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Toolbox for the Trades

Toolbox for the Trades

280 episodes — Page 1 of 6

Clarity in Action: How to Build Better Systems From Scratch

May 12, 202634 min

What, Why, and How: Mapping Leadership Roles for Maximum Scalability

May 5, 202642 min

Why Career Sponsorship is the Key to Advancing Talent

Apr 28, 202637 min

Transforming Raw Data into Actionable Business Strategy

Apr 21, 202628 min

A $48 Million Mission to Make the Garage Door Industry Sexy

Apr 14, 202631 min

Just Start AI: Future-Proofing Your Business with Artificial Intelligence

Stephanie Allen, CEO of Airworks Solutions, and Jennifer Bagley, CEO of CI Web Group, join the show to discuss their collaborative mission: JustStart AI. This online community helps contractors move past the doomsday fear of artificial intelligence and into a world of massive operational leverage. Stephanie shares how she transformed her business after a difficult 2025 by cutting marketing spend by 50% and achieving an unprecedented 25% net profit through AI-enabled processes. Jennifer breaks down the technical math game of the modern web, explaining how AI agents can architect content for visibility in a shifting search landscape. From custom bedtime stories to high-level vibe coding, this episode serves as a roadmap for contractors ready to treat AI as their new superhero cape.Join us as we discuss: [1:35] Confronting the hesitancy to engage with AI tools and leverage them for your business needs[14:09] Why the early AI adopters are positioned to win the long game[25:26] Curating marketing content for AI bots alongside human consumers[35:45] How to future-proof your trades business for an AI-infused workforceCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:JustStart AI.ioYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Apr 7, 202644 min

The Vulnerable Leader: Overcoming Anxiety in Business Ownership

Mark Pyrah, President and Director of Client Care at Peak Landscape, shares a deeply personal account of transforming anxiety into a leadership tool. After 20 years in the industry, Mark discusses how he moved from being a “task master” focused on checkmarks to a leader driven by purpose and SOPs. He breaks down the financial shift that saved his sanity, moving focus from top-line revenue to free cash flow, and reveals how Peak Landscape is currently building custom AI assistants to decentralize decision-making and put the company’s collective brain into the hands of field technicians.Join us as we discuss: [6:01] How Mark shaped his anxiety into a leadership strength[13:32] Why understanding your finances is critical to mental health[20:52] How Peak Landscape is using custom AI assistants to empower their teamCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mar 31, 202629 min

Why Your Company Needs an In-House Apprenticeship Program

Brett Voccola, the Manager of Apprenticeship at Encon Heating & AC, joins the show to share how one Connecticut-based HVAC company is solving the labor shortage by growing its own talent. With 350 employees and a legacy dating back to 1969, Encon recognized that relying on a small, competitive labor pool was no longer sustainable. Brett discusses the development of Encon University, an in-house apprenticeship program that recruits high school students through a work-based learning pipeline. By engaging with students early and often, Encon provides a clear path to becoming a licensed technician by age 19, often making these young pros the highest earners in their households. Brett explains the importance of layering mentorship and support for new hires to help them transition from the structure of high school to the freedom of the field.Join us as we discuss: [4:42] Pitching opportunities for personal growth and stability over career choices[11:52] Building a talent pipeline through work-based learning programs[19:02] Why it’s important to start the trades recruitment pitch early and often[27:12] Encon University’s training timeline and initial challengesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Encon UniversityYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mar 24, 202636 min

AI in the Trades: Current State and Future Predictions

Abhishek Mathur, the newly appointed Chief Technology & Product Officer (CTPO) at ServiceTitan, joins the show to discuss the transformative power of AI in the trades. With an impressive background at Microsoft, Meta, and Figma, Abhishek explains how AI serves as a force multiplier, automating mundane tasks so contractors can focus on their craft. The conversation focuses on real-world examples of AI efficiency, from voice agents handling 7,000 calls during a winter storm to intelligent routing and automated invoicing. Abhishek outlines his vision for ServiceTitan as an “AI operating system” that provides deeper business insights and acts as a digital chief of staff. Whether you are a tech enthusiast or nervous about automation, this episode offers a pragmatic look at why AI adoption is essential for staying competitive in the modern service economy.Join us as we discuss: [5:48] Why AI is an accelerant for people in the trades, not a replacement[19:11] Four pillars of the AI-assisted operations funnel in the trades [29:35] How AI will transform the work economy and why now is the best time to adopt it[33:17] Goals for AI implementation in ServiceTitan’s core productCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan AI Voice AgentsJustStartAI Playbook2026 State of AI in the Trades ReportYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mar 17, 202639 min

