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Waste No Day: A Home Services Motivational Podcast

Waste No Day: A Home Services Motivational Podcast

320 episodes — Page 6 of 7

Ep 69Finding Your Edge Over 40 - Special Guest: Dr. Mike Simpson of Greybeard Performance

In today’s show, we are putting Dr. ‘Doc’ Mike Simpson in your passenger seat to discuss how age is only a number. Whether you’re over 40, or you’re going to eventually be 40, this podcast is for you. It can be easy to get into a routine and stop pushing yourself. You can also become complacent with the acceptance of less and just end up settling. Dr. Simpson pushes back against that mentality and has the resume to back it up. His life has been one long demonstration of not accepting status quo. He has served in the military as an airborne ranger, special forces operator, and doctor of emergency medicine for over 30 years. He is a board-certified emergency medicine physician as well as an expert in both tactical trauma medicine and combat sports medicine. And if that isn’t enough, he co-stared on Hunting Hitler on the History Channel. He has not accepted less and challenges us to do the same on this episode.

Dec 13, 20211h 39m

Ep 68A Return to What Matters - Special Guest: Dave Daffan of Daffan Cooling and Heating

In today’s show, we are putting Dave Daffan in your passenger seat to discuss how his journey of working 80 hours a week and going through life’s difficulties changed his outlook on business. Dave found his way into the HVAC trade through his uncle’s business and began his career as a service technician and installer. Through twenty plus years of hard work he progressed from technician, to install manager, to service manager, to GM, and finally to CEO. However, the years of work experience came at a cost of years of life experience. Dave took the lessons he learned along the way and set a path to make a difference in his company. Focusing on culture and work/life balance, Dave began the revitalization of his perspective on business to build an award-winning company today. Dave shares his journey and learned lessons on this week’s episode.

Dec 6, 202153 min

Ep 67The Truth Detector - Special Guest: FBI Agent, Author, and Professor Dr. Jack Schafer

In today’s show, we are putting Dr. Jack Schafer in your passenger seat to discuss how we can use body language to establish likeability with others. Dr. Schafer started his career in law enforcement as a police officer before applying and being accepted into the FBI. As an agent he was trained in the arts of negotiation and worked on identifying and turning spies. Dr. Schafer has published numerous articles on topics ranging from psychopathology of hate and detecting deception and has written several books including “The Like Switch” and “The Truth Detector.” Jack shares his expertise on what we can do to help other people like us and how to adapt in the ever changing world of being in front of a homeowner.

Nov 29, 20211h 24m

Ep 66My Brother‘s Keeper - Special Guest: Billy Alfaro with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

In today’s show, we are putting Billy Alfaro in your passenger seat to share his story on how the trades had a big impact in his life. Billy’s story intertwines with our previous two guests as we conclude what turned into a three-part series. Like Brandon and Jon, Billy grew up in a difficult environment that refined him in ways that still drive his conduct today. But Billy’s focus in many ways wasn’t solely about himself, but about looking out for his younger brother. Something inside of him propelled him with a desire to protect and be a role model, so he invested himself into mentoring. Ironically, his mentees found their way into the trades first and Billy followed later starting from scratch to become a plumber. Billy shares about how his experience growing up helped him choose to be someone to look up to and how this same mindset determines his day-to-day outlook in the trades. If you missed episode 64 and 65, be sure to catch them first as we conclude this family-centered, determined series.

Nov 22, 20211h 14m

Ep 65From Sewer Lines to S.W.A.T. Team - Special Guest: Brandon Hernandez

In today’s show, we are putting Brandon Hernandez in your passenger seat to share his story on how the trades had a big impact in his life. Growing up best friends with our previous podcast guest, Jon Perez, Brandon was also left questioning what to do at the end of high school. Making the choice to jump into the trades he attended Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology majoring in plumbing. Graduating the program, he immediately got a job with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Lancaster, PA and began his career. A quick study with a stubborn determination to learn Brandon rapidly moved from apprentice to his own truck. Along the way he learned many of the principles and foundations that would propel him to more in his next career. Working a time in plumbing, Brandon eventually went on to pursue a deeper calling within law enforcement. While it was the ending of his career in the trades, what he had learned set him up for success. Now a SWAT team officer at the age of 25, Brandon shares about his journey and how each step along the way made a difference for what would come next.

