In this value-packed episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with powerhouse guests Stephanie Postell (Anchor Heating & Air), Cindi McNew (Tuck and Howell), and Kerry Sweet (Streamline Services) to explore the transformative impact of showing up for your community—and your team. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what authentic community involvement looks like for businesses in the trades, moving beyond buzzwords and digging into real initiatives that build trust, impact, and sustainable brand visibility.

Jen and her guests go deep on how giving back—in ways that align with your company's culture and personal passions—can drive more than just feel-good stories. They talk about how being present in local events, schools, and organizations doesn't just shape your external reputation, but forges a sense of shared purpose within your team. The stories shared range from supporting Make-A-Wish and animal shelters to hands-on volunteering and creative fundraisers involving the whole company. It's an honest look at both the emotional highs and the real-world outcomes of choosing to lead with service.

Listen in as these leaders share tactical tips for celebrating your team, from out-of-the-box holiday parties to little (and big) acknowledgments that cultivate a thriving company culture. They acknowledge the messy middle—how hard it can be to balance all the demands, why intentional boundaries matter, and the smallest first steps you can take if community engagement feels daunting. The episode blends marketing strategy with human behavior, reminding us that showing up authentically is far more important than orchestrating a picture-perfect campaign.

If you've ever wondered how to bridge the gap between your business and your community—or wished you could find time and energy to celebrate your team—this episode is for you. Jen and her guests give you practical ways to get involved (even if you start small), show how social media can be a force for good, and underscore that growth happens when you align your actions with your purpose. Consider this your nudge to go from idea to implementation—and watch both your business and your people flourish.

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and episode kickoff with Jen McKee

02:06 – Guest introductions and defining the role of community in business

05:01 – Community involvement: favorite give-back initiatives and why they matter

10:09 – How local partnerships and showing up lead to meaningful connections

14:19 – Making impact as an employee vs. owner: finding your unique contribution

20:40 – Creative ways to celebrate your team during holidays (and beyond)

27:55 – Blending celebration with purpose: giving back while building culture

34:41 – Social media visibility: how sharing your story inspires and amplifies impact

39:19 – First steps for leaders unsure where to start with community involvement

46:39 – Encouragement and practical next steps: implementing what you've learned

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

On this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Jay and Amanda Mahaffey, the powerhouse duo behind the transformation of Tuck and Howell, a legacy HVAC and plumbing company. This episode goes deep into what it really looks like to acquire a "stuck in the 80s" business, face negative numbers, and rebuild from the ground up with unwavering resilience, a modern marketing plan, and an unshakeable commitment to both numbers and people. Jay shares his journey from working in the trades as a child to eventually buying back his family's business, while Amanda offers a candid look at transitioning her background in accounting into the world of home services—where managing cash flow, plugging financial "leaks," and setting intentional boundaries became non-negotiable for survival and growth.

Listeners will hear the honest story of their acquisition—including buying a failing company with a negative 11% net income—what it takes to get buy-in from family, and the high-stakes reality of selling cars and liquidating retirement funds to make it work. Amanda and Jay talk about the messy middle: those first tough years when you have to plug holes, build a brand, modernize your tech stack, and get crystal clear on your values and numbers, all while learning marketing on the fly. Their decision to prioritize brand building over quick lead generation is a game-changer, revealing the long-term benefits of strategic investments in branding, rebranding, and storytelling as the foundation for attracting both customers and top talent.

You'll hear behind the scenes of Tuck and Howell's social media journey—how they went from old-school word-of-mouth to having a flood of new hires and leads from their online presence, thanks to actionable content and authentic storytelling. Jay and Amanda share how they leveraged mentors, conventions, industry podcasts, and specialists in SEO, PPC, and LSA to turn their marketing spend from a cost center to a strategic growth engine. They break down how they determined their marketing budget (from 2% to a bold 7% of revenue over a few years), and why knowing your numbers and tracking your ROAS is non-negotiable for sustainable business development.

The episode dives into self-leadership, the emotional depth required to lead a team through change, and the power of community engagement. From hiring a "Fun Fairy" who lifts internal culture and manages grassroots marketing, to giving back through charity installs and local events, Jay and Amanda reveal how meaningful, visible community involvement fuels both word-of-mouth and personal fulfillment. This is a masterclass in intentional growth—one where the messy middle isn't something to hide, but the secret ingredient in building the "how" behind your business, your brand, and your life.

