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

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.

Debunking Common Accounting Myths in the Home Service Industry with Kristen Deese| Accounting for Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, and other Home ServicesEpisode Number: 41Date: July 1, 2024Duration: 24:20Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comCo-Host : Kristen DeeseEmail: Kristen@KristenDeese.comWebsite: www.KristenDeese.comSummaryIn this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese discuss common accounting myths in the home service industry. They debunk three myths: 1) Just because you're not a numbers person doesn't mean you can't understand your numbers; 2) Using QuickBooks Online's automatic transaction feature does not make you more efficient;  3) A monthly financial review is not enough to know where you are in your business. They emphasize the importance of monitoring numbers throughout the month and using feedback loops to make adjustments in real-time.TakeawaysDon't believe the myth that you can't understand your numbers if you're not a numbers person. With the right training and tools, anyone can grasp their business's financials.Be cautious when using QuickBooks Online's automatic transaction feature. It may not save you time and can lead to inaccuracies in your financial records.A monthly financial review is not enough to stay on top of your business's financial health. Implement daily or weekly monitoring systems to make real-time adjustments.Feedback loops, including accounting, customer reviews, and conversion rates, are essential for running a successful business. Use your financial reports as a feedback tool to guide your decision-making.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Mission of Freedom Blueprint Podcast01:38 The Importance of Accounting in the Home Service Industry07:07 Myth #2: QuickBooks Online's Automatic Transaction Feature Makes You More Efficient11:29 Myth #3: Monthly Financial Review is Enough to Know Your Business's Financial Health13:48 The Importance of Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback LoopsKeywordsaccounting, myths, home service industry, numbers, QuickBooks Online, financial review, feedback loops, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Virtual CFO

LIVE '25 REGISTRATION: Power Profit WorkshopBuilding an Empire: How Tommy Mello Overcame Adversity to Achieve GreatnessEpisode Number: 40Date: June 24, 2024Duration: 1:03:32Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Tommy MelloWebsite: www.TommyMello.comSummaryIn this episode, I sit down with the dynamic Tommy Mello, a seasoned entrepreneur in the garage door industry. We dive deep into Tommy’s journey from hard beginnings to creating a multi-million dollar business. Tommy shares key insights on resilience, leadership, and the importance of investing in the right team and technology.TakeawaysResilience Through Failure: Learn how Tommy turned numerous failures into building blocks for success.Leadership in Crisis: Understand the critical role of leadership in overcoming unexpected challenges.Investment in People and Tech: Discover the impactful benefits of hiring the right people and leveraging advanced technology.Raising Service Standards: Find out effective methods to elevate service quality while increasing prices.Secrets of Success: Grasp the importance of discipline, strategic risk-taking, and continuous learning.ChaptersIntroduction - 00:00Tommy's Journey to Success - 05:00Leadership Lessons Learned - 15:00Investing in Technology and People - 25:00Raising Service Standards - 35:00Secrets to Sustained Success - 45:00Closing Remarks - 55:00KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Tommy Mello, Leadership, Resilience, Business Growth, Service Standards, Investment in Technology, Hiring the Right Team, Garage Door Industry, Positive Mindset, Business Strategies, Garage Door Freedom, Home Service Freedom

Freedom Blueprint" Podcast Show NotesPodcast Episode Title: Molding a Family Business: Success Across Generations at Tim FergusonEpisode Number: 39Date: June 17, 2024Duration: 49:34Host: Justin DeeseContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Jacob Hamilton from Tim Ferguson Plumbing, Heating, and ElectricalSummaryJacob Hamilton, from Tim Ferguson Plumbing, Air, and Electric, shares his journey of joining the family business and eventually becoming the general manager. He discusses the transition from nursing to the trades and how skills like sense of urgency and documentation from his nursing background have helped him in the service industry. Jacob also talks about the process of selling the business and partnering with private equity, highlighting the positive experience he has had with Leap Service Partners. He emphasizes the importance of having access to industry experts and tools, as well as the value of accountability and collaboration among the owners. In this conversation, Jacob Hamilton discusses the importance of culture in a business and how he took on the responsibility of setting the tone for his company. He emphasizes the need to hire for attitude and train for aptitude, as technical skills can be taught. Jacob also highlights the challenge of attracting the next generation to the trades and the need for businesses to adapt to their preferred communication channels, such as TikTok. Lastly, he advises focusing on developing decision-making skills and being able to make quick decisions in a fast-paced world.TakeawaysSkills acquired in one industry can be transferable to another, such as the sense of urgency and documentation skills from nursing that have helped Jacob in the service industry.Having access to industry experts and tools, as well as a supportive and collaborative partnership, can greatly benefit a business.Documenting processes and having clear systems in place is crucial for smooth operations and continuity, especially during transitions or when key team members are absent.Accountability and transparency among owners can drive performance and encourage continuous improvement. Culture is one of the most important aspects of a business and should be intentionally cultivated.Hiring for attitude and training for aptitude is a successful approach, especially in industries facing a shortage of skilled workers.The next generation has more choices than ever before and businesses need to adapt to their preferred communication channels.Developing strong decision-making skills and being able to make quick decisions is crucial in a fast-paced world.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tim Ferguson Plumbing, Air, and Electric02:02 Jacob's Transition from Nursing to the Trades06:47 The Importance of Sense of Urgency in the Service Business08:57 Transitioning from Nursing to Running a Home Service Business15:36 Selling the Business and Partnering with Private Equity25:44 The Size of the Team and the Importance of Culture29:31 The Shift in Mindset of the Younger Generation in the Trades31:03 Recruiting for Attitude and Personality in the Trades31:55 The Importance of Effective Training33:13 Hiring for Attitude, Training for Aptitude36:05 Challenges of Recruiting the Next Generation42:47 The Need for Efficient Decision-Making in BusinessKeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, family business, plumbing, HVAC, electric, nursing, sense of urgency, documentation, private equity, partnership, Leap Service Partners, industry experts, tools, accountability, collaboration, culture, attitude, aptitude, hiring, training, next generation, trades, communication, decision-making

