The ToolShed Podcast

Mental health, which governs our emotions, thoughts, and social interactions, influences how we feel and handle situations. Maintaining it can be challenging, especially during hard times. This guide provides practical methods to handle these periods and promote mental health, enabling us to live our best lives.

Shannen Cooper is the Business Development Manager for TradeMutt, Australia's only Social Enterprise Workwear Brand and Mental Health Advocate / Opportunity Magnet and Angle Connoisseur. Born in Cairns, and raised in Vanuatu, he left home for Brisbane at age 16 to finish high school, join the workforce, and pursue life, love, and happiness.

Key takeaways:

• Address mental health for confidence and self-awareness.
• Discuss, debunk myths, and fight mental health stigma.
• Start small daily; build mental health, essential for self-care.
• Discover how biology, psychology, and society mold our mental health.
• Actively change your mindset to improve mental health, not just go with the flow.
• Build and keep up healthy mental habits to thrive through challenges.
• A strong mind stems from diet, sleep, and movement synergy.

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Tune in next week as we discuss the advantages of having a wealth coach. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon as it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

• https://www.automationking.com.au/

As builders, we've all faced late nights wrestling with estimates, drowning in spreadsheets, and wondering if there's a better way. Well, V2E is here to say, "There is." V2E stands out by not just crunching numbers but by bringing projects to life with 3D modelling, offering a level of clarity and efficiency that paper plans could never match. V2E integrates into your current workflow and is made to fit your business like a glove. This personalised approach ensures that your projects aren't just numbers in a system, but visions brought closer to reality. It's about working smarter, not harder, and reclaiming those precious hours for what really matters.

I've had the privilege of sitting down with Michael Read, the owner and founder of V2E, short for Vision to Estimating, a company that's not just another service provider but a beacon of innovation for residential builders. As we always say here at Builders Business Black Belt, "Ask Who, Not How?" and V2E might just be the "Who" you've been searching for. It can transform your building projects, and perhaps, your life. Remember, it's not just about building houses; it's about building a future.

Key takeaways:

• The right partnership eases the estimating load, freeing builders to concentrate on their skills.
• V2E gives builders the ability to manage the volatility of material costs.
• Building estimates will become a lot easier with V2E.
• Increase accuracy and save more time with the help of V2E.
• V2E's personalised approach to service for builders navigating the complexities of modern construction.
• V2E's foundation was built on creating efficiency in the estimating process for builders.
• Integrating 3D modelling into the estimating process.

All this and more, on this week's episode of The ToolShed.

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Stay tuned next week when we talk about Mental Health Is Something You Do. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon as it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

https://www.v2e.com.au/

Men usually dominate the building industry, but we are now witnessing an increase in the number of women making their mark. They often face unique challenges but offer exciting opportunities in the builder's industry. It's all about combining practical tips with understanding the emotional and practical ups and downs of building and renovating. When women take charge of their projects, it's not just about making things simpler; it's about creating an enjoyable experience for them.

My guest today is Rebeka Morgan, a general manager in commercial construction. She founded BuildHer Collective to address a gap in the market by providing education and support for women undertaking building and renovation projects. Together, we explore how the proper education and support can transform the building experience, making it bearable and enjoyable for women taking the lead on their projects.

Key Takeaways:

• Addressing the unique challenges in construction for women through education and support
• The support for women in both new builds and renovations, tailored to their specific needs
• Empowering women to lead in building projects breaks stereotypes and fosters independence
• The crucial choice of the right builder and team to meet project needs and expectations
• Clear expectations and role understanding enhance project harmony and success
• BuildHer Collective's courses and resources skillfully equip women for their building projects
• The role of the community in providing support, sharing experiences, and learning from one another

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next week when I talk to Michael Read, Founder of Vision 2 Estimating. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

BuildHer Collective: https://www.buildhercollective.com.au/

DevelopHer Masterclass - BuildHer Collective

One of our Builders Business Blackbelt members shared that he built his business in such a way that he doesn't have any time freedom, and it's exhausting his body. It's not a good situation for anybody. This episode touches on the topic of taking care of your body and how to do that. But we'll also talk about preventions. So that you can perform at your peak longer while being rewarded with financial and time freedom.

Olly Wood, the founder of Body Reset, is a world-class health and performance coach because of his ability to take sophisticated health subjects and turn them into achievable objectives that you can include into your busy schedule. My conversation with Olly serves as a powerful reminder for you to prioritise your health and well-being. This investment is not only beneficial for personal health but also instrumental in achieving business excellence.

