The Commercial Painting Podcast

In this episode, Aaron sits down with Mike Barrett and Bill Curtindale, co-founders of Pro Paint Solutions in the Seattle metro area. Both Mike and Bill spent years as employees and eventually senior leaders at another commercial painting company before striking out on their own in March 2021. Now five years in, they share how they built a profitable, debt-free business, kept their 50/50 partnership strong, and set a plan to step back from day-to-day operations over the next five years.

This conversation is especially relevant for painting company owners worried about key employees leaving to start competing businesses, and for employees weighing whether to make the leap into ownership themselves.

Key Takeaways

• How Mike and Bill's decade-plus at a former employer shaped their approach to ownership
• Why it only took about three months to go from "we should consider this" to launch day
• The cultural commitments they made to avoid repeating their former employer's mistakes
• How they built a debt-free, self-funded company from year one
• What they track weekly to stay fiscally disciplined and catch problems early

• How a 50/50 partnership survives disagreements without a tiebreaker
• Their 10-year plan to grow to $15M in revenue and step back from daily operations

Connect with Our Guests

Bill on LinkedIn

Mike on LinkedIn

Website: Pro Paint Solutions

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

Episode Summary

Two years after American Industrial Partners (AIP) acquired PPG's architectural coatings business and launched Pittsburgh Paint Company, Todd Gatesy and John Moore join the show to clear up the confusion contractors have been running into in the field. They discuss why some stores, trucks, and labels still say PPG, what's actually changed versus what hasn't, and how the distribution and dealer network works now. The conversation also gets into the private equity ownership timeline, rising raw material and paint prices, product quality, and where Todd and John see the biggest growth opportunities for commercial painting contractors over the next several years.

Key Takeaways

• The AIP acquisition and the move from PPG to Pittsburgh Paint Company
• PPG vs. Pittsburgh Paint: what's still PPG-branded and why
• Store footprint (500+ stores, 2,500 independent dealers) and how the dealer network fills coverage gaps
• The rebrand: timeline, what's changing and why product formulas aren't changing
• Private equity ownership and what a future sale could mean for the company
• Why paint prices went up and why price increases don't come back down

Connect with Our Guests

Todd Gatesy: [email protected] | 239-270-4621

John Moore: [email protected] | 724-683-1807

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

Episode Summary

After over 50 episodes of Aaron interviewing others, David flips the script in this special episode. From his multi-generational upbringing in Chicago to building a multi-city commercial painting business and co-founding the Commercial Painting Industry Association (CPIA), Aaron opens up about the decisions, planned and unplanned, that shaped his career and led to building the CPIA.

Key Takeaways

• Why Aaron relocated his family out of Illinois, and how he restructured the business to run it remotely over several years
• The frustration that led Aaron and co-founder Steve Hester to start their own peer-group association (CPIA), and how it differs from typical "guru-led" masterminds
• An honest conversation about how Aaron and his wife have approached traditional roles, and how their kids have adjusted to his travel schedule
• What’s next for the CPIA

Connect with Aaron

Aaron Moore on LinkedIn

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

Episode Summary

In this episode, Emily Howard shares her journey from being an editor in the painting industry to exploring organic farming. She discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing, the impact of leadership styles on business success, and the role of AI in content creation. Emily highlights the need for authenticity in storytelling and the value of personal experiences in shaping business narratives.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership styles significantly impact employee motivation and business success.
• Storytelling is crucial for marketing in the painting industry and elsewhere.
• AI can assist in content creation but should not replace authenticity.
• Building a brand requires consistent and authentic communication.

Connect with Our Guest

Emily Howard on LinkedIn

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation.

Key Takeaways

• Where should usersstart with AI tools
• How should leadersbring AI to their companies
• How to form AIpolicies

Connect with Our Guest

Kathy Slowinski on ⁠LinkedIn⁠

⁠The AI Boss⁠

⁠Trilogy⁠

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism⁠

Episode Sponsors

⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

⁠DC Marketing Group⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation.

