Service Business Mastery for Skilled Trades: HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical Home Service

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte __________________________________________

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch sit down with Jenny Benbrook, Founder & CEO of Powerhouse Consulting Group [ServiceTitan Titanium Partner + FieldEdge Partner] and Residential HVAC Marketing Strategist at Benbrook Services, Inc, to discuss how technology, planning, and training can boost contractor success. Jenny shares how she helps HVAC, plumbing, and electrical companies optimize their tech stacks, implement clear processes, and improve team performance. She explains the importance of using the right tools, reducing redundancy, and investing in training to build a stronger, more efficient team. Learn practical tips to streamline your operations and grow your business.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How technology and clear processes help contractors run smoother operations.

2. Why optimizing your tech stack and reducing unnecessary tools is key to efficiency.

3. The importance of training and clear roles to help teams perform better.

4. How strong systems and planning lead to business growth and fewer mistakes.

5. Simple ways to improve your team's use of software and create a more efficient workplace.

Timestamps⏰ [00:00] - Recap [03:03] - Episode introduction & meeting Jenny Benbrook [05:54] - Jenny's Background in the Skilled Trades & Technology [08:18] - Shifting From In-House Marketing to Outsourcing [11:02] - Challenges with Service Titan and Tech Stack Implementation [13:04] - Dealing with Membership Data: Expired Cards & Active Clients [14:52] - Building a Multi-Tiered Tech Strategy for Contractors [31:15] - Tech Change Management: Overcoming Resistance to New Tools [34:21] - Explaining AI Integration to Technicians & Overcoming Fears [35:50] - Why Contractors Need to Look Beyond the Shiny New Tools [44:23] - Tech Budgeting: Allocating Resources for Growth Goals [49:15] - M&A and Evaluating Tech Stacks in the Diligence Phase If you found this conversation with Jenny Benbrook helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉). Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Jenny Benbrook

• Powerhouse Consulting Group [ServiceTitan Titanium Partner + FieldEdge Partner]

Website:

• Powerhouse Consulting Group [ServiceTitan Titanium Partner + FieldEdge Partner]

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte __________________________________________

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch chat with Adam Terranova, Senior Director of Marketing (Trade Brands) at Authority Brands, about franchising. Adam, with over a decade of experience in franchise marketing and brand growth, started his career at Philly Pretzel Factory as Marketing Director, where he spent seven years expanding the brand. He later led marketing at WOWorks as Senior Director of Strategic Initiatives, before joining Authority Brands. Adam explains how franchising offers strong brand power, marketing support, and a proven growth system, helping franchisees avoid mistakes and succeed faster through collaboration and shared resources.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How franchising provides a proven system and brand power for growth.

2. Why franchisees benefit from marketing support and shared resources.

3. The value of collaboration and flexibility in local marketing efforts.

4. How joining a franchise helps avoid costly mistakes and accelerates success.

5. Why Authority Brands supports long-term franchisee success with the right tools.

Timestamps⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[02:09] - Episode Intro & Meeting Adam Terranova

[03:26] - Adam's Journey: From Philly Pretzel to Authority Brands

[05:06] - Benefits of Joining a Franchise

[06:34] - Collaboration Between Franchise Operators and Support

[10:29] - The Challenge of Franchisees Operating Too Close Together

[12:46] - How Franchisees Can Collaborate Through Best Practices

[16:39] - Transitioning from a Successful Business to a Franchise Model

[24:16] - AI and Automation: How It's Changing Home Service Marketing

[29:03] - The Importance of Speed in Emergency Services Marketing

[35:09] - The Role of Local Pages and Geo-Targeting in Digital Marketing

[39:52] - Local Marketing Strategies and Building Brand Loyalty

If you found this conversation with Adam Terranova helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Adam Terranova

• Authority Brands

• WOWorks

• Philly Pretzel Factory

Website:

• Authority Brands

• WOWorks

• Philly Pritzel Factory

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Keith E. Flores, Chief Executive Officer of HG Home Guardian, HVACGOD Inc. & HG Home Services. Keith shares how his background in HVAC helped him create a smart home system that monitors air, water, energy use, and more all in real time. He explains how the tech helps homeowners save money and helps contractors serve better. Learn how this all-in-one system makes homes smarter, service faster, and builds trust with clients.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How Keith built smart tech from his years working in the trades.

