Shows
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteWhy Contractors Stay Exhausted at 7 Figures👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:If you feel exhausted, reactive, and constantly putting out fires, you’re paying what I call the Chaos Tax. In this episode, I explain where chaos hides inside seven-figure businesses, scheduling, estimating, materials, change orders, and lack of clarity. Here's how to finally take control with real systems.What’s in this episode:00:00 What the Chaos Tax really costs you02:23 Why most 7-figure contractors suffer more chaos06:10 Scheduling mistakes and material chaos09:40 Change orders and quality control failure...
2026-04-2110 min
Hard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittProject Managers Are Now Harder to Hire Than Skilled LaborIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO break down a reality that surprises people outside the industry but feels obvious to anyone inside it, project managers are now harder to hire than skilled labor.For years, the construction conversation has focused on trade shortages. Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and installers aging out faster than they’re being replaced. But quietly, without headlines, a different shortage has become even more painful. The shortage of people who can manage chaos, communicate clearly, keep jobs moving, and hold everything to...
2026-04-0916 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteCheap Bids Are Killing Contractors👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:Most contractors are living in an illusion, thinking cheap bids and change orders will save them. They won’t. In this episode, I break down why rework destroys margins, how inaccurate estimating kills profit, and why knowing your breakeven number is non-negotiable.What’s in this episode:00:00 The illusion of making money02:40 Why being the cheapest is dangerous05:10 Rework eats your margins08:20 Understanding breakeven costs11:30 Profit-first estimating14:40 Change order disciplineSuggested Videos...
2026-04-0709 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittWhy Homeowners Are Binge-Watching TikTok DIY Then Calling ContractorsIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO break down one of the most entertaining and frustrating trends reshaping contractor-customer relationships, homeowners binge-watching TikTok DIY videos and then calling contractors to fix, finish, or completely undo what they started.What looks like harmless inspiration has quietly changed expectations across home services. Short-form videos make renovations look fast, cheap, and foolproof, skipping over the complexity, risk, and skill that real-world projects demand. Justin and Gerritt unpack why homeowners aren’t acting out of ignorance or arrogance, but cu...
2026-04-0719 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteThe 7-Figure Lie Contractors Believe👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:In this episode, I break down why hitting seven figures doesn’t make life easier for most contractors — it actually exposes every crack in your business. More jobs, more people, more problems. I walk you through why revenue doesn’t solve chaos, how decision fatigue kills momentum, and what you actually need to implement if you don’t want seven figures to eat you alive.What’s in this episode:00:00 Why seven figures feels like a bigger dumpster fire02:10 Revenue exposes problems inst...
2026-03-3011 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteThe Only Way Out of Contractor Burnout👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:The contractors who win aren’t the hardest workers, they’re the most structured. In this final episode, I show you how systems, scorecards, role clarity, and ownership give you your time back and allow real scale.What’s in this episode:00:00 Why systems beat hustle02:30 Creating roles and expectations05:10 Scorecards and accountability08:20 Moving decisions off your plate11:00 Building a business that runs without youSuggested Videos:📹 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Contracting Business htt...
2026-03-3008 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteWhy Most Contractors Don’t Know Their Breakeven👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:If you don’t know your breakeven, margins, and job costs, you’re guessing, not running a business. I walk through the exact numbers every contractor must understand to stay profitable and avoid working for free.What’s in this episode:00:00 Why dollars in don’t equal dollars kept02:10 Understanding breakeven05:20 Labor, materials, and overhead08:40 Vendor terms and cash flow11:30 Job costing in real timeSuggested Videos:📹 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Contracting Business https...
2026-03-3009 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteIt’s Not Your People, It’s Your Process👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:When things go wrong, contractors blame people. But most of the time it’s the process. I share why clear systems beat talent alone, and how one simple shift can instantly improve performance across your entire team.What’s in this episode:00:00 Why it’s usually not your people02:20 The office manager story05:00 Training vs assuming08:10 Building high-performing teams11:00 Process before peopleSuggested Videos:📹 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Contracting Business https://youtu.be/f9NE7ia7g...
2026-03-3012 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteIf You Can’t Leave for Two Weeks, You Don’t Own a Business👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:I share a story from vacation that perfectly explains why most contractors don’t own businesses, they own very expensive jobs. If every decision still runs through you, your company is built on dependency. I show you how to move from being required to simply being involved.What’s in this episode:00:00 Why contractors can’t unplug02:10 The beach story that says it all05:00 How you train your team to depend on you08:30 Required vs involved leadership11:2...
2026-03-3011 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittCopper vs PEX vs Hybrid Plumbing The Pipe War Every Contractor FacesIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO unpack one of the longest running debates in residential construction: copper vs PEX vs hybrid plumbing systems. What seems like a simple material decision quickly turns into a deeper conversation about risk, perception, climate, labor shortages, and how contractors guide homeowners through decisions that live behind walls for decades. Copper has long carried the reputation of durability and permanence. Generations of homeowners grew up believing copper was the gold standard of plumbing. But modern water chemistry, municipal treatment m...
2026-03-2618 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteWhy Saying No Was the Best Business Decision He Ever Made - Thomas Wright👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:In this episode, I sit down with Thomas Wright from Renovate Ease, and we break down what it really takes to grow without chaos. Thomas shares how getting laid off during COVID pushed him into entrepreneurship, why saying yes to everything almost broke his business, and how niching down into kitchens and baths completely changed his profitability, stress level, and freedom. We talk about why revenue is vanity, why focus creates leverage, how hiring the wrong people holds you back, and wha...
2026-03-2431 min
Hard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónCobre, PEX o Híbrido — La Guerra de las Tuberías en AméricaEn este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, y Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO analizan uno de los debates más antiguos en la construcción residencial: cobre vs PEX vs sistemas híbridos de plomería. Lo que parece ser una simple decisión de material rápidamente se convierte en una conversación más profunda sobre riesgo, percepción, clima, escasez de mano de obra y cómo los contratistas guían a los propietarios en decisiones que permanecen detrás de las paredes durante décadas.El cobre ha tenido dur...
