PowerTips Unscripted

In this episode, guest Alan Hanbury of Hanbury Builders Inc. discusses three common areas where remodeling contractors are underperforming because they believe their gut rather than facts.Alan also talks about referral marketing, the effects of job costing done half-heartedly, and hiring when taking net profitability into account.Alan is president of House of Hanbury Builders Inc., and recently retired after 45 years as owner of the full-service remodeling firm in central Connecticut. Alan now concentrates on teaching, consulting and other business coaching opportunities. Victoria, Mark and Alan talk more about:The importance of referralsWhy monitoring job costing reports may be more important than accounting resultsHiring during labor shortagesAnd more… The post Common Remodeler Mistakes that are Hitting Your Bottom Line with Alan Hanbury – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

In this episode of PowerTips Unscripted, host Victoria Downing chats with Jessica Lipson, Vice President of People and Culture at JBL Consulting, about building strong leadership within your remodeling business. Jessica, who brings over 20 years of HR experience, shares her insights on identifying high-potential leaders, developing effective mentorship programs, and fostering non-toxic, inclusive company cultures.Jessica explains the difference between high-performing employees, who excel in their current roles, and high-potential employees, who show the drive and emotional intelligence to lead in the future. She emphasizes the importance of utilizing tools like behavioral assessments and regular one-on-ones to spot these emerging leaders.Victoria and Jessica also dive into:The key skills future leaders should possess, such as emotional intelligence, resilience, and adaptability.How to balance formal training with real-world leadership experiences.Practical strategies for resolving workplace conflict and building a respectful, productive team culture. Loved Jessica’s insights on the podcast? Bring her expertise directly into your business. From identifying emerging leaders to designing sustainable culture initiatives, Jessica works hands-on with remodeling companies to elevate their people and performance. Reach out to Jessica for consulting today. The post Developing Your Company’s Future Leaders with Jessica Lipson – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

How can designers and production staff improve their success in the remodeling industry?  Guest Jeff Borovitz joins Victoria and Mark to talk about the deadly sins that get in the way of reaching your full potential.   Jeff has worked and trained with many members of the Remodelers Advantage Roundtables community and brings that experience in talking about patterns and trends to continue, and avoid. Since 1991, Jeff has worked with businesses across the globe, helping thousands improve their sales organizations and sales culture.  Jeff is now the owner of Sandler Training, a sales and leadership training company that helps business owners increase revenue, shorten sales cycles, and hire better-performing sales teams.   Victoria, Mark and Jeff talk more about: The deadly sins to avoid The one sin that costs remodelers the most The difference between “like” and “trust” QSTEP Learning how to avoid the deadly sins And more… The post The Deadly Sins that Designers & Production Teams Commit with Jeff Borovitz – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Accurately estimating a project is critical to profit,  and one of the most challenging components of that estimate is labor.  Can you estimate labor simply and accurately? Are you spending too much time estimating labor for each job?  Guest Chad Vincent thinks so.  Tune into this episode to hear all about his new method towards becoming more effective in the estimation process. Chad is the CEO and owner of Renaissance Remodeling in Boise, Idaho. He began his remodeling and construction career at a young age working for his dad in the family business and has been expanding his presence, expertise, and success in the field ever since. Chad values staying ahead of the curve and accepting nothing but the best in an ever-changing industry.  Victoria, Mark and Chad talk more about: Dealing with “slips” in estimating Educating designers on this process Cutting back on the time it takes to estimate And more… The post A Secret Shortcut to Estimating Labor with Chad Vincent – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

