Titans of the Trades | Straight-Talk for Scaling Your Construction Business

Insurance costs. Risk management. Communication gaps. Mental health challenges. In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Michael Culnen, Founder and CEO of Construction Concepts, to tackle the biggest operational blind spots in construction today. Michael brings decades of experience helping contractors build smarter insurance programs, strengthen internal communication, and protect both their balance sheets and their people.You’ll discover why most contractors get taken advantage of at renewal, how communication breakdowns between the field and office slowly erode performance, and why mental health isn’t a “soft topic,” it’s a business issue. Michael breaks down real, actionable strategies you can begin applying this week, whether you lead a crew of 10 or 500.If you’re tired of rising workers comp premiums, confusing insurance jargon, and teams working in silos, this episode is a must‑listen.Compelling Takeaways:00:00 – Why insurance really matters more than most contractors think.02:35 – The worst time to discover you don’t have the right coverage (and how to avoid that trap).04:37 – How Construction Concepts was built to solve real industry pain points.07:00 – The misunderstanding most contractors have about comparing insurance quotes.10:19 – When trust becomes complacency and how that costs you on renewals.15:12 – A practical change to close the field‑to‑office communication gap contractors ignore.18:54 – How mental health impacts your workforce and performance in construction.Connect With Michael:Website: https://constructionconcepts.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelsculnen/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Can you spot the future leaders on your team?In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with John Snyder, CEO of Net Friends, to talk about the power of internal growth in the trades. John didn’t start Net Friends, he climbed his way up from an entry-level tech to CEO, and now he’s helping others do the same with a five-phase career path system that’s changing how companies retain and grow talent.If you’re a construction business owner or blue collar leader who wants to stop losing your best people, this episode is packed with tools, values, and frameworks you can use today. From EOS implementation to developing leadership partnerships that work, John shares how he’s built a scalable and values-driven culture.What You’ll Learn:How to identify and grow leadership from within your company.Why core values are your best people filter and how to keep them alive.How Net Friends built a thriving career path model that creates clarity and retention.Key Takeaways with Timestamps:[03:00] John Snyder’s climb from entry-level tech to CEO of Net Friends.[06:00] The secret to a successful business partnership that lasts a decade.[10:00] The overlooked importance of celebrating employee milestones.[14:00] The 5 Behaviors of a cohesive executive team and how John unknowingly mastered them.[15:30] How EOS brought clarity and structure to their growing business.[17:00] Why the People Analyzer tool transformed their hiring and management strategy.[19:00] Net Friends’ core values explained and how they guide every decision.[27:00] A Slack channel that reinforces company values daily, without management oversight.[28:00] The five-phase career plan that keeps employees engaged and growing.[36:00] How to support “rock stars” who don’t want promotions but still want to contribute.Connect With John:Website: https://www.netfriends.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnsnyder-netfriends/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin welcomes Ben Kossow, the CEO of Riley Construction, for a powerful conversation about servant leadership, building culture from the job site up, and how process can create a safer, more productive, and more people-centered construction company.Ben’s journey from entry-level project engineer to CEO is inspiring on its own, but what really stands out is his dedication to mentoring others, empowering frontline workers, and staying grounded in core values. You’ll hear how Riley Construction’s “in-step” system creates clarity on every project, how culture lives in job trailers as much as the boardroom, and why employee engagement is the next big opportunity in construction.If you’re a construction leader ready to scale, invest in your team, and build a workplace people love, this is an episode you can’t miss.Key Takeaways & Time Stamps:00:58 – Meet Ben Kossow: From project engineer to CEO in 26 years.03:21 – “Riley-tizing” systems: How Riley Construction customizes best practices into their own.04:56 – Visual project management: Big Mac diagrams and the power of visual planning.06:16 – Walking the trailer: What clients and tradespeople see that proves culture isn’t just talk.07:55 – Safety through planning: How Riley’s lean approach proactively reduces risk.10:03 – Defining culture: How Hi-Fi (Humility, Integrity, Flexibility, Initiative) drives everything.12:36 – Mentoring the next generation: From youth camps to apprenticeships and site visits.19:40 – Measuring engagement: How feedback loops are improving culture and retention.24:40 – Listening in leadership: Why small changes (like better safety harnesses) create loyalty.30:16 – Looking ahead: Why investing in people is the key to sustainable growth.Connect With Ben:Website: https://rileycon.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-kossow-leed-ap-aa187511/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Carrie Stokes went from Intern to President and CEO at Barge Design Solutions and she’s not done innovating. In this episode, Ryan Englin dives into Carrie’s 30-year journey in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) world and the leadership principles that helped her rise.Carrie shares actionable insights on how to retain and grow your talent, why mentorship isn’t optional anymore, and how to integrate innovation like AI without losing operational excellence. From workforce development to building strategic industry pivots, this episode is packed with lessons every construction leader needs to hear.Tune in to learn how to lead with purpose, build culture that scales, and make change stick.Key Takeaways with Timestamps:00:50 – Carrie Stokes’ journey from Intern to CEO at Barge Design Solutions.03:45 – Why career paths in construction aren’t always linear and shouldn’t be.05:48 – The power of cross-functional exposure in growing leadership skills.07:00 – How one mentor’s red pen transformed Carrie’s leadership approach.08:24 – The importance of communicating the “why” to motivate construction teams.10:40 – Why employee ownership has changed how Barge makes decisions.14:30 – Strategic pivots: How Barge is navigating uncertainty in the data center boom.18:00 – What it takes to adopt AI effectively in construction and design.23:41 – The secret to nurturing young engineers in a high-growth firm.28:06 – Carrie’s three must-have traits for the next generation of AEC leaders.Connect With Carrie:Website: https://www.bargedesign.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carriestokes1/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In today’s episode, we dive deep into a powerful conversation with Russ Clemmer, CEO of Legacy Advisory Partners, focused on legacy planning, leadership alignment, frontline engagement, and the practical systems that bridge strategic vision with everyday execution.Russ and Ryan explore why people disengage at work, how to connect with your employees as human beings, and why the C‑Suite must build a legacy that resonates throughout the entire organization, from owners and executives down to every crew member in the construction and trades world.This episode is especially valuable if you’re:A construction or trades leader struggling with employee engagement or retention.Preparing for ownership transition or succession planning.Looking to align your frontline workforce with executive vision.Seeking tangible tools to improve team communication and performance.This one’s packed with practical insights that can help you build stronger engagement, better culture, and more profitable outcomes.Key Takeaways02:15 – What Core Matters Does for People Engagement09:40 – Why People Really Leave Their Jobs17:30 – The Importance of Connecting With People Personally23:50 – Legacy, Ownership Transition, and Vision Alignment31:10 – Translating Vision Into Meaningful EngagementConnect With Russ:Website: http://legacyadvisorypartners.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russclemmer/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Is your construction business struggling to find skilled labor? You’re not alone. And this episode could be the game-changer you need.Ryan Englin sits down with Nick Lawrence, President of Go Build Tennessee, a nonprofit working to reverse the skilled trades labor shortage by doing what most of the industry ignores: marketing to the next generation and their parents.Nick shares the hard truths about why young people aren’t choosing the trades, what needs to change, and how Go Build is using social media, storytelling, and grassroots partnerships to rebrand construction as a first-choice career.Whether you’re in Tennessee or not, the strategies Nick shares can be applied in any market.Timestamps:[2:00] From tobacco fields to the trades. Nick’s journey into construction.[4:30] The real reason young people aren’t entering the trades.[6:10] Why marketing is the construction industry’s biggest weakness.[8:00] How Go Build Tennessee unites organizations to tackle the labor gap.[10:25] The matchmaking role Go Build plays with apprenticeship programs.[12:45] 11 million ad impressions later and how they’re reaching parents.[14:00] The one thing every contractor can do to solve the labor crisis.[16:30] Think construction is just hard, dirty work? Think again.[18:20] Want to start your own business? Learn a trade first.[21:00] How robotics and middle school programs are reshaping the future.Connect With Nick:Website: https://www.gobuildtennessee.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-lawrence-222882130/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What does it take to grow a one-man plumbing operation into a 26-person business that thrives on performance, profitability, and culture? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Al Fagundes of Fagundes Plumbing & Heating, who shares the hard-earned lessons from his 23-year journey in the trades.Al dives deep into the turning points that shifted his business from a high-paying job to a true company. He reveals how focusing on EBITDA instead of revenue, ditching off-the-shelf price books, and building a performance pay model helped him scale sustainably. But even more powerful is his relentless focus on culture, from training and role-playing to open-book financials.If you’re a blue-collar leader looking for actionable insights on leadership, hiring, and operational efficiency, this episode is packed with value.Takeaways:[1:00] Why going out on your own isn’t as simple as firing your boss.[2:30] The biggest hurdle Al faced: hiring his first office employee.[5:10] How industry “norms” held his business back for years.[7:20] The major shift that happened when Al ditched flat rate pricing.[10:15] How tying performance pay to efficiency changed everything.[14:00] Role-playing and training: Why Al doesn’t script his techs.[15:25] How company culture drives clean job sites and accountability.[17:35] The power of open-book management in blue-collar leadership.[21:00] How Al connects with local technical schools to recruit young talent.[22:40] Why core values matter more than experience when hiring.Connect With Al:Website: https://www.afphpro.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/al-fagundes-77ab2244/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Are you overwhelmed, wearing every hat in your construction business, and thinking, “I need a COO”? Think again. In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Cameron Herold, author of Second in Command and founder of the COO Alliance, to break down what growing companies really need when it comes to operational leadership.Cameron has helped scale hundreds of companies and has been the COO behind explosive growth stories like 1-800-GOT-JUNK. Whether you’re in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or general contracting, if you’re a business owner tired of bottlenecking your own success, this episode is your wake-up call.Tune in and discover:The biggest mistake owners make when hiring operational help.Why most businesses don’t need a COO… yet.How delegation can unlock serious growth.The hidden cost of doing $40/hour work as a $250/hour leader.Takeaways with Timestamps:1:04 – Cameron’s entrepreneurial journey and early signs of being unemployable.4:18 – Why thinking you need a COO may be a sign you just need help.5:15 – The cost of doing $15/hour tasks as a six-figure business owner.6:11 – What revenue level really warrants a true C-level hire.7:22 – The real difference between working in vs. on your business.9:24 – How to scale your time by delegating genius-level work.11:48 – What truly makes a great COO (and it’s not a fancy resume).14:02 – Why the CEO-COO relationship is more like a marriage than a job.19:00 – Understanding the psychology behind who gets credit in a company.35:33 – The one uncomfortable truth every founder and COO must face.Connect With Cameron:Website: https://cameronherold.com/Website: https://cooalliance.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameronherold/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

The construction industry is in crisis. For every five skilled tradespeople retiring, only two are entering the field. In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin talks with Clay Crownover, President and CEO of ABC Greater Tennessee and a key leader behind Go Build Tennessee.Clay shares what’s actually working to attract Gen Z into the trades and what’s still holding the industry back. From soft skills and culture shifts to how tech is changing training, this episode dives deep into the future of skilled labor and what it’ll take to fix the talent pipeline.Whether you’re a contractor, a parent, or an industry leader, you’ll walk away with practical strategies for creating a stronger, more sustainable workforce.Takeaways:01:41: What Go Build Tennessee is doing to attract new tradespeople.03:14: Why the industry needs to stop saying “not everyone’s cut out for college.”05:32: The two biggest barriers holding back new entrants: soft skills and short-term thinking.07:29: Why employers need to “finish parenting” young workers.10:27: Meeting Gen Z where they are: hybrid training and flexibility.13:13: What separates award-winning contractors from the rest.15:20: Why “good enough” isn’t good enough in skilled trades.18:50: Magic wand moment: what needs to change in K-12 education.22:32: Why five-year-olds want to be Yankees but not operators and how to change that.24:47: Marketing the trades differently to parents and kids.28:00: ABC’s 5-year plan: more trades, more students, more impact.Connect With Clay:ABC Tennessee Website: https://abctn.org/Go Build Tennessee Website: https://www.gobuildtennessee.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claycrownover/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Nathan Cowan, Brand President at ProLift Garage Doors, to unpack the game-changing power of franchise systems. Even for business owners who have no interest in franchising.With over 16 years of experience in the franchise world, Nathan shares how systems, delegation, and financial awareness are key to scaling without chaos. Whether you’re a “Chuck in a Truck” or running a multi-million dollar construction operation, this episode is packed with insights on how to stop working in the business and start working on the business.From hiring your first CSR to managing marketing ROI, Nathan pulls back the curtain on what really drives sustainable growth in blue-collar businesses.What You’ll Learn:Why franchise systems work, even if you’re not a franchise.How most construction owners sabotage their time (and how to fix it).The right time to hire help and how to afford it.Why consistency and customer experience matter more than ever.How to stop doing $20 tasks when your time is worth $500/hr.Takeaways:00:46: The franchise mindset: Why it matters for any business model.03:15: What McDonald’s can teach contractors about systems.06:00: “Chuck in a Truck” syndrome and how to grow out of it.08:49: The “on vs. in” problem: Why even 9-figure businesses struggle.10:54: You’re the most expensive employee. Are you acting like it?14:21: The call-back crisis: Why good leads are wasted daily.17:54: The #1 operational headache: Marketing that keeps changing.20:30: Boots-on-the-ground networking is making a comeback.22:00: How to generate trust without going viral.Connect With Nathan:Website: https://www.proliftdoors.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-cowan101/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Tony started in construction as a teenage union laborer. Less than a decade ago he launched BIG Construction, and today his company is tracking toward nine figures in annual revenue.In this powerful episode, Tony Iannessa, Founder and CEO of BIG Construction, joins host Ryan Englin to break down how blue collar leaders can create a legacy business and help solve the trades labor crisis for good.Tony shares his journey from jobsite to executive suite, why construction doesn’t have a hiring problem (it has a marketing problem), and how leaders can make bold moves that attract the next generation of top performers.Whether you’re a general contractor, construction executive, or trades business owner looking to grow, this episode is packed with vision and real tactics. It’s a masterclass on building culture, brand, and people in the construction world.Key Takeaways[00:54] Tony’s roots: from laborer at 18 to leading a construction company.[03:00] BIG Construction’s growth to $100M+ in under 10 years.[05:20] Bridging the office-field divide: why empathy and exposure matter.[10:43] Why parents (not kids) are the real decision-makers for trade careers.[12:21] From Legos to labor: turning childhood curiosity into careers.[14:26] Google, NVIDIA & the trades: tech giants are waking up.[15:45] Does “Dirty Jobs” branding hurt the industry’s image?[18:28] From logic to emotion: why trades need better storytelling.Connect With Tony:Website: https://www.buildbig.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tony-iannessa-018b994/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

AI is already reshaping construction, and it’s moving faster than most contractors think. In this episode, Ryan sits down with Fred Voccola, CEO of Simpro, and author of The Coming Disruption. They talk about what “AI-first” means for commercial contractors, and why “slow and steady” change management can put your company behind for good.Fred breaks down how AI can plug profit leaks across dozens of everyday processes, from scheduling to job prep to notes to collections. You will also hear how AI can improve the technician experience, reduce turnover, and help owners lead better because they are not stuck in spreadsheets all day.If you run a construction or specialty trades business, this episode will challenge your thinking, and it will give you a clearer picture of what to do next.  What You’ll Learn:Why AI is not replacing the trades, but it is changing how trade companies operate.How “AI-first” can raise margins by reducing process leakage across the business.What extreme change management looks like, and why you may not get a second chance.How AI tools can help you retain techs by improving communication, training, and job fit.Why leadership and communication become even more valuable in an AI-driven construction company.Takeaways00:00 — Why AI is already impacting construction, and why ignoring it is a risky bet.03:27 — Fred’s claim: AI may be the biggest productivity leap in human history, and it is accelerating fast.05:37 — The key difference between AI and past innovations like electricity: you can use AI immediately, and at scale.09:05 — “AI won’t hurt the trades” is incomplete, because it will reshape the office and the field workflows.10:58 — The trades run on thin margins, and Fred explains how process “leakage” keeps many contractors stuck around 6%.12:44 — How AI can help get the right tech to the right job, with the right parts, and the right info.16:01 — Why leadership and communication matter more in an AI-first construction business.22:21 — The SEO and content example: fewer people can produce far more output, but only if quality control stays strong.24:59 — “Garbage in, garbage out” means your team must learn how to give AI better inputs.39:10 — Extreme change management: a nine-month head start with AI can become an uncatchable lead for competitors. Connect With Fred:Website: https://www.simprogroup.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fred-voccola/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

