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/
Have you ever come home from the hospital only to fix a doorknob that someone else was paid to install? That’s exactly what happened to Chris G., sparking a broader conversation about why many business owners become overwhelmed by doing everything themselves. In this episode, he shares what it really takes to step away from your business without fearing it will fall apart. From learning to delegate and hold people accountable to trusting your team to make decisions, this episode is packed with real lessons for anyone tired of micromanaging. If you’re ready to stop fixing every little problem and start leading like a CEO, this one’s for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:42) The doorknob disaster that started it all (2:37) Assigning responsibility before you step away (4:59) Teaching your team to think like you (6:50) How real training leads to real freedom (8:50) Hiring someone you can trust like yourself (9:53) Want this kind of freedom? Book a call. (10:18) 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/
What really makes a team successful — having the best players or having real trust? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G talks with Mike Robbins, a former pro baseball player who now teaches leaders how to build strong teams and better workplaces. Mike shares his story of going from the pitcher’s mound to a career-ending injury, and how that shift led him to focus on people, culture, and leadership. He explains why trust matters more than talent, how to lead even when you’re not the expert, and why clear roles and honest conversations can change everything. From everyday leadership tips to real-world examples, this episode is full of practical advice you can put to work right away in your business and your life. Mike Robbins is a keynote speaker, coach, and bestselling author who helps leaders and teams build trust, improve collaboration, and achieve stronger results. For more than 25 years, he has worked with top organizations like Google, Microsoft, Walmart, Airbnb, Pixar, and the San Francisco Giants. Mike has written five books, including We’re All in This Together, and his work has been featured in outlets such as The New York Times, Fast Company, and Harvard Business Review. A former pro baseball player drafted by the Kansas City Royals, Mike now shares lessons from both the field and the workplace to inspire authentic leadership and teamwork. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and two daughters. Connect with Mike: Website: https://mike-robbins.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/hheyw6jp Tune in: https://tinyurl.com/23ntseue Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:25) From pro baseball to leadership coach (3:20) Why good teams fail and average teams win (5:31) Building trust: It's more than delegation (6:58) The meeting on trust that never happens (9:14) Leadership lessons from baseball to construction (11:35) Why names, small talk, and being real matter (18:38) Conflict, connection, and why empathy wins (24:36) Clear responsibilities and team efficiency (27:18) Creating culture: high standards & high care (33:04) Redefining a company after a split (36:03) The best teams start with the best leaders doing the personal work (37:24) 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 does it really feel like to start over at 40? On this episode of Hard Hat CEO, Chris G chats with Dennis Mark Interdonato, a former contractor who left his family’s construction business to start fresh in real estate. Dennis shares what it was like going from digging holes to building a successful real estate brand, and how that journey changed his life. He opens up about his struggles, how he found support, and why giving back to veterans and his community keeps him grounded. It’s a real and honest conversation about second chances, hard work, and finding purpose later in life. Dennis Mark Interdonato is a New Jersey real estate agent serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties, with deep roots in the Jersey Shore community. He grew up in Monmouth County and now lives in Ocean County. Before entering real estate full-time, Dennis spent nearly 20 years in the home building and remodeling industry, working in his family’s construction business. He also has experience in development and property flipping. A proud Army veteran with about 10 years of service, including time as a drill sergeant, Dennis brings discipline, leadership, and heart to everything he does. His approach to real estate is built on dedication, trust, and a strong focus on serving both his clients and his community. Connect with Dennis: Website: https://dennismarkrealestate.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennismarkinterdonato/ Zillow: https://www.zillow.com/profile/TheDennisMarkGroup Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:23) Dennis as an Army vet, contractor, and now full-time realtor (1:55) Learning the trade from the ground up (3:31) Why real estate was the right next step for him (4:53) Patience and pressure in the construction world (6:51) What keeps him motivated (9:00) Community service with veterans and nonprofits (13:25) Listing vs. buyer’s agent and the creative side of marketing (15:03) Building a team and scaling his brand (16:49) Lessons he wishes he’d known sooner (18:46) Starting over at 40 and setting new goals (22:08) Mental health, diagnosis, and the power of helping others (24:52) Rebranding his name and identity for a new chapter (26:47) 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 prices helping you earn trust or pushing customers away? In this episode, Chris G. shares a story about a contractor who tried to hide extra profit in material costs and ended up losing credibility. Chris explains why honesty matters in business and how small changes can make a big difference. From slowly raising your prices, to cutting waste, to getting better deals from suppliers, he lays out simple ways to boost profit without hurting your reputation. Even the little things, like picking up nails or scraps, can save money in the long run. If you own a business or dream of being your own boss, this episode is packed with practical tips you can actually use. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:32) When hidden profit damages trust (3:34) Two honest ways to increase revenue (6:07) Negotiating with suppliers (9:37) Reducing waste to save money (11:15) Improving team efficiency (14:20) Reach out for more 1-on-1 help from Chris (14:56) 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/
