Building It All While Managing Risk with PJ Antonik

Modern Craftsman

linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast

34:07

In this insightful episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Jay Crone, Managing Director and Venture Capitalist at Deloitte Ventures, to explore the firm’s strategic approach to corporate venture capital. Jay shares Deloitte Ventures’ investment thesis, focusing on supporting innovative Canadian startups at Series A and B stages across key sectors like cybersecurity, climate tech, fintech, future of work, health tech, and AI. Listeners will gain an inside look at how Deloitte leverages its vast network of 1,500 partners and 15,000 employees to source deals and add value beyond capital by helping startups navigate Deloitte’s complex ecosystem and access enterprise clients. Jay also discusses his diverse career journey—from government and investment banking to entrepreneurship and corporate VC—and how those experiences shape his investment philosophy. The episode delves into Deloitte’s due diligence process, the importance of founder relationships, and the firm’s strategic role as a co-investor. Jay highlights emerging trends, particularly the promise of vertical AI tailored to industry-specific needs, and shares his bullish outlook on fintech innovations like stablecoins and cross-border payments. He offers candid advice for entrepreneurs on risk-taking and aligning business vision with funding goals. This episode is a must-listen for founders, investors, and anyone interested in the evolving landscape of corporate venture capital and innovation in Canada. Learn more about Jay's work at https://www.deloitte.com/ca/en/services/program/ventures.html Connect with Jay on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaycrone/ Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/ Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com…

about a year ago 1:42:05

MP3•Episode home

PJ Antonik, Founder and CEO of Oak Development & Design, shares his journey from successful spec building to adapting his business model to the changing market conditions. He shares insights on the challenges of building in Nantucket's historic district, managing client relationships, and transitioning between spec and custom projects.

https://www.oakdd.com

Partners:

Andersen Windows

Buildertrend

Velux

The Modern Craftsman:

Find Our Hosts:

Nick Schiffer

Tyler Grace

Podcast Produced By:

Motif Media

Tyler's Top Blogs:

How I Started My Business

Books that Build

Site Protection Principles

My Preconstruction Process: Part 1

Becoming Proficient in Multiple Trades

511 episodes

#Do It Yourself #Lifestyle #Hobbies #Business #Builders #Carpentry #Construction #Homerenovation #Newconstruction #Reno #Modern Craftsman #Entrepreneur #Self-Improvement #Podcasting Education #Projectmanagement #Architects #Building #Interiordesign

Modern Craftsman

Building It All While Managing Risk with PJ Antonik

Modern Craftsman

110 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

https://www.oakdd.com

Partners:

Andersen Windows

Buildertrend

Velux

The Modern Craftsman:

linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast

Find Our Hosts:

Nick Schiffer

Tyler Grace

Podcast Produced By:

Motif Media

Tyler's Top Blogs:

How I Started My Business

Books that Build

Site Protection Principles

My Preconstruction Process: Part 1

Becoming Proficient in Multiple Trades

511 episodes

All episodes

Modern Craftsman

1
You're Not Just a Carpenter—Stop Charging Like One 33:04

2 days ago33:04

33:04

Tyler Grace shares why small business owners need to stop billing themselves like employees—and how failing to do so can quietly kill your margins. He breaks down opportunity cost, loaded labor rates, and how pricing with intention leads to a more sustainable, profitable business why small business owners need to stop billing themselves like employees—and how failing to do so can quietly kill your margins. He breaks down opportunity cost, loaded labor rates, and how pricing with intention leads to a more sustainable, profitable business Show Notes: Undervaluing Your Time as a Small Builder (0:00) The Importance of Pricing Strategy (5:38) Opportunity Cost and Business Efficiency (22:10) Managing Subcontractors and Business Systems (28:55) Pricing and Profitability for Small Business Owners (30:22) Conclusion and Call to Action (30:36) Video Version: https://youtu.be/PytSEl81Hcc Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
370 Where Do We Go From Here? 1:06:48

