The Catalyst for the Trades

The Catalyst for the Trades

By The Catalyst for the Trades.BusinessMarketing
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The Catalyst for the Trades episodes

  • Smart Accounting Moves: Devin Nordgran’s Financial Strategies for Contractors

    Know your numbers and make them work for you. In this must-hear episode, Jennifer Bagley sits down with Devin Nordgran, Tax Associate at Squire, to unpack real-world financial strategies every home service business owner needs. 

    Learn why smart accounting is more than just end-of-year cleanup, and how proactive planning puts money back in your pocket. Devin shares top tax-saving tactics, breaks down what the new “One Big Beautiful Bill” (OBBA) means for contractors, and offers powerful insights into leveraging R&D credits for AI investments. Discover the practice of cost segregation studies, the truth about bonus depreciation, and why your accountant should be your most trusted advisor, not just a tax filer.

    Perfect for HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and construction business owners who want clarity, peace of mind, and bigger profits.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Introduction & Meet Devin Nordgran
    02:37 – Why Early Accounting Matters for Contractors
    03:28 – Top Qualities in an Accountant: Peace of Mind, Clarity, Time
    06:52 – The Mindset Shift: Accountant as Business Asset
    10:20 – R&D Credits for AI and Tech Investments
    16:19 – Tips for Tracking R&D Expenses Early
    17:21 – The New Tax Bill (OBBA): Key Changes for Contractors
    18:16 – Bonus Depreciation & Cost Segregation Explained
    19:49 – QBI Deduction, No Federal Tax on Overtime, Credit Sunsets
    22:46 – Homeowner Rebates and Credits: Last Call Before They Expire
    25:51 – How Construction, Solar & Other Trades Companies Are Impacted
    27:51 – Q4 Priorities: Budgeting, Tax Planning, and Forward Strategy
    34:44 – Pass-Through Entity Tax Update
    36:47 – Budgeting Best Practices & Building a Winning Financial Team
    39:43 – Squire’s Full-Service Approach & Strategic Partnerships
    41:54 – Navigating Multi-State Sales Tax, Compliance & Lessons Learned
    44:18 – Final Takeaways & How to Contact Squire


    Guest Details:

    Devin Nordgran
    Title: Tax Associate, Squire

    Background: Devin Nordgran is part of Squire’s full accounting and fractional CFO team, serving home service businesses across the U.S. With deep expertise in tax planning, R&D credits, cost segregation studies, and strategic financial advisory, Devin helps business owners unlock clarity, reduce tax burden, and drive long-term growth. Squire is recognized for transforming accounting from an “expense” to a true business asset—providing comprehensive support, real-time advice, and trusted partnerships.


    Relevant Links:

    • Squire
    • Squire Construction Services
    • Connect with Devin on LinkedIn
    • Energy Star Product Eligibility
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    47 min
  • Transforming Digital Marketing with AI: Chelsea Nodine’s Blueprint for Smarter Systems

    Is AI the future of digital marketing, or just another buzzword? In this episode, Chelsea Nodine—Senior Director of Digital Transformation at CI Web Group—shares the real story behind her journey from the wilds of Alaska to automating entire marketing departments. Host Jennifer Bagley and Chelsea dive deep into what it actually takes to move a business from outdated manual processes to fully automated, AI-powered workflows.

    From revamping project management to deploying agentic networks that outperform traditional teams, Chelsea reveals practical strategies, painful lessons, and surprising wins. Whether you’re an agency, contractor, or business leader exploring the shift to AI-enabled marketing, you’ll learn how to future-proof your team, what tools and systems are delivering results, and how to navigate the human side of transformation.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Introduction: Meet Chelsea Nodine and her unconventional path to digital marketing
    01:15 – Alaska, Biology, and Finding Marketing: Chelsea’s winding career trajectory
    03:38 – Agency Life, Automations, and Joining CI Web Group
    05:10 – The Project Management Overhaul: Moving to Asana and creating scalable workflows
    06:44 – Automating for Everyone: Motivation behind building smarter systems
    08:28 – The Big Shift: Moving from WordPress to AI-enabled Webflow sites
    09:10 – What’s Automated Now: Onboarding, project setup, SEO, content, and more
    11:18 – Integrations and Next-Level Automations: Slack, Figma, and agent networks
    12:03 – The Challenge of Change: Human impact, layoffs, and the path to efficiency
    14:45 – What Leaders Need to Know: How to secure your role and empower teams for AI
    17:02 – Just Start AI: Building a learning community for industry professionals
    20:25 – Evolving Teams and Rising with AI: Encouraging innovation from within
    22:35 – Influencing Change Across Departments: Collaboration with other leaders
    26:00 – Beyond Zapier: The difference between workflow automations and agentic networks
    29:58 – Real Results, Fast: How AI agents are transforming SEO, content, and local marketing
    32:41 – Pulse, Cortex Local, and Scaling Deliverables: Automating daily tasks and updates
    36:33 – From 70 to 1,000 Pages Overnight: The new rules for SEO and site launches
    41:15 – The Power of Daily Blogging and AI Search for Real-World Results
    44:07 – Choosing Your Agency, Embracing AI, and Where to Start
    48:45 – Behind the Scenes with AI Engineers: How late-night breakthroughs are born
    48:54 – Final Thoughts and How to Get Started

