Dec 09 2024 40 mins 2
Show Notes: The Why We Build Podcast with Todd Schulte
Episode Title: Company Culture w/ Todd Schulte
Hosts:
- Greg Woleck
- Steve Wheeler
Guest:
- Todd Schulte, Founder and Owner of Schulte Design Build, an award-winning residential remodeling contractor in Seattle, Washington.
Key Topics Covered:
- The Role of Culture in Remodeling Companies:
- Culture as the foundation of trust and accountability.
- How culture impacts both team dynamics and client relationships.
- Building intentional company culture to align with core values and goals.
- Todd’s Leadership Journey:
- Transitioning from a carpenter to a business owner.
- Evolving the company into a design-build model for holistic residential remodeling.
- The importance of showing up authentically as a leader.
- Creating a Safe and Trusting Workplace:
- Emphasizing safety and open communication within the team.
- Encouraging accountability and learning from mistakes without fear of judgment.
- Developing strong, long-lasting relationships with employees, including those who leave and return.
- Intentional Culture Building:
- How strategic planning shaped Todd’s approach to culture.
- Inviting team members to contribute to defining company culture.
- Balancing fun, safety, and performance in the workplace.
- Community Involvement:
- Todd’s involvement in the Ballard Seafood Festival and supporting local skateboarding culture.
- How community engagement aligns with personal passions and company values.
- Insights for Remodelers and Leaders:
- Trust and transparency as key components of client relationships.
- Using conflict as an opportunity for growth and improved processes.
- The importance of hiring for culture fit and defining organizational values.
Fun Highlights from the Episode:
- The most interesting discovery during a home remodel: uncovering a basement fire from the 1920s tied to Prohibition-era cooking.
- Todd’s backyard half-pipe built for his kids and his connection to skateboarding culture.
- Who would play Todd in a movie? Robert De Niro!
Top Leadership Tips from Todd:
- Create a workplace where people feel valued and safe.
- Approach mistakes as learning opportunities rather than failures.
- Build a culture of trust by leading authentically and encouraging open communication.
Book Recommendations:
- The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey.
- The Ideal Team Player by Patrick Lencioni.
- Aztec by Gary Jennings (Todd’s favorite fiction).
Connect with Todd Schulte:
Learn More About Remodelers Advantage:
- Website: Remodelers Advantage
- Email: Greg at remodelersadvantage.com
