Support the show

Welcome back to another exciting episode of Born for the Trades! Today, we’re diving into the world of HVAC with a special guest, Axel Romero. Since stepping into the HVAC industry in 2017, Axel’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. What began as a focus on installations quickly evolved into a deeper passion for the inner workings of HVAC systems, and by 2019, Axel found his calling at Crossway Mechanical. But his story doesn’t stop there. In just a year, he transitioned into specialized inspections, and in 2020, he broadened his expertise into home forensics. This move allowed him to directly assist homeowners, giving them the tools and knowledge they need to understand and protect their HVAC systems.

With nearly a thousand homeowners helped, Axel has witnessed firsthand the long-term impact HVAC issues can have on a home’s comfort, efficiency, and safety. His passion for the industry is more than just about fixing systems—he’s on a mission to educate homeowners, ensuring they make informed decisions and avoid the common pitfalls of installation malpractice.

Axel’s career has also led him to the national stage, where he was featured in Shemane Nugent’s 2024 documentary, Killer House. In this groundbreaking film, Axel sheds light on the importance of high-quality HVAC installations and their far-reaching impact on the well-being of homeowners. The documentary highlights Axel’s unique ability to break down complex HVAC problems into clear, understandable terms, making a lasting difference for those seeking answers.

In today’s episode, we discuss Axel’s incredible career trajectory, the common mistakes contractors and homeowners make, and how he’s empowering homeowners to defend themselves against poor HVAC practices. We also hear about his thoughts on the future of HVAC and what changes he hopes to see in the industry to improve transparency and best practices. His story is a testament to how one person’s passion can reshape an entire industry—making homes safer, more efficient, and more comfortable.

Tune in for a conversation packed with valuable insights and practical advice you won’t want to miss!

Support the show

On this episode of Born for the Trades, Mandeep chats with Lynn Wise, co-founder of Contractor In Charge, a revolutionary service designed to help home service businesses—plumbers, electricians, HVAC professionals, and more—streamline their operations. With a background in both the trades and tech, Lynn’s journey is a fascinating blend of hands-on experience and cutting-edge solutions.

Lynn’s path to entrepreneurship started when she saw a significant gap in the home services industry: contractors were drowning in administrative tasks that kept them from focusing on what really mattered—serving customers and growing their business. Having co-owned a plumbing business and worked at tech giants like IBM and Yellow Pages, Lynn realized that the right blend of technology and personal care could provide contractors with a solution that scaled. That’s when Contractor In Charge was born—an outsourced service designed to handle customer service, real-time bookkeeping, and more, all while maintaining that personal touch.

One of the key moments in Lynn’s career came when she recognized that many contractors made the mistake of neglecting customer service in favor of technical work. While great service is the backbone of any business, many contractors focus too much on their craft and not enough on building long-lasting customer relationships. Lynn emphasizes that leveraging technology to enhance customer service—like real-time booking, follow-ups, and tailored communication—can set a business apart in a competitive market.

However, she’s clear about one thing: tech should never replace the human connection. “It’s not about removing the contractor from the equation—it’s about giving them the tools to succeed while keeping that personal touch”. Contractor In Charge blends the best of both worlds: cutting-edge technology to streamline processes and personalized customer care that builds loyalty and trust.

Lynn also shares a success story about a small contractor who used her service to scale his business. By outsourcing administrative tasks like customer service and bookkeeping, he was able to focus more on his craft and take on more clients. Over time, this helped increase his revenue and reduce stress, ultimately transforming his business into a more efficient operation.

We also wanted to give a big shoutout to our sponsors—Rilla, an AI-powered sales tool that provides call-by-call feedback to help your team close more deals, and Grow Reviews, a platform that makes it easy to capture customer testimonials through text and video. These tools are designed to help you improve your customer experience and grow your business with ease.

If you're a contractor looking for practical insights or someone curious about how tech is changing the home services industry, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration on how to grow your business without sacrificing what makes it special.

Support the show

In this episode of Born For The Trades, Mandeep and Shreya sit down with Bill Kean, the President of NEXGEN Air, Heat, and Plumbing, a leading force in Southern California's home services industry. With over 15 years of experience, Bill’s journey from a second-generation contractor to a successful entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. He shares the mindset shifts that helped him navigate pivotal moments—like founding Dynamic Air Services in 2008 and growing it into a $6 million company—before transitioning to NEXGEN, where he rose through the ranks to lead the company as president.

Bill's story is one of perseverance, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. He discusses the crucial steps he took while scaling his first business and offers invaluable advice for entrepreneurs looking to take their companies to the next level. With his deep understanding of the home services industry, he highlights what truly sets NEXGEN apart, from their industry-leading processes to the exceptional company culture that’s garnered them recognition as a household name.

What really makes Bill's leadership stand out, however, is his passion for making a positive impact—not just in business but in the lives of his team members and the communities they serve. He introduces us to Project X, a philanthropic initiative that’s making a difference in the lives of families in need. Bill explains how giving back has become an integral part of NEXGEN’s company culture and how it strengthens their relationships with clients and employees alike.

In a heartfelt discussion, Bill shares his thoughts on what it truly means to lead a company with integrity and purpose. He believes success isn't only measured by financial growth but by the lives you touch along the way. Tune in to hear how a commitment to people, culture, and community can create a business that’s not only successful but meaningful.

As Bill reflects on his career and leadership journey, he leaves us with a final thought: the most underrated best practice in home services is often the simplest. It’s a reminder that in a world filled with complexities, staying focused on what truly matters can be the key to long-term success.

Support the show

In this episode, host Mandeep Bhalla talks with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch, a leading platform transforming how businesses use video to scale. With years of leadership experience in both startups and Fortune 500 companies, James shares his insights on technology, leadership, and the future of communication.

James has been instrumental in LiveSwitch’s success, playing a key role in customer experience and overseeing all revenue-generating processes. Before joining LiveSwitch, he led the creation of the Customer Buying Experience at IQVIA and served as President of Sales at Sageworks. LiveSwitch’s platform is now used by businesses ranging from entrepreneurs to global enterprises, helping them connect with customers and document work in real-time.

A major focus of this episode is the future of video communication. James shares his thoughts on how video technology will evolve in the coming years, particularly in industries like home services, and how it will reshape the way businesses build relationships and streamline operations.

James also reflects on key leadership lessons he's learned throughout his career, including the importance of creating efficient processes and staying agile in a fast-changing tech landscape. He discusses the differences in how startups and large enterprises approach innovation, and offers insights into the challenges and opportunities each faces.

One standout moment in his career was a decision at LiveSwitch that significantly impacted the company’s growth. James shares how data-driven choices and customer feedback played a crucial role in shaping the company’s strategies.

Finally, James addresses the biggest challenges facing tech leaders today, particularly in managing rapid innovation and diverse teams. He emphasizes the need for clear vision and adaptability to lead successfully in today’s fast-paced world.

This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders in the home service industry who want to harness technology to grow and innovate. Tune in to hear James Hatfield’s expert insights and valuable leadership lessons!

Support the show

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.

Support the show

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.

Support the show

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!

Support the show

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!

Support the show

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!

Support the show