2026-03-1927 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittHomeowners Financing HVAC Like Auto Loans The New ModelIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO break down one of the biggest shifts in home services pricing in decades homeowners financing HVAC systems the same way they finance vehicles.What used to be a panic-driven, emergency cash purchase is quickly becoming a structured monthly payment model. Justin and Gerritt explain why HVAC is moving toward auto-loan-style financing, how homeowner expectations have changed, and why contractors who resist this shift are already falling behind.The conversation dives into the psychology behind monthly payments...
2026-03-1922 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónLos Propietarios Financiando HVAC Como Préstamos de Autos — El Nuevo ModeloEn este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, y Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO, analizan uno de los mayores cambios en los precios de los servicios para el hogar en décadas: los propietarios financiando sistemas HVAC de la misma manera que financian vehículos.Lo que antes era una compra en efectivo impulsada por una emergencia y el pánico se está convirtiendo rápidamente en un modelo estructurado de pagos mensuales. Justin y Gerritt explican por qué HVAC se está moviendo hacia un financiamiento estilo préstamo automotriz, cómo han cambi...
2026-03-1224 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittWhy Subcontractors Are Refusing General Contractor Terms in 2026In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, break down a major shift happening across the construction industry subcontractors are increasingly refusing traditional general contractor terms, and it’s not out of defiance, it’s survival.Justin and Gerritt unpack why long-standing contract practices like delayed payments, heavy retainage, fixed pricing without escalation, and risk-heavy clauses no longer work in today’s environment. With labor shortages, rising material costs, tighter margins, and increased compliance burdens, subcontractors are finding that old-school GC contracts push too much risk onto t...
2026-03-1217 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteFrom Rock Bottom to Seven Figures👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:In this episode, I sit down with Dallin Jensen from Utah Flood Guys, and this conversation goes way deeper than business. Dallin shares how he went from addiction, jail, and rock bottom to building a seven-figure water mitigation company in just a few years. We talk about imposter syndrome, faith, sobriety, sales, marketing, and what it really means to build a life—and a business—you don’t want to escape from. If you’re a contractor who’s fighting internal battles while trying to grow externally, this episode is fo...
2026-03-1032 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittInsurance Claim Battles Who’s Actually Winning?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO step into one of the most stressful, misunderstood, and emotionally charged areas of construction work, insurance claim battles.From water damage and fire restoration to storm repairs and emergency response, insurance work has evolved into its own economy. What used to be a straightforward repair-and-invoice process has turned into a maze of documentation, negotiations, adjuster changes, delayed approvals, and homeowner confusion. Contractors are stuck in the middle, expected to fix problems fast while waiting months to get paid.
2026-03-0521 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónPor Qué los Subcontratistas Están Rechazando los Términos de los Contratistas Generales en 2026En este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, y Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO, analizan un cambio importante que está ocurriendo en toda la industria de la construcción: los subcontratistas están rechazando cada vez más los términos tradicionales de los contratistas generales, y no es por rebeldía, sino por supervivencia.Justin y Gerritt explican por qué prácticas contractuales de larga data como pagos retrasados, retenciones elevadas, precios fijos sin ajustes por escalación y cláusulas con alto riesgo ya no funcionan en el entorno actual. Con escase...
2026-03-0518 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónPor Qué los Contratistas Fallan en el Branding (Y Cómo Arreglarlo)En este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, y Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO, abordan uno de los factores más ignorados que destruyen la rentabilidad en la construcción: una mala marca o la ausencia total de branding.Demasiados contratistas talentosos pierden trabajos no por precio o calidad, sino porque los propietarios simplemente no los recuerdan. Justin y Gerritt explican por qué el branding no se trata de logotipos o colores, sino de confianza, reconocimiento y de cómo se sienten los clientes en el momento en que encuentran tu negocio en l...
2026-02-2722 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittSubscription HVAC Is $ month Maintenance the Future?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO dive deep into one of the most debated shifts in the mechanical trades, subscription HVAC and monthly maintenance plans.What started as a simple idea has quickly turned into a full business model conversation. Contractors everywhere are asking the same questions. Do homeowners actually want monthly plans? Does subscription smooth cash flow or create new headaches? And is this model the future of HVAC, or just another trend?Justin and Gerritt break down subscription HVAC from...
2026-02-2622 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónMano de obra inmigrante: realidad vs. política en la construcción en EE. UU.En este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, y Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO, abordan una de las conversaciones más evitadas pero críticas en la industria de la construcción actual: el papel de la mano de obra inmigrante y la creciente brecha entre las narrativas políticas y la realidad en la obra.Justin y Gerritt hablan directamente desde la perspectiva del contratista, dejando de lado los titulares y enfocándose en lo que realmente sucede en el campo. Desde la escasez de mano de obra y el aumento de pr...
2026-02-2621 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittIs the US Entering a Construction Recession or Boom Cycle?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO tackle one of the most confusing questions contractors are asking right now is the US construction industry heading into a recession, or are we standing at the front edge of a massive boom cycle?Justin and Gerritt cut through headline noise and fear-driven predictions to talk about what contractors are actually seeing on the ground. While economists debate charts and interest rates, tradespeople are booked out for months, homeowners are struggling to find qualified contractors, and backlogs continue...
2026-02-1923 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónVolatilidad del costo del material: Ganar ofertas sin perder margenEn este episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO de Contractor+, se sienta con Gerritt Bake, CEO de Build PRO, para abordar uno de los mayores destructores de ganancias en la construcción hoy en día: la volatilidad en los costos de los materiales.Desde la madera y el acero hasta el cableado, el concreto y los acabados, los precios de los materiales siguen cambiando más rápido de lo que la mayoría de los contratistas puede seguir. Justin y Gerritt explican por qué la volatilidad ya no es temporal, cómo afecta la conf...
2026-02-1616 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittImmigrant Labor: Reality vs Politics in US ConstructionIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, take on one of the most avoided but critical conversations in the construction industry today, the role of immigrant labor and the growing gap between political narratives and jobsite reality.Justin and Gerritt speak directly from the contractor perspective, cutting through headlines and talking about what actually happens in the field. From labor shortages and rising project backlogs to housing delays and workforce burnout, they explain why immigrant labor is not a side issue but a core pillar...
