The ITF Flowcast

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Into the Flow is a group dedicated to the education, safety, and philanthropy in the window cleaning community. Each week in the ITF Flowcast we interview someone who has an impact in our industry and we find out their story and what they can teach us about being a better window cleaner and business person. Thanks for checking us out and Flow on! Theme music - "Welcome to the Show" by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/4614-welcome-to-the-show License: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

Gabriel Gutierrez


    • Dec 31, 2023 LATEST EPISODE
    • monthly NEW EPISODES
    • 1h AVG DURATION
    • 101 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The ITF Flowcast

    The ITF Flowcast S4E13: Flowmie Roundtable - Year End Review!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2023 66:52


    Hey, whatup Flowmies?!?! We can't believe that the year is almost over. That means we are way overdue for a Flowmie Roundtable! Listen in as the Mods talk about the things that have happened in their own businesses and lives as well as what has gone on in ITF in 2023. We share some plans that we have for the group in 2024, but most importantly of all.... *drum roll*.... We announce the winners of the 2023 Flowmie of the Year Awards!!! The anticipation! Take care Flowmies, and Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E12: Jared Meese - Set Your Business Up for Growth

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 22, 2023 59:03


    What up, Flowmies?!? This week we are talking with Jared Meese from Blue Bird Home Services in Nampa, ID. He is a long time Flowmie who always has great things to say in the group and is willing to help others out. I wanted to talk with him because in his over 20 years in the home service industry, he has seen many aspects of business growth. He has faced many challenges, such as starting up a new business after moving to a new area with a different climate and has had to learn on the job how to be an efficient owner. We talk about networking and why getting your name out in the community is so important. We cover so many topics that are perfect if you are wanting to grow your business. Listen in and Flow On!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E11: Jack Craggs - Between a Cragg and a Hard Place

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2023 75:09


    What up, Flowmies?! Ever wonder what the journey is like when you take the leap from being a window cleaning employee to owning your own business? Look no further than Jack Craggs. Listen in as he talks about the challenges he faced making that transition, what he gained from paying attention to his employers, and how he has learned to be adaptable while he grows. He gives great advice and shares his insight on what it takes to lay a solid foundation for your business. You won't want to miss his encouraging story. Flow On!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E10: Gabe's Corner - Is Your Business an Instrument or an Asset?

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2023 16:33


    What up Flowmies! This week we have a Gabe's Corner that I truly feel needs to be talked about. It is based on an article I wrote for the American Window Cleaner Magazine and it's about how we view our business. For many of us, we "fell" into this beautiful industry, and it has served us well. However, for how long are we going to need it to do so and what systems do we have in place to make it work for us for the long haul? What you need your business to be in the future should determine whether you view your business as an instrument or an asset. Have a great week and as always, flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E8: Terry "Turbo" Burrows - Switching to Turbo

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2023 65:01


    Whatup, Flowmies! This week's interview was just as much a treat for me as it is going to be for you! Terry "Turbo" Burrows, the World Record Holder for fastest time in International Speed Cleaning competitions, is here! He talks about his early days building his business when he discovered that there are few things more marketable than a great personality. He has a great story of parlaying his fearless social skills into a regular spot on a talk show in the UK. After a chance introduction to speed cleaning, his world has never been the same again! As a bonus, we have our own Flowmie Speed Cleaner, Jeremiah Hickey, join the chat to talk about the time he competed against Terry and won the World Title in 2019. Oh, but Terry explains that things were not all they seemed... It's a really fun episode and I know you will all enjoy. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E9: Amber Jones - Is Your Business Texting TCR Compliant?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 63:23


    Whatup, Flowmies! Do you use text messages in your business communications? Well, we have a bonus episode that you will need to listen to. We are dropping this episode early because of the time sensitivity of the information. on July 5th, business texting must be compliant with new regulations that require you to register your phone number with The Campaign Registry (TRC) to avoid being blocked. What do you need to know and do to avoid having these new requirements affecting your business? Listen is as Sarah van der Meer interviews Amber Jones of protectmyphonerep.com as she guides you through this process. They will answer your most urgent questions and make sure you continue on without a hitch. Don't be left behind, Flowmies! Get your numbers registered ASAP.

