The Real Build

John Huffman grew up in Golden Gate City, dropped out after sixth grade, battled addiction, and was facing five years in prison when a judge gave him a second chance. Today he’s the owner of Huffman Construction Group in Naples, a remodeling company doing millions in sales every year. He also preaches every Friday night at Harvest Recovery Ministry, and through his coaching and speaking ministry he mentors business owners on how to run their companies as ministry, with a vision to raise up a million entrepreneurs to do the same.In this episode of The Real Build, John opens up about how faith carried him through his darkest seasons, including digging his way out of a million dollars in debt. We talk about getting real with God when life doesn’t make sense, why discomfort is what actually builds you, how serving others fills your cup, and why owning your mistakes with clients turns them into raving fans.If you’re a business owner, a contractor, or anyone who feels like they’re behind, this conversation will remind you that it’s not over.Connect with John Huffman:Instagram: @realjohnhuffmanFacebook: John HuffmanHuffman Construction Group: NaplesConstruction.netLearn more about R.K. Reiman at our website: https://rkreiman.comLike, share, comment, and subscribe. Listen on YouTube and all podcast platforms.#construction #motivation #inspiration

Today, on The Real Build, we're flipping the mic on host Bill Reiman.In this special episode, special guest host Giselle sits down with Bill to explore the story behind the builder, broker, and entrepreneur. From growing up in the family construction business and playing Division I football to building a luxury custom home company in Southwest Florida, Bill shares the experiences, challenges, and lessons that shaped his career.The conversation dives into the evolution of R.K. Reiman Construction, the importance of playing the long game, and what it takes to build a business rooted in integrity, accountability, and exceptional client service.Bill also shares his vision for the future, including the company's expansion into commercial development, its continued growth throughout Florida, and how his definition of success has evolved through entrepreneurship, leadership, and fatherhood.In this episode:- Growing up in the family construction business- Life after Division I football- Building a career as a broker and builder- The evolution of R.K. Reiman Construction- Expanding into luxury commercial development- Balancing ambition, family, and personal fulfillment- Why patience, accountability, and service are essential to long-term success- Advice for the next generation of entrepreneursWhether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, aspiring builder, or simply interested in the story behind R.K. Reiman Construction, this episode offers a personal look at the mindset and values driving the company forward.Real People. Real Stories. Real Build.Subscribe for more conversations about construction, real estate, business, leadership, and entrepreneurship.Follow Bill Reiman on Instagram: @ImBillReiman Follow The Real Build on Instagram: @TheRealBuildShowLearn more about R.K. Reiman Construction here: https://rkreiman.com#TheRealBuild #BillReiman #Entrepreneurship

In this episode of The Real Build, we sit down with H.L. Burkley, owner and founder of Inspired Closets, to talk storage, standards, and what it actually takes to build a business customers brag about. H.L. walks us through his path into construction — starting with U.S. Home in Naples back in ‘96, then Arthur Rutenberg Homes, before striking out on his own as a general contractor doing everything from remodels to commercial build-outs.

We get into the moment that changed everything: walking into a client’s custom closet in 2004 and realizing it was the business he’d been looking for all along. H.L. breaks down why he wanted to be a sub instead of a GC, how he built his company around speed and reliability (closet installed in a week, full stop), and why the Inspired Closets brand is backed by nine years of ground-up customer research — not just another storage company slapping on a new name.

We also dig into what sets Inspired Closets apart: their own 400,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Holland, Michigan, a limited lifetime warranty most competitors can’t touch, and a four-step process built to make the entire experience effortless for both builders and homeowners. Plus, a look at the booming garage storage market, Reiman’s own standard for vendor partnerships, and where Inspired Closets is expanding next.

Real People. Real Stories. Real Build.

What does it take to build a family business that lasts for generations?

In this special episode of The Real Build, I sit down with my brother Bobby and my sister Jenna to talk about something that goes far beyond construction: family, legacy, and the responsibility of carrying on what our father started over 30 years ago.

Growing up in the construction industry wasn't always easy. From early mornings on job sites and lessons learned the hard way to eventually stepping into leadership roles at R.K. Reiman Construction, we've experienced firsthand what it means to build something bigger than ourselves.

