Podcasts about csrs

In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Podcast, host Gary McCreadie is joined by James Christian, Senior Director of Product at Podium, to discuss how artificial intelligence is helping HVAC and home service businesses operate more efficiently. James explains what large language models are, how AI employees can assist with customer communication, scheduling, dispatching, and lead management, and why AI should be viewed as a tool that supports people rather than replaces them. The conversation covers AI-powered CSRs, technician scheduling, route optimization, business automation, and the growing role of AI in daily operations. Gary and James also explore how AI can reduce workload, improve customer response times, and help business owners focus on growing their companies. In this conversation, James explains what large language models are and how artificial intelligence is being used to support HVAC and home service businesses. He discusses how AI employees can handle customer communication, scheduling, dispatching, and lead management, while helping office staff work more efficiently. James and Gary explore topics such as technician skill matching, route optimization, business automation, and the importance of using AI as a tool to support people rather than replace them. They also discuss how AI can improve response times, reduce workload, and help business owners focus on growth by automating routine tasks and improving daily operations. Expect to Learn: What large language models are and how AI is being used in HVAC and home service businesses. How AI employees can assist with customer communication, scheduling, dispatching, and lead management. Why AI works best as a tool that supports office staff and business owners rather than replacing them. How technician skill matching, GPS data, and scheduling systems can help improve job assignment and efficiency. How AI can reduce workload, improve response times, and help business owners focus on growing their business. Episode Highlights: [00:00] - Sponsor Ad: Factory Direct Filters [00:42] - Intro to James Christian in Part 1 [02:20] - Intro to AI in HVAC for techs & owners [03:54] - What is an LLM? (Large Language Model) [05:57] - AI as a virtual employee [08:54] - Podium's evolution: reviews → AI employees [11:35] - How AI matches techs to calls by skill level [14:02] - AI + GPS for real-time arrival estimates [16:11] - Gary's reaction: Terminator/Skynet joke This Episode is Kindly Sponsored by: Cintas: https://www.cintas.com/hvacknowitall Cool Air Products: https://www.coolairproducts.net/ Factory Direct Filters: https://www.factorydirectfilters.com/ SupplyHouse: https://www.supplyhouse.com/tm Use promo code HKIA5 to get 5% off your first order at Supplyhouse! Follow the Guest James Christian on: LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-christian-977a28a/ LinkedIn - Podium: https://www.linkedin.com/company/podium/ Follow the Host on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/  Follow the Podcast on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HVACKnowItAll Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6LCBJGw0EHG03rdWHxUMce Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hvac-know-it-all-podcast/id1359253455 

Pride Month gives veterinary teams a chance to celebrate LGBTQ+ colleagues and clients, but real allyship has to continue long after June. This week, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, talk with Stephanie Goss, CEO of PrideVMC, about how veterinary practices can move beyond rainbow stickers and build support into everyday clinic culture. Stephanie shares her path to and through veterinary medicine, the work of PrideVMC, and why visibility, community, mentorship, and leadership opportunities matter for LGBTQ+ veterinary professionals. The conversation focuses on practical steps every clinic can take: normalizing pronouns without forcing anyone to disclose, reviewing forms for assumptions about gender and family structure, practicing respectful introductions, and creating a workplace where people feel safe speaking up when something goes wrong. This episode is for veterinarians, technicians, CSRs, managers, and practice owners who want to show up better. Allyship doesn't have to be perfect. It does have to be consistent, respectful, and year-round. Links: Allyship Resources: https://pridevmc.org/allyship-resources/ Gender Diversity Guide: https://pridevmc.org/gender-diversity-guide/ Gender Identity Bill of Rights: https://gibor.pridevmc.org/ Virtual First Aid Kit: https://pridevmc.org/firstaid/ #VeterinaryMedicine #VetMed #PrideVMC #LGBTQVetMed #VeterinaryLeadership

Send us Fan Mail---- CLUB SABROSO RADIO SHOW PRESENTATION:FIRST HOUR: We kick things off with the Official Club Sabroso Playlist. The best tracks and the freshest new releases curated by CLUB SABROSO RADIO. PLAYLIST BELOW.SECOND HOUR: We have the honor of welcoming a very special guest, Marlon Ace! Born in Santiago

Most contractors wrote off Yelp years ago. But the platform has quietly become one of the most powerful lead-generation engines in the home service space,  powered by AI partnerships with OpenAI and Perplexity that are funneling search traffic directly to Yelp listings. John Wilson sits down with Katy Lightsey, Head of Services at Yelp, to break down exactly how  61 home service leads  are flowing through the platform and what  68 contractor lead generation  actually looks like in 2025. They cover lead costs, close rates, how Yelp Ads and Request a Quote really work, and why  68 how to get more leads  for your home service business may start with the platform you've been ignoring.What you'll learn:→ How Yelp generates 10 million home service leads every month → Why AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity are driving more traffic through Yelp → How Yelp Assistant uses AI to match homeowners with contractors → The truth behind Yelp's reputation with contractors → What every business should do to improve visibility and lead flow on Yelp → How Yelp Ads, Request a Quote, and lead pricing actually work———————————————— 

Are outdated workflows slowing down your insurance agency? In this episode, we break down the hidden costs of inefficient processes and show independent insurance agents how to modernize operations for better efficiency, happier teams, and higher agency value

Host Polly Swingle is joined by Lauren Sauders, MOTR/L, CBIS, CSRS, and Vice President of Medical Affairs at Neurolutions, to talk about the IpsiHand device for stroke recovery.As an occupational therapist by training, Lauren has spent her entire career in adult neurorehabilitation. She began as a clinician at The Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis, an affiliate of Washington University in St. Louis, where she worked alongside the research team that conceived IpsiHand in its earliest days. She helped author the initial study protocol and has grown with the company ever since - shepherding the technology through clinical trials, peer‑reviewed publications, and the regulatory pathway that earned IpsiHand both FDA Breakthrough Device designation and De Novo clearance. After clearance, she helped lead the organization through commercialization and into broader clinical adoption. Lauren has authored numerous publications and delivered presentations at national and international forums, but her most enduring focus is advocacy: ensuring that stroke survivors have evidence‑based access to therapies that meaningfully improve their quality of life. That mission is personal. Beyond the patients she has cared for, Lauren brought her grandmother into her own home during the COVID‑19 pandemic and cared for her after she sustained a severe stroke — an experience that deepened her understanding of the toll stroke takes on families as well as individuals. She is also a mother of three, including a child with a rare neurogenetic condition, and is a passionate advocate within the pediatric neuro-community as well. Her and her husband also share their home with three crazy dogs. When she isn't working or advocating, she can most often be found visiting family in Bermuda.Click the link below to visit the IpsiHand by Kandu website-https://www.neurolutions.com/Learn more about The Recovery Project!View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on FacebookThanks for listening! 