Timestamps & Topics

00:03:14 - The strategy: Business plans, reading Dan Antonelli's brand book, and that first big leap

00:04:45 - Rebranding, choosing software, focusing on data, and the earliest marketing steps

00:06:03 - Social media as a recruiting and branding tool: Working with Kee Hart Marketing

00:10:44 - Making tough investments while in the red, managing risk, and knowing your financials

00:15:08 - Growing the marketing budget: From 2% to 7% and finding the right specialist partners

00:17:32 - Shifting to marketing strategy: Tracking ROI, stopping campaigns, and building accountability

00:22:02 - The "Fun Fairy": Elevating team culture and community engagement as organic marketing

00:24:58 - Charity, community presence, and turning good deeds into meaningful storytelling (and content)

Follow Tuck and Howell online to see how they're redefining what modern trades marketing looks like:

👉 Website: tuckandhowell.com

👉 Facebook: facebook.com/tuckandhowell

👉 Instagram: @tuckandhowell

👉 YouTube: Tuck and Howell Channel

👉 LinkedIn: Tuck & Howell Plumbing, Heating & Air

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee

Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand!

Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

Join Jen McKee, founder of Kee Hart Marketing, as she hosts a special live episode of the Kee to Growth Podcast at Service World Expo 2025, featuring Mike Venidis, Owner of Good Golly Garage Doors (Phoenix) and Chief Marketing Officer of Good Golly Garage Holdings.

This conversation uncovers the messy middle of entrepreneurship—where strategy meets emotion. Mike opens up about a traumatic event that became the turning point in his life, leading him to build and scale successful brands within the home services industry. Together, Jen and Mike explore how business growth often mirrors personal growth, offering a raw yet practical lens on leadership, branding, and purpose.

From the evolution of marketing—Yellow Pages to AI—to the psychology of today's buyer, they break down why timeless human behavior still drives modern decision-making. Mike shares actionable insights on:

• Guerrilla marketing and audience targeting

• Why landing pages often make or break campaigns

• Common mistakes marketers make when ignoring emotional connection

As the discussion moves into AI, Mike explains three powerful ways trades businesses can start leveraging artificial intelligence today:

1. On-site content optimization

2. Off-site partnerships

3. Technical SEO and automation

Jen complements this with her expertise in social media strategy—revealing how authentic personal branding and healthy digital boundaries lead to sustainable growth, not burnout or performative marketing.

The episode closes with an introspective note on legacy and purpose. Mike introduces his new initiative, House of Good, a free community designed to help home service professionals grow, learn, and give back. His philosophy captures the essence of the conversation:

"Your business grows at the speed of your healing."

If you're a small business owner, marketer, or leader who believes that impact matters more than hype, this episode is for you.

00:00 — Trauma Fueled My Career Path 05:30 — Marketing Psychology and Connection 08:20 — Buyer Psychology in PPC Strategy 11:38 — Winning with Landing Pages 15:07 — Google's AI Strategy and Market Share 17:59 — Simplifying Success Through Humanity 22:15 — Passion, Impact, and Entrepreneurship 25:11 — Impact Over Money 26:53 — Growth Requires Embracing Hardship

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvenidis/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikevenidis/?hl=en

Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, an award-winning social media agency for the trades. As host of The Kee to Growth Podcast, she empowers service-based businesses with authentic, actionable marketing strategies.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ Website: https://www.keehartmarketing.com

Listening on desktop and can't click the links? Just search Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast app.

Skilled Trades Syndicate — Home of the Service Business Mastery Podcast Website: https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com

Growth in business rarely happens by accident—it's built on alignment, strategy, and a willingness to face the messy middle. In this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Jonathan Banister, founder and CEO of Top Serve Digital, to talk about the reality of building—and rebuilding—a brand in the ever-evolving world of home services marketing. Jonathan shares his remarkable journey, from running Cornerstone Marketing Solutions to launching Top Serve Digital, pulling back the curtain on his own rebranding process and what it's taught him about identity, reputation, and staying future-ready.

