Contractor Evolution

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP256Take our five minute quiz and get a custom Contractor Growth Scorecard: https://trybta.com/DL256Men’s mental health is in crisis. We are three times more likely to develop addictions and four times more likely to turn to suicide. And yet, 40% of men won’t seek help.In this episode of Contractor Evolution, we are diving into the "silent struggle" with Connor Beaton, founder of ManTalks and author of Men’s Work. While we usually unpack business systems and profit margins, today we’re diving into the importance of men’s inner work.After overcoming his own struggles with infidelity, drugs, and alcohol, Connor’s mission is to help men become better leaders, spouses, dads, and humans.In this conversation, we cover:The Crisis: Why men are struggling today more than ever and why it’s so hard for us to get in touch with our inner selves.Shadow Work: How to identify and confront hidden parts of ourselves (what Connor calls Shadow Work) to stop self-sabotage.Leadership & Legacy: How doing your own inner work pays off for your team and family, and how to foster healthy masculinity and self-leadership on your job sites.We love to unpack business systems, but if this type of episode is useful for you, let us know in the comments.Check out ManTalks: https://www.youtube.com/@ManTalks🔥 Watch These Related Episodes Next:1. Business Therapist Destroys My Limiting Beliefs in Real Time:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU7m0Bk0Z9s2. How To Lead WITHOUT Ego (Keith Mercurio's Advice):https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rwDRgYHKzow3. How 8 Years in a Community Changed My Contracting Business:https://youtu.be/dL0oLzZLrUQ00:00-Intro02:02-Connor Beaton's Origin Story and Early Life05:07-The Impact of Fatherless Households on Young Men10:18-Shame-Based Motivation and the Entrepreneurial Identity15:40-Understanding Shadow Work and Confronting the Unconscious24:32-Step 1: The Process of Confession and Radical Honesty32:52-Step 2: Exploring the Origins of Dysfunctional Behavior41:51-Step 3: Confronting and Replacing Unhealthy Patterns57:17-Modeling Imperfection and the Importance of Presence as a Father

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP255Take our five minute quiz and get your free Contractor Growth Roadmap: https://trybta.com/DL255What if we told you that the skilled labor shortage is your fault?Yes, there’s demographic challenges. Yes, the economy plays a role.But our industry has REALLY missed the mark on attracting the next generation.Today’s guest is the one and only Aaron Witt, founder of BuildWitt and host of the Dirt Talk podcast. He’s on a mission to empower the next generation of tradespeople and bridge the gap between the old guard and the next wave of talent.In this episode you’ll learn:Why the construction industry is partially at fault for the lack of new skilled laborersThe employer branding mistakes you’re definitely making, and what to do insteadAnd what different generations owe each other to solve the workforce crisisIf you care about the future of your team, your business, and the trades as a whole — this one’s for you. Check out Aaron's YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/c/AaronWittMore episodes on employer branding and recruiting the next generation of skilled laborers:How to Build a Hiring Funnel (EP 220): https://youtu.be/ITtfUjjD5JIHow to Attract Reliable Staff in a Labor Shortage (EP 208): https://youtu.be/bjdnIQJxAMkLeadership Beyond The Hammer (EP 215): https://youtu.be/DlJhlx65UIs 00:00-Intro01:15-Aaron Witt's Background and Founding of BuildWit04:20-The Importance of Brand in the Construction Industry08:16-Why Contractors Struggle to Attract Young Talent14:31-How Best-in-Class Contractors Hire Smarter20:11-The Role of Authentic Storytelling31:52-Employer Branding for the Next Generation of Contractors40:28-Private Equity, Capitalism, and the State of Infrastructure48:43-Responsibilities of Both Generations in Solving the Labor Crisis