What actually drives growth in home services?In this compilation episode, John Wilson shares the systems and strategies behind scaling a $40M home service company — including how his team doubled a plumbing business in 90 days, improved cash flow, increased average tickets, and expanded through acquisitions.From pricing strategy and speed-to-lead automation to technician training and buying businesses, this episode breaks down the fundamentals top operators use to grow faster and more profitably. In this episode, you'll learn: • How to double revenue with operational fundamentals • Why cash flow matters more than profit • How better training increases average ticket • The role AI and automation play in growth • Why acquisitions can outperform organic expansion • How top operators think about scalingMore solo episodes: @JohnWilsonStudio

Home service companies are leaving serious money on the table when it comes to referrals. In this episode, John Wilson sits down with Murphy Nadauld from ReferPro to break down how top HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing companies are building scalable referral engines through lifecycle marketing, automation, and AI.In this episode, you'll learn: • Why referrals are underutilized in home services • How lifecycle marketing drives repeat revenue • Why referral incentives increase conversion rates • How contractors are using referrals to recruit technicians • The role AI and automation play in customer retention • How affiliate partnerships create new lead opportunitiesHost: John WilsonGuest: Murphy Nadauld (ReferPro)ReferPro

High ticket sales in home services aren't about being pushy — they're about giving customers the right options.In this episode, John Wilson and Jack Carr break down the systems behind bigger tickets, better close rates, and stronger sales cultures in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical businesses. They unpack why many technicians struggle with sales, how to shift the mindset around presenting options, and why education — not pressure — leads to better outcomes for both the customer and the company.In this episode, you'll learn:Why sales in home services is really about educationThe “Why You, Why Now, How Can I Afford You?” frameworkHow to handle common customer objectionsWhy consistent sales training beats one-time seminarsHow option building impacts close rate and average ticketThe role incentives and competition play in sales performanceHost: John Wilson Co-Host: Jack Carr

Federal employees may hear “COLA increase” and assume their retirement income keeps full pace with inflation, but under FERS, the cost-of-living adjustment can work differently than many expect. Before you retire, it is important to understand how FERS COLA, CSRS COLA, Social Security COLA, and your overall federal retirement income may interact over time.Apply for a federal benefits retirement review: https://perspectivefunnel.co/682642d22275ec003bfa6626/691df07396253e003c42b434/?ps_hello=%20Get the digital book at no cost to you here: https://cdfinancial.org/being-a-federal-employee-in-the-era-of-trump-book/Checklist Challenge: https://cdfinancial.org/checklist-challenge/Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter“Many federal employees do not realize that the COLA number they hear in the news may not be the same adjustment applied to their FERS pension.”LINKS AND RESOURCESOfficial OPM COLA Information:https://www.opm.gov/retirement-center/publications-forms/benefits-administration-letters/Social Security COLA Information:https://www.ssa.gov/cola/WHO ARE WE?CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.TIMESTAMPS0:00 Federal Retirement COLA and the “Diet COLA” Problem0:30 Why Real Cost of Living Can Feel Higher Than Your COLA0:56 Grocery, Housing, and Inflation Pressure on Retirees1:31 How Rising Food Prices Can Affect Retirement Income2:11 Housing Costs, Rent, and Family Financial Pressure2:36 Regional Inflation and Cost-of-Living Challenges3:14 FERS, CSRS, and COLA Differences in Retirement3:41 Why Future Growth May Matter in Retirement Planning4:02 Balancing Safety, Income, and Inflation RiskAdvisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.Support the show

How AI Is Transforming Aviation Insurance | TriVector Labs Special Episode In this special Aviation Insurance Podcast episode recorded at the Aviation Insurance Association Conference in Dallas Texas, Tim Bonnell joins fellow TriVector Labs founders Danny Maco and Art Jimenez to discuss how AI is transforming aviation insurance workflows for brokers carriers underwriters and aviation insurance professionals. From validated aviation specific intelligence to secure AI driven workflows and faster research capabilities, this conversation explores how specialized AI tools are helping aviation insurance professionals work more efficiently with greater accuracy and confidence. The TriVector Labs team shares insights on: Why general AI tools often fall short for aviation insurance How aviation specific AI improves underwriting and research The importance of security and validated information How AI can support brokers carriers CSRs and underwriters The future of AI powered workflows in aviation insurance If you work in aviation insurance aircraft insurance underwriting or aviation risk management this special episode provides an inside look at where the industry is heading next.

David is joined by Brandon Vaughn, who scaled a window cleaning and pressure washing business from a two-person owner-operator shop to 70 employees before selling, then built Wise Codings to 39 locations in 4 years working under 5 hours a week, and now runs HireBus, an AI recruiting platform. They break down what actually stops home service owners from scaling, from getting off the tools and building the right team structure to the MAST hiring framework, why recruiting is a volume game, and how AI agents are already replacing CSRs and recruiters in the trades.See where your business stands —Take the free Growth ScorecardListen to the full audiobook free — Get Off The TruckFollow HSBC Social's:Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | HSBC Accelerator | Jobber | Home Service Business Coach Email: info@homeservicebusinesscoach.com

Missed charges happen in every veterinary practice, but what happens next says a lot about clinic culture. In this episode, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, take on the uncomfortable reality of billing mistakes: forgotten charges, wrong invoice items, inventory mix-ups, and the dreaded follow-up call to a client. They discuss why missed charges often turn into blame, especially for technicians, CSRs, and support staff, and how clinics can handle these mistakes without creating fear or finger-pointing. Beckie emphasizes the role of psychological safety, while Ernie shares how written policies, clear thresholds, and manager-led client communication helped his teams manage billing errors more fairly. The episode offers practical takeaways for owners, managers, veterinarians, techs, and front-desk teams: make charges easier to enter correctly, define when the clinic absorbs small errors, decide who contacts the client, and stop treating normal human mistakes like personal failures. #VeterinaryMedicine #VetTechLife #VeterinaryPracticeManagement #VetMedLeadership #VeterinaryViewfinder

