In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Bernard King and Tyler from San Diego Decks & Patios to talk about their NADRA Award-winning "leaf deck"—a uniquely designed, multi-colored deck born from a homeowner’s napkin sketch. Bernard shares his journey from military service to 25+ years in construction, how he transitioned his company toward outdoor living spaces, and the importance of profitability and hiring the right team.
Tyler, his son-in-law and successor, joins the conversation to discuss his background, passion for design, and how he's bringing new energy and ideas into the business. Together, they dive into topics like:
✅ Why attitude trumps experience in hiring
✅ How to maintain long-term team morale
✅ Leveraging ground screws for faster, smarter builds
✅ Building the kind of business that’s both fun and profitable
✅ And what it means to pass the torch to the next generation
A must-listen for any contractor aiming to build more than just decks—this one’s about legacy, innovation, and craftsmanship that stands out.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, Alex Danner chats with Kenny Ritter, owner of ICOR Building & Remodeling, about his award-winning historic porch project that earned THREE NADRA awards in a single year. Kenny shares his 20+ year journey in the trades, lessons learned from hiring, how he retains a strong crew, and why focusing on the customer experience is more important than chasing rapid growth. They also dive into how Kenny built his Google reviews, the importance of craftsmanship, and how tradespeople can stand out in today’s competitive market.
🔨 ICOR Building & Remodeling
📍 Eastern Connecticut
🏆 1st Place Open Porch | 3rd Place Railings | 3rd Place Wood Decks Over $50K
🌐 Learn more: https://deckfencemarketers.com
📈 Need help growing your fence or deck business? Get a free audit today!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Kelly Crow, owner of Go to Guy Home Services in Atlanta. Kelly shares his journey from real estate and mortgage trading to building award-winning decks, including his NADRA Award-winning project in the wood decks category.
We dive into:
✅ His background in home renovations and mortgage trading
✅ The shift to decking and outdoor carpentry
✅ How he works exclusively with subcontractors
✅ The process of designing and executing custom projects
✅ Insights on using premium materials like ipe wood
✅ The value of networking and learning at NADRA events
Whether you're a deck builder looking to elevate your craft or a homeowner interested in premium deck designs, this episode is packed with insights!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, Alex Danner sits down with Alex Larson, owner of TL Decks in Illinois, to discuss his journey from side hustler to running a thriving deck-building business. Alex shares how niching down to decks transformed his company, the importance of creating systems, and how hiring the right people—including a VA—freed up his time for growth.
Key takeaways from this episode:
✅ Niching down for success: Why specializing in decks helped TL Decks scale
✅ The power of hiring a VA: How delegation freed up time for high-value tasks
✅ Building systems & playbooks: Creating SOPs to ensure quality and efficiency
✅ Personal development & business growth: Why self-improvement is key to success
✅ Community involvement: How being active in local events strengthens your brand
If you're a contractor looking to streamline operations, improve work-life balance, and scale your business the right way, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner chats with Dan Stendeback, owner of Valer Builders, about his award-winning projects and expertise in the outdoor living industry. As a NADRA Award-winning deck builder, Dan shares his journey from sales executive to industry leader, the importance of consultative sales, and how he helps clients envision next-level outdoor spaces.
They dive into topics like:
✅ How NADRA benefits deck builders
✅ Creating stunning rooftop decks with breathtaking views
✅ The rise of high-end outdoor living—pergolas, pools, and luxury decks
✅ The power of visualization and manifesting success in business
If you're a deck builder looking for inspiration, insights, and strategies to grow your business, this episode is a must-listen!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner welcomes Dan Pettit, owner of Northern Outdoor Living and a 13-time NADRA award-winning deck builder specializing in custom lighting and outdoor living designs. 🏆✨
Dan’s most recent project—a massive illuminated curved wall emulating the Hastings skyline and starscape—left an unforgettable impression at the NADRA Summit, earning him four awards in 2024 alone.
