Trades Talk

In this special Mother's Day episode, join hosts Justin and Maggie as they reflect on their recent travels to various conferences and speaking events. They share intriguing insights and key takeaways from the industry leaders they encountered. Plus, Maggie, a dedicated mother of three and a seasoned leader, reveals her top 5 tips for being a successful working mom in leadership. Whether you're a parent juggling career and family or simply looking for inspiration, this episode offers valuable advice and heartfelt stories to motivate and empower you. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation!

Episode Description: Join us on "Trades Talk" as we sit down with Dan Morrison from EarthCo Landscaping to explore his integrated approach to business success. In this episode, Dan shares his insights on using incentive-based pay to motivate his team, the art of building lasting relationships, and his strategies for delivering high-value services in the competitive landscaping industry of Santa Ana, California. Key topics we’ll cover include: Whether you're interested in refining your payment structures, enhancing client relationships, or elevating service standards, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips from one of the leaders in the field.

Join us for a revealing episode of “Trades Talk” with Zane Tarence, partner and head of the Technology and Business Services Group at Founders Advisors. With over two decades of experience in mergers, acquisitions, and investment deals, Zane has a keen eye for what makes a business investment-worthy. In this episode, Zane will discuss: •Investment Grade Criteria: Explore the key factors that investors look for in a business and common pitfalls that prevent companies from being investment-worthy. •Strategic Improvements: Learn how to implement crucial changes in your business strategy to attract potential investors and increase your company’s market value. •Navigating Financial Landscapes: Gain insights into the financial metrics and benchmarks crucial for elevating your business to an investment-grade level. •Real-World Examples: Zane will share anecdotes and lessons from his extensive career, providing practical examples of businesses that transformed their operations to meet investor standards. Whether you’re preparing for future investment opportunities or simply looking to enhance your business’s appeal, this episode offers essential strategies and insider knowledge to help you redefine your business’s potential. To provide securities-related services discussed herein, certain principals of Founders Advisors, LLC are licensed with Founders M&A Advisory, LLC, member of FINRA & SiPC. Founders M&A Advisory is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Founders Advisors. Neither Founders M&A Advisory nor Founders Advisors provide investment advice.

Join us on this insightful episode of “Trades Talk” as we delve into the world of exceptional customer service and strategic business operations with Clifton Savage, the driving force behind Service Leader Systems. Discover how Clifton’s innovative approaches and system-oriented strategies have revolutionized service businesses, setting new standards in the industry. In this episode, Clifton will cover: •Systemizing Service Success: Learn about the frameworks that have helped businesses streamline operations and enhance customer satisfaction. •Leadership in Service: Gain insights into Clifton’s leadership philosophy that emphasizes integrity, accountability, and continuous improvement. •Blueprint for Growth: Clifton shares his proven strategies for scaling service businesses effectively and sustainably. •Navigating Challenges: Hear about the obstacles Clifton faced and how overcoming them has fueled his mission to transform service leadership. This conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to elevate their service game or lead their business to new heights. Whether you’re a startup founder, a seasoned executive, or a service professional, Clifton’s experiences and insights offer valuable lessons in achieving and sustaining business excellence. This description is crafted to highlight the key areas of expertise Clifton Savage brings to the table, focusing on actionable strategies and leadership insights that can help listeners transform their own businesses. https://serviceleadersystems.com/

In this enlightening episode of "Trades Talk," we sit down with Jill Odom, the senior content manager for the National Association of Landscape Professionals (NALP). With years of dedication to the landscape industry, Jill brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing today's landscape professionals. Join us as Jill discusses: Whether you're a seasoned landscaper, a newcomer to the industry, or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of landscape professionalism, this episode offers valuable insights into making the most of the resources available through associations like NALP. Tune in to "Trades Talk" for an inspiring conversation with Jill Odom and discover how to elevate your landscape career to new heights.

