Shows
CEO Global Network PodcastDaniel Guest - President & Visionary, Guest Plumbing & HVACDaniel Guest built one of Hamilton’s fastest-growing plumbing and HVAC companies before the age of 30 - and embedded philanthropy into the core of his business along the way.In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Daniel Guest, Visionary at Guest Plumbing & HVAC and President of Maplewood Capital, to unpack what it really takes to scale a traditional trades business, attract young talent, and lead with energy, purpose, and emotional intelligence.Daniel shares why a little “ignorance” can be a superpower for entrepreneurs, how community impact...
2025-12-2311 min
CEO Global Network PodcastMarc Henein, Senior Wealth Advisor & CEO of Henein Group -Building Financial Confidence Through PlanningIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Marc Henein, Senior Wealth Advisor and CEO of the Henein Group, recognized as one of Canada’s top 150 wealth advisors by the Globe and Mail.Marc shares his journey from discovering the stock market as a 16-year-old to becoming a trusted advisor for CEOs and executives. He dives into key lessons from his career, including managing expenses, avoiding lifestyle creep, and creating financial plans that turn uncertainty into confidence.Listeners will learn practical strategies for long-term financial success, including how to ca...
2025-12-1608 min
Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastAI Didn’t Kill Google Search — Here’s Why GBP Still WinsIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Sam Preston — CEO of Service Scalers — to talk about the marketing asset that still quietly outperforms everything else in home services: your Google Business Profile (GBP). John and Sam break down why AI hasn’t disrupted GBP the way people expected, how Google reviews are now getting pulled directly into AI search results, and why “map pack visibility” remains the cheapest, highest-intent lead source in the game.They get tactical on what actually drives rankings and calls in 2026. Sam lays out the three biggest nee...
2025-12-1138 min
CEO Global Network PodcastPeter Messenger, Owner of A1 Air Conditioning & Heating - Leadership Lessons from a Multi-Generational Family BusinessIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Peter Messenger, Owner of A1 Air Conditioning & Heating, to explore the realities, challenges, and rewards of running a third-generation family business.Peter shares candid lessons learned from decades of leadership - shaped by his father’s old-school work ethic, the complexities of navigating succession, and the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. He opens up about difficult decisions, how he balances his deep love for the trade with high-level leadership, and the sy...
2025-12-0909 min
CEO Global Network PodcastMarcia Mayhew, President & CEO of Mayhew Inc. - Redefining Leadership, Design, and LegacyJoin John Wilson on the CEO Global Network Podcast as he sits down with Marcia Mayhew, President and CEO of Mayhew Inc., a fourth-generation family business leader transforming workspace design and building a people-first culture. Marcia shares insights on human-centered office design, the power of local Canadian craftsmanship, fostering employee-driven innovation, and how community activism strengthens workplace culture. She also discusses embracing legacy leadership principles while breaking outdated myths about CEO vulnerability.Whether you’re a CEO, executive, or leader seeking practical lessons on leadership, culture, and innovation, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways from one of...
2025-12-0412 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastYou’re Growing Fast… So Why Are You Still Broke?In this episode, John Wilson sits down with Patrick Dichter, owner of AppleTree Business Services, to break down what “good accounting” actually looks like inside a growing home service business — and why financial clarity becomes a competitive advantage as you scale.John opens up about a hard truth: he didn’t get his first clean month-end close until last year, and it made almost a decade of decision-making harder than it needed to be. Patrick walks through the real stages most home service operators go through — from “Checkbook Charlie” to outsourced bookkeeping to...
2025-12-0451 min
CEO Global Network PodcastMason Twitchett, President & Corporate Tax Manager at Collective Accounting Co. - Building Trust and Simplifying Complex Financial Decisions for Business OwnersIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Mason Twitchett, President and Corporate Tax Manager at Collective Accounting Co., to explore the strategies behind simplifying complex financial decisions for business owners. Mason shares insights from his journey as an income tax advisor to founding his own accounting firm, revealing lessons learned about managing teams, creating tailored solutions, and building lasting client relationships.Listeners will learn how to stay ahead of evolving tax laws, create actionable financial strategies, and develop trust with clients that lasts. If you’re a business owner or en...
2025-12-0209 min
CEO Global Network PodcastVinay Khosla, Chief Growth Officer - Leadership Lessons, Tax Strategy, and Staying Sharp as a CEOJoin John Wilson on the CEO Global Network Podcast as he sits down with Vinay Khosla, Chief Growth Officer and former CEO of Bateman McKay LLP, to discuss leadership, growth, and the art of staying sharp in business. Vinay shares his experience working with thousands of CEOs, key leadership lessons, common tax mistakes growing companies make, and how he maintains focus in today’s fast-paced business world.In this episode, you’ll learn:The most critical leadership lesson for entrepreneursHow to build trust with clients navigating complex financial decisionsCommon tax mistakes businesses should avoidShifts in tax stra...
2025-11-2711 min
CEO Global Network PodcastCory Turner, President of Spicers Canada - Turning Adversity into Leadership: Lessons from a 30-Year JourneyIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Cory Turner, President of Spicers Canada, to discuss his remarkable 30-year journey from warehouse employee to CEO. Cory shares how a life-changing MS diagnosis shaped his leadership philosophy, emphasizing vulnerability, courage, and purpose-driven culture. He offers insights into creating resilient organizations, empowering employees, and leading with authenticity.
2025-11-2510 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastThe Ultimate Home Service Trivia Show (What Homeowners Really Think)In this episode, John Wilson and Brandon Niro are joined by Zac Dearing from Mantel for a fast-paced, trivia-style breakdown of what homeowners actually want when buying HVAC and home services in 2025. Mantel just surveyed 500+ homeowners nationwide, and instead of guessing in the dark like most of the industry, we put real customer data on the board. John and Brandon compete to predict homeowner behavior — how many contractors people call, where they find you, what earns trust, how pricing impacts decisions, and what parts of the sales process truly move the needle.The results are a gut-check fo...
2025-11-2551 min
CEO Global Network PodcastChristina Visser, CEO of Ionic Technology Group - Leading with Innovation, Safety, and Mentorship in AutomationIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Christina Visser, CEO of Ionic Technology Group, to explore her journey from engineer to leader of a multi-national automation company. Christina shares pivotal moments that shaped her leadership style, the critical role of mentorship for women in STEM, and how her company balances innovation, safety, and productivity across complex operations.Listeners will gain actionable insights on building collaborative company cultures, managing high-tech and heavy industry simultaneously, and fostering the next generation of women leaders in technology.
