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Service Business Mastery - Business Tips and Strategies for the Service Industry
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In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jack Carr (Jackquisitions) to break down the 4 steps to train your sales team and raise revenue fast.From building a repeatable process to setting metrics, John and Jack share how to treat sales like an order of operations—diagnosing problems step by step so your team can fix weaknesses and improve call over call. They discuss why consistency beats ad-hoc training, how to gamify scoreboards so techs know exactly where they stand, and why “inspect what you expect” is the ultimate accountability layer.John shares how his $30M HVAC, plumbing & electric company used sales training to drive 50% year-over-year growth, while Jack explains how bringing on a salesperson as his third hire fueled 100% growth three years in a row.Together, they unpack:Step 1 – Have a process: Scripts, SOPs, and the scientific method of diagnosing sales gapsStep 2 – Be consistent: Regular training, skills practice, peer feedback, and role playStep 3 – Install metrics: Scoreboards, targets, gamification, and making numbers visible dailyStep 4 – Inspect what you expect: Ride-alongs, monitoring calls, coaching, and accountability loops
Long hold times, missed calls, and frustrated customers are growth killers in the trades. In this episode, Chad sits down with Tyson Chen of Avoca and Matt Pozda of Call Dad to talk about how AI is transforming the way service companies handle call volume, book jobs, and keep CSRs motivated. They break down how trades leaders can strategically use AI to reduce turnover, increase booking rates, and keep technicians focused on high-value opportunities. More importantly, they show why AI isn't about replacing people—it's about optimizing them. From overcoming skepticism about customer experience, to training AI agents like team members, to leveraging data for smarter scheduling, this episode will challenge how you think about growth in HVAC, plumbing, and beyond.
In this episode, I dive deep into the state of veterinary marketing in 2024 alongside Trace, our Gen Z marketing guru and Customer Success Manager. Drawing from our hands-on experience managing over $600,000 in monthly ad spend and working with 50–60 veterinary practice owners each week, we break down what's working, what's not, and how you can set your practice up for success in today's fast-changing landscape. We cover everything from adapting to seasonality and economic shifts, to leveraging the latest digital platforms and creating messaging that truly converts. We start by exploring the unique challenges and opportunities facing veterinary practices right now — like how seasonality and economic trends impact client behavior, and why it's crucial to plan your marketing proactively rather than reactively. I share actionable strategies for staying ahead of slow periods, monitoring local trends, and making sure your campaigns are always ready to deploy when you need them most. We also talk about the massive impact of organic social media and video content, especially for reaching Gen Z and Millennial pet owners who are living on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. I give you practical tips for showcasing your practice authentically, testing content organically, and remixing what works to maximize engagement. Paid advertising is another big focus in this episode. We dig into the nuts and bolts of Google Ads, Performance Max campaigns, and the often-overlooked power of display ads. I walk you through setting realistic budgets, targeting the right demographics, and tracking your results for true ROI. Plus, we discuss the importance of direct response messaging, unique offers, and building a nurture funnel that actually converts leads into appointments. And of course, we can't ignore the evolving search landscape — so we cover why your Google My Business profile still matters, how AI is changing the way clients find you, and the critical role of reviews in building trust. Finally, I share insights on outbound marketing, the vital importance of well-trained CSRs, and how to avoid common pitfalls that hold practices back. We wrap up with a look at the future — highlighting the growing role of AI, the need for proactive planning, and the value of a strong partnership with your marketing team. Whether you're looking to optimize your current strategies or future-proof your practice, this episode is packed with expert insights and actionable advice to help you thrive in 2024 and beyond.