Join us on "Trades Talk" for a no-holds-barred conversation with Steven Heroux of The Sales Collective in an episode titled “Sales is NOT a dirty word”. This episode takes an unfiltered look at common pitfalls in sales management and provides straightforward advice on turning a struggling sales team into a powerhouse. Steven Heroux brings his extensive experience and a reputation for transforming underperforming sales departments into successful units. In this candid discussion, he will reveal: - **Common Mistakes:** Insights into the typical errors sales teams make and how these can derail success. - **Proven Strategies:** Practical strategies and actionable tips to revitalize your sales approach. - **Building a Winning Culture:** How to cultivate a sales culture that motivates and retains top talent. - **Leadership and Training:** The role of effective leadership in mentoring and building a resilient sales team. Whether you're a sales manager looking to revamp your team's dynamics or a business owner wanting to see significant improvement in your sales figures, this episode offers valuable lessons on creating a thriving sales environment. Tune in to transform your sales strategy and push your team towards unprecedented success. --- This description sets the stage for an educational and engaging episode, promising listeners practical solutions and expert insights into overcoming sales challenges. Contact Steven: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveheroux1?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Sales Collective Website: https://thesalescollective.com/aboutus/

Join us on this episode of "Trades Talk" as we explore the remarkable story of Bruno Freitas, CEO and owner of Empire Pavers in Oakland, California. Discover how Bruno, an immigrant with a vision, transformed his dreams into reality by founding and growing Empire Pavers into a leading provider of beautiful outdoor living spaces. In this episode, Bruno shares His Immigration Journey: Hear about Bruno's personal and professional challenges upon arriving in the U.S. and how these experiences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit. Building Empire Pavers: Learn how Bruno started from scratch and grew Empire Pavers into a successful business known for transforming outdoor spaces with high-quality hardscaping and 3D design imaging, recognized for its exceptional service in the San Francisco Bay Area. Persistence and Innovation: Bruno discusses the importance of persistence in overcoming obstacles and how innovation has played a crucial role in differentiating Empire Pavers in a competitive market. Future Aspirations: Gain insights into Bruno’s future goals for Empire Pavers and how he plans to continue expanding and innovating in the industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, the power of resilience, and the impact of innovative landscaping solutions on enhancing outdoor living. Bruno's story is a testament to what determination, hard work, and a focus on customer satisfaction can achieve, inspiring both upcoming and established entrepreneurs alike.⸻Bruno's expertise in turning outdoor spaces into relaxing and enjoyable retreats has established Empire Pavers as a top choice in the San Francisco Bay Area, offering everything from custom firepits to complete backyard remodels. This episode will highlight his personal growth and business acumen and provide valuable insights into creating and sustaining a successful business in the competitive landscape of outdoor design. Contact Bruno: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruno-freitas-5173211b5/ https://www.instagram.com/empirepaverscorp?igsh=MWQ1ZGUxMzBkMA==

Introducing Ryan Englin, a fervent champion for the advancement of blue-collar businesses through superior hiring practices. Drawing from his rich background of observing his father’s exhaustive efforts as an owner/operator, Ryan developed a keen awareness of the intrinsic hiring challenges within the trades. Motivated by these observations, he has dedicated his career to redefining how businesses in these sectors approach the recruitment and retention of frontline employees. Ryan’s insights and methodologies are comprehensively outlined in his book, “Hire Better People Faster,” which serves as a pivotal resource for companies aiming to enhance their hiring processes. This guide embodies Ryan’s vision of streamlining recruitment to not only attract but also maintain top-tier talent, underpinning the growth and productivity of businesses. At the helm of Core Matters, Ryan collaborates closely with trade and service industry leaders, delivering bespoke hiring solutions that significantly elevate team dynamics and operational success. His initiatives underscore the importance of cultivating a compelling company culture that resonates with exceptional candidates. Join us on “Trades Talk” as we delve into Ryan Englin’s transformative hiring strategies, his journey from personal observation to professional innovation, and how his book and business are making waves in the blue-collar sector, paving the way for a new era of workforce excellence. Useful Links: Buy Ryan’s Book: https://corematters.com/freebook/ https://corematters.com/about-us/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanenglin?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Dive into the cutting-edge with “Current Talks in the Trades,” part of the “Trades Talk” podcast series, where industry leaders Maggie and Justin dissect the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), quarterly planning, and team leadership strategies in the trades industry. This episode is a treasure trove for trade professionals keen on leveraging technology, optimizing business strategies, and fostering team growth for unparalleled success. Listeners will engage with topics like: •AI’s Transformational Impact: Unpacking how AI is revolutionizing customer service and operational efficiencies in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other trade services. •Quarterly Planning Insights: Strategies for dynamic planning that prepares your business for growth and adaptability in changing markets. •Elevating Team Dynamics: Practical tips on building a motivated, high-performing team that drives business success. Beyond these focal points, Maggie and Justin touch on embracing tech advancements for enhanced client satisfaction and the significant benefits of strategic workflow optimization in the trades. Ensure your trades business stays ahead of the curve by subscribing to “Trades Talk” on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Our episodes, filled with actionable advice and industry insights, are perfect for trades professionals looking to master the art of business growth, customer satisfaction, and technological integration in fields like HVAC services, plumbing solutions, and electrical work. Join our community of forward-thinking tradespeople today and elevate your business to new heights. This enhanced description is crafted to hit a broader array of search terms related to the trades industry, like “Landscaping”, “HVAC industry,” “plumbing innovations,” and “electrical trade advancements,” aiming to improve visibility and engagement on podcast platforms.