2025-11-2008 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastHow To Scale a Service Based Business by Implementing an FSMIn this episode, John Wilson sits down with Richard Dunbar of FieldPulse to dig into one of the most important — and often overlooked — levers for scaling a home service company: modernizing your operational platform. Whether you’re running HVAC, plumbing, electrical, restoration, or any specialty trade, the shift from legacy tools to a true field service management system (FSM) is one of the highest-ROI moves you can make. Richard and John break down how contractors are ditching whiteboards, Excel boards, paper invoices, and manual dispatching in favor of flat-rate pricing systems, centralized pricebooks, technician-friendly workflows, real-time visibility, and true operat...
2025-11-2046 min
CEO Global Network PodcastJeff O’Neill, Group Leader at CEO Global Network - Unlocking the Special in PeopleIn this episode of The CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Jeff O’Neill - a seasoned executive and Group Leader at CEO Global Network - to unpack what it really takes to lead at the highest level.Jeff shares hard-won insights from his time leading iconic brands like High Liner Foods, McCain, Pepsi, and Quaker Oats. From his philosophy on “unlocking the special in people” to navigating uncertainty, building clarity, and developing A-player talent, Jeff offers a candid look at the habits that separate good CEOs from great ones.If you’re leadi...
2025-11-1309 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastHow to Scale Beyond Yourself and Build a Real CompanyIn this episode, John Wilson and co-host Jack Carr unpack one of the biggest transitions in home service — going from owner to operator. What does it really take to scale beyond yourself? We dive deep into building layers of leadership, knowing when to delegate, hiring vs. promoting internally, and what the first real leadership hire should look like. From service managers and field supers to accountability systems and EOS, this one’s for owners ready to break through bottlenecks and build real organizational depth.You’ll hear real playbooks from $1M to $40M+ com...
2025-11-1330 min
CEO Global Network PodcastAnnie Laplante, President & CEO of Group MMI - Leading with People-First Leadership & InnovationIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Annie Laplante, President & CEO of Group MMI, to explore the leadership decisions, values, and innovations that have shaped her 10-year journey at the helm. Annie shares how a people-first philosophy, hands-on leadership, and a commitment to culture have fueled the growth of Group MMI while keeping humanity at the core. From insights gained through the Quantum Shift program to creating a “wow factor” for employees and clients, this conversation is full of practical lessons for leaders who want to scale their business without losing their valu...
2025-11-1209 min
CEO Global Network PodcastZain Bari, CEO of Matra AI & Psychotherapist - Balancing Human-Centered Leadership with AI InnovationIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Zain Bari, CEO of Matra AI and Matra AI Labs, psychotherapist, life coach, and executive coach, to explore the intersection of leadership, human-centered values, and AI governance. Zain shares her unique approach to leading an AI advisory firm while staying grounded in empathy and human connection, discusses the emerging risks organizations are underestimating in AI, and explains how inclusivity and accountability shape ethical AI deployment.Listen in as Zain also dives into the role of evidence-based therapy techniques in professional coaching and how...
2025-11-0611 min
CEO Global Network PodcastHartley Harris, President & CEO of Catch Engineering - Leading with Core Values, Innovation, and Empathy in EngineeringIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Hartley Harris, President and CEO of Catch Engineering, to explore how leadership, culture, and innovation intersect in today’s energy sector.Hartley shares his insights on:Building a culture that attracts and retains top engineering talentThe modularization innovations reshaping the energy industryBalancing technical expertise with executive leadershipHow battery storage and synthetic inertia are transforming power systems globallyThe importance of empathy and personal development for engineers aspiring to leadFrom fostering strong company va...
2025-11-0410 min
CEO Global Network PodcastShouyi Ma, President & CEO of Hanson Canada - Responsible Leadership & Changing Life Trajectories Through International EducationIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Shouyi Ma, President and CEO of Hanson Canada, to explore the transformative power of international education and the meaning of responsible leadership. Shouyi shares how Hanson Canada supports international students, the role of accountability in building trust, balancing innovation with tradition in higher education, and his vision for creating generational impact over the next decade.Listeners will gain insight into:How responsible leadership shapes the future of international educationThe strategies Hanson Canada uses to change students’ life trajectoriesBalancing innovation and tradition in ed...
2025-10-3011 min
CEO Global Network PodcastDan Snow, Founder & CEO of Snow Collective – Building High-Performing Teams and Growth-Driven B2B MarketingIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Dan Snow, Founder and CEO of Snow Collective, to explore how mid-size B2B companies can grow efficiently while maintaining a cohesive team culture. Dan shares his journey from working in ad agencies to founding his own marketing firm, highlights some of his most creative campaigns, and offers actionable strategies for leaders looking to build high-performing teams and make smart, impactful marketing decisions.From “less is more” in digital marketing to choosing the right clients and fostering a collaborative culture, this episode is pack...
2025-10-2809 min
CEO Global Network PodcastAnindo Dey, CEO of Alibris - Scaling a Global E-Commerce Marketplace While Driving InnovationIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Anindo Dey, CEO of Alibris, the leading independent e-commerce marketplace for books and related products. With over eight years at the helm, Anindo shares insights on scaling a global business, managing operations across continents, and how AI is reshaping the book retail and publishing sectors.From overcoming supply chain challenges to maintaining a customer-first approach that drives profitability, Anindo discusses the importance of building a high-performing, experienced team and fostering an inclusive, accountable workplace culture. He also dives into the future of e-commerce...
2025-10-2308 min
CEO Global Network PodcastJane Moran, Chief Learning Officer at Inspiring Wiring, Inc. - Transforming Leadership Through Neuroscience and Psychological SafetyIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Jane Moran, Chief Learning Officer at Inspiring Wiring, Inc., to explore how neuroscience can transform leadership and organizational culture. Jane shares her insights on applying brain-based strategies to drive high performance, creating psychological safety in teams, and overcoming the fear-based barriers that hold executives back. From her time at HP and PwC to running her own consulting practice, Jane explains how leaders can foster resilience, humility, and social intelligence to achieve lasting change.Whether you’re leading a large organization or managing a sm...
2025-10-2109 min
CEO Global Network PodcastJennifer Watson, Managing Partner at Watson Investments - Building a Strategic Wealth Plan for CEOsIn this episode of The CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Jennifer Watson, Managing Partner at Watson Investments, to discuss how CEOs and business leaders can take a more strategic approach to managing their personal and professional wealth.Jennifer shares why CEOs need to treat their personal finances with the same intentionality as their business strategy - starting with a clear vision, a strong plan, and an “A-player” team that can execute. She also explains how to align investments with business goals, avoid common wealth management pitfalls, and...
2025-10-1608 min
CEO Global Network PodcastAndrew Moles, VP & General Manager of PCL Solar - Pushing Boundaries in Solar Energy and LeadershipIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Andrew Moles, Vice President and General Manager of PCL Solar at PCL Construction, to explore the rapidly evolving world of renewable energy. With Andrew's leadership, PCL Solar has made remarkable strides, delivering over 10 gigawatts of utility-scale projects. In this conversation, Andrew shares insights on pushing the boundaries of solar energy, balancing large-scale projects with community impact, and the leadership lessons he's learned from global expansion. Tune in for an in-depth look at the future of solar energy and the power of adaptable leadership.
