Shows
Better Sign Shop PodcastWhy 90% of Sign Shop Ads Fail (Ex-Googler Explains)Peter Guba spent 8 years working inside Google with over 1,000 different accounts before starting his own paid ads agency, Profit Mill. In this episode, he reveals why most sign shops are burning money on Google Ads and shares the simple strategy that actually works.##-##Key Points Discussed:Why Google Ads fail: The real reasons 90% of sign shop advertising campaigns don't work (and it's not what you think)The $500 test: How to start Google Ads the right way without betting the farmUnit economics breakdown: The math every sign shop owner needs to know before spending...
2025-07-071h 22
Franchise Focus PodcastEp. 11 - 1 800 Pplumber+AirSummaryIn this conversation, Peter Kourounis, Chief Growth Officer of 1-800-Plumber +Air, shares insights into the franchising world, particularly in the home services sector. He discusses his journey from franchisee to franchisor, the importance of balancing multiple roles, and the key attributes that make a successful franchise candidate. Peter emphasizes the significance of leadership, customer service, and the use of technology in enhancing business operations. He also addresses challenges in technician recruitment and retention, highlighting the need for a supportive work environment. Overall, the discussion provides a comprehensive look at the dynamics of...
2025-06-1541 min
Better Sign Shop PodcastThe Rapid Evolution of AI Tools: AI Part 2In this episode, Bryant and Mike continue their deep dive into the ever-evolving world of AI, building on the discussion from the previous episode. They explore the rapid growth of AI models, highlighting both their incredible benefits and the challenges they pose within the sign industry.Beyond discussing the impact of AI, Bryant and Mike showcase some of their favorite AI-powered tools that they use daily, offering insights into how these innovations are reshaping workflows and creativity.Tune in for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation as we navigate the fast-paced changes AI is bringing to...
2025-03-251h 34
Better Sign Shop PodcastThe "Ominous" AI Episode: AI Part 1In this episode, Bryant and Michael take a deep dive into how AI is reshaping the sign and design industry. They explore its growing impact on the creative process, discussing whether AI is a helpful tool for designers or a force that could potentially harm the industry as a whole.From automating routine tasks to enabling innovative design solutions, AI offers exciting possibilities, but it also raises critical questions about originality, ethics, and the future role of human designers. To bring theory into practice, Bryant and Michael put one of Michael’s banner designs to the test, le...
2025-03-171h 07
Better Sign Shop PodcastThe 10 Sign Shop Commandments - Part 2In this engaging podcast Series, Peter shares his 10 Sign Shop Commandments—a comprehensive set of principles designed to drive your sign shop's financial success. These commandments aren’t just generic advice; they are presented in a unique percentage-based format, offering clear and actionable insights to help you stabilize, optimize, and elevate your business operations.Bryant and Peter delve deep into each commandment, unpacking the strategies and steps necessary for implementation. They discuss how these rules can fix sign shop owners' challenges and difficulties. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your busine...
2025-01-1454 min
Better Sign Shop PodcastThe 10 Sign Shop Commandments - Part 1In this engaging podcast Series, Peter shares his 10 Sign Shop Commandments—a comprehensive set of principles designed to drive your sign shop's financial success. These commandments aren’t just generic advice; they are presented in a unique percentage-based format, offering clear and actionable insights to help you stabilize, optimize, and elevate your business operations.Bryant and Peter dive deep into each commandment, unpacking the strategies and steps necessary for implementation. They discuss how these rules can fix sign shop owners' challenges and difficulties. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your busine...
2024-12-3058 min
Better Sign Shop PodcastShop Software SpotlightSign Up For Shop Software Spotlighthttps://lu.ma/shop-software-spotlightIn this quick announcement episode, Bryant catches up with listeners after a brief hiatus and shares three exciting updates from the Better Sign Shop team.Key Announcements:- Podcast Update: The team is back after taking time to focus on work and family, with new episodes and guests lined up- Shop Software Spotlight Series: A comprehensive demo program featuring seven major sign shop management software vendors including Ordant, SignTracker, Onyx Align, SquareCoil, InkSoft, InkWorks, and CoreBridge- New Website Product: Preview of an upcoming...