    Guest Details:

    Chelsea Nodine
    Title: Senior Director of Digital Transformation, CI Web Group

    Background: Chelsea Nodine oversees all AI, automation, and digital transformation efforts at CI Web Group, a national leader in home services digital marketing. With experience spanning in-house marketing, SEO, account management, and operations, Chelsea is known for creating scalable systems and leading teams through major tech shifts. Her unconventional start—from biology studies in Alaska to building agentic networks for clients—shapes her pragmatic, people-first approach to change.

    Relevant Links:

    • Just Start AI
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    49 min
  • Level Up Your Business: Billy Gregus on AI, Marketing, and Making Partnerships Work

    Ready to future-proof your contracting business? In this power-packed episode, Billy Gregus—owner of Integrity Refrigeration & A/C—joins Jennifer Bagley and special guests Vee Nettles (account manager at CI Web Group), and Stephanie Allen (Airworks, co-founder of Just Start AI) to break down the building blocks of business growth in the trades today.

    From choosing the right marketing partners to getting real about AI, content, accountability, and local partnerships, Billy shares how contractors can stop making excuses and start getting results. Whether you're scaling your HVAC, electrical, or home services company, or just want to work smarter, not harder, you’ll get tactical steps for amplifying your online presence, leveraging AI, and building relationships that drive real revenue.

    Game on for leaders, owners, and hustlers ready to show up, suit up, and participate.

    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Intro & Guest Lineup
    00:53 - Why Billy Chose CI Web Group
    03:11 - Keys to Growth: Participation & Account Manager Partnerships
    06:28 - Getting Started with AI: The Just Start AI Community
    10:07 - Overcoming Fear and Leveraging Community Support
    13:41 - AI In Action: Content Creation in Billy’s Business
    16:16 - Daily Blogging, AI Agents, and Maximizing Content
    20:29 - Building Personal Domain Authority for Search
    25:19 - The Power of Personal Branding & Social Media Authority
    29:32 - Strategic Partnerships, Backlinks & Next-Level Networking
    36:49 - Tactical Tips: Referral Programs & Collaborations
    41:39 - High-Leverage Activities for Contractors: What to Prioritize
    43:04 - The Power of Time Blocking & Positive Mindset
    46:17 - Final Advice: Show Up, Suit Up, and Get Tactical
    48:45 - Wrap-Up & Accountability Challenges

    Guest Details:

    Billy Gregus
    Title: Owner, Integrity Refrigeration & A/C

    Background: Billy Gregus is the owner of Integrity Refrigeration & A/C, a home services business known for its commitment to excellence and innovation in HVAC. Billy is passionate about smart marketing, operational efficiency, and leveraging AI to future-proof his company—and he’s not afraid to get uncomfortable to keep growing. A dedicated leader, he’s all-in on community, partnership, and actionable business strategy.

    Vee Nettles
    Title: Account Manager, CI Web Group

    Stephanie Allen
    Title: Co-Founder, Airworks & Just Start AI

    Relevant Links:

    • Integrity Refrigeration & AC
    • AirWorks Solutions
    • OpusClip
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    50 min
  • Trailblazing the HVAC Industry: Brittany Doering on Community, Growth, and Conference Success

    Ready to level up your HVAC business and network with the best in Texas? In this jam-packed episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with Brittany Doering, Executive Director of TACCA NTX, to talk all about the highly anticipated HVAC Trailblazer Conference happening on October 2 & 3.

