Freedom Blueprint for Home Services | HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, Leadership, Business Growth

Show Information 

Episode Number: 89

Date: May 26, 2025

Duration: 28:09

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Kristen Deese

Company: Virtual CFO

Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com

Guest Co-Host Email: [email protected]

GlassHouse https://www.glasshouse.biz/

NorthStar Marketing https://www.picktruenorth.com/

CES https://www.trustces.com/

PowerSelling Pros https://powersellingpros.com/

Wealthy Plumber https://www.skool.com/wealthyplumber/about

Trades AI https://www.skool.com/automation-foundation/about

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese reflect on their recent workshop event, discussing the insights gained, the importance of networking, and the role of AI in home services. They share their experiences with attendees, the value of collaboration, and the excitement for future events, emphasizing the community aspect of their work.

Takeaways

• The workshop exceeded expectations in terms of engagement and learning.
• Networking opportunities were abundant and beneficial for attendees.
• The event focused on building knowledge progressively over two days.
• AI and automation can significantly enhance efficiency in home services.
• Collaboration among different industries led to valuable insights.
• The importance of going back to basics in business practices was highlighted.
• Attendees appreciated the structured flow of the workshop content.
• The event fostered a sense of community among participants.
• Future events are already being anticipated by attendees.
• Celebrating milestones, like anniversaries, adds a personal touch to events.

Chapters

00:00 Workshop Reflections and Insights

12:45 Networking and Collaboration in Home Services

27:53 Future Events and Community Engagement

Keywords

Virtual CFO, PowerProfitWorkshop.com, workshop, networking, home services, AI, automation, leadership, business growth, KPIs, collaboration, event planning

Episode Number: 88

Date: May 19, 2025

Duration: 26:40

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Contact: [email protected] 

Website: www.ServiceScalers.com

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese speaks with Sam Preston from Service Scalers about the intricacies of digital marketing in the home service industry. They discuss the importance of customer acquisition, the role of AI in marketing, and the need for businesses to understand their conversion rates. Sam shares insights on how to effectively manage marketing channels and the significance of geographical strategies. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of mastering customer acquisition and the impact of social media marketing.

• Service Scalers focuses on high-converting websites for home services.
• Niche marketing can lead to significant growth opportunities.
• Understanding ROI in digital marketing is crucial for success.
• Conversion rates often reveal deeper issues in business operations.
• AI can enhance marketing strategies and efficiency.
• Customer acquisition should be the primary focus of service businesses.
• Master one marketing channel before expanding to others.
• Geographical targeting is essential for effective marketing.
• Social media can be leveraged differently based on the service type.
• Enjoying life while growing a business is important.

• 00:00 Introduction to Service Scalers
• 01:04 The Journey into Home Services
• 03:57 Understanding Digital Marketing ROI
• 06:50 Identifying Conversion Issues
• 09:55 Leveraging AI in Marketing
• 12:29 The Importance of Customer Acquisition
• 14:50 Mastering Marketing Channels
• 18:41 Geographical Marketing Strategies
• 21:30 Social Media Marketing Insights
• 23:43 Closing Thoughts and Wisdom

Show Information 

Episode Number: 87

Date: May 12, 2025

Duration: 36:24

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Rory Krueger

Company: Krueger Heating Cooling and Geothermal 

Guest Website: www.callkrueger.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese welcomes back Rory Krueger to discuss insights from the recent Service Nation Boston Summit and strategies for preparing HVAC businesses for the busy season. Rory emphasizes the importance of customer service, particularly how calls are answered, and the need for effective networking within the industry. He shares actionable tips for improving customer interactions and highlights the significance of collaboration among contractors to elevate the entire industry.

