Beers With Contractors

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts engage in an insightful discussion with Jonathan Nielsen, owner of Corner Four Consulting and a certified EOS Implementer. The conversation delves into the foundational aspects of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and its impact on business growth and structure.

Jonathan shares powerful insights on moving beyond fear, embracing the roles of visionary and integrator, and the importance of addressing the roots of business challenges to foster growth, unity, and a healthy work culture.

Additionally, there's a focus on how EOS principles can transcend industries, benefitting everything from family businesses to non-profits and beyond, highlighting the transformative power of having a structured, strategic approach to business operations.

00:00 Welcome to Beers with Contractors!

01:03 Introducing Today's Special Guest

03:31 The Power of the Other: Unpacking the Four Corners of Connection

08:44 The EOS Journey: Transforming Businesses with Vision, Traction, and Health

12:03 From Corporate to EOS Implementer: Jonathan's Personal Journey

34:09 The Art of Self-Implementation: Tips for Starting with EOS

37:29 The Visionary and Integrator: A Dynamic Duo for Business Success

43:01 Learning from Mistakes: Embracing Fear and Growth

49:07 Wrapping Up: The Impact of EOS and a Toast to Success

Contact Jonathan Nielson At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-nielson-bb27ba11

Website: https://www.eosworldwide.com/jonathan-nielson

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, the hosts share a casual but insightful conversation about elevating contracting businesses. They begin with light banter and personal stories, setting a relaxed atmosphere. The episode shifts to cover the professional journey of co-host Will, detailing his transition from construction to software development with a focus on recruiting, retention, and employee engagement in the construction industry.

Will's endeavor to create a more unified and efficient workplace through his software Unisonworx, which includes applicant tracking and team management among other features, is highlighted. Additionally, the discussion touches on the importance of creating a positive corporate culture and processes for growth, the challenges and successes of developing and implementing their software solutions, and the broader implications for the industry.

The episode encapsulates personal narratives, professional insights, and forward-thinking strategies for contracting business owners looking to scale and improve their operations.

00:00 Kicking Off with Beers and Business Insights

00:24 A Glimpse into the Hosts' Dynamic and Office Life

01:30 Diving Deep: Will's Journey from Contractor to Software Innovator

05:14 The Evolution of a Business: Growth, Challenges, and the Importance of Culture

12:00 Recruitment Revolution: Crafting a Winning Team and Culture

15:33 The Birth of a Custom Software Solution: Addressing Real Needs

17:50 The Rocky Start: Navigating Early Software Development Challenges

18:49 From Failure to Purpose: The Evolution of a Software Solution

20:13 Naming the Brainchild: The Story Behind 'Unisonworks'

22:53 The Unexpected HR Journey: From Sales to Software

27:48 The Birth of a Pay-for-Performance App

32:35 Reflecting on Growth and Future Ventures

33:57 Signing Off: A Toast to Responsible Building and Future Success

Contact Will Blake At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-blake-8b70b966/

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of 'Beers with Contractors,' the hosts invite Taylor and Steven Ogburn from Ogburn Construction to share their journey and insights into building a successful contracting business. The discussion highlights the critical role of having a clear vision, the impact of company culture, and the importance of having the right people in the right positions

. They delve into the philosophy of starting with 'why' to inspire and motivate both employees and customers, leading to a more engaged and loyal workforce. The conversation also touches on the challenges and lessons learned from rapid company growth, emphasizing the importance of hiring and management practices that align with company values.

Further, Taylor shares his experience transitioning from sales management to IT, underscoring the significance of job satisfaction and finding joy in one's work. The episode concludes with valuable lessons from their personal experiences, aiming to inspire and guide other contractors toward building a lasting and fulfilling business.