On this episode, Victoria and Mark talk to guest Andrew Schroeder about using your remodeling experience to grow your business by profitably flipping houses, minimizing the risks and maximizing the benefits, and the challenges of acting as your own client. Whether you’re a seasoned professional in the remodeling industry or just starting, this episode is for you! Victoria and Mark dig deep with Andrew to uncover all the tips and tricks for success in the lucrative world of house flipping.   Andrew joined the Schroeder Design/Build team in 1999 and became owner in 2011. In addition to running SDB, Andrew volunteers time with the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI). Victoria, Mark, and Andrew talk more about: Where to invest your time and money to get your best returns How to fill your production pipeline without getting new clients Determining your profit margins in real estate And more… The post How to Make Huge Profits Without Clients with Andrew Schroeder – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Today on PowerTips Unscripted, Thomas Croessman joins the show to discuss the need for small business owners to plan for their company’s transition in their estate plan.  While your business might be humming along now, how will it perform if you’re not around? Unfortunately, most small businesses only survive the first generation because of estate planning and communication failures. Thomas explains Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Trusts, when those documents become effective. He also gives some practical tips to help the transition go smoothly. Thomas Croessmann is the Managing Partner of Croessmann & Westberg, P.C., a construction law firm in the DC area. The firm is a full-service law firm for construction contractors. Thomas, Victoria, and Mark talk more about: What is an Estate Plan? What is Power of Attorney, and when is it used? And more… The post Estate Planning 101 with Thomas Croessman – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

The most common marketing mistake host Mark Harari sees is a focus on tactic without regard for strategy.  It is important to avoid adopting new fad marketing tactics, and start with a strategic foundation.  Guest Spencer Powell agrees, and he is here to share how to focus on what matters most to your business so that you can use marketing to increase profit. Spencer is the CEO of Builder Funnel & the author of the book, The Remodeler Marketing Blueprint. Spencer began his marketing journey by helping his uncles’ remodeling division grow from $2M to $10M in 4 years & now helps remodeling companies create sustainable, repeatable marketing plans. Victoria, Mark and Spencer talk more about: Developing strategy The importance of tracking/measuring Taking the necessary steps for successful strategies And more… Want to Turn Marketing Insights into Real Business Growth? This episode is packed with strategic marketing advice — but insights alone won’t move the needle. That’s where Roundtables Peer Groups come in. Join a community of top-tier remodelers who not only learn from experts like Spencer Powell, but also implement proven strategies, stay accountable, and drive real results. Take the next step — learn more about Roundtables today. Discover Roundtables The post Focusing on What Matters Most with Spencer Powell – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Successful communication with new or potential customers can make or break a company’s image. Alongside communication, ensuring that any preconceived notions or assumptions are put aside when working with a new customer can be crucial in securing their business.Victoria and Mark both share experiences with remodeling and trade companies that left them bringing their business elsewhere.  This is easily avoidable, and in this episode they talk about how communication plays a large part in having a successful business. Whether it’s poor communication or a lack thereof entirely, learn how to ensure that your business does not leave customers saying, “what were they thinking?”Victoria and Mark talk more about:The importance of being personableHow to facilitate good communicationAdvice for following-upAnd more… The post What Were They Thinking? with Victoria Downing and Mark Harari – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

The remodeling industry is highly competitive and some may be tempted to break the rules. Although some may do it intentionally, others may start with good intentions, but over time the line between right and wrong becomes blurred. Thomas Croessmann will be joining the show to discuss the consequences of breaking the rules, which in some cases can result in jail time. Thomas Croessmann is the Managing Partner of Croessmann & Westberg, P.C., a construction law firm in the DC area. The firm is a full-service law firm for construction contractors. Thomas has worked with many of the Remodelers in the Metro D.C. area. Thomas, Victoria, and Mark talk more about: What are the dangers of hiring an undocumented worker? What are the legal concerns with a contractor front-loading the payments of a project? What is a Captive Trade Contractor? The post The Fine Line: The Legal Consequences to Questionable Business Practices with Thomas Croessmann – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