2026-02-1220 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittGen Z in Construction Lazy or Highly Overlooked Talent?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, take on one of the most polarizing conversations happening across jobsites, supply houses, and contractor group chats right now, is Gen Z lazy, or are they highly overlooked talent?With labor shortages growing and experienced workers retiring faster than they’re being replaced, the construction industry is facing a critical moment. Gen Z is the largest generation entering the workforce, yet many contractors struggle to hire, train, and retain them. Justin and Gerritt break down why the stereotypes mi...
2026-02-0522 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittDo Contractor Websites Still Matter in 2026?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, dive into a question that keeps popping up in contractor forums, supply houses, and jobsite conversations, do contractor websites still matter in 2026, or are social media and referrals enough?Justin and Gerritt break down how homeowner behavior has changed and why digital visibility now plays a major role in trust, credibility, and lead generation. From Google searches and online reviews to mobile speed and first impressions, this episode explains how homeowners judge contractors long before they ever pick...
2026-01-2925 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittWhy Contractors Fail at Branding (And How to Fix It)In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, tackle one of the most overlooked profit killers in construction, bad branding, or no branding at all.Too many skilled contractors lose jobs not because of price or quality, but because homeowners simply don’t remember them. Justin and Gerritt break down why branding is not about logos or colors, but about trust, recognition, and how customers feel the moment they encounter your business online or in person.The conversation explores the most common branding mistakes co...
2026-01-2222 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittThe End of Cheap Labor: The New Reality for US ContractorsIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO tackle a hard truth facing every contractor in America, the era of cheap labor is over.For decades, many construction businesses relied on low-cost labor to protect margins and win bids. That model is breaking fast. Rising wages, retiring skilled workers, labor shortages, compliance costs, and higher expectations from workers are reshaping the economics of the trades. Justin and Gerritt break down why this shift isn’t temporary and why contractors who cling to outdated labor assumptions are ge...
2026-01-1520 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittShould Contractors Use a CRM or Is It Overkill?In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, and Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, tackle a question contractors debate constantly: is a CRM actually necessary, or is it just another piece of software that adds complexity?Justin and Gerritt break down what a CRM really does in plain language and why disorganization quietly costs contractors more money than bad pricing ever will. From missed calls and forgotten follow-ups to scheduling confusion and lost jobsite details, this episode exposes how chaos sneaks into growing construction businesses and slowly eats away at profit.
2026-01-0822 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteMarriage, Money, and Scaling a Trades Business👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipIn this episode, I sit down with Angie and Ryan Snow, owners of Western Heating, Air, and Plumbing, an eight-figure company that’s been in business for nearly two decades. We talk about what it’s really like building a business as a married couple, why buying an existing company changed everything for them, and how they survived the recession, hiring mistakes, sales struggles, and major growth transitions. We dig into sales, pricing, data vs feelings, leadership, people, culture, and why paying top dollar for top talent is non-negotiable if you wan...
2026-01-0647 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittMaterial Cost Volatility Winning Bids Without Losing MarginIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, sits down with Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, to tackle one of the biggest profit killers in construction today, material cost volatility.From lumber and steel to wiring, concrete, and finishes, material prices continue to shift faster than most contractors can keep up with. Justin and Gerritt break down why volatility is no longer temporary, how it impacts bidding confidence, and why so many contractors are winning jobs on paper but losing money in reality.This conversation goes beyond theory and dives...
2026-01-0120 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittWhy Small Contractors Are Scaling Faster Than Large GCsIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith, CEO of Contractor+, sits down with Gerritt Bake, CEO of Build PRO, to unpack a reality that’s becoming impossible to ignore across the construction industry — small contractors are scaling faster, staying more profitable, and adapting quicker than many large general contractors.Justin and Gerritt break down why agility, specialization, and smart systems give small construction businesses a serious advantage. From faster decision-making and lower overhead to stronger client relationships and better use of technology, this conversation explains how size is no longer the deciding factor for success.
2025-12-2620 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittHow AI and Automation Are Changing the Field, Not Replacing It!In this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith (CEO of Contractor+) sits down with Gerritt Bake (CEO of Build PRO) to unpack one of the biggest questions contractors are asking right now: is AI actually helping on the jobsite, or is it just another overhyped buzzword?Instead of talking theory, Justin and Gerritt break down how AI and automation are already being used in real construction workflows, from estimating and takeoffs to scheduling, paperwork, compliance, and resource planning. They explain where AI genuinely saves time and money, where it still falls short, and why human judgment...
2025-12-1918 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteThe Chaos Tax Is Killing Your Business👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:I call it the Chaos Tax — the price you pay when your business runs on reaction instead of strategy. In this episode, I share how my time as a rookie cop taught me the danger of chasing outcomes without a plan. I’ll give you four strategies to cut through chaos: define outcomes, plan ahead, always have a backup plan, and embrace accountability. Stop paying the Chaos Tax and start running your business like a pro.📂 What’s in this episode:00:00 What the Chaos Tax is costing y...
2025-09-2312 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteThe $6 Million Mindset Shift👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:I share the story of a contractor who was stuck at $1 million in revenue, burning out and running in circles. The shift that helped him scale past $6 million wasn’t more hustle, it was structure. I’ll show you how to replace “doing more” with building systems, setting capacity caps, and making growth sustainable instead of chaotic.📂 What’s in this episode:00:00 Why doing more jobs doesn’t equal more money00:29 The remodeler stuck at $1M and ready to quit02:01 Why tradin...
2025-09-0910 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteChaos in a Box: Why Crews Ignore Your Plan👉 Join BuildPro Now! https://buildprosystem.com/vipSummary:If your crew treats your plan like a suggestion, you’ve got chaos in a box. In this episode, I break down why jobs fall apart even when you’ve got the work lined up and the right people in place. From vague plans, to zero ownership, to no checkpoints or consequences. I show you the four mistakes contractors make that force them to babysit crews and lose money. More importantly, I’ll give you the tools to turn your jobs into structured, repeatable wins.📂 What’s in th...