    meer texting compliant what up amber jones flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S4E7: Chris Hartley - ADHD & Window Cleaning

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2023 81:49


    Hey Flowmies! We have a unique episode for you today. We will be talking with Chris Hartley, a long time Flowmie and one of the winners of the Flowmie of the Year Award for 2022. I wanted to have Chris on the Flowcast to talk about his experience as a window cleaner with ADHD. He shares the ways that ADHD has been a benefit to his business growth and how he manages the areas where it presents a challenge. As someone who is not "neurodiverse" but has a daughter who is, it was very informative for me to hear Chris speak about how he views the world and the pain that he has experienced because of the lack of understanding & misperceptions that people have. I sincerely thank Chris for being so open and willing to talk about his experiences and I hope this interview can help those who navigate their business life through an ADHD lens.

    adhd window cleaning chris hartley flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S4E6: Steve Williams - It's Always Sunny in Salisbury

    Play Episode Listen Later May 17, 2023 48:46


    Hey Flowmies! This week we sit down with Steve Williams, Managing Director of Solar O&M Consultancy in the UK and a member of the Solar Panel Committee of the IWCA. Listen in as he talks about his initial reluctant introduction and growth in the solar industry, eventually turning his years of experience into a passion for developing safe practices for solar panel cleaners. If you thought cleaning solar panels was no different than cleaning windows, think again! Don't clean another panel until you hear this interview! And as always, flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E5: Lewis Vandervalk - The Blue Crocus Experience

    Play Episode Listen Later May 1, 2023 50:47


    Whatup, Flowmies? We have an action packed episode for you. If you are a small business owner, you know the struggles that come with SEO and online marketing. What are some tips to get in front of your customer's eyeballs without breaking the bank? Lewis Vandervalk is the man to talk to! He is an entrepreneur, podcast host, author, and just all around good dude. We talk about his interesting back story and how he got to where he is now. However, its his insights as owner of Blue Crocus Solutions, a digital marketing company, that really makes this interview valuable. He gives advice and tips that will make you ask, "Why am I not already doing this???" Enjoy and as always, Flow On!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E4: Josue & Stephanie Martinez - ¡En Español!

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 7, 2023 38:14


    Whatup, Flowmies! We are trying something new this week. The window cleaning industry casts a wider and wider net each year, including those who's first language is Spanish. In an effort to reach out to the Spanish speakers in ITF and elsewhere, Fernando Medina hosts our first "Spanglish" podcast as he interviews Josue and Stephanie Martinez. They talk about the challenges that Josue faced starting a business while speaking very little English and learning over time to have confidence in his abilities as a window cleaner and businessman. While Stephanie speaks English fluently, she shares about the hard work she had to put into learning how to run a business efficiently and how their working as a team has made them so successful. They are truly an inspiration to any business owners who had to learn how to navigate language barriers along with all the normal stresses and anxieties that come with running a company. Please tag and share the video with any Spanish speaking window cleaners you know. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E3: Gabe's Corner - The Importance of Staying Calm

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2023 20:08


    Hey Flowmies, its time for another edition of Gabe's Corner! This time, we are talking about the importance of staying calm. We have to face so many stressful situations as a small business owner, it can be a challenge to not give into panic decision making that hurts our business, affects our health, and increases the chances of succumbing to burnout. What can we do to stay focused and keep the logical part of our brain in charge as go through the ups and downs of business? Listen in as Gabe gives practical advice on things to do and keep in mind as we all ride this roller coaster of small business ownership. Let us know in the comments what you do to keep you wits about you when your calmness is threatened. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S4E2: Brian Hoyt - Jet Dry & Gas Station Squeegees

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2023 47:18


    We all have those stories of struggle from when we were first starting out as window cleaners. Well, today we get to talk with Brian Hoyt of Poor Man WIndow Cleaning in Boise, ID who has one of the most inspiring stories of overcoming adversity and determination. From coming back after a life changing auto accident to almost losing his business just a few years ago, Brian has had many opportunities to give up on window cleaning. However, with a 1000-watt smile and positive energy, he turned his challenges into opportunities to not only grow his business but use his talents to help others. Listen in to hear his story and be motivated to keep going no matter what. And you might not look at Jet Dry the same way again. Flow on!