2024-11-1221 min
Powered by FranchisingFranchise Success in Home Services with Peter Kourounis of 1-800 Plumber + Air and PatchItUPIn this episode of Powered by Franchising, I sit down with Peter Kourounis to dive into the home services industry and explore what sets 1-800 Plumber + Air and PatchItUP apart. Peter shares valuable insights on the type of franchisees who thrive in these brands, along with the robust operations and marketing support they provide. Tune in to learn about the differentiators that make these franchises leaders in home services—and how they help franchisees achieve lasting success.
2024-11-0849 min
Powered by FranchisingFranchise Success in Home Services with Peter Kourounis of 1-800 Plumber + Air and PatchItUPIn this episode of Powered by Franchising, I sit down with Peter Kourounis to dive into the home services industry and explore what sets 1-800 Plumber + Air and PatchItUP apart. Peter shares valuable insights on the type of franchisees who thrive in these brands, along with the robust operations and marketing support they provide. Tune in to learn about the differentiators that make these franchises leaders in home services—and how they help franchisees achieve lasting success.
2024-11-0700 min
Emerging Franchise BrandsPatchitUP: Peter Kourounis on Building Success in Home Services | S2E75In this episode, Peter Kourounis, Director of Franchise Development at 1-800-PLUMBER-PLUS-AIR and co-founder of Patch It Up, shares his insights into the unique challenges and opportunities in the home services franchise industry. See how his dual roles are driving growth and innovation.
GUEST: Peter Kourounis
WEBSITE: https://1800plumberfranchise.com/
https://patchitupfranchise.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterkourounis/
Books Mentioned in this Episode:
The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It
https://amzn.to/4ckNZxU
PODCAST LINKS
https://efbpodcast.com/
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/emergingfranchisebrands
Spotify: https://open.spotify...
2024-09-1945 min
Franchise QBEpisode 47: Peter Kourounis: Director of Franchise Development-1-800-Plumber + AirPeter joins us to discuss his extensive background in franchising, the unique business model of 1-800-Plumber + Air, and the strategies for recruiting technicians and acquiring customers. Peter shares insights on differentiating in the plumbing and HVAC market, leveraging technology for franchise success, and the costs associated with franchise ownership. The conversation also touches on the ideal franchisee profiles and introduces a new sister franchise concept, PatchitUp Drywall Repair.TakeawaysFranchising was in Peter's blood from a young age.1-800-Plumber + Air combines plumbing and HVAC services.Recruiting great te...
2024-09-1834 min
Better Sign Shop PodcastCarving a Niche // Jim Dawson of Synergy Sign & GraphicsJim Dawson owns Synergy Sign & Graphics in Strasburg, OH. From humble beginnings in his basement 20 years ago, he has built a business that thrives on challenges and innovation. In this podcast, he shares his experiences with creative architectural signage.##-##This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital Imaging Your partner for large/grand format trade printing. Known for exceptional customer service, GCI Digital Imaging is the go-to for banners, coroplast signs, vehicle wraps, and other digitally printed graphics. Discover more in Episode #9 or visit https://gci-digital.com.Jaco Wholesale Sign...
2024-04-301h 23
Better Sign Shop PodcastChill The F$&k Out // Dan Yoder of Sign Art StudioIn this episode, we're joined by Dan Yoder - the owner of Sign Art Studio, a killer sign shop with 30 people near Madison, Wisconsin. Dan has been in the industry since 2005 and gives us valuable insights on various topics such as the business and art side of the industry, the importance of systems and processes, hiring and managing employees, and more.##-##This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital Imaging - Your partner for large/grand format trade printing. Known for their exceptional customer service, GCI Digital Imaging is the go-to for banners, coroplast signs...
