In this insightful episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Mandeep Bhalla, founder and CEO of Grow Nearby and Grow Reviews, and host of the Bond for the Trades podcast. Together, they peel back the curtain on what's really working in home services marketing, exploring both the tried-and-true fundamentals and the emerging shifts that are reshaping digital marketing and branding for the trades. Mandeep shares his personal journey—immigrating from India, diving into the U.S. home service sector, and launching his own agency at the onset of the pandemic. This episode is filled with relatable stories and practical lessons for entrepreneurs navigating their own "messy middle."

Jen and Mandeep dig into the evolution from legacy platforms like WordPress to Webflow and why staying ahead matters in such a rapidly changing landscape. They don't just talk tech—they keep it grounded in authentic human behavior and the importance of intentional boundaries when working with agencies. For listeners in the thick of building their businesses, Mandeep's perspective on the emotional and operational highs and lows of entrepreneurship is a breath of fresh air, emphasizing purpose, resilience, and the value of culture over hype.

A major highlight is the transparent conversation about what differentiates effective marketers from those who, intentionally or not, create misalignment for their service clients. Jen and Mandeep walk through red flags—like asset ownership holds and outdated SEO practices—and empower listeners to ask better questions of their vendors. The discussion around reputation management goes deeper, addressing the mental side of entrepreneurship and the importance of relationship-building for sustainable business development, not just quick wins.

Actionable takeaways abound: from auditing your website's SEO and optimizing Google Business Profile for new trends (including video reviews), to balancing old school tactics like flyers and yard signs with the latest digital content strategies. Mandeep's advice is grounded in a genuine desire to help others grow intentionally, reinforced by his own learning from Gary Vee and a commitment to fostering cultures where teams are genuinely excited to show up—even on Monday mornings.

Timestamps:

00:00 "Home Services Marketing Podcast"

05:27 AI-Driven SEO Success Strategies

08:33 Tampa AC Repair SEO Strategy

11:35 Meeting My Inspirational Idol

15:01 Delegation in Social Media Ownership

18:50 Marketing Strategy for Contractors

19:22 "Pay-Per-Call Marketing for Contractors"

23:45 "Consistency and Positive Work Culture"

Connect with Mandeep Bhalla & Grow Nearby:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7hjBDONQ3bZ3a1rChrjEvw

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grownearby/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowNearby#

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

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The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/