Key Takeaways:

• Proper body care enhances performance in business and daily activities
• Learn targeted movements and strength training to prevent common injuries
• The indispensable need for quality rest and sleep for recovery and optimal performance
• Business owners' health is a non-negotiable foundation for sustained success
• Strategies to manage and mitigate the physical strains of hands-on work
• Insights into how professional advice can drastically improve fitness outcomes
• How personal health advancements lead to greater business achievements and personal fulfillment

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next time when I speak to more influential figures in the building industry. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

• https://bodyreset.online/

Automation is a fundamental component of contemporary company operations. Businesses may streamline workflows, improve reaction times, and provide customised interactions at scale by implementing automation tools and techniques. Learning the art of automation enables businesses to accomplish more with less.

James Buchanan, who runs Automation King, delves into a game-changing strategy for builders and enhancing client communication through automation. From lead management to project updates and practical strategies for seamlessly integrating automation tools into our workflows, join us as we explore the transformative power of automation in simplifying your client communication process.

In this episode you will:

• Enhance customer communication processes, such as responding to inquiries promptly and gathering relevant information efficiently
• Generate reports or syncing information between platforms can save significant time and effort
• Implement automated lead management systems can improve the quality of leads and streamline the process of nurturing prospects through personalized communication
• Automation can facilitate client onboarding by providing timely reminders, sharing relevant information, enhancing their experience and satisfaction
• Optimise internal processes such as time tracking, task reminders, and documentation management
• Utilise AI to transcribe and summarise recorded phone calls that can streamline internal processes
• Focus on the desired outcomes rather than getting caught up in the technical details of how tasks are performed

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next week when I talk to Olly Wood, Founder of Body Reset. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

• https://www.automationking.com.au/

Businesses that have the systems and processes in the heads of the owner or even the people involved tend to struggle and find it quite difficult. Whereas if we get the systems and processes out so everyone can see them contribute to them, follow them, measure them, refine them. The business seems to work far better.

I have another repeat guest, James Brown, a leading expert in systems research and implementation, dedicated to maximising business efficiency and productivity. James has worked with a diverse range of businesses in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, professional services and tourism, and has developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by small businesses. James' broad industry background and deep understanding of business challenges allow him to offer innovative and effective solutions, to help businesses simplify their operations and maximise team ownership.

In this episode you will:

• Implement effective operational frameworks to enhance efficiency and mitigate risks
• Specialised knowledge and methods for sustainable growth
• Ensure successful integration and ongoing management of critical business processes
• Foster growth and collaboration without breaking the bank
• Embrace holistic approaches to business management and growth
• Strategic planning to navigate business development complexities
• Recognise the importance of holistic approaches for business management and growth

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next week when I talk to more influential figures in the building industry. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

https://www.biztechguru.com.au/

Time freedom is the golden ticket. When we focus on adding value and streamlining, we're not just making more money—we're gaining precious time. One way we can achieve this is by hiring virtual assistants or VAs. Another is strategically simplifying our operations. These can be a game-changer in reclaiming your time and efficiency. And I have a repeat guest who is there just for that.

My guest, James Russell, who I've previously had in the podcast, is the founder of TradieVA. TradieVA specialises in virtual assistant services for trades and building industry professionals. James returns with unique perspectives on how to navigate the complexities of time management and productivity enhancement. Together, we discuss how to achieve remarkable results within condensed timeframes and optimise every precious moment.

Key Takeaways:

• TradieVA matches you with Virtual Talent providing administrative and back office support in the Trades and Construction industry
• People in the trades industry need to embrace outsourcing as a way to grow and improve their businesses
• Different mindset and skillset are required when it comes to business management and growth
• Entrepreneurs need to have clarity, momentum, and focus to stay on track and achieve their goals
• Surrounding yourself with a community who can help tradespeople overcome obstacles and find success
• Why Virtual assistants can save more time and help the business scale up efficiently
• AI optimises sales, recruitment, SOPs, and empowers VAs for productivity gains

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next week when I have James Brown, who founded BizTech Guru. So, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon it gets released. Until then, stay healthy.

tradieva.com.au

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

Builders face numerous challenges when accurately qualifying clients, often struggling to grasp their needs and aspirations. Effective communication and problem-solving play crucial roles in overcoming these obstacles. However, builders have ample opportunities to improve their processes and build trust with high-quality clients. Builders must invest time in understanding client expectations to foster stronger relationships. This leads to successful projects and sets the stage for repeat business and positive referrals, ultimately contributing to long-term success in the industry.

I am joined again by Richard Armstrong, a highly respected figure in the building industry. He is a former registered builder and founder of ProCalc, the builders' price guide. He undertook research interviews with hundreds of highly successful Australian builders about their approach to client management and project pricing. He emphasises the importance of early engagement with architects, effective client communication, and tools like ProCalc to streamline cost estimation.