Jen and Jonathan dig into the emotional side of entrepreneurship: why so many business owners cling to a brand name even when it's not serving them, and how to make brave, strategic pivots even when it means letting go of what feels comfortable. Jonathan addresses the tension between attachment and opportunity, sharing how he finally made the leap after almost a decade running with the "Cornerstone" name—and revealing the surprising impact it had on his business and clients.

One of the core takeaways from this episode revolves around the power of brand equity in a digital landscape that's rapidly shifting. Jonathan breaks down why traditional lead generation is losing its edge, how platforms like Google are no longer the only gatekeepers, and what it really takes to stand out as a memorable brand when AI-driven search becomes the norm. Their conversation touches on the rising importance of omnichannel video marketing and the necessity of investing in storytelling and reputation—not just logos or wrapped trucks. As they note, true brand equity isn't measured by your font or color palette, but by the trust you build, the emotional connections you foster, and the frequency with which you're remembered when a problem arises.

Finally, Jen invites Jonathan to open up about his "bed method" (brand equity domination), the role of face-to-face community events, and the anxieties and opportunities tied to the future of digital marketing with the rise of AI. The episode leaves entrepreneurs and marketers with both tactical and soul-level guidance for adapting to the changing landscape—emphasizing authentic connection and personal growth as the real keys to becoming a household name. And for those looking for practical next steps, Jonathan's forthcoming book and podcasts are ready resources.

Timestamps for this episode:

00:00 Cornerstone Marketing Origins

05:55 Video Integration in Digital Marketing

08:06 Understanding Brand Equity Levels

11:28 "What to Shoot Matters Most"

14:11 "Future of Marketing Insights"

16:23 AI's Impact on Branding and Social Media

19:50 Marketing in Multi-Platform Era

24:34 Effective Canvassing and Retargeting Strategy

25:49 "Targeting Ideal Customers Unconventionally"

28:24 "Home Service Hustle Podcast"

To learn more about Jonathan's work and insights, visit TopServeDigital.com

or explore his upcoming projects and speaking schedule at jonathan-bannister.com. You can also connect with him directly to book consultations, collaborations, or podcast appearances through his official booking link.

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand!

Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

On this episode of The Kee to Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Frank Luersen, owner and general manager of Home Team Electric in Palm Springs, California. Frank takes us through the messy middle of building his business—starting in the grind of new construction, shifting to residential service, and the emotional and tactical pivots that saved the company during hard times. From learning that business is its own trade to finding the right mentors, Frank's story is all about authentic growth, the power of local branding, and the human side of marketing in the trades.

Frank gives us an inside look at what it really takes to transition from being a subcontractor in a saturated market to establishing a recognizable, trustworthy residential brand. He shares how a tough moment of burnout became the catalyst for change, describing the lightbulb moment when he decided to pivot and focus on residential service instead of chasing contract work just because "that's what contractors do." Through modeling successful companies and investing in coaching, Frank and his team unlocked their own path to sustainable business development. He also talks candidly about the mindset shifts required—embracing humility, persistence, and surrounding yourself with the right community.

Jen and Frank break down real, actionable marketing strategies that go way beyond guru buzzwords. Frank reveals how Home Team Electric rode the ups and downs of economic cycles, leveraging lessons learned through mistakes as well as bold moves—like rebranding, investing in community connection, and securing game-changing radio and TV deals during COVID. From the power of a great logo to building deep customer relationships through frequent, personalized outreach, Frank's tactics put storytelling and customer experience at the forefront.

This episode also dives into the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship—navigating imposter syndrome, investing in lifelong learning, and holding intentional boundaries. Hear how Frank leverages mentorship, continuous skill-building, and authentic connection (with both employees and clients) as the ultimate leadership tools. If you're ready to create momentum in your business, craft a brand you genuinely believe in, and put the heart back into marketing—this conversation is for you.