How a Master Arborist Did a Half a Year’s Revenue in One Week

Keenan Baird, owner of GreenRoots and one of the few Board Certified Master Arborists in the country, dives into the “missing middle market” and the urgent need for modernizing the tree care industry. Keenan shares his journey from dragging branches in the Arizona heat to running a tech-forward operation in Nashville. He reveals how investing in a CRM and building a custom, transparent estimating formula allowed him to process a year’s worth of revenue in a single week following a devastating ice storm. This episode is a masterclass in differentiation, speed-to-lead, and why understanding your indirect and fixed costs is the only way to avoid drowning in a competitive market.Join us as we discuss: [1:49] Key differences between general landscaping and arboreal services[8:13] Why tech and professionalization is so far behind in the tree care industry[12:17] Breaking into the arboreal “middle market” and finding your community[20:43]How Aspire helped Keenan drive a year’s worth of revenue in one weekCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireAP Story on KeenanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mar 10, 202631 min

Scaling a Service Empire From $9M to $160M

In this episode, Chris and Joe Hoffmann, the CEO and COO of Hoffmann Brothers, reveal the strategy behind building a service empire. They detail their journey of scaling a $9 million family business into a $160 million powerhouse. The brothers discuss the transition from independent careers in the Marines and engineering to taking over their father’s company, emphasizing the importance of humility and “three-hat” framework for managing family dynamics. They share raw insights into their biggest change management mistakes, their “building blocks” approach to granular budgeting, and how they successfully replicated their St. Louis playbook in the Nashville market.Join us as we discuss: [5:29] How a process playbook helped the Hoffmanns nearly 20x their business [10:30] Getting everyone in the family business to row in the same direction[21:58] Other tools and strategies that complemented Hoffman Brothers’ rapid growth[29:05] Leaning on a private equity-like approach to building a service empireCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Nexstar NetworkYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Mar 3, 202646 min

How to Humanize AI and Automation in Your Landscaping Business

Yocelin Reynoso-Prado, Branch Manager of the L.A. Division at SouthWest Landscape and a 2025 Lawn & Landscape Employee of the Year finalist, joins the show to discuss her rapid rise in the industry and her focus on operational due diligence in landscaping. Coming from a background in medical billing and finance, Yocelin brings a unique perspective to field operations, emphasizing proactive communication and the power of being a “partner” rather than just a vendor to property managers. She details her journey with AI, from initial skepticism to using it as a “teammate” for reporting and sales analysis, and offers profound advice for women looking to claim their authority and lead with compassion in the trades.Join us as we discuss: [3:08] What separates great landscaping leaders from the rest of the field[7:29] How Southwest is using AI in their day-to-day workflows[12:22] Why transparent communication is the key to long-term success[16:20] Advice to women seeking leadership roles in the landscaping industryCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Lawn & Landscape 2025 Employee of the Year WinnersYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Feb 24, 202622 min

Inside ServiceTitan’s Referral and Brand Ambassador Programs

What if helping other contractors grow could earn you real rewards? In this episode, we’re joined by ServiceTitan leaders Naomi Menzer and Ellen Rohr to break down two powerful ways contractors can engage with the ServiceTitan community: the referral program and the brand ambassador program. From cash bonuses and cars to brand-building opportunities and industry visibility, Naomi and Ellen explain how these programs work, who they’re for, and why community-driven contractors tend to benefit the most.Join us as we discuss: [4:06] The ins and outs of ServiceTitan’s referral program[7:24] Why the referral race to win a new truck is closer than you think[13:01] What makes a great ServiceTitan brand ambassadorCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan Referral ProgramAspire Referral ProgramFieldRoutes Referral ProgramServiceTitan’s Referral Winner 2025Become a ServiceTitan Brand AmbassadorYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Feb 17, 202628 min

The AI Superpower: Scaling Your Business with Zero Overhead

Brooke and Allie Riley, Co-owners of Riley Plumbing, Heating & Air, join the show to discuss leveraging AI in the trades to transform a 25-year-old business. Brooke, who started the company at age 19 in 1999, shares the “whiplash” experience of moving from paper maps to running a fully AI-powered remote location in Reno with zero office staff. Allie explains how she optimized operational workflows by introducing ServiceTitan and using AI voice agents to automate 100% of their inbound call taking. The Rileys provide a masterclass in change management, revealing how they use AI to give their team “superpowers” and why fighting automation is no longer an option for contractors who want to thrive.Join us as we discuss: [3:17] Riley’s multi-decade evolution and adapting new innovational workflows[12:07] How Dispatch Pro and Contact Center Pro get you your time back[20:45] Launching one of the first office-free AI-augmented trades hubs Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Dispatch ProContact Center ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Feb 10, 202629 min

How Technology Can Help Landscapers Simplify the Chaos

In this episode, we sit down with Travis Wills, Sr. Director of Client Success at Aspire Software, to explore what it takes to grow without chaos. From starting in landscaping as a teenager to becoming employee #19 at Aspire, Travis has seen firsthand how systems, mindset, and people shape success. We dig into why keeping it simple is often the fastest path to scaling, why change management matters more than software features, and how emotional attachment to old processes can quietly slow growth.Join us as we discuss: [5:26] How keeping it simple matters for scaling[9:50] Taking the emotions out of big changes in your business[17:21] How Aspire to Greatness is elevating the industryCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Sign up for Aspire to Greatness here!From Paper Trails to Digital Portals: Scaling a Landscaping Business With Intention with Tiffany Martin PetersYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Feb 3, 202621 min

