We had the good fortune of connecting with Jacob Klentner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jacob, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I grew up watching my parents run their own businesses, seeing firsthand what it looks like to be your own boss and dictate the terms of your own life. Coming from that environment, I always knew an office job career wouldn’t fit. There’s a specific kind of excitement in building something from scratch, working on it every day and eventually looking back to see how far you’ve come. I’ve always wanted to be an active participant in my work, and starting my own venture was the only way to ensure I’d have the voice and the impact I was looking for.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The business of building is as old as time. I could tell you that we have the best team and use the latest cutting-edge materials, which is true, but that only gets you halfway there. When you hire a builder for a large-scale project, you aren’t just hiring a contractor; you’re choosing a partner to help grow and form something from the ground up. It’s like a child you’re raising together.

The reality is that you need to trust the person standing next to you. You need to know they’ll keep their word and do things the right way, even when no one is looking. I pride myself on being a hands-on builder who is on-site every day, offering the kind of honest suggestions that save a client from making expensive mistakes down the line. I’m not just there to execute a plan; I’m there because I’m genuinely invested in the build.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. There was a lot of self-doubt and a massive amount of risk. Starting out at my dad’s construction company, I felt like I knew so little. I made plenty of mistakes, enough that I genuinely questioned if I was cut out for this career path at all.

But slowly, I started to find my footing. Between some great mentors and a lot of trial and error, I finally reached the point where I could stand on my own two feet. I realized that my background wasn’t just about learning the trade; it was about inheriting a standard of work that I wanted to carry forward under my own name.

What I’m most proud of is being able to stand by my work. I want to know that long after I’m gone, these buildings will still be standing as a significant imprint of my time here. At the end of my career, I want to look back and be proud of the structures I’ve built and the people I’ve worked with. At the end of the day, my story is simple: I’m a multi-generational builder who actually cares about the craft. I’m not just building houses; I’m tying to create something significant.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Breakfast: Laurel Canyon Market & Lily’s Coffee
Lunch: Palisades Cafe
Dinner: Le Petit Trois

Hangout: Bar Next Door

Favorite Thing to Do: Drive down Mulholland with the windows down and music playing

On my To-Do List: Dim-sum Chinatown, Rosebowl flea market, LACMA Museum

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I wouldn’t be where I am today without my family and friends. My family has been my foundation, believing in me even when I didn’t give them a reason to. My father is a constant source of inspiration; I’m always pushing myself to match the incredible drive and effort he puts into the world. My mother, one of the most creative and emotionally resonant people I know, gave me the spark to take risks and find excitement in life. My fiancée, Natalie, is my rock—I truly couldn’t operate without her. She is a constant reminder to be the best version of myself for her and for our family. Finally, to my friends who have stayed by my side through every insecurity and every moment of hubris: thank you for being there every step of the way.

Website: https://jakebuiltit.com

Instagram: JakeBuiltit

Linkedin: Jacob Klentner

Other: jake@westernbuiltconstruction.com

Image Credits
Christopher Amitrano

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