Shows
The TradeMarkeAI Without Guardrails Is a Liability: A Candid Conversation with Katie DonovanIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Katie Donovan, Founder of CAMP Digital, for a deep, practical conversation about the real impact of AI on marketing, operations, and growth in the trades.
Katie breaks through the noise surrounding AI and explains why “AI” has become one of the most misunderstood terms in business today. From operational AI and generative AI to ad performance, data ownership, and compliance, this episode explores what contractors should be paying attention to—and what could quietly put their businesses at risk.
You’ll...
2026-01-2816 minThe TradeMarkeBe a Good Human: The Secret to Long-Term Success in the TradesWhat does it take to generate $18.5 million in residential sales in a single season? According to Dan Walrack, the founder of Go Beyond the Hustle, it isn’t about fancy tech or aggressive closing tactics—it’s about being a good human.
In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Dan live at the Build It to Sell It conference. With 27 years of experience in the roofing industry, Dan shares his transition from the "blood, sweat, and tears" of door knocking to building a sustainable, high-growth career by leveraging his "v...
2026-01-2710 minThe TradeMarkeHow Sameday AI Turns Missed Leads into Booked JobsIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, we are joined by Aaron Cooper, Co-Founder and CEO of Sameday AI, for a deep dive into how AI is transforming call handling, booking rates, and revenue growth in the home services industry.
Aaron shares the real story behind building Sameday after discovering his own company was missing 15–20% of inbound leads—and how that realization led to an AI sales agent that now answers millions of calls and books over 90% of qualified leads for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical businesses.
The conversation covers why AI should multiply strong systems rath...
2025-12-3110 minThe TradeMarkeBuild It to Sell It: Scaling Trade Businesses the Right WayThe TradeMarke Podcast bridges the gap between the skilled trades and modern marketing. Hosted by Eric Thomas of Rival Digital and Sarah Ghirardo of Remarketable, this podcast is built for contractors, trade business owners, and marketing leaders who want to grow smarter, scale faster, and build lasting value.
Each episode delivers real conversations with industry leaders across HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and home services. We dig into what actually drives growth in the trades, from systems and technology stacks to leadership, capital, branding, and demand generation. No fluff. No theory. Just proven strategies, real stories, and hard-earned...
2025-12-1712 minThe TradeMarkeMindset, Mistakes, and Mastery: What 30 Years in Plumbing Taught Ismail ShahidIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Ismail Shahid, a 30-year plumbing veteran who has worked everywhere from historic New York brownstones to the mountains of Colorado and the neighborhoods of South Carolina.
Ismail shares how he went from organizing parts in a shop to becoming a seasoned service plumber, why starting in the stockroom gave him a competitive edge, and a few unforgettable “learning experience” stories from the field. He breaks down what it really means to be a true service technician today: minimizing mistakes, adapting to cons...
2025-11-2130 minThe TradeMarkeBreak the Doom Loop: The 3-Part Marketing Mix Trades Pros MissThe Trademarke Podcast welcomes Ryan Chute of Wizard of Ads for a masterclass in trades marketing—from HVAC to plumbing and electrical. Hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas dig into why most contractors get stuck choosing between branding and lead gen, and how a three-part marketing mix (brand messaging, calls-to-action, and points of entry) outperforms click-chasing campaigns.
Ryan explains the “paint the door orange” approach to stand out on search, why audio and frequency still move markets, and how to write campaignable messages that pass Broca the bouncer and live rent-free in Club Imagination. You’ll hear real-wor...
2025-11-0553 minThe TradeMarkeThe Water Came to a Stop: Teaching Kids to Value the TradesStep into The Trademarke Podcast with hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they interview Ryan Kiscaden about his self-published children’s books — The Water Came to a Stop and The Air Came to a Stop — and his mission to introduce plumbing and HVACR to young readers.
They discuss the inspiration behind the books, surprising reactions from kids and parents, partnerships like ACCA, and how storytelling can change perceptions and support workforce development. Find the series at nextuptrades.com and on Amazon.
2025-11-0432 minThe TradeMarkeSemi-Absentee, Full Opportunity: What Top Franchisees Do DifferentlyOn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with franchise matchmaker Adam Goldman to demystify modern franchising, especially in the home services world. Adam has spent 15+ years in the space, from owning an office-cleaning master franchise to placing candidates across 75 industries, with 60 to 70 percent in home services.
You’ll learn what makes a strong franchise candidate, why business development and operational excellence are the twin superpowers, and how owners are thriving with semi-absentee models. Adam breaks down practical growth levers like BNI, referrals, canvassing, and digital channels, and explains the tr...
2025-10-2226 minThe TradeMarkeThe Bottleneck is You: Hard Truths for Owners with Ryan ReddingOn this episode of The Trademarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Ryan Redding for a candid, practical playbook on scaling a home service company the right way. Fresh off a year that included his team joining forces with KickCharge Creative, Ryan shares what he is doing now, why frameworks like EOS help owners win back their time, and how to spot the three problems that stall growth: time traps, profit slippage, and revenue plateaus.
You will learn how to identify personal, department, and company bottlenecks, why “manage up or manage out” creates health...
2025-10-1531 minThe TradeMarkeFrom Phone Lines to Field Wins: Power Selling Pros’ Playbook for TradesStep into The TradeMarke with Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they sit down with Brigham Dickinson of Power Selling Pros to explore the evolution of CSRs, technician training, and the impact of AI on trades marketing. Brigham shares real-world stories on improving call conversion, reducing callbacks, and turning CSRs into inside sales experts while emphasizing empathy, technical knowledge, and accountability.
Learn why blending soft skills with technical understanding and leveraging technology — from call recording to AI — can increase sales, improve customer experience, and strengthen your business operations.
2025-09-2432 minThe TradeMarkeRace to the Face: The Future of Virtual Sales for ContractorsOn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer at LiveSwitch, to explore how live video technology is reshaping the trades.
James shares his journey from climbing ladders in the painting and power washing world to leading a global tech company powering live video for the NFL, the Super Bowl, and now thousands of home service businesses. He explains why speed to lead is the ultimate competitive advantage, how contractors can use live video to boost trust and conversions, and why the future of customer...
2025-09-1743 minThe TradeMarkeHow Contractors Can Build Lifetime Value Through WarrantiesOn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Kevin Thornton, VP & GM of Dealer Business Services at JB Warranties, to uncover how warranties are transforming the trades.
Kevin shares how JB Warranties helps contractors increase revenue, build stronger customer relationships, and provide homeowners with true peace of mind. From HVAC and plumbing systems to electrical and water filtration, warranties aren’t just about protection—they’re about creating long-term trust and recurring revenue opportunities.
You’ll also hear how JB Warranties’ JB360 integration with ServiceTitan streamlines warranty sales, cla...
2025-08-2042 minThe TradeMarkeFrom $5M to $150M: Contractor Growth Lessons from Rich HarshawOn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Rich Harshaw, founder of Level 10 Contractor and author of Unlocking Unlimited Lead Flow, to break down the exact strategies contractors need to win online. Rich shares proven insights from decades in the home services and remodeling industry—helping companies grow from $5 million to over $150 million in revenue.