2. Why real-time home data helps save money and spot problems early.

3. How one easy system can track air, water, energy, and more.

4. The value of simple setup and strong support for contractors.

5. Why Home Guardian is a new tool every home service pro should know.

Timestamps⏰ [00:00] - Recap

[02:50] - Episode introduction & meeting Keith E. Flores

[03:26] - Keith's early start in HVAC and trade roots

[05:59] - First big lesson: piecemeal vs hourly pay

[08:39] - The Origin of Home Guardian & Building Early Prototypes

[10:30] - Developing Patent-Backed Whole Home Monitoring Tech

[12:06] - Making Home Guardian Easy to Install and Always Online

[15:22] - Giving Homeowners Real-Time Utility Budget Control

[16:00] - Tech setup, easy installs, and app features

[19:16] - Keith's High-Profile Team Behind Home Guardian

[24:47] - Inside the Home Guardian Dashboard and Air Sensors

[27:53] - Affordable Monthly Fee & Passive Revenue for Contractors

[30:38] - Improving Maintenance Scheduling and Upsell Opportunities

[32:40] - Built in the USA with a Mission for Every Homeowner

[38:55] - Future Expansions: Airbnb, Multifamily, and Beyond If you found this conversation with Keith E. Flores helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would mean a lot to us 😉). Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Keith E. Flores

• HG Home Guardian

• HG Home Services

Website:

• HG Home Guardian

• HG Home Services

• HVACGOD Inc.

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! http://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Paul C. Cebulak, Head of Sales at Lace, about how call tracking and AI tools help home service businesses grow. Paul shares how analyzing 100% of calls shows missed chances, boosts booking rates, and saves money. He explains why good data matters, how to coach CSRs with clear feedback, and when to use AI to handle missed or after-hours calls. Learn how to get more from the leads you already have and grow without hiring more staff.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. Why tracking all your calls helps you spot lost chances to book jobs.

2. How AI tools can boost your team's booking rate and save money fast.

3. The value of clear data in making smart business and hiring choices.

4. How fewer missed calls can make your marketing way more effective.

5. Why combining AI with people builds a team ready for the future.

Timestamps⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[03:38] - Episode Intro & Meeting Paul C. Cebulak

[04:30] - The Problem with Missed Calls and Low Conversion Rates

[07:52] - Importance of Measuring Call Center Metrics

[14:35] - The Cost of Hiring Staff vs. AI Solutions

[19:52] - The Future of AI in Call Centers

[23:17] - Optimizing After-Hours Calls with AI

[29:53] - Spotting A, B, and C Players with Accurate Data

[36:13] - Coaching CSRs and Delegation with Intention, Not Abdication

[39:40] - New AI CSR Capabilities: After-Hours, Cancellations & Outbound

[43:25] - Consumer Acceptance of AI Voice: Taco Bell vs Humans

[44:56] - Transparency, Disclosure & Meeting Generational Needs

[48:17] - Flexible Systems: When Customers Want Humans vs AI TAP Into The Future | October 3-5, 2025 | Savannah, GA Join industry leaders, service business owners, and tech innovators who are driving the future of the trades.

VIP Tickets → https://tapintothefuture.ai/vip-ticket-reservation/

Your VIP Ticket Includes:

• Complete event access with action-oriented sessions

• The Golden Banana Championship Game at Grayson Stadium

• Exclusive meals, signature cocktails, and a private networking lounge

• Personal access to industry leaders and innovators

Flash Sale Alert: Regular Price $1752 → Only $999 with Promo Code: FLASH Ticket only. Rooms at The DeSoto must be booked separately: https://thedesotosavannah.com/

If you found this conversation with Paul C. Cebulak helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars helps more people find the show 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Paul C. Cebulak

• Lace

Website:

• Lace

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! http://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

On this week's Service Business Mastery Podcast, Tersh Blissett sits down with Dustin K. (Dustin Ketchem), Senior Manager of Sales Programs at LG HVAC Solutions USA.

