In this week’s episode, we chat with John Cerasuolo, CEO of The Leap Partners.   John shares his experience in conducting roll-ups and the strategy behind LEAP Partners, emphasizing the company's approach to integrating small businesses while preserving their local brands, owners, and employees.  The conversation touches upon the importance of internal call centers over outsourcing, and how LEAD Partners focuses on improving leadership and operations at the branch level.  John also highlights the typical financial metrics they look for when acquiring businesses and discusses the strategies for value creation post-acquisition. Finally, John shares how potential sellers can reach out to LEAP Partners and explains the company's lead generation strategy, principally involving direct mailing and word-of-mouth referrals.   Key Takeaways: The Roll-up strategy: Combining several small companies to form a larger entity can significantly increase its value and efficiency Focus on customer experience: Ensuring that customer-facing staff are well-trained and satisfied in their roles can significantly impact the business's success. Profit margins: Healthy profit margins are vital, but sometimes low margins can be addressed through better pricing strategies and operational improvements.  The importance of culture: Businesses do not have to be perfect, but they need a strong culture centered around taking care of employees and customers ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with John Cerasuolo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johncerasuolo Website: https://www.theleappartners.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

Today we chat with Craig Wendel, Managing Director of Align Business Advisory Services. In this episode, we explore various aspects of mergers and acquisitions within the home services industry, focusing on HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and exterior businesses. Greg shares invaluable insights into business valuations, transaction structures, and the current market landscape that you don’t want to miss. Finally, Greg shares with our listeners anecdotes about some of the best and worst transactions he's been involved in and offers advice for business owners looking to sell. He highlights the need for proper documentation, maintaining business performance, and the importance of understanding the true value of equity.   Key Takeaways: Market Fragmentation: Greg emphasized that the trades industry is highly fragmented, creating opportunities for larger firms to acquire smaller, family-owned businesses. Key Factors in Successful Transactions: High-performing businesses with leadership in place and streamlined operations tend to fetch higher multiples in M&A transactions. Region Focus: There's a heavy investor focus on Sunbelt states, including Florida, Texas, and Arizona, due to their volatile weather patterns and market conditions. Challenges in M&A: Even the best deals can face issues like missing documents and fluctuating business performance, which can delay or complicate transactions. ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Craig Wendel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-wendel-9a58482a Website: https://alignba.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Kristen & Justin Desee.  The pair has been described as  ‘down to earth’, ‘low-key’, ‘no drama’, ‘fun’, ‘caring’, ‘attentive’,  ‘logical’, and ‘smart’. They co-authored “When Your Business Partner Is Your Spouse" We discuss their experiences in building, buying, and selling multiple home service businesses. They also share lessons learned from their business ventures, including handling transitions, maintaining company culture, and the critical role of efficient customer service representatives (CSRs) in driving business success. Finally, we discuss their recent partnership with Leap Partners, the process of selling their business while ensuring a seamless transition for their team, and Justin’s role in assisting with Leap's acquisition strategies.    Key Takeaways: Transparency in Business Transitions: The importance of being transparent with the leadership team and employees about future business goals. This transparency helps in securing employee buy-in and maintaining morale during periods of intense growth and potential change. Mentorship and External Training: The importance of seeking mentorship and external training for business development. Engaging with experienced professionals is essential for business growth and personal development. Employee Investment: Investing in employees through training and development is crucial. Quality customer service representatives (CSRs) dramatically impact business performance, and internal training can maintain high standards, particularly in client-facing roles. ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Kristen & Justin Deese Website: https://www.kristendeese.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristen.deese.7 Website: https://freedomblueprint.us/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justin.deese.14 ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Chuck Staszkiewicz, aka Chuck the Plumber, Co-Founder, Opus and Golds Group. Chuck shares his journey of building a plumbing company from the ground up, detailing how he and his sister managed to grow it into a successful venture. They delve into the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and how it influenced their business decisions. The conversation highlights the importance of exit planning, having a solid strategy, and knowing your business metrics. Chuck also talks about his post-exit venture, Opus and Golds Group, where he helps other businesses. Through his company, Chuck offers personalized consulting and mentorship to business owners, focusing on strategy, marketing, recruiting, culture, and leadership. Thank you for tuning in!   Key Takeaways: Importance of Exit Planning: Every business should have an exit strategy. This ensures the business can be handed over, sold, or dissolved in a planned manner rather than left to chance.  Adaptability During Crises: Chuck attributes some of his success during the COVID-19 pandemic to the ability to adapt swiftly, including doubling down on marketing, hiring, and consulting professional mentors. Significance of Mentorship: Having a mentor can significantly influence business success. Chuck credits his mentor for helping him plan and strategize effectively for his business's exit.  