You’ll learn why most SEO agencies underperform, how to evaluate an SEO provider before hiring them, and the powerful “geo keyword pair” method for dominating local search results. Rich also dives deep into brand id...
2025-08-1350 minThe TradeMarkeData Done Right: Mike Zeppetello’s Blueprint for CRM CultureIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Mike Zeppetello from Powerhouse Consulting Group to explore the role of data integrity, CRM strategy, and Marketing Pro in driving real growth for home service companies.
Mike shares his journey from growing up in a family handyman business to leading marketing strategy at Powerhouse. He breaks down why trades businesses must stop seeing their CRM as a digital filing cabinet and start treating it like the central nervous system of their operations.
Whether you're using ServiceTitan, Marketing Pro, or...
2025-07-3036 minThe TradeMarkeLeads, Data, and the Power of the Pivot with Marcus PiazzisiIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Marcus Piazzisi, founder and CEO of Viirl, to dig into the real-world strategies that drive results in home service marketing. From bootstrapping his agency with maxed-out credit cards to building a multi-million-dollar business, Marcus shares how Viirl became a major player by focusing on performance, not fluff.
The conversation covers everything from local lead generation and agency selection to tech stacks, reporting transparency, and how AI is reshaping operations across the trades. Plus, they talk about the importance of nurturing existing customers...
2025-07-2343 minThe TradeMarkeBetter People, Better Business: Ryan Englin’s Blueprint for Workforce WinsIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, we’re joined by Ryan Englin, CEO of Core Matters, to explore his proven strategies for hiring better people and building stronger businesses. Ryan shares his Core Fit Hiring System, designed to attract top-tier applicants, reduce turnover, and create engaged, long-lasting teams.
Learn how aligning hiring practices with your company’s core values can improve retention, enhance employee satisfaction, and drive business success. Whether you’re struggling with high turnover or looking to improve your hiring process, Ryan’s insights provide actionable steps to create a workforce that wins.
2025-07-0939 minThe TradeMarkePowerhouse Moves to Explode Your Business Growth with ServiceTitan 🚀In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Sarah Ghirardo sits down with Jenny Benbrook, co-founder of Powerhouse Consulting Group, for a deep dive into tech strategy for contractors. Jenny shares the origin story of Powerhouse, how they’ve scaled to a 30-person team, and the growing need for thoughtful tech implementation in the trades.
From ServiceTitan to third-party tools, the conversation covers it all: how to reduce wasted spend, build a scalable tech stack, and align technology with your company’s growth goals. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by software options or unsure if you're getting your m...
2025-06-2542 minThe TradeMarkeKrista Laden on Time Blocking, Community Marketing & Raising Trades KidsIn this inspiring episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down live at AHR Expo with Krista Laden, Marketing & IT Director at Gulf Shore Air Conditioning and a board member of Lady Titans.
Krista pulls back the curtain on her 13+ year journey from admin assistant to leadership, revealing how she’s helped build a beloved, community-first brand without relying on Google Ads. Instead of chasing clicks, Krista focuses on what actually creates long-term business growth: relationships, reputation, and radical consistency.
Here's what you'll learn:
Why Gulf Shore Air invests in...
2025-06-1821 minThe TradeMarkeRedefining WTF in the Workplace with Dave MacDonaldIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas are joined by Dave MacDonald, founder of the Better Together Group, to talk about one of the most important (and most overlooked) aspects of growing a successful trades business: hiring and managing people who actually give a damn.
Dave shares his no-fluff philosophy—WTF: Work hard, Tell the truth, Finish the job—a mantra that’s guided his leadership for over two decades and helped over 6,000 workers find purpose-driven employment. If you're struggling with team accountability, dealing with burnout, or feeling stuck in “wimp junction” (a term you...
2025-06-1124 minThe TradeMarkeFrom Cop to Contractor: How Derek Cormier Grew a $12M HVAC EmpireIn this wildly entertaining and value-packed episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with the one and only Derek Cormier, founder of Climate Experts in Melbourne, Florida. From a single truck to a projected $12M in revenue, Derek shares the exact playbook he's used to scale a multi-trade business covering HVAC, plumbing, and electrical — all while keeping things fun, raw, and remarkably real.
Derek dives into:
Why ductwork is the most overlooked opportunity in HVAC sales
His regimented, quality-first inspection process (complete with attic sweats)
How he...
2025-06-0441 minThe TradeMarkePainting the Pink Door: Ryan Chute on Brand Storytelling That SellsIn this powerhouse episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Ryan Chute—Wizard of Ads partner, strategic branding guru, and co-founder of The Difference bourbon with Chris Voss—for a no-holds-barred deep dive into what really makes marketing work in the trades.
Ryan doesn’t just talk strategy—he lives it. From founding an invite-only bourbon society to orchestrating marketing campaigns that punch through the noise, he’s on a mission to help businesses become unforgettable. In this conversation, you’ll hear how Chute breaks down the three essential components of a winning...
2025-05-2852 minThe TradeMarkeFrom Chaos to Clarity: Jess & Kim Talk ServiceTitan Setup, Marketing Pro & MembershipsIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with the brilliant duo behind Titan Advisor Gurus – Jess Kralemann and Kim Rahn – to dive deep into the hidden power (and common pitfalls) of ServiceTitan.
Jess, the marketing systems expert, and Kim, the operations and accounting wizard, share their insider tips on how contractors can unlock the full potential of ServiceTitan. From Marketing Pro setup, SMS automation, and underused tools like postcards, to the complexities of membership billing, data cleanup, and price book overload, this conversation covers it all.
If you...
2025-05-2129 minThe TradeMarkeThe Truth About Refrigerant Shortages with ACCA Chairman Eddie McFarlaneIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas welcome industry legend and current Chairman of ACCA, Eddie McFarlane, for a candid, insightful, and inspiring conversation on the future of the trades.
With over 25 years of experience in HVAC—from starting as a helper in the field to co-founding Schedule Engine, and now leading Sealer Services and shaping national HVAC standards at ACCA—Eddie brings unmatched perspective on what it takes to lead and thrive in today’s rapidly evolving industry.
Together, we dig into the big issues contractors are facing today...
2025-05-1445 minThe TradeMarkeAI and You: How Jonathan Mast Maps the Future of MarketingIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, we sit down with Jonathan Mast from White Beard Strategies, an AI enthusiast and automation expert, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the marketing landscape. Jonathan breaks down the tools and strategies that can help businesses of all sizes thrive in this new era of data-driven decision-making and automation.
Discover the latest trends in AI-powered marketing, the opportunities many businesses are missing out on, and how to integrate these innovations into your brand-building efforts. Jonathan also shares his vision for the future of marketing roles and the skills you n...
2025-05-0745 minThe TradeMarkeBe Good. Do Good. Sell Better: The Jerry Rollins PhilosophyIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with legendary sales trainer Jerry Rollins—the founder of the Be Good Do Good Group and one of the most respected voices in home service sales coaching. From managing restaurants and opening 14 Longhorn Steakhouse locations to training thousands of technicians and CSRs across 27 states, Jerry shares the mindset, systems, and stories that have helped him transform sales teams and grow businesses nationwide.
You'll hear:
How Jerry uses real-life ride-alongs and AI tools to refine team performance
Why consistent pr...
