Cabinet Maker Profit System Podcast

In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System, Dominic Rubino shares insights from coaching $3–10M cabinet and millwork shop owners. If you're stuck at $4M, wearing too many hats, or unsure how to scale without burning out — this episode is for you.

From banker to landscaper, Carroll Fitzgerald built a 70+ person business with 35 trucks — and then sold it to his own management team. In this episode, Carroll shares the full story of how he scaled Fitzgerald's Landscaping and structured a successful employee buyout. What you'll learn: How Carroll grew his company from a weekend side hustle to a multimillion-dollar operation Why he planned his exit 5 years in advance — and how that paid off How he used SBA financing and vendor takebacks to help his team buy the business What makes a succession plan actually work in the trades

Are you hiring on instinct — and paying for it later? In this episode, Dominic Rubino talks with recruiting expert Andrea Hoffer from AHA! Business Consulting about her D.R.E.A.M. system — a step-by-step approach to hire and keep great foremen in your cabinetry, millwork, or construction business. What you'll learn: ➡️ How to define what your ideal foreman actually looks like ➡️ The importance of reaching candidates in the right places ➡️ How to engage and keep strong applicants moving through your pipeline ➡️ Interviewing tips to assess candidates like a pro ➡️ What to do after hiring to motivate and retain your best talent

In this Cabinet Maker Profit System episode, Dominic Rubino sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch Inc., to dig into why wasted drive time is killing contractor profits — and how to fix it. James shares his journey from painter and pressure washer to Inc. 500 tech entrepreneur, and what every construction business owner can learn from it.

Foreman training that actually works—just 1% at a time. In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System, Dominic Rubino connects James Clear's Atomic Habits with life on the shop floor. Success doesn't come from yelling louder or working longer—it comes from repeatable systems that make your foreman better every week. You'll hear:

In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System show, Dominic Rubino interviews Katie Smith from Wild Path Consulting, who shares why marketing isn't about selling — it's about building real connections with your best customers. Katie's unique perspective, shaped by her time as a wilderness guide, will help you rethink how to approach marketing in your construction business. Key Topics Covered: 1️⃣ How to define your ideal customer and avoid wasting time and money 2️⃣ Why marketing isn't just about ads — it's about showing up and serving 3️⃣ Real-world examples of contractors making marketing work without being flashy 4️⃣ Tips for staying authentic and community-focused in your marketing

In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System show, host Dominic Rubino sits down with Chip Tighe of Organizers Direct Industries to unpack the three proven paths into the closet and home organization industry:

In this episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System, host Dominic Rubino talks with Clint Padgett, a project management veteran whose clients include Coca-Cola at the Olympics and FIFA World Cup. But don't worry — the lessons he shares aren't just for mega-corporations. They're built for your shop too. Whether you're managing installs, renovations, or entire builds, this conversation will help you: ➡️ Replace confusion with clear, confident planning ➡️ Build real accountability in your PM team ➡️ Avoid the biggest time-wasters in construction project management ➡️ Train new PMs to talk (not just text) ➡️ Use conversations to prevent disasters and scope creep Follow us for more straight-talking business advice for trades pros. And don't forget to share it with someone who needs to hear it. More about Clint: Website: Project Success Inc: The Conversation with Clinton M. Padgett: FOLLOW

Dominic Rubino interviews Phil McGilvray—finance coach and founder of Grandma's Jars—who helps construction business owners understand why profit doesn't always equal cash in the bank.

In this episode, host Dominic Rubino sits down with Profit First author Mike Michalowicz to tackle the money mistakes most trades business owners are making—and how to fix them. If you're a contractor living off deposits, undercharging, or barely scraping by, this episode is for you. Topics Covered:

Thinking about bidding on bonded jobs? Learn what surety bonds REALLY mean for your business. In this episode, Dominic Rubino interviews Matthew Snowden of The Mahoney Group, an experienced surety bond advisor. They cover what a bond actually guarantees, how to qualify, the risks of not being prepared, and how bonding can level up your business. Topics Covered:

Most contractors don't realize how much business they're losing because of a bad website. Sam Natello, a digital marketing expert who dominates the fencing industry, breaks down what your site needs to do to get leads—and why Google's ignoring you. We're talking trust, SEO, team size, reviews, and simple fixes you can start today. If you want your shop to work less and earn more, this episode is for you.

