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Contractor Secrets

Business & Economics Podcasts

It's no secret that a large majority of contractors are too busy working "IN" their business instead of "ON" their business. As a 3rd generation painter, I've first-hand witnessed the struggle of a contractor (my father) as he attempted to manage all aspects of his House Painting Business while still painting and performing the jobs. My passion is to free contractors from the chains of their own business, and truly help them achieve greatness through creating systems, processes, and standards...TUNE IN! Follow @OfficialTannerMullen on Instagram!

Location:

United States

Description:

It's no secret that a large majority of contractors are too busy working "IN" their business instead of "ON" their business. As a 3rd generation painter, I've first-hand witnessed the struggle of a contractor (my father) as he attempted to manage all aspects of his House Painting Business while still painting and performing the jobs. My passion is to free contractors from the chains of their own business, and truly help them achieve greatness through creating systems, processes, and standards...TUNE IN! Follow @OfficialTannerMullen on Instagram!

Language:

English


Episodes
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Ep 131: The Success is in the Details

4/24/2024
Summary The main topic of this episode is about the subtleties in business communication. The host emphasizes the importance of communication in building thriving relationships in any endeavor. He discusses the key elements of effective communication, such as creating the right perception, answering the phone with enthusiasm, and gathering customer information efficiently. The host also highlights the significance of follow-up and providing a great customer experience. He suggests using automation tools like Drip Jobs to streamline communication and improve the overall customer journey. Get my Ultimate Resource here. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:26:57

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Breakthrough Series: George E - Power of Leverage

4/22/2024
Summary George started Georgie's Handyman Service four years ago, but eventually rebranded to Georgie's Painting. He is now looking to grow his painting business and face the challenges of running a business. One of his main challenges is hiring and fulfilling on the work. Tanner advises George to set up a payroll company like Gusto or ADP to handle payroll and taxes. He also encourages George to overcome his fear of taking risks and to start hiring employees. Tanner suggests creating a hiring strategy and posting job ads on platforms like Indeed. He emphasizes the importance of finding employees who align with the end goal of the business and can eventually take on leadership roles. Tanner also discusses the financial aspects of hiring and the potential revenue that can be generated with a team of three employees. In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Georgies discuss the financial aspects of running a painting business. They break down the costs of labor, materials, and marketing, and calculate the potential salary for Georgies in his first year of business. They emphasize the importance of investing in quality employees and setting up a professional payroll system. Tanner encourages Georgies to be proactive in his business and to clearly define his goals and motivations. They also discuss the importance of leveraging leads and following up with potential customers. This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:37:12

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Ep 130: Jon Majak - Leading From The Front

4/18/2024
In this conversation, Tanner Mullen interviews Jon Majak, CEO and founder of Mr. Pipeline, about his entrepreneurial journey and leadership principles. They discuss the importance of building a strong company culture, the role of leadership in motivating and retaining employees, and the impact of service and giving back in business. Jon shares his experiences in the exterior cleaning and marketing industries, as well as his insights on creating a system-dependent business. They also talk about Jon's book, 'Ring the Bell,' which emphasizes the importance of perseverance and making a positive impact in business and in life. Takeaways --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:30:34

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Breakthrough Series: Marvin Ruiz - Prepare The Soil!

4/10/2024
Summary Marvin Ruiz, owner of Ruiz Painting Services, shares his inspiring story of overcoming kidney failure and heart surgeries to start his own business. He is currently facing the challenge of growing his business and wants guidance on the next steps. Tanner Mullen advises him to focus on building an online presence, optimizing his Google My Business profile, and using social media and Google ads to generate leads. They also discuss the importance of hiring the right employees and developing a hiring process. Tanner recommends using Gusto for payroll, increasing his credit limit, and using DripJobs software for estimates and customer communication. This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app https://linktr.ee/dripjobscsteam --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:28:52

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Ep 129: Business in a Box

4/8/2024
Summary In this episode, Tanner Mullen shares a framework for business success that he has been focusing on lately. He emphasizes the importance of operating with the end goal in mind, which for many businesses should be to sell the business. He explains that understanding what selling a business entails can help shape the mindset and framework for building the business. Tanner also discusses the value of a business and how it is determined by what someone is willing to pay for it. He introduces the three Ds framework: Do, Document, and Delegate, which should be applied to every area of the business to achieve growth and scalability. Takeaways This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:24:54

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Breakthrough Series: Max Bates - Random Process = Random Results

