Episode List
The One About Building a Business That Runs Without You
Summary Todd Shillington, known as the one hour contractor, shares insights on transforming blue-collar trades into scalable, sellable businesses. He discusses strategies for marketing, systematizing operations, and building a business that runs without the owner, emphasizing the importance of reviews, branding, and delegation. Key Topics Transitioning from technician to CEO Importance of reviews and reputation…
The One About Franchising, Private Equity, and the Future of the Trades
Summary In this episode, Troy, Jim, Marissa, Aaron, and Leonard discuss franchising, private equity, entrepreneurship, and the blue-collar job market, sharing insights and experiences to help aspiring entrepreneurs understand the opportunities and challenges in these fields. Key Topics Franchise system advantages and disadvantages Private equity investment in home services Building and selling franchise businesses Hiring…
The One About Winning Online in the Age of AI
Summary In this episode, Steve Buors shares his journey from accounting to digital marketing, focusing on how small businesses and franchise systems can leverage local SEO, Google Business Profiles, and AI tools to grow and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Key Topics Steve Buors’ career transition from accounting to marketing Importance of…
The One About Turning an Unexpected Career Change Into an HVAC Success Story
Summary Janal Reid shares her inspiring journey from Detroit to becoming a successful HVAC business owner in Dallas, Texas. She discusses the importance of community, customer service, and strategic growth in building a lasting business. Janal shares her insights on building a strong company culture, empowering women in trades, and balancing family and entrepreneurship. Discover…
The One About Breaking Through Your Business Plateau
Summary In this episode, Adam Skorstad shares his extensive experience in the trades industry, from technical roles to leadership and coaching. He discusses the importance of systems, leadership development, and strategic growth for contractors aiming to scale their businesses successfully. Key Topics Adam Skorstad’s background and journey in the trades industry Importance of systems and…
The One About Finding the Profit Leaks in Your Business with Ben Hansen | Ep. 26
In this episode of The Blue Collar Trades Show, Troy Latuff, Chad and Jim sit down with Ben Hansen, known as the Profit Doctor, to talk about what really drives profitability in a blue collar business. Ben shares practical insights on identifying and patching profit leaks, understanding the numbers behind your business, tracking project profitability,…
The One About What’s Beneath Our Cities with Matt Fishbune | Ep. 25
In this episode, Matt Fishbune, CEO of Duke’s, shares his journey from sports to underground infrastructure, the importance of character in hiring, and the fascinating world of trenchless sewer repair. Discover how innovative techniques are transforming city maintenance, what it takes to build a successful business in this niche industry, and how AI, sensors, drones,…
The One About Selling, Scaling, and Starting Again with Jamie Gerdsen | Ep. 24
Jamie Gerdsen, founder of G5 Ventures, shares his path from third-generation HVAC roots to sales leadership, business ownership, private equity, and building his next chapter with G5 Ventures. We dig into what actually drives growth in the trades: hiring, lead flow, culture, cash flow, and putting people first. Jamie also breaks down why great sales…
The One About AI Communication In The Blue Collar World
In this episode of the Blue Collar Trades Show, Troy, Jim, Marissa, and Jason Luo, CEO of Newo AI, explore how AI is changing customer communication for home service businesses. Jason shares how Newo AI helps HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and other service companies answer inbound calls, follow up with leads, and manage customer conversations using…