Finding and keeping great people is one of the toughest challenges remodelers face—and it’s often the difference between growth and stagnation. In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, Bob Vance sits down with Jody Underhill, founder of Talent on Tap, to unpack why recruiting today is less about job postings and more about marketing your company to the right candidates. With a marketing background and a track record of helping companies make over 5,000 hires across the U.S. and Canada, Jody shares how his “revenue workforce platform” shifts the way remodelers should think about hiring: every new team member is a potential revenue generator.

Jody and Bob dive into practical strategies for attracting and retaining top talent, from building a strong employer brand to creative recruiting campaigns in smaller markets. They discuss why hiring for culture fit matters just as much as skills, how tools like DISC assessments and video interviews can streamline the process, and why positioning pay and benefits clearly is key to standing out. Whether you’re struggling to fill positions or want to improve retention, this episode offers remodelers actionable insights to turn recruiting into a growth engine for their business.

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with Al Levi, founder of The 7 Power Contractor and a nationally recognized business coach for the trades. With decades of experience growing his own multi-service family business, Al has helped contractors across the country streamline operations, increase profits, and build companies that run smoothly — without constant owner involvement. 

Al reveals how he transformed his own business from daily chaos to a highly profitable, well-oiled machine using his signature Seven Powers Framework. He breaks down how to: 

• Define roles clearly with a “box org chart” 

• Create operating manuals that empower your team 

• Improve sales-to-install handoffs 

• Track profitability on every job 

• Use service as a profit center — even for installation-focused companies 

You’ll also hear real-world success stories, including how one garage door company grew from $15M to $250M by implementing these systems.

This episode delivers actionable steps to take control of your business, reduce stress, and create more freedom — all while boosting your bottom line. 

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with Jonathan Mast, founder of White Beard Strategies and a leading expert in AI-powered marketing for contractors and remodelers. With a background in business systems and digital strategy, Jonathan has helped thousands of home service companies simplify their marketing, boost profits, and save time using AI tools that anyone can learn.

Jonathan shares how remodelers can start using AI without the overwhelm—breaking down everything from automating repetitive tasks to creating content, refining sales follow-ups, and building stronger client connections. He also explains why now is the best time for small businesses to embrace these tools and how doing so can lead to greater freedom and faster growth.

This episode will give you clear, actionable strategies to level up your business through AI. It’s a must-listen for contractors who want to stay competitive, reduce burnout, and be more efficient.

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with Kristen and Michelle, the powerhouse duo behind Remodel Boutique in Austin, Texas. What began as a real estate side hustle quickly evolved into a full-fledged design-build firm known for its creative, family-focused remodels and inclusive approach to construction.

Kristen and Michelle share how they transitioned from flipping homes to running a respected, woman-led remodeling company—without formal training in construction. They open up about the challenges of earning credibility in a male-dominated industry, the importance of transparency and ownership when mistakes happen, and how tech and AI tools are streamlining their systems and empowering their all-female team.

Listeners will take away real-world insights on building a brand based on trust, designing spaces that actually work for families, and why showing up authentically matters more than perfection. This episode is a must-listen for anyone growing a remodeling business from the ground up—and especially for women, minorities, or self-taught pros carving their place in the trades.

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with business coach John Nieuwenburg to explore what it really takes for trades entrepreneurs to grow beyond the daily grind. With decades of experience coaching HVAC techs, plumbers, electricians, and remodelers, John shares how business owners can shift from being technicians to becoming true CEOs of scalable, sellable companies.

Listeners will learn practical strategies for smarter hiring, building repeatable systems, and developing a leadership mindset. John breaks down how to delegate effectively, document processes through SOPs, and view your business as an asset—not just a job. This episode is packed with insights for contractors ready to take control, reduce burnout, and build a business that thrives without their 24/7 supervision.

This episode centers on the shift remodelers and trades professionals must make—from doing all the work themselves to becoming leaders who delegate, build systems, and think strategically. John Nieuwenburg and Bob Vance explore the importance of business coaching, proactive hiring, documentation through SOPs, and developing a mindset focused on scalability and long-term value, not just day-to-day operations.

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with James Freeman, CEO of PJ Fitzpatrick, to explore the secrets behind his company’s massive growth and industry-leading reputation. Named the #1 CEO in America for the Power 100 three years in a row, James shares his journey from overcoming self-doubt to scaling PJ Fitzpatrick from $25M to over $150M in revenue.

Freeman discusses why a company is only as strong as the team behind it. He shares his leadership philosophy, how he fosters a culture of growth and accountability, and why investing in people is the key to building a $150M+ business.

If you’re looking to build a winning team, grow your business, and redefine success, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in now!

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with Anthony Lopez, Director of Business Development at NARI, to break down the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the remodeling industry. With the election behind us, how will the economy impact remodelers in 2025? Anthony shares insights from the Joint Center for Housing Studies’ Remodeling Futures Program and its latest report on industry trends.

The conversation also highlights the power of NARI membership—how it helps remodelers differentiate themselves, connect with like-minded professionals, and gain access to top-tier education, networking, and business resources. If you want to stay ahead in a shifting market, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.

Tune in now to learn how NARI is shaping the future of remodeling!

In this episode ofThe Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance sits down with industry veteran Frank Manzare to uncover his incredible journey from aspiring lawyer to leading a multi-million-dollar remodeling business. Frank shares how he built Statewide Remodeling from the ground up, scaling it to $58 million in annual revenue through smart marketing, strategic partnerships, and a relentless drive to adapt.

Listeners will learn valuable insights on branding, sales strategies, and leadership, plus actionable tips for scaling a remodeling business in a competitive market. Stay tuned!

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance interviews Bobby Brucksch, Owner & Lead Designer at Brucksch & Sons Contracting LLC, to explore his path to success in the remodeling industry. Bobby shares how he integrates a family-first culture, balancing the demands of business ownership with raising nine children, while staying true to his personal values.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into scaling a remodeling business strategically, transitioning from contractor to owner, and implementing efficient systems to ensure consistency and delegation. Bobby also dives into his purpose-driven approach, highlighting the importance of mentorship, building confidence in future generations, and inspiring entrepreneurs with lessons from his journey.

Tune in to hear how Bobby Brucksch blends passion, purpose, and process to create a thriving remodeling business while making a lasting impact. This episode is packed with actionable strategies for remodelers and contractors ready to elevate their careers and businesses!

In this episode of The Home Remodeler Toolbox Podcast, host Bob Vance interviews Chris Lalomia, founder of The Trusted Toolbox, to uncover his journey of building a successful remodeling and handyman business. Chris discusses the challenges of starting during the 2008 recession, the importance of creating a team-oriented company culture, and the power of collaboration through an abundance mindset.

Listeners will discover actionable strategies for managing finances effectively, strengthening their brand presence, and leveraging industry networking opportunities like NARI. Chris’s experiences highlight the value of persistence, teamwork, and aligning business goals with client satisfaction.

Tune in to hear how Chris Lalomia turned obstacles into opportunities and built a company that thrives on professionalism and innovation. This episode is packed with insights for remodelers and contractors aiming to elevate their business to the next level!