☎️ Missed calls = missed opportunities. But what if AI could change that game forever? Brad sits down with Michelle Myers, co-founder of Pink Callers, to uncover how she's reinventing the call center experience for home service businesses. From dedicated CSRs who feel like part of your team, to after-hours support that actually works, Pink Callers is flipping the script on traditional answering services. Michelle doesn't shy away from the hot topic: AI. She shares how tools like Zyratalk, Dialpad, and Motion aren't here to replace people, but to supercharge them. We're talking about CSRs who go from answering phones to managing AI agents, multiplying their value and their paychecks
If you've spent decades serving as a federal employee, union worker, postal carrier, or railway retiree — your pension is more than a paycheck. It's your power. But without the right strategy, hidden taxes, survivor benefit traps, and costly timing mistakes can erode the retirement you've worked so hard to earn. In this episode of Wisdom to Wealth, Drew [Your Last Name] reveals real stories from federal and union retirees, the pitfalls most people never see coming, and three smart steps to keep more of what you've earned. Whether you're under CSRS, FERS, or a union plan, this conversation is your roadmap to clarity, control, and confidence.
Most home service owners think about growth in terms of calls booked, revenue, and trucks on the road. But profit often slips away in the small, hidden gaps inside the business. In this episode of Windshield Time, Chris Elmore and James “J-Dub” Walker break down the areas where money leaks out of HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies — and how leaders can tighten up processes to keep profit in the business. Here's what you'll learn: The most common places profit gets lost in service companies Why callbacks and breakdowns in communication eat away at margins How to connect CSRs, techs, and managers so the whole team protects profit Practical systems to reduce waste and strengthen your bottom line Real-world examples from contractors who have turned leaks into growth If you're growing revenue but not seeing more money in the bank, this episode will help you find the gaps and fix them.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jack Carr from Jackquisitions to break down the four steps every business owner must take to truly become a CEO. From leaving the tools behind to managing senior leaders, John and Jack share the exact progression operators go through—and the pitfalls at each stage.They dive into the messy middle stages (what Jack calls “owner's hell”), where infrastructure costs skyrocket and leaders struggle to let go. John opens up about his own journey scaling a $30M home service company and when he finally felt like a real CEO. Together, they unpack:Why “founder” and “CEO” aren't the same thingThe hardest stage to escape and how to move past itWhy adding managers can both unlock growth and squeeze cash flowWhat it takes to lead through layers of leadership without losing speedThe looming leap from single-location to multi-location leadershipThis is a must-listen for any contractor or entrepreneur who wants to move beyond being “just the owner” and step fully into the CEO role.
Automation isn't the future—it's happening right now. The question is: will you dominate with it, or be dominated by those who do? In this high-energy Can't Stop the Growth showdown, Chad Peterman goes head-to-head with Tommy Mello to tackle one of the hottest topics in home services: automation. From call centers to lead follow-up, recruiting, and customer experience, you'll hear exactly how the industry's top leaders are leveraging AI and automation to scale faster, serve better, and protect their culture. Here's what you'll take away from this conversation: Speed to Lead = Speed to Cash – Why contacting customers within 60 seconds changes everything Automation Protects Culture – Tools that reduce chaos while empowering your people Measure What Matters – Focusing on booked calls, conversions, and retention over vanity metrics Small Wins Stack Fast – How market leaders test, tweak, and iterate daily
Today on The New Flat Rate Podcast, Danielle Putnam sits down with Dave Rothacker, Leadership Explorer and Guide with Go Time Success Group, to dig into one of the most powerful truths about leadership: leadership is influence. With more than 40 years of experience in the trades, Dave shares why influence starts with respect and curiosity, and how passing down knowledge across generations can transform not just companies, but people.From empowering CSRs and technicians to step into leadership naturally, to recognizing how small acts of adding value can shape careers, this episode is packed with real-world lessons. Whether you're looking to grow future managers, strengthen your team culture, or simply become a more intentional leader yourself, this conversation will inspire you to lead through influence—not authority.Links and Resources:thenewflatrate.comhttps://gotimesuccessgroup.com/Books Mentioned:The Three Signs of a Miserable Job- https://www.amazon.com/Three-Signs-Miserable-Job-Employees/dp/0787995312The Diary of a CEO: The 33 Laws of Business & Life- https://www.amazon.com/Diary-CEO-Laws-Business-Life/dp/0593715837
Send us a textLaunch#090625-- Your favorite electronic music radio show Takes over the Airwaves in Punta Cana & Santiago, Dominican Republic.1st Hr. | Club Sabroso's Pick of the Week Playlist.2nd Hr. | Guest mix by New York's own DJ duo FLAGRANT DRVMS.Prepare for absolute energetic audio experience..Where you'll hear nothing but heaters
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined once again by Ethan Wright from Service Scalers to answer a big question: what would you do with a million-dollar marketing budget?Together, they unpack how $1M breaks down between demand capture (LSAs, PPC, SEO, lead partners) and demand generation (TV, radio, social, branding) — and why the first priority is always the lead. John and Ethan talk about beating proven channels until they're maxed, why operators get in trouble by spreading budgets too thin, and how the fastest-growing companies scale one or two channels to $100k+ a month.You'll also hear their frameworks for deciding budget allocation, the hidden crossover between capture and brand, and the real numbers John looks at daily to keep the board full. Whether you're running $2M or $20M, this conversation shows how the principles of lead generation never change — only the scale does.