2025-04-3040 minThe TradeMarkeFrom Startup to $15M: Trio Heating & Air’s Growth Blueprint
Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas on The TradeMarke Podcast as they dive into an inspiring conversation with Michael and David Katz from Trio Heating, Air, and Plumbing. In just three and a half years, the Katz brothers transformed their HVAC business from startup to a projected $15 million in revenue, thriving in the competitive San Jose market. Discover their actionable strategies for overcoming slow seasons, leveraging AI for customer engagement, and mastering door-knocking campaigns that drive leads without breaking the bank. From incentivizing technicians to building customer loyalty through memberships, this episode is packed with practical tips for...
2025-04-2345 minThe TradeMarkeMichelle Myers’ Secrets to Building a World-Class CSR TeamIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas dive deep into the world of customer service with Michelle Myers from The CSR Academy. Discover why Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) are the backbone of your trade business and how investing in their training can transform customer experiences and boost your bottom line.
Michelle shares actionable insights on navigating consumer expectations, building resilience, and creating a culture of growth through innovative training programs like The CSR Academy. From ride-alongs with technicians to mastering empathy on tough calls, this episode is packed with strategies to...
2025-04-1629 minThe TradeMarkeHealthy Teams, Healthy Profits: Donovan Ryckis on Better BenefitsIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, we’re joined by Donovan Ryckis, founder and CEO of Ethos Benefits, to uncover how trade businesses can revolutionize employee healthcare. Donovan explains how smarter healthcare strategies can reduce costs, improve employee satisfaction, and ultimately boost profitability.
2025-04-0929 minThe TradeMarkeSaving You 70% in Taxes? Melissa from Busy Bee Advisors is the Real DealIn this stress-free and wildly insightful episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric and Sarah sit down with the brilliant and unapologetically bold Melissa Broughton, founder of Busy Bee Advisors. Melissa is not your average tax professional—she’s a strategist, a myth-buster, and an advocate for small business owners who are tired of overpaying in taxes and underplaying their profits.
Melissa shares how a leap of faith (and a freak accident) led her to launch Busy Bee Advisors and build a boutique tax firm that actually gives a damn. From debunking outdated tax advice to sharing real stra...
2025-03-2633 minThe TradeMarkeRing the Dang Bell: Katy Higgins on Grit, Growth, and Getting It DoneIn this inspiring episode of The TradeMarke, Sarah sits down with Katy Higgins — founder of TruePros in northern Utah — to talk about her incredible journey from single mom and part-time telemarketer to becoming one of the first female comfort advisors in her state, and now the owner of a $5 million HVAC company.
Katy opens up about the highs and lows of her first year in business, why she chose Thelma & Louise as her movie title for that year, and the lessons she's learned in leadership, resilience, and redefining success. From operating out of her garage with no webs...
2025-03-2140 minThe TradeMarkeFrom Chaos to Clarity: The Profit First Framework for the TradesIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas are joined by Susanne Mariga, fractional CFO, CPA, and author of Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises. Susanne shares how trades business owners can break free from the "revenue trap" and start building real, lasting profit through the Profit First method.
Together, they unpack:
Why traditional accounting is failing business owners
How to create a financial system that prioritizes profit, not just expenses
The importance of founder energy in shaping company culture
Key financial metrics every trades business should track
How to prepare...
2025-03-2133 minThe TradeMarkeLeadership, Growth & People Development in the Trades with Stephanie AllenIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric and Sarah sit down with Stephanie Allen from Airworks Solutions to discuss leadership, people development, and the evolution of running a trade business. Stephanie shares her journey of balancing business growth with personal life, embracing a visionary role, and the importance of building a strong company culture—both in-office and remotely.
From hiring strategies to team development, investing in people, and her unique approach to running an HVAC and plumbing business, Stephanie provides invaluable insights for trade professionals and business owners alike.
💡 Join the Conversation!
Have thoug...
2025-03-1450 minThe TradeMarkeMastering Social Media & Personal Branding in the Trades with Jen McKeeIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with social media expert Jen McKee, founder of Kee Hart Marketing. They dive deep into the power of social media, personal branding for contractors, and why business owners in the trades should start leveraging short-form video and organic content marketing today. Jen shares invaluable insights on creating authentic content, engaging with communities, and positioning yourself as an industry leader.
2025-03-1447 minThe TradeMarke2025 Roofing & Home Service Marketing Predictions with Megan Bedford & Nancy O’Hare-ZikaWhat’s next for home service marketing in 2025? In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Megan Bedford and Nancy O’Hare-Zika from Home Service Marketing Hub to break down the biggest marketing shifts for roofers and home service contractors.
Live from Marco Island at the Roofing Process Conference, the conversation covers roofing industry trends, local marketing strategies, and how contractors can better utilize video, SEO, and CRM tools to dominate their markets. Megan and Nancy share real-world insights into why education-based marketing is winning, how video is essential for...
2025-02-2827 minThe TradeMarkeBuilding a Brand That Sells: Dan Antonelli on Branding for Home Services CompaniesHow can branding make your business the go-to name in your market? In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Dan Antonelli, CEO of KickCharge Creative, to dive deep into the power of branding in the trades.
Live from the 6th Annual Roofing Process Conference, Dan shares how a strong brand can lower marketing costs, increase customer trust, and boost conversions. Plus, they break down Gary Vaynerchuk’s take on branding vs. marketing, the impact of a polished brand on recruitment, and why your logo and website might be costing yo...
2025-02-2826 minThe TradeMarkeThe Blueprint for a Scalable, Profitable Restoration BusinessHow do you scale a home service business to 75+ franchise locations in under two years? In this episode of The TradeMarke, hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Dan Claps, CEO of Voda Cleaning & Restoration, live from the 6th Annual Roofing Process Conference in Marco Island, Florida (hosted by LB Capital).
Dan shares his journey from the franchise lead generation space to acquiring and scaling a successful restoration brand. We dive into:
The power of franchising in home services and why executive-level entrepreneurs are thriving in blue-collar industries.
Marketing strategies for franchise growth, including...
2025-02-2123 minThe TradeMarkeWays To Grow Your Roofing Business w/ Josh Taylor (Roofing Pups Roofing & Siding)In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric Thomas sits down with Josh Taylor, co-owner of Roofing Pups, live from the Roofing Process Conference. From starting as an ER nurse to building multiple home service businesses, Josh shares his journey of scaling companies, adopting EOS, and partnering with LB Capital to grow Roofing Pups into a national brand.
🏗️ Key Takeaways from This Episode:
✔️ The shift from insurance-based roofing to a retail-driven model
✔️ How to scale a service business using systems, processes, and strong leadership
✔️ The importance of vision, sacrifice, and resilience in business success
✔️ In...
2025-02-0715 minThe TradeMarkeHow To Double Your Booking Rate in 2025 (with Tiffany Arends)In this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Tiffany Arends from All-American Heating and Plumbing in Breckenridge, Colorado, to talk about the essential relationship between marketing and operations in the trades industry.
Tiffany shares how her team doubled their booking rate, the importance of hiring the right CSRs, and how a strong company culture impacts every part of the business—from the first customer call to the final service visit.
