Pave It Forward Podcast

Go inside the minds of Kevin Gray (Pave It Forward Asphalt company president) and Phil Metzger (head of marketing) as they discuss strategies for asphalt paving contractors. This behind-the-scenes conversation reveals innovative approaches to customer service, project execution, and business growth specifically for asphalt industry professionals. WHAT ASPHALT CONTRACTORS WILL LEARN: 🎪 The " @TheSavannahBananas  Effect" for Asphalt (1:39) • Community-centered events and "asphalt spectaculars" adapted for paving operations • Food trucks, live music, and charity partnerships integrated with paving projects • All-day entertainment zones and themed paving days for crew motivation • Creative marketing approaches beyond traditional asphalt industry methods 🎨 Equipment Branding Strategy (12:24) •  @Dirty_Graphix   - Custom graphics packages for paving equipment ($2,600-$3,000 investment) • Professional application considerations and installation process • Brand visibility strategies through equipment presence on job sites • Winter timing for equipment graphics application   🤖 AI-Powered Customer Service Demo (14:25) • "Lily"  @elevenlabsio   receptionist system live demonstration and testing • Automated customer inquiry handling and project information collection • Detailed tonnage estimates, project types, and cost calculations • Operations at fractions of pennies per call vs. traditional receptionist costs 🏗️ Major Project Case Study: Planet Fitness (31:00) • $150,000 commercial project breakdown and execution strategy • 1,000 tons of asphalt logistics and complex milling operations • Two-day project timeline with 10-truck coordination • How flawless execution builds preferred contractor status with commercial real estate companies ⚠️ Quality Control & Risk Management (27:45) • Core sampling risks and contract specification requirements • Financial dangers of cutting material thickness to save costs • Technical operations including joint matching and production rates • Why cutting corners can lead to quarter-million dollar losses 🎯 Project Management Excellence (23:00) • Proper planning prevents poor performance - the six P's philosophy • Crew training for paver operation and project management • Communication strategies for large commercial projects • Building relationships that lead to preferred contractor status --- 🎯 BOTTOM LINE FOR CONTRACTORS: This episode reveals the strategic thinking behind building a reputable asphalt paving company - from cutting-edge customer service technology to operational excellence and innovative community engagement. Essential viewing for contractors serious about differentiating their business and scaling operations. --- 🔧 RESOURCES FOR ASPHALT PROFESSIONALS: • Asphalt Operating System (AOS) 8-Week Course - January 2026 https://asphaltoperatingsystem.com/   Connect with Pave It Forward: - Instagram: @paveitforwardllc - YouTube: Pave It Forward - Website: paveitforwardllc.com - Linkedin: Kevin Gray | Phil Metzger --- 👍 LIKE if this episode helped your paving business strategy! 🔔 SUBSCRIBE for regular asphalt industry insights 💬 COMMENT your biggest paving business challenge below

Discover how Pave It Forward scaled to $3 million in revenue in just two years while operating on a 4-day work week schedule. Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger reveal counterintuitive strategies that challenge traditional assumptions about running an asphalt paving business. In this candid episode, Kevin shares hard-earned wisdom from 17 years in the paving industry, including how costly mistakes became valuable lessons that now allow Pave It Forward to operate lean and efficiently. Learn why they're rejecting the traditional construction business model - no office, no full-time admin staff, and even no company-owned dump trucks - while still delivering exceptional results for both residential driveways and six-figure commercial projects. The conversation explores their unique approach to seal coating (operating at zero profit for customer retention), their strategic balance between small $3,500 jobs and large commercial contracts, and how they're achieving what traditionally takes 7-10 years in just two. Kevin and Phil discuss how modern technology and systems allow them to run a multi-million dollar operation with just 6-7 crew members, while giving their team three-day weekends and maintaining work-life balance. Key Topics & Timestamps: 0:00 How to implement 4-day work week in asphalt paving business 3:30 Why $3500 driveway jobs matter as much as six-figure commercial projects 8:15 Running seal coating services at zero profit for customer retention 12:45 Managing $3 million revenue without office or admin staff 18:20 Asphalt business mistakes that cost hundreds of thousands 24:30 How to scale from 1 to 10 million in paving revenue fast 31:00 Why buying cheap equipment costs more than buying quality 37:45 Leading paving crews without micromanaging operations 43:20 Alternative business models for modern asphalt contractors 52:00 Profit margins and crew efficiency in 4-day work schedules Main Takeaways:    - Learn why traditional expansion isn't always the answer - less overhead can mean more profit    - Discover how to leverage past mistakes to accelerate business growth from 1 to 10 million    - Understand the strategic value of saying no to certain revenue streams    - See how modern technology eliminates the need for traditional office infrastructure    - Master the art of delegation to empower your crew and improve operations About the Hosts: Kevin Gray brings 17 years of hands-on asphalt paving experience and is the owner of Pave It Forward Asphalt. Phil Metzger leads marketing strategy and business operations, helping contractors modernize their approach to growth. Subscribe for More: Watch more valuable episodes at https://www.youtube.com/@paveitforward/videos Connect with Us: Kevin Gray on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevgray/ Follow @paveitforwardllc on Instagram for daily paving insights and behind-the-scenes content   Learn more about innovative asphalt paving solutions and business strategies at https://asphaltoperatingsystem.com