Tune into "Trades Talk" for a groundbreaking episode with Tom Howard, the mastermind behind the phenomenal growth of Lee's HVAC and a pivotal figure in the home service industry. Through this episode we uncover how Tom's strategic use of ServiceTitan software has not only revolutionized his businesses but also set a new standard for operational excellence and customer service across the industry. In this episode, Tom shares his journey from a 15-year-old working in the trades to becoming a VP at ServiceTitan and an influential investor in the global home service market, including a notable partnership with Tommy Mellow in Australia. His story is a testament to overcoming adversity, embracing technological innovations, and the power of visionary leadership. Listeners will be captivated by: This episode offers an unparalleled look into Tom Howard's contributions to modernizing the home service industry, providing valuable lessons on innovation, strategy, and resilience. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply inspired by transformational leadership, this episode of "Trades Talk" is for you.

Episode Description: In this dynamic episode of "Trades Talk," we're thrilled to host Aaron Bowles from Bowles Photography, a visionary in the field of visual marketing for trades and service-based businesses. Aaron shares the lens through which he views the industry, illuminating the power of professional photography and videography in showcasing fieldwork and elevating brand presence on social media. Starting his entrepreneurial journey at the tender age of 15, Aaron's story is not just about his knack for capturing compelling images but also his insights into business growth, marketing strategies, and the gritty reality of building a business from scratch. His journey is an inspiration and a blueprint for those at the starting line of their own business ventures. In this episode, Aaron delves into: Whether you're a trade professional looking to sharpen your marketing edge, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply intrigued by the intersection of creativity and business, Aaron's insights offer valuable lessons in leveraging visual storytelling for success. Tune into "Trades Talk" for a behind-the-lens look at marketing in the trades with Aaron Bowles, and discover how to turn visual content into a cornerstone of your business strategy.

In this episode, Lisa shares her journey from her early roots in a family-owned nursery to becoming a leading figure in the green industry's digital transformation. LandscapeHub, born out of Lisa's vision and her response to industry-wide inefficiencies, has emerged as a vital tool for landscape professionals nationwide. Listeners will gain insights into: This episode is not just for those in the landscaping business but also for anyone interested in how technology and visionary leadership can create sustainable change in traditional industries. Tune in to "Trades Talk" to hear Lisa Fiore's inspiring story and learn how LandscapeHub is setting new standards for efficiency and innovation in the green industry.

Join us on "Trades Talk" for an enlightening conversation with Chris Johnson from Azuga, a company at the forefront of revolutionizing fleet management through technology that promotes safety, efficiency, and positive driving behaviors. In this episode, Chris unveils how Azuga is making roads safer and helping trade companies navigate the path to operational excellence by: "Trades Talk" listeners, whether you're involved in fleet management, interested in the latest in trade industry innovations, or passionate about safety and efficiency on the roads, will gain valuable insights from Chris Johnson's expertise. Tune in to learn how Azuga is not just tracking vehicles but transforming the way trade companies approach fleet management for a safer, more efficient future.

Dive into the world of sales excellence with Chris Jennings in this transformative episode of “Trades Talk.” Chris, a luminary in the sales domain and the force behind the Chris Jennings Group, shares unparalleled insights into constructing a sales powerhouse within your service business. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone eager to: “Sales Mastery” isn’t just about hitting numbers; it’s about creating a sustainable system that drives growth, fosters client relationships, and secures your business’s future in the competitive service industry landscape. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate an established sales framework, Chris’s insights offer the blueprint for success you’ve been searching for. Tune into “Trades Talk” for an episode that promises not only to enlighten but also empower your journey to sales mastery. This description aims to capture the essence of the episode, highlighting the expertise Chris Jennings brings to the table and the actionable takeaways for your listeners

In this enlightening episode of "Trades Talk," we're joined by DJ Seeger of Seeger Water, a Texas-based company at the forefront of irrigation and water management solutions. With a deep commitment to sustainability and an eye on the future of our planet's most precious resource, DJ shares the journey and mission of Seeger Water. Under DJ's leadership, Seeger Water has become synonymous with innovation in tackling some of the most pressing water challenges. This episode delves into: Listeners will leave with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of water management and the critical role that companies like Seeger Water play in conserving our water resources for generations to come. Tune in to "Trades Talk" episode 20 for a deep dive into the world of water with DJ Seeger, and discover how we can all be part of a more sustainable and water-wise future.

