Owned and Operated

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Owned and Operated is a weekly podcast segment that dives deeply into the operations of businesses that we own and businesses we are considering acquiring. We will be discussing real issues in our companies, the nuance that came with them and the decisions we made. We hope to give entrepreneurs, searchers and the public a window into a real business as we solve real problems, acquire companies and build in public.

John Wilson and Brandon Niro


    • Aug 16, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 39m AVG DURATION
    • 265 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Owned and Operated

    Double Your Profit Day #16 How to Build a Culture of Accountability (That Actually Works)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 3:26 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 16 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today, we're diving into one of the most powerful performance drivers in your business: Creating a Culture of Accountability.

    Double Your Profit Day #15 How to Raise Standards & Boost Performance

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 16, 2025 3:11 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 15 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today, we're talking about one of the most important — and most overlooked — levers in your business: Tightening Your Standards.

    Double Your Profit Day #14 Why Waiting For Monthly Reports Is Hurting Your Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 2:12 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 14 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today, we're diving into one of the simplest, most powerful habits you can build: Making Your P&L a Daily Tool.

    #233 From the Navy to Multi-Million Dollar Plumbing Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 78:45 Transcription Available


    If you're building a home service business in a rural market, the playbook looks a little different — and this episode shows exactly why. In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Plumbing in Ohio, sits down with Laura and Brian Beltz, founders of Beltz, to unpack how they've grown from a one-truck startup in 2001 to a 49-person team — all while staying true to their community roots.If you're thinking about expanding into multiple markets, growing in a rural area, or taking the leap into acquisitions, this conversation is a masterclass in building a durable trades business from the ground up.

    Double Your Profit Day #13 How To Get More Done With Fewer Meetings!

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 13, 2025 1:12


    Welcome to Day 13 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today's lesson is short on purpose—because that's the point: Cut Your Meetings in Half.

    Double Your Profit Day #12 The How to Raise Your Prices Without Losing Customers

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 2:42


    Welcome to Day 12 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today's topic is one of the fastest, easiest, and most effective ways to increase your bottom line: Using Scarcity to Raise Prices.

    #232 Buying $200,000 in Leads - Is It Worth It?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 49:59 Transcription Available


    If you're trying to grow a home service business, your marketing budget is one of your biggest bets — and biggest risks. In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson and Sam Preston host a no-fluff Q&A tackling real contractor questions on lead generation, paid ads, and when to actually bring in an agency.They break down how to allocate marketing spend at every stage — from $1K/month up to $200K — and what it really takes to get traction with LSA, GMB, and PPC. You'll learn how to play offense with your best-performing lead sources, why spreading your budget too thin kills momentum, and how to ride your winning channels like you stole it.If you're struggling to get leads from PPC or Google Ads, they also cover how to fix campaign waste, when landing pages are the problem, and how top operators manage their media vs lead-gen mix to scale past $10M.Whether you're just getting started or dialing in a multi-location growth strategy, this episode is a tactical deep dive into what's actually working right now.

    Double Your Profit Day #11 The Secret to Maximizing Profit (and Minimizing Stress)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 11, 2025 3:20


    Welcome to Day 11 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today we're unlocking one of the most powerful, overlooked profit drivers in your business: Optimizing Your Schedule for Profit.

    Double Your Profit Day #10 Want Explosive Growth? Link Pay to Performance

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 10, 2025 2:17


    Welcome to Day 10 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today, we're tackling something that's as obvious as it is underused: Tying Compensation to What Actually Matters.

    Double Your Profit Day #9 Maximize Your Earnings: The Secret to Efficient Work

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 9, 2025 3:20


    Welcome to Day 9 of the Double Your Profit Series — the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today, we're diving into one of the most overlooked drivers of bottom-line success: Training for Profit Awareness.

    Double Your Profit Day #8 Fire Your WORST Customers (and make more money)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 8, 2025 2:32


    Welcome to Day 8 of the Double Your Profit Series —the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today's topic might feel uncomfortable, but it's a game changer: Fire Your Worst Customers. We're talking about freeing your team, protecting your profit, and finally saying goodbye to the clients who drain your time, energy, and resources.

    Double Your Profit Day #7 The Profit First Pricing Mindset EVERY 7-Figure Owner Uses

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 2:29


    Welcome to Day 7 of the Double Your Profit Series —the go-to profit series for contractors, home service owners, and small business entrepreneurs. Today we break down the Profit First Pricing method, a mindset shift that guarantees you pay yourself first by building profit directly into your prices.