We reflect on the sacrifices our parents made, the work ethic they instilled in us, and the pressure that comes with carrying a family name built on decades of hard work and reputation.

We also get into the realities of working alongside your siblings, why communication and respecting each other's strengths have been essential to our success, and what the future holds for the next generation of R.K. Reiman Construction.

Because at the end of the day, it's about more than sharing a last name. It's about honoring where we came from, taking ownership of what we've been given, and building a heritage that will outlast us.

In this episode, we discuss:

•

Growing up on construction sites and learning the value of hard work

•

The lessons our father taught us that still guide us today

•

Transitioning from the founder's vision to the next generation of leadership

•

The challenges and rewards of running a family business with siblings

•

Protecting a reputation built over 30 years

•

Building a heritage brand and creating something that lasts

Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, part of a family business, or someone who believes in building a meaningful legacy, this conversation is for you.

Subscribe to The Real Build for honest conversations about business, construction, leadership, family, and the lessons learned along the way.

Real People. Real Stories. Real Build.

What does it take to scale a homebuilding company from hundreds of homes a year toward nearly 1,000 without losing control of quality, culture, or the customer experience?On this episode of The Real Build, Bill Reiman sits down with Mike Bone, Director of Sales at Christopher Alan Homes and President-Elect of the Collier Building Industry Association (CBIA).Mike has spent more than 40 years in the homebuilding and real estate industry. Growing up in a family building business in Michigan, he started by picking up jobsite trash, framing homes, working concrete, operating heavy equipment, and eventually earning his real estate and broker licenses. His career has since taken him from custom homebuilding to some of the largest production builders in the country, and now to helping Christopher Alan Homes scale throughout Florida.Bill and Mike dive into the major differences between custom and production homebuilding, what actually allows a builder to scale, and why growth means very little if quality and culture disappear along the way.They discuss Christopher Alan Homes’ approach to third-party inspections, construction quality, customer service, land acquisition, spot-lot building, entering new Florida markets, and the company’s long-term goal of building a recognizable “heritage brand.”Mike also shares his vision as incoming President of CBIA, including increasing membership, creating more opportunities for younger professionals to become involved in the industry, developing future leaders, and strengthening relationships throughout Southwest Florida’s building community.Most importantly, this conversation comes back to something both Bill and Mike learned through decades in construction:No matter what role you have in this industry, relationships matter.In this episode:• Mike Bone’s 40+ years in homebuilding and real estate• Growing up in a family construction business• Custom homes vs. production homebuilding• How production builders scale without losing quality• What buyers don’t see behind the walls of a home• Why third-party inspections matter• Building a strong company culture• How Christopher Alan Homes approaches customer service• The strategy behind spot-lot homebuilding• Expanding into Naples and new Florida markets• Land acquisition and scaling a homebuilding operation• Mike’s vision for the future of CBIA• Mentorship and developing the next generation of builders• Why relationships are everything in constructionThe Real Build is about the people, lessons, standards, and stories behind the building industry.Real People. Real Stories. Real Build.Subscribe for more conversations with builders, entrepreneurs, real estate professionals, designers, trades, and leaders shaping the construction industry.#TheRealBuild #HomeBuilding #Construction

Bill’s on vacation, so the girls are taking over The Real Build.This week, Jenna steps into the host seat alongside Kellie, Mackenzie, Kathy, and Giselle for a different kind of episode—part construction conversation, part behind-the-scenes look at RK Reiman, and part chaos.The team talks about what really goes into building luxury homes in Southwest Florida, from coastal design considerations and selections to permitting, warranty, marketing, communication, and the countless moving pieces happening behind the scenes.They also get into what it’s like being women in the construction industry, what they’ve learned along the way, and why no two days at RK Reiman ever look quite the same.And to finish things off, Jenna puts everyone’s construction knowledge to the test with a tool identification game. Let’s just say… some of the girls spend a little more time on the jobsite than others.A fun, candid look at the women behind RK Reiman Construction—and the roles they play in bringing each home from an idea to reality.Subscribe to The Real Build for more conversations about construction, real estate, business, and the people behind it all.Real People. Real Stories. Real Build.

