Toolbox for the Trades

Live from Pantheon, Scorpion CRO Jamie Adams dives into the biggest challenges and opportunities in trades digital marketing. Jamie explains why the rise in competition and advertising costs requires a more sophisticated, data-driven approach. He shares how the ServiceTitan and Scorpion partnership allows contractors to view their business through an e-commerce lens, tracking marketing spend all the way to revenue. Jamie also details new consumer trends, like impatience and the demand for information, and how ServiceTitan's Marketing Pro, combined with Scorpion's expertise, acts as a competitive weapon to generate massive ROI from existing customer data.Join us as we discuss: [4:31] Contractors’ biggest marketing challenges and AI’s influence on consumer trends[9:57] Taking the e-commerce approach to enhancing the customer experience[13:01] The competitive advantages of adding Scorpion to your Marketing Pro stackCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Marketing ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, Christina Criniti-Dear, Director of Operations at Zoom Drain and owner of two Florida franchises, shares how she went from answering phones to running the show. She explains why every great leader should start at the bottom, how empathy isn’t innate but learned through experience, and what it really takes to build a thriving franchise from the ground up. Christina opens up about the lessons that shaped her leadership style: from owning every mistake to leading with clarity and purpose. She also pulls back the curtain on the franchise model, showing how it gives entrepreneurs the freedom to build something of their own with a proven roadmap. Join us as we discuss: [6:38] How to learn empathy and communication as a young leader[14:27] The GROW values of a successful entrepreneur[21:36] What new franchisees struggle with most You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Tim Johnson, President of Tim Johnson Landscaping in Statesville, NC, shares his blueprint for sustainable business growth, detailing his company's journey from a childhood mowing operation to a multimillion-dollar enterprise. After a period of rapid expansion, Tim made the strategic decision to “pump the brakes” for two years to restructure. He discusses the critical importance of building a management team, defining core processes (like implementing EOS), and shifting from “order taker” to a more tactical sales focus. Tim also explains how leveraging technology has allowed the company to scale without dramatically increasing non-revenue-producing headcount.Join us as we discuss: [5:11] When Tim realized he needed a proper org chart for sustainable growth[10:23] Rebuilding momentum after a two-year pause in rapid growth to implement scalable systems[17:30] Leveraging tools like Aspire to build frameworks for problem-solving and data visibilityCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireTraction: Get a Grip on Your Business by Gino WickmanYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this live episode from #Pantheon2025, Chris Petros, ServiceTitan COO, and Martha Hill Harvey, SVP of Platform Strategy at Synchrony, discuss how contractors can leverage the latest consumer trends in the trades to grow their businesses. They break down key insights from the ServiceTitan-Synchrony 2025 Consumer Report, including the importance of providing a seamless web and mobile experience, offering flexible payment options like financing, and building a strong brand that resonates with a new generation of homeowners.Join us as we discuss: [11:11] Financing and payment insights from the ServiceTitan-Synchrony 2025 Consumer Report[19:45] Trending consumer preferences in digital options and shifting demographics [25:14] Why brand reputation and core values are more important than ever Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:2025 Consumer Trends in the TradesServiceTitan Marketing ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do you turn a kitchen table startup into a thriving HVAC business with five trucks? In this episode, Miranda Deschamps, Office Manager at ServicePlus Heating and Cooling (Ontario, Canada), shares how she and her team use ServiceTitan and AI to drive growth. From surviving a two-week email crash to negotiating smarter with suppliers and building AI-powered inventory systems, Miranda shows how resilience, curiosity, and the right tools can turn everyday challenges into business wins.Join us as we discuss: [7:22] The two-week email crash that became her best leadership lesson[11:59] How to leverage ServiceTitan and ChatGPT to solve inventory headaches[18:28] How using your ServiceTitan data can save you moneyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:ServiceTitan Torch NetworkEGIAYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What makes a landscaping business truly valuable? In this episode, Amanda talks with Tom Heaviland, CEO of Verde Property Services, about what buyers really look for when acquiring a company. Tom shares his journey from running a family business for 35 years to selling it to BrightView and joining their acquisition team. He explains why strong teams and loyal customers matter most, how to handle the emotional side of selling, and why technology and AI are shaping the future of the industry.Join us as we discuss: [6:06] The differences between public and private equity acquisitions[10:40] What buyers look for in a thriving business and common misconceptions[18:56] The role of technology in valuation and operationsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireBrightViewBossLMNElevate 2025Lawn & Landscape Technology Conference 2026You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this live episode from Pantheon 2025, Mitch Boerner, Director at Legendary Plumbers, shares his unique story of going from the music industry and professional kitchens to scaling a trades business in Victoria, Australia. Mitch discusses how he and his brother, a plumber, grew their company from a garage operation to a multi-service business by focusing on repeatable work and having the foresight to put the right processes in place early. He also shares his vision for the future, including a hub-and-spoke model and a commitment to perpetual optimism.Join us as we discuss: [11:02] Focusing on scalable service niches and the importance of good financial housekeeping[18:13] Saying no to nonscalable work and pricing yourself for the future[23:56] Upcoming ServiceTitan Pro product offerings and how they can help your business scaleCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Dispatch ProField ProScheduling ProYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Jessica Short, GM of Priority Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, serving the Kitchener and Waterloo, Ontario area, joins us to share her unique journey to finding her career passion in the trades. Jessica reveals how she applied empathy lessons from her time in social work to her current leadership role, helping grow her family’s business from 25 employees to a team of 84. She shares the crucial values and processes that enable her company to scale while maintaining a strong culture and a great reputation. Jessica also explains the difference between dreams and goals and how she uses this distinction to mentor and guide her team members.Join us as we discuss: [2:55] Steady growth from 25 to 84 employees and adding a service division[8:43] Applying leadership lessons from social work and understanding your team’s real-life struggles[26:24] Building trust with your customers and working alongside familyCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Chris Hunter: What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You StrongerYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this special bonus episode, ServiceTitan Co-founder and CEO Ara Mahdessian celebrates the monumental success of the trades in his presentation at Pantheon 2025, highlighted by customer stories of multi-million dollar revenue and major acquisitions. Ara reflects on ServiceTitan's journey, declaring the company's commitment to its customers is the bedrock of its business. He then details a critical vision for the industry's future: the necessity of embracing AI and automation to ensure continued prosperity. Ara explains that while the core work of the trades is safe from automation, the surrounding cognitive workflows are not. He outlines how new ServiceTitan products are designed to help businesses double revenue and boost profits by automating these back-office functions, ensuring the trades not only survive, but thrive in the face of rapid technological change.Join us as Ara addresses: [1:21] Customer success stories and a promise to ServiceTitan users[20:25] Four takeaways from the inevitable disruptions that AI will cause in the trades[35:25] The exciting launch of ServiceTitan’s all-inclusive Max ProgramYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Two brothers turned a high school project into Stephens Landscaping Professionals, a $22 million business in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region. How did they scale while keeping their client relationships strong? In this episode, COO Mark Stephens shares how he and his team balance cutting-edge technology with high-touch service. From data-driven job costing to custom trucks and GPS-guided excavators, Mark explains how innovation fuels efficiency. He also reveals the structures and systems that ensure every client gets a personal connection, proving that growth does not have to come at the expense of relationships.Join us as we discuss: [6:14] Why 99% of business decisions should be data-driven[10:44] How to attract talent through technology and innovation[23:56] The toughest challenge: how to scale without losing your DNACheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireTrimbleYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this live episode from Pantheon, Karen Edwards, COO of Roofers Coffee Shop, shares her insights on technology adoption in roofing. Karen explains the common pitfalls and success stories she's witnessed, and provides practical advice for contractors who are hesitant to embrace new tech like AI. She also discusses the growing trends in metal roofing and restoration and highlights the importance of industry communities and trusted resources like Roofers Coffee Shop for navigating change and achieving success.Join us as we discuss: [8:57] Common pitfalls roofers can stumble into when adopting new technology[13:35] How outside experts and internal champions can help you streamline tech adoption[20:55] Bringing international roofing innovation to American contractors Check out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Roofing Road TripsMetalCastLa Voz de los RuferosRT3 Roofing Technology Think TankVILPE SenseYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode, Rob Parker, managing director of residential and commercial services investment banking at Piper Sandler, shares tips for partnering with private equity. A former entrepreneur himself, Rob explains how market forces and technological advancements have made the trades an attractive investment for private equity firms. He breaks down the importance of maximizing EBITDA, shares his experience with a successful client partnership, and offers advice for owner-operators preparing to sell their businesses or take them to the next level.Join us as we discuss: [6:56] The COVID private equity boom and how partnerships have since evolved[16:58] Why trades company IPOs may become common in the not-to-distant future[23:39] The most important metric that PE firms look at when considering a partnership[31:18] How owners can prep their team for a company merger or buyoutCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Email Rob at Rob.Parker@PSC.comYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Aspire is leveling up, and so are the landscapers who depend on it. In this episode, we explore what the platform's next chapter means for the industry’s fastest-growing businesses. General Manager Eli Zevin shares how Aspire is evolving to meet the moment, with bold plans to scale smarter, serve better, and bring cutting-edge tech to the field. We dig into how Aspire is restructuring its teams to better support businesses at every stage of growth, from scrappy up-and-comers to multimillion-dollar operations. Eli also gives us a glimpse into the not-so-distant future, where AI moves from helpful to hands-on. Join us as we discuss: [4:42] Aspire’s goals for industry-wide growth and scalability[12:17] Advice for businesses nervous about making the switch[16:22] How Eli’s experience as a camp director influenced his leadership styleYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Doug Greenhaw, President and CEO, and Justin Guinnip, COO, at Summit Roofing & Restoration in Atoka, Tennessee, share their journey of scaling a roofing business from modest beginnings to a projected $30 million this year. They dive into how they leveraged a devastating tornado in their hometown into a catalyst for growth, meticulously planning to replicate an $18 million revenue year without another natural disaster. Doug and Justin also candidly discuss their challenging but ultimately successful experience as early ServiceTitan adopters in the roofing industry, offering invaluable advice for other contractors considering significant tech investments.Join us as we discuss: [6:49] Transitioning from whiteboards to tech and embracing outside help[17:58] Helping a community rebuild after tragedy strikes[24:19] ServiceTitan implementation for roofers and process mappingCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Home Service FreedomContact Center ProPantheon 2025You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

