In this episode of Born For The Trades, our host, Mandeep, talks with Brad, the co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of ZyraTalk, a leader in AI and automation solutions for the home service industry. For over a decade, ZyraTalk has been transforming how businesses handle customer interactions by automating phone conversations, helping businesses avoid missed calls, and converting them into booked jobs and revenue.

Brad explains that businesses often miss a significant percentage of phone calls, sometimes up to 30-40%, due to factors like staff limitations or after-hours inquiries. ZyraTalk solves this problem by automating these missed interactions, ensuring that no opportunity slips through the cracks. This automation drives revenue and enhances customer service by handling routine inquiries and allowing human teams to focus on more complex issues.

Rather than replacing customer service teams, ZyraTalk enhances their efficiency. The AI takes care of repetitive tasks, ensuring that human CSRs can focus on high-priority conversations. This balance of AI and human interaction is key to ZyraTalk’s success.

Brad also walks us through the company’s smooth onboarding process. With an average of 50 new clients each week, ZyraTalk makes it easy for businesses to integrate their AI voice and chat products into existing workflows. The setup is quick, and businesses can see immediate benefits in their customer engagement.

While the AI technology is highly effective, Brad acknowledges that not every conversation is flawless. ZyraTalk continuously refines its systems to improve the accuracy and natural flow of interactions. Some challenges arise from industry-specific jargon or unique client needs, but ZyraTalk adapts and improves over time to address these nuances.

ZyraTalk’s rapid growth is largely driven by the positive impact their solutions have on clients. Businesses are seeing immediate results, and word-of-mouth referrals have played a significant role in attracting new customers. Brad reveals that the company is onboarding new clients at an impressive rate, and the success stories continue to build momentum.

Looking ahead, Brad shares that ZyraTalk has exciting updates in the works. They are continuously improving their products to make them even more intuitive and powerful, helping businesses stay ahead of the curve in customer service automation.

This episode provides an inside look into how ZyraTalk is reshaping the home service industry with AI, delivering real results, and empowering businesses to grow faster and smarter.

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In this episode of Born For The Trades, host Mandeep is joined by Michael Agugliaro, an entrepreneur, author, and the founder of Warrior Today. Michael’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary, from a childhood steeped in martial arts to becoming a successful business coach and motivational speaker who has helped thousands achieve personal and professional transformation.

Michael’s story began at the age of four when he started training in martial arts—a foundation that has influenced every aspect of his life. By 16, he founded Warrior Today, a company dedicated to empowering individuals to take control of their lives and businesses. At just 18, Michael wrote his first book, How to Be a Modern Day Warrior, setting the stage for his lifelong mission to inspire others to unlock their full potential.

Now 25, Michael is a debt-free entrepreneur with a diversified wealth portfolio, and his impact reaches far beyond his own success. He’s coached high-profile entrepreneurs, facilitated transformative experiences like firewalks, and helped business owners design intentional lives that align with their true purpose. Through his work, he’s guided countless individuals toward remarkable breakthroughs, including successful business exits and personal reinvention.

In this insightful conversation, Michael discusses the role his early martial arts training played in shaping his mindset and determination. He shares the key lessons he’s learned from overcoming addiction, losing over 90 pounds, and building a successful business from the ground up. Michael reveals how mindset shifts were crucial in his own transformation and how these principles can be applied by anyone looking to create lasting change in their life.

Throughout the episode, Michael opens up about the most common challenges he sees among entrepreneurs, from burnout to lack of direction, and the strategies he uses to help them overcome these obstacles. He shares his approach to living a life by design, offering practical advice for those looking to align their personal goals with their business strategies. Michael’s commitment to helping others achieve greatness is evident in every story he tells, and his passion for empowering individuals to reach new heights is contagious.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a tradesperson looking to level up, or someone seeking inspiration to make a personal transformation, this episode is filled with actionable insights and motivational wisdom. Michael’s incredible journey proves that with the right mindset, determination, and intention, anything is possible.

Tune in to Born For The Trades and hear Michael’s powerful story of overcoming adversity, designing a life of success, and helping others do the same. This episode will leave you feeling inspired and equipped to take the next step in your own personal and professional growth.

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Welcome to another exciting episode of ‘Born For The Trades’, the go-to podcast for insights and inspiration in the home services industry. This week’s host is Shreya, who is thrilled to welcome the incredible Ellen Rohr. Known for her impressive journey in growing ZOOM DRAIN Franchising from zero to an astonishing $50 million, Ellen brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Recently, Shreya had an enlightening conversation with her at Home Service Freedom, sparking an “aha” moment that listeners will not want to miss.

Ellen's story is deeply influenced by her father's entrepreneurial journey. This episode will explore how his experiences shaped her approach to business and the key lessons he imparted about managing finances. These teachings have played a crucial role in Ellen's success and will provide valuable insights for aspiring business owners.

Listeners will learn about the significant challenges Ellen faced when launching Bare Bones Biz. She will discuss the hurdles encountered during the turnaround process and how simplifying financial systems became vital for sustainability and growth. For anyone feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of running a business, Ellen’s experiences will resonate strongly.

A central theme of this episode is financial literacy, a common struggle for many business owners. Ellen offers practical advice for those seeking to demystify their financial situations. Understanding one’s financial position is crucial, and she will share actionable steps to keep things simple and manageable.

One of the key concepts discussed is KFP—Know Financial Position. Ellen will break down this concept, explaining its importance in achieving business success. Knowing where a business stands financially enables owners to make informed decisions that propel growth.

Additionally, the conversation will touch on the emotional aspects of financial insecurity. Ellen recently shared her thoughts on this topic, emphasizing the vulnerability that often accompanies financial challenges. This discussion highlights how emotional ties to finances can impact decision-making and overall business health, offering relatable insights for listeners.

This episode promises to be enriching, filled with wisdom, practical advice, and motivation to transform approaches to business. Whether listeners are just starting out or looking to refine existing systems, Ellen’s insights will inspire a proactive approach to financial management.

Tune in to ‘Born For The Trades’ for this enlightening conversation. Discover the tools and mindset needed to thrive in the home service industry and elevate any business to the next level! Don’t miss out—subscribe now and take the first step toward business transformation!

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Welcome back to Born for the Trades! In today’s episode, we explore the vital role of work culture in enhancing employee engagement and productivity, along with the unique challenges and opportunities faced in the home service industry, especially for women.

A positive work culture is essential for any successful organization. When employees feel valued and included, their engagement and productivity significantly increase. Creating an environment where individuals can thrive is crucial. Open communication and recognition of contributions help build this supportive atmosphere. 

Leadership styles that emphasize transparency and teamwork foster trust and collaboration. When teams feel part of something bigger, it transforms their work approach, enhancing motivation and overall performance.

As remote work continues to rise, the challenge of maintaining a positive culture becomes even more pressing. Regular check-ins and virtual team-building activities can keep communication open and encourage connection. It’s essential to create a sense of community, even when team members are not physically together.

Leveraging technology can also bridge the gap in remote settings. Tools that facilitate casual interactions—like virtual coffee breaks—can significantly enhance team dynamics. Fostering these connections is key to maintaining a vibrant work culture.

Exploring personal journeys into the home service industry reveals a wealth of experiences. Many professionals discover their passion for the trades through backgrounds in client services and marketing, realizing the impact they can make in people’s lives. The transition often involves leveraging existing skills in new ways, emphasizing adaptability and resilience.

The trade industry, while evolving, still presents unique challenges for women. Although the industry has traditionally been male-dominated, there is a growing recognition of the value women bring to the field. Creating pathways for women to thrive is essential, and there’s a need for continued support and mentorship.

Support networks play a critical role in empowering women. When individuals lift each other up, it becomes easier to break down barriers and foster a more inclusive environment. Encouraging collaboration and sharing experiences can help pave the way for future generations.

To encourage more women to enter the trades, outreach programs and the visibility of female role models are vital. Showcasing women who are succeeding in various trades can inspire young women to consider these paths for themselves. Visibility matters; it can spark interest and demonstrate that women truly belong in the industry.

