In this episode of The Contractor Fight, Tim and Derek dive into a candid and insightful discussion about money, overhead, and what it really means to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Reflecting on their personal experiences and those of other contractors, they challenge the conventional thinking that bigger and flashier is always better in business.

The conversation pivots around the idea of running a lean business with minimal overhead—taking inspiration from a contractor who ran a million-dollar company out of a single garage bay. With real talk and real numbers, Tim and Derek explore how profit margins, lifestyle choices, and financial goals shape your daily operations and long-term happiness.

In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss:

• The myth of needing massive infrastructure to run a successful contracting business
• How low overhead can significantly boost profit margins and overall financial health
• Why it's okay to enjoy your money—if you're smart about it
• The importance of defining your own version of financial success and the end game
• Making intentional decisions about overhead, lifestyle, and the vehicles you drive
• The concept of money as “fun coupons” and how to use it to enrich your life and those around you
• Avoiding financial stress by truly understanding your numbers and overhead

Resources:

=================================

🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUND

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:

https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground

==================================

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.

Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!

https://thecontractorfight.com/50/

🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber

💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:

https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.

Apple Podcasts

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In this live episode, we bring you two unscripted roleplay sessions recorded during the NashVegas event. These real-time mock sales calls are not only packed with humor and personality but also demonstrate the power of the Shin-Fu sales process in action. Contractors will gain invaluable insights on handling objections, qualifying leads, and maintaining control of sales conversations.

In this episode :

• [00:00] Tom introduces the episode from the NashVegas event and the focus on impromptu role plays
• [00:30] Role play: Taylor explains that his company handles commercial projects and drywall
• [01:15] Scenario: Bidding on an upper deck addition for Fenway Park
• [02:25] Establishing project goals and understanding decision-making layers
• [03:44] Building rapport and qualifying the seriousness of the opportunity
• [05:10] Identifying project urgency and navigating around potential delays
• [06:09] Scheduling the site visit and sharing documentation like references and COI
• [06:57] New scenario: Client wants an addition on a 1,400 sq. ft. home
• [07:54] Role play: Dave takes a call and works to uncover the client’s true needs
• [08:53] Tim explains pressure from his wife and desire to start construction quickly
• [09:42] Dave explores the dynamics of decision-making and aligns with the urgency
• [11:51] Discussion about Title V septic requirements and how to navigate them
• [12:39] Discussing pricing and the client’s budget limitations
• [13:25] Adjusting scope to fit the client’s $250K budget and confirming interest
• [14:48] Setting expectations, discussing trust, and preparing to sign the contract
• [15:59] The twist: Tim reveals another contractor was in the mix—a humorous close to the role play
• [16:34] Tom wraps up and encourages listeners to dive into Shin-Fu Sales Training

Resources:

💪 Take control of the sales process with Shin-Fu

https://thecontractorfight.com/sfst

=================================

🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUND

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:

https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground

==================================

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.

Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!

https://thecontractorfight.com/50/

🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber

💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:

https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

In this episode, Tim and Derek get real about the limiting beliefs and mental blocks that held them back in their own journeys. This candid discussion is packed with insights and motivation to help you push through the BS and build a business that actually serves your life.

In this episode, Tom, Tim, and Derek discuss:

• The top mental landmines that sabotage contractors from scaling to $1M and beyond
• Personal stories of fear, doubt, and desperation—and how they overcame them
• The lack of a roadmap and how having the right information and support changes everything
• Why success isn’t just about grinding harder, but about changing your mindset and strategy
• How to shift from scarcity thinking to a repeatable system that fuels growth
• The impact of who you surround yourself with and why you can’t succeed hanging with "turkeys"
• Encouragement that if they can do it, so can you—regardless of where you’re starting from

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

=========================================

This is Part 5  of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

In this final installment of the 5-part series, Tom gets brutally honest about the single biggest reason contractors fail to hit $1 million in revenue—it’s not the market, your skills, or your team. It’s YOU. If you haven’t truly decided to build a million-dollar business, you’re already behind. Tom shares powerful insights and challenges every contractor to cut off all other options and fully commit to their future.

