Humans That Build

Adam Marburger
  • 5.0 (9)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Weekly Series

Humans That Build Real conversations with the people who build what lasts. Hosted by Adam Marburger Humans That Build is a leadership and business podcast focused on the people who build real things—companies, teams, systems, and cultures—through discipline, responsibility, and execution. Hosted by Adam Marburger, the show features long-form conversations with founders, executives, operators, and leaders who have earned their authority through experience, not hype. Each episode explores how successful builders think, make decisions, navigate pressure, recover from failure, and sustain performance over time. Rather than chasing trends or quick wins, Humans That Build documents the mindset, judgment, and character required to create work that lasts. Conversations are practical, grounded, and centered on real-world leadership—what it actually takes to build, lead, and grow in complex environments. This podcast is for professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs who value substance over slogans and want insight drawn from lived experience, not theory.

  1. Episode 1

    Trust Your Gut: Key Insights from Seasoned Entrepreneurs with Adam McChesney

    In this episode, we delve into the intricate journey of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the salient truth that it often takes longer and costs more than initially anticipated. We engage in a profound dialogue with Adam McChesney, a seasoned entrepreneur who candidly shares his evolution from the medical device sales industry to establishing multiple successful ventures. His narrative underscores the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the willingness to embrace failures as stepping stones to success. Throughout our conversation, we explore the critical role of personal branding and the necessity of investing in oneself through coaches and mentors, which McChesney attributes to his remarkable growth and achievements. This episode ultimately serves as an invaluable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering insights into the realities of building a business while navigating the complexities of personal and professional growth. The discussion between Adam Marburger and Adam McChesney delves deeply into the nuances of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the personal and professional growth that arises from overcoming challenges. McChesney, a seasoned entrepreneur, reflects on his journey from selling items on eBay in his youth to managing a successful digital marketing agency and branching into various business sectors. The conversation touches on critical themes such as the importance of personal branding, resilience in the face of adversity, and the necessity of trusting one's instincts in decision-making. McChesney articulates the profound lessons learned from past experiences, particularly during tumultuous times, highlighting the significance of mentorship, accountability, and continuous learning. This episode serves as an inspiring testament to the entrepreneurial spirit, encouraging listeners to embrace their journeys, learn from failures, and seek support from those who have navigated similar paths. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of authenticity and real conversations in building meaningful connections.Listeners are encouraged to embrace their journeys of personal development and self-improvement through shared stories.The speakers reflect on the necessity of failing quickly and learning from those failures to achieve success in entrepreneurship.A strong personal brand is portrayed as a critical asset for business growth and resilience in challenging times.The discussion highlights the value of mentorship and coaching from experienced individuals to navigate the complexities of business.Listeners are reminded that the entrepreneurial journey often requires more time and financial resources than initially anticipated.

  2. Episode 2

    The Entrepreneurial Spirit: Chris Martinez on Building and Growing

    This podcast episode features an enlightening dialogue between Adam Marburger and Chris Martinez, centering on the theme of human resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit inherent in building personal and professional success. The discussion underscores the significance of authentic human connections and the vital inner work that precedes external achievements. Chris expounds upon his extensive experiences within the automotive industry, illustrating his journey from humble beginnings to a position of influential leadership and innovation. He shares valuable insights into the transformative role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, in enhancing operational efficiency and driving sales growth for car dealerships. Ultimately, this episode serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and the relentless pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of business. The podcast episode features a profound conversation between Adam Marburger and Chris Martinez, who delves into the realm of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the transformative power of personal experiences in shaping professional journeys. Martinez, a seasoned veteran in the automotive industry, shares insights from his extensive career, reflecting on the serendipitous circumstances that led him to discover the car business. He emphasizes the importance of learning from others and acknowledges the influence of those who have paved the way for his success, epitomizing the adage, 'standing on the shoulders of giants.' Throughout the discussion, Martinez articulates his belief that entrepreneurship resembles a perpetual sport, where the pursuit of excellence drives individuals to continually strive for more, irrespective of past accomplishments. This episode serves as a testament to the notion that true success is often rooted in the experiences, lessons, and growth that accompany entrepreneurial endeavors. Takeaways: In our discourse, we emphasize the significance of authentic human connections in entrepreneurship, transcending mere transactional interactions.The podcast underlines the notion that true success is predicated on a foundation of internal growth and resilience, fostering both personal and professional development.Our guest Chris Martinez elucidates how his extensive experience in the automotive industry has shaped his approach to business innovation and strategy.Listeners are encouraged to embrace technology, particularly artificial intelligence, as a catalyst for operational efficiency and enhanced decision-making in their ventures.The conversation illustrates the transformative impact of AI in streamlining processes, facilitating rapid implementation, and ultimately driving sales growth for car dealerships.We assert that the evolution of technology necessitates an adaptive mindset among entrepreneurs, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and agility in business. Companies mentioned in this episode: CarMaxToyotaFacebookGrant CardonePure CarsAmazon AutosCarvana

