Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold

In this insightful discussion, we explore the implementation and impact of a four-day workweek in a plumbing business. The speaker shares personal experiences, employee feedback, and the business benefits of this innovative approach. From improved mental health and job satisfaction to a stronger recruitment strategy, this episode highlights why more companies are considering a shorter workweek.   https://mr-group.co.uk/    

In this insightful podcast episode, the hosts discuss the latest changes and challenges in the heating and cooling industry since July. With boiler sales declining and interest in heat pumps growing, they analyse the impact of economic pressures, shifting government policies, and evolving heating technologies. They also question whether the government's ambitious heat pump targets are truly achievable and highlight the importance of training engineers for the future.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this insightful discussion, industry professionals explore the evolving landscape of heat pumps and renewable heating technologies, addressing market challenges, installer competence, and consumer education. They reflect on the failures of past initiatives like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and examine why many businesses remain hesitant to embrace heat pumps over traditional gas boilers.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this thought-provoking discussion, two industry professionals explore the challenges and opportunities in the gas installation and maintenance sector. From the need for technological advancements in industry regulations (Gas Safe, MCS) to market fluctuations post-COVID, they discuss strategies for business adaptability, upskilling engineers, and diversifying services.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this insightful discussion, we break down the challenges and strategies behind growing a service-based business in the plumbing and engineering sectors. From customer acquisition and hiring skilled engineers to marketing pitfalls and innovative workforce solutions, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for business owners.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this episode, Mick & Lincoln dive into the major shifts in the heating industry since July. They discuss the decline in boiler installations, the growing interest in heat pumps, and the realities of transitioning to renewable heating technologies. With government policy changes impacting grants and electrification targets, the hosts question whether the industry is truly ready for these ambitious changes. They also explore staffing challenges, training needs, and how businesses can stay competitive in an evolving market.    Want to find out more or get in touch? https://mr-group.co.uk/ 

In this video, we discuss the process of selling a business, from showcasing its strengths to going to market and finding potential buyers. The review and selection process can take 9-10 months, and even when it moves quickly, things can still fall through at the last minute. Preparing to sell a business can take years, and we explore the emotional aspect—are you invested in the business or simply seeing it as an asset to sell? 💼🔍 #BusinessSale #Entrepreneurship #SellingABusiness"

In this video, we discuss how to scale your business using debt finance and whether it’s the right option for our company. Richard breaks down debt finance and the importance of matching finance products to your specific needs. We also cover why it’s not wise to use a mortgage to buy a new car—this is why we have car finance and asset finance for things like office equipment. When you invest this way, you're relying on new staff to generate revenue that covers these costs. 💡💰 #BusinessGrowth #DebtFinance #FinancialStrategy

In this video, we discuss the importance of having someone review your agreements and clauses to protect your business. Richard shares insights on 'poison pill' clauses—like one that ended a £30 million loan agreement, allowing the lender to take over the company if payments weren’t made by the due date. We also touch on default rates from quality lenders and the impact of buy now, pay later schemes. 💼💡 #Plumbing BusinessTips #FinancialSecurity #LoanAgreements

In this video, we dive into profit margins and share how our company is currently achieving a 10% profit. We discuss the benefits of being emotionally detached as a financial director and how it helps make better business decisions. Plus, we talk about our commitment deposit for boiler installations and how we ensure most of our customers have their new boiler fitted within 24-48 hours. 🚀💰   #ProfitMargins #FinancialTips #BusinessGrowth

In this video, I share my experience as a business owner with an engineering background, thinking everything was going well until I bought a £40k van and realized we weren’t as successful as I’d thought. 🚐💭 The fast-paced nature of running a business can lead to impulsive decisions, and that’s why having expert guidance is so important. We talk about the benefits of getting a virtual finance director to help keep your business on track and make smarter financial decisions. 💡💼 #BusinessTips #FinanceDirector #EntrepreneurLife