In this episode of The Real Build, we welcome the newest member of the RK Reiman Construction team — videographer Tye Cusumano. Tye shares his journey into media production, from cutting his teeth on a cracked copy of Sony Vegas at 12 years old, to running audio for his high school's news team, to producing podcasts and training videos for companies like Vessel Vanguard.We dig into the unique challenges of filming construction and luxury homes — from managing dynamic range and tricky window exposures to learning the gimbal — and how that differs from talking-head or yacht videography. Tye also breaks down his approach to platform strategy: positioning RK Reiman as a construction authority on YouTube with the "How It's Built" series, leaning into local Southwest Florida content on Instagram, and why presentation, thumbnails, and titling matter just as much as the footage itself.We also get into the RK Reiman standard, the value of being your own harshest critic, and why faith- and family-driven content has resonated so strongly with our audience. Plus, a look ahead at where Tye sees himself — and Reiman Media — growing in the future.In this episode:Tye's path from music production to construction mediaAdjusting exposure and lighting techniques for home walkthroughsBuilding out a YouTube strategy and becoming a "construction authority"Why faith-based and personal content performs bestThe RK Reiman standard and culture of continuous improvementWhat's next for Reiman MediaNew episodes of The Real Build drop every week — like, comment, and subscribe so you don't miss what's coming next.

What separates a good builder from a great one? Often, it’s the things most people will never see.On this episode of The Real Build, host Bill Reiman sits down with R.K. Reiman Construction superintendents Michael Belcher and Mason Blosser to break down what we call The Reiman Standard — the commitment to doing things the right way, going above and beyond for the client, and building homes that are truly built to last.Michael and Mason share their perspective from the field, where quality isn’t just about what a finished home looks like. It’s about what happens behind the walls, the details that could easily be overlooked, holding trade partners accountable, solving problems before they become bigger problems, and refusing to cut corners even when no one would know the difference.For R.K. Reiman Construction, that standard has been built over generations. It means treating every custom home as if it were our own and understanding that our name is attached to every project long after construction is complete.If you’re building a custom home, working in construction, or simply want to understand what separates good craftsmanship from great craftsmanship, this conversation gives you a look behind the scenes.REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. REAL BUILD.Hosted by Bill Reiman.Subscribe to The Real Build for conversations with builders, developers, entrepreneurs, tradespeople, and industry leaders who believe in doing business the right way.

What makes a garage worth $1 million?

On this episode of The Real Build, Bill Reiman sits down with Nick Deutsch, founder and CEO of Garage Ultimate, to explore the rapidly growing world of luxury car condos, and the real estate, construction and community strategy behind them.

Nick is an attorney, real estate investor, developer and lifelong car enthusiast who originally discovered the concept while trying to solve his own problem: he needed more space for his cars.

That problem eventually became Garage Ultimate, a luxury automotive storage concept where owners can purchase and customize their own garage condos while becoming part of a community built around a shared passion for cars.

Bill and Nick break down what it actually takes to develop a successful car condo project, from finding the right land and navigating development hurdles to understanding what buyers actually want.

They also discuss:

• Why community may be more valuable than the buildings themselves
• The biggest mistakes car condo developers make
• Luxury garage customization and $300K+ buildouts
• Why quality construction matters for long-term value
• The investment and resale potential of car condos
• How Nick's garages have averaged more than 15% annual appreciation
• The risk of overdevelopment as car condos become more popular
• Pre-selling a project before construction begins
• Why listening to buyers can completely change a development
• Bill's own plans to enter the luxury car condo market in Southwest Florida
• The future of automotive communities, private clubs and luxury experiences

At its core, this conversation isn't just about where people store their cars. It's about identifying an underserved market, listening to the people you're building for and creating something they actually want to be part of.

REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. REAL BUILD.

Hosted by Bill Reiman.

Follow The Real Build for conversations with builders, developers, entrepreneurs and industry leaders doing business the right way.

What does the next generation actually owe the founder?In this episode of The Real Build, Bill Reiman sits down with culture advisor Jay Doran for a wide-ranging conversation about family business, founder identity, succession, legacy, organizational culture and the difficult balance between honoring what previous generations built and creating what the future requires.Drawing from Bill's experience inside RK Reiman and Jay's work with founders and multigenerational businesses, they explore why founders struggle to let go, why successors can see changes that founders sometimes cannot, why vision is not the same thing as wisdom, and how unclear systems and governance can turn business disagreements into family conflict.The conversation moves through leadership, listening, mentorship, organizational memory, family systems, generational differences, courage, empathy and the role outside advisors can play in helping families have conversations they often struggle to have alone.At the center of the episode is one question every enduring family business eventually faces:What must we preserve and what must we have the courage to change?REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. REAL BUILD.

