The Kitchen Table
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The Kitchen Table episodes

  • AI is Replacing Google Search: What Business Owners Must Know Now | Jason Michael Perry
    Guest Introduction

    Jason Michael Perry is the Founder & Chief AI Officer at PerryLabs, a consulting company helping businesses navigate the AI landscape. He's the former CEO of mygroove and author of "The AI Evolution: The Role of the Chief AI Officer." Based in Baltimore, MD, Jason has eight years of experience in technology leadership and hosts the "Thoughts on Tech & Things" podcast.

    Key Topics Covered

    The AI Revolution Context

    • We're in the "AOL days of AI"—as early as the internet was before e-commerce existed
    • The top 5 companies by valuation (Nvidia, Apple, Microsoft, Google, Amazon) didn't exist 51 years ago
    • Microsoft is the oldest at 50 years, demonstrating how quickly technology reshapes industries
    • AI is predicted to be bigger than the internet or personal computer revolutions

    The Death of Traditional Search

    • Google is experiencing declining search traffic for the first time ever
    • Users are shifting to ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity for information discovery
    • Traditional PPC, display ads, and organic search strategies are becoming less effective
    • The concept of "Google Zero"—when organic search traffic from Google reaches zero

    Discovery in the AI Era

    • AI models typically return 2-3 options instead of 10-20 like traditional search
    • These become the new "organic search results" that businesses must optimize for
    • Listing sites and "top 10" aggregators are currently dominating AI search results
    • Agent-to-agent (A2A) commerce is emerging where personal AI agents talk to business chatbots

    Action Steps for Business Owners

    1. "ChatGPT Yourself" - Search for your business in multiple AI platforms (ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexity)
    2. Identify Sources - See where AI is pulling information about your business
    3. Learn New Terms - Research Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO)
    4. Monitor Listing Sites - Ensure presence on aggregator sites AI models trust
    5. Prepare for Change - Diversify discovery channels beyond Google

    The Blue-Collar Impact

    • AI will affect ALL businesses, including traditionally "hands-on" industries
    • Discovery methods are changing even for local service businesses
    • Customer interactions through chatbots are becoming normalized
    • Future possibilities include robotics for physical tasks (delivery, construction, etc.)

    Technology Optimism

    • Jason views AI as a "great equalizer" similar to eyeglasses—bridging human limitations
    • Compares to how Star Trek inspired real technological innovation
    • Technology creates opportunities for people with disabilities
    • Humanity's nature will determine outcomes more than the technology itself

    Real-World Examples

    • Amazon testing delivery robots with autonomous vehicles
    • Neo robot ($20K) controlled remotely by humans wearing VR headsets
    • Google's AI Overview and dedicated AI search platform
    • Airlines implementing agent-to-agent booking systems
    Key Quotes

    "Right now we're in the AOL days of AI. We're in the time as if you were talking about the internet before Amazon and e-commerce has been defined."

    "This is the infancy of this cycle that we're gonna be on and just like AOL, which was a huge company doesn't exist today, who knows what the next company's gonna be over the next 50 years."

    "Have you ChatGPT yourself? Have you looked at yourself in Perplexity? Have you looked for your business on Claude?"

    "Relying on Google to be the saving Grace for your business is like relying on the Yellow Pages to be the thing that's gonna continue to drive traffic to your business."

    "This is that opportunity to be number one in ChatGPT while your other competitors aren't even thinking about it."

    Resources Mentioned
    • Book: "The AI Evolution: The Role of the Chief AI Officer" by Jason Michael Perry
    • AI Search Tools: ChatGPT, Claude, Perplexy
    • Companies Referenced: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Nvidia, Warby Parker
    • Concepts: AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), Google Zero, Agent-to-Agent commerce
    Connect with Jason
    • Website: www.jasonmperry.com
    • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jasonmperry
    • Podcast: Thoughts on Tech & Things
    • Company: PerryLabs
    31 min
  • Building the Future of Roofing CRMs: Blake Grissom & James Wolfgang Kuntz on BuilderLink, Retail Roofing, and Industry Innovation
    About the Guests

    Blake Grissom - Charleston, South Carolina

    • Previously featured on The Kitchen Table Podcast approximately one year ago
    • Had a record-breaking year in insurance restoration following South Carolina's largest storm
    • Recently launched his own roofing company
    • Experiencing the "baptism by fire" of starting during a non-storm year
    • Co-founder/partner in BuilderLink CRM
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-grissom-0993bb26b/

