
From the Yellow Chair
Home Service Industry marketing and branding gurus, Crystal Williams and Emily Fleniken speak the language of contractors by talking condensers, co-op dollars, service agreements, and equipment warranties, but also the language of entrepreneurs by talking ROI, creative strategy, trending tactics, employee retention, and community engagement. You’ll be entertained by the comical banter, but informed by the holistic approach to marketing and branding. On the daily, you’ll find this dynamic duo working the grind at Lemon Seed Marketing, but this podcast is an outlet for us to share their experiences with the masses, From the Yellow Chair.
Latest episodes

Feb 25, 2025 • 51min
"Cracking the Code: Purchase Cycles, Messaging, and Marketing for Home Services with Tom Casey"
Send us a textUnleash the potential of your trades business with insights from Tom Casey, master advisor at Best Postcards and acclaimed contractor, as he cuts through the noise of self-proclaimed marketing gurus. Discover how to differentiate hype from reality, and why adopting a pragmatic, BS-filtered approach is essential for successful marketing in the trades industry. This episode promises to unpack the significance of staying consistent in training, marketing, and investment while making informed decisions based on purchase cycles to drive business growth and sustainability.Explore the diverse marketing and purchase strategies unique to different service sectors like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and pest control. Tom discusses the distinct cycles and demands of each, highlighting how understanding these nuances can refine your strategic branding and customer retention efforts. Learn why building a known, liked, and trusted brand is fundamental, and why relying purely on digital marketing is not a long-term solution. By crafting a holistic approach, you can effectively manage budgets and create lasting customer relationships.Crafting compelling marketing messages is no easy task, but this episode provides valuable insights into the psychology of buyers and the art of clear, concise communication. Tom shares how to avoid the pitfalls of generalist agencies and the importance of a singular, memorable point in advertising. Embrace the power of aggressive guarantees and exceptional service to foster a strong brand identity that stands out in a competitive market. With Tom's wealth of experience, this episode is a treasure trove of strategies to help you dominate your market with consistency and focus.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Feb 18, 2025 • 36min
Building Success: John DeLaurier on Roofing Innovation, ProLine, and Entrepreneurship
Send us a textWhat if you could transform your roofing business into a powerhouse of efficiency and customer satisfaction? Join us as we welcome John Deloria, co-founder of ProLine, to explore this possibility. John's journey from mission trips to becoming an industry innovator is filled with lessons on integrity, work-life balance, and the art of building a business that's both process-driven and profitable. His unique perspective, shaped by a background in landscape architecture, brings fresh insights into the critical role of robust processes in achieving business success.Unlock the secrets to enhancing customer experience with CRM systems specifically designed for the roofing and HVAC industries. John's expertise shines through as he explains how ProLine, a CRM tailored for roofing, automates communication and streamlines follow-ups, ensuring no lead is overlooked. Discover the common pitfalls businesses face when underutilizing CRM tools and learn how to fully harness these resources to elevate your customer interactions and business efficiency. This episode is a goldmine of strategies to simplify and modernize your business practices to meet today's market demands.Dive into the customer journey in the roofing industry and learn how to balance customer needs with team management to optimize service delivery. John shares his expertise on creating a seamless experience for customers by simplifying processes and setting clear expectations. We also highlight the importance of partnerships like ProLine and Lemon Seed Marketing in supporting businesses beyond just selling software. With John's guidance, learn how to leverage branding and media strategies to enhance customer acquisition and engagement. Tune in for an episode packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for innovation and growth in the roofing industry.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Feb 11, 2025 • 51min
Behind the Scenes of Our Client Quarterly Trainings With Ben Stark From Go Time Success Group
Send us a textWhat if you could unlock the secrets of skyrocketing your business revenue for 2025? Get ready to uncover Lemon Seed's specialized quarterly training that centers on operational efficiencies, competitive pricing, and effective marketing. We dive into the nitty-gritty of tracking average ticket values and maximizing lifetime customer value, essential tactics for propelling your business towards success. Despite some technical hiccups with Go Time Success Group, the anticipation for their insights remains high as we navigate these critical strategies together.Strategic planning and training are the backbone of any thriving business, and this episode highlights why having a long-term vision is non-negotiable. By aligning decision-makers with your company’s core philosophy, as demonstrated by our experiences with McWilliams and Son, you can transform your enterprise into a wealth-generating powerhouse. We also delve into the importance of not just technical skills but also character and soft skills in training, ensuring your team isn’t just skilled, but also well-rounded and motivated. Striking the right balance in training approaches is crucial to avoid the traps of over-saturation or neglect.Marketing blunders and operational missteps can be costly, and we address these head-on, especially for contractors. From calculating lead requirements accurately to fostering a supportive organizational structure, these elements are pivotal for sustained growth. We unpack the significance of cohesive teams and well-set KPIs to maintain profitability, especially in competitive arenas like Dallas-Fort Worth. Building a high-value, winning team involves more than skill—it requires nurturing a positive environment with recognition and appreciation. Listen as we explore how cohesive marketing efforts, paired with robust internal dynamics, drive success and ensure your company thrives.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Feb 4, 2025 • 29min
