Contractor Evolution cover image

Contractor Evolution

Latest episodes

undefined
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 35min

224. How To Lead WITHOUT Ego - Keith Mercurio

On July 8, join me for a special Web Class where I’ll show you how to eliminate ALL staff excuses using ONE structured 30-minute meeting. Register here: https://trybta.com/CE-GSR-JL25To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP224 As entrepreneurs, we’re constantly learning how to lead others. How to manage people, set direction for our business, and implement systems with our team.But how often do we take the time to learn how to lead ourselves?Today, we're talking to special guest Keith Mercurio.Keith is a plumber turned speaker and executive coach. He is the CEO and Founder of Ethical Influence Global and does significant coaching work with our friends at Service Titan.As a leader of leaders, Keith knows that our ability to serve others is rooted in our ability to understand ourselves. Our egos, our vulnerabilities, and our needs.In this episode, we unpack strategies for self-leadership—self awareness, spirituality, and showing up without ego in our daily lives.We really loved our conversation and learned a lot myself, and we hope you do too.Episode Highlights:Understand the importance of self-leadership to being an effective person in business and in life.Learn how to show up without ego by bringing awareness to what your mind, body and spirit need in everyday life.Listen in as Danny and Keith reflect on how childhood experiences continue to impact how they respond to situations as adults.00:00 - Intro02:24 - About Keith10:09 - What it's like working with the ServiceTitan exec team14:20 - The importance of staying open34:00 - How our past experience influences our present behaviour56:19 - About Ethical Influence01:22:47 - What does it mean to "learn how to breathe?"
undefined
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 He discusses the evolution of construction tech and the importance of cohesive systems over outdated methods.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.
undefined
Jun 18, 2025 • 40min

222. Is ADHD a Superpower? - Peter Shankman

Peter Shankman, entrepreneur and author of *Faster Than Normal*, discusses reframing ADHD as a distinct advantage for business leaders. He dives into how ADHD can enhance cognitive abilities and resilience, advocating for neurodiversity in the workplace. Shankman shares personal insights on overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of supportive relationships. He highlights practical strategies for managing ADHD, including the significance of routines and embracing individual strengths, ultimately promoting a positive view of neurodiversity.
undefined
Jun 11, 2025 • 55min

221. What to Say to An Underperforming Employee - Jen Long

On July 8, join me for a special Web Class where I’ll show you how to eliminate ALL staff excuses using ONE structured 30-minute meeting. Register here: https://trybta.com/CE-GSR-JL25Get your free accountability resources from Jen here: https://trybta.com/DL221 To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP221 Is there someone on your team who is not performing the way you need them to?Someone you know you need to do a better job of holding accountable?Someone you need to have “the talk” with?If you’re used to an accountability conversation turning into a finger-pointing exercise that goes nowhere, this episode is for you. In today’s conversation with Jen Long, author of Own Up! How to Hold People Accountable Without All the Drama, we’re breaking down the six steps to getting someone to own their responsibilities by having one simple conversation. Spoiler alert: this conversation isn’t about ruling with an iron fist. It’s not even about giving into all your peoples’ needs.Danny even did a little role playing with her so you can hear what this sounds like in practice.Episode Highlights:Learn the framework that accountability expert Jen Long has helped hundreds of businesses implement to create a culture of accountability within a team.Understand how to hold an effective accountability conversation with anyone on your team by following six steps.Hear Danny role play this conversation with Jen so you can actually hear what is sounds like in practice.00:00-Intro01:24-About Jen05:04-Accountability misconceptions07:50-What's unique about accountability in construction or contracting?10:49-SOS Conversation Model (6 Steps)11:38-Step 1: Identify Your Issue14:24-Step 2: Analyze the Context18:37-Step 3: Explore Impacts20:08-Step 4: Rehearse25:07-Step 5: Engage in Conversation34:12-Step 6: Build Solutions35:35-Role play
undefined
Jun 4, 2025 • 57min

220. How to Build a Hiring Funnel - Brandon Vaughn

Brandon Vaughn, CEO of HireBus and a seasoned entrepreneur in the contracting realm, shares insightful strategies for constructing an effective hiring funnel. He emphasizes the importance of a RightSeat™ Assessment to ensure the right fit for each role. Discover actionable tips on attracting top talent and crafting compelling job ads that stand out against competitors like Amazon. Vaughn also discusses leveraging AI tools to streamline recruitment processes, highlighting the need for personalized communication and a positive candidate experience.
undefined
11 snips
May 28, 2025 • 37min

219. Tariff-Proof Your Business: A Construction Lawyer's Playbook - Trent Cotney

Join Trent Cotney, a board-certified construction lawyer and author, as he dives into the complexities of tariffs affecting the construction industry. He breaks down what tariffs are and their implications for contractors, offering clever strategies to protect themselves with better contract clauses. Hear about the importance of reevaluating supply chains and his predictions on market trends. Trent also shares insights on pricing strategies amidst fluctuating material costs, ensuring contractors can navigate these challenging times effectively.
undefined
10 snips
May 23, 2025 • 52min

218. $10MM Contractor Roadmap: Operator to Strategist - Danny Kerr

Scaling a contracting business can be daunting, but there’s a proven roadmap. Discover the four growth phases every contractor encounters and how to identify your current stage. Uncover common challenges at each phase, along with effective systems to resolve them. Learn about the shift from managing to coaching, fostering team autonomy, and strategic planning for long-term success. Plus, get practical tools to enhance emotional resilience and make informed decisions as you grow.
undefined
24 snips
May 21, 2025 • 42min

217. Should You Niche Down or Expand Out? - Ryan Lee

Ryan Lee, founder of Landscape Lighting Secrets, shares his journey from running a successful $200K/month landscape lighting business to coaching home service entrepreneurs. He dives into the benefits of niching down, discussing how specialization can enhance customer experiences and profitability. Ryan addresses the potential risks of adding new services and emphasizes the importance of solid operational foundations. With insights on effective pricing and high-quality lead generation, he guides listeners on whether to focus or expand their business offerings.
undefined
25 snips
May 14, 2025 • 57min

216. Sell More by Putting the Customer First - Joe Crisara

Joe Crisara, a renowned expert in contractor sales training and creator of the Pure Motive Service System, shares insights on elevating the sales experience. He discusses five key principles that promote client-centric solutions and integrity-driven sales. Joe emphasizes offering customers three tailored options to enhance engagement and satisfaction. He highlights the importance of genuine connections, effective communication, and overcoming fears in decision-making, transforming the sales process into a meaningful interaction focused on mutual success.
undefined
26 snips
May 7, 2025 • 46min

215. Leadership Beyond the Hammer - Brian Gottlieb

Brian Gottlieb, author of 'Beyond the Hammer' and former owner of a $150MM remodeling business, shares his journey from a one-man operation to leading a team of over 600. He outlines the five foundational pillars of effective leadership, focusing on transferable beliefs and shaping culture with purpose. The conversation dives into the importance of fostering authentic relationships, maintaining a leader's emotional presence, and viewing businesses as training organizations to boost team performance. Get ready to rethink leadership in contracting!

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app