00:00 Welcome to Beers with Contractors

01:05 The Importance of Vision in Business

01:14 The Power of 'Why' in Leadership

02:22 The Role of a Visionary in a Company

10:35 The Challenges and Rewards of Business Growth

11:27 The Journey of Augburn Construction

19:31 The Importance of Systems and Processes in Business

41:18 The Role of HR in a Growing Business

45:08 The Power of Pivoting in Business

46:10 The Importance of Right People in Right Seats

51:32 The Journey of Developing a Concrete Estimating Software

53:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Contact Stephen Ogburn & Taylor Ogburn At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-ogburn-aa0917199

Website: https://www.ogburnconstructioninc.com/

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of 'Beers with Contractors', the hosts cover a wide range of topics, including employee termination, navigating trade shows, and optimizing business practices. They also interview Bill Crawford, a former basement waterproofing business owner and the current president of Rainmakers for Contractors.

Bill shares crucial advice on digital marketing for contractors, emphasizing the importance of Google listings, localized SEO, customer service, email marketing, and quick follow-up on leads. Furthermore, he highlights the significance of following legal advice and maintaining insurance coverage to protect businesses.

00:00 Introduction to Beers with Contractors

00:24 Trade Show Experiences and Gambling Adventures

01:53 The Tough Topic of Employee Termination

02:04 The Art of Firing: Strategies and Legal Aspects

03:29 The Emotional Toll of Letting Employees Go

06:06 The Importance of Documentation in Termination

12:59 Guest Introduction: Bill Crawford

14:11 Bill's Journey from Waterproofing to Digital Marketing

21:23 The Power of Specialized Marketing Agencies

28:59 Leveraging Google for Lead Generation

31:22 Understanding Google Ad Leads

31:35 The Power of Online Reviews

31:52 The Impact of Blogging

32:14 The Importance of Lead Generation

32:35 Maximizing Digital Leads

33:21 The Art of Following Up on Leads

34:02 Understanding the Game Behind Angie Leads

35:04 The Power of Automated Text Responses

38:27 The Importance of Quick Follow-ups

41:01 The Value of Email Marketing

45:41 The Best Tools for Contractors

50:51 The Importance of Insurance and Job Completion

59:42 Closing Remarks and Goodbyes

Contact Bill Crawford At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billcrawford217

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

The episode features a detailed discussion on various aspects of the construction industry, cultivation of successful business strategies, and extensive insider knowledge. The hosts are joined by professor Ben Bigelow, the director and associate professor at the Haskell and Irene Lemon Construction Science Division, at the University of Oklahoma. Topics covered include the importance of personality assessments like 'Working Genius', insights about the modern construction workforce, and advice on creating a thriving culture in the construction industry.

Show Notes

00:00 Introduction to Beers with Contractors

00:24 Behind the Scenes: The Struggles of Podcasting

01:27 The Importance of Personality Assessments in Business

02:31 Understanding the Working Genius Model

03:34 Applying the Working Genius Model in a Team Setting

04:23 Breaking Down the Widget: The Six Components of Business

06:48 The Value of the Working Genius Model in Business

12:24 Guest Introduction: Dr. Ben Bigelow

13:21 Dr. Ben Bigelow's Journey into Academia

26:25 The Value of Internships in Construction Science

29:15 Introduction to the Guest and His Work

29:40 Discussing the Creative Making Lab

29:52 Exploring the Practical Aspects of the Program

30:37 Highlighting Recent Projects and Collaborations

32:13 Addressing Misconceptions about the New Generation Workforce

40:01 The Importance of Personal Experience in Education

42:44 Learning from Mistakes: A Personal Anecdote

51:04 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

53:05 Podcast Closing Remarks

Contact Ben Bigelow At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-bigelow-19128313

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, the hosts discuss the challenges of working in winter conditions and the stresses contractors face. They dig into results from a Gallup research on workplace trends, emphasizing the rise of remote work and additional job responsibilities against a backdrop of dwindling budgets.

In addressing these concerns, they explore the value of enhancing external and internal communication strategies through consistent content creation via AI-integrated platforms. Finally, they deliberate on the importance of integrating AI in business processes, the benefits of short-form content, and the necessity of sound quality in video content.

