RedCircle VERIFY_TOKEN_de35f53c-9383-4fd2-9d91-ee99dc2b831b -- Rendered At Sun, 14 Jun 2026 11:16:40 +0000 Dueck Builders: Spaces That Speak Your Story https://redcircle.com/shows/dueck-builders-spaces-that-speak-your-story en-US All rights reserved. All things custom home building in Winnipeg, Manitoba! Josh Friesen Welcome to 'The Dueck Builders Podcast,' the ultimate guide for anyone looking to build better homes in Winnipeg. Whether you’re planning your dream home or simply curious about the art of sustainable, energy-efficient living, this podcast offers expert insights and engaging conversations. We’ll start by breaking down our unique processes and contracts in a clear, approachable way—because transparency is the foundation of every great project. Then, join us for in-depth discussions with our trusted trades as we explore what it takes to build truly custom homes. At Dueck Builders, we’re committed to relationships, excellence, and constant improvement. This podcast is your front-row seat to the culture, craftsmanship, and innovation behind every project. Let’s build something extraordinary together. de35f53c-9383-4fd2-9d91-ee99dc2b831b Welcome to 'The Dueck Builders Podcast,' the ultimate guide for anyone looking to build better homes in Winnipeg. Whether you’re planning your dream home or simply curious about the art of sustainable, energy-efficient living, this podcast offers expert insights and engaging conversations.

We’ll start by breaking down our unique processes and contracts in a clear, approachable way—because transparency is the foundation of every great project. Then, join us for in-depth discussions with our trusted trades as we explore what it takes to build truly custom homes.

At Dueck Builders, we’re committed to relationships, excellence, and constant improvement. This podcast is your front-row seat to the culture, craftsmanship, and innovation behind every project. Let’s build something extraordinary together.

]]> serial no Josh Friesen josh.friesen@dueckbuilders.com no full Episode 2 - Dueck Builders' Selection Process Episode 2 - Dueck Builders' Selection Process 2 1 Josh Friesen Heather Barry on confident decisions, fewer regrets, and a smoother custom build. How to make confident home selections—without decision fatigue—using a phased, schedule-friendly process. Selections can feel like a never-ending checklist… until you understand the order, the why, and the trade-offs. In this episode, Josh sits down with Heather Barry, Project Coordinator at Dueck Builders, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes of the selections process — and how homeowners can stay excited instead of overwhelmed.

You’ll hear how early decisions (like windows, cabinetry, flooring, and plumbing) ripple into later choices, why lead times matter long before there’s even a hole in the ground, and how a phased selections approach keeps the build moving without rushing homeowners into regret.

Heather also shares the human side: why one person in a couple is often “visual” and the other isn’t, when decision fatigue tends to hit, how to recover from Pinterest overload, and why honest feedback makes everything smoother. If you want a home that looks cohesive, stays on schedule, and feels like you, this one is a must-listen.

]]> <p>Selections can feel like a never-ending checklist… until you understand the <em>order</em>, the <em>why</em>, and the <em>trade-offs</em>. In this episode, Josh sits down with <strong>Heather Barry</strong>, Project Coordinator at Dueck Builders, to unpack what really happens behind the scenes of the selections process — and how homeowners can stay excited instead of overwhelmed.</p><p>You’ll hear how early decisions (like windows, cabinetry, flooring, and plumbing) ripple into later choices, why lead times matter long before there’s even a hole in the ground, and how a <strong>phased selections approach</strong> keeps the build moving without rushing homeowners into regret.</p><p>Heather also shares the human side: why one person in a couple is often “visual” and the other isn’t, when decision fatigue tends to hit, how to recover from Pinterest overload, and why honest feedback makes everything smoother. If you want a home that looks cohesive, stays on schedule, and feels like <em>you</em>, this one is a must-listen.</p> 0e923e1e-a1c7-47fc-b2f8-684fe189aacd https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 04 May 2026 16:02:34 +0000 2129 no full Episode 6 - Tara Smith from Mr. Furnace Episode 6 - Tara Smith from Mr. Furnace 6 1 Josh Friesen A candid conversation with Tara Smith on family business, HVAC myths, industry change, and why you don’t need to “fit the mold” to lead In this episode, we sit down with Tara Smith, General Manager and co-owner of Mr. Furnace / Furnasman New Homes, for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, trades, and what it really means to “do it right.” Tara shares her journey from handing out brochures at home shows as a kid to leading one of Manitoba’s most established HVAC companies. With decades of experience across accounting, HR, operations, and national board leadership, she brings a rare people-first perspective to an industry that often doesn’t get much attention—until something stops working. We talk about: What homeowners actually want (hint: it’s not bigger equipment, it’s comfort) Common HVAC myths, placement mistakes, and indoor air quality blind spots What’s changing fastest in HVAC, from heat pumps to refrigerant regulations Why “dangerously educated” customers are becoming more common The realities of running a multi-generational family business—and the rules that make it work Why trades need young people (and women) more than ever Tara’s message to women entering a male-dominated industry: stop assimilating, start owning your strengths Leadership lessons from coaching kids, serving on national boards, and fixing mistakes the right way This episode is both practical and personal—full of real-world insights for homeowners, builders, and anyone interested in leadership, trades, or building a business that puts people first. Whether you’re planning a new build, running a family business, or just curious how your home actually works, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. In this episode, we sit down with Tara Smith, General Manager and co-owner of Mr. Furnace / Furnasman New Homes, for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, trades, and what it really means to “do it right.”

