In this episode of Lighthouse Leadership, host Henry Swarey chats with Andrew Miller, a seasoned contractor with over 20 years of experience in commercial roofing. They explore the critical role of structured processes in sales, the impact of understanding personality types, and the importance of cultivating strong relationships with clients and vendors. Andrew opens up about overcoming financial challenges, the value of mentorship, and how tools like CRMs can simplify operations. Listeners will learn why understanding personality types can transform sales interactions, how accountability and relationship-building drive business success, and practical tips for avoiding emotional attachment in sales to focus on long-term strategies. Andrew also highlights how mentorship and structured processes can help prevent costly mistakes, offering invaluable insights for anyone looking to grow their business.

Whether you're a new entrepreneur or an experienced business owner, this episode offers actionable advice to help you grow and thrive in any industry.

About Andrew Miller:

Andrew Miller founded Tri-Kote Roofing in 2005, setting the standard for sustainable commercial roofing across the United States. Their team comprises industry-leading professionals dedicated to innovation and excellence in every project, ensuring that their roofing systems are not only built to last but also promote energy efficiency and environmental conservation. At Tri-Kote Roofing, they pride themselves on their national reach and local service excellence, providing personalized solutions to meet the unique needs of each client, regardless of their location or industry.

Connect with Andrew:
Website: https://trikoteroofing.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-miller-2971b4117/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjK3SgsJ6KCHKM-mVBoXCw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trikote1/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trikote1 

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Intro
(1:56) Transitioning from general contracting to commercial roofing
(5:07) Understanding personality types and their impact on sales and leadership
(7:19) The value of hiring for your weaknesses 
(8:44) Lessons learned from financial struggles and the importance of mentorship
(10:13) Building client and vendor relationships for long-term success
(14:18) Accountability: A simple rule for solving recurring problems
(22:53) Using structured processes and CRMs to manage sales and operations effectively
(40:15) Advice to young entrepreneurs: Invest in mentorship and business-focused resources
(42:04)  Outro

In this episode of the Lighthouse Leadership, Henry Swarey is joined by Chuck Allen who shares lessons from 26 years in the roofing industry. He talks about the challenges of running a business, like managing finances well and being ready for surprises. Chuck highlights the importance of having a trustworthy team, learning to delegate, and taking responsibility as a leader. He also stresses the need for proper employee training and setting goals that are both ambitious and achievable.

Listeners will appreciate Chuck’s insights on avoiding the pitfalls of chasing quick success, the power of delegation, and staying true to your values in business.

About Chuck Allen:
Chuck Allen is the owner of Rio Blanco Roofing and Restoration, skilled in providing the highest quality roof systems at competitive prices. He has over 21 years of experience in the business, specializing in both residential and commercial roofing. He is a certified Roofing Sales Consultant. He also hosts the Keepin It Rio Podcast.

Connect with Chuck:
Website: https://www.rioblanco-roofing.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuck.allen.10/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chuckallen9/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-allen-310a4353/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChuckAllen210 

Episode Highlights:
(0:00) Into
(1:25) Chuck Allen's roofing business journey
(4:08) Chuck's 26 years in the roofing industry and consulting
(7:47) Goals shift from monetary success to helping others
(9:42) Importance of training and accountability for employees
(13:58) Roofing and insurance challenges
(36:28) Entrepreneurial advice: scaling, delegation, and goal-setting
(49:38) Final thoughts on taking risks and starting a business
(52:03) Outro

Welcome to the first episode of Lighthouse Leadership with your host, Henry Swarey. We are joined by Joseph Gonzales, who shares how he went from roofing to running a successful SEO and marketing business. He talks about the challenges of growing a business, like using SEO, paid ads, and balancing organic growth. He highlights the necessity of understanding business finances, customer acquisition costs, and how emotional maturity plays a role in managing business growth. 

Joseph emphasizes the need for systems like Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to scale businesses effectively, especially in fast-growing industries. A key takeaway is the significance of making informed marketing decisions and how small businesses can thrive with strategic planning and clear goals.

About Joseph Gonzales:

Beginning his marketing efforts in 2014, Joseph Gonzales began a journey to learn more about marketing and how to grow his business. He took an interest in expanding his knowledge about SEO, Web Design, and other areas of marketing. He is currently a digital marketing expert and consultant who helps business owners scale their businesses effectively.

Connect with Joseph: 

Facebook: facebook.com/josephgonzales77687687/

YouTube: youtube.com/@josephgonzaleseo

Instagram: instagram.com/josephgonzaleseo/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joseph-gonzalez-dapm-lssgb/

Episode Highlights:

(2:08) Joseph’s background and transition into marketing

(3:38) The importance of SEO and paid ads for business growth

(6:10) Discussion on business growth outpacing leadership capacity

(9:01) Learning financial literacy and understanding business finances

(16:12) Starting a spray foam company and the power of vision boards

(20:22) The importance of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)

(29:47) Marketing, sales, and financial challenges in growing a business

(44:19) The importance of making mistakes and continuous learning

(52:55) Outro