2025-10-0908 min
CEO Global Network PodcastUmar Syed, CEO of RegenaLife - Redefining Longevity Medicine with Proactive CareIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Umar Syed, CEO of RegenaLife, to explore how proactive health screening, AI-driven diagnostics, and innovative care models are transforming longevity medicine.Umar shares his journey from pharmaceuticals and investment banking to founding RegenaLife, a company dedicated to early detection and prevention of chronic disease. Together, they discuss:The shift from “sick care” to proactive health careHow partnerships enable RegenaLife to scale its impactThe role of AI in accelerating diagnostics and care deliveryLessons from Umar’s investment banking and consulting career...
2025-10-0210 min
CEO Global Network PodcastDarrell Keezer, Founder and CEO of Candybox Marketing - Making Digital Marketing Actually WorkIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Darrell Keezer, founder and CEO of Candybox Marketing and a keynote speaker on Marketing & AI.Darrell shares how his journey began in 2008, the evolution of Candybox Marketing, and his mission to make digital marketing actually work for businesses. He dives into how AI is transforming consumer behavior, why AI-driven searches are 8–12x more effective than traditional ones, and how prediction is reshaping marketing strategies.From surprising questions on stage to his take on the best platforms for B2B...
2025-09-3010 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#246 From $700K to $30 Million With Multiple Locations!In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with his good friend and fellow operator, Rich Jordan, to unpack how he scaled from $700K to over $30M in just five years — across three branches and two states.Rich shares the unfiltered lessons from going multi-location, from the chaos of centralizing call centers too early, to re-decentralizing and finally recentralizing with the right infrastructure. He and John dive into the cultural challenges of acquisitions, how to win buy-in with frontline techs, why leadership development is the true bottleneck, and how “force of will” integr...
2025-09-3023 min
CEO Global Network PodcastLinda Kern, Founder and CEO, The Kern Group - Building High-Performing Sales TeamsIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Linda Kern, a seasoned sales executive and Founder of The Kern Group. Linda shares powerful insights on what it takes to build, scale, and sustain high-performing sales teams.She covers:The overlooked factor in building great sales teamsHow to balance accountability and motivationThe biggest mistakes companies make when scaling salesGaining buy-in for change from resistant teamsThe role of branding and marketing in sales successThe toughest client question she’s ever facedWhether you’re a CEO, sale...
2025-09-2509 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#245 4 Sales Team Training Secrets Top Businesses Use DailyIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jack Carr (Jackquisitions) to break down the 4 steps to train your sales team and raise revenue fast.From building a repeatable process to setting metrics, John and Jack share how to treat sales like an order of operations—diagnosing problems step by step so your team can fix weaknesses and improve call over call. They discuss why consistency beats ad-hoc training, how to gamify scoreboards so techs know exactly where they stand, and why “inspect what you expect” is the ultimate accountability layer.J...
2025-09-2525 min
CEO Global Network PodcastKarim S. Leduc, CEO & Founder of DULCEDO Management - Building Influence, Impact, and LegacyIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Karim S. Leduc, founder and CEO of DULCEDO Management, Canada’s leading multidisciplinary talent management agency.Karim shares his journey from launching a high-profile model agency in 2008 to pioneering influencer representation in Canada, building an international roster that spans fashion, sports, entertainment, and eSports. He discusses the challenges of educating brands about influencer marketing in its early days, how he maintains company culture across multiple offices, and the lessons learned from mentoring startups and fellow entrepreneurs.Wh...
2025-09-2312 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#244 How to Hire the PERFECT Employee Every TimeIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jack Carr from Jackquisitions to break down how to hire the perfect employee—the true A-player who moves your business forward. From defining success to matching personality to role, John and Jack share a 4-step playbook to build an offer A-players want, market the job like a product, scope roles tightly with clear KPIs, and screen for the right behavioral fit.They dive into why you should treat hiring like marketing & sales, how to position your Indeed post (lead with “No On-Call,” Guaranteed 40 Hours...
2025-09-2320 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#243 Home Service Contractors: Stop Overpaying for Parts!In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jen Laughlin from WeSupplyTrades to break down how contractors can cut material costs without sacrificing quality. From OEM parts to exclusive brands, John and Jen dig into real-world ways to protect margin, get parts fast (even if you’re rural), and build supplier partnerships that actually help you scale.They dive into shipping realities (UPS vs. LTL), why exclusives like Stream33/Breeze33/Bright33 can be margin game-changers, how to handle fraudulent tool orders, and what trust + open communication with your wholesaler should look li...
2025-09-1837 min
CEO Global Network PodcastVincent Travaglini, Former President & CEO of StackTeck - Lessons in Leadership, Innovation & the Power of RelationshipsIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Vincent Travaglini, retired President & CEO of StackTeck. With over three decades of leadership in engineering, operations, and executive management, Vince shares the innovations that transformed the mold-making industry, the cultural mindset that fueled StackTeck’s growth, and the role of automation in shaping the future of manufacturing.From moving beyond “black and white” engineering thinking to navigating crises with persistence and innovation, Vince offers candid insights into leadership, decision-making, and continuous learning. He also reflects on the im...
2025-09-1708 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#242 What Every Contractor Needs to Know to Make the Jump to CEOIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Jack Carr from Jackquisitions to break down the four steps every business owner must take to truly become a CEO. From leaving the tools behind to managing senior leaders, John and Jack share the exact progression operators go through—and the pitfalls at each stage.They dive into the messy middle stages (what Jack calls “owner’s hell”), where infrastructure costs skyrocket and leaders struggle to let go. John opens up about his own journey scaling a $30M home ser...
2025-09-1621 min
CEO Global Network PodcastDaniel Wigdor, CEO of AXL - Unlocking Human Potential with AIIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Daniel Wigdor - Professor, inventor, tech entrepreneur, and CEO of AXL: Human Potential, AI Super Powered.Daniel shares insights on why Canada leads in AI research but struggles to commercialize it, the missing “middle layer” of applied research, and how AXL is bridging that gap. He discusses misconceptions about AI, what it truly means to unlock human potential, and how AI can empower - not replace - people.They also dive into Daniel’s journey...
2025-09-1513 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#241 What Would YOU Do With $1,000,000 in Marketing?In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined once again by Ethan Wright from Service Scalers to answer a big question: what would you do with a million-dollar marketing budget?Together, they unpack how $1M breaks down between demand capture (LSAs, PPC, SEO, lead partners) and demand generation (TV, radio, social, branding) — and why the first priority is always the lead. John and Ethan talk about beating proven channels until they’re maxed, why operators get in trouble by spreading budgets too thin, and how the fastest-growing companies scale one or t...