    id boise gas station flowcast brian hoyt
    The ITF Flowcast S4E1: Andrew Maclish - Return of the Mac

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2023 59:13


    Welcome to Season 4 of the ITF Flowcast, Flowmies! We have a fun episode for you to start of the new season. We get to speak with Andrew Maclish, owner of Desert Moon Window Cleaning in Tucson, AZ. We talk about the methodical approach he took to growing his window cleaning business, the challenge of adjusting from employee to owner, and why he loves what he does. Oh, and he used to work for me and I have ton of respect and admiration for what he's done. That may come across in the interview, hee hee. ;-D Flow on!

    tucson flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S3E25: End of the Year Flowmie Roundtable

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2022 95:21


    Whatup, Flowmies! Man, another year has come and gone and that means that it's time to reflect on the year behind us. Listen in as the mods Kevin, Sarah, Phebe, Joel, Fernando, & Gabe all talk about the year in ITF, what's gone on in their own lives and businesses, what lessons they've learned, and things that they had to overcome. Of course, it would not be a "Year End" episode without the Flowmie of the Year Awards! We recognize the hard work and contributions of the Flowmies who make this group the paragon of positivity that it is! It's a fun, inspiring episode that gives us a chance to show appreciation for what you all do to make this industry great!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E24: Best of - Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 19, 2022 69:16


    Whatup, Flowmies! Here is our second installment of the Best of 2022! In this episode we revisit our interview with Jordan Minor, who is both a window cleaner and a country music singer! listen in as he talks about how he makes his business work for his unique situation. Then, we will talk with Peter Cruz, who came into window cleaning late in the game, after spending many years as an accountant. He explains how that experience helped him get his company off to a great start. and Lastly, we will talk to Melody Edwards. She joined me on a "Gabe's Corner" to talk about the importance of having a "Growth Mindset" as a business owner. All great episodes to revisit. Enjoy!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E23 Best Of - Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2022 54:11


    What up, Flowmies! Can you believe that 2022 is almost over? We had a great year of interviews and here is your chance to relive some of the best moments of the Flowcast. First, we talk with James Smith about his unbelievable experience of having his first ever hire endure a truly traumatic experience. Its a beautiful story of kindness, compassion, and knowing when the business should take second place in the decisions you make as a business owner. Next, we talk with Dan Rinard, a long time Flowmie who has years of wisdom as a business owner. He talks about his business philosophy and why success is not always measured by the bottom line on a P&L. Lastly, we talk with Anthony Padlo, one of the founding members of Into the Flow, as he talks about what winning the Flowmie of the Year meant for him and how he has learned to trust the process, even when roadblocks seem to keep coming. Really encouraging episodes here so make some time to listen in. Flow on!

    james smith flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S3E22: Amy Jo Johnson - Getting From A to B

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2022 30:57


    Hey Flowmies! We are coming at you with another awesome interview, this time with Amy Jo Johnson, Owner of A & B Window Cleaning in Fargo, ND. She talks about her coming up in the business with her brother & learning to adapt and succeed in a male-dominated industry. She also shares what it was like *spoiler alert* winning the female division of the IWCA Speed Cleaning Competiton this last convention! Amy is a kind soul who is a true asset to ITF. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E21: Christopher James - Where There is a Wine, There is a Way

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2022 68:21


    Whatup, Flowmies?! This week we get to talk to a long-time Flowmie, Christopher James! He is one of those guys who just fell into window cleaning because of a combination of serendipitous meetings, determination, and family support. His scrappy attitude lead to him moving on from employee to business owner, but his decision to stay a single-owner/operator gives him an interesting perspective in what owning a business means to a family and how "growth" means different things to different people. You'll enjoy his story and be encouraged by his tenacity. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E20: Cesar Bejar - Window Synergy