    James Wolfgang Kuntz - Austin, Texas

    • Decade of experience in the tech/software industry
    • Worked with VC and private equity-backed software companies
    • Former "understudy" to industry leader Kurt
    • Recently completed major multi-family/commercial projects
    • Operating in one of the most saturated roofing markets (Texas)
    • Believes in collaboration over competition
    • Co-founder/partner in BuilderLink CRM
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wolfgangkuntz/
    Major Industry Issues Discussed

    1. The Retail Roofing Shift

    • Insurance carriers sending "drop letters" forcing replacements at 10-20 years (non-hail markets) or 5 years (hail markets)
    • ACV policies and percentage deductibles ($15K-$40K deductibles mentioned)
    • Interest rates affecting housing market turnover
    • Texas statistics: 47% of insurance claims denied in recent year
    • Insurance restoration alone is no longer sustainable

    2. Current CRM Limitations

    • Acculynx acquired by Verisk (October 1, 2025) for ~$1 billion
    • Most "CRMs" are actually project management tools
    • Not built for retail/multi-trade operations
    • Poor support for roofing + siding + windows + doors + gutters
    • Data migration costs often $10,000+ extra
    • Lack of true sales enablement features

    3. The Need for Diversification

    • Retail encompasses: repairs, replacements, shingle, coating, metal, solar
    • Multiple payment options and financing required
    • Need for quick proposal generation (5 minutes vs. 1-2 hours)
    • Professional proposals that don't look like Microsoft Word documents
    • Systems that support premium pricing ($1,000/square achievable)
    BuilderLink CRM Features

    Core Functionality:

    • True CRM (not just project management)
    • 20+ lead acquisition channels supported
    • Multi-channel sales strategy (omnichannel approach)
    • Storm data mapping tool
    • AI voice assistants for follow-up
    • Automated follow-ups via SMS, phone, ringless voicemail, email
    • Call center integration capabilities

    Integrations:

    • QuickBooks (true integration)
    • Calendar systems
    • ABC Supply (MVP), other supply houses post-MVP
    • Eagle View
    • Hover
    • Company Cam alternative built-in
    • CAD tools for blueprints and designs

    Supported Industries:

    • Roofing (insurance & retail)
    • Siding
    • Windows & Doors
    • Gutters
    • Solar
    • Full General Contractor work
    • Landscaping
    • Water Mitigation
    • Any home service business

    Data Migration:

    • Turnkey migration service included
    • Assessment process to understand current systems
    • Identify gaps in processes
    • Team deployed to assist
    • Free/low-cost for early adopters
    • Eliminates typical $10,000+ migration costs

    User Experience:

    • User-friendly for typical roofing salesperson
    • Not overly customizable (avoiding Job Nimbus complexity)
    • Training programs included
    • AI-powered training features
    • Process and procedures built into the system
    • Live in one application vs. 6-7 subscriptions
    Beta Program Details

    Launch Timeline:

    • MVP (Minimum Viable Product) launching Q4 2025
    • Expected mid-to-late December 2025
    • Perfect timing for slow season implementation

    Beta Program:

    • Originally 30 spots, expanded to 50 total
    • Approximately 25 spots remaining (as of recording)
    • AI agent qualification call upon signup
    • Feedback from beta users heavily valued
    • Early adopter benefits include:
      • Discounted rates
      • Grandfathered pricing long-term
      • Free/low-cost migration assistance
      • Direct input on product development

    How to Join:

    • Visit: BuilderLink.com
    • Fill out beta user application
    • Alternatively, join waitlist
    • Investment opportunities also available for select investors

    Founder:

    • Sean (founder of BuilderLink)
    • 4+ months of research before development
    • Built by contractors who understand the pain points
    • Focus on recurring revenue, not just upfront costs
    Investment & Business Philosophy

    Ken Baden's Journey:

    • Invested $500,000 in coaching/consulting over 18 months
    • Admits to having an "addiction problem" with learning (now in recovery)
    • Scaled back investments to focus on implementation
    • Currently planning group coaching program for retail roofing
    • Focus on teaching $1,000/square systems

    Key Success Principles Discussed:

    1. Collaboration Over Competition - "People at the top collaborate, people at the bottom compete"
    2. Cross-Market Networking - Learn from contractors in different states
    3. Invest in Yourself - Best ROI you'll ever get
    4. Be a Student of the Game - Continuous learning is essential
    5. Know Your Strengths/Weaknesses - Leverage others' expertise
    6. Get Out of Your Own Way - Drop the ego

    The Importance of Paying for Education:

    • Forces attention and commitment
    • Creates accountability
    • Provides access to networks and connections
    • Accelerates learning curve
    • Investment psychology: "I get my attention when I'm paying for something"
    Market Conditions & Trends

    Texas Market (James):

    • High saturation similar to Dallas
    • Many contractors moving into Austin
    • Percentage deductibles and exemptions common
    • Active hail market but not every year
    • Focus on doing little things well to separate from competition

    South Carolina Market (Blake):

    • Had massive storm year before launching business
    • Currently experiencing non-storm conditions
    • Insurance companies sending forced replacement letters (15-20 year old roofs)
    • Housing market stagnation due to interest rates
    • Retail boom expected when rates drop

    DMV/Eastern Market (Ken):

    • Not a hail market traditionally
    • High concentration of government employees
    • Recent influx of insurance restoration companies
    • Insurance carriers implementing 10-15 year replacement requirements
    • Drop letters becoming standard practice
    • Once drop letter received, insurance typically won't pay
    Additional Industry Insights

    Drop Letters Explained:

    • Insurance carriers using Google Maps/aerial imagery
    • Forcing replacements based solely on age
    • High-profile cases (Massachusetts church example)
    • Creating retail opportunities for contractors
    • Legal questions about timing (carrier wins if letter sent first)

    CRM Market Dynamics:

    • Roofing companies launching their own CRMs (New Look → Leap example)
    • Big money in software solutions
    • Verisk consolidation concerns (owns Xactimate, Acculynx, potentially more)
    • Black Rock investment trails in various platforms
    • Industry recognizing software as the future

    Retail vs. Insurance Restoration:

    • Completely different business models
    • Retail requires: different lead sources, qualification processes, dispatching, recycling, rehashing
    • One-call-close methodology
    • Premium pricing justified through system and presentation
    • Product diversity (roofing systems, not just shingles)
    • Financing options essential
    • Professional proposals critical for conversion

    Pricing Philosophy:

    • Roofing has price disparity like watches ($10 Walmart → $200K AP)
    • $1,000/square achievable with proper system
    • Quality justifies premium pricing
    • System supports price point through:
      • Lead qualification
      • Professional presentation
      • Product demonstration
      • One-call-close methodology
      • 30-40% demo and close rates achievable
    Upcoming Initiatives

    Ken Baden's Group Coaching:

    • Launching winter 2025
    • Focus on retail roofing systems
    • Teaching $1,000/square methodologies
    • Group format for affordability
    • Beta test with trusted peers first
    • DM Ken directly for information
    • Alternative to expensive one-on-one consulting

    BuilderLink Next Steps:

    • Finalizing MVP features
    • Onboarding beta users
    • Gathering feedback for improvements
    • Planning post-MVP features
    • Investor selection process ongoing
    • Building customer success/migration team
    46 min
  • Why Recession is Your Opportunity: Business Growth Strategy with Doug C. Brown

    About Doug C Brown:

    • Former President of Sales & Training for Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes organization
    • Managed 166 people, helped grow company 10x during tenure
    • Improved closing rates from 17.8% to 43.2% (sustained for 7 years)
    • Improved front-end sales from 12.7% to 21.2%
    • Has worked with 352+ industries over 30+ years
    • Notable clients include: Intuit, CBS Television, Procter & Gamble, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, CBRE, E-Myth, Deepak Chopra, Brian Tracy, 1-800-GOT-JUNK
    • Helped grow one company from $48M to $110M in two years
    • Education: Berklee College of Music

    Key Insights:

    1. The Power of Standing Out: Doug's story of sending flowers to Tony Robbins' assistant demonstrates the importance of differentiation—standing out from a crowd of 5,000+ people
    2. The $400K Follow-Up Failure: Doug invested $400,000 in his building (windows, doors, roof, solar, complete renovation) and explicitly told contractors he could provide referrals. Result? Zero follow-ups, zero referral requests from any contractor
    3. Economic Downturn Strategy: When businesses fear economic uncertainty, they typically pull back on the two things that ensure survival: sales and marketing. This creates opportunity for those who push forward
    4. The Four Flow Formula:
      • Lead flow (consistent lead generation)
      • Work flow (converting leads efficiently)
      • Relationship flow (building long-term customer relationships)
      • Mind flow (addressing limiting beliefs and mindset)
      • = Cash flow
    5. Limiting Beliefs: Doug shares his personal story of limiting beliefs from childhood (being told he'd never be a professional musician like his grandmother) and how Tony Robbins' content helped him overcome them
    6. Business is Business: Across 352 industries, Doug has found that business fundamentally operates the same way—money in, money out equals loss, break-even, or profit. The principles are universal.
    7. Paid in Full vs. Payment Plans: Doug discusses how shifting clients to pay upfront increases their commitment and engagement, benefiting both parties
    8. Market Share in Downturns: Economic uncertainty is the best time to gain market share while competitors retreat, positioning yourself for exponential growth when markets recover

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Tony Robbins Personal Power programs
    • Chet Holmes "The Ultimate Sales Machine"
    • Jay Conrad Levinson "Guerrilla Marketing" series
    • Harvey Mackay "Swimming with the Sharks"
    • Tim McGraw "Live Like You Were Dying"

    Contact Doug C Brown:

    • Email: [email protected]
    • Phone: 832-549-4836
    • LinkedIn: dougbrown123
    • Instagram: @Doug_C_Brown
    • Newsletter: CEOSalesStrategies.com/newsletter
    • Website: CEOSalesStrategies.com
    Accurate Timestamps

    00:00:00 - Introduction and welcome

    00:00:33 - Meet Doug C Brown (not the hockey player!)

    00:01:26 - Recent health scare and fresh perspective on life

    00:03:44 - Connection to Tony Robbins background

    00:04:24 - Official title: President of Sales and Training for Tony Robbins

    00:04:40 - Managing 166 people at Robbins organization

    00:04:47 - How Tony Robbins' cassette tapes changed Doug's life

    00:06:01 - First meeting with Tony Robbins at the Biltmore Hotel

    00:06:40 - Winning a raffle invitation and guest speakers (Harvey Mackay, Tony Robbins)

    00:07:40 - The bodyguard incident - trying to meet Tony

    00:08:13 - Finding Tony in the courtyard - the chance encounter

    00:09:01 - Making Tony laugh and the famous shoulder punch

    00:10:00 - The brilliant bouquet of flowers strategy

    00:11:00 - Tony calling Doug out at the 5,000+ person event

    00:11:52 - Beginning work with Chet Holmes in the chat homes industry

    00:12:30 - Becoming #1 coach at $65K/month (vs $10K average)

    00:13:12 - Tony Robbins and Chet Holmes companies merging

    00:13:33 - The Las Vegas boardroom meeting with 40 people

    00:13:46 - Improving closing rates from 17.8% to 43.2%

    00:14:00 - Front-end sales improvement from 12.7% to 21.2%

    00:14:32 - Company growth 10x during tenure

    00:14:48 - Working with major corporations (Procter & Gamble, CBS, Enterprise, CBRE)

    00:15:40 - The $400,000 building renovation story

    00:16:00 - CRITICAL POINT: Not one contractor followed up or asked for referrals

    00:17:26 - Exploiting notable client relationships

    00:17:46 - Importance of systematic, predictable processes

    00:18:40 - Response to impressive Tony Robbins story and internal company results

    00:19:02 - Working across 352 industries

    00:19:33 - 30+ years of formal consulting experience

    00:19:39 - All businesses are fundamentally the same

    00:20:27 - The math and metrics most businesses ignore

    00:21:02 - List of home services companies worked with

    00:21:28 - Working with Long Home and Fence (Maryland)

    00:22:10 - Consulting vs. coaching vs. advisory work

    00:23:16 - Finding ideal right-fit buyers

    00:23:43 - Common optimization points missing in businesses

    00:24:42 - CBS Television case study - selling like the 1950s

    00:25:01 - Intuit case study - $100M division turnaround

    00:25:41 - Company growth from $48M to $110M in 2 years

    00:26:00 - Childhood limiting beliefs and mindset work

    00:26:40 - Client example: first paid-in-full sale

    00:27:18 - Why clients pay more attention when they pay upfront

    00:27:36 - Personal music background story and limiting beliefs

    00:29:11 - Barry Goudreau from Boston encouraging music school

    00:29:36 - Acceptance to Berklee College of Music

    00:30:04 - The thermostat metaphor for business growth

    00:31:17 - Current socioeconomic challenges and market conditions

    00:32:00 - KEY ADVICE: Massive prospecting during economic uncertainty

    00:33:00 - Understanding your ideal right-fit buyer

    00:33:18 - What happens when the economy tightens

    00:34:38 - CRITICAL INSIGHT: Businesses pull back on sales and marketing (the kiss of death)

    00:35:15 - The four seasons economic cycle

    00:35:58 - Push forward to gain market share when competitors retreat

    00:37:00 - Mind flow component stops business execution

    00:37:46 - Tony Robbins' business mastery event story

    00:38:00 - "You ARE your business" - performance tied to thinking

    00:38:26 - Tony Robbins as best salesperson on the planet

    00:39:00 - Ken's company experience - being up when others are down

    00:40:02 - Right place, right time in the game

    00:40:40 - Zoom example - pandemic economic shift

    00:41:33 - Jason's Deli case study - calling on corporations

    00:42:00 - 30% business increase in six months

    00:42:28 - Cookie strategy - additional 8% bump

    00:43:05 - Building brand presence through PR

    00:43:30 - Advice works in every economic downturn

    00:44:04 - Business as a game with rules

    00:44:22 - The complete flow formula breakdown

    00:45:21 - NLP certification and mindset importance

    00:46:22 - Successful people constantly work on themselves

    00:47:03 - Brian Scudamore (1-800-GOT-JUNK) and PR strategy

    00:47:36 - Resolving problems with new thinking levels

    00:48:05 - Where to find Doug C Brown

    00:49:03 - Email and social media contacts

    00:49:40 - Newsletter signup (highly recommended)

    00:50:28 - Doug's interest in reconnecting about Long Home and Fence

    00:51:00 - Final wisdom: Napoleon Hill quote - mind can conceive, believe, and achieve

    00:51:21 - Things take longer and cost more than expected

    00:51:38 - Closing and thank you

    53 min
  • From Correctional Officer to Storm Chasing Queen: Taylor Baires on Building a Roofing Empire

    Guest: Taylor Baires

    • Owner: Varadero Roofing Group
    • Founder: Solutions Beyond the Storm (Consulting)
    • Background: Construction, Law Enforcement, Roofing Sales
    • Location: Florida (travels nationwide for consulting)

    Key Discussion Points:

    • The psychological advantage women have at the door
    • Why retail training makes superior storm chasers
    • Growing up in a GC family and learning work ethic
    • Transition from law enforcement to roofing
    • Partnership structure and business ownership
    • Current state of Florida insurance market
    • Rising deductibles and their impact on the industry
    • The future shift toward retail roofing
    • Self-insurance trends in Florida
    • Importance of continuous training and education
    • Building reputation in storm restoration consulting

    Memorable Quotes:

    • "Sales is more of a lifestyle than just a job"
    • "Nobody's coming to save you—you have to earn everything"
    • "Storm chasers after retail training is like being in a candy store"
    • "Women either do door-to-door or they don't—when they do, they crush it"
     Timestamps

    00:00 - Introduction and Welcome 

    00:42 - Meet Taylor Baires and pronunciation guide 

    01:00 - Taylor's roofing company: Varadero Roofing Group 

    01:27 - Storm chasing consulting and recent South Carolina trip 

    02:15 - Women in the roofing industry discussion 

    02:30 - The unfair advantage women have in door-to-door sales 

    03:30 - Why homeowners trust women at the door more 

    04:18 - Taylor's origin story: Born into the industry 

    05:00 - Growing up on construction job sites 

    05:12 - Father's influence and learning hard work early 

    06:20 - Sweeping parking lots and earning money as a kid 

    06:55 - Father's GC business and local market focus 

    07:30 - Growing up hating storm chasers 

    08:00 - How Taylor became a storm chaser herself 

    08:40 - Current consulting approach and client relationships 

    09:20 - Consulting services: Training vs. hands-on work 

    09:50 - Why fresh storms are "like a candy store" 

    10:15 - Retail training makes storm restoration easy 

    11:40 - True retail selling vs. offering cheap alternatives 

    12:40 - Getting retail vs. storm experience first 

    13:05 - Taking over Varadero Roofing Group in 2020 

    14:00 - Previous career as correctional officer 

    15:00 - Why construction welcomes people with any background 

    15:40 - The future of insurance restoration 

    16:05 - Florida's insurance crisis and rising deductibles 

    17:10 - Self-insurance trends in Florida 

    17:30 - How to connect with Taylor for consulting services 

    18:00 - Importance of investing in multiple training programs 

    18:30 - Contact information and social media 

    19:10 - Closing remarks

    20 min
  • Engineer Solves Real Estate Problem, Creates 8-Figure Data Platform | Brian Seidensticker

