Built Without Permission

Matthew Mak
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship

Built Without Permission is the podcast for entrepreneurs who never waited for someone to hand them the blueprint. Hosted by Matthew Mak, a former architect turned tow truck operator, landscaper, and equipment rental company owner, this show offers a raw, unfiltered look at what it actually takes to build multiple businesses from the ground up without a roadmap, a safety net, or anyone's approval. Every episode dives into the real decisions, hard pivots, expensive lessons, and unconventional strategies that separate the people who talk about building something from the ones who actually do it. No theory. No fluff. No permission needed. Whether you are a tradesperson with an entrepreneurial itch, a business owner navigating your next reinvention, or someone who has been told your path does not make sense, Built Without Permission is proof that the best businesses are rarely built by the book. This is the show for the ones who break ground before they feel ready.

  1. 1d ago

    From CFP to CEO Rachel Erickson on Using Her Financial Knowledge to Bet on Herself & Build Barrel Room Media From the Gr

    In episode 20 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Rachel Erickson, founder of Barrel Room Media, as she explains why culture, character, and values matter more than money or impressive résumés—and why she refuses to take on clients or team members who negatively impact the people around them.  Tune in to hear Rachel’s entrepreneurial journey and discover practical lessons on focus, leadership, delegation, business growth, community, culture, AI, and taking action—even when your path doesn’t look conventional. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:06] Welcome to Built Without Permission. [00:01:29] Rachel’s creative agency and hospitality focus. [00:02:25] From financial advisor to entrepreneur. [00:04:41] Wine, authenticity, and doing things your way. [00:06:33] Leaving a stable career to build a business. [00:08:18] The entrepreneur trap: saying yes to everything. [00:09:39] The power of focus and mentorship. [00:10:51] Hustle culture vs. sustainable integration. [00:13:11] Rachel’s transformation through coaching and community. [00:15:16] Failure, patience, and playing the long game. [00:18:34] The rule Rachel refuses to break: work with good people. [00:20:59] AI adoption and staying ahead. [00:22:22] AI coaching, accountability, and Dan AI. [00:24:27] Building your own AI clone. [00:26:02] What “Built Without Permission” means. [00:26:51] Rachel’s content gap scorecard and where to find her. [00:28:12] Matthew’s final message: stop waiting and start building. QUOTES “Drink how you want to drink and drink what you like.” – Rachel Erickson“It’s that feeling, it’s like when you share something with someone, and then you’re like, ‘Yeah, I’m not alone.’” – Matthew Mak“Just go for it unapologetically.” – Rachel Erickson SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Rachel Erickson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachelerick.son/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelerickson4/  Website: https://barrelroommedia.com/about

  2. Sep 9

    From Survival to Strength Shaun Shubert on Growing Up Hard, Getting Out & Building the Reforged Method for Dads Who've L

    In episode 19 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Shaun Shubert, a martial artist, chef, gym owner, coach, and entrepreneur from Boston, Massachusetts, to unpack the setbacks, sacrifices, mindset shifts, and life lessons that shaped his journey. He shares how the discipline of combat sports taught him one of the most important lessons in business and life: showing up even when you don't feel like it.  Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, building a business, becoming a better leader, protecting your time, and creating a life where your success doesn't come at the expense of the people you love. TIMESTAMPS [00:00:06] Introducing Built Without Permission and Shaun Shubert. [00:01:02] Shaun's journey from Boston and martial arts to business ownership. [00:03:12] Studying culinary arts and finding purpose through trade school. [00:05:35] Balancing life as a chef, martial artist, and family man. [00:06:56] Finding mentorship and getting back on the right path. [00:09:17] The sacrifices required to pursue combat sports. [00:11:31] Why consistency and showing up matter. [00:12:41] Transitioning from fighter to entrepreneur and business owner. [00:14:09] Building a business without sacrificing family. [00:15:08] Creating an environment where your kids can grow alongside you. [00:17:35] Breaking free from traditional work and lifestyle expectations. [00:19:39] Recognizing when you're stuck in the same routine. [00:20:48] Different definitions of success and choosing your own path. [00:21:39] Hiring the right person and getting your time back. [00:23:24] Building a team that supports your vision. [00:24:30] What “Built Without Permission” means to Shaun. [00:26:07] Trusting your gut and taking action. [00:27:30] Why consistency and momentum matter. [00:27:48] Where to find Shaun and Red Seal Martial Arts. [00:28:58] Final thoughts on building without permission. QUOTES "Sometimes you just know better. Your gut's telling you, just do it, man." – Shaun Shubert"There's no way I'm putting my kids in daycare. They're coming to the gym with me." – Shaun Shubert SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Shaun Shubert  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shaun_shubert/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shaun.aldenshubert/

