“Building Smart: Adam Hehlke’s Journey from Applestone to Built QC”
In this episode of the WB Download, host Jeff Wieland welcomes fellow HBA Builder 20 peer group member and friend, Adam Hehlke of Quad Cities, Iowa. Adam shares his entrepreneurial journey—starting with Applestone Homes 18 years ago and the launch of his new venture, Built QC.
With a focus on lean operations, high-quality custom and spec homes, and a price range of $500,000 to $3 million, Adam explains how he's built a focused team dedicated to the right projects and client satisfaction. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning from a partnership to a sole proprietorship, and how he's managed name recognition, resource allocation, and maintaining business momentum.
The conversation dives deep into the appraisal process, the value of detailed documentation, and how builders can better position their homes for accurate valuations. Jeff and Adam also reflect on their shared experience in the Builder 20 group—discussing both the benefits of cross-industry learning and the importance of balanced group dynamics and positivity.
From practical business tips to reflections on work-life balance, Adam offers grounded advice on smart growth and staying patient through transitions. Plus, the episode ends with some fun Iowa trivia and light-hearted banter about local legends and future plans.
Whether you're a builder, business owner, or just love stories about resilience and reinvention, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.
Learn More about our guest Built QC:
Website: https://www.builtqc.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/people/Built-QC/61559199912573/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/built_qc/
Email Jeff your comments, questions, and topic requests, or be a guest on The WB Download.
Email: WBDOWNLOAD@wielandbuilders.com
See Wieland Builders custom home gallery www.wielandbuilders.com
See podcast behind the scenes photos
Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Houzz or Pinterest
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.