Guest: Ian McCarthy — President of Blue Claw Group LLC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-mccarthy-a08ab725/ Website: blueclawgroup.com | BidClout AI Estimating Tool (on homepage) YouTube: Ian Blue Claw McCarthy | Instagram: @blueclawgroup

Host: Ken Baden — CEO/Owner of Baden Consulting and Potomac Custom Remodeling Website: badenconsulting.net | thekitchentablepodcast.net

Companies Mentioned:

Key Topics Discussed:

Timestamps

0:00 — Intro & Welcome: Ian McCarthy of Blue Claw Group 

1:50 — Blue Claw's business overview: landscaping, pools & tennis/pickleball courts 

4:10 — Ian's background: from CPA to buying a landscaping company for $25K 

6:00 — The accidental acquisition: how Ian's first business deal happened 

7:15 — Growing the landscaping company to nearly $4M in sales 

7:45 — The unexpected pivot: buying a minor league basketball team (Kobe Bryant's father was coaching) 

8:20 — Co-founding the National Basketball League of Canada 

9:50 — Returning to the trades and launching Blue Claw Associates in 2018 

11:25 — Zero to $12 million in 6.5 years across three companies 

11:50 — How COVID became rocket fuel for Blue Claw's growth 

15:00 — Watching the current market and how Ian is preparing for uncertainty 

18:45 — Blue Claw's team: 75-80 employees, 35 trucks 

19:30 — The consulting company: how "Know Your Numbers" was born 

21:00 — Building referral pipelines through architects and designers (not lead services) 

22:30 — The "Know Your Numbers" workshop and why the industry is underserved financially 

25:00 — How AI is changing the blue collar space (operations, marketing, efficiency) 

28:30 — AI search and why contractors need to start thinking about GEO (not just SEO) 

30:45 — Ian's AI-powered future: rebuilding the office with AI tools 

32:00 — The origin story of BidClout: from Spain trip inspiration to AI estimating software 

34:00 — Pricing strategy: how to position as premium and remove client risk/fear 

36:15 — Would Ian buy another business? What he'd look at next 

39:30 — Focus vs. diversification: the real answer for multi-business owners 

42:30 — The future of Blue Claw Group consulting and events 

43:30 — Why many trade business owners fly blind on their numbers 

47:00 — Where to find Ian, BidClout, and Blue Claw Group 

50:00 — Closing thoughts & wrap-up

Ken Baden and Jason Nemes first connected at the Blue Collar Ballers event in February of last year, and this episode is the payoff of several scheduling attempts that almost didn't happen. It's worth the wait.

Jason's background is anything but conventional for a roofing CEO. He spent years building a 4,500-person downline in the health and wellness network marketing space, and still draws a six-figure annual residual from that work today. When a friend called him to start a roofing company, Jason flew to Oklahoma to learn the basics — door knocking, inspections, filing claims — and dove in headfirst.

His first official company, Summit Solutions Roofing and Construction, launched at the end of June 2024 after a business partnership dissolved over equity disagreements. He's candid about the split, the half-million-dollar back-door he experienced from a rep he trusted, and how those hard lessons reshaped the way he moves in business today.

Jason talks about the DFW market — one of the most saturated roofing markets in the country with roughly 8,000 companies — and how he managed to cut through by staying true to who he is on social media, paying people on time, and building a culture where team members feel seen, valued, and enrolled in the vision.

Ken and Jason also get into the business side of growth: insurance vs. retail revenue, multi-state licensing in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and soon Florida and Arizona, goals of $20-30 million this year, the EBITDA benchmarks that make a PE exit viable, and what a real private equity deal looks like for a roofing company in today's market.

The conversation closes on a personal and powerful note — Jason's recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, and how the same intensity and discipline that nearly cost him everything is now the fuel behind one of the fastest-growing roofing startups in Texas.