  3. Sep 2

    Hands Off, Hands Down the Best Scott Dinan on Managing -1M+ Luxury Vacation Assets Across Manatee, Sarasota & Pinellas

    In episode 18 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Scott Dinan, founder of Trust First Management, as he shares how this leadership shift helped create a culture where team members began taking initiative—including one employee who recently built an entire work-order app without being asked.   Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building your future, leading with purpose, and taking action one step at a time.  TIMESTAMPS [00:00:06] Introducing Built Without Permission and Scott Dinan. [00:01:19] The moment Scott realized he was ready to start his own business. [00:02:20] Why making $200,000 revealed the limits of a W-2 career. [00:02:52] Starting a business while becoming a first-time parent. [00:04:12] The importance of having a supportive spouse. [00:05:08] Surviving two back-to-back hurricanes in Florida. [00:06:06] What kept Scott from quitting when the business was losing money. [00:07:12] Building Trust First Management and managing 50 properties. [00:08:05] Vacation rentals, real estate, and serving Canadian clients. [00:09:13] What real success looks like behind the scenes. [00:10:12] Building a team around shared vision and individual dreams. [00:11:06] How better leadership created greater team initiative. [00:12:26] Using AI and technology to transform business operations. [00:13:16] Starting a business while maintaining financial security. [00:14:12] Taking action and getting 1% better every day. [00:15:13] Overthinking, mindset, and creating your own reality. [00:15:50] Why Scott identifies with Batman. [00:17:41] What “Built Without Permission” means to Scott. [00:18:12] Why don't you need permission to create something meaningful? [00:19:17] The danger of waiting until it's too late. [00:20:53] Parenting, programming, and breaking self-imposed boundaries. [00:21:30] Where to find Scott Dinan and Trust First Management. [00:22:15] Consistency, social media, and embracing the haters. [00:22:40] Final thoughts and building without permission. QUOTES "At the end of the day, why do you need permission?" – Scott Dinan"If you have an idea, create it." – Scott Dinan"If you're waiting for permission, you're already behind." – Matthew Mak SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Scott Dinan  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scott.dinan/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-dinan-545b1991/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/smdinan/

  4. Aug 25

    Your Wealth Starts With One Honest Conversation Laura Costa on 12+ Years of GTA Real Estate & the Communication That Changes

    In episode 17 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Laura Costa, an Ontario real estate professional who has built her career around connection, adaptability, communication, and helping clients achieve meaningful goals. From dreaming about a life traveling the Mediterranean to building a successful real estate career, Laura shares the experiences, challenges, and mindset shifts that shaped her journey.  Tune in for an inspiring conversation about real estate, entrepreneurship, mentorship, relationships, communication, personal growth, adaptability, and the courage to build a life and business on your own terms. TIMESTAMPS [00:01:33] Laura’s dream life before real estate and her ultimate vision. [00:02:52] Why adaptability matters in business and life. [00:03:39] The reality of Laura’s first year in real estate. [00:04:58] How difficult seasons build grit, discipline, and self-motivation. [00:06:06] Partnerships, relationships, and learning from things that don't work out. [00:08:50] The butterfly effect and the power of unexpected connections. [00:10:03] Laura’s approach to residential real estate and collaboration. [00:11:09] Why communication and listening are critical in real estate. [00:13:53] The skills nobody teaches: communication and negotiation. [00:17:28] Staying focused on service instead of simply chasing transactions. [00:18:35] Building a memorable personal brand through exceptional service. [00:20:26] AI, outsourcing, and creating more time to focus on clients. [00:25:28] The power of culture, connection, and word-of-mouth. [00:26:06] What “Built Without Permission” really means. [00:28:10] Reprogramming your mindset and challenging limiting beliefs. [00:29:11] Building confidence through experience and self-awareness. [00:30:01] Why execution is what turns knowledge into impact. [00:30:31] Where to connect with Laura and her Ontario-wide real estate services. QUOTES "You're doing that, you're figuring that out, you're going through the motions of life and just keep moving towards what we feel is our purpose." – Laura Costa"The consistent, boring, mundane tasks are what keep you very successful and in it." – Laura Costa"When you execute it, are you actually doing it? Whatever it is, you gotta do it for the difference to actually be impactful." – Matthew Mak SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Laura Costa  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/urbanlauracosta/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-costa-b576672a/

