Hard Hat to CEO with Chris Gilman

Why do some of the smartest workers struggle the most with paperwork? In this episode, Chris G. chats with Russell Van Brocklen, who shares how dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences affect many employees, especially in trades and hands-on jobs. These workers often have great ideas and strong problem-solving skills, but writing and paperwork can slow them down. Russell explains how leaders can talk with employees about these struggles respectfully while still complying with the law. He also shares how new AI tools can help handle simple paperwork tasks so workers can focus on what they do best. The result is less stress, fewer mistakes, and a team that works faster and better together. Russell Van Brocklen is a dyslexia researcher, educator, and founder of DyslexiaClasses.com. Often called “The Dyslexia Professor,” he focuses on helping students, parents, and professionals overcome reading and writing challenges related to dyslexia. Drawing from his own experience, he developed practical teaching methods designed to improve reading comprehension, writing, and organization. His dyslexia education research has received funding from the New York State Senate and is held by the SUNY Research Foundation. Through his programs, classes, and speaking work, Van Brocklen helps people better understand dyslexia and shows how individuals with learning differences can use their strengths in problem-solving and creative thinking to succeed in school, business, and everyday life. Connect with Russell: Website: https://dyslexiaclasses.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-van-brocklen-2007ab87/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/dyslexiaclassesus/ Episode highlights (0:00) Intro (0:47) Russell’s background and personal story with dyslexia (05:40) Why many workers are neurodiverse (08:47) How to talk with employees about paperwork issues (11:03) Simple questions that help identify learning struggles (19:04) Using AI tools to help with forms and paperwork (28:15) How AI can save hours of work every day (32:22) Where to find and learn more about Russell (33:09) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Is growing your business always a good thing? In this episode, Chris G shares a story from when his sales team was doing great, but the company was still losing money. They were selling more than the company could produce. Stress went up, hours got longer, and profits dropped. Chris explains why many business owners chase growth because it looks good. More trucks, more tools, and more jobs can make people think the company is doing great. But those things do not always mean the business is healthy. Real success is simple. It means steady profits, good systems, and a team that knows how the company is doing. Before trying to grow bigger, business owners should first focus on making their business stronger and more profitable. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:30) Growth does not always mean success (1:28) When too many sales caused problems (3:28) Why growth can create stress and lower profits (5:04) The trap of chasing what looks good (8:03) Sharing company progress with your team (9:33) What real success feels like (10:25) Focus on profit before scaling (12:30) Why size does not equal strength (13:49) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Have you ever felt like you’re working all the time but still falling behind? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G talks with Andrew Hartman about why so many people feel stressed and overwhelmed by work. Andrew shares his own story of burnout after saying yes to too many projects and working nonstop. The stress even started hurting his health and family life. That experience pushed him to find a better way to manage time. Andrew explains his simple TimeBoss method, which uses three basic tools: your calendar, a backlog list, and a parking lot for urgent tasks. He also talks about treating time like cash, not credit, so you only commit to what you actually have time for. If you want to get more done and still have peace of mind, this episode will help you rethink how you use your time. Andrew Hartman is a business leader, coach, and speaker who helps professionals and teams improve how they use their time. He is the founder of TimeBoss, a system designed to help people achieve strong results at work while reducing stress and burnout. Earlier in his career, Andrew worked in the software industry, where he helped grow companies and led major projects. During that time, he experienced severe work overload and burnout, which pushed him to study time management and productivity more deeply. After years of testing different methods, he created the TimeBoss framework to help leaders, teams, and organizations work at a high level without constant pressure. Today, he teaches this approach through coaching, workshops, and training for companies and professionals. Connect with Andrew: Website: https://www.timeboss.us/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhartman Join The Time Boss Masterclass: https://www.timeboss.us/masterclass Episode highlights (0:00) Intro (0:40) Why time is the one thing you can’t get back (1:01) Andrew’s early career and