From Customer to Owner: Banking on the Resilience of the Trades

Justin Blaine, Co-owner of Carter Services in Torrance, CA, provides a unique perspective on banking on the resilience of the trades by detailing his transition from a professional M&A advisor to an owner-operator. Drawing on lessons from his three years in minor league baseball, Justin discusses the necessity of humility, work ethic, and managing failure when entering a new industry. He shares the fascinating story of how he went from being a customer to the owner of a 50-year-old family business that specializes in multiple home service trades. Justin reveals how he navigated a challenging first year of ownership by leveraging technology to learn the business quickly and implementing a “hospitality first” mindset to drive a 45% revenue increase in year two.Join us as we discuss: [1:42] Justin’s pivot from minor league baseball to M&A and the trades[14:58] Transitioning from customer to owner of a home services business[25:23] Cultivating a growth mindset with your team and “unreasonable hospitality”[37:25] The future of private equity and why the trades is accessible to everyone Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AthletesTouchUnreasonable Hospitality by Will GuidaraSetting the Table by Danny MeyerYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jan 27, 202644 min

De-Seasonalizing Your Business for Stability and Profit

John Conway, COO at Redwood Services in Memphis, shares his blueprint for de-seasonalizing your business for year-round stability and growth. Drawing on his experience as a former contractor and Nexstar coach, John details how to mitigate slow seasons by strategically adjusting marketing spend, adding complementary year-round trades (like plumbing), and aggressively nurturing your maintenance base. He also reveals the powerful 350:1 KPI for a healthy agreement base and explains how consistent training during slow times is critical for long-term people retention, which he calls the biggest growth challenge after conquering seasonality.Join us as we discuss: [4:44] A private equity firm that comes alongside your business as a partner[9:12] The biggest risk factors of owning a purely seasonal trades business[17:56] Benchmarking KPIs for a strong customer membership base[23:14] Why marketing needs to be top-of-mind for contractors year-roundCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Nexstar NetworkYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jan 20, 202630 min

De-Influence Your Tech Stack: How the Smartest Contractors Avoid Tech FOMO

Contractors are drowning in tech clutter. Between AI tools and endless “must-have” software subscriptions, it’s easy to get lost chasing the next shiny object. In this episode, Powerhouse Consulting’s Jenny Benbrook and Pam Duffy join the show to share a five-step plan for cutting through the noise, eliminating redundant tools, and building a smart, scalable tech strategy that actually drives profit. From budgeting like a marketer to running a “Goldilocks check” on your tech, this conversation will help you stop chasing shiny objects and start getting ROI from the software you already own.Join us as we discuss: [5:24] The rise of tech FOMO and the problem with over-adoption[19:06] A five-step plan to technology strategy success[38:23] The importance of regularly evaluating your tech spendCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast: ServiceTitanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jan 13, 202653 min

Clarity First, Patience Always: Inside the Making of an Aspire Super User

What happens when curiosity turns a landscape professional into the tech driver behind an entire organization? In this episode, we talk with Taylor Anderson, Systems Development and Growth Manager at Sunline Landscapes, to explore how a passion for learning, curiosity, and a little patience can transform both a career and an organization. Taylor talks about stepping into a brand new role, refining processes across departments, gaining support from the top, and why patience is the real secret behind meaningful change.Join us as we discuss: [6:49] How to identify an Aspire super user inside your company[11:43] Why using Aspire data improves outcomes across departments[17:53] The cornerstone of a strong SOP and Aspire in the classroomCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jan 6, 202632 min

The Fractional CFO's Blueprint for Trades Profit

Recording live at Pantheon, Kristen Deese, CFO at The Virtual CFO for the Trades, explains her fractional CFO strategy for helping trades business owners master their finances. Drawing on her experience selling her own home services business to private equity, Kristen discusses the crucial steps to ensure financial health, including properly departmentalizing financials and calculating gross profit margin. She shares the one "hot take" she would megaphone to the entire industry — why net profit trumps revenue — and details the KPIs she immediately zeroes in on when auditing a client's ServiceTitan to QuickBooks workflow.Join us as we discuss: [3:48] How a fractional CFO can help contractors with their financials and training[7:15] Common issues Kristen sees in the books of struggling businesses[14:30] Prepping companies for a private equity sale[18:03] How contractors should factor new tech into their financial planningCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan AtlasFreedom Blueprint for Home Services with Justin DeeseContact Kristen at [email protected] can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dec 30, 202525 min