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP254Use code EVOLUTION (at check out) for 20% off both the Ideal Team Player and Working Genius Assessments:Ideal Team Player: https://www.tablegroup.com/idealteamplayer/ Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com/about/assessmentAre you sick of hiring the wrong people? Whether you got swindled by a smooth talker in an interview or hired a B-player in desperation, you know that recruiting top talent as a contractor is an uphill battle these days.So today, we invited one of the most well-known experts in the industry to teach us how to simplify our hiring standards by using two proven frameworks for assessing prospective and current employees.Our guest today is the one and only Patrick Lencioni.He is the bestselling author of 13 books selling over 9 million copies worldwide. He’s most well known for The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.Today, we’re focusing on two of Pat’s books that are especially relevant for our industry: The Ideal Team Player and The 6 Types of Working Genius.In this episode you’ll learn:How to attract and hire Ideal Team Players at all levels of your business by looking for three key virtues.The common archetypes that show up when someone is missing one of these virtuesAND how to identify the 6 types of working genius within your team so you can help everyone thrive in their rolesPat was a dream to have on the show. If you have other guests you think we should interview, leave a comment and let us know.More HEAVY HITTERS on Contractor Evolution:Chris Voss - Negotiation Tactics for Contractors: https://youtu.be/a4RDJRtkOBYGreg McKeown - Essentialism for Contractors: https://youtu.be/6J1qth84qwgGarrett Gunderson - Why Most Contractors Stay Broke: https://youtu.be/-Xx2LKkKEI8 00:00-Intro02:20-Why did you choose the construction industry to base your book, The Ideal Team Player, in?05:30-Defining the three virtues of an ideal team player: hungry, humble, and smart07:15-Defining "hungry"09:35-Defining "humble"11:33-Identifying "fake humble"17:36-Defining "smart" as emotional intelligence (EQ)23:05-How to spot these three virtues in the interview process28:23-"Scaring" people in the recruiting process30:55-How to look for "hunger"33:14-“Non-ideal archetypes": the accidental mess-maker (humble and hungry, but not smart)36:20-“Non-ideal archetypes": the lovable slacker (humble and smart, but not hungry)40:29-“Non-ideal archetypes": the skillful politician (hungry and smart, but not humble)44:35-About The 6 Types of Working Genius and getting people in the right seat on the bus

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP253Check out our industry benchmarks and find out what your profit margins should be: https://www.btacademy.com/blog/profit-margin-benchmarks-for-contractors Are you constantly stressed about cash flow heading into 2026? You’re not alone. Our research shows:👉45% of contractors don’t have any financial plan beyond paying bills and sending invoices.👉50% of contractors hit cash crunches due to unforeseen circumstances👉30% of contractors describe their cash flow as “unpredictable.”In this Contractor Evolution episode, we’re answering common questions from contractors about cash flow, just in time for 2026 – so you can stay cash positive, pay yourself consistently, and actually crush your goals instead of feeling like you’re drowning under 2 inches of water.We cover:⬆️How to improve your cash flow (so you can have fewer painful conversations with your accountant)📋How to build an annual budget for your construction or home services business📊What job costing is and how it has the potential to completely change your business’ financial wellbeing🤔How to figure out if you can afford to hire someone new (or if you’ll just have to awkwardly lay them off down the road)💲AND what your profit margins should look like in 2026More videos to help you fix your finances and take control of your profit:💰3 Ways to Control Profit and STOP Confusing Your Finances: https://youtu.be/Qbm9yRBYgRk🛑STOP Losing Money on Jobs (Job Costing 101): https://youtu.be/nCzP0B2u4BM🔻Why Most Entrepreneurs Stay Broke - Garrett Gunderson: https://youtu.be/-Xx2LKkKEI8 👇 Your turn:What’s the #1 cash flow or budgeting question you want answered before 2026 kicks off? Drop it in the comments – I read every single one.00:00-Intro01:13-How do I improve my cash flow for 2026?04:47-How do you go about making an annual budget?07:26-What is job costing? Do I need to do it?09:17-How do I get customers to pay me on time?10:28-How do I know if I can afford a new hire?12:10-What should my profit margins be

