Beers With Contractors

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry sit down with Eric Daffern, an attorney specializing in construction law, to explore the intricacies of managing risk and legal pitfalls in the contracting business. Throughout this engaging conversation, Eric shares insights into essential legal practices for contractors, including establishing a robust team of professionals, meticulously crafting contracts, and leveraging the power of mediation. Practical advice on structuring operating agreements, navigating the lien process, and accommodating current industry trends also feature prominently. Additionally, Eric’s decades-long experience and personal anecdotes offer valuable lessons in balancing legal and business considerations to achieve long-term success.

00:00 Trailer

00:41 Guest Introduction: Eric Daffern

03:05 The Importance of Legal Advice

08:12 Setting Up Your Business Structure

19:25 Contracts and Legal Pitfalls

30:54 Understanding Change Orders in Contracts

31:20 The Importance of Written Agreements

32:05 Proactive Contract Management

32:23 Handling Quality Issues and Customer Satisfaction

34:36 Legal vs. Business Decisions in Contracting

35:59 The Role of AI and Online Tools in Contract Creation

38:52 Navigating Insurance and Legal Challenges

41:05 Litigation, Arbitration, and Mediation Explained

47:44 The Importance of Thorough Contracts

49:24 Current Trends and Future Challenges in Construction

50:43 Master Subcontracts and Market Volatility

55:56 Conclusion

Contact Eric Daffern at:

Website: https://www.daffernlawfirm.com/

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry discuss the intricacies of home service financing with Jerrod Butler, the Senior Vice President of Partnerships for GreenSky Finance. The conversation covers the importance of standardization in financing, when to introduce financing to customers, and the different loan products offered by GreenSky. Jerrod shares his insights on how financing can significantly impact sales conversion rates and business growth for contractors. The episode also touches on Jerrod's career journey, the compliance process for contractors, and real-life examples of how financing simplicity and efficiency can make a difference. A humorous anecdote from Jerrod's past and a discussion on how financing helps small contractors compete round out the episode, offering both practical advice and entertaining stories.

00:00 Trailer

01:25 Conference Anecdotes and Networking

02:41 Introducing Jerrod from GreenSky

03:58 The Importance of Financing in Home Services

05:33 GreenSky's Approach to Simplifying Financing

09:33 Challenges and Misconceptions in Offering Financing

12:25 Success Stories and Best Practices

22:48 GreenSky's Merchant Enrollment Process

26:20 Ensuring Compliance and Customer Satisfaction

33:30 Real Estate Investments and Business Strategies

33:51 Challenges and Collateral in Business

34:05 Competing in a Competitive Market

34:58 Importance of Financing in Home Services

39:19 Effective Sales Strategies and Financing Options

40:49 Training and Compliance in Financing

47:20 Consumer Behavior and Financing Trends

53:31 Personal Anecdotes and Lessons Learned

57:41 Conclusion

Contact Jerrod Butler at:

Website: https://www.greensky.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenskyprogram/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/customersatisfaction/

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Terry and Will welcome Michael Matalone, creator of the XP3 Talent System and author of 'Hire Train Retain.' They discuss the essentials of building a strong team culture, the significance of creating an effective hiring process, and the importance of employee engagement and retention in the contracting industry. Matone shares insights from his experience turning around companies with high turnover rates, emphasizing the need for a systematized approach to hiring, training, and retaining employees. The conversation covers practical steps for ensuring new hires feel welcomed, understanding the big picture, and fostering relationships to enhance workplace collaboration and productivity, ultimately leading to business success.

00:00 Trailer

01:49 Hiring, Recruiting, and Training Strategies

03:16 Meet Michael Matalone: Creator of XP3 Talent System

04:20 The Journey to Creating XP3 Talent System

16:21 The Role of Culture in Recruiting and Retention

25:53 Defining Success in Roles and Onboarding

34:53 Working with A Players

35:10 The Importance of Onboarding

38:29 Creating an Amazing Experience

40:51 Understanding the Big Picture

43:51 Building Relationships and Collaboration

53:12 Employee Engagement and Retention

01:06:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Contact Michael Matalone at:

Website: https://www.xp3talent.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xp3talent

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xp3-talent-llc/

LinkedIn (personal): https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-matalone-6029b87/

Email:  [email protected]

Link of the book “Hire • Train • Retain 2nd Edition”:

https://www.amazon.com/Hire-Train-Retain-high-performing-organizational/dp/B0F8Z4KQ84

Company Diagnostic & Analysis Tool:

https://xp3talentsystem.com/public-company-da

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, Will and Terry tackle a series of listener-submitted questions spanning a variety of crucial topics. They provide advice on handling an old sales team resistant to change, updating and managing employee SOPs, and implementing effective inventory tracking systems. The discussion also covers the intricacies of converting subcontractors to W2 employees and buying out a business partner, with real-life examples and practical tips. They pepper the serious content with light-hearted banter, ensuring a balance of valuable insights and entertainment. Whether you're contemplating shifting your business structure or looking to modernize your operations with AI tools, this episode offers guidance and inspiration.