This episode is different. Crystal Williams didn't study marketing in some classroom and decide to sell services to contractors. She was born into the trades. Her grandfather, father, and brother all built and ran McWilliams Heating, Cooling and Plumbing in East Texas. She grew up in the business.When she took over marketing, she tripled their annual sales. Then she realized most contractors are getting terrible marketing advice from people who have never worn a tool belt. So she started Lemon Seed Marketing with partner Emily Fleniken to fix it.Sam sits down with Crystal to break down what most contractors get wrong about marketing, why branding is way deeper than a logo and van wrap, and how to stop throwing money at shiny objects that don't move the needle.In This Episode:Why Sam only interviews people he knows and trusts nowCrystal tripled her family's HVAC business before starting Lemon Seed MarketingThe biggest miss: branding goes way deeper than a logo and van wrapAI logos scream out within three seconds - they have no depthBrand first, strategize afterwards (not the other way around)Strategy versus plan: anyone can give you a plan, but how does it all work togetherShiny object syndrome: you look up and have five companies doing the same thingMarketing gets none of the accolades but all the blameThree steps before creating anything: audit what you're doing, build ideal avatar, competitive analysis for positioningDoctor analogy: he takes your family history before prescribing diabetes medicineMost contractors are entrepreneurial operators, not marketers (either too controlling or too ADD to let it work)If you're booked three weeks out, that's not a flex - that's pissing off customersWhoever shows up on weekends and at night wins the gameMarketing hierarchy: brand, social media, website first (foundation), then Google Local Services, then direct mail, then mass mediaDirect mail performs better when people already trust your brandMass media requires longer flight dates and stronger budgets or you're spreading too thinAI answering services: cool idea, terrible execution when you go cold turkey from three CSRs to all AI overnightPretty websites don't sell systems - prioritize conversion and ease of use over aestheticsGo High Level for websites: run from thatCrystal's Two Immediate Action Steps:Step 1: Start posting on social media three to four times a week - pictures of your team, your trucks, your warehouse, behind the scenes content from your actual locationStep 2: Fill out your Google Business Profile completely and post to it weekly - before and afters, technician spotlights, community involvementThe Marketing Hierarchy:Foundation (do this first): Brand, social media posting three to four times per week, website focused on conversion over prettyLayer 2: Google Business Profile filled out and posting weekly, Google Local Services Ads, directories cleaned upLayer 3 (only after foundation is solid): Direct mail with consistent strategy, mass media like billboards and radio with longer flightsWork with Sam:Website: https://www.closeitnow.netCoaching & Training: https://www.closeitnow.net/coachingFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/closeitnowEmail: sam@closeitnow.net3 Ways to Work with Sam:On-Site Training - Half-day classroom plus half-day ride-alongs with your teamVirtual Training - Same frameworks, delivered remotely for teams or individualsThe Build - Company scaling for HVAC and home services owners. You built the revenue. We help you build the business. Finding 15-20 percent of revenue sitting in your company that should have gone to your bottom line.Connect with Crystal Williams and Lemon Seed Marketing:Website: https://www.lemonseedmarketing.comEmail: crystal@lemonseedmarketing.comPodcast: From the Yellow ChairSpecial Offer: Mention Close It Now in your onboarding form and get 250 dollars offCrystal Williams is the co-founder of Lemon Seed Marketing, a full-service brand strategy agency for skilled trades. She tripled her family's HVAC business as marketing director before founding Lemon Seed with Emily Fleniken in 2020. Service World's Woman of the Year 2018, Top 40 Under 40 by AHR News. Secretary on Women in HVACR executive board.Crystal's Family Businesses:McWilliams HVAC - Sailor Mac mascot named after her grandfather who started the business in 1974 after retiring from the NavySpot On Pest Control - Johnny the Ladybug mascot named after her grandfather Johnny who committed suicide in 2014, supports suicide awareness and life after suicideRufus Roofing - Rufus the Armadillo with a back made of roofing shinglesLeave a review on Apple Podcasts or Google to help more salespeople and contractors find this show.Google Review Link: https://g.page/r/CbfnnDqTCwQdEAE/review

This week, Shawn Wilkie and Dr. Ivan Zak welcome Dr. Lisa Beagan, founder of Your Vet Direction, to discuss how AI-supported triage can bring more structure, consistency, and safety to veterinary intake. The conversation explores one of the most overlooked risks in practice operations: asking front-desk teams to make triage decisions without the clinical tools or training to do so confidently. Dr. Beagan shares how her platform, Your Vet Direction, helps guide CSRs through the right questions, prioritize urgency, and support better decision-making while keeping humans firmly in the loop. The episode offers a practical look at how structured AI can reduce variability, improve efficiency, and help veterinary practices modernize one of their most critical workflows. Learn more about Your Vet Direction. Dr. Beagan recommends "The Coming Wave: Technology, Power, and the Twenty-first Century's Greatest Dilemma" by Mustafa Suleyman for its insights on AI guardrails.

Today we sat down with Amy Matheny, General Manager and Co-Owner of Reliability Home Services, to talk about a common issue in service businesses—CSRs saying “yes” when they should be saying “no.” What seems like good customer service often leads to overbooked schedules, burnt-out technicians, and frustrated customers. Amy breaks down the concept of “Eat the Frog,” how avoiding hard conversations creates bigger problems, and how to train your team to confidently set expectations. If your team struggles with overbooking or communication, this episode is a must-listen.GET FLUID DISPATCHING HERE: https://thenewflatrate.com/fluid-dispatchingSocial Media Links:InstagramTNFR- ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thenewflatrate⁠⁠FacebookTNFR- ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/TheNewFlatRate⁠⁠LinkedInTNFR- ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-new-flat-rate-inc-/posts/?feedView=all⁠⁠Links and Resources:https://thenewflatrate.com/https://thenewflatrate.com/fluid-dispatching

À l'occasion de la journée mondiale de lutte contre le paludisme, samedi 25 avril, nous allons en Côte d'Ivoire, où cette maladie représente 30% des causes de consultations dans les centres de santé et les hôpitaux. Face au paludisme, l'une des sources de préoccupation est la résistance des moustiques aux insecticides. C'est le cas dans cette localité agricole située à une centaine de kilomètres au nord d'Abidjan : Tiassalé, où pullule un moustique réputé être le plus résistant au monde, et qui suscite l'intérêt de la communauté scientifique. De notre correspondant de retour de Tiassalé, Des rizières vertes à perte de vue : Tiassalé est l'un des greniers d'Abidjan. Félix y cultive le grain blanc depuis des décennies. La saison des pluies arrive en Côte d'Ivoire et l'agriculteur en redoute les conséquences : « Nous sommes entourés de bas-fonds, et les moustiques sont tellement énormes qu'à partir de 19 heures, on a du mal à tenir. On ne sait pas comment faire pour repousser ces moustiques. Il y a beaucoup de paludisme, les enfants sont souvent malades. » À lire aussiMoustique : l'animal le plus dangereux au monde Des « multirésistances » aux insecticides de plus en plus fréquentes Le champ de Félix est déjà bordé d'eau stagnante. Louche à la main, des scientifiques sont venus remplir des seaux. « On a des larves de moustiques qui se développent. Nous devons faire des prélèvements de ces larves-là, les envoyer au laboratoire et puis les étudier », explique le docteur Émile Tchicaya, entomologiste au Centre suisse de recherche scientifique (CSRS). Il y a une quinzaine d'années, une équipe de chercheurs a identifié dans la zone un moustique mutant, unique au monde : « On avait quatre familles d'insecticides utilisées en santé publique. Pour la première fois, on découvrait qu'un moustique pouvait être résistant aux quatre classes simultanément. De plus en plus, on voit que ces multirésistances se développent dans d'autres régions de la zone. » L'une des hypothèses pour expliquer ces multirésistances : les pesticides utilisés dans les plantations alentours. Ils auraient pu faciliter une sélection naturelle, selon le chercheur. À Tiassalé, les larves récoltées sont transportées à l'insectarium du CSRS – des centaines d'anophèles, vecteurs du paludisme, se développent dans une demi-douzaine de cages à papillon. Ils doivent servir de cobayes. L'idée est d'observer leur réaction face à de nouveaux insecticides : « L'insectarium sert de lieu pour pouvoir réaliser ces tests-là. Si on a un insecticide qui est testé et qui montre une efficacité contre le moustique de Tiassalé, ça veut dire forcément que ce produit-là est efficace. » Des tests grandeur nature Ces produits sont ensuite testés grandeur nature. Le centre suisse dispose d'une trentaine de cases, certaines en béton, d'autres en banco. Des cases placées près des rizières, là où les moustiques prolifèrent. Des volontaires y passent la nuit sous les moustiquaires, à l'image d'Oba. « Quand on rentre dans la case, on fait descendre la moustiquaire, on se glisse à l'intérieur… et puis, quand on finit, on regarde en bas, sur le sol, s'il y a des moustiques morts. Quand il y a les moustiques morts, on les attrape et on les met dans des tubes. » Les volontaires peuvent aussi être piqués – un traitement antipaludéen leur est fourni. Samira Gouro est l'une des responsables de cette expérimentation du centre suisse. Elle résume l'objectif de cette installation : « Ça permet de simuler nos habitations. Quand on met les volontaires dans les cases, c'est comme si c'étaient les populations qui habitaient dedans, et elles utilisent les moustiquaires pour voir si ça réduit l'incidence du paludisme. Donc ça nous permet de mesurer l'efficacité des moustiquaires imprégnées que nous testons. » Une recherche capitale, car le gouvernement ivoirien continue de distribuer des moustiquaires imprégnées d'insecticides afin de prévenir les contaminations. En moyenne, le taux d'incidence du paludisme était de 233 cas pour 1 000 habitants en Côte d'Ivoire en 2025. À lire aussiÀ La Réunion, la révolution du moustique stérile pour lutter contre les épidémies