This week on the Pave It Forward Podcast, we're pulling back the curtain and showing you how we're running our proposal process and sales systems. Phil, Josh (our VP of Projects & Consumer Experience), and Kevin recorded their actual strategy meeting! What You'll See in This Episode: • Custom proposal creation with professional attachments • Remote proposal workflows using aerial photography   • Complete CRM walkthrough and integration • Customer photo/video upload system through our website • Strategic AI automation vs. maintaining personal touch • Hands-free proposal generation while preserving relationships This isn't theory - it's a real look at the systems we're implementing and the results we're seeing. Whether you're still creating proposals by hand or looking to upgrade your current system, you'll get actionable insights you can implement immediately. 🚀 SMASH that LIKE button and SUBSCRIBE if this content helps your paving business! Hit the notification bell so you never miss our latest episodes.  The algorithm needs to know you find this valuable so we can reach more contractors like you! 💬 COMMENT QUESTION:  What's your biggest challenge with your current proposal process? Are you still doing everything manually, or have you started automating parts of your sales system? Share your experience below! Full Podcast Homepage: https://paveitforwardllc.com/podcast

Join Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger as they dive deep into what it takes to build a successful asphalt paving company while maintaining a strong company culture. Kevin shares invaluable insights from his 17+ years of experience on managing growth, developing teams, and creating lasting success in the industry.   Key Topics Covered: • The reality of starting and growing a paving business from scratch • How to maintain quality while scaling operations • Building and retaining reliable crews through transparency and culture • The importance of treating employees as humans, not just workers • Strategic planning during the winter/off-season • Setting realistic growth goals and backing into them with actionable steps   🎯 For Asphalt Business Owners: Learn why Kevin prioritizes employee development and company culture over rapid growth, and how this approach has helped him build reliable, long-lasting teams in an industry known for high turnover.   🔑 Key Takeaway: Success in the paving industry isn't just about technical skills - it's about building strong relationships, maintaining transparency with your team, and creating an environment where people want to work.   Connect with us: 📱 Instagram: @paveitforwardllc 🌐 Website: www.paveitforwardllc.com/podcast   For information on AOS, visit: https://www.asphaltoperatingsystem.com/   For more show notes, visit: www.paveitforwardllc.com/podcast    

Here's a YouTube description for the live recap video:   Join Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger as they break down what's included in the Asphalt Operating System (AOS) Winter 2025 Program. With over 15 years of asphalt industry experience, Kevin shares insights on what it takes to run a profitable paving business and how AOS can help establish the systems you need.   Topics covered: - Financial tracking essentials - Operations management  - Hiring and team building - Marketing strategies - Systems implementation - Industry-specific challenges   🎉 Enter to win a FREE spot in AOS ($499 value): https://forms.gle/oh3vUikK6LuCQNZ89   Learn more about the Winter 2025 Program: https://www.asphaltoperatingsystem.com   Connect with us: Instagram:  @AsphaltOperatingSystem   @paveitforwardllc LinkedIn: Asphalt Operating System   For more show notes, visit: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/announcing-aos-an-8-week-course-for-asphalt-paving-business-owners

In this in-depth episode, industry veterans Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger discuss critical equipment assessment and maintenance strategies for the offseason. Learn how successful paving companies prepare their equipment for the next season while maximizing profit margins through smart equipment decisions.   Key Topics Covered: 🔧 End-of-season equipment evaluation strategies 🏗️ Making informed equipment purchasing decisions  🔄 When to repair vs. replace equipment 💰 ROI analysis for new equipment investments 🛠️ Dealer maintenance programs and diagnostics ⚙️ Creating effective maintenance schedules   Whether you're a seasoned pro or new to the industry, this episode provides actionable insights on: - Developing preventative maintenance programs - Working with equipment dealers - Managing equipment costs effectively - Planning for future equipment needs - Protecting your equipment investments - Building efficient maintenance systems   Don't miss this essential guide to equipment management in the asphalt paving industry!   Episode Length: 75 minutes   Learn more about optimizing your asphalt paving business: https://asphaltoperatingsystem.com   More Episodes and Notes at: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/podcast

