The Successful Contractor Podcast

The Successful Contractor Podcast, Powered by CertainPath, is a show for residential contractors about residential contractors... We chronicle business journeys, share insights, and celebrate successes in this wonderful industry.

About this Episode:
Penny Austad, owner of Krumm Exteriors KangaRoof in New Richmond, WI, cares about her team and her customers. An employee of Krumm since 2015, she purchased the business from its founders, Mike and Cheryl, in October of 2021. From that very moment, Penny put an emphasis on building culture and serving the community. Thanks to her incredible team, they had an incredible 2022—sales jumped from $3M to $10M! Much of that was aided by several storms, but the team rallied together to make the very best of them. This is just the beginning for this new era of Krumm Exteriors KangaRoof. Penny has sights on hitting $10M in retails sales within the next 10 years... and any insurance work will be icing on that cake! She believes her team can do it.

Thank you to our sponsors:

Home Depot Pro Trades. At The Home Depot Pro Trades, our job is helping you do yours. Powered by HD Supply, we are uniquely positioned to help drive your business through unrivaled access to professional-grade Plumbing, Electrical and HVAC products and innovative business solutions such as our Stockwise Inventory Management program fully customizable to meet your needs and improve productivity. Our national network of distribution centers and more than 2200 store locations provide national reach with a local focus, providing unmatched convenience and product availability. We Power Pros to Do More.

GOODMAN® - Since 1982, Goodman Manufacturing has focused on the goal of producing energy-efficient, high-quality HVAC equipment that is easy to sell, install and maintain. Goodman’s continuous efforts have helped contribute to the success of HVAC dealers, like you, across towns and big cities throughout the country. Goodman produces a complete line of refreshingly affordable, ducted split systems and packaged units. The company’s current product line is supported by numerous technology enhancements, many exclusive to the Goodman brand. It’s no wonder millions of homeowners say, “Thank goodness for Goodman.®”

CertainPath Software. CertainPath Software is easy to implement in your business; it combines all the tools, systems, and features you need to run a profitable company of any size - from $500K up to $200M. CertainPath Software is designed to make every step intuitive, so you and your team can focus on serving customers. Pricing, invoicing, options, materials, job photos, financing options, and more are combined into a single, easy-to-use interface. When technology makes the lives of your team easier, you know they’ll be focused on what they do best. Discover how CertainPath’s field app streamlines the steps your technicians take on each call. Go to www.mycertainpath.com today to learn more.

From losing money and frustration to everything changed in 18 months. From $2.7MM in sales to $6.5MM in 18 months... and making money. And now the company is on target to do $10MM at the end of 2024. This is the story of Ron Frame of Champion Exteriors in Hainesport, NJ.

Ron is a fourth-generation roofer. He knew there must be a better way to run a roofing business. He found CertainPath and has transformed everything. Along the way, he’s lived by the mantra: “Burn it to the ground.” It means that sometimes you must make radical change and start over to grow.

If you’re looking to transform your business quickly, this is a must watch/listen interview. Ron outlines how he completely “burned to the ground” both his call center and roofing repair division. He went from not understanding his financials and daily KPIs to living by them daily. And he shares some insightful marketing tips that have helped him explode in growth, while so many other roofers are struggling to generate revenue.

Show Notes

The Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,100+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way. With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Visit www.mycertainpath.com for more information.

FOLLOW CERTAINPATH:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CertainPath

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/certainpath

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/certainpath/

Thank you to our sponsors:

Trane & American Standard. The Trane and American Standard Diagnostics Mobile Apps are a technician support tool with many features to help technicians better install and service systems in communicating and 24 volt applications. When installing Trane and American Standard Link equipment, our latest communicating technology, technicians can connect to the equipment via Bluetooth through the Trane or American Standard Diagnostics Mobile App while on the jobsite. Once connected, technicians have access to a dashboard of features, including real-time sensor readings, fault conditions, the ability to view or change system settings, automatic charging, and more without standing at the thermostat. Through the Diagnostics Mobile App technicians can easily configure or diagnose a Trane or American Standard Link system from the palm of their hand. For 24 volt applications the Diagnostics Mobile App guides the technician through the installation for select 24 volt equipment; providing wiring diagrams, dip switch configurations, and downloadable PDF installation reports. Technicians can access customer’s Diagnostics data, see active system alerts, remotely connect to select smart thermostats, access a refrigerant calculator, and search Trane/American Standard Residential product literature. This is one tool all your technicians should have. Trane and American Standard Diagnostics Mobile Apps are available for download in the Google PlayTM store or App Store®.