Nominate your veterinary hero here today!Happy Client Service Representative Week! On this episode of The Vet Blast Podcast presented by dvm360, host Adam Christman, DVM, MBA, sits down with Jill Clark DVM, chief visionary officer at IGNITE and cofounder of The North American Association of Veterinary Receptionists, to explore how CSRs are evolving from “just receptionists” into revenue generators, client loyalty architects, and true patient advocates. Stay tuned at the end of the episode for a special offer from Clark and the team at IGNITE!

Do Yard Signs Actually Work for Home Service Businesses?In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Sam Preston, CEO of Service Scalers, to break down one of the simplest—and most debated—marketing channels in home services: yard signs.Are they actually effective, or just cheap noise?John and Sam dig into the real economics behind yard signs, including why they can be 10–100x cheaper per impression than billboards—but come with tradeoffs in reach and perceived credibility. They also explore real-world examples, including a company that scaled to millions in revenue largely using yard signs alone.The conversation goes beyond theory and into execution: what makes a yard sign convert, where they work best, and the common mistakes that cause most operators to fail with them.In this episode, we cover: The true cost vs. return of yard signs compared to billboards  Why repetition in a neighborhood builds trust and drives calls  Real examples of businesses scaling with yard signs  The biggest mistakes operators make (and how to avoid them)  What actually makes a yard sign convert  When yard signs work best—and when they don't If you're looking for low-cost ways to generate more local demand—or wondering if yard signs are worth testing—this episode gives you a practical, no-BS breakdown of how to think about them.Host: John Wilson https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbwilson1/Guest: Sam Preston https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-preston-a682103b6/

On this episode of the Jered Williams Show, the discussion is centered around implementing an effective performance pay system for technicians, managers, and customer service representatives (CSRs) in a home services business. The key focus was on aligning employee incentives with the company's goals of driving revenue, using labor and materials efficiently, and providing excellent customer service. The episode covered the importance of analyzing the profit and loss (P&L) statement, structuring commission-based pay for each role, and avoiding "spiffs" in favor of a simple, transparent performance-based compensation model. The goal was to create a win-win situation where employees are motivated to maximize the business's profitability, which in turn allows them to earn higher commissions and bonuses. The insights shared provide a comprehensive framework for home services companies to implement a successful performance pay system that benefits both the employees and the overall financial health of the organization.

I Bought 3 Home Service Businesses in 90 Days… Here's What HappenedIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with co-host Jack Carr (CEO of Rapid HVAC) to break down what actually happens when you aggressively scale through acquisitions.After buying three businesses in 90 days, John walks through the strategy, the chaos, and the results—from rapid revenue growth to hitting 24% EBITDA and transforming the structure of his business almost overnight.This isn't theory. It's a real-time look at what it takes to scale a home service company through M&A—and when it actually works.What we cover: Why the best companies combine organic growth + acquisitions How John added $10–12M in run-rate revenue in one quarter The real reason acquisitions worked this time (and broke the business in the past)  How shared services (marketing, call center, dispatch) drive massive efficiency gains  Why infrastructure—not deal flow—is the key to scaling acquisitions If you're thinking about buying businesses—or wondering when you're actually ready—this episode is a candid breakdown of what it really takes to scale through M&A.

The landscape of private practice changed forever this year. With Amazon officially adding physical therapy to its marketplace, accessing rehabilitation services is now as easy as ordering a pair of shoes. This shift signifies a massive rise in public awareness of therapy services-but it also brings a new set of challenges for the independent practitioner.How do you compete with a global giant? How do you meet the "one-click" expectations of modern clients?In our 2026 "Starting an OT Practice" course, we dive into the complexities of launching and sustaining a practice in this high-tech, high-convenience era. We'll discuss why easy onboarding is no longer optional, how to leverage the latest AI tools to provide world-class care while run a lean and professional business, and how to position your clinical expertise as a high-value alternative to corporate healthcare.We are joined by Christopher Gaskins PhD, OTR/L, CSRS, who recently made the leap from "side-hustle" to full-time practice owner. Chris shares his raw, first-hand experience of navigating the ups and downs of launching in this current market, offering a roadmap for OTs who are ready to bet on themselves.See full course details here:https://otpotential.com/ceu-podcast-courses/starting-an-ot-practice-in-2026See all OT CEU courses here:https://otpotential.com/ceu-podcast-coursesCheck our our live webinar schedule here:https://otpotential.com/live-ot-ceu-webinarsSupport the show by using the OTPOTENTIAL Medbridge Code:https://otpotential.com/blog/promo-code-for-medbridgeTry 2 free OT Potential courses here:https://otpotential.com/free-ot-ceusSupport the show

Host Polly Swingle is joined by team members of the Concentrated Stroke Rehab Program (CSR) to talk about the evolution and effectiveness of the program over the last few years.Elise Thompson, MSOT, OTRL, is an occupational therapist that graduated from Grand Valley State University with a Master's of Occupational Therapy. Soon after graduating, Elise started with TRP and has been here for a year and a half. She has taken part in both the PMP and CSR program in the Livonia clinic. She is passionate about helping individuals with neurological conditions return to what they love doing most.Dr. Kayla Diebold, PT, DPT, CSRS is a Lead Physical Therapist and the Site Coordinator of Clinical Education at The Recovery Project.  She has specialized in the treatment of neurological diseases and disorders since 2017 with special interest in Parkinson's Disease, Stroke, and Vestibular disorders.  She is a Certified Stroke Rehab Specialist and heads the medical programming group for stroke at The Recovery Project. Kayla also has certifications in PWR! and Rock Steady Boxing for the management of Parkinson's Disease. She is a guest lecturer in the Physical Therapist Assistant program at Macomb Community College and frequently presents on topics involving physical therapy management of neurological diseases and disorders across the continuum of care.Learn more about The Recovery Project!View our website at www.therecoveryproject.netCall us 855-877-1944 to become a patientFollow us on InstagramLike us on FacebookThanks for listening! 