If you've ever wondered how to optimize lead conversion, improve customer service, or create a thriving team environment, th...
2025-01-3127 minThe TradeMarkeHow Ray Seggern Helps Home Service Businesses Thrive Through Brand StrategyIn this episode of The TradeMarke, Eric and Sarah sit down with branding expert and author Ray Seggern to explore the fascinating intersection of storytelling, marketing, and business success in the trades industry. With over two decades of experience as a Wizard of Ads partner, Ray has worked with industry leaders to craft compelling brand narratives that resonate with audiences and drive results.
Key Highlights:
The Evolution of Brand Guys: Ray shares how his company, Brand Guys, was born from a desire to bridge authentic storytelling with impactful marketing strategies for the trades.
Why Story Matters: Discover why...
2025-01-1754 minThe TradeMarkeAI, Community, and Trust: The New Marketing LandscapeIn this dynamic episode of The TradeMarke, co-hosts Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo dive deep into the evolving world of marketing for the trades. Joined by guest Crystal Williams from Lemonseed Marketing, they explore groundbreaking insights, trends, and actionable strategies to help home service businesses thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Key takeaways include:
AI in Marketing: How tools like ChatGPT can revolutionize your approach to customer engagement and content creation.
Building Trust: The rising importance of local SEO, customer reviews, and community involvement.
The Power of Influencers: Why your technicians and local personalities could be your most...
2025-01-0942 minThe TradeMarkeBuilding Profits and Processes: Insights from The Opus & Golds GroupIn this episode of The TradeMarke Podcast, Eric Thomas and Sarah Ghirardo sit down with Dana Staszkiewicz, co-founder of the Opus & Golds Group, to explore her remarkable transition from a career in retail and ad agencies to becoming a leader in the trades industry. Dana shares her story of entering the trades through her brother's plumbing business, the challenges they overcame, and how they scaled the company to success before launching Opus & Golds Group.
Learn actionable insights about:
Creating sustainable profits in the trades.
Developing systems and processes for growth at any revenue level.
The importance...
2025-01-0345 minThe TradeMarkeThe Untapped Power of Direct Mail: Insights from Mail Shark's Josh DavisWelcome to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke, live from the Service World Expo 2024 in Orlando. We are thrilled to introduce Josh Davis from MailShark, our very first sponsor on the show. In this episode, we dive into the world of direct mail marketing, exploring how Mail Shark, a company specializing in direct mail marketing for home service contractors, helps contractors enhance their direct mail and response marketing strategies.
As the Chief Revenue Officer of Mail Shark and one of its first employees, Josh shares his immense experience and insights into the benefits of in-house versus outsourced...
2024-12-2027 minThe TradeMarkeMarketing Mascots and Mullets: The Fun Side of BrandingJoin us in this lively episode of The TradeMarke as hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas interview the dynamic Lupita Thompson. Get ready for a journey through unique culinary experiences, hilarious games, and insightful discussions on effective branding in the trade industry. Discover the secrets behind successful marketing strategies, memorable trade show moments, and how personal stories add value to professional growth. Whether you’re in the trades, marketing, or just love a good story, this episode offers a delightful blend of fun and professional insights. Tune in for a memorable ride filled with laughter, learning, and the heartwarming sp...
2024-12-1242 minThe TradeMarkeMaximizing Social Media for Home Service Businesses with Kaleigh GregoryWelcome to The Trademarke, where marketing meets the trades! Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the world of social media with special guest Kaleigh Gregory. Discover how social media can transform your business, learn from Kaleigh's fascinating journey from coordinating magician tours to becoming a marketing expert, and uncover secrets for leveraging Instagram effectively. Whether you're a trade professional or a marketer, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to enhance your brand's online presence. Dive in and explore the exciting intersection of trades and marketing!
2024-11-2943 minThe TradeMarkeUnlocking Accounting Secrets for Business Growth with Nolan BradburyWelcome to another enlightening episode of The Trademarke. Today, we're joined by Nolan Bradbury to discuss the intricate and often overlooked area of business accounting. Throughout this episode, we dive into why accounting doesn't have to be a dreadful task but can be pivotal for business growth and financial success.
Our host shares personal anecdotes and expert advice on how business owners can restructure their accounting practices to not only handle taxes more efficiently but also drive overall business success. We explore strategic approaches to taxes, demystify common misconceptions, and explore the broader perspective of how accounting...
2024-11-2732 minThe TradeMarkeScaling Sweat Equity: Tim Brown on DIY Marketing for Small Trades BusinessesWelcome back to another episode of The TradeMarke! In this exciting edition, the spotlight is on Tim Brown from Hook Agency.
Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the unique challenges and strategies in the trade marketing arena. With a special focus on the growing importance of organic marketing and the role of content creation, this episode offers valuable advice for businesses aiming to scale up.
Whether you're a seasoned marketer or a trade professional, discover practical tips on generating authentic content, addressing customer queries, and leveraging SEO to boost your...
2024-11-2241 minThe TradeMarkeBeyond the Call: The Role of Empathy in Customer ServiceWelcome back to another episode of The Trademarke Podcast, where hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas bring warmth to the world of trades and marketing. As the season transitions to what we fondly call 'blankie season' (also known as shoulder season), we dive into engaging conversations that are sure to keep you both entertained and informed.
This episode features a special guest, Valerie Garcia from Colair, a residential heating & air conditioning company serving customers throughout South Texas, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Valerie, known for wearing many hats, shares her journey...
2024-11-0543 minThe TradeMarkeTawnya Strittmatter's Journey of Triumph, Teamwork, and Giving BackWelcome to another riveting episode of The TradeMarke! Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive into the exciting world of trades and marketing. This week, they are thrilled to have Tawnya Strittmatter on the show, discussing her unique journey from growing a successful HVAC and plumbing business to serving on the board of the Joseph Groh Foundation.
Tawnya shares her inspiring story of working alongside her visionary husband, Joe, to expand their business, ultimately selling it to private equity. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of their journey, highlighting the importance of teamwork and...
2024-10-1142 minThe TradeMarkeImmersive Training & Leadership in the Trades: A Chat with Felicity MonseesWelcome to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke, your go-to podcast for everything marketing in the trades! In this episode, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas are joined by the incredible Felicity Monsees. Together, they delve into the intriguing world of trades marketing, exploring insights, stories, and strategies that unite the trades and marketing industries.
The conversation kicks off with a fun icebreaker about favorite road trip candies, setting the stage for an engaging and informative discussion. Felicity shares her unique journey into the chimney industry and how she founded Hearthside Hustle, a business dedicated to helping...
2024-09-2041 minThe TradeMarkeBalancing Business and Life: Tommy Mello's Game-Changing Strategies for SuccessWelcome to another dynamic episode of The TradeMarke! Today, we have the extraordinary Tommy Mello, founder of A1 Garage Door Service and host of The Home Service Expert podcast, joining Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas. Tommy shares his inspiring journey, personal growth, and how he balances life and business with passion and efficiency.
In this episode, Tommy discusses the importance of personal branding, the power of relationships in marketing, and the game-changing strategies that have propelled his success. He also opens up about his lifestyle changes, from hiring a chef and a driver to focusing on health...