4/3/2024
In this conversation, Max Bates discusses his painting business with Tanner Mullen. They cover topics such as lead generation, marketing, hiring, and systemizing the business. Max realizes the importance of implementing processes and systems to ensure consistent growth. Tanner emphasizes the need to get out of the job and focus on sales and networking. They also discuss the benefits of joining networking groups like BNI to expand Max's reach in the local community. Finally, they touch on the hiring process and the importance of vetting applicants. The conversation focused on the process of hiring employees and the importance of creating systems and a hedge to mitigate risks. The speaker emphasized the need to determine the position to hire for and the qualities to look for in applicants. It was suggested to start the hiring process early and vet the applicants thoroughly. The speaker also discussed the importance of determining the crew size and calculating the labor costs and revenue targets. Additionally, the conversation touched on the decision of whether to hire a marketer or employees, with the suggestion to do both simultaneously. The speaker emphasized the need to take action, build systems, and prepare for future growth. Takeaways Book a free 1-1 coaching session here! Try DripJobs free for 14-Days --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:30:37

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Breakthrough Series: Ryan Fairchalk - What Got Me Here Won't Get Me There

4/1/2024
Summary Ryan Fairchalk, a painting contractor, is facing challenges in winning bids and dealing with objections. He is experiencing increased competition and underbidding in the market. In this conversation, Tanner Mullen provides guidance on improving professionalism, building an online presence, and enhancing the sales process. The key focus is on understanding customer motivations and adding value to differentiate Ryan's business. In this conversation, Tanner Mullen provides guidance to Ryan Fairchok on how to improve his painting business. They discuss the importance of providing value through color consultations and the need for a marketing strategy. They also explore the benefits of using DripJobs for follow-ups and consider Angie's List for leads. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building a reliable team and overcoming fear in business. Finally, they discuss the value of coaching, software, and marketing in achieving success. Sign up for a free 1-1 Business Breakthrough: https://calendly.com/dripjobs/breakthrough Sign up for DripJobs: http://dripjobs.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:45:38

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Breakthrough Series: Ed Neidhart - Find Your Subs, Get Your Leads

3/27/2024
Summary In this conversation, Tanner Mullen provides guidance to Edward, who is starting his own painting company. They discuss the different levels of growth in a painting business, the importance of reputation and customer satisfaction, and the need for a clearly defined roadmap. Tanner advises Edward to focus on lead generation and finding reliable subcontractors to handle the painting jobs. He suggests using platforms like Angie's List and Facebook groups to find leads and subcontractors. Tanner also recommends looking into resources like the Painting Business Pro course and using software like Dripjobs for lead management. Book a breakthrough session: https://calendly.com/dripjobs/breakthrough This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:23:00

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Breakthrough Series: Kyle Smith - Thrive in Uncertainty

3/25/2024
Summary In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Kyle Smith discuss Kyle's journey in the painting business and his goals for the future. They explore the challenges Kyle faces in managing his workload and the need for organizational and mindset changes. They also discuss the importance of niche specialization and the potential for growth through hiring and marketing. The conversation concludes with actionable steps for Kyle to take, including setting up payroll, hiring, and implementing marketing strategies. This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app Takeaways --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:30:40

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Breakthrough Series: Patrick Sesia - You're Playing Small!

3/19/2024
In this episode I sit down with Patrick as we navigate the areas of his business he needs to elevate in order to get to the next level. TUNE IN! This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:36:23

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Lift-Off 2024: Lucas Jensen - Facebook Marketing to Scale in 2024!

3/17/2024
Summary Lucas Jensen shares his expertise on how to dominate the local market in 2024 using Facebook ads. He emphasizes the importance of targeting, captivating creatives, lead destination, tracking numbers, and speed to lead. Lucas provides insights and strategies for each of these factors, highlighting the need for high-quality ads and effective follow-up. He offers a free content toolkit and the opportunity to work with his agency, Ford Media Marketing, to implement these strategies and scale painting businesses. Lucas's presentation provides valuable information and actionable steps for success in Facebook advertising. Takeaways This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:31:32

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Ep 128: Joel Mercado - Painting & Impact

3/15/2024
Summary In this conversation, Tanner Mullen interviews Joel Mercado, a contractor and coach. Joel shares his journey from owning a martial arts school to running multiple painting and pest control businesses. He emphasizes the importance of personal development and how it has helped him in his business ventures. Joel also discusses the challenges of operating multiple businesses and the significance of job costing. He is inspired by seeing people succeed and is passionate about helping others. The conversation concludes with Joel sharing his contact information for those interested in connecting with him. Takeaways --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:22:48