Boost Agency Production with Daily Morning HuddlesMatt Dietz of Agency Launch shares a simple daily morning huddle structure designed to increase insurance agency production by keeping teams focused on measurable goals. He recommends a 5–10 minute status report that starts with the agency's monthly premium goal and current pace, then has each producer report premium written yesterday, quotes generated yesterday, plans for today, and what help they need. He advises giving CSRs measurable daily expectations as well—especially cross-sells—plus items like reviews, referrals, scheduled life appointments, or reviews, using the huddle to create accountability and motivation. Dietz suggests the owner report their own numbers too, save coaching and deeper conversations for weekly one-on-ones, and run daily huddles until consistent goal achievement. He also promotes texting his community and resources and mentions products at agencylaunch.net.00:00 Welcome to Agency Launch00:29 Free Texting Resources01:07 Why Daily Huddles Work01:37 Set the Premium Goal01:50 Run the 5 Minute Huddle03:26 Producer Daily Metrics04:16 CSR Goals and Cross Sells05:48 Peer Pressure and Accountability06:57 Lead by Example07:35 Weekly Coaching Check Ins08:31 When to Stop the Huddles09:04 Huddle Script Recap09:25 Wrap Up and Offers

Is AI killing SEO—or just changing how it works?In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Lisa from Service Scalers to talk about what SEO actually looks like in 2026. They break down why AI isn't replacing search, why Google still dominates high-intent local buying behavior, and what home service companies need to do to stay visible.They cover the shift away from low-intent traffic, why Google Business Profiles matter more than ever, and how authority, trust, and user experience are replacing old-school SEO tactics.In this episode, we cover: -Why AI is changing SEO, not killing it -Why low-intent traffic is dropping -How Google Business Profiles drive local leads -Why brand search matters more than most owners realizeHost: John Wilson https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbwilson1/Guest: Lisa Appleby https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-appleby/?originalSubdomain=uk

Your call center isn't losing people by accident.It's bleeding them out.In this episode of CX Riot Radio, we break down the Headset Hemorrhage... the slow, quiet burnout happening in customer service teams everywhere.Too many companies treat agents like replaceable hardware… plug them in, track the metrics, and expect performance.But your CSRs aren't machines.They're human operators dealing with emotional, high-pressure work every single day.And when the system is broken, no amount of AI or automation will fix it.It just makes the problem scale fasterHere's the LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/caffcx

On this episode of the Jered Williams Show, the hosts discuss their new and improved hiring process to address the challenge of finding good technicians, CSRs, and managers in the current labor market. They share their experience with the traditional hiring approach and how it often led to hiring the wrong candidates. To address this, they have implemented a hiring event model that involves a multi-step filtering process, including an initial application, RSVP, and in-person event. This allows them to quickly assess a larger pool of candidates and identify those who align with the company's core values of "Be an Asset" and "Don't Be an Asshole." The hosts also discuss their plans to develop an apprenticeship program to provide structured training and career progression opportunities for new hires. Additionally, they highlight upcoming industry events, such as the Death Walk and Home Service Hoorah, which offer valuable networking and learning experiences for home service business owners.

The Marketing Stack for Home Service Businesses: From $1M to $10MWhat should home service companies actually spend on marketing at $1 million, $5 million, and $10 million?In this episode, John Wilson sits down with Ethan Wright of Service Scalers to break down the real marketing stack for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies at every stage of growth. They cover what changes as you scale, what stays the same, and where most owners waste money too early.If you run an HVAC, plumbing, or electrical business and want a clearer roadmap for how to think about marketing as you grow, this episode lays it out.In this episode, we cover:The best marketing priorities for home service companies from $1M to $10MWhy lead generation matters more than branding in the early stagesHow reviews, LSA, aggregators, and speed-to-lead drive growthWhen PPC, SEO, and lifecycle marketing become more importantWhy most owners hire for marketing too earlyHow pricing impacts your ability to buy leads profitablyHost: John Wilson https://x.com/WilsonCompanies Guest: Ethan Wright linkedin.com/in/ethanwrighttx

Are Billboards Worth It for Home Service Businesses? (Or Just an Expensive Ego Boost?)Billboards can feel like a milestone for a growing home service company—your name on the highway, customers saying they saw your brand, friends texting photos of your sign. But for most HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies, billboard advertising starts too early and becomes an expensive distraction from what actually drives growth: leads.In this episode, John Wilson sits down with Sam Preston (CEO of Service Scalers) for another installment of the Clicks to Calls series. They break down when billboards actually work, when they don't, and why most contractors under $20M are usually better off buying more leads instead of investing heavily in brand campaigns.They also unpack what makes a billboard memorable, why density matters more than just “having one,” and how brand channels like billboards show up in your data through branded search rather than traditional attribution.You'll learn:When billboards actually make sense for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companiesThe biggest mistake contractors make: running one or two billboards instead of building densityWhy most companies under ~$20M should prioritize buying leads over brand marketingHost: John Wilson — https://x.com/WilsonCompanies Guest: Sam Preston — https://x.com/HeySamPrestonBreak through the $5M ceiling.Join John Wilson and Jack Carr May 5–7, 2026 in Akron, Ohio for the Breaking $5 Million Workshop—a 3-day, in-person event for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical owners ready to scale. You'll see the Wilson operation live, sit in on a real sales huddle, tour the shop, and build your roadmap to $5M+.

We unpack the National Action Plan for School Bus Safety which sheds light on the non-fatal effects of illegal passing, as well as transportation director comments on green buses during a recent EPA Clean School Bus webinar. Denise Donaldson, the editor and publisher of Safe Ride News Publications and a frequent trainer at STN EXPO and the TSD Conference, previews her STN EXPO East workshop on when to use child safety restraint systems (CSRS) in school buses or alternative vehicles. Read more about safety. Episode sponsors:Transfinder, EverDriven.

Brigham Dickinson is the co-founder and president of Power Selling Pros, a company that helps home service businesses turn more incoming calls into booked jobs through world-class customer service and call-handling training. After years of studying top-performing service companies, Brigham developed proven systems that help CSRs and office teams deliver exceptional customer experiences that drive revenue and loyalty. Today, Power Selling Pros works with contractors across the country to improve call conversion, increase bookings, and build cultures centered on the "Pattern for Excellence." Brigham is also the host of the Service MVP Podcast, where he interviews leaders across the home service industry about leadership, growth, and delivering remarkable service. FOR MORE GREAT EPISODES: The Mello Millionaire - https://open.spotify.com/show/1jsZaiMgWe0EGaPfLtelDW?si=3de6091af58d41b4 Chapters 00:00:00 Cold Open 00:00:15 Title Sequence 00:00:35 Show Notes VO 00:01:20 Intro Into Interview 00:02:45 Power Selling Pro's Testimonial  00:03:33 Interview Resumes 01:03:02 Outro Check Out My Social Media: Tiktok _https://www.tiktok.com/@officialtommymello Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/officialtommymello/ Facebook _https://www.facebook.com/thomasmello/

Every home service operator has a failure story.In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Jack Carr (CEO of Rapid Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric in Nashville) to break down the biggest business mistakes they've made — and what those mistakes actually cost.From a $13,000 ad spend weekend that only generated $7,000 in revenue… to overpaying vendors for an entire year… to discovering $80,000 per month in unnecessary purchasing — this is a candid conversation about the operational blind spots that quietly drain profit.The surprising takeaway? Most major failures weren't dramatic. They were data problems. Process problems. Cash flow misunderstandings. And hiring financial leadership too late.If you're scaling a home service business — or planning to — this episode could save you years of expensive lessons.In this episode, we discuss:The $13K marketing mistake and how capacity planning changes everythingHow tightening purchasing controls instantly improved marginsWhy most contractors overpay vendors (and don't even know it)The hidden cost of software bloat and subscription creepConstruction vs. service cash flow — and why mixing the two can hurtWhy hiring a controller earlier would have changed everything

This week brought major tariff news, Supreme Court rulings, and fast-moving executive action that could directly impact steel, aluminum, and ultimately garage door pricing. In this episode of Torsion Talk, Ryan breaks down what actually happened, what it means for your business, and why most dealers are misunderstanding the headlines.The Supreme Court ruled against the use of certain emergency powers tied to sweeping global tariffs, but within hours a new tariff structure was introduced under a different law. While the news cycle made it sound dramatic, Ryan explains why steel and aluminum costs remain largely unchanged for our industry and why garage door manufacturers are unlikely to reverse recent price increases.Ryan dives into how this affects residential and commercial dealers, including LiftMaster operator increases, manufacturer price hikes, and why expecting pricing to snap back to pre-COVID levels is unrealistic. He also outlines why adjusting your price book based solely on a headline could be a costly mistake.More importantly, this episode focuses on strategy. Ryan explains why protecting open quotes is critical, why material escalation clauses should be standard in commercial and new construction contracts, and how to prepare your CSRs to confidently answer customer questions about pricing. With uncertainty around how long these tariffs may last, dealers must build flexibility into their quoting process and stay proactive rather than reactive.Ryan also shares why this moment highlights a bigger truth: the cost structure of the garage door industry has fundamentally changed. Companies that refuse to adjust pricing, margins, and sales conversations will struggle, while disciplined operators who understand their numbers and protect their margins will win.If you own or operate a garage door company and want to stay ahead of steel price volatility, tariff changes, and manufacturer increases, this episode gives you the clarity and direction you need.Stay informed. Stay profitable. Stay ready.Find Ryan at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://garagedooru.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aaronoverheaddoors.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://markinuity.com/⁠Check out our sponsors!Sommer USA - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://sommer-usa.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Surewinder - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://surewinder.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stealth Hardware - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://quietmydoor.com/⁠

Is AI about to disrupt the pest control industry, or is it just another tool?In this solo episode of the Bug Bux Podcast, Allan Draper breaks down the real ways artificial intelligence is already impacting pest control and where it won't be replacing humans anytime soon.From predictive pest data and proactive treatments to smarter routing, automated customer communication, and AI-powered pest identification, Allan explores how forward-thinking companies can use AI to increase retention, improve efficiency, and drive revenue. He also dives into how CRM systems may be falling behind, why routing automation is the next big leap, and how chatbots and AI sales tools could soon outperform traditional CSRs in certain situations.But here's the twist: AI isn't coming for your technician's job, at least not the way you think.Allan explains why blue-collar, on-site service businesses have built-in protection against full automation, how licensing and regulation slow robotic replacement, and why personal relationships between techs and customers remain one of the strongest competitive moats in the industry.If you own or operate a pest control company and want to stay ahead of the curve without panicking about the future, this episode will challenge your thinking and help you prepare for what's actually coming next.AI isn't replacing pest control. But it is separating operators from innovators.

Insurance agencies don't just need more people — they need smarter operations. In this episode of Insurance Shoptalk, Eric Stein sits down with Travis MacMillian of Xceedance to unpack how automation, AI, and strategic back-office support can completely transform the way property & casualty agencies operate. From policy checking and COI management to remarketing, loss runs, endorsements, accounting reconciliation, and even claims coordination — Travis explains how agencies can eliminate repetitive portal work, reduce manual data entry, and create 30%+ more operational capacity without stacking on more headcount. This isn't about replacing people. It's about removing friction — so principals can put more in their pocket, pay producers and CSRs more, and build a modern digital footprint that supports real growth. If you're tired of adding bodies just to keep up with volume, this conversation will shift your thinking. #InsuranceShopTalk #AgencyAutomation #InsurTech #InsuranceOperations #AgencyGrowth #DigitalInsurance #PAndC New boost

Continuing education is required for veterinary professionals' licensure, but finding time for CE often feels impossible. In this episode of The Veterinary Viewfinder, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor, MPA, RVT, speak with Dr. Andrea Freeman about a bold decision: closing her small animal practice and taking her entire team to VMX for continuing education. Instead of sending one or two team members at a time, Dr. Freeman invited everyone. Doctors, technicians, CSRs, and part-time staff all attended. The result was more than CE credits. It strengthened communication, boosted morale, improved retention, and energized the entire practice. Even more surprising? Dr. Freeman says her clients were supportive. With clear communication and advanced planning, she states her clinic did not lose business or trust. If you have ever wondered whether shutting down for CE is realistic, this episode offers a practical, real-world example of how it can work and why it might be worth it. #VeterinaryCE #VMXConference #VetMedLeadership #VeterinaryPracticeManagement #VetTeamCulture

Send a textIn this episode, we are joined by a familiar face and longtime friend, Zac Garside. His professional journey started at Power Selling Pros, where he helped home services businesses to improve their CSRs performance and the call center experience.Since we last spoke, Zac had his email marketing business get acquired by Prolific Brand Design, a powerful brand design company in the trades that has retained Zac as their CEO! He has still maintained his expertise in Email Marketing adding it to the unique suite of services that Prolific offers, Why? Because no matter what new shiny platform or new tactic emerges, email marketing simply refuses to die. For eight and nine-figure businesses, the secret to sustained profit is almost always hidden within their existing email list.If you feel like you're sitting on a goldmine of customer data but don't know how to tap into it, this episode is for you. Zac breaks down the exact framework for turning a quiet list into a consistent source of booked calls.Connect with Zac Garside:Website:  https://prolificbranddesign.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacgarsideInstagram: @zacgarsideFree Resource: Download Zac's E-book, How to Sell Premium Services with Email Time Stamps: 00:10 -  Profit for eight or nine-figure businesses often comes from their email list.00:23 - Introduction of guest Zac Garside 00:41 - Zac started his own company 01:52 - How Zac Garside got into email marketing.06:01 - The importance of internships and acquiring specific skills 10:31 - The customer lists that aren't being used and promises immediate business 11:09 - The importance of remembering "you are not your customer" and overcoming the fear of overwhelming people with emails12:33 - Zach Garside lists several free and paid ways to grow an email list16:44 - Email is unique in that it doesn't cost more to publish many emails17:50 - The from line is more important than the subject line21:30 - A simple method for activating an earned customer database22:12 - Zach Garside uses a "wake up campaign" email three times a week.25:07 - How to stand out and cut through inbox clutter and how to get emails to the main inbox instead of the promotions tab.27:56 - Example of a plumbing email for Thanksgiving using uniques “from” and “Subject” lines29:12 - "Entertainment beats education”34:41 - The key to stand out is to be unpredictable 35:53 - Example of an HVAC company switching up emails by using the different personalities of two founders44:03 - The importance of knowing your customer46:30 -  Zach Garside offers a freebie on his website: https://zacgarside.berserkermail.com/[free_book]_how_to_sell_premium_services_with_email 47:04 - Contractors are "literally sitting on a gold mine" with their email lists 48:19 - Post-show insight: sometimes the win in email marketing is just sending the email instead of being bogged down trying to craft the perfect one.50:10 - Show ends. 

How do you keep growing fast without breaking your business?In this Owned and Operated supercut, John Wilson pulls together his favorite moments from recent conversations on what actually snaps when you scale: cash, leadership bandwidth, and the frontline experience that drives revenue.You'll hear why growth is expensive (in trucks, infrastructure, and overhead), how disciplined operators reinvest instead of upgrading their lifestyle too early, and why “the war is won inside the home” no matter how good your dashboards look.If you're running HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or roofing and feeling the strain of growth, this episode gives you the frameworks—and the hard truths—to keep momentum without chaos.In this episode, you'll learn:Why growth consumes cash (and how to plan for it)The “overhead body” you must build early: leadership, CX, SG&A, marketing, purchasingHow owners stall out by pulling cash too early (the lifestyle trap)Why playbooks beat ego: don't reinvent the wheel (Nexstar and more)Why frontline obsession matters more than dashboardsHow onboarding + clear pay plans create a culture that performsConnect: John Wilson: https://x.com/WilsonCompanies

This episode is a supercut of standout moments from multiple Owned and Operated episodes, focused on one theme: how great operators build, scale, and eventually sell home service businesses.John Wilson pulls together some of the most valuable conversations from past episodes—covering acquisitions, exits, org structure, leadership at scale, and what actually changes when you stop running a single trade business and start building a platform.These clips span decades of operator experience, from buying broken HVAC companies to leading a $600M national home services business, and now applying the same playbook to new industries.What you'll hear in this supercut:How serial operators think about exits from day oneThe difference between running a trade and building a sellable businessWhy growth breaks when leadership and org structure can't keep upHow multi-location platforms balance local autonomy vs centralizationWhat private equity looks for in home service acquisitionsThis episode is ideal for listeners who want the big-picture thinking behind acquisitions, roll-ups, and long-term value creation—without committing to multiple full episodes.If you're building (or buying) a home service business and want to understand how experienced operators really think about scale and exits, this supercut is a must-listen.

Send us a textGrowth stalls when we expect marketing to fix what's really an operational problem. We dig into the honest math of margins, staffing, and process with Joe O'Grady of Team SPG, and we map out how to turn ad spend into predictable revenue without lighting profits on fire. From budget benchmarks to tracking discipline, the takeaway is simple: more dollars won't help if your systems can't catch them.We start by setting realistic budget ranges based on goals: 8–10% of net to stay steady, roughly 14% to grow, and up to 20% when you're preparing for a sale and need to showcase demand. Then we get practical about readiness. Can your CSRs answer and book the calls? Are your techs converting at healthy rates with consistent average tickets? If those fundamentals wobble, your marketing will only expose the cracks. Joe shares why accountability beats hype and how candid coaching helps owners fix processes before they press the gas.We walk through closed-loop tracking so every lead tells a story, from first touch to final invoice. That means unique numbers for paid tactics, tagging in the CRM, and measuring answered calls, booked jobs, conversion rates, and revenue. We tackle the love-hate with referrals—powerful yet fragile—and explain why a balanced mix matters: SEO for intent, Local Service Ads for speed, direct mail for targeted reach, brand for long-term trust, and maintenance plans for recurring revenue. Small improvements compound: a modest boost in CSR booking and tech close rate often outperforms a large budget hike.If you're ready to replace gut feel with data, align spend to capacity, and make every campaign accountable to outcomes, this conversation will give you a clear playbook. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a nudge toward tracking, and leave a quick review to tell us where your biggest bottleneck is right now.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Insurance claims, storm chasers, and broken incentives — welcome to the dark side of roofing.In this episode, John Wilson sits down (again) with Adam Cherup to unpack what really happens behind the scenes in roofing — from “deny, delay, defend” insurance tactics to the storm-chasing playbook that leaves homeowners stuck holding the warranty bag. They also get practical: seasonality, lead gen, cash flow, and what it actually takes to start a roofing business (especially in Florida).In this episode, we cover:The Insurance Game: “Deny, delay, defend” — and why carriers aren't your friend.Retail vs. Insurance Strategy: Why some roofers push retail first, then litigate the claim after.How to Win Insurance Work: Xactimate, codes, the paperwork game, and why payouts can double when done right.

In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Adam Cherup, a “disaster roofer” who's built a niche, high-margin business installing shrink-wrap temporary roofs after hurricanes, wind events, hail, and fires. Instead of blue tarps that fail in weeks (and often aren't covered more than once), Adam installs a manufacturer-rated wrap that can last up to a year (or longer)—buying homeowners, schools, hospitals, and commercial properties time while insurance claims and full roof replacements drag on.Adam breaks down the economics: 60–80% margins, typical residential jobs around $20K–$30K, and large commercial/school projects in the $150K–$350K+ range (with massive roofs reaching even higher). You'll hear how he gets work (including a key referral partner who pre-positions before storms), why this niche is best paired with an existing roofing operation, and what makes the job uniquely difficult: travel, logistics, training crews, and negotiating with insurers who hate the sticker price—but can't ignore the cost of “future loss.”If you like niche business models with weirdly great unit economics, this one is basically printing money… in a disaster zone.What You'll LearnWhat shrink-wrap roofing is (and why it beats tarps after storms)Unit economics & margins: how this can hit 60–80% gross marginTypical job sizes: $20K–$30K homes, $150K–$350K schools, big commercial upsideHow insurance actually reacts (and how Adam gets paid ~99% of the time)How the work is sold: referrals, pre-storm positioning, and inbound search demand

Vaccine hesitancy is no longer just about cost or convenience. In this episode of Veterinary Viewfinder Podcast, Dr. Ernie Ward and Beckie Mossor dig into why vaccine skepticism has become more emotional, more entrenched, and harder to navigate in today's exam room. They move past talking points and focus on what actually helps veterinary teams in real-world conversations. You'll hear practical guidance on leading with empathy without endorsing misinformation, staying grounded in evidence, and recognizing when a debate is not a debate at all. The discussion also covers why consistency across the entire clinic matters, from CSRs to technicians to doctors, and how gaps in vaccine education within the team can quietly undermine trust. This episode is especially relevant for clinics seeing more frequent vaccine refusals, rising concerns about rabies and zoonotic risk, and growing emotional fatigue around these discussions. You'll walk away with mindset shifts, communication strategies, and concrete tools that protect patients, teams, and the profession without escalating conflict. #VeterinaryViewfinder #VetMed #VaccineHesitancy #VetTeamCommunication #PublicHealthVeterinary