Nov 15, 20211h 33m

Ep 64From Homeless to Homeowner by 26 - Special Guest: Jon Perez with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

In today’s show, we are putting Jon Perez in your passenger seat to share his story on how the trades had a big impact in his life. Graduating high school, Jon was faced with the typical “what am I going to do with my life” question. However, in Jon’s case the answer to that question required more urgency because he no longer had a place to live. Hopping from couch-to-couch Jon considered his options and decided to check out a local trade school to see about the plumbing program. Deciding to give it a chance he jumped head first into the trades with zero previous experience. Starting with how to read a tape measure and progressing into piping, soldering, and more Jon was a quick study. Transitioning into the real world he started his plumbing career with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Lancaster, PA and put his education to work. While it hasn’t been easy, the trades gave Jon an opportunity to make a better life for him and his family. No longer couch surfing, Jon is the proud owner of his own home and has aspirations for more. Listen to this life changing story of how the trades changed one man’s path.

Nov 8, 20211h 4m

Ep 63The 7 Power Contractor System - Al Levi

In today’s show, we are putting Al Levi in your passenger seat to discuss the 7 Power Contractor System. Al grew up in the trades as so many have and was working in the industry long before he was able to drive. Through years of experience, he was on the front line to the many frustrations of operating and working in a business. After “walking a mile” in someone else’s shoes and gaining some perspective, the wheels began turning on what would eventually become the processes and plans of the 7 Power Contractor System. We dig into his story and experience and how he turned those frustrations into a formula.

Nov 1, 20211h 0m

Ep 62Jargon, The Best Sleeping Pill - Special Guest: Gene Slade with Lead Ninja System

In today’s show, we are putting Gene Slade in your passenger seat to discuss jargon, self-believe, and so much more. Gene Slade is the owner of multiple companies including Lead Ninja System and specializes in the group and individual training of HVAC technicians, plumbers, and electricians across the country. Soon eclipsing seven years in the training sphere, Gene is no stranger to the home service industry. He has been an employee and employer in the trades and cut his teeth riding shotgun with his dad in his adolescent years. Today, he brings not only the real-world experience, but the evidentially proven results of hundreds and thousands of success stories to make training straight to the bone impactful. Gene joins the show today to discuss how so called “tech speak” is really a detriment to client communication. Our efforts to impress often only work in the mirror when we should really be explaining the only thing a client cares about: why does this matter to me? Gene also dives into what’s possible in the trades bringing hope and expansion to the mind for all who listen.

Oct 25, 20211h 46m

Ep 61From Opportunity Taker to Opportunity Maker - Special Guest: Matt Buckwalter of One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

In today’s show, we are putting Matt Buckwalter in your passenger seat to discuss opportunities. Matt’s story is one of both seizing the opportunity presented to him and in turn providing opportunity to others. Matt grew up in humble means in the town of Lancaster, PA and found his way into the trades through a fortuitous meeting. Starting his career in HVAC as a comfort advisor, Matt quickly found his stride and a love for the industry. Advancing into a GM role in California, Matt gained not just leadership training but life experience that prepared him for the next step in his journey. Returning to Lancaster, Matt was presented with the opportunity to gain ownership in the company that first presented the opportunity to him. This “circle of life” you might say continues to drive Matt’s interest in providing opportunities to others. Matt talks about his story, his growth in leadership, and his successes and failures as he continues to strive to provide people with a desire for more the chance to take the jump.

Oct 18, 20211h 27m

Ep 60More Than A Dispatcher - Special Guest: Kevin Oliver of Yes! Air Conditioning and Plumbing

In today’s show, we are putting Kevin Oliver in your passenger seat or probably more likely in your ear as we discuss dispatching and more. Dispatching is a critical piece to any home services company and the impact of the dispatching role cannot be overlooked. A dispatcher more than perhaps any other employee in the company knows the “pulse” of the day and the technicians. He or she knows if Frank is having a tough stretch, if the revenue goal is going to be hit, or if Jamie is on the way to going 4 for 4. A dispatcher is a coach, confidant, encourager, director, alley-ooper, and so much more. Kevin Oliver shares his expertise gained over years in the customer service and dispatching world. Kevin sets the pace for what is truly possible in the dispatching role and gives some great advice for both the office side and the field side of the dispatching process.

