Stay Modern With Murray

Matt Murray

Welcome to the Stay Modern with Murray Podcast, your go-to source for the latest trends and insider tips in the homebuilding industry. Each episode, we delve into the dynamic realms of design and construction, providing valuable insights that can elevate your understanding and approach to building and renovating homes.But we don’t stop there! We go beyond mere construction topics to engage with influential figures such as business owners, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. These conversations highlight the experiences and expertise of those who are making significant impacts in their respective fields. Here, you will discover not only innovative ideas and practices within homebuilding but also inspirational stories that showcase leadership and creativity in action.Whether you're a homeowner, a potential builder, or simply interested in the housing industry, our podcast will offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we explore the intersection of home construction and the vibrant discussions that can help shape the future of your projects. Tune in to enrich your understanding and spark new ideas in homebuilding, design, and business leadership! Please tune in to hear from industry experts, non-profits, and local business leaders shaping our world. Visit our website at www.murraycustomhomes.com/podcast for more information and to catch the latest episodes. Subscribe today and stay modern with Murray!

  1. 10/12/2025

    From Porch to Party: Inside Posh Pumpkins’ Fall Styling Service

    If the thought of hauling heavy pumpkins and wrestling hay bales makes you skip fall decor, you’re going to love this conversation. We sit down with Carrie and Tracy of Posh Pumpkins, a mom‑run, Lincoln‑area service that delivers, designs, and maintains gorgeous seasonal displays for porches, long driveways, backyard parties, and even storefronts. They bring the pumpkins, build the look, clean the produce, and—if you want—come back to pick everything up when the season ends. We dig into how their packages work, what separates their most popular options, and why the heirloom add‑on can transform a basic setup into a photogenic focal point. They share how they source pumpkins locally from multiple growers (including their kids’ own patch) to ensure quality, color variety, and longevity. You’ll hear practical, field‑tested tips to extend the life of your display for two and a half months: keep stems dry after rain, cover arrangements on freezing nights, and deter hungry squirrels with a sprinkle of cayenne. For businesses, they break down how to scale a display for wider entries and create fall‑ready photo ops that boost foot traffic and brand warmth. What makes Posh Pumpkins stand out is the end‑to‑end ease. Send a quick photo of your space, get a right‑sized recommendation, and let the team handle the heavy lifting and final styling touches. We also talk about their path as longtime friends, balancing family life, careers in home organizing and event decor, and a seasonal sprint fueled by community ties and a love for simple beauty. If you’re near Lincoln and want curb appeal without the stress, this is your shortcut to a warm, camera‑ready welcome that actually lasts. Want more like this? Subscribe, share the show with a friend who loves fall, and leave a quick review so others can find us. Then head to Posh Pumpkins on Facebook or Instagram to see packages, photos, and open dates. Have ideas or would you like to be a guest? Send us a text! Stay in touch!  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

    10 min
  2. 09/30/2025

    Antrell Taylor-Born to Wrestle

    A national title changes your life, but it doesn’t change the work. We sat down live at Hawks Nest with Nebraska’s own NCAA champion Antrell Taylor for a raw, energizing dive into what really fuels a winning program: structure, loyalty, and the daily choices no one sees. From his start as a football kid who wrestled to get better, to the moment the finals nerves hit in a quiet hotel room, Antrell walks us through the habits and headspace that carried him to the top—and how he plans to stay there without playing defense on last year’s success. We dig into recruiting during COVID, why he chose to stay home in Nebraska, and the realities of NIL that few athletes say out loud. Loyalty matters to Antrell. Culture matters. He talks candidly about transfer temptations, the value of belonging to a room that believes in the same standards, and how big-name visits can spark momentum without changing who you are. The heartbeat of his growth is mentorship—especially from James Green—who helped shape Antrell’s patience, position, and confidence through brutal, honest practice sessions that translate when the lights are brightest. If you’ve ever wondered how champions prepare, manage anxiety, and turn pressure into offense, this conversation cuts through the noise. We also zoom out: sports specialization vs. playing multiple sports, protecting kids from burnout, and why wrestling’s community crosses backgrounds and beliefs with respect at the center. Antrell’s goals are bold—bonus 90 to 95 percent of opponents, stack All-Americans, and push for a team title—but his process is simple and relentless. Looking ahead, he’s aiming at world teams, the 2028 Olympics, and a future in coaching that pays forward the guidance he received. If you care about wrestling, athlete development, or building a high-performance culture that lasts, this one hits home. Enjoyed the conversation? Follow, share with a friend, and leave a rating to help more listeners find the show. Have ideas or would you like to be a guest? Send us a text! Stay in touch!  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