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2022 62:31


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? How do you feel about people who offer free services to help other business owners? Yeah, I like them, too! That's why we have Cesar Bejar on the Flowcast this week. Not only has he had an interesting journey running his company, windowcleaners.pro, in San Antonio, he's also promoting his new consulting company, MC2 Synergya. As part of that promotion, he is offering the first 10 Flowmies who message me his consulting services to help you improve the visibility of your website. You have to listen to the interview to get the full details! If you need help getting your website to climb the Google Algorithm, you're not gonna want to miss this one! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E19: Gabe's Corner - Embrace a Growth Mindset with Melody Edwards

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 55:32


    Hey Flowmies! We have a special episode of Gabe's Corner this week as we invite Melody Edwards back to chat with Gabe about the benefits of having a "Growth Mindset". Too many business owners limit themselves by being stuck in their ways and unwilling to embrace change and growth. We talk about what exactly it means to have a growth mindset and what you can do to make it work for you. Its a episode packed with a ton of great business nuggets for you to enjoy and benefit from! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E18 - Business Advice from Flowmies Who Know!

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2022 64:01


    What up, Flowmies!! Starting a business can be such an overwhelming process, it can be hard to know where to even begin. This week on the Flowcast, we have a panel of several Flowmies with at least a decade of experience answering your burning questions! What are the biggest mistakes that new business owners make? What advice do you like to share with people interested in starting their own business? What was one area you struggled with when you first started? What did you wish you knew before you went out on your own? There are some really insightful and valuable nuggets for potential new business owners in this episode, so please watch, bookmark, and share with people you know who might need it. Hey, even you experienced owners might learn a thing or two! :) Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E17: Steven Cron - Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2022 57:21


    Hey Flowmies, have you ever wondered what happens during those 3 seconds between running a credit card and getting the approval message? The answer is "a lot" and Steven Cron from Benchmark Payment Networks is on the Flowcast to help understand the A to Z of credit card processing! How do you know what the REAL cost of your credit card processing is? How can you stay PCI compliant and why is that important? What is the difference between the Squares and Clovers of the CC world and why is that difference important? We get the answers to all these questions and also find out how you can eliminate credit card processing fees all together! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E16: Jeff Engel - Coming to Terms with Your Insurance

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 2, 2022 63:14


    Whatup, Flowmies! We have a super important interview today. What you don't know about your insurance can cost you tens of thousands of dollars or more. But where can you go to find out what you don't even know you need to know? Meet Jeff Engel, COO of ICI Insurance! His agency specializes in helping window cleaners and other service industries get past the roadblocks that pop up when we try to go through traditional commercial coverage. Listen in while we discuss how to properly protect yourself and know what coverage you need, what you can do to lower your auto insurance, how to GL & WC survive audits (YUCK!), and why you may want to think about Key Person Insurance (what is that???) if you have crews. Make time to listen to this one, Flowmies, it could save you a ton of money!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E15: Peter Cruz - Cruz Control

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 20, 2022 71:26


    Whatup, Flowmies? We have a fun one today! Peter Cruz, owner of Clearvue Professional Window Cleaning in Las Cruces, NM and sales rep for WCR, drops by the Flowcast this week! With a background in accounting, he has an interesting perspective about how to run a successful window cleaning business. We talk the best business structures for tax benefits, using a CRM to keep you organized as you grow, and he gives great tips to keep in mind for new or growing business owners. but most of all, he is just a fun guy to talk to! Don't miss out on these great tips! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E14: Gabe's Corner - Stop Ignoring Your Mental Health

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 29, 2022 36:22


    What up, Flowmies! This week we have a Gabe's Corner that is near and dear to my heart. One of the unspoken issues facing small business owners is caring for their mental health, in particular with regards to handling stress and anxiety. Too often they are ignored, stuffed down, and left to fester until they are manifested at the worst possible time. What can you do to help deal with the pressures of owning a business in a healthy way? Listen in as I talk about some of the bad habits we can fall into that exacerbates high stress levels and what are some positive actions that we can take to minimize the anxiety in our lives. It's an important topic, and I hope these tips are helpful to you. It gets better, Flowmies! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E13: Sterling Alexander - Setting a Sterling Example