  5. Aug 18

    Build a Business Worth Buying Brandon Smith of New Vision Projects on Trade-Up Coaching & What Contractors Need to Know

    In episode 16 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Brandon Smith, Co-Founder of New Vision Projects, as he explains that having the best product or service means little if you can't communicate its value, solve a customer's problem, and understand how to measure your sales performance.  Tune in for an inspiring conversation about overcoming adversity, building confidence, developing leadership skills, learning sales, hiring coaches, creating team alignment, and taking the daily actions required to turn a small construction business into a scalable company. TIMESTAMPS [00:01:10] Brandon's difficult high school years and discovering construction. [00:01:50] From aspiring snowboarder to starting a career in the trades. [00:03:54] Finding confidence through trade school and hands-on learning. [00:05:00] The 2010 Olympics and the decision to start a business. [00:06:44] Turning skills into confidence and becoming an entrepreneur. [00:09:44] Developing a growth mindset through business challenges. [00:11:51] Emotional stability and showing up as a leader. [00:14:58] What the first year of entrepreneurship really looked like. [00:16:35] The coaching investment that changed the business. [00:17:22] Dividing roles between sales, marketing, and production. [00:20:45] Helping trades businesses build profitable, self-sustaining companies. [00:23:29] The most important skill school doesn't teach: sales. [00:24:59] Why business owners shouldn't outsource sales too quickly. [00:26:50] Storytelling, service, and building customer trust. [00:28:17] The importance of team and company vision alignment. [00:29:45] Understanding employee goals and creating alignment. [00:30:42] Brandon's Open Concept Podcast and connecting with entrepreneurs. [00:31:16] Building a business worth selling—and worth enjoying. QUOTES "Construction saved me." – Brandon Smith"People don't buy your presence, they buy your standards." – Brandon Smith"If we are not aligned on the same vision, we're not working together." – Brandon Smith SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Brandon Smith Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildwithbsmith/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-smith-nvp/

  6. Aug 11

    The Naples Advisor Who Builds Yasmin Saad on Luxury Real Estate, West of 41 & Creating Opportunities Beyond the Deal

    In episode 15 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Yasmin Saad, Florida real estate professional, entrepreneur, and longtime industry leader, as she explains why saying “no” in the short term can be necessary to create the future you actually want, and how family goal planning and vision boards can teach children the value of delayed gratification and achievement.  Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with real estate insights, leadership lessons, mindset shifts, goal-setting strategies, and practical advice for anyone ready to stop waiting and start building.  TIMESTAMPS [00:04:00] Growing from 1,200 to 3,700+ Instagram followers in less than six months. [00:05:10] Turning social media relationships into real estate opportunities. [00:07:09] Helping families relocate to Naples and building the right network. [00:09:08] Rewriting the stories and limiting beliefs holding you back. [00:09:47] Balancing motherhood, business, priorities, and delayed gratification. [00:12:01] Family goal-setting, vision boards, and leading by example. [00:15:34] Taking big risks and breaking out of comfort and complacency. [00:18:20] The Gap and the Gain: focusing on progress instead of perfection. [00:20:28] 23 years in real estate and maintaining a growth mindset. [00:25:22] What to do when you have the skill but not the courage to start. [00:29:39] Building a personal brand around Naples real estate and community. [00:30:44] Creating systems, operating procedures, and a Sell by Chat playbook. [00:32:29] Reverse-engineering goals into daily actions and measurable metrics. [00:33:07] Building in the age of AI and focusing on the desired result. QUOTES "The chief cause of failure and unhappiness is trading what you want most for what you want right now." – Yasmin Saad"You have to say no a lot to say yes to yourself." – Yasmin Saad"I don't necessarily have to know how; I have to know what I want to achieve and what the result is gonna look like." – Yasmin Saad SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Yasmin Saad Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yasminsaad.naples/  The Saad Team: https://www.thesaadteam.com/yasmin-saad/

