Hard Hat to CEO with Chris Gilman

What would happen to your business if you got sick tomorrow? In this real and honest episode, Chris G shares how burnout almost cost him everything, including his life. From a hospital bed, he started rethinking how he was running his business and life. He talks about what really matters and how to get back on track. Chris shares four simple but powerful lessons: remember why you started, protect your energy, stop living in constant stress, and quit trying to do it all on your own. This isn’t just about work—it’s about showing up for your family, taking care of yourself, and building a business that doesn’t run you into the ground. If you're feeling tired, stressed, or stuck, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:40) Hitting rock bottom: the wake-up call (1:03) Lesson 1: Rediscover your why (2:41) Lesson 2: Protect your energy and plan for recovery (5:41) Lesson 3: Get out of survival mode (8:14) Lesson 4: Stop doing everything yourself (9:35) Shifting from chaos to clarity in business (10:34) Free consult + support group: Hard Hat to CEO (11:18) 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 your daily habits helping your business grow—or holding it back? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris shares the four habits that hurt contractors the most, even though many wear them like a badge of honor. From always feeling “too busy” to trying to handle everything yourself, these common traps lead to burnout, lost money, and zero free time. Chris gives honest advice on how to stop reacting to every problem, start planning your day better, and why it’s so important to actually know your numbers. If you feel stuck or always behind, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:48) The habits that steal your time, energy, and money (1:47) #1: Procrastination, how “being busy” hides what you're avoiding (2:51) #2: Always reacting instead of planning (4:45) #3: Doing everything yourself and burning out (5:52) #4: Not knowing your numbers or how much you’re really making (7:11) How to plan your day and protect your time (7:59) Want help? Free calls and a contractor community are waiting for you (8:59) Ouro 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 running you instead of the other way around? In this episode, we talk with Nate Agentis, a third-generation plumber who grew his family business, sold it, and now helps other tradespeople build businesses that don’t burn them out. Nate shares how to spot burnout, what really matters in leadership, and why it’s not just about making money, it’s about building a life you’re proud of. From simple advice on time management to tips on growing a strong team, this one’s packed with real, honest talk for anyone in the trades. Nate Agentis is a third-generation plumber from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, who grew up working in his family's plumbing business. After taking over the company, he led it to become a successful, multi-million-dollar operation known for its high-quality service and strong team culture. Following the growth and eventual sale of his business, Nate shifted his focus to coaching, speaking, and writing, helping other trades professionals grow their businesses without burning out. He’s passionate about leadership, mental wellness, and building strong teams. Nate is also the author of Get Shit Done: How to Build a Strong Team, a Profitable Business, and a Lasting Legacy. He’s a husband, a father of six (including adopted children), and deeply committed to purpose-driven work that puts people first—both inside and outside the job site. Connect with Nate: Website: https://hopeforthetrades.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nagentis/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/399bssvt Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:26) Nate’s story: Growing up in the trades (2:54) Taking over and eventually selling the business (3:48) Finding a new purpose in coaching and helping others (5:03) Common business struggles in the trades (8:57) Why burnout happens and how to spot it (16:24) 3 simple ways to fight burnout (19:27) What really matters more than money (22:57) Serving others beyond the job site (24:53) Hiring and training the next generation (27:28) Nate’s book Get Shit Done and where to find it (33:34) How to connect with Nate and get involved with Hope for the Trades (34:45) 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/

Are you spending money in your business, thinking it’s an “investment” but not seeing anything come back? In this episode, Chris G. talks straight about the things contractors often waste time and money on: underpriced jobs, shiny new gear, bad hires, unused software, and more. You’ll hear why cheap work attracts cheap clients, how to figure out your real profit, and why you should stop doing jobs you hate (or aren’t great at). Most importantly, we talk about why you are your best investment, and how to treat yourself like the asset you are. If you’ve ever asked, “Where did all my money go?” this one's for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:36) What actually counts as a real investment (2:08) Undercharging and why it's costing you more than you think (3:45) Hiring the wrong people and what to do instead (4:48) Subscriptions and software you forgot you’re even paying for (6:12) Taking on work you shouldn’t be doing (7:48) Throwing money at ads without a plan (8:37) Do you really need that brand-new truck? (12:25) You’ve got to pay yourself because your time matters (13:32) The most overlooked investment: yourself (16:56) 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/

