The Weekly Call

The meeting begins with Austin welcoming the group and wishing Amer a happy 17th birthday. The conversation quickly turns to playful banter about Amer's youthful appearance and the various factors he attributes to his lack of aging, including olive oil, cologne, and frequenting pawn shops.John shares that he recently became fascinated with learning more about Osama bin Laden after watching a documentary with his wife Trish. The group discusses the various accounts and evidence around bin Laden's death, noting the challenges in verifying certain details due to conflicting eyewitness testimonies and lack of conclusive proof.The conversation shifts to discussing strategies for creating engaging online content, with Amer sharing his approach of using attention-grabbing elements like music, visuals, and storytelling to hook viewers before providing valuable information. John expresses concerns about the ethics of such tactics, highlighting the potential for deception and the need to be transparent about the true purpose of the content.Amer encourages John to consider incorporating more writing into his routine, suggesting it could help him organize his thoughts, reduce repetition, and effectively communicate his ideas to others. John acknowledges the potential benefits and agrees to explore incorporating more writing, such as creating essays and handbooks to share with his team and business partners.The meeting concludes with the group discussing plans to meet in person in a few days, where they intend to play a geography-themed game together. The conversation ends on a lighthearted note, with the participants exchanging more playful banter.

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Austin is preparing for a senior management retreat and franchise training in September, coinciding with the birth of his first childJohn and Amer reflected on recent periods of "coasting" in their businesses and recommitting to growthThe group discussed balancing business growth with personal development and life milestonesAustin and John will lead workshops at an upcoming event:Austin on coaching/leadership (20-30 minutes)John on small business finance basics (45-60 minutes)Austin has a senior management retreat coming up at a golf resortAustin is planning franchise training in September, coinciding with the birth of his childAustin's company (Rydel) is on track to hit sales targets, but with little margin for errorThey have an ambitious goal of 16 new franchises for 2026, which would grow the business by 50%Amer and John discussed recent periods of "coasting" in their businessesBoth recommitted to growth and pushing themselves out of comfort zonesAmer is focusing on improving his social media presence and storytelling skillsJohn is excited about scaling his business and the conversations/opportunities that will unlockAustin emphasized the importance of time and notification management for sales teamsDiscussion on balancing business growth with developing team members and maintaining integrityAustin's stepfather has been diagnosed with severe cancerJohn is expecting a son in two monthsAustin to finalize plans for September franchise training, considering his child's birthJohn to assess team performance over next 2-3 weeks to determine event attendanceAmer to continue developing social media presence and contentGroup to reconvene at upcoming event and continue supporting each other's growth

A conversation between John & Amer.

Discussed Toronto Maple Leafs' strategy of investing heavily in a few star players ($42M on 4 players out of $82M salary cap)Debated merits of this approach vs having more depth throughout the teamParallels drawn to business hiring strategies and resource allocationAmer's ideal customers are less solution-aware, allowing him to educate and guide themJohn's painting business benefits from more solution-aware customers who understand quality differencesDiscussed challenges of marketing to and converting different customer typesAmer struggling with creating content that attracts ideal customers vs general popularityDiscussed idea of showcasing "day in the life" of ideal customers before/after working with AmerImportance of focusing on depth with existing customers rather than just width of new customersJohn emphasized importance of cash flow and equity over vanity metrics like revenue or "number of doors" ownedDiscussed pitfalls of overleveraging in real estate and other industriesDebated merits of new vs used vehicles for service businesses, considering total cost of ownershipAnalyzed pros/cons of different service businesses (painting, landscaping, excavation, etc.)Discussed challenges of businesses requiring significant equipment investmentExplored ways Amer could potentially improve cash flow in his coaching businessAmer to create a focus group of ideal customers to get feedback on content/marketingAmer to explore ways to go "deeper" with existing customers rather than just widerJohn to share relevant Warren Buffett letters on growing an insurance business with AmerBoth to continue analyzing their businesses for opportunities to improve profitability and cash flow

John uses a "player board" approach to visualize business decisionsIncorporates concepts like worker placement, resource management, and tech treesFinancial modeling over a 5-year period to project cash flow and expensesDecisions (e.g., expanding to new markets) are evaluated based on projected revenue and free cash flowImplementing point systems and achievements for door-to-door marketers and sales repsExample: Points for knocking on doors, generating leads, closing salesImmediate buy-in and increased engagement observed when gamification is implementedDraws parallels to video game achievements (e.g., Xbox, PSN trophies)Employee (Keith O'Brien) at Rippling began spying for competitor DealRippling set up a trap using a fake Slack channel called "deal defectors"Spy was caught accessing the fake channel, leading to a dramatic confrontationCase involves international elements, with mentions of escaping to Dubai to avoid legal papersJohn's analysis of expanding to Penticton vs. focusing on existing markets (Kelowna, Vernon)Considerations: market size, infrastructure utilization, revenue projectionsVernon expansion projected to yield highest revenue ($4.61M) compared to Kelowna ($3.8M) and Penticton ($4.4M)Walking or running to clear thoughts and make decisionsFinancial modeling as a foundation for strategic choicesBalancing short-term vs. long-term cash flow in decision-makingAmer to explore implementing a CEO dashboard for better business overviewJohn to share more details about his financial modeling approachTeam to consider integrating gamification elements into their sales processesFurther discussion on applying board game concepts to business strategy

Austin sold his business franchise and is transitioning to a new role while maintaining minority ownershipAmer is hosting a large conference with 66 attendees, seeing it as a valuable opportunity for team building and content creationJohn emphasized the importance of business durability and strategic positioning over short-term opportunismAll participants shared insights on hiring practices, business growth strategies, and financial managementSold his franchise business, retaining minority ownership (around 10%)Negotiated 0% interest on vendor take-back loan in exchange for retaining ownershipValued business based on 3-year average revenue, 1-year net profit, assets, and intangible assetsIntangible assets included customer data, established subcontractor relationships, and brand reputationFaced challenges with lawyers during the sale process, noting their tendency to complicate negotiationsHosting conference in Nashville with 66 attendees (contractors, wives, assistants)Implemented profit-sharing model with coaches to incentivize ticket salesUsing conference for team building, content creation, and strengthening client relationshipsReflecting on personal growth from previous conferences, noting increased confidence and strategic focusIdentified four main bottlenecks in his painting business: core staff, sales reps, field operators, and vehiclesDoubled Q1 revenue compared to previous year, but noted seasonality impacts overall growth projectionsEmphasized importance of "stacking the roster" with high-quality staff during favorable job marketsDiscussed benefits of core staff model in tight labor markets vs. subcontractor model in loose marketsAustin implementing multi-step interview process for CFO position, including video submissions and cross-reference interviewsJohn developing hiring strategy for enforcement role, focusing on creating avatar and filtering for desired qualitiesAmer interested in improving hiring processes, particularly for sourcing and evaluating candidatesExplored concept of business durability and importance of strategic positioningDiscussed risks of reinvesting in non-durable businesses, using retail industry examplesEmphasized value of businesses that don't require significant capital to growJohn highlighted preference for "inevitable" businesses like grocery stores in prime locationsDiscussed value of reviewing 10-K reports for strategic business insightsExplored parallels between Amer's business and wealth advisory servicesConsidered implementing quarterly internal "10-K" style reports for better business oversightAmer to explore implementing internal "10-K" style reporting for his businessAustin to finalize CFO hiring process and continue integrating into new role post-business saleJohn to proceed with hiring strategy development for enforcement roleAll participants to continue regular check-ins for strategic business discussions and mutual support