  7. Aug 4

    Healthy Homes & Hard Laughs Michael Mok of El Centro Builders on the Real, Raw & Rewarding Side of General Contracting

    In episode 14 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Michael Mok, founder of El Centro Builders, as they dive into building high-performing teams, earning client trust, creating scalable business systems, embracing change, and staying committed to your vision even when the journey becomes difficult.  Tune in to discover why you don't need anyone's permission to pursue your goals, how setbacks can become your greatest advantage, and what it truly takes to build a business—and a life—on your own terms.  TIMESTAMPS [00:00:06] Michael's layoff that sparked his entrepreneurial journey. [00:03:07] The hidden sacrifices behind building a business. [00:03:51] Lessons learned managing customers and construction teams. [00:09:00] Building trust and managing client expectations. [00:12:01] Why ending a business partnership changed everything. [00:15:31] Turning obstacles into opportunities for growth. [00:17:09] "Be like water"—the mindset every entrepreneur needs. [00:19:20] Why your biggest struggles become your greatest purpose. [00:21:32] The biggest misconceptions about entrepreneurship. [00:25:56] What "Built Without Permission" truly means. [00:28:25] Defining success on your own terms. [00:29:06] Where to connect with Michael Mok. QUOTES "Built without permission means you define your own path in life." – Michael Mok"Your mess is your mission." – Michael Mok"The life you're building starts with the decisions you make today." – Matthew Mak SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Michael Mok Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljmok/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@michaelmok7997/about  El Centro Builders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elcentrobuilders/  Website: https://www.elcentrobuilders.com/about

  8. Jul 28

    No Wasted Years How Dalton Sykes Turned a Decade of Discipline Into Ironworx Excavating's Rise Across Toronto & the GTA

    In episode 13 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Dalton Sykes from IronWorkX Excavating, as he shares how a simple decision in his early 20s changed the trajectory of his life—from flipping pickup trucks and selling handmade concrete dumbbells during the pandemic to building one of the fastest-growing excavation companies focused on commercial, municipal, and civil projects.  Tune in and discover why the people who succeed aren't waiting for permission—they're creating opportunities through action.  TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Built Without Permission 01:30 The moment Dalton decided to stop wasting time 03:20 Flipping trucks and selling concrete dumbbells during COVID 06:40 From liquidation business to Ironworks Excavating 11:05 The sacrifices entrepreneurs rarely talk about 15:10 Why your circle changes as you grow 20:05 Social media success vs. real success 24:00 Money, family, and defining true wealth 27:15 The power of self-accountability 29:20 Becoming a better leader and building stronger teams 36:00 What's next for Ironworks Excavating 39:30 Building a legacy for future generations 42:00 Final thoughts on building without permission QUOTES "The more you blame yourself, the more you can fix in your life." — Dalton Sykes"Success isn't the Lamborghini. Success is having peace." — Dalton Sykes"If you're waiting for permission, you're already behind." — Matthew Mak"Solve people's problems, and the money follows." — Dalton Sykes"You don't build a legacy overnight—you build it one decision at a time." — Matthew Mak SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS Matthew Mak Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattmak.builds/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.ozoriomak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mak-715bb825/  J and J Equipment Rental Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jandjequipmentrental/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/JJ-Equipment-Rental/ LinkedIn:  https://ca.linkedin.com/company/j-j-equipment-rental  Dalton Sykes LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalton-sykes-b242162b7/

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About

Built Without Permission is the podcast for entrepreneurs who never waited for someone to hand them the blueprint. Hosted by Matthew Mak, a former architect turned tow truck operator, landscaper, and equipment rental company owner, this show offers a raw, unfiltered look at what it actually takes to build multiple businesses from the ground up without a roadmap, a safety net, or anyone's approval. Every episode dives into the real decisions, hard pivots, expensive lessons, and unconventional strategies that separate the people who talk about building something from the ones who actually do it. No theory. No fluff. No permission needed. Whether you are a tradesperson with an entrepreneurial itch, a business owner navigating your next reinvention, or someone who has been told your path does not make sense, Built Without Permission is proof that the best businesses are rarely built by the book. This is the show for the ones who break ground before they feel ready.

Information

  • Creator
    Matthew Mak
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Built Without Permission
  • Show Website
    Built Without Permission