Built Without Permission
Built Without Permission is the podcast for entrepreneurs who never waited for someone to hand them the blueprint.
Hosted by Matthew Mak, a former architect turned tow truck operator, landscaper, and equipment rental company owner, this show offers a raw, unfiltered look at what it actually takes to build multiple businesses from the ground up without a roadmap, a safety net, or anyone's approval.
Every episode dives into the real decisions, hard pivots, expensive lessons, and unconventional strategies that separate the people who talk about building something from the ones who actually do it. No theory. No fluff. No permission needed.
Whether you are a tradesperson with an entrepreneurial itch, a business owner navigating your next reinvention, or someone who has been told your path does not make sense, Built Without Permission is proof that the best businesses are rarely built by the book.
This is the show for the ones who break ground before they feel ready.
Built Without Permission
Latest Episodes
From CFP to CEO Rachel Erickson on Using Her Financial Knowledge to Bet on Herself & Build Barrel Room Media From the Gr
In episode 20 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Rachel Erickson, founder of Barrel Room Media, as she explains why culture, character, and values matter more than money or impressive résumés—and why she refuses to take ...
From Survival to Strength Shaun Shubert on Growing Up Hard, Getting Out & Building the Reforged Method for Dads Who've L
In episode 19 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Shaun Shubert, a martial artist, chef, gym owner, coach, and entrepreneur from Boston, Massachusetts, to unpack the setbacks, sacrifices, mindset shifts, and life lessons that sh...
Hands Off, Hands Down the Best Scott Dinan on Managing -1M+ Luxury Vacation Assets Across Manatee, Sarasota & Pinellas
In episode 18 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Scott Dinan, founder of Trust First Management, as he shares how this leadership shift helped create a culture where team members began taking initiative—including one employee w...
Your Wealth Starts With One Honest Conversation Laura Costa on 12+ Years of GTA Real Estate & the Communication That Changes
In episode 17 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Laura Costa, an Ontario real estate professional who has built her career around connection, adaptability, communication, and helping clients achieve meaningful goals. Fro...
Build a Business Worth Buying Brandon Smith of New Vision Projects on Trade-Up Coaching & What Contractors Need to Know
In episode 16 of Built Without Permission, Matthew Mak interviews Brandon Smith, Co-Founder of New Vision Projects, as he explains that having the best product or service means little if you can't communicate its value, solve a customer'...