The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

Monday Mojo is back! Asking the right question is a really powerful tool in any business. It can lead you to more creative solutions than you have ever considered. As a bonus, it can also help you be more efficient at every stage of the process. In this episode, Tom shares the importance of asking better questions and the power it holds.   In this episode, Tom discusses… The power of asking better questions to find innovative solutions to your problems How Tom kept the business profitable during the 2009 recession How a person doubled his business in 90 days through better questioning Finding the right leverage by asking the right questions How to ask better questions to find solutions to business problems Resources: 💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/  💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Tom’s guest today is Isaac Barlow. Isaac is the founder of the contractor business software busybusy, which helps contractors get their business systems and processes in order. Isaac talks about why now is the best time to build your contracting business and share strategies for becoming profitable, achieving the freedom you’ve always wanted, and so much more.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Intro [01:35] - Isaac’s background [03:48] - Being successful as a contractor [05:34] - Handling uncertain times in business [10:07] - What it means to know your numbers [15:04] - Mental lessons for dealing with current events [18:39] - Why now is the best time to build your contractor business [22:25] - Leadership during challenging times [27:46] - Strategies for improving your trades business [30:00] - Profit% that is right under your nose [34:21] - Strategies for finding hidden revenue and increasing margins [37:07] - Profit killers of the contracting industry [39:57] - Busybusy software for contractors [46:11] - Isaac’s message for contractors Resources: ==Busybusy: https://busybusy.com/  💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/  💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Have you ever had a client hold your feet to the fire on everything, demand discounts, nitpick your work, and leave bad reviews? Tom knows your pain, and he's here to help. He shares his insights on why some clients can be a pain in the ass and shows you some practical techniques to navigate demanding clients and avoid getting screwed over.   So, tune in and don't let the client drama get in the way of your success — learn how to win the race today! Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Intro - ways that your clients make things tough for you [02:10] - Three ways to avoid client issues [03:04] - Communicate effectively with your clients [03:23] - How the common contractor communicates [06:15] - Stop avoiding tough conversations [07:50] - Set expectations with your clients [09:43] - Closing remarks Resources: 💰 You didn’t become a contractor to struggle financially. Download our worksheet and start calculating a 50% gross profit on every job. It’s time to get your shit together! https://thecontractorfight.com/50/ == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify 

Today’s guest, Jordan Adams, is a stoicism practitioner, proponent, and fitness coach. Jordan comes from a family of contractors and has a background in sales and management. During the discussion, Tom and Jordan explore the fundamental principles and values of stoicism and how these can benefit personal and professional growth. Jordan also shares his expertise in sales and leadership, providing valuable insights for contractors.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Intro [01:50] - Jordan’s background [10:06] - What is stoicism [15:13] - The four main principles of stoicism [15:23] - The concept of Memento Mori [18:18] - Why not live life as a hedonist [21:53] - Stoicism in Action [29:58] - The dichotomy of control [32:00] - The role of attitude in sales and leadership [35:11] - Stoic response to when things don’t go as planned  [41:39] - Dwelling on past mistakes is unproductive [43:51] - The concept of Eudaimonia [47:10] - How stoicism can help someone become a better father [51:47] - The ultimate goal of a stoic  [53:56] - The best way to connect to Jordan Resources: == Jordan Adams on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thestoicdad_/  == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Who wouldn’t want to take a break on the beach while supercharging their business? Join bestselling author Mike Michalowicz and the TCF team at our exclusive Strong Leader Live workshop in Panama City Beach, Florida! ☀️ In this workshop, you’ll learn the ONE thing you need to focus on to take your business to the next level and make more money! 💰 Plus, you’ll network with other badass contractors and have fun in the sun at our gorgeous resort location! 🌴 So, if you’re ready to transform your business and have some fun doing it, click the link to reserve your spot NOW! We can’t wait to see you there! 🤘 Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify 

