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In this episode, we will be joined by Mario TileGuy Garcia, who is passionate about preserving the tradition of using mud in the flooring, tile & stone industries. Mario is the founder of the annual MUD EVENT, where attendees learn not only the techniques of mud work but also the culture and traditions behind this age-old practice.

We will explore the importance of preserving traditions in the flooring, tile & stone industries, including the use of mud as a traditional technique. Mario will share his insights on why he believes it is crucial to keep these traditions alive and how the MUD EVENT serves as a grassroots effort to bring this piece of the industry beyond its last mainstay location.

We will delve into the unique aspects of the MUD EVENT and what attendees can expect to learn and experience at this one-of-a-kind event. Mario will share his motivations for organizing and traveling all over to promote this event and how it has become a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering community, and preserving traditions in the industry.

Mario will also discuss the importance of having a diverse toolbox in the flooring and tile & stone industries, including the value of learning different techniques and approaches. He will share his insights on how expanding one's skill set can lead to more opportunities and enhance the overall quality of work in the industry.

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In this episode, we will be joined by Josh Hansman, a returning guest and friend of the show, as we explore his experience of transitioning from an employee to an owner of the business he was working for. Josh will share his insights on how this change has impacted his role, the dynamics with his team, and the challenges and opportunities that have arisen.

We will discuss Josh's decision to accept the proposition from his former boss and become a business owner, despite his previous stance of not wanting to be an owner again. He will share his motivations and reasons for accepting this new role and the changes it has brought to his professional life.

We will delve into the dynamics of transitioning from an employee to an owner within the same organization, including how the other employees have responded to the change and the level of respect and acceptance Josh has experienced. He will share his insights on building trust and maintaining positive relationships with his team as he takes on his new role as an owner.

Josh will also discuss the challenges and overwhelming aspects of becoming a business owner, including the new responsibilities, decision-making processes, and the different skillset required to effectively manage a business. He will share his thoughts on areas where he needs to grow and develop in order to succeed in his new role and navigate the changes that come with being a business owner.

We will explore the opportunities and potential benefits of transitioning from an employee to an owner, including the ability to make strategic decisions, implement changes, and drive the success of the business. Josh will share his perspective on the exciting aspects of being a business owner and the potential for personal and professional growth.

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Finding employees is tough but what if there was someone that could provide them? In this episode, we will be joined by Erin Albrecht and Van Church as we explore an intriguing opportunity for flooring businesses to overcome the challenges of finding and onboarding new employees. Erin is a passionate advocate for a federal government funding program (Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act - WIOA) that allows businesses to onboard and train employees at their expense for 90 days, while also providing support for purchasing tool packages. Van Church has been introduced to this program by Erin and will share his insights on its benefits for his flooring business.

We will discuss the challenges of finding and hiring skilled employees in the flooring industry, including the costs associated with training, tools, and wages. Erin will share her experiences and knowledge of the federal government funding program that can alleviate these challenges and provide support to businesses in onboarding and training new hires. We will explore the details of the program, including where to find it and how to utilize it effectively to grow your company.

We will touch on how the program can assist with purchasing tool packages for new employees, which can be a significant expense for businesses. Erin and Van will share their experiences and insights on how this program has helped them overcome the challenges of finding and training new employees in their flooring businesses.

Additionally, we will discuss other potential programs and resources that may exist to support flooring businesses in overcoming the installer shortage and growing their companies. Erin, Van, and our guest will provide valuable insights and tips on how to effectively leverage these programs to attract and train skilled employees, reduce costs, and drive business growth.

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In this episode, we will be joined by Todd Saunders, CEO of Broadlume, as we delve into intriguing questions and concerns related to the flooring industry. We will explore the concept of a "flooring mafia" and whether such a phenomenon exists in the industry. We will also discuss the potential impact of big tech on the flooring industry and whether there might be a new flooring mafia emerging in the digital landscape.

As a flooring installer attending FloorCon 2022, organized by Broadlume, I had some concerns and questions about the goals and intentions of industry players. Todd Saunders, as the CEO of Broadlume, a company that offers a range of digital solutions for the flooring industry, will share his insights and perspectives on these topics.