Oct 11, 20211h 11m

Ep 59Get Yourself Moving! - Special Guest: Ivan Cholakov of Jacked Dads and Spartan Dad Project

In today’s show, we are putting Ivan Cholakov in your passenger seat discussing how staying fit and eating healthy can have big impact on your future career. Ivan immigrated to the United States from Bulgaria in 2012, as a certified strength and conditioning specialist and nutritionist. As creator of the Spartan Dad Training Program, Ivan personally coaches many individuals in person and online to get fit and healthy. Ivan talks to us on the show about how losing weight and exercising can have big implications for the home services professional. Additionally, we discuss how stress can have dire effects on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. And since there is no shortage of heavy lifting in the trades, Ivan also discloses some helpful tips on making sure your body is prepared for your career. Ivan both preaches and lives a healthy lifestyle and talks to us about his goal of one million transformations on this latest episode.

Oct 4, 20211h 4m

Ep 58Traction Is For More Than Tires - Special Guest: Mike Paton with EOS Worldwide

In today’s show, we are putting Mike Paton in your passenger seat discussing the Entrepreneurial Operating System, Traction, Get and Grip, and much more. The Entrepreneurial Operating System, better known as EOS is an organizational structure to help businesses work efficiently and effectively. The six components detailed within its program dive into major areas of the business that are sometimes overlooked or underutilized. Paton is an author, implementer, podcast host, and speaker and uses his expertise to walk us through the different areas of EOS and what they practically mean to front line employees. Speaking from not only the pages of his book, Get a Grip, but also the vast personal experience of implementing these discussions over 1400 times, Paton shares though-provoking concepts beneficial for owners and non-owners alike.

Sep 27, 20211h 8m

Ep 57Leading with Authority - Special Guest: Rob Weddle of Authority Brands

In today’s show, we are putting Rob Weddle in your passenger seat discussing his role in leading one of the biggest home services providers in the country. Rob serves as the CEO of Authority Brands and provides operational guidance for the ten portfolio brands under the umbrella including One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, and Mister Sparky Electric. As a start up business owner himself Rob has experiences on both sides of the employee/employer table and opens up about his journey and what he has learned. We talk all that and more as we explore the future of the trades with special guest Rob Weddle.

Sep 20, 20211h 15m

Ep 56Eat More Animals - Chris Irvin the Ketologist of Perfect Keto

In today’s show, we are putting Chris Irvin in your passenger seat talking about the subjects of healthy living and the KETO diet. Before you tune out, think about the last three meals that you have had (assuming you didn’t skip one) and ask yourself it what you ate was really the best for your body. There is no secret that the home services industry is a tough gig full of long hours, hard work, swing shifts and more; and all of these contribute to both breakdown in the body and unhealthy habits. It’s time to get serious about not sure what you do and how you do it, but how long you can do it. Healthy eating is a great way to not only put you in a better mood for your clients and your family; but it can promote a lifestyle that will enable you to keep doing what you love for years to come. Chris Irvin, also known as the Ketologist, has written multiple books including “Keto Answers” and currently specializes in educating and researching low carb diets for health and human performance. Chris speaks into the “everyday life” of a service professional and what eating healthier can practically look.

Sep 13, 20211h 41m

Ep 55Fantasy Draft Your Team - Special Guest: Lance Sinclair with Authority Brands

In today’s show, we are putting Lance Sinclair in your passenger seat talking about the subjects of recruiting and retainment. Every employee of a company is an ambassador to new potential hires. We all have the ability to recruit in our own circle of influence and in turn begin assembling the team that we really want around us. Just like a coach selects specific players to be on his team, so we can begin drafting the next MVP for ours. We talk about this and more with Lance Sinclair of Authority Brands. Lance serves as the Vice President of Authority Brands overseeing One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, and Mister Sparky Electric. Lance has over 17 years in the industry and has worked in areas ranging from leadership development and training to operations. Today, he joins the show to lend his expertise to an area where everyone is struggling: getting good people. One of his most recently published articles in HVACR Business was entitled “The Problem Isn’t Turnover; It’s Retention,” and he continues to discuss this idea on the show today.

