Who is actually working on your home during a remodel, and should you be concerned if your remodeling company uses subcontractors? In this episode of Elevate & Renovate, Michael sits down with Nick Kornea, CEO of LBK Design Build, to clear up one of the most common misconceptions in the remodeling industry: the role of subcontractors and trade partners. Together, they break down how remodeling companies actually build their teams, why specialized trades are an essential part of nearly every successful project, and why the question homeowners should be asking isn’t simply, “Do you use subcontractors?” but rather, “How do you manage them?” Drawing from his experience building and leading a design-build firm, Nick explains the difference between simply outsourcing work and developing long-term relationships with trusted trade partners. Michael and Nick also discuss how trades are vetted, what accountability should look like on a jobsite, and how communication between designers, project managers, craftsmen, and specialty trades impacts everything from quality and scheduling to the overall client experience. The conversation also explores what it really means when a remodeling company claims to do everything “in-house,” the value of bringing specialized expertise into a project, and the red flags homeowners should watch for when interviewing potential remodelers. Whether you’re preparing to hire a remodeling company or simply want a better understanding of what happens behind the scenes once construction begins, this episode offers an honest look at who really builds your remodel and why having the right team matters. Designed for Living. Built for Life.