

OWNR OPS Podcast
Austin Gray @theownerop
Starting a business by offering a service to your local community is one of the greatest entrepreneurial opportunities of our time. While most people search for a remote job and try to build the next tech unicorn, you can start a business in your own back yard.
Join your host, Austin Gray, as he shares tips from behind the scenes of starting and growing his own local service businesses in bite sized <10 min episodes.
PLUS, tune in for special guest interviews, where Austin hosts other entrepreneurs who have started local service businesses in markets across the US.
Join your host, Austin Gray, as he shares tips from behind the scenes of starting and growing his own local service businesses in bite sized <10 min episodes.
PLUS, tune in for special guest interviews, where Austin hosts other entrepreneurs who have started local service businesses in markets across the US.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 8, 2025 • 43min
Build A 7-Figure Trade School Business with Hector Resendez
💰 Join our Free OWNR OPS Skool Community to grow your local service biz: ➡️ https://skool.com/ownropsAustin Gray speaks with Hector Resendez, the mastermind behind Trade School Secrets, a unique platform that helps businesses solve their staffing problems by leveraging trade schools.Hector reveals how virtual reality is revolutionizing the traditional trade school model, making it faster and more accessible for people to gain certifications.Hector discusses:The benefits of building a virtual trade school in today’s workforceHow to use the WIOA grant to fund your trade school tuitionThe financial model behind scaling a successful trade school businessWhy trade schools are a game changer for businesses struggling to find skilled talentHow to position your trade school for an exit and add value to your businessThis episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, operators, and those interested in the future of education in skilled trades.Listen in and discover how you can scale a 7-figure trade school business that not only trains but provides long-term career opportunities.🔥 Mentioned in This Episode🔥We use Jobber to manage our quoting, scheduling, & invoicing➡️ Get 20% off your first 6 months: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops📚 Bookkeeping: Get 50% off bookkeeping for 3 months with the Home Service Bookkeeping Pros: https://dialedinbookkeeping.com/ownrops🚀 Get ranked #1 On Google With Stryker Digital SEO: https://stryker-digital.com/?el=ooWant to learn more about starting and scaling your own service-based business?📰 Sign up for the OWNR OPS Newsletter: → ownrops.com/newsletterDon’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more episodes with entrepreneurs sharing their best insights and success stories!

Aug 1, 2025 • 48min
How Real Service Businesses Are Using AI to Save Time, Cut Costs & Scale Faster
Nik of Nikonomics, an AI expert, dives deep into how service businesses can leverage AI to enhance efficiency and cut costs. He reveals real-world use cases, like a snow plow company utilizing AI for scalable SOPs. The conversation includes strategies for documenting processes and training AI, as well as creating effective job descriptions. Nik emphasizes the importance of early AI adoption and shares useful tools like ChatGPT, Descript, and OpenPhone to streamline operations and boost productivity in small businesses.

Jul 25, 2025 • 44min
Tim Built A $83k / Month Handyman Business
Tim Leary, founder of Handy's Handyman Services, shares his inspiring journey of scaling his business to $83k monthly in just a year. He discusses clever strategies for lead generation, including a remarkable conversion rate boost from 25% to 55%. Tim reveals the secrets behind automating customer follow-ups and highlights the importance of using tech tools like Google LSA and job management software. With practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, he encourages open collaboration within the handyman industry to enhance standards and profitability.

10 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 52min
$5 Mastermind: How Shannon Jean Built a 39K Audience in Just 9 Months
In this conversation with Shannon Jean, a serial entrepreneur known for his expertise in liquidation and social media growth, he shares how he rapidly grew his following on X from 500 to 39K. He introduces his Whistle → Workhorse → Whale strategy and discusses creating products like a $5 mastermind and leveraging low-cost offers to attract higher-paying clients. Tips on building a global team, effective content creation, and the importance of adapting to market needs illuminate his journey. Shannon’s insights provide a roadmap for turning attention into scalable revenue.