In this episode, Tom discusses:

• [00:00] Introduction to the final part of the series and a call to join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop
• [02:17] The #1 reason most contractors don't hit $1M: lack of true decision
• [03:39] Personal reflection: Tom shares his own struggles and the cost of not deciding sooner
• [04:20] Shedding your old identity to become the contractor capable of running a $1M business
• [05:10] The dangerous cycle of operating on autopilot and the cost to your life and loved ones
• [06:11] The reality of hitting $1M in revenue and why it still might not mean profit
• [06:40] The true meaning of “decide”—cutting off all other options
• [07:56] The identity shift: from desperate contractor to F.W. (Fucking Winner)
• [09:30] The harsh truth about dabbling, distractions, and the myth of “when things calm down”
• [10:29] Building something worth handing down—or not
• [11:04] What real decision-making looks like and the call to action
• [11:59] Why Tom is in your face—because he knows you can win
• [13:05] Full details on the upcoming Million Dollar Contractor Workshop and how to register

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

=========================================

This is Part 4 of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

In this powerful bonus episode of The Contractor Fight, Tom brings on his Marine Corps brother and fellow contractor, Rocky Gudim, to share his incredible transformation story. After years of financial struggle and two bankruptcies, Rocky made the pivotal decision to join Battleground. Since then, he’s turned his company around—growing from low-margin chaos to a structured, profitable business pulling 30–35% gross profit. His only regret? Not starting sooner.

In this episode, Tom and Rocky discuss:

• [00:43] The #5 reason contractors stay stuck—waiting too long to act
• [03:56] Rocky’s background and how G&H Construction was born
• [04:21] Years of business mistakes and how joining The Fight changed it all
• [05:27] Struggling with “head trash” and excuses before taking action
• [06:12] Crushing over $500K in debt and finding a better way
• [07:18] Living like you make $20 a month while doing $1.2M in sales
• [08:50] Discovering the real power of “Know Your Numbers”
• [10:32] Seeing financial results in less than 30 days
• [11:19] Boosting margins from 17% to over 35%—even 100% markups
• [13:37] Battleground as a boot camp for building a real business
• [14:00] The surprising emotional lift from community and support
• [15:06] Stats don’t lie—why most contractors never reach $1M in revenue
• [16:15] Going all in: Battleground, War Room, and one-on-one coaching
• [16:28] The discomfort of raising prices—and how it paid off
• [17:57] From camera-shy to content machine: winning through video
• [19:59] Tangible lead generation from consistent content marketing
• [22:20] Letting go of the “go it alone” mindset and embracing the team
• [24:14] Why community speeds up success more than grit alone
• [26:33] The powerful moment when Melinda told Rocky, “I have my husband back”
• [30:19] Losing confidence, becoming a winner again
• [31:32] The real magic wand: daily implementation
• [34:35] Why consistency beats intensity every time
• [36:05] How to connect with Rocky and G&H Construction

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

🏠 Learn more about Rocky’s company: https://ghconstructiongroup.com/

=========================================

This is Part 3 of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

In this third installment of the five-part series, Tom drops pure fire as he breaks down one of the biggest reasons most contractors never hit $1 million in revenue—lack of consistent marketing and sales discipline. With raw honesty and practical advice, he calls out the excuses and habits that keep contractors stuck and shows you what it really takes to level up.

In this episode, Tom discusses:

• [00:00] Introduction to the 5-part series and the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop
• [01:49] Tom’s early experience of feast-to-famine cycles in business
• [03:01] Why daily marketing and sales actions are non-negotiable for breaking the $1M barrier
• [04:16] The real reason you don’t have leads—and it’s not the economy
• [05:08] Harsh truths about relying on word of mouth and not building a brand
• [06:06] The myth of “my work speaks for itself” and the need to raise prices
• [06:29] Simple, daily marketing activities contractors ignore
• [07:30] Lack of online presence and how it kills your lead flow
• [07:41] Why a repeatable sales process is crucial—and what happens without one
• [08:40] How desperation ruins sales and the importance of selling with confidence
• [09:31] Sales and marketing are not extras—they ARE the job
• [10:19] Why you’re stuck at $500K–$750K and how to finally break through
• [10:33] A final call to join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop and invest in yourself

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

=========================================

This is Part 2 of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

Most contractors never break the $1M mark in revenue, and one of the biggest reasons is their mindset. In this fire-packed second installment of the 5-part series, Tom dives into the mental blocks and leadership flaws that are holding contractors back. If you're stuck doing $20/hour tasks instead of leading like a true business owner, this episode is your wake-up call. Tom doesn't hold back as he challenges you to take ownership, let go of control, and start investing in yourself as the leader your business needs.