Sep 6, 20211h 18m

Ep 54The Power of Negotiation - Special Guest: Brandon Voss of the Black Swan Group

In today’s show, we interview special guest Brandon Voss of the Black Swan Group. Brandon is an expert trainer, coach, and thought leader serving as president of the Black Swan Group. Starting his entrepreneurial spirit at a young age detailing yachts at 14, Brandon gained diversity of experience eventually adapting the FBI’s hostage negotiation techniques to the business world. Brandon has served as guest lecturer at places such as the USC Marshall School of Business and Georgetown’s McDonough School of Business. He joins the show today to discuss the power of negotiation respective to dealing with clients in the home. Brandon details how tactical empathy employed properly can be the difference between a great deal and a great failure.

Aug 30, 20211h 10m

Ep 53Owning Your Own Future - Special Guest: Dave Pomales of One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

In today’s show, we interview special guest Dave Pomales of One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Pleasantville, NJ. Dave has been in the trades for over two decades across multiple states on the east coast. His is a story of growth and determination starting as an apprentice out of high school and rising through the ranks to now own and partner in multiple businesses in the home services industry. Dave joins the show to talk about his story, the stress and challenges that came with it, and overall, the mental determination he kept while pursuing a goal.

Aug 23, 20211h 12m

Ep 52Stop Wasting the Money You're Making - Special Guest: George Kamel of Ramsey Solutions

In today’s show, we interview special guest George Kamal of Ramsey Solutions on the topic of money management. George has served on the Ramsey team for 8 years and hosts popular podcasts The Fine Print and EntreLeadership. As a personality with the Ramsey team George also hosts live events across the nation. On this episode George breaks down the baby steps to financial freedom. The fastest way to give yourself a raise is by not wasting the money you are already making. George helps us understand some simple but effective steps to financial freedom and how to take control of your dollars.

Aug 16, 20211h 9m

Ep 51Connecting with People - Special Guest: Chris Crew withThe Blue Collar Success Group

In today’s show, we interview special guest Chris Crew on the topic of connecting with people. Chris serves as the president of The Blue Collar Success Group and focuses his time on training companies to accelerate their path to success. Before joining BCSG, Chris spent years in the trades as an electrician eventually leading to owning an electrical company and helping to build it to 62 electricians based out of 5 locations. Chris has worked for years in developing not only his technical skills but interpersonal ones and the ability to read people, understand empathy, and adapt to the situation. He joins the show today to share some of his expertise in the matter of connecting with people; specific to technicians, plumbers, and electricians dealing with homeowners.

Aug 9, 20211h 16m

Ep 50Finding the Quitter - Special Guest: Tim Kennedy with Sheepdog Response

In today’s show, we interview special guest Tim Kennedy on finding the quitter. Tim needs little introduction. He is a Master Sergeant with the US Army Green Berets and a Special Forces sniper with multiple combat deployments throughout the middle east. He is a former professional mixed martial arts fighter and a two-time title challenger. He has been featured on numerous TV shows including HISTORY Channel’s show, “Hunting Hitler,” as well as the Discovery Channel’s series, “Hard to Kill.” Tim joins us this episode to talk about doing hard things, rejecting comfort, and mental fortitude. Appreciative of the plight of home service professionals, Tim speaks into the preparation that he used to handle difficult highs and lows in a day.

Aug 2, 202155 min

Ep 49The Future of the Trades - Mark Dawson with Authority Brands

In today’s show, we interview special guest Mark Dawson on the future of the trades. As a longtime entrepreneur, Mark has owned and operated multiple businesses across the years. Currently, Mark serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Mister Sparky Electric, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning. This episode we talk big picture about the direction the industry is going, how to get people into the trade business, and upcoming innovation.