In today's episode, Tom discusses his personal journey and how his time in the Marine Corps has shaped his approach to business. He kicks off the episode by discussing the truth about big goals. He shares that while setting ambitious goals is essential, only about 6% of people actually reach them. Next, Tom delves into why many people struggle to hit goals, including lack of consistency, fear of failure, and not taking enough action. Drawing from his experience in the military, Tom reveals how the discipline, determination, and perseverance instilled in him during his time in the Marine Corps have been key factors in his entrepreneurial success. He shares how the rigors of military training taught him the importance of consistent effort, regardless of obstacles or setbacks, and how this mindset has translated into his approach to running his own business. Tom also opens up about his current big goal and how he is applying the lessons he learned in the Marine Corps to achieve it. He emphasizes the importance of consistent action toward one's goals and shares practical tips and strategies for overcoming challenges and staying focused on the desired outcome. As Tom reflects on his military experience and entrepreneurial journey, he offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring contractors and anyone striving to achieve their goals. From the power of consistency to the importance of taking action, Tom's story is a compelling reminder that success is achievable with the right mindset and determination.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Tom’s big goals and the truth about them [02:25] - Only 6% of people reach their goals [04:03] - Reasons why you're not hitting your goals [05:32] - The current big goal of Tom [05:56] - Consistent effort brings success [06:58] - Take action on your goals Resources: == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Who wouldn’t want to take a break on the beach while supercharging their business? Join bestselling author Mike Michalowicz and the TCF team at our exclusive Strong Leader Live workshop in Panama City Beach, Florida! ☀️ In this workshop, you’ll learn the ONE thing you need to focus on to take your business to the next level and make more money! 💰 Plus, you’ll network with other badass contractors and have fun in the sun at our gorgeous resort location! 🌴 So, if you’re ready to transform your business and have some fun doing it, click the link to reserve your spot NOW! We can’t wait to see you there! 🤘 Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify 

Tom’s guest today knows a thing or two about business growth. Jim Kaloutas — the owner of Kaloutas, a commercial painting business, and an all-around cool guy. He has a wealth of experience in leadership development and building killer teams.  In this episode, Jim shares insights on how he has leveraged LinkedIn to drive growth for his company. Beyond attracting new clients, Jim highlights how LinkedIn has helped him hire highly skilled employees, develop a strong team and create a company culture that rocks - all contributing to his multi-million-dollar business success. Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Welcome notes and Jim’s intro [02:40] - Why Jim’s business took ten years to hit $1M [04:51] - Pivotal moments that shaped Jim’s business trajectory [07:56] - Utilizing LinkedIn to grow business [11:18] - How Jim’s business grew through acquisitions [12:19] - Jim’s definition of culture [13:46] - Balancing firmness and high standards with a safe work environment [17:47] - Jim’s employee recruitment strategies [25:05] - Jim’s biggest struggle with the career path [29:08] - Teaching your crew members to think independently [32:35] - Training your employees without compromising financial stability [36:24] - Tom’s biggest leadership fail [40:48] - The current challenges that contractors are facing [44:09] - Jim’s message to fellow contractors [45:53] - The best way to contact Jim [48:31] - How Jim evaluates his performance for job suitability Resources: == Kaloutas on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kaloutas/ Website: https://www.kaloutas.com/ == STRONG LEADER LIVE:  Who wouldn't want to take a break on the beach while supercharging their business? Join bestselling author Mike Michalowicz and the TCF team at our exclusive Strong Leader Live workshop in Panama City Beach, Florida! ☀️ In this workshop, you'll learn the ONE thing you need to focus on to take your business to the next level and make more money! 💰 Plus, you'll network with other badass contractors and have fun in the sun at our gorgeous resort location! 🌴 So, if you're ready to transform your business and have some fun doing it, click the link to reserve your spot NOW! We can't wait to see you there! 🤘 Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify 