2025-09-0311 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteRaise Your Standards, Elevate Your BusinessSetting Standards: The Key to Quality Work in Your Contracting BusinessIn this episode of Success Unleashed, host Garrett Bake addresses the common issue of sloppy work due to undefined standards. He emphasizes the importance of establishing clear expectations for employees and shares a personal story from his days as a police officer to illustrate how strict standards can lead to better performance and accountability. Bake advises contractors to set, communicate, and enforce standards consistently to ensure quality work and operational efficiency. He concludes with an invitation to join the Build Pro community for more tips, tools, and support in...
2025-08-2611 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteMastering Cash Flow: The Key to Contractor SuccessSummary:In this episode of Success Unleashed, host Garrett Bake shares strategies for contractors to manage their cash flow and escape the 'rich on Monday, broke by Friday' cycle. Garrett emphasizes the importance of having solid payment terms in contracts, charging for change orders, and maintaining a cash reserve to ensure business stability. He offers practical advice on how to stop cash flow issues from derailing a business by implementing straightforward financial practices and leveraging credit options. This episode is a must-listen for any contractor aiming to grow and sustain a profitable business.📂 What’s in this episo...
2025-08-1914 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteShift from Worker to Leaderhttps://buildprosystem.com/vipIn this video, I discuss why the hustle and 'grind mentality' could be hurting your business rather than helping it grow. I outline the common daily chaos most trade business owners experience and underscore the importance of shifting from being a problem-solver to becoming a true business owner. Learn how implementing processes, putting the right people in place, and training your team can lead to a scalable and efficient organization. I provide actionable steps for documenting processes, transitioning out of fieldwork or financial roles, and focusing on big-picture strategies. Join our BuildPro community for free training...
2025-07-1511 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteSmart Hiring Practices for Contractorshttps://buildprosystem.com/vipIn this episode, I discuss the pitfalls of hiring the first available candidate and the importance of building a strong, reliable team for your contracting business. I share personal experiences and examples, highlighting the significance of having a robust hiring process and proactive recruitment strategies. Learn the critical steps to creating a job framework, setting performance metrics, identifying necessary qualifications, and offering competitive compensation. Additionally, I emphasize the value of working interviews and behavior profiling to ensure you hire the right fit for your team. Whether you're a small or...
2025-07-0812 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteMastering the Bid Processhttps://buildprosystem.com/vipMastering the Bidding Process: Accuracy and Speed Are KeyIn this episode, I tackle the critical issue of ineffective bidding processes that's causing many to lose job opportunities. Drawing from personal experiences and direct insights, I discuss the importance of presenting accurate, professional, and timely bids. We'll delve into the impact of getting your numbers right, the necessity of proper preparation, and how leveraging technology like CRMs can streamline your bidding workflow. Whether you're a contractor, builder, or trades business owner, this episode will push you to improve your bidding strategy...
2025-07-0112 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteEffective Marketing for Contractorshttps://buildprosystem.com/vipIn this episode, I address the common pitfalls of inconsistent marketing strategies and stress the importance of taking direct responsibility for your marketing efforts. I highlight that marketing is fundamentally about getting and keeping people's attention, and debunk the belief that advertising alone equates to marketing. I share practical tips and personal stories illustrating that building and maintaining relationships, consistency, and clear definition of your target audience are essential for successful marketing. I also emphasize that marketing should be viewed as a long-term commitment and provide strategies that can be...
2025-06-2412 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittMastering Client CommunicationsIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith (CEO of Contractor+) sits down with Gerritt Bake (CEO of American Contractor Network) to dig deep into one of the most overlooked aspects of success in construction: client communication. From managing expectations to turning complaints into referrals, Justin and Gerritt share real-world strategies that contractors can start using today to build trust, eliminate misunderstandings, and close more deals.They break down what most contractors get wrong, how to set the tone from the first call, and the exact steps to creating smooth, drama-free projects from...
2025-06-0448 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittMastering Client CommunicationsIn this episode of Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith (CEO of Contractor+) sits down with Gerritt Bake (CEO of American Contractor Network) to dig deep into one of the most overlooked aspects of success in construction: client communication. From managing expectations to turning complaints into referrals, Justin and Gerritt share real-world strategies that contractors can start using today to build trust, eliminate misunderstandings, and close more deals.They break down what most contractors get wrong, how to set the tone from the first call, and the exact steps to creating smooth, drama-free projects from...
2025-06-0448 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteStop Underpricing Your Way to BurnoutIn this episode, Gerritt Bake addresses the critical issue of underpricing jobs, which often leads to financial loss and burnout, especially for tradespeople like finish carpenters. Through an engaging conversation with a seasoned trim carpenter struggling despite being busier than ever, the discussion highlights the dangers of underestimating job costs, neglecting profit margins, and the false belief that more jobs automatically translate to more money. The episode emphasizes the importance of knowing the true cost of labor, materials, and overhead. Practical strategies are shared, including the use of estimating software, targeted marketing towards high-paying clients, and the transformative power...
2025-05-2710 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteWhy Skipping Marketing Is Killing Your Contracting BusinessToday I'm focusing on how contractors can secure a steady stream of high-quality leads and grow their businesses to seven or eight figures. Through relatable scenarios, I discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on referrals and word-of-mouth marketing, emphasizing the importance of hard work, clear communication, and relationship-building. Catering to different stages of business growth, from startups to established companies, I provides actionable advice on tailoring marketing strategies to residential and commercial sectors. I underscore the significance of understanding your target audience and crafting the right message to attract and retain clients, ultimately helping trade business owners avoid desperation-driven...
2025-05-2011 min
The Why Not PodcastPatriotism, Community, and Personal Integrity with Gerritt Vander LindenEvery now and then, you meet a peer who is on a mission to make the world a better place. Gerritt is working with 47G to transform the Utah community for the aerospace and defense industry. Hear more about his story on this week's episode.47G: https://www.47g.org/Gerritt's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrittvanderlinden/****Please follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noahmcisneros/ Apply to my newsletter: https://noahcisneros.com/newsletter/***********D...