Discover how decades of paving industry experience have been transformed into a structured system to help contractors build sustainable, profitable businesses through mentorship, proven frameworks, and ongoing support.   Hosts Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger announce an innovative new program designed specifically for asphalt paving business owners. They introduce the Asphalt Operating System (AOS), an 8-week course launching in January 2025 that combines structured education, practical resources, and ongoing mentorship to help contractors build sustainable businesses.   For information on AOS, visit: https://www.asphaltoperatingsystem.com/   For more show notes, visit: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/announcing-aos-an-8-week-course-for-asphalt-paving-business-owners

Join Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger as they dive deep into operational planning, hiring decisions, and building a winning culture in your asphalt paving business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your existing operation, this episode offers practical insights on making data-driven decisions while maintaining strong company values.   ⏱️ Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 8:53 - Current State of Fall Paving Season 14:30 - Weekly Planning & Operations 19:18 - Customer Communication Priority 26:41 - Equipment Investment Decisions 31:46 - First Hire Considerations 38:40 - Sales Team Development 43:52 - Finding the Right Cultural Fit 49:16 - ROI-Based Decision Making 54:24 - Building a Championship Team Culture 58:46 - Leadership Starts at the Top   🔑 Key Topics: • Creating effective weekly planning systems • Balancing customer demands with operational efficiency • Making smart equipment investment decisions • Hiring strategies for growth • Building and maintaining company culture • Data-driven decision making • Leadership development   💡 Connect with us: Instagram: @paveitforwardllc YouTube: @paveitforward  

Kevin Gray takes us behind the scenes of managing a 5-person asphalt paving crew during an unexpectedly extended season. As temperatures stay mild and projects keep flowing, discover how this lean team delivers million-dollar results through exceptional communication, laser-focused quality control, and unwavering customer service.   View the full episode notes and more here: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/leadership-lessons-from-the-front-lines-and-extended-season-success

Essential Strategies for Maximizing Asphalt Paving Equipment Efficiency and Business Longevity In this episode of the Pave It Forward podcast, hosts Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger delve into the critical world of asphalt paving equipment maintenance and offseason planning. Drawing from decades of experience in the paving industry, Kevin shares hard-earned lessons and practical strategies that can make or break an asphalt paving business. Whether you're a seasoned paving contractor or new to the asphalt industry, this discussion is packed with actionable advice to keep your paving equipment running smoothly and your business thriving year-round.   🔔 Subscribe for more expert paving advice and industry insights!   📺 Watch the full episode and access additional resources at: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com//post/equipment-maintenance-and-offseason-planning-for-asphalt-paving

This episode is packed with practical advice on data analysis, team involvement in planning, effective meeting strategies, and continuous improvement techniques. Whether you're a seasoned paving professional or new to the industry, you'll discover actionable takeaways to help you make the most of your off-season and position your business for success in the coming year.   📝 Full Episode Show Notes: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/off-season-preparation-maximizing-success-in-the-paving-industry

Networking and Business Growth in Asphalt Paving   In this episode of the Pave It Forward podcast, Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger share expert strategies for maximizing ROI at industry events. Learn how to set up an effective booth, network with potential clients, and turn connections into profitable opportunities for your asphalt paving business.   Listen now at: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/maximizing-roi-at-industry-events-for-asphalt-paving-businesses  

Pave It Forward Podcast: Networking and Business Growth in Asphalt Paving   Episode Length: 60 minutes of pure paving wisdom   In this episode of the Pave It Forward Podcast, hosts Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger dive deep into the world of networking and business growth in the asphalt paving industry. Learn how joining chambers of commerce, attending industry events, and strategic relationship-building can lead to significant business opportunities.   For Full Episode Notes and More, Visit: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/mastering-in-person-networking-for-asphalt-professionals