Dustin explains how LG is reshaping the HVAC market by:

• Building unitary systems in Alabama

• Going all-in on inverter-driven heat pumps that perform even in -45°F Alaska

• Supporting contractors with smart tools, training, and real-time tech - the same innovation LG will showcase live as Title Sponsor of TAP Into The Future, happening October 3-5 in Savannah, GA.

Consider this episode your first taste of the event.

Timestamps⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[03:12] - Episode Intro & Meeting Dustin Ketchem

[03:49] - Why LG Built a Unitary HVAC Line

[05:23] - Testing LG Heat Pumps in -45°F Alaska

[06:31] - What Makes LG's Rotary Compressors Unique

[07:22] - Why LG Chose R-32 Refrigerant Over Blends

[08:54] - LG's Inverter-Only Strategy Explained

[09:25] - Pricing Competitively While Offering High-End Tech

[10:30] - LG's Pro Dealer Program and Contractor Tools

[18:37] - Improving Tech Support and Parts Availability

[22:56] - Easy Troubleshooting with LG's Bluetooth Tool

[29:51] - What to Expect at the LG Dealer Summit in Orlando

[31:24] - Future of LG's Huntsville, AL Manufacturing Facility

TAP Into The Future | October 3-5, 2025 | Savannah, GA Join automation leaders, service business owners, and tech innovators shaping the future of the trades.

VIP Tickets → https://tapintothefuture.ai/vip-ticket-reservation/

Your VIP Ticket Includes:

• Full event admission with high-impact implementation sessions

• The Golden Banana Championship Game at Grayson Stadium

• Curated meals, signature cocktails, and a private networking lounge

• Direct access to industry leaders and innovators

Flash Sale Alert: Regular Price $1752 → Only $999 with Promo Code: FLASH Ticket only. Rooms at The DeSoto must be booked separately: https://thedesotosavannah.com/

If you enjoyed this conversation with Dustin K. (Dustin Ketchem) from LG, please leave us a review (5 stars would be awesome 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Dustin K.

• LG HVAC Solutions USA

Website:

• LG HVAC Solutions USA

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Get Ready: TAP Into the Future | October 3-5, 2025 | Savannah, GA

Don't miss 3 dynamic days of business growth strategies, process automation, and client retention insights.

🎟️ Seats are limited - save yours today at: https://tapintothefuture.ai/

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Kevin Hill, Master Advisor / Director of Training at CEO Warrior, about leadership, hiring, and culture in the trades. Kevin shares how he helped grow an HVAC, plumbing, and electrical business in South Carolina, eventually selling it to private equity. He explains the power of servant leadership, how clear training and onboarding build strong teams, and why great culture helps you keep the right people. Learn simple tips to hire better, lead better, and build a company people want to work for.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. Why strong leadership is more than just a title in building a great team.

2. How hiring, culture, and leadership all connect for business success.

3. The power of clear onboarding and training to keep good employees.

4. How setting clear rules and team goals leads to real accountability.

5. Simple ways to recruit better and build a workplace people want to join.

Timestamps⏰ [00:00] - Recap

[03:08] - Episode introduction & meeting Kevin Hill

[04:27] - Kevin's Journey from Trades to Trainer

[05:39] - Recycling Dirt: Kevin's Unusual Business Venture

[07:06] - Defining True Leadership in Service Companies

[09:04] - Clarity + Alignment = Accountability

[11:39] - Letting Go of Poor Fits and Warm Body Hiring

[18:25] - Recruiting Strategy: First Impressions Matter

[20:52] - Red Flags in Summer Hiring & Vetting Techs

[26:01] - Apprenticeships, Military Programs, and Second Chances

[31:34] - Building a Strong Onboarding & Training Culture

[37:07] - Ride-Alongs & Senior Tech Buy-In for New Hires

[39:16] - Techs Teaching Peers & Turning Callbacks into Lessons If you found this conversation with Kevin Hill helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would mean a lot to us 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Kevin Hill

• CEO Warrior

Website:

• CEO Warrior

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Mark Your Calendar: TAP Into the Future | October 3-5, 2025 | Savannah, GA

Join us for 3 action-packed days of learning business growth tips, automating processes, and boosting client retention.

