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What happens when a corporate sales leader swaps the corner office for family time — and ends up building two thriving brands instead?

Summary: A former tech sales leader shares how losing a franchise became the best thing that ever happened. From setting boundaries that shaped the business model to launching a manufacturing arm that wins architectural specs, this episode dives into the discipline, strategy, and relationships that fuel sustainable growth without burnout.

🎥 Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSmallBusinessSafari

💡 GOLD NUGGETS (Key Moments)
• why family hours set the business model
• lessons from a franchise territory loss
• supplier training and hiring for skill transfer
• early pricing discipline and margin traps
• choosing commercial over residential for predictability
• operating as a subcontractor to general contractors
• launching a manufacturing brand alongside installs
• winning specs with AIA CEUs and a spec builder
• pacing growth to protect reputation and delivery
• building a multi-generational team and future exit options

🔗 Guest Links
• Website: www.awningsaboveus.com

• Website: www.skyscapecanopies.com

 • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-french-9928351/

🌍 Follow The Small Business Safari
• Instagram | @smallbusinesssafaripodcast

• LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrislalomia/
• Website | https://chrislalomia.com

From the Zoo to Wild is a book for entrepreneurs passionate about home services, looking to move away from corporate jobs. Chris Lalomia, a former executive, shares his path, discoveries, and tools to succeed as a small business owner in home improvement retail. The book provides the mindset, habits, leadership style, and customer-oriented processes necessary to succeed as a small business owner in home services.