Reverse Engineering Goal Achievement: The process of reverse engineering from a goal, such as an exit strategy, can help in breaking down the steps needed to reach that goal effectively.  ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Chuck Staszkiewicz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chuck.staszkiewicz Website: https://opusgolds.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Josh Kelly, owner of Clover. We discuss the exciting transformation happening in the home service industry, marketing strategies, and the personal journey of Josh from working in a large family-owned business to establishing Clover. Our conversation covers topics such as the importance of setting proper pricing, building scalable systems, and the role of customer experiences in driving business growth. Josh also shares insights on working with private equity, his methods for assessing and partnering with potential businesses, and tips for contractors looking to grow their companies. This episode is packed with valuable advice for contractors looking to grow and thrive in this exciting era.   Key Takeaways:   Clover Business Model: Josh explains Clover's business model, highlighting that they offer various levels of coaching—from group sessions to one-on-one consultancies. Their best practice coaching and consulting are focused specifically on home services.   Partnership Insights: The importance of investing not just in the business but also in the leadership team. Josh emphasizes that the key to successful partnerships lies in identifying businesses with significant growth potential and leadership willing to adapt and learn.   Improving Customer Experience: Techniques to enhance customer experience were discussed extensively. Ideas like offering to pick up something for the customer when stopping at a gas station and ensuring small gestures like wearing shoe covers in customers' homes can make a significant difference.   Importance of Pricing and Job Costing: Josh asserts that many contractors do not price their services correctly and emphasizes the importance of understanding cost structure to ensure profitability.   ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Josh Kelly Email: josh@growwithclover.com Website: https://www.growwithclover.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Brian Cohen, a business strategist at SF&P Advisors. Dive deep into the complex world of deal-making, private equity transactions, and business growth in the home service industry.  Brian explains how the market evolved during and after COVID-19, leading to unprecedented deals and valuations. He also shares his experiences and insights on advising clients, the importance of professional guidance when selling an HVAC business, and the critical factors that impact business valuations. Finally, Brian emphasizes the necessity of having knowledgeable representation during business transactions to maximize outcomes.   Key Takeaways : The Value of Expertise in Business Transactions: Partnering with professionals who understand private equity can significantly enhance the value of your deal. Business owners in the HVAC space often struggle to understand the complexities of EBITDA, which professionals can navigate more effectively to maximize deal value.The Importance of Choosing the Right Partner: Whether opting for a private equity buyout or a buy-and-hold strategy, selecting a partner whose goals align with your business ambitions is crucial. Understanding different models like strategic private equity partnerships versus buy-and-hold strategies can help owners make informed decisions.Economic and Market Factors: COVID-19 played a significant role in reshaping the HVAC and home services market. It highlighted the resilience of these businesses and increased their attractiveness to private equity due to high usage and demand spikes during the lockdown periods. ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Brian Cohen LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-david-cohen/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briandavidcohen Website: https://sfpadvisors.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Eugene Geis, Owner of Flex Air. Eugene talks about his love and interest in football, his transition from plumbing to HVAC, and the various challenges he faced along the way. Then he opens up about his plans to buy his wife's family HVAC business from her grandparents, which ultimately failed. But Eugene is not one to get discouraged, and he pushed ahead and started his own business, Flex Air. Finally, the conversation ends with some lighthearted moments, including Eugene's victory in a pull-up contest at Rocket X.   Key Takeaways   Embrace Change: The journey of running a business requires constant adaptation. Be prepared to hire people, build processes, and deal with challenges head-on. Seek Expertise: Recognize that you can't do everything alone. Finding skilled people who are better than you in certain areas is crucial to building a successful business. Networking and Mentorship: Engaging with various experts and leaders in the industry can provide valuable insights and guidance on your business journey. Start Small: Putting a small amount of money aside for initial expenses and not being afraid to take the leap can pave the way for success. Legacy Plans: For those looking to take over or buy a family business, open communication and trust are important ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Eugene Geis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eugene.geis.90 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eugene_geis/ Website: https://www.flexairtx.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Cody McLeod, President and Founder of Utility Plumbing Services. In our conversation, we explore his journey from working in his family's plumbing business to starting his own company. Cody also opens up about the personal adversities he faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, which significantly impacted his professional life and led to his departure from the family business. Cody also talks about his tumultuous exit, including the legal and financial challenges he faced while trying to maintain family relationships intact.  