Freedom Blueprint for Home Services | HVAC, Plumbing, Electrical, Leadership, Business Growth

Show InformationEpisode Number: 83Title: New Ventures: Partnerships and Growth with Joe StrittmatterDate: April 14, 2025Duration: 41:58Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Joe StrittmatterContact: joestrittmatter1301@gmail.comSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Joe Strittmatter, who shares his journey from growing up in the plumbing and HVAC industry to successfully transitioning his business through various challenges, including the 2009 housing crisis. Joe discusses the importance of profitability over revenue, the role of mentorship, and the necessity of effective leadership and systems in scaling a business. He emphasizes the hard work required to succeed and the lessons learned from his experiences in the service industry. In this conversation, Justin Deese and Joe Strittmatter discuss the evolution of leadership, the challenges of transitioning from business ownership to retirement, and the importance of finding purpose and setting goals. They explore new ventures in the home services industry, the significance of partnerships, and the preparation required for launching a new business. The discussion also touches on the anticipated challenges in the market and the need for strategic planning in the face of potential economic downturns.TakeawaysJoe Strittmatter's journey began as a second-generation owner in the plumbing and HVAC industry.He transitioned from construction to service due to the 2009 housing crisis.Profitability is more important than revenue; focus on net profits.Mentorship played a crucial role in Joe's business success.There is no 'silver bullet' for success; hard work is essential.Developing systems and processes is key to business growth.Leadership skills must evolve as the business scales.Allowing employees to make decisions is vital for their growth.Failure is a part of learning; it should be embraced.Traditional methods can still be used to achieve effective marketing. You have to manage the outcome, not the minutia.Trust your team to handle tasks effectively.Finding better people to hire is crucial for growth.Transitioning to retirement can be challenging without goals.Boredom can lead to unhealthy habits post-retirement.Helping others grow is a fulfilling aspect of business.A bored entrepreneur can struggle with motivation.Partnerships can expedite business growth and success.The home services market may face challenges in the coming years.Running lean is essential for navigating economic downturns.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joe Strittmatter's Journey02:52 Transitioning from Construction to Service06:11 Navigating the 2009 Housing Crisis08:53 Growth and Profitability in Business12:04 The Importance of Leadership and Systems14:53 Lessons Learned from Mentorship18:02 Scaling and Managing Growth22:07 Leadership and Trust in Business23:05 Navigating Life After Business27:01 The Importance of Purpose and Goals30:07 New Ventures and Partnerships34:35 Preparing for Market Launch38:57 Future Challenges in Home ServicesKeywordsplumbing, HVAC, business growth, entrepreneurship, leadership, service industry, profitability, mentorship, marketing, construction, leadership, business growth, retirement, entrepreneurship, partnerships, market launch, home services, purpose, goals, challenges, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese Mentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show Title:  The Profit Blind Spot: What’s Really Killing Your Bottom LineShow Information Episode Number: 82Date: April 7, 2025Duration: 37:56Host Contact InformationHost: Justin DeeseWebsite: JustinDeese.com Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest Contact InformationGuest: Kristen Deese Company: Virtual CFOGuest Website: KristenDeese.comGift to listeners: Cost of A New Hire Calculator- Email Kristen@KristenDeese.comPowerProfitWorkshop.comSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese discuss the importance of understanding profitability in business, the impact of cash flow, and the upcoming Power Profit Workshop. They emphasize the need for intentional systems, the role of AI, and the significance of evaluating marketing spend. The conversation also touches on the challenges of hiring and the necessity of having a clear plan for revenue generation. The episode concludes with details about the workshop designed to provide in-depth learning and actionable strategies for business owners.TakeawaysMore sales do not equal more profitability.Busy does not always mean productive or profitable.Intentional systems are crucial for business success.Understanding gross profit margin is essential for profitability.Cash flow is different from profitability and must be managed separately.Marketing spend should be evaluated carefully for ROI.Hiring new staff requires a clear plan for revenue generation.AI can enhance business operations if used correctly.Workshops provide deeper learning opportunities than large conferences.You need to hold your marketing accountable for performance.