💰 In this video, we break down the difference between financial controllers who excel at systems vs. those who bring deeper strategic thinking into sales. We share real-life examples from 9-figure companies and talk about how some directors can be uninspiring and drain the energy from the boardroom. Watch to learn how to recognise the right financial leadership for your business! 🚀   #financialgrowth #BusinessLeadership #FinanceExperts

Welcome back, everyone! 🎥 In this video, we’re joined by financial expert Richard Jones. 💼 We discuss why business owners should consider hiring a Financial Director and the incredible benefits they can bring to your company. Richard also shares his extensive background as a Financial Director and his experience working for major companies. Don’t miss these valuable insights! 🚀 #financialexpertise #BusinessGrowth #FinanceDirector

In this video, we dive into Joe Valente's exciting future plans, including big upcoming events with a business buying and selling expert. Joe shares how he learned to buy and sell businesses, a new area for him, as he only ever focused on growth. We discuss mid-market private equity and what it means for your business once it hits an EBITDA of 5,000 – companies at this stage can sell for up to 12 times that amount! Don't miss these insights into business strategy and scaling. 🚀💡💰 #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #EBITDA

In this video, Joe talks about how he’s raising his child with real-world lessons, bringing him into the boardroom to teach him that wins don’t come easy and that life isn’t about being handed everything. 🏆💪 Joe believes we need to give our kids reality checks to avoid entitlement and to show them how to go after what they want. 🛠️👊 He points out how the world has become softer, with people wanting the easy way out, but says this is what sets those who truly want success apart. 🌍✨ Watch now to hear Joe’s thoughts on winning and mindset.   #Parenting #SuccessMindset #TradeMastermind

In this video, we discuss Joe's overheads, which total £600,000 a month—huge numbers until you're running a 7-figure monthly revenue. Joe shares his mindset as a 'billionaire in training,' where it’s all about adding a few more zeros. He challenges attendees at training days to determine their own worth, and most are surprised at how they undervalue themselves. It's all a game of zeros, and building self-belief is key. 💰🔥 #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurMindset #TradeMastermind

n this video, we talk to Joe about Trade Mastermind and The Trade Group, including how our training team built an 8-figure business and how the Trade Group, which includes Trade Pod, Trade Design, and more, is set to scale to 9 figures. While our training program has a 24-month shelf life, we also discuss the importance of continued investment in our other businesses and the option to work with our mentors for 5-6 years if desired. 💪🚀   #TradeMastermind #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship

🎙️ We’re back with a very special guest—Joseph Valente, founder of Trade Mastermind and winner of The Apprentice! In this episode, we dive deep into Joseph’s incredible journey. From starting his first business at just 22 years old to building an 8-figure empire and now aiming for the next big milestone: 9 figures. 💼🚀 Joseph opens up about his vision to hit £100 million in sales or value, and how his company is achieving 35% profit margins in a low-margin sector. He also shares personal stories about balancing his professional success with being a dad, including how he involves his son in business by bringing him into the boardroom to inspire the next generation. We also talk about the rapid growth of Trade Mastermind, the impact it’s having, and Joseph even congratulates us on our new and engaging content. Don’t miss this insightful and inspiring conversation—it’s one for the books! 🎥✨ #TradeMastermind #JosephValente #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Michael Norris interviews Richard Jones, a financial expert, discussing the value of a finance director for businesses, debt financing, and preparing for selling a company.   Highlights:   💼 Importance of a finance director for strategic growth. 📈 Different types of debt financing available for businesses. 🔍 Understanding financial compliance versus strategic finance. 🏢 The significance of preparing a business for sale effectively. 🔒 Risks of hidden clauses in financial agreements. 📊 The value of maintaining transparent financial records. 💡 Strategies for leveraging debt to scale a business.

In this video, we explore the evolving challenges in the plumbing and heating industry, focusing on the need for adaptability, customer education, and a strong company culture. Highlights include staying ahead of competitors through innovation, the importance of educating customers, and fostering a positive company culture to retain employees. Key insights cover the necessity of evolving with industry trends, prioritising product quality, and aligning team members with the company's vision for greater success.