    #231 How AI Will Change Home Service Marketing Forever

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2025 33:35 Transcription Available


    AI isn't coming — it's here. And the way people find your business is already changing.In this episode of Owned and Operated, John sits down with Sam Preston, CEO of Service Scalers, for a deep-dive on how AI is reshaping local search and why HVAC, plumbing, and home service operators need to evolve fast — or risk being left behind.They explore what it means to “rank” in a world of LLMs, how showing up in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google's AI Overview actually works, and why your SEO and Google Business Profile (GMB) are more valuable than ever. From review mining to AI-mode discovery to early signs of AI agents booking jobs, this episode lays out a real-world, contractor-first roadmap to dominate in the AI-driven search era.You'll also hear how Wilson's early investment in SEO and programmatic content is now paying off — and why operators of every size should focus on backlinks, FAQs, and review quality today to future-proof their lead flow.Whether you're doing $1M or $50M, if you want to stay visible and competitive as AI search becomes the new front door to your business, this one's essential.

    Double Your Profit Day #6 80/20 Rule: The Secret to Explosive Business Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 6, 2025 2:30


    Can Zero-Based Budgeting Save Your Business Money?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 4:10 Transcription Available


    Double Your Profit Day 5: Zero-Based Budgeting for Home Service Businesses, Contractors, and Small Business OwnersWelcome to Day 5 of the "Double Your Profit" 30-Day Challenge — your go-to business growth series for home service business owners, contractors, and small business entrepreneurs looking to boost profit margins fast.Today's strategy? Zero-based budgeting — one of the most powerful financial tools for HVAC companies, plumbing businesses, electrical contractors, cleaning service operators, and anyone in the trades or service-based industries.

    #230 Is Buying Businesses Overhyped? Why You Should Build Instead

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 48:08 Transcription Available


    Boomers aren't your best bet anymore. While everyone's still chasing the so-called Silver Tsunami, the truth is most aging-out home service businesses won't sell — and the ones that do often aren't worth buying. In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack explain why smart operators are ditching the outdated playbook and going all-in on modern growth strategies.They unpack why 2026 is their multi-market year and how they're expanding beyond Ohio through greenfield launches, tuck-in acquisitions, and strategic partnerships. From leadership infrastructure to population-driven market selection, they share what it actually takes to scale a home service company past a single location. You'll hear hard-earned lessons from failed multi-location attempts, the red flags of unscalable markets, and why buying a business isn't always the best move — especially if the fundamentals aren't there.If you're a plumbing, HVAC, or electrical operator looking to grow into new markets, this is your real-time roadmap — not the recycled Silver Tsunami narrative. John even teases behind-the-scenes strategies they're using for greenfielding (the stuff he's not ready to fully reveal… yet).This is the episode that separates yesterday's growth myths from today's $100M playbook.

    Double Your Profit Day #4 Non-Negotiable Budgets = Real Results

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 4, 2025 2:39 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 4 of the "Double Your Profit" 30-Day Series!If you're running a home service business, small business, or a contractor company, this series is here to help you double your profit in 30 days—one smart move at a time.Today, we're talking about strict, non-negotiable budgets—the kind that bounce credit cards if someone goes over. Sound intense? It is—and it works. This approach fosters real accountability, forces smarter decisions, and helps smaller businesses stay lean and agile.

    Double Your Profit Day #3 Slash Costs and Maximize Profit with a Lean Business Culture

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 3, 2025 5:12 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 3 of the "Double Your Profit" 30-Day Series!If you're running a home service business, small business, or a contractor company, this series is designed to help you double your profit in just 30 days.Today's episode dives into how to cut costs fast—without hurting your operations—and how to foster a lean, profit-minded culture in your company. We'll walk through how to trim unnecessary expenses, empower managers to make smarter budget decisions, and align your entire team around cost-conscious growth.

    Double Your Profit Day #2 Cut Costs Like a CFO

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2025 4:05 Transcription Available


    Welcome back to Day 2 of the "Double Your Profit" 30-Day Series!In today's episode, we're breaking down how to cut business costs like a CFO—without compromising growth. If you want to double your profit, mastering the art of cost control is essential. These strategies will help you streamline spending, boost margins, and create a more efficient, profitable operation.This episode is packed with real-world examples and practical cost-cutting techniques you can implement immediately in your home service business, contractor company, or small business.