2025-05-021h 02Hard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónIncendios forestales en LA y los impactos de la inmigración en la construcciónHard Hat Chat se adentra en una tormenta perfecta que afecta a la Costa Oeste: incendios masivos y una inminente escasez de mano de obra, todo complicado por las políticas migratorias actuales. En este episodio, Justin Smith (CEO de Contractor Plus) y Gerritt Bake (American Contractor Network) analizan el impacto descomunal de los incendios que arrasaron 12,000 estructuras, dejando a California del Sur con una reconstrucción estimada en 40 mil millones de dólares en daños. Se explora desde el arduo proceso de limpieza de escombros tóxicos hasta los códigos de construcción más estrictos requerid...
2025-02-0513 minHard Hat Chat: No-BS Construction Discussion with Justin & GerrittHow LA Wildfires and Immigration Are Impacting ConstructionHard Hat Chat dives into a perfect storm affecting the West Coast – massive wildfires and a looming labor shortage complicated by current immigration policies. In this episode, Justin Smith (CEO at Contractor Plus) and Gerritt Bake (American Contractor Network) break down the staggering impact of fires that razed 12,000 structures, leaving Southern California with a rebuild estimated at $40 billion in damages. They explore everything from the challenging cleanup of toxic debris to the stricter building codes now required in high-risk fire zones.The conversation turns to the heart of the labor crunch in construction, where a...
2025-02-0510 minHard Hat Chat Español - Discusión de ConstrucciónPreparándonos para la escasez de trabajadores en construcciónEn el primer episodio de Hard Hat Chat, Justin Smith (CEO de Contractor Plus) y Gerritt Bake (CEO de American Contractor Network) abordan la enorme escasez de trabajadores que se avecina en la industria de la construcción. Analizan las cifras más recientes del pronóstico de ABC (¡se requieren 439.000 nuevos trabajadores para 2025!), profundizan en las razones por las cuales está descendiendo la edad promedio de los trabajadores de la construcción y exploran cómo las políticas de inmigración podrían impulsar o debilitar la mano de obra disponible. Si alguna vez te has preguntado de dónde s...
2025-01-2811 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteMastering Money & Vision: Lessons from a Homebuilding MaverickIn this episode of Success Unleashed, we sit down with Zach Gordon, founder of Vibe Homes, to uncover the secrets behind his rapid rise in the home building industry. From saving money as a teenager to building a thriving business in just four years, Zach shares how focusing on
financial discipline and clear vision can transform your contracting business. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this episode is packed with actionable insights on: Avoiding the scarcity mindset The power of saying no to bad projects Building relationships that keep clients coming backIfyou're ready to create a...
2025-01-2240 minSuccess Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteUnlock Explosive Growth in 2025: 3 Must-Do Strategies for ContractorsIs 2025 the year you finally take your contracting business to the next level? In this episode of Success Unleashed, we break down the three essential steps to grow your business without sacrificing more of your time and energy. Discover how to create a solid plan, reverse-engineer your revenue goals, and track your progress for unstoppable growth. With actionable insights and data-backed strategies, this episode is your blueprint for turning 2025 into your breakthrough year. Don’t just survive—thrive!
Suggested Videos:
📹 Proven Strategies to Grow Your Contracting Business
https://youtu.be/f9NE7ia7gDA?si=A3JFa1cus-CgnBS9
📹 Is One Bad Hi...
2024-12-3010 min
The Home Service HustleEP. 55 Gerritt Baken - From Law Enforcement to Leadership: Accountability, Influence, and Conquering Fear🎙️ From Law Enforcement to Empowering Contractors: Gerritt Bake’s Journey 🎙️
In this powerful episode, Gerritt Bake shares his story, reflecting on his transition from almost two decades in law enforcement to becoming a respected contractor consultant. Gerritt opens up about the pivotal moments that led him to make a change and why he’s passionate about helping business owners take control of their own success.
Together with host Jonathan Bannister, they dive into the value of accountability, local influence, and overcoming fear through preparation. Whether you’re striving to become “5 mile f...
2024-11-081h 01
The Blue Collar FutureGerritt Bake - Unlocking Contractor Success: The Most Common Thing Contractors Struggle WithContractor coach Gerritt Bake joins Jaden Robison on the Blue Collar Future podcast to discuss the intricacies and future of trade work. They delve into essential topics such as self-belief, overcoming business hurdles, and the significance of physical fitness for contractors. Gerritt shares insights on scaling businesses, mentorship importance, and the broader benefits of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Their conversation also addresses the stigma surrounding trade work and the vital need to attract a younger generation to these careers. A thought-provoking discussion for anyone involved in or considering the trades. Apparel for the Podcast has just debuted...
2024-07-1546 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteRoad to $15 Million Revenue A Year (Lessons for Contractors)Welcome back to another episode of Success Unleashed: Beyond the Jobsite. I'm your host, Gerritt Bake, and today we have a special guest with us, Cameron Barr, the owner of Barr Construction. Since September 2020, Barr Construction has been making waves in the industry, generating $15.5 million in revenue last year and projected to reach between $22 and $25 million this year. They focus on commercial development, high-end homes, and land development. Cameron, along with his wife Amber and father-in-law, run this family business. Let's dive in and learn more about Cameron's journey and his approach to business. Cameron's Journey into...
2024-06-0734 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteFrom Corporate Ladder To Contracting SuccessWelcome back to the Success Unleashed podcast! I’m Gerritt Bake, and today we have an incredible guest who took an unconventional path into the contracting world. Our guest, Justin, started as a farm kid, climbed the corporate ladder, and then made a bold move into the contracting space. Justin, thanks for joining us today! Key Highlights: 🚀 From Corporate America to Contracting: Justin’s journey is unique. He didn’t start with a tool belt but brought his corporate experience into the trades. He initially climbed the corporate ladder but eventually grew tired of it and decid...
2024-05-2538 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteMastering Cashflow (For Contractors)Welcome back to another episode of Success Unleashed! I’m Gerritt Bake, and today we have a unique guest who brings a wealth of knowledge from both the contracting and financial worlds. While he isn’t a contractor anymore, his experience and insights are invaluable to anyone in the industry. Our guest today is Jeremy Dean, the former owner of a successful landscaping business who has now become a master of cash flow and accounting for contractors. Let's dive in! Key Highlights: 🚀 From Contractor to Cash Flow King: Jeremy spent 15 years running a landscaping business before...
2024-05-1843 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteBeyond the Build: Realizing Dreams from Contractor to EntrepreneurWelcome to another thrilling episode of "Success Unleashed: Beyond the Jobsite," where your host Gerritt Bake sits down with Chris Wolford, an extraordinary entrepreneur and seasoned contractor who has carved a successful path in the competitive world of contracting. In today's episode, Gerritt delves into Chris's inspiring journey from a military background to owning multiple high-revenue businesses, including Garage Experts and Elevate Homes. Join us as we uncover the secrets behind Chris's business acumen and his unique approach to entrepreneurship. Learn how Chris's early influences shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and how his military discipline has contributed to...
2024-04-1936 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteUnspoken Rules of Winning Big ContractsIn this riveting Episode 4 of "Success Unleashed: Beyond the Job Site," host Gerritt Bake is joined by Adam King, a seasoned contractor whose journey encapsulates the essence of entrepreneurial grit and ingenuity. Adam's story is not just about building structures; it's about constructing a legacy of resilience, smart networking, and relentless growth in the competitive world of contracting. Dive deep into a discussion that covers the full spectrum of what it means to thrive beyond just the technical skills. From critical lessons learned in the field to the transformative power of facing fears and embracing solutions...
2024-03-2743 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteHow can Sub-Contractors start working on bigger projects?In this episode, Gerritt interviews Chris Wilson, a seasoned General Contractor. He's been in the businesses for more than 10 years and they talk about Chris' humble beginnings that turns intro a multi-million contractor business. They also talk about his experiences with Sub-Contractors and provided very good advice on how Sub-Contractors can improve their business. This is an extremely valuable episode as the lessons shared are coming form the perspective of a General Contractor that works on big projects like hotels that hires multiple Sub-Contractors. Ready to simplify and scale your contracting or home service business?
2024-03-2339 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteRedefining Goals for Your Unique Contractor JourneyIn the world of contracting there are hidden struggles that hinder success. From unclear goals to ineffective planning, discover how to navigate the challenges and pave the way for your business's triumph. 💡 In this episode Gerritt talks about how to go around those challenges and ultimately reach the success that you want. Ready to simplify and scale your contracting or home service business? Work with Gerritt: https://go.americancontractornetwork.com
2024-03-2309 min
Above the bridgeEpisode 111 HAWAIIAN KETO DAD GERRITT VINCENT ( Keto Influencer )Embark on a journey with Gerritt Vincent, our Hawaiian Keto Dad, who unfolds his family's transformation through a ketogenic lens, all the while preserving the flavors of heritage. Our heart-to-heart uncovers the delicate dance of instilling healthy habits in his children without stripping away the simple pleasures of their palates. As Gerritt shares the tale of his mother's triumph over diabetes and his own weight loss odyssey, it becomes apparent that the road to wellness is not just paved with good intentions but also a community of kindred spirits who hold each other accountable through the peaks and valleys o...
2024-03-181h 09
Building Great Sales TeamsInsights on Building Contractor Success w/Gerritt Bake00:02:34] - Gerritt Bake discusses the significance of maintaining momentum and consistency in personal and professional life.[00:11:58] - Insights into overcoming challenges and adapting to change for growth.[00:22:45] - Gerritt shares his journey of self-discovery and the impact of mindset shifts.[00:33:12] - Strategies for effective goal setting and achieving long-term objectives.[00:41:27] - The role of mentorship and networking in accelerating career progress.[00:50:05] - Gerritt’s take on work-life balance and integrating personal values into professional endeavors.[01:02:18] - Discussing the importance of resilience and learning from failures.[01:14:31] - Gerritt’s advice for young professionals aspiring to leadership roles.[01:25:49] - The impact of tech...
2023-12-2146 minBuilding Great Sales TeamsBGST Live Q&A Vol. 1 w/ Paul Childers, Rage Chambers, Gerritt Bake and Clint RigginJoin us for an insightful Q&A session with three accomplished guests: Paul Childers, owner of a business credit coaching/lending business; Rage Chambers, Office Manager at Clae Solutions and owner of Wolfpack Marketing; and Gerritt Bake, founder of the American Contractor Network and owner of American Contractor Homes. Our discussion covers topics ranging from building business credit to mastering sales and scaling contracting businesses. Learn from their experiences, including Paul's journey from using vendors to establishing his own brand, Rage's success in recruiting, and Gerritt's impressive milestone of helping 15 contractors cross the 7-figure mark this year.
2023-11-1543 min
Success Unleashed: Beyond The JobsiteEp 1 - From the Brink: A Cop's Journey to Rebuild Life, Business, and Purpose.In this exciting episode of "Success Unleashed," host Gerritt Bake shows you how one man went from being a police officer who was focused on his job to a contractor whose personal life was in shambles. Find out how he fixed not only his contracting business but also his family, health, and sense of purpose. Wait for a story about strength, forgiveness, and how to be successful in business and in life. #ContractorSuccess #BusinessGrowthTips #WorkLifeBalance Ready to simplify and scale your contracting or home service business? Work with Gerritt: https://go.a...
2023-10-3117 min
Guys Being DoodsMiguel Cabrera Reaches 3,000 Hits & Gerritt Cole's "Sticky" SituationOn today's episode, we sit down and talk about the amazing career and journey Miguel Cabrera has had in the league. Just recently, Miggy reached the 3,000 hit club and we couldn't be more impressed by the way he did it! True CLASSIC Miggy form! The one thing that is alarming about Miguel Cabrera reaching the 3,000 hit club is that we may NEVER see another player in HISTORY to do it! RJ pulls up a graphic from MLB Tonight a few days ago and the active hit leaders in the MLB are 1. Albert Pujols (3,308), 2. Miguel Cabrera (3,000), & 3. Robinson Cano (2,629)... The rest...
