21 Hats Podcast Dashboard: Turning Tradespeople Into Business People
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Nov 7, 2025 Julian Scadden, President and CEO of Nexstar Network, guides tradespeople in plumbing, HVAC, and electrical fields to become adept business owners. He reveals the significant challenges these businesses face and shares Nexstar's unique member-owned structure that prioritizes community. Julian discusses the tough choice to part ways with PE-backed members to stay mission-focused and emphasizes the importance of structured practices. He also highlights the potential of AI tools for service businesses and advocates for apprenticeship programs to combat technician shortages.
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Trades Skill ≠ Business Skill
- Many tradespeople excel technically but lack business skills like marketing, pricing, and payroll.
- Nexstar surrounds them with peers and professionals to fill those gaps and accelerate growth.
Member Turned CEO
- Julian was a Nexstar member for six years, ran a residential plumbing/HVAC/electrical business, then joined Nexstar as staff.
- Nexstar helped him grow the business and achieve a successful exit, motivating him to join the organization.
Assess Before You Act
- Use a structured assessment before acting: owners often say what they think they need but need a diagnosis.
- Combine coaching, templates, and training to fix workflow, sales, pricing, and people issues.
