Episode Number: 59

Date: November 4, 2024

Duration: 45:00

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Co-Host Contact Information

Co-Host: Kristen Deese

Company: Virtual CFO for the trades

Guest Contact: Kristen@KristenDeese.com

Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com

Service Nation:

Michael Rudowitz

mrudowitz@ServiceNation.com

www.ServiceNation.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese recap their experiences at the recent Service World event. They discuss the highlights of the event, including the keynote speakers, workshops, and the importance of networking. The couple shares insights on finding your tribe within the industry and the value of engaging with others. They also reflect on their live podcast experience and the positive feedback received from the audience. In this conversation, Kristen and Justin reflect on their experiences at a recent industry event, discussing the emotional impact of influential figures in the trades community, the importance of avoiding overwhelm by focusing on key takeaways, and the power of vision boards in setting and achieving goals. They also explore the role of AI in modern business practices and share their excitement for future events and opportunities in the industry.

Takeaways

Service World continues to improve with each event.

Keynote speakers can significantly enhance the event experience.

Longer workshops allow for deeper learning and implementation.

Networking is crucial for business growth in the home service industry.

Finding your tribe can lead to meaningful connections.

Live podcasts provide unique interaction opportunities.

The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone.

Audience engagement can transform a panel discussion.

Disney properties offer a unique event atmosphere.

Preparation and practice are key to successful presentations. The emotional journey of industry leaders can inspire others.

Focusing on a few key takeaways can lead to better implementation.

Vision boards are a powerful tool for goal setting and visualization.

Celebrating small wins is essential for personal growth.

AI is a valuable tool but should be used wisely.

Technology is rapidly evolving and should be embraced.

The importance of community and support in the trades industry.

Future events provide opportunities for learning and networking.

Personal growth and experiences are often more valuable than material items.

Engaging the younger generation is crucial for the future of trades.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Service World

03:00 Keynote Speakers and Event Highlights

05:58 Workshops and Training Summit Insights

09:03 Networking and Finding Your Tribe

11:59 Panel Discussion and Audience Engagement

14:49 Live Podcast Experience and Reflections

21:32 Emotional Reflections on Industry Impact

24:01 Avoiding...

Show Information

Episode Number: 58

Date: October 28, 2024

Duration: 41:16

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest Contact Information

Guest: Joe Crisara

Guest Contact: Joe@ServiceMVP.com

Guest Website: www.ServiceMVP.com

Gift to listeners: Free Book Offer-Email Joe@ServiceMVP.com and in the SubjectLine put FREE BOOK- FREEDOM BLUEPRINT

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Joe Crisara, known as America's Service Sales Coach. Joe shares his journey from being $450,000 in debt to becoming a successful sales coach and author. He discusses the importance of value-based selling, customer communication, and the lessons learned from his struggles. Joe emphasizes the significance of securing payment before starting work and the personal nature of sales. He also explores the role of AI in enhancing service delivery and training in the industry.

Takeaways

It's not what you know, it's who you know.

Making people laugh while learning increases engagement.

Value-based selling connects with technicians.

Customer communication is key to success.

Don't start working until you secure payment.

Sales is personal; build relationships with clients.

Understanding your client's background is crucial.

Offer premium, mid-range, and economy choices.

AI can enhance human capabilities in service.

Investing in training leads to increased sales.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joe Crisara

03:15 The Journey Behind the Book

06:17 Value-Based Selling and Customer Communication

12:42 Lessons from Struggles: From Debt to Success

18:40 Sales Strategies for Contractors

30:12 The Role of AI in the Service Industry

Keywords

Joe Crisara, Service MVP, sales coaching, customer service, value-based selling, AI in service industry, contractor success, service training, communication skills, business growth

Show Information

Episode Number: 57

Date: 10/21/2024

Duration: 47:10

Host Contact Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest Contact Information

Guest: John & Vicki LaPlant

Guest Contact: vlaplant@servicenation.com

Website: www.josephgrohfoundation.org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/JosephGrohFoundation

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/josephgrohfoundation/

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, I get to interview industry LEGENDS John & Vicki LaPlant live from Service World Expo 2024. They discuss their journey in the home service industry, the importance of embracing technology, understanding financials, and planning exit strategies. The conversation also highlights the impact of the Joseph Groh Foundation, which supports individuals in the industry facing life-altering challenges. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the industry and the importance of small businesses in the economy.

Takeaways

Running a home service business is challenging but rewarding.

