ITTH E8 - Building More Than Houses: Crafting Homes with Heart with Kyle Gilman

In this episode of In The Treehouse, host Michael Conner sits down with Kyle Gilman, founder of Integrity Design Build, to discuss his unconventional journey from a military school cadet to a successful home builder in North Georgia. 

Kyle shares his experiences in construction, repo work, private investigation, and how each chapter shaped his entrepreneurial mindset. 

His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

1. Lessons from Military School: Courage, Honor, and Integrity

Kyle’s early years were shaped by his time in a military boarding school, where he learned discipline, respect, and leadership. 

The values instilled in him—courage, honor, and integrity—became the foundation for his future business. 

These principles now define his company’s commitment to transparency and high-quality craftsmanship.

2. The Tough Reality of Repossession Work

Kyle spent seven years as a repo man during the 2008 financial crisis. 

While initially hesitant about the ethics of the job, he gained a deep understanding of financial systems and human psychology. 

The high-risk environment, which included dangerous encounters, taught him to stay calm under pressure—an invaluable skill in both life and business.

3. Pivoting Through Failure: The PI Business

After leaving the repossession industry, Kyle started a private investigation business. 

While the business ultimately failed due to financial constraints and overcommitment, the experience taught him critical lessons in business operations, client trust, and the importance of focus. 

This failure became a stepping stone to his future success in construction.

4. The Birth of Integrity Design Build

Kyle’s transition into construction started with cabinetry work, which quickly expanded into full-scale renovations. 

His business grew entirely through word-of-mouth, a testament to his reputation for reliability and excellence. 

After moving to Georgia, he formalized his business, obtained his general contractor’s license, and began building homes with a focus on quality and integrity.

5. Scaling a Business with Purpose

Now looking to expand, Kyle envisions scaling his business to develop entire neighborhoods while maintaining the core values that set him apart. 

He acknowledges the challenges of growth—hiring the right team, maintaining quality, and staying true to his mission. 

His ultimate dream? Combining his passion for motorsports with construction by developing a racetrack community.

Kyle’s story is a reminder that success isn’t linear. From military school to repo work, private investigation, and construction, each step shaped his character and entrepreneurial drive. 

His commitment to integrity in business sets a powerful example for aspiring entrepreneurs.

If you’re in North Georgia and looking for a builder who truly cares about quality and customer experience, Kyle Gilman is the name to know.