    40 min
  3. 08/04/2025

    The Secret Life of an Insurance Agent

    Ben Vetter of Marsh McLennan Insurance Agency shares his journey from advertising to insurance sales and his insights on building a successful career in the insurance industry. His transition story demonstrates how the insurance industry offers surprising benefits, including financial flexibility, work-life balance, and long-term job security that many professionals seek. • Building a book of business takes persistence – Ben maintains both client folders and prospect folders, with the latter being much larger • The "paradox of sales" means prospecting is the most critical activity, but also the easiest to push aside • Insurance sales success requires mental resilience to handle rejection and maintain consistent effort • The dramatic rise in homeowners and auto insurance rates stems from increased property values, construction costs, and weather events nationwide • Distracted driving (primarily from phone use) is significantly driving up auto insurance claims and premiums • For career seekers, insurance offers three key advantages: money flexibility, time flexibility, and job security • Work-life balance in sales requires finding unconventional times to work, often late at night after family obligations • Managing emerging producers involves helping them navigate their first 3-4 years until they reach "validation" (profitability) If you're looking to connect with Ben or learn more about insurance opportunities, reach out to Marsh McLennan Agency. Have ideas or would you like to be a guest? Send us a text! Stay in touch!  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

    57 min
  4. How One Veteran is Making a Unique Difference for Heroes

    02/26/2025

    How One Veteran is Making a Unique Difference for Heroes

    Dive deep into the inspiring story of Jason Steiner, a former Marine and the visionary behind Herostock, an innovative nonprofit that brings together the music community and veterans. Struggling with the transition out of military life himself, Jason recognized the significant gap in support for veterans returning to civilian life. His vision to create a gathering space for veterans evolved into Hero Stock, a festival that not only celebrates music but also highlights the resources available to heroes and their families. In this engaging episode, we explore the challenges and triumphs Jason faced as he transformed his passion for music into a powerful platform for change. Learn about the emotional connections forged between artists and veterans, the importance of community, and the extraordinary talents of veteran musicians showcased at Hero Stock events. With plans to expand further, you'll discover how this initiative cultivates healing and camaraderie while raising awareness for veteran support services. Join us for an uplifting conversation that illustrates the profound impact of music on community building and the importance of honoring those who serve. Don’t miss your chance to get involved! Visit HeroStock's website for how you can support this noble cause, participate in future events, and listen to the newly launched Hero Stock Nation podcast that brings more awareness to this vital movement. Have ideas or would you like to be a guest? Send us a text! Stay in touch!  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

    38 min
  5. Chris Blum: Leading Heartland Cancer Foundation with Community and Care

    12/06/2024

    Chris Blum: Leading Heartland Cancer Foundation with Community and Care

    Executive Director Chris Blum of the Heartland Cancer Foundation joins us for an intimate conversation about his journey from Omaha and Council Bluffs to leading a nonprofit dedicated to supporting cancer patients in Nebraska. Chris opens up about his unique upbringing and how it has shaped his perspective and approach to leadership. We explore the critical mission of the Heartland Cancer Foundation, which alleviates the financial burden of cancer patients by helping cover essential expenses like mortgage and utility bills. Highlighting the importance of keeping operations local, Chris shares insights into the vital role that volunteers play in sustaining the foundation's impactful work. Transitioning from a fulfilling 25-year career with the Boy Scouts, Chris shares how his experiences in fundraising, leadership, and volunteer recruitment seamlessly translated into his current role. In a touching story from his Boy Scouts days, Chris recalls a summer camp where a staff member helped his son overcome a fear of swimming, underscoring the power of positive interactions and shared memories. This episode is a heartfelt reminder of how creating lasting, meaningful experiences can impact individuals and communities, inspiring us all to strive for a greater positive impact. Networking and strategic planning are at the heart of the Heartland Cancer Foundation's success, as Chris explains how forming genuine connections transforms event attendees into long-term supporters. From the annual Mardi Gras Gala to partnerships with local organizations, Chris outlines the foundation's strategic approach to fundraising. As we wrap up, we discuss various ways to engage with the Heartland Cancer Foundation, including volunteering and workplace campaigns, emphasizing the importance of involving younger generations in meaningful activities. Join us as we celebrate the power of community and the difference each of us can make. Have ideas or would you like to be a guest? Send us a text! Stay in touch!  WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM

    59 min

About

Welcome to the Stay Modern with Murray Podcast, your go-to source for the latest trends and insider tips in the homebuilding industry. Each episode, we delve into the dynamic realms of design and construction, providing valuable insights that can elevate your understanding and approach to building and renovating homes.But we don’t stop there! We go beyond mere construction topics to engage with influential figures such as business owners, CEOs, entrepreneurs, and community leaders. These conversations highlight the experiences and expertise of those who are making significant impacts in their respective fields. Here, you will discover not only innovative ideas and practices within homebuilding but also inspirational stories that showcase leadership and creativity in action.Whether you're a homeowner, a potential builder, or simply interested in the housing industry, our podcast will offer a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. Join us as we explore the intersection of home construction and the vibrant discussions that can help shape the future of your projects. Tune in to enrich your understanding and spark new ideas in homebuilding, design, and business leadership! Please tune in to hear from industry experts, non-profits, and local business leaders shaping our world. Visit our website at www.murraycustomhomes.com/podcast for more information and to catch the latest episodes. Subscribe today and stay modern with Murray!