    Brittany shares her unique journey from nonprofit fundraising into the trades, the power of community for contractors, what TACCA offers members, and why this year’s event is a can’t-miss opportunity for contractors at every stage.

     Whether you’re a solo operator, running a legacy family business, or just eager to expand your network, get a behind-the-scenes look at TACCA, actionable insights for growth, and details on one of the best HVAC industry conferences around. Don’t miss your chance to accelerate your success, access expert education, and have a little fun in the heart of North Texas!


    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Introduction to Brittany Doering and TACCA
    00:44 – Brittany’s journey: From nonprofit to HVAC industry
    02:12 – What drew Brittany to TACCA and her unique role
    03:18 – Membership: Who’s a good fit for TACCA and why?
    05:00 – Top member benefits: Advocacy, education, networking
    07:50 – The power of community and connecting contractors
    08:49 – All about the HVAC Trailblazer Conference: Who, what, where, why
    11:20 – Why local, affordable conferences matter
    12:31 – Registration details and what attendees get
    14:20 – Pre-conference workshops: Techs, leaders, CSRs, sales teams
    16:31 – Breakout sessions: Finance, marketing, Federal Reserve, AI & more
    17:27 – Sales, door-to-door strategies, technical and business tracks
    18:10 – Additional speakers & sessions overview
    18:28 – Jennifer Bagley on her AI & digital marketing session
    18:50 – Major sponsors and supporters of the event
    19:42 – How to connect with Brittany and register
    20:45 – Strategic planning, tax credits, and why to act now
    21:38 – Fun extras: Women in HVAC, networking events & after-parties
    22:46 – Final invitation: Don’t miss this industry-leading event!


    Guest Details:

    Brittany Doering
    Title: Executive Director, TACCA NTX (Texas Air Conditioning Contractors Association, North Texas Chapter)
    Background: With a past in nonprofit fundraising and event management for organizations like the American Heart Association and March of Dimes, Brittany brought her relationship-building skills and passion for community into the HVAC industry, leading TACCA NTX to new heights. She spearheads programming, education, and networking events that empower contractors across Texas to thrive.


    Relevant Links:

    • HVAC Trailblazer Conference and Registration
    • TACCA NTX
    • TACCA
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Don’t miss your chance to join the HVAC event of the year! Register now for the HVAC Trailblazer Conference at hvactrailblazer.com while discounted registration lasts.

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    24 min
  • Level Up Your Roofing Business: Joel Viera on Tech, Talent & the Western Roofing Expo

    What’s really shaping the future of roofing in 2025 & 2026? In this episode, Joel Viera of the Western States Roofing Contractors Association joins host Jennifer Bagley to break down the big changes, challenges, and opportunities facing the roofing industry. 

    They dive into the must-know details about the upcoming Western Roofing Expo from September 28 to 30, 2025, discuss how AI and new tech are transforming every aspect of roofing, and explore strategies to overcome labor shortages and win more business. Whether you’re a roofing contractor, a trade pro, or looking to expand your business, this episode is your go-to guide for what’s next—and how to get ahead.

    Perfect for contractors, business owners, and anyone interested in the future of roofing, tech, and professional growth in the trades.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Introduction & Meet Joel Viera
    03:17 – Western Roofing Expo Details
    04:55 – Davis Memorial Foundation & Scholarships
    05:16 – Education & Seminars
    09:23 – Technology & Innovation in Roofing
    10:06 – Major Industry Trends: AI, Labor & Immigration
    12:15 – The Impact of AI on Roofing Businesses
    15:09 – Adoption of AI in Roofing Companies
    17:41 – Trade Show Booths & Vendor Opportunities
    18:57 – Podcasts & Live Content at the Expo
    20:06 – Adding Roofing to Your Trade Business
    21:57 – Collaboration Among Trades
    23:50 – Final Thoughts: Why Attend & Get Involved


    Guest Details:

    Joel Viera
    Title: Executive Director, Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA)

    Background: Joel heads the Western States Roofing Contractors Association and oversees the nationally recognized Western Roofing Expo. With over 25 years in the industry, Joel is known for driving innovation, bringing the roofing community together, and championing education, scholarships, and new industry standards.