2024-09-1938 minThe TradeMarkeHow Strong Leadership Can Positively Impact Your Marketing Efforts With Ryan ReddingWelcome back to another episode of the TradeMarke Podcast! This week, we are thrilled to have Ryan Redding from Levergy back on the show. Ryan joins hosts Sarah Ghirardo from Remarkable and Eric Thomas from Rival Digital to dive into the pivotal topic of leadership and its impact on marketing.
In this episode, Ryan shares his expertise on how effective leadership can make or break your marketing efforts. Before diving deep into the subject, we get to know Ryan's coffee preferences, revealing his passion for high-quality, self-brewed coffee.
The discussion highlights the importance of operational...
2024-08-3045 minThe TradeMarkeMastering Local SEO in the Trades: Secrets to Success with Josh CrouchWelcome back to another episode of The TradeMarke Podcast! In this episode, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas sit down with Josh Crouch, Founder of Relentless Digital and Host of Service Business Mastery, to discuss his journey from accounting to the trades and the valuable lessons he learned along the way.
Discover the importance of focusing on operations, leveraging AI and automation, and the power of cohesive marketing strategies. Josh shares insights into Google Business Profiles, local SEO, and the evolving landscape of marketing in the trades. Whether you're a trade professional, a marketing expert, or somewhere...
2024-08-161h 01The TradeMarkeFrom Heating and Cooling to Community Building: Shauna Brown's Inspiring JourneyWelcome back to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke Podcast! This week, we are thrilled to have a very special guest, Shauna Brown from On The Double Heating and Cooling. Shauna shares her incredible story and the powerful lessons she has learned along the way.
In this episode, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas dive deep into Shauna's journey, discussing her roots in the HVAC industry, the challenges she and her business faced, and the pivotal changes that led to their recent success.
Shauna also opens up about the importance of mental, spiritual, and physical...
2024-08-0247 minThe TradeMarkeNavigating Changes To Google's Algorithm with Award Winning Industry Marketing ExpertsWelcome to another exciting episode of The Trademarke Podcast where we dive into Google's latest changes and how they impact marketers and consumers alike. This episode features special guests Johnny Wenzel, Ryan Redding, and Matt Tyner who share their insights on the evolving landscape of search engines.
We kick off with a light-hearted conversation about secondhand embarrassment before diving into the serious topic of Google's new AI-driven search features. Johnny and Ryan discuss the implications of Google's Search Generative Experience (SGE), and how it’s transforming the way search results are displayed.
The conversation takes a...
2024-07-261h 04The TradeMarkeSucceeding in Franchise Marketing with Jill VillejoinWelcome back to another exciting episode of The TradeMarke! This week, we are thrilled to host Jill Villejoin, a marketing expert with a rich background in the trades and home service industry.
Join us as Jill shares her journey from growing up in a family-owned electrical company to her current role in franchise marketing. Learn about her innovative strategies for launching new franchise locations, the importance of community engagement, and how her team integrates AI and automation to streamline operations.
We also dive into the challenges and rewards of running a franchise business, the significance...
2024-07-1240 minThe TradeMarkeDigging for SEO Gold in The Home Service Industry: Insights from David KaminskiWelcome to another episode of The TradeMarke, your go-to podcast for marketing in the trades. Join hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas as they dive deep into the world of SEO with industry expert David Kaminski. Discover the secret sauce behind Dave's success in building the largest window cleaning company in Arizona and Colorado using purely SEO strategies.
In this episode, Dave shares invaluable insights on creating impactful content, leveraging AI for content creation, and the power of collaborating with industry experts. Learn how to optimize your website, target high-value search terms, and improve your Google ranking...
2024-06-2132 minThe TradeMarkeFinding Strength in Faith As A Marketer in The Trades w/ Mckena HarlessStep into The TradeMarke Podcast, your go-to podcast for everything marketing in the trades. Hosted by award-winning industry marketing experts, Sarah Ghirardo from Remarketable and Eric Thomas from Rival Digital. Together, we're here to unite the worlds of trades and marketing, bringing you insights, stories, and strategies from the heart of the industry. Whether you're a trade professional, a marketing expert, or somewhere in between, this is the place for you. Listen in as we're here for the big ideas, the game changers, and the everyday successes. Because at The TradeMarke, we're with the trades and for the trades.
2024-06-0758 minThe TradeMarkeBuilding Effective Company Culture in 2024In this episode of The TradeMarke podcast, join us as we talk to Mary Brewington, the Operations Manager at Calloway & Sons. Broadcasting live from the ServiceTitan Marketing for the Trades Summit, Mary shares her insights on running operations at a trade company in New Orleans.
Mary discusses the significant challenges and successes she's encountered in her role, particularly when it comes to building a supportive and effective company culture. She shares the importance of fostering trust within the team, adapting to cultural differences, and implementing processes that promote productivity and growth. Mary further highlights the lessons she's...
2024-05-1013 minThe TradeMarkeLeveraging Podcasts in the Trades IndustryGet inspired by our incredible conversation in this episode of The Trademarke "Game-changer Strategies: Leveraging Podcasts in the Trades Industry". The episode features a dynamic discussion between our hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas and our special guest, Jim Klauck from the Check A Pro Podcast. We delve into how podcasts can accelerate your trade business, the importance of targeting the right audience, and crafting a podcast that resonates with potential customers.
Sharing his 40 years of experience in radio, Jim Klauck discusses how he successfully tailored innovative podcasting techniques to the trades industry. We not only learn...
2024-04-2649 minThe TradeMarkeHome Service Marketing Mastery with Amber McKeeWelcome to a captivating episode of The TradeMarke, your ultimate podcast for trades and marketing perspective. In this episode, hosts Sarah Ghirardo and Eric Thomas are joined by special guest Amber McKee, founder of Amber's Home Service Marketing and a seasoned marketer in the trades industry. Prepare to take a deep dive into Amber's career journey, her invaluable advice for dealing with business challenges, and her insights on varying aspects that influence trades.
Listen in as Amber shares her experiences, beginning with her instrumental role in driving a large company's revenue to a staggering $240 million. Amber explores...
2024-04-1954 minThe TradeMarkeNavigating Marketing to Make a Mark in the Trades IndustryGet set to dive deep into the world of trades and marketing in "Mastering Marketing in the Trades: Inside Scoop From the Experts at The TradeMarke Podcast". Joining our dynamic conversation are Sarah Ghirardo, Eric Thomas, and our special guest, Gregg Towsley, a trade and marketing maestro. Explore a riveting synergy between marketing and trades as we uncover innovative insights from industry experts.
In this episode, Gregg discusses the fascinating journey of digital transformation within the trades Industry. Discover how the trades have evolved from traditional methods like whiteboards to sophisticated digital platforms like ServiceTitan. While understanding...
2024-04-0558 minThe TradeMarkeNavigating Economic Downturns: HVAC Industry Insights with Matt MichelWelcome to another insightful episode of the TradeMarke Podcast, where industry leaders and experts converge to share their wealth of knowledge. In this episode, we are privileged to have Matt Michel, a seasoned veteran in the HVAC industry, sharing his profound insights on historical data and his forecasts for the industry, especially in the face of an impending economic downturn year.