When it comes to pricing, most contractors are overthinking, overanalyzing, and overthinking again. Tom is here to tell you that you don't need to overthink your pricing. You should charge what you're worth and what you need to make a profit. Remember that you are providing a valuable service, and you should be compensated fairly for it.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Intro [00:13] - You're overthinking your pricing [03:15] - 50% gross profit sheet [03:49] - Have confidence in your numbers  [04:22] - Moving from insecurity to confidence in numbers [04:28] - Tell yourself the truth [05:23] - Implement the perfect pricing formula [06:14] - Mind your own business Resources:   == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Are you joining us in Florida for Strong Leader Live? Early bird pricing ends on Friday. Don’t pay more than you need to! Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify 

Tom talks with Neil Kristianson — the CEO of The Contractor Fight. They discuss the beginning and growth of The Contractor Fight, favorite moments and lessons learned, The Fight's purpose and unique qualities, as well as behind-the-scenes information about what The Contractor Fight does and how they help contractors be more successful.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Introduction [02:01] - The story of how Tom and Neil met and started a business [08:13] - Evolution of Tom and Neil's business relationship [14:54] - Building team unity in a dispersed environment [17:54] - Finding purpose through coaching [21:29] - What makes The Fight different [23:44] - The Fight's purpose [27:16] - The secret sauce behind The Fight's success [30:02] - Leadership lesson for business owners [33:03] - Tom and Neil's vision for the long-term future of The Fight [36:02] - Celebrating all those tied to The Fight  [40:39] - The best way to persist is to keep showing up Resources:   == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Are you joining us in Florida for Strong Leader Live? Check out our new payment plans! Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong 💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify

While the 50% gross profit benchmark is almost non-negotiable when it comes to running a successful business, some contractors still feel hesitant about it. Tom is here to tell you five reasons why a minimum 50% gross profit is crucial to building the business that you want.   Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - 50% gross profit is the key to a successful business [02:30] - What is gross profit  [03:58] - Fastest and most efficient means of generating profit [05:03] - Acknowledging the value of your efforts [07:26] - Maximizing net profitability with fewer jobs [09:35] - Sustaining business operations and covering overhead costs [11:38] - Providing a superior customer experience [13:29] - Closing thoughts Resources: == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Are you joining us in Florida for Strong Leader Live? Early bird pricing ends on Friday. Don't pay more than you need to! Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong   💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Today I'm talking with best-selling author Mike Michalowicz who aims to eradicate entrepreneurial poverty through his books, courses, and workshops. We discussed how Mike defines winning, how contractors contribute to their own struggles,  strategies for improving your skills as a business owner, and more. We also explore the Strong Leader Live Event in Florida, coming up at the end of April, and what you can expect to gain from attending this small-group workshop led by Mike. Conversation Highlights: [00:00] - Intro [03:43] - Things Mike wants to change about entrepreneurship [04:43] - Factors for success in business [07:10] - What to do when feeling unsuccessful [10:00] - Mike's definition of winning [13:03] - Difference between survival and thriving stages of a business [16:52] - Entrepreneurs' contribution to their own struggles [18:18] - Seizing opportunities to promote your business [19:17] - Reasons why contractors should attend the Florida workshop [22:23] - Your clients want you to be wildly profitable Resources: == STRONG LEADER LIVE: Are you joining us in Florida for Strong Leader Live? Early bird pricing ends on Friday. Don't pay more than you need to! Register today: https://thecontractorfight.com/strong   = Mike Michalowicz's Website: https://mikemichalowicz.com/   💸 Grab your copy of our FREE Contractors Guide to Spotting Cheap Prospects here: https://thecontractorfight.com/cheap  == Join us in BATTLEGROUND == Everything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program with three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info, check out: https://TheContractorFight.com/Battleground  == Get your questions answered and connect with other contractors building stronger businesses in The Contractor Fight: https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook  == Grab the Gear == https://gear.thecontractorfight.com/  == Find Us on Social Media == YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber  Instagram: https://thecontractorfight.com/ig  == Rate the Podcast == Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review!  Apple Podcasts   Spotify