Takeaways

• Start with the way you answer the phone.
• Nothing happens until the phone rings.
• Develop a customer intake delivery system.
• Focus on the homeowner's experience, not just the broken item.
• The words we choose to use matter.
• Networking can elevate the entire industry.
• Training for CSRs is as important as for technicians.
• Implementing systems can improve customer satisfaction.
• Rising tides lift all boats in business.
• Be proactive in reaching out and collaborating with peers.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:04 Insights from the Boston Summit

06:01 Networking and Learning from Others

08:56 The Importance of Implementation

12:09 Customer Service and the Phone Process

14:59 Preparing for the Busy Season

18:01 Understanding Customer Needs

20:52 Creating a Positive Customer Experience

23:46 The Role of Networking in Business

27:12 Closing Thoughts and Advice

Keywords

HVAC, busy season, customer service, networking, Service Nation, business growth, industry insights, operational efficiency, customer experience, training

Episode Number: 86

Date: May 5, 2025

Duration: 

Host: Justin Deese

Website: www.JustinDeese.com

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: James Hattfield

Company: LiveSwitch 

Website: LiveSwitch.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hatfield/

https://book-a-demo.referral-factory.com/ugFihtnc

LiveSwitch, home services, technology, entrepreneurship, customer experience, video communication, staffing solutions, emergency response, business growth, networking

Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese 

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Episode Number: 85

Date:  April 28, 2025

Duration: 32:22

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Aaron Ruddick

Contact: [email protected]

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese interviews Aaron Ruddock, who shares his journey from starting in the HVAC industry to venturing into garage solutions. Aaron discusses the challenges and growth of his family-run HVAC business, the importance of leadership and strategic growth, and his new venture, Kyko Garage Solutions. He emphasizes the significance of continuous learning, networking, and the need for clear boundaries in family businesses. Aaron's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the pursuit of excellence in entrepreneurship.

• Aaron Ruddock's journey in HVAC began with a trade school after high school.
• He emphasizes the importance of family in his business, employing relatives and maintaining a family-oriented culture.
• Leadership in a family business requires clear boundaries and expectations for family members.
• Joining a best practice group was a pivotal decision for Aaron's business growth.
• The transition from a small to a larger business requires different leadership skills and strategies.
• Aaron's HVAC company faced stagnation before joining Service Nation Alliance, which helped them grow significantly.
• He learned the importance of controlling labor and material costs in business operations.
• Aaron's new venture, Kyko Garage Solutions, focuses on garage doors, floors, and cabinets.
• Rebranding and establishing systems were crucial for the success of Kyko Garage Solutions.
• Continuous learning and networking are essential for personal and professional growth.

00:00 Introduction to Aaron Ruddock's Journey

01:52 The HVAC Business Beginnings

08:16 Growth and Challenges in HVAC

12:10 Leadership Lessons and Strategic Growth

19:13 Venturing into Garage Solutions

24:15 Rebranding and Business Transformation

28:19 Continuous Learning and Networking

HVAC, garage solutions, business growth, leadership, family business, entrepreneurship, rebranding, networking, best practices, strategic planning

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show Information 

Episode Number: 84

Date:  April 21, 2025

Duration: 42:19

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Brigham Dickinson

Company: Power Selling Pros

Guest Website: PowerSellingPros.com

Gift to listeners: Download a FREE Happy Call Script text the word HAPPY to 385-247-3714

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese speaks with Brigham Dickinson, CEO and founder of Power Selling Pros. They discuss the importance of maximizing call center efficiency, creating a fun work environment, building a culture of training, and utilizing technology for performance monitoring. Brigham emphasizes the need for contractors to recognize blind spots in their operations and the significance of coaching and consistency in call centers. The conversation also touches on legacy building in business and the importance of having fun in the workplace to drive performance.

Takeaways

• Most contractors overlook the importance of their call center.
• Improving call conversion can significantly impact revenue.
• Creating a fun work environment boosts team performance.
• Training and role-playing should be integral to hiring.
• CSRs should have the ability to earn commissions based on performance.
• Utilizing technology can enhance monitoring and performance tracking.
• Coaching should be consistent and supportive, not punitive.
• Legacy building is essential for long-term business success.
• Every department should be an incubator for leadership.
• Fun should be a core value in the workplace. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Power Selling Pros

01:13 Blind Spots in Call Centers

05:01 The Impact of Call Conversion Rates

09:11 Creating a Positive Call Center Culture

12:59 Training and Compensation Strategies

17:06 Utilizing Technology for Performance Monitoring

21:42 The Importance of Call Center Engagement

24:09 Delegating Tasks for Business Growth

25:44 Understanding Business Cycles

29:05 Cultivating Leadership in Your Team

31:43 Finding Freedom in Business

32:23 Proactive Customer Engagement Strategies

35:08 Creating a Fun Work Environment

Keywords

call center, business tips, customer service, training, leadership, contractor success, fun workplace, performance monitoring, coaching, legacy building