Matt Michel, the former CEO of the Service Roundtable, brings a unique perspective to the table. With years of experience under his belt, he delves into the historical data of the HVAC industry, shedding light on...
2024-02-0223 minThe TradeMarkeKPIs For Your Internal Marketing Team with Matt TynerWelcome to The TradeMarke Podcast! In this episode, we delve deep into the world of internal marketing teams with our guest, Matt Tyner. The spotlight is on Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and how they serve as guiding beacons for your internal marketing squad. Matt Tyner, a seasoned expert in marketing strategies, shares invaluable insights, unraveling the significance of KPIs, how to establish them effectively, and the pivotal role they play in enhancing team productivity and success.
Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just stepping into the realm of internal teams, this episode will equip you with the...
2024-01-021h 01The TradeMarkeMeet Nuve – Your New Secret Weapon for Lead GenerationIn this special episode of The TradeMarke podcast, host Ismael Valdez delves into the groundbreaking innovation poised to transform the HVAC industry: Nuve, the cutting-edge thermostat set to redefine the way contractors engage with customers.
Valdez engages in an in-depth discussion about Nuve's imminent arrival in the market, exploring how this innovative technology promises not only to enhance comfort but also to revolutionize the contractor-customer relationship. Highlighting its features and functionalities, the episode illuminates how Nuve isn't just a thermostat—it's a game-changer.
Through insightful interviews and expert commentary, listeners gain valu...
2023-12-2951 minThe TradeMarkeHow Absolute Comfort Stays Ahead of the Competition | Marc Morales Absolute Comfort Heating and AirIn this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Marc Morales from Absolute Comfort Heating and Air Conditioning. With his business in close proximity to LA county, Marc discusses what how he stays ahead of all the competition surrounded by approximately 10 million potential customers.
Absolute Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning is southern California’s trusted HVAC experts. Whether you need service, replacement, or a new installation, we specialize in residential HVAC applications and can help pick the unit best suited for your needs. With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on offe...
2021-05-1928 minThe TradeMarkeThe Importance of Communication and Attention to Detail | Jeffrey Ranshaw- Air Outlook Inc.In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Jeffrey Ranshaw from Air Outlook, Inc.
What makes Air Outlook stand out?
Being affordable and friendly, without sacrificing quality and comfort. They owe their growth to a friendly and knowledgeable atmosphere. Air Outlook are always looking for ways to provide the customer with the best service and technology that will benefit their household as if it was their own property.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by Rival Digital to help residential HVAC contractors and is now streaming on al...
2021-05-1820 minThe TradeMarkeHow HVAC Contractors Can Offer More Value To Their Customers | Bryan Davenport - Oxbox HVACIn this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Bryan Davenport from Oxbox.
What is different about Oxbox?
Although the Oxbox brand itself is new, the components inside the units have been field-tested for over 5 years. We know that this is a rugged, proven solution that works, even under the toughest conditions. And although durability is key, Oxbox also delivers quiet, energy-efficient performance, too.
During our discussion, we talk about how contractors can offer more value to their customers by utilizing Oxbox equipment.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was crea...
2021-05-1715 minThe TradeMarkeHow HVAC Contractors Can Grow Their Business With Ecommerce | Will Housh - Contractor CommerceIn this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Will Housh from Contractor Commerce. During our discussion, we talk about the importance of Ecommerce and why HVAC contractors need to embrace it as a way to grow their business.
Contractor Commerce is a plug-and-play service that allows contractors to sell products, maintenance agreements, tune-ups, custom installations, and even fully-installed systems directly on their company website.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by Rival Digital to help residential HVAC contractors and is now streaming on all major platforms. Follow along for ways...
2021-05-1126 minThe TradeMarkePractical Marketing For HVAC Contractors | Tyler Bower - Bower Heating & AirIn this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Tyler Bower fro Bower Heating & Air in Roanoke, Virginia. Tyler oversees all of the sales & marketing and we talk about pretty much everything from traditional and digital advertising, to having weekly safety training with your technicians.
We are now live streaming all new episodes of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast on Facebook and YouTube! Go like our Facebook page to receive notifications of upcoming episodes.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by Rival Digital to help residential HVAC contractors and is n...
2021-05-0436 minThe TradeMarkeThe Next Generation Of A Family Owned HVAC Business | Joseph & Jessica Alvarez - A&T Mechanical Heat & Air ServicesFor a lot of family owned HVAC businesses out there, there comes a time where the founder has to make a decision to either sell the company or hand the reigns down to his or her children.
A&T Mechanical Heat & Air Services in Edmond, Oklahoma was founded over 35 years ago by Jesse Alvarez, and now his children - Joseph & Jessica are overseeing the day to day operations.
During this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we talk about things that have worked well for the company over time, and how they are adapting to...
2021-04-2130 minThe TradeMarkeThe Benefits Of Converting Your HVAC Business To A Franchise | Derek Cole - One Hour Heating & Air ConditioningIf you're looking for a stable way to grow your business and ensure success, buying into a franchise system could greatly benefit you. In 2009, Simmons Heating & Air converted their business from an independently owned HVAC business to a One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchise.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we are joined by Derek Cole and we have a very in-depth conversation about their journey of converting their HVAC business over to a franchise, and some of the challenges that came with it.
Since switching over, they've seen great success in th...
2021-04-2036 minThe TradeMarkeTraining Home Services Technicians To Sell The Right Way | Brian Burton - Benjamin Franklin Plumbing/Mister Sparky/One HourBrian Burton has been in the trades for his entire career. One thing he has had to learn over time is how to sell effectively to homeowners. Now, he is training the next generation of professionals in the trades on how to sell the right way.
Brian trains technicians for the Benjamin Franklin Plumbing, Mister Sparky Electric, and One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchises in Lancaster, PA on how to identify and present solutions to the homeowners. Additionally, he leads a class at the local trade school on sales.
During our conversation, we talk about ho...
2021-04-1947 minThe TradeMarkeDetermining The Right Time To Grow Your Business | Clint Kennon - Kennon Heating & Air ConditioningThere are several initial hurdles that you have to get over when starting your own business. And until you are able to fully invest in the growth of the company and begin hiring people to take work off of your plate, you'll constantly be stuck working in the business, rather than working on the business.
There certainly was no exception for Clint Kennon, founder and owner of Kennon Heating and Air Conditioning. For the first 4-6 years of running his business, he was doing all of the hands on customer side work, and then going home late...
2021-04-1624 minThe TradeMarkeEasy Ways To Track Your HVAC Marketing Efforts | Brie E. Anderson - Beast AnalyticsFor a lot of HVAC contractors out there, marketing can feel like a chore. And on top of that, properly tracking your marketing efforts can be confusing and time consuming. That's where companies such as BEAST Analytics can make your life a whole lot easier!
Brie E. Anderson is the founder of BEAST Analytics, and is an analytical nerd with a soft spot for strategy. She loves connecting the dots between analytics and strategy to answer the ultimate question that contractors often have: "how do I know if my marketing is working?"
During our conversation, B...
2021-04-1327 minThe TradeMarkeHow HVAC Contractors Can Save Time & Money Every Day | Luke Hanson - CompanyCamCompanyCam is the only app every contractor needs. It helps HVAC contractors:
Document your jobs
Communicate with your crews
Cover your company's butt
On this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, I am joined by Luke Hanson, CEO of CompanyCam - and we talk about how this innovative field software can help your HVAC business save time and money.
