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

Episode Number: 59

Date: November 4, 2024

Duration: 45:00

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Co-Host Contact Information

Co-Host: Kristen Deese

Company: Virtual CFO for the trades

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com

Service Nation:

Michael Rudowitz

[email protected]

www.ServiceNation.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese recap their experiences at the recent Service World event. They discuss the highlights of the event, including the keynote speakers, workshops, and the importance of networking. The couple shares insights on finding your tribe within the industry and the value of engaging with others. They also reflect on their live podcast experience and the positive feedback received from the audience. In this conversation, Kristen and Justin reflect on their experiences at a recent industry event, discussing the emotional impact of influential figures in the trades community, the importance of avoiding overwhelm by focusing on key takeaways, and the power of vision boards in setting and achieving goals. They also explore the role of AI in modern business practices and share their excitement for future events and opportunities in the industry.

Takeaways

Service World continues to improve with each event.

Keynote speakers can significantly enhance the event experience.

Longer workshops allow for deeper learning and implementation.

Networking is crucial for business growth in the home service industry.

Finding your tribe can lead to meaningful connections.

Live podcasts provide unique interaction opportunities.

The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone.

Audience engagement can transform a panel discussion.

Disney properties offer a unique event atmosphere.

Preparation and practice are key to successful presentations. The emotional journey of industry leaders can inspire others.

Focusing on a few key takeaways can lead to better implementation.

Vision boards are a powerful tool for goal setting and visualization.

Celebrating small wins is essential for personal growth.

AI is a valuable tool but should be used wisely.

Technology is rapidly evolving and should be embraced.

The importance of community and support in the trades industry.

Future events provide opportunities for learning and networking.

Personal growth and experiences are often more valuable than material items.

Engaging the younger generation is crucial for the future of trades.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Service World

03:00 Keynote Speakers and Event Highlights

05:58 Workshops and Training Summit Insights

09:03 Networking and Finding Your Tribe

11:59 Panel Discussion and Audience Engagement

14:49 Live Podcast Experience and Reflections

21:32 Emotional Reflections on Industry Impact

24:01 Avoiding Overwhelm: Focus on Key Takeaways

26:46 The Power of Vision Boards

30:14 Celebrating Wins and Setting Goals

34:40 Embracing Technology: The Role of AI

45:51 Looking Ahead: Future Events and Opportunities

Keywords

Service World, keynote speakers, workshops, networking, business growth, home service industry, event highlights, audience engagement, live podcast, finding your tribe, industry impact, vision boards, AI technology, event takeaways, personal growth, emotional reflections, goal setting, trades community, technology adoption, future events

Show Information 

Episode Number: 58

Date: October 28, 2024 

Duration: 41:16

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Joe Crisara

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Guest Website: www.ServiceMVP.com

Gift to listeners: Free Book Offer-Email [email protected] and in the SubjectLine put FREE BOOK- FREEDOM BLUEPRINT 

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Joe Crisara, known as America's Service Sales Coach. Joe shares his journey from being $450,000 in debt to becoming a successful sales coach and author. He discusses the importance of value-based selling, customer communication, and the lessons learned from his struggles. Joe emphasizes the significance of securing payment before starting work and the personal nature of sales. He also explores the role of AI in enhancing service delivery and training in the industry.

Takeaways

It's not what you know, it's who you know.

Making people laugh while learning increases engagement.

Value-based selling connects with technicians.

Customer communication is key to success.

Don't start working until you secure payment.

Sales is personal; build relationships with clients.

Understanding your client's background is crucial.

Offer premium, mid-range, and economy choices.

AI can enhance human capabilities in service.

Investing in training leads to increased sales.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joe Crisara

03:15 The Journey Behind the Book

06:17 Value-Based Selling and Customer Communication

12:42 Lessons from Struggles: From Debt to Success

18:40 Sales Strategies for Contractors

30:12 The Role of AI in the Service Industry

Keywords

Joe Crisara, Service MVP, sales coaching, customer service, value-based selling, AI in service industry, contractor success, service training, communication skills, business growth

Show Information 

Episode Number: 57

Date: 10/21/2024

Duration: 47:10

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest Contact Information

Guest: John & Vicki LaPlant

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Website: www.josephgrohfoundation.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/JosephGrohFoundation

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/josephgrohfoundation/

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, I get to interview industry LEGENDS John & Vicki LaPlant live from Service World Expo 2024. They discuss their journey in the home service industry, the importance of embracing technology, understanding financials, and planning exit strategies. The conversation also highlights the impact of the Joseph Groh Foundation, which supports individuals in the industry facing life-altering challenges. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the industry and the importance of small businesses in the economy.