    Host: Ken Baden - CEO of Baden Consulting and Potomac Custom Remodeling 

    Guest: Brian Seidensticker - Chief Executive Officer, Tax Sale Resources, Inc.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • Transition from aerospace engineering to entrepreneurship
    • How the 2008 financial crisis led to discovering tax liens
    • Building a SaaS platform to solve industry inefficiencies
    • The truth about tax sale properties and foreclosures
    • Difference between tax lien and tax deed investing
    • Mountain North Capital's profit-sharing partnership model
    • Current economic outlook and recession indicators
    • Commercial-to-residential conversion opportunities
    • Federal Reserve rate decisions and housing market impacts
    • Overcoming negative industry perceptions
    • Entrepreneurial advice: persistence and dreaming big
    • Celebrating wins without losing drive

    Resources Mentioned:

    • Tax Sale Resources platform (tracks 9,000 auctions annually)
    • Mountain North Capital (profit-sharing fund)
    • Supreme Court cases affecting tax deed regulations
    • Leap (contracting software comparison example)

    Business Metrics:

    • 9,000 auctions tracked annually
    • Couple million properties in system
    • $8-9 billion in assets processed yearly
    • Revenue from platform exceeded tax lien investing within 2 years

    Episode Context: This is Ken Baden's first episode back after the birth of his first child (three weeks old at recording). Ken jokes about being in "zombie mode" throughout the episode.

     

    Timestamps

    0:00 - Introduction & Welcome Back "Post-Baby Baden" 

    0:46 - New Dad Life: Zombie Mode & Unpredictable Sleep Schedules 

    2:04 - Parenting Advice: Everything is a Phase 

    3:44 - Introducing Brian Seidensticker & Getting Started 

    3:53 - Brian's Background: From Aerospace Engineer to Real Estate 

    5:20 - The Breaking Point: Government Red Tape & Six-Week Vacation Epiphany 

    6:22 - Getting Into House Flipping (2005-2008) 

    6:44 - Discovery of Tax Liens Through Personal Experience in Montana 

    7:28 - Building the Original Tax Sale Resources Platform 

    8:17 - Transitioning from Investor to Platform Provider 

    9:15 - Business Model Comparison: Similar to Leap's Journey 

    10:08 - Solving Industry Inefficiencies 

    10:20 - Understanding the Client Base: Tax Lien vs Tax Deed Investors 

    11:30 - What Tax Sale Properties Actually Look Like (HGTV Reality) 

    12:28 - The Foreclosure Process Explained 

    13:42 - The Platform: "Zillow for Distressed Real Estate" 

    15:12 - Mountain North Capital: The Profit-Sharing Fund 

    16:35 - How the Capital Partnership Structure Works (Not a Lender) 

    17:17 - Current Market Conditions & Tax Lien Property Trends 

    18:00 - Are We in a Recession? Economic Analysis 

    19:15 - Finding Opportunity in Market Volatility 

    20:20 - Commercial to Residential Conversion: The Next Big Opportunity 

    21:56 - Current Economic Outlook & Federal Reserve Decisions 

    23:20 - Inflation vs Housing Demand: The Fed's Dilemma 

    24:12 - Predictions: Rate Cuts & Housing Market Impact 

    24:56 - Interest Rate Discussion: Quarter Point Drops 

    25:42 - Growth Plans & Supreme Court Case Impacts on Tax Deed States 

    26:47 - Growing Pains as "Fun, Cool Problems to Solve" 

    27:03 - Biggest Industry Challenge: Negative Perception & Media Coverage 

    28:26 - The Truth About Tax Sales & Community Benefits 

    29:22 - Contact Information & Real Human Support (No AI Yet) 

    30:30 - AI Discussion: Tool vs Replacement for Humans 

    31:23 - Final Advice for Entrepreneurs: Be Persistent & Dream Big 

    33:12 - The Importance of Dreaming Big to Achieve Big 

    34:25 - Bonus Advice: Celebrating Wins & Avoiding Burnout 

    35:42 - Closing Remarks & Baden Consulting Services Information 

    36:14 - Outro

    37 min
  • Revolutionizing Leads: Why Door-to-Door is the Future of Home Services with Ken Baden, Jonathan Bannister and Sam Wakefield