Follow Jason: Instagram & TikTok: @TattedPrez Facebook: Jason Nemes Company Page: Summit Solutions Roofing and Construction

Follow Ken & the show: 🌐 thekitchentablepodcast.net 🌐 badenconsulting.net

Guest: Jesse Spiegel is the founder of NexLev Logic (nexlevlogic.com), an AI automation platform built exclusively for the roofing industry. With years of experience as a top-producing roofing sales rep — including $3.8M in a single storm season — Jesse turned his firsthand frustrations into a full suite of tools that help roofing companies communicate better, close more, and scale without the chaos. He currently manages roofing projects in both Colorado and Florida while growing NexLev Logic.

Host: Ken Baden is the CEO and owner of Baden Consulting and Potomac Custom Remodeling. His podcast, The Kitchen Table Podcast, is where real business conversations happen in the trades and beyond.

Topics covered in this episode:

Guest: Maryori Jones | Founder, Ave Sportwear 

Host: Ken Baden | CEO/Owner, Baden Consulting & Potomac Custom Remodeling 

Podcast: The Kitchen Table Podcast | thekitchentablepodcast.net

Key Takeaways:

Resources Mentioned:

Host: Ken Baden — CEO & President, Potomac Custom Remodeling and Baden Consulting Format: Solo episode, no guest Runtime: Approx. 21 minutes

People & Companies Mentioned:

• Dmitry Lipinskiy — Roofing Insights (hosted Ken on his podcast and radio show in Minnesota)
• Chris Simberman — industry contact discussing business pivots
• Network shoutouts: John Cena, Chris Jericho, Adam Vidzeme, Brandon J., Todd Price, John McCainbridge, Adam Champagne, Tony Flahom, Kurt Lindemann

Key Topics:

• ICE enforcement & the Hispanic labor workforce — staffing, costs, and project timelines
• Credit score landscape — 64% of Americans have a FICO above 700 (live ChatGPT lookup done on air)
• National roofing market dropped ~19% in 2025
• UPPA law — what it means for contractors working insurance claims
• Insurance drop letters — companies requiring roof replacement within 30 days or canceling policies
• Retail vs. insurance restoration — pros, cons, and why diversification is critical
• What a working retail sales system looks like (lead gen, setter-closer model, 30–35% close rate)
• Super Bowl local ad spot secured a week before the game
• 2026 mindset — down markets create market share opportunities

Baden Consulting is currently accepting a limited number of clients per quarter. Reach out to Ken directly for availability or referrals to vetted industry consultants.

Guest Information:

• Name: Ron Kmetovicz
• Book: Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial Independence
• Website: https://ghostmoneythebook.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-k-34218017/
• Background: Retired engineer, 20 years in Silicon Valley, consulting practice owner
• Current Location: Reno-Lake Tahoe area
• Age: 78 (still actively skiing, mountain biking, hiking)

Key Concepts Discussed:

1. Ghost Money Strategy
   • Separate investment account from 401(k)/retirement funds
   • Focus on long-term compound growth
   • Built to outlast inflation
   • Started early for maximum effect
2. Why Traditional Advice Falls Short
   • 401(k)s have limitations and restrictions
   • Inflation erodes purchasing power over time
   • Traditional retirement planning may not provide true independence
   • Need for additional wealth-building strategies
3. Ron's Background & Credibility
   • Pennsylvania farm boy upbringing
   • Penn State engineering degree
   • 20 years in Silicon Valley with top talent and equipment
   • Started consulting practice and multiple businesses
   • Successfully mentored children and grandchildren through financial development
4. Book Origins
   • Written at age 78 as legacy document for great-grandchildren
   • Based on real experience mentoring family members
   • Simple, accessible approach to complex topic
   • Not profit-driven—focused on helping youth
5. Investment Philosophy
   • Avoid gambling mentality (crypto, day trading, meme coins)
   • Focus on steady, proven growth strategies
   • Understand the difference between investing and speculation
   • Start early, stay consistent
6. Life Philosophy: "Live Where You Play"
   • Integrate work and lifestyle choices
   • Reduce commuting and unnecessary travel
   • Build life around activities you love
   • Financial independence enables lifestyle freedom