Show Notes:

00:00 Welcome to Beers with Contractors

00:24 The Cold Reality of Contracting

02:33 The Challenges of Office Management

03:35 The Power of Data in Business Strategy

04:13 The Impact of Remote Work and Budget Cuts

08:45 The Importance of Communication in Business

09:45 The Role of Innovation in Business Growth

13:02 The Influence of Social Media on Business

19:10 The Importance of Authenticity in Content Creation

24:18 The Power of Short Form Content

50:57 The Role of AI in Business Efficiency

01:07:49 Conclusion: The Future of Contracting

Contact Drake Scifers At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drakescifers/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedrake.tv/

Website: https://www.contentgym.tv/

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

The engaging podcast features experienced contractors candidly discussing the various dimensions of the construction industry. The discussion ranges from alliance formation, defining business strategies, project management, leadership, accountancy, handling trades, striving in competitive commercial landscapes and the necessity of process creation, delegation, and effective interviewing techniques.

An interesting feature that came up in the discussion is how to manage failures, recruitment techniques, and building a leadership team from hires who have been in the trenches. Special guest, Brett Tatum, CEO of Tatco Construction joins the conversation, sharing his journey from an accountant to a successful entrepreneur in the construction industry. Brett also shares his unique method of avoiding layoffs by offering his employees ownership stakes in projects.

Additionally, he imparts valuable insights concerned with company growth, the rising shortage of skilled labour and finding a niche market, with some hilariously relatable anecdotes along the way.

00:00 Introduction to Beers with Contractors

00:26 Casual Chat and Introduction of the Episode's Theme

01:44 Discussion on Hiring and Interviewing in Contracting

05:20 Insights on the Selection Process and Employee Retention

06:11 The Importance of Preparation and Transparency in Hiring

13:01 Guest Introduction: The Success Story of Tatco Construction

14:05 Deep Dive into the Journey of Tatco Construction

17:31 Strategies for Success in the Construction Industry

27:30 Balancing Risks and Opportunities in Construction

31:04 Transitioning from a Small to a Large Company

31:44 The Challenges of Being a Visionary and an Integrator

35:09 The Importance of Delegation and Letting Go

40:16 Building a Leadership Team from Within

40:42 The Value of Loyalty and Commitment in a Team

41:23 The Power of Consulting and Learning from Others

42:24 The Joy of Seeing Your Business Run Without You

43:16 The Importance of Putting the Business Above Self-Interest

43:58 The Value of Grit and Grind in Construction

45:27 Learning from Mistakes: The $180,000 Loss

48:36 The Future of Tatco: Growth and Expansion

50:07 Investing in the Next Generation of Tradespeople

53:41 The Power of Authenticity and Ownership

57:02 Conclusion: The Journey of a Successful Contractor

Contact Brett Tatum At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-tatum-52301496

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Tatco.construction23/

Website: https://www.tatco.construction/

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, we dive into an informative and inspiring conversation about boosting a contracting business through innovative strategies and techniques. The guest, Michael Soto, owner of Soto Flooring, shares his impressive journey of transformation from being a technician to becoming a successful business owner, transitioning from a subcontractor to running a successful W2 workforce.

His approach to change and implementation of Pay for Performance has redefined his company's growth trajectory. The conversation also revolves around the benefits and challenges of a four-day work week and achieving work-life balance in the industry, with an emphasis on the importance of continuous training and work-life integration.

The episode ends with an invitation to Michael Soto's business and encourages other construction business owners to follow a similar path and seek guidance where necessary.