Takeaways

Running a home service business is challenging but rewarding.

Embracing technology is crucial for efficiency and productivity.

Understanding financials is key to business success.

Planning for an exit strategy should start today.

The Joseph Groh Foundation provides vital support to industry members in need.

Networking and sharing experiences can lead to significant growth.

The industry has seen transformative changes in leadership and culture.

Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.

Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for success.

The future of the industry is bright with opportunities for young professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Freedom Blueprint Podcast

01:00 Live from Service World Expo 2024

07:02 The Journey of John and Vicki LaPlante

12:02 Embracing Technology in Home Services

17:46 Understanding Financials for Business Success

23:47 The Importance of Exit Strategies

29:53 The Joseph Groh Foundation: Giving Back

36:04 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Industry

Keywords

Home service business, Service World Expo, John LaPlant and Vicki LaPlant, financial management, exit strategies, Joseph Groh Foundation, industry insights

Show Information

Episode Number: 56

Date: October 14, 2024

Duration: 26:36

Host Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Episode Guest Info

Guest: Kristen Deese

Guest Company:Virtual CFO for the Trades

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese and his co-host Kristen discuss the

role of a Virtual CFO in small businesses. They explore the importance of financial management, the common challenges faced by business owners, and how a

Virtual CFO can help identify operational and sales issues through financial analysis. The conversation also delves into pricing strategies, budgeting for profit, and the significance of awareness in managing finances effectively.

Kristen shares insights on how to improve gross profit margins and manage overhead expenses, emphasizing the need for business owners to understand their

numbers to drive profitability.

Takeaways

●    A Virtual CFO provides high-level financial strategic

management without the cost of a full-time CFO.

●    Many business owners lack accounting training, which

can hinder their financial management.

●    Understanding key financial concepts early can

significantly impact business growth and profitability.

●    Business owners often rely on bank balances, which

provides a limited view of their financial health.

●    Identifying gross profit margins can reveal areas for

improvement in operations and sales.

●    Pricing strategies are crucial; many businesses

underprice their services, affecting profitability.

●    Budgeting for expected profit can shift the mindset of

business owners towards better financial management.

●    Controlling overhead expenses is essential for

maintaining profitability.

●    Awareness of financial metrics helps business owners

make informed decisions.

●    It's important to prepare financials for tax time well

in advance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Virtual CFO Services

04:10 The Importance of Financial Management for Small

Businesses

07:44 Identifying Operational and Sales Issues through

Financial Analysis

12:57 Pricing Strategies and Gross Profit Margins

16:22 Budgeting for Profit and Managing Overhead

Expenses

20:23 The Role of Awareness in Financial Management

Keywords 

Virtual CFO, financial management, small business, accounting, budgeting, profit margins, operational

issues, sales strategies, pricing strategies, overhead expenses, Kristen Deese, Justin Deese, When Your Business Partner Is Your Spouse, Virtual CFO for the Trades

Show Title: 

Building a Bench: Strategies for Proactive Recruiting in Home Services with Ryan Englin from Core Matters

Episode Number: 55

Date: October 7, 2024

Duration: 29:05

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Ryan Englin

Guest Company: Core Matters

Company Website: corematters.com

Podcast Host: Podcast Host- Titans of the Trades

Author of: Hire Better People Faster

Guest Special Offer: Copy of the book https://corematters.com/freebook/

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, host Justin Deese speaks with Ryan Englin, author of 'Hire Better People Faster' and founder of Core Matters. They discuss the critical issues of hiring, recruiting, and retention in the home service industry. Ryan shares his journey from marketing to recruiting, emphasizing the importance of proactive recruiting, building an employer brand, and creating a supportive work environment. The conversation also highlights the significance of authenticity in recruitment and the need for businesses to engage their existing employees in the hiring process.