2024-04-191h 46
Better Sign Shop PodcastDouble Your Pricing // Paul Gardner of Sign EnterpriseIn this episode we sit down with Paul Gardner, the entrepreneurial force behind Sign Enterprise. With over two decades in the sign industry, Paul shares his journey from a young enthusiast in vinyl graphics to a successful owner of multiple sign companies. His insights into business growth, innovative strategies, and maintaining work-life balance are invaluable for anyone in the industry.##-##This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital Imaging - Your partner for large/grand format trade printing. Known for their exceptional customer service, GCI Digital Imaging is the go-to for banners, coroplast signs, vehicle...
2024-01-231h 08
Better Sign Shop PodcastShow Up For Your Customers // James Neely of RP SignsIn the episode, James shares how RP Signs has reached 5 million without a sales representative and for the first time in three generations is hiring a sales rep. We also learn about how they have incredible retention for all their key employees in the business. James Neely is the Director of Project Management at RP Signs from Charlotte, North Carolina. He is the third-generation owner of RP Signs. They provide full end-to-end service for their clients in a few different verticals like healthcare, architects / design firms, and facilities management. This episode is sponsored by:G...
2024-01-031h 10
Better Sign Shop PodcastCan I Quote That For You? // Evan Zebley of EZ SignsEvan Zebley is the owner of EZ Signs. Evan started a sign business working alongside his sister. Within the first few months, the shop expanded into fleet graphics for distribution companies, custom-formed letters, custom-crafted and painted foam emblems and signs, monument signs, lighted cabinets, and more. Before launching EZ Sign Solutions, Evan worked in six different sign companies with different roles and responsibilities. He shares with us all of his experiences and learnings along the way. Another can't-miss episode!This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital Imaging - Your large/grand format trade printing partner
2023-11-211h 23
Better Sign Shop PodcastArt Department Efficiency // Adam Wold of Creative Sign DesignsHaving been in the industry for 23 years, Adam started as a production employee within a franchised sign company. From there, he moved into production management, then inside/outside sales, and now, for the last 6 years, he has been working as a Director of Project Development, managing the sign design team of Creative Sign Designs. This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital Imaging - Your large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. You can go ahead and check out Episode #9 to see for y...
2023-11-071h 01
Better Sign Shop PodcastWill it be fun? // Dan Sawatzky of Imagination Corporation //This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. You can go ahead and check out Episode #9 to see for yourself. So, if you're looking for a wholesale print provider for banners, coroplast signs, vehicle wraps, and other digitally printed graphicsLearn more and place your first order at https://gci-digital.com.---In this episode...00:00 Intro02:20 Welcome Dan 03:10 About Dan05:10 Ordinary stuff 06:20 Starting shop in high school 08:10 ...
2023-10-171h 07
Better Sign Shop PodcastYour Success is on You // Brad Rapone of Trade Wraps and TORQThis episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. You can check out Episode #9 to see for yourself. So if you're looking for a wholesale print provider for banners, coroplast signs, vehicle wraps, and other digitally printed graphicsLearn more and place your first order at https://gci-digital.com.---In this episode...00:00 Intro02:00 Mike’s nickname 03:00 Guest intro04:40 Corel draw Mac and PC 08:20 Brad’s Backstory09:00 Experien...
2023-07-111h 10
Better Sign Shop PodcastSigns of Balance // Shane Durnford of Jayce Fox StudioYou’ve seen his work even if you didn’t know his name. Legendary sign crafter Shane Durnford joins us for a mindblowing conversation about our chosen craft. 🤯 Shane opens up about his personal experience with burnout. And he also shares invaluable advice for those looking to venture into high end signage – revealing a little bit about his secret sauce. Another can’t miss episode!---This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. Yo...
2023-06-201h 30
Better Sign Shop PodcastGetting on the Right Track // Joe Arenella - SigntrackerHaving owned two sign businesses and a software company that creates shop management software for the sign industry, Joe Arenella has seen the industry from a few different angles. He joins us to talk about his journey in the industry, what it's like making software for sign makers, and more. He also shares his advice for newer business owners and how to get unstuck.This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. You...