00:00 Trailer

00:53 Subscriber Shoutouts and Upcoming Episodes

01:43 Terry's New Job and Work-Life Balance

03:24 Employee Training and Retention Strategies

12:03 AI Tools for Business Efficiency

17:02 Hiring Tips and Building a Team

27:25 Updating SOPs and Digital Transformation

33:08 The Importance of Lifelong Learning

33:30 Humorous Banter and Doctor Titles

36:11 Inventory Tracking Challenges

42:15 Dealing with Reluctant Sales Teams

47:17 Switching Subcontractors to W2 Employees

52:17 Buying Out a Business Partner

58:09 Real Estate Opportunism

01:02:34 Conclusion

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry reconnect with Jeff Gabelsberg, the owner of Jolly Goat Garage Doors. Jeff shares his compelling journey from starting out as a garage door helper to transforming his company through strategic rebranding and innovative growth tactics. The discussion dives deep into effective branding, rebranding challenges, and the importance of culture in business growth. Jeff also talks about his recent partnership and acquisition experiences, and the personal and professional milestones he's achieved along the way. The episode is a blend of business wisdom, practical advice, and a touch of personal passion, making it a must-listen for contractors looking to scale their businesses effectively.

00:00 Trailer

01:10 Catching Up with Terry

03:03 Welcoming Jeff Gables Burg

04:33 Jeff's Journey in the Garage Door Industry

11:15 The Birth of Jolly Goat Garage Doors

20:01 The Impact of Rebranding on Business Growth

30:11 Sales Culture and Home Life

31:53 Rebranding Challenges and Successes

32:13 Foundation Rescue Supply Partnership

33:41 Rebranding to Jolly Goat

38:17 Navigating Private Equity and Strategic Partnerships

41:39 Tuck-In Acquisitions Explained

46:22 Building a Sellable Business

52:51 Personal Dreams and Company Culture

54:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Contact Jeff Gabelsberg at:

Website: https://jollygoatgaragedoors.com

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

Email: [email protected]

Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@jollygoatgaragedoors

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jollygoatgaragedoors

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jollygoatgaragedoors/

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, host Will and co-host Terry welcome Aaron Kinas, a seasoned concrete contractor turned innovator. Aaron discusses his revolutionary software, Crete Quote, designed to streamline the estimating and quoting process for contractors. The conversation delves into the time-consuming nature of free estimates, the benefits of pre-qualifying leads, and how Crete Quote integrates seamlessly into contractors' websites. Aaron also shares insights on increasing sales conversion rates, customization options for the tool, and the importance of transparent pricing. The episode concludes with a humorous exchange about 'shit ton' metrics and Aaron sharing a challenging experience with a prolonged project. Don't miss this insightful chat that blends construction expertise with technological innovation.

00:00 Trailer

01:07 Summer Heat and Pool Troubles

02:42 Balancing Construction and Tech

03:53 Meet Aaron Kinas: From Concrete to Innovation

07:52 The Birth of Crete Quote

14:58 The Future of Home Services

25:58 Customizing Contractor Solutions

26:10 Tesla Talk and Customization Trends

27:00 Implementing New Systems for Contractors

27:30 Foundation Rescue Supply Partnership

28:42 Crete Quote: Easy Integration

31:20 Pricing Transparency and Customer Interaction

37:11 Contractor Psychology and Pricing Models

46:08 Success Stories and Analytics

48:54 Final Thoughts and Lessons Learned

54:28 Closing Remarks and Responsible Drinking

Contact Aaron Kinas at:

Website: https://cretequote.com/

LinkedIn (Aaron Kinas): https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-kinas-0a724a11/

LinkedIn (Crete Quote): https://www.linkedin.com/company/crete-quote/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cretequote/

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

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@cretequote

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Drake welcome Sean Hudson, a senior territory manager with Simpson Strong-Tie. Sean, who has been with Simpson for 23 years, shares his extensive industry knowledge and insights on various topics including the company's innovative practices, huge role in the construction market, and corporate philosophy. The episode highlights Simpson Strong-Tie's start in 1956, its significant growth, and its major contributions to construction technology and standards. Sean also discusses the impact of code enforcement, training, and the adoption of new technologies like mass timber and prefab structures. Furthermore, the conversation touches on the challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of training future generations, and Simpson's community involvement, particularly in construction education for kids. Overall, it's a rich dialogue about the intersection of tradition, innovation, and education in the construction industry.