    Double Your Profit Day #1 Choose Profit Over Revenue

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2025 4:54 Transcription Available


    Welcome to Day 1 of the "Double Your Profit" 30-Day Series!If you're running a home service business, small business, or a contractor company, this series is built to help you increase profit in 30 days—starting today.In this video, we kick things off by shifting your mindset from revenue-focused to profit-first strategy. Understanding the difference between profit vs revenue is crucial for any business owner aiming to maximize business value and scale sustainably.

    #229 Plumber Closes +$10M/Year (With Just One Trade)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2025 50:14 Transcription Available


    #228 How this NEW Service Owner is doing $80k/month

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 60:50 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John sits down with Ethan from New York to explore his rapid journey into the world of home services and franchising. From cold calls to private equity to launching a local newsletter — Ethan shares the real story behind building momentum as a new business owner.

    #227 How Small HVAC Businesses Are Disrupting the Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 53:58 Transcription Available


    How HVAC Leaders Stay Ahead: Overcoming Growth Challenges and Innovation FatigueIn this episode, we unpack key growth and leadership lessons from the HVAC industry. From innovation fatigue and stalled marketing efforts to navigating leadership challenges and sustainable scaling — this one's for owners serious about building a high-performance business.

    #226 HVAC Owner Makes $4M/Month (Here's How)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 33:30 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John sits down with Brian from TR Miller to unpack how they've built an HVAC powerhouse generating over $4 million in monthly revenue—and the operational systems that keep it humming.From tackling seasonality and streamlining dispatch, to building out plumbing, sewer, and electrical services—this isn't just a story of growth. It's a playbook. Brian shares the lessons learned from scaling, the hiring and retention strategies that keep their field team strong, and how they've shaped technician career paths that drive loyalty and performance.Whether you're running a $1M shop or breaking into the eight-figure range, this episode is loaded with practical insights to level up your operations, sales strategy, and team management.

    BONUS EPISODE - Where is JackQuisitions??

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 0:25


    #224 Top Cash Flow Mistakes in Home Services and How to Fix Them

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 43:37 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack break down the most underrated—and often misunderstood—pillar of business success: cash flow.They dive deep into what cash flow actually means (hint: it's not EBITDA or net profit) and why failing to understand it almost tanked their companies. From sharing near-miss horror stories to the practical systems they've built—like automatic savings transfers and cash forecasting—this episode is a must-watch for any operator who wants to build a sustainable, growth-ready business.Whether you're just starting out or scaling past $10M, John and Jack unpack how better cash flow habits can protect your company from financial landmines and unlock new levels of financial control.

    #223 Can These WIERD Ideas Turn Into Million-Dollar Businesses?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 36:26 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack explore the wild and unconventional world of lifestyle businesses—where personal passion meets profit.From running an online Magic: The Gathering store to launching a ski wax brand, buying a marina, or even farming ants and mushrooms, the duo dives into how niche interests can evolve into sustainable, revenue-generating ventures. They discuss the lifestyle advantages of owning passion-driven businesses, the economics of niche markets, and how to balance multiple income streams while having fun doing it.Whether you're curious about collectibles, concierge services, or the idea of turning hobbies into scalable side hustles, this episode is packed with insight, laughter, and unexpected ideas.

    #222 Leaving Finance to Build a Legacy in HVAC

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2025 41:41


    Buying a service business with the idea of passive income? In this episode of Jack Acquisitions, host Jack interviews Thomas Beebe, a financial advisor who stepped into ownership of his family's HVAC company. What started as a hands-off investment quickly turned into a hands-on leadership journey.From remote team management to turning around a messy acquisition, Thomas shares the tactical decisions, operational missteps, and growth strategies that shaped his perspective on what it really takes to own and run a trades business. This episode is packed with real-world insight—whether you're planning to buy, scale, or just survive in the world of home services.⚡ What you'll learnWhy Thomas initially underestimated the involvement required—and how he course-correctedThe operational systems needed for remote management (and where they fail)How to set up accountability when you're not on-site every dayInsights from a turnaround: A case study of a friend's messy HVAC acquisitionThe critical questions Thomas asks in due diligence after seeing both sidesWhen to diversify into adjacent verticals like plumbing—and when not toHow to build a business that's both profitable and people-firstIf you're buying a local service business or building one to scale, this episode will challenge your assumptions and give you frameworks for sustainable growth—even when you're managing from a distance.