Takeaways

Hiring and recruiting are critical challenges in the trades.

Recruiting should be viewed as a marketing activity.

Proactive recruiting is essential; top talent is often not actively looking for jobs.

Building a strong employer brand can attract passive job seekers.

Authenticity in social media is crucial for establishing trust with potential hires.

Creating friendships at work can significantly improve employee engagement and retention.

Onboarding should focus on building relationships, not just training.

Core Matters helps businesses by stopping the bleeding in their hiring processes.

Teaching businesses to fish means implementing sustainable hiring practices.

Leverage your existing team for referrals and insights into the hiring process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Hiring and Recruiting in the Home Service Industry

03:04 Proactive Recruiting and Building a Bench of Passive Job Seekers

07:43 Creating an Authentic Employer Brand

14:17 The Importance of Onboarding and Relationship Building

21:23 Stop the Bleeding: Filling Immediate Staffing Needs

23:46 Teaching Businesses to Fish: Implementing Systems and Processes

26:33 Leveraging Existing Employees for Referrals and Insights

Keywords

hiring, recruiting, retention, employer brand, onboarding, employee engagement, trades, business growth, Core Matters, Ryan Englin, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse

Episode Number: 54

Date: September 30, 2024

Duration: 32:21

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Chris Gist

Guest Company: Paradise Home Services

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Guest Website: www.ParadiseHomeServices.com

Summary

In this episode, we dive deep into the essential elements of creating and maintaining a positive company culture. We discuss the importance of flexibility, celebrating team milestones, and setting core values that align with your company's mission. From breaking bread with team members to supporting a healthy work-life balance, you’ll hear firsthand experiences and actionable tips on keeping the camaraderie and positive environment alive while achieving rapid growth.

Takeaways

Flexibility and Core Values: How creating a flexible work environment supported by strong core values can lead to a thriving company culture.

Celebration and Camaraderie: The impact of team gatherings and breaking bread on building bonds and enhancing team spirit.

Visual Reminders of Core Values: Using visual aids to consistently reinforce the company’s mission and values.

Empowering Team Members: Inspiring stories of team members who have grown within the company by embracing its culture.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance: The importance of supporting a healthy work-life balance for overall team satisfaction and retention.

Chapters

[00:01] - Introduction and Welcome

[00:35] - Discussing Company Culture

[02:06] - Core Values and Team Dynamics

[04:01] - The Importance of Flexibility

[10:07] - Outside-of-Work Activities and Celebrations

[13:53] - The Role of Brand in Culture

[18:29] - Work-Life Balance in a Growing Company

[21:36] - Empowering and Rewarding Team Members

[24:51] - Inspiring Team Member Story

[26:19] - Recreational Activities and Team Building

[27:13] - Closing Remarks and Key Learnings

Keywords

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Company Culture, Core Values, Flexibility, Team Building, Work-Life Balance, Leadership in HVAC, Scaling a Business, Positive Work Environment, Employee Engagement, Chris Gist, Paradise Home Services.

Show Information

Episode Number: 53

Date: 9/23/2024

Duration: 37:43

Host: Justin Deese

Host Contact: JustinDeese.com

Guest: Brigham Dickinson

Company: Power Selling Pro's

Website: www.PowerSellingPros.com

Demo: https://powersellingpros.com/schedule-coaching/

Booked By Power Selling Pros

Website: www.Bookedbypsp.com

Demo: https://www.bookedbypsp.com/home-page1670948825393

Summary

In this episode, I'm joined by Brigham Dickinson from Power Selling Pros. We delve into the strategies for transforming Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) into revenue generators. By leveraging training and accountability, Brigham shares how CSRs can significantly impact booking rates and contribute to your business’s bottom line. From real-life success stories to actionable insights, this episode is packed with game-changing advice for anyone in the home service industry.