What if your biggest cost isn’t tools or materials, but people quitting? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G talks with Francie Jain, Founder of Terawatt, about what really keeps good workers around. They get into real stories, including how one hospital cut its turnover from 24% to just 4%, saving millions by focusing on trust, communication, and team culture. Whether you’ve got a small crew or a big company, this episode gives clear, practical ways to keep your people happy, growing, and sticking with you for the long haul. Francie Jain is a two-time entrepreneur, and Terawatt is Francie’s second for-profit endeavor. Her previous role was as the founder of West River Partners, a third-party marketing consultancy that raised capital for Emerging Markets-based equity hedge funds. Francie graduated from Princeton University with a degree in Politics and a minor in Visual Arts, and then pursued a career in fashion. She then graduated from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business with an MBA. While Francie was once drawn to the business of art, she is now obsessed with the art of business. Connect with Francie: Website: https://terawatt.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciejain/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:04) What Terawatt does and why investing in people matters (1:53) The secret to achieving retention (6:25) Creating a culture of mutual respect and open communication (14:07) Building and keeping a team (16:05) The cost of temp workers vs. retention (21:34) How to make employee suggestions actually work (25:58) How many people are enough to create a “good group”? (28:17) Why communication beats compensation in retention (37:34) The importance of training (40:39) How to get in touch with Francie or Chris G (41:20) 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 really makes a contractor stand out? In this episode, Chris G tells a real story about meeting with a couple who wanted a truly custom home—not just the usual options. From swapping out a pricey fireplace for a better fire pit to helping them get financing, Chris explains how listening and offering honest advice can make all the difference. He also shares five ways contractors can set themselves apart, like building a local reputation, being clear with estimates, and showing off before-and-after photos. If you're a contractor or small business owner looking to get more clients and build trust, you’ll take a lot away from this one. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:50) Why tools don’t set you apart, but your approach does (3:13) What made the client say “You’re truly custom” (6:20) The power of building a local reputation (7:06) Clear estimates and smart communication (9:27) Why sharing before-and-afters on social media works (10:54) Partnering with local businesses and offering financing (12:48) How to step into your role as the CEO of your business (13:16) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/
In this episode of Hard Hat CEO, Chris G. talks with landscape architect Matthieu Mehuys about how nature can give you a serious edge, whether you’re building homes, developing land, or just want to cut costs. Matthieu shares how his journey from growing up on a farm to working on projects around the world taught him that smarter landscaping can mean less maintenance, lower costs, and way more value. He also explains how good planning up front saves a ton of headaches later. If you're a contractor, investor, or homeowner looking to stand out, this episode gives you practical ideas that actually work. Matthieu Mehuys is an award-winning author and passionate landscape architect whose journey from a family farm in Belgium to regenerative farming practices has led him to believe that landscape architects can indeed change the world. His fascination with plants since childhood drove him to become a landscape architect, a role he sees as instrumental in crafting environments that marry aesthetics with positive environmental impact. Through his work, he aims to empower individuals to transform their gardens into spaces that foster biodiversity, restore ecosystems, and reverse climate change. Connect with Matthieu: Website: https://www.paulownia-la.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthieu-mehuys-64b0b5111/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/matthieumehuys/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@matthieumehuys Grab a copy: https://www.12lawsofnature.com/ Tune in to his podcast: https://tinyurl.com/2pcpm2zb Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:22) Matthew’s journey from farm life to landscape architecture (4:02) Leaving engineering to follow his purpose (6:56) How understanding nature helps grow your business (8:38) Plants, soil health, and the law of frequency (11:52) What Matthew looks at first when assessing land (14:21) Reducing construction costs with better planning (16:42) Law of mentalism (18:27) What contractors can do to add value (22:38) Managing water with smart design (28:24) Landscaping’s impact on sales and home value (30:07) The science behind why we love nature (33:55) Final tips on working with experts and reducing chemicals (36:13) 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 get a phone call that just ruins your whole day? Chris G. knows the feeling, and in this episode, he talks about one of those moments that made him stop and think. If you're a busy contractor getting calls about stuff that should’ve already been clear, this one’s for you. Chris shares how better communication can save you time, stress, and money. He talks about his Amish crews and how they have to get everything straight the first time because once they leave, there’s no phone or email. That’s the mindset we all need. If you're always the one putting out fires, this episode might help you change that. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:47) Why unreliable subcontractors cost you more than money (2:07) What Amish-style communication means and why it works (2:52) The importance of clear plans and specifications (4:01) Test their understanding (4:40) Trusting your team to do the job right (5:38) Here's how to connect with Chris (6:16) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/
