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

Episode Number: 51Date: September 9, 2024Duration: 41:50Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Derek CormierCompany: Climate ExpertsWebsite: https://www.climateexpertsac.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/climateexpertsacTikTochttps://www.tiktok.com/@climateexpertsac?fbclid=IwY2xjawEV6RtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHaO_dJbBrImQRavq5BZV8tE1xBgW_BuCnf4Re4MLYN9UXZRZOdB0qN5NpQ_aem_hXn55oir9SbHaqTcsQWWBgInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/climateexpertsincSummary:In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese sits down with Derek Cormier from Climate Experts in Melbourne, Florida. They delve into the significant role of KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) in fast-tracking business success. Derek shares his journey of expanding his business from a single truck operation to an $8 million enterprise. The discussion highlights the importance of establishing specific job roles and clear KPIs, building a strong company culture, and effective social media strategies for branding and recruitment.Takeaways:Importance of Specific KPIs: Establishing clear, measurable KPIs can drive growth and help businesses monitor their progress effectively.Building a Strong Company Culture: A positive company culture significantly impacts employee retention and recruitment.Leveraging Social Media: Effective use of social media can enhance branding, customer engagement, and recruitment.Role of Best Practice Groups: Participating in best practice groups, like Nextar, is essential for business development and growth.Clear Job Roles: Defining specific job roles and boundaries improves operational efficiency and helps avoid conflicts.Chapters:00:02 - Introduction to Derek Cormier and his journey in the trades02:03 - Challenges and dynamics of running a family business03:48 - Establishing roles and boundaries04:51 - Keys to success and the importance of KPIs06:38 - Partnering with best practice groups like Nextar10:30 - Effective social media strategies for business growth14:16 - Budgeting for marketing and the role of social media16:39 - Impact of a strong social media presence on recruiting19:14 - Importance of company reviews and career progression20:42 - Attracting the right talent through a positive company culture23:07 - Paid workday trials to assess potential employees27:47 - Tips for social media: Getting started and understanding your brand33:34 - Hiring a social media videographer36:21 - Closing thoughts and advice from Derek CormierKeywords:Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, KPIs, Key Performance Indicators, Business Growth, Social Media Marketing, Company Culture, Recruitment Strategies, Best Practice Groups, Nextar, Business Strategies, Leadership, Climate Experts, Derek Cormier

Episode Number: 50Date: September 2, 2024Duration: 44:14Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.com Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com Guest: Chris Michel Guest Contact: cmichel@servicenation.comSpecial Offer: $100 Off Service World Tickets use Promo Code FREEDOM24Summary In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese sits down with Chris Michel, the Training Director at Service Nation, to explore his inspiring journey from college football to a successful career in the HVAC industry. Chris shares valuable insights on leadership, personal growth, and the importance of living intentionally. They discuss Chris’s transition from being a sales expert to a training director, his philosophy on leadership, and the inspiration behind his book, "The Red Chair Experience."TakeawaysPerseverance and Failure: Chris Michel emphasizes the role of perseverance and how failure can be a great teacher on the path to success.Living Intentionally: The importance of taking care of oneself to better help others, akin to the airplane safety advice of putting on your own mask first.Transition in Careers: Insights into Chris’s journey from sales to leadership roles, highlighting his continuous growth and learning.Service Nation and Service World: Exciting developments and opportunities at Service Nation and the upcoming Service World event.Writing as Therapy: Chris's experience in writing "The Red Chair Experience," which helped him process his emotions and grow personally.Chapters00:01 - Introduction: Welcome and episode overview.00:22 - Chris Michel’s Journey: Early career and entry into HVAC.01:52 - Leadership Lessons: From sales to a training director.04:09 - Personal Growth: Importance of learning financials and business acumen.06:47 - Football and Sales: Lessons from Chris’s football career.12:21 - Perseverance in Sales: Overcoming challenges and learning from failures.16:17 - Writing "The Red Chair Experience": Inspiration, process, and impact.21:34 - Daily Routines and Intentional Living: Self-care and preparation.28:53 - Service World Insights: Upcoming event details.37:21 - Training Opportunities at Service Nation: Programs and resources for contractors.40:25 - Closing Remarks: Final thoughts and signing off.Keywords Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Leadership in HVAC, Chris Michel, The Red Chair Experience, Personal Growth, Service Nation, Service World, HVAC Sales, Perseverance, Business Acumen, Daily Intentional Living, HVAC Training Programs, Chris Michel