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2022 66:10


    Whatup, Flowmies! In this weekd Flowcast we have another really great guy to speak with, and that is Sterling Alexander out of the San Antonio, TX area. He talks about entrepreneurship, how to get the education you need to efficiently run a business, the importance of company structure, and how he managed his growth into a strong, self-sufficient organization. Plus, he is just a really thoughtful and nice guy to boot! Lots of great nuggets to be found here! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E12: Jordan Minor - A Little Bit Country, A Little Bit Water Fed Pole

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2022 57:24


    Whatup Flowmies!! We have a fun one for you today. We get to speak with Flowmie & Bonafide Country Singer/Window Cleaner, Jordan Minor! As you would expect he had a windy and interesting path into the industry that hasn't always been smooth. Yet he has been able to find the balance that allows him to continue following his passions. As a bonus, you get to hear a song that will be on an upcoming album that will be released late this year! You can follow him and the Bottom Dollar Band on Facebook to find out when it drops! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E11: Jamie Hallman - Taking the Leap

    Play Episode Listen Later May 19, 2022 56:00


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? This week we get to visit with Jamie Hallman, fresh off of his Flowmie of the Year Award win. Jamie shares with us what it's like to go from working for someone else to starting your own business in a relatively short time. He talks about the cautious approach he took and how he was able to strike that work/family balance early on to make sure the business became what he needed it be. But most of all, you will get to see what cool guy he is and why he will find success in anything he does. I'm excited for you all to get to know him better! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E10: Randi Tieken - Randi is Magic

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 29, 2022 69:00


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? This week, we have a fun one for ya. Hosts Kory & Kevin visit with the owner of Window Magic, Randi Tieken! They cover wide range of topics such as how to navigate your business through an economy facing inflation, managing and leading your crew, and how the IWCA can benefit small businesses. As always, Randi brings her expertise, her heart, and her desire to help others to the conversation. Keep calm & Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3:E9: Gabe's Corner - Did You Hire an Employee or a Window Cleaner?

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2022 16:40


    Hey Flowmies!! It's our second installment of Gabe's Corner and we are talking about employees. Specifically, who did you hire, an employee or a window cleaner? Listen in as Gabe breaks down the difference between the two, what you can do as an employer to sift out window cleaners among the potential candidates for your hiring process, and how to keep the quality techs working for you for years to come. Flow on!

    employees hire corner window cleaner flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S3E8: Anthony Padlo - It's No Small Wonder

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2022 74:03


    Whatup, Flowmies?!?! This week we get to talk with one of the ITF OGs, Anthony Padlo! He was a previous Flowcast guest in the first season & was one of the winners of the Flowmie of the Year Award for 2021. Kory Klimas catches up with him and finds out how these last two years have been going. (Spoiler Alert: It's been hard but really great!) He and Kory talk about the challenges of starting up, maintaining growth, decision making, and hiring. We also find out why Kory nominated him for the award. (Is someone cutting onions in here?) It's a wonderful discussion that you won't want to miss! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E7: The IWCA Convention Review Part 2

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 21, 2022 46:49


    What up, Flowmies?!? Thank you so much for your patience as I worked hard to get Part 2 of the IWCA Review together. Listen in as we speak to more vendors, watch the speed competition, and I take you behind the scenes of the IWCA Banquet and silent auction. It's not as fun as being there, but its close! Flow on!

    convention flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S3E6: The IWCA Convention Review - Part 1

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2022 48:46


    Whatup Flowmies! If you have ever been to an IWCA convention, you know how fun and informative they are. If you have NEVER been to an IWCA convention, well this is the Podcast for you! Join Gabe as he takes you on a tour of the convention, interviews members, vendors, instructors, and lets you in on some of the highlights of this fun week. I have so much content that we have to break it up into 2 episodes! While you will still enjoy this episode as an audio podcast, to get the FULL experience its best viewed in video format. Sit back, relax, and get a taste of what convention life is like! Flow on!