If you’ve ever been burned by hiring a “sales superstar” who fizzled out fast, this episode is for you. Ryan Englin sits down with Brian Hurd, SVP at Cardinal Financial, to uncover the secrets to hiring and motivating top-tier salespeople in the construction and building industries.Brian shares his journey from swinging a hammer to scaling national sales teams, and how that unique background gives him a sharp edge in knowing what makes salespeople tick. You’ll learn how to spot the hungry go-getters, what comp plans actually motivate top producers, and why investing in personal development can be the key to retention in a high-turnover world.Oh, and if you think the labor shortage is your biggest hiring problem? Think again. This one goes deep into the housing market’s impact on your workforce and why fixing the affordable housing crisis may be part of your long-term hiring solution.Episode Takeaways:[00:52] Brian’s background growing up in the trades and how it shaped his sales leadership style.[02:39] How a global pandemic changed the game for worker expectations and why that matters now more than ever.[04:50] Identifying go-getter sales talent and building comp plans that attract them.[06:36] Why top salespeople all want different things, and how to coach each type effectively.[08:12] The one thing today’s workforce values more than money (and most employers ignore it).[09:42] Why your existing team needs training more than you need to hire someone new.[16:12] Understanding your team’s financial stress.[21:23] How the housing crisis is impacting workforce stability, especially under $30/hr.[24:31] Breaking the stigma of manufactured housing and helping your workforce build wealth.[28:00] Real talk: Do you know your employees’ 5-year personal goals?Connect With Brian:Website: https://www.cardinalfinancial.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-hurd-a0892a83/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Plumber. Owner. Franchisor. Brand president. Matt O’Rourke walks us through how he went from a service truck in Metro Detroit to leading Z Plumberz across multiple locations. We dig into the mindset shifts that helped him get out of the field, the systems he built to scale, and why the industry needs to rethink recruiting and training. If you want to build leaders, hire better, and grow a durable business, this episode will get you moving.What you’ll learn:How to “trap” yourself into working on the business.The right way to promote top technicians into leadership.A simple rule for when to add your next truck.Why construction leadership depends on in-house apprenticeship.Marketing moves that beat the yellow pages mindset.How to attract Gen Z with training, mentoring, and modern channels.A practical path to franchising, systems, and culture.Takeaways With Timestamps00:00 — From plumber to franchisor: Matt’s vision and why thinking bigger changed his career.01:41 — Forced out of the truck: how early hiring “trapped” him into working on the business.02:39 — The franchise spark: a golf course talk with a franchise attorney that shifted his model.03:06 — Always be recruiting: why he spends 30–60 minutes a day finding future leaders.05:38 — Ditch lazy marketing: missing the yellow pages pushed him toward real community building.06:34 — The two-hour rule: if you can’t dispatch in two hours, it is time to add a plumber or a truck.14:19 — Training gaps: why national standards lag, and what he built in-house to fix it.15:54 — Private-sector apprenticeship: why every construction business must own this.20:41 — The first domino: early mornings, time blocks, ride-alongs, and “trust, but verify.”21:39 — Culture beats chaos: lead by example so decisions get made without you.Connect With Matt:Website: https://www.zplumberz.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-o-rourke-a835459/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What does it take to build a 90-person steel erection team that actually wants to come to work? In this episode, Ryan Englin sits down with Scott Sappington, CEO of Pro Steel Erectors, to unpack the construction leadership practices behind three decades of steady growth in Arizona. Scott shares how a $500 start and two credit cards turned into thousands of projects, why his crews rarely travel, and how firm core values shape daily field decisions. You’ll hear real examples of foreman training, safety standards that actually stick, and a “work to live” policy that keeps families first. If you lead a construction company and want better retention, stronger foremen, and a people-first culture, this one’s for you.Takeaways03:39 - Why Scott caps growth to stay local and keep crews home with their families.04:46 - Inside the culture: monthly training and a new foreman program led by Scott.07:33 - Core values at work.09:04 - Hard talks without losing people: the simple way Scott equips leaders.10:00 - Policy by participation: foremen help set the rules they follow.13:42 - The “$5,000 rule”: why Scott lets leaders test ideas and learn fast.16:27 - Treat them like family: how listening builds real loyalty.20:51 - “We work to live”: scheduling limits that protect work-life balance.23:57 - When employees become competitors and why Scott cheers them on.Connect With Scott:Website: https://prosteelerectors.net/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-sappington-4972ab42/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Caleb Roth, Founder & CEO of Restorative Industries and the soon-to-launch Stain & Seal Experts franchise. Caleb walks you through the real-world journey of scaling a blue-collar service business, integrating products, and systematizing operations so the business no longer needs you. If you’re a trades leader asking, “How do I make my business run without me?” this is your roadmap.You’ll hear:Why Caleb moved from staining fences on weekends to creating his own stain formula.How he reverse-engineered his service into a teachable, repeatable system.The core values that guide hiring, accountability, and culture.What he’s learned about margins, finances, and leadership along the way.The emotional challenge many founders face when stepping back and how to overcome it.Listen in and take notes. This episode is packed with lessons you can apply immediately in your construction or trade business.Takeaways with Time Stamps2:10 – Caleb’s origin story: starting a side staining business from a fencing background.6:15 – Why he pivoted to making his own stains and how that opened doors.9:30 – The mindset behind vertical integration and controlling quality.13:50 – From six core values down to three. Discovering what truly drives culture.17:45 – How focusing on “values, not behaviors” changed accountability.21:20 – What “Stain & Seal University” is and why it’s more than a conference.22:50 - A surprising lesson many contractors don’t recognize: margin matters.29:00 - The emotional cost when your business no longer needs you and how to navigate it.32:00 – The role of long-term planning when scaling beyond your “do-er” self.Connect With Caleb:Website: https://restorativeindustries.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caleb-roth-00450757/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Feeling like there’s never enough time in your day? Still running your construction or service business with sticky notes, spreadsheets, and endless phone tag?In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Sam Pillar, CEO of Jobber, a software platform that’s helping over 300,000 home service pros grow and reclaim their time. From that first customer with a lawnmower hanging out the trunk to managing over 10,000 jobs booked through AI receptionists, Jobber is making massive waves in the field service industry.Listen in as Sam shares:The early days of Jobber and the big problem they set out to solve.How AI, automation, and modern tools are changing the game for blue-collar entrepreneurs.The #1 barrier to growth for trades businesses and how to fix it.Why investing in leadership skills matters as much as investing in tools.The emotional toll of “letting go” when your business starts running without you.If you’re a construction or trades leader looking to grow your business without burning out, this episode is a must-listen.Takeaways with Time Stamps1:30 - Why a small electrical contractor sparked the idea for Jobber.3:15 - The harsh truth: big software companies weren’t built for small business.5:45 – Jobber’s new AI-powered features that help small teams scale faster.7:50 - Real impact: 200,000+ AI receptionist conversations, 10,000+ jobs booked.8:50 – The biggest barrier to growth for small contracting businesses.13:30 – A lawnmower in the trunk to 7 trucks: the $MM story Jobber helped build.16:50 - You don’t have to sacrifice family for business success.20:10 – What happens when the business depends on people you don’t trust yet.24:20 – The mindset shift: From “no one can do it like me” to “they can do it better.”27:30 – Where to find Jobber’s free tools, business graders, and industry insights.Connect With Sam:Website: https://www.getjobber.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sampillar/Jobber Tools: https://www.getjobber.com/free-tools/Jobber Blueprint: https://www.getjobber.com/blueprint/Jobber Home Service Community: https://community.getjobber.com/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