2025-09-1123 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#240 3 Marketing Mistakes That Keep Contractors Stuck Under $10MIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson is joined by Ethan Wright from Service Scalers to tackle the three biggest marketing mistakes that keep service companies from scaling. Together, they break down why most owners get lost chasing leads, how spreading budgets too thin kills ROI, and why neglecting your Google Business Profile can cost you serious growth.John and Ethan dig into the numbers that actually matter—booking rates, cost per lead, demo rates, and ROI—and explain how knowing your funnel from start to finish separates winning operators from those stuc...
2025-09-0926 min
CEO Global Network PodcastJose Hadad, Founding Revolutionary at Mad Mexican – From Condo Kitchen to Cult BrandChef-founder Jose Hadad built Mad Mexican from a tiny condo kitchen into a beloved, handcrafted, chemical-free food brand - without compromising on freshness or integrity. In this quick-hit conversation with host John Wilson, Jose shares the “against all odds” decisions that shaped the company, why Viva la revolución is more than a tagline, how he engineered a just-in-time distribution model to protect quality, and the dish that tells his life story.You’ll learn:The pivotal moment Jose refused preservatives and chose the hard pathHow to design operati...
2025-09-0409 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#239 How To Make Your Business Grow FASTIn this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Jack Carr from Jack Acquisitions, who also runs Rapid Response Plumbing, Heating & Cooling in Nashville, TN. Together, they break down the four most important pillars to scaling a home service company past $10 million a year: leads, people, sales, and infrastructure.John and Jack dig into what separates $1M businesses from $10M+ operators, from locked-in marketing strategies to strong recruiting pipelines and dedicated sales teams. They highlight why incentives drive performance, how to attract money-hungry talent in today’s labor market, and why in...
2025-09-0417 min
CEO Global Network PodcastNick Dean, President & Director at The Keg Restaurants Ltd. – Focus, Discipline & Culture at Canada’s #1 Restaurant EmployerHow do you build a workplace that people love—enough to be ranked the #1 restaurant employer in Canada? In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Nick Dean, President & Director at The Keg Restaurants Ltd. Nick shares practical leadership lessons from a “zigzag” career spanning agencies, cannabis, and hospitality - plus the timeless principles that let “wild ducks fly in formation.”You’ll learn:The cultural foundations behind The Keg’s long-running people-first reputationWhy focus and discipline beat “growth for growth’s sak...
2025-09-0208 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#238 Are You Making This BIG Marketing Mistake?In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Tony from Wanamaker to break down one of the biggest challenges contractors are facing in 2025: leads are tougher for everyone.John and Tony dig into why this year has been so unusual for home service businesses, from cooler summers and unpredictable weather to rising digital costs and shifting media consumption. They unpack how operators can protect market share in a down year, why consistency beats quick creative changes, and the three questions every ad should answer: Why you? Why now? How can I afford you?
2025-09-0222 min
CEO Global Network PodcastDustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard – Leading Through Uncertainty and Scaling with ValuesHow do you lead an organization through crisis, double its size, and still stay true to your core values?In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson speaks with Dustin Heise, CEO of Canada Snowboard, about the leadership lessons he’s learned guiding his team to record-breaking results—even in the middle of a global pandemic.Dustin shares how values, trust, and resilience powered Canada Snowboard to become the world’s top Olympic snowboard nation. He also reveals the surprising parallels between risk and flow on the mounta...
2025-08-2912 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#237 How to Spend Your Marketing Budget: $100K vs $500K vs $1M In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Tony Castellucci from Wanamaker to break down how home service companies should think about marketing spend at three different levels: $100K, $500K, and $1M.Tony and John dig into what works (and what doesn’t) as your budget scales. From avoiding white noise and wasted spend, to maximizing digital safety nets like SEO, PPC, LSAs, and Google My Business, the conversation highlights how to build consistent lead flow and a strong brand presence without diluting your dollars.They cov...
2025-08-2826 min
CEO Global Network PodcastDr. Adam Stoehr, Award-Winning Professor & Employee Happiness Researcher - The Truth About Workplace HappinessCan free snacks and ping pong tables really make employees happy? Not according to Dr. Adam Stoehr, award-winning university professor and employee happiness researcher.In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Adam to unpack the myths around workplace happiness—and what leaders should really be focusing on instead. Adam shares insights from his PhD research, teaching thousands of students, and delivering talks to more than 30,000 people.From why excellence drives happiness across every level of an organization, to the surprising role of connection in leadership, to...
2025-08-2716 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#236 How Our Team Sells MORE With AI#236 — AI Sales Engines for Home Services: Tal Shub on Craft & Closing More Deals In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson sits down with Tal Shub, CEO of Craft, to dive into how AI is transforming sales in the home service industry.Tal shares how Craft built an AI-powered sales engine that listens to customer conversations, provides real-time coaching, and helps service teams recover lost revenue. From boosting average tickets with better financing conversations to coaching technicians on open-ended questions and process-driven sales, Craft is creating a playbook for the next era of home service growth.
2025-08-2630 min
CEO Global Network PodcastPino Di Ioia, CEO and Owner BeaverTails Canada Inc. - From Store Manager to CEOWhat does it take to rise from store manager to CEO and owner of a beloved Canadian brand? In this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Pino Di Ioia, CEO of BeaverTails Pastry and Moozoo Creamery, to explore the values and lessons that have guided his remarkable journey since 1987.From grit and perseverance to balancing nostalgia with innovation, Pino shares how he and his team continue to evolve a brand that Canadians love—while navigating challenges like COVID-19 and leading with joy and accountability. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a fr...
2025-08-2512 min
CEO Global Network PodcastJeremy D. Behar, Founder & CEO of Canadian Dental Services Corporation - Building Culture, Busting Myths, and Redefining Dental CareIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Jeremy D. Behar, Founder & CEO of Canadian Dental Services Corporation, to explore what it takes to lead with culture, empathy, and vision while scaling a business in a fast-changing industry.Jeremy shares how he built an “A team” leadership circle, why dental care is no longer just about teeth and gums, and how CDS is redefining the connection between oral health and overall wellness. He also dives into the role of culture in sustaining growth, the fear that drives lead...
2025-08-1810 min
CEO Global Network PodcastGrant Heggie, President & CEO of Melmart Distributors - Balancing Legacy and Change in a 3rd Gen Family BusinessIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Grant Heggie, President & CEO of Melmart Distributors Inc., a third-generation Canadian flooring company with over 55 years of legacy.Grant shares his insights from nearly 25 years leading Melmart, including how to keep a family-owned business competitive in a fast-changing market. From product innovation and global sourcing to culture and succession, Grant reflects on the power of staying close to the customer while constantly adapting.They also explore what great leadership looks like in a legacy business, how...