Revolutionizing Technician Development and Its Marketing Impact
Send us a textUnlock the secrets to exceptional technician training and business success with our special guest, Danielle Wernert, a visionary leader who has transformed the training landscape for over 500 technicians. By tuning in, you'll discover how to bridge the gap in technical training and embrace a culture of learning and adaptability. Danielle shares her journey and insights on fostering a mindset shift that encourages experienced technicians to welcome new technologies and methodologies. Learn how a family-owned business successfully created a training academy to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled talent in the trades.Our discussion also highlights the vital connection between stellar customer satisfaction and effective technician training. Discover how five-star reviews not only elevate your marketing strategies but also help your business shine among potential customers. We explore the synergy required among sales, technical, CSR, and marketing teams to optimize performance. Technicians are encouraged to educate homeowners on potential upgrades, empowering them to make informed decisions and enhancing trust, which, in turn, drives additional service investments and business growth.In an engaging twist, we dive into innovative training methods that make learning both enjoyable and effective, moving beyond mundane presentations. From creative games like Safety Jenga to the use of funny video clips, we explore how leadership can set the tone for a culture of learning and adaptability. For smaller businesses, owners might need to lead by example, stepping out of comfort zones to partner with specialized companies for comprehensive training programs. Discover how scalable training solutions not only enhance brand perception but also contribute to building a loyal customer base and a successful business.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Jan 28, 2025 • 54min
Owning your community with a fantastic brand!
Send us a textStephanie Postel, co-owner and COO of Anchor Heating and Cooling, takes us on an inspiring journey of branding and marketing success. In this episode, we uncover Stephanie's secrets to transforming her company into a thriving business in just three years. From her background in monogramming and embroidery to her experience as a Kappa Delta sorority member, Stephanie brings a unique perspective to the power of branding with pride and consistency. Join us as we explore the importance of establishing a strong brand presence, community involvement, and strategic marketing initiatives that have propelled Anchor Heating and Cooling to new heights.Discover the keys to strategic branding and pricing from Stephanie's firsthand experience in the plumbing, heating, and air industry. Learn how setting appropriate pricing from the start allowed Stephanie and her partner to invest in branding, creating a cohesive and recognizable company image. We delve into the dual approach needed in marketing, combining continuous brand building with targeted lead generation. Stephanie also shares the power of leveraging social media platforms like TikTok to engage audiences and build a strong community presence. Uncover the impact of a simple yet effective $7 marketing concept that showcases the transformative power of well-planned marketing initiatives.In this episode, we explore comprehensive marketing strategies and the importance of maintaining a strong brand presence and customer service strategy. Stephanie shares valuable lessons on creating structured marketing campaigns, drawing parallels between organizing children's spaces and developing successful marketing plans. She emphasizes the significance of living a company's mission and vision authentically, and the power of storytelling to build connections with communities. Discover how a clear plan, entrepreneurial spirit, and a willingness to take risks contribute to business growth and differentiation. Join us as we sip some lemonade with Stephanie and dive into the refreshing world of Lemon Seed Marketing.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Jan 21, 2025 • 35min
Heating Up the Market: Rory Krueger on Geothermal, Growth, and a Brand Refresh
Send us a textUnlock the secrets of successful rebranding and family business dynamics with our esteemed guest, Rory Krueger. Rory shares his transformative journey of steering a Missouri-based family-owned business from being a mechanical contractor to a company that resonates deeply with homeowners, embracing the charm of old-fashioned values. Discover how Krueger's strategic brand refresh, with elements like wood grain siding on their trucks, plays a pivotal role in reflecting their core values and enhancing community visibility. This episode promises to impart valuable lessons on creating a compelling brand story that not only captures the essence of your business but also forges lasting emotional connections with your customers.Venture with us into the world of branding and operations investment, where we explore the powerful impact of consistent brand presentation and strategic marketing. Learn why branding is more than just aesthetics—it's the enduring face of your company. Additionally, we delve into the intricate workings of family-run businesses, sharing personal anecdotes and strategies for maintaining harmonious relationships while building wealth together. From defining clear roles to fostering mutual respect, gain actionable insights into navigating the unique dynamics of family business success. Whether you're aiming for a brand refresh or seeking robust business strategies, this episode is rich with insights to help fortify your business foundation.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Jan 14, 2025 • 26min
Breaking Barriers in HVAC: Katy Higgins’ Inspiring Journey with True Pros LLC