🎟️Spaces are filling up fast - register now at: https://tapintothefuture.ai/

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! http://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, hosts Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Matthew Abbott, the Founder, and Jacob Abbott, the Co-Chief Executive Officer of Abbott Family Insurance at the AHR Expo 2025. The conversation centers on Matthew and Jacob's journey of building their insurance business through cold calling, persistence, and hard work. They share how implementing automation helped streamline their processes, save time, and boost efficiency. The duo also discusses the impact of offering creative benefits to clients, which led to stronger retention and steady business growth. Their story is a testament to how dedication, innovation, and smart strategies can drive long-term success.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How persistence and cold calling helped grow the business.

2. Why automating processes saves time and boosts efficiency.

3. The impact of offering creative benefits to clients.

4. How smart strategies led to better retention and growth.

5. Why dedication and hard work are key to long-term success.

Timestamps⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[02:15] - Episode Intro & Meeting Matthew and Jacob Abbott

[02:46] - How Matthew and Jacob Got Started in Insurance

[04:15] - The Role of Cold Calling and Persistence in Early Success

[07:12] - Lessons Learned from Outbound Sales Techniques

[13:40] - Overcoming Sales Objections and Handling Rejection

[14:24] - The Impact of Consistency and Timing in Sales

[17:54] - Innovative Insurance Solutions and Tax Savings

[23:31] - The Role of Automation in Streamlining Operations

[24:43] - Focus on income-producing actions (IPAs)

[25:22] - How to Get in Touch with Abbott Family

If you enjoyed this conversation with Matthew and Jacob Abbott, please leave us a review (5 stars would be awesome 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Matthew Abbott

• Jacob Abbott

• Abbott Family Insurance

Website:

• Abbott Family Insurance

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Join Us at: TAP Into the Future | October 3–5, 2025 | Savannah, GA

Spend three action-packed days diving into practical automation strategies, exclusive access to the Savannah Bananas, and real-world tools to drive serious growth in 2026

🎟️ Spots are limited - reserve yours today: https://tapintothefuture.ai/

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, hosts Tersh Blissett talks with Dan G. (Dan Goodman), CEO and Founder of Building36 Technologies, a company dedicated to helping contractors grow through smart home technology. Dan shares how tools like smart thermostats, sensors, cameras, and branded apps help contractors stay connected with customers, remain top of mind, and build long-term loyalty. He explains how automation, remote monitoring, alerts, and simple setups make service more reliable and easier to deliver. Throughout the conversation, Dan highlights how smart tech not only improves customer retention and increases recurring revenue but also supports faster, more sustainable business growth for service contractors.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How smart thermostats help build long-term customer loyalty.

2. Why branded apps and alerts keep contractors top of mind.

3. The value of using automation to catch system issues early.

4. How connected devices can boost service and add revenue.

5. Why simple tech tools help contractors grow and stay ahead.

Timestamps⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[01:59] - Episode Intro & Meeting Dan Goodman

[03:09] - Dan's Tech Journey from MIT to Smart Thermostats

[04:15] - Starting Building36: From Retail to Trade Focus

[05:11] - Smart Home Uses: Sensors, Locks, Lights, and More

[06:41] - Compatibility with Thermostats & HVAC Systems

[11:31] - Monthly Reports and Alerts for AC Performance

[18:48] - Building Recurring Revenue from Smart Cameras

[23:11] - Using Thermostat Data to Boost Early Bookings

[25:18] - AI, Automation & Data Use in HVAC Maintenance

[29:24] - Remote Monitoring, Sensors & AC Efficiency

[40:44] - Zoning, Temp Sensors & Multi-Thermostat Setups

If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Dan Goodman, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉).

Links & References: LinkedIn:

• Dan G.

• Building36 Technologies

Website:

• Building36 Technologies

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

• ServiceWorldExpo

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Call this demo number to experience Free2Grow : (719) 414-9355

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

__________________________________________

Don't Miss This: TAP Into the Future | October 3–5, 2025 | Savannah, GA

Get ready for three powerful days of practical automation tactics, VIP access to the Savannah Bananas, and real strategies to fuel serious growth in 2026 - no fluff, just results and fun.