If you’ve ever lost a bid, missed a spec, or wished you could clone your best estimator, this episode is for you.In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin interviews Patrick E. Murphy, Founder & CEO at Togal.AI. Raised in one of Florida’s largest construction companies and a former U.S. Congressman, Patrick brings a fresh perspective to construction’s most persistent challenge: the time-consuming, error-prone estimating process.Now he’s built Togal.AI, a cutting-edge platform that uses AI to automate takeoffs, spot missed scope items, and support junior estimators in bidding more work, more accurately and faster than ever before.In this episode, you’ll learn:What sparked the idea for Togal and why Patrick left politics for construction tech.Why takeoffs are the biggest overhead cost in pre-construction.How AI is helping small contractors compete with the big guys.What AI in construction will look like in 5 years and why it’s closer than you think.Why the next generation of estimators is excited to work with AI (and how to recruit them).Plus, don’t miss Patrick’s exclusive 20% discount offer for Titans of the Trades listeners!Takeaways with Time Stamps1:05 - Patrick’s journey from family construction to politics and back to construction tech.5:00 - The moment Patrick realized estimating was the biggest cost in pre-con.7:15 - What Togal.AI does: instant, AI-powered takeoffs with 97%+ accuracy.9:20 – Why estimators aren’t going away, but AI makes them more valuable.10:40 - How a small painting contractor used Togal to grow 40%.11:50 – The “Total Chat” feature that saved a painter $250,000 on one job.14:45 - Estimators can now auto-build material assemblies with one click.18:30 – Patrick’s 5-year prediction: full project plans generated from a single prompt.21:00 - Why AI is making estimating attractive to younger generations again.Connect With Patrick:Website: https://www.togal.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-e-murphy-79318832b/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Owner–operator Cory Byron of Vancity Electric shares how a small electrical contractor can grow to a highly systemized $2M business without chaos. We cover building a tech stack that fits the trades, creating checklists that people actually use, making culture a system, using Jobber to close cracks, and knowing when to hire experts for SEO, bookkeeping, and AI automations. Cory also explains why he prefers hands-on coaching, how he maps client and job data flow, and the two moves he wishes he made on day one. Simple, practical, and built for blue collar leaders.You’ll learn:The “one lever a year” approach to steady growth.How to turn dropped balls into new processes.Why culture must be systematized like production.Where to outsource vs. DIY so you can focus on $10k/hour work.A simple Jobber form that saves time and prevents rework.How to measure SEO like a line item, not a gamble.The value of a coach who gets into your tools, not just on your Zoom.10 Takeaways With Timestamps00:46 - Set the target first: “$2M, highly systemized” beats “biggest for the sake of it.”01:43 - Reviews drive local demand: Vancity Electric dominates Google reviews by focusing on service.03:46 - One lever per year: Pick SEO, hiring, or branding and go deep for 12 months.04:30 - Culture is a system: Trades work is a people business. Build certainty for your team.05:05 - No systems hurts everyone: Owners, employees, clients, and families feel the pain. 06:33 - Implementation beats knowledge: Many know the answer. Few install it. Be an implementer.07:36 - Hands-on coaching wins: A coach who logs into your Jobber can solve real problems.10:15 - Fix cracks fast: If something falls through, design a small process today.11:25 - Automate the paperwork: Turn an inspection into an insurance-ready Jobber form.12:03 - Hire experts for ROI: Bookkeeping and SEO pay off when tracked like a budget line.Connect With Cory:Website: https://vancityelectric.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-byron-vancity-electric/  Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

2025 was a year of big changes, and bigger breakthroughs, for the trades. In this special end-of-year episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin reflects on the milestones, from launching the Choice Framework to redefining what it means to be an employer of choice.Ryan shares honest lessons learned, a powerful look at disengagement and its hidden cost to your business, and a vision for 2026 that challenges leaders to build stronger teams and more sustainable companies.If you’re ready to step into the new year with clarity, leadership, and momentum, this is your roadmap.Key Takeaways & Time Stamps02:10 - Why “Always Improve” is more than a Core Value. It’s a mindset for every construction leader.06:25 - The story behind Episode 100 and how the Choice Framework was born.10:40 - What it really means to be the employer of choice in your market.15:30 - The shift in the trades: how AI is redefining the value of “doing” over “knowing.”Connect With Ryan:Website: https://corematters.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanenglin/Titans of the Trades: https://www.linkedin.com/company/titans-of-the-trades/Episode 100: https://corematters.com/podcast/becoming-the-employer-everyone-wants/  Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What does it take to scale a business from $3 million to $75 million? And what lessons can construction leaders take from that journey?In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Eric Watkins, President of Abstrakt Marketing. Eric started as an unpaid intern and climbed his way to the top, helping lead massive growth along the way. Together, Ryan and Eric dive into why recruiting is marketing, how outbound sales applies directly to hiring in the trades, and why culture can make or break a growing construction company.Whether you’re running five trucks or fifty, this conversation will give you practical insights on growth, leadership, and building a sustainable business.Key Takeaways(02:00) How Eric went from unpaid intern to President of a $75M marketing company.(03:50) Why so many trades business owners struggle with the shift from tradesman to business leader.(05:10) The top three books every construction business owner should read.(09:40) Outbound sales explained and why most people get it wrong.(12:00) How outbound marketing mirrors recruiting in construction.(19:30) What scaling from $3M to $75M taught Eric about company culture.(22:00) The one hiring mistake leaders must avoid when growing fast.(26:55) Battling burnout as a business leader and how to keep your passion alive.(31:00) How to connect with Eric and access his free consultation offer.Connect With Eric:Website: https://www.abstraktmg.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-watkins-amg/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Lauren Furtado, the Founder and CEO of Unconventional CFO, who’s spent decades in big‑box accounting firms and now works one‑on‑one with construction and trade contractors. Lauren translates complex financial concepts into actionable steps, helping business leaders go from overwhelmed to empowered. If you’ve ever avoided your P&L, felt lost in cash flow, or simply wished the numbers made sense in your trade business, this is your roadmap.Lauren walks through her journey: leaving big firm life after a personal crisis, choosing a path of service, and creating a finance practice built for “people who have skin in the game.” She challenges the stereotype of finance being dry or disconnected, and shares tools, mindsets, and practices that bring clarity, confidence, and profitability to construction contractors.You’ll learn about:The Critical Four metrics every trade business must track. And why most owners don’t.What “financial nakedness” really means and how being honest with your numbers and unlocks growth.How to build a cash flow forecast that works, not just “looks good on paper.”When open‑book management helps and when it scares your team.Aligning business goals with personal mission so numbers become a tool, not a burden.Key Takeaways01:30: Lauren’s backstory: from traditional accounting to creating Unconventional CFO and why she left “big box” firms and what spurred her to shift.06:00: How personal loss shaped Lauren’s “why” and shifted her focus on helping contractors with skin in the game.8:25: The stereotype of finance in trades, and how being “unconventional” shows up: tattoos, empathy, simplicity.10:00: A case study: a contractor team in deep financial fear and what happened when they got clarity on their numbers.11:50: What “financial nakedness” is, why people avoid it, and how judgment‑free zones help uncover truth.15:45: Open‑book management: pros, cons, and how to decide what financial info to share with the field or middle management.19:25: The “Critical Four” financial metrics every construction business should track. No more guessing.23:00: Tying your money to your mission: how clarifying your impact, goals, and purpose makes finance meaningful.25:10: Forecasting cash flow: tools and tactics Lauren uses (including 12‑month forecasts and 13‑week models) to avoid surprises.27:45: The cash flow self‑assessment tool Lauren offers: how it works, what you’ll walk away with, and how to get access.Connect With Lauren:Website: https://unconventional-cfo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-furtado-7949061b/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

MEP and construction leaders are scrambling to train and retain HVAC techs, while customers expect faster, clearer service. In this episode, Ryan Englin sits down with Lee Bridges, VP of Product Management at XOi Technologies, to unpack how real jobsite data, AI-powered workflows, and human-first leadership are changing the game for HVAC technician training and field service profitability.You’ll hear how XOi captures millions of equipment data points, turns tech videos into customer-ready summaries that save 5-10 minutes per visit, and helps contractors sell maintenance with defensible transparency. Lee also shares XOi’s “Learning With Your Boots On” initiative, why “love is a differentiating product feature,” and how a decade in the music industry shaped his approach to building software techs actually want to use.Whether you run a service division, lead an MEP business, or you’re an HVAC operations exec, this conversation is packed with practical ways to level up training, margin, and customer trust.Takeaways00:57 — What is XOi? A field-service platform built around the equipment lifecycle for HVAC and commercial kitchen, designed to help techs capture and use jobsite data.03:58 — AI where it actually helps. Why XOi treats AI as a tool (not a gimmick) to save time and improve technician communication.04:26 — 50M+ data points in a year. How standardized equipment data turns into sales enablement and defensible recommendations.06:22 — One-tap AI summaries. Turning photos, videos, and notes into a customer-ready report in seconds, cutting 5-10 minutes per call.08:57 — Capacity = profit. Saving minutes per job adds up to 1-2 extra calls/week/tech, and better CX.09:41 — “Learning With Your Boots On.” A company-wide program that puts non-technicians in front of real equipment to build empathy and product insight.12:46 — From studio to software. How Lee’s music-industry hustle (hundreds of albums) translated into product creativity and execution.19:31 — Love as a product feature. Commitment + empathy as a framework for building tools that close the user’s goal gap.23:13 — Advice to apprentices. Set the goal and make it happen. Connect With Lee:Website: https://xoi.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgeslee/  Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Many entrepreneurs build a successful business only to realize one day they’re stuck asking: What’s next?In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin welcomes back Greg Hayne, Owner of the Hayne Coaching Group and creator of the What’s Next program. Greg works with business owners, especially in construction and roofing, who have achieved financial success but are struggling to find purpose, fulfillment, and clarity about the next stage of life.From battling burnout to redefining success, Greg shares practical tools entrepreneurs can use to plan for a future beyond the business. Whether you’re nearing retirement, considering selling, or simply feeling restless despite your achievements, this conversation will help you start thinking about what comes after.Key Takeaways[01:12] How Greg discovered that even successful entrepreneurs struggle with “what’s next?”[02:43] The provocative questions that made business owners realize they were stuck.[03:54] Why financial success doesn’t guarantee fulfillment or happiness.[05:23] The “golf and grandchildren plan” and why it rarely works long-term.[08:50] A map and six tools Greg uses to help entrepreneurs navigate their next stage.[09:49] Why stimulating the right brain unlocks creativity and clarity.[13:06] The importance of designing a life you don’t need a vacation from.[16:50] How writing, biking, and clarity breaks fuel Greg’s own transitions.[22:33] Why fear of change is often rooted in not having a clear vision.[25:26] The myth of the “limited pie” and how to expand possibilities for yourself and others.Connect With Greg:Website: https://www.haynecoachinggroup.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ghayne/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

