In this episode of Bridging the Gap: If These Walls Could Talk, hosts Jim Williams and Zita Billman sit down with Chris Radi, General Manager at McVay—a Pittsburgh powerhouse formed from the merger of three legacy companies in plumbing, HVAC, sewer, and electrical services.Chris shares the story of McVay’s rapid growth, from trenchless sewer pioneers to a fully integrated service provider, and how smart leadership, intentional logistics, and a people-first approach have created a culture of collaboration across the Pittsburgh region.You’ll hear how McVay:✅ Grew from three distinct companies into one trusted brand✅ Maintains a strong culture across a mobile, distributed workforce✅ Uses vertical management to lead specialized teams in plumbing, HVAC, sewer, and electrical✅ Tackles complex jobs others turn down—including trenchless sewer line replacement✅ Offers whole-home solutions, including generators and ductless systemsFrom behind-the-scenes call center logistics to a hilarious story about a vintage toilet, Chris gives us a look into how McVay blends old-school grit with forward-thinking systems to deliver top-notch service.🎙️ Want to learn more or have a topic you’d like us to cover? Drop it in the comments or connect with us on social!👍 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps us keep these conversations going!#McVayPlumbing #PittsburghTrades #HomeServices #TrenchlessSewer #BridgingTheGap #IfTheseWallsCouldTalk #CultureDrivenBusiness

In this episode of Bridging the Gap: If These Walls Could Talk, Jim Williams and Zita Billman sit down with Sevon Norman, owner of KB Contracting Services (KBCS), to talk about his journey from warehouse work to general contracting—and how he's using social media and service-driven values to build a brand that resonates.Sevon opens up about the personal motivation behind starting his business, how he leverages platforms like Instagram and TikTok to build trust and visibility, and why intentional, purpose-driven content is transforming how contractors connect with clients. He also shares how investing in ongoing education—like commercial construction management training—has helped him evolve as a business owner and leader.Join the conversation as Sevon discusses lessons learned from real-world job sites, the power of community relationships, and the importance of staying true to your vision. Whether you're a trades professional, business owner, or simply love a good transformation story, this episode is packed with perspective and inspiration.Have a question or a topic you'd love us to cover?Drop us a comment and connect with us on social media.Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review—your support helps us bring you more great conversations!

In this episode of Bridging the Gap: If These Walls Could Talk, Jim Williams and Zita Billman sit down with Tenika Deshawn, founder of Lady Carpenter LLC and Black Diamond Development. Tanika shares her inspiring journey from self-taught carpenter to CEO, detailing how her entrepreneurial drive, personal resilience, and passion for housing security fueled her rise in Pittsburgh’s construction and development scene.

Join the conversation as Tenika talks about getting started in the trades to support her family, the transition from skilled labor to project management and development, and her mission to provide dignified housing solutions in underserved communities. She also highlights the challenges of government contracting, her involvement in community-based initiatives, and the transformative power of mentorship and leadership in building dynamic teams.

Tune in for insights on navigating entrepreneurship, scaling a business in construction, and how showing up for your community can lead to lasting impact.

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Drop us a comment and connect with us on social media.

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