In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk sits down with Mitch Smedley, owner of Smedley Plumbing and co-founder of Trade Wins, to unpack the real story behind what it takes to grow a trades business and why most owners stay stuck in the field longer than they should.

From turning a plumbing van into a go-kart and strapping a 12-foot skeleton to a service vehicle… to hiring a full-time videographer and creating content that actually brings in leads.  Mitch shares the bold (and sometimes bizarre) tactics that helped him break free from the daily grind and turn his company into a brand.

But it’s not all about stunts and social media. This episode pulls back the curtain on the hidden roadblocks that stop most trades businesses from scaling like lack of systems, fear of delegation and trying to "market like everyone else."

You’ll also get a behind-the-scenes look at Trade Wins, where Mitch helps other trades business owners build operations that don’t rely on the owner doing everything. Whether you're a plumber, roofer, or any local service pro trying to build something that lasts, this episode will challenge what you think it takes to grow.

00:00 Intro and Guest Welcome

01:57 Mitch Smedley's Unique Approach to Social Media

04:49 Creative Marketing Tactics That Actually Work

06:43 The ‘Fix Pipes and Pet Dogs’ Brand Strategy

11:36 Plumbing Problems, Innovation, and Customer Experience 13:34 Personal Branding & Community Credibility

29:29 How Mitch Got Started in Plumbing

34:40 AI and What It Means for the Trades

39:01 Wild Marketing Stunts That Worked

41:52 The Skeleton Van Campaign

44:02 YouTube as a Lead Machine

50:01 Thinking Differently About Marketing

57:17 Tradewinds Consulting for Trades Pros

01:09:57 Google Reviews and Reputation Growth

01:15:21 Why Playing Small Isn’t Safe Anymore

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk sits down with Joseph Hughes from Contractor Dynamics to unpack the real reason most contractors fail at marketing and what to do instead. Sponsored by Blue Crocus Solutions, the conversation unpacks Joseph’s journey from struggling entrepreneur to a highly sought-after marketing educator in the roofing space.

Joseph reveals how his early failures shaped his approach, the power of mentorship, and the disciplined daily routine that fuels his consistency. Together, they break down the common traps contractors fall into… like chasing quick-hit leads without building a brand. 

Topics include the difference between marketing and lead generation, how to use video content effectively, and the tactical steps behind becoming 'Five Mile Famous.' Joseph also shares why extreme ownership, testing, and clear messaging are critical for any contractor looking to build a business that lasts.

00:00 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

00:29 Introducing Joseph Hughes and Contractor Dynamics

00:54 Joseph's Journey: From Struggles to Success

04:11 The Importance of Consistency and Discipline

04:33 Joseph's Daily Routine for Success

07:49 The Evening Routine: Winding Down

12:01 Extreme Ownership in Business

14:57 Marketing vs. Lead Generation

20:02 Becoming Five Mile Famous

27:14 Tactical Marketing Tips for Roofing Companies

27:26 The Power of Video Content

29:29 Boosting vs. Targeted Ads

30:32 Effective Marketing Strategies and Testing

36:40 Getting Started with Video Production

43:29 Consistency and Clarity in Marketing

46:14 Common Marketing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

50:24 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk sits down with Adam Sand, roofing entrepreneur and founder of Roofing Business Partner to unpack what it really takes to build a service business that grows without depending on you.

Adam shares his journey from being an operator in a roofing company to founding the Roofing Business Partner, a consulting firm focused on helping roofing companies streamline operations and implement CRM systems. They dive into how he balances business and family life, why data-driven decisions matter and how to create SEO content that actually converts.

You’ll also hear about the future of business systems including AI, smart contracts, and Adam’s plan to consolidate roofing companies through a special purpose vehicle (SPV) to boost valuations and long-term equity.

If you're serious about systemizing and scaling your service business, this episode delivers the blueprint.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts

00:42 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

01:07 Meet Adam Sand: Entrepreneur and Consultant

02:33 The Importance of Data and Parenting Insights

06:15 Balancing Business and Family Life

09:00 Work-Life Balance: Myth or Reality?

11:12 Rapid Fire Questions and Business Insights

17:31 Webinar Strategy and Execution

23:34 Setting Deadlines and Empowering Teams

23:53 The Evolution of SEO and AI's Impact

26:10 AI in Home Services: A Personal Experience

27:23 Interactive Tools and AI Integration

29:18 Future of AI and Home Services

38:45 Consolidation in the Roofing Market

46:44 Content Creation Strategies

50:13 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk is joined by Chris Weir, the founder of Spartan Junk Removal, one of Maryland’s fastest-growing junk removal companies. Chris shares his unique journey from summer jobs in junk removal to building a purpose-driven business rooted in strong core values and community connections.

They dive into the real-world challenges of running a local service business, including team leadership, hiring with intention, and building systems that actually stick. Chris talks about how understanding contracts through his legal background helped him avoid costly mistakes, and why staying consistent with local marketing strategies like yard signs, reviews, and community sponsorships has been a game-changer for growth.