The roofing industry is changing fast and the companies that thrive will be the ones that adapt.In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Melvyn Scofield, better known as Your Iowa Roofing Guy. From his years in manufacturing with IKO to educating with the Maintenance Academy, Melvyn has a no-nonsense approach to teaching property managers, roofers, and homeowners what it takes to build trust and prepare for the future of roofing.We dig into why education is the ultimate differentiator, how technology and AI are shaping roofing, and what it takes to motivate the next generation to pick up the torch. If you want to future-proof your roofing company, or any construction business, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.Key Takeaways[01:27] How the nickname Your Iowa Roofing Guy was born from one customer conversation.[03:27] Melvyn’s transition from manufacturing with IKO into roofing sales and contracting.[05:28] Why educating property managers builds long-term trust and better budgets.[07:22] How roofing cost guides help prevent customers from being misled.[09:58] The power of video education for both customers and training your own team.[11:51] Are young workers really “lazy,” or is it a generational misconception?[14:51] The role of robotics and AI in the future of roofing (and why they won’t replace humans).[19:18] Why too many contractors hope to hire “seasoned” workers instead of training new ones.[23:44] Finding that one motivated young worker and making them an example for the team.[27:16] Why parents, not schools, are the key to making the trades cool again.Connect With Melvyn:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melvynscofield/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Finding top sales talent in construction feels impossible. The best salespeople are already crushing quotas. They’re not on job boards.In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin talks with Ryan Hogan, Co-Founder and CEO of Talent Harbor. Ryan shares how his journey from Navy service to scaling multimillion-dollar ventures shaped his innovative approach to sales recruiting.You’ll learn why traditional headhunters don’t work, how “recruiting as a service” changes the game, and why culture fit always wins. Whether you’re hiring estimators, roofing sales reps, or high-performing closers, this episode will help you rethink your strategy.Key Takeaways[01:26] From Navy service to entrepreneurship: The lessons Ryan carried into business.[03:39] The rise (and pivot) of Hunt a Killer into a $48M subscription business.[06:59] Why traditional recruiting fees don’t work for small to mid-sized contractors.[08:19] What most owners get wrong about hiring salespeople.[10:57] Why the best salespeople are never on job boards like Indeed.[14:28] Average time-to-hire and why recruiting as a service changes the math.[16:22] Building the right compensation plan for roofing and construction sales roles.[20:48] Culture fit vs. sales skills: Which matters more when hiring?[22:39] Why competitive backgrounds (sports, games, etc.) predict sales success.[25:16] The deal-breaker: Why Talent Harbor won’t recruit without processes in place.Connect With Ryan Hogan:Website: https://talentharbor.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanehogan/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Are you tired of being stuck in the field, juggling sales calls, project management, and even picking up some tools when no one else shows up? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Branden Sewell, Owner of Seal Pro Painting and host of the Off the Ladder Podcast.Branden never started as a painter, yet built a thriving painting business by learning how to run the company. He shares the mindset shifts, hiring strategies, and leadership lessons that helped him move from owner-operator to true business owner.If you’re in construction or the trades and want to grow your company without burning out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you finally “get off the ladder.”Key Takeaways with Timestamps[03:02] Why not knowing how to paint actually helped Branden grow Seal Pro Painting faster.[05:22] The biggest mindset shift every owner-operator must make to scale.[06:05] Myths construction leaders tell themselves that keep them stuck in the field.[08:19] Why there isn’t a labor shortage and what’s really going on with hiring in the trades.[10:01] What construction can learn from Chick-fil-A about building a strong workforce.[12:53] The first step to finally getting off the ladder and into the CEO seat.[14:55] Why subbing out work created bigger problems and how Branden transitioned to hiring employees.[19:23] Building culture and values into your hiring and onboarding process.[21:47] A hard leadership lesson: when being “too kind” holds your team back.[25:04] What to expect from the Get Off the Ladder Podcast and how it can help your business grow.Connect With Branden:Website: https://www.sealpropainting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandensewell/?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with Denise Grothouse, Founder and CEO of Perfect Six Marketing and a seasoned entrepreneur who built a multimillion-dollar brand in the trades before launching her agency. Denise knows how contractors think, because she’s been one.She shares real-world marketing strategies tailored to construction businesses, including how to leverage social media, earned media, and even AI, without getting overwhelmed. Learn why vulnerability is your secret weapon, how to niche your services for better results, and the one checklist every employer needs to build a magnetic employer brand.Whether you’re a home remodeler or service contractor, this episode will help you understand what real marketing ROI looks like.Episode Takeaways[01:09] Denise’s origin story: From building furniture to building brands.[03:17] Why contractors need to be more vulnerable with marketing.[06:07] The power of customer retention and follow-up.[08:08] How to personalize lead response automation and stand out.[09:01] What is earned media and why it builds trust (and SEO!).[11:47] Instagram and Myspace stories that led to real PR wins.[14:22] The benefits of niching and why bathroom remodels are booming.[18:26] Stop commoditizing marketing. It’s insurance, not an expense.[22:31] Your people are your brand: why employer branding matters.[25:45] How to get Denise’s employee brand-building checklist (free).Connect With DeniseWebsite: https://perfectsixmarketing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grothouse/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin welcomes Mike Abramowitz, Co-Founder of Better Than Rich and creator of the Time-Rich Six framework. Mike grew up watching his dad, a lifelong plumber, grind it out six days a week, and knew there had to be a better way. Now, Mike helps contractors and owner-operators build scalable systems so they can stop working in the business and start working on it.Discover how Mike replaced himself in his own business, built a team of onshore and offshore talent, and created predictable revenue systems that allowed him to step away when his family needed him most.This isn’t theory. It’s practical advice contractors can implement today.Episode Takeaways[01:09] Mike’s backstory, from direct sales to family life and growing up with a tradesman father.[03:18] The turning point: hiring a business coach and moving from operator to owner.[05:41] Running a $100K week remotely. Proof that systems work.[07:48] How Mike realized his dad’s way wasn’t the only way.[10:35] Using offshore virtual assistants to buy back 12–15 hours a week.[13:12] Why systems fail: Hiring a doer when you need an expert.[16:24] A real-world contractor example of mapping a customer follow-up process.[22:24] The Time-Rich Six explained and how each layer supports freedom.[27:07] The hard truth: crisis forces change. Why you should act before it’s too late.[33:58] Free GSD sessions. How contractors can build systems with Mike’s help.Connect With Mike:Website: https://betterthanrich.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeabramowitz1/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