Embracing technology is crucial for efficiency and productivity.

Understanding financials is key to business success.

Planning for an exit strategy should start today.

The Joseph Groh Foundation provides vital support to industry members in need.

Networking and sharing experiences can lead to significant growth.

The industry has seen transformative changes in leadership and culture.

Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.

Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for success.

The future of the industry is bright with opportunities for young professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Freedom Blueprint Podcast

01:00 Live from Service World Expo 2024

07:02 The Journey of John and Vicki LaPlante

12:02 Embracing Technology in Home Services

17:46 Understanding Financials for Business Success

23:47 The Importance of Exit Strategies

29:53 The Joseph Groh Foundation: Giving Back

36:04 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Industry

Keywords

Home service business, Service World Expo, John LaPlant and Vicki LaPlant, financial management, exit strategies, Joseph Groh Foundation, industry insights

Show Information

Episode Number: 56

Date: October 14, 2024

Duration: 26:36

Host Information

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Episode Guest Info

Guest: Kristen Deese

Guest Company:Virtual CFO for the Trades

Guest Contact: Kristen@KristenDeese.com

Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese and his co-host Kristen discuss the role of a Virtual CFO in small businesses. They explore the importance of financial management, the common challenges faced by business owners, and how a Virtual CFO can help identify operational and sales issues through financial analysis. The conversation also delves into pricing strategies, budgeting for profit, and the significance of awareness in managing finances effectively. Kristen shares insights on how to improve gross profit margins and manage overhead expenses, emphasizing the need for business owners to understand their numbers to drive profitability.

Takeaways

● A Virtual CFO provides high-level financial strategic management without the cost of a full-time CFO.

● Many business owners lack accounting training, which can hinder their financial management.

● Understanding key financial concepts early can significantly impact business growth and profitability.

● Business owners often rely on bank balances, which provides a limited view of their financial health.

● Identifying gross profit margins can reveal areas for improvement in operations and sales.

● Pricing strategies are crucial; many businesses underprice their services, affecting profitability.

● Budgeting for expected profit can shift the mindset of business owners towards better financial management.

● Controlling overhead expenses is essential for maintaining profitability.

● Awareness of financial metrics helps business owners make informed decisions.

● It's important to prepare financials for tax time well in advance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Virtual CFO Services

04:10 The Importance of Financial Management for Small Businesses

07:44 Identifying Operational and Sales Issues through Financial Analysis

12:57 Pricing Strategies and Gross Profit Margins

16:22 Budgeting for Profit and Managing Overhead Expenses

20:23 The Role of Awareness in Financial Management

Keywords

Virtual CFO, financial management, small business, accounting, budgeting, profit margins, operational issues, sales strategies, pricing strategies, overhead expenses, Kristen Deese, Justin Deese, When Your Business Partner Is Your Spouse, Virtual CFO for the Trades

Show Title:

Building a Bench: Strategies for Proactive Recruiting in Home Services with Ryan Englin from Core Matters

Episode Number: 55

Date: October 7, 2024

Duration: 29:05

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest: Ryan Englin

Guest Company: Core Matters

Company Website: corematters.com

Podcast Host: Podcast Host- Titans of the Trades

Author of: Hire Better People Faster

Guest Special Offer: Copy of the book https://corematters.com/freebook/

Summary

In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, host Justin Deese speaks with Ryan Englin, author of 'Hire Better People Faster' and founder of Core Matters. They discuss the critical issues of hiring, recruiting, and retention in the home service industry. Ryan shares his journey from marketing to recruiting, emphasizing the importance of proactive recruiting, building an employer brand, and creating a supportive work environment. The conversation also highlights the significance of authenticity in recruitment and the need for businesses to engage their existing employees in the hiring process.

Takeaways

Hiring and recruiting are critical challenges in the trades.

Recruiting should be viewed as a marketing activity.

Proactive recruiting is essential; top talent is often not actively looking for jobs.

Building a strong employer brand can attract passive job seekers.

Authenticity in social media is crucial for establishing trust with potential hires.

Creating friendships at work can significantly improve employee engagement and retention.

Onboarding should focus on building relationships, not just training.

Core Matters helps businesses by stopping the bleeding in their hiring processes.

Teaching businesses to fish means implementing sustainable hiring practices.