In this video, we discuss the challenges of running a plumbing and heating business, including low margins, high training costs, and inadequate government support. Highlights include the difficulty in recruiting skilled workers, navigating strict regulations, and the impact of low profit margins. The video also covers issues like insufficient training funding and intense market competition. Key insights emphasise the need for better training accessibility, streamlined regulatory processes, and strategies for improving profitability and market adaptability.

In this video, we explore how running a plumbing and heating business demands ongoing learning in marketing and management to drive growth and prevent burnout. Highlights include the need to adapt to evolving marketing trends, invest strategically in marketing for revenue growth, and shift from a technical to a business mindset. Emphasising teachable processes, team building, and accurate data tracking are crucial for scaling and effective decision-making. Continuous improvement and embracing a growth mindset are key to achieving long-term success.

In this video, we tackle the issue of ageism in the plumbing industry and stress the importance of value and pricing strategies for young business owners. Highlights include how ageism can affect pricing perceptions, the role of delivering high-value services, and the impact of successful partnerships, such as Joel’s with Woodcock Homes. Joel’s journey emphasizes the need for hard work, continuous learning, and building strong business relationships. Key insights cover overcoming age-related pricing biases, leveraging networking for growth, and focusing on revenue generation for new businesses.

In this video, Chris shares his journey from school to entrepreneurship, highlighting his early ambition inspired by his parents and his experiences in property and construction. Despite attending a mediocre school and struggling with coursework, Chris excelled academically and pursued studies in construction and property management. Graduating during the 2008 recession, he faced a tough job market but focused on gaining experience and building valuable connections, notably with Joe from an estate agency. Chris underscores the importance of prioritising education, resilience, and networking, while also stressing the need to align hard work with clear goals and overcome procrastination for long-term success

Welcome back! I'm Mick Norris, returning to the podcast scene after a 2-year hiatus. Join me as I dive into the challenges of running a plumbing & heating business, sharing insights from my journey. In this episode i cover Chris's journey from school to Entrepreneurship, how we're tackling the issue of ageism in the plumbing industry and importance of pricing strategies, exploring how running a plumbing and heating business requires ongoing learning and much more. Whether you're an industry pro, a business owner, or a curious consumer, this podcast is for you! Don’t miss our weekly content. #PlumbingBusiness #SmallBusinessTips #Podcast #MickNorris #MRPlumbing

In this video, we explore strategies to keep a heating company busy during summer, focusing on service plans, marketing, and new projects. Key tactics include implementing service plans to maintain steady business, targeting large projects like those at universities, and introducing new services such as power flushing. Emphasizing consistent marketing efforts, flexible pay structures, and careful cost management helps navigate slower periods. Insights cover the importance of seasonal planning, cross-training employees, and proactive customer engagement to ensure ongoing workflow and profitability.

Work culture is crucial for organisational success, driven by leadership and a focus on team well-being. Highlights include how effective leaders shape culture, the importance of regular meetings for communication, and addressing issues like disruptive team members. Prioritising team care and engaging in team-building activities boosts morale and motivation, leading to a successful business environment. Key insights emphasise that leadership influences culture, treating employees with care enhances loyalty, and regular communication fosters a positive atmosphere.

This video covers key strategies for onboarding engineers to boost company growth and efficiency. Highlights include offering competitive pay to attract talent, thoroughly vetting candidates with targeted questions and reference checks, and balancing apprentices with experienced hires for rapid expansion. Emphasis is placed on investing in efficient systems and processes, tracking finances to prevent overspending, and using effective communication tools to enhance team collaboration and customer service.

In this video, Mick Norris discusses essential sales and marketing strategies for small businesses, highlighting the importance of investing in marketing, leveraging social media, and maintaining a professional image. Key points include allocating funds for advertising to drive growth, using platforms like Facebook to boost brand visibility, and constantly testing different strategies to find what works. Emphasising a polished appearance fosters customer trust, while actively managing online reviews enhances reputation. Staying aware of competitors and consistently marketing, even during busy periods, ensures sustained growth and ongoing customer engagement.