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26Take our 5 minute quiz and get your free roadmap to contractor growth: https://trybta.com/DL252To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP252 If you’ve ever felt like your crew works hard but your margins still suffer… you’re not alone.And, according to today’s guest, traditional hourly pay might be the root of the problem.Michael Fortinberry is the co-founder of Protiv, a performance pay platform built specifically for contractors.In this episode, Michael lays out a simple but powerful framework to amplify the productivity of your team using incentive based pay.He walks us through how performance pay actually shifts crew behavior, and the step-by-step system you can use to drive productivity, boost morale, and protect your bottom line.00:00-Intro07:16-Catalyst for Protiv12:53-Measuring the Productivity Lift from Performance-Based Pay16:06-The Legal Compliance of Performance-Based Pay (Piece Rate, Overtime)18:37-Setting up Performance-Based Pay: Numbers, Logistics, and Culture24:23-The Three Keys to Effective Performance-Based Pay: Simple, Frequent, and Transparent29:55-Shifting to a Performance-Based Culture37:34-Team Buy-in and Implementation43:43-Roles Best Suited for Performance-Based Pay46:06-Handling Quality Issues and Rework49:47-Addressing Budgets That Are Significantly Off54:13-Final Takeaways

Hey contractors! Don’t leave 2026 to chance! Join our free strategic planning web class on January 27 to get ahead: learn how to spot cash flow crunches before they hit, identify who to hire before you need them, and lock it all into a proven annual plan used by 1,900+ business owners. Click the link to register now: https://trybta.com/SPJan26Take our 5 minute quiz and get your free Contractor Growth Roadmap: https://trybta.com/DL251To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP251 Will AI replace construction workers? 🤔Not yet. But if it ever does, the most successful contracting businesses will be the ones who adapt the quickest.So how do you make sure your business is ready for automation and AI in construction to improve and gain popularity?Today’s guest, Kasim (think “awesome” with a K) Aslam has built and exited multiple multimillion-dollar companies and now dedicates his time to helping business owners and their teams take control of AI……Before it takes control of them.And in his opinion, that doesn’t mean automating EVERYTHING.It actually means doubling down on humanity at every possible opportunity.If you want to future-proof your business and stay on the right side of the AI revolution, this one’s for you. Episode highlights:Get perspective on the AI revolution from Kasim Aslam, renowned entrepreneur, business strategist and co-founder of Pareto Talent: a Virtual - Assistant agency that focuses exclusively on connecting owners with AI-empowered admin support.Learn why scalable things may not be relevant in the age of AI (and the shifts you need to make to future-proof your company).Understand why doubling down on your people is the counterintuitive way for contractors to win in the modern world.00:00-Intro01:15-What will trades businesses look like as AI progresses?09:35-Are small businesses screwed in the age of Private Equity?15:21-Biggest AI opportunities and biggest AI red flags26:59-What happens in 10 years?36:03-What should contractors be focused on right now?38:54-Kasim's thoughts on the emotional side of selling a business49:49-Wrap up

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a custom Contractor Growth Roadmap: https://trybta.com/DL250To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP250 Do you ever feel like there is WAY too much to learn or feel guilty for not learning enough? Financial literacy, AI, automation software, job site best practices, leadership theory…The list of things you COULD go and figure out is endless.But what if I told you the answer is actually to learn LESS?Our guest today is Pat Flynn: entrepreneur, podcast host and author of several books including Superfans and Will it Fly?In his newest book Lean Learning, Pat lays out a tangible framework for spending LESS time learning the RIGHT things.And today, we’re talking about how to understand what you NEED to learn, what you WANT to learn, and what you DON’T need to learn at all.Episode Highlights:- Understand the dangers of “over-learning” as a contractor and entrepreneur and why we feel so much pressure to “know it all.”- Learn Pat’s framework for determining what is worth learning and what is a waste of your time and energy.- Get tips on avoiding “analysis paralysis” by focusing on ONLY the important data points to make a decision for your business.Get Pat's book here: https://leanlearningbook.com/ Want to learn more about prioritization and decision making? Check out these videos 👇📝Steal These Prioritization Methods to Get More Done: https://youtu.be/-9zk4mQfL7k⏰Matt Risingers’ $10MM Time Blocking System REVEALED: https://youtu.be/Pdf4Vpq1KZ4✋No More Excuses: Stay Consistent When Goals Go Sideways: https://youtu.be/YBa20g7kQRc00:00-Intro01:39-The dangers of "over-learning" for contractors07:58-The Inspiration Matrix17:50-"Just in time" learning vs "Just in case" learning24:45-The importance of community to a contractor's learning journey33:57-Thinking through the risks vs. "just going for it"42:54-Micro-mastery vs. Quantum Leaps51:00-Wrap up