00:00 Trailer

02:21 Guest Introduction: Sean Hudson

03:41 History of Simpson Strong-Tie

08:10 Innovations and Product Development

16:22 Code Compliance and Building Practices

27:26 Material Shortages and COVID Impact

29:46 Technological Advancements in Construction

32:36 Educating Builders and Engineers

33:37 Technology and Software Solutions

36:41 Training and Industry Impact

44:53 Innovations in Construction

50:46 Mass Timber and Prefabrication

56:27 Conclusion

Contact Sean Hudson at:

Website: https://www.strongtie.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/simpson-strong-tie/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strongtie/

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/strongtie

Pinterest: https://ph.pinterest.com/strongtie/

Twitter:https://x.com/strongtie

Simpson Strong-Tie's Learning Center:

https://training.strongtie.com/stc/sstpub/psciis.dll?linkid=898616&mainmenu=SSTPUB&top_frame=1

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing and lead generation within the contracting industry. They are joined by Shane Evans from Agency Apps, who shares insights into how AI can reduce cost per acquisition by up to 60% and the benefits of implementing voice AI for improved customer interactions. The conversation covers tips for contractors to leverage AI tools, the potential pitfalls of certain AI marketing claims, and ways to ensure AI integration benefits both businesses and their clients. Shane also provides real-world examples of successful AI applications, emphasizing the importance of staying current with technological advancements. The episode concludes with practical advice for contractors looking to modernize their marketing strategies and a reminder of the ongoing evolution in AI-driven solutions.

00:00 Trailer

01:36 Guest Introduction: Shane Evans

04:19 Shane's Journey into AI Marketing

06:09 AI Tools and Lead Generation

13:47 Voice AI and Its Impact

17:06 AI Marketing Scams to Avoid

25:16 Marketing Challenges and Opportunities

25:58 AI in Social Media Management

26:33 Foundation Rescue Supply Partnership

27:59 AI and Anti-Detection Software

33:28 Voice AI in Contracting

35:43 Implementing Voice AI

43:54 Real Estate and Right of First Refusal

46:49 Conclusion

Contact Shane Evans at:

Website: https://agencyapps.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaneeddieevans/

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

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, Will discusses the top five objections that home service contractors often face and introduces the CRIS method (Clarify, Rephrase, Isolate, Satisfy) for effectively closing sales. Will emphasizes the importance of understanding homeowners' concerns and treating them with dignity. He provides detailed role-playing examples for handling objections related to getting multiple bids, involving absent decision makers, product solutions, financing, and value considerations. The episode also highlights the significance of creating a low-pressure, conversational sales environment and the benefits of using financing options.

00:00 Trailer

02:45 The Five Major Objections

04:43 Understanding and Handling Objections

08:07 The CRIS Sales Closing Process

09:45 Handling the 'Other Bids' Objection

20:49 Addressing the 'Talk to Spouse' Objection

29:46 Solution Objections and Their Importance

33:48 Addressing Value Objections

33:59 Importance of Financing Options

34:39 Understanding Customer Needs for Financing

35:38 Simplifying the Financing Process

38:32 Role-Playing Financing Scenarios

41:17 Handling Value Objections

41:45 Breaking Down Value Metrics

50:38 Emotional Reasons for Buying

Will Blake’s email: [email protected]

Episode 21 with Jesse Davis - The Financing Technique that can 2x a Contractor's Revenue

https://youtu.be/Q09alt_0SAE?si=3hSXTTsaeUIWwe8N

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry discuss the complexities and benefits of captive insurance with seasoned insurance executive Rich Hess from Plexus Group. The conversation unpacks how small businesses and contractors can navigate rising insurance costs, explores the concept of captive insurance, and provides practical advice on making informed decisions. Rich shares his extensive experience in the industry, including his transition from a traditional broker to a consultant role, emphasizing the importance of consumerism in healthcare. The episode also touches on how technology and AI are revolutionizing the insurance landscape and offers insights into self-paid health plans, property insurance, and the future of captive insurance amid changing demographics and economic conditions.

00:00 Trailer

01:23 Terry and His Historical Property

04:37 Introducing Today's Guest: Rich Hess

05:33 Understanding Captive Insurance

07:16 Benefits of Self-Funded Insurance Plans

17:47 Consumerism in Healthcare

23:56 Captive Insurance: Getting Started

34:14 Understanding Stop-Loss Insurance

35:57 Exploring Captive Insurance

37:03 Captive Insurance for Real Estate Investors

39:04 Health Share Plans for Small Employers

40:08 The Importance of Consumerism in Healthcare

52:52 Navigating Healthcare Costs with AI

57:39 Rich's Career Screw-Up and Lessons Learned

01:03:55 Conclusion

Contact Rich Hess at:

Website: https://www.plexusgroupe.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-hess-8106a5122/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plexusgroupe

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

Twitter: https://x.com/plexusgroupe

Foundation Rescue Supply Link:

https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/

Contractors Kick Ass!

Podcast Store Link:

https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1

The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours