Born For The Trades: A Home Service Podcast

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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In this episode of our podcast, we sit down with Edward Medor, the Strategic Partnerships Channel Manager at Workiz, to explore the cutting-edge innovations transforming the home service industry. Edward brings nearly two decades of expertise in sales and business development, having significantly impacted the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical sectors during his tenure at ANGI/HomeAdvisor. His deep understanding of the industry and dedication to leveraging advanced technologies make him a pivotal figure in the field service management landscape.

Join us as we delve into what sets Workiz apart from other CRM tools available in the market. Edward shares how Workiz is designed specifically for home service professionals, offering unique features that streamline operations and optimize marketing efforts. From intuitive scheduling and dispatching to robust communication tools, Workiz is tailored to help businesses achieve more with fewer resources.

One of the key highlights of our discussion is the integration of automation and artificial intelligence within Workiz. Edward explains how these technologies enhance efficiency, reduce manual workload, and enable home service businesses to deliver superior customer experiences. He provides compelling examples of automation in action, demonstrating how Workiz’s smart features can significantly boost productivity and profitability.

We also explore the strategic partnerships that have propelled Workiz’s growth and success in the industry. Edward sheds light on the most impactful integrations Workiz offers, such as seamless connections with accounting software, payment processors, and marketing platforms, all designed to provide a comprehensive solution for home service professionals.

As the conversation unfolds, Edward shares insights into Workiz’s ongoing commitment to innovation. He discusses the company's future plans and how they intend to stay ahead in the competitive field service management software market. With a focus on delivering powerful, affordable, and user-friendly solutions, Workiz continues to empower home service business owners to thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Edward Medor and discover how Workiz is revolutionizing the home service industry through efficiency and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to help you elevate your business operations.

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In this exciting episode of "Born for the Trades," we sit down with Jack Pinsel, CEO of Elite Call, and Lesli Rojas, Director of Client Services and Account Management at Elite Call, to delve into the secrets behind their success in the home service industry. Elite Call has rapidly emerged as a powerhouse in outbound calling, and today, Jack and Lesli share the strategies and philosophies that have propelled them to the top.

Jack Pinsel, an entrepreneur with a background in football and telemarketing, founded Elite Call in 2012, focusing on the home service industry. Despite early challenges, including gaining trust from long-established companies, Elite Call has seen tremendous growth, boasting a 150% increase in the last three years alone. Jack attributes much of this success to the strong culture he has cultivated, drawing on his experience as a sports coach to foster teamwork and group thinking.

Elite Call’s approach to outbound calling is distinctive. They emphasize the importance of training, quality assurance, and maintaining a dedicated team of agents based in the U.S. This ensures higher quality control and better employee commitment. Their agents undergo continuous training and quality assessments, ensuring every call meets Elite Call’s high standards.

The seamless integration of appointments into clients' CRMs is another standout feature of Elite Call's service. Jack and Lesli explain how this integration not only streamlines operations but also prevents overbooking, ensuring clients receive the best possible service. By keeping operations in-house, they maintain a high level of quality and dedication from their team.

Jack and Lesli also share a compelling success story of a client who expanded from a single branch to multiple states, with Elite Call managing all their telemarketing needs. This case study highlights the significant impact Elite Call can have on a client’s business, driving growth and enhancing customer experience.

Empathy and understanding are core to Elite Call’s communication approach. They focus on boosting membership value and maintaining strong customer relationships. Leveraging data and analytics, they continually optimize their calling strategies for better results. While AI plays a supportive role in training and analytics, Elite Call believes in the power of human touch for direct customer interactions.

For home service businesses looking to improve their call center operations, Jack and Lesli emphasize the importance of a committed QA team, consistent training, and hiring agents with the right personality. They view their role as an extension of their clients' businesses, preparing them for increased inbound calls and ensuring seamless operations.

Looking to the future, Elite Call is preparing to integrate AI more deeply into their services, promising exciting developments in inbound solutions. Stay tuned to discover how Elite Call continues to innovate and lead in customer engagement.

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In this episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the world of plumbing and entrepreneurship with Cody McLeod. Cody is a second-generation plumber who has spent over a decade working alongside his father before venturing out to establish his own business. With more than 18 years of experience in the industry, Cody brings a wealth of knowledge and insight into the challenges and rewards of running a plumbing business.

Cody shares his journey into the trades, recounting how he got started and what drew him to this field. He discusses the initial difficulties he faced when starting his own business, highlighting the steep learning curve involved in building a new service and operations from the ground up. Despite his extensive experience, Cody admits that there are always new lessons to learn, especially on the service side of the industry.

A significant part of our conversation centers around company culture. Cody emphasizes the importance of maintaining traditional values while incorporating modern technology to enhance customer service. He believes in fostering a culture that supports the growth of both current and future employees, ensuring that everyone progresses together. This commitment to culture and development has been a cornerstone of his business strategy.

We also explore the dynamics of working in the same industry as his family. Cody candidly discusses the friendly competition between his company and his father's, illustrating how it has motivated him to innovate and improve continually.

Marketing is another key topic in this episode. Cody shares his approach to marketing, which includes guerrilla marketing tactics and building a strong brand. He explains how he leverages social media not only to attract customers but also to educate both employees and clients.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Cody offers invaluable advice. He underscores the importance of working for someone you admire and soaking up as much knowledge as possible. He also touches on the significance of believing in oneself and overcoming impostor syndrome. With more than ten employees and four vehicles under his management, Cody’s story is a testament to the power of grit, determination, and self-belief.

Join us for an insightful conversation that sheds light on the intricacies of the plumbing industry, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the importance of a strong company culture. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting, this episode offers something for everyone.

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In this episode of our podcast, "Protecting Your Business: Mitigating Risks in the Home Service Industry," we are thrilled to welcome Mike McDonough, a renowned speaker, author, and educator in the insurance industry. With over four decades of dedication, Mike has served as a trusted advisor to countless business owners, helping them navigate the complex landscape of insurance and risk management.

Throughout his career, Mike has demonstrated an exceptional ability to secure comprehensive coverage for his clients while protecting their businesses against unnecessary financial risks. His relentless commitment to excellence and passion for helping businesses thrive in an uncertain world have defined his journey in the insurance industry.

In this episode, Mike shares invaluable insights into how contractors and business owners can safeguard their assets against lawsuits and financial uncertainties. We delve into the importance of establishing a strong safety program and robust HR policies, as well as the critical role of adequate documentation and payroll management. Mike emphasizes that a good company culture, where employees feel valued and motivated, can significantly reduce the risk of lawsuits.

We also discuss some of the most common and impactful lawsuits in the home service industry, including claims of sexual harassment and vehicle accidents. Mike highlights the importance of clear policies and procedures to mitigate these risks and ensure the protection of both employees and clients.

Mike's approach to risk management is holistic and client-focused, emphasizing the need to stay at the forefront of industry trends and regulatory changes. He shares practical advice on how to start with the most critical and risky areas, implementing tailored strategies that align with a company's risk tolerance and financial goals.

This episode is packed with actionable tips for business owners looking to control risks and save money. From hiring practices that ensure respectful interactions on private properties to the significance of protecting client data, Mike covers it all. He underscores the value of working closely with insurance experts to make informed decisions and highlights that even small changes can lead to significant savings in the long run.

Tune in to learn from Mike McDonough's wealth of experience and discover how to protect your business and ensure its financial prosperity in an ever-changing environment.

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In this enlightening episode we sit down with Jayson, a seasoned veteran of the home industry, whose diverse background spans over a decade in HVAC, two decades in sales, and a significant tenure managing a sales force of over 10,000 agents. Jayson shares his unique insights and profound passion for the trades, drawing from his extensive experience that began at the age of nineteen.

Throughout the conversation, Jayson delves into the concept of call-by-call management, a strategy pivotal to enhancing service quality and team performance in any home service business. This approach not only revolutionizes the dispatcher’s role but also supports technicians in delivering superior service. Jayson explains the three crucial stages of a service call—pre-call preparation, diagnosis, and debriefing—and how these can be leveraged to elevate team capabilities and improve customer interactions.

Listeners will gain an understanding of how small companies can benefit from employing an external call-by-call manager and the positive impacts of such a role on both operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Jayson emphasizes the importance of clear, amicable communication and how teaching sales techniques to the right individuals can significantly increase sales opportunities without sacrificing authenticity or client connection.

Moreover, Jayson touches on the emotional and scientific aspects of sales, advocating for a balanced approach that minimizes emotional involvement while maximizing effectiveness through strategic thinking and feedback integration.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the home industry—from technicians to business owners—looking to refine their operational strategies and boost their team’s performance. Whether you're just starting out or seeking to enhance your existing practices, Jayson’s insights provide valuable guidance on transforming everyday challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Join us to discover how you can implement these transformative techniques in your own business.

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