12 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 49min
Build A Brand That Speaks To Your Ideal Customer
In this enlightening discussion, Brian Sooy, a certified brand architect with over 30 years of experience, shares invaluable insights into branding for service-based businesses. He highlights common pitfalls companies make, emphasizing that branding goes beyond logos to focus on messaging and storytelling. Brian introduces his CARE framework, which enhances brand clarity and relevance. He illustrates how effective branding sets the stage for premium pricing and team attraction, providing practical strategies to help businesses differentiate themselves and resonate with their customers.

9 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 55min
How a $1.2K Facebook Ad Campaign Turned into $40K in Revenue
Asa Hunt, the founder of Big Horn Painting, shares his inspiring journey from tech sales to entrepreneurship in the painting industry. He discusses how he leveraged Facebook Ads, focusing on engaging videos, to boost his business's revenue to over $300K in the first year. Asa emphasizes the significance of building strong referral relationships, mastering email drip campaigns, and using innovative tools like OpenPhone. With practical insights, he empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges and scale smarter in their ventures.

17 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 1h 5min
$1.6M Painting BIZ Owner Built A Software Startup
Tanner Mullen, an entrepreneur and founder of Drip Jobs, shares his journey from a painting business owner to a software startup leader. He discusses the significance of automating lead processes and enhancing customer experience. Tanner emphasizes that branding goes beyond logos to the stories customers tell. He highlights the challenges of integrating automation tools and stresses empathy in communication to optimize customer engagement. The conversation offers valuable insights for service-based entrepreneurs seeking to grow their impact and streamline operations.

Jun 19, 2025 • 53min
HVAC/PLUMBING STARTUP: BUILDING FROM 0 - $200k / MONTH
Tyler Griffin, founder of Swift Pro, shares his journey from building an HVAC and plumbing business to scaling it successfully. He emphasizes the importance of professional presentation and aligning team values for growth. Topics include pivoting from solar to HVAC, leveraging reviews for brand legitimacy, and the critical role of local SEO. Tyler also discusses the challenges of transitioning from owner/operator to CEO, the significance of a people-first culture, and his vision for the future. It's a goldmine of insights for aspiring entrepreneurs in the blue-collar sector!

Jun 13, 2025 • 57min
Starting a Stump Grinding Business With No Experience
In this episode of the OWNR OPS Podcast, Mike Compton of SWVA Stump Co. joins Austin Gray to discuss the journey of starting a stump grinding business from scratch. Mike shares how he transitioned from a W2 job to becoming an owner-operator, his approach to pricing jobs, and the ups and downs he encountered in his first five weeks of business. They also talk about the importance of taking fast action, learning from mistakes, and building credibility in a local market.Mike’s journey is a perfect example of how entrepreneurs can start small, make mistakes, and grow through persistence and hard work. If you're thinking about starting a service-based business or just want some motivation, this episode is for you. Tune in for insights into equipment purchasing, marketing strategies, and overcoming challenges as a new business owner.Text us your questions about starting your business at 970-585-OWNR!This episode is brought to you by: 🔥 We use Jobber to manage our quoting, scheduling, & invoicing➡️ Get 20% off your first 6 months here: https://go.getjobber.com/ownrops📖 Bookkeeping: Get 50% off bookkeeping for 3 months with the Home Service Bookkeeping Pros: https://dialedinbookkeeping.com/ownrops🚀 Get ranked #1 On Google With Stryker Digital SEO: https://stryker-digital.com/?el=ooWant to learn more about starting and scaling your own service-based business?📰 Sign up for the OWNR OPS Newsletter: → https://www.ownrops.com/newsletter💰Join our Free OWNR OPS Skool Community to grow your local service biz:➡ https://skool.com/ownropsThanks for listening to the OWNR OPS Podcast, where we help entrepreneurs start and grow local service businesses. Join us every Friday for new episodes!

4 snips
Jun 5, 2025 • 17min
3 Learning Lessons from $90M Business Owner
Discover powerful insights on scaling a service-based business effectively. Learn why building strong systems is crucial before pursuing growth. Explore the impact of paid advertising and sales funnels on success. Uncover the importance of lead tracking with tools like Google Tag Manager for optimizing your marketing efforts. Additionally, find out how tagging customers can enhance their lifetime value. This is all about actionable tips to elevate your business to the next level!