5 days ago1:06:48

1:06:48

After nearly a decade of podcasting, Nick and Tyler hit record on a candid, unscripted conversation about burnout, direction, and the deeper purpose behind The Modern Craftsman . This episode pulls back the curtain on their evolving goals, the emotional toll of running a business, and the pressures of staying relevant in a saturated market. From questioning what growth really means to re-centering the show on meaningful conversations—not metrics—this is a raw, honest reset that long-time listeners won’t want to miss. Show Notes: Pause and Reflection on the Podcast (0:00) Sponsor Acknowledgements and Podcast Content (1:59) Evaluating Podcast Content and Guest Selection (4:38) Exploring Broader Topics and Guest Insights (18:30) Balancing Personal and Professional Growth (20:47) Navigating Emotional and Business Challenges (24:34) Engaging with Listeners and Future Directions (1:04:36) Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Stop Defending Your Price & Start Explaining the Value 30:43

9 days ago30:43

30:43

In this episode, Tyler talks about the disconnect between what builders show in an estimate and what clients truly need to understand. He dives deep into why leading with transparency, breaking down the budget, and walking clients through each line item creates trust, protects your margins, and actually helps win more jobs. By shifting from defending your price to explaining your value, you transform how clients perceive your worth—and how your business operates. Show Notes: Transparency in Pricing and Client Trust (0:00) Differences in Contractor Approaches (3:47) Value Proposition and Client Education (6:12) Justifying Costs and Building Trust (9:05) Protecting Margins and Meeting Client Needs (14:20) Client Education and Value Engineering (24:11) Community Support and Personal Reflections (29:17) Video Version: https://youtu.be/p6b262PIv6Q Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | The Dos and Don'ts of Using Subcontractors | Nick Schiffer & Tyler Grace NS 1:14:23

12 days ago1:14:23

1:14:23

Tyler and Nick talk about the importance of formal subcontractor agreements—why you need them, how they protect all parties, and the hard lessons that led them to overhaul their systems. From handshake deals gone wrong to building trust through transparent work orders, this episode gives you the tools to avoid costly mistakes and elevate your professionalism. Whether you're a GC, a sub, or somewhere in between, if you’re managing teams and trades, this one’s for you. Show Notes: Subcontractor Engagement and Agreements (0:00) Sponsor Announcements and Product Promotions (1:52) Personal Stories and Boat Ownership (5:45) Subcontractor Vetting and Agreement Implementation (30:02) Pre-Construction and Subcontractor Strategies (48:44) Course Updates and Additional Resources (1:09:52) Video Version: https://youtu.be/ZTcQvwaPKuQ Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | Bigger Projects Don’t Always Mean More Profit | Tyler Grace 26:31

23 days ago26:31

26:31

In this episode, Tyler talks about the hidden costs of chasing large, complex jobs and why scaling back changed the game for his business. He shares how finding the right project size gave him better profit margins, more control, and a healthier work-life balance. Show Notes: Understanding Ideal Project Size and Scope (0:00) The Power of Networking and Social Aspects (1:58) The Importance of Ideal Project Fit (5:45) Strategies for Profitable Project Management (10:10) Balancing Client Needs and Business Goals (20:44) Final Thoughts and Recommendations (25:31) Video Version: https://youtu.be/CLk9P4N_WiU Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | My $200,000 Lesson: Understand Your TRUE Labor Costs | Nick & Tyler 58:16

26 days ago58:16

58:16

Nick shares the story of a $200,000 mistake that could have been avoided with one clause in his contract. This episode unpacks the real cost of labor — from hidden overhead and labor burden to inefficient pricing strategies — and shows how even experienced builders can leave money on the table. Nick and Tyler break down how they calculate true labor costs, the ripple effect of inaccurate billing, and why it's time to rethink how you estimate, price, and protect your work. Sign up for the newsletter: https://www.moderncraftsman.co/ Show Notes: Contractors Coalition Summit Recap and Labor Burden Introduction (0:00) Sponsorship Announcements and CCS Event Highlights (1:12) Labor Burden Calculator and Financial Lessons (12:46) Practical Advice for Calculating Labor Burden (24:33) Overtime and Labor Burden Considerations (53:27) Conclusion and Call to Action (56:22) Video Version: https://youtu.be/KpyjTvAlXgw Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | The Secret to Making Money Managing Subs | Tyler Grace 25:18