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Profitability Challenges08:09 Understanding Profit Margins and Sales15:49 Identifying Overhead and Administrative Costs25:12 The Impact of Debt and Advertising on Profitability29:43 Upcoming Power Profit Workshop OverviewKeywordsbusiness, profitability, cash flow, virtual CFO, workshop, AI, marketing, financial management, event planning, entrepreneurshipMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Building a Vision-Driven Team: Levi Torres on Leadership, Growth, and Empowering SuccessShow Information Episode Number: 81 Date: March 31, 2025 Duration: 35:50 Host Contact Information Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.com Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com Guest Contact InformationGuest: Levi Torres Contact: levi@high5plumbing.com Website: High5Plumbing.comWorkshop Information Website: PowerProfitWorkshop.comSummary In this insightful episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese converses with Levi Torres about cultivating a robust team geared towards sustainable business growth. They dive deep into the essence of having a compelling vision, a clear path to success, and the pivotal importance of continuous support for team members. Levi Torres shares his journey and experiences in the HVAC and electrical industries, demonstrating how tools like vision boards and regular check-ins can harmonize personal aspirations with business objectives. This episode is a must-listen for leaders aiming to empower their teams and foster a thriving company culture.Key Takeaways- Memberships play a crucial role in business growth. - A clear vision is fundamental for achieving success. - Implementation of ideas is key to real growth. - Vision boards are instrumental in creating clarity and focus. - A defined path is required to achieve business goals. - Continuous support is essential for team development. - Empowering employees can lead to unexpected growth. - Leadership should be in sync with team members' visions. - Success should be assessed against personal milestones. - A positive company culture serves as a growth catalyst. Chapters - 00:00 Introduction and Business Updates - 03:00 Building a Team for Growth - 05:59 The Importance of Vision - 09:09 Creating a Path to Success - 12:06 Supporting Team Members' Goals - 14:57 Empowering Employees for Future Success - 18:50 Creating Clarity Through Vision Boards - 22:33 The Power of Accountability in Leadership - 27:07 Aligning Personal and Business Visions - 30:25 Growth Through Vision and Opportunity - 34:21 The Importance of Vision for Success Keywords #business growth #team building #vision board #leadership #employee empowerment #HVAC #electrical #sustainable growth #company culture #success measurement #Entrepreneurship #Partnerships #HomeServices #Purpose #Goals #challenges #JustinDeese #visionaryleadership #empowerment #FreedomBlueprintPODCAST #freedomblueprintThank you for tuning in to today's insightful episode. Don't forget to subscribe to get notified of future episodes. Share this with fellow leaders who can benefit from mastering the art of building a vision-driven team. Until next time, keep setting those visionary goals and watch your business and leadership transform. This is Justin Deese, signing off from the Freedom Blueprint Podcast. Stay motivated, keep focused on your vision, and as always, keep CRUSHING IT.Mentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationEpisode Number: 80Date: March 24, 2025Duration: 30:09.687Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Rich HarshawCompany: Level 10 ContractorWebsite: www.Level10contractor.comEmail: rich@level10contractor.comPodcast Link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-level-10-contractor-daily-podcast/id1477623969SummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese speaks with Rich Harshaw from Level 10 Contractor about effective marketing strategies for contractors. They discuss the importance of standing out in a competitive market, the difference between marketing and branding, and the concepts of 'hunting' and 'farming' in lead generation. Rich shares insights on the evolution of television advertising and the significance of identity in marketing, emphasizing storytelling as a powerful tool for engagement.TakeawaysStanding out is crucial for contractors.Marketing and branding serve different purposes.Hunting is immediate lead generation; farming is long-term growth.SEO is a farming strategy that requires patience.Television advertising has evolved with streaming options.Targeted advertising can be more effective than traditional methods.Identity in marketing is about clear communication of value.Storytelling enhances customer engagement and retention.Investing in branding can yield long-term benefits.Understanding your audience is key to effective marketing.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Level 10 Contractor01:16 Understanding Marketing vs. Branding05:24 Hunting vs. Farming in Marketing11:14 The Evolution of Television Advertising19:40 The Importance of Identity in MarketingKeywordscontractor marketing, branding, television advertising, SEO, identity, home services, lead generation, storytelling, digital marketing, Level 10 Contractor, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese Mentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationEpisode Number: 79Date: March 17, 2025Duration: 31:33Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comCo Host Contact InformationCo Host: Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the TradesWebsite: www.KristenDeese.comContact: Kristen@KristenDeese.comLIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, the hosts discuss the common misconception that business owners must know how to do every task within their business. They emphasize the importance of trust and verification in managing a business, particularly in financial matters. The conversation highlights the need for business owners to focus on strategic oversight rather than micromanagement, allowing them to delegate tasks effectively while still being informed about key financial metrics. The hosts share personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to maintain a healthy balance between knowing enough to ask the right questions and trusting others to handle the details.TakeawaysYou don't have to know how to do everything in your business.Trust but verify is essential for business owners.Spotting discrepancies in financials is crucial.Business owners should focus on strategic oversight.Timely financial reports are necessary for informed decision-making.Delegation is key to effective business management.Understanding averages helps in identifying issues.Numbers provide clarity and direction for business decisions.It's important to know what to do with financial information.Effective leadership involves managing results, not tasks.