feeling overwhelmed (2:51) How stress started affecting his health and family (6:22) What burnout really feels like (8:45) The mindset shift that changed his life (10:45) How your time shows what you truly value (13:28) Why you should treat time like cash (19:49) The three tools in the TimeBoss system (24:24) Handling urgent tasks without losing focus (27:07) The simple rule for better delegation (29:36) Why weekly planning makes a big difference (34:28) How TimeBoss works with tools you already use (37:15) One easy step you can take this week (38:47) Where to find Andrew (39:45) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Do you ever get home from work, but your mind is still on the job? In this episode, Chris G talks about the five simple changes that helped him take back his evenings and finally rest. He shares how he stopped making big decisions at night and started writing a short list to clear his head. He quit scrolling on social media before bed and set clear rules about not answering calls or texts after a certain time. He also cut off caffeine in the evening, stopped watching the news at night, and chose family time, reading, or being outside instead. After going through serious health issues, Chris learned that stress is not worth it. Your evenings belong to you and the people you love. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:41) Taking Chris’ evenings back (2:44) Writing simple lists to calm the mind (3:48) Stopping social media at night (6:54) Setting boundaries with work and news (9:37) Easy evening habits for better sleep (12:40) Taking the first step when you feel tired (13:56) Why your health matters more than work (15:16) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

What if the thing you call failure is actually the moment that sets you up to win? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks with Ari Rastegar about how losing a business became the push he needed to build a thriving real estate company investing in 38 cities across 13 states. Ari keeps it real as he shares why your health matters more than hustle, how the people around you shape your future, and why attitude comes before skill. They also talk about building strong teams, learning from mistakes, and what to do if you’re starting from zero. It’s an honest conversation about growth, ownership, and doing the inner work that leads to real success. Ari Rastegar is an American real estate investor, entrepreneur, and author. He is the founder and CEO of Rastegar Property Company, a commercial real estate investment and development firm based in Austin, Texas. Born and raised in Texas, he earned his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and later received his law degree from St. Mary’s University School of Law. He began investing in real estate while still in law school and went on to build a firm that has invested in and developed properties across multiple U.S. markets. Rastegar is also the author of The Gift of Failure, where he shares lessons on mindset, resilience, and personal growth drawn from his own business journey. Connect with Ari: Website: http://rastegarproperty.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arirastegar/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/rastegar/?hl=en Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/5y97wj4t Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:59) Meet Ari and his real estate journey (5:53) Why failure teaches you how to win (9:04) Health first, business second (12:11) Attitude vs. skill (20:33) Building the right team (26:17) Starting from nothing and building up (28:13) Where to find Ari and his book (29:23) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Have you ever noticed that the more reliable you are, the more everything lands on your plate? In this episode, Chris G. talks about the hidden cost of always being the one who answers the phone, fixes the problem, and saves the day. At first, it feels like leadership. But over time, it slows your growth, stresses you out, and keeps your team from stepping up. Chris shares real stories from sales, property management, and running multiple businesses to show why turning responsibility over to others is the key to growth. When you trust your team, you free up your mind, make better decisions, and build a stronger business. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:38) The cost of always being reliable (1:40) Letting customer service do their job (5:55) Stress and mental overload (9:09) Let your team make decisions (10:52) Stop trying to handle everything yourself (18:43) Why letting go helps your business grow (20:25) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