We will explore the concept of a "flooring mafia" and whether there are any industry players who wield excessive influence or control. We will discuss the dynamics of power and competition in the flooring industry and how it impacts different stakeholders, including retailers, installers, and consumers. Todd will provide insights into the reality of the industry landscape and how players navigate the complexities of the market.

Throughout the episode, we will engage in a candid conversation about the flooring industry, its challenges, and its future. We will explore the potential impact of big tech on the industry, discuss the concept of a "flooring mafia," and gain valuable insights from Todd Saunders, a seasoned industry professional with a deep understanding of the digital landscape.

Join us as we discuss intriguing questions and concerns related to the flooring industry with Todd Saunders, and gain insights into the evolving dynamics of the market and the potential impact of technology on the industry's future.

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In this episode, we will be joined by Nick Hofmann, owner of Pokuna Tile, as we discuss the topic of generational differences in the workplace, particularly focusing on late millennials, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha. We will explore common misconceptions and negative stereotypes associated with these generations, such as laziness and excessive phone usage, and challenge those perceptions based on the evolving environment they have grown up in.

We will delve into the impact of technology and the changing cultural landscape on younger generations, and how it has shaped their attitudes, behaviors, and work habits. Nick will share his personal experience with his kindergartener son's career day, providing insights into how younger generations perceive and approach work in today's world.

We will also discuss the importance of nurturing and growing new talent in the flooring industry. Nick will share his perspectives on how the industry can attract and retain younger generations, and create a positive and inclusive work environment that encourages their growth and development. We will explore strategies to bridge the gap between different generations in the workplace, fostering collaboration and mutual understanding.

Throughout the episode, we will challenge misconceptions about younger generations in the workplace and highlight the unique strengths and contributions they bring to the table. We will discuss the importance of adapting and evolving as an industry to effectively engage and empower younger generations, and create a thriving and sustainable workforce for the future.

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In this episode, we will be joined by Bob Baldocchi, an industry expert with 25 years of experience in global sales, marketing, and branding. Bob has extensive experience in the flooring industry, having served as the Chief Marketing Officer at Emser Tile and currently working as an owner and investor at ON3, a company that focuses on building digital training solutions for the flooring industry. We will discuss the growing trend of online flooring sales and explore the opportunities and challenges of selling flooring products online.

We will delve into the key considerations for implementing e-commerce into a retail flooring business, including the necessary infrastructure, technology, and logistics. Bob will share insights on what it entails to set up an online store for flooring products, including the website development, product catalog management, online payment processing, and order fulfillment. We will also discuss the importance of creating a user-friendly and secure online shopping experience for customers.

We will explore the potential market for online flooring sales, including the advantages and challenges of selling locally or nationally. Bob will provide insights on identifying the target audience for online sales and tailoring the marketing strategies accordingly. We will also discuss the competition in the online flooring market, and how to differentiate and position your online store for success.

We will also discuss the logistics of delivering flooring products to customers in an online sales model. Bob will share his expertise on managing inventory, handling shipping and delivery, and providing customer support in an online sales environment. We will also discuss the importance of accurate product descriptions, images, and specifications to ensure customers can make informed decisions online.

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In this episode, we will be joined by Paul Treanor, the Senior Manager of Content and Community at the International Surface Event (TISE), which is a major industry event held in Las Vegas from January 31st to February 2nd, 2023. We will discuss the benefits and significance of attending industry events like TISE, and debunk the misconception that they are only for retailers.

We will delve into the various advantages of attending industry events, including networking opportunities, educational sessions, product demonstrations, and industry trends and insights. Paul will share his expertise on how attending industry events can help flooring professionals stay updated with the latest industry developments, discover new products and technologies, and connect with peers, suppliers, and potential customers. We will also discuss the value of in-person interactions and the importance of building relationships in the flooring industry.

We will explore the diverse range of attendees at industry events, which include not only retailers, but also contractors, installers, designers, architects, manufacturers, and other professionals in the flooring industry. Paul will highlight the relevance of industry events for different segments of the flooring industry and how they can provide valuable opportunities for business growth, professional development, and staying ahead of the competition.