Educational initiatives that introduce girls to the possibilities within the trades can also make a significant impact. By showing them the diverse opportunities available, we can help cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals.

In conclusion, work culture plays a critical role in shaping the trades industry, and the inclusion of women is essential for its growth. By focusing on building supportive environments, encouraging mentorship, and highlighting role models, we can create a more inclusive and vibrant future for the trades. Stay tuned for our next episode as we continue to explore the stories and insights that are shaping this dynamic industry today!

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Welcome to the latest episode of “Born For The Trades,” where we dive into the inspiring journey of Chuck, the founder of All Hours Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling. From humble beginnings with just a truck and a deep commitment to service, Chuck has transformed his passion into a thriving business, generating an astounding $11 million in revenue. Chuck is also the Co-Founder of The Opus & Golds Group alongside his sister, Dana. Join us as we explore Chuck’s entrepreneurial mindset, the lessons he learned along the way, and the invaluable insights he has to share with aspiring home service business owners.

In this episode, Chuck opens the conversation by discussing the crucial role of lead generation in the home service industry. He shares his tried-and-true techniques for attracting high-quality leads, emphasizing the importance of a robust online presence and local SEO. Chuck highlights emerging trends that business owners should keep an eye on, such as the rise of social media marketing and the integration of customer relationship management (CRM) tools. Understanding the target audience is key for Chuck, who believes that crafting effective marketing strategies is essential for resonating with potential customers.

As the conversation progresses, Chuck addresses one of the most pressing issues facing the trades today: hiring and retaining top talent. He candidly shares the challenges he has encountered, from skill gaps to fierce competition for talent. To combat these issues, Chuck offers actionable advice on how business owners can create an attractive work environment, emphasizing competitive wages and fostering a culture of growth and development. For Chuck, investing in your team is not just beneficial; it's essential for long-term success.

With the ever-increasing influence of technology in our lives, Chuck also weighs in on whether tools like AI and automation are helping or hindering the hiring process. He acknowledges that while these technologies can streamline applications and improve efficiency, they also introduce new complexities for applicants. Chuck encourages business owners to find a balance, leveraging technology to enhance the hiring experience while maintaining a personal touch.

Towards the end of the episode, Chuck dives into strategies that can keep the phones ringing during shoulder seasons when demand tends to wane. He shares innovative marketing techniques, such as seasonal promotions and community engagement, that have proven effective in sustaining business momentum. Emphasizing the importance of adaptability and creativity, Chuck reminds listeners that even during slower periods, opportunities exist to connect with customers and generate leads.

Throughout this episode, Chuck’s passion for service shines through, inspiring listeners to embrace their own entrepreneurial journeys. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing business, the insights shared in this conversation equip you with the knowledge and motivation needed to achieve greatness in the home service industry.

Tune in now to hear Chuck’s incredible story and gain the tools you need to transform your own business from garage to greatness! Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share to support the show and keep the conversation going!

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Welcome back to “Born for the Trades”, the home service podcast where captivating stories of industry leaders and their successes come to life. Hosted by Shreya, today’s episode, "Scaling to Profit: How Brian Mcdermott Travels While His Business Thrives”, features an insightful conversation with Brian Mcdermott, a distinguished leader in the plumbing and heating sector.

Brian Mcdermott, the driving force behind ProStar Plumbing & Heating, has propelled his company to an impressive $4 million in revenue while maintaining a strong net profit. Known for his exceptional system implementations, Brian not only ensures the thriving operation of his business but also enjoys ample personal time. In this episode, he shares the strategies and systems that have made this balance possible.

Listeners will hear about Brian’s journey from the early days of starting ProStar to the milestones that defined its success. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at the pivotal moments that shaped his company’s growth.

Brian also offers a candid review of Rilla, a system integral to his business operations. Whether it’s discussing the benefits or the challenges faced, his honest feedback is invaluable for anyone considering this tool.