Actionable Takeaways:

• Start a separate "Ghost Money" investment account today
• Make consistent contributions, no matter how small
• Focus on long-term growth over quick wins
• Understand inflation's real impact on your purchasing power
• Avoid the allure of day trading and crypto gambling
• Read "Ghost Money" for the complete strategy
• Consider where you live vs. where you want to play

Resources Mentioned:

• Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial Independence (book)
• Website: ghostmoneythebook.com
• Available on Amazon (search for Ron Kmetovicz to find the correct book)
• The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod (referenced by Ken)

Warning for Book Buyers: There are other fiction books titled "Ghost Money" - make sure you're getting Ron Kmetovicz's book (spelled K-M-E-T-O-V-I-C-Z). Easiest way is to go directly to ghostmoneythebook.com.

Guest Background:

• Saahil Mehta - Based in Dubai (visiting New York during recording)
• Entrepreneur running three businesses
• Second-generation entrepreneur (diamond trading business started by father at age 54)
• First-generation entrepreneur (hospitality business running ~17 years)
• Author of "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"
• Success coach and member of Dr. Marshall Goldsmith's 100 Coaches
• Keynote speaker with upcoming TED Talk (February 5th)
• Father and husband committed to family presence

Key Themes Discussed:

1. The Success Paradox
   • Achieved seven-figure net worth by age 20
   • Hit all conventional success markers by age 36
   • Felt completely unfulfilled despite external achievements
   • The danger of having "blinders on" focused only on wealth creation
2. The People Pleasing Crisis
   • How people pleasing became a life-threatening issue
   • Ignoring personal needs and health for others' approval
   • The cultural and familial conditioning around pleasing others
   • Breaking free from the need for external validation
3. Rock Bottom and Awakening
   • The moment of realization that something had to change
   • Confronting the emptiness behind the success facade
   • The courage to admit vulnerability and seek help
   • Beginning the journey of self-discovery
4. Redefining Success
   • Moving from society's definition to personal definition
   • Understanding that success without fulfillment is hollow
   • The importance of aligning actions with values
   • Creating a life of purpose, not just profit
5. The Zero Regret Philosophy
   • Decision-making framework based on avoiding future regret
   • "If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again"
   • Living intentionally rather than reactively
   • Taking ownership of your choices and their consequences
6. Decluttering Life
   • Physical decluttering as a gateway to mental clarity
   • Identifying and releasing emotional baggage
   • Letting go of limiting beliefs and conditioning
   • Creating space for what truly matters
7. Family and Relationships
   • The wake-up call about missing his children's childhood
   • Choosing presence over productivity
   • Being a better father, husband, and friend
   • The ripple effect of personal transformation on all relationships
8. Coaching and Mentorship
   • Working with Marshall Goldsmith and the 100 Coaches community
   • Helping other entrepreneurs avoid similar pitfalls
   • The power of vulnerability in leadership
   • Creating sustainable success that includes fulfillment
9. Practical Transformation Steps
   • Starting with self-awareness and honest assessment
   • Free complimentary webinar to kickstart the journey
   • Discovery calls for personalized guidance
   • Daily practices for maintaining alignment

Notable Quotes:

• "If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again"
• "I felt like a horse with blinders on - focused only on wealth creation"
• "I've hit all the boxes but felt completely unfulfilled"
• "At what expense are you achieving your success?"
• "Your dad started a company at 54 - it's never too late"
• "Success without fulfillment is just an expensive emptiness"

Resources & Links:

Saahil Mehta's Resources:

• Website: www.saahilmehta.com/success
• Free Complimentary Webinar: Available at above link
• Book: "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"
• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saahilmehta
• TED Talk: "How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life" (February 5th, available online 60-90 days after)
• Social Media: Search "Saahil Mehta" on major platforms

The Kitchen Table Podcast:

• Website: thekitchentablepodcast.net
• Host: Ken Baden
  • CEO/Owner of Baden Consulting
  • CEO/Owner of Potomac Custom Remodeling

Action Items for Listeners:

1. Immediate Actions:
   • Reflect on your own definition of success - is it yours or someone else's?
   • Identify one area where you're people pleasing at the expense of your well-being
   • Consider what "baggage" (physical or emotional) you might be carrying
2. This Week:
   • Enroll in Saahil's free complimentary webinar at saahilmehta.com/success
   • Read or purchase "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"
   • Journal about a decision you're facing using the "Zero Regret" framework
3. This Month:
   • Schedule a discovery call with Saahil if you're ready for transformation
   • Implement one decluttering practice (physical or mental)
   • Share this episode with an entrepreneur friend who might need to hear this message
4. Long Term:
   • Watch Saahil's TED Talk when it goes live
   • Regularly assess whether your actions align with your values
   • Build a support system that encourages authentic success

Episode Insights:

This episode stands out for its raw honesty about the dark side of entrepreneurial success. Saahil doesn't just share his story - he provides a roadmap for others to avoid the same traps. The conversation challenges conventional notions of success and offers a more holistic, sustainable approach to building both business and life.

Key takeaways include the importance of defining success on your own terms, recognizing the warning signs of burnout and unfulfillment, and understanding that it's never too late to course-correct. Saahil's father starting a business at 54 is particularly inspiring for listeners who feel they've missed their window.

The Zero Regret philosophy provides a practical framework that listeners can immediately apply to their decision-making process, while the emphasis on decluttering offers tangible first steps toward transformation.

Guest: Reed Nyffeler - Author, franchisor operating in 49 states & 9 countries Books: "Transform Through Purpose" and "Lead Exponentially" Contact: readnyffeler.com

Key Topics:

• Construction to franchise journey
• Security franchise model with proprietary software
• New low-cost franchises: Filter Go, window cleaning
• Franchise vs. entrepreneur: personality determines path
• Lead Exponentially framework for delegation
• Great Grandma vs. Grandma leadership analogy
• 6-month test: Can your business grow without you?
• Stewardship of time and talent for next generation

[00:00:00] Introduction & Reed's Background

[00:00:48] Construction Beginnings - Block layer at 14, father's home building business

[00:01:51] Career Evolution - DeWalt Power Tools, early tech, Christmas lights

[00:03:10] Discovering Franchising - The gap between skills and business knowledge

[00:04:01] Franchise Value - Recipe for success, pricing, systems, exit strategy

[00:08:00] Security Franchise Deep Dive - 49 states, Uber-like software, hundreds of millions in revenue

[00:12:00] Target Audience - Military veterans and former police officers

[00:15:00] New Low-Cost Franchises - Filter Go, window cleaning, no money down model

[00:18:00] Cross-Selling Strategy - Leveraging existing clients for warm leads

[00:20:20] Franchise vs. Entrepreneur - Personality assessment and path selection

[00:21:40] Great Grandma Analogy - Recipe creators vs. recipe perfectors

[00:24:00] The $20 Payroll Story - Learning what NOT to do

[00:26:40] Lead Exponentially Framework - Six-month test: business vs. job

[00:28:20] Teaching for Employee Benefit - Motivation beyond paycheck

[00:31:00] Five Levels of Leadership - Aligning leadership with organization size

[00:33:00] Where to Find Reed - Books, website, resources

[00:35:00] Final Wisdom - Stewardship and multigenerational impact

[00:36:15] Closing & Consulting Info

Guest: Chris Zimmerman

• Owner, At Your Service Roofing and Remodeling
• Co-founder, Master Your Craft (with John Lombard)
• 15+ years in roofing industry
• Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor
• Based in Cincinnati, OH with branch in Cleveland

Key Topics Discussed:

Industry Transformation (2024)

• Market down 20-40% for most contractors
• Chris achieved best year ever despite no major storms
• The "thinning of the herd" is finally happening
• Shift from storm-dependent to sustainable business models

New Ventures with John Lombard:

1. Scientific Hail Damage Testing Service - Methodical testing to determine actual hail damage vs. "magnetic hail"
2. AI-Powered Claims Assistance Tool - Downloads expertise from Chris, John, and industry leaders to help contractors communicate effectively with insurance carriers