🔹 Inside this episode:
✅ The importance of lighting in deck design and how Dan created a fiber-optic river inlay
✅ How he balances creativity and business growth while remaining a small, high-end operation
✅ Tips for submitting award-winning projects to NADRA competitions
✅ The role of storytelling, community, and innovation in standing out as a deck builder
If you’re a fencing or decking pro looking for creative inspiration, industry insights, and marketing tips, this episode is a must-listen!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this special episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner welcomes Phil Andrews, owner of Andrews Decking in Ontario, Canada, and a recent NADRA Award winner! 🇨🇦🏆
Phil shares his journey from construction framing to building high-end decks, how he discovered NADRA, and what it was like to win third place in the Alternative Decks under 35K category—just months after joining the organization.
🔹 Inside this episode:
✅ The decking industry in Canada vs. the U.S.
✅ How Phil built a booked-out business as a solo contractor
✅ Why storytelling and authenticity helped him generate leads after his win
✅ The importance of professional photos, networking, and continuing education in the industry
If you’re a fence or deck contractor looking for inspiration, business insights, or marketing tips, this episode is for you!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this session, we dive into the 10 critical elements that can significantly enhance your website's conversion rates and turn more visitors into leads and customers. We'll also cover how to create your ideal customer avatar to ensure your messaging resonates with the right audience.
Additionally, we’ll walk through real-life website optimization examples and provide live SEO audits—drop your name and website URL in the chat for a personalized review!
Don't miss this opportunity to refine your website, improve your SEO, and maximize your online success! 🚀
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, Alex Danner sits down with Clark Crosson, owner of Crosstek Construction in Alabama, who won back-to-back first-place awards at the NADRA Summit in the Closed Porch category. Clark shares his journey as a general contractor, his shift from managing a team to running a solo operation, and his approach to winning industry awards.
Key topics include:
Clark also shares his experience with insurance restoration projects, the growing demand for high-end outdoor living spaces, and his thoughts on expanding into commercial construction.
Resources Mentioned:
If you’re a contractor looking to elevate your projects and compete for NADRA awards, this episode is packed with actionable advice!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
Unlock the full potential of your digital marketing strategy with Alex Danner, CEO and Founder of Fence and Deck Marketers, in collaboration with Deckorators. This insightful webinar dives deep into the essentials of building a strong online presence and driving leads for your fencing and decking business.
Topics Covered:
Alex's proven Hierarchy of Digital Marketing framework.
Step-by-step guide to creating and optimizing your Google Business Profile.
Best practices for website development tailored to the industry.
A comprehensive Website Optimization Checklist to ensure your site performs at its peak.
An honest discussion: Does SEO still matter?
Insider Google Business Profile hacks to outperform competitors.
Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your digital marketing strategy, this webinar provides actionable insights to help you stay ahead in the game.
Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your business!
Transcript
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this inspiring episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner interviews Jonathan Moeller, owner of Colorado Custom Covers and Decks and a multi-award winner at the 2024 NADRA Summit. Jonathan shares his journey from new construction to crafting custom outdoor living spaces, including the story behind his five NADRA awards this year.
Key topics include:
Whether you’re a seasoned deck builder or new to the industry, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration for taking your projects to the next level.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Larry Collins, President of HFS Financial, to discuss the transformative power of offering financing options for contractors. With over 30 years of experience in the financial industry, Larry shares how HFS Financial is helping contractors close more deals, grow their businesses, and improve customer satisfaction by making home improvement projects more accessible.
Key topics include:
If you're a contractor looking to scale your business in 2025, this episode is packed with actionable insights and solutions to help you succeed.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner interviews Jon Irwin, co-founder of Revive Media and creator of Revive Home Tips, with over 5 million followers across social media platforms. Jonathan shares his inspiring journey from running a construction business to becoming a social media powerhouse, helping brands and contractors transform their online presence.
Key takeaways include:
If you're looking to build a strong social media presence or learn how to showcase your brand in a way that captivates your audience, this episode is for you!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner interviews Zach Grist, founder of Piedmont Decks, a rapidly growing deck and outdoor living company in North Carolina. Starting his business in 2023, Zach has achieved remarkable growth, tripling revenue in just one year and crossing the $1 million mark—a milestone many contractors never reach.
