

Contractor Evolution
Breakthrough Academy
Breakthrough Academy presents Contractor Evolution.
In this show we unpack the systems, tactics, and skills you need to take your fast-growing contracting business to the next level.
If you’re here to learn what it takes to scale up, work less, and increase profitability, you’ve come to the right place.
Stay tuned to learn what separates the new breed of contractor from the old school, and welcome to your ultimate guide to the business of contracting.
In this show we unpack the systems, tactics, and skills you need to take your fast-growing contracting business to the next level.
If you’re here to learn what it takes to scale up, work less, and increase profitability, you’ve come to the right place.
Stay tuned to learn what separates the new breed of contractor from the old school, and welcome to your ultimate guide to the business of contracting.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 15, 2025 • 10min
232. 4 Matt Risinger Moments That Will Transform Your Contracting Business - Danny Kerr and Matt Risinger
This podcast features Matt Risinger, host of The BUILD Show and founder of Risinger Build, a prominent figure in the construction industry. He shares his top moments, revealing important lessons such as the distinction between revenue and profit. Matt discusses a costly $200K mistake, emphasizing the importance of standard operating procedures in contracting. He also offers insight on when to let a high-performing employee go, providing listeners with practical advice for managing contractor relationships and improving business efficiency.

Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 36min
231. STOP Losing Money to Poor PM: No-Frills Project Management Tips (Contractor Roundtable) - Danny Kerr, Charley Burtwistle, Dylan Ochala, Toby Wessel, Bradley Powers
Join Dylan Ochala, a systems expert from Tectonic Design Build, and Toby Wessel, along with Bradley Powers from New Beginnings Construction, as they tackle project management challenges in the construction world. They discuss strategic communication techniques that can prevent costly mistakes and improve timelines. Charley Burtwistle, VP at BuilderTrend, also lends insights into leveraging technology for enhanced efficiency. Discover how defining roles and using tools can transform project managers into proactive leaders driving successful outcomes.

8 snips
Aug 8, 2025 • 9min
230. How to Fire an Employee Without the Drama - Danny Kerr
Firing someone is tough, but there's a right way to do it. Discover a six-step process to exit an employee with minimal drama. Learn to recognize red flags that signal an employee may not be a fit. Tips on how to communicate the decision empathetically can help ease the tension. Legal implications and maintaining professionalism are crucial during these difficult conversations. Plus, having support during the process can make all the difference for both you and the employee.

10 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 1min
229. Why Most Contractor Marketing Fails (And How To Fix It) - Ryan Chute
Ryan Chute, a partner at Wizard of Ads and an international sales strategist, dives into the unique marketing hurdles faced by contractors. He highlights the vital role of brand storytelling and emotional connection over transactional methods. Ryan points out common branding mistakes, explaining how to craft memorable messages that resonate with customers. He also discusses the importance of trust, advocating for authentic communication and innovative service promises that exceed expectations, ultimately elevating contractor marketing to build long-lasting relationships.

28 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 1min
228. 4 Essential Business Systems Every Contractor Should Master - Tony Fraser-Jones
Tony Fraser-Jones, an entrepreneur and founder of The Profitable Tradie, shares his insights into common challenges faced by contractors in both Australia and New Zealand. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong employer brand to attract skilled labor and discusses effective recruitment strategies. The conversation also touches on mastering internal financial management and job costing to improve profitability. Furthermore, Tony highlights the role of proactive marketing tactics and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on the contracting industry.

38 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 11min
227. This $10MM Accountability System Has Crews CRUSHING Their Goals - Danny Kerr
Discover the secrets to transforming contractor teams through effective accountability. Dive into the importance of clear expectations, structured roles, and regular goal-setting reviews. Learn how to host engaging weekly meetings that motivate staff to excel. Explore the vital role of leadership in fostering a performance-driven culture. Uncover strategies tailored for managing diverse crews in painting and construction, ensuring communication and quality. This insightful session offers action steps for scaling success in the contracting world.

19 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 59min
226. Why Most Entrepreneurs Stay Broke - Garrett Gunderson
Garrett Gunderson, a former financial firm owner and bestselling author, shares insights on why many entrepreneurs struggle with wealth. He debunks common financial myths that keep contractors in survival mode and emphasizes the importance of cash flow over net worth. Gunderson challenges traditional retirement concepts, advocating for a purpose-driven life instead. He also discusses the significance of instilling values in the next generation and how to foster an abundance mindset for long-term success.

35 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 53min
225. From Reactive to Streamlined: Cory's Business Automation Journey - Cory Byron
Cory Byron, founder of Vancity Electric and a Breakthrough Academy Member, shares his remarkable journey of transforming his contracting business through automation. He discusses how he doubled his gross profit without extra hours by implementing smart systems. Cory reveals his methods for enhancing customer onboarding and communication, utilizing virtual video quoting to improve client interactions. He emphasizes the critical role of effective follow-ups and the importance of organization in balancing work with personal life, showcasing automation's power to streamline operations.

16 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 36min
224. How To Lead WITHOUT Ego - Keith Mercurio
In this engaging discussion, Keith Mercurio, CEO and founder of Ethical Influence Global, shares his journey from a plumber to an executive coach. He emphasizes the vital role of self-leadership in personal and professional growth. Listeners will discover how to show up without ego, the significance of genuine connections in leadership, and the importance of emotional awareness. Keith also reflects on how childhood experiences shape adult behavior, offering insights into embracing discomfort for growth.

18 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 44min
223. How to Pick the Right Software For Your Contracting Business - James Benham
James Benham, CEO of JBK and founder of the ConTechCrew podcast, shares his insights on navigating software solutions for contracting businesses. He discusses the evolution of construction tech and the importance of cohesive systems over outdated methods. James reveals common mistakes contractors make in software selection and emphasizes the pivotal role of user experience for adoption. He encourages businesses to embrace innovation and clearly defined processes to enhance efficiency and overcome the mindset barriers of new tech adoption.