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americabuildsbetter🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetter💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/america-builds-betterOur PartnersIdeaRoom – Title Sponsor https://www.idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO – Digital Marketing Partner https://www.defynedseo.comSubscribe, follow, and share the episode with someone who believes strong businesses and strong communities are built the same way: through relationships, service, leadership, and value.Get out in your community and do something good for somebody else.America Builds Better – Where the Industry Talks Back.
Transcribe →The 60-Second Sales Advantage: Automating Follow-Ups, Eliminating Lead Leaks & Scaling Sales #9
2w ago00:46:31Tap to summarizeHow quickly does your team respond to new leads?In this episode of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Joe Ignace, CEO of Velocity 360, to explore how builders, dealers, and contractors can stop losing opportunities through slow follow-up, inconsistent sales processes, and disconnected systems. Together they discuss:Why the first 60 seconds after a lead arrives are criticalHow automation improves sales without replacing relationshipsThe CRM mistakes costing companies revenue every dayUsing analytics to identify and eliminate lead leaksBuilding a repeatable sales process that grows with your businessWhy systems and accountability create better customer experiencesWhether you sell post-frame buildings, sheds, metal buildings, garages, or other construction solutions, this episode offers practical strategies to help your sales team work smarter and close more business.Powered ByIdeaRoom – Title Sponsor https://idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.comFollow America Builds BetterYouTube: https://youtu.be/9qvJqnN0A90Website: https://americabuildsbetter.comFacebook: https://facebook.com/americabuildsbetterInstagram: https://instagram.com/americabuildsbetterLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/americabuildsbetterGet out in your communities and do something good for somebody else. It will make you feel better.America Builds Better — where the industry talks back.
Transcribe →Raising The Bar: The Future Of The Shed Industry & The Shed Sales Summit - #8
3w ago00:49:43Tap to summarizeAfter taking a short break, America Builds Better is back with brand-new episodes dropping every Monday throughout August.In Episode #8 of the Behind The Builder Show, Jared Ledford is joined by Peter Miller and Andrew Boyle of Making Sales Simple and the Shed Sales Summit for a conversation about leadership, sales, and the future of the shed industry.Together, they discuss why investing in people is one of the greatest opportunities facing the industry today, the vision behind the Shed Sales Summit, and how builders, dealers, and sales professionals can continue raising the bar through education, collaboration, and professional development.Whether you’re a seasoned dealer, a sales leader, or just getting started in the portable building business, this episode delivers practical insight that can help you grow personally and professionally.In this episode:The story behind the Shed Sales SummitWhy professional development matters more than everBuilding stronger sales teams and better leadersThe future of the shed industryHow collaboration benefits everyone involvedWatch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/xJ-l9trG4zUConnect with America Builds BetterWebsite: https://americabuildsbetter.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/americabuildsbetterInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/americabuildsbetterLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/america-builds-betterTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetterPresented byIdeaRoom – Title Sponsor
Transcribe →Behind The Builder Show: The Ultimate Builder Rally - #7
Jun 900:34:50Tap to summarizeWhat makes the Post-Frame • Rural • Plain Builder Show one of the most important events in the building industry?In Episode 7 of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Missy Beyer, Director of Events at Shield Wall Media, to discuss the vision, planning, and execution behind the Builder Show and why it continues to be a must-attend event for builders, manufacturers, suppliers, and industry professionals.Missy shares insights into what it takes to organize a successful trade show, the importance of creating opportunities for education and networking, and how events like the Builder Show help strengthen relationships across the industry. The conversation also explores the role Shield Wall Media plays in supporting the post-frame industry through events, publications, and community engagement.Whether you’re a builder looking to grow your business, a supplier seeking stronger industry connections, or simply someone passionate about the future of construction, this episode provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the people and planning that help move the industry forward.🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ja2CXq8rwjoGuest: Missy Beyer Director of Events Shield Wall MediaPresented by IdeaRoomAmerica Builds Better is proudly presented by our Title Sponsor, IdeaRoom, whose technology continues to transform how builders engage customers and grow their businesses.We’re also grateful for the support of our Preferred Partners who are helping move the construction industry forward through innovation, marketing, technology, and media.IdeaRoom https://idearoom.comDEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.comShield Wall Media https://shieldwallmedia.comFollow America Builds BetterWebsite: https://americabuildsbetter.comYouTube: 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
Transcribe →Behind The Builder Show: Accelerating The Sales To Build Cycle - #6
Jun 800:54:56Tap to summarizeEpisode #6 – Behind The Builder Show: Accelerating The Sales To Build CycleFeaturing Dan VanOrden & Johnny DrozdekWhat happens when two of the most influential technology platforms in the construction industry come together?In this episode of America Builds Better, Jared Ledford sits down with Dan VanOrden, CEO & Co-Founder of IdeaRoom, and Johnny Drozdek, CEO of SmartBuild Systems, during the 2026 Post-Frame • Rural • Plain Builder Show in York, Pennsylvania.Together, they discuss how builders can streamline the entire sales-to-build process by connecting lead generation, 3D visualization, estimating, project management, and customer communication into a seamless workflow.As labor shortages, rising customer expectations, and increasing competition continue to challenge the construction industry, builders are looking for ways to operate more efficiently without sacrificing customer experience. This conversation explores how technology and automation are helping builders eliminate bottlenecks, reduce manual processes, and create scalable systems that support long-term growth.In This Episode:✔️ How automation is transforming the construction industry✔️ The IdeaRoom and SmartBuild integration✔️ Improving lead generation and sales efficiency✔️ Streamlining estimating and project management✔️ Eliminating duplicate data entry and manual processes✔️ Creating a better customer experience✔️ Scaling construction businesses through technology✔️ The future of builder software and automationWhether you’re a builder, contractor, supplier, salesperson, or business owner, this episode offers valuable insight into how technology can help you build a more efficient and profitable operation.About Dan VanOrdenDan VanOrden is the CEO & Co-Founder of IdeaRoom, a leading 3D visualization and sales platform serving the construction, post-frame, shed, and outdoor structure industries. Under his leadership, IdeaRoom has helped builders improve customer engagement, generate more qualified leads, and accelerate the sales process through interactive design technology.About Johnny DrozdekJohnny Drozdek is the CEO of SmartBuild Systems, one of the construction industry’s leading estimating and business management software platforms. SmartBuild helps builders simplify estimating, project management, and operational workflows while providing the tools needed to scale efficiently and profitably.America Builds Better is made possible through the support of industry-leading partners who share our mission of helping builders grow stronger businesses and deliver better customer experiences.Title Sponsor:IdeaRoom – https://idearoom.comPreferred Partners:DEFYNED SEO – https://defynedseo.comShield Wall Media – https://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 #IdeaRoom #SmartBuild #ConstructionTechnology #PostFrame #PoleBarn #Construction #Builders #BusinessGrowth #Automation #LeadGeneration #ProjectManagement #BuilderShow #YorkPA #Buil
Transcribe →Behind The Builder Show: Streamlined Systems. Scaling Your Success. - #5
Jun 100:39:56Tap 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
May 2500:41:12Tap 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
May 1800:31:10Tap 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
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