Amer is on a spontaneous solo trip to Europe, reflecting on personal growth and independenceJohn shared insights on evaluating businesses and personal spending prioritiesAustin is considering evaluating a family member's logistics/moving business for potential purchaseReached personal and business goals, now seeking new direction and purposeSpontaneous solo trip to Europe (Spain) for self-reflection and independenceExploring questions about life purpose, career path, and personal valuesLearning to be more disagreeable and set clear boundaries in relationshipsAustin considering evaluating family member's logistics/moving businessJohn advised caution, highlighting potential issues:Likely an owner-operator model with thin marginsLow barriers to entry, potentially not a good long-term investmentImportance of understanding gross margins and unit economicsAmer suggested process mapping and time inventory analysis for proper evaluationJohn emphasized focusing on small, impactful purchases (e.g., quality socks, underwear) over expensive items like carsDiscussed the value of upgrading living spaces for quality of life improvementsImportance of regularly reviewing subscriptions and cutting unnecessary expensesAmer shared a journal entry about the emotional difficulty of firing an employeeReflected on the challenges of leadership and balancing company goals with personal relationshipsAustin shared an exercise on calculating remaining days in one's lifeExample: ~24,000 days left if living to 95 years oldDiscussed the impact of visualizing finite time and its effect on decision-makingAmer to continue personal reflection and consider sharing insights on social mediaAustin to gather more information on the family business before considering further evaluationJohn to implement his meeting frequency adjustments with franchise representatives

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The group discussed the traits and behaviors of effective CEOs, noting that they often exhibit a strong sense of conviction and confidence in their vision for the company, even if it means making controversial decisions. They are willing to "rattle and offend" the management team with ambitious goals, but maintain a steadfast commitment to the company's growth. Effective CEOs are also described as being highly cost-conscious and paranoid about the company's long-term survivability, making decisions with an eye towards the future rather than just short-term results.The discussion highlighted the value of curiosity and coachability for sales teams, noting that the most successful sales reps are often the ones who are the most curious about the customer and open to coaching, rather than those solely focused on hitting quotas and closing deals. The group emphasized the need to shift the mindset from just trying to close sales to truly understanding the customer's needs and situation.John outlined his plan to implement a new "info session" hiring process to build a stronger pipeline of management-level talent. The sessions would involve an informal, conversational gathering at the company's office where John and Brady would provide an overview of the company, its culture, and available roles. This would allow them to cast a wide net and gauge interest, while also giving candidates a chance to get a feel for the company before deciding to apply. The group discussed potential ways to structure the process, including pre-screening applicants and incorporating group interviews.The group wrapped up the discussion, with Amer and John agreeing that the info session idea made sense as a way to build a stronger talent pipeline for the company's growth. They agreed this would be a good place to end the meeting.

Amer shares an anecdote about reviewing a setter's call recordings and discovering instances where the call duration was inflated, potentially to boost performance metrics. The group discusses the ethics and implications of such behavior, as well as strategies for addressing it.John shares his perspective on the nuances of effort, yield, and behavioral patterns in the workplace. He draws parallels to examples from sports and business, emphasizing the importance of understanding individual motivations and the structures that enable or discourage certain behaviors.Austin discusses his approach to implementing "performance improvement plans" (PIPs) within his company, aiming to shift the focus from punitive measures to proactive development. The group explores the challenges and considerations around setting clear expectations, providing support, and aligning individual and organizational goals.Austin shares his perspective on maintaining a strong work ethic while also prioritizing his upcoming role as a father. The group discusses the importance of leading by example, setting boundaries, and adapting to the unpredictability that comes with raising a child.Amer reflects on his own approach to productivity, expressing a sense of uncertainty around setting specific goals and deadlines. The group explores strategies for aligning personal values, business objectives, and sustainable work habits.

John, Austin, and Amer share details about their morning routines and daily schedules. John wakes up at 5am, meditates, reads, and has a set breakfast before heading to the office. Austin has a more variable schedule depending on whether he's going to the gym in the morning, but generally wakes up around 5:40am, works out, showers, and then starts his workday around 9am. Amer wakes up around 8:40am, showers, and jumps straight into meetings with his sales team.The group discusses the challenge of balancing work and personal life. Austin shares that he sometimes struggles to stop working in the evenings, with his wife Miranda having to intervene. Amer explains that he tries to avoid working on weekends, using that time for personal activities and relaxation instead. John notes that if he didn't have Trisha, he would likely work around the clock.Amer opens up about his desire to be well-known and to spread ideas that he finds valuable. He sees this as a "biological instinct" to share good ideas, and feels he has natural talents as a speaker and presenter that he wants to leverage. The group explores whether this desire for recognition is driven by ego or a deeper purpose.The group questions Amer's approach to dating and finding a long-term partner. They note that he seems less open about his dating life compared to other areas, and express concern that he may not be as serious or intentional about it as they would expect given his success in business. Amer explains his reasoning for being more private about this area of his life.