Unlock the secrets to boosting your paving business's profitability in this game-changing episode. Industry veterans Phil Metzger and Kevin Gray break down the power of data-driven decisions, smart marketing strategies, and calculated expansion moves. Learn why obsessing over your numbers is crucial, how to build a brand that stands out, and when (or when not) to add new services. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to pave your way to success.   **Episode Length:** 60 minutes of pure paving wisdom For show notes, resources, and more insights, visit our official podcast page: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/paving-the-way-to-profit-mastering-margins-and-smart-growth

Join us as we dive deep into the world of asphalt paving business finance and operations. In this episode, we explore crucial topics like maximizing profit margins, overcoming industry cha llenges, and smart equipment purchasing strategies. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, you'll gain valuable insights to help your paving business thrive.   Listen and get the full episode notes at our home on the web! Click below: https://www.paveitforwardllc.com/post/maximizing-profit-margins-strategies-for-asphalt-paving-businesses     Episode Highlights: 02:27 - Why is maximizing profit margin important? 07:57 - Biggest profit challenges for asphalt paving companies 12:43 - How do you look at your profit margin? 18:06 - How to start organizing business finance 22:13 - Where can asphalt business owners look for better profit margins? 26:44 - How do you convey urgency to workers on site 33:47 - How and when to purchase asphalt equipment

Dive deep into the world of seal coating with Kevin Gray and Phil Meder. Learn about the importance of seal coating in pavement maintenance, the science behind the materials, and professional application techniques. Discover why DIY seal coating can be challenging and hear expert tips on achieving the best results. Whether you're a contractor or a homeowner, this episode offers valuable insights into extending the life of your asphalt surfaces.

  Asphalt Paving Lifecycle: Maximizing Your Driveway's Lifespan Understand Your Driveway's Journey From Fresh Asphalt to Long-Lasting Investment   Introduction In this informative episode of the Pave It Forward Podcast, hosts Phil Metzger and Kevin Gray dive deep into the asphalt paving lifecycle, focusing on residential driveways. They explore the stages of pavement deterioration, the importance of proper maintenance, and how homeowners can maximize their investment in asphalt paving.   Key Takeaways 1. Asphalt lifecycle stages: Learn about the four key stages of asphalt pavement condition, from excellent to failed, and how to identify signs of wear and deterioration.   2. First-year sealcoating: Understand why applying a sealcoat 12-18 months after initial paving is crucial for long-term pavement health and how it differs from routine maintenance.   3. Maintenance intervals: Discover the optimal schedule for sealcoating and crack sealing to prevent water infiltration and extend your driveway's lifespan.   4. Cost comparison: Explore the long-term cost benefits of regular maintenance versus replacing your driveway every 8-9 years.   5. Subgrade importance: Learn about the critical role of proper subgrade preparation in preventing premature pavement failure and ensuring a lasting driveway.   The Importance of Proper Installation and Maintenance Kevin Gray shares insights from his extensive experience in the asphalt paving industry, emphasizing the significance of correct installation techniques and regular maintenance. He discusses how factors like subgrade quality, asphalt thickness, and traffic load impact a driveway's longevity.   Sealcoating: More Than Just Aesthetics The hosts delve into the true purpose of sealcoating, dispelling common misconceptions about its role in pavement preservation. They explain how quality sealcoating materials and proper application techniques contribute to extended pavement life.   Recognizing and Responding to Pavement Distress Phil and Kevin guide listeners through identifying various types of pavement distress, from minor cracking to severe potholes. They offer practical advice on when to perform maintenance and when full replacement might be necessary.   Creating a Culture of Quality Throughout the episode, the hosts underscore the importance of educating homeowners about proper asphalt care. They discuss the value of choosing reputable contractors who prioritize long-term pavement health over quick, cheap fixes.   Conclusion As the residential paving market continues to grow, it's crucial for homeowners to understand the lifecycle of their asphalt driveways. By investing in quality installation and following a proper maintenance schedule, homeowners can significantly extend the life of their pavement, saving money and hassle in the long run.   Resources PASER Manual: PASER Manual Residential PDF Slide Deck: Residential Slide Deck Commercial PDF Slide Deck: Commercial Slide Deck   For more resources and information on the asphalt paving industry, visit paveitforwardllc.com or follow Pave It Forward on Instagram @paveitforwardllc and YouTube.