How much knowledge is walking out your door every year?In this Titans of the Trades episode, Ryan Englin sits down with Manja Horner, Founder and CEO of Boost, to tackle one of the most urgent problems in construction: capturing tribal knowledge before it disappears.Manja explains how decades of tips, tricks, and hard‑earned craft insights often vanish when veteran workers retire. She shares a framework to capture, organize, and pass on that knowledge, so your company’s “secret sauce” lives on for the next generation.If you’re a construction leader worried about losing key people or struggling to train new hires, this conversation is packed with actionable steps and inspiring ideas.Key Takeaways[02:03] Why 30–40% of the skilled trades workforce is retiring soon.[03:26] A true story of a master craftsperson walking out the door and everything lost.[05:50] The mindset shift leaders need to take ownership of training.[08:50] What counts as tribal knowledge (and it’s more than you think).[10:01] Why training is a skill and not everyone knows how to do it.[17:24] How to capture insights from field crews who don’t sit at desks.[22:33] Turning hours of interviews into a usable, searchable library.[30:51] A sneak peek into Boost’s AI-powered internal knowledge search.Connect With Manja:Website: https://www.boostld.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manja-horner/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What happens when a private equity buyer enters the picture, but you’re not ready to let go? In this powerful episode, Ryan Englin welcomes Jeremiah Webb, a blue collar business expert with a background that spans HVAC, financial services, and manufacturer-side leadership. Jeremiah shares hard truths and game-changing strategies for trades business owners caught in the chaos of growth, succession, and staying motivated.You’ll learn how to:Reclaim your motivation after selling your business.Build employee leadership that frees you from daily chaos.Align family dynamics with legacy business goals.Use problems as fuel, not roadblocks.Stay fulfilled in life after success.If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your construction or service business or you’re preparing for a big transition this episode is your new manual.10 Must-Hear Takeaways:[00:41] Jeremiah’s “bad day for 10 minutes” mindset. Why emotional resilience drives long-term growth.[04:08] Business as a generational gift. How family-owned construction businesses change communities.[06:04] What happens when PE buyers change the deal post-sale. And how to protect your values.[07:44] Motivation post-sale. What really keeps founders engaged after the check clears.[08:54] Becoming the “cool uncle” your next-gen leaders need. Why kids resist legacy and how to get through to them.[11:37] The art of fulfillment post-success. Why cocktails and beaches aren’t enough.[14:56] Solve problems… Get more problems. How to see business growth as a cycle, not a finish line.[21:28] The “crossed wires” problem in management. Why most systems create frustration and blame.[27:06] Leadership levels that transform team culture. From stepping in to stepping away.[36:11] Can’t let go of control? The root cause might be your past self. A psychological unlock for owners who sabotage scale.Connect With Jeremiah:Website: https://shoponfire.com/about/jeremiah-webb/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremiahwebb/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch and former painting company owner turned tech innovator. James brings his real-world experience from the ladder to the leadership boardroom to tackle one of the biggest issues in the construction industry: communication breakdowns.He introduces a powerful, no-training-required video platform designed specifically for construction crews, contractors, and service providers. Think Nextel walkie-talkies, but with live video. Whether it’s a busted pipe, a scheduling delay, or the need to capture field progress in real-time, James’ solution helps teams stay connected and accountable without unnecessary trips to the job site.Plus, hear James’ passion project that’s giving thousands of incarcerated individuals a second chance through entrepreneurship, and the mindset shift every construction leader should make to scale faster and breathe easier.Takeaways[02:00] From the ladder to the boardroom: James’ journey from power washing to tech executive.[03:00] The communication breakthrough that replaces wasted trips.[06:30] Why third-party video beats Zoom, email, or chat for job site problem-solving.[08:30] How a QR code and cell phone can eliminate repeat site visits and missed details.[12:30] The behavior shift that helps crews document better and protect their work.[15:00] How video creates a training library and captures tribal knowledge before it walks out the door.[17:30] James’ second-chance entrepreneurship program that’s transforming lives.[20:00] Why building a business should include making yourself redundant.[24:00] James’ mission to modernize everyday trades businesses and show others how.[27:00] The power of LinkedIn and giving your idea a real shot at becoming something big.Connect With James:Website: https://www.liveswitch.com/contactLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-hatfield/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Join us for this empowering episode as we talk with Brenna Moore, a dynamic Heavy Equipment Operator and Foreman who is breaking barriers in the construction industry. Brenna shares her journey from apprentice to industry influencer and highlights her work with programs like Camp Build Her and the National Equipment League. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, mentorship, and the endless opportunities within construction, especially for women entering this traditionally male-dominated field. Whether you’re a seasoned construction executive or a newcomer looking to make your mark, Brenna’s insights will inspire you to build not just infrastructure but also a fulfilling career.Takeaways(0:33) The pivotal decision that led Brenna from considering college to a high-paying apprenticeship.(2:08) From heavy equipment operator to pipe layer and back again.(2:50) Inside look at the National Equipment League, construction’s version of competitive sports.(6:53) How Camp Build Her is transforming the next generation of women in construction.(10:39) The moment one young participant changed Brenna’s perspective forever.(13:37) Why authenticity matters more than ever on the job site.(19:50) Brenna’s candid advice on attracting and retaining more women in the construction workforce.(22:49) How company leaders can create a more inclusive, respectful culture from day one.Connect With BrennaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenna-e-moore302/  Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Struggling to find good people or keep them? You’re not alone. In this follow-up episode, Ryan Englin sits down again with Michael Katz and David Katz of Trio Heating and Air to reveal the people-first strategies that helped them grow to $10M in just a few years.This episode is a goldmine for blue collar leaders in construction and home services looking to attract, recruit, and retain top talent. Michael and David break down what it really takes to recruit A-players and why your office culture, branding, and onboarding process matter more than you think.Whether you’re tired of hiring duds, facing constant turnover, or feel stuck in your recruiting process, this conversation is your roadmap to building a team that thrives.Takeaways[2:00] Why you’re not attracting top performers and how to fix it.[3:30] The power of branding your workspace to appeal to A-players.[5:00] The critical mistake small businesses make when hiring top salespeople.[10:00] The long game: How David nurtured a top recruit for 3 years.[14:15] Tactical steps to make interviews less intimidating and more effective.[17:30] The onboarding experience that gets top talent earning on day one.[21:00] How Trio’s $3,000 employee referral system works and why it’s genius.[26:00] What to do when your HR team says your recruiting idea is crazy.[31:45] Why high performers leave and how to keep them loyal.[36:45] Tips to retain support staff like dispatchers and CSRs too.Connect With Michael & David:·       Website: https://trioheatingandair.com/·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-katz-20b751109/·       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-katz-999319b5/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Can you succeed in the HVAC industry without any experience? Brothers Michael Katz and David Katz did just that; scaling their company, Trio Heating and Air, from zero to over $10 million in revenue in just two years. In today’s episode, these innovative entrepreneurs share their remarkable journey, highlighting key strategies that can supercharge your growth, profitability, and market presence.Learn how embracing technology, strategic pricing, and relentless execution allowed them to attract A-players, outperform competitors, and dominate their market. Michael and David offer practical advice for overcoming common hurdles in construction and HVAC businesses, ensuring your company thrives even during challenging times.This is an inspiring story of passion, persistence, and the power of learning from industry leaders. If you’re looking to elevate your construction business, don’t miss this transformative episode!Key Takeaways01:29 – How two brothers with no HVAC experience built a multi-million-dollar business in under two years.03:42 – The critical importance of aligning visions within a family-run business.06:33 – The unexpected beginnings: From sleeping in a van to selling air filters door-to-door.08:57 – How attending industry conferences like Pantheon completely changed their business trajectory.13:19 – The harsh reality behind rapid business growth—and how to manage it sustainably.15:28 – Turning your lack of industry experience into your biggest competitive advantage.23:42 – Why raising your prices can dramatically boost your profitability (and customer satisfaction).28:21 – How to overcome pricing fears and dramatically increase your conversion rates.32:27 – The secret behind attracting and retaining A-player talent in construction.34:44 – Simple but powerful advice on how to replicate success: “Just copy and paste.”Connect With Michael & David:Website: https://trioheatingandair.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-katz-20b751109/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-katz-999319b5/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin talks with Josh Vitale, Founder of Project BUILT, about the unseen struggles facing the construction workforce.Josh shares staggering statistics on mental health challenges, the alarming suicide and opioid rates in the trades, and how leaders can step up to make a difference. You’ll hear actionable ideas on fostering connection, healing families, and building workplaces where people thrive, not just survive.If you’re a construction leader who cares about your team’s wellbeing and wants to build a healthier culture that drives productivity and loyalty, this episode is a must‑listen.Key Takeaways with Time Stamps[02:21] Shocking stats on suicide and opioid addiction in construction.[03:53] Why a lack of connection fuels despair in the trades.[06:57] What real suffering looks like for many mid‑level construction workers.[09:55] How leaders can model vulnerability to support their teams.