But it does so much more than just documenting jobs. You can utilize this tool to have a real-time feed of projects, and create a constant flow of before & after content for your website and so...
2021-04-0636 minThe TradeMarkeFinding Ways To Operate Your Business More Efficiently | Jeremy Hairston - Complete Comfort LLCSince starting his HVAC business, Jeremy Hairston has been doing a majority of the backend work by hand - resulting in more work hours spent doing tedious work.
He has spent the past few months finding new ways to make this work more efficient so he can allocate his work hours more appropriately and get to spend more time doing work for customers.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we talk about some of the challenges that have faced Complete Comfort during the start up phase, and different ways Jeremy has overcome t...
2021-04-0526 minThe TradeMarkeDialing In Your HVAC Marketing In Different Areas | Matt Tyner - Max Service GroupMatt Tyner has been involved in the HVAC industry for his entire professional career and it shows! He brings a wealth of knowledge and insight that is hard to find in the industry. His combination of marketing expertise and HVAC knowledge has benefitted Max Service Group nicely, as they have a very large footprint in three metropolitan ares:
Williams Comfort Air (Indianapolis, IN)
Mr. Plumber (Indianapolis, IN)
Thomas & Galbraith Heating, Cooling & Plumbing (Cincinnati, OH)
Jarboe's Heating, Cooling & Plumbing (Louisville, KY)
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, Matt shares how they've dialed in their marketing...
2021-03-2948 minThe TradeMarkeBuilding A Personal Brand On Instagram | Ashley Lynds - Global The SourceWhen the pandemic hit in 2020, in-person events such as conferences quickly began to get cancelled. Because of so, many sales professionals and business owners had to shift how they marketed their business.
For Ashley Lynds at Global The Source, this meant building her personal brand, HVAC Ash, on Instagram and promoting products directly to HVAC businesses.
The result has been incredible. Even though Global sells directly to wholesalers, who in turn sell to the contractors - they have managed to become a brand personality that encourages contractors to ask questions and learn more about their pr...
2021-03-2916 minThe TradeMarkeGetting The Job Done Right The First Time | Jordan Gomez - Salt AirFor a lot of the larger HVAC companies out there, it's all about how many jobs you can fit in one day - because more jobs = more money. But this style of business management can occasionally yield a fall in the quality of workmanship.
For Jordan Gomez, owner of Salt Air HVAC, his motto is keeping quality and honesty as the fundamental building blocks of everything they do. Even if that means taking extra time to make sure the job is done right the very first time.
During this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing p...
2021-03-2529 minThe TradeMarkeLearning New Skills in The HVAC Industry | Megan Bierlein - American ComfortThe start of 2021 was a much anticipated fresh beginning for most people - including Andrei Gaspar, and his fiance Megan. At the beginning of 2021 they launched their HVAC business - American Comfort Heating & Cooling, and haven't looked back.
Megan, who is a nurse by trade, quickly had to learn the ins and outs of marketing, sales, and even some hands-on HVAC skills.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we will dive into how they landed their first 100 customers, and some of the challenges and difficulties presented along the way.
The Smart...
2021-03-2420 minThe TradeMarkeStaying Ahead Of The Curve In A Growing Area | Ronnie Roberts - Heritage Air Conditioning & HeatingAustin, Texas has consistently been one of America's fastest growing cities for quite a few years now. But what does that mean for the local HVAC industry?
Certainly with the population booming, there is plenty of new construction going on, but there is also still a fair share of homes that are undergoing renovation and enhancements to their existing systems.
During this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, Ronnie Robert shares sheds some light on how the rapid growth in Austin has trickled down to the HVAC industry, and how he is prioritizing customer ha...
2021-03-1922 minThe TradeMarkeHow To Use Direct Mail For HVAC Marketing | Edgar Esparza - A Star Air Conditioning & PlumbingWhen it comes to marketing your HVAC business, there are a lot of different bases to cover. For the team at A Star Air Conditioning & Plumbing, that holds true as well. And when you are located in a highly-populated area with several other HVAC businesses, you have to hit every avenue in order to maintain top of mind awareness.
During this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we speak with Edgar Esparza about how they strategically use direct mail as a component of their marketing. Additionally, we hit on the recent Texas winter storm, and how i...
2021-03-1726 minThe TradeMarkeMaking Waves In The HVAC Industry | Ben Poole - HVAC TacticalBen Poole is the founder of HVAC Tactical - which is a movement that is taking the HVAC industry by storm! But Ben is more than just a guy who sells cool hats. He is an entrepreneur, investor, podcast host, HVAC sales & business coach - just to name a few.
In 2018 he launched HVAC Tactical as a way for HVAC professionals who were passionate about their craft to wear cool gear that represented what they do for a living.
HVAC Tactical is much more than just a brand - it's a mindset.
During ou...
2021-03-1629 minThe TradeMarkeSocial Media Marketing For HVAC Contractors | Tyler Lewis - Air Master Heating & Air ConditioningAs a millennial, Tyler Lewis was part of the first generation to have access to the internet, smart phones, and modern online platforms - such as social media. So when he started his heating & cooling business in 2008, he knew that social media and digital marketing needed to be at the forefront of his business.
Throughout his 13 years in business, Air Master has seen exponential growth year-over-year largely due to his marketing efforts, and attributes a lot of that success to the utilization of Facebook.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we talk m...
2021-03-0923 minThe TradeMarkeHow Much Does HVAC Digital Marketing Cost?A question that we get all the time here at Rival Digital is "how much does HVAC digital marketing cost?" The short answer is "it depends." There are a lot of variables that go into play when it comes to pricing our services. So before we can answer how much it will cost, we need to first understand these three things:
What are your business goals?
What is your marketing budget?
What pricing model makes most sense for you?
In this post, we are going to break down each of those three questions. Knowing the answer to...
2021-03-0419 minThe TradeMarkeWeathering The Harsh Winter Climate In Montana | Ryan Doran - Anderson's HVAC & PlumbingAnderson's HVAC, Plumbing, & Electrical has been serving western Montana since 1976. So as you can imagine, they've been in the game long enough to understand how to maintain a thriving business - even in areas that see blistering cold weather in the winter months.
If you know anything about Montana, it's that most areas are fairly spread out, unlike most metropolitan areas. So some jobs can be anywhere from 30-100 miles away from the next job. As you can imagine, this takes strategic planning, and a solid marketing strategy to reach all of these homeowners.
During th...
2021-03-0122 minThe TradeMarkeWorking With Property Management Companies For HVAC Services | Joe Kline - Trademark Heating & CoolingJoe Kline started his Outer Banks HVAC company 9 years ago. Unlike most areas, almost all of the homeowners in the Outer Banks don't actually live in the area. For many homeowners, they have their beach house as a vacation home, or use it for a rental property. So a big challenge he has faced since getting his start in the OBX is working with property management companies and getting his brand in front of the actual homeowner.
During this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we discuss how he has managed to successfully grow his business i...