Episode Number: 49Date: August 26, 2024Duration: 33:28Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Brad ScruggsWebsite: ZyraTalk.comSummaryIn this exciting episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese chats with Brad Scruggs about the transformative power of AI in the home service industry. They explore how AI is revolutionizing business operations by automating tasks, increasing efficiency, and capturing missed calls to enhance revenue. Listen in to discover practical AI applications tailored for contractors, including automating customer interactions and service appointments. This episode offers tangible insights into leveraging AI to elevate your home service business to the next level.TakeawaysAI Automation: Learn how AI tools can improve business operations by automating tasks and increasing efficiency.Revenue Capture: Understand how AI solutions can help convert missed calls into significant revenue.Customization: Discover how customizable AI solutions can be tailored to the specific needs of your business.Real-Life Success: Hear real-life success stories that demonstrate the tangible benefits of integrating AI.Future of AI: Get insights into future innovations and how AI is set to further evolve within the industry.Chapters00:01 - Introduction: Welcome and introduction to today's topic and guest.00:50 - AI and Contractor Hesitations: Discussing the hesitations contractors have regarding AI.03:02 - Brad's Journey: Brad explains how his company entered the AI space and its impact.05:48 - The Leap in AI Development: The recent advancements in AI that have made it more mainstream.08:14 - Case Studies: Real-life examples of AI generating significant revenue.11:40 - Financial Impact: Calculating the potential revenue missed due to not using AI.13:10 - AI in Answering Calls: Comparison between AI solutions and traditional call centers.18:48 - Transparency and Customer Interaction: Addressing transparency in AI interactions with customers.21:05 - Customization Options: How customizable AI can meet various business needs.25:35 - Onboarding Process: Explanation of the onboarding process with Zyra Talk.28:22 - Future Innovations: Discussing future AI developments and their impact on the industry.29:36 - Conclusion: Final thoughts and closing remarks.KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, AI in Home Services, Automated Phone Systems, Business Efficiency with AI, Home Service Industry Trends, Revenue Growth with AI, Customer Interaction AI, AI Customization, Service Automation, Brad Scruggs, Zyra Talk

Culture, Communication, and Call Success: A Deep Dive with Nicole DeLisle from Paradise Home ServicesEpisode Number: 48Date: August 19, 2024Duration: 27:36Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Nicole DeLisleContact: Nicole.Delisle@ParadiseHomeServices.comWebsite: www.paradisehomeservices.comSummaryIn this episode, we dive deep into the secrets of achieving an over 90% call booking rate and the vital components of building a strong office culture within the home service industry. Our guest, Nicole DeLisle, shares her extraordinary journey from being a CSR in 2016 to becoming a key leader at Paradise Home Services. We discuss strategies for effective communication, leadership, and how fostering a positive workplace culture can result in high performance and significant team achievements. Takeaways1. Achieving a High Call Booking Rate: Learn how Nicole’s team achieves an impressive over 90% call booking rate through incentivizing, mutual motivation, and thorough call handling. 2. Building a Strong Culture: Understand the importance of fostering a supportive and respectful office culture that values communication and mutual respect.3. Importance of One-to-One Meetings: Discover the benefits of regular one-to-one meetings for team growth, communication, and continuous improvement. 4. Navigating Acquisitions Smoothly: Gain insights into how to maintain team culture and effectiveness during company acquisitions and transitions.5. Leadership and Growth: Nicole shares crucial leadership strategies and personal development tips that have propelled her career and team forward.Chapters1. Introduction - [00:00:00]2. Nicole’s Journey from CSR to Leader - [00:03:17]3. Team Achievements and Strategies - [00:05:23]4. Building a Strong Workplace Culture - [00:06:35]5. The Role of One-to-One Meetings - [00:17:28]6. Navigating Company Acquisitions - [00:12:08]7. Leadership and Personal Development- [00:18:55]8. Outro - [00:24:13]Keywords Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, call booking rate, office culture, customer service representative, CSR, leadership, home service industry, one-to-one meetings, team communication, acquisitions, Nicole DeLisle, Paradise Home Services, business growth, employee motivation.