How do some cabinetmakers grow multi-million-dollar businesses while others stay stuck in survival mode? It's not just hard work—it's about thinking and operating differently. In this episode, Dominic Rubino breaks down 5 key principles that separate struggling shop owners from those who create wealth and financial freedom.

In this episode, Dominic Rubino sits down with Lisa Treu from Treu Group Real Estate to uncover what homeowners actually prioritize when they buy and renovate homes. If you're a contractor, cabinet maker, or millworker, this episode is packed with insights to help you land more high-end clients.

Are you making money—but still renting your shop space? It's time to turn your business into a wealth-building machine. In this episode of Cabinet Maker Profit System, Dominic Rubino talked with real estate investor Troy Kearns to break down how cabinet makers can use real estate to build long-term wealth.

Frustrated with appliance delays? You're not alone! In this episode, Dominic Rubino talks with Mike Konrad, CEO of Aqueous Technologies, to explain why it's happening and what contractors can do about it.

Are you struggling to find skilled woodworkers or craftspeople for your construction or cabinetry business? This episode of the Cabinet Maker Profit System podcast has you covered! Dominic Rubino sits down with Samuel Schneider, founder of Journeyman, to explore how master tradespeople from Europe can fill your skill gaps and elevate your team. In this episode, we discuss: 1. Why European apprenticeships create world-class woodworkers. 2. The benefits of hiring internationally—for both employers and employees. 3. How Journeyman Staff handles the logistics (visas, housing, and more). If you're ready to learn how to overcome the skilled labor shortage, this is the episode for you! Listen in and subscribe for more insights! Don't forget to like, comment, and share your thoughts! Who do you know that could benefit from this episode? ----

Introducing new systems, software, or processes in your business? Team resistance can derail even the best intentions. In this episode of Cabinet Maker Profit System, Dominic Rubino interviews Cole Eklund from INNERGY to discuss practical strategies for getting team buy-in when implementing change. What's Covered in This Episode: ✔️ Why team resistance happens—and how to overcome it. ✔️ The power of creating urgency and involving key players. ✔️ Tips for building trust, short-term wins, and long-term success. ✔️ Avoiding change fatigue while growing your business.

In this episode, I talked about hiring skilled tradespeople, like carpenters, for your business. If you're frustrated with finding the right team members, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can implement immediately. Topics Covered: 1. The concept of Revenue Responsibility Per Hour and how it impacts your hiring strategy. 2. Creative and unconventional ways to find skilled tradespeople. 3. Why recruiting is marketing and how to target the right candidates. 4. The importance of onboarding and managing new hires effectively.

In this episode, we are joined by Brad Cairns, lean manufacturing expert, to explore how construction and contracting business owners can use lean principles to eliminate waste, reduce rework, and improve efficiency by up to 50%!

In this episode, I talk with Dave Hudon from INNERGY. We dive into the challenges of second-generation leadership in the cabinetry and millwork industry, sharing actionable insights for business owners. Topics Covered: 1. Dave's personal journey in taking over a family-run business. 2. The role of culture in driving business success. 3. How ERP systems and technology are changing the game for contractors. 4. Tips for making tough decisions as a leader. FOLLOW US ON YOUTUBE

James Bradley, President of Pan Pacific Interiors, joined us and shared his remarkable journey of reinventing his cabinet shop in Panama. James discusses the ups and downs of transitioning to a new country, building a skilled team from scratch, and the key tools and strategies he used to transform his business into a profitable enterprise. Tune in to learn about: The importance of systemizing processes in a growing business Managing supply chains and cultural differences in a new market How to position your business in a high-end market

Join us for an insightful conversation with Cassy Thomeier, CFO of Giffin Interior, where she shares her expert tips on job cost analysis and how to manage project costs to increase profitability in the woodworking and cabinetry industries. Cassy walks us through real-world strategies and examples that you can apply to your own business today. Whether you're managing a small shop or a larger operation, this episode is packed with tips that will help you track costs and make smarter decisions.