Meeting PurposeImpromptu discussion to explore and provide feedback on Amer Abu Shakra's business operations and management approach at  contracting.com.Amer's business has a structured sales process with distinct roles (setter, hybrid, closer) and a customer success management (CSM) teamThe company relies heavily on systems and metrics for performance tracking and accountabilityThere may be opportunities to increase individual autonomy and self-reflection among team membersAmer's analytical approach to discussing his business revealed potential insights about his management styleSales team: 1 setter, 2 hybrids, 1 closer5 CSMs (including a manager) handle customer onboarding, coaching, and retentionCMO role focuses on driving revenue and managing marketing initiatives4-person administrative team handles various projects and operationsLeads generated primarily through Facebook ads (2,200/month)Setter team aims for 19-hour callback timeDouble/triple booking system to mitigate 50% show rateExtensive use of CRM, dialers, and reporting tools for performance trackingEnd-of-day reports and weekly performance reviews are standard practiceHeavy emphasis on systems, metrics, and structured accountabilityPotential for over-reliance on external accountability vs. self-motivated reviewDiscussion around balancing structured systems with individual autonomy and creativityAmer's analytical approach to business discussions may impact team dynamicsEncouraging more self-motivated performance review among team membersBalancing structured systems with individual autonomy and creativityExploring ways to make the work environment feel less "corporate" and more entrepreneurialConsidering how Amer's management style and communication approach impacts the team

John and the group discuss his top priorities in life, which he identifies as his relationship with his wife Trisha, his business ProWorks, and his health. They also briefly touch on the role of church in his life.John shares his weekly calendar and schedule, explaining how he intentionally plans out his week on Sundays, with recurring tasks and events above a "black line" and more flexible items below. The group examines how John's schedule is structured around his sales, investing, and personal commitments.John acknowledges that the biggest challenge he faces is maintaining clear boundaries between his investing time and his involvement in the ProWorks business. He struggles with the tendency to get pulled into ProWorks tasks and issues, which can distract from his investing focus.The group explores Brady's strengths and weaknesses in potentially taking on a sales manager role. They identify gaps in Brady's empathy, ego management, and patience that would need to be addressed for him to be successful in that position. John expresses a willingness to coach Brady but also acknowledges the risk of failure if Brady cannot make the necessary improvements.John shares insights into his own personal growth journey, explaining how he has transformed from being highly unempathetic and egotistical to becoming more self-aware and focused on coaching his team. He sees parallels between his own past struggles and Brady's current challenges, giving him hope that Brady can make a similar transformation.The group concludes by acknowledging the deep respect and commitment in the relationship between John and Brady, and the potential for Brady to grow into a leadership role if he continues to put in the necessary work. They agree that John will continue coaching Brady, with a focus on developing the key skills and mindset shifts required for the sales manager position.

Austin expresses a preference for the podcast to be shorter, around 1.5 hours, as he finds himself disengaging in the latter half. He explains that the first 1-1.5 hours are typically the most engaging and valuable for him, while the final 30-45 minutes can feel drawn out. John and Amer acknowledge Austin's perspective and are open to exploring ways to structure the podcast to better meet his needs.The group discusses how their differing schedules and time commitments impact their preferences for the podcast length. John shares that the podcast ends at 9am for him, leaving him with open time before his next obligation, while Austin has a busier Sunday schedule that the podcast can disrupt. They explore potential compromises, such as starting the podcast at 10:30am instead of 9:30am to give John more time to wake up.The group acknowledges a shared desire for more intentionality and structure in the podcast, including the ability to come prepared with specific topics or questions they want to discuss. They agree that the current approach of each person hoping to cover their own agenda can lead to missed opportunities and disengagement. The group proposes implementing a system where they share their discussion topics and priorities ahead of time.The group agrees that they strongly dislike small talk during the podcast, preferring to dive directly into substantive discussions. They agree to avoid open-ended questions that tend to lead to unproductive small talk, and instead focus on asking direct questions that drive the conversation forward.The group discusses the value of committing to specific actions or changes during the podcast, and then holding each other accountable for following through on those commitments in the following weeks. They propose a system where each person shares their current challenges or goals, and the group provides feedback and support.The group summarizes the key agreements reached, including: 1) Dedicating the next 3 episodes to deep dives into each person's current situation and challenges, 2) Implementing a system for sharing discussion topics and priorities ahead of time, and 3) Avoiding small talk in favor of more intentional, substantive conversations. They agree to iterate on this structure as needed to ensure the podcast remains valuable and engaging for all.

Amer, Austin, and John discussed booking an Airbnb for their upcoming Patreon retreat in Chilliwack, BC. They reviewed several options and ultimately chose one with a life-size Monopoly board, double basketball court, and cold plunge, as these amenities were very appealing to the group.John shared insights from a Wall Street Journal article on sports betting, noting that 91% of bettors are overly optimistic about their future winnings, despite being accurate in reporting their past losses. He also discussed the popularity of parlay bets and player prop bets, which are the most profitable for gambling companies.The group discussed the parallels between investing, sports betting, and the monetization tactics used in video games, such as loot boxes and microtransactions. They noted how these industries all leverage human psychology and the desire to predict the future, often leading to losses for the average participant.The group analyzed how different industries and trades are impacted by economic conditions, with discretionary and capital-intensive sectors like pools and roofing being more sensitive than essential services like plumbing. They discussed how this affects their own business and the need to adapt strategies accordingly.Amer and John discussed their approaches to managing and coaching their teams, with John outlining his structured process of reviewing data, isolating issues, and providing targeted training and feedback. They also explored the distinction between managing and coaching, and the importance of developing these skills as business owners.John shared his reflections on the similarities between Warren Buffett's approach as a successful investor and operator, and his own aspirations to develop complementary skills in capital allocation and coaching management teams. They discussed the importance of initial conditions and the potential for a holding company structure to leverage these abilities.

Here is a link to Chris Thomson's podast - The Leaders of Tomorrow A casual exploratory conversation with Chris Thomson, Head Coach of Student Works, covering leadership, personal development, and business philosophy. Chris emphasizes integrity, continuous learning, and personal growth as key to long-term success in business and life Student Works' success attributed to focused strategy, strong culture, and developing leaders through hands-on experience Chris advocates for finding one's unique strengths and contributions rather than trying to excel at everything Meditation, journaling, and regular personal development practices are crucial for maintaining clarity and effectiveness as a leader Focuses on developing a strong culture of integrity and continuous improvement Emphasizes being an exemplar and living the values you espouse Believes in giving people opportunities to grow, even if they initially struggle Advocates for clear standards and removing those who don't align with company values Stresses the importance of being a "student of the game" and continuously learning Grew from $10 million to $35 million annual revenue in past 7 years Implemented minimum performance standards (e.g. $40k booked by May 1st) to improve quality Focused strategy on core business, avoiding distractions that previously limited growth Improved systems, marketing, and recruitment processes based on learnings from competitors Emphasizes developing leaders through hands-on experience running their own operations Daily meditation practice focusing on body scan, emotional awareness, and thought observation Regular journaling to gain clarity on thoughts and feelings Participates in mastermind groups and personal development programs (e.g. Landmark, Hoffman Process) Reads 30-40 books per year to continually expose himself to new ideas Recently completed a 300-hour coaching course to further develop skills Believes financial success should be a byproduct of creating value, not the primary goal Advocates for building wealth slowly and living below means in early career Warns against tying self-worth to net worth or material possessions Emphasizes the importance of having a clear life philosophy and living it consistently Recommends focusing on experiences over material goods once financial stability is achieved Develop a clear vision for your life and work towards it consistently Focus on building valuable skills rather than just following passion Be cautious about over-extending financially in early stages of business Continuously invest in personal growth and development Find ways to contribute value to others rather than focusing solely on personal gain Interested individuals can email Chris at cthompson@studentworks.com to learn more about Student Works Those curious about the program should consider working for a current Student Works operator to gain experience Listen to the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast for more insights from Chris and successful alumni Read "So Good They Can't Ignore You" by Cal Newport for insights on skill development vs. passion