In this power-packed episode, Tom Howard (VP at ServiceTitan + serial service business acquirer) lays out how he and his team took three underperforming HVAC companies and flipped them into a $25M machine—fast.You'll learn:How to spot opportunity in a dumpster fire of a businessWhat radical transparency and equity can do for your teamHow AI is outperforming human CSRs—and cutting costsThe real cost of bloated teams and broken systemsWhy most owners get stuck at $2–5M—and how to punch throughThis is the kickoff to our Plumber + HVAC Dominance Series—real strategies, zero sugarcoating.️If you're running a local service business and want to scale without selling your soul, this one's non-negotiable.
Send us a textPodcast guest, Cory Pinegar, is the founder of Teem, a leading provider of Virtual Assistants for healthcare practices. With over eight years in healthcare, he was an early employee at Weave and later built Reach, one of the largest dental-specific call centers in the U.S. Today, he employs thousands of remote team members across 10 countries, helping practices find reliable, engaged, and cost-effective support. Cory serves on the boards of the Parkinson's Foundation and Verrific and is passionate about advancing healthcare innovation. His companies have been named among the fastest-growing by Inc. 500 multiple times.In this episode of Vet Life Reimagined, we explore how virtual assistants are helping veterinary professionals work smarter, not harder. You'll hear the story of Cory Pinegar, founder of Teem, whose personal experiences inspired him to dedicate his career to supporting healthcare providers. Then, Kelly Cronin, with over 30 years in veterinary medicine, shares how Teem's veterinary virtual assistants are changing workflows, improving retention, and giving teams more time for what matters most.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Tony from Wanamaker to break down one of the biggest challenges contractors are facing in 2025: leads are tougher for everyone.John and Tony dig into why this year has been so unusual for home service businesses, from cooler summers and unpredictable weather to rising digital costs and shifting media consumption. They unpack how operators can protect market share in a down year, why consistency beats quick creative changes, and the three questions every ad should answer: Why you? Why now? How can I afford you?Tony shares practical insights on cost-shifting budgets, leveraging the Zero Moment of Truth, and keeping brand messaging dialed in—even when the industry feels shaky. From media buying advantages in non-political years to the impact of ChatGPT, SEO, and the decline of cookies, this conversation is packed with actionable pro tips to help contractors navigate 2025 and set up strong for 2026.
How to Train Insurance Customer Service Teams to Unwind Upset Customers
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Tony Castellucci from Wanamaker to break down how home service companies should think about marketing spend at three different levels: $100K, $500K, and $1M.Tony and John dig into what works (and what doesn't) as your budget scales. From avoiding white noise and wasted spend, to maximizing digital safety nets like SEO, PPC, LSAs, and Google My Business, the conversation highlights how to build consistent lead flow and a strong brand presence without diluting your dollars.They cover why seasonality matters for small budgets, when to shift toward year-round brand building, and how traditional media like TV, streaming, and selective billboards can play a role as you grow. Tony also shares agency-side lessons on attribution, cost per lead, and why marketing dilution is one of the most common pitfalls for home service owners.If you're looking to understand how to strategically allocate your marketing dollars — whether you're running a $5M shop or pushing past $15M — this is a must-listen episode.
