Hard Hat to CEO with Chris Gilman

How I’d Rebuild My Contracting Business in 2026 (If I Had to Start Over)


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What would you do if you had to start over? No crew, no equipment, no business, just your experience? In this episode, Chris G talks honestly about how he’d rebuild in 2026 if he lost it all. He shares the real-life approach he’d take now: working smarter, spending wisely, and only hiring when it really makes sense. Chris also tells personal stories from his childhood that shaped how he sees hard work today. You’ll hear simple, straight-shooting advice on things like pricing to make a real profit, choosing the right clients, and keeping your head on straight when things get tough. If you’re in the trades and thinking about how to grow or restart, this one’s for you.
Episode highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(0:43) What I would do if I lost everything
(1:26) Hard work lessons from Grandpa Clyde
(3:00) Clarity before tools and clients before gear
(4:04) Build reputation before revenue
(5:12) Hire for pain, pay for value
(6:31) Price like a business, not a buddy
(7:47) Automate everything you can
(9:29) Create partnerships, not competition
(12:00) Protect your mindset like your last tool
(13:44) Prepare to restart stronger in 2026
(14:52) Outro
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Hard Hat to CEO with Chris GilmanBy Chris Gilman