Jul 26, 20211h 9m

Ep 48Sharpening Your Skills with Success Academy - Special Guest: Matt Brewer with Success Academy

In today’s show, we interview special guest Matt Brewer about Success Academy. Matt serves as the program manager for Success Academy, the training arm of Clockwork Home Services. In this role he oversees development and implementation of hundreds of training courses to over 350 franchise locations of One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, and Mister Sparky Electric. Success Academy is specifically designed to be a personal learning management tool for plumber, technicians, electricians, and supporting office staff. It has dozens of topics integral to field and office support. In this podcast we discuss the opportunities with this software and the importance of keeping your saw sharp.

Jul 19, 202151 min

Ep 47Master Series: The Power of a Process - Special Guest: Jason Walker with HVAC Masters of the Hustle

In today’s show, we interview special guest Jason Walker on the power of a process. Jason started in the HVAC industry in 2010, starting as a warehouse shop cleaner. A powerful work ethic and person drive propelled him quickly through the ranks to duct cleaner, install helper, parts manager, and eventually comfort advisor. In his first year as a CA he produced over $2.2 million in sales even though he started 4 months through the year. In following years, he sold over $18 million in residential replacement averaging 65-70% closing. Comfort advisor now turned trainer; Jason operates HVAC Masters of the Hustle based out of California and travels the country training in the HVAC industry. Jason has helped techs and comfort advisors get to the next level increasing average tickets beyond what people thought was possible. Focusing on the power of having a set process, this episode digs into Jason’s story and how utilizing a foundational approach yield remarkable results.

Jul 12, 20211h 16m

Ep 46Master Series - Getting Paid For What You Know -Special Guest: Weldon Long Author of The Power of Consistency

In today’s show, we interview special guest Weldon Long on the topic of getting paid for what you know. Weldon Long spent 25 years living on the streets. He’s been to prison three times and was a self-proclaimed loser; but that’s not where the story ends. Gaining his BS and MBA degrees while in prison, he turned his life around to become a business owner, trainer, author, and sought-after speaker. Weldon joins the podcast to discuss the idea of getting paid for what you know as opposed to getting paid for what you do. Illustrating this concept with a powerful nuclear power plan analogy, Weldon dives deeper into why this mind shift is important to any home services professional.

Jul 5, 20211h 11m

Ep 45BONUS EPISODE: Money Matters - Crypto Investing - Special Guests: Tyler Zimmerman and Eric Anderson

In today’s show, we interview special guests Tyler Zimmerman and Eric Anderson. Tyler Zimmerman is an HVAC service technician with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Lancaster, PA. Eric Anderson is a friend of the show and serves as the Manager of Network and Telecom Solutions with Armstrong World Industries. Both guests started their investing journey into crypto currencies a few years ago and graduated the school of hard knocks. Eric and Tyler share their insights on basic questions about crypto as well as explore how the new currency will look in the future. While not considered a traditional safe investment, crypto is gaining speed and has the potential of creating passive income for the home services professional. Crypto’s are already being accepted as a form of payment in some businesses and will probably make their way into the home services industry in the near future. This episode is designed to pique curiosity and generally provide a possible investment idea to help work your way out of turning wrenches.

Jun 30, 20211h 33m

Ep 44Master Series - Helping Other People Get What They Want - Special Guest: Gene Slade with Lead Ninja VT

In today’s show, we interview special guest Gene Slade on the topic of helping other people get what they want. Gene has been in the industry for year both on the tech side and ownership. While still in business, his primary focus now is helping technicians, plumbers, and electricians realize the true potential of their jobs, income, and personal development. Owner of Lead Ninja, Gene has helped thousands of home service professionals 10x their average ticket. This episode dives into the importance of building a network, maintaining relationships, and treating the opportunities that come your way as something to grab onto and win.

Jun 28, 20211h 21m

Ep 43Master Series - Fear Words - Special Guest: Tom Hopkins with Tom Hopkins International

In today’s show, we interview special guest Tom Hopkins about fear words. World-renowned as THE Builder of Sales Champions, Tom Hopkins’ practical, yet powerful selling strategies have made the careers of literally millions of sales professionals. Tom has been teaching via live and online events, recorded audios and videos, and through his books for over 40 years. His classic book, “How to Master the Art of Selling” is dog-eared and filled with yellow highlighter on the shelves of today’s top sales pros. Tom teaches simple strategies you can put to work in your very next sales presentation. Why have millions built their careers on Tom’s training? Because they get the results they want—closed sales and happy clients! In this episode we investigate the power of the words we use and specifically the words we should avoid.