Service Business Mastery - Business Tips and Strategies for the Service Industry
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In this episode of the FNO: InsureTech Podcast, we welcome Kyle Geoghan, Co-Founder and CEO of Indemn, for a deep discussion on the real-world impact of generative AI in insurance. Kyle shares his trajectory from early days in a family insurance agency, through his experience at CoverWallet, to launching Indemn in 2021. The episode details how Indemn began by building an MGA for event insurance with Markel—where nearly 95% of its direct-to-consumer operations rely on AI agents—and how the firm is now focusing primarily on its core SaaS platform. Listeners gain a data-driven understanding of how Indemn's technology automates quoting, underwriting, broker support, and especially broker portal workflows, as well as Kyle's evidence-based view of industry adoption. Key Highlights Kyle traces his roots to his family's Long Island insurance agency, starting at age 12 and later moving to digital innovation at CoverWallet before co-founding Indemn. Indemn was launched in 2021 as a generative AI company for insurance. It initially operated as an MGA selling Markel-backed event and wedding insurance, introducing an AI agent model—at EventGuard, approximately 95% of customer interactions are handled by AI agents. As part of a strategic pivot, Indemn is selling the EventGuard MGA subsidiary to devote greater resources to SaaS technology enablement for carriers, MGAs, and broker networks. Indemn's platform supports AI-driven quoting, stepwise underwriting, certificate generation, and status updates. Broker portal assistance is a core use case, enabling agents to receive accurate, real-time answers to underwriting and product questions, reducing repetitive workload by 30–40% for underwriters and CSRs. Adoption patterns show most consumer users are comfortable with AI workflows, while a majority of brokers also warm to this model over time—particularly when embedded in broker portals with feedback mechanisms for user trust. Kyle notes that, historically, insurance industry adoption has been cautious; however, he identifies late 2022 and 2025 as crucial milestones, with 2025 predicted as a year of significant scaling in generative AI deployment across the sector.
If you're trying to grow a home service business, your marketing budget is one of your biggest bets — and biggest risks. In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson and Sam Preston host a no-fluff Q&A tackling real contractor questions on lead generation, paid ads, and when to actually bring in an agency.They break down how to allocate marketing spend at every stage — from $1K/month up to $200K — and what it really takes to get traction with LSA, GMB, and PPC. You'll learn how to play offense with your best-performing lead sources, why spreading your budget too thin kills momentum, and how to ride your winning channels like you stole it.If you're struggling to get leads from PPC or Google Ads, they also cover how to fix campaign waste, when landing pages are the problem, and how top operators manage their media vs lead-gen mix to scale past $10M.Whether you're just getting started or dialing in a multi-location growth strategy, this episode is a tactical deep dive into what's actually working right now.
AI isn't coming — it's here. And the way people find your business is already changing.In this episode of Owned and Operated, John sits down with Sam Preston, CEO of Service Scalers, for a deep-dive on how AI is reshaping local search and why HVAC, plumbing, and home service operators need to evolve fast — or risk being left behind.They explore what it means to “rank” in a world of LLMs, how showing up in ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google's AI Overview actually works, and why your SEO and Google Business Profile (GMB) are more valuable than ever. From review mining to AI-mode discovery to early signs of AI agents booking jobs, this episode lays out a real-world, contractor-first roadmap to dominate in the AI-driven search era.You'll also hear how Wilson's early investment in SEO and programmatic content is now paying off — and why operators of every size should focus on backlinks, FAQs, and review quality today to future-proof their lead flow.Whether you're doing $1M or $50M, if you want to stay visible and competitive as AI search becomes the new front door to your business, this one's essential.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John sits down with Ethan from New York to explore his rapid journey into the world of home services and franchising. From cold calls to private equity to launching a local newsletter — Ethan shares the real story behind building momentum as a new business owner.
