Building 7‑Figure Outdoor Living Spaces With Reviews, Systems & Fitness-Driven Leadership

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Alan Lochridge, owner of The Stone Man in Charlotte, NC, to unpack how he’s built a highly reviewed, design‑build outdoor living company that homeowners love working with. Alan shares how he bought an existing stonework business, expanded into full backyard transformations, and positioned his team as a premium, reputation‑driven brand in a competitive market. You’ll hear how The Stone Man uses 3D design, daily communication, and rock‑solid systems to command higher prices, generate five‑star reviews, and keep great subcontractor crews for the long haul. Alan also talks about why outsourcing marketing was a game‑changer, how the Charlotte market shaped their service mix, and why serious fitness is part of how he shows up as a calm, decisive leader for his team and clients. If you’re a growth‑minded contractor who wants to elevate your brand, improve your client experience, and think bigger about the future of your company, this one’s for you. Bullet points How Alan bought The Stone Man and turned a custom stone shop into a full outdoor living brand.The 3D design and pre‑construction process that creates raving‑fan clients before the first shovel hits the ground.Why they’re unapologetically not the lowest bid—and how they still win great projects at premium prices.Systems for communication, daily site visits, and subcontractor relationships that keep projects smooth and profitable.How Charlotte’s climate and demographics shaped their move into pools, landscaping, and “holistic backyard” projects.Why Alan outsources marketing instead of DIY‑ing SEO and ads—and what that frees him up to focus on.The role of endurance training and early‑morning workouts in managing stress and leading with energy as an owner.Future growth plans, from maximizing the Charlotte market to potentially expanding into new cities like Raleigh or Greenville.