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Business Ownership Challenges04:50 Trust but Verify: The Importance of Oversight09:57 Understanding Financial Metrics Without Micromanaging15:02 Strategic Leadership in Business ManagementKeywordsbusiness ownership, trust but verify, financial metrics, strategic leadership, accounting, business management, delegation, oversight, home service industry, entrepreneurship, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,  Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the Trades, Power Profit WorkshopMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationTitle: Navigating Tariffs: A guide for Home Service BusinessesEpisode Number: 78Date: March 15, 2025Duration: 13:39Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comPowerProfitWorkshop.comSummaryIn this conversation, Justin Deese discusses the implications of new tariffs on the home service industry, outlining both the challenges and opportunities they present. He breaks down the effects of tariffs on costs, suppliers, and profit margins, while also providing actionable strategies for business owners to navigate these changes effectively. The discussion emphasizes the importance of proactive planning, customer education, and adapting pricing strategies to maintain profitability in a shifting market.TakeawaysNew tariffs could significantly impact business costs.Understanding tariffs is crucial for home service businesses.Higher costs can lead to lower profit margins if not managed.Tariffs can protect American manufacturing and create jobs.Securing reliable suppliers is essential to mitigate risks.Proactive pricing strategies can help maintain profit margins.Educating customers on value can justify price increases.Focusing on higher-margin services can offset material costs.Planning ahead can turn tariff challenges into opportunities.Regularly monitoring business efficiency is vital for success.Chapters00:00 Understanding Tariffs and Their Impact03:11 Pros and Cons of Tariffs08:05 Strategies to Protect Your Business11:23 Turning Challenges into OpportunitiesKeywordstariffs, home service industry, business strategies, cost management, pricing strategies, supply chain, profit margins, customer education, domestic manufacturing, market trends, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese Mentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationEpisode Number: 77Date: March 10, 2025Duration: 40:19Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest Contact InformationGuest: Jered Williams The Wealthy PlumberWebsite: www.wealthyplumber.comContact:  www.skool.com/wealthyplumber/aboutLIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Jered Williams, a successful plumbing entrepreneur, who shares his journey from struggling in high school to building a thriving plumbing business. They discuss the evolution of the plumbing industry, the importance of efficiency and company culture, and the launch of Jared's Wealthy Plumber program aimed at helping others succeed in the plumbing business. The conversation emphasizes the significance of mindset, community support, and the need for proper pricing in the service industry.TakeawaysRunning a home service business is challenging but rewarding.Hearing about mistakes can be more valuable than success stories.Branding plays a crucial role in business visibility.Efficiency can significantly increase profit margins.Company culture impacts employee retention and satisfaction.Mindset is key to overcoming challenges in business.Pricing should reflect the value provided to customers.Community support can accelerate business growth.It's important to have fun while running a business.The Wealthy Plumber program offers valuable resources for plumbing entrepreneurs.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Freedom Blueprint Podcast03:11 Jered's Journey into Plumbing06:42 The Evolution of the Plumbing Industry10:18 Starting and Growing a Plumbing Business15:53 The Importance of Efficiency in Business19:42 Building a Strong Company Culture25:10 The Wealthy Plumber Program33:28 Getting Involved in the CommunityKeywordsplumbing, business growth, efficiency, company culture, Wealthy Plumber, Jered Williams, home services, entrepreneurship, podcast, contractor success, plumbing industry, entrepreneurship, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,  Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the Trades, Power Profit WorkshopMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationEpisode Number: 76Date: March 3, 2025Duration: 19:42Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comLIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese discusses the importance of empowering leaders in the home service industry. He emphasizes the need to address underperforming team members through effective hiring practices, setting