What if people wanted to work with you before you even made a pitch? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks with Jerry Gennaria, CEO of Toky, about how contractors, builders, and engineers can build a brand that makes sales easier. Jerry breaks down how to figure out what really makes your business different, even if it feels like you’re saying the same thing as everyone else. You’ll learn how branding isn’t just about logos, it’s about building trust and showing people why they should choose you. If you're ready to step out of the jobsite mindset and into the CEO role, this one’s for you. Jerry Gennaria is the President and CEO of TOKY, a branding and strategic consulting firm based in St. Louis. With over 27 years in business and a decade-plus of experience in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) space, TOKY specializes in helping firms uncover what truly sets them apart. Jerry started as a designer and transitioned into brand and marketing strategy, working with top agencies since 1998. Under his leadership, TOKY has partnered with hundreds of AEC firms to clarify their message, improve their brand presence, and make sales easier by building trust before the first conversation. Connect with Jerry: Website: https://toky.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gennaria/ Email: jerry@toky.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:09) Meet Jerry Janeria of Toki (2:21) What “AEC” stands for and why it’s key (2:40) What a brand really is (not just a logo) (5:05) Branding values and behavior (8:00) How to stand out in a crowded market (11:22) Creating a brand truth with a unique POV (16:13) Don’t worry, you already have something worth branding (19:13) Does branding have to be expensive? (24:39) The 5 Whys method to find your real difference (26:28) Why visuals still matter (29:45) How branding supports your shift from worker to CEO (31:32) How to find Jerry and his resources (32:33) 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 do you do when things don’t go as planned, your order’s wrong, a delivery’s late, or a client’s not happy? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G tells some personal stories that show how the way you handle those moments really matters. Whether it's an Amazon mix-up, a fender bender, or a missing part from Lowe’s, Chris talks about staying calm, being kind, and not jumping to blame. Customer service isn’t just for customers; it’s also how you treat your team and your vendors. When you treat people right, they usually return the favor, and sometimes, you even get a little bonus out of it. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:41) Customer service goes both ways (1:18) Internal clients in trades (1:52) Roundabout mishap and life lessons (3:35) Owning your part (4:59) Being kind pays off (6:06) Pivoting when plans fall apart (7:25) Flip your expectations (8:08) The golden rule in business (8:56) Adjusting timelines with vendors (9:11) Silver linings and staying calm (10:00) 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 legally keep up to 90% of the money you're currently handing over in taxes? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G welcomes real estate investor and trust expert Sally Gimon, who shares how she turned a $94,000 tax crisis into a tax-saving mission that now helps entrepreneurs, contractors, and investors slash their tax bills. Sally breaks down how an IRS-compliant structure called the spendthrift trust can help 1099 earners, business owners, and investors hold on to more of their money, reinvest it, and build generational wealth. With real examples, from rental properties to car purchases and HVAC business sales, this episode gives you the knowledge that the rich have been using for decades, and now, so can you. Sally Gimon is a real estate investor and financial educator who helps 1099 earners, business owners, and investors legally reduce their tax bills using Spendthrift Trusts under IRS code 643B. After a personal tax crisis in 2020, she discovered how the wealthy use these trusts to save money and build generational wealth. Today, Sally works with entrepreneurs nationwide, showing them how to protect assets, cut taxes by up to 90%, and keep more of their hard-earned income—without working harder or longer. Connect with Sally: Website: https://thetrustisyou.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:31) Sally's backstory: Real estate, debt freedom, and a tax wake-up call (3:01) Discovering the Rockefellers’ trust strategy (5:52) Reinvesting trust money and living off it (10:41) Contractor success story (15:51) Breaking down the 5 parts of the spendthrift trust (19:33) $400k business owner saves $44k per year (25:26) Legal protection story: $500k lawsuit avoided (29:29) Why this beats the 1031 exchange strategy (32:15) Book your 30-minute tax breakthrough session (34:52) 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/
Ever feel like life hits you with everything all at once? Well, in this week’s episode of Hat to CEO, Chris G makes it as real and raw as it gets. He shares a week that tested every nerve. From a granddaughter’s broken arm and a daughter’s scary hospital visit to work chaos, missed meetings, and even losing a right-hand teammate. But instead of crumbling, he leans into prayer, sunshine, barefoot walks, sesame oil, and a good ol' Dale Carnegie book. With honesty, humor, and heart, he breaks down what stress really is, how it sneaks into our lives, and simple ways to push through it. Whether you're running a business or running on empty, this one's for you. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:43) A chaotic week filled with family emergencies and work stress (2:49) First signs of overwhelm and how he coped (4:06) Tips from a doctor (5:19) Stress, jaw pain, and a lesson from a tractor pull (7:06) Dale Carnegie’s approach to anxiety (7:58) Final tips (8:55) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/
