Episode Summary:

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Holland, an industry veteran who built and sold a successful home services business. Steve shares his journey from starting with nothing to scaling a multi-million-dollar company, offering actionable advice on branding, employee culture, and competing with private equity-backed companies. Whether you're a small business owner looking to scale or an industry veteran navigating growth, this episode is packed with game-changing insights.

🔹 Episode Timestamps & Key Takeaways:

[00:00] – Introduction

Welcome to the episode!
Introducing Steve Holland and his background in HVAC, electrical, and home services.
Steve’s journey: From a challenging upbringing to launching a successful business.

[06:30] – Getting Into the Trades & Launching a Business

How Steve got started in HVAC by taking a $3/hr pay cut to work in the trades.
Lessons learned from early struggles, including quitting a stable job to take a risk.
The story behind launching Mr. Holland’s Heating, Air & Electric in 1997.

[12:00] – The Power of Branding & Radio Advertising

The impact of branding on business growth.
Steve’s experience working with Roy Williams (Wizard of Ads) on radio ads.
How radio marketing helped build a recognizable home services brand.
The long-term ROI of branding and why it takes patience.

[20:00] – Lessons on Scaling a Business the Right Way

Scaling is a buzzword, but why it’s not for everyone.
Fix operational inefficiencies before scaling.
Why focusing on gross margins and net profit is crucial.
Steve’s biggest scaling mistake: Holding back due to fear of risk.
The power of acquisitions and how he used small mom-and-pop shops to grow.

[30:00] – Why Employees Are Your Most Valuable Asset

The most expensive customer isn’t the homeowner—it’s your employees.
The shift from “customer-first” to “employee-first” culture.
The importance of genuinely knowing your employees and their families.
Why retaining employees is more cost-effective than constant hiring.

[38:00] – Culture & Leadership: How to Retain Top Talent

Employees want more than money—they want to feel valued.
How private equity often misses the mark on culture.
The Culture Club initiative at Steve’s company (empowering employees to shape culture).
Steve’s approach to helping struggling employees (personal engagement vs. spreadsheets).

[45:00] – Competing with Private Equity & the Big Players

How private home service businesses can win against PE-backed competitors.
Why outworking the competition is key.
The advantage of nimble, locally owned companies in customer service.
The risks of PE firms prioritizing profit over people and how to stand out.

[50:00] – Final Thoughts & Advice for Home Service Business Owners

If you’re scaling, ask yourself why before jumping in.
The importance of long-term vision over short-term gains.
Steve’s openness to helping other business owners through consulting.
Closing thoughts from Chris & Chad.

📌 Resources & Mentions:

🔹 Roy Williams’ Wizard Academy (Branding & Advertising)

🔹 AirTime 500 – Contractor Business Growth

🔹 Steve Holland – Connect via LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-holland-91073315/

🔥 Call to Action!

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🎙 Stay tuned for more business growth, leadership, and marketing strategies in the home services industry!

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