Jun 21, 20211h 8m

Ep 42Black Belt in Self Discipline - Special Guest: Damione Puopolo with Graci 717

In today’s show, we interview special guest Damione Puopolo on the subject of self-discipline. Damione is a 2nd degree black belt in Brazilian jujitsu and owner of Gracie 717 gym located in Lancaster, PA. Growing up in Florida, Damione always had an interested in martial arts but it was jujitsu that really attracted his attention in college. Dedicating time to the interest every day quickly propelled Damione through the discipline obtaining his black belt in only a few years. In this unique episode, Damione discusses how self-discipline can be an asset and relates it to the home services industry for technicians, plumbers, and electricians in the field.

Jun 14, 20211h 16m

Ep 41Finding the Next Rung at the Top of the Ladder - Special Guest: Brent Buckley

In today’s show, we interview special guest Brent Buckley on the topic of finding the next rung at the top of the ladder. Brent is an HVAC service technician of 19 years working in Las Vegas, NV. Coming into the trades via his father Brent’s career was changed by a seminar that taught him a different perspective. Forever different, Brent forged his way into the industry with a fresh look and begin knocking down goals. Finishing up 2020, with a total sold revenue eclipsing $7 million, Brent is no stranger to accomplishing the impossible. This podcast focuses on the ever-constant battle we all have to always being improving and at the same time rejecting the “it can’t be done” mentality.

Jun 7, 20211h 17m

Ep 40Organization That Works For You - Special Guest: Steven Murphy with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing

In today’s show, we interview special guest Steven Murphy on the topic of organization that works for you. Steven is a service plumber with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Lancaster, PA. Serving in the field for over 14 years, Steven knows his way around the trades and the importance of keeping things organized. Steven shares his experience, strategy, and real-world outcome through keeping both his life and his work organized. Listen to this episode to learn more about systems of efficiency in your life as well as the cost of being disorganized as a home services professional.

May 31, 20211h 9m

Ep 39Tough Conversations - Special Guest: Ted Schnettler with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning

In today’s show, we interview special guest Ted Schnettler on the topic of tough conversations. Ted is a return guest to the show and serves as the service manager for One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Lancaster, PA. we decades of experience in the field Ted has found his fair share of tough conversations both with employees and coworkers. Tough conversations are a part of life and getting better at them is a predecessor of success. Ted shares his insight on how to go about communicating with a client on various situations ranging from callbacks to bad news and how he goes about resolving the conflict for a win.

May 24, 20211h 39m

Ep 38The Excellent Electrical Safety Inspection - Special Guest: Dustan Rohrer with Mister Sparky Electric

In today’s show, we interview special guest Dustan Rohrer on the subject of electrical safety inspections. People often think about their HVAC equipment needing checked each year, but not too many people express concern over the electrical system. Still more people “live with” dead outlets, ghost switches, and lights that don’t work. An electrical safety inspection can not only address all of those annoyances in the home but can make sure that the electrical system is safe within the home. Dustan has served as an electrician for years and how performed many said inspections. Dustan shares his insight into the value and importance of an inspection and also how to practically conduct one in the home with the client. Sharing his years of experience, Dustan brings to light what excellence means in an electrical inspection.

May 17, 20211h 18m

Ep 37Passionate Customer Service - Special Guest: Mike Sheftz with Team Believe

In today’s show, we interview special guest Mike Sheftz on the topic of passionate customer service. Mike serves as an HVAC personal trainer with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Daytona, Florida. In the trades for over a decade, Mike has worked as a technician, manager, and trainer to further the growth of HVAC companies across the country. In his current role, he teaches not only technical competency, but focuses on the incredible service experience. Founder of Team Believe, a tri-branded encouragement initiative for technicians, plumbers, and electricians, he embodies the moto of doing ordinary things extraordinarily well. Mike shares his insights on making the customer experience memorable and how to stay motivated.