4 weeks ago25:18

25:18

In this episode, Tyler talks about why he stopped marking up subcontractor quotes and started charging a dedicated management fee instead. He shares how this shift helped him finally make money managing subs, offering a blueprint for small contractors to treat their time with the value it deserves. Show Notes: Managing Subcontractors: The Secret to Profitability (0:00) The Evolution of Subcontractor Management Fees (2:16) The Importance of a Separate Management Fee (5:36) Examples of Markup and Management Fee Calculations (8:27) Justifying Higher Prices to Clients (15:53) The Role of Marketing and Sales in Small Contracting (16:11) The Future of Small Contracting (23:55) Video Version: https://youtu.be/xCrmi-5-hn8 Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Industry Perspectives | Clarity Creates Confidence | Jamie Gasparovic 1:44:04

5 weeks ago1:44:04

1:44:04

In this episode, Nick and Tyler talk to Jamie Gasparovic about what it really means to lead a business — not just through craft, but through communication. Jamie opens up about the emotional stress that comes from reactive jobs, and how she transformed her process to build clarity and trust from day one. It’s a conversation about setting expectations, building systems that actually support your team, and learning to lead by design — not by default. Show Notes: Introduction and Background of Jamie Gasparovic (0:00) Sponsorships and Personal Anecdotes (2:41) Pronunciation and Initial Conversation with Jamie (7:01) Business Operations and Client Management (14:56) Identity-Driven Design and Client Discovery (34:37) Challenges and Opportunities in the Design Industry (59:44) Business Evolution and Initial Challenges (1:07:21) Transitioning to Independent Work (1:11:17) Hiring the First Employee (1:14:39) Impact of Hiring on Business Operations (1:17:33) Pricing Strategies and Client Expectations (1:22:08) Managing Project Profitability (1:28:21) Future Plans and Business Growth (1:34:47) Personal Insights and Final Thoughts (1:36:50) Video Version: https://youtu.be/Y0Anev8O7ws Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | How I Learned to Price My Time | Tyler Grace 37:04

5 weeks ago37:04

37:04

In this episode, Tyler talks about the real cost of underpricing your time — not just in money, but in missed opportunities. He shares how his mindset has shifted over the years and why learning to protect your schedule is one of the most valuable skills you can develop in the trades. Show Notes: Understanding the Value of Time (0:00) The Hustle Rate and Overhead Calculations (4:37) Transitioning from Hustle Rate to Business Owner Mentality (12:47) Capturing Invisible Work and Adjusting Pricing (16:38) Implementing Subcontracting and Management Fees (30:16) Opportunity Cost and Business Growth (32:19) Conclusion and Next Steps (35:23) Video Version: https://youtu.be/n5AOoWtXvsw Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Choose Smart Growth, Not Fast Growth 1:09:05

6 weeks ago1:09:05

1:09:05

In this episode, Nick and Tyler talk about the value of growing a construction business at a pace that aligns with your long-term vision — not just your short-term ambition. They reflect on the mistakes and lessons from pursuing aggressive scaling and why they’ve chosen to focus on sustainability, control, and craftsmanship. If you’ve ever felt pressure to grow faster than feels right, this conversation is a breath of fresh air. Show Notes: Prioritizing Business Growth and Personal Success (0:00) Promoting Modern Craftsman Workshops and Sponsors (1:35) Hairline Concerns and Professional Appearance (4:49) Balancing Work and Personal Life (9:46) Understanding Business Profitability (30:57) Investing in Efficiency and Equipment (41:15) Delegating Tasks and Overcoming Guilt (56:22) Preparing for Upcoming Events and Workshops (1:07:40) Video Version: https://youtu.be/bSpOWQniJW0 Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | Why Cash Offers Can Undermine Your Profit & Reputation | with Tyler Grace 32:25