Timestamps 02:26 Learning the business trade and the importance of mentors 04:29 Early hustle: landing first clients and doing the work yourself 07:39 Pivotal moment: pivoting from contracts to residential service 08:42 The role of mentorship, coaching, and community in growth 14:20 Rebranding from Desert Electric to Home Team Electric—why identity matters 18:07 Pricing, profitability, and delivering real value 19:25 Surviving setbacks: diversifying leads and not relying solely on Google 20:49 Leveraging old and new marketing channels: Angie's List, Yelp, Facebook, direct mail 24:06 Unique and creative marketing campaigns: jingles, radio/TV deals, and deepening customer relationships

Connect with Frank Luersen and Home Team Electric: Website: https://hometeamelectric.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hometeamelectric/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Hometeamelectric/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN5LmG8C6p46jo26Z0IqMyw

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

On this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Mitch Smedley, founder of Smedley Plumbing in Kansas City and co-owner of a small business consulting agency, to peel back the layers on building a service-based brand that's both community-driven and memorable. Mitch shares his journey from two decades working in the plumbing industry to launching his own company in 2020—right at the height of pandemic uncertainty. Rather than playing it safe, he doubled down on a purpose-forward approach, leading with the Family First program that offers free plumbing repairs for those in need as his opening move in the market.

Jen and Mitch go deep on the power of branding with heart, exploring how Smedley Plumbing's "Fix Pipes, Pet Dogs" slogan and dog-friendly approach have helped the team build authentic connections with both customers and the community. Mitch unpacks his philosophy that marketing should be fun and rooted in real service, not just facts or price points. The conversation highlights how their social media presence—from entertaining YouTube videos to whimsical short-form content—keeps the brand top-of-mind during the crucial "I-need-a-plumber-now" decision window.

Mitch also pulls back the curtain on the strategy behind Smedley Plumbing's highly-visible YouTube channel, which doesn't just spark brand awareness but doubles as a robust content bank to repurpose for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and Facebook. He shares how video content can serve as sales enablement, a customer qualifier, and a subtle filter to attract the right-fit clients. This episode is full of real-world marketing takeaways for anyone building a service brand, including how to leverage local community pages, why consistency matters for programs like Family First, and the surprising ROI of quirky campaigns (like sponsoring a mini racecar or hosting kangaroos at a customer event).

Rounding things out, Mitch opens up about the emotional and mental journey of entrepreneurship—growth is never linear, and sometimes the marketing "fails" are where the best evolution happens. He also previews his consulting business, Tradewinds Consulting, focused on helping sub-million-dollar home service businesses lay a solid foundation before they hit rapid growth. For founders in the messy middle of building and scaling, Jen and Mitch's conversation offers actionable insights that blend tactical social media strategy with honest discussion about the emotional rollercoaster of business ownership.

Timestamps: 00:01 - Mitch Smedley's background and launching Smedley Plumbing in 2020 00:03 - How the Family First program put Smedley Plumbing on the map 00:07 - Building a memorable brand with "Fix Pipes, Pet Dogs" and dog-friendly marketing 00:08 - The role of YouTube and content production in plumbing services marketing 00:10 - Repurposing video content for social media and qualifying leads 00:13 - Day-in-the-life videos and reaching the next generation of tradespeople 00:14 - Shifting the 2025 marketing focus to social media and Google presence 00:17 - Non-traditional marketing: micro-sprint cars, community events, and staying top-of-mind 00:18 - Dog-friendly branding and the evolution of community engagement campaigns 00:21 - Marketing wins, failures, and advice for business owners in the trades

Connect with Mitch Smedley and Smedley Plumbing:

Website: https://callsmedley.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmedleyPlumbing

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SmedleyPlumbing

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

In this episode of The Kee to Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with powerhouse husband and wife duo Karen and JC Hite. Both are recognized as leading mentors in the home services and marketing agency space, but their reach extends far beyond just marketing—think business education, stable scaling, mindset, and true relational growth. Jen shares how Karen and JC have influenced her own entrepreneurial journey and why she gravitates to mentorship as a foundation for growth, setting the stage for an authentic, value-packed conversation.

JC and Karen dive into the evolution of their business, explaining how their passions and needs shaped what they offer today. From starting as a white label digital marketing agency focused on scalable operations and client experience, they expanded into educational masterminds, industry events, and now business investment partnerships. At the core of everything? Helping service-based businesses and agencies grow with intentional boundaries, mental and emotional resilience, and a reliable community.

The conversation steers away from bro-marketing lingo and quick wins, instead highlighting the messy middle—where agency owners, trade business leaders, and entrepreneurs in every niche confront the real work of aligning business growth with personal healing and alignment. Karen shares how collaborative community and vulnerability have transformed their approach, while JC unpacks a simple but powerful framework: the synergy of motivation, education, and execution. Both stress the importance of depth over quantity, especially when it comes to networking and building authentic relationships.