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Episode Number: 83

Title: New Ventures: Partnerships and Growth with Joe Strittmatter

Date: April 14, 2025

Duration: 41:58

Host: Justin Deese

Website: www.JustinDeese.com

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Joe Strittmatter

Contact: [email protected]

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Joe Strittmatter, who shares his journey from growing up in the plumbing and HVAC industry to successfully transitioning his business through various challenges, including the 2009 housing crisis. Joe discusses the importance of profitability over revenue, the role of mentorship, and the necessity of effective leadership and systems in scaling a business. He emphasizes the hard work required to succeed and the lessons learned from his experiences in the service industry. In this conversation, Justin Deese and Joe Strittmatter discuss the evolution of leadership, the challenges of transitioning from business ownership to retirement, and the importance of finding purpose and setting goals. They explore new ventures in the home services industry, the significance of partnerships, and the preparation required for launching a new business. The discussion also touches on the anticipated challenges in the market and the need for strategic planning in the face of potential economic downturns.

• Joe Strittmatter's journey began as a second-generation owner in the plumbing and HVAC industry.
• He transitioned from construction to service due to the 2009 housing crisis.
• Profitability is more important than revenue; focus on net profits.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in Joe's business success.
• There is no 'silver bullet' for success; hard work is essential.
• Developing systems and processes is key to business growth.
• Leadership skills must evolve as the business scales.
• Allowing employees to make decisions is vital for their growth.
• Failure is a part of learning; it should be embraced.
• Traditional methods can still be used to achieve effective marketing. You have to manage the outcome, not the minutia.
• Trust your team to handle tasks effectively.
• Finding better people to hire is crucial for growth.
• Transitioning to retirement can be challenging without goals.
• Boredom can lead to unhealthy habits post-retirement.
• Helping others grow is a fulfilling aspect of business.
• A bored entrepreneur can struggle with motivation.
• Partnerships can expedite business growth and success.
• The home services market may face challenges in the coming years.
• Running lean is essential for navigating economic downturns.

00:00 Introduction to Joe Strittmatter's Journey

02:52 Transitioning from Construction to Service

06:11 Navigating the 2009 Housing Crisis

08:53 Growth and Profitability in Business

12:04 The Importance of Leadership and Systems

14:53 Lessons Learned from Mentorship

18:02 Scaling and Managing Growth

22:07 Leadership and Trust in Business

23:05 Navigating Life After Business

27:01 The Importance of Purpose and Goals

30:07 New Ventures and Partnerships

34:35 Preparing for Market Launch

38:57 Future Challenges in Home Services

plumbing, HVAC, business growth, entrepreneurship, leadership, service industry, profitability, mentorship, marketing, construction, leadership, business growth, retirement, entrepreneurship, partnerships, market launch, home services, purpose, goals, challenges, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show Title:  The Profit Blind Spot: What’s Really Killing Your Bottom Line

Show Information 

Episode Number: 82

Date: April 7, 2025

Duration: 37:56

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Kristen Deese

Company: Virtual CFO

Guest Website: KristenDeese.com

Gift to listeners: Cost of A New Hire Calculator- Email [email protected]

PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese discuss the importance of understanding profitability in business, the impact of cash flow, and the upcoming Power Profit Workshop. They emphasize the need for intentional systems, the role of AI, and the significance of evaluating marketing spend. The conversation also touches on the challenges of hiring and the necessity of having a clear plan for revenue generation. The episode concludes with details about the workshop designed to provide in-depth learning and actionable strategies for business owners.