clear goals, and maintaining regular check-ins. The conversation highlights the significance of creating a supportive environment for team members to thrive and the necessity of celebrating wins while addressing challenges privately. Deese shares practical tips for leaders to enhance team performance and foster a positive workplace culture.TakeawaysThe mission of the podcast is to empower leaders.Underperforming team members are a common challenge for leaders.Hiring strong people is crucial for team success.Onboarding processes set the stage for new hires.Clear goals and objectives help team members understand expectations.Regular check-ins build trust and accountability.Celebrating wins boosts team morale and engagement.Correcting in private is essential for maintaining respect.Good team members will evaluate your company as well.Creating a win-win environment is key to retention.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Freedom Blueprint Podcast02:05 Understanding Underperforming Team Members09:06 Hiring Strong Team Members18:43 Setting Clear Goals and Regular Check-InsKeywordsleadership, team performance, hiring, employee engagement, business growth, coaching, management strategies, underperforming team members, clear goals, team dynamics, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,  Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the Trades, Power Profit WorkshopMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

Show InformationEpisode Number: 75Date: February 24, 2025Duration: 40:19Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comCo Host Contact InformationCo Host: Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the TradesWebsite: www.KristenDeese.comContact: Kristen@KristenDeese.comLIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, hosts discuss the importance of mindset in business growth, the challenges of financial management, and the role of technology in achieving ROI. They emphasize the need for business owners to be aware of their compensation, the significance of being coachable, and the difference between tactical and strategic management. The conversation highlights how mindset shifts can lead to better outcomes and the necessity of having a diverse team to foster growth. PowerProfitWorkshop.comTakeawaysMindset is crucial for business growth.Awareness of financial management is key.Investing in technology requires a clear ROI plan.Owner compensation should be balanced with business health.Perfectionism can hinder business growth.Being coachable is essential for improvement.Strategic management is necessary for long-term success.Letting go of control can empower your team.Continuous learning and adaptation are vital.Surrounding yourself with diverse talent enhances growth.Chapters00:00 Setting the Stage: Technical Setup and Challenges03:03 Mindset Matters: The Foundation of Business Growth13:23 Financial Insights: Overcoming Growth Barriers18:30 Owner Compensation: Balancing Personal and Business Needs25:28 Mindset Matters: The Key to Business AdvancementKeywordsbusiness, workshop, financial metrics, operational efficiency, accountability, Pensacola, leadership, KPIs, event, entrepreneurship, Justin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,  Kristen Deese The Virtual CFO for the Trades, Power Profit WorkshopMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com

LIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopShow InformationEpisode Number:  74Date:  February 17, 2025Duration: 37:40.31Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Ryan MatthewsCompany: My Guy PlumbingWebsite: www.myguyplumbingnj.comContact: Ryan@myguyplumbingnj.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ryan.matthews.50552SummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese interviews Ryan Matthews, the owner of My Guy Plumbing. Ryan shares his journey from carpentry to plumbing, the challenges he faced in the industry, and the strategies he implemented to grow his business. He emphasizes the importance of operational efficiency, the role of technology and AI in modern business, and the need for adaptability in a changing market. Ryan's insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike.TakeawaysRyan transitioned from carpentry to plumbing after a conflict with his boss.The name 'My Guy Plumbing' was chosen to create a relatable brand.Ryan emphasizes the importance of efficiency in business operations.He learned valuable lessons from previous employers about what not to do.AI technology is crucial for staying competitive in the plumbing industry.Ryan advocates for a patient approach to business growth and investment.Operational efficiency can significantly reduce costs and increase profitability.The plumbing industry is evolving, and businesses must adapt to survive.Ryan's journey highlights the importance of implementation over mere education.Building a strong brand identity can lead to customer loyalty and referrals.Chapters00:00 The Journey Begins: From Carpentry to Plumbing06:07 Building My Guy Plumbing: The Birth of a Brand11:54 Navigating Challenges: Lessons from the Industry18:01 Operational Efficiency: The Key to Success24:08 Embracing Technology: The Role of AI in Business30:00 Future-Proofing: Adapting to Industry ChangesKeywordsplumbing, business growth, entrepreneurship, AI, operational efficiency, Marketing, service industry, leadership, My Guy Plumbing, technologyJustin Deese, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Kristen Deese the Virtual CFO for the Trades, PowerProfitWorkshop.comMentioned in this episode:Power Profit Workshop 2025- PowerProfitWorkshop.com