Key Takeaways:

• Builders often qualify clients inadequately, resulting in lower-quality clients and reduced margins
• Recognising the lead source signals prospect quality and helps builders position themselves as preferred experts
• Builders can build trust by providing answers and solutions to client questions early in the process
• Feasibility should consider both client affordability and the builder's perspective
• Early collaboration with architects enhances cost estimates and project outcomes for builders
• ProCalc streamlines builders' feasibility assessment and cost estimation
• Aligning solutions with the client's budget boosts conversions and satisfaction
• Regularly reviewing and updating cost estimation algorithms ensures accuracy in feasibility assessments

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned for the next episode, where I talk to more significant figures in the building industry. Remember to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon as it's released. Until then, stay healthy.

procalc.com.au

Before we start, I want to talk about an event. Our return guest, Terry Tran, is putting on an event. It's going to be on Tuesday, the 13th of February, kicking off at 7:20 in the evening. When you attend this session, you'll learn how to create off-business wealth safely, regardless of the market condition. The link's at the bottom of the description. Go check it out. I have some other financial freedom tools that you can start using.

Most problems in small businesses, particularly building businesses, come from the financial space. When you're under financial pressure, it seems to magnify the consequences of every other problem you've got, whether it's a health problem, a relationship problem or a work issue. So, we're going to be talking about a bunch of things about mindset with money and how to use your money more effectively.

Terry Tran is joining me in this insightful conversation. He is the founder of The Freedom Trader and a highly knowledgeable individual in investing. With a focus on diversification and utilising both hard and liquid assets, Terry has achieved financial success and aims to help others do the same. He emphasises the importance of wisely managing the money generated from a business, suggesting that investing a portion of it can lead to passive income and financial stability. Together, we discuss the concept of financial freedom and how investing can provide a perpetual money machine for individuals.

Key Takeaways:

• Money management is crucial for small businesses, especially in the financial space
• The importance of diversification and investing in both stocks and real estate
• Building a portfolio of investments can provide passive income and stabilise a business
• Focusing on financial freedom rather than solely pursuing financial abundance
• The mindset of fear and greed plays a significant role in successful investing
• Starting to invest can be as simple as setting aside a small amount regularly and gradually increasing it over time
• Understanding personal income comfort level and the revenue needed from the business is essential
• Considering a self-managed super fund to achieve better returns on investment
• Prioritising risk management is crucial to avoid losses and maintain consistent returns
• Letting compounding do the heavy lifting can lead to substantial long-term growth
• Patience is key in investing, focusing on long-term strategies rather than seeking quick gains

All this and more, on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

Stay tuned next week when I share a new conversation with one of the podcast's returning guests, Richard Armstrong from Procalc! Also, don't forget to subscribe to the show to get that episode as soon as it's released. Until then, stay healthy.

thefreedomtrader.com

https://www.thefreedomtrader.com/smartinvesting/

BAS, or Business Activity Statement, is a tax reporting requirement for businesses in Australia. It's a way for businesses to report their goods and services tax (GST) obligations, as well as other taxes like pay-as-you-go (PAYG) withholding and fringe benefits tax (FBT). BAS payments are important to managing your business finances and staying compliant with tax regulations. Understanding and effectively managing BAS payments is crucial for business owners to avoid penalties and maintain financial stability.

Good thing we have Angus Morrison. He is a Chartered Accountant and Profit First Professional with extensive experience in tax and business advice. As a highly qualified financial expert with a strong background in financial analysis and planning, Angus is known for his expertise in helping businesses set up the Profit First cash flow system and navigate complex tax issues. Angus brings valuable insights into handling BAS payments and overcoming the issues faced by business owners, especially builders.

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding and effectively managing BAS payments is crucial for business owners
• Separating the funds for BAS and other financial obligations can help create clarity and control
• Implementing the Profit First system can help separate funds for taxes and improve financial control
• Paying BAS payments promptly can save businesses from accumulating interest and additional liabilities
• Changing the mindset around tax payments is essential for long-term financial success
• Tax debts can hinder business growth and require significant effort to resolve
• Outsourcing BAS management to a professional can ensure timely payments and eliminate the burden
• Effective BAS management provides business owners with financial clarity and peace of mind

All this and more is on this week's episode of THE TOOLSHED.

Join the toolshed - thetoolshedpodcast.com

The next episode will carry a surprise. So, remember to subscribe to the show to receive that episode as soon as it is released. Until then, stay healthy.

basrefreshed.com.au

morrisonabs.com.au