From Startup to Sale: Achieving Rapid Trades Growth in 3 Years

Live from Pantheon, Chris Gist, Regional VP of the Gulf at Leap Service Partners, shares his incredible journey of rapid trades growth. Starting his plumbing company, Paradise Plumbing, in 2019, Chris quickly partnered with a mentor and executed an ambitious plan, selling the business in just three years to LEAP. He discusses the critical role of a distinctive brand and culture (including tiki hut vans and Hawaiian shirts) in attracting customers and private equity interest, the intense commitment required for doubling revenue annually, and how he uses ServiceTitan reports daily to manage gross profit margin in real time.Join us as we discuss: [6:11] Why private equity cares about your company’s culture and branding [11:48] Why higher marketing spend is the key to rapid growth[17:54] Chris’s go-to ServiceTitan reports for gauging a company’s fiscal healthCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dec 23, 202521 min

HARDI Insights: Controlling What You Can to Maximize HVAC Profit

Zachary Perge, VP of Distribution Strategy at HARDI, breaks down the critical HVAC profitability strategy for today's challenging “repair market.” He reveals key data points, including how financing adoption can increase average ticket prices by over $6,800. Zachary argues that the most resilient contractors are those who stop chasing pure volume and instead focus on controlling what they can control: identifying and duplicating their most profitable jobs, teams, and product lines. He also offers essential advice on how to successfully integrate financing into the sales process to turn repair opportunities into full replacement jobs.Join us as we discuss: [6:16] Numbers every contractor needs to understand to make better decisions[18:26] Why owners should focus on profitability over volume[28:45] Advice for contractors who want to integrate financing into their operationsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Women in HVACRYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dec 16, 202535 min

The Commercial Landscape Industry Report: Crack the Code on Growth in 2026

In this packed episode of Toolbox for the Trades, Justin White, CEO of K&D Landscaping and host of the Trades Talk podcast, returns with a clear message for 2026: raise the bar or get left behind. He and host Amanda dive into the Commercial Landscape Industry Report and pull apart the biggest shifts shaping the year ahead, including client retention battles, pricing pressures, the tech surge sweeping the industry, the power of experimentation, and the generational handoff transforming the trades. Justin brings the receipts, sharing how K&D hit an 84 percent client retention slump, where hiring went sideways, and how his team fought their way back with sharper systems, smarter tech, and a renewed commitment to excellence. If you are ready to elevate your business and outpace the competition, this episode will light a fire under you.Join us as we discuss: [7:15] The 3 biggest reasons clients leave their landscaping partners[15:23] The biggest hiring mistake Justin made… twice[27:03] Why technology is a competitive edge, but only if you use it right[37:54] The 30-minute exercise that sparks innovationCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Aspire's 2026 Commercial Landscape Industry ReportTrades Talk podcastAspireElevateFans First by Jesse ColeYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dec 9, 202548 min

The E-Commerce Approach to Digital Marketing in the Trades

Live from Pantheon, Scorpion CRO Jamie Adams dives into the biggest challenges and opportunities in trades digital marketing. Jamie explains why the rise in competition and advertising costs requires a more sophisticated, data-driven approach. He shares how the ServiceTitan and Scorpion partnership allows contractors to view their business through an e-commerce lens, tracking marketing spend all the way to revenue. Jamie also details new consumer trends, like impatience and the demand for information, and how ServiceTitan's Marketing Pro, combined with Scorpion's expertise, acts as a competitive weapon to generate massive ROI from existing customer data.Join us as we discuss: [4:31] Contractors’ biggest marketing challenges and AI’s influence on consumer trends[9:57] Taking the e-commerce approach to enhancing the customer experience[13:01] The competitive advantages of adding Scorpion to your Marketing Pro stackCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Marketing ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Dec 2, 202519 min

The Power of Franchising: You’re in Business for Yourself, Not By Yourself

In this episode, Christina Criniti-Dear, Director of Operations at Zoom Drain and owner of two Florida franchises, shares how she went from answering phones to running the show. She explains why every great leader should start at the bottom, how empathy isn’t innate but learned through experience, and what it really takes to build a thriving franchise from the ground up. Christina opens up about the lessons that shaped her leadership style: from owning every mistake to leading with clarity and purpose. She also pulls back the curtain on the franchise model, showing how it gives entrepreneurs the freedom to build something of their own with a proven roadmap. Join us as we discuss: [6:38] How to learn empathy and communication as a young leader[14:27] The GROW values of a successful entrepreneur[21:36] What new franchisees struggle with most You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Nov 25, 202535 min

The Two-Year Pause: A Strategy for Sustainable Landscaping Business Growth

Tim Johnson, President of Tim Johnson Landscaping in Statesville, NC, shares his blueprint for sustainable business growth, detailing his company's journey from a childhood mowing operation to a multimillion-dollar enterprise. After a period of rapid expansion, Tim made the strategic decision to “pump the brakes” for two years to restructure. He discusses the critical importance of building a management team, defining core processes (like implementing EOS), and shifting from “order taker” to a more tactical sales focus. Tim also explains how leveraging technology has allowed the company to scale without dramatically increasing non-revenue-producing headcount.Join us as we discuss: [5:11] When Tim realized he needed a proper org chart for sustainable growth[10:23] Rebuilding momentum after a two-year pause in rapid growth to implement scalable systems[17:30] Leveraging tools like Aspire to build frameworks for problem-solving and data visibilityCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireTraction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino WickmanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Nov 18, 202528 min

