A construction leader breaks down how podcasts, LinkedIn, and tactical mentorship shaped his approach to risk, growth, and relationships in a volatile real estate market. In this episode, he shares how to use networking, transparency, and “highest and best use” thinking to build a durable career and business.
In this episode, Philip and Stevan Vukanic discuss:
- Transition from TV to podcasts and learning through diverse perspectives
- Career path into construction and the evolution of IMX Group
- Cost-plus agreements, commodity volatility, and risk management
- Networking, LinkedIn strategy, and emerging entrepreneur events
- Mentorship, highest-and-best-use, and long-term growth goals
Lightbulb Moments:
- Listening to voices outside your usual bubble, especially through long-form podcasts, can trigger powerful “light bulb moments” that reshape how you see business and life.
- In volatile markets, tools like cost-plus agreements and open-book transparency can protect both sides while building deep trust with clients.
- Social platforms are most powerful when used as research tools to understand prospects, find alignment, and start more meaningful conversations, not to hard sell.
- Clarifying your “highest and best use” and hiring around your weaknesses is a necessary step to scale beyond doing everything yourself.
- Intentional mentorship and calculated risk-taking—grounded in numbers and pre-construction analysis—can transform early-career fear into long-term growth and confidence.
“I started listening to podcasts, and I enjoyed different perspectives… and it started expanding the way I thought.” – Stevan Vukanic
Stevan Vukanic is a young entrepreneur serving as Vice President of IMX Group LLC, where he puts clients at the center of every high-performance industrial project and premium home build. Partnering closely with businesses in manufacturing, food & beverage, and beyond, Stevan and the team listen intently to understand your unique vision and challenges, then deliver efficient, sustainable facilities that boost productivity, navigate constraints, and support your long-term growth with care and confidence. Rooted in La Grange, Illinois, with projects extending to Florida, IMX brings that same client-focused warmth to IMX Homes—helping families create dream custom luxury homes in Chicago’s western suburbs and Florida. With empathy, integrity, and innovative drive, Stevan builds not just structures, but trusted partnerships and real, lasting impact for every client.
Connect with Stevan Vukanic:
Website: imxgroupllc.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevan-vukanic-65703881/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imxhomes/?hl=en
Connect with Philip:
Website: https://www.fornarolaw.com/
Podcast Website: https://lbmpodcast.com/
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/philipfornaro/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fornarolaw3002
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fornarolaw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fornarolaw/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FornaroLaw
https://www.facebook.com/philip.fornaro.3
Podcast Production by Turnkey Podcast. Thinking of starting a podcast? Get more info at https://turnkeypodcast.com/ or reach out to Doug Sandler directly at Doug@TurnkeyPodcast.com or call 410-340-6861.
You’re the expert. Your podcast will prove it.