47 | Trust but Verify: Implementing Effective Systems for Your Team- Building Systems with Kristen Deese Part 2Episode Number: 47 Date: August 12, 2024Duration: 20:11 Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.com Co-Host: Kristen Deese Website: KristenDeese.comContact: Kristen@KristenDeese.com SummaryIn this episode, we delve deep into the critical importance of implementing effective systems in your business to ensure growth and efficiency. Justin & Kristen discuss how to successfully document and roll out these systems, engaging your team in the process and overcoming common pitfalls. Learn the power of the "trust but verify" approach and discover strategies to gain team buy-in and ownership for seamless system integration.Takeaways1. **Importance of Systems**: Systems are vital for preventing bottlenecks and ensuring consistency in operations.2. **Team Engagement**: Engaging your team in the process and explaining the "why" behind systems boosts buy-in and morale.3. **Avoiding Pitfalls**: Avoid common mistakes, such as not explaining the purpose behind system documentation.4. **Trust but Verify**: Implement a process of continuous check-ins and adjustments to ensure systems are followed and effective.5. **Influencer Strategy**: Use positive team influencers to beta test new systems before rolling them out company-wide.Chapters1. **Introduction to Systems** - 00:042. **The Importance of Systems** - 01:003. **Engaging Your Team** - 02:304. **Common Mistakes** - 04:005. **Trust but Verify** - 06:506. **Influencer Strategy for Implementation** - 09:107. **Continuous Improvement** - 11:008. **Conclusion and Call to Action** - 16:00KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Business Systems, Team Engagement, System Implementation, Trust but Verify, Leadership in Home Services, Documenting Processes, Effective Communication, System Efficiency, Customer Service Systems, Accounting Systems

46 | Why Your Business Needs Systems: Lessons from the Trenches- Building Systems with Kristen Deese Part 1Episode Number: 46Date: August 8, 2024Duration: 23:32Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comCo-Host: Kristen DeeseWebsite: ⁠KristenDeese.com⁠Contact: Kristen@KristenDeese.comSummaryIn this episode of Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Kristen & Justin Deese dive deep into the transformative power of systems in your business. Are you tired of being the bottleneck? Learn how implementing systems can streamline operations and set you free to focus on growth. We discuss the importance of documenting systems, the benefits of intentional actions, and practical steps to start building efficient processes even if you're a one-person operation. Discover strategies that transform chaos into clarity and ultimately, lead your business to success.TakeawaysStart Small: Begin implementing systems with your biggest pain points to see immediate improvement.Document Everything: Detailed documentation makes training easier and ensures consistency.Intentional Systems: Create intentional, written systems rather than relying on unintentional habits.Scheduled and Triggered Systems: Understand the difference and importance of both types.Leadership and Communication: Effective systems rely on strong leadership and clear communication.ChaptersIntroduction to Systems [00:02]Defining Systems and Their Importance [02:09]Challenges in Creating Systems [04:28]When to Start Creating Systems [06:43]Real-Life Examples and Lessons [08:59]Challenges with Scheduling [11:28]Handling Judgment Calls in Systems [13:50]Conclusion and Next Steps [18:27]Wrap-Up and Call to Action [20:51]Keywords:Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Business Systems, Documenting Systems, Small Business Growth, Leadership in Business, Systematic Business Growth, Effective Processes, Streamlining Operations, Business Efficiency, Technician Training, Business Strategies, Home Service Industry, Overcoming Business Challenges.JustinDeese.com KristenDeese.com