00:00 Introduction to Beers with Contractors

00:24 Casual Chat and Personal Updates

01:55 Debate on the Four Day Work Week

04:22 The Reality of Work-Life Balance

11:28 The Journey of Soto Flooring

14:57 Challenges and Successes in the Flooring Industry

19:03 The Importance of Networking and Confidence

21:47 Transition from 1099 to W2 Employees

24:21 Transitioning from Technician to Business Owner

25:05 Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear

25:18 The Power of Networking and Learning from Others

26:33 Challenges in the Construction Industry

27:22 Changing the Paradigm in Contractor Relationships

27:48 The Importance of Business Sense and Collaboration

28:24 Navigating Family Business Dynamics

28:51 Implementing Change and Overcoming Resistance

29:12 The Power of Trust and Learning from Mistakes

30:05 The Impact of Pay for Performance

33:34 The Power of Upselling and Providing Value

33:36 The Importance of Quality and Customer Education

33:42 The Game Changer: Self-Leveling

39:46 The Journey of Disrupting the Industry

45:09 Learning from Past Mistakes and Carving Your Own Path

47:26 Conclusion: The Future of Soto Flooring

Contact Michael Soto At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-soto-943b6884/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sotofloors/

Website: https://sotoflooring.com/

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode, hosts sit down with Elijah Stiner, co-owner of Fence OKC, to discuss growth strategies and the importance of effective processes in business.

Elijah shares his journey of scaling from a landscaping business making $118,000 in the first year, to a multi-million dollar enterprise focusing on commercial and residential fencing. He emphasizes the benefits of maintaining open communication with employees, staying out of debt, and being flexible to the ever-changing demands of the market.

Elijah also shares how his company pivoted their business model to include selling fencing materials to DIYers and smaller companies. Further, he adds about his pivot into the commercial automated gates niche, which required multiple licenses. The episode also covers the experience of working in a family-run business and the accompanying challenges.

00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

02:00 The Importance of Processes in Business

14:22 The Journey of Starting a Business

19:17 The Evolution of Fence OKC

28:10 The Challenges and Rewards of Family Business

33:26 Diversifying Business Operations

42:14 Learning from Mistakes and Final Thoughts

Contact Mr. Elijah Stiner At:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elijah.stiner

Website:https://fenceokc.com

https://oklahomalumber.com

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction

In this episode of 'Beers with Contractors,' the hosts are joined by Jimmy Robertson, the third, director of Electrical Solutions, a family-owned electrical company. Jimmy shares his journey from corporate America to taking charge of his father's contracting business with his brother, Joe.

They discuss the deliberate transition plan which incorporated training, experience, and an intentional division of roles. He highlights the importance of strategic planning, investment, process improvements, and how they managed to strategically scale their company.

Jimmy also talks about the challenges they faced, including addressing the narrow idea of 'replacing' their Dad in the business and how they've overcome these by employing a vision of ownership and strategic direction. He emphasizes on diversity in marketing and focusing on lead generation to drive sales and overall operations.

00:00 Introduction and Casual Banter

03:13 Discussing Marketing Strategies for Contractors

04:27 The Importance of Diversifying Marketing Channels

06:59 The Role of Branding in Lead Generation

12:42 Guest Introduction: Jimmy Robertson, Director of Electrical Solutions of Oklahoma

14:25 Jimmy's Journey into the Family Business

16:17 Challenges and Successes in Taking Over a Family Business

20:31 Transitioning into the Business and Future Plans

32:58 The Value of Diverse Experience in Family Business

33:49 Challenges and Pushbacks in Implementing Changes

34:08 The Importance of Gaining Experience Outside the Family Business

35:42 The Transition from Employee to Business Owner

35:59 The Role of Technology in Modernizing the Business

37:56 The Journey of Learning and Adapting in the Field

38:45 The Vision of Expanding and Systematizing the Business

41:16 The Shift in Perspective from Job Replacement to Business Builder

42:28 The Process of Instituting Change in the Business

42:53 The Importance of Daily Operations Meeting

47:16 The Journey of Hiring Key People in the Business

55:51 The Role of Trust in Business Relationships

56:16 The Vision for the Future of the Company

Contact Jimmy D. Robertson III, P.E. At:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimmydrobertson/

Website: https://www.electricalsolutionsok.com

Unison is Workforce Management Software for the Construction Industry

Learn more at https://unisonworx.com/industries/construction