What if the reason most investors lose money isn’t the market… but the numbers they accept? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks with seasoned investor Frank Iglesias about what’s really working in today’s real estate world. With 17 years of experience, Frank shares why he sticks to conservative “all in” numbers, why cash flow matters more than hype, and how strong negotiation skills can make or break a deal. He also explains why local market knowledge is gold and why just because a lender will fund a deal doesn’t mean you should do it. If you want honest, practical advice from someone who has seen the highs and lows, this one’s for you. Frank Iglesias is a real estate investor, entrepreneur, coach, and podcast host based in Atlanta, Georgia. He began investing around 2008 after leaving a career in information technology and music to pursue real estate full-time. Over the past 17 years, he has completed hundreds of transactions using strategies such as wholesaling, fix-and-flips, buy-and-hold rentals, and new construction across multiple states. Known for his conservative, numbers-focused approach, Frank emphasizes protecting profits and managing risk in changing markets. In addition to actively investing, he coaches other real estate entrepreneurs and shares practical lessons drawn from both his successes and challenges in the industry. Connect with Frank: Website: https://workingwithhouses.com/ https://frankiglesias.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/frankiglesias7/ Phone: 678-408-2228 Email: info@workingwithhouses.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:10) Meet Frank and his real estate journey (3:38) What “quick cash” really means (7:11) Why 65 percent all-in still works (11:59) The lost skill of negotiation (17:01) Hyper-local market knowledge (24:50) Best, worst, and most likely case planning (28:16) Financeable vs. profitable deals (33:20) Where to learn more about Frank and what he does (34:30) The risks of remote investing (39:55) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

What if business isn’t complicated at all… just uncomfortable? In this episode, Chris G. shares a real story from running a $20 million family business and how everything changed when he put a simple budget in place and aimed for a clear 10% profit. He explains why you must charge the right price, stop trying to “save” money in ways that cost you time, and fix problems at the root instead of putting band-aids on them. Chris also talks about making decisions faster, learning from mistakes, hiring strong people, and trusting your team. Business can be simple when you lead well, stay focused, and keep moving forward. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:23) Building a budget and setting profit goals (2:45) Charge what you’re worth (5:13) Fix problems at the root (6:28) Make decisions and move forward (8:13) Time is money (9:22) Hire great people and lead well (11:41) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

What if you could look up a property and quickly know what you’re allowed to build before you ever leave your office? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris talks with Avi Kaufman about ADUs, also known as accessory dwelling units, and why they are popping up all over the country. They explain what an ADU is, how it can help families keep loved ones close, and why it is becoming a smart way to add housing and income. Avi also shares how his company uses AI to sort through complicated zoning rules so builders can answer homeowner questions faster and with more confidence. If you’re tired of chasing projects that go nowhere, this episode gives you a practical way to save time and win more work. Avi Kaufman is a U.S. military veteran, real estate professional, and Co-Founder and Chief Real Estate Officer of FutureLot, a property technology company that helps builders and homeowners quickly understand what can be built on residential lots. After years working as a real estate broker and seeing projects stall due to confusing zoning laws, he helped create a platform that combines mapping, data, and AI to simplify early-stage property research. His focus is on making zoning clearer, saving builders time, and helping create more housing opportunities through smarter planning and development. Connect with Avi: Website: https://www.futurelot.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/avinkaufman/ Email: avi@futurelot.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:44) Meet Avi Kaufman (2:40) What an ADU is and why they matter (5:40) Costs and savings to think about (8:05) Financing options for ADUs (13:19) Using AI to understand zoning (27:57) How builders can use this to boost sales (31:20) Where to find Avi and his resources (32:17) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel like your business is doing fine, you’re busy, making money, staying booked, but deep down, you know you’re not moving forward? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks about that weird middle stage where everything looks good on paper, but you feel stuck. He shares a story about getting a Can-Am stuck in a ditch (and how that relates to your business), why just “working harder” won’t fix it, and how sometimes, you need to unload, shift gears, or even change direction altogether. Whether it’s letting go of some tasks, hiring help, or just making different decisions, this episode is full of real talk about what it takes to get unstuck, and grow. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:43) When hard work stops working (2:14) The Can-Am story and getting unstuck (3:41) Systems and SOPs to make life easier (4:21) Hiring help doesn’t mean letting go completely (5:46) Why fear plays a big role in feeling stuck (6:39) Don’t quit, just shift your effort (7:35) The power of coaches and mentors (7:58) Make the trail easier for the next person (8:54) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