Tired of redoing work and losing money on jobs? In this episode, Chris G. sits down with Greg and Renee Glendenning, quality control experts who’ve helped contractors of all sizes avoid costly mistakes. They talk about simple ways to build a quality control process without breaking the bank — even if you're a small crew. From cross-training your team to using tools you already have (like Word and Excel), Greg and Renee explain how smart systems can save time, reduce stress, and help you make more money. Whether you're a subcontractor, GC, or just trying to grow your business the right way, this one’s packed with real advice that actually works. Greg and Renee Glendenning are a husband-and-wife team with decades of hands-on experience in construction and quality control. Greg started in the trades, working in HVAC and running multiple businesses before moving into quality management for large-scale projects, including utility solar. Renee is a mechanical engineer who shifted from design to boots-on-the-ground construction, eventually owning her own firm and building a QC training program focused on helping small contractors succeed. Together, they now train teams across the country on simple, effective quality control systems that save time, cut costs, and improve jobsite results with no expensive software needed. Connect with Greg and Renee: Website: https://qcuniversity.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quality-control-university/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/QualityControlCollective IG: https://www.instagram.com/qualitycontrolcollective/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:52) Meet Greg and Renee Glendenning (2:57) How small contractors can implement quality control (5:31) Why having set processes keeps things moving (7:57) The danger of reactive QC and how to fix it (13:17) When it's time to hire someone for QC (15:45) Budgeting for quality: what it really costs (17:35) Using QC as a selling point (19:52) What goes in a simple quality control plan (22:22) Training your team without stopping the job (25:43) QC saves money from start to finish (30:05) Where quality control should actually begin (33:15) QC vs. project management, what’s the difference? (35:52) Does QC pay for itself? (38:27) How to reach Greg and Renee for help (38:58) 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 would you do if you had to start over? No crew, no equipment, no business, just your experience? In this episode, Chris G talks honestly about how he’d rebuild in 2026 if he lost it all. He shares the real-life approach he’d take now: working smarter, spending wisely, and only hiring when it really makes sense. Chris also tells personal stories from his childhood that shaped how he sees hard work today. You’ll hear simple, straight-shooting advice on things like pricing to make a real profit, choosing the right clients, and keeping your head on straight when things get tough. If you’re in the trades and thinking about how to grow or restart, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:43) What I would do if I lost everything (1:26) Hard work lessons from Grandpa Clyde (3:00) Clarity before tools and clients before gear (4:04) Build reputation before revenue (5:12) Hire for pain, pay for value (6:31) Price like a business, not a buddy (7:47) Automate everything you can (9:29) Create partnerships, not competition (12:00) Protect your mindset like your last tool (13:44) Prepare to restart stronger in 2026 (14:52) 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/

In this episode, Chris G chats with Scott Harris, founder of Magnetic, about how to grow a team, work better with people, and turn real estate into something more than just sales. Scott opens up about the moment he realized he couldn’t do it all alone and how that led to building a team-focused, people-first company. He breaks down his simple “Magnetic Method,” why clear communication matters, and how listening can make or break a deal. From team building to helping clients invest the right way, there’s plenty here for business owners, agents, and investors alike. Scott also shares a wild $15M real estate story during COVID and gives us a preview of his new book, The Pursuit of Home. Tune in and walk away with real advice you can use, no fluff, just real talk. Scott Harris is the founder of Magnetic, a boutique real estate firm based in New York City. With over 20 years of experience and more than $2 billion in sales, Scott has built a reputation for helping clients make confident, informed decisions in high-stakes real estate. He created the “Magnetic Method,” a people-first approach to working with buyers and sellers. Before entering real estate, Scott worked in the entertainment industry, where he learned how to manage complex relationships and high-pressure situations. Originally from New Orleans, he holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and now lives in NYC with his wife and three children. He’s also the author of The Pursuit of Home, a book that explores the emotional journey behind buying a home. Connect with Scott: Website: https://magneticre.com/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/bdzjcnaw Tune in: https://tinyurl.com/ycy4dw84 Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:55) Investing profits into real estate with guest Scott Harris (2:07) Building and burning out his first team, then rebuilding better (4:00) The #1 leadership lesson: communication (5:45) Training through the “Magnetic Method” (6:55) Podcasting, marketing, and running a full support team (7:37) Motivation and retention beyond commission (10:34) Weekly meetings and how Magnetic supports agents (13:50) How the “Magnetic Method” helps investors and buyers (17:38) The $15M COVID deal and how listening saved it (20:18) Listening as a builder and leader (24:01) Walkthroughs, trust, and standing behind your work (25:59) Scott’s book The Pursuit of Home and where to find it (26:53) 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/