Austin shares that he recently completed a 2-week sleep challenge, aiming to get 100% of his sleep needs each night. He discusses how the travel and busy schedule he's had over the past few months left him feeling exhausted, and the challenge helped him reset his sleep patterns and feel more rested. Amer shares that he recently led an intensive 10.5-hour training session for his sales team, focusing on mindset and self-awareness. He incorporated a lot of interactive exercises and made sure to lead by example, sharing his own experiences and insights. The team found the training valuable in reconnecting with the fundamentals of their roles. Amer discusses the value he found in relearning core concepts and principles, rather than just learning new information. He realized the importance of revisiting the basics and how it can provide fresh perspective and renewed commitment. The group explores the concept of cause and effect, and how our actions and habits impact our lives and businesses. They discuss the importance of taking full personal accountability, rather than blaming external factors or other people. The meeting concludes with the group reflecting on the key insights and lessons from the discussion, and committing to apply them going forward in their personal and professional lives.

The team discussed the key highlights from the recent January training for RFG franchisees, including: Spending ~2 hours on active listening and communication skills, using interactive games to demonstrate how often people get distracted or stop listening Incorporating humor and personal stories into a presentation on the importance of providing detailed estimates, with the "Top 10 Worst Estimate Requests" being a hit Conducting a "blind spot" exercise where franchisees interviewed close business partners to get feedback on areas for improvement The group explored the nuances of building a personal brand versus a business brand on social media. Key points included: Avoiding oversharing personal financial details or victories, as that can backfire and distract from the core business message Positioning oneself more as a spokesperson for the contracting.com brand, rather than the individual, to maintain authenticity and focus Leveraging the team's expertise and stories to create valuable content, rather than just the founder's personal narrative Recognizing that a smaller but highly engaged following is often more valuable than a large but disinterested audience The discussion shifted to the importance of cultivating a "stakeholder" mentality rather than just optimizing for shareholder metrics like follower count. Key insights included: Viewing the audience as stakeholders in the contracting.com mission, rather than just passive consumers Drawing parallels to Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway, where the brand and mission have outlasted the individual Recognizing that some followers may actually be detrimental if they don't align with the core values and vision Focusing on building a cult-like following of true believers, rather than just maximizing vanity metrics The group explored the potential impact of contracting.com's mission to raise industry standards, including: Short-term benefits to customers but potential long-term backlash from contractors if the bar is raised too quickly Risks of a "race to the bottom" as contractors try to undercut each other, leading to consolidation and capital intensity The need to carefully manage the pace of change to avoid alienating the existing contractor base while still driving progress The meeting concluded with a recap of the key takeaways and next steps, including: Amer committing to position himself more as a spokesperson for the contracting.com brand rather than just a personal brand Exploring ways to leverage the team's expertise and stories to create valuable content, rather than just the founder's narrative Maintaining a stakeholder-focused mindset and cultivating a highly engaged, mission-aligned audience rather than just optimizing for vanity metrics Carefully managing the pace of industry disruption to avoid alienating the existing contractor base while still driving progress

The meeting begins with Austin, John, and Amer introducing themselves and sharing their current locations - Austin is in Istanbul, Turkey, John is in Vancouver, and Amer's location is not specified. They discuss the significant time difference between their locations. Austin describes his positive experience in Turkey so far, noting the friendly and vibrant energy of the country. He also mentions the prevalence of hair transplant surgeries, which he finds interesting. Austin discusses the logistics of planning the upcoming January training in Turkey, which will bring together 59 people from two countries. He shares his excitement about the opportunity to meet and train with people he has worked with remotely for years. Austin describes his successful strategy for overcoming jet lag, which involved carefully managing his sleep schedule and using melatonin. He is proud of how well he has handled the time zone change and long flights. John and Amer share their own experiences with jet lag, with John noting that he has never struggled with it, even on long flights. They discuss how jet lag affects people differently and the importance of finding the right travel strategy. The group discusses a conversation Jordan had about the unique challenges of coaching and managing Gen Z employees, who may struggle with a lack of direction and a sense of apathy towards work. They explore potential reasons for this phenomenon and consider ways to better support and engage this generation. Amer shares his insights on what makes a great presentation, drawing parallels to the emotional impact of music and film. He emphasizes the importance of incorporating personal experiences and vulnerability into presentations to create a deeper connection with the audience. Austin reflects on how he can apply Amer's advice to the upcoming sales training, focusing on how to make the content more personal and meaningful for the participants. He is inspired to find ways to convey the "why" behind the training and to infuse his own experiences and passion into the delivery.

The meeting begins with casual conversation and banter between the participants, including discussions about escape rooms, hockey, and travel. Austin provides a detailed overview of Canada's recent failure at the World Juniors hockey tournament, including the team's lack of practice, controversial coaching decisions, and the backlash from fans. He highlights the significance of this tournament for Canadian hockey pride and development. John shares his experience taking the Landmark advanced course, including how the online format has advantages over the in-person version, the personalized nature of the sessions, and the powerful concepts he's learning around shared agreements, reality vs. perception, and taking accountability for mistakes. John opens up about a personal "act" he has of hiding and covering up his mistakes, tracing it back to a childhood experience of wetting the bed. He describes how he's been working to overcome this act, including having vulnerable conversations with his wife and former employee Max. Amer provides suggestions for John on how to better incorporate the Landmark teachings into his daily life, such as having accountability partners, writing down his insights, and using visual cues or reminders.

