S1E22 | Why Aaron Gunderson Is Buying Trades Businesses Instead of Tech Companies

Most trades businesses are still built around a few key people.The owner knows everything. The foreman keeps jobs moving. The systems live in someone’s head. And eventually growth starts creating pressure instead of freedom.That’s a big reason Aaron Gunderson started buying trades businesses.Aaron is the CEO of Bison, a company that acquires and operates businesses across landscaping, roofing, irrigation, and other trades-related industries. In this conversation, he breaks down what actually makes a trades company valuable, why keeping good people matters more than perfect systems, and where many operators quietly get stuck as they grow.This episode matters because a lot of trades businesses are running into the same challenges:Scaling without structure.Keeping key employees.Building systems while still running jobs every day.Trying to grow without losing what made the business work in the first place.In this episode, you’ll learn:What Aaron Gunderson looks for when evaluating trades businesses for acquisitionWhy key employees are often more valuable than equipment or assetsHow growing companies create opportunities that keep strong people from leavingWhy many trades companies struggle with systems, marketing, and operational structurePractical ways AI is already helping operators improve efficiency and decision-makingIf you own, lead, or are trying to grow a construction, landscaping, roofing, or specialty trades business, this conversation will feel practical, familiar, and immediately relevant.▶ Watch the full episode and subscribe to Builders, Makers, Doers for more conversations with operators, builders, and business owners.Stay Connected & Follow the Movement• Subscribe on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts• Follow Builders, Makers, Doers on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ellerbrock-norris/• Grab a copy of Andy Bassett’s bookhttps://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/bookConnect with the HostsAndy BassettCEO, Ellerbrock-Norrishttps://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-bassett-cpcu-cic-7711853/Elliot BassettPresident and Partner, Ellerbrock-Norrishttps://www.linkedin.com/in/elliot-bassett-aip-cpcu-84499515/🌐 https://www.ellerbrock-norris.com/CHAPTERS00:00 – Why Aaron Gunderson buys businesses02:10 – From rental properties to acquisitions05:00 – Why Bison focused on trades companies08:15 – What makes a trades business valuable11:00 – How acquisitions are evaluated14:05 – The challenge of keeping key people19:10 – Biggest problems in the trades today21:25 – Why employees leave to start competitors26:00 – Marketing and AI for trades businesses29:15 – Using AI to improve operations31:00 – Building companies that scale long term34:10 – Leadership, communication, and growthWe often talk about the 10 impact areas of risk within a business. Now, you can join us for a FREE Resiliency Audit. In 30 minutes, we'll comb through your business, find where you may be at risk, and deliver a detailed plan on how to address the issues. Time to stop being reactive – and commit to being proactive. Schedule your audit today.  You clearly like learning how other businesses are building resiliency. From the people the hire to their safety practices, risk management strategies, exit planning and more. Now, you can do a deep dive on YOUR business – for free. We'll dive into your business and deliver a detailed report that shows you actionable next steps and potential cost long-term savings. Sign up today at www.ellerbrock-norris.com/resiliency.