Zach shares insights on:
Whether you're a contractor looking for inspiration or practical tips on scaling your business, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you take your company to the next level.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner talks with Scot Sheffield, National Sales Director of Wholesale at Fortress Building Products, a company recognized as one of Dallas’s Mid-Market 50 Fastest Growing Companies for two years running, with revenues under $750 million.
Scott shares his journey from a construction worker and Marine Corps lineman to leading Fortress’s wholesale sales team across the US and Canada. With over 26 years in business, Fortress has become a leader in railing, fencing, and steel framing solutions, boasting a team of 150+ employees on the sales and support side.
Tune in to learn about:
This episode offers valuable takeaways for fencing and decking professionals looking to grow their businesses with cutting-edge solutions.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Grant Smith, owner of SimpleSide Construction, a thriving business in the Outer Banks of North Carolina. At just 34 years old, Grant has scaled his company to $2.5 million in revenue over nine years, serving one of the harshest coastal environments in the U.S.
Grant shares his journey from a civil engineering graduate to a successful entrepreneur, fueled by his initial goal of real estate investing. After flipping houses and learning the trades from the ground up, he discovered a passion for outdoor construction and tackling the unique challenges of coastal building. From remodeling to spec homes and eventually specializing in decks and siding, Grant has mastered the art of combining modern construction techniques with environmental resilience.
Join Alex and Grant as they discuss:
Whether you’re a contractor, builder, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers valuable takeaways on scaling a business and finding purpose in your craft.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner is joined by Nicole Rivera, Director of Sales and Marketing at Jill’s Office, a premier answering service for contractors and home service businesses. Jill’s Office helps companies in the fencing and decking industries capture leads and enhance customer service by offering 24/7 call handling, improving response times, and alleviating the burden of missed calls.
Nicole shares insights into the impact of missed calls, noting that the average business owner loses around 234 potential leads each year by not answering calls promptly. She also explains how Jill’s Office customizes services to align with each client’s unique needs, whether by handling after-hours calls, scheduling appointments, or following up on leads within minutes. Nicole discusses Jill’s Office’s recent launch of AI-assisted text and call handling, which helps manage high volumes while keeping costs down.
This episode is packed with actionable insights for contractors looking to streamline customer communication, enhance their brand’s reputation, and maximize revenue by ensuring every lead is captured.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, Alex Danner sits down with John Lea, founder of Decksouth, a leading design-build company specializing in luxurious outdoor living spaces. Since its beginnings in 1998, Decksouth has grown into a $6 million operation, employing over 50 team members and servicing high-profile clients throughout the metro Atlanta area.
John discusses his company’s journey, from tackling single-deck projects to crafting complex, multi-trade outdoor environments that transform how clients live and enjoy their spaces. Focusing on the principles of biophilic design, John explains how Decksouth brings the outdoors into daily life, improving mental well-being through thoughtfully designed spaces. He also shares insights into current industry challenges, the importance of setting meaningful goals, and why his team is passionate about changing lives one backyard at a time.
Don’t miss this conversation packed with valuable business insights, especially for those looking to elevate their fencing and decking businesses in today’s evolving market.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
Ready to rise to the top of local search results? Hosted by Alex Danner, founder and CEO of Fence & Deck Marketers, this episode will give you all the tools and strategies to claim your spot in the Google Map Pack and stand out in 2024!
🔎 What you'll learn:
1️⃣ Latest Google Map Listing updates: Stay ahead with the newest changes to how Google ranks businesses and how you can adapt your strategy.
2️⃣ 5 biggest issues holding you back: Discover the most common mistakes preventing you from ranking and how to fix them fast!
3️⃣ Proven model for ranking in the 3-pack: Alex will walk you through the exact process his clients use to land in the top 3 results, boosting visibility and traffic.