Highlights include tactical advice for creating meaningful in-person events, leveraging community for brand visibility, and building foundational systems (from automating reviews to using CRMs like Go High Level). Whether you're running a roofing business, a plumbing company, or a digital marketing agency, this episode will inspire you to rethink what's possible when you focus on connection, purpose, and sustainable practices. You'll walk away with insights on how to host your first event in an approachable way, how to nurture relationships with intention, and why your current network already holds the keys to meaningful, aligned growth.

00:00 Home Services Marketing Podcast

04:11 Expanding Home Service Marketing Funnels

08:01 Improving Client Experience in Business

12:15 Value of In-Person Connections Rising

15:45 Building Brand Recognition for Success

16:56 Overcoming Social Anxiety at Events

22:06 Birdhouse Workshops as Recruitment Tool

23:49 Empowering Education Through Practical Skills

27:38 "Prioritize Relationships Over New Leads"

Connect with Guests: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hitedigital LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hite-digital/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hiteinternational/videos

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

In this insightful episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Mandeep Bhalla, founder and CEO of Grow Nearby and Grow Reviews, and host of the Bond for the Trades podcast. Together, they peel back the curtain on what's really working in home services marketing, exploring both the tried-and-true fundamentals and the emerging shifts that are reshaping digital marketing and branding for the trades. Mandeep shares his personal journey—immigrating from India, diving into the U.S. home service sector, and launching his own agency at the onset of the pandemic. This episode is filled with relatable stories and practical lessons for entrepreneurs navigating their own "messy middle."

Jen and Mandeep dig into the evolution from legacy platforms like WordPress to Webflow and why staying ahead matters in such a rapidly changing landscape. They don't just talk tech—they keep it grounded in authentic human behavior and the importance of intentional boundaries when working with agencies. For listeners in the thick of building their businesses, Mandeep's perspective on the emotional and operational highs and lows of entrepreneurship is a breath of fresh air, emphasizing purpose, resilience, and the value of culture over hype.

A major highlight is the transparent conversation about what differentiates effective marketers from those who, intentionally or not, create misalignment for their service clients. Jen and Mandeep walk through red flags—like asset ownership holds and outdated SEO practices—and empower listeners to ask better questions of their vendors. The discussion around reputation management goes deeper, addressing the mental side of entrepreneurship and the importance of relationship-building for sustainable business development, not just quick wins.

Actionable takeaways abound: from auditing your website's SEO and optimizing Google Business Profile for new trends (including video reviews), to balancing old school tactics like flyers and yard signs with the latest digital content strategies. Mandeep's advice is grounded in a genuine desire to help others grow intentionally, reinforced by his own learning from Gary Vee and a commitment to fostering cultures where teams are genuinely excited to show up—even on Monday mornings.

Timestamps:

00:00 "Home Services Marketing Podcast"

05:27 AI-Driven SEO Success Strategies

08:33 Tampa AC Repair SEO Strategy

11:35 Meeting My Inspirational Idol

15:01 Delegation in Social Media Ownership

18:50 Marketing Strategy for Contractors

19:22 "Pay-Per-Call Marketing for Contractors"

23:45 "Consistency and Positive Work Culture"

Connect with Mandeep Bhalla & Grow Nearby:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7hjBDONQ3bZ3a1rChrjEvw

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grownearby/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GrowNearby#

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

In this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Jackie Sorensen—third-generation owner of an 80-year-old HVAC company and the powerhouse behind the "Jackie H Vaci" brand. Jackie opens up about her journey from fresh-out-of-school tech to owner, including what it was like to carry her family's legacy while making it her own. She and Jen discuss the very real challenges of stepping into leadership, especially as a woman in the trades, and the mindset shifts and intentional boundaries that powered her growth along the way.

Jackie and Jen get real on what it means to balance tradition with innovation as a legacy business owner. Jackie shares how she brought her company into the digital age, persuaded her dad to go "online" before it was cool, and why human connection—online and off—matters most in home services marketing. You'll hear how personal branding, community involvement, and creating space for others (especially women) in the industry became part of her secret sauce for sustainable business development.