Mick Norris is back in the podcasting world after a two-year break, diving into the challenges faced by plumbing and heating businesses while offering valuable advice for success. He covers key issues such as managing customer expectations, transitioning from solo work to a team setup, and the role of operational systems in boosting efficiency. Mick also emphasizes the importance of customer service, consistent engagement, and continuous learning. His insights draw from personal experiences, aiming to help both industry professionals and consumers navigate and thrive in the competitive plumbing field.

Welcome, everyone! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of "Don't Get Left Out in the Cold." Today, we've got a special guest, Issian from TM, and we're diving into his incredible journey around podcasting. Issian emphasises the growing importance of podcasts, noting that about a third of UK adults listen to them. He dispels the myth that podcasting is only for specific demographics, highlighting its broad appeal across various interests, from gardening to cooking. The discussion underscores that creating consistent content is key. A one to two-hour podcast can be repurposed into various forms of content—short videos, social media posts, and written articles—spanning multiple platforms for an entire month. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out on future episodes!

Welcome back! I'm Mick Norris, returning to the podcast scene after a 2-year hiatus. Join me as I dive into the challenges of running a plumbing & heating business, sharing insights from my journey. This episode explores the many pain points I've faced—everything from juggling multiple jobs to scaling up from a one-man operation. Learn how I managed customer service struggles, built a team, and implemented crucial systems and processes. Whether you're an industry pro, a business owner, or a curious consumer, this podcast is for you! Don’t miss our weekly content. #PlumbingBusiness #SmallBusinessTips #Podcast #MickNorris #MRPlumbing

Welcome, everyone! Thanks for tuning in to this episode of "Don't Get Left Out in the Cold." Today, we've got a special guest, Chris from TM, and we're diving into his incredible journey from school days to where he is now. Chris shares his story, starting with his ambitions back in school and his drive to become a businessman, influenced by his parents, both successful small business owners. We discuss his early education, his experience in university studying Construction and Property Management, and how he navigated the job market during the 2008 recession. We explore how Chris and Joe, his business partner, first met and started working together, eventually building a strong partnership that led to major successes, including Joe's time on The Apprentice. Chris also shares some valuable lessons he's learned along the way about hard work, focus, and the importance of education over immediate financial gain. Join us for this insightful conversation where we look back at Chris's path to success and discuss what lies ahead for him and TM. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, business growth, or just want to hear a great story, this episode is for you! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell so you don't miss out on future episodes! #BusinessJourney #Entrepreneurship #SuccessStory #TheApprentice #SmallBusiness #Podcast #ChrisAndJoe #Inspiration #CareerPath #HardWork #TM #DontGetLeftOutInTheCold

Don't Get Left Out in the Cold: Interview with Custom Heat | Plumbing & Heating Business Insights Welcome to "Don't Get Left Out in the Cold," where we dive into the essentials of running a successful plumbing and heating business. In this episode, we're thrilled to host Custom Heat, a leading name in the industry, known for their expertise and innovative solutions. Join us as we discuss: Proven strategies for managing and growing your plumbing and heating business. Tips for optimizing customer service and operational efficiency. Insights into the latest industry trends and technologies. Real-world experiences and lessons learned from seasoned professionals. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this interview is packed with valuable advice to help you thrive in the competitive world of plumbing and heating. Don't miss out on these expert insights! 🔔 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more business tips and industry insights! #PlumbingBusiness #HeatingSolutions #CustomHeat #BusinessTips #IndustryInterview #Entrepreneurship #HomeServices #BusinessGrowth #CustomerService #TechTrends

This week on Don't Get Left Out In The Cold, host Mick Norris is joined by Lewis Ward - owner of Swift Heating. They talk about the challenges and triumphs of owning a plumbing and heating business.   Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold is a show for tradespeople, by tradespeople. This is the podcast that gives tradesmen and tradeswomen a voice, where the real talk of life as a tradesperson can be heard and it's a place for like-minded experts of their craft to hear about how to really scale their trade-based business. Let's be honest, most people don't understand the challenges of being in a trade - one minute you're on the tools and the next you are required to become a business person. It is a tough journey and this podcast is designed to help you understand that transition, from the perspective of people who are out there doing this every day.