2022-04-2745 min
The Complete Sinner's GuideEpisode 78: Practical Christianity Ep.5: Narrative Structure w/ Gerritt SchuitemaWhat is Narrative Structure and why should I even care about it? This was my (Tyler) initial thought when Josh first began talking to me about this topic, but WOW, I am ever so glad we had this conversation with our good friend Gerritt Schuitema! Josh and Gerritt break down the importance of PARTICIPATING in the story in order to achieve an end goal, namely to become as Christ. All who are born again are also being sanctified (becoming more like Jesus), and when participate in the things Jesus Himself has commanded us to do (baptism, the Eucharist aka...
2022-03-2052 min
Protest Too Much: A Shakespeare Showdown4.2 "Next Elected Senator" Jim and GerrittJim and Gerritt join host Stephanie Crugnola on this week's episode to argue which of Shakespeare's villains is most likely to be elected to the US Senate!
Jim and Gerritt bring Angelo (Measure for Measure) and have Stephanie argue Cassio (Othello).
Vote for who you think should be the winner on Facebook (/p2mpod) or Twitter (@p2mpod)!
Check out all of the content Jim and Gerritt offer through State of Shakespeare on their website, twitter, or facebook!
Make sure to check out our Patreon for the bonus materials and extra...
2021-07-0120 min
The Fundability™ PodcastYour Business Is Exactly the Business You Want...Whether You Like It Or Not With Gerritt BakeMany business owners want to scale their business, but they’re unwilling to put in the effort required. Your current business is exactly the business you want because it’s a reflection of who you are. Merrill Chandler discusses with his coach Gerritt Bake how interpersonal value equals enterprise value. Gerritt Bake is a strategic planning specialist at Performance Capital who helps Merrill build enterprise value in his business. In this episode, you’ll discover the importance of having clarity, accountability, and commitment. Join in the discussion to gain valuable insights into building enterprise value in your business!
2021-04-2932 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 16- How is your career affecting your relationship with your kids?What kind of relationship do you have with your kids? As cops, we are pulled in so many different directions and this can really take its toll on our family relationships if we aren't being proactive. Check out the highlights from this episode: Gerritt's first narcotics deal.(01:19) Life has a way of throwing you curveballs, which is what happened when Gerritt and Melissa found out she was pregnant with her first child. (01:59) Police work forces you to become a different person (3:55) How this career can affect your relationships. (4:09) Cops often become intolerant...
2021-04-2015 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 15- You Miss 100% of the Shots You Don't TakeSometimes as cops, we become accustomed to asking for permission before taking action, and oftentimes, this spills over into our personal lives and leaves us in a state of never-ending limbo. Instead of just taking initiative and going after the things we want, we wait for permission, we wait for someone else to fix things, or we just don't take the shot to jump in and do something for whatever reason. To have success in life, this mentality needs to change. It's time to stop asking for permission and start taking ownership of your life. Chec...
2021-04-1312 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 14- The Obstacle is the WayWhen faced with difficult times, you have 2 ways of looking at things. You can either look at the trial in front of you as an "obstacle" or as an "opportunity" to change something for the better. When Gerritt was working in the Gang unit, he had a few experiences where he put his coworkers in danger, which ultimately led him to be removed from the gang unit. After overcoming the shame that came with that time in life, he was able to turn things around and actually become an officer of the year, which was a huge ho...
2021-04-0616 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 13- 4 Tips to Help Police Officers CopeA normal day for a cop is far from normal for the average person. We are constantly faced with difficult, dangerous, or life-threatening situations. Or we are the first ones on the scene after death has already taken place. After seeing all the dead bodies, and crazy situations police officers face every day, we are expected to just be "normal" in the other aspects of our lives. This is not an easy feat for most cops, and oftentimes, we go down dark paths just to deal with the pain of work. In this episode, Gerritt discu...
2021-03-3018 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 12- What's Your 20 in Life?What's Your 20? How many times have you heard that as a cop? Probably more than you could remember. But it is significant because unless we know where we are to begin with, along with goals of where we want to be, we will never go anywhere. Think back to the classic story of Alice in Wonderland. When she is brought to a fork in the road and questioning which way to turn, the Cheshire Cat asked her where she wanted to go and she replied "I don't know." His response to that was, "Then it...
2021-03-2315 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 11: Infinite Whiplash: The Effect of Going Zero to 100 Every Day as a Cop and What to Do About it.A lot of us really have no idea what it's like to be a police officer before we actually get in the line of duty. One thing is for sure, no two days are the same. You are constantly thrown from one situation into another, with no notice. It's a constant lurch from ZERO to 100 every time you go from a peaceful drive down main street, to an emergency call of a shooting, an accident, or a domestic situation. This constant back and forth from calm to chaos that police officers deal with on the daily is what...
2021-03-1615 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 10- Show up in Your Personal Life Like you Show up in Your Professional LifeWhen you chose to be a cop, you did it to have pride in what you do, and to become the best you could be. A good cop works hard to dedicate him or herself to putting in the work, no matter how hard, to be there when times get tough. To never give up. To be a hero. Sadly, so many of us cops give our very best at work, but when we get home, we drop the ball. Our family is left to gather the few crumbs we leave behind because we have put so much of ourse...
2021-03-0916 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 9- Are you the HERO in your own life?We all have looked up to heroes in our lives from GI Joe to Thor, Captain America, Batman or Iron Man. When you become a cop, you are looked up to as a hero. In order to be a hero not only at work, but also at home and at life, you need to follow a framework to make that happen so that all aspects of your life are in harmony, and you don't allow any area to become neglected. Sometimes when cops put on the hero role at work, we forget that the hero role...
2021-03-0217 min
Rutgers Chi Alpha PodcastMissions (Gerritt Kenyon & Andrew Koshy)Tonight at MNL we discuss missions as we welcome missionary Gerritt Kenyon. Gerritt discusses his journey to become a missionary with Andrew, talking about the experiences that impacted him throughout his life and also the testimonies of how God has used him and his wife in the country of Panama. After the discussion, Gerritt also answers questions from the audience of their questions about missions and his experience. Questions you might have about the mission field could be answered too, so make sure to give this amazing message a listen!