    Relevant Links:

    • Western Roofing Expo (Registration, Agenda, Sponsors, and Info)
    • Western States Roofing Contractors Association
    • National Roofing Contractors Association
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group


    Call to Action:

    Got value from this episode? Subscribe to Catalyst for the Trades on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. Share this episode with fellow roofing pros or anyone looking to future-proof their contracting business. Ready to level up? Don’t miss your spot at the next Western Roofing Expo—register early!

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    33 min
  • Mike Disney on Building Trust, Recruiting Top Talent & Winning in the Trades

    What does it really take to scale a successful HVAC, plumbing, or electrical business today? In this episode, industry expert Mike Disney shares the hard truths and powerful tactics he’s learned over a decades-long career, covering everything from finding the right mentors and avoiding toxic “advice” online to winning at recruiting, building trust with homeowners, and staying ahead in the age of AI.

    Hosts Jennifer Bagley and Chuck Staszkiewicz dig deep with Mike on leadership, hiring, branding, standing out against the competition, and practical strategies for growth—even when private equity or new tech shake up the status quo. If you’re a contractor or business leader ready to future-proof your trades business and attract top talent, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Welcome & Introductions
    05:30 - State of the Trades: The Good, Bad & Ugly
    12:50 - Finding Mentors & Filtering Information
    21:00 - The Power of Positive Leadership
    27:00 - Building Trust & Brand Consistency
    34:00 - Competing Head-to-Head: Mindset & Process
    40:50 - AI, Tech Adoption & The Future of Recruiting
    46:00 - Recruiting Best Practices & Onboarding That Works

    Guest Details:

    Mike Disney
    Title: Founder, Winding River Recruiting
    Background: Mike Disney is a leading expert in trades recruiting and organizational leadership. With 12+ years of hands-on industry experience, he’s held executive roles at Gold Medal Service and CEO Warrior, shaped hundreds of trades businesses, and guided company transitions through private equity. Now, Mike helps contractors recruit better, build stronger cultures, and level up their hiring and retention, bringing real-world insights into every conversation.

    Relevant Links:

    • Winding River Recruiting
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    55 min
  • How AI Is Transforming Call Handling: Brad Scruggs on the Future of Home Service Communication

    Missed calls are costing contractors serious money, but AI is changing the game. In this episode, Brad Scruggs, President & CMO of ZyraTalk, sits down with Jennifer Bagley to unpack how artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping customer communication for home service businesses. From automating appointment scheduling and integrating with CRMs to training AI agents that learn and adapt, Brad shares his front-line perspective on building scalable, ROI-driven AI solutions for the trades.

    Brad and Jennifer break down the shift from basic chatbots to sophisticated, agentic AI, dive into deep FSM integrations, and reveal the crucial support AI can provide for contractors of all sizes, especially when every call counts. Whether you’re a tech-forward business or feeling behind, this episode covers practical insights for home service leaders who want to leverage AI for growth, efficiency, and superior customer experience.

    Perfect for HVAC, plumbing, and service companies ready to embrace the future (and eliminate voicemails for good!).


    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Welcome & Introductions

    02:04 - ZyraTalk’s Origin Story

    04:55 - The Leap to AI: Challenges & Evolution

    08:21 - Scaling Support & Self-Onboarding with AI

    11:38 - AI vs. Human: Changing Customer & Company Workflows

    15:01 - Deep Integrations: ServiceTitan, Housecall Pro & Beyond

    20:14 - Multi-Channel Communication & AI

    27:58 - ROI & Real Results

    30:58 - Why Voicemail and Old-School IVR Are Obsolete

    34:27 - The Future: Agentic Agents, Booking Bots & Online-First Customers

    41:43 - Fast-Forward 10 Years (or Maybe Just 2): Predictions on Tech, Jobs & Human Adaptation


    Guest Details:

    Brad Scruggs
    Title: President & Chief Marketing Officer, ZyraTalk
    Background: Brad is a co-founder of ZyraTalk, a pioneering company delivering AI voice, chat, and automation solutions for home service businesses. With 11 years in the trades and a deep background in lead generation and technology disruption, Brad specializes in making AI practical and profitable for contractors nationwide.