Amer and Austin engage in lighthearted conversation, discussing topics like Amer's encounter with an attractive woman at a smoothie shop, and Austin sharing stories about the recent upset victory of Latvia over Canada in the World Junior Hockey Championship. Austin provides detailed context on the tournament format, Latvia's historical performance, and the factors that led to their surprise win over the heavily favored Canadian team. He highlights Canada's overconfidence, lack of discipline, and the standout performance of Latvia's young goaltender. Amer shares insights from a study commissioned by Bill Belichick that examined the common traits of elite athletes like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and Tom Brady. The key findings include obsessive preparation, mental toughness, intrinsic motivation, adaptability, leadership, and fearlessness under pressure. Amer and Austin discuss how the principles from Belichick's study could be applied to building high-performing teams in a business context. They explore ideas around maximizing resources, optimizing the "operator" experience, and the importance of nurture vs. nature in developing talent. Amer reflects on his tendency to be direct and impatient in conversations, and how that can negatively impact his relationships. He acknowledges the need for more intentionality, patience, and acting from a place of love rather than negative emotions. Amer and Austin wrap up the conversation, noting the time and Amer's upcoming meeting with another friend, Austin Walker. They agree to end the call and continue their discussion at a later time.

Austin and John discuss their excitement for the upcoming Christmas season and the cold weather in their respective regions. They reminisce about fond memories of skating on frozen lakes and playing pond hockey. John shares that he has found a better balance between his coaching responsibilities and his investing activities. He discusses the physical distinction between his work and home environments, and how this has helped him be more focused and productive at the office. Austin outlines several significant changes happening in his business, including the launch of a new franchise (Decify), the integration of the Lebanese accounting team, and a shift in how the sales coaching is structured with Sully focusing on larger franchises. Austin shares insights he gained from a financial advisor about strategies for aggressively paying down a mortgage, including taking advantage of the ability to make lump sum payments of up to 15% of the mortgage value per year. John discusses the challenges in the condo market in the Okanagan region, including the significant oversupply of new condos being built and the collapse in condo prices. He explains why he and Trisha have decided to hold onto their condo and rent it out rather than sell it. Amer shares his interest in learning more about project management best practices, citing examples from the video game industry. The group discusses the potential benefits of implementing an intranet system to better organize and manage the company's resources and processes. Austin outlines a key goal for 2025 - to create a centralized intranet system to better manage and distribute the company's resources and documentation across the franchise network. The group also discusses Amer's plans to collaboratively set 2025 goals for his business. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Amer and John discussed their personal experiences and strategies for maintaining healthy relationships. John shared his experiences with his partner, Trisha, highlighting the importance of open communication, setting boundaries, and addressing unworkable situations. He emphasized the need for both partners to be self-aware and willing to make adjustments for the relationship to thrive. John also mentioned the importance of having a balance of positive and negative interactions in a relationship. The conversation ended with a discussion on the different attachment styles and how they can impact relationships. John discussed his recent exposure to a podcast featuring a real estate agent turned investor, Meet Kevin, who has a high energy and different approach to investing. John found it fascinating to learn about a different perspective on luxury cars and their value, as explained by Ed Bolin, a former Lamborghini salesperson. Ed's approach to investing in cars is similar to a value investor's approach to stocks. John also mentioned a video of a Ferrari being driven into a body of water, which he found interesting as it affects the car's future value. The group also discussed the Ferrari's ban on certain individuals, including Tyga, due to their actions. John concluded by appreciating the long-form podcast format, which allows him to learn about different perspectives and approaches to investing, even if he wouldn't typically consume the content in a video format. In the meeting, John shared his recent trip to Waikiki, Hawaii, where he stayed in an Airbnb and enjoyed the local food and attractions. He also discussed his interest in analyzing business revenue, using the Cheesecake Factory as an example. He estimated that the store could be grossing over $100 million in revenue, based on its size and customer traffic. John also mentioned his habit of playing an over-under game with his wife, Trisha, where they try to guess the number of staff working at a given time. The conversation ended with John sharing that the Cheesecake Factory in Waikiki was the second largest in the world by revenue and square footage. John, Austin, and Amer discuss the revenue and operations of the Cheesecake Factory location in Honolulu, Hawaii. They estimate the store generates around $50 million in annual revenue based on its square footage of 14,000 interior square feet and high sales per square foot compared to the chain's average. John calculates the labor costs alone could be over $12 million per year given Hawaii's high minimum wage. They conclude this single location likely operates as a multi-million dollar company with multiple managers overseeing its massive sales volume driven by tourists and locals alike. Austin, John, and Amer discussed their experiences with Chat GPT and Google Calendar. Austin and Amer shared their methods of using Chat GPT, including uploading documents and using the voice feature to ask questions. John expressed his appreciation for Chat GPT's ability to provide large chunks of data quickly, but noted that it could be limited by processing power. They also discussed the potential benefits of using the paid version of Chat GPT, which allows for more document uploads and processing power. The team also discussed the usefulness of Google Calendar for scheduling and the potential benefits of using Calendly for scheduling meetings. Towards the end of the meeting, Amer and Austin had to leave for other obligations, but expressed their appreciation for the meeting and looked forward to the next one. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin asks Amer about his approach to emotional regulation and mindfulness practices. Amer explains how meditation helps him become more aware of his emotions and respond to them with greater clarity and calm, rather than getting caught up in them. He shares insights about the importance of not identifying too strongly with thoughts and emotions, and being able to observe them with detachment. Amer and Austin discuss how mindfulness and emotional regulation can be applied to professional conversations and interactions. They emphasize the importance of bringing a calm, present state of mind to meetings and interactions, rather than getting caught up in tension or judgment. Amer shares examples of how he tries to maintain this mindset, such as leaving work stress at the office before going home. Austin shares insights from his colleague Gabe on best practices for designing engaging and effective training programs. Key elements include: assessing trainees' existing knowledge, building training content to address common gaps, incorporating interactive elements like group discussions and role-plays, and providing opportunities for hands-on practice and feedback. Amer and Austin reflect on their past experiences with video games, including Amer's history as a trophy hunter on PlayStation. They discuss how gaming can become an unhealthy distraction, but also how it can provide opportunities for personal growth and learning, if approached mindfully. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin and Amer discuss the concept of advent calendars, which are a holiday tradition where you open a small gift or treat each day leading up to Christmas. Amer is unfamiliar with this tradition, and Austin explains the excitement and anticipation it creates. Austin shares that he recently completed a 1.5 month period of not drinking alcohol, and discusses his Whoop fitness tracker data showing his sleep patterns and recovery levels. They analyze the data and discuss how Austin's sleep and health have been impacted by travel and other factors. Amer expresses interest in understanding Austin's approach to time management, scheduling, and delegation. They discuss Austin's use of Google Tasks to organize his to-do lists and priorities. Amer shares his perspective on the difference between management and leadership, emphasizing the importance of creating structure and systems (management) versus inspiring and empowering people (leadership). He discusses how this applies to building a successful business and team. Amer and Austin complete a "blind spot" exercise where they ask each other questions to uncover potential areas for self-improvement and growth. This leads to a discussion about the value of self-awareness and enrollment when trying to influence others. At Austin's prompting, Amer shares the revenue and growth numbers for his business over the past few years, demonstrating impressive year-over-year increases. They discuss the importance of focusing on the full story beyond just the top-line revenue figures. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Quick recap Amer and John discussed the importance of in-person training, communication, and setting expectations in their roles, as well as the challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities. They also discussed strategies for training the sales team, including recording and documenting sales processes, creating role-play scenarios, and implementing a training program similar to the one used at Student Works. The conversation also touched on the importance of self-discovery and self-improvement in leadership, and the value of in-person coaching for sales representatives. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