    convention flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S3E5: Luis Martinez - The Squeaky Wheel Sees the Increase

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2022 64:54


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? We have a fun one today. We get to speak with Luis Martinez, owner of Squeaky Service out in Southern California and Board member of the IWCA. We talk about how his business has grown since his first time in the Flowcast back in Season one, what he loved about Responsicon and why he recommends all Responsibid users make it a priority to attend, and why observing other business owners it's really the best way to learn. We also do a review of the upcoming IWCA convention and share what we are looking forward to benefitting from. We also mix in a little soft wash talk and why it can be even more profitable than window cleaning. It's a fun discussion that you don't want to miss! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E4: Gabe's Corner - Your Business is a Tree

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 28, 2022 19:09


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? This week we are starting a new segment on the Flowcast, Gabe's Corner! These will come out once a month or so and will be a shorter episode about observations, business philosophies, and lessons that I have learned over my 22 years of window cleaning. I don't claim to be a guru or business mastermind and I won't tell you anything that will double your business overnight. But I will get you thinking about things most owner's overlook or ideas that you might not have heard put into words. As I post more of these I hope to include your thoughts as well! The inaugural episode of Gabe's Corner is called, "Your Business is a Tree". It is based on an article I wrote in The American Window Cleaner Magazine a couple years ago. In it I talk about the symbiotic philosophy my view of business has taken over the years. Is your business overly transactional? What effects can your business have on your community? How can you foster a culture of employee loyalty? I look forward to hearing your thoughts and philosophies! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E3: Dan Rinard - Giving With Purpose

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 21, 2022 60:46


    Whatup, Flowmies?? I love when I get to talk to a person whom I've met once or twice but haven't had the chance to know better. Dan Rinard is definitely one of those people. He is a person who is infectiously happy, kind, thoughtful, and as experienced a window cleaner as they come. So, it was a pleasure to sit down and pick his brain on his philosophy for giving, his motivations for both starting and continuing his business, as well what he views his responsibility as a business owner is to his community. Its a casual, natural conversation that you will enjoy. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E2: Dan Platta - Accounting Plattatudes

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2022 47:52


    Hey Flowmies, if you're like me, there are two things that you absolutely hate: Bookkeeping and hiring. Our guest today, Dan Platta, just happens to be a pro at both! Listen in as he shares strategies for hiring, why you need to view recruiting as being just as important as advertising, and why knowing your numbers can change the way your run your business. Also check out his podcast, "Bookkeeping, Beers, and BS" wherever you get your podcasts!

    The ITF Flowcast S3E1: James Smith - A Lone Star State of Mind

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 7, 2022 71:26


    Flowmies, as we exit 2021 and enter 2022, its time for a new season of the ITF Flowcast! We could not think of a better guest to open Season 3 than one of the inaugural Flowmie Award Recipients, James Smith. He has a great story of overcoming adversity, choosing to start his business out of desperation, and facing some of the worst case scenarios that any growing business owner stays up at night worrying about. Yet he weathered those storms and has come out stronger. Listen in as he shares his secret to balancing business and family, all while trying to keep his sanity. You're going to really love this interview. Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S2E35: Year End Flowmie Roundtable!

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 31, 2021 98:59


    What up, Flowmies?!? Thanks for being so patient with us during this busy time of year. But we didn't want to end 2021 without having our Year-End Flowmie Roundtable! We catch up with Nando, Joel, Kory, Kevin, Sarah, Phebe, & Gabe as they share their accomplishments and challenges that they faced in 2021. However, the best part of the Flowcast is that we introduce the inaugural Flowmie Awards! This award goes to Flowmies who by word and deed exhibit qualities that exemplify what ITF aspires to promote. Some overcame adversity, others learned & hustled & grew. Listen in to find out who won and why they were picked! You don't wanna miss this one! Flow on!!!