Get your free communication resource bundle here: https://trybta.com/DL249To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP249 How much money have you lost to unclear instructions, buried emails, and missed change orders? Poor communication is a hidden cash flow destroyer EVERY contractor falls victim to, but no one really talks about.In today’s episode of Contractor Evolution, Danny is joined by CompanyCam founder Luke Hansen and two high performing contractors for a roundtable discussion on how to invest in clear (and profitable) communication across your organization.You’ll learn:⚙️ Real world systems for keeping your crews, project managers and clients all on the same page🗣️ The single most impactful communication ritual to aligning your team with your company goals 💪 The secret to maintaining healthy projects, keeping things on time and on budgetWant more webinar replays? Check out these episodes 👇Episode 244: Secrets of $10MM Contractors: 6 Steps to FreedomEpisode 231: STOP Losing Money to Poor PM: No-Frills Project Management TipsEpisode 212: How to Manage Budgets, Forecasting and Cash Flow Like Matt Risinger00:00-Intro05:32-Meet the panel08:28-Transfer in: Where is your communication costing you sanity/time/money?14:32-Signs your communication is whack21:58-Question 1: How do you ensure communication doesn't all flow through YOU?32:28-Question 2: How do you keep your team on the same page?42:21-Question 3: What does a strong sales-to-production handoff look like?54:46-Biggest takeaways59:39-How to implement change (next steps)01:11:45-Bonus question: What communication tools do you use?

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP248 Take our 5 minute quiz and get your custom roadmap to growing your contracting business: https://trybta.com/DL248When you don’t have anyone keeping you in check, it’s all too easy to get caught up in your own limiting beliefs. Today, business therapist Kedma Ough is on the show to coach Danny and show how tough love can be exactly what you need to break out of a negative thought pattern.—Do you struggle with limiting beliefs or negative self talk? Owning a contracting business makes it pretty hard not to.Complex operations, difficult team members, unhappy clients… the list of negative experiences you have in a week (or a day) is endless.In this episode, business therapist, TedX Speaker and bestselling author Kedma Ough coaches Danny on air to help him break out of old thought patterns and adopt a more positive mindset. We hope this shows you how you can do the same.Episode Highlights:Watch a real life coaching call take place between Danny and business therapist, TedX speaker and bestselling author Kedma Ough.Learn how to unpack your own limiting beliefs by watching Kedma help Danny to do just that.Get strategies for breaking the cycle of negative self-talk on your own or with a coach, therapist or counsellor. More episodes to help get rid of your head trash:👉 How To Lead WITHOUT Ego (Keith Mercurio's Advice)💲 Why Most Entrepreneurs Stay Broke - Garrett Gunderson🧠 4 Mindset Shifts For When You Want To Give Up00:00-Intro01:46-Kedma's origin story16:02-Identifying and challenging limiting beliefs39:09-Kedma's playbook for destroying limiting beliefs58:09-Common limiting beliefs for entrepreneurs08:26-Wrap up