Private Equity and itsImpact on Home Services with Patrick Ritter with Leap PartnersEpisode Number: 45Date: July 29, 2024Duration: 24:01Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Patrick RitterWebsite: theleappartners.comSummary: In this episode, we are joined by Patrick Ritter, the CFO of Leap Partners, to delve into the world of private equity in the home services industry. Patrick shares his extensive experience in acquisitions, the strategies that private equity groups use to evaluate businesses, and how maintaining a strong company culture can be a significant advantage. We discuss the journey of Leap Service Partners and the parallels between home security and home services. Patrick offers practical advice for business owners about evaluating their businesses, understanding profitability, and the importance of planning for a potential sale or partnership before it becomes necessary. Get ready for insightful and actionable tips to transform your business approach!Takeaways:1. Importance of Accurate Financial Statements:Properly structured financial statements with clear margins by department are crucial for evaluating business performance.2. Role of Company Culture:A strong company culture plays a critical role in business success and can significantly impact both operational efficiency and acquisition desirability.3. Seamless Acquisition Process:Leap Partners prides itself on a smooth acquisition process, emphasizing the need for early preparation and clear communication.4. Understanding EBITDA:Knowing your EBITDA is essential for business valuation and improving long-term profitability.5. Involvement of Private Equity:Private equity groups are not only about providing capital but also bringing valuable operational experience and strategic guidance.Chapters:Introduction - [00:00]Welcome and Guest Introduction - [00:04]Journey of Leap Partners - [01:03]Importance of Company Culture - [06:30]Evaluating Home Service Businesses - [11:03]Understanding EBITDA - [12:40]Preparing for Acquisition - [15:11]Conclusion and Closing Thoughts - [18:25]Keywords:Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, Private Equity, Business Acquisition, Company Culture, Business Valuation, CFO Insights, Leap Partners, Home Services Industry, Financial Statements, EBITDA, Business Growth, Strategic Planning

Episode Number: 44 Date: July 23, 2024Duration: 1:32:04Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.com Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com Guest: Tersh Blissett Website: Service Emperor https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com/SummaryIn this episode, Justin Deese converses with Tersh Blissett, an accomplished entrepreneur in the HVAC industry. Tersh shares his journey from joining the Air Force and working in engineering to founding two successful HVAC companies, TriStar HVAC and Service Emperor. He discusses the challenges and strategies of running competing businesses, the importance of remote operations, going paperless, and leveraging automation in business. Additionally, Tersh delves into the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, particularly when working with a spouse.TakeawaysEntrepreneurial Journey: Tersh’s transition from engineering to HVAC and how he successfully built two competing HVAC businesses in the same market.Innovative Operations: The benefits of running a remote and paperless business.Automation: The pivotal role of automation in streamlining operations and increasing efficiency.Leadership and Family Balance: Insights on maintaining a work-life balance, especially when working alongside a spouse.Business Growth Strategies: How Tersh navigated through the housing market crash and grew his business.ChaptersIntroduction and Mission Statement - 00:01Tersh Blissett’s Background and Journey - 01:16Starting TriStar HVAC - 01:40Building Service Emperor - 03:04Innovative Business Strategies - 05:49Leadership and Management Styles - 11:03Work-Life Balance and Working with Spouse - 24:12Challenges and Overcoming Economic Downturns - 26:03Role of Automation in HVAC Business - 46:02Future Trends in the Industry - 50:11Closing Remarks and Outro - 01:23:34KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Tersh Blissett, Service Emperor, TriStar HVAC, Entrepreneur, Automation, Business Growth, Remote Operations, Work-Life Balance, Leadership, Innovation in HVAC, Paperless Business, Business Strategies, Economic, Service Business Mastery