In this episode, Tom discusses:

• [00:00] Introduction to the 5-part bonus series and the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop
• [01:47] The #2 obstacle: Mindset—and how it affects your business growth
• [02:14] Are you a business owner or just self-employed with a shitty boss?
• [02:43] The dangerous trap of doing everything yourself and wearing all the hats
• [03:45] Why doing $20/hour tasks is killing your growth—and what to do about it
• [04:42] The myth of perfectionism and why 80% good by someone else is better than 100% perfect by you
• [05:08] The chaos caused by lack of systems, processes, and procedures
• [05:36] The importance of personal development and becoming a strong leader
• [06:24] A call to action: Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop and start leading like a boss

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

=========================================

This is Part 1 of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:

https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

Most contractors never break the million-dollar revenue mark—and in this powerful first installment of a 5-part series, Tom Reber breaks down exactly why. This episode zeroes in on the #1 obstacle holding you back from building a real, profitable business: not knowing your numbers. If you're serious about taking your contracting business to the next level, this is where the path begins.

In this episode, Tom discusses:

• [00:00] Introduction to the special 5-part bonus series
• [00:14] Overview of the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop (May 20–22)
• [01:51] The harsh truth: most contractors never hit $1M in revenue
• [02:25] Why staying under $1M means you're stuck in a glorified job
• [03:11] The critical first step: know your enemy
• [03:44] Obstacle #1: Not knowing your numbers
• [04:26] Examples of how clueless contractors are about their finances
• [04:51] Key metrics you must track daily to succeed
• [05:10] Why the tool doesn’t matter—just track your numbers!
• [05:26] The danger of vague goals and the need for clarity
• [06:20] You must evolve at every revenue level
• [06:44] Aim small, miss small: specific goals lead to better results
• [07:16] Pricing, marketing, leadership—adjusting the right business knobs
• [07:40] What to expect in next week’s workshop
• [08:11] Final push to register for the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop
• 
  

Resources:

=========================================

 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP

 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET

 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project)

 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million

 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.

=========================================

In this episode, hosts Tim and Derek dive into a topic that continues to trip up many contractors - pricing transparency. They break down why giving ballpark figures or bracketing prices over the phone isn't just possible, but necessary in today's fast-paced, customer-centric world. With real-world examples and practical advice, they challenge outdated norms and equip contractors with the tools and mindset to stop wasting time on unqualified leads and start running more profitable businesses.

In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:

• The outdated mindset that contractors must see a job in person to give a price.
• Why bracketing and ballpark pricing over the phone saves time and qualifies better leads.
• Real examples from their own businesses and roleplays on how to use pricing transparency effectively.
• The cost in time and money of chasing every estimate without qualification.
• How to use video, photos, and strategic questioning to assess jobs remotely.
• The dangers of the “race to the bottom” pricing strategy and how to avoid it.
• Understanding the buyer's journey and aligning your sales process to meet them where they are.
• The importance of knowing your numbers and confidently communicating value.
• 
  

Resources:

=================================

🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUND

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:

https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground

==================================

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.

Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!

https://thecontractorfight.com/50/

🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber

💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:

https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Many contractors struggle to pay themselves consistently, let alone invest in their future. In this episode, Tom lays out a no-fluff roadmap to help you earn at least $100,000 in personal income from your contracting business. From reverse engineering your financial targets to becoming relentless with marketing and sales, Tom breaks down the exact steps needed to take control of your income, stop living paycheck to paycheck, and start building lasting wealth.

In this episode, Tom discusses:

• [00:00] The reality of contractor income and why most struggle to pay themselves properly
• [01:43] The first step: reverse engineer your financial goals to determine revenue and pricing targets
• [03:49] How to calculate the number of jobs and leads you need to hit your income target
• [05:15] Step two: avoid complacency and stay consistent with momentum-building activities
• [06:49] The critical role of always marketing to keep your pipeline full
• [08:06] Why you must sell daily and take control of your sales process
• [09:24] Building relationships and prospecting consistently to keep the cash flowing
• [10:16] Raising your standards to attract better clients and demand higher prices
• [11:11] Step three: be fanatical about branding and sell unafraid
• [12:39] How to build trust by sharing your values and operations through content
• [13:27] Owning your local market by getting involved in your community
• [14:08] Creating value through education instead of relying on traditional ads
• [16:00] Being confident in your pricing and eliminating “head trash” around money
• [17:25] The power of sales training and controlling the conversation
• [18:41] Becoming an uncommon salesperson by identifying pain points and guiding clients
• [19:06] The importance of consistent follow-up and building long-term customer relationships
• [20:04] Why sales is a skill you must continually work on to increase your income

Resources:

=================================

🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUND

Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:

https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground

==================================

💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially.

Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together!

https://thecontractorfight.com/50/

🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber

💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:

https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook

== Rate the Podcast ==

Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.

Apple Podcasts

Spotify