    #221 No More Tech Turnover: How to Hire and Keep the Best

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 41:16 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack break down the full playbook for hiring HVAC and plumbing technicians—from sourcing to retention. They dive into the real-world challenges of technician recruitment and share the strategies they use to keep a steady pipeline of high-quality candidates. From building a branded hiring engine to managing seasonal swings, this episode delivers tactical advice and real SOPs that help home service businesses grow their field teams with intention.They cover why recruiting never stops, how to build a budget that supports year-round hiring, and why onboarding and retention matter just as much as the job offer. Whether you're scaling a team or trying to fix your hiring funnel, this episode is packed with practical frameworks and firsthand experience.

    #220 Buy vs. Build: Start or Acquire Your First Business?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 39:16 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack dive into one of the most common questions in home services: Should you buy a business or build one from scratch? Focusing on HVAC and plumbing companies, they break down the pros and cons of each path—sharing real-world insights on risk management, startup challenges, and acquisition strategy. Whether you're eyeing your first location or expanding your footprint, this episode helps frame the decision around your skills, experience, and resources.They cover everything from interest rates and international contracting to the realities of marketing and cultural fit in small business ownership. While John and Jack don't always agree, they align on this: success in HVAC and plumbing comes from understanding your strengths, knowing your limits, and being in the game. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about growing in the trades.

    #219 What It Really Takes to Buy a Local Service Business in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2025 46:34 Transcription Available


    Buying a small business? In this episode of Jackquisitions, we follow Chris Barr's journey to acquiring a pressure washing company using smart financing—combining cash, earnouts, and trusted advisors. From submitting the LOI to executing deep-dive due diligence, Chris shares what it really takes to close a successful acquisition.You'll learn how to build the right team, evaluate financials and legal risks, and structure a deal that fits your vision. Whether you're just exploring acquisitions or in the weeds of a deal, this episode offers an insider's look at getting a service business acquisition across the finish line.⚡ What you'll learnWhat Chris looked for in an ideal pressure washing business—and how he sourced itThe creative structure behind his LOI and financing approachWhy specialization matters: How Chris leveraged his real estate pros for M&A successThe step-by-step due diligence checklist across financial, legal, and operational domainsHow to avoid major pitfalls in banking and legal negotiationsThe must-have advisors you need on speed dial when buying a businessHow to evaluate seller-provided info and spot red flags before it's too lateIf you're buying a local service business or scaling your portfolio, this episode gives you a framework to approach acquisitions confidently—with the right strategy and team in place.

    #218 Why $20M Doesn't Mean You've Made It

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2025 27:05 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack unpack what leadership looks like inside a $20–40 million home service business—and why that size still feels small. They explore how companies in this range often remain personality-driven, even with impressive revenue, and what it really takes to level up. From forming HR and marketing departments to structuring a true senior leadership team, they dig into the growing pains and leadership gaps most businesses face on the way to maturity.The conversation dives deep into leadership development, internal promotions, and when to hire key external roles like controllers. John and Jack share why the sophistication of a business doesn't always match the revenue—and how building the right team early creates long-term stability and growth. If you're scaling past $10 million and thinking about what's next, this episode lays out a real-world playbook for building a well-rounded, leadership-driven operation.

    #217 We Hit $1M Profit — Here's Exactly How We Did It

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 34:17 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack return to the studio to tackle the real-world challenges of running a successful HVAC business during peak summer heat. They dive into how weather-related service demand, infrastructure upgrades, and a mature home service team contribute to record-breaking weekly revenues and improved operational efficiency.Discover how HVAC businesses can scale profitably by investing in technician retention, labor-saving automations, and strategic overseas staffing. John and Jack break down the processes that drive high performance—from sales training to data-driven decisions—all on the path to hitting their first $1 million in EBITDA and a $10 million annual revenue goal.