Cody's exit and subsequently starting Utility Plumbing Services highlights his resilience and determination. Finally, Cody provides insights into starting a new business from scratch, emphasizing the importance of securing funding and making smart financial decisions.   Key Takeaways: The challenges Cody faced in his personal life that ultimately led to his exit from the family businessCody's advice for securing funding before making major investments in a new businessThe importance of letting attorneys handle negotiations to avoid emotional entanglements --- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Cody McLeod Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/codymcleod_88/ Website: https://utilityplumbingservices.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/utilityplumbingservices/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Patrick Lange, Managing Partner at Business Modification Group. We talk about the complexities of purchasing and selling a company in the heating, air, and plumbing industry. Patrick emphasizes the importance of clean financial records, the advantages of maintenance agreements, and the value of proper business documentation. We also touch on the emotional aspects of selling a business and the trends in private equity acquisitions. Our conversation provides insights into what buyers look for and how sellers can prepare their businesses for sale.   Key Takeaways: Patrick discusses the benefits of using a broker and how they can guarantee a seamless transaction.The key factors buyers look for, such as customer base, employees, and brand reputationTrends in the industry including an increase in private equity acquisitions and younger entrepreneurs re-entering the marketThe importance of having a clean financial record and how that helps a seller negotiate a higher sale priceStrategies for increasing the value of a smaller HVAC business, like implementing a CRM system --- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Patrick Lange LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lange-businessbroker/ Website: https://businessmodificationgroup.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Gil Cavey, General Manager of Beltway Air Conditioning & Heating. Gil is also the very popular host of one of the industry’s biggest podcasts, HVAC Uncensored.   In our conversation we talk about Gil’s journey as an apprentice working with his dad to becoming General Manager at Beltway. He emphasizes building a company culture that values employees as individuals rather than numbers. He also discusses how social media helps empower technicians and promotes alternative career paths in the trades over traditional college routes.   Key Takeaways: Industry Insights: Addressing technician shortages and advocating for better treatment within companies.Personal Journey: How passion drives success; from learning under his father to becoming a leader in the home service industry.Overcoming Adversity: A touching recount of family struggles with cancer that shaped personal perspectives on life and work.Building Culture: Developing a workplace environment where technicians feel valued, respected, and well-compensated - an 'All-Star' team approach at Beltway AC & Heating.Empowering Technicians: Encouraging workers to seek employers that offer fair pay, benefits, and respect – highlighting there are great companies out there waiting for them.Trade Advocacy: Promoting vocational careers as viable paths to financial success without necessarily pursuing traditional college pathways. --- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Gil Cavey Jr. Instagram: https://instagram.com/hvacuncensored Facebook: https://facebook.com/hvacuncensored YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HVACUncensored TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hvacuncensored Website: https://beltwayhvac.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Ben Hummel, Vice President of Business Development at Legacy Service Partners.   Ben shares insights into Legacy Service Partners, a home services platform investing in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contractors. Legacy Service Partners offers a unique approach to partnering with owner-operators in the home services sector.   The conversation covers various topics, including strategies for geographic expansion, the valuation of businesses in the market, and the importance of managing debt, and operational efficiencies in growing a business.   Key Takeaways:  Legacy Service Partners' ModelSuccession Planning and Growth StrategyFinancial and Operational Preparation for SaleMarket Variability and Value Multiples Advice for Potential Sellers --- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Ben Hummel LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhhummel/ Website: https://legacyservicepartners.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Texas Medley, President & CEO of Medley Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing. During our conversation, we discussed his journey from working in a grocery store to successfully establishing and running his own business. Texas emphasizes the value of hard work, learning from every job, and continuously striving to improve business operations while maintaining a focus on customer service and employee satisfaction.   Key Takeaways: Learn how a simple grocery job can help you develop useful skills that can be useful later in life  Balancing profitability with fair pricing for customersThe impact of private equity firms entering the home service industryMaintaining a personal connection with employees while holding them accountableAdvice for aspiring entrepreneurs on the realities of starting a business ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Texas Medley Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/texasmedley Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justintexas.medley.5 ----- 👉 Connect with Medley Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing Website: https://www.callmedley.com/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. We explore leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal works closely with HVAC, roofing, plumbing, garage door companies, and many other HS companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Mike Prencavage Jr., owner of The Family Plumber. In our conversation, we explore the challenges and complexities of executing a successful succession plan, especially when it involves family members. Mike Jr. provides a candid look at the ties that bind family and business, as well as the unique challenges that they bring.   