Shubee. Keeping your client’s floors clean can be a hassle. But it doesn’t have to be when you use ShuBee’s high-quality shoe covers and surface protection products on every job. Our products are specifically designed to showcase your professionalism at a minimal cost per job. Made from strong, durable materials that won't rip or tear, our products ensure maximum protection. We know that your time is valuable, and that's why we make it our mission to provide you with the tools you need to get the job done quickly and efficiently. So why wait? Try ShuBee today and experience the difference for yourself! Visit www.shubee.com to check out some of our great products and use code SC10 to get 10% off all ShuBee products.

Synchrony – Ever wonder how to calculate your true cost of financing and how to fit the price of financing into your business and pricing for products and services? In Synchrony’s new and improved Toolbox website you can easily calculate your Cost of Credit, view educational videos and learn more about Synchrony’s digital tools. Simply to go www.synchronybusiness.com/toolbox to explore and learn more.

Staples- Staples is the leading provider in office supplies offering a vast selection of products and services. Over the last 2 years, Staples has also become one of the US largest janitorial suppliers as well. From your everyday business...

• In this episode, Bob Houchin sits down with CertainPath’s Brandon Marshall to discuss the importance of building a strong legacy in the home service industry. They explore the challenges faced by today's contractors and the critical role of leadership in overcoming them. Discover how emotional intelligence, team development, and a focus on personal growth can transform your business. Learn about Brandon's exciting new programs, The Pride and Synergy Camps, designed to help you become a better leader and create a lasting impact on your team and community. This episode offers practical advice and inspiring stories to help you build a successful and fulfilling business.
  Show Notes
  The Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,100+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way. With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Visit www.mycertainpath.com for more information.
  FOLLOW CERTAINPATH:
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CertainPath
  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/certainpath
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/certainpath/
  Thank you to our sponsors:
  pulseM + Customer Lobby. Is maximizing reviews and referrals a priority for your business in the second half of the year? pulseM and Customer Lobby are proud partners of CertainPath and can help you achieve more reviews and repeat business by working together to create value at each touchpoint in your customer journey. Increasing your amount of Google reviews has a large impact on gaining more repeat and referral business. pulseM can help you achieve up to 3x more reviews by automating review requests at the end of each job, and then, Customer Lobby’s unique algorithm follows up with your customer base at the optimal time to produce a response. Customer Lobby’s direct mail postcards give your customers an extra way to keep your company top-of-mind when they need to schedule their next appointment with you! If you’re looking to hear more about how we partner with CertainPath members or view a free demo for pulseM and Customer Lobby, we’d love to connect with you! Visit the link in the description to get started. https://get.pulsem.me/pm-plus-certainpath
  Staples- Staples is the leading provider in office supplies offering a vast selection of products and services. Over the last 2 years, Staples has also become one of the US largest janitorial suppliers as well. From your everyday business essentials to your office furniture, printing, facilities and breakroom, Staples can do it all. Staples offers benefits to help create efficacies in procurement and consolidate vendors to streamline internal processes. Visit wwww.staplesadvantage.com for learn more.
  Reece. Reece is a leading supplier for Pros in the Plumbing, HVAC, Waterworks, and Bath and Kitchen industries. For over 100 years, Reece has been committed to helping Pros like you build your business by providing access to top-quality products backed by the resources, service, and support of product experts. On the job and need supplies but can’t get away? Reece will come to you. They make it easy to keep your job moving forward with their Rapid Delivery services. In just 2 hours, Reece will deliver to any job within 15 miles of participating branches. It’s just one more way to prove Reece works for you. Visit Reece.com to learn more about Reece – your trusted supplier and partner.
  Bradford White. Bradford White is “For the Professional” which is why they developed a For the Pro® mobile app with resources and tools at your fingertips! The contractor app is loaded with a variety of information and features to support the professional service and installation of Bradford White products. With the For the Pro® app, users can scan a Bradford White product barcode and quickly check warranty status while also having access to all related documents including I/O manuals and troubleshooting guides. Contractors can also chat with the Technical Services team within the app or access training videos while on site. The For The Pro® app is available for both iOS and Android devices through the Apple and Google app stores, download it today!
  Trane & American Standard. The Trane and American Standard Diagnostics Mobile Apps are a technician support tool with many features to help t...