[10:59] The hidden impact of toxic bosses on jobsite mental health.[12:27] Boundary setting and personal resilience when facing toxic leadership.[17:38] Balancing project metrics with emotional health and safety.[22:46] How to get involved with Project BUILT and Construction Suicide Prevention Week.Connect With Josh:Website: https://getbuilt.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-vitale-vitalchemy/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Is your construction or service business drowning in software solutions that promised efficiency but delivered overwhelm? Jenny Benbrook, CEO and Founder of Powerhouse Consulting Group, joins the podcast to reveal how to finally make your technology work for you, not against you.In this powerful conversation, Jenny shares insider insights on overcoming common pitfalls contractors face when adopting field service management (FSM) software like ServiceTitan. Learn why your software implementations fail, how to leverage AI effectively, and practical strategies to streamline your operations, boost team productivity, and dramatically enhance your profitability.Whether you’re tech-savvy or resistant to change, Jenny’s straightforward advice can revolutionize how your construction business operates and thrives.Key Takeaways01:25 – Why most software implementations in construction overwhelm instead of streamline.02:47 – The truth behind why your FSM software isn’t the “Holy Grail” you expected.04:44 – Overcoming the two biggest mindset shifts contractors need for successful software adoption.06:51 – The secret behind Powerhouse Consulting’s approach to relieving software overwhelm.09:52 – A surprising way to automate accounts receivable and free up 15 hours a week.13:35 – Why mastering technology is essential for legacy building or selling your construction business.18:58 – Avoiding costly redundancies: How to stop buying software you don’t need.23:00 – The crucial mistake contractors make in managing complex tasks like inventory.24:40 – How AI will reshape the trades and how your business can lead instead of lag.27:16 – AI is a tool to enhance your team, not replace it.Connect With Jenny:Website: https://mypowerhouse.group/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennybenbrook/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Are office inefficiencies holding back your construction or service business? Today’s guest, Lynn Wise from Contractor In Charge, reveals why most contractors lose valuable leads and struggle with productivity. From understanding the true cost of mismanaged phone calls to strategically using AI for your front-office tasks, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to streamline your operations.Lynn leverages over 50 years of experience in the trades, offering expert insights on optimizing your office roles, reducing chaos, and boosting profitability. If you’re looking to eliminate the frustration of missed opportunities and overwhelmed staff, this conversation is a must-listen!Key Takeaways01:18 – Lynn’s journey from dispatcher to CEO and how she built Contractor In Charge.03:50 – The real reason contractors lose leads despite spending money on marketing.05:28 – Why combining multiple roles into one job is damaging your productivity.07:09 – Only 28% of your incoming calls are bookable. Here’s why.09:34 – How AI can drastically improve call handling without replacing humans.12:08 – Using AI effectively to handle the 72% of non-bookable calls.15:13 – Why your current approach to staffing might be driving great employees away.20:07 – The hidden impact of poor planning on your business’ bottom line.23:53 – Two essential skills every successful contractor must master (and how most fail).27:27 – A simple strategy to instantly boost your customer loyalty through service calls.Connect With Lynn:Website: https://contractorincharge.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnwise/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Michael Carey Jr., President of Carey Electric, shares his journey from high school apprentice to owner of a thriving design-build electrical firm. In this episode, Michael and Ryan explore how technology, standardization, and a commitment to education are reshaping construction jobs for the next generation. Learn why Carey Electric’s approach to training and design-build projects sets them apart in a competitive industry.Whether you’re a construction business owner, manager, or technician, you’ll walk away inspired and informed on how to lead with vision and purpose.Key Takeaways with Timestamps00:34 Michael’s origin story: family business roots and early exposure to the trades.02:15 How the construction labor landscape has changed over the last 40 years.04:05 What design-build means and why Carey Electric uses this approach.05:48 The value of being a partner, not just a subcontractor, on large projects.07:10 How systematizing processes boosts technician productivity and morale.12:50 How Carey Electric is reaching future tradespeople at schools and fairs.18:52 Why training can’t stop after apprenticeship. Continuous growth matters.19:58 Where to find Michael and learn more about Carey Electric’s impact.Connect With Michael:Website: https://www.careyelectricinc.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-carey-jr-221163107/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Danielle Putnam, President of The New Flat Rate, to break down how construction and home service contractors can boost revenue and retention by doing less. That’s right. Less.Danielle shares how giving technicians the power of choice through menu pricing not only increases average tickets but also reduces burnout, improves customer satisfaction, and builds stronger businesses. From ride-alongs to real-world coaching and a peer group called Freedom Builders University, Danielle reveals how her team is reshaping the trades, one call at a time.If you’re tired of running your techs ragged and still not seeing the profits, this episode is your roadmap to smarter growth.10 Key Takeaways with Timestamps:[01:00] Why menu pricing keeps families together and techs sane.[02:00] How technicians can triple impact with fewer calls per day.[03:15] The “Power of the Menu” explained with cheeseburgers.[06:45] Freedom Builders University and how it works.[08:40] What contractors learn from on-site peer group visits.[10:27] Why owners don’t want to be trainers, and shouldn’t have to be.[12:54] Don’t hire unicorns. Hire real people and give them tools.[18:08] The mindset shift that defines successful contractors today.[21:20] Why lack of follow-up is killing your construction business.[24:08] Danielle’s top tools for automating your way to freedom.Connect With Danielle:Website: https://thenewflatrate.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellekoop/  Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What if recruiting for your construction business was as strategic as landing your next big client? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, host Ryan Englin sits down with seasoned business coach John Nieuwenburg of W5 Coaching. Together, they dive into one of the most overlooked but critical strategies in blue collar leadership: treating recruiting like marketing.John brings two decades of coaching experience, much of it with contractors and tradespeople, and delivers hard-hitting insights on how mindset, culture, and transformational leadership are the true game-changers in solving the trades’ labor crisis.From building a bench to exiting your business on your terms, this conversation is packed with real talk and practical strategies construction leaders can’t afford to miss.Episode Takeaways with Timestamps[02:24] The Real Definition of Coaching. John breaks down why coaching isn’t about giving advice but helping you own your solutions.[03:30] What W5 Really Means. Learn how the Socratic method shapes John’s coaching model.[05:49] Business Coaching is Personal Coaching. The deeper issues behind business problems (hint: it’s not the spreadsheet).[07:15] Recruiting Like You Sell. Why you must treat recruiting with the same urgency as sales.[08:35] Build a Bench Before You Need It. John’s retail story shows how to always be recruiting the right way.[11:04] Job Ads That Actually Work. A better way to write job postings that speak to real human pain points.[14:26] Transformational vs. Transactional Coaching. How to get the culture you deserve, not just the one you tolerate.[18:07] Leverage in Hiring. Why the person with more options always wins, and how to make sure it’s you.[20:16] Building a Self-Managing Business. What’s your business worth if you step away for 3 months?[25:48] Identity After the Exit. Why selling your business is as emotional as it is financial.Connect With John:Website: https://w5coaching.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/business-coach-canada/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What if the biggest fix for your workforce shortage wasn’t another hire, but a training academy you built in-house?In this episode of Titans of the Trades: Stories of How to Win from Construction Powerhouses, Ryan Englin talks with Danielle Wernert, Owner of Upskilled Consulting and a leader in trades education, about how home service contractors can develop their own internal universities, even if they’ve never done it before.Danielle shares her story of going from an executive assistant to running one of the first home service academies in the industry, and how that experience evolved into helping businesses nationwide build training programs that actually work. You’ll learn how to fill your training classes, overcome tech resistance, and turn seasoned techs into effective mentors.Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your academy to the next level, this episode will give you a practical roadmap to launch, scale, and succeed.Episode Takeaways[00:25] Danielle’s journey from executive assistant to industry training expert.[01:54] How she built one of the first in-house training academies in the home services space.[03:53] Why “ride-along training” is failing new hires, and what to do instead.[05:29] The critical mistake most companies make: not training the trainers.[07:21] What to do if you’re afraid to train because “they might leave.”[10:35] How gamified training boosts engagement and knowledge retention.[16:11] Capturing tribal knowledge before your top techs retire.[19:17] How to overcome team resistance to new training tech and processes.[23:07] How to fill your training classes - Danielle had 2,000 applicants for 43 seats.