Are you running a real business, or just doing the work? In this episode of Hard Hat and CEO, Chris G. shares five tough truths every contractor or small business owner needs to hear. He keeps it honest and simple, talking about why being great at your trade isn’t enough if you want to grow. From charging what you’re worth, to dealing with tough clients, to taking full responsibility, Chris gives real advice based on real experience. If you’re ready to take charge and lead your business the right way, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:30) Why the truth matters (even when it stings) (1:01) Truth #1: Being good at your trade isn’t enough (2:04) Truth #2: You are not your business (3:25) Truth #3: You’re probably undercharging (5:22) Truth #4: If you can’t walk away, you’re not in control (6:45) Truth #5: No one is coming to save you (7:46) Final thoughts and how to get support from Chris G. (8:20) 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 real key to growing your construction business isn’t more tools or longer hours, but building the right culture? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G sits down with executive coach Andrew Poles to talk about how contractors can step into the CEO role without burning out. With over 23 years of experience coaching business owners (from remodelers to NASA leaders), Andrew explains why culture is one of the biggest things that can make or break your business. You’ll hear how to define your values, delegate the right way, and get buy-in from your team and trades. They also talk about how simple stories can teach more than a training manual, and why feeling stuck might just mean it’s time for something new. If you’re ready to grow your business and lead with more purpose, don’t miss this one. Andrew Poles is an executive coach with over 20 years of experience helping founders and leaders grow their businesses without sacrificing their personal lives. He’s coached more than 10,000 people, from startup entrepreneurs to executives at major companies, focusing on leadership, mindset, and sustainable success. With a background in managing multi-million-dollar teams in construction and manufacturing, Andrew brings real-world insight and a straightforward coaching style. Based in Austin, Texas, he’s known for helping clients lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose without burning out. Connect with Andrew: https://andrewpoles.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewpoles/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:08) Andrew’s background and what drives him (2:14) The biggest mindset shift from contractor to CEO (4:14) Why culture is critical to business success (7:40) How to define, document, and repeat your values (12:29) Why culture should show up in your job descriptions (15:27) How building your business is like building someone’s home (22:37) Getting buy-in from your trades and employees (27:37) How to delegate instead of dumping (29:47) Using stories to share and teach company culture (32:17) Advice for avoiding burnout and reigniting purpose (35:28) Where to connect with Andrew (36:36) 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 just 15 minutes could save you 25 years of headaches, wasted money, and burnout? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G keeps it real and shares six lessons he's learned the hard way, so you don’t have to. From knowing when to walk away from the wrong clients to making sure you’re actually making a profit (not just chasing big numbers), this one’s full of real talk. Chris also explains why hiring slow and letting go fast can protect your team, how to stop holding your business back, and why good communication and steady sales are a must. He even shares a personal story about almost losing his life and how that changed everything. If you're running a business, this episode is a must-listen. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:41) Save 25 years in 15 minutes (1:14) Lesson #1: Not every client is worth it (2:48) Lesson #2: Profit > Revenue (4:47) Lesson #3: Stop being the bottleneck (5:38) Lesson #4: Hire slow, fire fast (8:11) Lesson #5: Sales and communication (11:00) Lesson #6: Don’t forget your personal life (12:08) The power of building a self-reliant team (12:51) Closing thoughts and invitation to connect (13:24) 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 would happen if you couldn’t show up to work tomorrow? Would your business keep going, or would things fall apart? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G chats with Pete Mohr, host of the Business Owner Breakthrough podcast, about why every business owner needs an exit plan, and no, it’s not just for retirement. Pete shares real-life stories of business owners who had to step away suddenly due to health issues, accidents, or unexpected changes. He also breaks down his simple “Six Ps” framework to help you build a business that runs smoothly, even when you’re not there. If you want more freedom, less stress, and a stronger business, this episode is for you. Pete Mohr is a coach, speaker, author, and podcast host with over 30 years of experience as a business owner. He helps entrepreneurs take control of their companies, build stronger teams, and prepare their businesses to run without them. Pete is a Certified Exit Planning Associate and Kolbe Certified Coach, giving him a deep understanding of both strategic planning and how people work best. He's the host of the Business Owner Breakthrough podcast and author of the book by the same name, where he shares simple, practical tools to help business owners create more freedom and long-term value. His signature “Six Ps” framework focuses on building a business that’s efficient, profitable, and exit-ready, even if you're not planning to leave anytime soon. Pete’s advice comes from real-life experience, having owned and sold multiple businesses across different industries. Connect with Pete: Website: https://pete-mohr.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petemohr/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/znkmu93x Tune in: https://businessownerbreakthrough.buzzsprout.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:19) Pete’s start in business (3:57) The first time Pete had to sell a business (5:11) The “5 Ds” that force unexpected exits (7:20) What “exit ready” really means (13:45) Pete’s “Six Ps” framework (22:01) Delegation, authority, and letting go (34:24) Time tracking & task assignment (35:48) The #1 mistake business owners make when preparing to exit (41:31) Pete’s book The Business Owner Breakthrough and final takeaways (42:34) 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 make more money on every job while keeping your customers happier than ever? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks about simple ways contractors can stand out, like offering extra services the same way a mechanic suggests new wipers or an air filter. He shares how partnering with designers, smart home pros, or financing experts can add value without adding more work. You’ll pick up real tips to build stronger client relationships, boost profits, and run a business people remember for all the right reasons. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:42) The mechanic upsell analogy (1:42) Turning calls into partnerships (3:16) Finding your competitive edge (4:03) Impressing clients with presentation tools (5:45) The rise of smart home opportunities (6:14) Turnkey vs. DIY flexibility (6:45) Helping clients secure financing (8:40) Why project management is worth charging for (9:30) Final takeaway and coaching invite (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/