We will also discuss what to expect at TISE 2023, including the various exhibitors, educational sessions, special events, and networking opportunities that will be available to attendees. Paul will provide insights on how to make the most out of attending TISE or any industry event, including planning ahead, setting goals, and engaging in active networking and learning.

Don't forget to use the code KYLE when registering for Surfaces so that you get your free exhibition pass!

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In this episode, we will hear from Graham Capobianco, a fifth-generation flooring professional and the Sustainability Manager for North America at Novalis Innovative Flooring. Graham's role involves understanding how flooring products impact the environment, navigating LEED certifications, and assisting contractors in addressing client inquiries about sustainability.

We will delve into the topic of sustainability in the flooring industry and discuss common questions that contractors receive from clients, such as whether products are "green," how they may affect the home environment, and whether they contain VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) or phthalates. Graham will share his expertise and insights on how to effectively respond to these inquiries and educate clients about sustainable flooring options.

We will also discuss the process of obtaining LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certifications for flooring projects and how contractors can navigate the paperwork and requirements associated with these certifications. Graham will share his experiences and best practices for working with LEED certifications, including understanding the different categories and credits, selecting sustainable products, and documenting compliance.

Throughout the episode, we will draw on Graham's expertise in sustainability and flooring to provide practical advice and insights on how contractors can effectively address client inquiries about sustainability and navigate the process of obtaining LEED certifications. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on how to confidently discuss sustainability with clients and make informed choices when it comes to selecting environmentally responsible flooring products.

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In this episode, we will hear from Dan Wall, the lead carpenter at Covenant Construction in Ontario, Canada, who has extensive experience in the construction field and has successfully nurtured new talent in his company. Dan will share insights on how to foster an ownership mentality among employees and cultivate a culture of pride, accountability, and problem ownership in a construction business.

We will explore the challenges of training employees who may leave to start their own business or who may not take ownership of their work. Dan will discuss strategies for overcoming these challenges and creating an environment where employees feel invested in the success of the business.

Dan will share his experiences and techniques for nurturing new talent in his company, including providing comprehensive training, setting clear expectations, and empowering employees to take ownership of their work. He will discuss the importance of communication, feedback, and recognition in motivating employees to take pride in the business they represent and actively contribute to its success.

We will also delve into the concept of an ownership mentality and how to instill it in employees. Dan will share his insights on fostering a sense of ownership by involving employees in decision-making, providing opportunities for growth and advancement, and creating a positive and inclusive work environment. He will discuss the importance of setting a strong example as a leader and cultivating a shared vision and mission among employees.

Throughout the episode, we will draw on Dan's experiences and strategies for nurturing new talent and fostering an ownership mentality in his construction business. Listeners will gain practical advice and insights on how to cultivate a culture of accountability, pride, and problem ownership among employees, and improve employee retention and performance.

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In this episode, we will hear from Chris Griffin, the Director of Innovation at Johns Manville, who oversees the growth and development of startups within the construction industry. Chris will share insights on how to determine when it's time to create separate divisions or services within a construction company and how to set them up for success.

We will explore the concept of diversifying services within a construction company, such as offering commercial, new build, residential remodel, removal, cleaning, epoxy coatings, and other niche services. Chris will discuss the importance of understanding market demand, customer needs, and the competitive landscape when considering expanding services or creating separate divisions.

Chris will share his experiences and perspectives on how to evaluate the performance of different divisions or services within a construction company. He will provide insights on key performance indicators (KPIs), metrics, and benchmarks that can be used to assess the success and viability of each division or service.

We will also delve into the process of setting up separate divisions or services for success. Chris will discuss the importance of clear communication, defining roles and responsibilities, establishing processes and workflows, and providing adequate resources and support for each division or service. He will also share tips on how to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement within each division.

Throughout the episode, we will draw on Chris's expertise in guiding startups and fostering their growth to provide practical advice and insights on how construction companies can effectively diversify their services, create separate divisions, and set them up for success. Listeners will gain valuable insights on how to structure and organize their companies to improve performance, achieve growth, and adapt to changing market demands.

Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR

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