This is the last of three episodes that demystifies your CSR, dispatch, and inside sales roles. My guests are Lynn Wise, CEO of Contractor in Charge, and Danielle Bartus who leads sales and marketing for Contractor in Charge. In this episode, Lynn and Danielle discuss the inside sales role. Free P&L Statement and Balance Sheet https://tinyurl.com/2rjd6wxu Ruth King Twitter - @RuthKing LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthking1/ Podcast Produced by Nick Uttam https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-uttam-4b33a1147
This is the second of three episodes that demystifies your CSR, dispatch, and inside sales roles. My guests are Lynn Wise, CEO of Contractor in Charge, and Danielle Bartus who leads sales and marketing for Contractor in Charge. In this episode, Lynn and Danielle discuss the dispatch role – and how AI can play a role in dispatch. Free P&L Statement and Balance Sheet https://tinyurl.com/2rjd6wxu Ruth King Twitter - @RuthKing LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthking1/ Podcast Produced by Nick Uttam https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-uttam-4b33a1147
Do your CSRs have a call booking funnel? Here's what that is and why it's needed. https://7powercontractor.com/mastering-answering-and-booking-calls-in-steps/ Notice to listeners: The information in this book, along with the forms and structures provided, are meant to serve as a helpful reference guide for the plumbing, heating, cooling, electrical, and other contracting industries. The host of and contributors to this podcast take no responsibility for compliance with the laws or regulations that govern your specific business. The responsibility for making sure everything is compliant (among other things) is 100 percent yours. Before you implement any new information or forms, please check with your own trusted business advisers, including your own attorney, to make certain that the forms and the information you plan to implement will comply with all relevant laws, customs, and regulations.
This is the first of three episodes that demystifies your CSR, dispatch, and inside sales roles. My guests are Lynn Wise, CEO of Contractor in Charge, and Danielle Bartus who leads sales and marketing for Contractor in Charge. In this episode, Lynn and Danielle discuss the true CSR roles (there are more than one) and how AI can play a CSR role. Free P&L Statement and Balance Sheet https://tinyurl.com/2rjd6wxu Ruth King Twitter - @RuthKing LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthking1/ Podcast Produced by Nick Uttam https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-uttam-4b33a1147
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack break down the full playbook for hiring HVAC and plumbing technicians—from sourcing to retention. They dive into the real-world challenges of technician recruitment and share the strategies they use to keep a steady pipeline of high-quality candidates. From building a branded hiring engine to managing seasonal swings, this episode delivers tactical advice and real SOPs that help home service businesses grow their field teams with intention.They cover why recruiting never stops, how to build a budget that supports year-round hiring, and why onboarding and retention matter just as much as the job offer. Whether you're scaling a team or trying to fix your hiring funnel, this episode is packed with practical frameworks and firsthand experience.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack dive into one of the most common questions in home services: Should you buy a business or build one from scratch? Focusing on HVAC and plumbing companies, they break down the pros and cons of each path—sharing real-world insights on risk management, startup challenges, and acquisition strategy. Whether you're eyeing your first location or expanding your footprint, this episode helps frame the decision around your skills, experience, and resources.They cover everything from interest rates and international contracting to the realities of marketing and cultural fit in small business ownership. While John and Jack don't always agree, they align on this: success in HVAC and plumbing comes from understanding your strengths, knowing your limits, and being in the game. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about growing in the trades.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, John and Jack unpack what leadership looks like inside a $20–40 million home service business—and why that size still feels small. They explore how companies in this range often remain personality-driven, even with impressive revenue, and what it really takes to level up. From forming HR and marketing departments to structuring a true senior leadership team, they dig into the growing pains and leadership gaps most businesses face on the way to maturity.The conversation dives deep into leadership development, internal promotions, and when to hire key external roles like controllers. John and Jack share why the sophistication of a business doesn't always match the revenue—and how building the right team early creates long-term stability and growth. If you're scaling past $10 million and thinking about what's next, this episode lays out a real-world playbook for building a well-rounded, leadership-driven operation.