Key Takeaways: Navigating the emotional aspects and differing perspectives between a founder and the next generation Strategies for determining a fair valuation, considering assets, customer base, and growth potentialStructuring payment terms, including upfront deposits, sweat equity, and potential early payoff penaltiesThe importance of documenting everything and setting clear action items during negotiationsThe value of bringing in a third-party evaluator to provide an objective assessmentThe benefits of leasing vehicles instead of purchasing them outright as the company scales ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Mike Prencavage Jr. Website: http://www.thefamilyplumber.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socalplumbguy/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Ryan Kletz, President of Classic Air Care, Inc. Classic Air Care owns and operates in 3 cities and 5 different offices for One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning. In our conversation, we discuss the intricacies of acquiring and growing an HVAC business through franchising.   Key Takeaways: The story behind Classic Air Care joining the 1-Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchise system in 2004Hear firsthand how the art of selecting the right locations goes beyond geographyHow Classic Air Care evaluates potential acquisition targets and the challenges of replicating their culture across locationsThe importance of having a defined leadership structure and streamlined processes when expanding to new marketsValuable lessons learned from successful and derailed acquisition attempts ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Ryan Kletz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-kletz-33775329/ Website: https://www.onehourcomfort.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Tom Lucas, Service Manager and Part Owner of Dayco Systems, live at CAAG in Savannah.   In our conversation, we explore Tom's journey to becoming a part owner of Dayco Systems and the ongoing negotiations to acquire full ownership from the company's founder, Dean.   Key Takeaways: Listen how Tom's decision to get the right type of license and speaking Portuguese with his wife in a buffet changed his lifeNavigating the challenges of negotiating a fair dealThe importance of clear communication and setting expectations upfrontPlans for future growth through acquisitions, including expanding into plumbing and electricalLessons learned and advice for others considering buying an existing company ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Tom Lucas LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-lucas-a62257174/ Website: https://daycosystems.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dayco_systems/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daycosystems/ LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/dayco_systems ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Jacob Krauss, Content Creator, Koolin’ with Kraus, HVAC Knights Co-Host, and Co-Owner, Bizzy Air. Jacob discusses the unconventional path to business ownership, the challenges of rebranding and revitalizing a longstanding company, strategies for growth, and ways to engage with the community.  In our conversation, we uncover the ins and outs of acquiring and transforming a longstanding HVAC business into a modern, customer-focused business.    Key Takeaways: The transition from B&G Air Specialists to Bizzy Air, and the vision behind the rebranding.The importance of follow-ups and customer service in building trust and loyaltyLearn how Jacob used sweat to gain equityFuture goals for Bizzy Air, including reaching the million-dollar mark and expanding the team ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Jacob Krauss Website: https://bizzyac.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koolinwithkrauss_hvac/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCam5-STAaS2ddkKEYF9w8RA ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

In this week’s episode, we chat with Adrian Garcia, HVAC content creator, podcaster, owner and partner at Reliable Kitchen Services.   Adrian discusses the challenges and rewards of running a family business and how his father, a skilled electrician, inspired him to enter the world of commercial HVAC and refrigeration in the food service industry. Adrian offers a unique perspective on various subjects like branding, strategies for year-round profitability, the value of HVAC techs, and why quality and expertise are worth every penny.   Key Takeaways: Adrian’s initial reluctance to take on a leadership role and how his perspective evolved over time.The importance of not taking advantage of customers and maintaining honesty as a core business value.How to survive and thrive during your slow season and the benefits of maintenance agreements.How to use memes and content to educate and engage with the HVAC communityAnd much, much, more! ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: http://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Adrian Garcia Website: https://www.reliablekitchenservices.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ReliableHVACR/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReliableHVACR1/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/reliablehvacr/ ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

