Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast
John Wilson
The Owned and Operated electrical, HVAC, and plumbing business growth podcast is hosted by John Wilson and Jack Carr. These two Home Service Business owners bring you weekly podcasts and daily content with multiple perspectives, actionable advice, and info on an ever-changing industry revolving around advertising, lead generation, and more. Join us every Tuesday for topical conversations that unlock the potential for your business growth. Covering topics from top-tier talent recruitment to mastering marketing strategies and scaling your home service business, the podcast aims to be your guide on the path to entrepreneurial success.For more information, visit www.ownedandoperated.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
10 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 54min
#227 How Small HVAC Businesses Are Disrupting the Industry
Dive into the challenges small HVAC businesses face with innovation and productivity due to labor shortages and seasonal demands. Discover how these nimble firms outpace larger competitors by embracing adaptability and technology. The discussion digs into the skepticism surrounding AI in the industry, highlighting the value of peer recommendations. Learn about achieving sustainable growth metrics post-pandemic, balancing profitability with expansion, and the importance of long-term vendor relationships for operational efficiency.
7 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 34min
#226 HVAC Owner Makes $4M/Month (Here’s How)
Brian Sloan, a key player at TR Miller, discusses scaling their HVAC business to an impressive $4 million monthly revenue. He shares strategies for managing seasonal challenges, enhancing operational efficiency, and implementing membership plans for recurring income. Brian emphasizes the importance of hiring for growth, retention strategies for technicians, and the creation of clear career paths. He also touches on adapting sales techniques and navigating competition, providing a comprehensive playbook for anyone looking to elevate their service business.
Jul 18, 2025 • 25sec
BONUS EPISODE - Where is JackQuisitions??
Exciting news unfolds as a new channel dedicated to Jackquisitions is launched! Dive deep into the world of business buying with Jack’s unique insights. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content by liking, following, and subscribing for the latest on acquisition strategies. This fresh channel promises to deliver engaging weekly updates and expert analysis, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs eager to grow their businesses.
16 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 44min
#224 Top Cash Flow Mistakes in Home Services and How to Fix Them
The hosts dive into the critical differences between cash flow and profit, revealing how misunderstandings can jeopardize a business. They share personal horror stories of cash flow struggles and emphasize the importance of automated savings and cash forecasting. Listeners gain insights on best practices for managing debt, navigating financial complexities, and making timely decisions to avoid cash crunches. With practical tips and real-life examples, this discussion is invaluable for anyone seeking to enhance their business's financial health and sustainability.
Jul 15, 2025 • 36min
#223 Can These WIERD Ideas Turn Into Million-Dollar Businesses?
Explore the quirky intersection of passion and profit as the hosts dive into unique businesses, from running an online store for Magic: The Gathering to cultivating mushrooms and farming ants. Discover how niche interests can turn into lucrative ventures, with insights on balancing multiple income streams and the economics behind unconventional markets. Laugh along as they share personal stories and examine fascinating possibilities like ski wax brands and marinas, all while aligning business with lifestyle goals.
Jul 11, 2025 • 42min
#222 Leaving Finance to Build a Legacy in HVAC
In this insightful conversation, Thomas Beebe, a former financial advisor turned HVAC entrepreneur from Blair, Nebraska, shares his journey of stepping into his family's business. He reveals the unexpected challenges of active management versus his initial plans for passive income. Thomas discusses the importance of remote leadership, the strategies that helped grow his company's revenue from $400,000 to over $1 million, and valuable lessons from a friend's messy acquisition. Gain insights into building a profitable, people-first business while navigating the complex service industry terrain.
13 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 41min
#221 No More Tech Turnover: How to Hire and Keep the Best
Discover effective strategies for hiring and retaining skilled HVAC and plumbing technicians. Gain insights into creating a consistent recruitment process and the importance of year-round hiring. Learn about competitive compensation and the critical role of onboarding in employee retention. Explore the challenges of seasonal workforce dynamics and budgeting for future talent needs. This discussion also covers the integration of technology in recruitment and the balance between branding and lead generation for business growth.
Jul 8, 2025 • 39min
#220 Buy vs. Build: Start or Acquire Your First Business?
The conversation dives deep into the dilemma of buying vs. building a business in the HVAC and plumbing sectors. Insights unfold on the immediate advantages of acquiring an existing operation and the importance of specialized staffing solutions. The hosts tackle financial strategies, risks, and market conditions, emphasizing the need for understanding personal strengths and limits. Real-world stories illuminate the complexities of navigating entrepreneurship versus traditional employment, making it a valuable resource for aspiring business owners.
Jul 4, 2025 • 47min
#219 What It Really Takes to Buy a Local Service Business in 2025
Chris Barr, a savvy entrepreneur who acquired a pressure washing company, shares his insightful journey into business acquisition. He details how he structured his financing, combining cash and earnouts effectively. Chris emphasizes the importance of building the right team, selecting specialized advisors, and navigating the complexities of due diligence. He also provides tips on evaluating financial and legal risks while avoiding red flags. This conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to dive into local service business acquisitions.
6 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 27min
#218 Why $20M Doesn’t Mean You’ve Made It
Exploring the reality of businesses making $20 million, the discussion highlights that revenue does not equal sophistication. Leadership challenges emerge as companies scale, requiring well-structured senior teams and effective delegation. The importance of internal promotions versus hiring externally is examined, along with the need for solid HR and marketing departments. Emphasizing leadership development, the talk reveals how a robust team can foster long-term growth and stability, proving that there's more to success than just hitting a financial milestone.
