Beyond The Tools

Trade shows are more than just an event. They are an opportunity most contractors are underusing. In this solo episode, Krystal shares how to turn trade shows into content, connections, and long-term growth for your business.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Sandy MacLeod, President and CEO of HRAI, shares a behind-the-scenes look at the policies, challenges, and changes shaping the industry across Canada.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Most contractor websites get less than a minute to convert and most waste it.

In this episode, Thaddeus Tondu breaks down what actually happens in those 58 seconds, why trust matters more than traffic, and how small changes to your website can double your conversions. If you are getting clicks but not jobs, this will show you where the gap really is.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

What if your marketing isn’t the real problem?

Alex Van Leeuwen, founder of HVAC Marketers, joins the podcast to share why contractors are leaving money on the table and how the biggest opportunities often come after the phone rings.

This episode is a practical breakdown of systems, data, and customer experience, and how small improvements can lead to major growth.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Brett Fletcher, Partner and VP of Sales at Fasco Distribution, joins the podcast to share what he learned from building and scaling an HVAC company before moving into the wholesale side of the industry.

He and Krystal talk about the realities of running a contracting business, the mistakes that taught him the most, and what contractors often misunderstand about their relationship with wholesalers. It is an honest conversation about growth, training, partnerships, and navigating the changing HVAC market.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Dan Friesen, owner & team leader of Charlton and Hill Home Services and Marvelous Plumbing Heating, shares what he believes is the real secret to growth in the trades: your people. In this episode, Dan unpacks his “support, protect, develop” mission, why culture mirrors leadership, and how to lead with genuine care while still having the hard conversations that drive real development.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Justin Beaulieu, 2nd Generation President & CEO of Beaulieu Plumbing & Mechanical Inc., shares the real lessons that come from growing a family plumbing company into a multi trade mechanical business. From near bankrupt moments to major long term projects, this episode is about relationships, asking for help, and leading without ego when the pressure is real.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Social media doesn’t have to feel forced or overwhelming.

In this episode, Krystal Hobbs talks with Jen McKee, Founder of Kee Hart Marketing and creator of The Growth Experience, about how contractors can use social media to build trust, stay visible, and support real business growth without trying to be someone they’re not.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

Marketing has changed, and guessing is no longer an option.

In this episode, Krystal Hobbs breaks down how contractors should be thinking about marketing in 2026, from setting revenue-driven goals to using the channels that are actually producing results right now. Clear, practical, and grounded in real experience..

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/

What if your wholesaler could do more than ship product? In this episode, Krystal Hobbs talks with Angi Becker about thinking outside the box in wholesaler relationships. Learn how true partnerships, creative problem solving, and better conversations can help contractors navigate today’s challenges.

👉 Full show notes: http://www.beyondthetoolspodcast.com/