Send us a textEvery contractor has experienced it – that sinking feeling when you're tagged in a neighborhood group post asking for the "cheapest HVAC company." Or the frustration of price-shopping calls that waste your time. What if you could transform your marketing to eliminate these tire kickers before they even reach your CSRs?In this value-packed episode, Crystal breaks down exactly how successful contractors position their brands to attract clients who appreciate quality over price. She delivers a masterclass on premium positioning with her signature straight-talking approach: "You can't charge Ruth's Chris prices when you look like you're running through Whataburger on a Saturday afternoon after mowing the yard."The key insight? "Price is only an objection in the absence of value." When your marketing establishes clear value from the first touchpoint, price objections naturally diminish. Crystal walks through practical strategies to build this value perception: creating consistent, professional branding; using compelling before-and-after content; showcasing powerful customer testimonials; and carefully selecting language that positions you as premium rather than "cheap."For contractors struggling with sticker shock and tire kickers, this episode provides actionable tactics to transform your lead quality. You'll learn how to confidently discuss pricing, what marketing language attracts premium clients, and how to train your CSRs to handle price objections. The result? Higher close rates, better customers, and a business that competes on trust rather than price.Ready to stop racing to the bottom and start attracting clients who value what you provide? This episode is your roadmap to building a brand that naturally repels tire kickers and magnetizes your ideal customers. Subscribe now and share this episode with fellow contractors who deserve better than bargain-hunting leads.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!
Have you ever put weights on a walker? We're guessing you have! Likely ankle weights…Did you find those ankle weights slide around and didn't stay where you wanted? Well there is an actual product designed by a PT/OT duo that makes weighting ANY assistive device easier and more precise. Physical therapist Nicole Fellows, MS, PT, DPT and occupational therapist Sarah Ali, MS, OTR/L, CSRS, AIB-VRT/CON share their story of developing FALI Rehab, a company that offers adjustable weighted attachments that can be easily added to walkers, canes, and other assistive devices. Sarah and Nicole share how the idea came to fruition, what the process has been like, who benefits from the weights, why you might want to try them and where to learn more info. The weights range from 1-3 pounds and can be customized to individual needs, designed to improve proprioception and stability for users with conditions like Parkinson's, stroke, and ataxia. The product helps users feel more confident and stable while walking and can be used in clinical settings and at home. Their product addresses multiple challenges by providing immediate feedback to the nervous system, allowing users to continue using their preferred assistive device, and offering an affordable alternative to purchasing multiple specialized walkers. Currently, FALI Rehab is working on an improved design that will make attachment even easier, with plans to launch that version in late July/early August. Therapists and individuals interested in improving mobility can learn more at www.falirehab.com. IG is @falirehab Linked in: FALI Rehab Equipment, LLC
Send us a text-- Your favorite electronic music radio show Takes over the Airwaves in Punta Cana & Santiago, Dominican Republic.1st Hr. | Club Sabroso's Pick of the Week Playlist.2nd Hr. | Guest mix by DJ WILSON TIMBA (Mozambique).WILSON TIMBA checks in from Mozambique, East Africa to control the decks with an EXCLUSIVE AFRO HOUSE set.Prepare for absolute energetic audio experience..Where you'll hear nothing but heaters
