Quality Erections: The Uncensored Story of Sherman Buildings

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Quality erections aren't just what Sherman Buildings creates—they're the foundation of a marketing strategy that's transformed rural construction since 1976. In this conversation with CEO Steve Kelling, we discover why authenticity might be the most powerful business tool you're not fully utilizing.
Behind those eyebrow-raising billboards and viral social media posts lies a thoughtful approach to transparency that defies construction industry norms. "If you're just a blur in the background, you don't get that opportunity to show people who you really are," Kelling explains, revealing why Sherman Buildings chooses to embrace rather than hide the everyday chaos of running a construction business. This philosophy extends beyond customer acquisition to creating a workplace where employees stay for decades rather than months.
The family-owned company doesn't rely on nepotism—instead, they've cultivated an environment where respect must be earned through competence rather than connections. "Power isn't something that can be given to anybody. It's taken," Kelling shares, offering profound insights into leadership dynamics that apply far beyond construction.
We dive deep into the evolution of post-frame buildings from simple pole barns to sophisticated barn dominiums, exploring how financing challenges initially slowed adoption before these structures became mainstream. Kelling describes building his own barn dominium in the early 2000s when the concept was still considered unusual, shedding light on how Sherman helped pioneer what has become one of rural construction's fastest-growing trends.
Whether you're fascinated by family business dynamics, construction innovations, or simply appreciate straight-talking wisdom from someone who's weathered decades of industry changes, this episode delivers powerful takeaways about building something meant to last—both physically and organizationally. Subscribe now to hear more conversations with business leaders who aren't afraid to share how they've built success from the ground up.
0:00 Introduction to Steve Kelling
0:25 Sherman's Edgy Marketing Strategy
4:20 Social Media and Business Authenticity
8:00 Family Business Dynamics
16:25 Pole Buildings and Barn Dominiums
21:40 Evolution of Materials and Techniques
32:30 Building Legacy and Opportunity
41:15 Life Outside the Family Business
47:25 Parting Knowledge and Career Advice

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Chapters

1. Introduction to Steve Kelling (00:00:00)

2. Sherman's Edgy Marketing Strategy (00:00:25)

3. Social Media and Business Authenticity (00:04:20)

4. Family Business Dynamics (00:08:00)

5. Pole Buildings and Barn Dominiums (00:16:25)

6. Evolution of Materials and Techniques (00:21:40)

7. Building Legacy and Opportunity (00:32:30)

8. Life Outside the Family Business (00:41:15)

9. Parting Knowledge and Career Advice (00:47:25)