    #216 How One Operator Is Making Big Waves in Business Acquisitions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 27, 2025 46:39 Transcription Available


    Want to buy a small business using smart deal structures like earnouts, seller financing, and low-risk offers? In this episode of Jackquisitions, host Jack Carr sits down with Chris Barr, a first-time buyer navigating the ups and downs of business acquisitions—from walking away from bad fits to crafting a $900K cash-plus-earnout offer for a pressure washing company.Learn how Chris is sourcing off-market deals, avoiding shady broker tactics, and building a personal brand that attracts sellers. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how new acquirers can finance service businesses, evaluate seller terms, and structure deals that actually close. If you're buying a business or scaling through acquisition, this episode is packed with actionable insight.⚡ What you'll learnWhy Chris walked away from an art-framing shop that didn't fit his criteriaHow a pool-route deal fell through—and the red flags you should watch for with brokersThe numbers behind a $900 K cash-at-close + earnout offer for a thriving pressure-washing businessProven frameworks for earnouts, seller notes, and revenue-share agreements that reduce risk and align incentivesTips for building a credible personal brand (see his Quick Staffers journey) to source off-market dealsStep-by-step due-diligence tactics, valuation shortcuts, and negotiation language you can use todayWhen to pivot, when to persist, and how to decide if a deal really moves the needleWhether you're a first-time buyer, an operator expanding a portfolio, or a service-business owner curious about exits, this conversation is packed with actionable M&A strategy, deal structuring hacks, and outreach scripts that close.

    #215 Why You're Not Getting Promoted.... and How to Fix It

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2025 43:39 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're exploring how to grow your career inside a home service company. From internal promotions to mindset shifts, John and Brandon Niro break down what it really takes to move up and lead.Brandon shares how 30–40% of the Wilson team has been promoted from within—and what separates those who grow fast from those who stall. They dig into Wilson's 52-week Emerging Leaders program, the role of emotional intelligence and financial literacy, and how team members can take initiative to become future leaders.If you're looking to grow your role or build leadership in your team, this one's packed with real, actionable advice.

    #214 How Great Leaders Scale Service Businesses Fast

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 58:11 Transcription Available


     In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're digging into what it really takes to lead a growing home service business. From SOPs to scaling strategies, we're spotlighting the habits and leadership traits that drive operational clarity and empower teams.We're joined by Brandon Niro, who shares how his role evolved since joining the company in 2019—navigating growth from 30 to over 60 employees, integrating acquisitions, and shifting from tactical execution to strategic coaching and development.Whether you're a team lead or an operator scaling fast, this episode offers actionable insights into building systems, coaching talent, and creating autonomy inside a service business.

    #213 Behind the Scenes of Buying a Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 20, 2025 50:01 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're diving into real-world strategies for sourcing and securing small business acquisitions. From outreach to private equity firms to using freelancers for off-market deals, we break down how acquisition entrepreneurs are getting creative and staying competitive.We explore how personal branding can help attract brokers, how to craft a buyer persona that actually stands out, and how Chris Barr is navigating live negotiations for niche businesses—including pool services and a high-end art framing company.Whether you're just starting your acquisition journey or already mid-process, this episode is packed with practical insights for sourcing deals and building a compelling presence in the marketplace.

    #212 Local Lead Generation Strategies That Actually Work (Home Service Marketing Tips)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2025 26:58 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're diving into innovative lead generation strategies that are reshaping how home service companies attract local customers. From niche local newsletters to AI-powered tools, we cover real-world tactics that are working right now.We explore how hyperlocal publications in places like Annapolis, Maryland and suburban New York are driving leads for services like power washing and home inspections—and why owning your communication channels (email lists, Facebook groups) is a game-changer.Whether you're just starting or scaling up, this episode will give you actionable insights on using community engagement, AI tools like Avoca, and Facebook group sponsorships to fill your pipeline and take control of your local market.

    #211 What Growing Home Service Companies Get Right About Sales

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 34:14 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, HVAC business experts Jack Carr and John Wilson break down the sales strategies that drive revenue growth at every stage of a home service company's journey. Whether you're running a $1M shop or scaling past $50M, understanding how to structure your HVAC sales team is critical—and it starts with knowing the difference between marketed leads and technician-generated leads.Jack and John explore why top HVAC companies like Four Seasons, Logan Services, and Peterman Brothers separate their sales teams based on lead source, and how that impacts close rates, efficiency, and scalability. From peer groups and sales training to seasonal lead flow and process refinement, this episode delivers real-world strategies for owners looking to increase HVAC revenue, optimize sales performance, and build scalable systems that actually work.