There are many legal challenges that can appear suddenly for remodelers, builders and business owners. It is imperative to build your business on a foundation that can weather the storm so that, as our guest today puts it, it doesn’t matter. In this episode, we talk more about the process of “shatterproofing” your business with America’s Legal Coach, Scott Reib. Scott is the owner of ReibLaw, a full-service law firm with over 20 years of Business Law and Estate Planning experience. For the last two decades, Scott has been helping business owners, entrepreneurs, coaches, and service providers to “shatterproof” their businesses and succeed in the professional world. Victoria, Mark and Scott cover: How Scott became known as America’s Legal Coach. The difference between a legal coach and a lawyer. What is meant by a “shatterproof” business. Why a business would need to be shatterproof. The biggest legal mistakes Scott sees businesses making. And more… The post How to Shatterproof Your Business with America’s Legal Coach – [Best of PowerTips] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Jeff Borovitz has trained hundreds of remodeling sales people, designers and owners to help them increase sales and margins.  So, we have asked him to join us here to share his top ten sales tips with our listeners.Jeff is a franchise owner of Sandler Training and the Remodelers Advantage Sandler Sales Trainer. He has advised, trained and coached small and medium-sized companies as well as large enterprise companies on developing stronger sales teams, closing more sales and leading organizational change.Victoria, Mark and Jeff talk more about:The most commonly missed sales tipConviction and belief in relation to salesCustomized remodeling sales tipsAnd more… Learn more tips with Sandler Masterclasses! Inspired by today’s conversation with Jeff Borovitz? Now’s your chance to go deeper. Jeff is leading three powerful Masterclasses designed exclusively for remodeling professionals who want to sharpen their skills, streamline client interactions, and close more profitable projects.Sandler Sales Foundations – Build a proven, repeatable sales process your whole team can use.Increased Profit Through Client Management – Keep projects on time, on budget, and clients happy.Mastering the Art of Lead Qualification – Turn more leads into the right kind of sales opportunities.Seats are limited—click the button below to learn more & register today! Sign Up Now The post Top 10 Sales Tips for Remodelers with Jeff Borovitz – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Dave Pollard, Co-Founder & Design Director of Liv Companies outside of Chicago, joins the show to talk more about how his firm utilizes 3D renderings in almost every aspect of their business. Leading LivCo’s design team, Dave’s process quickly takes hand sketches to full-blown renderings and walk-throughs, and they are even leveraging the power of quick video editing to help clients and prospects truly feel what their home can be, and leave every meeting feeling inspired. LivCo has been leveraging the power of 3D design since they began design/build back in 2012.  Initially used simply as a creative tool for developing ideas, they quickly learned that the 3D output could take them to a higher level in sales, efficiency of communication, and marketing. Victoria, Mark and Dave talk more about: The software LivCo uses and why they use it. An overview of LivCo’s general design workflow. Using 3D visualization for more than just client presentations. The time it takes to make deliverables to the client. The fees to the client for 3D renderings. And more… LivCo’s Drawing Board Playlist on YouTube Want deeper conversations like this for your business? In Roundtables, you’ll connect with other top remodelers to share strategies, tackle challenges, and explore tools like 3D visualization that can transform your sales process and client experience. Join a peer group that pushes you to innovate and grow. Learn More The post Harnessing the Power of 3D Visualization with David Pollard – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