2025-08-1410 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#233 How They Make $7M+ a Year From Their Plumbing CompanyIf you’re building a home service business in a rural market, the playbook looks a little different — and this episode shows exactly why. In this episode of Owned and Operated, John Wilson, CEO of Wilson Plumbing in Ohio, sits down with Laura and Brian Beltz, founders of Beltz, to unpack how they’ve grown from a one-truck startup in 2001 to a 49-person team — all while staying true to their community roots.If you’re thinking about expanding into multiple markets, growing in a rural area, or taking the leap into acquisitions, this conversation is a masterclass in buildin...
2025-08-141h 18
CEO Global Network PodcastEric Phaneuf, President & CEO of Walter Capital Partners - How Private Equity Can Be a True Operating PartnerIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson sits down with Eric Phaneuf, President & CEO of Walter Capital Partners, to explore how private equity can go beyond capital and become a true operating partner to entrepreneurs. Eric shares key insights from his journey leading companies like Cascades and Mega Brands, scaling across sectors, and building a PE firm rooted in trust, operational excellence, and long-term partnership.Eric discusses how Walter Capital blends capital deployment with deep operational support, the emotional intelligence required to lead through transitions, and the powerful...
2025-08-1211 min
CEO Global Network PodcastNat Korol, Co-Founder of Hyphen Co. - Responsible Growth and Resilient Leadership in B2B MarketingIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Nat Korol, Co-Founder of Hyphen Co., a B2B marketing strategist and advocate for sustainable growth. Nat shares how trail running informs her leadership, why joy must be protected amid entrepreneurial pressure, and what responsible marketing looks like in an increasingly digital world.We explore the values that built Hyphen, the role of presence in leadership, and the powerful lesson Nat learned from losing a client due to a vacation conflict. She also reflects on her time teaching content strategy and...
2025-08-0711 min
CEO Global Network PodcastHarry Blum, National Managing Partner, RSM Canada – Scaling Trust, Culture, and Global Leadership at RSMIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, host John Wilson speaks with Harry Blum, National Managing Partner of RSM Canada, about what it takes to build and lead one of the most distinctive advisory firms in the country - and beyond.Harry shares the leadership philosophy that earned him the Global Leadership Award at the RSM Latin America Conference, the lessons he’s learned scaling from one office to a global platform, and why culture isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a system.From empowering people...
2025-07-3113 min
CEO Global Network PodcastStephen Kropf, President at Dundee Recycling - Building Culture, Trust & Community in a Gritty IndustryIn this episode of the CEO Global Network Podcast, John Wilson sits down with Stephen Kropf, President of Dundee Recycling, to explore the leadership lessons forged in one of the grittiest and most overlooked industries: scrap metal recycling. Stephen opens up about the challenges and rewards of running a family-owned business, keeping customer service top-tier in a high-volume operation, and how Dundee’s deep commitment to community involvement strengthens both culture and employee engagement. From radiation-triggering truck drivers to empowering team members with purpose, this episode is a candid look at what it means to lead with heart, hustle, an...
2025-07-2908 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#215 Why You’re Not Getting Promoted.... and How to Fix ItIn this episode of Owned and Operated, we’re exploring how to grow your career inside a home service company. From internal promotions to mindset shifts, John and Brandon Niro break down what it really takes to move up and lead.Brandon shares how 30–40% of the Wilson team has been promoted from within—and what separates those who grow fast from those who stall. They dig into Wilson’s 52-week Emerging Leaders program, the role of emotional intelligence and financial literacy, and how team members can take initiative to become future leaders.If...
2025-06-2643 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#211 What Growing Home Service Companies Get Right About SalesIn this episode of Owned and Operated, HVAC business experts Jack Carr and John Wilson break down the sales strategies that drive revenue growth at every stage of a home service company’s journey. Whether you're running a $1M shop or scaling past $50M, understanding how to structure your HVAC sales team is critical—and it starts with knowing the difference between marketed leads and technician-generated leads.Jack and John explore why top HVAC companies like Four Seasons, Logan Services, and Peterman Brot...
2025-06-1734 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#183 The $250M HVAC Collapse: Inside Air Pros' BankruptcyIn this episode we discuss Air Pro Solutions, a once-thriving HVAC company, crumbled under $250 million in debt, exposing the dangers of aggressive acquisitions, reckless spending, and poor financial planning. From sponsoring the Miami Dolphins to underestimating inflation, rising interest rates, and integration challenges, this deep dive breaks down how their strategy led to one of the biggest HVAC business failures in history.🚀 In This Episode, We Cover:🔹 The power of Google My Business (GMB) & Local Service Ads (LSAs) for lead generation🔹 How strategic hiring & project management drive success🔹 Overcoming seasonality challenges in the roofing...
2025-04-0437 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#181 From Plumbing to Profits: One Entrepreneur’s Journey to Business Success & Growth Strategies💧 Plumbing pro Kenny Bush joins us to talk about building a plumbing business, branding, and mastering SEO to dominate local search!From scaling Da Vinci’s Best Plumbing to leveraging Google reviews for massive growth, Kenny shares key insights for anyone in the trades.Would you start a business without a game plan? 🔧💡 If you're in the trades or thinking about launching your own business, don’t miss this one!💼 Special Thanks to Service Scalers!We’ve been partnering with Service Scalers to maximize our Lo...
2025-03-2751 min
Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastLEGENDS #180 | Roger Wakefield: Shaping the Next Generation of PlumbersPlumbing influencer Roger Wakefield joins us to talk about building a plumbing business, mastering Google My Business (GMB) and Local Service Ads (LSAs), and how social media has transformed the skilled trades industry.With hundreds of thousands in sales coming from GMBs and a mission to train the next wave of tradespeople, Roger shares insights on how he turned Texas Green Plumbing into a powerhouse. From starting in the industry to scaling a business and inspiring the next generation of plumbers, this episode is packed with value!🌟 In This Episode, We Cover:🔹 The po...
2025-03-251h 01
Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#179 HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical SOPs: Multi-Touchpoint Strategies for BusinessLooking to streamline operations for your HVAC, plumbing, or electrical business? In this video, we break down multi-touchpoint SOPs to help you improve efficiency, enhance customer service, and boost profitability. Whether you're managing service calls, optimizing workflows, or improving team coordination, having solid standard operating procedures (SOPs) is key to scaling your business.🌟 In This Episode We Cover How to 🔹 Improve technician efficiency🔹 Enhance customer communication🔹 Automate and standardize processes💼 Shoutout to Avoca AI! Looking to train your call center and improve technician performance? Avoca AI helps teams identify issues...
2025-03-2045 min
An Irish FamilyEpisode 3 - John Christopher BirdIn this episode John Wilson talks to John Christopher Bird, his first cousin, once removed about growing up in Ireland, his memories of holidays in Ballydulea, his career and his marriage to Mary, a Roman Catholic, which not quite scandalised, but was met with a certain disapproval, let's say, by some of his Bird relatives.