Send us a textKaty Higgins, a pioneering force in the HVAC world, joins us to share her remarkable journey from telemarketer to a powerhouse owner of a $5 million enterprise. Katy's narrative is one of grit and perseverance as she overcame industry stereotypes to emerge as one of the first female comfort advisors in Northern Utah. Her dedication to continuous learning has not only driven her success but has also opened doors for countless other women in the HVAC field.Our conversation with Katy unveils the secrets behind building a successful HVAC business, emphasizing the strength of team collaboration and operational efficiency. By likening a company to a wheel where every member plays a vital role, Katy shares insights on the challenges of scaling a business and the importance of trust and leadership within a team. She candidly discusses the unique obstacles of negotiating contracts and earning respect in a male-dominated industry, offering inspiration for those ready to challenge the status quo.Mentorship and community stand as pillars in Katy’s entrepreneurial journey, as exemplified by her transformative engagement with Service Nation. Katy reflects on the invaluable mentorship and support network she found within this alliance, highlighting the core value of "excellence in every detail" that drives her business forward. Her recognition as "Woman of the Year" underscores the significance of finding a community that fosters growth and innovation. Join us as we celebrate Katy's achievements and explore the vital role of supportive allies in her continued success.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Jan 7, 2025 • 31min
Marketing Trends in 2025 w/Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo
Send us a textWhat if AI could revolutionize your marketing strategy and boost your customer lifetime value? This episode features the insightful Eric Thomas, founder of Rival Digital, and marketing expert Sarah Gerardo, as they share their predictions for 2025, exploring the future of AI in marketing for trades like HVAC and plumbing. Together, we discuss the challenges and opportunities AI presents for smaller companies and the importance of maintaining a strong brand, simple website, and effective customer relationship management.The conversation takes us on a journey through the evolving role of AI tools like ChatGPT, illustrating how they can enhance efficiency and creativity in marketing strategies. But despite the tech-forward focus, we emphasize that the key to success still lies in a customer-centric approach. We share real-world advice for businesses, particularly contractors, on addressing foundational issues like call center performance and customer experience before rushing into AI integration. Our discussion brings to life the story of a contractor who struggled not due to a lack of leads, but because of operational inefficiencies, thus painting a picture of where practical priorities should lie.In a surprising twist, we also explore the resurgence of traditional marketing and community engagement. As the digital marketing landscape becomes more saturated and costly, the renewed value in joining local chambers of commerce and hosting community events becomes apparent. Through analogies that liken marketing to baking the perfect cake, we underline the necessity of blending brand awareness, call-to-action, and customer cultivation. Plus, we touch on the exciting potential of smart HVAC systems and influencer marketing to enhance customer experience through predictive maintenance and personalized services, showing how these strategies can set contractors apart in the post-COVID era. Join us for an enlightening episode that blends traditional wisdom with futuristic foresight.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Dec 31, 2024 • 24min
The Joseph Groh Foundation
Send us a textTanya Strittmatter, a passionate advocate for the trades, shares her inspiring journey and the profound sense of community that binds the industry. Listen to Tanya as she recounts how her husband's legacy as a second-generation business owner shaped her path and fueled her mission to learn from past mistakes for collective success. We explore the role of organizations like Service Nation in fostering collaboration among contractors and celebrate the heartwarming support extended to Joseph Grove by the Joseph Groh Foundation after his life-altering accident. This episode is a testament to the trades industry's spirit of solidarity and generosity.Discover how the Joseph Groh Foundation makes a tangible impact by providing grants to those in the home service industry facing disabilities or life-changing injuries. Learn about the foundation's simple, yet effective application process and the incredible work done by volunteers across 37 states. Tanya sheds light on the concept of luminary giving and the myriad ways business owners can weave charitable activities into their company culture, from participating in golf tournaments to making tax-deductible donations. Join us as we inspire listeners to engage with the foundation's mission and create meaningful community connections.If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!

Dec 17, 2024 • 13min
Marketing SIPS: Contractor Insights
Send us a textEver wonder why some contractors stall while others soar? Join me, Crystal, as I unravel the mysteries behind successful branding and marketing strategies from my lively hub in Houston, Texas. After days immersed in conversations with local contractors, I've gathered tales of triumph and missteps—like the pitfalls of clinging to lackluster company names and the untapped power of professional branding services. Discover the importance of foundational processes like advertising and PR and learn how these elements can set the stage for long-term success, especially when operations, sales, and marketing work hand in hand.In an industry as challenging as home services, many businesses throw in the towel too soon. Together, we'll dissect common marketing misconceptions, such as the underestimated power of direct mail, and reveal why a robust strategy trumps standalone tactics. With stories from the field, I'll highlight the critical need for perseverance and innovation, urging you to start with a clear budget and an open mind. As your marketing coach, I'm here to light the path to growth, ensuring you're equipped with not just tactics but a comprehensive roadmap to elevate your brand. Let's sip some lemonade and set a course for your business’s success!If you enjoyed this chat From the Yellow Chair, consider joining our newsletter, "Let's Sip Some Lemonade," where you can receive exclusive interviews, our bank of helpful downloadables, and updates on upcoming content. Please consider following and drop a review below if you enjoyed this episode. Be sure to check out our social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. From the Yellow Chair is powered by Lemon Seed, a marketing strategy and branding company for the trades. Lemon Seed specializes in rebrands, creating unique, comprehensive, organized marketing plans, social media, and graphic design. Learn more at www.LemonSeedMarketing.com Interested in being a guest on our show? Fill out this form! We'll see you next time, Lemon Heads!