Welcome to a special episode of “Trades Talk,” where we delve into the heart of family-run businesses in the trades sector. In this inspiring installment, we’re joined by Niwar Nasim of Nasim Landscaping, based in Tacoma, Washington, who shares his remarkable journey from immigrating to the US as a refugee to spearheading the growth of his family’s landscaping business. “Roots of Resilience: Scaling a Family Business with Niwar Nasim” is more than just a success story; it’s a deep dive into the complexities, challenges, and triumphs of taking a small family operation to new heights. Niwar opens up about: Niwar’s narrative is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of community, and the enduring strength of family bonds in building a successful business. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur in the trades or dreaming of starting your own family business, this episode offers invaluable insights into making that dream a reality. More About Nasim Landscaping: Nasim Landscape is not just an award-winning landscaping and irrigation management company – we are a cherished family-owned and operated business, proudly serving the South Sound region since 1998. From our humble beginnings as a small, immigrant-owned venture, we have nurtured big dreams and transformed them into a source of inspiration. Our unwavering dedication, coupled with expert commercial and residential landscaping knowledge and unmatched customer service, has earned us a reputation as a trusted and dependable landscaping partner. As an enterprise-level provider of exceptional commercial and residential landscaping services, we combine our extensive experience with a personal touch. We understand the unique needs of our clients and tailor our solutions accordingly, ensuring that every aspect of your landscape is meticulously cared for. Tune in to “Trades Talk” for an episode filled with inspiration, wisdom, and actionable tips from one of the most passionate and successful figures in the landscaping industry. Niwar's LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/niwar/

We’ve heard a lot of Maggie’s wisdom over the past episodes and a lot of that has to do with her experience at Aspire Software. Now, we’re taking that up a notch as Justin places his co-host and colleague on the hot seat to tell us more about this life-changing career journey. A lot of people could only dream of being associated with such a prominent name in the industry. How does one succeed in such a dynamic field? What makes organizations like Aspire so compelling for top talent like Maggie to stay, or even get attracted to it in the first place? What leadership and other lessons does Maggie have to impart to us from this singular experience? Find out the answers to these and more in this episode.

Many people conflate business scaling with business growth, but those in the know understand that there is a subtle difference. Once you understand it, you're now holding the keys to unlocking business prosperity. In this insightful episode of "Trades Talk," host Maggie and Justin welcome Scott Lesak, the CEO of Kasel Rocks Landscape and Chief Visionary at InspireYou, a coaching and training brand. With a focus on the mindset of a CEO, Scott delves into his top three responsibilities, emphasizing the crucial role of coaching in leadership. The conversation takes a deep dive into Scott's unique approach to using snow as a core service for business scaling, showcasing his rapid growth on the east coast. Join in as Scott discusses his philosophy of scaling versus growth, inspiring listeners to reconsider their vision and reset their goals for success. Get ready for a wealth of knowledge on CEO management and team coaching in this thought-provoking episode

It’s no secret that private equity is a competitive space, so what makes the successful companies successful? Today, we’re featuring a proven model exemplified by LMC Landscape Partners. CEO Trey Brock explains how they blend time-honored conventions of business acquisition with innovative solutions that keep businesses thriving after partnering with them. Trey describes how they are making sure owners don’t regret partnering with private equity and how they’re giving employees skin in the game to improve engagement and performance. Tune in and learn some powerful secrets that will take your business to the next level!

If you've been in business for some time, you may have heard of EOS or the Entrepreneurial Operating System. It's one of those industry-agnostic buzzwords that many people talk about but very few ever understand to the fullest extent. In this episode, we get into the weeds with Greg Weitzman, an experienced EOS Implementer, as he shares valuable insights on unlocking business excellence. Greg sheds light on the significance of implementing EOS in your company and how it can transform the way you operate. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by leadership teams, the importance of maintaining a healthy meeting cadence, and strategies for effectively involving field teams in the process. Learn about the distinction between perception and perspective, and discover common sticking points that companies often face in their EOS journey. With a focus on leadership team definition and the art of letting go, Greg explores the nuances of integrating EOS into various business structures. If you're looking to elevate your business, understand the role of an EOS implementer, and gain insights into fostering a culture of excellence, you don't want to miss this conversation.