Takeaways

1. The Importance of Accountability: Regularly monitor and provide feedback to your CSRs to enhance their performance and booking rates.
2. Invest in CSR Training: Comprehensive training programs for CSRs can lead to a significant increase in booking rates and overall revenue.
3. Performance-Based Pay for CSRs: Incentivizing CSRs with performance-based pay can motivate them and increase their efficiency in upselling services.
4. Leveraging Low Hanging Fruit: Focus on converting the calls that are already coming in to maximize revenue without increasing marketing spend.
5. The Impact of Personal Stories: Understanding personal motivations and stories can inspire better performance and commitment in team members.
6. 
   

 Chapters

1. Introduction and Guest Welcome - 00:02
2. The Origin of Power Selling Pros - 01:22
3. Brigham's Motivation for Writing Books - 02:08
4. Stumbling Blocks and Initial Struggles - 05:38
5. Training and Accountability in CSR Performance - 09:01
6. Real-Life Success Stories with Increased Bookings - 10:25
7. Software Utilization in Training - 15:24
8. Size of Businesses That Benefit from Training - 16:03
9. Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up - 20:01
10. 
    

Keywords

Customer Service Representatives, CSR Training, Revenue Generators, Booking Rates, Home Service Industry, Power Selling Pros, Pattern of Excellence, Brigham Dickinson, Booked by Power Selling Pros, Business Growth, Call Handling, Performance-Based Pay, Upselling Services, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,

Show Information

Justin Deese

www.JustinDeese.com

[email protected]

Service World Promo Discount Code: FREEDOM24

Summary

In this special 52nd episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese celebrates the podcast's one-year anniversary. Reflecting on the journey, he shares the significant moments and achievements over the past year, from partnering with Leap Partners to personal milestones such as his alcohol-free journey and numerous speaking engagements. Justin also talks about exciting upcoming events, including a keynote at Service World Expo and a live podcast stage appearance. This episode is filled with gratitude, personal growth, and future aspirations.

Takeaways

1. Reflecting on a Year of Growth: Celebrating the podcast’s one-year milestone, filled with meaningful interactions and feedback.
2. Partnering with Leap Partners: The positive impact of selling and partnering with Leap Partners on professional and personal fronts.
3. Alcohol-Free Journey: Insights into Justin’s decision to stop drinking, its challenges, benefits, and its impact on health and family.
4. Speaking Engagements: Enthusiasm for public speaking, memorable experiences at various events, and anticipation for upcoming keynotes.
5. Future Prospects: Excitement about upcoming engagements, particularly Service World Expo and live podcast events.
6. 
   

1. 00:02 - Introduction and Celebrating One-Year: Reflecting on reaching the one-year mark and initial thoughts.
2. 00:52 - Year in Review and Upcoming Events: Overview of the past year and exciting upcoming events like Service World Expo.
3. 03:17 - The Journey of Starting a Podcast: How the podcast began nine years ago and the influence of John Lee Dumas.
4. 05:40 - Partnering with Leap Partners: Details on selling the business and partnering with Leap Partners.
5. 06:46 - Alcohol-Free Journey: The decision to stop drinking and its personal and professional impacts.
6. 09:08 - Supportive Family and Personal Benefits: How the alcohol-free journey impacted Justin's family life and overall health.
7. 11:30 - Speaking Engagements: Experiences and excitement about public speaking events.
8. 13:45 - Live Podcast Stage and Future Plans: Anticipation for live podcasting at Service World Expo and other future plans.
9. 13:45 - Webinar and Book Updates: Updates on the book "When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse" and potential future releases.
10. 
    

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Leadership, Growth, Positive Mindset, Business Strategy, Home Services Industry, Speaking Engagements, Leap Partners, Alcohol-Free Journey, Service World Expo, Live Podcast, Personal Growth, Professional Development.

Episode Number: 51

Date: September 9, 2024

Duration: 41:50

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: [email protected]

Guest: Derek Cormier

Company: Climate Experts

Website: https://www.climateexpertsac.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/climateexpertsac

TikToc

https://www.tiktok.com/@climateexpertsac?fbclid=IwY2xjawEV6RtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaO_dJbBrImQRavq5BZV8tE1xBgW_BuCnf4Re4MLYN9UXZRZOdB0qN5NpQ_aem_hXn55oir9SbHaqTcsQWWBg

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/climateexpertsinc

Summary:

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese sits down with Derek Cormier from Climate Experts in Melbourne, Florida. They delve into the significant role of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) in fast-tracking business success. Derek shares his journey of expanding his business from a single truck operation to an $8 million enterprise. The discussion highlights the importance of establishing specific job roles and clear KPIs, building a strong company culture, and effective social media strategies for branding and recruitment.

