America Builds Better

Jared Ledford
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Business

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.

  1. 6d ago

    Behind The Builder Show: The Ultimate Builder Rally - #7

    What 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/Ja2CXq8rwjo Guest:  Missy Beyer  Director of Events  Shield Wall Media Presented by IdeaRoom America 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.com DEFYNED SEO  https://defynedseo.com Shield Wall Media  https://shieldwallmedia.com Follow America Builds Better Website:  https://americabuildsbetter.com 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 TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetter Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/americabuildsbetter/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/americabuildsbetter/ LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/americabuildsbetter/ Contact:  jared@americabuildsbetter.com

    35 min

  2. Jun 8

    Behind The Builder Show: Accelerating The Sales To Build Cycle - #6

    Episode #6 – Behind The Builder Show: Accelerating The Sales To Build CycleFeaturing Dan VanOrden & Johnny Drozdek What 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 automation Whether 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 VanOrden Dan 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 Drozdek Johnny 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.com Preferred Partners: DEFYNED SEO – https://defynedseo.com Shield 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 TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetter Facebook:  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

    55 min

  3. Jun 1

    Behind The Builder Show: Streamlined Systems. Scaling Your Success. - #5

    What 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 nationwide Whether 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 Wagler Trent 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 Wolford Cole 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 Sponsor IdeaRoom https://idearoom.com Preferred Partners DEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.com Shield 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 TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@americabuildsbetter Facebook:  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

    40 min

  4. May 25

    Behind The Builder Show: Mastering The Elements. Eliminating Drips. - #4

    In 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 TAKEAWAYS Why 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 GUESTS Brett 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 GUESTS Website: https://www.dripstop.com 🎧 LISTEN / 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 🤝 PARTNERS IdeaRoom – Title Sponsor  https://idearoom.com DEFYNED SEO  https://defynedseo.com Shield Wall Media  https://shieldwallmedia.com 📢 BUILDER SHOW SERIES 📍 Post-Frame, Rural & Plain Builder Show  📍 York, Pennsylvania  📅 June 10–11, 2026 Presented by Frame Building News & Shield Wall Media. 📢 CALL TO ACTION Subscribe 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

    41 min

  5. May 18

    Behind The Builder Show: Uncompromising Quality. Building Better Buildings - #3

    In 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 TAKEAWAYS Why 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 GUEST Wayne 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 GUEST Website: https://www.accuformequipment.com  Phone: 330-674-4003 🎧 LISTEN / 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 🤝 PARTNERS IdeaRoom – Title Sponsor DEFYNED SEO Websites & Marketing Built to Generate Leads Shield Wall Media Connecting the Building Industry Through Media 📢 BUILDER SHOW SERIES 📍 Post-Frame, Rural & Plain Builder Show  📍 York, Pennsylvania  📅 June 10–11, 2026 Presented by Frame Building News & Shield Wall Media. 📢 CALL TO ACTION Subscribe 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

    31 min

  6. May 11

    Behind the Builder Show: Building Connections. Building the Future - #2

    In 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.com DEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.com Shield 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.

    45 min

  7. May 1

    The Future Of Post Frame Starts Here - #1

    🇺🇸 America Builds Better #1 — Future Of Post Frame Starts Here 🎙️ EPISODE SUMMARY In 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 TAKEAWAYS Why 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 GUEST Dan 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 GUEST Website: https://idearoom.com 🎧 LISTEN / 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 🤝 PARTNERS IdeaRoom – Title Sponsor https://idearoom.com DEFYNED SEO https://defynedseo.com Shield Wall Media https://shieldwallmedia.com 📢 CALL TO ACTION Subscribe 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

    46 min

  8. Jan 13

    VAULT: The Steel Kings #43 - Post Frame WINS w/Randy Chafee

    Ready to sell buildings people actually feel safe choosing? On this episode of the Steel Kings Podcast, we sit down with industry veteran Randy Chaffee to break down how post-frame construction can unlock bigger, cleaner wins for dealers who currently sell sheds or tubular steel. The through-line is trust. Customers buy from people they know, like, trust, and feel safe with—and the fastest way to earn that confidence is by pairing real expertise with credible partners and a clear path through codes, engineering, and permitting. We unpack a hybrid sales playbook that blends road relationships with digital leverage. Trade shows still matter, but video calls, configurators, and podcast content accelerate follow-through and keep projects moving when decisions stall. That force multiplier lets you serve more customers without sacrificing the personal touch that built your reputation in the first place. We also get practical about the differences between steel and post-frame—where each system shines, where approvals slow things down, and why standards, education, and advocacy supported by the National Frame Building Association give post-frame a smoother runway for mid- and high-ticket projects. If you’ve ever lost a bid at the last minute because a customer “thought it would be wood,” this conversation is your pivot plan. We map a smart on-ramp from small outbuildings to complex shops and barndominiums, explain when to say no to protect your brand, and show how to borrow credibility from established manufacturers as you level up. We also spotlight NFBA certification, peer networking, and the Women in Post-Frame community helping shape the industry’s future. Join us in Oklahoma City, February 25–27, for the NFBA Conference & Expo to meet the people, tools, and ideas that can raise margins and reduce friction in your sales process. If this episode sparked ideas, subscribe to the Steel Kings Podcast, share it with a builder who’s ready to grow, and leave a quick review. Then tell us the one obstacle keeping you from adding post-frame this quarter. This episode’s sponsor: Studio Sponsor — J Money LLC 🔗 Subscribe for More: 👉 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thesteelkings 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rlzLCXGxvNvozwha26aAq 🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-steel-kings-podcast/id1849738908 Watch This Episode on YouTube > https://youtu.be/ktOqkH8CAQE

    39 min
See All (14)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Jared Ledford
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 America Builds Better
  • Show Website
    America Builds Better