In this episode, we're joined by recruitment expert Suman Cherry, who reveals how she's helped woodshop and cabinet shop owners find the right project managers. Suman's unique approach emphasizes core values, team culture, and passive candidates—those who aren't actively job searching but are perfect for the role. We'll discuss: 1. The importance of aligning hires with your company's core values 2. How project managers can reduce stress and increase production 3. The time-saving power of recruiting the right people If you're a business owner who's tired of doing everything yourself and wants to scale your business with the right hires, this episode is for you!

Practical steps to build your financial future don't have to be complicated. Join us as Dominic Rubino breaks down simple, effective strategies that anyone can use to create a solid financial foundation.  Whether you're an experienced entrepreneur or just getting started, this episode offers something for everyone. Watch now and take the first step towards financial success!

What would you do with a million dollars? Your business' future depends on how you answer… In today's episode of CMPS, Dominic shares the overlooked secret making entrepreneurs into millionaires right now. Finding work, scaling your business, managing a team–tune in today and learn everything you need to put profit back in your tool belt.

Tune in to our latest episode where Jenny Gayfer, Business Development at Top 40 Woodworks, shares her wisdom on the power of communication in millwork projects. Learn how early and often communication can ensure your contracts are successful and your clients satisfied. This is a must-listen for anyone in the industry!

We're diving into the world of upselling with Randy Niewind, President at Randy's Cabinets and Woodworks. Discover how to identify upselling opportunities, create compelling offers, and close the deal. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you grow your business.

In this episode, we talk to Ryan Hindmarsh, President at Mid-Ontario Appliance Installations and Rhino Coaching, about his incredible journey to achieving RR/h 999 (Revenue Responsibility per Hour). Tune in to hear his story and get actionable advice for your own business success.

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Kathy Svetina, the founder of NewCastle Finance, about the crucial role of WIP (Work in Progress) reports in managing money and projects in a woodshop. Kathy shares her insights on how these reports can help you keep track of ongoing projects and improve financial management, ultimately leading to more successful business operations. Listen now to learn from Kathy's expertise and apply these tips to your own woodshop!

In this episode with Marc Sanderson from INNERGY, we tackle the common challenge of unpredictable scheduling in millwork shops. We explore practical strategies to establish clear communication with clients, optimize project flow, and achieve a more efficient workflow. Listen now and learn how to take control of your schedule!

In this episode with Dominic Rubino, we explore how to simplify EOS implementation and get the results you desire. We'll break down complex concepts into actionable steps to help you achieve success. Tune in and learn how to make EOS work for your business!

In this episode, we chat with Brian Clancy about his journey scaling up his woodworking business from a small team of two to a thriving shop with six employees. Brian shares the challenges he faced and the key communication strategies he implemented to keep his workflow smooth and efficient. Learn valuable tips on managing a growing team, optimizing shop processes, and ensuring everyone stays on the same page.

If you're tired of scraping for profits in your cabinet business and ready to turn things around, you're in the right place. Join us on the Cabinet Maker Profit System podcast as we sit down with Cash Flow Specialist Brandon Neely. With his proven track record in cash management and his deep insights into the Profit First system, Brandon's 5-Step STILL method makes regaining your “profit sanity” easy.

Struggling with WASTED TIME in your cabinet shop?  Unlock the power of Lean Manufacturing with Danny Small, a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. Danny's track record speaks for itself, with years of experience revolutionizing processes and boosting profits for off-site manufacturing companies just like yours. Get ready to discover how to tackle waste wherever it hides, from the shop floor to the office. So, hit play and let's go!

In this episode, we met with Phil Risher - the founder of Flash Consulting. Phil shared his million-dollar strategy for skyrocketing your cabinet-making business with Google reviews. Learn how he transformed a 3 million air duct cleaning company into a 5-6 million powerhouse with a tripled profit margin—all thanks to a strategic approach to Google reviews. You'll also discover his top five tips for generating stellar reviews FAST (and how to get rid of one-star feedback). Hit play and let's dive in!

In this podcast episode, financial educator Adam Carroll shared insights on slashing debt and building wealth outside of your cabinet shop. Adam is the financial wizard behind "The Shred Method," whose viral TED Talk has accumulated 6.2 million views!  Discover how he turned his financial life around in just 26 months and learn why money problems often stem from a bad mindset. Get ready to challenge conventional debt beliefs, embrace strategic financial planning, and unleash the power of "The Shred Method." No need to pinch pennies or sacrifice the joy of life – it's about being smart with your money. Don't miss out on this transformative episode!