Tara shares her journey from handing out brochures at home shows as a kid to leading one of Manitoba’s most established HVAC companies. With decades of experience across accounting, HR, operations, and national board leadership, she brings a rare people-first perspective to an industry that often doesn’t get much attention—until something stops working.

We talk about:

  • What homeowners actually want (hint: it’s not bigger equipment, it’s comfort)
  • Common HVAC myths, placement mistakes, and indoor air quality blind spots
  • What’s changing fastest in HVAC, from heat pumps to refrigerant regulations
  • Why “dangerously educated” customers are becoming more common
  • The realities of running a multi-generational family business—and the rules that make it work
  • Why trades need young people (and women) more than ever
  • Tara’s message to women entering a male-dominated industry: stop assimilating, start owning your strengths
  • Leadership lessons from coaching kids, serving on national boards, and fixing mistakes the right way

This episode is both practical and personal—full of real-world insights for homeowners, builders, and anyone interested in leadership, trades, or building a business that puts people first.

Whether you’re planning a new build, running a family business, or just curious how your home actually works, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

]]> <p>In this episode, we sit down with <strong>Tara Smith</strong>, General Manager and co-owner of <strong>Mr. Furnace / Furnasman New Homes</strong>, for an honest, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, trades, and what it really means to “do it right.”</p><p>Tara shares her journey from handing out brochures at home shows as a kid to leading one of Manitoba’s most established HVAC companies. With decades of experience across accounting, HR, operations, and national board leadership, she brings a rare people-first perspective to an industry that often doesn’t get much attention—until something stops working.</p><p>We talk about:</p><ul><li>What homeowners <em>actually</em> want (hint: it’s not bigger equipment, it’s comfort)</li><li>Common HVAC myths, placement mistakes, and indoor air quality blind spots</li><li>What’s changing fastest in HVAC, from heat pumps to refrigerant regulations</li><li>Why “dangerously educated” customers are becoming more common</li><li>The realities of running a multi-generational family business—and the rules that make it work</li><li>Why trades need young people (and women) more than ever</li><li>Tara’s message to women entering a male-dominated industry: stop assimilating, start owning your strengths</li><li>Leadership lessons from coaching kids, serving on national boards, and fixing mistakes the right way</li></ul><p>This episode is both practical and personal—full of real-world insights for homeowners, builders, and anyone interested in leadership, trades, or building a business that puts people first.</p><p>Whether you’re planning a new build, running a family business, or just curious how your home actually works, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.</p> abdff66f-e367-43ec-885b-76bb5bfbc4cb https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 02 Feb 2026 14:52:53 +0000 2882 no full Episode 10 - Ben Dueck - You’re Not Sidney Crosby — And That’s Okay Episode 10 - Ben Dueck - You’re Not Sidney Crosby — And That’s Okay 10 1 Josh Friesen But maybe you could be Adam Lowry. You’re probably not Sidney Crosby — and that’s good news. This episode breaks down why leadership isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted, why fixing weaknesses is overrated, and how focusing on strengths can make you a better leader, parent, and human. You’re probably not Sidney Crosby — and that’s good news. We sit down with Ben Dueck from Cantera and break down why leadership isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted, why fixing weaknesses is overrated, and how focusing on strengths can make you a better leader, parent, and human.

]]> <p>You’re probably not Sidney Crosby — and that’s good news. We sit down with Ben Dueck from Cantera and break down why leadership isn’t reserved for the naturally gifted, why fixing weaknesses is overrated, and how focusing on strengths can make you a better leader, parent, and human.</p> d9e999bf-78fd-409e-9288-df1324311402 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Fri, 16 Jan 2026 15:49:58 +0000 2156 no full Episode 9 - Blowing up Astronauts with Kiras Episode 9 - Blowing up Astronauts with Kiras 9 1 Josh Friesen Engineering and Astronauts We got the chance to sit down with our engineer and talk through some fun new engineering problems, what makes a good engineer, and how engineering can make a difference to your project. We also talked blowing up astronauts and a zip line across the Red River?! We got the chance to sit down with our engineer and talk through some fun new engineering problems, what makes a good engineer, and how engineering can make a difference to your project. We also talked blowing up astronauts and a zip line across the Red River?!