Take our five minute quiz and get a free custom road map to growing your contracting business: https://trybta.com/DL247To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP247 Building systems is the key to scaling your contractor business—but let's be honest, it's time-consuming and tedious work that most visionaries hate doing.What if there was ONE role that could build all your systems for you?In this episode of Contractor Evolution, Systemology author David Jenyns returns to introduce his groundbreaking new concept: The Systems Champion.This isn't an ops manager. It's not a COO. And it's not necessarily an integrator.It's something different—and potentially more powerful—especially as AI transforms how we work.David breaks down exactly what a Systems Champion is, who's the right fit for this role (the answer might surprise you), and how to create and fill this position in your business starting today.If you've been stuck in the weeds building systems yourself, this conversation will change everything.🎯 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:• What a Systems Champion actually is (and why it's different from other roles)• The exact profile of who makes the best Systems Champion in your business• How to create this role without adding massive overhead• Why AI is making this role MORE important, not less• Step-by-step process to implement a Systems Champion in the next 90 days• Real examples of how this role transforms contractor businesses👤 ABOUT DAVID JENYNS:David Jenyns is the author of Systemology and the newly released Systems Champion. He's helped thousands of businesses create scalable systems without the business owner doing all the heavy lifting. His frameworks have transformed how contractors and service businesses approach systemization.📚 Get David's new book: https://www.systemology.com/scbook/🌐 Learn more about David's work: https://www.systemology.com/🎥 Check out the last episode we did with David: https://youtu.be/eKNW3GQRM8MMore videos on systems building:🚨4 Essential Business Systems Every Contractor Should Master (with Tony Fraser-Jones): https://youtu.be/4ljBnnHgHJE🦾From Reactive to Streamlined: Cory’s Business Automation Journey: https://youtu.be/NykhB5J8cE0💰This $10MM Accountability Systems Has Crews CRUSHING Their Goals (free web class): https://youtu.be/NvBjWbxXjcI 00:00-Intro01:40-About Dave's new book: Systems Champion05:38-How to know if you need a Systems Champion17:16-Traits of a great Systems Champion29:58-What does a Systems Champion actually do?38:33-How to make your Systems Champion act as your AI Champion46:02-How long do we have before AI takes over the trades?53:37-Wrap up and final thoughts

Take our five minute quiz and get a free custom roadmap to growing your contracting business: https://trybta.com/DL246To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP246 Entrepreneurship doesn't have to be lonely. But for most contractors, it is.After years of grinding alone, Ryan Lermitte from Umbrella Property Services discovered something that changed everything: the power of real community.In this episode of Contractor Evolution, Ryan shares his 8-year journey with Breakthrough Academy and reveals why he stayed long after learning the systems. The deep connections, unexpected collaborations with competitors, and the emotional ROI that no spreadsheet can capture.If you've ever felt isolated in your business journey, this conversation will remind you that you're not meant to do this alone.🎯 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:Why entrepreneurship feels so isolating (and what to do about it)How investing in community and connections can improve your wellbeing AND your profitability.Why emotional ROI matters as much as financial returnsPractical ways to build meaningful connections in your industry☂️Learn more about Ryan and his business: https://umbrellaservices.ca/📈Learn more about how Breakthrough Academy helped Ryan double his revenue and make his goals a reality: https://youtu.be/Pa39XAcLRMYOther stories from REAL contractors like Ryan:🦾From Reactive to Streamlined: Cory’d Business Automation Journey: https://youtu.be/NykhB5J8cE0✋STOP Losing Money to Poor PM: No Frills Project Management Tips (Contractor Roundtable): https://youtu.be/xIMb9X4A2Zo⭐️More coaching success stories: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGzGbmYmvpYonpJ_EAAUldCob7iimjgmc 00:00-Intro01:46-About Ryan's journey in Breakthrough Academy06:46-How do you build relationships beyond transactions?15:19-How to "Be Real" with the people around you17:55-The true ROI of community as a contractor22:14-How to overcome imposter syndrome26:24-Why give back?31:05-Should you collaborate with your competitors?34:03-Ryan's unforgettable moment from Winter Summit 202539:26-How to know if you're in the right community45:38-Wrap up and how to connect with Ryan

