The Contractor Fight with Tom Reber

In this episode of The Contractor Fight Podcast, Tim and Derek dive into the concept of proactive communication and responsibility within your team. A simple mistake—failing to inform a team member about a critical component’s location—led to major inefficiencies and delays. This conversation unpacks how these small missteps can cost contractors thousands and how to prevent them.In this episode Tim and Derek discuss:Why failing to “meter” your team's communication can cost more than you thinkA real-world example of how poor communication derailed a job and delayed paymentThe importance of establishing clear next steps to keep teams aligned and productiveThe power of the question “What’s next?” and how it builds a culture of ownership and clarityDaily and weekly meeting rhythms that ensure accountability and keep projects moving forwardWhy team training on communication processes is essential for scaling your business=================================🛡️ Join the PlatoonAdvanced Sales Techniques for Contractors who want to SMASH their sales goals in 8 weekshttps://thecontractorfight.com/platoon=================================💰 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/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode, Tom Reber gets real about his early experiences in sales and the emotional journey that followed. He opens up about a time when he embodied every negative stereotype of a salesperson, pushing unethical deals that left both him and his customers worse off. Tom shares a turning point that led him to completely change his approach and build an ethical, value-driven sales process. This episode is a must-listen for contractors struggling with head trash around sales and seeking a way to sell with integrity.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:00] How Tom fell into unethical sales shortly after leaving the Marine Corps[00:21] The deceptive sales script and high-pressure tactics used by the window company[01:11] Becoming the top salesperson despite feeling conflicted and dirty inside[01:29] A pivotal sales call with a young family that triggered his turning point[02:23] Forcing high-interest financing on customers and consolidating their debt[02:53] The decision to quit despite high earnings due to moral conflict[03:34] How this experience created deep head trash around sales[04:07] Learning that it's possible to sell with integrity and still reach financial goals[04:18] The Shinfu sales process and its emphasis on truly understanding client motives[04:45] The cultural contrast between ethical selling and high-pressure tactics[05:15] Why zero-pressure selling builds long-term trust and better business outcomes[05:33] Addressing the belief that “your work should speak for itself”[06:01] Introducing The Contractor Fight's Platoon coaching group for ethical sales training[06:52] Invitation to apply for Platoon and start selling in a way that feels right=================================🛡️ Join the PlatoonAdvanced Sales Techniques for Contractors who want to SMASH their sales goals in 8 weekshttps://thecontractorfight.com/platoon=================================💰 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/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this episode, Tim and Derek take you behind the scenes of the unforgettable NashVegas event. From powerful moments of personal growth to community-building and practical takeaways, this conversation unpacks what made the gathering so impactful. They reflect on the importance of authenticity, connection, and taking what you learn and applying it in real life and business. Whether you were there or missed out, this recap will have you inspired to show up and go all in next time.In this episode, they discuss:The energy and respect shared among 140 contractors under one roofThe "No BS" sign and what it symbolizes for honesty and transformationReconnection and deeper bonds formed through real-life interactionThe origin and significance of the truth hike and the raw, meaningful conversations it sparksWhy the event continues to resonate through action, motivation, and accountability after it endsThe importance of setting clear goals and following through with intentionalityThe impact of positive reinforcement in leadership and creating a culture where employees feel valuedSmall gestures that build team morale and influence customers positivelyThe joy of showcasing a home built with pride and teamwork, and acknowledging those who made it happenThe mindset shift required to appreciate that while some things are simple, they’re not always easy—and that’s what makes them powerfulResources: =================================🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground💰 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/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Explore the secrets to doubling your sales without relying on complicated scripts. Discover how small daily actions can lead to big results, as one contractor proved by nearly hitting her sales goal in just six months. Learn why adopting a proactive 'hunter' mentality is essential for success and the significance of follow-ups in building valuable relationships. Uncover the power of mastering the basics and establishing consistent discipline in your routine to eliminate mediocrity and achieve financial growth.

In this episode of The Contractor Fight, Tim and Derek dive into a candid and insightful discussion about money, overhead, and what it really means to enjoy the fruits of your labor. Reflecting on their personal experiences and those of other contractors, they challenge the conventional thinking that bigger and flashier is always better in business.The conversation pivots around the idea of running a lean business with minimal overhead—taking inspiration from a contractor who ran a million-dollar company out of a single garage bay. With real talk and real numbers, Tim and Derek explore how profit margins, lifestyle choices, and financial goals shape your daily operations and long-term happiness.In this episode, Tim and Derek discuss:The myth of needing massive infrastructure to run a successful contracting businessHow low overhead can significantly boost profit margins and overall financial healthWhy it's okay to enjoy your money—if you're smart about itThe importance of defining your own version of financial success and the end gameMaking intentional decisions about overhead, lifestyle, and the vehicles you driveThe concept of money as “fun coupons” and how to use it to enrich your life and those around youAvoiding financial stress by truly understanding your numbers and overheadResources:=================================🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground==================================💰 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/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