The Great Pivot: Restoration to Retail

• Burned company to the ground (Labor Day 2024)
• Eliminated 2 of 5 divisions
• Complete restructuring of leadership and processes
• Unified process for repairs, retail, and claims
• Eliminated door knocking entirely
• Focus on referral partnerships over cold leads

Three Mindset Shifts for Retail Success:

1. Price - You can charge premium prices in retail (just like restoration)
2. Opportunity - Build referral networks, don't rely on door knocking or expensive marketing
3. Service - Run every appointment through the same process regardless of type

Insurance Industry Challenges:

• COVID doubled claim costs while premiums stayed regulated
• Carriers forced into "poor behavior" due to financial constraints
• Fraud was "priced in" but became unmanageable
• Homeowners deserve indemnification regardless of carrier challenges

Communication is King:

• "If your skill level is a 4 and your communication level is a 9, your effectiveness is a 4" - John Lombard
• Understanding the "why" behind strategies vs. memorizing scripts
• Most contractors can't effectively "sell value"

Industry Red Flags:

• "Insurance claim specialist" = UPA violations
• Flexing on social media vs. building sustainable business
• Short-term thinking vs. long-term wealth building
• Lambos in year 2-3 = cash flow problems ahead

Advice for New Roofers:

1. Develop strong work ethic first
2. Read books constantly (1% better with each one)
3. Block out the noise and social media drama
4. Treat roofing as a career, not a job
5. Build reputation over revenue
6. Focus on long-term strategy
7. Take advantage of training resources (NTS, Master Your Craft)

Master Your Craft Details:

• Online community: $1,000-$1,500/month for 20 users
• 15-35 pre-recorded 2-hour trainings
• 3 new trainings monthly (Chris, John, + guest expert)
• Private trainings available
• Free Owens Corning University classes
• In-person classes: ~$500-600/ticket

Resources Mentioned:

• Master Your Craft
• NTS (National Testing Services)
• RSRA (Roofing & Siding Restoration Alliance) - Adam Bensman
• Owens Corning University
• Power Home Remodeling

Key Quotes:

• "Your reputation is your net worth"
• "It's way harder to sell restoration than retail these days"
• "The problem with arguing with a fool is that people from a distance can't tell who's who"
• "Slow down, make your money, do good, help people out—that good's gonna come back to you"
• "Keep it stupid simple" (KISS principle)

About Bill Blankschaen: Bill is the author of "Your Story Advantage" and owner of Story Builders, where he's spent 13+ years helping individuals and businesses develop their stories. He's worked with high-profile names like Dean Graziosi, John Maxwell, and Louis Howes, as well as countless businesses building their brands systematically.

The Story Ecosystem Framework:

1. Message Maker - Your core brand story
2. Message Multiplier - Your book that scales your message
3. Message Monetizer - Coaching programs, trainings, workshops, and digital courses

Seven-Step Brand Story Process: Bill walks businesses through a comprehensive process to develop their brand story, ensuring it resonates with their target audience and builds trust.

Key Philosophy: "Your story is about you, but your story is not for you" - This mindset shift helps entrepreneurs focus on serving their customers rather than just promoting themselves.

The Story Focus Question: If someone engages with your brand and forgets 99% of everything, what's the ONE thing you want them to remember? This becomes your "meaningful message."