On the marketing front, Jackie goes tactical, unpacking how leveraging social media, bold billboards, and community outreach has transformed her company's presence. She explains how supporting techs who want to post online can grow your brand from the inside out, and how standing out at expos and trunk-or-treats (with a little leopard print flair) builds genuine local connections. The team's annual "Hot Mama Giveaway" is highlighted as a powerful example of community-driven, value-aligned marketing.

If you're looking for inspiration on blending hard business skills with honest reflection—and actionable tips for growing a business you actually believe in—this episode is for you. You'll come away with practical advice on sustainable growth, authentic marketing, and embracing the messy middle of entrepreneurship (even when the ROI isn't easy to measure).

Timestamps

00:00 Early Social Media Presence Insights

05:18 Family Business Takeover Dilemma

07:11 "Embrace Technician Branding Collaboration"

09:57 Enhancing Social Media Retention Tools

14:03 Creative Branding with Stickers & Air Fresheners

16:51 "Creative, Playful Billboards Success"

21:38 Father's Struggle with Appearance

23:11 Challenges in Tracking Marketing ROI

26:30 "Balancing Work and Family Life"

Connect with Jackie Sorensen and Source and Heating: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thorsonheatinginc Website: https://www.thorsonheatinginc.com/ You can also find Jackie as "Jackie H Vaci" on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player.

The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/

In this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Carol Longacre, Director of Affiliate Relations at Service Nation, for an insightful conversation that digs deep into the real world of business growth, leadership, and the power of connection in the trades. Carol shares the journey from building her own family remodeling company to supporting thousands of contractors through Service Nation and the upcoming Service World Expo. The discussion is filled with vulnerable moments about embracing the "messy middle" of entrepreneurship, developing an authentic brand, and aligning growth with personal values and mindset.

Carol and Jen explore the often-underestimated impact of trade associations, legislative advocacy, and best practice communities for HVAC, plumbing, and remodeling professionals. Drawing from Carol's personal and professional experience—including her takeaways from the John Maxwell IMC Conference and the inventive tactics behind the Savannah Bananas—this conversation goes beyond business tactics and into the heart of what it takes to grow a sustainable, people-first company in today's landscape.

Listeners will walk away with renewed clarity on why customer experience is foundational in marketing, actionable tips for genuinely standing out in a crowded marketplace, and the importance of building intentional boundaries as you scale. Carol shares practical stories about fostering belonging, creativity, and care, both within her own remodeling company and in her work with Service Nation's member contractors.

With Service World Expo (October 26 - 30, 2025) approaching fast, Carol and Jen offer an early look behind the scenes, including what first-timers can expect, the power of in-person networking, and how to intentionally plan your event experience for maximum value. Jen will be hosting a LIVE episode—Behind the Curtain: Marketing, Community, and Culture Strategies Driving Today's Top Trades Businesses—on October 28, 2025, from 1:15 to 1:45 PM at the Expo. Plus, listeners get a special offer with KHM's promo code Kee100 (valid until October 10 with the Room Block at Caesar's Forum & Harrah's).

Timestamps:

04:28 Legislation's Impact on Housing Affordability

06:58 Creative Leadership and Team Innovation

10:45 Cultivating Fan Loyalty with Gratitude

15:35 Dolores: Enhancing Industry Connections

17:07 Networking at Happy Hour

22:33 Plan Your Show Strategy

22:58 "Plan and Focus for Success"

26:30 Join and Grow with Us

29:39 Mindset Shift: Offering Solutions

33:38 "Future of Trades Panel"

36:22 "Grateful Acknowledgment"

Connect with Carol Longacre: Facebook (Carol Longacre): https://www.facebook.com/carol.longacre

Connect with Service World Expo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serviceworldexpo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serviceworldexpo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ServiceWorldExpo

Don't Miss: Service World Expo (October 26 - 30, 2025, Las Vegas) Meet Jen McKee LIVE for "Behind the Curtain: Marketing, Community, and Culture Strategies Driving Today's Top Trades Businesses" Date: October 28, 2025 Time: 1:15 – 1:45 PM

Special Offer for Listeners: Use promo code Kee100 for discounted registration and room rates at Caesar's Forum & Harrah's (valid until October 10).

Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/

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The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com

This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/