    Relevant Links:

    • ZyraTalk
    • Just Start AI
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    54 min
  • Building Predictable Freedom: Mike Abramowitz on Systems, Scaling & Founders’ Mindset in the Trades

    What does it really take to build a trades business that runs without you—and gives your family the freedom you dreamed of? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with Mike Abramowitz: systems engineer, author, and founder of the “Time Rich 6” framework. Mike shares the unfiltered journey from direct sales grind and early business mistakes to helping hundreds of trades entrepreneurs break free from burnout.

    You’ll hear real-world strategies for building repeatable, scalable systems in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, remodeling, and more. Mike shares emotional lessons from his own life—including navigating medical emergencies, recovering from financial crisis, and defining boundaries so business supports your life (not the other way around). Whether you’re in the field, a growing owner-operator, or leading a team, this is a tactical, heartfelt blueprint for creating a business that works so you don’t have to be on call 24/7.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 - Welcome & Mike’s Journey: From Family in the Trades to Building a Legacy
    02:30 - The Drive for Predictable Freedom—Why Systems Matter
    05:02 - What Is the Time Rich 6 Framework?
    07:43 - Specializing in the Trades: Why This Industry, Why Now
    09:58 - The “God Class” Problem: Why Wearing Every Hat Kills Growth
    11:23 - Turning Technicians into True Business Owners
    13:51 - Defining the Lead Domino: Finding High-Leverage Activities
    14:20 - The 6 Components of the Time Rich 6
    17:24 - Real Success Case: Elegant Accents’ Revenue Breakthrough
    22:19 - Another Real Example: Staging Business Owner 4x Revenue, Buys Back Time
    29:34 - Mike’s Lowest Point—Rebuilding After Financial Disaster
    32:12 - The Reality of Transformation: Significant Emotional Events vs. Consistency
    34:55 - Why Conferences Aren’t Enough—True Customization vs. “One Size Fits All”
    36:13 - No Homework, No Fluff: The Power of Install Events & War Room Tactics
    40:13 - Jennifer’s Perspective: Truncating Years of Progress into Months
    42:31 - The Human Side of Change—Why Execution (Not Just Planning) Matters
    44:22 - How to Get a Custom, No-Pitch Playbook for Your Business
    47:16 - What Happens Next: Collaboration, AI Tools, and Final Thoughts


    Guest Details:

    Mike Abramowitz
    Title: Co-Founder, Better Than Rich

    Background:
    Mike Abramowitz is a business systems architect with 20 years in direct sales and a degree in engineering from the University of South Florida. From rebuilding after deep personal and financial hardship to writing nine books, starting a nonprofit, and building a 7-figure business that functioned while he was out for months—Mike now teaches trades entrepreneurs how to design businesses for true freedom. His “Time Rich 6” framework has helped nearly 300 companies in plumbing, HVAC, electrical, landscaping, and more move from owner-dependence to predictability, scalability, and a life by design.

    Relevant Links:

    • Better Than Rich
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    49 min
  • Unlocking Efficiency: AI Lead Management & Automation with Utku “Dave” Kaynar

    In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley welcomes Utku “Dave” Kaynar, CEO of OnePath, to take you deep inside the future of automation, lead management, and true profitability for the trades. Learn how AI-driven workflows, intelligent booking, and seamless platform integration are helping HVAC, electrical, and plumbing companies convert more leads, reduce overhead, and outpace the competition—without sacrificing the customer experience.

    If you want to elevate your business, stop letting leads slip through the cracks, and finally operate at peak efficiency, this is the episode for you.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Meet Dave and the AI Revolution in the Trades
    01:23 – Dave’s Journey: From Buckeye Startup to Home Services Innovator
    04:11 – Data-Driven Insights: The 80% Rule & Repetitive Task Automation
    06:25 – The Lead Management Gap: Booking Rate Truths & Industry Challenges
    10:23 – AI and Financial Mastery: Boosting EBITDA with Automation
    11:24 – What Makes OnePath Different: Agentic AI & Intelligent Customer Journeys
    16:23 – The Power of Deep Integration: From Silos to Data-Driven Decisions
    20:45 – Rethinking the Customer Experience: Personalized Automation for Every Channel
    24:01 – Booking Without Bottlenecks: AI Chat, LSA, Web Forms, and Aggregator Integration
    27:55 – Why Speed Wins: Fastest Response, Highest ROI
    29:03 – Customer Preferences: Meeting Leads Where They Are, 24/7
    31:45 – The Human Element: Human-in-the-Loop Support for Complex Cases
    32:50 – How OnePath’s Booking Experience Outshines Traditional Tools
    34:13 – Handling Urgent Appointments & Converting Every Opportunity
    35:24 – Next-Level Automation: Outbound, Retention, and Personalized Marketing
    36:58 – The Impact of AI-Powered Booking vs. Legacy Platforms
    38:01 – Preparing for the Agentic Future: AI as Your Workforce
    40:23 – How Contractors Can Finally Master High and Low Seasons
    41:45 – Streamlining Repetitive & Administrative Payroll with AI
    42:06 – Tool Comparison: Security, Integrations, and True Agency Intelligence
    47:12 – Navigating Legacy Tech, Automation Pitfalls, and Choosing Smarter Solutions
    49:24 – The AI-Enabled Contractor: Fast, Localized, and Language-Free
    51:44 – Connect with OnePath, Book a Demo, and Next Steps for Contractors