2025-02-211h 01Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#158 Pricing Effectively Based On Your EfficiencyJoin John and Jack as they break down the do’s and don’ts of strategic pricing and why gross profit matters more than gross margin. They’ll also chat about handling discounts, boosting inside sales, and training your team to hit those numbers. Plus, hear about their crazy year-over-year growth and their open book management style. Tune in for some real talk on making your service business thrive!Wilson Companies just wrapped up the year in the low $20M range, and they couldn’t be more pumped. Most of the industry didn’t see the same level of s...
2024-12-3141 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#144 - Call Center Commission and Navigating HVAC Equipment PricingIt’s Breaking $5M Workshop week, and Jack and John are together in the studio for the first time! What happens when you get these two together? They talk about call centers, that’s what. They break down organizational changes driven by AI, adjustments to call center compensation and the broader implications for business efficiency. They’ll also stress the importance of continuously negotiating with vendors to reduce costs and increase profitability. Networking and learning from industry peers is also highlighted as a vital resource for business growth and uncovering new strategies.Turn communication into conver...
2024-09-2448 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#127 - May Q&A Session with John WilsonJoin John Wilson on this special episode of 'Owned and Operated' as he dives into the world of home service businesses, focusing on plumbing, HVAC, and electric growth. It’s the end of the month and that means it’s time for John’s first Live Q&A with questions from the OaO private Facebook group! He answers pre-submitted questions about building business blueprints, recruiting for small operations, pricing during slow periods, and integrating new brands after acquisitions. Want to be there live for the next Q&A? Look below for a link to joining the Facebook group!00...
2024-06-0434 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#126 - Plumbing Dreams, Million Dollar Goals: How to Grow Your Home Service BusinessJoin John Wilson and Jack Carr in another episode of 'Owned and Operated,' where they dive deep into how to grow in the home service business; specifically residential plumbing, HVAC, and electric services. John discusses the challenges of thinking too small, the benefits of having substantial goals, and the potential of raising capital to scale operations. With insights on securing C-level talent and optimizing business growth, this session is packed with valuable advice for home service entrepreneurs looking to elevate their companies. Don't forget to leave a five-star review and subscribe for more...
2024-05-3029 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#123 - Overselling, Whiplash, and Capacity: Optimization in Home Service BusinessesIn this episode of Owned and Operated, hosts John Wilson and Jack Carr share insights from running a home service business specializing in residential plumbing, HVAC, and electric growth, in podcast form. This week, the two talk strategies for managing capacity and fulfillment to keep up with sales, with the importance of focusing on core services for optimization, and setting up efficient business models to drive growth. Don’t let May whiplash get you into a bottleneck!00:00 Welcome to Owned and Operated: A Home Service Business Deep Dive00:28 Exclusive Service Scalers Promo: Boost Your Business00:51 Th...
2024-05-2139 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#118 - 'Jack'ed' Up Leadership: Powering Through Home Service Business ChallengesIn this episode of 'Owned and Operated', hosts John Wilson and Jack Carr dive into the critical topic of developing leadership within home service businesses. Sharing insights from their experiences in residential plumbing, HVAC, and electric services, they discuss the importance of evolving as a leader to meet the needs of a growing business. They highlight the challenges of instilling core values and accountability throughout the organizational structure, from executives to lower-level managers. The episode emphasizes the significance of peer groups and mentorship for both technical and emotional support in the business journey. Additionally, they talk about their newsletter...
2024-05-0226 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#106- Warehouse Management: Sales Folders, Packout Kits, & Vendor RelationshipsJohn and Jack explore the strategies fueling success in sales and warehouse management in this episode. They emphasize the role of sales folders in informing customers effectively and facilitating sales, as well as the concept of "Packout Kits” for enhancing job efficiency and speeding up installations. Moreover, John stresses the importance of selecting the right vendors and building strong relationships with them, and how this can affect business growth and service quality. Don't forget to watch John's warehouse video walkthrough here to get a visual glimpse of its operations. Episode Hosts:Joh...
2024-03-2132 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#101- The 10 Best Home Service Business: John and Jack’s Ultimate WishlistJohn and Jack outline their ideal businesses. John is interested in asset-heavy ventures like HVAC, electric, landscaping, tree removal, and driveway replacements, while Jack favors commercial endeavors such as bank equipment maintenance, telephone pole replacement, animal removal, and hydroelectric plants.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @WilsonCompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: Service Scalers: Looking to scale your home service business? Service Scalers is a digital marketing agency that drives success in PPC and L...
2024-03-0522 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#97- From Tech Startups to HVAC News: Alec Stevanovski's Niche B2B ModelJohn Wilson and Jack Carr interview Alec Stevanovski, founder of Homepros, a niche-focused B2B media business. His newsletter goes out once a week and you can check out the HVAC industry news here. Stevanovski discusses his journey into the industry, highlighting his background in technology startups and his pivot to focusing on HVAC industry news. He elaborates on his strategies for audience building, including leveraging personal contacts and maximizing platforms like LinkedIn.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @WilsonCompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack E...
2024-02-2036 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#96 - Business Breakdown: How to Make $8.4M with Well DrillingIn this episode, John and Jack discuss well drilling and do a business breakdown. Jack reveals that his friend earned $8.4 million last year from drilling wells. They underscore the significant financial investment, specific licensing requirements, and mechanical expertise needed to establish a well drilling company. Despite these obstacles, they remain optimistic about the potential for future business opportunities in the industry.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @WilsonCompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: Service Scalers
2024-02-1533 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#95- Listener Q&A: Five Keys to Scaling Your Home Service BusinessJohn and Jack tackle a listener-submitted question addressing the five crucial aspects every business must master to scale successfully: the importance of daily reporting, tech transparency, job costing, lead attribution, and the monitoring of phone call interactions. Whether you're a Service Titan user or not, these principles are essential for any company looking to achieve sustainable growth.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @WilsonCompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: Service Scalers: Looking to s...
2024-02-1333 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#94- From Startup to Success: Johnny Robinson's Information-Based EnterpriseOur discussion with Johnny Robinson aka SqueegeeGod continues in this episode as he talks about his experiences launching a new business, selling his previous venture, and switching to an information-based enterprise. We learn the difficulties of running a program-style company, addressing problems such as growing advertising expenses and putting in place an accelerator program to increase customer lifetime value.Johnny also shares a remarkable success story on how he played a key role in kick starting over 1500 cleaning companies!Get the full scope of Johnny’s journey here: Listen to the first episode with Johnny, tun...