2021-02-2328 minThe TradeMarkeEducating Customers On Indoor Air Quality | Grimes Heating & CoolingWith the ever changing climate in California, paired with the wildfires, and COVID-19 - Grimes Heating & Cooling had to pivot in 2020 to begin educating customers more on the importance of indoor air quality (IAQ) and how the climate outside can affect your indoor climate.
In this episode, we are joined by Bryan from Grimes who managed the residential side of the business. During our discussion, we talk about how they've stayed busy during 2020, how they have increased duct cleaning and indoor air quality services by educating their customers.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by ...
2021-02-1826 minThe TradeMarkeHiring The Right Staff To Grow Your HVAC Business | Donny Dunn - Dunn's Heating, Cooling, and PlumbingDonny Dunn started his HVAC company in 2016 and has experienced rapid growth as of late. During the first few years of starting his business, he realized that in order for him to be able to focus on the big picture, he would need to hire the right people to take care of things such as marketing, operations, and more.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we'll discuss some different marketing campaigns that have worked well for building a strong brand presence in his market, and how he's managed to grow his business exponentially by h...
2021-02-1029 minThe TradeMarkeStarting Your Own HVAC Business | Derek Ryan - Downhome HVACAfter acquiring years of experience working jobs with various local HVAC companies, Derek Ryan decided it was time to start his own business.
Equipped with red seal certification in his field, a multitude of experience working in the industry, and an appetite to run a successful business, Downhome HVAC was born.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we talk about some of the challenges and lessons learned of starting your own HVAC business & how the COVID-19 pandemic effected his business in Newfoundland.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by Rival...
2021-02-0923 minThe TradeMarkeHVAC Van Wrap Designs That Make You Stand Out | Chris Bishop - Davis Heating & AirDavis Heating & Air has been serving the Roanoke, VA area since 1947. However, it wasn't until 2013 that they began truly putting their best foot forward with marketing and advertising. Since their service area is split up between the country and city, they've had to attach each area differently from a marketing perspective.
With their recent rebrand coming just a couple years ago, they decided it was time to update their fleet to have a stand out design that captured drivers attention on the roads.
The result has been overwhelmingly positive.
Even if you only hav...
2021-02-0518 minThe TradeMarkeAcquiring HVAC Companies To Grow Your Business | Chris Jones & Greg Nelson - Green Dot Home ServicesGreen Dot Home Services got started just under a year ago and since has grown to three locations throughout North and South Carolina.
They've done an incredible job of creating a standardized operations process so that when they acquire a new HVAC company they can rollout their operation swiftly and provide a consistent experience across all locations.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, you'll gain valuable insight on how to acquire HVAC companies and grow your business at a rapid scale.
For more information on Green Dot Home Services, head ove...
2021-02-0324 minThe TradeMarkeRebranding Your Company To Increase Awareness | Will Degroat - Miller's Heating & Air ConditioningIf you live in the Hampton Roads area, then you're most likely aware of Miller's convenience stores. But what you may not also know is that they have a residential HVAC company as well! As a matter of fact, their HVAC company has been in business for over 40 years now.
But for the longest time, they've had a difficult time raising awareness in the local market that their store & HVAC business are completely separate. Many potential customers had gotten confused about their actual service offering and would keep scrolling.
In 2019, however, they decided it was ti...
2021-02-0220 minThe TradeMarkeEncouraging Customers To Leave Google Reviews | Joshua Gray - Tidewater Pro AirTidewater Pro Air opened their doors in 2014 originally as a commercial HVAC contractor - primarily doing supermarket refrigeration. But over the years, they've pivoted their business operation to residential HVAC.
On this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing Podcast, we are joined by Joshua Gray from Tidewater Pro Air, and we discuss different ways that they encourage their customers to leave Google reviews.
The Smart HVAC Marketing podcast was created by Rival Digital to help residential HVAC contractors and is now streaming on all major platforms. Follow along for ways to improve your marketing and grow...
2021-02-0116 minThe TradeMarkeUtilizing Youtube To Build An Engaged Audience - Josh GriffinWhen Josh Griffin, owner of Griffin Air, started his heating & air conditioning company 8 years ago, there was only one other HVAC company in his area with a website. Instead of keeping up with the joneses and utilizing billboard, radio, and TV for advertising, he began creating video content on Youtube and building an engaged audience.
Since then, he created a guide for homeowners to download and reference before they go to purchase a new HVAC system - and the return on investment has been great.
In this episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast, we di...
2021-01-2231 minThe TradeMarkeCost Effective Ways To Grow Your HVAC Business | Josh Foreman - Air HandlersWelcome back to the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast. In this episode, we are joined by Josh Foreman - the Vice President of Sales at Air Handlers. During our discussion, we talk about cost effective ways that you can get more high qualified leads and grow your HVAC business.
Air Handlers has seen success over the year in their marketing through online sources such as AngiesList and HomeAdvisor, however they have shifted their focus away from those platforms and over to less expensive means such as social media, and word of mouth referrals through local networking.
...
2021-01-2021 minThe TradeMarkeLeveraging Traditional & Digital Advertising To Build Brand Awareness | Lauren Wilson - One Hour Heating & Air ConditioningThe Hampton Roads One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchise has a strong local presence, even though they're a national franchise. In this episode, we are joined by Lauren Wilson - the Marketing Coordinator at One Hour Comfort, and we are going to discuss how they've established this dominant presence.
Lauren was originally hired on to manage and grow their One Hour Cares and One Hour Comfort Club programs. Since, she has expanded within the company to take on other roles as well.
The owners of the Hampton Roads franchise recently acquired two additional One Hour...
2020-12-2333 minThe TradeMarkeAccelerate Your Revenue With Instant Two-Way Conversations | Matt Minor - HatchInstantly qualify and set appointments
Hatch helps you save time on the front end and the back end of the sales process for home services companies. It is a messaging platform that utilizes SMS texting to help you accelerate your sales process. With speed to lead, the potential customer receives automated text messages the instant they fill out a lead form on platforms such as HomeAdvisor, web chat, or website form fill.
This process helps you capture leads before your competitors do, because it completely removes the manual contact process up front, and allows you to automate...
2020-12-1818 minThe TradeMarkeWord of Mouth Marketing Strategy for HVAC ContractorsTurning positive customer experiences into word of mouth referrals
One of the most powerful ways to grow your business and generate new leads in through word of mouth marketing. When you provide such a positive experience for one of your customers, it can have a compounding effect on your marketing efforts - because now you've produced a brand advocate.
So what are some different ways you can encourage your customers to advocate for your HVAC company? Currently, one of the most popular is through the recommendations feature on Facebook. In this episode, we're going to dive into...
2020-12-1705 minThe TradeMarkeWelcome To The Smart HVAC Marketing PodcastWelcome to the very first episode of the Smart HVAC Marketing podcast! My name is Eric Thomas. I’m the president of Rival Digital and will be the host for this show. The goal of this podcast is to help residential HVAC contractors grow their business and stay ahead of the marketing curve by hearing from industry leaders.
We will be interviewing business owners, operations specialists, territory managers for HVAC manufacturers, and more – offering real value and real perspective from real people in the industry.
About Rival Digital
Rival digital is a full-service digital marketing agency...
2020-12-0102 min