    Guest Details:

    Utku “Dave” Kaynar
    Title: CEO & Co-Founder, OnePath

    Background: With over 15 years in tech and a pioneering track record in AI and automation for home services, Dave brings deep expertise in SaaS, workflow optimization, agentic AI, and field service integration. He previously co-founded Buckeye, scaling dispatch automation during the pandemic, and has led partnerships with industry giants like ServiceTitan and Nextstar. Dave’s insider knowledge helps contractors unlock “free money” through automation—raising booking rates, increasing profitability, and optimizing every step of the customer journey.

    Relevant Links:

    • OnePath AI
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    54 min
  • Smart Decisions, Big Impact: Teasha Cable’s AI Strategies for Better Business

    Ready to level up your decision-making and accelerate growth? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with Teasha Cable—tech visionary, AI expert, and founder of CModel—to uncover how AI-powered decision intelligence transforms the way businesses operate. Teasha shares the real-world processes, systems, and mindset shifts that move companies from gut-driven calls to strategically sound, data-informed decisions.

    Whether you’re leading a team of two or scaling an enterprise, Teasha’s insights on AI integration, practical frameworks, and future-proofing your business will help you optimize operations, reduce costly missteps, and unlock sustainable growth.

    Perfect for contractors, entrepreneurs, and forward-thinking business owners who want to turn decision-making into their strongest asset.


    Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome Back & Introduction to Teasha Cable
    00:54 – Teasha’s Journey: From VP to AI Innovator
    02:47 – Why Gut Instinct Is Not Enough for Business Decisions
    04:17 – Small Business: Where to Start With Decision Best Practices
    07:33 – From Purpose to Predictable Revenue: Building Strong Business Foundations
    10:27 – Making Smarter Decisions With AI: What’s Changed and Why It Matters
    14:11 – Buying Software vs. Making Strategic Moves: Avoiding FOMO Decisions
    21:51 – The Real Risk of Ignoring AI: Future-Proofing Your Business
    24:44 – Decoding AI: Supervised Learning, Generative AI, and Decision Intelligence
    28:53 – Agentic AI vs. Traditional Automation: What Business Owners Need to Know
    32:18 – When (and When Not) to Automate: Fix the Process Before You Buy the Bot
    34:07 – The Impact of Systemic Decision-Making on Growth and Efficiency
    38:27 – Tracking, Learning, and Repeating What Works
    41:50 – Calculating the True Cost of Inaction
    42:48 – Who Needs CModel: Transparency, Leadership, and Adoption
    45:34 – The Competitive Edge: Vision, AI Adoption, and the Future of Work
    47:07 – Final Thoughts: Thriving in an AI-Driven Business Landscape
    51:50 – How to Connect With Teasha Cable & CModel


    Guest Details:
    Teasha Cable
    Title: CEO & Co-Founder, CModel
    Background: 

    Teasha Cable is a leading authority in AI-driven decision intelligence, with 25 years of experience in business operations, product strategy, and tech innovation. She’s worked with some of the world’s largest companies and now empowers businesses of all sizes to make smarter, faster, and more profitable decisions through her platform, CModel.


    Relevant Links:

    • CModel
    • Catalyst for the Trades Podcast
    • CI Web Group
    • The Opus & Golds Group

    Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    54 min

About The Catalyst for the Trades

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Are you driven to achieve more, push boundaries, and see real results in everything you do? The Catalyst is the podcast for the relentless go-getters, innovators, and leaders who are…