Trade Secrets: Remodeling with NARI

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Trade Secrets Remodeling with NARI is the official podcast of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) — delivering unfiltered conversations, real-world insights, and practical strategies for today's remodeling professionals.

Episodes

  1. Jul 1

    Protecting the Profit in Production

    Most remodelers focus heavily on sales, estimating, and getting projects in the pipeline. But according to Forrest Castile, profit isn't won when a project is sold. It's protected during production. In this episode of Trade Secrets: Remodeling with NARI, Anthony Lopez sits down with Forrest Castile, owner of Castile Kitchen & Bath and presenter at NARI's Annual Conference in Tempe, Arizona, to discuss the systems and processes his company uses to consistently complete projects within 1% of the estimate, finish on schedule, collect 100% of the contract before project completion, and achieve zero-punch completions. Forrest shares practical insights on project wrap-up strategies, the power of a 60-day tune-up process, real-time job costing, team accountability, and why giving production teams visibility into company metrics can dramatically improve performance and profitability. Episode Highlights The four "impossibles" in remodeling and why they may actually be achievable Why protecting profit during production is more important than generating new sales Common communication breakdowns between sales and production teams How a completion list differs from a traditional punch list Why a 60-day tune-up process leads to happier clients and stronger reviews The importance of involving production teams in estimating and budgeting How visibility into project metrics removes the "blindfold" from field teams Reframing accountability from punishment to simply measuring and improving performance Why open-book management can strengthen culture and increase ownership Key Takeaways Profit is not something you hope remains at the end of a project. It must be intentionally protected throughout production. Leaving money on the table at project completion unintentionally encourages clients to search for problems. Production teams perform better when they understand budgets, schedules, and expectations. Accountability should focus on metrics and improvement, not blame. Visibility empowers teams to make better decisions and take ownership of results. Resources & Links Learn more about NARI and the resources available to remodeling professionals: https://www.nari.org Connect with Forrest Castile: 📧 forrest@castilekb.com 📞 (541) 554-6974 📍 Eugene, Oregon If you're looking to strengthen your business, improve profitability, and connect with professionals committed to raising the bar in remodeling, visit nari.org to learn more about the National Association of the Remodeling Industry. Subscribe to Trade Secrets: Remodeling with NARI on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations with industry leaders helping remodelers build stronger, more profitable businesses.

    Protecting the Profit in Production

  2. Jun 3

    Why Clients Remember Your Process More Than Your Portfolio

    What clients remember most about your remodeling business isn't just the finished project—it's the experience of working with you. In this episode, Anthony Lopez sits down with Ashley Blaesing of FrameReach Studio to explore why process, communication, and thoughtful client experience are what truly define a remodeling company's reputation. From small personal touches—like supporting clients during disruptive renovations—to building repeatable systems that create consistency, Ashley breaks down how remodelers can turn their process into a competitive advantage. If you want more referrals, stronger reviews, and a reputation built on trust, this conversation highlights what actually makes the difference. Episode Highlights Why clients remember the experience more than the final project How small personal touches can create lasting impressions The emotional side of remodeling projects and why it matters Why improving your process doesn't have to be overwhelming How to break down your systems into manageable improvements The importance of quick wins when refining your client experience How a strong process creates trust, referrals, and long-term growth Key Takeaways  The client experience is often more memorable than the finished work Small, thoughtful gestures can significantly improve client perception Process improvements should be approached in manageable steps Consistency matters more than complexity A strong, intentional process builds long-term trust and differentiation If you're serious about building a remodeling business known for professionalism and trust, explore the resources and community available through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry at nari.org. Subscribe to Trade Secrets: Remodeling with NARI on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen so you don't miss future conversations with leaders across the industry.

    Why Clients Remember Your Process More Than Your Portfolio

  3. May 6

    How Remodelers Can Win Online in Today's Market

    Homeowners are researching longer, comparing more companies, and forming opinions long before they ever pick up the phone. In this episode, Anthony Lopez sits down with Bob Vance of Home Remodeler SEO to break down what remodelers need to do today to stand out online and attract better clients. Bob shares practical, experience-driven insights on how digital visibility, brand credibility, responsiveness, and consistent marketing influence whether a homeowner chooses you — or someone else. From Google Business Profiles and reviews to storytelling through project photos and follow-up systems, this conversation focuses on what actually works for remodeling businesses right now. If you want your company to be seen as professional, trustworthy, and worth contacting before competitors, this episode provides a clear roadmap. Episode Highlights Why competition starts weeks before a homeowner ever calls you The concept of "omnipresence" and why visibility across platforms matters Common ways remodelers waste money on digital marketing Why marketing cannot be turned on and off like a switch The critical role of reviews, case studies, and project storytelling How responsiveness and follow-up function as marketing Why Google Business Profiles are often the highest-impact starting point How trust, authority, and credibility will shape the future of marketing If you're serious about building a professional remodeling business, explore the education, resources, and community available through the National Association of the Remodeling Industry at nari.org. Subscribe to Trade Secrets Remodeling with NARI on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss future conversations with leaders across the industry.

    How Remodelers Can Win Online in Today's Market

  4. Apr 1

    What It Really Takes to Build a Professional Remodeling Business Today

    What separates a professional remodeling business from one that struggles to scale? In this inaugural episode of the Trade Secrets: Remodeling with NARI podcast, Anthony Lopez, Director of Business Development at NARI, explores the foundational elements that build long-term trust, stability, and success in today's remodeling industry. Great craftsmanship is essential, but it is no longer enough on its own. Today's homeowners look for structure, reliability, and clear standards before they ever sign a contract. Professional systems, documented processes, and ongoing education reduce risk, increase confidence, and distinguish serious companies from those operating informally. Anthony explains how professionalism protects both remodelers and consumers, why industry organizations exist to elevate standards across the field, and what practical steps business owners can take right now to strengthen their operations. If you want a remodeling business that grows sustainably — not just one that survives on hustle — this conversation provides a clear starting point. Episode Highlights Why skill alone does not build a sustainable remodeling business How professional standards create leverage and trust The role of structure in reducing conflict and uncertainty Why education shortens the path to growth How industry organizations help elevate professionalism across the field Three immediate actions remodelers can take to strengthen their business If you're looking for education, resources, and a community committed to doing things the right way, you can learn more about the National Association of the Remodeling Industry at nari.org. Subscribe for future episodes featuring insights from leaders across the remodeling industry, and share this episode with someone who could benefit from building a stronger, more professional business. Learn more at https://www.nari.org and subscribe for new episodes on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and wherever you listen. #RemodelingBusiness #ContractorLife #HomeImprovement #ConstructionBusiness #NARI

    What It Really Takes to Build a Professional Remodeling Business Today
  • 4 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

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2 Ratings

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Trade Secrets Remodeling with NARI is the official podcast of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) — delivering unfiltered conversations, real-world insights, and practical strategies for today's remodeling professionals.

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