Pantheon 2025: Differentiate Your Brand With the 2025 Consumer Report

In this live episode from #Pantheon2025, Chris Petros, ServiceTitan COO, and Martha Hill Harvey, SVP of Platform Strategy at Synchrony, discuss how contractors can leverage the latest consumer trends in the trades to grow their businesses. They break down key insights from the ServiceTitan-Synchrony 2025 Consumer Report, including the importance of providing a seamless web and mobile experience, offering flexible payment options like financing, and building a strong brand that resonates with a new generation of homeowners.Join us as we discuss: [11:11] Financing and payment insights from the ServiceTitan-Synchrony 2025 Consumer Report[19:45] Trending consumer preferences in digital options and shifting demographics [25:14] Why brand reputation and core values are more important than ever Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:2025 Consumer Trends in the TradesServiceTitan Marketing ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Nov 11, 202531 min

How ServiceTitan and AI Help Contractors Streamline, Save, and Scale

How do you turn a kitchen table startup into a thriving HVAC business with five trucks? In this episode, Miranda Deschamps, Office Manager at ServicePlus Heating and Cooling (Ontario, Canada), shares how she and her team use ServiceTitan and AI to drive growth. From surviving a two-week email crash to negotiating smarter with suppliers and building AI-powered inventory systems, Miranda shows how resilience, curiosity, and the right tools can turn everyday challenges into business wins.Join us as we discuss: [7:22] The two-week email crash that became her best leadership lesson[11:59] How to leverage ServiceTitan and ChatGPT to solve inventory headaches[18:28] How using your ServiceTitan data can save you moneyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan Torch NetworkEGIAYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Nov 4, 202524 min

Landscaping Mergers and Acquisitions: What Buyers Really Look For

What makes a landscaping business truly valuable? In this episode, Amanda talks with Tom Heaviland, CEO of Verde Property Services, about what buyers really look for when acquiring a company. Tom shares his journey from running a family business for 35 years to selling it to BrightView and joining their acquisition team. He explains why strong teams and loyal customers matter most, how to handle the emotional side of selling, and why technology and AI are shaping the future of the industry.Join us as we discuss: [6:06] The differences between public and private equity acquisitions[10:40] What buyers look for in a thriving business and common misconceptions[18:56] The role of technology in valuation and operationsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireBrightViewBossLMNElevate 2025Lawn & Landscape Technology Conference 2026You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 28, 202526 min

Pantheon 2025: Find Your Most Profitable Path of Least Resistance

In this live episode from Pantheon 2025, Mitch Boerner, Director at Legendary Plumbers, shares his unique story of going from the music industry and professional kitchens to scaling a trades business in Victoria, Australia. Mitch discusses how he and his brother, a plumber, grew their company from a garage operation to a multi-service business by focusing on repeatable work and having the foresight to put the right processes in place early. He also shares his vision for the future, including a hub-and-spoke model and a commitment to perpetual optimism.Join us as we discuss: [11:02] Focusing on scalable service niches and the importance of good financial housekeeping[18:13] Saying no to nonscalable work and pricing yourself for the future[23:56] Upcoming ServiceTitan Pro product offerings and how they can help your business scaleCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Dispatch ProField ProScheduling ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 21, 202534 min

The ROI of a Good Name: Empathy in Business Management

Jessica Short, GM of Priority Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, serving the Kitchener and Waterloo, Ontario area, joins us to share her unique journey to finding her career passion in the trades. Jessica reveals how she applied empathy lessons from her time in social work to her current leadership role, helping grow her family’s business from 25 employees to a team of 84. She shares the crucial values and processes that enable her company to scale while maintaining a strong culture and a great reputation. Jessica also explains the difference between dreams and goals and how she uses this distinction to mentor and guide her team members.Join us as we discuss: [2:55] Steady growth from 25 to 84 employees and adding a service division[8:43] Applying leadership lessons from social work and understanding your team’s real-life struggles[26:24] Building trust with your customers and working alongside familyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Chris Hunter: What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You StrongerYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 14, 202541 min

Pantheon 2025 Opening Presentation Featuring ServiceTitan CEO Ara Mahdessian

In this special bonus episode, ServiceTitan Co-founder and CEO Ara Mahdessian celebrates the monumental success of the trades in his presentation at Pantheon 2025, highlighted by customer stories of multi-million dollar revenue and major acquisitions. Ara reflects on ServiceTitan's journey, declaring the company's commitment to its customers is the bedrock of its business. He then details a critical vision for the industry's future: the necessity of embracing AI and automation to ensure continued prosperity. Ara explains that while the core work of the trades is safe from automation, the surrounding cognitive workflows are not. He outlines how new ServiceTitan products are designed to help businesses double revenue and boost profits by automating these back-office functions, ensuring the trades not only survive, but thrive in the face of rapid technological change.Join us as Ara addresses: [1:21] Customer success stories and a promise to ServiceTitan users[20:25] Four takeaways from the inevitable disruptions that AI will cause in the trades[35:25] The exciting launch of ServiceTitan’s all-inclusive Max ProgramYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 13, 202538 min