  3. Episode 3

    Unveiling the Journey of Super Achievers: A Conversation with Frank Crinite

    The discourse of this particular episode is predicated upon the compelling journey of Frank Crinite , a luminary within the automotive industry, who shares his profound narrative of resilience and transformation. The conversation commences with an exploration of Frank's early influences and his serendipitous entrance into the car sales realm, catalyzed by familial expectations and personal circumstances. This anecdote serves as a precursor to a deeper examination of his professional ethos, which is characterized by an unwavering commitment to service and community engagement. Frank elucidates how pivotal moments in his life, including a harrowing battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma, catalyzed a profound paradigm shift in his approach to both business and personal interactions. Through this lens, he articulates the importance of empathy, authenticity, and the human connection in fostering not only personal success but also collective growth within the automotive sector. The episode subsequently delves into the establishment of the Pinnacle Society, a collaborative initiative aimed at empowering high-performing sales professionals. Frank's reflections on the intricate dynamics of competition and camaraderie among top-tier salespeople underscore a common theme: the elevation of others is paramount to sustained success. He passionately advocates for a culture devoid of ego and entrenched in mutual support, whereby industry leaders actively engage in uplifting one another to achieve greater heights. This narrative, rich with personal anecdotes and professional insights, culminates in an earnest call to action for listeners to embrace vulnerability, foster community, and prioritize genuine relationships in all their endeavors. Takeaways: The podcast episode emphasizes the significance of personal development in achieving professional success.Listeners are introduced to Frank Crenitti, an exemplary figure in the automotive industry.The discussion highlights the importance of community involvement and supporting local charities.Crenitti shares his transformative experience with cancer, which reshaped his approach to business and empathy.The hosts discuss the Pinnacle Society, which aims to elevate high-performing salespeople in the automotive sector.The conversation underscores the necessity of maintaining a positive mindset amidst challenges and competition. Companies mentioned in this episode: Piazza HondaDelco groupPinnacle SocietyMont BlancAli RitaEagles

  4. Episode 4

    Embracing Challenges: Lessons from the Mats and the Market wtih Zach Fagas

    The discourse presented herein elucidates the profound journey of personal evolution required to construct meaningful dialogues among individuals. At the forefront of our conversation is the notion that the foundation of external achievement is predicated upon the internal fortification of one’s character and resolve. I engage with Zach Fagas, a distinguished figure in both the realms of real estate and podcasting, as we traverse the complexities of professional growth and the perseverance required to navigate the vicissitudes of life. Our dialogue underscores the importance of genuine human connection and the unwavering commitment to one's craft, devoid of superficial embellishments or shortcuts. Join us as we explore these themes, aiming to inspire and incite impactful change through our shared narratives and insights. Takeaways: The podcast emphasizes the importance of building meaningful conversations with individuals and sharing impactful stories.It highlights the significance of internal development and personal growth before external accomplishments can be fully realized.Listeners are encouraged to embrace the hard work and dedication required in their pursuits, without relying on shortcuts or hype.The discussion reflects on the challenges and psychological hurdles faced in martial arts, particularly the journey through various belt levels in jiu jitsu.The conversation elaborates on the real estate market dynamics in St. Louis, indicating opportunities for investment and growth in specific neighborhoods.Lastly, the podcast underscores the value of continuous learning and mentorship in achieving success across various domains, including entrepreneurship.

  5. Episode 5

    I Teach to Transform Lives: Forging Black Belts and Better People with Kyle Watson

    I focus on how Kyle Watson built Watson Martial Arts and uses jiu jitsu to change many lives. I interview him about his path from early fights to the UFC and The Ultimate Fighter. He shares stories of his first fights, his time on Team GSP, and the hard work of competing and training. We discuss how he left a steady job to start and grow his academy, the systems he built, and the challenges of scaling. I also explore his coaching values, how he measures success by helping students become better versions of themselves, and his plans to keep teaching while balancing family and travel. Takeaways: I described how martial arts shaped my identity and drove my competitive ambition.I recalled my first amateur fight in a smoky bar where I earned only a small medal.I explained the grueling Ultimate Fighter process including multiple fights in six weeks and strict dieting.I described building Watson Martial Arts from a modest start to a large community and affiliate network.We emphasized teaching with care to help people grow, change habits, and become their best versions over time.I reflected on leadership challenges, the need to adapt systems as the business grows, and the importance of delegation. Links referenced in this episode: watsonbjj.com Companies mentioned in this episode: UFCThe Ultimate FighterDanger ZoneMatt Hughes AcademyBodogSpike TVKaplanWatson Martial ArtsDirecTVThe Palms (Palms Casino Resort)WEC (World Extreme Cagefighting)Alton GazetteHit Squad

