Contractor Evolution

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Take 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

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Take 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

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Take 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

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Grab 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

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Take 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

Landscapers! Learn how to build a killer annual strategic plan for your business at our free web class on December 9. Spaces are limited, so save your spot now.  https://trybta.com/CE-SPL-Dec9Take 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

Grab your productivity resource bundle here: https://trybta.com/DL236Take our 5 minute quiz and get a personalized Contractor Growth Plan here: https://trybta.com/QF236To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP236 There’s 168 hours in every week. That’s true for everyone.So why do some people stall out while others build empires?Some might say it’s about time management. But that’s only half the story.Managing your time means deciding WHEN to get your work done. But just because you’re crushing tasks, doesn’t mean you’re crushing the RIGHT tasks.That’s why you need to shift your focus to priority management. This is a skill Matt Risinger had to master as he scaled Risinger Build and The Build Show into the goliaths they are today. Which is why Danny co-hosted a webinar with him a while back to teach contractors how to conquer their calendar, block interruptions and get the RIGHT sh*t done.Today, we're releasing it as a bonus episode so you can benefit from the insights.Episode Highlights:Learn how $10MM+ contractors accomplish more by doing less (using the 4 keys of priority management).Get simple tactics for placing guard rails on your time. PLUS tips for getting your clients, staff, and subs to understand how these new boundaries will benefit them.Understand how to recognize the 4 horsemen of overwhelm (and why common time management hacks don’t work). If you feel like you are always reacting to everyone else’s requests — this is for you.00:00 - Intro03:54 - About Matt and Danny09:45 - Purpose & Outcomes13:27 - Step 1: Define Your Why20:05 - Step 2: Strategic Planning33:00 - Step 3: Priority Management41:41 - Step 4: Time Management51:13 - Recap54:35 - Next Steps01:07:34 - Q&A

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP235 Let’s be honest:It’s kinda hard to prioritize when everything is on fire.With so many problems to solve and systems to build, how do you figure out what to focus on?Today, landscaper, content creator and author of Total Business Turnaround Mike Andes is here to answer that question.Mike built his business, Augusta Lawn Care into a national brand with 180 franchises. He also created CoPilot CRM, a software platform designed to help home service businesses streamline their operations.In this episode, Mike lays out the four areas of business you need to get dialed based on which phase of growth you’re in:- Lead Gen- Labor- Leadership and- LiquidityHis roadmap will help you focus on the most important systems for YOUR business. And give you a plan to put your fires out one at a time.00:00-Intro01:11-Intro & Why Franchising Matters04:19-Common Misconceptions About Readiness to Scale09:31-The 4 L’s10:50-Phase 1: Lead Gen16:43-Phase 2: Labor29:45-Phase 3: Leadership40:57-Phase Four: Liquidity53:22-Wrap up and how to connect with Mike

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP234 Check out Spencer's benchmarking tool here: https://fixyourprofit.com/signup/btaConfused by your financials? You’re not alone. Most contractors struggle to make sense of their numbers, and it costs them big.In this episode of Contractor Evolution, we sit down with Spencer Sheinin, bestselling author of Entreprenumbers and CEO of Shift Financial, who’s on a mission to empower contractors by turning complex financial data into simple, actionable insights.Spencer used to be a contractor himself, so he gets the challenges you face. That’s why this conversation hits different. It’s not just about spreadsheets and profit margins, it’s about taking control of your business through real financial empowerment.🔍 In this episode, we break down:How to make your numbers tell a story using visual toolsHow to spot red flags in your P&L before it’s too lateWhat your bookkeeper should really be doing for youThe three financial levers that drive profitability in contracting businesses📘 Whether you’re a seasoned business owner or just getting serious about your growth, this episode will help you stop fearing your financials and start using them to win.🔗 Check out Spencer’s book Entreprenumbers here: https://entreprenumbers.com/👇 Drop a comment if you've ever felt overwhelmed by your P&L—and let us know your #1 takeaway from this episode!00:00-Intro01:55-About Spencer and Shift Financial09:33-Define: Financial Empowerment10:35-Three levers of profitability14:32-How to determine which lever to pull (with visuals)21:01-How to build your first proper budget25:26-How to select your strategic financial team38:24-Essential software and tools for financial management40:25-How to maintain clean financial data46:05-One thing listeners can go do right now to get comfortable with numbers47:59-Free benchmarking tool

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP233 Ever had a project go sideways, a client bail, or cash flow dry up?This episode of Contractor Evolution is your playbook for bouncing back when business gets messy. Today, Reset With Resilience author Mandy Gill, broadcaster, ultra-endurance athlete, and creator of the Hooked on Healthy Habits app, shares field-tested strategies for staying consistent, even when your goals go off the rails.👉 In this episode, you’ll learn:How to hit reset when a client bails or a project stallsA resilience framework for handling cash flow crises and staffing headachesWhy courage (not comfort) is your best tool when motivation fadesThe daily habits top contractors use to stay on track—even in chaosHow to design goals that work in the messiness of construction, not just on paperWhether you’re growing a trades business or just trying to get your footing back, Mandy’s insights will give you the tools to navigate the “messy middle” and come out stronger.📘 Get her book: https://www.mandygill.com/book 📱 Explore her app: https://www.mandygill.com/app00:00-Intro01:19-About Mandy12:40-The Concept: Reset With Resilience17:13-Courage vs. Comfort21:21-Three Goal Setting Tips from the book37:18-Building Healthy Habits43:01-Leading with Resilience47:41-Final thoughts