Grow Big, Stay Human: Lessons on Technology and Client Care

Two brothers turned a high school project into Stephens Landscaping Professionals, a $22 million business in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. How did they scale while keeping their client relationships strong? In this episode, COO Mark Stephens shares how he and his team balance cutting-edge technology with high-touch service. From data-driven job costing to custom trucks and GPS-guided excavators, Mark explains how innovation fuels efficiency. He also reveals the structures and systems that ensure every client gets a personal connection, proving that growth does not have to come at the expense of relationships.Join us as we discuss: [6:14] Why 99% of business decisions should be data-driven[10:44] How to attract talent through technology and innovation[23:56] The toughest challenge: how to scale without losing your DNACheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireTrimbleYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Oct 7, 202528 min

Pantheon 2025: The Roofers’ Playbook for Successful Tech Onboarding

In this live episode from Pantheon, Karen Edwards, COO of Roofers Coffee Shop, shares her insights on technology adoption in roofing. Karen explains the common pitfalls and success stories she's witnessed, and provides practical advice for contractors who are hesitant to embrace new tech like AI. She also discusses the growing trends in metal roofing and restoration and highlights the importance of industry communities and trusted resources like Roofers Coffee Shop for navigating change and achieving success.Join us as we discuss: [8:57] Common pitfalls roofers can stumble into when adopting new technology[13:35] How outside experts and internal champions can help you streamline tech adoption[20:55] Bringing international roofing innovation to American contractors Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Roofing Road TripsMetalCastLa Voz de los RuferosRT3 Roofing Technology Think TankVILPE SenseYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 30, 202531 min

Maximizing Your EBITDA for a Private Equity Partnership

In this episode, Rob Parker, managing director of residential and commercial services investment banking at Piper Sandler, shares tips for partnering with private equity. A former entrepreneur himself, Rob explains how market forces and technological advancements have made the trades an attractive investment for private equity firms. He breaks down the importance of maximizing EBITDA, shares his experience with a successful client partnership, and offers advice for owner-operators preparing to sell their businesses or take them to the next level.Join us as we discuss: [6:56] The COVID private equity boom and how partnerships have since evolved[16:58] Why trades company IPOs may become common in the not-to-distant future[23:39] The most important metric that PE firms look at when considering a partnership[31:18] How owners can prep their team for a company merger or buyoutCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Email Rob at [email protected] can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 23, 202547 min

Built for Landscapers: The AI-Powered Future of Aspire

Aspire is leveling up, and so are the landscapers who depend on it. In this episode, we explore what the platform's next chapter means for the industry’s fastest-growing businesses. General Manager Eli Zevin shares how Aspire is evolving to meet the moment, with bold plans to scale smarter, serve better, and bring cutting-edge tech to the field. We dig into how Aspire is restructuring its teams to better support businesses at every stage of growth, from scrappy up-and-comers to multimillion-dollar operations. Eli also gives us a glimpse into the not-so-distant future, where AI moves from helpful to hands-on. Join us as we discuss: [4:42] Aspire’s goals for industry-wide growth and scalability[12:17] Advice for businesses nervous about making the switch[16:22] How Eli’s experience as a camp director influenced his leadership styleYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 16, 202524 min

From Whiteboard to $30M: Scaling a Roofing Company From Scratch

Doug Greenhaw, President and CEO, and Justin Guinnip, COO, at Summit Roofing & Restoration in Atoka, Tennessee, share their journey of scaling a roofing business from modest beginnings to a projected $30 million this year. They dive into how they leveraged a devastating tornado in their hometown into a catalyst for growth, meticulously planning to replicate an $18 million revenue year without another natural disaster. Doug and Justin also candidly discuss their challenging but ultimately successful experience as early ServiceTitan adopters in the roofing industry, offering invaluable advice for other contractors considering significant tech investments.Join us as we discuss: [6:49] Transitioning from whiteboards to tech and embracing outside help[17:58] Helping a community rebuild after tragedy strikes[24:19] ServiceTitan implementation for roofers and process mappingCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Home Service FreedomContact Center ProPantheon 2025You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 9, 202539 min

Scaling with Intention: The Systems Behind $45 Million in Revenue

How do you take a third-generation family business and triple its revenue without losing its soul? In this episode, Brad Barron, CEO of Barron Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical and Plumbing, shares how he led his team through explosive growth: from $15 million to a projected $45 million, all without private equity, mergers, or compromising on culture. Brad talks about building systems that actually scale, leading with clarity and humility, and making hard decisions when growth moves faster than process. Join us as we discuss: [3:01] Family business succession planning that actually works[15:32] Tripling revenue: scalable process vs tribal knowledge[26:00] Omni-channel marketing and acquiring a media company[34:23] The mistake Brad regrets most: waiting too longCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025EGIAYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Sep 2, 202550 min