In this episode, Jeff Talmadge discusses how he and his team created a point system for his design staff to spread their workload.  Each designer is assigned a predetermined number of points, weighted by criteria such as permitting, scope, and complexity of the job.  The team tracks points weekly and has found that designers are less stressed, customers are given more accurate timelines, and production can plan their workload better. Jeff Talmadge is the president of Talmadge Construction, a large, premium design-build firm based in Aptos, CA.  Jeff and his team pride themselves on their commitment to customer service, quality workmanship, and a strong team culture.   Jeff’s five words of wisdom – patience, persistence, never give up. Listen as Jeff, Victoria, and Mark discuss: Increasing job satisfaction across the company by managing designer workloads Improving customer service by managing expectations with accurate timelines And more… Want access to more proven strategies like Jeff’s? Join a Remodelers Advantage Roundtables Peer Group and connect with high-performing remodelers who share real-world solutions to the exact challenges you’re facing. Learn more and apply today The post Gauging Your Designers’ Workload Effectively With Jeff Talmadge – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Employees thrive on feedback. Then why is it that so few leaders proactively provide it?  The answers, along with simple steps on how to provide timely, respectful, actionable feedback to your employees, are provided in this episode by guest, Tina Clements. Tina, Vice President of The Retail Performance Company, is a leader, speaker, author, coach, entrepreneur.com contributor & facilitator, leading luxury industries for over 25 years. Her clients confirm, she is a communications expert & her book, The ART of Facilitation and keynote address ‘Yes, You Do Have a Choice’ are testimonials to her talent. Victoria, Mark and Tina talk more about: Why leaders may not give feedback The steps to give real, timely, respectful feedback even when it’s difficult What to do when an employee may object feedback The secrets to giving feedback And more… Want to Master the Art of Giving Feedback? Our Roundtables provide a safe, proven space where remodeling business owners grow as leaders—by practicing the very skills Tina shares in this episode. From handling tough conversations to offering timely, respectful feedback, you’ll learn from peers who’ve been there and done it. Step into a Roundtable. Become the leader your team thrives under. Learn More About Roundtables The post How to Give Performance Feedback and Why it’s Critical for Success with Tina Clements – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Today on PowerTips Unscripted, we’re excited to welcome Bjorn Johnson to the show! As General Manager at TraVek Remodeling and Roofing, Bjorn shares insights into the company’s journey as one of Arizona’s most trusted leaders in remodeling and roofing. Tune in to hear about TraVek’s dedication to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction, which has cemented its strong reputation in the industry.Bjorn, who is passionate about sales and supporting his team’s growth both in and out of the office, joined TraVek for its solid foundation, core values, and great culture. He finds fulfillment in helping others succeed and is committed to making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Join us as he unpacks the challenges, successes, and secrets behind TraVek’s top-tier service!Bjorn, Victoria, and Mark talk more about:How is TraVek different from competitors?What do you attribute your success to?What is in the future for TraVek?How are you handling these trying economic times in the construction industry?And more… The post How to Build a Reputation That Stands the Test of Time with Bjorn Johnson – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Successful organizations rely on accurate financial information to make informed decisions. But what sets great organizations apart is having a formal month-end close process in place. This ensures that financials are completed, reviewed, corrected, and ready for leaders and managers to use confidently in decision-making. In this episode of PowerTips Unscripted, Doug Howard joins us to break down what a strong month-end close process looks like and how to implement it effectively.Doug Howard, a senior consultant with Remodelers Advantage since 2017, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Having facilitated over 8 Roundtables meetings each year, Doug has worked with hundreds of remodeling clients to help them master their financials, refine processes, and boost profitability.Doug, Victoria, and Mark talk more about:What is included in a good month-end process?How should financials be reviewed to know they are correct?Who should be involved in the financial process?And more… Want to Be the Remodeler Everyone Knows in the Neighborhood? If this episode with Doug Howard sparked new ideas, it’s just the beginning. In his powerful masterclass, Own the Block: Marketing Tactics and AI Tools, Doug walks you step-by-step through the exact strategies successful remodelers are using to dominate their local markets.In this on-demand training, you’ll discover:Hyper-targeted marketing tactics that actually generate leadsHow to leverage AI tools to save time and boost resultsProven messaging and branding frameworks to build trust fastReal-life examples and templates you can apply immediately Learn from one of the industry’s top strategic minds and walk away with a marketing game plan you can implement tomorrow. Click Here To Enroll Now The post A Month-End Close You Can Actually Make Business Decisions From with Doug Howard – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Do you feel comfortable when presenting proposals/estimates to clients? Why should clients like the sound of your voice if you don’t? You might know what to say, but do you feel ok saying it?  These are all questions that body language and voice coaching expert John Baron is here to answer. John brings actor skills training to the business world, he was also a professional actor, owned and sold his own marketing business, a teacher of the Alexander Technique, a Corporate Trainer, and the founder of VocalCommunicationInBusiness.Victoria, Mark and John talk more about:Why Construction Industry Professionals need voice trainingVoice habits that are viewed negatively by clientsAnd more… Ready to Speak with Confidence and Win More Jobs? If you struggle to sound confident when presenting estimates—or if your voice and body language are unintentionally holding you back—you’re not alone.On our latest podcast, expert John Baron breaks down how voice training can transform your client conversations. But what if you could go a step further?In Remodelers Advantage Roundtables, you don’t just learn what to say—you gain the support and accountability to practice how to say it. From presentation skills to pricing strategies, your peer group helps you sharpen the communication skills that close deals.Join Roundtables and become the confident, credible leader your clients want to hire. Learn more and apply today The post Can “Voice Training” Skyrocket Your Success? with John Baron – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Today’s episode of PowerTips Unscripted features Peg Buehrle as a guest. During the show, she discusses the significance of team development for business growth. The growth of a business depends on the growth of its key leaders and their respective teams. Therefore, it is crucial to have a development plan for each team member. Peg will shed light on how to ensure that this remains a top priority.Peg is a co-managing partner of ActionCOACH Columbus, the co-author of The Honest Truth about Leadership, and an internationally recognized speaker. She has 17 years of coaching experience and has helped hundreds of businesses grow. Peg is also a Remodelers Advantage consultant and specializes in team development. If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, click here: https://remodelersadvantage.com/coaching/Peg, Victoria, and Mark talk more about:Common omissions that business owners have about their teamsWhat gets in the way of business owners of actually doing a development planHow do you create the discipline to make sure you execute your people plan?And more… The post Cultivating Growth: Integrating Employee Development into Your Business Strategy with Peg Buehrle – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

