OWNR OPS Podcast

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!

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!

This week on the OWNR OPS Podcast, Austin Gray speaks with Marlena, the co-founder of G&M Outdoor Services, who has played a crucial role in scaling the business to $6M in revenue. Marlena and her brothers provide year-round services, including snow removal, excavation, and landscaping, and they’ve perfected how to manage seasonal challenges and business overhead.💰Join our Free OWNR OPS Skool Community to grow your local service biz In this episode, Marlena shares:How to navigate employee retention during the off-seasonThe secrets behind snow plowing contracts and how to win bidsManaging heavy equipment and seasonal expensesHow Jobber has been a game-changer in reducing administrative time and improving customer serviceFinancing options for clients and the role of technology in making business operations more efficientWhether you’re in the outdoor services business or running a similar service-based company, Marlena’s insights are invaluable for overcoming seasonal hurdles, managing client relationships, and scaling your business efficiently.🔥This episode is brought to you by: 🚀 Jobber – Streamlining your service-based business💼 Stryker Digital – Helping service businesses grow online📞 QUO- Business Phone System That Scales With You: Get 20% off your first 3 months. ⁠http://quo.com/ownropsTune in to learn how Marlena’s hustle and strategy have fueled growth—and how you can apply these lessons to your own business. 🎧 Subscribe for more actionable business tips from the OWNR OPS Podcast.📰 Join the OWNR OPS NewsletterFollow us on social media for updates and more business insights! Instagram: @OwnerOps Twitter: @OwnerOps