Leveraging Predictive Analytics to Navigate Rapid Business Growth

Predictive analytics isn't just for data nerds. Robert Clinkenbeard, CEO at Wilson360 and host of the Commercial Landscaper Podcast, explains how landscaping businesses can leverage predictive analytics to streamline operations, optimize talent, and enhance efficiency. Drawing from his experience scaling his landscaping business from zero to $20 million, Robert shares insights on how owners can effectively utilize data to navigate rapid growth. He emphasizes the importance of embracing AI, recruiting proactively, and constantly adapting strategies to stay ahead in the industry.Join us as we discuss: [4:18] Why companies shouldn’t overrely on legacy practices and recruiting from outside the industry[12:53] How predictive analytics and AI tools can help you scale efficiently[16:12] The future of landscaping technology and effectively leveraging your teamCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The Commercial LandscaperYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Aug 26, 202524 min

From “Nope” to Mic Drop: How Sales Skills Powered a Multimillion-Dollar First Year

In her first year running True Pros in Layton, Utah, Katy Higgins turned her sales skills into a multimillion-dollar HVAC business. Along the way, she faced tough lessons, unexpected challenges, and learned how to celebrate wins no matter what came her way. Katy shares what it takes to lead through chaos, embrace new tools like Sales Pro, and create a workplace where victories are celebrated and challenges are met head-on. She also explains how she kept her team motivated during setbacks, why recording sales calls transformed her approach, and how a simple bell in the hallway became a symbol of resilience and progress.Join us as we discuss: [8:07] Why contractors need to focus on solving problems, not push products[13:29] How True Pros went from garage startup to $6M in the first year[19:43] Scrapbooks, celebrations, and staying focused on the positives[30:22] Falling in love with Sales Pro and quadrupling closure ratesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025Sales ProService Nation Lennox Premier You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Aug 19, 202535 min

Fix Sales First: The Key to Growing Your Commercial Service Business

What’s really holding your commercial service department back? In this episode, Jennifer Shooshanian, Senior Service Coach at Business Development Resources (BDR), reveals how she transformed an underperforming team into a profitable, high-performing commercial service operation. She also shares the hard-won strategies and lessons she’s learned from over 20 years of managing and coaching teams so you can build your own foundation for sustainable growth. Join us as we discuss: [2:48] Why documenting your organization’s processes is crucial[16:01] How to build a strong commercial service department[20:14] Fix sales first: Why pricing comes before everything else[29:29] The power of commercial maintenance agreementsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Aug 12, 202542 min

The Digital Dirt: How to Cultivate Smarter Operations in Landscaping

In this episode of Toolbox for the Trades, we sit down with Mike Lowrance, IT Director at LMC Landscape Partners, to explore what it really takes to bring technology into a boots-on-the-ground industry. Starting his career in horticulture and now leading tech strategy across multiple landscape companies, Mike offers a rare insider perspective on how to make digital tools actually work in the trades. We unpack some hard truths of tech adoption: why even the best systems fail without clear goals, thoughtful training, and real buy-in. Join us as we discuss: [7:12] How to build internal tech leadership with super users[12:54] How to create buy-in and deal with tech resistance[18:43] What sets Aspire apart from other landscaping CRMsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireIgniteYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Aug 5, 202525 min

Strategic Vertical Integration: Turning Every Home into an Opportunity

Vertical integration can transform your business without expanding geographically. Branden Dickey, CEO at LocalRoofs and Owner of Conejo Heating, Air, Plumbing, and Electrical, mastered strategic growth by identifying multiple opportunities in every home serviced. From rebranding interior fixtures as household billboards to carefully choosing integration pathways, Branden boosted Conejo's revenue from $1.2 million to a projected $40 million within a 30-mile radius. In this episode, he discusses maintaining efficiency at scale, leveraging community trust, and why precise measurement drives exceptional growth and profitability.Join us as we discuss: [10:08] How every new vertical in your business acts as an “interior billboard” in your customers’ homes[18:33] Bringing a new level of professionalism to the roofing industry[28:13] Why contractors need to adopt an efficiency mindset and measure everything[39:28] How ServiceTitan streamlines workflows in multiple business verticalsYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 29, 202554 min

Think Like a Marketer, Hire Like a Pro: How to Fix Your Workforce Funnel

Are your job applicants ghosting you? Can anything be done to stop it? In this episode, we talk with Carlos del Pozo, Co-founder of Team Engine, about what is really holding companies back from building strong, reliable teams in the trades. Drawing on his experience as both an Army officer and entrepreneur, Carlos shares practical strategies to streamline the recruiting process, reduce turnover, and build a more competitive workforce. Join us as we discuss: [5:39] The #1 hiring bottleneck of failing to follow up fast[13:01] Why your job description is a marketing tool[20:25] The future of recruiting and hiring in the age of AIYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 15, 202525 min

Strategic Partnerships: Build Legacy and Generational Wealth in Garage Door Businesses