    Takeaways:

    • Market Shift: The home service boom (2020–2023) has ended; call volume dropped 30–40% and stabilized at lower levels.
    • Brand over Rankings: Strong, memorable branding now outweighs digital rankings for lead quality and cost-effectiveness.
    • Digital Challenges Ahead: Marketing will become harder and costlier due to saturation and AI platforms diverting traffic.
    • Canvassing Opportunity: Door-to-door reaches the 94% of households not actively seeking services, creating untapped growth potential.
    • Fast, Low-Cost Leads: Canvassing generates immediate leads and revenue, funding long-term branding efforts.
    • Misconceptions Debunked: Door-to-door works across industries and doesn’t harm reputation if done right.
    • Setter-Closer Model: Businesses can control lead flow by training canvassers (setters) to book and sales reps (closers) to convert.
    • Three-Pillar Institute Approach:
    1. Marketing & Branding (direct mail, video, brand warming)
    2. Recruiting & Team Building (hiring, profiling, retention)
    3. Sales Training (50%+ close rates, higher tickets)
    • Proactive Growth: Eliminates seasonality and dependency on external leads by creating a steady, controlled pipeline.
    • “5-Mile Famous”: Focus on hyper-local recognition through frequent, consistent touchpoints to dominate a local market.

    TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL BOOK A FREE CONSULATION CALL NOW!  

    ********************************

    https://badenconsulting.net/dominate

    About Me: Ken Baden - Business Growth Consultant

    ********************************

    💼 8-figure business owner in roofing, sales, door-to-door, and consulting.

    🌐 Founder of Baden Consulting, helping entrepreneurs build and scale profitable home improvement and roofing businesses.

    🚀 Join me for expert strategies on sales, leadership, and business growth—where grit meets smart execution.

    🎥 Subscribe for real-world insights, proven tactics, and success stories from the field!

    Follow me on social:  

    YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@kenbaden  

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkenbaden  

    Instagram: www.Instagram.com/officialkenbaden  

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/officialkenbaden  

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennethbaden  

    Websites:  

    www.badenconsulting.net  

    https://thekitchentablepodcast.net/

     

    Guests:

    Jonathan Bannister 
    IG: @jonathanismarketing

    https://www.topservdigital.com/

    https://homeservicehustle.com/

    Sam Wakefield

    IG: @therealcloseitnow

    www.closeitnow.net

     

     

    1 hr 33 min
  • AI & Tailored Style: Anya Cheng on Revolutionising Men's Fashion with Taelor AI

    Takeaways

    • The Power of Personal Presentation

    • AI as a Personal Style Assistant: Taelor AI 

    • Sustainability Through Rental

    • The Entrepreneurial Focus on Pain Points

    • Unique Data is King in the AI Era

    • Strategic Expansion & Licensing

    • Self-Belief is Paramount

     

    TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL BOOK A FREE CONSULATION CALL NOW!  

    ********************************

    https://badenconsulting.net/dominate

    About Me: Ken Baden - Business Growth Consultant

    ********************************

    💼 8-figure business owner in roofing, sales, door-to-door, and consulting.

    🌐 Founder of Baden Consulting, helping entrepreneurs build and scale profitable home improvement and roofing businesses.

    🚀 Join me for expert strategies on sales, leadership, and business growth—where grit meets smart execution.

    🎥 Subscribe for real-world insights, proven tactics, and success stories from the field!

    Follow me on social:  

    YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@kenbaden  

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkenbaden  

    Instagram: www.Instagram.com/officialkenbaden  

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/officialkenbaden  

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennethbaden  

    Websites:  

    www.badenconsulting.net  

    https://thekitchentablepodcast.net/

     

    Guest:

    https://www.instagram.com/anyacheng_siliconvalley/

    Website: https://taelor.style/
    https://www.instagram.com/taelor.style/

    48 min
  • What Business Leaders Can Learn from Pharma Consulting with Curtis Sprouse
    Takeaways
    • Leadership requires adaptability across industries.
    • Strategic consulting can accelerate growth in healthcare and tech.
    • Building relationships and mentorship are critical to long-term success.
    • Transitioning from finance to CEO-level leadership demands resilience and vision.
    • Entrepreneurs can borrow lessons from pharma and biotech strategy for their own businesses.

    TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL BOOK A FREE CONSULATION CALL NOW!  