This week, we dive into a conversation with Loren Garder from Bergen Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling, exploring his journey as an educator in the trades.  Loren's early collaboration with his brother at Bergen led him to discover his passion for training aspiring tradesmen.  Under his guidance, Bergen's apprenticeship program evolved into the cornerstone of their culture, eventually expanding into the independent Blackhawk School of Apprenticeship, a crucial step for anyone joining Bergen. The turning point came when Loren’s brother began transitioning the company into an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), enabling employees to own a part of Bergen.  This move not only cultivated a sense of ownership among the staff but also significantly enhanced the company culture, fostering a deep-rooted commitment to excellence in service, customer satisfaction, and mastery of their trade. Tune in to hear Loren discuss how these initiatives transformed Bergen, creating a unified passion and dedication that resonates throughout the company.   A few key takeaways: Empowerment through Education: Loren Garder's initiative to develop a comprehensive training and education program underscores the importance of continuous learning and skill development in professional growth and organizational success.Culture Transformation via Ownership: The transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) illustrates how sharing company ownership with employees can transform a company's culture, fostering a sense of belonging, responsibility, and collective drive toward success.Strategic Innovation in Business: The creation of the Blackhawk School of Apprenticeship as a feeder system for new talent highlights the value of innovative approaches to solving traditional business challenges, such as talent acquisition and development.Impact on Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction: This suggests a strong link between employee empowerment, company culture, and the quality of service provided to customers. In Bergen, the shift to an ESOP improved company dynamics significantly and influenced the customer experience and business success.And more! ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Loren Gardner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorendgardner/ Website: https://apprenticeshipworks.trade Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apprenticeship_works/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553685544705 Bergen Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling: https://noworrycomfort.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

This week on our podcast, we recorded live at ACCA 2024 in Orlando. Our captivating conversation with Tersh Blissett, a vanguard in service innovation and co-host of the Service Business Mastery Podcast.  Tersh discusses his early curiosity that led him from tinkering to studying engineering at Georgia Tech, eventually finding his true calling in the trades. He became co-owner at Tri-Star Heating, Air, and Plumbing before launching his own high-end HVAC company, Service Emperor, in 2019. Distinct from Tri-Star’s high-volume approach, Service Emperor prides itself on meticulous attention to detail—ensuring technicians are not only skilled but also exceptionally respectful and mindful of the clients' homes, a necessity given the upscale Savannah residences they service. Tersh began a podcast to highlight his journey starting and operating a new HVAC company.  Podcasting about Service Emperor marked a pivotal moment for Tersh, igniting a passion that ultimately led him to focus full-time on the Service Business Mastery Podcast. To maintain his businesses while dedicating himself to podcasting, Tersh enlisted trusted partners, offering equity to ensure both ventures thrived without his constant oversight. Emphasizing the mantra “Where you focus is where you grow,” Tersh has successfully expanded his podcasting career, now boasting over 200,000 monthly downloads.   A few key takeaways: Passion and Purpose: Tersh’s journey from a kid with a curiosity to tinkerer, led to a very successful life as an entrepreneur in the trades.Transition and Adaptation: Tersh has a unique ability to transition from one venture to another, adapting to new ideas, new roles, all while leveraging his skills and experiences to create value in different contexts.Detail-Oriented Service: Tersh’s focus on the little things that matter to customers, like cleanliness and respect for clients' homes, emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in building a successful service-oriented business.Value of Partnerships: Bringing in trusted partners to help manage and grow demonstrates Tersh’s value of partnerships and recognition that to scale and grow, it takes a team.And more!   Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Tersh Blissett Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tersh_blissett Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tersh_blissett Service Emperor: https://serviceemperor.com/ TriStar Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical: https://tristarsavannah.com/ Service Business Mastery Podcast: https://servicebusinessmasterypodcast.com ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.

Join us this week as we talk to Nicholas Matos, owner of Reliable Heating and Cooling in Indian Trail, NC. Nick's path led him from Miami and the Marines to the world of HVAC business ownership. After learning finance at J.P. Morgan, he used his valuation skills to transform a struggling HVAC shop into a seven-figure success within his first year. Nick closed his first small business deal quickly – and right in the middle of peak season! He skillfully negotiated favorable terms without external financing, recognizing the limited buyer pool and leveraging that to his advantage. Nick shares insights on the challenges of valuing small businesses. He emphasizes both the importance of the buyer's vision for growth and the difficulty of reliable valuation due to inconsistent data. Reliable's initial focus is on optimizing operations, streamlining pricing, organizing their CRM, and building a strong digital marketing presence. Listen to our discussion for much, much more! ----- Additional Resources ➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/ ----- 👉 Connect with Nicholas Matos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-matos/ Website: https://relhvac.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reliablehvac_clt/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/relhvac ----- The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors. Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially. All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™. For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.