In this episode of People-First Builders, host Fletcher Wimbush sits down with Michael Feazel, Co-Founder and CEO of Roof Maxx, to explore how structured training, intentional leadership, and innovative business models are reshaping the roofing industry.

With decades of experience as a roofing contractor and industry thought leader, Michael shares his journey from climbing roofs in the 1980s to building one of the fastest-growing roofing service networks in the country. He explains how Roof Maxx created an entirely new category—roof rejuvenation—and how simplifying the work has opened the door to scalable teams, broader talent pools, and more sustainable careers in the trades.

The conversation dives deep into workforce challenges in construction, the importance of always recruiting, and why training and onboarding are not optional—but foundational—for long-term success. Michael also breaks down how systems, peer learning, and clear expectations help small operators grow beyond the one-man-band stage.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• How structured training enables scalable roofing teams

• Why simplifying work expands access to talent in the trades

• Best practices for recruiting, onboarding, and retention

• Lessons from building a national dealer network and training platform

• How people-first leadership supports growth without sacrificing culture

This episode is a must-listen for roofing contractors, trade business owners, and construction leaders looking to build stronger teams, extend asset life for customers, and grow with intention.

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In this episode of the People-First Builders Podcast, host Fletcher Wimbush sits down with Chad Raymond, General Manager and Head of Sales at Henry Company, a subsidiary of Carlisle Weatherproofing Technologies. Chad brings a unique perspective from the supply-side of the construction industry, working daily with builders, contractors, architects, and developers across residential and light commercial markets.

Chad shares what he's seeing firsthand on the front lines of today's labor shortage—how skilled trade shortages are impacting project timelines, business growth, and quality, and why the challenge extends far beyond any single segment of the construction supply chain. Together, Fletcher and Chad explore why attracting younger talent to the trades has become one of the industry's most urgent priorities.

The conversation dives into:

• Why labor availability—not demand—is limiting growth in construction

• How builders are adapting to retain skilled trades and reduce work stoppages

• The real opportunity in skilled trades as a viable, high-earning alternative to traditional college paths

• The importance of career perseverance, long-term skill development, and "failing forward"

• Why construction, at its core, is still a people business—and always will be

Chad also reflects on his own career journey, sharing insights on leadership, discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and how serving customers well creates meaningful, mission-driven work.

This episode is a must-listen for builders, suppliers, and leaders who care deeply about developing people, strengthening the workforce, and building a more sustainable future for the construction industry.

🎧 Tune in to hear how making the trades more attractive starts with leadership, planning, and putting people first.

In this episode of People-First Builders, host Fletcher Wimbush sits down with Scott Menard, President & Chief Operating Officer of Homes Built For America, to discuss how strong leadership, accountability, and purpose-driven culture shape successful construction organizations.

Scott shares his perspective on leading teams in the residential construction space, the importance of operational excellence, and how aligning people, process, and mission creates long-term stability and growth. Drawing from his experience overseeing large-scale operations, he offers practical insights into building trust, developing leaders, and sustaining performance in a demanding industry.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• What people-first leadership looks like in residential construction

• How operational discipline supports team success and scalability

• The role of accountability and clarity in building strong cultures

• Lessons learned from leading through growth and complexity

This conversation is a must-listen for construction executives, operations leaders, and business owners who want to build resilient teams and organizations that last.

🎧 Subscribe to People-First Builders for more conversations with leaders who build lasting success by investing in their people.