Podcast interview with Chris Lalomia for Matthew Efird's "Market Mavericks" show
Key Takeaways
- Chris Lalomia runs The Trusted Toolbox, a handyman/remodeling business, and hosts the Small Business Safari podcast
- He emphasizes the importance of consistent training, knowing your numbers, and having systems in place to scale a service business
- Chris advocates for networking, mentorship, and mastermind groups as key drivers of business growth and personal development
- He's working on transitioning to a more strategic role by hiring a GM to run day-to-day operations in Atlanta
Topics
Chris's Background and Businesses
- Originally from Michigan with a master's in mechanical engineering
- Started The Trusted Toolbox in 2008 during the recession
- Currently runs:
- The Trusted Toolbox (handyman/remodeling) in Atlanta and Athens
- Home Service Institute (training program, currently on hold)
- Small Business Safari podcast
- President of NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) Atlanta chapter
Business Creation and Early Challenges
- Started with a business plan, but underestimated labor costs
- Initially priced too low due to economic pressures ($540/day vs current $890/day)
- Learned importance of knowing numbers and not buying business through low pricing
- Focused on process improvement and small jobs to build customer base
Business Pivots and Growth
- Realized he was in the training business, not just handyman work
- Shifted focus to consistently training team members
- Changed his "why" from making money to creating impact and legacy
- Now impacts 38 families through employment
Team Building and Culture
- 5000 sq ft office space with training room as focal point
- Bi-weekly team meetings (24/year) focusing on:
1. Customer service
2. Operational processes
3. Technical skills/new tools
- Emphasis on making meetings engaging for hands-on learners