Book Resources:

• Get the book: yourstoryadadvantage.com (includes multiple free bonuses)
• Also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-Million
• Schedule consultation: mystorybuilders.com/story

00:00:18 - Welcome and guest introduction - Bill Blankschaen from Orlando
00:00:56 - Ken's excitement about discussing story and brand over roofing
00:01:33 - The importance of building a personal brand
00:02:30 - Everyone has a distinct advantage through their unique story
00:03:03 - The Story Ecosystem: Message Maker, Message Multiplier, Message Monetizer
00:03:56 - Discussion of Bill's book "Your Story Advantage"
00:04:25 - Bill's 13+ years of experience working with major names
00:05:01 - Your breakthrough begins when you start with your story
00:05:43 - The importance of story for both influencers AND businesses
00:06:09 - Seven-step process for developing brand stories
00:06:18 - "Your story is about you, but not for you"
00:07:04 - Roofing example: Trust-based decision making
00:08:00 - Ken's positioning strategy for higher-end clients
00:09:07 - Being intentional about who you want to reach
00:09:46 - Copy-paste-tweak: Systemizing your brand story
00:10:38 - Defining your key demographic intentionally
00:10:46 - Case study: Multi-generational stone masonry company
00:12:01 - Reverse engineering marketing from your brand story
00:12:28 - The "Roof Wizard" character discussion
00:13:00 - Potomac Custom Remodeling brand strategy
00:13:56 - Everyone telling the same story across your organization
00:14:41 - Many businesses succeed accidentally
00:15:10 - Ken at the point of exhausting outbound marketing
00:15:30 - The power of brand recognition
00:16:00 - Access to the course and bonuses
00:16:22 - Working with both individuals and organizations
00:17:10 - Your key to success is focusing on your "neighborhood"
00:18:10 - The congressman story: "This book is for every American"
00:18:26 - Narrowing your focus to punch through Sheehan's Wall
00:19:01 - Puddle, pond, lake, ocean analogy for building audience
00:19:26 - Ken's two book ideas and the disconnect
00:20:05 - Why books differentiate service-based businesses
00:20:24 - "You've literally written the book on the subject"
00:21:00 - Business books vs. personal brand books
00:22:00 - "How to Roof Your Home" concept discussion
00:22:32 - Booklets that provide immediate value
00:23:00 - The face of the brand concept
00:23:40 - Allergist example with multiple locations
00:24:20 - The neglected origin story of companies
00:25:00 - Telling your story to resonate with customer problems
00:25:17 - Ken's company story training
00:26:00 - Ken's personal background story begins
00:27:00 - Car accident leading to addiction
00:27:12 - Three rehabs, jail, attempting to rob a store
00:27:46 - The oxycodone epidemic connection
00:28:00 - From homelessness to building businesses in 8 years
00:28:33 - Meeting his future wife (attorney) and avoiding bankruptcy
00:29:01 - Building multiple businesses from nothing
00:29:40 - The power of sharing difficult stories
00:30:00 - Bill's insight: Restoration and renewal theme
00:30:44 - Every story matters philosophy
00:31:20 - How to communicate difficult stories carefully
00:31:50 - The two book disconnect revealed
00:32:00 - Your story exists to support your message
00:32:24 - Ken's realization about combining the books
00:32:40 - Addiction's impact on American families
00:33:05 - Writing for both addicts and family members
00:33:45 - Work to be done compartmentalizing the story
00:34:00 - Chapters 4 and 5 on building books
00:34:20 - Six book starter questions
00:34:46 - Both/and thinking instead of either/or
00:35:00 - Ken's request for a signed copy
00:35:35 - Where to get the book and bonuses
00:36:22 - Schedule time to talk: mystorybuilders.com/story
00:36:40 - Business owners are building personal brands too
00:37:15 - Delivering tactical, actionable value
00:38:00 - The collaboration chapter: "If you want to elevate, you must collaborate"
00:38:46 - Entrepreneurs trying to do everything themselves
00:39:11 - Famous last words: "I'll just do it myself"
00:39:33 - Final advice for business owners: Start with your meaningful message
00:40:00 - The Story Focus Question explained
00:40:24 - If they only remember ONE thing, what should it be?
00:41:17 - The starting point for any business or brand
00:41:46 - Ken's timing: Five years in, ready for branding
00:42:00 - Final book promotion and excitement
00:42:27 - Where to connect with Bill
00:43:06 - The coincidence of James's encouragement this morning
00:43:27 - Bill's parting wisdom: Every story matters
00:44:06 - Your responsibility to contribute your best
00:44:24 - Episode wrap-up