Service World Expo 2025 Preview: Carol Longacre on Building Community and Standing Out with In-Person Marketing

In this episode of The Kee To Growth Podcast, host Jen McKee sits down with Carol Longacre, Director of Affiliate Relations at Service Nation, for an insightful conversation that digs deep into the real world of business growth, leadership, and the power of connection in the trades. Carol shares the journey from building her own family remodeling company to supporting thousands of contractors through Service Nation and the upcoming Service World Expo. The discussion is filled with vulnerable moments about embracing the "messy middle" of entrepreneurship, developing an authentic brand, and aligning growth with personal values and mindset. Carol and Jen explore the often-underestimated impact of trade associations, legislative advocacy, and best practice communities for HVAC, plumbing, and remodeling professionals. Drawing from Carol's personal and professional experience—including her takeaways from the John Maxwell IMC Conference and the inventive tactics behind the Savannah Bananas—this conversation goes beyond business tactics and into the heart of what it takes to grow a sustainable, people-first company in today's landscape. Listeners will walk away with renewed clarity on why customer experience is foundational in marketing, actionable tips for genuinely standing out in a crowded marketplace, and the importance of building intentional boundaries as you scale. Carol shares practical stories about fostering belonging, creativity, and care, both within her own remodeling company and in her work with Service Nation's member contractors. With Service World Expo (October 26 - 30, 2025) approaching fast, Carol and Jen offer an early look behind the scenes, including what first-timers can expect, the power of in-person networking, and how to intentionally plan your event experience for maximum value. Jen will be hosting a LIVE episode—Behind the Curtain: Marketing, Community, and Culture Strategies Driving Today's Top Trades Businesses—on October 28, 2025, from 1:15 to 1:45 PM at the Expo. Plus, listeners get a special offer with KHM's promo code Kee100 (valid until October 10 with the Room Block at Caesar's Forum & Harrah's). Timestamps:  04:28 Legislation's Impact on Housing Affordability 06:58 Creative Leadership and Team Innovation 10:45 Cultivating Fan Loyalty with Gratitude 15:35 Dolores: Enhancing Industry Connections 17:07 Networking at Happy Hour 22:33 Plan Your Show Strategy 22:58 "Plan and Focus for Success" 26:30 Join and Grow with Us 29:39 Mindset Shift: Offering Solutions 33:38 "Future of Trades Panel" 36:22 "Grateful Acknowledgment" Connect with Carol Longacre: Facebook (Carol Longacre): https://www.facebook.com/carol.longacre Connect with Service World Expo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/serviceworldexpo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/serviceworldexpo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ServiceWorldExpo Don't Miss: Service World Expo (October 26 - 30, 2025, Las Vegas) Meet Jen McKee LIVE for "Behind the Curtain: Marketing, Community, and Culture Strategies Driving Today's Top Trades Businesses" Date: October 28, 2025 Time: 1:15 – 1:45 PM Special Offer for Listeners: Use promo code Kee100 for discounted registration and room rates at Caesar's Forum & Harrah's (valid until October 10). Meet Your Host: Jen McKee Jen McKee is the founder of Kee Hart Marketing & Events, specializing in award-winning social media strategies for trade services. With expertise in content creation and personal branding, she helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences. As the host of the "Kee to Growth" podcast, Jen simplifies marketing strategies and empowers businesses to thrive. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories to elevate your brand! Connect with Jen on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifer.hartman.73/ or LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-mckee-72114824/ Listening on a desktop & can't see the links? Just search for Kee to Growth in your favorite podcast player. The Kee to Growth Podcast is Powered by: Kee Hart Marketing, the social media company for the trades. Learn more at www.keehartmarketing.com This episode was produced and brought to you by the Skilled Trades Syndicate @ServiceBusinessMasteryPodcast https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/