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a custom roadmap to systemizing your contracting business: https://trybta.com/DL245To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP245 Over the next 5 years the ability to leverage AI tools is going to make or break contracting businesses.But 99% of contracting business owners are barely scratching the surface.Today we’re joined by Greg Shove, founder of Section AI, who’s gonna teach us how to go from AI-anxious to AI-fluent. In this episode, we cover:A roadmap to learning AI for beginners, intermediates and even well-versed contractorsWhat it takes to build a shared company brain that knows your systems, data, and workflowsAnd specific ways to use AI for construction businesses, home service companies and other trades.If you’re ready to stop treating AI like a toy and start using it as your competitive edge, this conversation is for you.00:00-Intro01:38-About Greg and Section AI01:38-About Greg and Section AI03:34-The AI Revolution: What's Happening and What's Next07:21-How small business should be benefitting from AI13:16-Are the trades AI proof?19:39-Creating a "company brain" with AI tools29:31-Practical use cases of AI tools for contractors37:53-How to take the first step to make AI part of your company culture44:37-Wrap up and next steps

Grab your FREE Contractor Growth Method resource bundle: https://trybta.com/DL244To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP244Whether it's being on the tools, selling jobs, or bookkeeping, we all have something in our business that we HATE doing—and for most 7 figure contractors, it's the relentless struggle with contractor cash flow and time management.The good news? There’s a predictable way out of small business owner burnout.After working with over 1,900 contractors, we’ve learned there are six key systems that, once implemented, give owners the freedom to do whatever they want while truly mastering contractor scaling.🔨 Swing a hammer.💼 Lead a sales team.⚾️ Coach baseball.🇬🇷 Move to Greece.These proven contractor time management systems transform how 7 figure contractors operate—no more 14-hour days, no more cash flow stress, no more feeling trapped in your business.In a web class we hosted a while back, I unpacked those six contractor scaling systems step-by-step—the same ones that help contractors break free from small business owner burnout and finally build businesses that serve them.Today, that web class is hitting the podcast.You’ll learn:- How to build a business budget to help with contractor cash flow and financial management- The foolproof hiring systems 7-figure contractors use to secure top talent- How to level up your time management skills to implement more systems faster00:00-Intro00:54-Welcome to the web class09:06-About the 6 Systems (Contractor Growth Method™)10:27-System 1: Financial Controls14:39-System 2: Defined Roles21:20-System 3: Hiring Systems26:20-System 4: Training & onboarding33:02-System 5: Sales & marketing39:31-System 6: Goal Setting & Review49:34-Getting started57:59-Q&A

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a custom Contractor Growth Scorecard today: https://trybta.com/DL243To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP243 LMN, Greenius and SingleOps are three of the biggest names in landscaping software. After rebranding to Granum, CEO Mark Sedgley is on the show to talk about the bright future of the green industry.---What does it take to lead lasting change, not just inside your business, but across an entire industry?Today’s guest is Mark Sedgley, CEO of LMN, Greenius, and SingleOps, three of the biggest names in landscaping software that are now coming together as one brand: Granum.Mark’s story—from entrepreneur to CEO—offers a masterclass in leadership, accountability, and building companies that put people first.In today’s episode, we talk about his vision for Granum, and what he sees as the future of the green industry.Episode Highlights:- Learn why Granum, the amalgamation of LMN, Greenius and SingleOps was created, straight from CEO Mark Sedgley.- Understand Mark’s entrepreneurial journey and how you can benefit from the lessons he’s learned about leadership.- Get insight into the bright future of the green industry and the trades more broadly from someone who is actively working to improve and professionalize the space.Learn more about Granum: https://granum.com/00:00-Intro01:38-Mark's journey in the Green Industry10:52-Being an entrepreneur vs. being a CEO17:10-How to make the right decisions as a CEO23:26-The future of the Green Industry30:05-How to address change management in a rapidly changing industry33:44-About the Granum rebrand: how did LMN, Greenius and SingleOps come together?39:28-Finding balance as a high-impact CEO43:52-Wrap up