Struggling to find the perfect finisher for your woodshop? Join us with Diane Shattuck, a seasoned finishing pro, and discover the art and science of finding a solid finisher! As a corporate trainer, professional speaker, and owner of the Professional Finishing Academy and Consulting, Diane also teaches at the Florida Woodworking School. In this episode, she reveals the essential qualities of an elite finisher and how to spot them in your candidates… Get guidance on finishing quality-control systems, tackling issues early, and the crucial role of the compressor in your shop (hint: don't be fooled thinking that a big tank on a compressor is enough)... Your woodshop will thank you – hit play now!

Avoid signing high-risk commercial millwork agreements. Join Cian Brennan on the Cabinet Maker Profit System Podcast as he shares insights from 4000+ negotiations. Learn the moves to protect your business and secure fair deals. Don't play risky, play smart! 

Struggling to navigate the complex world of construction business management? Join us in this CMPS episode with Lee Miller, a seasoned coach with a remarkable journey from Edinburgh to entrepreneurial success. In this episode: Insights into effective business finances and project cost management. Practical strategies for maximizing profitability and operational efficiency in construction. Lee's unique approach to tackling high-pressure roles and balancing work-life.  Tune in for a session full of practical tips to elevate your construction business. Subscribe to CMPS for more episodes like this. BOOK A CALL WITH US  

Join us as we get  into Og Mandino's 1968 masterpiece, "The Greatest Salesman in the World." Discover how this age-old story transcends time to offer invaluable insights for today's construction professionals. In this episode: Valuing What We Offer: Learn to recognize and communicate the true value of your construction work. Building Unbreakable Bonds: Explore the art of forging strong, lasting relationships in the industry. Turning Rejection Around: Understand how to use rejection as a stepping stone to greater success. The Power of Persistence: Stay focused on your goals, no matter the obstacles. Goal Setting and Negotiation: Master the skills of setting achievable goals and negotiating effectively. This episode is more than just a dive into a classic story; it's a practical guide to applying these timeless lessons to your daily construction work, ensuring each project you undertake is a step towards building a legacy.

Ever find yourself stuck in the same old kitchen reno routine? You're in good company. In this CMPS episode, we're featuring Mike Goldstein with Kichen Modeling SEO. Here's what we're unpacking: Price Shopper Conundrum: Tackling the challenge of price-focused clients and turning it into a golden opportunity. Innovative Thinking: Mike encourages us to step beyond traditional designs. Remember, your projects don't have to be boxed in. Striking the Balance: The art of merging practicality with style without breaking the bank. Craftsmanship Evolution: Witness Mike's fascinating journey from a traditional tradesman to a trendsetting craftsman. It's an inspiring narrative. And there's more: Curiosity in Sales: How asking the right questions can transform your approach to client interactions. Creating Lasting Impressions: Learn to blend functionality with creativity in your projects. Let this episode be your guide.  Don't forget to hit like, share your takeaways, and subscribe to CMPS. BOOK A CALL WITH US

Struggling to find that woodworking sweet spot? Puzzled by projects that don't quite click?  This CMPS episode welcomes Greg Paolini, a mechanical engineer turned woodworking star, who's mastered the art of crafting success from sawdust. Key Nuggets for you: Transition Tales: From engineering gears to woodworking cheers – Greg's journey is one for the books. Discover how a shift in gears can lead to a fulfilling craft. Systems and Standards: Ever wonder why your workshop feels chaotic? Greg chats the magic of method and measure. Learn how structured systems can transform chaos into craftsmanship. Communication Clarity: Diving into the nitty-gritty of 'communication overhead' and its impact on projects. Greg unfolds the secrets to keeping messages clear and projects on track. Scaling Success: Scaling a business isn't just about quantity; it's about quality growth. Greg shares his blueprint for evolving from solo ventures to leading a dynamic team. Extras: Culture Crafting: It's not just about the wood; it's the workshop's heart and soul. Greg talks about creating a culture where craftsmanship thrives. Delegation Dynamics: Discover the delicate art of delegation – a crucial ingredient in woodworking success, as per Greg's playbook. Association Advantage: Unveiling the benefits of industry associations and networking. Greg shares how joining forces with peers can elevate your woodworking game. Hit the woodworking bullseye with this episode. Smash that like button, share your insights, and don't forget to subscribe to CMPS for more woodworking wisdom. BOOK A CALL WITH US  