One of the highlights of Brian’s success is his ability to travel and enjoy personal pursuits while managing a thriving business. He discusses how he achieves this balance, offering insights into maintaining both business efficiency and personal fulfillment.

For listeners aiming to scale their own businesses, Brian provides practical advice tailored to various stages of growth. Whether a business is at $1 million or struggling with profitability at $10 million, his guidance is geared toward overcoming challenges and achieving financial success.

Brian also delves into the unique business mindset prevalent in Canada, offering perspectives on how Canadian business owners can break free from limiting beliefs and reach their full potential.

Finally, for those eager to learn from successful industry figures, Brian is open to sharing his expertise. He explains how listeners can connect with him for valuable insights and mentorship.

Tune in to this episode of Born for the Trades for a mix of practical advice, inspirational stories, and expert knowledge. Brian Mcdermott’s journey is sure to provide motivation and valuable lessons for anyone in the trades or interested in business growth.

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In this compelling episode of the "Born for the Trades" podcast, host Mandeep sits down with Mike Agugliaro, a true powerhouse in the home service industry. Mike’s remarkable journey from electrician to empire builder offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in scaling their business and achieving peak performance in every aspect of life.

Mike Agugliaro’s career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as an electrician, Mike transformed his modest beginnings into a $32 million per year home services business, encompassing electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and more. His business acumen caught the attention of private equity, leading to a successful acquisition in 2017. However, Mike's ambitions didn’t stop there. He went on to build one of the leading training organizations for home service professionals, coaching over 1,000 business owners and 20,000 service industry experts. After exiting this venture in 2020, he founded FuDog Group, focusing on peak performance and business mastery.

During the podcast, Mike shares his secrets to explosive growth and success. He reveals the key strategies that drove his business to new heights, emphasizing the importance of innovative thinking and relentless execution. Mike delves into the challenges he faced while scaling his business, offering practical advice on overcoming obstacles and maintaining high standards across diverse service offerings.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the art of balancing various service areas—electrical, HVAC, and plumbing—to ensure top-notch quality. Mike’s approach to integrating these services while upholding exceptional standards provides a valuable framework for listeners in similar industries.

Mandeep also taps into Mike’s expertise in attracting private equity investment. Mike outlines critical factors that make a home service business appealing to investors, providing actionable insights for owners looking to position their companies for acquisition.

Mike offers guidance for those transitioning from technician roles to business ownership. He highlights essential skills and mindset adjustments necessary for successful ownership and leadership.

Additionally, Mike draws on his extensive experience training business owners to discuss common pitfalls and mistakes he has observed. His advice on avoiding these missteps is invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their business and personal performance.

Throughout the episode, Mike’s passion for personal development and mastery is evident. He speaks on his commitment to martial arts, having earned a Jin Sei Ryu Budo black belt, and how these principles of discipline and focus extend into his business practices and personal life. His role as an author of 28 books and a sought-after speaker further underscores his expertise in scaling, selling, and running successful companies.

In summary, this episode of "Born for the Trades" with Mike Agugliaro is a treasure trove of knowledge for entrepreneurs and business owners. From scaling a multi-million-dollar business to mastering personal and professional performance, Mike’s insights are both practical and inspirational. Tune in to discover how you can apply his strategies to achieve extraordinary success in your own ventures.

Don’t forget to subscribe to “Born for the Trades - A Home Service Podcast” on your favorite platform, and follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Thank you for listening!

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Welcome to the latest episode of the "Born for the Trades" podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of industry leaders and trailblazers. In this episode, titled "Building a $17 Million Legacy: Ted Fox on Transforming a Family Business into a Home Services Powerhouse," Shreya sits down with Ted Fox, the visionary behind Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical.

Ted Fox, along with his father Ted Fox Sr., founded Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical in 1999, operating out of a modest single-car garage and a home office. What began as a small, family-run business has grown into a significant player in the home services industry, with annual revenues soaring to $17 million. This transformation didn’t come without its challenges and strategic moves, which Ted shares candidly in this insightful conversation.