6 weeks ago32:25

32:25

In this episode, Tyler responds to a listener question about clients offering to pay in cash — and why that might not be the win it seems like. He breaks down the risks, the optics, and the long-term damage that “under the table” work can do to both your business and your reputation. Show Notes: Cash Offers and Business Legitimacy (0:00) The Risks of Cash Transactions (6:46) Protecting the Business and Clients (18:14) The Role of Proper Documentation (26:32) Workshop & Coaching (29:12) Video Version: https://youtu.be/2KvQW-MUr_E Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Builder Education | Building A Skilled Team Through Culture | Velux's Paul Johnson 1:26:06

7 weeks ago1:26:06

1:26:06

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to Paul Johnson about why builder education is key to improving craftsmanship and raising the bar across the industry. Paul shares how his work with VELUX goes far beyond selling products — focusing instead on training, leadership, and building long-term relationships with tradespeople. From the role of manufacturer education to creating new opportunities for builders to grow their businesses, this conversation is packed with insights on leadership, innovation, and elevating the craft. Show Notes: Velux's Market Share and Installation Importance (0:00) Paul Johnson's Career Journey and Entrepreneurial Influence (14:24) Velux's Training Academy and Installer Engagement (16:06) The Importance of Skylights in Home Building (38:36) Unique Skylight Installations (40:15) Current and Favorite Projects (1:06:48) Career Path and Company Culture (1:08:48) Partnership and Training Opportunities (1:20:43) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/5LLSwFnrVYg Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Builder Resilience | Handle Slow Construction Seasons & Retain Confidence | Tyler Grace 29:31

7 weeks ago29:31

29:31

In this episode, Tyler talks about how to handle the fear and uncertainty that comes with a slow season. He shares why it’s crucial not to panic, how to stay confident in your value, and ways to use the downtime to come out stronger on the other side. Show Notes: Handling a Slow Season in the Construction Industry (0:00) Impact of Economic Factors on the Construction Industry (4:20) Strategies for Surviving a Slowdown (10:00) Long-Term Planning and Business Sustainability (16:23) Building a Sustainable Business Model (18:42) Preparing for Future Slowdowns (24:54) Final Thoughts and Encouragement (26:04) Video Version: https://youtu.be/a1ArdeZ089s The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | Design a Scalable Firm That Grows with You | Architect Matt Arnold 1:37:06

8 weeks ago1:37:06

1:37:06

In this episode, Nick & Tyler talk to architect and entrepreneur Matt Arnold about building a business with intentional flexibility. They explore why Matt chose to create a brand that leaves space for future collaboration and growth, how building his own projects reshaped his client empathy, and the realities of launching a new firm while balancing life as a new father. From architecture to business ownership, this conversation dives into decision-making, leadership, and crafting a professional path that evolves with you. Guest Matt Arnold https://arnoldand.com/ Show Notes: Designing and Constructing with Care (0:00) Blending Architecture, Interiors, and Brand (5:02) Boston's Design Aesthetic (11:17) Being Open to Collaboration, by Design (19:50) Why Not Having a Business Plan is Good (25:29) The Extrovert vs Introvert Business Owner (29:25) The Benefit of Working on Your Own Projects (30:57) The Journey to Entrepreneurship (52:28) The Importance of Early Mornings (56:30) Setting Up a Work Schedule for Deep Work (1:12:37) Balancing Work and Personal Life (1:17:32) Understanding Business Metrics and Lead Tracking (1:25:21) Building a Brand and Future Plans (1:32:36) Final Thoughts and Future Projects (1:34:58) VIdeo Version https://youtu.be/c6nA99ovS3Y Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Velux Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman : linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts : Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media…

Modern Craftsman

1
Construction Business | Why Every Job Counts | Tyler Grace 24:37

8 weeks ago24:37