This episode is packed with insights on how to lead with integrity, create a standout brand that builds trust, and implement marketing strategies that keep your business top-of-mind year-round.

00:00 Introduction to Core Values

00:44 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

01:08 Meet Chris Weir: Founder of Spartan Junk Removal

02:02 Chris Weir's Journey into Junk Removal

06:17 Core Values and Team Leadership

10:04 Three Critical Characteristics and Actions

18:48 Branding and Marketing Insights

23:42 Understanding the 7-11-4 Rule

25:16 The Power of Consistent Marketing

26:23 Effective Use of Yard Signs

27:43 Targeting the Right Demographics

29:22 The Importance of Customer Reviews

30:57 Innovative Marketing Strategies

39:41 Leadership and Employee Development

42:59 Navigating Business Challenges

46:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of 'Marketing Without Rules,' host Lewis Vandervalk welcomes back Barry Hartman, co-founder and CEO of 505-Junk, (a $6 million+ junk removal company) and founder of Bolt Accelerator. 

They discuss the concept of 'vivid vision' in both personal and professional realms, emphasizing the importance of clearly defining future goals. Barry shares his journey of crafting a vivid vision, the iterations over nine years, and how this has led to sustainable business growth. They also dive into the crucial aspects of tracking marketing metrics, including the significance of knowing your cost per lead, sales conversion rates and gross profit per campaign. 

Barry highlights how this data-driven approach has allowed his business to make informed decisions, optimize marketing efforts, and ultimately achieve financial freedom and community impact. The episode concludes with advice on adopting a default-to-action mindset to drive business success.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage

00:39 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

01:05 Guest Introduction: Barry Hartman

02:48 Diving into Vivid Vision

04:06 Implementing Vivid Vision in Business

11:07 Personal and Team Growth through Vivid Vision

17:18 Tracking Marketing KPIs

22:25 Taking Action Over Analysis

22:52 Tracking Key Metrics in Business

24:45 Identifying Sales and Marketing Issues

25:58 Reviewing and Adjusting Campaigns

29:20 Importance of Early Data Tracking

35:20 Fitness and Business Balance

39:26 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

If you want the marketing plan document that Barry was talking about, head over to https://bluecrocus.ca/blog/marketing-without-rules-barry-hartman/ to grab your copy.

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of 'Marketing Without Rules,' host Lewis Vandervalk engages in an enlightening conversation with Dan Platta, a blue collar dude who actually makes bookkeeping exciting. The discussion kicks off with Dan sharing his recent experience of being hacked on Facebook and the chaos that ensued. (don’t click sketchy links in messenger, people)

Dan explains the critical importance of bookkeeping for businesses, emphasizing that good financial data helps companies make better decisions and ultimately more money. The duo explores how Dan accidentally ventured into the bookkeeping business after an extensive career in the corporate world and running/acquiring multiple home service businesses.

They discuss the value of having industry-specific bookkeeping services over regional ones and highlight the essential metrics that businesses should focus on, particularly client attrition.

Dan shares practical insights into the nuances of bookkeeping, common mistakes business owners make, and the importance of communications and regular check-ins with clients. He also offers valuable advice on setting prices and managing business finances effectively. Dan's passion for outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing adds a personal touch to this dynamic discussion, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs aiming to streamline their financial operations.

00:00 Introduction and Facebook Hack Story

00:12 The Importance of Bookkeeping

00:58 Marketing Without Rules: Show Introduction

01:27 Meet Daniel: The Bookkeeping Expert

04:17 The Role of Bookkeeping in Business

08:44 Daniel's Journey into Bookkeeping

11:26 Building and Managing Service Businesses

20:34 Lessons Learned and Future Plans

24:03 Understanding Acquisition Costs and ROI

25:33 The Importance of Client Attrition

26:42 Effective Communication Strategies

27:49 Setting Expectations with Clients

38:32 The Value of Industry-Specific Bookkeeping

40:18 Common Bookkeeping Mistakes to Avoid

43:34 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk interviews Chris Chisholm, Marketing Director of Allied Junk Partners (comprised of  Fire Dogs, Joseph's Junk Removal, Lug Away, and Junk Bear)

Chris shares his journey from being a fireman to starting a junk removal business and eventually moving into marketing. He discusses the importance of building a strong brand, the efficacy of grassroots marketing efforts like yard signs and postcards, and the impact of consistent email marketing.

Chris also delves into AI's transformative role in the marketing landscape and highlights the significance of adapting to new technologies and market conditions.