2024-02-0827 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#93- The Secrets of Startup Window Washing and Cleaning Businesses With Johnny RobinsonIn this episode of Owned and Operated, we bring back Johnny Robinson aka SqueegeeGod as a guest, who shares updates detailing his start-up journey from window cleaning to launching several businesses and generating impressive revenue. Johnny also shares insights into hiring, marketing, and sales within the cleaning business, painting a vivid picture of the industry's challenges and opportunities. They also do a run-through on how they measure business performance and deal with competition and market changes, particularly in the wake of greater online visibility.To get the full picture of Johnny's journey, check out his p...
2024-02-0625 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#90- Listener Q&A: HVAC Pricing Strategies and Plumbing Business ValuationsIn this episode, John and Jack address two listener questions. The first question comes from an HVAC business owner facing weeks of fully booked schedules. Jack recommends expanding the team, while John proposes a strategic increase in prices. The second question revolves around valuing a plumbing company and the potential risks associated with acquiring a new construction business. Have a question you’d like to have answered on Owned and Operated? Send a DM to John or Jack or email us here info@ownedandoperated.com. Episode Hosts:John Wilson:...
2024-01-2526 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#87- Business Breakdown with Pool Care SMB Expert Tim Ryan (Part 1)A few weeks back John and Jack did a business breakdown on pool service. Tim Ryan caught us on X, did a review and said “It wasn't too bad for two outsiders looking in. Pool care is strangely complicated.” So we asked him to come on and tell us what exactly we got right and what we got wrong. Tim breaks down all the essentials in this episode including navigating competition, building genuine connections with customers, and picking up smart hiring tips.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @WilsonCompaniesJack Carr...
2024-01-1628 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#85- Mike Botkin Dominating Central Florida's Home ServicesTune in again to Mike Botkin's incredible journey! Back when this episode first aired, he was just starting out, acquiring various businesses. Fast forward to 2023, and guess what? Mike sold his business! It's a fun episode to listen to, seeing how he went from figuring things out in the early days to turning his business into a Goliath landscaping company in just a couple of years and eventually selling it. Enjoy the replay!Episode Host:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesEpisode Guest:Mike Botkin: ...
2024-01-0959 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#84- Breaking $5Million in Your BusinessIn this episode, John shares his strategy for scaling your home service business to reach the $5 million mark. Picture this: an exceptional team, a steady lead flow, and a business rhythm that just clicks. John gets straight to the point, offering practical advice like keeping a close eye on personal spending to reinvest in your business. But hitting the $5 million mark is more than just a number or making money. It's a reflection of your company's growth and the real impact it's making. Stick around as John talks about the strategies to reach this goal and why it's worth...
2024-01-0608 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#82- Power Washing Part 1-Franchise and Business Model with Aaron HarperEver wondered how power washing can turn into a booming business? Join Aaron Harper from Rolling Suds as he reveals the secrets behind turning power washing into a thriving business in this episode. Believe it or not, most of their customers are actually other businesses! Aaron walks us through his journey, from his beginnings to jumping into various franchises. Learn about the power washing industry and how Rolling Suds is making an impact by serving other businesses. If you thought power washing was just about driveways, think again!Episode Hosts:John Wilson:
2024-01-0230 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#81- Business Acquisition in the Home Service IndustryIn this episode, John shares his advice when it comes to acquiring a service company. From plumbing to HVAC, John's got the playbook on what to scout, where to scout it, and how to make it yours. His advice? Start small, focus on residential, and prioritize service-oriented businesses for the win. And before you think about uprooting your life for that business dream, John suggests staying rooted in your current community. Leverage your existing connections and make waves right where you are. Episode Host:John Wilson: @wilsoncompanies
2023-12-3004 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#77- Using Compensation to Drive Business GrowthUncover the principles of a successful compensation model on this episode with John and Jack. They dive into the structures they’re using for all roles on the team including: managers, technicians, and philosophy. Learn how to set goals, use bonuses wisely, and consider flat-rate incentives to boost productivity. Whether you run a business or are leading a team, get practical tips on tailoring compensation for different roles. Listen now for advice that could reshape your approach to motivating and rewarding employees.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesJack Carr:
2023-12-2131 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#76- Maximizing the Daily Potential of Your BusinessIn this episode, John and Jack discuss how home service businesses handle their capacity. As a service, you are selling the time and expertise of your techs. The job is to fill capacity, and you should think about filling capacity like this: if you have a tech for eight hours, you want them to be working hands on the tools as much of those eight hours as possible. Strategic zoning, targeting marketing, and led gen are all a part of it! Tune in to learn how you can fill your capacity with the most efficient tactics.
2023-12-1929 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#75- Job Posts, Interviewing, and Onboarding That Attracts A-PlayersTalking about recruitment for home services, John Wilson breaks it down in this Owned and Operated episode. He says focus on what you need, set clear expectations, and make the pay enticing. Skip the long task lists; have real conversations in interviews about how your business runs. He also highlights the significance of a strong onboarding process, emphasizing its role in preventing new hires from feeling left to figure things out. For additional tips, subscribe and stay tuned for upcoming videos!Episode Host:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesSpecial thanks...
2023-12-1609 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#74- Business Breakdown: Pool Service and RepairIn this episode, John and Jack immerse themselves into the world of pool service businesses. They discuss the appeal of hyper-focused route-based services, the potential for upselling in the industry, and the challenges of scaling in different regions. Tune in for a detailed exploration of customer acquisition strategies, seasonal considerations, and the overall dynamics of acquiring, or starting, and growing a pool service company.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: S...
2023-12-1426 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#73- Damon Chlarson Tackling Challenges in the Construction IndustryIn this episode, John and Jack interview Damon Chlarson, an entrepreneur who shares his experiences in the construction industry. Damon openly discusses the financial challenges, industry fluctuations, and even instances of fraud he encountered. His story provides valuable real-world lessons for aspiring business owners, especially those considering the construction sector.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Episode Guest:Damon Chlarson: @damon_chlSpecial thanks to our sponsor:
2023-12-1233 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#72- The Best Passive Income Businesses with Minimal MaintenanceIn this episode of Owned and Operated, Jack brings a business to the table that provides passive income with minimal maintenance: Hydroelectric Plants. This unique and niche business breakdown explores the challenges and benefits of owning these facilities. From regulatory hurdles to potential synergies with solar and wind energy, this type of business is definitely one that John is now keeping on his radar.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: S...
2023-12-0730 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#71- Exploring Business Ventures: Chimney Sweeping and Generator ServiceIn this episode, experience John and Jack's journey as they explore two unique business opportunities in the home services sector: chimney sweeping and generator service and installation. They also share some key factors like cost per click, labor acquisition, and overall business viability. Additionally, they discuss the challenges they've faced dealing with unexpected issues in their daily operations within the home services industry.Episode Hosts:John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesJack Carr: @thehvacjack Special thanks to our sponsor: Service S...