A highly requested conversation between Michael Batas & John Morgan III. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin welcomes the group, including Amer in Toronto, Zaid in Toronto, and John at a Kelowna airport hotel. They discuss their travel plans and upcoming trips, with John going to Mexico for his honeymoon and then Hawaii. Zaid and Amer discuss their basketball skills, with Zaid claiming he is the better player overall despite Amer being a better shooter. They also joke about Zaid being a better swimmer than Amer. Zaid shares his experience of moving to Canada from Jordan at a young age, noting the cultural differences and adjustments he and his brother had to make, such as seeing more diversity and different styles of dress. Zaid discusses his time working for Student Works, starting as a painter and gradually taking on more responsibility and autonomy. He shares a story about realizing the profit margins were not as high as he initially thought, leading him to eventually leave Student Works and start his own renovation company. Zaid describes the challenges of starting his own renovation company, including initially taking on a wide range of services he didn't fully understand. He shares how he and his business partner, Kieran, eventually narrowed their focus to kitchen, basement, and bathroom renovations, which led to more success. Zaid and the group discuss how the systems and processes Zaid learned from Student Works have helped him in running his own renovation business, such as using Facebook ads, door-to-door marketing, and maintaining high standards of customer service. The group emphasizes the importance of proper financial management and accounting, highlighting the risks of not having a clear understanding of a business's financial position. They discuss the value of working with an experienced accountant and the need to track expenses, taxes, and profitability at the project level. The group concludes the meeting by discussing Zaid's plans for the future, including his goal of moving out on his own and the potential options for investing his recent profits. They also discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance and the challenges of scaling a business. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

The group discussed the effects of alcohol on sleep, recovery, and overall health. Austin shared his personal experience of how abstaining from alcohol for periods of time significantly improves his sleep quality, resting heart rate, and other health metrics. The group explored how alcohol can have a detrimental impact on the body, even with moderate consumption. The group examined why alcohol is viewed and regulated differently than other substances like cigarettes, despite potentially being more harmful to society. They discussed how alcohol is often normalized and accepted, while other substances face stricter regulations and social stigma. Austin shared research indicating that voluntary fear and anxiety can be mitigated through physical activity, as it helps immobilize the neural circuitry associated with those mental states. The group discussed strategies for managing voluntary fear and anxiety, such as being aware of the distinction between involuntary and voluntary reactions. The group explored the concept of rational decision-making, discussing how factors like workability, involuntary versus voluntary reactions, and avoiding catastrophization can inform better choices. They recommended resources like the book "The Gift of Fear" to further develop these skills. John shared details about the new office space the company has acquired, including the layout, amenities, and plans to set up a spray booth for the kitchen cabinet refinishing business. The team expressed excitement about the opportunities this new space will provide for increased productivity, organization, and growth. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Meeting Purpose Weekly catch-up call between Austin, Amer, and John to discuss recent events and business updates. Austin shared details from his 3-week honeymoon trip to Italy and Greece, highlighting cultural experiences and personal reflections Amer provided updates on Contracting.com's recent conference in Newark, NJ and shifts in sales team management approach Discussion of business growth strategies, focusing on improving setter/BDR team performance and scaling sales operations 3-week trip to Italy and Greece, visiting Rome, Pompeii, Positano, Amalfi Coast, Naples, Athens, and Greek islands Highlights included historical sites (Colosseum, Acropolis), local cuisine, and a cooking class in Positano Reflections on work-life balance, relationship growth, and maintaining fitness routines while traveling Gained 18 lbs during trip (198 to 216 lbs), fasted 48 hours upon return to reset Held in Newark, NJ with strong attendance despite geographic challenges Focus on systems and improving contractor communication skills Team-led organization showcased company growth and staff capabilities Included personal touches like Amer's brother attending unexpectedly Shift from focusing on closing percentages to emphasizing quality of conversations and enrollment New approach: treating sales team (closers, setters, coaches) as primary customers Implementing "servant leadership" mindset to improve overall performance and client outcomes Current focus on improving setter/BDR team performance to increase qualified appointments Goal to reach $1 million USD monthly revenue with 4 closers and 6-7 setters Plans to hire a Chief Marketing Officer to boost social media presence and brand awareness Austin to reflect on incorporating Amer's sales team management approach into his own business Amer to continue developing "dangerous" setter team and refining sales processes Potential follow-up discussion on leadership and sales team management strategies --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

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Amer and John engaged in a wide-ranging discussion that covered topics such as the business practices of John D. Rockefeller, the evolution of the railroad industry, and the challenges faced by independent refinery owners. They also analyzed the Forbes billionaire list, discussed accounting practices for real estate and marketable securities, and emphasized the importance of resilience, adaptability, and transforming variable costs into fixed costs in business. The conversation also touched on the high failure rate in their industry, the importance of having competent media buyers and marketers, and the experiences of other companies in the space. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

