In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle Hunt sits down with Abe Degnan, second-generation owner of Degnan Design Build Remodel, to share the story of building a remodeling business designed to last. Abe reflects on growing up on job sites, joining his father's company, and helping shape an early design build approach through intentional learning, documented processes, and steady leadership.

They dig into lessons Abe has learned over 25 years in business, including hiring with purpose, pricing with confidence, investing in systems, and making the shift from working in the business to leading a team. Abe also shares thoughtful insights on company culture, peer groups, and building a life outside of work, offering encouragement for remodelers who want long term growth without burning out.

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Today's episode is sponsored by Builder Funnel! Click here to learn more about how Builder Funnel helps remodelers and home builders grow through strategic digital marketing.

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Takeaways

Abe Degnan is a second-generation remodeler who joined his father's business.
Investing in learning and joining peer groups has been crucial for growth.
Hiring the right people is essential for maintaining company culture.
Abe's broken leg led to a shift in focus towards office work and management.
Understanding pricing and financials is key to business success.
High-quality photography is vital for effective marketing.
A clear sales process is necessary for consistent success.
Establishing a design center enhances client engagement.
Balancing family life and business is a continuous challenge.
Documenting company values and processes helps differentiate from competitors.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guests
03:00 Abe Degnan's Journey in Remodeling
06:10 Transitioning from Sole Proprietorship to S Corp
09:00 The Evolution of Design-Build Approach
11:54 Investing in Learning and Company Culture
15:04 Hiring Practices and Employee Retention
17:59 Overcoming Challenges in Business Growth
21:00 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Business
23:38 Pricing Strategies and Financial Management
27:10 Marketing and Sales Process Insights
29:53 Establishing a Design Center and Client Engagement
33:02 Balancing Family Life and Business
35:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Remodelers

In this episode, Kyle Hunt sits down with Dr Joshua Straub, founder of Famous at Home, for a conversation about emotional safety in marriage, understanding pain cycles, and what it truly means to be "famous at home" as a remodeler. This is a preview of what Joshua will be teaching at the Remodel Your Marriage, Life and Business retreat on February 10, 2026 in Franklin, Tennessee.

Kyle and Josh talk about how emotional safety shapes communication, why many couples get stuck in the same conflict patterns, and how rightly ordering your life at home actually strengthens your business. They also share simple ways to reconnect with your spouse and approach your relationship with more intention.

If you want a healthier marriage, a calmer home, and a stronger foundation for your business, this episode is a great place to begin. Learn more and register for the February retreat here.

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Explore the vast array of tools, training courses, a podcast, and a supportive community of over 2,000 remodelers. Visit Remodelersontherise.com today and take your remodeling business to new heights!

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Takeaways

Emotional safety is crucial for healthy relationships.
Couples need to prioritize their marriage amidst business pressures.
Communication is key to resolving conflicts and deepening connections.
Understanding pain cycles can help couples navigate challenges.
Being a student of your spouse enhances understanding and connection.
Positive reinforcement can transform relationships.
Stress management is essential for maintaining emotional health.
Authenticity in relationships fosters deeper connections.
Taking responsibility for one's actions is vital in conflict resolution.
Creating an emotionally safe environment benefits both partners.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background of Joshua Straub
10:24 The Importance of Emotional Safety in Relationships
15:34 Navigating Challenges in Marriage and Parenting
16:14 Understanding Emotional Control in Relationships
17:27 The Importance of Emotional Awareness
19:25 Navigating Vulnerability and Authenticity
22:21 Living Authentically in a Fishbowl
24:08 Taking Responsibility in Relationships
25:25 Prioritizing Your Spouse's Heart
28:27 The Impact of Emotional Health on Business
30:22 Practical Steps for Relationship Improvement
32:33 The Power of Positive Communication
34:27 Identifying and Addressing Relationship Opponents

In this episode of Remodelers on the Rise, Kyle talks with Phil and Heather Oddo of Closer Look General Contracting about navigating the messy, painful seasons of business and choosing optimism through it all. They share how years of embezzlement knocked their business down, how Heather left her stable corporate job to join the company right as chaos hit, and what it looked like to rebuild piece by piece. You'll hear how they learned to understand their numbers, say no to the wrong clients, build systems for sales and project flow, and hire the right people for the right seats.

They also dive into how DISC and the Visionary/Integrator roles strengthened their communication and helped them work together as a married couple without letting the business consume the relationship. If you need encouragement to keep going and tools to make the journey smoother, this conversation is a reminder that growth often comes through hard things - and optimism can carry you forward.

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If you and your spouse are ready to invest in your relationship and your remodeling business at the same time, join us February 10 to 12 in Franklin, TN for the Remodel Your Marriage Retreat. This is a getaway built for remodeling couples, with conversations that matter, vision work, time together, and space to reset and refocus.

Sign up today!

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Takeaways

The importance of a supportive partnership in business.
Understanding financials is crucial for business success.
Setting boundaries between work and personal life is essential.
Celebrating small wins can boost morale and motivation.
A growth mindset allows for personal and professional development.
Utilizing DISC profiles can enhance communication and teamwork.
Hiring the right people can transform a business.
Visionary and integrator roles help clarify responsibilities.
Gratitude can shift perspectives and improve relationships.
Defining success is personal and varies for each individual.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Oddos' Journey
03:37 Overcoming Challenges: Embezzlement and Recovery
06:27 Heather's Transition into the Business
09:26 The Importance of Financial Literacy
12:38 Finding Guidance and Building Confidence
15:38 Understanding Personalities: DISC Profiles
18:35 Visionary vs. Integrator Roles
21:31 Key Strategies for Business Improvement
24:39 Leveraging Team Strengths
27:31 Navigating Business Challenges
31:13 Balancing Marriage and Business
34:28 Celebrating Wins and Gratitude
41:01 Embracing a Growth Mindset
50:15 Defining Success and Freedom