2023-12-0533 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth PodcastOwned and Operated Podcast TrailerWelcome to 'Owned and Operated' – the podcast that dives deep into the world of home service entrepreneurship.Hosted by John Wilson, a third-generation home service entrepreneur and CEO of The Wilson Companies, this podcast was launched in 2021 to bridge the gap between industry experts and listeners.Join us every Tuesday and Thursday for topical conversations that unlock the potential for your business growth. Covering topics from top-tier talent recruitment to mastering marketing strategies and scaling your home service business, the podcast aims to be your guide on the path to entrepreneurial success....
2023-12-0401 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#70- Breaking 3 Million in Your Home Service BusinessNavigating the challenges of scaling a business beyond $3 million, John and Jack emphasize the importance of additional resources and share personal experiences. They advocate for strategic company acquisitions to streamline growth, covering topics such as debt management and the value of learning from challenges.Curious to learn from these seasoned entrepreneurs and unlock the secrets to scaling your home services business beyond $3 million? Don't miss out – listen now and discover the keys to successful scaling! Discussion Highlights:Scaling Struggles: Unpacking the challenges of scaling beyond $3 million, they stress the...
2023-11-3032 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#69- Home Service Marketing: Shoulder Season StrategiesJoin John and Jack in this episode as they share practical strategies for thriving in the home services industry's shoulder seasons. From tech tips to customer connections, learn how to boost your business year-round with proactive and strategic marketing methods.Ready to up your home service game? Tune in now for actionable tips to enhance your business during shoulder seasons and master strategic marketing methods!Host: John Wilson: @wilsoncompaniesHost: Jack Carr: @thehvacjackSpecial thanks to our...
2023-11-2837 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#68- From Meta to GMB: How to Leverage Marketing Strategies For Your Home Service CoIn this episode of Owned and Operated, Jack and John kick off with a positive update on Jack’s flourishing plumbing department—it's doing really well, and they talk about what's been working. They also share insights on using US Census data for precise list curation in targeted marketing. Emphasizing the significance of strategic list formation, they detail how it positively impacts conversion rates. They then introduce an upcoming event at John's new headquarters designed for home service businesses aiming to break the five-million-dollar revenue mark.Give it a listen for some real talk on the home serv...
2023-11-2326 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#66- Buying a Franchise States Away with Rick VazzaIn this episode, John Wilson and Jack Carr sit down with Rick Vazza as he shares his experience acquiring a second Zoom Drain franchise location. Rick sheds light on his journey, tackling challenges from leases to managing operations remotely. Discover the details of franchise growth, learning about the strategies and lessons alongside Rick. Tune in for a clear exploration of the ups and downs in expanding a franchise!Discussion Highlights:Lease Assumption: Rick outlines the unexpected but successful venture into franchising, sharing experiences from acquiring locations in different s...
2023-11-1629 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#64- Mastering Marketing For Your Plumbing Business with Aizik ZimermanIn today's episode, John Wilson is joined by Aizik Zimmerman to discuss strategies for home service businesses, particularly focusing on membership programs, marketing, and reviews. They emphasize the importance of providing value to customers and owning the customer relationship. The conversation touches on various marketing approaches, including digital marketing, reviews, and guerrilla marketing.Discussion Highlights:Value-Packed Membership Program: Creating a membership program that offers a range of services, discounts, and benefits to homeowners to build long-term relationships.Adding Extra Trades: Discussing the benefits of offering multi-trade protection plans...
2023-11-0929 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#62- Building a Funnel for Hiring Million Dollar EmployeesIn this episode, hosts John Wilson and Jack Carr discuss the art of recruiting top-tier talent that can help your home service business grow and thrive. The key? Build an organized, sales-like approach for recruiting top-tier talent. Tune in to see just how it's done! The discussion also includes when to bring in Human Resources or a recruitment hire, how to build an appealing business culture for potential hires, methods to identify and close on high-level candidates, and the benefits of consistent hiring practices. Discussion Highlights:The Importance of Rec...
2023-11-0242 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#61- Tech Stack in Your Home Service BusinessIn this episode of Owned and Operated, join hosts John Wilson and Jack Carr as they discuss the world of bidding software and pricing strategies tailored for home service companies. Drawing from their own experiences, they share insights about various CRM systems, with a particular emphasis on ServiceTitan. The discussion underscores the significance of streamlining your tech stack and the undeniable advantages of adopting a flat-rate pricing system.Additional Topics Covered in This Episode: Avoid Niche SolutionsTransitioning to One AppGoogle Drive for DocumentationPricing Philosophy John and Jack both ❤️ ServiceTitanBuild for the Future Team
2023-10-3142 min
From Therapy to Social ChangeJohn Wilson in Conversation with Mick Cooper: From Cult to ContainmentImagine growing up in a community where the group is considered more important than the individual. This was the reality for our guest, John Wilson, a therapist whose unique upbringing in a cult drastically shaped his perspective on life and then therapy. His compelling journey from a highly controlled group to the therapeutic world offers fascinating insights into the impact of cult mentality on individual self-worth and community dynamics. We explore the importance of creating safe spaces for human interaction, an idea that John holds dear. He shares how his personal history helps him understand group dynamics...
2023-10-2751 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#55 - The Niche Handyman BusinessIn this episode of “Owned and Operated”, John Wilson and Jack Carr discuss a lot of interesting topics including the concept of a mobile tire and oil change service. Get to know why Handyman Business is a special niche! With the convenience of having a professional come to you, it's a no-brainer for homeowners and fleet companies alike. The profit margins are better for homeowners, but fleets provide a more stable and regular source of income. This business model can be a sure thing in the business-to-business market because it saves money and keeps cars on the road...
2023-06-0847 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#54- John's Big Move, Residential Water Delivery, and RC Sewer InspectionsIn this episode of Owned and Operated, the hosts discuss the business model of water trucking, specifically potable water delivery services. They investigate the difficulties and the costs that are associated with it, such as complying with the regulations and the high costs of equipment and tires. Even though there are problems, they emphasize how profitable the business is. For example, one interviewee said that each truck was making between $500,000 and $600,000 per year. Jack and John show interest in the industry because they think it could be profitable and help them build long-term customer relationships. These and m...
2023-05-2548 minOwned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast#53- Flipping The Script, Gum Busters of NY, and Zoom Drains FranchiseIn this pilot episode of “Owned and Operated”, John Wilson and Jack Carr discuss their recent business transitions and exciting changes, including moving to a new location, adopting Service Titan, hiring a comfort consultant, and surviving the slow season. They also explore a unique niche business called Gum Busters, a specialized pressure-washing company that removes gum and graffiti from public spaces. They delve into the company's operations, contracts with municipalities, and the potential for expansion. The episode provides insightful and practical business ideas for service-oriented entrepreneurs.Here are some additional topics we t...
2023-05-1834 min