For Ben Shoval, co-founder and consultant at Bayside Home Improvement, his journey to becoming a leader in the construction industry was a bit unconventional. From humble beginnings to running his own business, Ben’s story is one of perseverance, risk-taking, and a commitment to helping others grow.

From Surfing to Construction

Born in New York and raised in Israel, Ben learned the basics of construction while working on projects with his father. At 22, he moved to Maui for a surf trip. While there, he took on landscaping jobs with a friend, earning $15–$20 an hour, and worked in a restaurant to make ends meet.

It didn’t take long for Ben to realize that the policies and systems at the restaurant didn’t align with his beliefs and he needed a change. “I realized I needed to do something where I could be in charge and run things differently,” Ben recalls. With this realization, he set his sights on building something of his own.

Realizing the Need for Change

After leaving Maui, Ben moved to California, where he worked for a garage door company while considering his next steps. His experience there, combined with his early construction knowledge he got from his father, gave him the confidence to start his own business. When the time came to expand, Ben relocated to Arizona to tap into the state’s booming construction industry.

Getting The Mindset of a Risk-Taker

A key part of Ben’s success is his ability to embrace risks. “I don’t see risks as risks,” he explains. “The worst thing that will happen is it won’t work, and I’ll be back to where I am now.” This practical yet optimistic approach has helped him navigate challenges and take chances that others might shy away from.

Ben’s philosophy of “doing it will make it happen” has been a guiding principle throughout his journey. His willingness to take action and his vision for growth sets him apart as both a business owner and a leader. In his partnership, he takes on the visionary role, pushing the business forward while his partner handles the accounting.

Leadership Through Growth and Accountability

For Ben, leadership is about building his people up. His motivation comes from seeing his team grow and thrive. “If I see them doing well and making more money, then I feel good,” he says.

Ben is committed to fostering growth while holding his team accountable. He isn’t afraid to have tough conversations, but he approaches them with logic and clarity. “I stick to the facts,” he explains. “What is the problem, how do we solve it, and why is this important?” This straightforward approach helps his team avoid stagnation and continue to improve.

Overcoming Limiting Beliefs

Like many entrepreneurs, Ben had to overcome his own limiting beliefs. During his time in Maui, he was content with a simple life of surfing and just enough income to get by. But a switch flipped when he realized he wanted more.

“Limiting beliefs create a limited reality,” Ben reflects. His decision to push beyond his comfort zone transformed his life and career, proving that the only true limits are the ones we set for ourselves.

Ben’s philosophy is simple: “Do what you do, and clients will appear.” Focus on doing quality work and building meaningful relationships, and you can create success for yourself and your team.

WE KNOW YOU ARE INSPIRED. FOLLOW BEN HERE: https://www.instagram.com/benshaja/
VISIT BEN SHOVAL'S WEBSITE HERE: https://azbaysidehomeimprovement.com/

I’m a senior leader at The Elliott Group with over 12 years of client service experience and have held a substantial leadership roles in the automotive industry. I’m also an accredited coach, a writer, speaker, and a triathlon finisher. To contact me for engagements you can reach me at [email protected].