2023-06-131h 01
Better Sign Shop PodcastHappy Hour with Jeff ShermanWe're joined by Jeff Sherman for this special happy-hour episode. Be warned 🤣 – we're a little loose.An old friend with an epic beard – Jeff Sherman has 20+ years of sign industry experience and 10+ years of running operations at a fairly large shop.We discussed about shifting from vinyl to fab and electrical, safety protocols, managing growth and many other interesting topics.This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing old-school customer service. You can check out Epi...
2023-05-231h 53
Better Sign Shop PodcastRemodeling Your Business // Maggie Harlow - Owner of Signarama Downtown - Louisville KYWe're joined by Maggie Harlow – the successful owner of Signarama Downtown in Louisville KY. She's a leader in the industry and also a columnist for Signs of The Times. We talk about her journey in the sign industry – from jumping into ownership without any industry experience, through managing large national projects for clients, and then to completely "re-modeling" her business when the old model no longer fit. There are lots of great nuggets and advice in this episode.This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwne...
2023-05-091h 10
Better Sign Shop PodcastRising To The Challenge // Karrie Brock - Owner of FASTSIGNS ToledoWe're joined by national brand and sign package award winner Karrie Brock – owner of two FASTSIGNS locations / Toledo and Maumee OH. We discuss her conversion from an independent sign shop to the FASTSIGNS franchise and how they handle large fabrication projects that the franchise is not typically known for. We also discuss women in the sign industry and Karrie sets us straight on what men in the sign industry sometimes get wrong.---This episode is sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large/grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht an...
2023-04-251h 02
Better Sign Shop PodcastArt Department Automation // Brian Saetre - Founder of TaskOS and ArtworkIQJoin us as dive into automating your art department with automation guru Brian Saetre. Brian founded an artwork services company before creating his latest proejct TaskOS – which is focused on making your designers more effective and efficient. We also touch on artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and MidJourney during this interesting discussion.You'll walk away with some helpful tips and tricks on automation.---This episode sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large / grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing customer service the ol...
2023-04-111h 21
Better Sign Shop PodcastElevating Our Craft // Interview with Tom McIltrot - Founder of SignCraft MagazineJoin us for an interview with sign industry legend - Tom McIlltrot – one of the founders of SignCraft magazine. Michael described this episode as his "Christmas" – given how much of learned so much from SignCraft over the years. Tom tells us the history of SignCraft and shares a few amazing stories. He gives us his take on the future of the industry and shares some advice on how to compete as a modern sign shop.---This episode sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large / grand format trade printing partnerOwner...
2023-03-281h 13
Better Sign Shop PodcastHow To Choose Your Sign Shop Management SoftwareThis is definitely the song that never ends 🐑. Right up there with pricing questions – "What sign shop management software are you using?" is asked weekly in every sign industry forum, Facebook group, and any other place sign folks gather. Shop management software is a foundational piece of running a successful sign shop and can truly help you scale, grow, and manage your shop. Listen as two sign shop management software nerds talk through our advice and recommendations for every shop owner.We cover:- Using generic tools like Trello, Airtable, and others as your shop m...
2023-03-141h 22
Better Sign Shop PodcastHow to Grow Your Shop in a Small Town // Chris Fleniken of Real GraphicsOne of the questions that we get all the time is "How do I grow my shop?". It's usually followed by "in a small city or town". Not every sign maker lives in a large metro area with tons of opportunity for growth. In this episode, we're joined by Chris Fleniken of Real Graphics in Lufkin, Texas. Chris has built a small business empire by playing the long game. We cover: - How to grow your shop - The importance of diversifying your income streams- What role community plays in your success
2023-02-281h 28
Better Sign Shop PodcastDesign Like Lives are at Stake // Dan Antonelli of KickCharge CreativeIndustry legend – Dan Antonelli of KickCharge Creative joins us to talk about his new book Branded Not Blanded and to discuss why you're playing with fire if you're not educating your sign shop's customers on the importance of design and branding.Make sure you pick up a copy of Dan's latest book – Branded Not Blanded – at https://www.kickcharge.com/books/---This episode sponsored by:GCI Digital ImagingYour large / grand format trade printing partnerOwner T.J. Bedacht and his team focus on providing customer service the old-school way. C...