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Amer and John discussed various topics including personal news, sales strategies, reading habits, and investment decisions. They also explored the dynamics of card games, the potential of cryptocurrencies, and the changing landscape of popular brands and products. Additionally, they shared anecdotes and theories, discussed a hypothetical situation involving a friend's questionable activities, and explored different strategies for playing a card game. Discussing Ty's Influence and Golf ExperiencesJohn and Amer discussed their mixed feelings about Ty, a significant influence in their lives, acknowledging his curiosity and its impact but also criticizing his questionable ethics. They touched on the topic of white lies and the desire for speed, suggesting a possible link to a lack of skill. They also discussed their experiences with golf, with John sharing insights from conversations with John Cameron and Luke Fenn, emphasizing that people who cheat in golf are likely to cheat in other aspects of life. The conversation ended with a discussion about the potential for having an open conversation with Tai Lopez, with John expressing his curiosity about speaking with him off the record. Anecdotes, Theories, and Contractor RelationshipsAmer and John discussed various anecdotes and theories, including a story about a woman who accidentally killed a man and a theory about hiring lazy but ambitious people. They also touched on the concept of the more popular something becomes, the more its reverse becomes effective. Amer shared an unfulfilled promise by a company's founder, Ty, regarding additional video sections for an upgrade program, which Ty later refunded $4 million to members of a quantum mastermind group. John discussed the complexities of contractor relationships in the development industry and the need for proper invoicing procedures and follow-ups. They agreed that not every issue is a case of outright fraud, but rather a matter of competence and integrity. The conversation concluded with the notion that society often views issues as either fraud or good intentions, rather than acknowledging the possibility of incompetence and lack of integrity. Discussing Bob's Activities and Asking QuestionsJohn and Amer discussed a hypothetical situation involving their friend Bob's questionable activities. Amer said he would first understand the context of Bob's relationship before judging, as Bob had helped with Amer's charity work. They agreed on the importance of asking sensitive questions tactfully in public settings to allow for general responses. Amer assured John of his integrity regarding the situation. John left to use the restroom but promised to return and continue the discussion. Strategic Card Game Discussion and RulesAmer and John discussed a card game involving strategic decision-making, bluffing, and risk-taking. They explored different strategies for playing the game, including the possibility of playing 2 one-on-one games with 4 players. They also discussed the official rules of the game and the counter to the assassin card. Amer mentioned that they found the rules online, but the board gaming community often criticizes the one-on-one variant. They ended the conversation on a positive note, looking forward to their next game and potential future discussions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

The meeting begins with some lighthearted banter and technical issues as the participants join the call. They discuss an AI bot in the meeting and make jokes about it, with some participants expressing concern about the bot recording the conversation. John provides several analogies to illustrate the concept of lead and lag measures, and how past decisions can have ongoing consequences. He uses examples like a sales rep booking jobs that later turn out to be unprofitable, and a bank making bad loans years ago that are now causing issues. The group discusses how this principle applies to both major life decisions and daily habits. John explains the insurance concepts of frequency and severity, and how they relate to decision-making. He argues that people often focus too much on rare, severe events while neglecting the cumulative impact of frequent, less severe decisions. The group explores how this applies to both work and personal life. The conversation shifts to the importance of self-love and extending grace to oneself and others. John and Austin provide insights to Max about overcoming his tendency to judge himself and others, and the transformative potential of truly loving oneself. The group discusses practical steps to cultivate self-compassion. Amer shares his experience of competing in Toastmasters table topics competitions, and the strategies he used to manage his nerves, such as reminding himself that the audience is there to have a good time. Reed also reflects on his own journey of overcoming self-consciousness in public speaking. The group concludes the meeting by summarizing the key takeaways and encouraging Max to continue his journey of self-discovery and growth. They invite listeners to join their Patreon community to participate in similar discussions. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Key Takeaways Meg advocates for embracing the full human experience, including struggle and discomfort, rather than chasing societal "signifiers" of success There was debate around capitalism vs socialism and how to best allocate resources and create opportunities in society The group discussed the challenges of creating living wages and balancing business owner and employee interests Meg emphasizes helping people understand themselves deeply so they can advocate for their beliefs Topics Meg's Approach to Personal Development Focuses on helping people enjoy the full human experience rather than chasing societal markers of success Encourages embracing struggle/discomfort rather than always trying to "fix" problems Advocates questioning societal narratives and understanding one's authentic self Societal Structures and Expectations Discussed how childhood development causes people to adapt and sell off authenticity to fit in Explored how gender socialization impacts men and women differently Debated merits of meritocracy and whether hard work always leads to success Economic Systems and Resource Allocation Debated pros/cons of capitalism vs socialism for creating opportunities and living wages Discussed challenges business owners face with employee retention and motivation Explored ideas around universal basic income and wealth redistribution Personal Responsibility and Work Ethic Debated balance between social safety nets and incentivizing work Discussed how to combat laziness and create meaningful work Explored cultural/historical views on work and leisure Environmental Concerns and Resource Extraction Debated balancing economic prosperity with environmental protection Discussed cleanest/safest ways to extract needed resources globally Listeners can find Meg's podcast "The Art of Being Human" and website megheppner.com for more content Continue exploring how to create environments where people can deeply understand themselves Further debate on balancing economic systems, environmental concerns, and societal wellbeing. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

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The group discusses the importance of being open-minded and not judging others too quickly. Amer shares examples of how he has worked to avoid making snap judgments and instead try to understand people's perspectives. The group explores the challenges of dealing with narcissistic or self-centered individuals, including how to maintain objectivity and have difficult conversations when necessary. They discuss specific examples and strategies for addressing these types of behaviors. The group delves into a discussion of Machiavelli's writings, debunking common misconceptions about his views on power and deception. They explore the nuances of his philosophy and how it relates to modern leadership and decision-making. Amer shares his desire to incorporate more "masculine" leadership traits, such as setting clear standards and expectations, into his predominantly nurturing and empathetic approach. The group discusses the importance of finding the right balance and not being afraid to challenge team members when necessary. Building on the previous discussion, the group explores the concept of pushing team members to reach their full potential, even if it means being "unreasonable" at times. They discuss the importance of creating an environment that fosters growth and self-discovery, rather than one that simply protects team members from challenge. The meeting concludes with a recap of the key insights and lessons learned, as well as a discussion of the participants' next steps in applying these principles to their own leadership and personal development. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