May 10, 20211h 11m

Ep 15The Excellent Plumbing Inspection - Part 2 - Special Guest: Ed Gehman

In today’s show, we interview special guest Ed Gehman. A veteran of the field and an excellent plumber, Ed wasn’t always turning wrenches on pipes. Previously he worked in a tire shop and refinishing furniture. Regardless, Ed strived for excellence and continues to do so in his plumbing career. Demonstrating his meticulous nature, Ed reveals his approach to performing an excellent plumbing inspection and how to walk a client through the value of knowing the condition of the plumbing in their home.

May 3, 202157 min

The Excellent Plumbing Inspection - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of plumbing inspections. Plumbing inspections are an easily overlooked job for plumbers and often neglected. When is the last time that someone did an in-depth look at all the pipes, fixtures, and valves in your home? Water is literally one leak away from ruining something in your home and many times we choose to live in ignorance. Brian and Nate breakdown the importance of performing a good plumbing inspection and why it matters.

May 3, 202133 min

Ep 17Killer Culture or Culture That Kills - Part 2 - Special Guest: Todd Helm

In today’s show, we interview special guest Todd Helm. Todd serves as a field supervisor and service plumber for Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Lancaster, PA. Entering the trades as a young man, Todd got exposed to a variety of plumbing and mechanical industries. However, it wasn’t just different industries that Todd was exposed to throughout his career. From job to job Todd bore witness to different cultures and the impact that a culture has on employees. Out of this experience, while painful in the moment, grew a perspective for what makes a killer culture or what makes a culture that kills. Todd shares his experiences across his career as well as insights into why culture matters.

Apr 26, 20211h 2m

Killer Culture or Culture That Kills - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of culture. What is culture? What makes a culture good or bad? How do you create an environment that causes people to flourish and then how do you protect it from corruption? Hosts Brian and Nate examine the idea of culture and share some stories and tips on what it looks like to shape the culture into something great.

Apr 26, 202144 min

Ep 16The Excellent AC Tune-Up - Part 2 - Special Guest: Steve Alwine

In today’s show, we interview special guest Steve Alwine. Steve is an HVAC service technician with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Lancaster, PA. Not growing up in the trades, Steve made the transition to HVAC well into his working career. Opening struggling through the beginning, he persevered to become a well-loved and frequently requested technician. Steve lends his expertise to the topic of AC tune-ups by sharing his own approach and how it has proven successful for him.

Apr 19, 20211h 2m

The Excellent AC Tune-Up - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of air conditioner tune-ups. Every summer the HVAC world is plagued with bottom-dollar seeking advertisements of air conditioner tune-ups. Brian and Nate discuss the value that comes with a tune-up as well as why racing to the bottom is not the right strategy.

Apr 19, 202123 min

Ep 15Cutting the Confusion Out of Communication - Part 2 - Special Guest: Mike Vavreck

In today’s show, we interview special guest Mike Vavreck. Not a typical trades-person by definition, Mike pursued law and healthcare before finally landing in the home services industry. This diverse background aided greatly in his ability to learn and understand the value of communication. Translating this skill now in overseeing a home services call center, Mike’s influence doesn’t stop on the phone. His ability to speak into speech goes beyond the typical advice and is directly applicable to the field.

Apr 12, 202159 min

Cutting the Confusion Out of Communication - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of communication and specifically how to keep confusion out of it. In the home services industry communication is almost as important as the actual trade itself. The most technically proficient plumber, electrician, or technician is only as effective as the level of communication that he/she possesses. Ultimately, a customer wants their problem resolved but the journey of how that is accomplished is full of conversations that make a big difference in the mind of the client. This podcast focuses not just on the importance of communication but some guidance on how to improve this portion of your expertise.

Apr 12, 202132 min

Ep 14Riches in Niches: Surge Protection - Part 2 - Special Guest:Jamie Mellinger

In today’s show, we interview special guest Jamie Mellinger. Jamie serves as an electrician and safety advisor with Mister Sparky Electric in Lancaster, PA. Returning to the podcast, Jamie dives into the power of whole home surge protection and why he has found the riches in this niche. Exploring topics from the details of whole home surge to how to share with and educate homeowners, Jamie reveals some key factors that have made him successful.