2023-01-241h 18
Better Sign Shop PodcastNavigating Your Shop's Legacy // Taylor Kraenzel of Vizion SignsTaylor Kraenzel of Vizion Signs (https://www.vizionsigns.com/) joins us to talk about what it's like to take over and modernize the family business while still trying to retain the craft and eye for artwork that they were known for. Taylor's grandfather started the shop way back in 1966. And they're still going strong. Just a heads up – this one runs a bit long but we had a blast. We cover a ton of great topics and we even get to flip the script a bit at the end.In this episode...Mike dies fr...
2023-01-051h 52
CANADALAND(CANADALANDBACK) Reclamation At Stoney Point - Part TwoIn part two: After a peaceful reclamation of the army base built on their land in 1993, elders of Stoney Point lead a movement to take back Ipperwash Provincial Park, which was also part of their original land and contained a burial ground. Racism and political interference turned a peaceful movement into a violent act of state aggression on September 6, 1995. This episode recalls the events of that night, and examines the fallout in the 28 years since, asking if reconciliation will ever be possible for the people of Stoney Point.In this podcast: interviews include Bonnie Bressette, Caroline “Cu...
2022-11-2152 min
Better Sign Shop PodcastHow to Lose an Employee in 10 Days: Lessons on Building A Killer Team // Jeff ShermanAre you struggling with finding and keeping good employees? Learn what it really takes to onboard a new employee and how to keep valuable team members motivated and engaged.An old friend with an epic beard – Jeff Sherman – joins us for a conversation on employees and building a solid team. Jeff has 20+ years of sign industry experience and 10+ years of running operations at a fairly large shop.We cover a lot of topics related to building a killer team. You won't be disappointed.In this episode...Jeff's new nicknames for Mike (01:25)Origin of t...
2022-11-161h 22
Better Sign Shop PodcastThe Importance of Customer Experience // TJ Bedacht - GCI DigitalWe hate buzzwords. And “customer experience” is one that everyone one the internet seems to SHOUT about as a key driver for growth. But once you wade through all the gimmicks and hype, it is a very important concept to apply in your shop.Tj Bedacht from grand format trade printer GCI Digital Imaging – talk about customer experience and coming through for customers day in and day out.//////////////////////////////////////In this episode...-//////////////////////////////////////Links from the EpisodeGCI Digital Websitehttp://www.gci-digital.com?ref...
2022-11-011h 18
Better Sign Shop PodcastSurviving the Next Shopacolypse // Mike Davis and Scott Dean - Hilltop Signs and GraphicsHow did your shop survive COVID? If you're like a lot of shop owners, the answer might be "just barely". But would your business survive yet another disaster after making it through COVID? Listen in as shop owner - Mike Davis - and ops manager - Scott Dean - from Hilltop Signs & Graphics in Maryland tell their story of business survival. This was a killer interview with lots of great takeaways on how to survive (and even thrive) in hard times – which we may be facing yet again if you listen to the news.In th...
2022-10-111h 05
Better Sign Shop PodcastWhen To Invest In Your ShopMichael, Peter, and Bryant are back with more answers to listener questions. They cover...When should you invest in your shop? How do I handle a client that's NOT happy with their vehicle wrap even though they approved the proof ?What should my markups on materials be?In this episode, we discuss...Mike's panic about his upcoming wedding (01:59)Diving into when to invest in your shop (06:57)Peter's reason why he bought his first printer (09:21)Should you buy a new piece of equipment if you don't have time to learn how to use it (15:50)Why training i...