1:20   Why partner with a National Paving Contractor as a local asphalt contractor 6:09   How to approach large asphalt paving accounts 9:39   Plan Rooms and Job Boards 12:02   Establishing a relationship with a local large parking lot owner 16:55   Creating relationships with National Paving Vendors 27:08   How to stay on time and on budget 29:16   The planning is different 33:04   Sub-contractors   In this insightful episode of the Pave It Forward Podcast, hosts Kevin Gray and Phil Metzger dive deep into the world of national pavement vendors and the intricacies of executing large-scale commercial projects. As the owner of Pave It Forward Asphalt, Kevin shares his invaluable experience and expertise, offering guidance for contractors looking to take their business to the next level.   Key topics discussed in this episode include:   Partnering with national pavement vendors and the benefits of working with reputable firms Establishing relationships with local businesses and property managers for large-scale projects The importance of proper planning, logistics, and communication when executing capital projects Ensuring quality control and maintaining high standards throughout the project lifecycle Scaling your business and growing from residential to commercial work Estimating and bidding on large-scale projects accurately and profitably   Kevin emphasizes the significance of building trust with national pavement vendors by consistently delivering exceptional work and going above and beyond, even on smaller jobs. He also stresses the value of fostering relationships with subcontractors and having a reliable team in place to tackle the unique challenges of large-scale projects.   Throughout the episode, Kevin and Phil provide actionable advice and real-world examples to help contractors navigate the complex world of national pavement vendors and commercial projects. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your paving business to new heights, this episode is a must-listen.   Stay tuned for more valuable insights, industry news, and practical tips from Kevin, Phil, and the Pave It Forward team. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast and follow Pave It Forward on Instagram (@paveitforwardllc) and YouTube for exclusive content and updates.

Welcome back to the Pave It Forward Podcast! 2:42   What are the differences in buying in vs starting fresh? 5:04   What are your survival metrics 10:19   What are you feeling starting a paving company from scratch and what is your mentality? 13:27   How do you stay patient enough for growth? 17:11   Thought process behind setting and scheduling goals 26:34  What education are you, yes YOU! looking for? As Phil and Kevin delved into the intricacies of starting a paving business from the ground up, Kevin reflected on the countless lessons he has learned throughout his entrepreneurial journey.  One of his most significant realizations is the importance of patience and trusting the process, especially during those critical early stages. When you're a first starting, it's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day challenges and lose sight of the bigger picture. But as Kevin has discovered, the key is to stay focused on your goals and keep pushing forward, one day at a time. "Get through the first 90 days, get through the first six months, get through the first season, get us an opportunity to get into year two." You can make steady progress toward your long-term objectives by breaking down your goals into manageable chunks and staying laser-focused on what needs to be done in the present. "I know for right now, I just have to stay in the moment," he emphasized. "I've got to stay in the day, I've got to stay in the week and say, this is what we need to be producing to get to where we're going by the end of the year." Of course, staying focused is only part of the equation. To build a successful paving business, you also need to be strategic about allocating your resources and investing in marketing. Kevin has learned to prioritize this over the years, and he drove home this message during the episode. Another point Kevin touched on during the episode was the importance of setting ambitious goals for yourself and your business. When Phil and Kevin discussed revenue targets, Kevin shared his philosophy on aiming high. "Now I could sit here and say, hey, we're gonna, look, and I know we gotta get to 2 million to survive," he explained. "But in my mind, I'm shooting for 3 million because that buys us a little more comfort. That buys us more options." By setting the bar high and pushing yourself to exceed your expectations, you create opportunities for growth and success that might not have been possible otherwise. Finally, Kevin shared some insights on how his approach to decision-making has evolved over the years, largely thanks to the wealth of experience and data he's accumulated. This knowledge and understanding only come with time and dedication. Still, it's invaluable in navigating the challenges of running a paving business. By leveraging the insights he's gained over the years, business owners can make more informed decisions and avoid some of the pitfalls that can trip up newer entrepreneurs.

Welcome back to the Pave It Forward Podcast! In this season premiere, Kevin Gray, owner of Pave It Forward Asphalt, and his marketing-savvy co-host, Phil Metzger, delve into Kevin's journey of starting and growing a successful asphalt paving company. Kevin shares his mentality and the steps he took when starting his business, the priorities he set for his first paving season, and why he chose to prioritize marketing from the very beginning. He also reveals the story behind the "Pave It Forward" name and brand, and discusses his goals and outlook for the 2024 paving season. Whether you're an industry veteran or considering starting your own paving business, this episode is packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiration to help you pave your way to success. Join Kevin and Phil as they explore the world of asphalt paving and share their passion for making a positive impact on the community. #PaveItForwardPodcast #AsphaltPaving #EntrepreneurshipJourney #MarketingMindset #CommunityImpact