In this live episode, we bring you two unscripted roleplay sessions recorded during the NashVegas event. These real-time mock sales calls are not only packed with humor and personality but also demonstrate the power of the Shin-Fu sales process in action. Contractors will gain invaluable insights on handling objections, qualifying leads, and maintaining control of sales conversations.In this episode :[00:00] Tom introduces the episode from the NashVegas event and the focus on impromptu role plays[00:30] Role play: Taylor explains that his company handles commercial projects and drywall[01:15] Scenario: Bidding on an upper deck addition for Fenway Park[02:25] Establishing project goals and understanding decision-making layers[03:44] Building rapport and qualifying the seriousness of the opportunity[05:10] Identifying project urgency and navigating around potential delays[06:09] Scheduling the site visit and sharing documentation like references and COI[06:57] New scenario: Client wants an addition on a 1,400 sq. ft. home[07:54] Role play: Dave takes a call and works to uncover the client’s true needs[08:53] Tim explains pressure from his wife and desire to start construction quickly[09:42] Dave explores the dynamics of decision-making and aligns with the urgency[11:51] Discussion about Title V septic requirements and how to navigate them[12:39] Discussing pricing and the client’s budget limitations[13:25] Adjusting scope to fit the client’s $250K budget and confirming interest[14:48] Setting expectations, discussing trust, and preparing to sign the contract[15:59] The twist: Tim reveals another contractor was in the mix—a humorous close to the role play[16:34] Tom wraps up and encourages listeners to dive into Shin-Fu Sales TrainingResources:💪 Take control of the sales process with Shin-Fu https://thecontractorfight.com/sfst=================================🛡️ Join us in BATTLEGROUNDEverything your contracting business needs in one comprehensive program. Three main focus areas: Leadership, Communication, and Numbers. For more info visit:https://thecontractorfight.com/battleground==================================💰 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/🎥 Explore over 1,400 free videos on Contractor Fight TV:https://www.youtube.com/c/TomReber💬 Join over 18,000 contractors in the free Facebook group:https://thecontractorfight.com/facebook== Rate the Podcast ==Help your fellow contractors find the podcast! Please leave a rating/review.Apple PodcastsSpotify

Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:https://thecontractorfight.com/MillionIn this episode, Tim and Derek get real about the limiting beliefs and mental blocks that held them back in their own journeys. This candid discussion is packed with insights and motivation to help you push through the BS and build a business that actually serves your life.In this episode, Tom, Tim, and Derek discuss:The top mental landmines that sabotage contractors from scaling to $1M and beyondPersonal stories of fear, doubt, and desperation—and how they overcame themThe lack of a roadmap and how having the right information and support changes everythingWhy success isn’t just about grinding harder, but about changing your mindset and strategyHow to shift from scarcity thinking to a repeatable system that fuels growthThe impact of who you surround yourself with and why you can’t succeed hanging with "turkeys"Encouragement that if they can do it, so can you—regardless of where you’re starting fromResources:========================================= 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project) 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.=========================================

This is Part 5  of our Million-Dollar Mistakes series—all week, we're breaking down why most contractors never crack $1M, and how to avoid the traps. Check back daily for the next episode.Want to build your plan? Join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop – Live, May 20–22:https://thecontractorfight.com/MillionIn this final installment of the 5-part series, Tom gets brutally honest about the single biggest reason contractors fail to hit $1 million in revenue—it’s not the market, your skills, or your team. It’s YOU. If you haven’t truly decided to build a million-dollar business, you’re already behind. Tom shares powerful insights and challenges every contractor to cut off all other options and fully commit to their future.In this episode, Tom discusses:[00:00] Introduction to the final part of the series and a call to join the Million Dollar Contractor Workshop[02:17] The #1 reason most contractors don't hit $1M: lack of true decision[03:39] Personal reflection: Tom shares his own struggles and the cost of not deciding sooner[04:20] Shedding your old identity to become the contractor capable of running a $1M business[05:10] The dangerous cycle of operating on autopilot and the cost to your life and loved ones[06:11] The reality of hitting $1M in revenue and why it still might not mean profit[06:40] The true meaning of “decide”—cutting off all other options[07:56] The identity shift: from desperate contractor to F.W. (Fucking Winner)[09:30] The harsh truth about dabbling, distractions, and the myth of “when things calm down”[10:29] Building something worth handing down—or not[11:04] What real decision-making looks like and the call to action[11:59] Why Tom is in your face—because he knows you can win[13:05] Full details on the upcoming Million Dollar Contractor Workshop and how to registerResources:========================================= 🎯 MILLION DOLLAR CONTRACTOR WORKSHOP 📅 May 20–22 | 6–7pm ET 🛠️ Only $15 (every penny goes to Wounded Warrior Project) 👉 Register here: https://thecontractorfight.com/Million 📌 NO replays. Just 3 days of hard-hitting truth to help you build a business that actually works.=========================================

Rocky Gudim, a Marine Corps veteran and contractor, shares his inspiring journey from struggling with debt to transforming his business into a profitable venture. He discusses the critical mistake of procrastination that many contractors make and the vital changes that led him to a gross profit margin of over 30%. Rocky emphasizes the power of knowing your numbers and the significant emotional boost from community support. His only regret? Not taking action sooner on his path to business success.

In this enlightening discussion, experts tackle the daily marketing and sales actions essential for contractors to break the $1M barrier. They debunk the myth that relying on word-of-mouth is sufficient and stress the importance of building a brand. Through personal stories, they highlight the dangers of feast-to-famine cycles and the necessity of a repeatable sales process. With practical advice, they emphasize confidence in sales and outline simple marketing activities that often get overlooked. Get ready to elevate your business!