

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

17 snips
Jan 7, 2025 • 48min
#159 - Turning Data into Dollars: How to Use AI in The Trades with Sebastian Jimenez
Sebastian Jimenez, an expert in AI and founder of Rilla, shares how AI is revolutionizing the home improvement industry. He discusses the benefits of Rilla's virtual ride-along software for enhancing sales and training. Listeners learn about analyzing sales conversations to boost team performance and identifying ideal customers. Sebastian emphasizes the importance of adapting communication speed for better sales outcomes and explores the growing role of technology in maintaining competitiveness in the trades.

24 snips
Dec 31, 2024 • 42min
#158 Pricing Effectively Based On Your Efficiency
Discover the secrets of strategic pricing and why gross profit surpasses gross margin in importance. John and Jack share their experience with 46% year-over-year growth, highlighting effective marketing partnerships. Learn how handling discounts and boosting inside sales can drive revenue. They tackle common pricing challenges in plumbing and emphasize the need for aligned team perceptions. With insights on operational efficiency, commission structures, and staying ahead of AI trends, this conversation is packed with actionable advice for thriving in the service industry.

12 snips
Dec 24, 2024 • 31min
#157 Your Questions, Answered: Commission, Supplier Leverage, and Training Strategies
A live Q&A dives into crucial topics for home service business owners. Discover strategies for competitive compensation and impactful training programs. Learn how AI can elevate call center efficiency. Explore ways to manage seasoned teams and create scalable HVAC models. Attract top talent through strong benefits and simplify processes for growth. Hear about impressive year-over-year growth milestones and the role of effective partnerships in achieving success.

32 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 48min
#156 LEGENDS: From the Trades to $110 Million with Nexgen Founder Ismael Valdez
Ismael Valdez, founder of Nexgen, dives into his remarkable journey from starting in the trades at 18 to scaling his HVAC company to $110 million in just four years. He shares essential strategies for growth, including innovative compensation models and the crucial role of a strong sales team. Ismael also discusses the shift to digital lead generation and the importance of engaging content in customer retention. Balancing personal life with rapid growth is a key theme, offering insights for aspiring entrepreneurs aiming for success without sacrificing well-being.

9 snips
Dec 10, 2024 • 52min
#155 - Merging Cultures: Challenges In Home Service Acquisitions
Nathan Lenahan, co-owner of Bart's Heating and Air, shares how he scaled his HVAC business from $1 million to over $10 million through strategic acquisitions. He dives into the complexities of merging cultures, brand management, and the importance of effective communication during transitions. Nathan discusses the challenges of retaining staff, rethinking compensation structures, and maintaining company values. He also highlights the shift from acquisition-led growth towards organic expansion, providing insights that are crucial for navigating the home service industry.

20 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 49min
#154 - Business Cost Management and Sustainable Home Service Growth
In this discussion, Luke Weiden, the General Manager at Deljo Heating and Cooling, shares his expertise in cost management and sustainable strategies for home service businesses. He emphasizes the importance of profitability for sustainability and effective expense management. Luke highlights how leadership development and optimizing field efficiency can drive growth. The conversation also covers enhancing operational efficiencies through technology and the critical balance of maintaining high service quality while managing costs.

16 snips
Nov 26, 2024 • 28min
#153 - AI In Customer Service with Hatch and Chris Bache
In this engaging conversation, Chris Bache, CEO of Hatch, shares his expertise on integrating AI into customer service for home service businesses. He discusses how Hatch has evolved from a small startup to a market leader, helping over 2000 businesses improve their engagement. The importance of quick follow-ups, personalized messaging, and compliance in automated communications is explored. Chris also highlights success stories and offers insights into leveraging AI for sustained business growth, showcasing its role in enhancing both customer interaction and operational efficiency.

Nov 19, 2024 • 45min
#152 - Advice for Selling a Home Service Business with Leap Partners
Justin Deese, a partner at Leap Partners and former plumbing business owner, shares invaluable insights on selling home service businesses. He emphasizes understanding financial performance and maintaining company culture during acquisitions. The discussion highlights the significance of a collaborative approach for former owners transitioning into shareholder roles. Strategies for successful growth in recession-resistant industries, as well as leveraging AI for efficiency, are explored, offering practical advice for current and aspiring business owners.

10 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 41min
#151 - From Leads to Revenue: Maximizing Your Marketing ROI with Sam Preston
Sam Preston, CEO of Service Scalers, shares his expertise on maximizing marketing ROI for home service businesses. He discusses how to track lead sources effectively and the importance of a well-optimized website over a flashy one. Sam emphasizes the power of SEO and Google Ads in driving qualified leads, while revealing strategies that fueled his company’s explosive growth. He also covers measuring marketing performance, managing costs per lead, and adapting to Google's evolving landscape, ensuring businesses can scale efficiently.

Nov 5, 2024 • 59min
#150 - LEGENDS: From Bankruptcy to $75 Million with EcoPlumber and Aaron Gaynor
Aaron Gaynor, founder of Eco Plumbers, shares his incredible journey from bankruptcy to building a $75 million home service business. He stresses the importance of having a bold vision and focusing on one trade initially. The conversation dives into the critical role of customer reviews and social validation, as well as the value of strong vendor relationships. Gaynor also highlights the significance of mastering one service before expansion and discusses strategies for navigating competitive markets.