What if your architect actually knew how to build? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G chats with Lance Cayko, an architect and builder from Colorado who’s done everything from tiny homes on HGTV to multi-million dollar custom builds. Lance talks about the real differences between commercial and residential work, how he handles change orders, and why being both designer and builder just makes sense. They also get into solar, energy codes, and how contractors and architects can actually work well together. And don’t miss Lance’s wild story about a project that almost crushed him and why it turned out to be the best thing he ever did. Lance Cayko is a trailblazing architect and entrepreneur whose career fuses over two decades of rugged, hands-on construction work, from carpentry and contracting across North Dakota, Montana, and Idaho with cutting-edge design innovation. His academic prowess shines through an A.A.S. in Building Construction Technology from North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, a B.S. in Environmental Design, and a Master of Architecture from North Dakota State University in Fargo, where he claimed the esteemed McKenzie Thesis Award for his exceptional thesis. As co-founder of F9 Productions Inc. in Longmont, Colorado, since 2009, Lance has propelled the firm to industry acclaim, including consecutive Best of Mile High Awards for Best Architecture Firm in 2023 and 2024, a 2025 finalist nod, and a #1 ranking in BizWest’s 2023 Mercury 100 for 386%. His portfolio boasts groundbreaking works like the internationally awarded Atlas Tiny House (HGTV-featured and 2016 Architizer A+ winner) and the sustainable East Watch mountaintop home (Cover of Builder Magazine, Jan. 2021), all rooted in a profound grasp of buildability that sets him apart. Connect with Lance: Website: https://f9productions.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-cayko-1227031a/ Tune in to his podcast: https://www.insidethefirmpodcast.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:14) Lance’s background and many roles (1:55) Residential vs. commercial building (4:44) Design and build: how it really works (12:13) Why change orders often start underground (17:48) Solar-ready design and energy codes (25:00) Tips for contractors working with architects (29:03) Lance’s biggest project and personal breakthrough (33:05) The challenges of showcasing high-end client work (37:00) How to connect with Lance (39:00) 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 do you do when your business starts growing, but you're not sure how to keep up? In this unscripted episode, Chris G talks honestly about what he’s learned over the last few months. He shares how he went from doing estimates by hand to using new software that gets quotes out in hours. He also opens up about hiring the right people, learning to listen more, and why talking about what you do really matters. If you’re feeling stretched or stuck, this is a reminder that growth doesn't mean doing everything yourself, sometimes it means knowing when to ask for help. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:38) Growing with the business (4:22) Hiring more crews and why listening matters (6:10) Opening up and being more visible helps business (7:52) Books that change mindsets (9:56) Spotting bottlenecks and solving them (11:13) Are you growing this year? Reflecting before year-end (12:05) 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 your crew actually cared about working faster, doing better work, and showing up ready without you having to ride them? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G sits down with Michael Fortinberry, a contractor-turned-software-founder who figured out how to get his team to work like owners. He shares how he grew his NYC construction business from a small painting crew to 130 people in the field by giving them a real stake in every job. They break down why profit sharing at the end of the year doesn’t cut it, what actually gets crews fired up, and how a simple pay model can fix quality, speed, and morale. If labor costs, missed deadlines, or unmotivated workers are keeping you up at night, this one’s for you. Michael Fortinberry is a construction entrepreneur and the co-founder of Protiv, a software company that helps construction and field service businesses implement performance-based pay systems for their hourly teams. He originally built and ran a construction company in New York City, growing it from a small painting operation into a large-scale renovation business with over 130 employees in the field. Along the way, he developed a compensation model that ties job performance directly to bonuses—helping crews work faster, smarter, and with higher quality. After seeing how well this model worked, he spun it out into Protiv, a platform that helps other contractors and trades-based businesses do the same. Now, Michael works with hundreds of companies across industries like landscaping, cleaning, and renovation to improve productivity, culture, and wages through his system. Connect with Michael: Website: https://www.protiv.com Email: michael@protiv.com Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:08) From just painting, to growing to 130 field workers (3:45) Managing labor costs in high-wage environments like NYC (4:51) How performance-based pay attracts the right people (10:04) Profit sharing and why annual bonuses don’t motivate hourly workers (16:29) Why just hitting your labor budget can be a game-changer (18:55) How performance pay brings peer pressure in a good wa (23:17) How Protiv software was born and what it actually does (27:39) Why your company culture has to be real, not just talk (29:08) How performance pay made new hires seek them out (35:47) When mistakes cost bonuses, and why that’s fair (37:22) Where to find Michael and how to get started with Protiv (39:44) Outro Connect with Hard Hat to CEO on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1BrHqc3wdF/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hardhattoceo/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dcgilman/