Hard Hat to CEO with Chris Gilman

Why do so many great contractors feel stuck once they go out on their own? In this episode, Chris G sits down with Jay Meacham, a business coach and former builder, who shares his story of losing his childhood home and how that shaped his purpose. Jay talks about why contractors hit walls in business, how to build a strong team, and why slowing down your thinking, not your hustle, is key to growing. They also dive into why knowing your values, having faith, and taking care of both your home life and business life really matter. If you're a contractor trying to grow your business and stay sane, this one’s worth your time. Jay Meacham is a leadership and business coach who works with home builders, remodelers, and skilled trades business owners. Raised on a farm in Iowa, he learned early the value of hard work and resilience. With degrees in accounting and an MBA, Jay spent years leading teams in large corporations before launching his own coaching practice. Since 2014, he’s helped contractors and small business owners grow their companies while staying grounded in their personal values. Jay brings a mix of practical business strategy and personal insight, focusing on both the business side and the human side of leadership. He also serves as a coach for the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City and is actively involved in his faith and family. Connect with Jay: Website: https://coachjaymeacham.com/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:01) Jay’s story: house fire and finding purpose (2:57) Why contractors hit a wall (6:33) How to build team loyalty (10:29) Not every low performer needs to be fired (13:46) Knowing your values (14:48) Faith and family matter in business, too (17:53) Goal-side vs soul-side coaching (23:29) Why thinking time is so important (27:47) Get out of “either-or” thinking (29:15) Why business owners need a coach (31:24) Building a legacy, not just a paycheck (35:28) Where to find Jay (36:44) 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/

Ever feel like you're working nonstop but not really getting anywhere? In this episode, Chris G. keeps it real and shares 8 business lessons that came straight from his own life, not a book or podcast. From dealing with stress to building the right team, making smarter decisions, and letting go of things that don’t matter, these are the things that truly changed how he works and lives. It’s honest, funny, and full of advice you can actually use, whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:54) If it always feels urgent, something’s off (1:44) You don’t need more discipline, just fewer decisions (3:54) Confidence isn’t a personality trait; it’s built (5:29) Most stress? We cause it ourselves (7:52) Focus on the 20% that really matters (10:20) Your role should grow as your business does (12:22) All the info in the world means nothing without action (14:11) A good business should make your life better, not harder (16:48) 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 great at your trade but confused by the financial side of your business? You’re not alone. In this episode, Chris G sits down with Dustin Young, a construction finance expert, to break down the numbers that actually matter. They talk about the four key things every contractor should be tracking, how often you should look at your reports, and why cash flow feels so hard to understand. Dustin shares what usually happens when businesses hit the $2M mark, how to know when it's time to hire someone, and the role software can play in keeping your team on track. They also chat about setting goals, building a vision, and why sharing simple financial info with your team can make a huge difference. Dustin Young is a fractional CFO and financial advisor who works primarily with construction and trade business owners to help them understand and improve their financial performance. He runs Raven CFO, where he focuses on helping contractors read financial reports, track key performance numbers, forecast cash flow, and build business plans that match their goals. Dustin has nearly a decade of experience working with construction firms and their finances, combining practical industry insight with accounting knowledge. He’s based in the Arizona area and helps clients simplify complex finance topics like cash flow, budgeting, growth planning, and when to hire or invest in systems. Connect with Dustin: Website: https://ravencfo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dustinhyoung/ Phone: 480-269-2236 Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:10) Meet Dustin Young (2:21) The 4 numbers you should always track (3:38) What a cash flow report actually tells you (4:57) How often to check your numbers (5:54) What changes when you hit $2M in revenue (9:40) Simple software that helps (12:59) Should your team know the company’s numbers? (14:33) Start with your long-term goals (18:07) Budgeting for the whole company, not just the job (21:09) What if all you have is your tax return? (23:55) Why having a vision matters (27:12) Hiring vs. using tools, and how to decide (30:01) Same money problems, different businesses (33:33) How to reach Dustin at Raven CFO (34:19) 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 you have to do everything yourself to get ahead? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G gets real about how that mindset nearly burned him out, and cost him big time. He shares stories from his 20+ years in construction and business, including hiring mistakes, failed partnerships, and why having a solid team matters more than trying to be the hero. Chris also talks about the power of clarity, the value of a good coach, and why your health isn't something you can ignore. If you're running a business (or thinking about it), this one’s packed with honest lessons you'll want to hear. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:51) Trying to do everything alone (1:54) Why he thought he needed partners (2:47) “Clarity beats motivation.” (3:30) What to look for in a great coach (5:38) Not every problem is yours to solve (7:04) Your health is part of your business (8:30) Lessons from hiring the wrong people (10:07) Don’t jump too fast (10:53) 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/