Tariffs and refrigerant changes are hitting HVAC contractors hard—costs are rising, inventory is tight, and homeowners are hesitant. If your techs, salespeople, and CSRs are all saying something different—or worse, using fear without facts—you're losing trust and sales. In this fast-paced, high-impact interview, CertainPath coaches Miki Stone and Esti Jaacovi share what successful HVAC companies are doing right now to thrive in this uncertain environment. ✅ Control the message before your team creates confusion ✅ Train every part of the call—not just objection handling ✅ Speak with empathy, not panic—even when prices go up ✅ Use data-backed scripting to build trust and urgency ✅ Offer financing early, often, and with confidence ✅ Run tighter operations while protecting your margins Whether you're running a $1M or $100M shop, the fundamentals are the same: clear communication, smart training, and consistent leadership.If you want your HVAC business to grow during a downturn, this episode is your playbook. Show NotesThe Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,200+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way. With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Schedule a Discovery Call today. Or call 214-453-1591. FOLLOW CERTAINPATH:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CertainPathLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/certainpathInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/certainpath/
Want to buy a small business using smart deal structures like earnouts, seller financing, and low-risk offers? In this episode of Jackquisitions, host Jack Carr sits down with Chris Barr, a first-time buyer navigating the ups and downs of business acquisitions—from walking away from bad fits to crafting a $900K cash-plus-earnout offer for a pressure washing company.Learn how Chris is sourcing off-market deals, avoiding shady broker tactics, and building a personal brand that attracts sellers. You'll get a behind-the-scenes look at how new acquirers can finance service businesses, evaluate seller terms, and structure deals that actually close. If you're buying a business or scaling through acquisition, this episode is packed with actionable insight.⚡ What you'll learnWhy Chris walked away from an art-framing shop that didn't fit his criteriaHow a pool-route deal fell through—and the red flags you should watch for with brokersThe numbers behind a $900 K cash-at-close + earnout offer for a thriving pressure-washing businessProven frameworks for earnouts, seller notes, and revenue-share agreements that reduce risk and align incentivesTips for building a credible personal brand (see his Quick Staffers journey) to source off-market dealsStep-by-step due-diligence tactics, valuation shortcuts, and negotiation language you can use todayWhen to pivot, when to persist, and how to decide if a deal really moves the needleWhether you're a first-time buyer, an operator expanding a portfolio, or a service-business owner curious about exits, this conversation is packed with actionable M&A strategy, deal structuring hacks, and outreach scripts that close.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're exploring how to grow your career inside a home service company. From internal promotions to mindset shifts, John and Brandon Niro break down what it really takes to move up and lead.Brandon shares how 30–40% of the Wilson team has been promoted from within—and what separates those who grow fast from those who stall. They dig into Wilson's 52-week Emerging Leaders program, the role of emotional intelligence and financial literacy, and how team members can take initiative to become future leaders.If you're looking to grow your role or build leadership in your team, this one's packed with real, actionable advice.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're diving into real-world strategies for sourcing and securing small business acquisitions. From outreach to private equity firms to using freelancers for off-market deals, we break down how acquisition entrepreneurs are getting creative and staying competitive.We explore how personal branding can help attract brokers, how to craft a buyer persona that actually stands out, and how Chris Barr is navigating live negotiations for niche businesses—including pool services and a high-end art framing company.Whether you're just starting your acquisition journey or already mid-process, this episode is packed with practical insights for sourcing deals and building a compelling presence in the marketplace.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, we're diving into innovative lead generation strategies that are reshaping how home service companies attract local customers. From niche local newsletters to AI-powered tools, we cover real-world tactics that are working right now.We explore how hyperlocal publications in places like Annapolis, Maryland and suburban New York are driving leads for services like power washing and home inspections—and why owning your communication channels (email lists, Facebook groups) is a game-changer.Whether you're just starting or scaling up, this episode will give you actionable insights on using community engagement, AI tools like Avoca, and Facebook group sponsorships to fill your pipeline and take control of your local market.