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP232 Today we are bringing back the best moments with our friend Matt RisingerThis man is a true industry goliath: host of The BUILD Show, founder of Risinger Build, and one of the most trusted names in the industry.He’s been on our show four times and has shared some truly life-changing advice about everything from recruiting to finances.In this episode, we’ll be summarizing our favorite Matt Risinger moments from his various collaborations with Breakthrough Academy over the years.Important teachings, practical tips, and thought provoking stories from his experience building both of his massive brands.This video covers Matt Risinger’s top Contractor Evolution moments.Episode Highlights:Refresh your memory on the top 4 moments from Matt Risinger on Contractor Evolution.Hear about Matt’s $200K SOP mistake and what he learned from it.Get Matt’s insight on when to let a high-performer go, rather than try and keep them on.00:00-Intro01:31-Revenue is Vanity and Profit is Sanity02:33-Matt's $200K Mistake07:07-Profit Comes From Pre-Construction07:56-When to Let A-Players Move On09:43-Matt and Danny's next web class

Grab your project management resource bundle and start implementing these tips today: https://trybta.com/DL231To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP231 Poor project management leads to massive financial losses in the construction industry (up to $40 BILLION each year), but this can be avoided with effective communication. By improving communication skills, contractors can avoid costly mistakes and improve overall project outcomes.Last month I hosted a roundtable webinar alongside Charley Burtwistle from The Building Code Podcast and two high-performing builders who’ve cracked the code on running smoother, more profitable projects.Today, it’s coming to you as a bonus episode. You’ll hear how Dylan from Tectonic Design Build and Toby and Bradley from New Beginnings Construction systemized their project management, defined key roles, and created a repeatable communication rhythm that keeps things on time and on budget—even on multi-million dollar projects.Episode highlights:Understand WHY project management is so hard to execute properlyLearn how to transform your PMs from glorified errand boys to forward-thinking team leadersGet tips for holding subcontractors accountable so they deliver quality work, consistently00:00-Intro05:54-About the panelists12:31-Signs your PM is broken18:06-What is a project manager's role?25:02-What have you learned about PM hiring?35:28-How does communication make or break project management?49:01-Prove PM systems used by pro contractors57:09-The evolution of the entrepreneur01:04:02-How to use the Contractor Growth Method®01:07:34-How to implement change TODAY01:13:05-What advice would you give yourself five years ago?01:17:55-Q&A

For help navigating critical conversations, download our free guide here: https://trybta.com/DL230To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP230 If you thought hiring was hard……wait until you have to fire someone.It is not fun.Unfortunately, it’s also part of owning a business. Your job is to lead your team towards goals that benefit not just you, but everyone.And if someone on the team is working against those goals—intentionally or unintentionally—it’s your responsibility to let them go.But that doesn’t make it any easier. That’s why, today, we’re teaching you how to fire someone, the right way, with a six-step process you can use as soon as you need it.Episode Highlights: Learn the six steps to exiting an employee, from making the decision to dealing with the aftermath.Understand the red flags that an employee isn’t a fit for your company or their role.Get tips on having “the conversation” with the employee in question in a way that makes it as painless as possible for both parties.00:00-Intro01:04-Step 1: Make a list of actions or behaviors that are cause for firing03:31-Step 2: Take corrective action and document it04:15-Step 3: Make the decision04:47-Step 4: Get your ducks in a row05:46-Step 5: Have the conversation06:45-Step 6: Deal with the aftermath07:28-Wrap up

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP229 Have you ever felt like you’ve hit a wall when it comes to marketing? You’re not alone. You can’t get someone to impulse buy a new deck, air conditioner, or new roof. Instead, you have to sell trust, reliability, and a rock-solid reputation. So why are most contractor and construction marketing strategies built like they’re selling sneakers?Today, I’m joined by Ryan Chute, partner at Wizard of Ads and international sales strategist, to unpack how trades and home service pros can rewire their approach to brand, advertising, and messaging.You’ll learn:How to create a brand message that actually sticks in your customer’s mind so you can stand out from your competition The biggest branding mistake contractors make in their marketing strategies (and how to fix it)Why your “satisfaction guarantee” is uselessHow to improve your marketing with the right approach and boost lead generation00:00-Intro01:23-About Ryan and Wizard of Ads03:12-What's unique with contractors in marketing?10:32-The 2 ingredients of brand: empathy and competence14:56-How to identify your own powerful brand stories21:07-How to distribute your brand stories24:10-How to avoid messaging that misses the mark31:47-Using a North Star Promise in your marketing35:24-The case for returning to traditional media41:48-Getting the copy right46:07-Adapting and re-adapting your media mix51:34-Easy ways to level up your contractor marketing56:49-Quick win for contractor marketing

To download tools that will help you implement these four systems, click here: https://trybta.com/DL228 To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP228 What do New Zealand electricians and North American roofers have in common?More than you’d think—especially when it comes to the biggest problems in the trades: finding skilled people, keeping margins healthy, and finally getting off the damn tools.Today, I’m joined by Tony Fraser-Jones, an entrepreneur, business coach and founder of The Profitable Tradie who’s helped hundreds of contractors in Australia and New Zealand build profitable, self-managing companies.Tony and I have a ton in common. Similar backgrounds, similar career paths and similar missions in life.In this episode, we compare notes from opposite sides of the globe and unpack some plug-and-play systems you can implement this quarter—no matter what hemisphere you're in.Episode Highlights:Learn what the most common challenges are in Australia/New Zealand and in the US/Canada and how each region is tackling them differently.Walk through two practical playbooks you can start implementing this quarter from the founders of two highly successful contractor coaching businesses.Get a sneak peek into what Danny and Tony see coming in 2026 (in two different hemispheres).00:00-Intro01:56-Tony's story07:28-System 1: Skilled-Labour Shortage19:28-System 2: Financial Management35:30-System 3: Productivity & Owner Focus45:02-System 4: Sales and Marketing53:32-Lightning Round