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Referrals are still the #1 growth channel in home services — but most contractors treat it like hope marketing.In this episode, John Wilson sits down with Murphy Nadauld (ReferPro) to break down how the best operators turn word-of-mouth into a systematic, trackable, ROI-positive referral engine.They unpack why 83% of customers are willing to refer, yet only 29% actually do — and the three levers that close the gap: awareness, attribution, and automated rewards.You'll learn how top HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and restoration companies:Activate referrals directly through technicians in the homeBuild a B2B “affiliate army” (realtors, plumbers, inspectors, restoration partners)Tier incentives by job value so referrals scale without blowing up CACUse attribution and automation to make referrals predictable — not randomIf you're a contractor owner who wants referrals on demand, not vibes, this episode is your blueprint.In This Episode, We Cover:The referral gap: why customers want to refer but don'tThe 3-part referral system: Awareness → Attribution → RewardsHow “power referrers” actually emerge (and why spend ≠ referrals)Technician-driven referrals: QR codes, NFC, truck signage, leave-behinds

OIN OUR FACEBOOK GROUP:   / 1bmudi9htk  In 2025, two forces are colliding fast: AI and blue-collar trades.In this episode, Chris Lee sits down with the team from Callsource to unpack what's actually happening when home service companies replace CSRs with AI voice/text bots — and why it can quietly destroy trust, create missed revenue, and damage your brand even when the phones are ringing.They break down real call data (including thousands of inbound calls handled by AI), the hidden “zero outcome” problem, incorrect dispositions inside the CRM, and why most owners don't realize the damage until conversion drops and the backlog tightens. Then they get practical: what a hybrid AI + human model looks like, how to build a manual process first (even if it starts in a spreadsheet), and how fast follow-up and human empathy can recover deals your competitors would've taken.If you run a plumbing, HVAC, electrical, or other home service business and you're considering AI for inbound calls, this is the episode you need before you flip that switch.CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA!TEXT ME: 509-905-4109INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/chrisleeqb/...FACEBOOK:   / chrisleeqb  TIKTOK:   / uc6m5_nuhcx-jdtyb4ge8giq   Partner Spotlight: 1SEO Digital Agency: At Next Level Pros, we teach you the best ways HOW to market your business. If you want additional hands-on help executing, we trust 1SEO, our marketing partner. They implement SEO, PPC, Google Local Services Ads, and high-performance websites that turn stronger operations into booked jobs. Learn more or book a consult: https://1seo.com/next-level-pros/

Welcome to the first episode of Torsion Talk in 2026. In this episode, Ryan Lucia breaks down the five most important things garage door and home service business owners need to know about Google Business Profile this year. With major platform changes, AI integration, and shifting search behavior, Google Business Profile matters more than ever, and Ryan shares the updates that aren't always making headlines but can directly impact rankings, lead flow, and suspensions.Ryan starts by sharing listener growth stats for Torsion Talk and thanking the audience for helping the podcast land in the top 15% on Spotify, with massive audience growth year over year. He also gives updates on growth inside GDU, rising lead volume at Markinuity, and why he believes confidence is starting to return as interest rates drop and construction activity begins to rebound. Ryan explains his decision to move out of day-to-day operations at Aaron Overhead Doors, focus on sales and content creation, and hire a Director of Operations to help take the company to the next level.The episode then dives into Google Business Profile strategy for 2026, including why having a physical commercial location or hybrid setup is still critical, how Google favors these profiles, and why they're less likely to be suspended. Ryan explains the importance of choosing the right GBP categories, especially newer ones that many garage door companies still aren't using correctly. He also covers Google's expanding AI-powered pricing feature, what it means for call handling, why CSRs must be trained to give pricing confidently, and why 2026 is the year pricing belongs on your website.Ryan shares hard-earned insights on multi-location Google Business Profiles, why suspensions are happening more often, and how landing pages, phone number consistency, and homepage optimization directly affect GBP performance. He also discusses naming strategies, keyword considerations, and how Google's updated guidelines may change what's allowed moving forward. To wrap up, Ryan highlights recent Google Business Profile guideline updates around links, business names, content clarity, and suspensions, and explains why these changes could significantly impact companies running multiple locations.Ryan closes by encouraging listeners to stay proactive, get educated, and prepare now for where Google is headed next. If you need help with Google Business Profile, marketing strategy, or growth in 2026, he shares where to get support and invites listeners to stay connected as more updates roll out throughout the year.Find Ryan at:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://garagedooru.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aaronoverheaddoors.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://markinuity.com/⁠Check out our sponsors!Sommer USA - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠http://sommer-usa.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Surewinder - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://surewinder.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Stealth Hardware - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://quietmydoor.com/⁠

Growing a home-service business from $3–5M to the next level isn't about more leads—it's about clarity, financial visibility, and eliminating guesswork.In this episode of The Better Than Rich Show, host Mike Abramowitz sits down with Paul Maskill, Fractional CFO and founder of Blue Collar Advisors, to break down the systems and scoreboards that unlock predictable profitability—even in uncertain markets.Paul explains why so many contractors feel stuck between $3–6M, how to define what the next level actually means for your life and business, and why accurate numbers turn every business problem into a solvable equation.You'll learn:Why most owners don't need more leads—they need better conversionHow to break down a $6M P&L and engineer $1M in profitThe KPIs every CSR, dispatcher, tech, and marketer should trackWhy online scheduling and ballpark pricing are now table stakesHow pricing mistakes and non-billable time destroy marginsWhen to hire (and when hiring makes things worse)How scoreboards eliminate stress, confusion, and reactive decisionsIf you want more cash flow, fewer surprises, and a business that's actually exitable, this episode is required viewing.⏱️ Timestamps (Retention + SEO)00:00 Intro — Mike welcomes Paul and frames the conversation01:00 “What is the next level?” — Paul's starting point with every client02:00 Why owners chase revenue without knowing why04:00 Defining success beyond “I want 8 figures”08:00 Inside a $6M P&L + the path to $1M profit10:15 Alternative scoreboards: values, impact, team income goals12:00 KPIs for techs, CSRs, dispatch, and marketing17:00 Customer journey leaks — why more leads won't fix it18:40 Online scheduling & modern buyer expectations23:00 Branding vs advertising — where owners misdiagnose problems30:00 Scoreboards: the cure for “busy but broke”33:00 Booking-rate improvements & CSR scorecards35:30 Hiring decisions: data vs desperation39:00 Pay-for-performance & technician productivity40:20 Pricing mistakes & true hourly rate math43:00 Non-billable time, load factor, and undercharging45:00 Paul's free pricing calculator + website framework47:00 What “Better Than Rich” means to Paul Maskill49:00 Closing thoughts + 2026 collaboration preview

We reveal the real cost of running a home service business in 2025. In this full debrief, we open our books to show why plumbing business growth exploded while HVAC stalled, and exactly how we navigated the hardest summer in years.If you run a contractor business, you know 2025 was volatile. HVAC shipments cratered 49% YoY, forcing operators to face a brutal reality. In this episode, we break down the massive gap between our plumbing wins and HVAC headwinds, why "Always Be Recruiting" became our #1 survival rule, and how total financial transparency saved our bottom line.In this episode, we cover:The Industry Reality: Why mild weather and refrigerant transitions crushed HVAC demand.The Recruiting Crisis: Why we lost key techs mid-summer and how we fixed our hiring pipeline.P&L Transparency: The actual impact of overhead, margins, and "fixed" costs on a trades business.2026 Strategy: Our plan for a "Lean & Lethal" operation and new acquisitions.