Today on Power Tips Unscripted, Arlin Sorensen, the CEO of Oak Road Consulting joins the show. Understanding the art of creating value within your business is pivotal, especially in the context of planning your exit strategy. It’s all about setting clear goals for your personal wealth and translating that into a business value target that can drive your success. Arlin is here to share invaluable insights on how you can craft a robust value-creation strategy and harmonize it with your long-term financial goals.Arlin Sorenson is a simple Iowa farm boy who fell in love with technology and has spent the past 40 years in the IT industry. His passion is helping business owners and leaders achieve their definitions of success.Arlin, Victoria, and Mark talk more about:How to create a value-creation strategyLegacy/succession planningWhat things can derail value?And more… Ready to Turn Strategy into Action? Arlin Sorensen dives into building value in your business and planning for what’s next—but conversations like these are just the beginning.In Remodelers Advantage Roundtables, you’ll join a community of smart, growth-minded remodelers who don’t just talk about value—they build it, every single quarter. With expert facilitation, peer accountability, and real-world strategy sharing, you’ll transform insights like Arlin’s into measurable results.Don’t just plan your legacy—build it with Roundtables. Learn More About Roundtables The post Creating Value: A Guide to Maximizing Your Company’s Worth with Arlin Sorensen – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.

In this episode of PowerTips Unscripted, Victoria and Mark are joined by Pete McDowell to discuss succession planning and how business owners can exit their company. According to Pete, there are four primary ways for a business owner to leave their company: selling the company, transferring the company to family or employees, or ESOP. He also highlights some of the basics of a succession plan, regardless of the option the business owner chooses.Pete McDowell is a Partner at ActionCOACH Columbus. Pete, alongside his partner, Peg Buehrle are a part of Remodelers Advantage as Consultants. They help people evaluate each of these options and select the best path. Along the way, they assist their clients to work less and build the value of their business. In this way, you can enjoy life NOW and look forward to a comfortable next chapter!Pete, Victoria, and Mark talk more about:Preparing the team for succession planningExamples of well executed succession plansAnd more… Thinking About Life After Remodeling? Whether you’re planning to sell, pass it on, or explore an ESOP, Pete McDowell and Peg Buehrle—part of the Remodelers Advantage Consulting Team—are here to guide you every step of the way. With a proven process to help you work less, grow your business value, and prepare for a smooth transition, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Schedule a Consultation with Pete The post Preparing Your Business For Your Departure with Pete McDowell – [Best of PowerTips Unscripted] appeared first on PowerTips Unscripted.