38 | From the Ground Up: Building Success in HVAC with Philip FerraraShow NotesEpisode Number: 38 Date: June 10, 2024Duration: 35:24Host: Justin Deese  Website: www.JustinDeese.com  Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.comGuest: Philip Ferrara Company: Liberty AirWebsite: www.libertyairac.comSummaryPhilip Ferrara, owner of Liberty Air, shares his journey of starting and growing his HVAC business. He started the company 16 years ago with just himself and a truck, and now has a team of technicians. Philip emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with other contractors and getting coaches who have been through the challenges of running a home service business. He also discusses his marketing strategy, including the slogan 'We Love Cool People,' and introduces his new software, DartBid, which is specifically designed for the HVAC industry. In this conversation, Philip and Justin discuss their involvement with Service Nation. TakeawaysSurround yourself with other contractors and get coaches who have been through the challenges of running a home service business.Don't try to figure it out on your own - seek guidance and advice from experienced professionals.Develop a strong marketing strategy that resonates with your target audience.Delegate tasks and responsibilities to your team members to avoid burnout and focus on areas where you can excel.Invest in software and tools that can streamline your business operations and improve customer experience. Service Nation is a platform that Philip and Justin are involved with, and they discuss their upcoming speaking engagements for the organization.Philip talks about his role as the Vice President of Business Development in his company, while Justin mentions his involvement in a buyout with a private equity group.They discuss the benefits of using DarkBid software for contractors and the potential for collaboration between their companies.The importance of having a strong social media presence is highlighted, and Philip expresses his interest in learning more about it.They also mention the value of attending industry conferences and the opportunities for networking and learning.**Chapters**00:00 Introduction and Background03:02 Starting the Business and the Power of Words08:08 The Challenges of Growing a Business16:18 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship26:48 Delegation and Team Management31:21 Introducing DartBid: HVAC Proposal Software32:32 Involvement with Service Nation and Speaking Engagements34:03 Roles in Their Respective Companies and Collaboration Opportunities**Keywords**  Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Entrepreneurship, Growth Strategy, Market Expansion, Home Service Industry, Resilience, Strategic Marketing, Gainesville Florida, Liberty Air, Visionary Thinking, Transition Challenges, DartBid.com

Episode Number: 37Episode Title: Beyond the Toolbox: How VR is Changing Trades TrainingDate: June 3, 2024Duration: 24:57Host: Justin Deese Website: JustinDeese.com Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com Guest: Dan Clapper Guest Website: www.interplaylearning.comSummaryIn this engaging episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese sits down with Dan Clapper from Interplay, an innovative company that's revolutionizing training in the trades. They discuss how Interplay uses simulations and virtual reality to enhance the learning experience for technicians across various fields, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical work.TakeawaysInnovative Training Solutions: Learners can engage with practical simulations, making technical training both effective and exciting.Professional Development: Interplay provides structured career paths, helping technicians advance from beginners to seasoned professionals.Engagement Across Generations: While younger technicians readily adopt new technologies, there are ways to engage older workers to enhance efficiency and skills.Chapters00:04 - Introduction to Dan Clapper and Interplay00:30 - Overview of Interplay's Offerings01:00 - Gamification of Trade Learning03:02 - Dan's Background in Trades04:36 - Technological Evolution in Trades06:32 - Customizing Learning Paths09:00 - Adapting Training for Different Age Groups12:28 - Maximizing Worksite Efficiency14:23 - Ideal Business Models for Interplay’s ServicesKeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Virtual Reality, Online Training, Career Development, Technical Skills Improvement, Trade Education, Leadership in Trades, Innovation in Learning, Professional Growth, Technician Training, Simulation Learning, Interplay Learning, interplaylearning.com

Episode Number: 36Title: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Secrets from a Home Service LeaderDate: May 27, 2024Duration: 31:26Host: Justin DeeseWebsite: JustinDeese.comContact: Justin@JustinDeese.comSummaryIn this invigorating episode, Justin Deese discusses the transformative power of ride-alongs in the home service industry, focusing on creating lasting customer relations and strengthening team dynamics. Dive into strategies that make business operations enjoyable while boosting profitability and team morale.TakeawaysRide-Alongs as a Strategic Tool: Learn how implementing regular ride-alongs can enhance direct feedback, build better connections, and provide genuine insights into field operations.Impact on Business Culture and Cost: Understanding how ride-alongs can lower marketing costs, improve company culture, and lead to a more cohesive team environment.Practical Steps for Implementation: Gain actionable insights on how to conduct effective ride-alongs that lead to staff development and heightened sales performance.ChaptersIntroduction and Episode Mission (00:01)The Importance and Impact of Ride-Alongs (01:00)Leadership Insights and Business Strategies (03:12)Overcoming Common Hurdles in Ride-Alongs (07:44)Ride-Along Varieties and Their Specific Goals (10:12)Key Observations and Ground Rules for Success (14:57)KeywordsPlumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Ride-Alongs, Customer Relationships, Team Building, Business Growth, Home Service Leadership, Profitability, Business Operations, Staff Development, Sales Improvement.

Brandon Brown, author of 'Cool: The Highs and Lows of the HVAC Life,' shares his inspiring journey in the HVAC industry, discussing his book's inspiration and the importance of community and resilience. He talks about his experience in volunteering for hurricane cleanup, offers advice for small business owners, and emphasizes the significance of giving back. Brandon's story highlights the rewards of persistence and the essential role of support in personal and professional growth.