Strategic partnerships can make the difference between stagnation and explosive growth. Joe Delaney, Jordan Dubin, and Sean Slazyk, Cofounders of Guild Garage Group and Galaxy Service Partners, join us to reveal how collaboration and strategic alignment transformed their residential and commercial garage door businesses. Learn how data transparency, shared best practices, and clearly defined roles empower local businesses to reach new heights. Discover how partnerships provide not just short-term wins but lasting generational wealth, deep industry expertise, and robust support systems that sustain continuous growth.Join us as we discuss: [3:14] Why industry diversity in the trades is so attractive to outside partners[18:22] The integration process in a strategic partnership and operational responsibilities[35:00] Standardizing CRMs for data tracking and KPI benchmarking[43:02] How the Guild and Guardian partnership model helps owners build generational wealthYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 8, 202559 min

Homepros Knows: What’s Moving the Needle in the Trades

Are you staying ahead of the trends shaping the trades? In this episode, we talk with Alec Stevanovski, Editor at Homepros, the digital media outlet bringing sharp, real-time reporting to home services professionals. We dig into rising equipment costs, supply chain pressures, and how 2025’s tariff landscape is hitting the contractor’s bottom line. Plus, Alec offers a refreshingly grounded take on private equity in the industry and explains why so many contractors are tuning out the noise and doubling down on the fundamentals.Join us as we discuss: [6:38] The economy: HVAC price hikes, tariffs, and refrigerant costs[11:47] Rising material costs and the data behind consumer sentiment[17:46] Private equity in the trades: trends, timelines, and what’s nextCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan Pantheon 2025You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jul 1, 202528 min

Operational Excellence: Building a People-First Janitorial Company

Operational excellence is a key focus for Steven Harper, President and CEO at Spectrum Building Services of America. It's a philosophy that fuels his leadership style, his approach to customer service, and his strategic vision for long-term business success. Steven joins us for our final Green and Clean episode to share how lessons from powerhouse brands like Disney and FedEx shaped his leadership journey, why building a people-first company culture is non-negotiable, and why cash flow management is the true lifeline for any service business.Join us as we discuss: [3:25] How 25-plus years of experience have influenced Steven’s customer service philosophy[10:53] Cash management strategies for struggling business owners[15:50] Culture building and scaling within the commercial cleaning industryCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireCEO Life LessonsYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 24, 202528 min

From Paper Trails to Digital Portals: Scaling a Landscaping Business With Intention

Family business transformation takes on a whole new meaning when Tiffany Martin Peters joins us for another episode of our Green and Clean series. As President at North by Northwest Lawns in Austin, Texas, Tiffany walks us through her unexpected path into the family landscaping company, starting with a rocky internship and a firm "no" to working with family — but life had other plans. When Tiffany returned in 2014, she found herself building office operations from scratch, armed with only a QuickBooks tutorial from her dad and her own determination. She shares the uphill journey of implementing software, overcoming a steep learning curve, and evolving the business beyond Excel spreadsheets and paper files.Join us as we discuss: [5:33] Transitioning the office from old-school paper to modern processes[8:26] Navigating family dynamics while implementing new procedures[13:56] Adopting new software during the peak seasonal monthsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireTiffany’s Aspire JourneyYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 17, 202527 min

Aspire + EOS = Smarter Systems for Growing Green

Process improvement is more than a buzzword to Andrew Craft — it’s a growth engine. In this second episode of our special series, Green and Clean, the CFO at Site Landscape Development in the Dallas-Fort Worth area shares how his team doubled revenue by investing in efficient systems, adopting Aspire, and implementing the EOS framework. Andrew brings his tech-forward thinking and financial discipline to the landscaping space, showing how automation, data, and scalable tools can transform operations. From building a high-functioning scheduling system to upgrading AP workflows with AI, he reveals how efficiency isn’t just about saving time — it’s about preparing for serious growth.Join us as we discuss: [1:49] Why process improvements are critical for scaling your small business[6:21] How a CRM and EOS implementations helped Site double their revenue[15:31] Advice to small business owners trying to hurdle their scaling challengesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireEOSYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsListening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 10, 202522 min

Mentorship in the Trades: Lessons That Fuel Growth

Mentorship in the trades can drive lasting impact across careers, teams, and entire industries. In the first episode of our Green and Clean series, Jon Gohl, Director of Client Experience at Aspire Software, shares how early lessons in leadership and the mentorship of industry icons like Kevin Kehoe shaped his career trajectory. From recruiting international teammates to advancing software adoption in the field, Jon reflects on how empathy, trust, and bold action have fueled Aspire’s mission — and his own. This conversation explores the powerful ripple effect of mentorship and what it takes to inspire the next generation of trades professionals.Join us as we discuss: [11:21] Leadership lessons Jon took from some of the industry’s legends[17:46] Bringing technology to schools for the next generation of landscapers[24:30] Framing software platforms as an approachable toolCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Aspireacademy.youraspire.comYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jun 3, 202522 min