In the podcast, Ted reflects on the early days of working alongside his father. He discusses the unique dynamic of their partnership and the lessons learned from running a family business. Ted reveals some of the toughest challenges they faced in those formative years, including financial constraints and scaling issues, and how he overcame them with perseverance and strategic problem-solving.

When Ted took over the reins of Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical in 2012, his vision was clear: to reimagine and elevate the brand. He shares the strategic plans he implemented to grow the business, focusing on creating a better workplace, providing career development opportunities, and enhancing the customer experience. His approach involved significant investments in training and development, which played a crucial role in scaling the company to its current success.

Ted also delves into the importance of training and development in fostering a high-performing team. With over 100 employees, he emphasizes how crucial it is to provide continuous learning and support to ensure exceptional customer service. He outlines the software solutions Fox Plumbing Heating Cooling Electrical has adopted and how these technologies have streamlined operations and contributed to the company’s success.

For those looking to maximize ROI from training and software investments, Ted offers practical advice. He explains how to effectively leverage these tools to enhance team performance and achieve substantial business growth. Ted’s insights on creating a positive company culture and providing career opportunities are precious for business owners aiming to build a motivated and dedicated workforce.

Reflecting on his journey, Ted shares a piece of advice he would give his younger self if he could go back to 1999. He also offers guidance for aspiring entrepreneurs in the home services industry, drawing from his own experiences and the strategies that led to his impressive $17 million revenue milestone.

This episode of "Born for the Trades" provides a comprehensive look at how vision, strategy, and a commitment to excellence can transform a small family business into a thriving industry leader. Tune in to hear Ted Fox’s inspiring story and gain valuable insights for your own entrepreneurial journey.

Don’t forget to subscribe to “Born for the Trades - A Home Service Podcast” on your favorite platform, and follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Thank you for listening!

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Unlock the future of home services with AI! Discover how Rilla’s innovative technology is transforming the industry from the inside out. In this exciting episode, “Revolutionizing Home Services with AI: Sebastian Jimenez Returns to Discuss Rilla’s Impact”, we welcome back Sebastian Jimenez, the visionary founder of Rilla, a cutting-edge AI speech analytics technology that’s reshaping the home services industry. Sebastian shares how Rilla’s virtual ride-along feature allows managers to observe and coach their technicians remotely, offering real-time insights and feedback without the need for physical presence. This innovative approach has enabled numerous virtual ride-a-longs, enhancing technician performance and customer interactions.

Sebastian delves into the challenges of adopting new technology, discussing effective strategies to overcome resistance and ensure team-wide engagement with Rilla. He highlights the importance of clear communication, training, and demonstrating the tangible benefits of AI integration to foster a culture of acceptance and enthusiasm.

Listeners will learn about the valuable metrics and feedback Rilla provides to managers during virtual ride-a-longs. These insights help improve team performance by identifying strengths and areas for development, ultimately driving better customer service and increased sales.

Exciting updates and features are on the horizon for Rillavoice, and Sebastian shares his enthusiasm for the upcoming enhancements that will further elevate the platform’s capabilities. From advanced analytics to seamless integration with existing systems, Rilla continues to innovate and expand its functionality.

For those interested in implementing call-by-call management, Sebastian explains how Rilla can streamline this process, offering precise and actionable data to optimize every customer interaction. The platform’s compatibility with existing workflows ensures a smooth transition and maximizes its impact on business operations.

Looking ahead, Sebastian envisions a broader application of AI speech analytics within the service industry. He discusses potential expansions into other sectors and the exciting possibilities for Rilla’s technology to drive growth and efficiency across various domains.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Sebastian Jimenez as we explore the revolutionary impact of AI on the home services industry. Discover how Rilla is empowering technicians, enhancing customer satisfaction, and paving the way for a smarter, more efficient future. Don’t miss this episode filled with expert insights and practical advice for leveraging AI to transform your business.

Don’t forget to subscribe to “Born for the Trades - A Home Service Podcast” on your favorite platform, and follow us on social media for updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more. Thank you for listening!

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