    #210 Trying to Buy a Business: Here's What No One Tells You

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2025 54:01 Transcription Available


     In this episode we're back with part two of the Chris Barr series on Jackquisitions. Chris is three months into his journey to acquire a business in Florida, and he's bringing real updates from the trenches. From opportunity cost and deal dynamics to cold outreach and broker networks, this episode is packed with hard-won insights from an active business searcher. We dive into the pros and cons of a pool service business he's evaluating, the realities of navigating employee classification, and how acquisition imperfections are often just part of the game. Chris breaks down the lessons learned so far—from generating leads to refining search strategies—and why growth, not just debt repayment, should be the north star in any acquisition strategy.If you're in the search phase or thinking about acquiring a service business, this is a front-row seat to the messy, insightful, and exciting reality of buying a company.

    #209 How to Scale Your Home Service Business from $3M to $100M | Leadership & Growth Strategies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2025 50:04 Transcription Available


    What does it really take to scale a home service business to $100 million in revenue? In this episode of Owned and Operated, we dive deep into the business growth strategies, leadership transitions, and operational upgrades needed to build a high-performing trades company. Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, or another skilled trade, this conversation reveals the mindset shifts and systems that power sustainable service business growth.We break down why your original team may not be equipped to scale with you, how leadership development drives long-term success, and the pivotal role our podcast has played in accelerating team performance and industry insight. You'll hear real-world examples from the field, including how our Jackquisitions segment has influenced both strategy and execution in our journey to $100M.If you're leading a service business through a growth phase—or preparing to—this episode will give you real-world lessons on building smarter, scaling faster, and staying focused on what matters most.

    #208 The Mindset Taking This Plumbing Company to the Top

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 110:05 Transcription Available


    What happens when business meets conviction? In this episode of Owned and Operated, we explore how faith, intentionality, and grit shaped one plumbing entrepreneur's journey from early struggle to long-term success.Dalton Hatch, founder of DH Plumbing in San Antonio, opens up about the mindset and personal transformation that fueled his growth. From rejecting aggressive sales tactics in favor of real customer care, to learning the hard lessons of money, mentorship, and marketing—Dalton lays it all out.If you're a trades entrepreneur, service business operator, or just getting started, this episode will shift how you think about scaling, culture, and staying true to your values in business.

    #207 SBA Loan Strategies for Acquiring a Business | Expert Advice

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2025 58:01 Transcription Available


    Thinking about buying a home service business with an SBA loan? This episode is your go-to guide. Jackquisitions sits down with Alan Peterson—who closed over $70 million in SBA acquisition financing last year—to break down how to structure high-leverage deals, navigate the latest SBA loan rule changes, and avoid the costly mistakes many first-time buyers make.If you're serious about acquiring a home service business and want a financing strategy that actually works, this episode is a must-listen.

    #206 How to Manage Remote Teams Like a Pro

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2025 20:21 Transcription Available


    Struggling to manage a remote team spread across time zones? This episode dives into the real challenges and solutions of leading from a distance, with a focus on trust,communication, and culture.Laurie, our Director of Operations, shares how she builds high-performing remote teams without micromanaging. From setting clear expectations to fostering real connection across borders, you'll hear how strong leadership can drive accountability and loyalty—even when your team is never in the same room.If you're running a remote or hybrid team and want to strengthen performance without sacrificing culture, this conversation offers the insight you need.

    #205 How Premier Home Pros Scaled to Millions: Talent, Strategy & Explosive Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2025 53:25 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we dive into a powerhouse conversation with top sales leaders—AJ and Noah from Premier Home Pros—as they unpack how to scale a home service business rapidly and sustainably. Whether you're hiring your first rep or leading a high-velocity sales team, this episode delivers practical strategies for fast growth without losing control.From building a magnetic company culture to overcoming supply chain roadblocks, we explore what it really takes to run a top-tier sales operation at scale. If you're aiming to grow your team, tighten your sales systems, or simply perform better—this one's for you.

    #204 Top 5 Key Experts You NEED to Buy a Business in 2025

    Play Episode Listen Later May 30, 2025 13:22 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Jackquisitions, we break down the essential expert team every acquisition entrepreneur must build before buying a business. Whether you're acquiring your first HVAC company or scaling into multiple service businesses, assembling the right support system can make or break your deal.From legal frameworks to SBA loan processing, we cover the professionals who will help you move quickly, avoid costly mistakes, and access high-quality deals. Plus, we spotlight post-acquisition roles that keep your operations tight—like a skilled bookkeeper and a rock-solid insurance broker.If you're planning to buy a business in 2025, this is your checklist.