Ever feel stuck trying to figure out how to market your home service business without blowing your budget? This week on Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G sits down with Joel Keith, former live event producer turned marketing expert, to talk real strategies for trades business owners. From working with Alice Cooper to helping HVAC and plumbing companies grow past $1M, Joel shares what’s working right now. They talk about using AI as a helpful tool (not a replacement), how to get more reviews the easy way, and why you should never let a marketing company control your website or data. Whether you're just starting out or trying to grow past the $5M mark, this episode is packed with smart, down-to-earth advice. Joel Keith is the Managing Partner at ASP, a marketing agency that helps home service and local businesses grow through smart digital strategies like SEO, paid ads, web design, and business coaching. Based near Detroit, Joel brings a mix of real-world experience and leadership to help companies scale without wasting time or money. Before leading ASP, Joel held roles in operations and advertising, giving him a well-rounded view of what small businesses need to grow. He’s also a husband, dad, and homesteader who’s passionate about helping other business owners succeed. Connect with Joel: Website: https://www.aspbranding.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aspbranding/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/atomicsoulsproductions/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/aspbranding/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:42) Meet Joel and his wild background in live events (3:10) How content creation led to a marketing company (4:53) How AI helps (and where it doesn’t) (7:15) Using AI to train your sales team (9:28) What “No Hostage Rule” means and why it matters (15:04) Low-budget marketing tips for new businesses (20:02) Better ad options (22:09) How to get more Google reviews (24:42) Reviews vs referrals: both matter (30:02) Growing past $1M, $3M, and $5M (32:44) What to do when you’re ready to scale (34:50) What numbers really matter in marketing (38:04) Why cheap leads usually aren’t good leads (39:51) Final advice: own your stuff, always (40:55) 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/

Ever feel like you're stuck, tired, and don’t know what to do next? You’re not alone, and you’re not failing. In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. gets real about those heavy days when your thoughts won’t stop, and you're carrying more than you admit. He talks about stress, doubt, and that weird feeling in your gut when something’s about to change. Chris reminds us it’s okay to ask for help, to not have a five-year plan, and that even small steps count. Whether you're a contractor, business owner, or just having a rough week, this is the message you didn’t know you needed today. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:33) Maybe you're here for a reason (2:00) The weight we don’t talk about (4:02) That uneasy feeling = change (5:01) Forget the 5-year plan, focus on today (6:01) You don’t need a partner, you need a team (7:03) Talk to someone who gets it (8:39) You’ve made it this far, don’t stop now (9:06) Time to take that first step (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/