In the morning, Juan Carlos Conchas is an electrical service & install manager, as well as sales trainer, for Pacific Coast Home Services in San Jose, CA. In the afternoon, he straps on his tools, takes a call or two, and sells close to $1MM in residential electrical every year. (In 2023, he sold $860K.) Yes, Juan Carlos is a CertainPath Electrical Sales Crown Champion... by selling part-time!

Juan Carlos never sold a thing before going to work for Pacific Coast. But when he was sent on a callback on a $30K job (that he didn’t sell or work on), Juan Carlos earned that angry customer’s trust—and then sold him a $100K job. Pacific Coast knew they had a star.

In this show, Juan Carlos shares his entire service call process in detail, explaining how he sells everything from diagnostics to panels to rewires to whole-house surge and more. What you’ll find is Juan Carlos doesn’t win over customers by smooth talking or pushing. Instead, he’s cool and calm in his demeanor. And he takes time to truly educate customers so they’re happy about their buying decisions.

Show Notes

The Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,100+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way. With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Visit www.mycertainpath.com for more information.

FOLLOW CERTAINPATH: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CertainPath Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/certainpath Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/certainpath/

Thank you to our sponsors:

Trane. Did you know the Trane Home app gives homeowners control over their Trane smart comfort system from the palm of their hands? Give them the power to adjust temperature hot or cold, set schedules, monitor usage and optimize energy from anywhere. The Trane Home app gives homeowners the ability to control how their environment feels so they can create their perfect cozy space. Download the Trane Home App on the App Store or get it on Google Play.

American Standard. Did you know the American Standard Home app gives homeowners control over their American Standard smart comfort system from the palm of their hands? Give them the power to adjust temperature hot or cold, set schedules, monitor usage and optimize energy from anywhere. The American Standard Home app gives homeowners the ability to control how their environment feels so they can create their perfect cozy space. Download the American Standard Home App on the App Store or get it on Google Play.

Redesign.co. Feeling overwhelmed by the ever-changing world of digital marketing? Redesign.co is here to simplify it for you. We focus on what matters: getting your business seen online. With our expertise in effective digital marketing solutions like Google Paid Ads and local SEO, we help your services get the attention they deserve. No jargon, no over-the-top promises, just solid strategies to boost your online presence. Let's team up and give your business the online boost it needs! Reach out to partner with Redesign.co and stand out to potential customers when and where they are looking.

Professional Plumbing Group. How many hours in a day do your plumbers waste because you do not have the right part for the job? This problem leads to additional issues and reduced productivity, poor customer satisfaction, and increases your cost per job. Professional Plumbing Group (PPG) can help you solve all those issues and more! We have everything you need to help your business grow and become more profitable by allowing you to focus on plumbing not inventory management, product selection and so much more. Go to authorizedplumberprogram.com for more information.

pulseM and Customer Lobby. As you prepare for summer, it’s vital to have a plan in place to maximize reviews and referrals during your busy season. If you’re looking to increase your volume of online reviews or follow up with customers automatically to ensure they choose your business the next time they need service, pulseM and Customer Lobby can help you achieve this by working together to create value at each touchpoint in the customer journey. pulseM and Customer Lobby are proud partners of CertainPath and it’s our focus to help members maintain trust with customers and create a personalized experience throughout the entire customer journey. Increasing your amount of Google reviews has a large influence on gaining a greater amount of repeat and referral business. pulseM can help you achieve up to 3x more reviews, while our unique algorithm within Customer Lobby can then follow up with your customer base at the optimal time to produce a response and remind customers to book th...