🎟️ Space is limited - lock in your spot now: https://tapintothefuture.ai/

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Nathan Keller of Free2Grow about replacing human call answering with AI voice agents. Nathan shares how AI can sound real, run 24/7, cut costs, and boost bookings, while stressing the importance of proper setup to win customer trust and drive growth.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How AI voice agents can answer calls anytime and boost bookings.

2. Why older customers can enjoy AI when it's set up the right way.

3. The value of training and testing to make AI work well.

4. How AI frees your team to focus on higher-value tasks.

5. Why using smart tech can save money and grow your business.

Timestamps ⏰

[02:50] - Episode Intro & Meeting Nathan Keller

[03:57] - From Human Answering to AI Voice Agents

[07:52] - Challenges and Mindset in Making the Switch

[10:03] - Call Quality Issues with Human Answering

[12:19] - How Older Clients React to AI Calls

[16:47] - Customer Stories Mistaking AI for Real People

[21:07] - Key Differences Between Free2Grow and Others

[28:08] - AI Staying Calm with Angry Customers

[34:42] - Mindset Shift Needed for AI Adoption

[36:30] - Why AI Won't Replace All Human CSRs

[51:11] - Outbound AI Calls and Legal Rules If you enjoyed this helpful and insightful talk with Nathan Keller, please leave us a review (5 stars would mean a lot 😉).

Links & References:

LinkedIn:

• Nathan Keller

• Free2Grow

Website:

• Free2Grow

This episode is kindly sponsored by:

• Free-2-grow

• Sera

• UpFrog

• CallRail

• CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months!

• MarketStorm

• Lace.ai

• Autobot.ai

Connect with us!

• Tersh Blissett

• Josh Crouch

• Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates!

• Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Affiliate links:

• Castmagic

• StreamYard

• IfTTT

• Zyra Talk

Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte

----------------------------------------------------

Save the Date: TAP Into the Future | October 3-5, 2025 | Savannah, GA

Join us for 3 powerful days of hands-on automation strategies, exclusive Savannah Bananas access, and the energy boost your service business needs heading into 2026.

Walk away with real tools, real momentum, and real connections that drive results. This isn't fluff - it's strategy-packed and seriously fun.

🎫 Spots are limited - register now at: https://tapintothefuture.ai/

Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast!

Visit our website for more episodes and insights! http://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, hosts Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Chris Buttenham, Co-Founder of Reins, a company that helps contractors retain employees through incentive programs. Chris shares how offering phantom equity and profit-sharing plans motivates employees and aligns their goals with the business's success. He explains how using technology to simplify these programs makes them easy to manage and more effective. Chris talks about how offering meaningful rewards can drive business growth and employee loyalty.

This conversation focuses on Chris's journey helping contractors retain key employees with incentive programs. He shares how offering phantom equity and profit-sharing plans motivates employees and aligns their goals with the business. Chris explains how using technology to simplify these programs makes them easy to manage and more impactful. He highlights how offering meaningful rewards can strengthen loyalty, improve performance, and lead to long-term growth.

In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:

1. How phantom equity and profit-sharing motivate employees.

2. Why aligning employee goals with the business drives success.

3. The value of using simple technology to manage incentives.

4. How offering meaningful rewards can increase employee loyalty.

5. Why creating clear, visible incentives leads to better performance and growth.

Timestamps ⏰

[00:00] - Recap

[02:52] - Episode Intro & Meeting Chris Buttenham

[06:39] - The Importance of Employee Retention in Home Services

[11:50] - Challenges of Aligning Employee Goals with Business Success

[15:40] - Understanding Phantom Equity and Profit-Sharing Programs

[18:21] - Simplifying Employee Incentives with Technology

[24:04] - How Incentive Programs Can Boost Employee Motivation

[31:28] - Managing Emotional Expectations and Visibility in Equity Compensation

[33:18] - The Role of Technology in Managing Employee Incentives

[37:16] - Employee Compensation Ranges and Impact

[38:09] - Equity Impact at Different Business Sizes

[40:00] - Fast Onboarding for Profit Sharing Programs

[43:34] - KPIs and the Need for Ongoing Communication in Employee Programs If you enjoyed this insightful conversation with Chris Buttenham, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉).

Links & References:

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• Chris Buttenham

• Reins

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