The group discussed John and Trisha's recent wedding, including the rainy weather that did not dampen the celebration. They praised the wedding planner's excellent coordination and John's calm, flexible approach to the weather. The group also reminisced about memorable moments like Cory's emotional reaction and the fun activities like the sauna. John shared his reflections on the concept of cycles - natural patterns of creation, destruction, and rebirth that occur in various aspects of life. He emphasized the importance of accepting and surrendering to these cycles, rather than resisting them, as a path to greater peace and fulfillment. The group discussed examples of cycles in nature, business, and personal life. The group discussed the recent deaths of NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and CrossFit athlete Lazar Dukic, both of which occurred in freak accidents. They reflected on the devastating impact on the victims' families and communities, as well as the broader implications for safety and decision-making in their respective sports. The group explored research indicating that alcohol is the most dangerous narcotic in the world, with far-reaching societal impacts like domestic abuse and drunk driving. They discussed the historical context of prohibition and the complex relationship between alcohol, regulation, and human behavior. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

The group discussed Austin's experiences as a coach, and how he sometimes struggles to remain patient and detached when coaching individuals, especially when the challenges feel more high-stakes. They explored how Austin's own goals and biases can influence his coaching approach, and the importance of maintaining a long-term, supportive mindset focused on the individual's development rather than short-term results. The group identified the word "should" as problematic, as it can imply obligation and demotivate people. They discussed how "should" statements often reflect the speaker's own biases and goals rather than the other person's best interests. The group agreed to be more mindful of avoiding "should" language in favor of more empowering phrasing. Amer shared an insight about "misguided loyalty" - the tendency to keep underperforming employees out of a sense of personal attachment rather than what's best for the business. The group explored the importance of assessing willingness and alignment, and being willing to make tough decisions to maintain the health of the team and organization. Amer shared his experience of performing stand-up comedy for the first time, describing his nerves, self-doubt, and ultimately his perseverance in getting on stage and trying out his material, even in front of a small audience. The group celebrated Amer's courage in taking on this challenge. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin discusses his experience stepping in to manage production for a week while the regular production manager, Mark, was on vacation. He gained valuable insights into the business, including the frequency of running to job sites for last-minute materials and the need for better communication with clients. Austin noticed that the team was often running to job sites for materials, leading to multiple small supplier bills for a single project. He proposes solutions like involving crews in the ordering process and making site visits before larger projects to better anticipate material needs. Austin realized that the team was not providing daily progress updates to clients, leading to more questions from clients. He emphasizes the value of over-communicating with clients to set proper expectations. The group delves deeper into the material ordering process, including the timeline, the role of the production manager versus the driver, and the challenges of accurately estimating material needs for each project. Austin shares how his week managing production was reminiscent of his early days at Student Works, with a constant influx of emails and responsibilities. He describes using techniques like listening to a specific song to help manage his workload. Austin discusses how he has worked to empower his operations team, Max and Brady, by encouraging them to take more ownership and make decisions without relying on him as much. This has helped boost their confidence and decision-making abilities. John shares his thoughts on a recent video released by a local real estate firm, Vantage West Realty, which provided a raw, unedited discussion among the firm's leaders about the current state of the real estate market. He found the video to be a rare and genuine look at the concerns of real estate professionals. John explains the property assessment system in British Columbia, which provides homeowners with an annual assessment of their property's value. He discusses how this information can be used to identify properties that may be overpriced compared to their assessed value. John and Amer discuss the importance of emotional regulation and discipline in investing, drawing parallels to sports and sales. They explore common emotional triggers, such as fear of missing out and confirmation bias, and strategies for managing them. The conversation concludes with a brief recap and John and Amer agreeing to wrap up the call, as John needs to attend a church event --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

John, Amer, and Austin discussed strategies for business growth, wealth creation, and the importance of strategic partnerships. They also explored the evolution of Amer's business offers, the complexities of managing franchisee warranty holdback funds, and the risks of offering financial advice. Lastly, they provided guidance on coaching an individual struggling with proactivity and time management, and shared their own personal struggles and successes. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin is considering selling his Rydel franchise location, citing the need for more dedicated coaching and oversight as the franchise group has grown to 26 locations. He has identified two key motivators: 1) his own personal development and ability to have a greater impact on the franchise group, and 2) the strong performance of his current production and sales managers, Mark and Gabe, who have helped grow the location but are now ready to take on more. The group discusses the importance of having a strong internal coaching function within franchise organizations, drawing examples from successful chains like McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, and In-N-Out Burger. They note that this is a key area of focus for the Rydel franchise group as it continues to scale. Amer raises the idea of Contracting.com potentially offering bookkeeping services as an add-on for their customers. John provides insights on the bookkeeping services industry, noting the potential benefits but also cautioning about the high costs and maintenance required to build an in-house solution versus partnering with an existing provider. John discusses the value he has gained from participating in a local business networking group, including generating referrals, making connections, and learning from other business owners. He emphasizes the importance of being in a group where you are not necessarily the most experienced, in order to continue learning and growing. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

If you have a hard time living in the present moment.If you spend time thinking about what has happened in the past.About employees that aren't doing what they're supposed to. About the bid you did that didn't work out.Or if you spend time worrying about the future.About what might happen tomorrow on the job site.Then this is a conversation you won't want to miss.41 years old and Randy has never felt present.He's heard people talk about it.But he never really understood what they meant.By the end of the conversation, he had 10/10 clarity on what it feels like to truly live in the moment.I asked Randy if I could share this with you because this comes up all the time on free strategy sessions and he agreed.Running a contracting business isn't easy. But if you can apply what we talk about in this video, it will make it a little easier.Enjoy. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

John & Austin emphasize that men often don't know exactly what they're looking for in a partner, and that the best approach is to put yourself in environments where you can meet high-quality women who will choose you, rather than trying to control the process. They encourage Amer to be open-minded and patient in his search. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Austin and John discussed various challenges and strategies related to their personal and professional lives. They focused on the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, managing their finances effectively, and prioritizing quality time in their relationship. They also shared their perspectives on the value of family, the impact of family loss, and the potential conflicts between immediate financial gain and long-term goals. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

Amer and John discussed John's upcoming marathon and his training regime. John shared his preference for running without headphones and his rigorous weekly routine, which included running hills and a total distance of 6,000 kilometers. He also revealed his plan to run the marathon from Cologne to Vernon, where his wedding would take place, and mentioned Graham as a potential running partner. Lastly, John briefly talked about a movie called "Horizon American Saga" to Amer. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support

The group discussed the Saint Jean Baptist holiday, the rental industry, and the impact of financial background on career choices, with a focus on the trades and real estate sectors. They also delved into recent cases of fraud, the importance of reputation in various industries, and the psychological effects of optimism and pessimism on marketing strategies. Lastly, they analyzed the performance of sports teams in the NHL Stanley Cup Finals and the recent comeback of Conor McGregor, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, visualization, and learning from past failures. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theweeklycall/support