Episode Number: 43Date: July 15, 2024Duration: 33:02Host: Justin DeeseContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comWebsite: www.JustinDeese.comGuest: Donnie HornbackWebsite: www.hornbackplumbing.comSummary:In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese sits down with Donnie Hornback from Hornback Plumbing in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Donnie shares his journey from starting Hornback Plumbing nearly two decades ago to navigating the challenges and rewards of running a family business. The conversation delves into the evolution of his business, the pivotal decision to become partners with Leap Service Partners, and the insights gained from watching his son, Jesse, grow into a leadership role. Donnie’s story is a testament to perseverance, strategic growth, and preparing the next generation for success.Takeaways:1. **Starting from the Ground Up:** Donnie shares how he started Hornback Plumbing single-handedly and grew it to a company with 23 employees focusing on residential plumbing services.2. **A Veteran's Perspective:** The influence of Donnie's time in the Coast Guard on his work ethic and approach to business.3. **Generational Transition:** The decision-making process behind passing the business to his son Jesse and the relief Jesse felt from partnering with Leap Service Partners.4. **Role of Private Equity:** Dispelling myths about private equity and emphasizing how Leap Service Partners helped streamline operations and reduce pressures on the business.5. **Evolving Leadership:** The transformation of Jesse’s role within the company from a general participant to a service manager, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and diverse perspectives.Chapters:- **0:00 - Introduction and Welcome**- **2:00 - Donnie’s Background and Start of Hornback Plumbing**- **5:00 - Military Influence on Business Practices**- **8:00 - Connecting with Leap Service Partners**- **11:00 - Generational Business Transition**- **14:00 - Jesse’s Role and Responsibilities**- **17:00 - Benefits of Private Equity Partnership**- **20:00 - Challenges and Solutions in Inventory Management**- **25:00 - Importance of Ride-Alongs for Management**- **30:00 - Embracing Technology in Plumbing Services**- **40:00 - Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook**Keywords:Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Hornback Plumbing, Elizabethtown, Kentucky, Family Business, Leadership, Leap Service Partners, Residential Plumbing, Business Growth, Military Veteran, Industry Trends, Inventory Management, Service Manager, Business Transition, Private Equity in Home Services, theleappartners.com

Episode Number: 42Date: July 8, 2024Duration: 37:28Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Tom PeregrinoWebsite: https://www.serviceworldexpo.com/SummaryIn this exciting episode of Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese sits down with Tom Peregrino, the President of Service Nation, to delve into the transformative potential of attending the ServiceWorld Expo 2024. They discuss the event's location at Orlando's Disney property, the networking opportunities, and the strategic insights that have the power to significantly grow your business. Tom and Justin share actionable advice on how to maximize the benefits of attending industry conferences and real-life stories that underscore the value of community and learning.Takeaways1. **The Importance of Networking**: Learn how the right connections at ServiceWorld can skyrocket your business.2. **Maximizing Conference Attendance**: Insights on strategic planning and attending the best breakout sessions.3. **Personal and Professional Growth**: Stories of how attending past events have led to significant business success.4. **The Setup and Venue**: Discover why Orlando's Disney property is the ideal location for learning and leisure.5. **Community and Support**: Understand the importance of being open and seeking advice from industry peers.Chapters1. **Introduction & Welcome** - 00:012. **Tom’s Background and Previous Episodes** - 00:293. **ServiceWorld Expo 2024 Overview** - 01:274. **Benefits of Attending the Expo** - 02:335. **Impactful Stories and Testimonials** - 06:396. **Networking Tips and Strategies** - 08:547. **Going All In: Best Practices** - 10:578. **Personal Stories of Transformation** - 13:289. **Golf Tournament and Other Activities** - 18:3310. **Getting Registered and Final Thoughts** - 24:0111. **Closing Remarks & Episode Wrap-up** - 32:06KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Service World Expo, Conference Networking, Business Growth, Leadership in Home Services, Service Nation, Orlando, Disney Property, Professional Development, Contractor Conferences, Networking Strategies, Transformative Business Events, Leadership Tips.