Message MNL. // Feb 22nd, 2021
2021-02-2341 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 8- A Police Officer Needs to Be Certain That Perception Matches Reality Before Taking Action at Work and in Life.Learn the importance of deciphering perception vs. reality and why you should be careful to make decisions unless they are aligned. Here are the highlights: The coveted position of Detective. (0:39) Was it a heart attack? (02:58) It's important to use your senses to determine perception vs. reality (07:02) How are you making your decisions? (09:06) When perception over reality can be deadly in our profession. (10:05) Tapping into your senses to determine perception from reality (11:42) Join our FREE Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403966616458956 About The Show From the brink of divorce, health problems, and n...
2021-02-1913 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 7- The 3-Step Process To Getting Unstuck as a Police Officer, First Responder, or Military PersonnelDiscover a 3-step process to helping yourself get unstuck in your life, no matter where you are. Here are the highlights: Life lessons learned from SWAT training. (0:39) How to get unstuck (07:38) The 3-step process (09:14) The importance of finding a mentor or guide. (10:52) Stop focusing on the problem and search for a solution (12:03) Join Hero Nation (13:02) About The Show From the brink of divorce, health problems, and near suicide to having the life of his dreams. Meet Gerritt Bake, a retired SWAT officer who has spent the last 4 years and hundreds of thousands of d...
2021-02-1914 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 6- Change Your Money Mindset: Police Officers Do Not Need to Live Paycheck to Paycheck.Time for the dreaded money conversation. So many cops live paycheck to paycheck. Gerritt believes this is a choice. You can learn other ways to generate revenue and seek out ways to generate and keep more money. He discusses the ways to invest in yourself and to identify the "cost" of NOT investing in you. Here are the highlights: The money conversation (0:39) Here's why money doesn't exist. (01:41) Gerritt's story of getting himself out of massive debt. (03:01) The money lesson Gerritt learned after years of struggle (04:17) Money is about investing in things we want a return out of. You need to...
2021-02-1913 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 5- Those Who Protect and Serve Should Be Proactive instead of Reactive in These Four Areas of LifeGerritt reveals how he takes a proactive approach to every aspect of his life that allows him to be prepared for whatever comes his way. Here are the highlights: Gerritt shares with you the piece of technology he uses in order to track his sleep, his activity and his health. (0:34) How he overcame pre-diabetes, anxiety, high cholesterol and high blood sugar (01:32) A piece of technology helped him focus better on his sleep and health. (02:45) If you are not proactive and you ignore what is going on in your life, you will not be successful. (05:50) How to be proactive in you...
2021-02-1912 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 4- The Thought Process That Must Happen to Have Success in Police Work, and in Life.Discover the thought process that must take place in order to get the results you want out of work, health and life. Here are the highlights:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Gerritt takes on a supervisory position and helps the new cops learn the correct protocols for effective police work. (0:50) Teaching new recruits about the processes of legal search warrants, investigations and arrests. (02:00) The potential drug bust. (03:08) Probable Cause and Investigation leads to a search warrant. (05:39) What does this story have to do with you? (06:27) The thought process that must happen in order for you to have the success you want in police work, and in life...
2021-02-1912 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 3- The Skill You Learned as a Cop That Can Make You Successful in Other Every Area of Your LifeIn this episode of Win The Daily War, Gerritt will share with you a skill that all officers must develop in the line of duty. When you apply this same skill to your personal life, you will be able to find greater success and happiness. Here are the highlights:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Lessons learned from working as an undercover cop. (0:41) A wrong decision that turned deadly. (04:14) What's driving you? (07:44) The skill you learned as a cop that you need to take home with you. (09:29) The right way to guide your actions outside of work. (10:39) Why Hero Fuel was created. (11:25) About The Show
2021-02-1913 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 2- Four Things That Will Help Police Officers,First Responders and other Heroes Create A Life They Truly Want.Summary⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Learn the steps Gerritt took to take his life back from the brink of divorce, near-suicide and addiction. Here are the highlights: Some backstory about his marriage and why counseling didn't work for them. (01:02) A key point that leads you to take action to change your life. (03:51) How to know if you are in the wrong place. (05:42) The Protect and Serve Protocol can bring you the life you want. (06:42) The 4 areas you need to focus on to Win the Daily War. (08:03) Detailed explanation of Each of the 4 areas of The Protect and Serve Protocol. (09:45) About...
2021-02-1915 min
Win The Daily WarEpisode 1: The One Question That Changed a Police Officer's Life After His Infidelity, Addiction and Near Suicide.Summary⠀⠀ In this episode of Win The Daily War, you will meet our host, Gerritt Bake, who is a retired SWAT officer, and he will share with you his story of his background on the police force and why he created Hero Nation and this podcast. Here are the highlights:⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Why he created this podcast and what "Win The Daily War" means (01:48) Personal stories and experiences working as a cop (02:34) What led him down a destructive path that included infidelity, addiction to pornography and prescription drugs. (05:52) The one question that made him stop in his tracks after he had alre...
2021-02-1912 min
The Daily Job HuntTeaching Yourself Career Skills with Gerritt MaatkampGerritt Maatkamp is a front-end web developer who started from scratch and taught himself the tech skills he needed to change careers.
Gerritt shares his career story, from dropping out of university to learning programming while working as a janitor and how anyone can follow a similar path.
In this episode:
* How seeing his brother work from home opened Gerritt’s mind to the idea of learning to program
* Making the decision to drop out of university
* How working as a janitor helped Gerrit...
2020-09-0822 min
Content Is ProfitE58. Gerritt Bake: SWAT Team Member on Overcoming Relentless Business Challenges.Guess where we met Gerritt?Shocker! At a conference!That being said, today’s guest is a total badass! And not only in life, but in business and the publishing space as well! FUN FACT: His podcast was the first one we were invited to!You could say he popped our podcast cherry 😂With a 15 year career as a police officer AND a member of the swat team, you better believe he’s a badass.But, what happens when someone like this decides to focus on helping others succeed in thei...
2020-08-0157 min