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Breakthrough Series: Ryan Pettis - The Dynamics of Family & Business

3/13/2024
Summary In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Ryan Pettis discuss the challenges of subcontracting in the painting business and the benefits of building a team of employees. They explore the importance of creating a scalable system and the need to sever the family subcontracting relationship. Tanner advises Ryan to focus on hiring employees and provides guidance on finding and training the right people. They also discuss the value of employees and the importance of selling the recruitment side of the business. The conversation concludes with a discussion on solving problems and fulfilling the needs of employees. In this conversation, Tanner Mullen provides guidance to Ryan on various aspects of running a painting business. They discuss understanding the needs of job seekers, positioning job offers to fulfill those needs, creating an environment for employee success, and balancing core team focus with additional help. They also cover handling down payments on jobs, transitioning to card payments, and lowering deposits to reduce risk for customers. Other topics include showing subs the scope of work, seeking knowledge and taking action, using Company Cam for photos and annotations, sending work orders to subs, transitioning from percentage bids to fixed prices, splitting labor costs with subs, getting workers comp exemption, and getting health insurance as a business owner. Takeaways This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:38:05

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Breakthrough Series: Manny Barragan - You Get What You Pay For

3/11/2024
In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Manny Barragan discuss Manny's journey as a painter and his plans to build a successful business. Manny shares his background and his desire to build a brand and expand his reach. They discuss the importance of creating a culture and fostering growth within the business. Tanner emphasizes the need for a pit crew mindset and the challenges of transitioning from doing the work yourself to trusting others. They also discuss the importance of having a full schedule and making informed decisions when choosing a marketing agency. Manny's core motivation is his love for the painting culture and the satisfaction of connecting with clients. In this conversation, Manny Barragan discusses his desire to build a legacy and create more time for his family. The importance of making powerful decisions and safeguarding his business relationships is emphasized. The significance of quality leads and the need for a lead nurturing system are highlighted. Manny shares his plan for scooter marketing and involving his younger brother in the business. The importance of setting up payroll and taking care of legal matters is discussed. The consequences of delaying uncomfortable tasks and the importance of investing in quality are addressed. Preparing for the busy season and building a team are emphasized. The importance of blessing others and building a brand is discussed. The selection process for marketing and the importance of taking risks are explored. Action steps for Gusto, Indeed, and taking risks are provided. This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:31:55

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Ep 127: Yanni Fikaris - The Navy Seals of Painting

3/10/2024
This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app Yanni Fakaris shares his innovative approach to cabinet refinishing and streamlining operations. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication and quick response times to potential clients. Yanni also discusses the significance of thorough preparation and investing in quality equipment. He highlights the value of training and developing independent finishers, as well as the potential for additional revenue through ancillary businesses. Yanni explains his cabinet refinishing process and the role of machinery in the finishing process. He concludes by discussing the benefits of standard pricing and virtual estimating using ClickFunnels. In this conversation, Yanni Ficaris shares insights and strategies for success in the painting industry. He discusses the importance of identifying yellow and red flags in client relationships and how to grade clients based on these flags. Yanni emphasizes the need to stay ahead of the curve in the painting industry and separate yourself from the competition. He also highlights the value of specialized equipment and skills in fine finishing and the importance of differentiating yourself and charging higher prices. Yanni offers training and back-end support for painters and discusses the profitability of additional services and efficient processes. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining professionalism and safety standards and the significance of on-site processes and customer experience. Yanni also shares insights on automating photo cataloging and social media posting. Takeaways --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:46:43

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PCA EXPO 2024: Building a 24/7 Service Business

3/9/2024
This is my recorded talk from the PCA Expo 2024 in Orlando FL where I help business owners identify flaws in their lead and customer cycle. This is a VERY important topic going forward. Listen twice! This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:01:10:45

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Breakthrough Series: Garrett Hohn - This Painting Business Has Potential!