Takeaways:

Importance of Specific KPIs: Establishing clear, measurable KPIs can drive growth and help businesses monitor their progress effectively.

Building a Strong Company Culture: A positive company culture significantly impacts employee retention and recruitment.

Leveraging Social Media: Effective use of social media can enhance branding, customer engagement, and recruitment.

Role of Best Practice Groups: Participating in best practice groups, like Nextar, is essential for business development and growth.

Clear Job Roles: Defining specific job roles and boundaries improves operational efficiency and helps avoid conflicts.

Chapters:

00:02 - Introduction to Derek Cormier and his journey in the trades

02:03 - Challenges and dynamics of running a family business

03:48 - Establishing roles and boundaries

04:51 - Keys to success and the importance of KPIs

06:38 - Partnering with best practice groups like Nextar

10:30 - Effective social media strategies for business growth

14:16 - Budgeting for marketing and the role of social media

16:39 - Impact of a strong social media presence on recruiting

19:14 - Importance of company reviews and career progression

20:42 - Attracting the right talent through a positive company culture

23:07 - Paid workday trials to assess potential employees

27:47 - Tips for social media: Getting started and understanding your brand

33:34 - Hiring a social media videographer

36:21 - Closing thoughts and advice from Derek Cormier

Keywords:

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, KPIs, Key Performance Indicators, Business Growth, Social Media Marketing, Company Culture, Recruitment Strategies, Best Practice Groups, Nextar, Business Strategies, Leadership, Climate Experts, Derek Cormier

Episode Number: 50

Date: September 2, 2024

Duration: 44:14

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com 

Contact: [email protected] 

Guest: Chris Michel

Guest Contact: [email protected]

Special Offer: $100 Off Service World Tickets use Promo Code FREEDOM24

Summary 

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese sits down with Chris Michel, the Training Director at Service Nation, to explore his inspiring journey from college football to a successful career in the HVAC industry. Chris shares valuable insights on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of living intentionally. They discuss Chris’s transition from being a sales expert to a training director, his philosophy on leadership, and the inspiration behind his book, "The Red Chair Experience."

Takeaways

1. Perseverance and Failure: Chris Michel emphasizes the role of perseverance and how failure can be a great teacher on the path to success.
2. Living Intentionally: The importance of taking care of oneself to better help others, akin to the airplane safety advice of putting on your own mask first.
3. Transition in Careers: Insights into Chris’s journey from sales to leadership roles, highlighting his continuous growth and learning.
4. Service Nation and Service World: Exciting developments and opportunities at Service Nation and the upcoming Service World event.
5. Writing as Therapy: Chris's experience in writing "The Red Chair Experience," which helped him process his emotions and grow personally.
6. 
   

Chapters

• 00:01 - Introduction: Welcome and episode overview.
• 00:22 - Chris Michel’s Journey: Early career and entry into HVAC.
• 01:52 - Leadership Lessons: From sales to a training director.
• 04:09 - Personal Growth: Importance of learning financials and business acumen.
• 06:47 - Football and Sales: Lessons from Chris’s football career.
• 12:21 - Perseverance in Sales: Overcoming challenges and learning from failures.
• 16:17 - Writing "The Red Chair Experience": Inspiration, process, and impact.
• 21:34 - Daily Routines and Intentional Living: Self-care and preparation.
• 28:53 - Service World Insights: Upcoming event details.
• 37:21 - Training Opportunities at Service Nation: Programs and resources for contractors.
• 40:25 - Closing Remarks: Final thoughts and signing off.
• 
  

Keywords 

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Leadership in HVAC, Chris Michel, The Red Chair Experience, Personal Growth, Service Nation, Service World, HVAC Sales, Perseverance, Business Acumen, Daily Intentional Living, HVAC Training Programs, Chris Michel