How Instagram and YouTube Turned a College Grad into a Top Arizona Contractor | Trace Walters

Raising The Grade

This week, I sat down with Trace Walters from Walters Renovations, and let me tell you this episode is a wild ride. Trace isn’t just a builder; he’s a creator, a visionary, and someone who’s unafraid to chase big dreams. At just 23, he’s already transformed his childhood passion for building into a thriving construction business. From tearing down walls to creating stunning exteriors and even venturing into full backyard renovations, Trace’s journey is packed with grit, ingenuity, and a touch of humor.
We talked about his Kansas City roots, how he grew up dreaming about neighborhood life while surrounded by 40 acres of land, and how he found his calling through hard work and a lot of YouTube tutorials. Trace shared stories about his first DIY backyard project (spoiler alert: it involved Googling "how to install irrigation"), the highs and lows of running his business, and why Instagram has become his secret weapon for connecting with clients.
If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to balance hands-on craftsmanship with running a business, or if you’re just looking for inspiration to take the leap into something new, this episode is for you.
Key Moments:
0:30 Who is Trace Walters?
5:00 Transition from Startups to Construction
10:00 Founding Walters Renovations
20:00 Unique Selling Point: Honesty and Communication
35:00 Building a Team and Stepping Back
39:00 The Role of Social Media in Customer Trust
45:00 Differentiating Through Craftsmanship and Transparency
57:00 Learning Construction Skills Through YouTube