4️⃣ Best tools to automate the heavy lifting: Find out which tools can help you systematize your Google Map strategy, saving time while driving better results! ⚙️
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast, Alex Danner sits down with Laura Basili, better known as the Real Deck Diva on Instagram and co-founder of Brazilian Lumber. Laura shares her fascinating journey of how a chance project in interior remodeling led to the creation of a thriving business specializing in tropical hardwoods like Ipe, Jatoba, and Cumaru.
Laura discusses the growth of Brazilian Lumber, from importing their first container of exotic hardwood to now being a leading supplier of premium outdoor materials for decks, docks, pergolas, and even interior wall panels. With showrooms in both Miami and Los Angeles, Brazilian Lumber has expanded rapidly, offering top-tier products to contractors and homeowners across the country.
This episode is packed with valuable insights, especially for deck builders and contractors looking to expand their material offerings. Don’t miss out on hearing from one of the industry's most dynamic entrepreneurs!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this insightful episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner welcomes Nick Stevens, Senior Sales Consultant at Legacy Decks—a thriving $5-6 million deck business in South Carolina.
Nick shares his experience in sales, offering valuable tips on how contractors can improve their sales process, turn leads into conversions, and ultimately boost revenue.
Beyond sales, Alex and Nick dive into a powerful discussion about personal and professional development, focusing on the Legacy Deck Experience (LDX), a transformative program that Nick helps lead.
Discover how this life-changing program combines personal growth in four key areas—body, being, balance, and business—to help men lead more fulfilling lives. Nick shares candid insights into the importance of community and accountability in achieving success, both in business and personal life.
Tune in to learn from Nick’s journey and gain actionable advice to elevate your sales process and personal growth.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this exciting episode of the Fence and Deck Mastery Podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Jeff Wilkins, Contractor Development Manager at TimberTech, to discuss the latest innovations and product offerings from one of the industry’s top decking brands.
They dive into everything TimberTech has to offer—not just their renowned deck boards, but their full product lineup that helps contractors elevate their builds. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
Learn how TimberTech is shaping the future of outdoor living spaces and discover tips on how to maximize your projects using their innovative solutions. Don’t miss out on this must-listen episode!
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
Welcome back to the Fence & Deck Mastery Podcast with your host, Alex Danner!
In this exciting episode, Alex sits down with Michael "Pops" Beaudry, the esteemed founder of the North American Deck And Railing Association (NADRA).
Join Alex and Michael as they dive deep into the history and impact of NADRA, the leading association in the deck industry. Michael shares his journey from the early days of NADRA’s founding in 2004 to its evolution into a cornerstone of the decking world. With nearly two decades of experience, Michael offers valuable insights into the benefits NADRA provides to industry professionals and how it has shaped the standards and growth of the decking community.
Whether you're a seasoned decking professional or just getting started, this episode is packed with stories, knowledge, and practical advice that you won't want to miss. Tune in to learn more about the legacy of NADRA and gain inspiration from one of the most influential figures in the industry.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery podcast, Alex Danner sits down with Chris Berg, a seasoned territory manager for Deckorators, to explore the strategies and insights that have fueled Deckorators' impressive growth in the decking industry.
Chris shares his firsthand experiences, discusses the key factors behind the brand's success, and offers valuable advice for professionals looking to elevate their own businesses.
Tune in to discover how Deckorators has positioned itself as a leader in the market and what it takes to stay ahead in a competitive industry
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.
In this episode of the Fence & Deck Mastery podcast, host Alex Danner sits down with Eric Fortenberry, the founder and CEO of JobTread Software. Eric shares his journey from leading a general contracting company to developing JobTread, a groundbreaking construction estimating and project management software.
Discover how Eric's passion for innovation transformed his company, driving growth from $5 to $8 million in sales and boosting gross profit by an impressive 43%. Learn the strategies and insights behind this success, and how JobTread is revolutionizing the construction industry.
If you have any questions about your marketing, feel free to reach us out to the Fence & Deck Marketers team on our website deckfencemarketers.com, or search for us on all social media channels including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.
We also do monthly webinars so feel free to reach out if you’d like to join those and we’ll email you the Zoom link.