Live from the RISE Conference: Ask Kyle Anything (and Everything)
Recorded live in front of an energetic and idea-filled crowd at the first-ever RISE Conference, this episode captures the real-time laughs, insights, and off-the-cuff wisdom of Kyle Hunt. From basketball stories and trumpet solos gone wrong to deep dives on estimating, hiring, and the heart behind how much is enough, this live Q&A hits both the practical and personal sides of remodeling business ownership.
Plus, you’ll hear:
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Why gray socks might be Kyle’s golf superpower
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The lessons of playing it safe in business—and what finally pushed Kyle to grow
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Insights on brilliant jerks, design-to-production breakdowns, and raising a teenage entrepreneur
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An emotional tribute to the clients and community that made the RISE Conference possible
Let’s just say—next year’s live podcast might need a video camera.
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Thank you to our RISE Conference Sponsors:
Also highlighted in this episode:
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Homes for Hope – a nonprofit organization fighting global poverty through microfinancing and training in partnership with the building industry. Learn more at homes4hope.org
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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
This conference is not about me. It's about you.
Building a remodeling business is a long-term game.
I have not been a very heavy risk.
Charging for design and project development has a positive ripple effect.
How much is enough?
Brilliant jerks need to change from brilliant jerks to brilliant, not as jerky.
The quality of your team is a huge indicator of success.
Every moment is holy and should be cherished.
Think differently about a showroom to enhance client experience.
I get emotional easily when expressing gratitude.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Rise Conference
00:09 Kickoff of the Live Podcast Recording
01:12 Reflections on the Conference Experience
06:12 Personal Stories and Lessons Learned
08:45 Business Growth and Hiring Strategies
10:33 Operational Changes for Efficiency
13:13 Understanding Financial Goals
15:27 Client Relationships and Marketing
16:45 Estimating and Project Management
19:52 Strengthening Design to Production Connections
21:43 Promoting from Within vs. Hiring Externally
24:34 Golf Game and Personal Growth
27:23 Coaching and Improvement in Business
28:31 Exciting Raffle Drawings
30:38 Unreasonable Hospitality in Business
32:39 Nonprofit Impact in the Building Industry
33:49 Engaging with Sponsors and Partners
36:14 Maintaining Energy at Conferences
36:40 Addressing Team Negativity
40:38 Creating a Positive Work Environment
43:26 The Role of Showrooms in Business
46:11 Future Plans and Peer Groups
47:44 Kyle's Journey to Business Coaching
50:23 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Moments
56:41 Gratitude and Closing Remarks