Key Takeaways

• The value of hosting a AI Hackathon
• How to use agents to do admin work
• Using AI to handle contract renewals

Connect with Our Guest

Kathy Slowinski on LinkedIn

The AI Boss

Trilogy

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Ben Maibach and Michael Stephens from the Wooster Brush Company, discussing the company's rich history, employee-centric culture, and innovative products. They explore how Wooster Brush maintains its manufacturing in the USA, the importance of community engagement, and the balance between profitability and employee care. The conversation also touches on future trends in the painting industry and the leadership principles that guide the company.

Key Takeaways

·       Wooster Brush has been in operation for 175 years, emphasizing quality and community.

·       The company employs around 600 people, primarily from the local area in Wooster, Ohio.

·       The company has not laid off any employees since 1954, showcasing job security.

·       Wooster Brush focuses on long-term employee relationships and community involvement.

·       Product innovation is driven by feedback from contractors and end-users.

·       Labor savings are achieved through efficient product design and quality tools.

·       The majority of Wooster Brush products are manufactured in the USA.

·       Automation and robotics are used to enhance efficiency in manufacturing.

Connect with Our Guests

Ben Maibach on LinkedIn

Michael Stephens on LinkedIn

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

Connect with Us

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

Episode Sponsors

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

ABOUT

In this episode, David and Aaron talk to Luke Reinhart about `the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, exploring its origins, benefits, and the personal journey of Luke as a martial artist and business owner. They discuss how Jiu-Jitsu can empower individuals, particularly women, and how the discipline learned on the mat translates into valuable skills in business. Luke shares insights on building a successful martial arts academy, the importance of faith in personal growth, and the parallels between martial arts and entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

• Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated from mixed martial arts and gained popularity through the UFC.
• Luke started martial arts at five years old, influenced by his father's teachings.
• Consistency and intentionality are key to success in both Jiu-Jitsu and business.
• Failure is a necessary part of the learning process in Jiu-Jitsu and business.
• Building a strong curriculum and systems is essential for running a successful martial arts academy.
• Conflict in Jiu-Jitsu mirrors challenges in life and business, providing growth opportunities.
• Hiring individuals with a martial arts background can bring discipline and resilience to a business.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

Luke Rinehart

CONNECT WITH US

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

EPISODE SPONSORS

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

ABOUT

In this conversation, Aaron, Julie Zamski, and Paul Trautmann discuss the pivotal role of Sherwin-Williams in the commercial painting industry, the current market trends, and the opportunities available for contractors. They discuss various sectors such as water and power, public works, and the importance of business development for smaller contractors. The discussion also covers challenges and opportunities in floor and roof coatings, the significance of networking and trade shows, and predictions for growth in various sectors including healthcare and hospitality. The conversation concludes with insights on upcoming opportunities related to the Olympics and stadium projects.

Key Takeaways

• 50% of projects in the commercial sector are renovations.
• Data centers are a major growth driver for the future.
• Understanding product applications is crucial for contractors.
• Networking at trade shows is essential for business growth.
• The flooring business presents significant opportunities.
• Roof coatings can be a viable entry point for contractors.
• Education and training are vital for entering new markets.
• The upcoming Olympics will create new investment opportunities.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

Julie Zamski

Paul Trautmann

Sherwin-Williams

CONNECT WITH US

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

EPISODE SPONSORS

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

SUMMARY

In this conversation, David and Aaron talk to Aaron Cote about the intersection of AI and SEO, discussing how AI is transforming digital marketing strategies, particularly for commercial painting companies. They delve into the importance of authenticity in content creation, the role of Google Business Profile, and best practices for leveraging AI tools effectively. The discussion emphasizes the need for a learning mindset in SEO and the significance of quality over quantity in content and reviews.

Key Takeaways

• AI has significantly changed the landscape of SEO and content creation.
• Commercial painting companies can benefit from understanding their audience's problems.
• Authenticity in content is crucial for SEO success.
• Google Business Profile enhances credibility and trust for businesses.
• Quality of reviews is more important than quantity in today's market.
• AI can assist in content creation but should not replace human touch.

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST

avisualglitch.com

CONNECT WITH US

⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠

Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism

EPISODE SPONSORS

⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠

⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)

DC Marketing Group

If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!