2022-09-271h 08
Better Sign Shop PodcastOutsourcing Your Way To Freedom // Jeremy Siegers - Sharp Mill GraphicsMichael and Bryant discuss the benefits of outsourcing and the lessons they learned. The guys are joined by guest Jeremy Siegers from Sharp Mill Graphics. Jeremy recently completely transformed his entire business by ditching his shop and letting his production staff go to work 100% remotely. He's changed his business to fit his ideal lifestyle.In this episode, we discuss...Mike's nutty catalytic converter story (01:10)Post Malone and Country Singers (04:54)Mike's take on outsourcing (6:00)How much outsourcing the guys did in their shops (9:14)Why not to buy that new equipment (11:56)Don't underestimate the maintenance and service (16:45...
2022-09-061h 01
Better Sign Shop PodcastShop Owner Q&A - AugustInstead of riffing on a single topic, we answer three important questions from podcast listeners. If you're a shop owner, you've got answers to these at some point – so listen in and see if you agree with our recommendations.1. How do you address minimum orders and how to handle the walk-ins requesting $50 lettering/signs? Also how minimums might apply to large accounts that frequently request small orders in between larger orders?2. How much should you be paying yourself as the owner of a sign shop3. How can I get new leads for my si...
2022-08-1559 minBetter Sign Shop PodcastStop Fumbling The HandoffMost mistakes in a sign or print shop are made during the handoffs. When a job is handed from sales to design, from design to production, from production to install. It's important that you manage the handoff well in order to ensure things are completed on time and customers stay happy.In this episode, we discuss...Peter has a crisis over Disney's power bill (02:30)Mike's fixer upper (04:28)Mike's football knowledge (09:35)Where do most breakdowns happen (11:54)It's all about communication (14:20)Fast Signs sing-along (15:44)Importance of meetings once per week (17:15)Using tools like Slack to communicate internally (21:16)Bryant...
2022-08-011h 01Better Sign Shop PodcastGrowing Pains // Luc Michaud of Signtek IndustriesAre you experiencing growing pains in your shop? Things starting to fall through the cracks? Listen in as the guys discuss the challenges of managing a growing shop. Luc Michaud, co-owner of Signtek Industries (http://signtek.ca/) in Prince George, British Columbia – joins us to talk about some of their own experiences with 25% growth year over year since 2012.In this episode, we discuss...Turning away money (08:05)Abandoning your vision you first had for your shop (09:59)The growth of Luc's company (19:44)Signtek's major roadblocks (21:09)The breakout of Signtek's current staff (24:56)Luc's growth strategy for the com...
2022-07-201h 18Better Sign Shop PodcastLeave The Faucet RunningMichael, Peter, and Bryant debate where to spend your time and money when working on your marketing. Learn some of their favorite ideas for marketing your sign shop.
2022-06-1851 minBetter Sign Shop PodcastPricing ProblemsThe inaugural episode of the podcast – Peter, Michael, and Bryant discuss the biggest problem they've seen in the industry – pricing yourself too cheap. Learn how to know if you're pricing yourself short, how to respond to customers who question your pricing, and more.
2022-06-1050 min
What If, discussed.What If You Explored the Deepest Points of Earth? - with George KourounisLet NetSuite show you how they’ll benefit your business with a FREE Product Tour at www.netsuite.com/WHATIF
We've explored a lot on this planet, but how deeply have we truly gone? The Earth's core is over 6000km deep...and the deepest we've drilled is roughly 12km! Not even 1%, and we haven't talked about the Earth's Oceans. Join Peter and Richard as they welcome long time host of "Angry Planet" George Kourounis, and they take their deepest dive yet with "What If we explored the deepest parts of the Earth?" on What If Discussed.
Show notes: https://whatifshow.co...
2021-01-0832 minWhat If, discussed.What If a Tornado Hit an Active Volcano? - with George KourounisSo What If a tornado hit an active volcano? To be honest, we have no idea. But you know who might be the only person on Earth who knows? It's the host of the long running Discovery Channel hit show "Angry Planet" George Kourounis who has chased more tornadoes than you could count and has literally been inside an active volcano...multiple times! Join Peter, Richard and George Kourounis as they contemplate the ultimate hypothetical scenario: "What If a tornado hit an active volcano?"
Show notes: https://whatifshow.com/podcast
Join hosts Peter Schmiedchen and Richard Garner with some of...
2020-12-1132 min