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Without Rules

00:27 Meet Chris Chisholm: From Fireman to Marketing Director

01:20 The Birth of a Junk Removal Business

02:17 Balancing Firefighting and Entrepreneurship

05:15 The Turning Point: Acquisition and Growth

08:49 The Role of Marketing in Business Success

14:42 Email Marketing Strategies

18:09 The Importance of Customer Information

24:23 Staggering Truck Schedules for Efficiency

24:47 Importance of Time and Customer Service

26:03 Community Engagement and Marketing Tactics

27:07 Managing Multiple Brands and Data Points

27:40 Branding Strategies and Cost Management

29:34 Challenges of Managing Different Locations

31:27 Tactical Brand Building and TV Advertising

40:52 AI's Impact on Marketing and Operations

44:19 Future of AI and Human Interaction

50:16 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk chats with Al Levi, known as the Seven Power Contractor. Al shares his expertise on simplifying and systematizing contracting businesses using a robust seven-part framework. These 'seven powers' include planning, operating, financial, marketing, sales, staffing, and leadership. By implementing these principles, contractors can turn their chaotic operations into smoothly running and profitable ventures (that they don’t dread showing up to every day). Al also touches on his personal journey from running a family business to becoming a top industry consultant who has helped countless contractors across North America and Australia. The episode dives deep into topics like the foundation of a solid business model, meeting structures, the “guru pig” syndrome, and understanding financial essentials. Al underscores the value of putting systems in place before scaling marketing efforts, offering listeners actionable steps to streamline their businesses and achieve significant growth.00:00 Introduction to Seven Power Contractor00:57 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules01:24 Al Levi's Journey and Impact02:11 The Story Behind 'Do What Al Says'07:24 The Seven Powers Framework18:30 Planning Power Explained24:17 The Importance of Budgeting25:11 Understanding Financials and Gross Profit27:50 The Value of Meetings28:52 Implementing Effective Meeting Guidelines33:29 The Visionary and Integrator Dynamic34:41 The Role of Standards and Accountability38:26 Empowering Your Team42:12 Marketing Essentials45:13 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsVisit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of 'Marketing Without Rules,' host Lewis Vandervalk chats with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at Live Switch, about innovative strategies to grow home service businesses. 

James reveals how leveraging Live Switch for virtual estimates can save time, increase closing rates, and extend service areas without needing to drive to every job site. He shares personal anecdotes from his days as a painting and power washing business owner and emphasizes the importance of integrating QR codes into marketing efforts. Additionally, James stresses the significance of networking through platforms like LinkedIn to build business connections and drive growth. 

This episode is packed with actionable insights for home service business owners looking to differentiate themselves in the market.

Special Offer: If you want to try LiveSwitch for your business, you can use the coupon code Lewis10 (or LEWIS10) for 10% off.

Plus, it’s backed by a 60-day, 100% money-back guarantee — so there’s no risk to giving it a try!

Check it out here: https://www.liveswitch.com/

00:00 Introduction to the Hunter Mentality

00:29 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

01:04 Meet James Hatfield: From Painting to Technology

01:53 The Importance of Recurring Revenue

03:22 Innovative Marketing Tactics for Home Services

05:59 Leveraging Technology for Customer Engagement

09:05 Revolutionizing 911 Calls and Home Services

10:45 The Power of QR Codes in Home Services

12:02 Live Demo: Instant Video Calls

20:07 Marketing Your Video Call Feature

23:11 Amazon and TikTok's Impact on Home Services

23:25 Secret Shopping Home Services Live on Stage

23:46 The Importance of Answering Calls

25:27 Success Stories with Live Switch

28:08 The Power of Purpose-Built Tools

29:35 Out of the Box Marketing Ideas

38:29 Networking: The Key to Business Growth

43:25 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!

In this episode of Marketing Without Rules, host Lewis Vandervalk welcomes Brandon Vaughn, a Guinness World Record holder and renowned entrepreneur, who has scaled multiple service businesses and inspired over 20,000 business owners. 

They discuss Brandon's unique approach to differentiating his businesses through exceptional customer experiences and innovative marketing strategies. They delve into Brandon's treadmill journey towards better health, his initial business ventures, and the process of acquiring and scaling his father's business. 

Brandon shares invaluable insights on hiring top talent, focusing on proactive recruiting, and creating a compelling employer brand. He also highlights the importance of systems and processes in breaking free from the owner-operator cycle. 

The episode concludes with Brandon's best ROI marketing campaign and a teaser about his Guinness World Record achievement.

00:00 Introduction and Unique Selling Points

00:54 Welcome to Marketing Without Rules

01:14 Meet Brandon Vaughn

02:13 Brandon's Treadmill Journey

03:17 Starting the Entrepreneurial Journey

04:58 Wise Coatings: A Case Study

07:24 The Elephant Adoption Initiative

12:20 Breaking the Owner-Operator Cycle

15:35 The Importance of Systems

20:00 Recruiting as a Marketing Problem

21:23 Inspiring Your Employees

23:17 Recruiting Talent Everywhere

25:17 The Power of Employee Referrals

27:23 Effective Job Ads and Outreach

33:04 Always Be Hiring

36:53 Guinness World Record Achievement

38:11 Best Marketing Campaign Ever

42:03 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

Visit BlueCrocus.ca if you have marketing questions you need help with!