  6. Episode 6

    Adam Marburger: I Was Told I Would Fail — The 10 Things School Never Taught Me

    Adam Marburger says "I assert, as the principal maxim of this discourse, that you are not your past, and liberation from antecedent circumstances constitutes the foundational imperative for any person intent upon constructing a meaningful life and enterprise. I distill ten critical lessons I have learned—among them that money functions as a vehicle of freedom, that deliberate appearance and personal branding matter, that a disciplined morning routine and ongoing personal development are indispensable, and that one’s circle of influence determines future trajectory. I underscore the peril of deferment and the necessity of decisive action today rather than postponement into tomorrow. I counsel discovery and monetization of one’s gifts, establishment of multiple revenue streams, pursuit of mentors and coaching, and the practice of gratitude, forgiveness, and reciprocal responsibility to those who depend upon us. I exhort listeners to audit relationships, accept the inevitability of resistance and haters, and commit to sustained growth so that we may transcend circumstance and create generational value. I recount a trajectory from a turbulent adolescence to purposeful leadership and distill ten vital lessons that were absent from formal schooling. I describe how a single, stinging encounter with a counselor catalyzed a fire in me and set the stage for sustained ambition. I insist that we are not our past, and I explain why releasing inherited narratives enables deliberate progress. I treat money as a modality of freedom rather than an end in itself and relate specific practices: show children how business finances operate, view entrepreneurship as a sport to be trained for, and surround yourself with peers who amplify rather than diminish your aspirations. I also emphasize the practicalities of personal presentation and routine. I urge that appearance functions as a communicative asset and that a disciplined morning ritual and personal development plan are nonnegotiable for high achievement. I outline the necessity of multiple revenue streams—investing in markets, maximizing retirement accounts, whole life insurance as a vehicle, and real estate for passive income—and I close with a call to action: act today, not tomorrow, and invest in mentors and coaches to expedite growth." Takeaways: I am not defined by my past or my family lineage, and I can alter generational outcomes through deliberate, sustained effort.I regard money as a means to freedom and agency, and I therefore pursue wealth creation to serve my family and to impact my community responsibly.I cultivate my personal appearance and brand deliberately, understanding that presentation materially influences opportunities and external perceptions in both professional and social environments.I maintain a disciplined morning routine, engage in continuous personal development, and deliberately seek mentors to accelerate my competence and measurable outcomes.I audit and curate my circle of influence, excising relationships that impede progress and surrounding myself with individuals who exemplify high achievement and reciprocal support.I embrace risk and eschew conformity, electing the less traveled course when necessary so that I may access disproportionate opportunity and long-term growth.I identify my core gifts and monetize them through diversified revenue streams, including investments and real estate, while acting promptly rather than deferring aspirations until tomorrow.I forgive others and myself for past errors, engage a coach to refine strategy and accountability, and recognize that when I fail to win numerous dependents and communities consequently suffer. Companies mentioned in this episode: Humans That BuildAscent Dealer ServicesCuzo's Pasta and PizzaAlton Elite Jiu-JitsuLambert–St. Louis International AirportGucci

  • 6 Episodes

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Humans That Build Real conversations with the people who build what lasts. Hosted by Adam Marburger Humans That Build is a leadership and business podcast focused on the people who build real things—companies, teams, systems, and cultures—through discipline, responsibility, and execution. Hosted by Adam Marburger, the show features long-form conversations with founders, executives, operators, and leaders who have earned their authority through experience, not hype. Each episode explores how successful builders think, make decisions, navigate pressure, recover from failure, and sustain performance over time. Rather than chasing trends or quick wins, Humans That Build documents the mindset, judgment, and character required to create work that lasts. Conversations are practical, grounded, and centered on real-world leadership—what it actually takes to build, lead, and grow in complex environments. This podcast is for professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs who value substance over slogans and want insight drawn from lived experience, not theory.

Information

  • Creator
    Adam Marburger
  • Episodes
    32
  • Seasons
    2
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Adam Marburger
  • Show Website
    Humans That Build