What motivates you?

A great soundtrack. Seeing obstacles and roadblocks as things to overcome, even thrive because of them. They are everywhere so we may as well get used to them. Bouncing with friends when all is good, crawling with them when it’s not, knowing that I may be a small part of their story and hopefully a positive influence.

What do you do for a living, and why?

I’m a framer. I build with wood. As a kid, it was fun hammering home a spike in two swings, working outside (especially those first nice days of spring after a brutal winter), sheeting a high roof with a playful crew, tunes cranked, seeing results every day. Now, its constructing well designed and architecturally inspiring prefab houses, because its a better way of building, a better way of living, and a better use of earth’s resources.

Which TED talk do you think everyone should watch?

Why are you excited to speak at TEDxManitoba?

Trading stories. There are so many good ones out there. Stories that have the power to energize us, comfort us, even heal us. Stories that – like a great song – get our heart pounding, our brain computing, our feet moving, and may even help transform us into truly caring human beings.

What is your idea worth spreading?

Do what you love, with those you love, and do it bravely and intensely. Share your life experience by making yourself vulnerable. Take risks, and find a soundtrack to get you through.

What’s your connection to Manitoba?

I’m the owner of Holz Constructors. We have built award-winning projects. We have built all over the world, and we build mostly with wood. I’m also a Bronx Community Club Board member and a member of Friends of Engineering (although I like architecture more). I coach any sport my kids want to play. I played on a National Championship U of W volleyball team. I kite board on Lake Winnipeg.