What’s getting in the way of your goals, and are you really dealing with it? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G sits down with retired executive Jerry Fish to talk about something he calls the Black Dot Philosophy. It’s a simple way to spot the things holding you back and actually do something about them. Jerry shares his own tough story of losing family, going through a divorce, filing for bankruptcy, and how one eye-opening lunch helped him turn it all around. Now, he helps others do the same. If you're running a business, leading a team, or just feel stuck in life, this conversation will show you how to face your biggest challenges and take real steps forward. Jerry Fish is a retired financial services executive with over 40 years of leadership experience, including senior roles at Prudential and New York Life. Throughout his career, he built and led high-performing teams across multiple offices and served as a Regional Vice President before retiring. After overcoming major personal and professional setbacks—including bankruptcy, the loss of loved ones, and depression—Jerry developed the Black Dot Philosophy, a practical system for identifying and working through life’s biggest challenges. Today, he shares that message through coaching, speaking, and writing. He is the author of The Black Dot Philosophy and is currently working on his next book, Unstuck. Connect with Jerry: Website: https://theblackdotphilosophy.com/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/mr3s39rs Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:36) Jerry’s background (2:36) What is the Black Dot Philosophy (7:58) How leaders can apply the Black Dot Philosophy today (12:53) How CEOs can use Black Dots to build a better team and business (16:42) Significance and size of Black Dots (19:42) Why pushing down emotions doesn’t work long term (22:08) Coaching team members with their Black Dots (25:17) Advice for anyone quietly struggling (28:37) Action step: Write your black dots this week (29:38) Jerry’s upcoming book, Unstuck, and where to find him online (31:59) 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 lie awake at night wondering how you’re going to cover the bills? Chris G. knows that feeling all too well. In this episode, he shares real-life stories and easy ways to take control of your cash flow. Whether it’s billing more often, using an escrow account, or making sure you actually hit “send” on that invoice, Chris breaks it all down in a way that makes sense. He also talks about how to avoid money mistakes like starting too many jobs without deposits or missing out on early payment discounts. If you're a contractor or small business owner trying to get ahead and stop stressing about money, this one's for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:31) That gut-wrenching feeling of not having enough cash (0:57) Why a bookkeeper isn’t enough without a system (2:23) How often should you invoice? (3:01) Good loans vs. bad loans (3:40) Setting up a self-funded cash reserve (5:07) Turn estimates into invoices with a click (6:08) Bill slow-paying clients fast (6:30) Vendor discounts = free money (7:11) Using a draw system and avoiding misuse (8:18) Don't start too many jobs without deposits (9:07) Start billing sooner (9:51) 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/

Mobile Home Parks Might Be the Best Investment You’re Overlooking with Tim Woodbridge Ever wonder how to make your money work harder for you? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G talks with Tim Woodbridge, a former nurse who now owns 19 mobile home parks. Tim shares how one book, Rich Dad Poor Dad, completely changed how he thought about money and helped him start building real wealth. He explains how he bought his first property with almost no savings, what he looks for in a deal today, and why having the right team makes all the difference. If you’re a business owner or contractor looking for smarter ways to invest and create freedom, you’ll really enjoy this one. Tim Woodbridge started his career helping patients, not investors. After spending eight years as a registered nurse, he took the same focus and care he used in hospitals and applied it to real estate. In 2019, Tim bought his first mobile home park with two partners, doubled its value in just over a year, and used that success to grow a portfolio that now includes more than 600 mobile home pads, an apartment complex, and an RV park. Today, as the visionary behind WCG Investments, Tim focuses on finding overlooked properties, building strong teams, and helping investors create steady, long-term wealth. His personal journey through recovery and living with multiple sclerosis gives him a powerful “why”, a belief in building health, stability, and a legacy that lasts. Connect with Tim: Website: https://wcginvestments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-woodbridge-62894855/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:17) Meet Tim Woodbridge: From nursing to investing (3:04) Why mobile home parks stood out (5:48) How Tim funded his first deal with almost no savings (9:22) Lessons learned & building a strong team (10:46) RV parks vs. mobile home parks (13:26) Surprising tax benefits explained (15:43) Insurance and doubling investor money in 5 years (17:15) Current investment opportunities (19:52) How their business plan stays on track (21:37) Why consistency wins over flashy returns (25:04) Long-term holds vs. flipping (28:44) Tim’s website & how to connect (31:59) 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/