[26:32] Details on Danielle’s upcoming book and how to connect with her directly.Connect With Danielle:Website: https://upskilledconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-wernert/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What if the labor shortage in construction could be solved by tapping into a powerful, often overlooked workforce? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin talks with industry leadership expert Dr. Gretchen Gagel, CEO and Founder of Greatness Consulting, about why bringing more women into construction isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s essential for the future of the trades.Dr. Gagel shares her incredible journey from being disowned for studying engineering to leading multimillion-dollar construction projects and now authoring a groundbreaking book: Building Women Leaders. She opens up about unconscious bias, microaggressions, and how businesses can transform their culture to be more inclusive, respectful, and productive…for everyone.If you’re serious about building a sustainable workforce and evolving leadership in the trades, this episode is your blueprint.Episode Takeaways:[00:16] Why Gretchen left a Harvard acceptance to study engineering and never looked back.[02:01] What inspired Building Women Leaders, and why it’s not just for women.[04:47] Understanding unconscious bias and how it shows up on job sites and in hiring.[08:36] Tips for recognizing and reducing unconscious bias in your company.[14:31] Is construction getting better for women? Here's what the data says.[16:52] What makes women in the trades feel exhausted and how leadership can change it.[17:27] The small ways male allies can make a big difference in workplace culture.[20:38] Advice for aspiring women leaders entering the trades.[24:28] How construction businesses can take real steps toward inclusion and representation.Connect With Dr. Gagel:Website: https://gretchengagel.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gretchen-gagel/Book: https://www.amazon.com/Building-Women-Leaders-Blueprint-Construction/dp/1394251386 Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Can investing in your employees' personal dreams actually improve performance and company culture?In this powerful episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Collin Jewett, Dream Manager at The Annex Group, to talk about what it really means to care for your people. Collin shares how his role, focused solely on helping employees pursue their personal goals, is transforming team morale, engagement, and retention in the construction and property management space.They dive into the logistics of running a Dream Manager program, how to scale it, and why you don’t need a big budget to start creating space for personal growth in your workplace.Whether you’re in construction, the trades, or any people-first business, this episode will challenge you to rethink leadership.Episode Takeaways:[00:32] What is a Dream Manager and how does it fit in a construction company?[01:31] From engineer to employee advocate: Collin's journey into coaching and development.[05:09] How The Annex Group launched its Dream Manager program and how it actually works.[07:48] Why separating job performance from personal goals matters more than you think.[08:38] The first step any company can take to implement a Dream Manager mindset.[12:25] The simple metrics that show if your team is really growing.[15:03] What triggered leadership at The Annex Group to invest in this initiative.[17:38] Managing relationships with 130+ employees.[22:35] Why presence matters more than strategy.Connect With Collin:Website: https://www.theannexgrp.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinjewett/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Is your CRM slowing down your sales team? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin reconnects with Adam Honig, CEO of Spiro.ai, to explore why traditional CRMs are broken, especially for industries like construction and manufacturing. They dive into how AI is transforming the sales process by capturing tribal knowledge, reducing manual data entry, and making your salespeople more productive without sacrificing the human touch.Adam shares the story behind Spiro’s creation, inspired by the film Her, and how AI-driven automation is solving real-world problems that construction and manufacturing leaders face every day - from sales team retirements to labor shortages and lack of customer data transparency.If you're in construction, manufacturing, or any blue collar industry that relies on people and relationships to close deals, this is a must-listen.Episode Takeaways:[01:38] Adam introduces Spiro.ai and why it's not your typical CRM.[03:53] How AI helps automate the parts of sales everyone hates, like data entry and follow-ups.[06:00] A generational shift: younger leaders are driving AI adoption in manufacturing.[07:58] The tribal knowledge crisis - how AI can capture what your retiring sales team knows.[09:32] Spiro as the Iron Man suit for your sales team.[11:31] How Spiro pulls from emails, meetings, and ERP data to surface smart recommendations.[13:02] Balancing automation with the human touch in relationship-driven industries.[17:09] The future of AI in business communication: Think Star Trek, not spreadsheets.[20:27] How AI might collaborate across companies to solve problems more proactively.[22:48] Where to connect with Adam and explore Spiro’s anti-CRM platform.Connect With Adam:Website: https://spiro.ai/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamhonig/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What if the difference between your best month ever and losing a loyal customer came down to one phone call?In this episode, Ryan sits down with David Powers, a Chief Experience Officer at Rooter Hero Plumbing and CX Riot Radio host, to dig into how most home service companies get call centers wrong - and how it’s costing them more than they think. David shares what he’s learned from decades running call centers (starting at age 17!) and now leading the ultra-efficient, ultra-human customer support engine at Rooter Hero.You’ll learn:Why treating employees better always leads to better customer service.What a 5-minute response window does for conversion rates.How real-time data (even on a smartwatch!) is changing the game.The biggest mistake small shops make when it comes to incoming leads.And what AI should (and shouldn’t) be doing in your service business.If you think having “just one CSR” means these lessons don’t apply to you, think again. David’s insights prove this stuff matters whether you have 1 tech or 100.Connect With David:Website: https://rooterhero.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjpowers2/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin welcomes Carl Veillette, CPO at Newforma. Carl dives deep into his journey from architecture to leading innovation in construction software. Discover how he's helping blue collar teams modernize without losing their roots.Carl shares the real challenges of merging startups with legacy companies, the importance of cross-platform collaboration between job sites and offices, and how Newforma is building a Google-style search engine for construction knowledge. This is a must-listen for anyone in construction, engineering, or leadership roles looking to future-proof their operations.Connect With Carl:Website: https://www.newforma.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlveillette/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Joe Crisara, known as "Uncle Joe" in the trades, went from being $471,000 in debt to building one of the most respected coaching businesses for service contractors. In this episode, Joe, America’s Service Sales Coach at Service MVP, shares the hard lessons he learned as a contractor, the moment a customer changed his life, and how tiered pricing transformed his business. If you're tired of running on low margins or struggling to close deals, this is the conversation you've been waiting for. Joe unpacks premium, mid-range, and economy pricing strategies that actually convert - and shows you how to emotionally connect with customers so they want to buy. This one’s packed with game-changing insight.Connect With JoeWebsite: https://servicemvp.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecrisara/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

What happens when homeowners start expecting HVAC quotes with Amazon-level speed? In this episode of Titans of the Trades, Ryan Englin sits down with Josh Koplin, Co-Founder of EDEN, to talk about the seismic shifts hitting the residential HVAC industry.Josh shares how EDEN’s instant quoting tool is flipping the script, giving consumers the transparency they crave while delivering more qualified leads to contractors. But it’s more than just software. Josh dives deep into modern buying behavior, why traditional sales models are breaking down, and how AI-driven search is about to upend local SEO as we know it.If you're a contractor wondering how to adapt to the new digital-first customer, or you’re trying to stay competitive in the face of AI disruption, this episode is packed with insights you can’t afford to miss.Connect With Josh:Website: https://www.e-denhomes.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-koplin-57654230/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.

Most construction business owners are great at building things, but not at building wealth. In this episode, Ryan Englin talks with Aaron Mills, Founder and CEO of DAAXIT, a firm helping contractors clean up their financials and scale smarter. Aaron shares how he took an electrical contractor from $30M to $90M and sold it at a 12x multiple, then realized most construction companies don’t even know if they’re profitable.Aaron also explains:The #1 financial tool contractors overlook.Why rollercoaster profits signal inaccurate books.How one client cut 50% of their workload and saved their marriage.If you’re running your business off your bank balance or waiting until tax season to know how you did last year, this conversation is for you. Learn what a WIP schedule is, why your net income might be lying to you, and how a fractional CFO can help you work less and make more.If you want to build a business that supports your lifestyle, not swallows it, this is your episode.Connect With Aaron:Website: https://daaxit.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-mills-11902272/ Support Titans of the Trades:If you found this episode insightful, please subscribe, share, and leave a review for Titans of the Trades. Your support goes a long way in helping us bring more impactful discussions your way.