Take our five minute quiz and get your free custom Contractor Growth Scorecard here: https://trybta.com/DL242To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP242 Some moments in life can completely shape the way we see the world. Hard lessons, key pieces of advice, or sudden realizations in the face of adversity. Today, Danny is opening up about four moments in his life that would become the mantras he uses to survive and thrive as a successful contractor, business coach and entrepreneur.Episode Highlights:Hear the story of how Danny went from a struggling dyslexic student to a successful paint contractor to the thriving founder and coach he is today.Understand the power of mantras in overcoming adversity, navigating relationships and staying calm under pressure.Benefit from Danny’s vulnerability, as he opens up about the personal and professional mistakes over the last 20 years as an entrepreneur.00:00-Intro 01:16-Habit #1: F*ck it04:32-Habit #2: “How can I…?”07:32-Habit #3: Relinquishing control09:07-Habit #4: “It’ll be fine.”11:15-Wrap Up

Take our 5 minute quiz and get your free personalized Contractor Growth Scorecard today: https://trybta.com/DL241 To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP241 In a world where everyone turns to AI to ask questions, how do you make sure YOU show up as the answer? In today’s episode, Phil Risher reveals the secret to getting ChatGPT and other Large Language Models (LLMs) to promote your business to potential customers in every related search.---There’s no question that AI is changing the way people ask questions online.So, how do you make sure YOU show up as the answer?In today’s episode, we’re revealing the secret to getting ChatGPT and other Large Language Models (LLMs) to promote your business to potential customers in every related search.Contractor Marketing expert Phil Risher is a long-time SEO strategist that has been on the front lines as AI has changed the game for contractors and home service businesses. Our conversation covers:The difference between SEO, GEO and AEO and where you should invest your marketing efforts right nowHow Large Language Models actually decide which brands to recommend 4 personalized videos you can make in the next 10 minutes that will increase your conversion rate by 20%.This is a mandatory listen for contractors in every industry.00:00-Intro02:07-About Phil and Phlash Consulting05:29-How is AI disrupting customer search? SEO vs. GEO vs. AEO12:49-Is SEO still worth doing?16:10-Becoming a content authority29:21-How important is a "face of the brand?"32:41-4 personalized videos for your drip sequence38:44-Use cases for AI chat bots & automation for speed to lead41:45-Use cases for self service tools46:14-How to stay up-to-date on AI without getting overwhelmed49:58-Connect with Phil

Take our 5 minute quiz and get your free personalized Contractor Growth Scorecard today: https://trybta.com/DL240To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP240 What if you offered a potential customer a free vacation if they hired you by the end of the week? Would it increase your closing rate? Today’s guest John Dwyer (JD, for short) swear by this strategy and in this episode, he’s gonna tell you why.---What if you offered a potential customer a free vacation if they hired you by the end of the week?Gimmicky? Maybe.But according to today’s guest, it works.John Dwyer, or “JD” for short, has built an entire business around incentive-based marketing. In other words, rather than resorting to price discounting to get more work, what if you looked for a value add incentive instead?Sometimes that’s something small, like a Happy Meal toy. Sometimes it’s a free trip to Disneyland.In this episode, JD breaks down what he thinks are the 5 elements of a successful direct response campaign, including what he calls the WOW factor incentive.This guy’s got some seriously out of the box ideas, so buckle up.Episode Highlights:- Learn how John “JD” Dwyer has used incentive-based marketing to generate over $15 billion in extra sales for businesses across multiple industries.- Understand what the “WOW Factor” is and how it might fit into your marketing strategy.- Get inspired to find creative alternatives the next time you’re thinking of price discounting to get more sales.Get in touch with JD at john@theinstituteofwow.comLearn more about the Institute of Wow vacations Incentive - https://vacationsincentive.com/00:00-Intro01:32-About JD and the Institute of Wow07:52-What exactly is direct response marketing?11:01-5 components of direct response marketing22:41-About the Wow Factor vacation incentive39:26-How to be the "UN" authority41:52-Quick hits: best and worse of JD's career53:00-Wrap up