    The ITF Flowcast S2E34: Victoria Erran - Giving & Getting

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 23, 2021 91:53


    What up Flowmies! What is the secret to crafting the right FB Ad to get the attention of the customers you want? Listen in as we talk with Victoria Erran about her company, Reciprocity 5, how she got started in digital marketing, and why when it comes to ads you need to give a little to get a lot. She talks about how her background in Sustainability informed her strategy with reaching the right customer base for your business and how you can do the same on your own. Combine this interview with the Facebook Masterclass episode she put out a few months ago, and you will be equipped to take your business to the next level! Flow on!

    The ITF Flowcast S2E33: Andy Misiura - Misiura Loves Company

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 12, 2021 57:20


    Its all the talk right now, Flowmies: How do you find good employees??? Well, listen in as Host Joel Lamb talks to Andy Misiura, owner of Kahuna Window Cleaning in Minneapolis, shares how he went from 1 to 10 trucks and still keeps his customers happy. Andy shares his views on efficiency, profitability, organization, and why you need to take a second look at 1-man crews to stay profitable. He also shares his secret source of solid employees that keeps his business going. This Flowcast is packed with value, so make sure you listen in!

    The ITF Flowcast S2E32: Jeff Hansen - RDS Practices Makes Perfect

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 5, 2021 69:38


    Whatup. Flowmies?!?!? We have a high flying Flowcast for you today. We get to speak with Jeff Hansen, owner of Superior Window Cleaning in Minnesota and founder of the Window Warriors Forum, about his many years in the window cleaning industry and his passion for training and educating window cleaners in safety and efficiency. We also invite on the Nandolorian himself, Nando Medina, to talk with Jeff about the IWCA's 4 new RDS Safe Practices recommendations. Jeff's many years doing high and low rise makes this interview educational and enlightening for all window cleaners, regardless if new changes affect you or not. Don't miss it!

    minnesota practices what up jeff hansen flowcast
    The ITF Flowcast S2E31: Flowmie Rountable - Much Ado About Crews

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 29, 2021 81:31


    Whatup, Flowmies!!! Flowmie Roundtable time!! This time Phebe, Sarah, Joel, Nando, & Gabe all get together to talk about one of the most difficult parts of running a business, managing crews. Efficiency, morale, and communication are the name of the game. So, listen in as the gang addresses all of these topics & more! Flow on!!

    The ITF Flowcast S2E30: Ray Valentin - Aeria of Influence

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 22, 2021 65:23


    Hey Flowmies! Anxiety, stress, and depression are aspects of being a business owner that rarely get talked about. Yet, they are often the reason why new business owners give up prematurely and seasoned owners "burn out". Ray Valentine, founder of Aeria Pro, sits down to talk about having the proper mental state to maintain when running a business, tactics to managing stress, and overcoming the stigma many window cleaners have to talking about the anxiety that owning a business can bring. We also talk about his beginning in the industry, going from a a sculptor and running an art gallery, to picking up his first squeegee on a whim, and then using his artistic talents to move into the world of manufacturing and design. Its a super interesting interview that you don't want to miss. Flow on!

    ITF Flowcast S2EP29: Jake Hansen - Teach Within Reach

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 15, 2021 65:06


    Whatup, Flowmies?!? Have you ever struggled with training new employees? How about gauging the skill level of a new tech with experience? We speak with Jake Hansen, founder of learntocleanwindows.com, as he talks about his program to get new cleaners up to speed and rounds out the knowledge of the experienced cleaners already on your crew. Before we get into that, we talk about his experience in the industry, getting started on his own, the process of selling a business, and taking a chance on that entrepreneurial spirit. Flow on!

    ITF Flowcast S2E28: Best of the ITF Flowcast - Jeff Likes, Warlick Hazen, & Kyle Grimes

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 8, 2021 58:49


    Whatup, Flowmies! This is our last "Best of" edition and we are going out with some genuinely nice people. Listen in as we talk to Jeff Likes, owner of Jeff Likes Clean Windows in Northern California, as he shares a ton of valuable tips on office administration and organization, including the software that he finds the most value in. Then, we will talk to Hazen Warlick, Business Development Manager at ABC Window Cleaning Supply, as he talks about office culture and how ABC is able to maintain a family atmosphere all these years. Then we will end the episode with Mr. Positivity himself, Kyle Grimes of Clean Habits, LLC in Utah, while he shares his philosophy on being a a force for good in the world. Enjoy and your week on a positive note. Flow on!

