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
Jul 15, 2025 • 36min
#223 Can These WEIRD 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.
34 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.
4 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 34min
#217 We Hit $1M Profit — Here’s Exactly How We Did It
Discover the secrets to hitting the coveted $1 million in EBITDA in the HVAC industry. The hosts share their journey of overcoming operational challenges and maximizing sales efficiency. Learn about the importance of technician retention and how strategic automation can cut costs while boosting output. They break down the significance of data-driven decisions and the art of refining sales processes. Plus, explore how to create a thriving environment for top talent and the roadmap to achieving a $10 million revenue goal.
Jun 27, 2025 • 47min
#216 How One Operator Is Making Big Waves in Business Acquisitions
In this insightful conversation, Chris Barr, a first-time buyer diving into business acquisitions, shares his journey of navigating the complex landscape of smart deal structures. He discusses the importance of walking away from incompatible deals, like an art-framing shop that didn’t fit his vision. Listeners will learn about crafting offers that combine cash and earnouts, sourcing off-market deals, and the significance of building a credible personal brand. Chris also offers tips on due diligence and negotiation strategies that can lead to successful acquisitions.
10 snips
Jun 26, 2025 • 44min
#215 Why You’re Not Getting Promoted.... and How to Fix It
Brandon Niro, President of Wilson, shares his expertise on climbing the corporate ladder within home service companies. He reveals that 30-40% of their team members are promoted internally, emphasizing the importance of a growth mindset and proactivity. They discuss Wilson’s 52-week Emerging Leaders program, which develops essential leadership skills. Topics include the significance of emotional intelligence, clear communication about career progression, and how initiative can pave the way for future leadership roles. Tune in for actionable advice on advancing your career!
9 snips
Jun 24, 2025 • 58min
#214 How Great Leaders Scale Service Businesses Fast
Discover the essential leadership traits that drive success in service businesses. Learn how Standard Operating Procedures can streamline operations and promote team autonomy. Hear about the journey of scaling from 30 to over 60 employees and the shift from tactical management to strategic development. Unpack the importance of effective delegation, emotional intelligence, and maintaining operational efficiency during rapid growth. Explore the role of AI in enhancing customer service and the significance of building a transparent company culture.