What if the only thing stopping customers from choosing you is your online presence? In this episode, Chris G chats with Australian branding expert Wes Towers about why every trade and construction business needs a clean, simple, and trustworthy website. Wes explains how clearer messaging, real photos and videos, and up-to-date content can help people feel confident picking you. They also talk about AI, why unique stories matter, and how small businesses can still look strong online without a huge budget. If you’ve been thinking about improving your website or finally building one, this conversation gives you encouraging, practical advice you can use right away. Wes Towers is an Australian digital marketing entrepreneur and the founder of Uplift 360, a digital agency that focuses on helping trades and construction businesses strengthen their online presence. With more than 20 years of experience in web design, SEO, and digital strategy, he teaches companies how to create clear, human-centered messaging that builds trust and attracts better clients. Early in his career, Wes was warned that AI might replace his work, but instead he learned to use new tools while doubling down on authentic, personalized content. Today, he’s known for helping businesses stand out online through practical strategies, strong branding, and websites that actually drive real conversations and customers. Connect with Wes Website: https://uplift360.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/westowers/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:50) Chris welcomes Wes and his work with Uplift360 (1:49) Why even small subcontractors still need a website (3:40) The power of clear messaging to attract the right clients (4:51) How real photos and videos build trust fast (6:30) Common website mistakes and what to fix first (10:25) How AI affects trust and why authenticity matters (12:30) Why unique content helps Google and AI find your business (16:18) How small local businesses can still compete (21:49) Using social media the right way: bring people to your site (26:27) Why phone calls are still your strongest leads (29:29) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel like you're stuck doing everything yourself because no one else can do it "right"? In this episode, Chris G. breaks down why control isn’t leadership, it’s fear in disguise. He shares a funny (and frustrating) story about mismatched paint and painters who couldn’t read, then gets into the real fix: hiring the right people, writing things down, and letting your team do what they’re great at. Leadership isn’t about barking orders; it’s about creating clarity, building trust, and finally getting some breathing room. If you’re ready to stop micromanaging and start leading, this one's for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:37) Control feels good until it doesn’t (2:03) Why documentation matters (3:36) Good people solve problems before you even know they exist (4:19) Know what you want; let your team figure out the “how” (5:53) Confused teams don’t move; they freeze (6:36) Leadership frees you up to focus on what matters (7:44) Let go, but stay in the loop (8:39) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Can good design actually help you make more money on a home? In this episode, Chris G talks with Erica Kalkofen, a designer and contractor from Denver, about how smart remodeling can boost value and create homes people love living in. They cover what to look for when buying a house to flip, how to avoid costly design mistakes, and why having a clear plan matters. Erica also shares her step-by-step design process and explains how she helps homeowners stay on budget without giving up on style. Whether you're flipping houses, remodeling your own, or just curious about the process, this one’s full of useful tips and honest advice. Erica Kalkofen is a remodeling designer and licensed real estate agent based in Colorado with more than 20 years of experience in interior design, construction, and real estate. She is the owner of EK Kitchens & Design, where she guides homeowners and contractors through kitchen, bathroom, and whole‑home remodels with a signature six‑step design process that focuses on planning, materials, and communication. Erica combines real world construction knowledge with design and investment insight so clients make smart decisions that add value and improve how they live in their homes. She has worked on hundreds of projects across the Denver metro area and Grand County, and she also holds real estate credentials to help clients assess property value and resale potential. Connect with Erica: Website: https://getyourhometoday.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:17) Meet Erica and her design background (2:20) How to spot a good flip (3:53) Why resale value matters (7:13) Erica’s six-step design process (12:13) Common remodel mistakes and fixes (17:24) When design choices cost you money (21:22) How budgets really break down (24:45) A worksheet that helps clients plan (27:13) Can AI help with remodeling? (29:21) Why design adds value to any construction business (31:56) Where to find Erica Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Do you really need to tell people your next move? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G breaks down why some things are better kept to yourself. He shares real stories and simple truths about why staying quiet can actually help you get further in life and business. From your goals and struggles to how much money you make, Chris explains why not everyone needs to know your business. It’s not about being secretive. It’s about being smart. If you’ve ever felt judged, doubted, or just talked too much too soon, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:28) #1: Don’t tell people your next move (6:05) #2: Struggles aren't for everyone to hear (8:08) #3: Keep your money talk to yourself (10:17) #4: Handle self-doubt privately (13:51) #5: Your long-term goals can change (16:52) Learn from people who’ve done it (18:23) Let your actions talk for you (19:03) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Why do so many great contractors feel stuck once they go out on their own? In this episode, Chris G sits down with Jay Meacham, a business coach and former builder, who shares his story of losing his childhood home and how that shaped his purpose. Jay talks about why contractors hit walls in business, how to build a strong team, and why slowing down your thinking, not your hustle, is key to growing. They also dive into why knowing your values, having faith, and taking care of both your home life and business life really matter. If you're a contractor trying to grow your business and stay sane, this one’s worth your time. Jay Meacham is a leadership and business coach who works with home builders, remodelers, and skilled trades business owners. Raised on a farm in Iowa, he learned early the value of hard work and resilience. With degrees in accounting and an MBA, Jay spent years leading teams in large corporations before launching his own coaching practice. Since 2014, he’s helped contractors and small business owners grow their companies while staying grounded in their personal values. Jay brings a mix of practical business strategy and personal insight, focusing on both the business side and the human side of leadership. He also serves as a coach for the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City and is actively involved in his faith and family. Connect with Jay: Website: https://coachjaymeacham.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:01) Jay’s story: house fire and finding purpose (2:57) Why contractors hit a wall (6:33) How to build team loyalty (10:29) Not every low performer needs to be fired (13:46) Knowing your values (14:48) Faith and family matter in business, too (17:53) Goal-side vs soul-side coaching (23:29) Why thinking time is so important (27:47) Get out of “either-or” thinking (29:15) Why business owners need a coach (31:24) Building a legacy, not just a paycheck (35:28) Where to find Jay (36:44) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel like you're working nonstop but not really getting anywhere? In this episode, Chris G. keeps it real and shares 8 business lessons that came straight from his own life, not a book or podcast. From dealing with stress to building the right team, making smarter decisions, and letting go of things that don’t matter, these are the things that truly changed how he works and lives. It’s honest, funny, and full of advice you can actually use, whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:54) If it always feels urgent, something’s off (1:44) You don’t need more discipline, just fewer decisions (3:54) Confidence isn’t a personality trait; it’s built (5:29) Most stress? We cause it ourselves (7:52) Focus on the 20% that really matters (10:20) Your role should grow as your business does (12:22) All the info in the world means nothing without action (14:11) A good business should make your life better, not harder (16:48) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Are you great at your trade but confused by the financial side of your business? You’re not alone. In this episode, Chris G sits down with Dustin Young, a construction finance expert, to break down the numbers that actually matter. They talk about the four key things every contractor should be tracking, how often you should look at your reports, and why cash flow feels so hard to understand. Dustin shares what usually happens when businesses hit the $2M mark, how to know when it's time to hire someone, and the role software can play in keeping your team on track. They also chat about setting goals, building a vision, and why sharing simple financial info with your team can make a huge difference. Dustin Young is a fractional CFO and financial advisor who works primarily with construction and trade business owners to help them understand and improve their financial performance. He runs Raven CFO, where he focuses on helping contractors read financial reports, track key performance numbers, forecast cash flow, and build business plans that match their goals. Dustin has nearly a decade of experience working with construction firms and their finances, combining practical industry insight with accounting knowledge. He’s based in the Arizona area and helps clients simplify complex