From the soccer field to elevated real estate — this episode is different.On this episode of Real Build, Bill sits down with Adam Ruud, KW Elevate Luxury Director of Growth, to unpack how a 4-year pro soccer career shaped the discipline behind building an 8-year top-producer track record and scaling a brokerage to 300+ agents and $900M+ in annual sales.They dig into:-Why relationships beat transactions every time-Using data & analytics to drive real decisions-Building a culture people actually want to be part of-The discipline athletes bring to business-What it really takes to build a high-work-ethic team30 minutes. Zero fluff. Real strategies from someone who's built it twice —> once on the field, once in real estate.

What homeowners don’t see behind the walls can become one of the most expensive parts of a home!

In this episode of The Real Build, Bill Reiman sits down with Scott Holderman to uncover the plumbing decisions, installation mistakes, and overlooked details that can lead to major problems long after construction is complete.

They discuss what homeowners and builders should look for, why choosing the cheapest option can create costly consequences, and how proper planning, quality workmanship, and communication can prevent future leaks, failures, and unnecessary repairs.

Whether you’re building a custom home, renovating, or working in the construction industry, this conversation reveals why plumbing is one area where cutting corners can cost far more in the long run.

REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. REAL BUILD.

Description

In this episode of The Real Build Live, host Bill Reiman sits down with Duane Swanson of Raymond Building Supply (RBS) for an insightful conversation about what it really takes to build lasting success in the Southwest Florida construction industry.From the importance of strong builder-subcontractor relationships to the evolving responsibilities of today's trades, Bill and Duane share decades of experience working together and discuss how trust, communication, and accountability have shaped their long-term partnership.Whether you're a custom home builder, general contractor, subcontractor, supplier, or construction professional in Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Estero, Punta Gorda, Sarasota, or anywhere in Southwest Florida, this episode is packed with practical insights you can apply to your business.In this episode you'll learn:Why builder and subcontractor relationships matter more than everCurrent trends shaping the Southwest Florida construction marketThe evolving role and responsibilities of subcontractorsHow suppliers and builders create successful long-term partnershipsKeys to communication, accountability, and project successLessons learned from years of working together in SWFLRaymond Building Supply has been serving Florida's building industry since 1957, providing lumber, trusses, windows, doors, cabinetry, millwork, and building materials to contractors and builders throughout Southwest Florida.

What does "smart living" actually mean in today's luxury home?

In this episode of The Real Build Live, I sit down with Rob Smith, founder of Wave Land & Sea Technology, to explore how technology is transforming the way we experience our homes, our boats, and our everyday lives.

From whole-home automation and entertainment systems to networking, security, lighting, and marine technology, Rob shares how thoughtfully integrated technology is becoming an essential part of modern luxury living—not just a convenience.

We discuss:
• The evolution of the smart home
• Why technology should be considered early in the building process
• The biggest mistakes homeowners make with home technology
• Smart features that truly improve everyday living
• The future of connected homes and waterfront lifestyles

Whether you're building a custom home, renovating your current space, or simply curious about where technology is headed, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of luxury living.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and leave a comment below with your thoughts or questions.

REAL PEOPLE. REAL STORIES. REAL BUILD.