Takeaways

• More sales do not equal more profitability.
• Busy does not always mean productive or profitable.
• Intentional systems are crucial for business success.
• Understanding gross profit margin is essential for profitability.
• Cash flow is different from profitability and must be managed separately.
• Marketing spend should be evaluated carefully for ROI.
• Hiring new staff requires a clear plan for revenue generation.
• AI can enhance business operations if used correctly.
• Workshops provide deeper learning opportunities than large conferences.
• You need to hold your marketing accountable for performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Profitability Challenges

08:09 Understanding Profit Margins and Sales

15:49 Identifying Overhead and Administrative Costs

25:12 The Impact of Debt and Advertising on Profitability

29:43 Upcoming Power Profit Workshop Overview

Keywords

business, profitability, cash flow, virtual CFO, workshop, AI, marketing, financial management, event planning, entrepreneurship

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Building a Vision-Driven Team: Levi Torres on Leadership, Growth, and Empowering Success

Show Information

Episode Number: 81

Date: March 31, 2025

Duration: 35:50

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Levi Torres

Contact: [email protected]

Website: High5Plumbing.com

Workshop Information

Website: PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Summary

In this insightful episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese converses with Levi Torres about cultivating a robust team geared towards sustainable business growth. They dive deep into the essence of having a compelling vision, a clear path to success, and the pivotal importance of continuous support for team members. Levi Torres shares his journey and experiences in the HVAC and electrical industries, demonstrating how tools like vision boards and regular check-ins can harmonize personal aspirations with business objectives. This episode is a must-listen for leaders aiming to empower their teams and foster a thriving company culture.

Key Takeaways

- Memberships play a crucial role in business growth.

- A clear vision is fundamental for achieving success.

- Implementation of ideas is key to real growth.

- Vision boards are instrumental in creating clarity and focus.

- A defined path is required to achieve business goals.

- Continuous support is essential for team development.

- Empowering employees can lead to unexpected growth.

- Leadership should be in sync with team members' visions.

- Success should be assessed against personal milestones.

- A positive company culture serves as a growth catalyst.

Chapters

- 00:00 Introduction and Business Updates

- 03:00 Building a Team for Growth

- 05:59 The Importance of Vision

- 09:09 Creating a Path to Success

- 12:06 Supporting Team Members' Goals

- 14:57 Empowering Employees for Future Success

- 18:50 Creating Clarity Through Vision Boards

- 22:33 The Power of Accountability in Leadership

- 27:07 Aligning Personal and Business Visions

- 30:25 Growth Through Vision and Opportunity

- 34:21 The Importance of Vision for Success

Keywords

#business growth #team building #vision board #leadership #employee empowerment #HVAC #electrical #sustainable growth #company culture #success measurement #Entrepreneurship #Partnerships #HomeServices #Purpose #Goals #challenges #JustinDeese #visionaryleadership #empowerment #FreedomBlueprintPODCAST #freedomblueprint

Thank you for tuning in to today's insightful episode. Don't forget to subscribe to get notified of future episodes. Share this with fellow leaders who can benefit from mastering the art of building a vision-driven team. Until next time, keep setting those visionary goals and watch your business and leadership transform. This is Justin Deese, signing off from the Freedom Blueprint Podcast. Stay motivated, keep focused on your vision, and as always, keep CRUSHING IT.

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Episode Number: 80

Date: March 24, 2025

Duration: 30:09.687

Host: Justin Deese

Website: www.JustinDeese.com

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Rich Harshaw

Company: Level 10 Contractor

Website: www.Level10contractor.com

Email: [email protected]

Podcast Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-level-10-contractor-daily-podcast/id1477623969

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese speaks with Rich Harshaw from Level 10 Contractor about effective marketing strategies for contractors. They discuss the importance of standing out in a competitive market, the difference between marketing and branding, and the concepts of 'hunting' and 'farming' in lead generation. Rich shares insights on the evolution of television advertising and the significance of identity in marketing, emphasizing storytelling as a powerful tool for engagement.

• Standing out is crucial for contractors.
• Marketing and branding serve different purposes.
• Hunting is immediate lead generation; farming is long-term growth.
• SEO is a farming strategy that requires patience.
• Television advertising has evolved with streaming options.
• Targeted advertising can be more effective than traditional methods.
• Identity in marketing is about clear communication of value.
• Storytelling enhances customer engagement and retention.
• Investing in branding can yield long-term benefits.
• Understanding your audience is key to effective marketing.

00:00 Introduction to Level 10 Contractor

01:16 Understanding Marketing vs. Branding

05:24 Hunting vs. Farming in Marketing

11:14 The Evolution of Television Advertising

19:40 The Importance of Identity in Marketing

contractor marketing, branding, television advertising, SEO, identity, home services, lead generation, storytelling, digital marketing, Level 10 Contractor, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese 

Mentioned in this episode:

Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com