Bill Witty grew up knowing he wanted more out of life. He started as a maintenance man right out of school; rather than play on the weekends, Bill would flip houses. A friend told him about the earning potential as an electrician. He took a pay cut and leapt at an opportunity to be an apprentice at Milestone Home Services. After seven years, Bill earned his masters license and started his entrepreneurial journey by opening W3 Electric in 2019. (The W3 stands for his triple win he learned from Milestone, which is rooted in CertainPath philosophy.)

Despite a pandemic and slew of challenges that come with launching a new company, Bill has responded positively. He joined CertainPath not long after opening at the advice of his former boss, Milestone’s Gus Antos. With some guidance and the right mindset, Bill has grown W3 Electric from a one-man company to a seven-truck operation generating $2.2MM in sales. That’s quick growth in only 3.5 years. Even better, Bill has the team and many of the foundational systems and procedures in place to enjoy rapid growth. In this interview, Bill talks about his business journey, including:

· How training doesn’t have to be complicated for a small business.

· Why having the right mindset is so very important for owners and your employees.

· When the right time to start a club membership program with electrical.

· How to make your electrical safety inspections a memorable experience.

· Why debriefs after every service call is so very important.

· When the right time is to pull yourself out of the truck as the owner.

· What personality traits to look for when interviewing people.

· How Bill has reduced call backs by training and training some more on presenting diagnostics.

· What his marketing approach is, given he’s in a market with so many massive contractors with deep pockets.

· And so much more!

Show Notes

The Successful Contractor Podcast is a part of the CertainPath family. CertainPath builds successful home service businesses—and has for 25 years. We do it by providing contractors with a proven path to success, professional coaching, software solutions, and a member community of 1,100+ strong. Doubling your sales, with a 20% net profit, and an inspiring company culture is ALL possible. Let us show you the way.

With CertainPath, Success is Made Certain. Visit www.mycertainpath.com for more information.

FOLLOW CERTAINPATH: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CertainPath Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/certainpath Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/certainpath/

Thank you to our sponsors:

Synchrony – Ever wonder how to calculate your true cost of financing and how to fit the price of financing into your business and pricing for products and services? In Synchrony’s new and improved Toolbox website you can easily calculate your Cost of Credit, view educational videos and learn more about Synchrony’s digital tools. Simply to go toolbox.syf.com to explore and learn more.

Dynamic Air Quality Solutions - Since 1982, Dynamic has been the leader in designing, manufacturing, and distributing IAQ products to the commercial and residential markets through authorized HVAC contractors. CertainPath members receive the exclusive value add Clean Air Defense System private label to drive your brand in the market you serve. Our commitment starts with support. We provide you with World Class Industry Leading technical and communications training, face to face and online. Become a Clean Air Defense System Indoor Air Quality partner and dominate your market! Visit CleanAirDefenseSystem.com for more information.

Amana. Amana® brand is a premium brand from Daikin, the world’s #1 indoor comfort solutions company with over 20,000 employees in just North America! Originating eight decades ago, the Amana brand is synonymous with long-lasting, premium-quality products. Chances are, you and generations before you have enjoyed the dependable performance and longevity that the Amana brand continues to deliver. Today, Amana brand systems, like the new S-Series side discharge system with inverter technology, are manufactured with high-quality materials and innovative technologies. The unique design and excellent energy-efficient performance of the S-Series is a fraction of the size of other Amana brand systems. Because of its slim design, it is easy to transport and install. The Amana brand S-series system is available in AC, heat pump, and dual fuel configurations. Every Amana brand indoor comfort product is built to our highest standards. The S-series is no different. Take comfort with its 10-year parts and Lifetime Unit Replacement limited warranties*. For more information on the Amana S-Series, “Follow” the Amana brand on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.