Professional Builders Secrets brings you an in-depth episode with Russ Stephens, Co-founder of APB. In this episode, Russ unpacks the three biggest challenges builders are facing worldwide as they head into 2026, breaks down why a lack of planning continues to hold builders back, and explains how mastering lead generation, profit, and systemisation can completely transform the performance of a building business.

This episode is sponsored by Apparatus Contractor Services, click the link below to learn more:hubs.ly/Q02mNSsG0

INSIDE EPISODE 220 YOU WILL DISCOVER

The three biggest challenges builders face heading into 2026
Why planning is directly linked to higher margins and more profit
Why financial literacy is critical to sustainable growth
How construction slots create real scarcity without “selling”
How documenting processes can add millions to long-term personal wealth
And much more.

ABOUT RUSS STEPHENS

Co-founder of the Association of Professional Builders, Russ is a data analysis expert who has introduced data-driven decision making to the residential construction industry. Russ is also a proud member of the Forbes Business Development Council.

Connect with Russ:linkedin.com/in/russstephens

TIMELINE

03:11 The three biggest problems builders face worldwide
07:44 Why planning alone can dramatically increase profit
09:15 How an org chart can buy back weeks of your time each year
13:18 The real reason builders struggle to get quality leads
22:38 How supply and demand impact margins
34:18 Why systemisation is the key to scaling without burnout

LINKS, RESOURCES & MORE

APB Website:associationofprofessionalbuilders.com

APB Rewards:associationofprofessionalbuilders.com/rewards/

APB on Instagram:instagram.com/apbbuilders/

APB on Facebook:facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuilders

APB on YouTube:youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

220. Preparing For 2026 With Russ Stephens