In this episode of The Real Build Live, I sit down with Matt and Megan Chionis, founders of Naples Concierge Group and the founding team behind SERHANT. Naples, for a conversation about entrepreneurship, relationships, and what it takes to build a luxury brand that truly puts people first.Matt and Megan have built their business around delivering an exceptional client experience, proving that long-term success isn't just about selling homes; it's about earning trust, creating lasting relationships, and continually raising the standard.In our conversation, we discuss:• The story behind Naples Concierge Group and SERHANT. Naples• Building a business through relationships instead of transactions• The role branding and marketing play in luxury real estate• Creating a true concierge experience for every client• What separates great businesses from the rest• Their outlook on the future of the Southwest Florida luxury marketWhether you're in real estate, construction, business, or simply enjoy hearing the stories behind successful entrepreneurs, I think you'll take away valuable insights from Matt and Megan's journey.If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who would enjoy the conversation.Connect with Matt & Megan:Naples Concierge Group: https://www.naplesconciergegroup.com/SERHANT. Naples: https://serhant.com/teams/naples-conc...Follow RK Reiman Construction:Website: https://www.rkreiman.comInstagram: / rkreimanconstructionLinkedIn: / rk-reiman-constructionThanks for watching, and I'll see you in the next episode.#TheRealBuildLive #BillReiman #MattChionis #MeganChionis #SERHANT #NaplesConciergeGroup #LuxuryRealEstate #NaplesFlorida #SouthwestFlorida #Entrepreneurship #LuxuryHomes #Construction #Podcast

From a summer job in high school to becoming majority owner of one of the nation's most respected pond companies, Andrew Lingan shares the journey behind building Premier Ponds into an award-winning business.In this episode of The Real Build Podcast, I sit down with Andrew to discuss entrepreneurship, leadership, customer relationships, recurring revenue, and the systems that have helped Premier Ponds build and maintain thousands of water features throughout Maryland.Andrew explains why creating outdoor environments reconnects families with nature, how trust and transparency shape the customer experience, and why maintenance, not just construction, has become one of the biggest drivers of long-term business success.Whether you're a builder, contractor, business owner, or simply passionate about creating exceptional customer experiences, this conversation is packed with practical insights you can apply to your own business.In this episode:Andrew's path from high school employee to business ownerBuilding award-winning ponds and outdoor living spacesWhy recurring maintenance transformed the businessLeadership and empowering employeesCreating unforgettable customer experiencesPricing premium services with confidenceThe future of the pond industryWhy reconnecting families with nature mattersLearn more about Premier Ponds:https://premierpond.com/

Design and marketing are often treated as separate disciplines, but after sitting down with Kimberly McNatt, it's clear they're deeply connected.In this episode of The Real Build Show, I had the opportunity to talk with Kimberly, Director of Business Development at Clive Daniel Home, about how thoughtful design, strategic marketing, and strong relationships all work together to shape exceptional projects and successful businesses. Drawing from her extensive background in branding, sales, and design, Kimberly shares insights on creating experiences that resonate long before a project is complete.We also discuss the value of collaboration, the psychology behind great design, and why the best brands are built with intention, not just through what they create, but how they communicate it.Whether you're in construction, design, real estate, or business, I think you'll walk away with a fresh perspective on the intersection of creativity, strategy, and growth.

Behind every great custom home is a team of trusted trade partners.In this episode of The Real Build, I sit down with Matt from Allied Pavers to discuss the long-standing relationship between R.K. Reiman Construction and Allied, Matt's journey in the industry, and what has helped Allied become one of Southwest Florida's most trusted paver companies.From craftsmanship and customer service to communication and reliability, we explore what truly separates exceptional trade partners from the rest, and why those relationships make all the difference in delivering a quality custom home.Whether you're building a luxury home, planning an outdoor living space, or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes of construction, this conversation offers valuable insight into one of the most important finishing touches of a home.

What does it really take to build a better construction industry?

In this episode, I welcome back Matt Vetter, owner of Schaefer Construction and founder of the Build Better Foundation, to discuss leadership, company culture, workforce development, and the future of the skilled trades.

Together we explore why attracting the next generation of construction professionals requires more than recruiting, it requires investing in people, creating meaningful opportunities, and building organizations where employees can thrive.

This episode is a conversation about leadership, purpose, and leaving the construction industry stronger than you found it.

In this special Fourth of July episode of The Real Build Live, our team comes together to celebrate the values that shape both our company and our country. From discussing the core principles that guide the way we build homes and relationships to sharing our most American traits, this episode is packed with personality, laughter, and a little friendly competition.We also dive into a rapid-fire Q&A, hand out Fourth of July-themed superlatives, swap memorable stories, and reflect on what freedom, hard work, and community mean to us. Join us for a fun, lighthearted conversation as we celebrate Independence Day...the RK Reiman way.