This week on Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold host Mick Norris discusses the problems with the plumbing and gas industry in the age of the internet.    He highlights the problems for smaller tradesmen when bigger companies offer boiler fitting services. Bigger companies are able to supply services much cheaper and sometimes even at a loss which allows them to quickly take over the market.   Mick explains the solution to combating these big companies is for engineers to find work independently and not through the internet-based companies as well as using services like Trade Mastermind to fill in the gaps in their own business school knowledge.   In this episode you will hear:    The problems faced by tradesmen in the age of internet The power of coaching to help tradesmen build business skills How the big companies are able to offer such low prices and gain market share   To connect with Mick or for more information on M & R Plumbing and Heating head to ​​https://www.mr-group.co.uk/    Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold - brought to you by M & R Plumbing and Heating - is a show for tradespeople, by tradespeople. This is the podcast that gives tradesmen and tradeswomen a voice, where the real talk of life as a tradesperson can be heard and it's a place for like-minded experts of their craft to hear about how to really scale their trade-based business. Let's be honest, most people don't understand the challenges of being in a trade - one minute you're on the tools and the next you are required to become a business person. It is a tough journey and this podcast is designed to help you understand that transition, from the perspective of people who are out there doing this every day.  

This week on Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold host Mick Norris is joined by Joseph Valente, winner of BBC show The Apprentice, best selling author and entrepreneur.  Joseph speaks on being expelled from school at 15 and how this led him to start working as a tradesman. He also shares the impact reading Alan Sugar’s Biography had on his mindset and how it had a hand in convincing him to set up his company ‘Impragas’ at 22; which was turning over 600k a year by the time he was 25 years old.   Joseph also talks about his experience on Alan Sugar’s business-focused reality game show The Apprentice and how he was able to run his business while being on the show for 9 weeks. He details the aftermath of winning the competition and what impact that had on Impragas.   Joseph built Trade Mastermind after realising that trade workers needed help to go from construction workers to business people. He gives countless stories and lessons in business most of note being on the power of persistence.   In this episode you will hear:   Joseph’s entrepreneurial journey Building his 600K a year business ImpraGas The experience of winning the apprentice Helping construction workers gain business skills using Trade Mastermind The importance of persistence   To connect with Mick or for more information on M & R Plumbing and Heating head to ​​https://www.mr-group.co.uk/    Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold - brought to you by M & R Plumbing and Heating - is a show for tradespeople, by tradespeople. This is the podcast that gives tradesmen and tradeswomen a voice, where the real talk of life as a tradesperson can be heard and it's a place for like  gh journey and this podcast is designed to help you understand that transition, from the perspective of people who are out there doing this every day.  

Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold - brought to you by M & R Plumbing and Heating - is a show for tradespeople, by tradespeople. This is the podcast that gives tradesmen and tradeswomen a voice, where the real talk of life as a tradesperson can be heard and it's a place for like-minded experts of their craft to hear about how to really scale their trade-based business. Let's be honest, most people don't understand the challenges of being in a trade - one minute you're on the tools and the next you are required to become a business person. It is a tough journey and this podcast is designed to help you understand that transition, from the perspective of people who are out there doing this every day. 

Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold is a show for tradespeople, by tradespeople. This is the podcast that gives tradesmen and tradeswomen a voice, where the real talk of life as a tradesperson can be heard and it's a place for like-minded experts of their craft to hear about how to really scale their trade-based business. Let's be honest, most people don't understand the challenges of being in a trade - one minute you're on the tools and the next you are required to become a business person. It is a tough journey and this podcast is designed to help you understand that transition, from the perspective of people who are out there doing this every day.