Are you constantly working but barely making ends meet? In this powerful episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris Gilman gets real about a common trap contractors fall into, being busy but broke. He breaks down three big myths around pricing that could be keeping you from the profit you deserve. From the lie that lowering prices wins better work, to the fear of losing good clients by charging more, Chris explains why working smarter (not cheaper) is the key. With real talk, contractor stories, and simple truths, this episode will help you rethink what you charge, why you charge it, and how to attract the right kind of clients who actually respect your time and quality. Episode highlights: (0:00) Why being busy doesn’t mean you’re making money (0:26) Myth #1: Lower prices win more work (2:56) Why “work” doesn’t equal “profit” (4:20) Cheap clients = expensive problems (4:33) Myth #2: Raising prices scares off good clients (6:30) How high value keeps the right clients (7:10) Myth #3: You have to be the most expensive (9:52) Quick recap of the 3 myths (10:14) What true profitability looks like (11:01) Want to talk about your pricing? Book a call 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 to CEO, Chris G keeps it real with straight talk for contractors who are done feeling stuck. He shares simple steps to help you make more money, work with better clients, and stop doing everything yourself. You’ll hear why planning ahead beats putting out fires, how better communication can win you more jobs, and why your time and knowledge are worth charging for—yes, even those estimates. This isn’t a pep talk. It’s about making real changes that actually stick. If you’re ready to run your business smarter in 2026, not harder, hit play. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:26) Evaluate pricing, clients, and stress levels (1:46) Get ideas out of your head and into a system (3:23) Raise your standards and value (4:00) Communicate better with clients and team (6:01) Be clear to justify your prices (6:19) Stop doing everything (7:06) Charge for estimates, add friction (8:07) Become a planner, not a firefighter (9:16) Say no to status quo in 2026 (11:01) Reclaim your time and confidence (11:44) Book your free breakthrough consultation for 2026 (12:27) 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 your business is running your life? In this episode, Chris G. talks with Ian Noble, a former small business owner who found a better way, using real estate to buy back his time. Ian shares how he went from long days and burnout to a life where he has more freedom, more family time, and steady income through passive real estate investing. They talk about the difference between being a landlord and investing passively, how to protect your money, and why getting started early matters. If you’re a business owner wondering what’s next, this episode is for you. Ian Noble is the founder of RunSteady Investments and a former small business owner who successfully scaled and exited a 14-location service company in Austin, Texas, after 14 years in operation. With over a decade of experience in real estate investing, Ian now helps individuals invest passively in real estate funds, including mobile home parks, self-storage, and private credit. His personal portfolio includes residential, commercial, and syndicated investments across Texas and Colorado. Today, his focus is on helping busy professionals and business owners build wealth and time freedom through low-risk, well-vetted real estate opportunities. Connect with Ian: Website: https://runsteadyinvestments.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iannoble1/ Get his free Passive Investing cheat sheet: https://tinyurl.com/4pphyjfh Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:05) Ian’s background: From dry cleaning to real estate (1:40) Active vs passive real estate investing (3:13) Why betting on the operator matters (4:42) Using business income to build wealth (6:08) How to legally protect your assets (7:44) Reinvestment strategy and mindset (9:50) Transitioning to passive investing after selling a business (11:48) Tax advantages and depreciation explained (14:14) Helping others invest through syndication (18:04) Who can join and what’s required (20:33) Long-term thinking and letting tenants build your wealth (25:17) Return on time vs return on money (29:11) What financial freedom really feels like (32:14) 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 you're working your tail off but not really getting anywhere? In this episode of Hard Hat to CEO, Chris G. talks about how 2025 turned into his best year yet, and it's all because he finally got clear. Clear on pricing, clear on leadership, and clear on what jobs to say yes (or no) to. He shares real stories from his past, the lessons he learned the hard way, and how hiring the right coaches made a big difference. If you're a contractor or small business owner tired of spinning your wheels, this one’s for you. It’s all about keeping things simple, knowing your worth, and building a business that actually works. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:30) What clarity really means and learning from past mistakes (2:35) The value of having coaches (4:09) Holding yourself accountable and showing value (5:39) Getting clear on pricing and leadership (5:56) Building simple, smart systems (7:24) Stop overthinking, start moving (8:14) Why saying “no” can help you grow (9:02) What are you doing that someone else should? (9:41) Hiring the right people (11:16) Less stress, more results (12:07) 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/