finance topics like cash flow, budgeting, growth planning, and when to hire or invest in systems. Connect with Dustin: Website: https://ravencfo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinhyoung/ Phone: 480-269-2236 Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:10) Meet Dustin Young (2:21) The 4 numbers you should always track (3:38) What a cash flow report actually tells you (4:57) How often to check your numbers (5:54) What changes when you hit $2M in revenue (9:40) Simple software that helps (12:59) Should your team know the company’s numbers? (14:33) Start with your long-term goals (18:07) Budgeting for the whole company, not just the job (21:09) What if all you have is your tax return? (23:55) Why having a vision matters (27:12) Hiring vs. using tools, and how to decide (30:01) Same money problems, different businesses (33:33) How to reach Dustin at Raven CFO (34:19) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel like you have to do everything yourself to get ahead? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G gets real about how that mindset nearly burned him out, and cost him big time. He shares stories from his 20+ years in construction and business, including hiring mistakes, failed partnerships, and why having a solid team matters more than trying to be the hero. Chris also talks about the power of clarity, the value of a good coach, and why your health isn't something you can ignore. If you're running a business (or thinking about it), this one’s packed with honest lessons you'll want to hear. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:51) Trying to do everything alone (1:54) Why he thought he needed partners (2:47) “Clarity beats motivation.” (3:30) What to look for in a great coach (5:38) Not every problem is yours to solve (7:04) Your health is part of your business (8:30) Lessons from hiring the wrong people (10:07) Don’t jump too fast (10:53) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel stuck trying to figure out how to market your home service business without blowing your budget? This week on Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G sits down with Joel Keith, former live event producer turned marketing expert, to talk real strategies for trades business owners. From working with Alice Cooper to helping HVAC and plumbing companies grow past $1M, Joel shares what’s working right now. They talk about using AI as a helpful tool (not a replacement), how to get more reviews the easy way, and why you should never let a marketing company control your website or data. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow past the $5M mark, this episode is packed with smart, down-to-earth advice. Joel Keith is the Managing Partner at ASP, a marketing agency that helps home service and local businesses grow through smart digital strategies like SEO, paid ads, web design, and business coaching. Based near Detroit, Joel brings a mix of real-world experience and leadership to help companies scale without wasting time or money. Before leading ASP, Joel held roles in operations and advertising, giving him a well-rounded view of what small businesses need to grow. He’s also a husband, dad, and homesteader who’s passionate about helping other business owners succeed. Connect with Joel: Website: https://www.aspbranding.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aspbranding/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atomicsoulsproductions/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/aspbranding/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:42) Meet Joel and his wild background in live events (3:10) How content creation led to a marketing company (4:53) How AI helps (and where it doesn’t) (7:15) Using AI to train your sales team (9:28) What “No Hostage Rule” means and why it matters (15:04) Low-budget marketing tips for new businesses (20:02) Better ad options (22:09) How to get more Google reviews (24:42) Reviews vs referrals: both matter (30:02) Growing past $1M, $3M, and $5M (32:44) What to do when you’re ready to scale (34:50) What numbers really matter in marketing (38:04) Why cheap leads usually aren’t good leads (39:51) Final advice: own your stuff, always (40:55) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/

Ever feel like you're stuck, tired, and don’t know what to do next? You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. gets real about those heavy days when your thoughts won’t stop, and you're carrying more than you admit. He talks about stress, doubt, and that weird feeling in your gut when something’s about to change. Chris reminds us it’s okay to ask for help, to not have a five-year plan, and that even small steps count. Whether you're a contractor, business owner, or just having a rough week, this is the message you didn’t know you needed today. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:33) Maybe you're here for a reason (2:00) The weight we don’t talk about (4:02) That uneasy feeling = change (5:01) Forget the 5-year plan, focus on today (6:01) You don’t need a partner, you need a team (7:03) Talk to someone who gets it (8:39) You’ve made it this far, don’t stop now (9:06) Time to take that first step (9:49) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/