How do you take a third-generation family business and triple its revenue without losing its soul? In this episode, Brad Barron, CEO of Barron Heating, Air Conditioning, Electrical and Plumbing, shares how he led his team through explosive growth: from $15 million to a projected $45 million, all without private equity, mergers, or compromising on culture. Brad talks about building systems that actually scale, leading with clarity and humility, and making hard decisions when growth moves faster than process. Join us as we discuss: [3:01] Family business succession planning that actually works[15:32] Tripling revenue: scalable process vs tribal knowledge[26:00] Omni-channel marketing and acquiring a media company[34:23] The mistake Brad regrets most: waiting too longCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025EGIAYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Predictive analytics isn't just for data nerds. Robert Clinkenbeard, CEO at Wilson360 and host of the Commercial Landscaper Podcast, explains how landscaping businesses can leverage predictive analytics to streamline operations, optimize talent, and enhance efficiency. Drawing from his experience scaling his landscaping business from zero to $20 million, Robert shares insights on how owners can effectively utilize data to navigate rapid growth. He emphasizes the importance of embracing AI, recruiting proactively, and constantly adapting strategies to stay ahead in the industry.Join us as we discuss: [4:18] Why companies shouldn’t overrely on legacy practices and recruiting from outside the industry[12:53] How predictive analytics and AI tools can help you scale efficiently[16:12] The future of landscaping technology and effectively leveraging your teamCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:The Commercial LandscaperYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In her first year running True Pros in Layton, Utah, Katy Higgins turned her sales skills into a multimillion-dollar HVAC business. Along the way, she faced tough lessons, unexpected challenges, and learned how to celebrate wins no matter what came her way. Katy shares what it takes to lead through chaos, embrace new tools like Sales Pro, and create a workplace where victories are celebrated and challenges are met head-on. She also explains how she kept her team motivated during setbacks, why recording sales calls transformed her approach, and how a simple bell in the hallway became a symbol of resilience and progress.Join us as we discuss: [8:07] Why contractors need to focus on solving problems, not push products[13:29] How True Pros went from garage startup to $6M in the first year[19:43] Scrapbooks, celebrations, and staying focused on the positives[30:22] Falling in love with Sales Pro and quadrupling closure ratesCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025Sales ProService Nation Lennox Premier You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What’s really holding your commercial service department back? In this episode, Jennifer Shooshanian, Senior Service Coach at Business Development Resources (BDR), reveals how she transformed an underperforming team into a profitable, high-performing commercial service operation. She also shares the hard-won strategies and lessons she’s learned from over 20 years of managing and coaching teams so you can build your own foundation for sustainable growth. Join us as we discuss: [2:48] Why documenting your organization’s processes is crucial[16:01] How to build a strong commercial service department[20:14] Fix sales first: Why pricing comes before everything else[29:29] The power of commercial maintenance agreementsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:Pantheon 2025You can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Know a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

In this episode of Toolbox for the Trades, we sit down with Mike Lowrance, IT Director at LMC Landscape Partners, to explore what it really takes to bring technology into a boots-on-the-ground industry. Starting his career in horticulture and now leading tech strategy across multiple landscape companies, Mike offers a rare insider perspective on how to make digital tools actually work in the trades. We unpack some hard truths of tech adoption: why even the best systems fail without clear goals, thoughtful training, and real buy-in. Join us as we discuss: [7:12] How to build internal tech leadership with super users[12:54] How to create buy-in and deal with tech resistance[18:43] What sets Aspire apart from other landscaping CRMsCheck out these resources we mentioned during the podcast:AspireIgniteYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here.Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Vertical integration can transform your business without expanding geographically. Branden Dickey, CEO at LocalRoofs and Owner of Conejo Heating, Air, Plumbing, and Electrical, mastered strategic growth by identifying multiple opportunities in every home serviced. From rebranding interior fixtures as household billboards to carefully choosing integration pathways, Branden boosted Conejo's revenue from $1.2 million to a projected $40 million within a 30-mile radius. In this episode, he discusses maintaining efficiency at scale, leveraging community trust, and why precise measurement drives exceptional growth and profitability.Join us as we discuss: [10:08] How every new vertical in your business acts as an “interior billboard” in your customers’ homes[18:33] Bringing a new level of professionalism to the roofing industry[28:13] Why contractors need to adopt an efficiency mindset and measure everything[39:28] How ServiceTitan streamlines workflows in multiple business verticalsYou can find this interview and many more by subscribing to Toolbox for the Trades on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or here. Register for Pantheon 2025 - see you in Anaheim!Prometheus Award NominationsKnow a business that could use a bit of muscle from ServiceTitan? Refer them here!Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for Toolbox for the Trades in your favorite podcast player.Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.