    ********************************

    https://badenconsulting.net/dominate

    About Me: Ken Baden - Business Growth Consultant

    ********************************

    💼 8-figure business owner in roofing, sales, door-to-door, and consulting.

    🌐 Founder of Baden Consulting, helping entrepreneurs build and scale profitable home improvement and roofing businesses.

    🚀 Join me for expert strategies on sales, leadership, and business growth—where grit meets smart execution.

    🎥 Subscribe for real-world insights, proven tactics, and success stories from the field!

     

    Follow me on social:  

    YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@kenbaden  

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkenbaden  

    Instagram: www.Instagram.com/officialkenbaden  

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/officialkenbaden  

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennethbaden  

     

    Websites:  

    www.badenconsulting.net  

    https://thekitchentablepodcast.net/

     

    Guest:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtissprouse/

     

    36 min
  • The Coaching Conversation You Actually Need with Marc Mawhinney
    Key takeaways
    • The right help starts with clarity on scope and deliverables; bring in a team when there’s a defined outcome, not just activity.
    • Mentorship matters; learn from people who’ve already done what you want to do.
    • Be wary of high-pressure, high-ticket pitches; pressure tactics are a red flag.
    • Pick the platform and coach that match your goals; networking and relationships drive real results.
    • Know the difference between coaching and consulting; structure and accountability should be explicit.
    • Credibility shows up in process and outcomes, not promises.

     

    TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL BOOK A FREE CONSULATION CALL NOW!  

    ********************************

    https://badenconsulting.net/dominate

     

    About Me: Ken Baden - Business Growth Consultant

    ********************************

    💼 8-figure business owner in roofing, sales, door-to-door, and consulting.

    🌐 Founder of Baden Consulting, helping entrepreneurs build and scale profitable home improvement and roofing businesses.

    🚀 Join me for expert strategies on sales, leadership, and business growth—where grit meets smart execution.

    🎥 Subscribe for real-world insights, proven tactics, and success stories from the field!

     

    Follow me on social:  

    YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@kenbaden  

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkenbaden  

    Instagram: www.Instagram.com/officialkenbaden  

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/officialkenbaden  

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennethbaden  

     

    Websites:  

    www.badenconsulting.net  

    https://thekitchentablepodcast.net/

     

    Guest:

    https://www.facebook.com/marc.mawhinney

    www.thecoachingjungle.com

    36 min
  • Why Most Creators Fail (And How to Win) w/ Dmitry Lipinskiy
    Key Takeaways:

    Consistency trumps short-term virality. Most content creators in the roofing industry give up early due to lack of immediate validation.

    Reputation > Reach. Being authentic and honest over time builds a longer-lasting and more respected brand.

    Contractor Directorii was born from Dmitry’s frustration with unethical practices in the contractor space — aiming to create transparency and trust.

    Content is not optional — it’s the new business card. Contractors must create content to establish authority and grow their brand.

    Networking is currency. Even unpaid podcasting builds valuable relationships that can open major business opportunities.

    Roofing influencers aren't just for show — the best ones, like Dmitry, also build real solutions and lead by example.

     

    TAKE YOUR BUSINESS TO THE NEXT LEVEL BOOK A FREE CONSULATION CALL NOW!  

    ********************************

    https://badenconsulting.net/dominate

     

    About Me: Ken Baden - Business Growth Consultant

    ********************************

    💼 8-figure business owner in roofing, sales, door-to-door, and consulting.

    🌐 Founder of Baden Consulting, helping entrepreneurs build and scale profitable home improvement and roofing businesses.

    🚀 Join me for expert strategies on sales, leadership, and business growth—where grit meets smart execution.

    🎥 Subscribe for real-world insights, proven tactics, and success stories from the field!

     

    Follow me on social:  

    YouTube:    www.youtube.com/@kenbaden  

    Facebook: www.facebook.com/officialkenbaden  

    Instagram: www.Instagram.com/officialkenbaden  

    Tiktok: www.tiktok.com/officialkenbaden  

    LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kennethbaden  

     

    Websites:  

    www.badenconsulting.net  

    https://thekitchentablepodcast.net/

    Guest:

    https://dmitrylipinskiy.com/
    https://www.instagram.com/dmitrylipinskiy/

     

    1 hr 15 min

About The Kitchen Table

From the publisher's feed

A show about business, sales, goals, and the pursuit of personal greatness, all where business gets done. The Kitchen Table.