What does it really take to scale a home service business to $100 million in revenue? In this episode of Owned and Operated, we dive deep into the business growth strategies, leadership transitions, and operational upgrades needed to build a high-performing trades company. Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, or another skilled trade, this conversation reveals the mindset shifts and systems that power sustainable service business growth.We break down why your original team may not be equipped to scale with you, how leadership development drives long-term success, and the pivotal role our podcast has played in accelerating team performance and industry insight. You'll hear real-world examples from the field, including how our Jackquisitions segment has influenced both strategy and execution in our journey to $100M.If you're leading a service business through a growth phase—or preparing to—this episode will give you real-world lessons on building smarter, scaling faster, and staying focused on what matters most.
Discover how one electrician turned a single service call into $52K of booked work using Service Loop's 3D service method. This episode dives deep into advanced client experience, trust-based selling, and building lifetime relationships in residential electrical.What if a $16K install wasn't the ceiling... but the first step? Clay and Joe unpack the hidden framework behind one of the most stacked, trust-filled sales in residential electrical: a $52K multi-layered client relationship built from service, not sales.You'll learn how to:Stop being a commodity and become an experiencePrevent tiny inspection fails from derailing trustUse “relational touchpoints” to turn CSRs and installers into sales alliesUnlock a homeowner's full potential with expert-level discoveryThis is more than good customer service. It's a three-dimensional trust loop that multiplies opportunity without multiplying pressure.00:00 - Intro & Experience vs Price02:00 - The Ripple Effect of Referrals04:30 - Focused Service, Not Multitasking07:00 - Advanced Rapport & Sensory Memory14:00 - The $52K Case Study Breakdown18:00 - How Installers Become Closers22:00 - Final Truths on Lifetime Clients --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Join our community and get access to strategies that'll help bring your electrical business to the top!Connect with fellow electricians and tap into a network of support and expertise! https://www.facebook.com/share/g/wvcMRNiyvyWoiSx3/ Subscribe to our newsletter to receive FREE weekly value pieces packed with strategies, and guides to improve your sales, service, and pricing
In this episode of Owned and Operated, we dive into a powerhouse conversation with top sales leaders—AJ and Noah from Premier Home Pros—as they unpack how to scale a home service business rapidly and sustainably. Whether you're hiring your first rep or leading a high-velocity sales team, this episode delivers practical strategies for fast growth without losing control.From building a magnetic company culture to overcoming supply chain roadblocks, we explore what it really takes to run a top-tier sales operation at scale. If you're aiming to grow your team, tighten your sales systems, or simply perform better—this one's for you.
In this episode of Jackquisitions, we break down the essential expert team every acquisition entrepreneur must build before buying a business. Whether you're acquiring your first HVAC company or scaling into multiple service businesses, assembling the right support system can make or break your deal.From legal frameworks to SBA loan processing, we cover the professionals who will help you move quickly, avoid costly mistakes, and access high-quality deals. Plus, we spotlight post-acquisition roles that keep your operations tight—like a skilled bookkeeper and a rock-solid insurance broker.If you're planning to buy a business in 2025, this is your checklist.
In this episode of Owned and Operated, we sit down with Brandon Schlicter—better known as Investment Joy—to uncover how a small-town Ohio entrepreneur built a multimillion-dollar business portfolio by mastering real estate, laundromats, car washes, and commercial roofing.Brandon shares how his upbringing on a farm and early family struggles forged his hustle mentality. After getting his start in logistics and real estate, a single viral laundromat video catapulted his online presence, opening doors to massive business opportunities. Now, with a powerful social media brand and diversified service operations, he reveals how to scale a business empire while staying grounded in family and personal values.This conversation explores Brandon's tactical acquisitions, mindset for growth, and how he's building a team and culture that supports big ambitions. He also offers candid advice for entrepreneurs navigating the early grind and looking to align business models with long-term vision.
In this impromptu Zoom session, we dig into one of the most underrated performance boosters in the home service industry: the daily morning meeting. Discover why 10–15 minutes each morning can reduce turnover, improve communication, and create a magnetic company culture that attracts top talent. Learn practical steps for implementing these meetings, overcoming resistance from your team, and maximizing ROI. If you're tired of disengaged employees and inconsistent results, this is your blueprint for daily success.