    #203 Investment Joy's 10M Roofing Journey

    Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2025 53:23 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we sit down with Brandon Schlicter—better known as Investment Joy—to uncover how a small-town Ohio entrepreneur built a multimillion-dollar business portfolio by mastering real estate, laundromats, car washes, and commercial roofing.Brandon shares how his upbringing on a farm and early family struggles forged his hustle mentality. After getting his start in logistics and real estate, a single viral laundromat video catapulted his online presence, opening doors to massive business opportunities. Now, with a powerful social media brand and diversified service operations, he reveals how to scale a business empire while staying grounded in family and personal values.This conversation explores Brandon's tactical acquisitions, mindset for growth, and how he's building a team and culture that supports big ambitions. He also offers candid advice for entrepreneurs navigating the early grind and looking to align business models with long-term vision.

    #202 How to Develop Great Leaders with Values and Skills for Tomorrow's Success

    Play Episode Listen Later May 27, 2025 41:55 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we shift focus to a critical yet often overlooked pillar of business success: leadership development and management training. With insights from Amir of Snowball Industries, we dig into how identifying and nurturing potential leaders is foundational to scaling tier two and tier three service businesses.The discussion explores the evolution from technical expertise to soft skills as the driving force behind effective leadership. We unpack the core values that matter most—empathy, urgency, financial intelligence, and humility—and how they shape team culture, performance, and long-term growth. John and Amir also examine structured training programs, peer learning opportunities, and practical management tools that enable owners and operators to build sustainable, high-performance teams.For anyone acquiring or operating in remote and niche sectors like HVAC or turf installation, this conversation delivers actionable insight into creating a leadership framework that fuels operational excellence and employee retention.

    #201 Turf Takeover and the Rise of Tier Two Business Acquisitions

    Play Episode Listen Later May 23, 2025 53:33 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Jackcquisitions, we explore profitable small business acquisition strategies with Peter De Baptiste, owner of Joe Cole Plumbing in Florida. Peter shares his entrepreneurial journey—starting in banking, then leading a delivery service startup, and ultimately acquiring a plumbing company. Now, he's setting his sights on HVAC and turf installation businesses, uncovering high-potential, under-the-radar sectors in the home services industry.We break down the unique appeal of tier two and tier three service businesses, such as synthetic turf installation and residential HVAC. Peter and Jack discuss the financial performance, operational demands, and long-term scalability of these niche industries. Whether you're an investor or operator, this episode offers practical insight into identifying and evaluating service businesses with real growth potential.If you're looking to buy a service business or expand your portfolio in home services, this conversation delivers a wealth of real-world advice. Learn how to navigate smaller markets, understand what makes niche businesses attractive, and discover the lifestyle implications of owning versus operating in competitive sectors.

    #200 How E-Commerce is Transforming the Trades and Home Services Industry

    Play Episode Listen Later May 22, 2025 23:26 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we dive into how the team is leveraging Contractor Commerce to bring e-commerce to the trades. From selling water heaters online to experimenting with lead conversion strategies, the hosts explore what it looks like to run an online storefront for big-ticket home service items like HVAC systems and home generators.They break down the full journey—from initial impressions and setup to real-world implementation—and share the ups and downs of paid ad campaigns, membership features, and online payments. Plus, they speculate on how consumers may shift toward buying home services online and what they're doing to stay ahead of the curve.Whether you're curious about tech integrations or looking to streamline your sales funnel, this episode is full of firsthand insight into launching an e-commerce experience in the home services space.

    #199 The $174M Remodel Company No One Saw Coming

    Play Episode Listen Later May 20, 2025 55:18 Transcription Available


    In this episode of Owned and Operated, we sit down with AJ and Noah—the powerhouse founders behind Premier Home Pros—to reveal how they scaled their home services business from $0 to a projected $174 million in just three years.Launched from a dining room table in 2022, AJ and Noah built a home improvement juggernaut using proven sales systems, smart team building, and bold marketing strategies that fueled rapid growth. But their journey wasn't without hurdles. From expensive ad failures to tough people problems, they open up about what it really takes to scale at lightning speed.Whether you're aiming to grow your home services company, lead a larger team, or implement repeatable growth systems, this episode is packed with actionable insights, operator-tested frameworks, and real-world strategy breakdowns.

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