Apr 5, 202147 min

Riches in Niches: Surge Protection - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of surge protection as we wrap up our riches in niches series. Surge protection is a natural topic of discussion for most homeowners since the electronics industry has pushed point of use surge protection for decades. However, not many homeowners ever consider protecting appliances that are far more expensive than a TV from surges. We jump into the topic and explore new niches being created for stay at home workers and how surge protection for the whole home can be a valuable asset.

Apr 5, 202122 min

Ep 13Riches in Niches: Service Agreements - Part 2 - Special Guest: Traci Martin

In today’s show, we interview special guest Traci Martin. Coming from the hospitality industry working as a server taught Traci the fine skills of customer service. From there, it was an easy transition into serving customers over the phone in their moments of need. Working as a customer service representative on the phone for several years, Traci refined her skill on the phone to incorporate service agreements into the customer conversation. Finding success, Traci grew in ability and confidence to become a top service agreement specialist in the nation stepping into the niche and finding the riches to follow. Traci shares her thoughts on service agreements, presenting them, and the value that they bring in this week’s podcast.

Mar 29, 20211h 2m

Riches in Niches: Service Agreements - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of service agreements. Service agreements are a typical part of the home services industry which draws into question the qualification for being a niche. However, it is an area that few do well which is where the riches lie in this particular topic. Understanding the value of a service agreement goes beyond having an actual plan or contract. Service agreements are the foundation of a solid and secure company. It is as close to guaranteed business as there is in the home services industry and job security for employees. Brian and Nate breakdown the underlying value of service agreements and why they are a niche with riches.

Mar 29, 202136 min

Ep 12Riches in Niches: Sewers and Drains - Part 2 - Special Guest: Paul Francis

In today’s show, we interview special guest Paul Francis. Paul is a sewer and drain plumber with Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Lancaster, PA. Paul is no stranger to unique work environments. Starting his career in the food industry, he opened several restaurants and focused on catering, hospitality, and more. Developing his people skills in the demanding restaurant business, Paul learned how customer service is at the forefront of the industry. Translating that same skill set into plumbing was a mere matter of picking up the technical piece which Paul did quickly. Sharing his niche advice, Paul breaks down his rise to success in the ditch and what makes it so rich.

Mar 22, 20211h 1m

Riches in Niches: Sewers and Drains - Part 1

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In today’s show, we continue our series of riches in niches as we discuss the topic of sewers and drains. Niches are usually derived from a skill or solution that no one wants to do or that no one wants to do well. In regards to sewers and drains, it is the former problem that drives the niche. Brian and and Nate break down why sewers and drains is a niche market waiting to be capitalized on and done well.

Mar 22, 202132 min

Ep 11Riches in Niches: Indoor Air Quality - Part 2 - Special Guest: Dave Landis

In today’s show, we interview special guest Dave Landis. Dave is a field supervisor and service technician with One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Lancaster, PA and has man years in the field. Serving in the HVAC industry has given Dave a great technical background but it was only in recent years that indoor air quality became his specialty. Experiencing the benefits first hand with his own family, Dave became an IAQ evangelist sharing his story with clients. Combining his technical proficiency with product presentation Dave has found riches in this niche and shares his story and advice.

Mar 15, 202157 min

Riches in Niches: Indoor Air Quality - Part 1

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In today’s show, we discuss the topic of indoor air quality also known as IAQ. We are kicking off a series called riches in niches focusing on how specialization pays dividends. Indoor air quality has been a growing market for years and continues to show opportunity. Specializing in both products and presentation allows for capitalization in an area of primary client concern and interest. Having the ability to create comfortable and clean air in the home is a concept that many homeowners are greatly interested in and we take a dive into why it makes sense to have this as a focus.

Mar 15, 202135 min

Ep 10Options, Options, Options - Part 2 - Special Guest: Johnathan Jordan

In today’s show, we interview special guest Johnathan Jordan. Johnathan, better known as JJ, is a heating and air conditioning service technician at One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning in Lancaster, PA. Coming up through the apprentice program his years are few but his abilities are great. Adopting the concept of presenting with options early in his career, JJ refined his presentation to experience great success in his career. Exploring how he uses the tool, constructs the message, and presents, this podcast dives into the specifics of how he is making it work and how it could work for you.

Mar 8, 20211h 9m