Raising The Grade
Welcome to a podcast that celebrates the visionaries and trailblazers of the hardscape and landscaping industry in the vibrant Phoenix Metro Valley. Each episode delves into the stories of industry leaders who are redefining landscapes and elevating the standard of excellence in their craft. But we don’t stop there—we also spotlight dynamic businesses and inspiring personalities from diverse fields who are “raising the grade,” offering fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. Whether you're a seasoned professional or simply someone with a passion for transformation, this podcast promises to inspire, inform, and elevate your vision.
Episodes
21 episodes
Human Connection and Quality Design: Transforming the Hardscape Industry
This week on Raising the Grade, we sit down with Megan Pratt, Hardscapes Sales Manager at Superlite, a division of Oldcastle APG. Megan's journey from the power sports industry to leading the charge at Belgard is nothing short of impressive. We...
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35:44
Ground Up Careers: Transforming the Construction Industry from Within
In this episode of Raising the Grade, we dive deep into the real challenges and opportunities facing the construction industry—focusing on workforce development, training, and innovative recruitment solutions. Join us as we explore how small, l...
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57:24
Mastering the Trade: Lessons from a Tile Industry Expert
This week on Raising the Grade, we sit down with Steve Meyer from LATICRETE, a company at the forefront of tile installation materials and innovation. Steve shares his unique journey into the industry, from growing up with a chemist fa...
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50:13
The Truth About Pool Construction: What Every Builder Should Know
This week on Raising the Grade Podcast, we sit down with Matt Sharp, Regional Sales Manager at PebbleTec, to dive deep into the pool construction industry, the importance of quality craftsmanship, and what sets PebbleTec apart from the...
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53:12
Blending Innovation and Design: How Jack Dyer is Raising Industry Standards
In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with Jack Dyer from Innovative by Design to talk about the future of landscaping, construction, and the power of design in shaping outdoor spaces.Jack is an industry expert who has worked ...
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54:34
The Power of Quality and Teamwork with Antonio Fernandez | Raising The Grade Podcast
What does it take to build lasting partnerships, grow an industry, and deliver world-class hardscapes? In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sat down with Antonio Fernandez, Hardscapes Sales Manager for Mirage Porcelain & Bellegarde, to t...
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53:35
From Turkey to Arizona: The Stone That is Revolutionizing the Industry
In this episode of Raising the Grade, I’m joined by CJ and Derin from ANS Mermer, and let me tell you it’s a conversation that goes way beyond stone and pavers. We dive into their fascinating journey of importing Turkish natural stone, a family...
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1:04:06
What Every Business Owner Needs to Know About Social Media Marketing | Jaden & Sabrina
This week on Raising the Grade, I had the absolute privilege of sitting down with Sabrina and Jaden, the dynamic duo behind Media 4 You. Let me tell you, this episode was more than just a conversation, it was a heartfelt dive into their incredi...
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1:00:43
Think You’re Ready to Own a Franchise? Here’s What You Need to Know | Christian Dadulak
What if the key to building your dream business is already out there, waiting for you to take the leap? In this episode, I sat down with Christian Dadulak, a franchise adviser with Franchise Sidekick, who’s on a mission to match aspiring entrep...
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1:14:56
Faith, Fitness, and Redemption: How Everett Miner Found His Calling in Helping Others
On this episode of Raising the Grade, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Everett Miner, the owner of Miner Fitness, for his very first podcast appearance and let me just say, he absolutely crushed it. Everett’s story is raw, inspiring, and...
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1:02:34
Family, Ambition, and Work Ethic: A Candid Conversation with My Son Cohen
In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with someone truly special, my son, Cohen Russell. At just 19 years old, Cohen’s life is already a fascinating tapestry of hard work, learning, and ambition. Together, we dive into his unique jou...
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1:16:43
How Instagram and YouTube Turned a College Grad into a Top Arizona Contractor | Trace Walters
This week, I sat down with Trace Walters from Walters Renovations, and let me tell you this episode is a wild ride. Trace isn’t just a builder; he’s a creator, a visionary, and someone who’s unafraid to chase big dreams. At just 23, he’s alread...
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1:05:38
The $50 Job That Sparked a Million Dollar Business Partnership | Patrick Heffernan
In this episode of Raising the Grade, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Patrick Heffernan, co-owner of Southwest Sunscreens and one of the most meticulous and relationship-driven guys you'll ever meet. Patrick and I go way back, he’s been...
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56:16
Faith, Family, and a Dream: Adam Estavillo's Inspiring Entrepreneurship Journey
This week on Raising The Grade Podcast, I sat down with Adam Estavillo, owner of Redemption Renovations, to explore his incredible journey from teenage skater to successful entrepreneur in the renovation industry. Adam shares how his ea...
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1:06:49
From Boardrooms to Backyards: Rob Robichaud’s Unexpected Journey into the Turf Industry
On this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with Rob Robichaud, the insightful and down-to-earth founder of Verde Valley Turf. We jumped into Rob’s journey from Detroit to Arizona, where he’s built a career centered around quality and a ge...
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1:08:27
Mentorship, Mistakes, and Million Dollar Moves: Brian Tibbs’ Guide to Wealth Building
On this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with Brian Tibbs, a man of incredible resilience, ambition, and heart. Brian’s journey started in the heart of a small-town entrepreneurial family, guiding him to a business degree and a calling ...
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56:59
Turning BBQ into a Blessing: How Jeff Simpson’s Calling Became a Community
In this episode of Raising the Grade, I sit down with Jeff Simpson from BBQ Mission to dive into an inspiring story of purpose, faith, and a lot of pulled pork. eff’s journey has been anything but ordinary, from his multiple careers and...
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59:36
Why This Barbecue Expert Left Banking to Pursue His Grilling Passion
In this episode, I sit down with Josh from BBQ Island, a true barbecue enthusiast who has built a career around his love for cooking and outdoor living. We talk about his journey from working at fast-food joints like Arby’s to building connecti...
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44:43
Does Quality Actually Matter? Here’s What You Need to Know
In this episode of Raise The Grade Podcast, I sit down with Chris from Telluride Natural Stone, a long-time player in the industry who’s seen it all, from the early days of the stone veneer market to where it stands today. Chris shares ...
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1:03:47
The Power of Quality and Teamwork with Will from Universal White Cement
Welcome to the second episode of the "Raise the Grade" podcast, brought to you by Rising Tide Landscapes. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Will from Universal White Cement, sharing his journey in the construction industry and insigh...
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56:53
Building Success: Elevating Landscapes and Business with Rising Tide
Welcome to the "Rising Tide Landscapes Podcast," where we dive deep into the world of hardscaping, landscaping, and everything in between. Join Eric, owner of Rising Tide Landscapes, as he brings together industry professionals like Nolan from ...
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55:12