Struggling with the right price for your woodworking? Or Curious about making your woodworking stand out? This CMPS episode spotlights Nic Frost, a scientist-turned-artisan, carving success from wood grains. He's ready to share secrets you won't find in manuals.   Here's what we've got:   How to set fair prices for top-notch woodwork. The never-ending learning curve in woodworking. The best kind of cabinets: face frame or frameless? What really makes cabinets custom. The impact of CNC routers on traditional woodworking. Figuring out what to charge for your craftsmanship. Pricing strategies that show your work's value and attract customers.   If your woodworking path seems foggy, let this episode guide you. Smash that like button, comment, and follow CMPS for more insights. BOOK A CALL WITH US

Ever feel your woodworking designs miss the mark? Wonder why your projects don't quite hit home? You're not alone. This CMPS episode features Dr. Paul Jasper of Copper Pig Fine Woodworking, transitioning from a lab to lumber. He's here with insights not found in any guidebook.   Quick Tidbits for you:   MatchingWoes: Why do perfect designs sometimes feel as rare? Let's uncover this.   DesignDiversify: Dr. Jasper urges us to think beyond the usual. Remember, not every design is boxed in.   BudgetVsBeauty: Think quality always breaks the bank? Let's debunk this. Explore the true costs and rewards of woodworking.   FromLabToLumber: Dr. Jasper's unique pivot from medical labs to woodworking wonders. It's an inspiring tale.   Plus:   ListenClosely: Designing isn't just about hands; it's about ears. Embrace the art of listening.   FunctionVsFlair: Join Dr. Jasper in the debate: utility or artistry? Can we bridge the gap?   Feeling stumped in your designs? Let this episode be your compass. Hit like, share your thoughts, and subscribe to CMPS for more. BOOK A CALL WITH US

Tired of playing musical chairs with your construction crew? One guy's in, another guy's out—and heck, finding good help feels like searching for a needle in a haystack. Tune in to this week's episode of CMPS, where we're diving deep into the art of staffing your Cabinet, Millwork, and Production operations like a pro. We've got Jacob Edmond joining us, and this guy knows the ropes.   What we're hashing out for ya:   Staffing Woes: Yeah, we get it. Good help is hard to find. We're not just talking about it; we're giving you solutions.   Think Different, Build Different: Jacob's gonna share why you should stop hiring another Joe to replace the last one. Different is good. Hear why.   The Real Cost of Hiring: Grab your hardhat because we're breaking down the costs. Not just dollars, but time and energy too. Know your numbers, or you're building on shaky ground.   Outsourcing vs. Homegrown Talent: To outsource or to grow your talent in-house? We're laying it all out, the good, the bad, and the ugly.   And hang tight, there's more coming your way:   Employee Contracts: You gotta have 'em, but what should be in 'em? Let's take a look.   Safety First: We're not just talking hardhats here. Insurance, protocols, and why they matter.   Building Your Dream Team: From where to look to what to look for, we're giving you the blueprint.   Don't let your business topple over because you couldn't get your staffing game tight. We're here to help you, one solid hire at a time.   Don't forget to hit that subscribe button, rate us if you love us, and leave a comment. Your feedback keeps the CMPS machine running!  

Want to take your construction projects to the next level? Dive into this week's CMPS podcast episode, where we break down the best strategies to optimize your work and play to your team's strengths.   Here's a taste of what you'll get:   From Zero to Hero: Follow the story of a once struggling $600,000 business, riddled with tough clients, and witness its transformation into a flourishing million-dollar powerhouse. Some key lessons here!   Navigating Clients: Ever faced indecisive customers? Learn how to quickly identify potential partners who align with your business values, and tricks to dodge those time-consuming pitfalls.   Commercial Projects: We get it, commercial contracts can be daunting. But, with the right approach, you'll master the critical questions to ask and find the best opportunities without shortchanging yourself.   Plus, an extra treat: Catch a teaser of our soon-to-launch free course, Time Team and Money Masterclass.   Tune in now!   Don't forget to leave us a review, share your thoughts, and subscribe for more tips.   To bigger projects and even bigger successes!