]]> <p>We got the chance to sit down with our engineer and talk through some fun new engineering problems, what makes a good engineer, and how engineering can make a difference to your project. We also talked blowing up astronauts and a zip line across the Red River?!</p> 5669da2d-e679-4987-9a12-f0adc36225c1 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:29:50 +0000 2830 no full Episode 8 - Double Dueck, Al Dueck from Duxton talks windows, entrepreneurship and more. Episode 8 - Double Dueck, Al Dueck from Duxton talks windows, entrepreneurship and more. 8 1 Josh Friesen Winnipeg Window Wisdom We had the privilege of sitting down with Al Dueck, founder of Duxton Windows & Doors, for a wide-ranging conversation about Winnipeg’s history, manufacturing challenges, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. Proud reflections on Winnipeg, unique opportunities of building high-performance windows on the prairies; Al shares stories that connect local innovation with global impact. His passion for leadership and commitment to creating energy-efficient solutions shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in business, design, or sustainable building practices. Favourite bit: Al challenges company leaders to think of their talent as teammates, not employees. We had the privilege of sitting down with Al Dueck, founder of Duxton Windows & Doors, for a wide-ranging conversation about Winnipeg’s history, manufacturing challenges, sustainability, and entrepreneurship.

Proud reflections on Winnipeg, unique opportunities of building high-performance windows on the prairies; Al shares stories that connect local innovation with global impact. His passion for leadership and commitment to creating energy-efficient solutions shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in business, design, or sustainable building practices.

Favourite bit: Al challenges company leaders to think of their talent as teammates, not employees. 

]]> <p>We had the privilege of sitting down with <strong>Al Dueck</strong>, founder of <strong>Duxton Windows &amp; Doors</strong>, for a wide-ranging conversation about <strong>Winnipeg’s history, manufacturing challenges, sustainability, and entrepreneurship</strong>.</p><p>Proud reflections on <strong>Winnipeg, </strong>unique opportunities of building high-performance windows on the prairies; Al shares stories that connect <strong>local innovation with global impact</strong>. His passion for leadership and commitment to creating energy-efficient solutions shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in <strong>business, design, or sustainable building practices</strong>.</p><p>Favourite bit: Al challenges company leaders to think of their talent as teammates, not employees. </p> ea111ae5-487b-49d5-8482-1405233fad01 https://www.duxtonwindows.com/ Thu, 04 Sep 2025 01:24:35 +0000 2789 no full Episode 7 - In the Flesh with FloPro Episode 7 - In the Flesh with FloPro Josh Friesen Thanks for following along this far! We finally have our first podcast with us actually voicing the whole thing! We talk about Hydraloop (grey water recycling), favourite plumbers, radon, and what it is like running a contracting business in Winnipeg, MB.

Let us know what you think!

]]> <p>Thanks for following along this far! We finally have our first podcast with us actually voicing the whole thing! We talk about Hydraloop (grey water recycling), favourite plumbers, radon, and what it is like running a contracting business in Winnipeg, MB.</p><p>Let us know what you think!</p> 717fa1c7-eab1-47aa-b7f6-d8b204da4489 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Thu, 31 Jul 2025 16:33:14 +0000 2190 no full Episode 5 - Dueck's Design Process Episode 5 - Dueck's Design Process 5 1 Josh Friesen Explaining the Design Process This is an AI generated podcast explaining our design process. It walks through what to expect and how you can best be prepared for the process, what it will look like and some of the questions you'll be asked.

]]> <p>This is an AI generated podcast explaining our design process. It walks through what to expect and how you can best be prepared for the process, what it will look like and some of the questions you&#39;ll be asked.</p> cb1ed235-5c05-425f-b8ca-7380f93c37c7 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:07:30 +0000 989 no full Episode 4 - Construction Budget Proposal Episode 4 - Construction Budget Proposal 4 1 Josh Friesen Dueck Builders' Construction Budget This episode is an AI generated podcast reviewing our construction budget proposal document and explains what expectations you should have of it, and how it informs the start of your home building journey.

]]> <p>This episode is an AI generated podcast reviewing our construction budget proposal document and explains what expectations you should have of it, and how it informs the start of your home building journey.</p> 3f9c7748-3fd8-4020-876b-aefefe496d37 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 10 Mar 2025 16:21:52 +0000 779 no full Episode 3 - Construction Standards Episode 3 - Construction Standards 3 1 Josh Friesen Setting Your Expectations for Finished Product This is an AI generated review of our construction standards. Understanding our expectations of your finished product will help the project handover run smoothly. We can adjust these standards, but we need to talk through that early on.

]]> <p>This is an AI generated review of our construction standards. Understanding our expectations of your finished product will help the project handover run smoothly. We can adjust these standards, but we need to talk through that early on.</p> 7a76e49b-6dac-4c55-9b9e-0c6a08523a51 https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 24 Feb 2025 17:04:43 +0000 1086 no full Episode 1 - Cal Dueck Introduces Dueck Builders Episode 1 - Cal Dueck Introduces Dueck Builders 1 1 Josh Friesen Dueck's Origin Story We sit down with founder and visionary Cal Dueck to talk about what prompted him to start a custom home building business. We talk through early days, formative principles and where he hopes the future takes the company. We sit down with founder and visionary Cal Dueck to talk about what prompted him to start a custom home building business. We talk through early days, formative principles and where he hopes the future takes the company.

]]> <p>We sit down with founder and visionary Cal Dueck to talk about what prompted him to start a custom home building business. We talk through early days, formative principles and where he hopes the future takes the company. </p> 168acc9a-d4a3-4f3b-bdda-ef6fc57bb1fc https://www.dueckbuilders.com/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:46:07 +0000 2403 no