    ITF Flowcast S2E27: Best of the ITF Flowcast - SteveO, Sean Hill, Jersey

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2021 64:44


    What up, Flowmies! Time for another "Best of" episode to drop! This time we are talking to industry staples, SteveO the Window Cleaner of YouTube fame, Sean Hill of NiceJob, and Jersey of WCR & the American Window Cleaner Magazine. Listen is as a bucket full of pure gold is poured out on the Flowcast! We talk all about marketing tips, finding your brand, how to make the most of your online reviews, what is the difference between "Reputation Management" & "Reputation Marketing", finding the right way to reach your customers, and why split testing is so important for your advertising bottom line. Lots of good stuff here, Flowmies. Don't miss it!

    ITF Flowcast S2E26: Best of The ITF Flowcast - Kevin Hargis, Meagan Getz, & Greg Reid

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 14, 2021 64:47


    What up Flowmies! Thank you so much for your patience as I gear up for my busy season. :D For September we will be running some "Best of" episodes to get you caught up on older episode you may have missed or to remind you of some things you wanted to get going for your business. This week, we will revisit our episode with Kevin Hargis hosting, my interview with Meagan Getz of Meagan Getz Photography, and Greg Reid, our current IWCA President. We hit on the value of true customer service, what its like being a young entrepreneur, and what the future of the IWCA will be. If you haven't listened to a Flowcast before, these will be great opportunities to get a feel for what ITF is all about. It's also cool to see how far we have come from those first few podcasts that we did. Enjoy and FLOW ON!

    ITF Flowcast S2EP25: Mike Schnyders - Mike's Squad

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 20, 2021 64:57


    Aw Flowmies, I landed the hardest "get" of Flowcast History! Mike Schnyders is in the house!!! After a year of shutting us down, slapping our hands, and juking left when we go right, we finally wore him down and he caved. And he doesn't disappoint. He talks about running a franchise window cleaning company (Squeegee Squad), wanting to see our employees do good for themselves, even if it's not with us, and how customer relations is as important as knowing how to sling a squeegee. We also get all the behind the scenes intrigue of his new non-window cleaning venture, Junk Squad!! It really was so nice to talk with him. He is genuinely a nice guy and you will really enjoy getting to know him better as I did. Enjoy Flowmies!!

    squad flowcast
    ITF Flowcast S2EP24: Ben Ivey - Taking the Pro Out of Procrastination

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2021 47:59


    Whatup Flowmies? If you're like me, you have a special skill of putting off the tasks or chores of your business that you hate. Ben Ivey, International Speaker & CEO of the Entrepreneur Lifestyle, is here to help! We address the procrastination issues that plague small business owners like: What are the different types of procrastinators? Why are entrepreneurs prone to procrastinate? And what are some strategies we can use to remove the habit of procrastination from our lives for good? Ben is a super interesting guy. As a Tony Robbins Strategic Intervention Coach his energy is infectious and his advice practical. Don't put listening to this podcast off! (See what I did there?) Flow on! For more info on Ben Ivey or the Entrepreneurial Lifestyle, go to https://www.ben-ivey.com/

    The ITF Flowcast S2E23 - Facebook Ad Master Class

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2021 105:08


    Hey Flowmies! If you have ever tried to run Facebook Ads, you know there are definitely more opportunities to pull your hair out than there are to get customers. If you have been meaning to run some ads but go into convulsions at the thought, this episode is for you. Victoria Erran of Reciprocity 5 was kind enough to conduct a master class of Facebook ads. She gets into the nuts and bolts of the procedures with several Flowmies and walks them through each step, uncovering potential problems and showing how to avoid them. You should know that this episode is actually a class rather than an interview like we typically would run. So, while you may benefit from just listening to it, the real value comes with you sitting down at a computer and going through the step-by-step procedures with Victoria as she screen-shares her methods. We really appreciate her taking the time to put this information together and if you aren't running Facebook ads now, bookmark it so you now where to find it later when you are. Flow on!

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