Thinking about bringing new technology into your construction business, but worried your team won’t go for it? You’re not alone. In this episode, Chris G sits down with change expert Cesar Viana Teague to talk about how to actually get your people on board—without the confusion, resistance, or wasted money. Cesar shares his simple APE model (Analyze, Plan, Execute) and explains why timing, trust, and listening to your team are the keys to success. He also shares real stories of what worked, what didn’t, and how to avoid costly mistakes. If you’re a contractor or construction business owner thinking about change, this one’s for you. Cesar Vianna Teague is a change management and enablement consultant and founder of Next Level Consulting, operating under the Change Is Good brand at changeisgood.io. He partners with CEOs, technology leaders and subject matter experts across the US and Europe to turn complex digital initiatives into structured, human centred change programs. Drawing on his A.P.E.E.E. model, he focuses on tech change readiness, stakeholder co design, communication strategy and authentic leadership so teams can adopt AI, ERP and CRM systems with less resistance and more real results. Connect with Cesar: Website: https://changeisgood.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesarvianateague/ Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro ​​(1:13) Meet Cesar and why tech change matters in construction (3:20) How leadership can make or break the rollout (5:26) Creating your "change team" from inside (7:40) Cesar’s APE model explained (15:19) Helping people who struggle with tech (18:48) Where tech gives the best return (20:49) Success and failure stories (28:19) What to ask before making a big change (30:54) How to reach Cesar (31:31) 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/

Feeling worn out, stressed, or stuck in your business? In today’s episode, Chris G. opens up about the things he wishes he knew back in his 30s and 40s. If you're running jobs, working long hours, and wondering why it’s not getting easier, this one’s for you. He talks real about burnout, broken systems, pricing mistakes, and what it really means to lead. You don’t have to keep grinding like this. You can fix your business, take better care of your health, and still build something great. It’s not too late, but it’s got to start now. Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (0:44) What leadership really looks like (1:49) Burnout and losing your drive (3:30) Lesson 1: You can’t fix a broken system by working harder (4:31) Lesson 2: You’re not charging enough (6:58) Lesson 3: Let go (9:25) Lesson 4: Your body won’t hold up forever (12:02) Lesson 5: It’s not too late to change everything (14:48) Final thoughts and how to connect with Chris (15:34) 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 really causes workplace injuries, and how can you prevent them before they happen? In this episode, Chris G chats with Desai Link, a former lawyer turned safety expert from New Zealand, about what actually works when it comes to jobsite safety. From hiring the wrong people to tools being misused, Desai shares real stories and advice that every business owner and crew leader needs to hear. You’ll learn why training alone isn’t enough, what to do after something goes wrong, and how to build a safety-first culture without slowing down the work. Desai Link is a certified occupational health and safety professional and a qualified lawyer, bringing a rare mix of legal insight and hands-on safety experience. Since 2010, he has worked across high-risk industries such as transport, construction, oil and gas, and hospitality, managing safety programs for workforces of up to 800 people. Currently serving as a Group HSE & Risk Manager, Desai is also the author of Beyond the Incident, a practical guide for workplace incident investigations. His work focuses on moving beyond blame and checklists to understand the real causes of accidents. He’s also the co-host of the Circus of Safety podcast, where he shares honest conversations about safety, risk, and building better workplace cultures. Connect with Desai: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/desailink/ Grab a copy: https://tinyurl.com/447sea7f Episode highlights: (0:00) Intro (1:11) Desai’s journey: From forklifts to law to safety (1:51) The best way to stop accidents before they happen (3:12) Staying safe and staying legal (4:25) When should you hire a full-time safety person? (5:36) Training vs. competence (6:40) What Beyond the Incident is all about (7:57) Real story: the fake carpenter and a serious injury (10:15) What to do right after an incident (12:01) Weed at work: what counts as being “under the influence”? (16:25) Who should respond on site when something happens (18:24) Workers’ comp: how it works in different places (23:25) When equipment is the real problem (26:19) #1 safety tip for business owners (27:53) Safety and culture go hand in hand (29:35) Where to find Desai Link and his resources (30:23) 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 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/