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a personalized Contractor Growth Plan here: https://trybta.com/DL239To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP239 The modern buyer doesn’t want to wait. They expect instant answers, real-time communication, and a seamless experience from first click to final payment. Today, Liveswitch CRO James Hatfield is on the show to talk about how create a seamless and speedy experience for customers using virtual --quoting.--Here’s a hard reality:The modern buyer doesn’t want to wait. They expect instant answers, real-time communication, and a seamless experience from first click to final payment.But most trades businesses struggle to make that a reality for their customers.Today, I’m joined by James Hatfield, CRO at LiveSwitch, to unpack a faster, smarter way to sell—without losing the human connection.We’ll cover how expectations have shifted, where contractors are still falling short, and how to blend speed with authenticity in every step of the sales journey.If you want to win the “race to the face” and elevate your customer experience, this one’s for you.00:00 - Intro02:03 - History of Liveswitch04:15 - Balancing race to face vs. personalization07:46 - What does the modern buyer expect from a sales process?11:02 - What does the virtual quoting experience look like for customers?16:37 - Benefits of tech-enabled sales24:19 - Creating a tech-enabled review/referral process27:04 - Claiming the property with QR codes32:16 - Does EVERY customer really prefer tech-enabled sales?34:20 - Other tech to add to your stack39:08 - Final thoughts and wrap up

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a personalized Contractor Growth Plan here: https://trybta.com/DL238To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP238 Ben Degros has built an audience on two YouTube channels: one on skateboards and one on drywall. Guess which one has more subs? In this episode, Ben breaks down his process for creating content for his drywall channel, which has amassed over 700K subscribers over the years.---Today’s guest is living proof that you don’t need fancy gear or a media team to build a killer online brand—just some drywall dust and a camera.Ben Degros is a carpenter, drywaller, and the creator of Vancouver Carpenter, a YouTube channel that’s grown to over 700,000 subscribers with simple, value-packed videos shot right on job sites.The content? Just drywall videos. And people love it.But here’s the twist: Before drywall, Ben was a full-time skater, even running a skateboarding YouTube channel. Now, he’s blended his trades skills with content creation to build massive reach while still running a small contracting operation.Since Ben is a Vancouver local, we recorded this one in studio and dug into how contractors can build brand, trust, and community—all with a phone and a few smart tactics.If you’re considering leaning into video content, there are some great insights for you here.Episode Highlights:Learn how a larger-scale trades content creator brings videos to life from idea to results.Understand the challenges of balancing content creation with daily operations, especially when you don’t have a media production team behind you.Get some tips from Ben on how to incorporate content creation into your marketing, whether you’re committed to the process or just getting your feet wet.00:00-Intro01:24-Intro & Origin03:04-Why contracting content works12:00-Building an audience31:28-Process of creating ideas: what works?36:03-Ben's "how to bend drywall" video41:07-Quick tips & wrap-up

Take our 5 minute quiz and get a personalized Contractor Growth Plan here: https://trybta.com/DL237To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP237 When we started Breakthrough Academy 10 years ago, business coaching for contractors wasn’t particularly common.Most of the contractors we talked to had never considered coaching and really didn’t know what it was.Today, business coaching has skyrocketed in popularity, and as a result there are a TON of choices out there for contractors.So…if you’re considering coaching… HOW do you make a decision?Today, we’re joined by Brendon Toyne, our Head of Sales at BTA who’s personally talked to thousands of contractors during their decision-making process.In this episode, we explore what to consider before signing on with a coach, but we also talk more broadly about how to make smart business decisions when it comes to working with key vendors that will propel your business forward. Episode Highlights:Hear about the rise of business coaching for contractors and why there is now so much choice out there for those seeking coaching or consulting solutions.Understand the difference between coaching, consulting, online communities and other solutions.Get Brendon’s tips on making the right choice about coaching solutions, based on his experience guiding thousands of contractors through the decision making process.00:00-Intro02:44-What's changed in the contractor coaching space since you started at BTA?09:35-Different types of coaching solutions20:41-What to consider when choosing a contractor coaching program43:32-How to make an informed decision on coaching (or anything)46:31-Contractor coaching red flags50:25-Wrap-up and next steps