3/8/2024
This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Garret Hohn discuss the challenges and strategies of running a painting business. Garret shares his journey of starting as a painter and transitioning into a business owner. They discuss the logistics of the painting business, including the importance of delegating tasks and hiring employees. They also explore the value of marketing, particularly through Facebook ads, and the need for a CRM to follow up with leads. The conversation emphasizes the importance of investing in the business and overcoming a scarcity mindset when it comes to finances and hiring. In this conversation, Tanner Mullen advises Garret Hohn on building a successful business. The conversation covers topics such as investing in the right employees, the tools needed for success, comparing business investments, leveraging assets for financing, and the value of coaching and consistency. Takeaways Transitioning from being a painter to a business owner requires a mindset shift and the ability to delegate tasks. Investing in marketing, particularly through Facebook ads, is crucial for generating leads and growing the business. Using a CRM and following up with leads is essential for converting potential customers into paying clients. Leveraging debt, such as a line of credit, can help finance marketing efforts and other business expenses. Invest in the right employees who can generate significant returns for your business. Use essential tools like a marketing agency, software, and a coaching program to support your business growth. Compare different business investments to find opportunities with high potential returns. Leverage assets like vehicles to secure financing for your business. Seek coaching and consistency to stay on track and achieve long-term success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 00:23 Starting the Painting Business 01:23 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship 02:16 Logistics of the Painting Business 03:06 Transitioning from Painter to Business Owner 04:35 Delegating Tasks and Hiring Employees 05:02 Overcoming Apprehension in Hiring 06:01 Becoming a Networker and Facilitator 07:23 The Value of a Payroll System 09:08 Using Gusto for Payroll 10:05 Generating Leads through Facebook Ads 11:10 Moving Beyond Word of Mouth Marketing 12:05 Investing in Marketing 14:09 Leveraging Debt for Marketing 16:24 Using Videos for Facebook Ads 18:43 The Value of a CRM 19:42 Following Up with Leads 21:19 Hiring Strategies 22:28 Overcoming Scarcity Mindset in Hiring 23:54 Financial Intervention and Leveraging Credit 25:19 Changing Phone Number and Using Open Phone 28:01 Investing in Tools and Software 30:36 The Importance of Paying for Marketing 31:05 The Value of a Great Employee 31:20 The Importance of Investing in the Right Employees 32:18 The Tools You Need for Success 33:05 Comparing Business Investments 33:30 Leveraging Assets for Financing 34:10 The Value of Coaching and Consistency --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:34:46

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Lift-Off 2024: Maggie Kuyper - Behind The Curtain of a $9M Painting Business

3/5/2024
This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:44:59

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Breakthrough Series: From Tech to CEO

3/4/2024
This is my Ultimate Resource - it has everything you need to grow and scale your business. There’s referrals for marketing agencies, insurance, accounting, apps and tools, and even free courses. Check it out: https://tannermullen.typedream.app Summary: In this conversation, Tanner Mullen and Adam Peterson discuss the challenges of transitioning from being a technician to a business owner in the wood coatings industry. They explore the importance of recruiting and hiring talent, and the benefits of creating a training program and apprenticeship levels. They also discuss the difference between hunting unicorns (finding highly skilled individuals) and breeding unicorns (developing talent within the organization). The conversation emphasizes the need for action, outlining processes, and taking leverage to build a successful team and business. Takeaways Recruiting and hiring talent is crucial for business growth and success. Creating a training program and apprenticeship levels can help develop skilled and reliable employees. Investing in people and building a system is essential for long-term business sustainability. Taking action, outlining processes, and being one step ahead of applicants and employees are key to effective hiring. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:26:42

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Breakthrough Series: Joseph Frye - It's All About Perspective

2/28/2024
In this conversation, Tanner Mullen provides guidance to Joseph Fry, a new business owner in the painting industry. They discuss various topics related to starting and growing a painting business, including naming and branding, marketing challenges, lead nurturing, budgeting for marketing, sales and estimating, balancing work and hiring, networking and building a team, estimating and pricing, and investing in the business. Tanner emphasizes the importance of proactive lead follow-up, the mindset of continuous improvement, and the need to invest in marketing to ensure a steady pipeline of work. He also encourages Joseph to focus on building a strong team and providing excellent customer service. Takeaways Proactive lead follow-up is crucial for success in the painting business. Investing in marketing is essential to maintain a steady pipeline of work. Building a strong team and providing excellent customer service are key to long-term success. Estimating and pricing jobs accurately is important for profitability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:23 Naming and Branding 06:08 Lead Nurturing 08:46 Budgeting for Marketing 10:08 Sales and Estimating 12:22 Balancing Work and Hiring 14:22 Networking and Building a Team 16:28 Estimating and Pricing 21:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/tanner-mullen/message

Duration:00:22:00