Leverage your existing team for referrals and insights into the hiring process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Hiring and Recruiting in the Home Service Industry

03:04 Proactive Recruiting and Building a Bench of Passive Job Seekers

07:43 Creating an Authentic Employer Brand

14:17 The Importance of Onboarding and Relationship Building

21:23 Stop the Bleeding: Filling Immediate Staffing Needs

23:46 Teaching Businesses to Fish: Implementing Systems and Processes

26:33 Leveraging Existing Employees for Referrals and Insights

Keywords

hiring, recruiting, retention, employer brand, onboarding, employee engagement, trades, business growth, Core Matters, Ryan Englin, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse

Episode Number: 54

Date: September 30, 2024

Duration: 32:21

Host: Justin Deese

Website: JustinDeese.com

Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

Guest: Chris Gist

Guest Company: Paradise Home Services

Guest Contact: Chris.Gist@ParadiseHomeServices.com

Guest Website: www.ParadiseHomeServices.com

Summary

In this episode, we dive deep into the essential elements of creating and maintaining a positive company culture. We discuss the importance of flexibility, celebrating team milestones, and setting core values that align with your company's mission. From breaking bread with team members to supporting a healthy work-life balance, you’ll hear firsthand experiences and actionable tips on keeping the camaraderie and positive environment alive while achieving rapid growth.

Takeaways

Flexibility and Core Values: How creating a flexible work environment supported by strong core values can lead to a thriving company culture.

Celebration and Camaraderie: The impact of team gatherings and breaking bread on building bonds and enhancing team spirit.

Visual Reminders of Core Values: Using visual aids to consistently reinforce the company’s mission and values.

Empowering Team Members: Inspiring stories of team members who have grown within the company by embracing its culture.

Maintaining Work-Life Balance: The importance of supporting a healthy work-life balance for overall team satisfaction and retention.

Chapters

[00:01] - Introduction and Welcome

[00:35] - Discussing Company Culture

[02:06] - Core Values and Team Dynamics

[04:01] - The Importance of Flexibility

[10:07] - Outside-of-Work Activities and Celebrations

[13:53] - The Role of Brand in Culture

[18:29] - Work-Life Balance in a Growing Company

[21:36] - Empowering and Rewarding Team Members

[24:51] - Inspiring Team Member Story

[26:19] - Recreational Activities and Team Building

[27:13] - Closing Remarks and Key Learnings

Keywords

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Company Culture, Core Values, Flexibility, Team Building, Work-Life Balance, Leadership in HVAC, Scaling a Business, Positive Work Environment, Employee Engagement, Chris Gist, Paradise Home Services.

Show Information

Episode Number: 53

Date: 9/23/2024

Duration: 37:43

Host: Justin Deese

Host Contact: JustinDeese.com

Guest: Brigham Dickinson

Company: Power Selling Pro's

Website: www.PowerSellingPros.com

Demo: https://powersellingpros.com/schedule-coaching/

Booked By Power Selling Pros

Website: www.Bookedbypsp.com

Demo: https://www.bookedbypsp.com/home-page1670948825393

Summary

In this episode, I'm joined by Brigham Dickinson from Power Selling Pros. We delve into the strategies for transforming Customer Service Representatives (CSRs) into revenue generators. By leveraging training and accountability, Brigham shares how CSRs can significantly impact booking rates and contribute to your business’s bottom line. From real-life success stories to actionable insights, this episode is packed with game-changing advice for anyone in the home service industry.

Takeaways

1. The Importance of Accountability: Regularly monitor and provide feedback to your CSRs to enhance their performance and booking rates.
2. Invest in CSR Training: Comprehensive training programs for CSRs can lead to a significant increase in booking rates and overall revenue.
3. Performance-Based Pay for CSRs: Incentivizing CSRs with performance-based pay can motivate them and increase their efficiency in upselling services.
4. Leveraging Low Hanging Fruit: Focus on converting the calls that are already coming in to maximize revenue without increasing marketing spend.
5. The Impact of Personal Stories: Understanding personal motivations and stories can inspire better performance and commitment in team members.

Chapters

1. Introduction and Guest Welcome - 00:02
2. The Origin of Power Selling Pros - 01:22
3. Brigham's Motivation for Writing Books - 02:08
4. Stumbling Blocks and Initial Struggles - 05:38
5. Training and Accountability in CSR Performance - 09:01
6. Real-Life Success Stories with Increased Bookings - 10:25
7. Software Utilization in Training - 15:24
8. Size of Businesses That Benefit from Training - 16:03
9. Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up - 20:01

Keywords

Customer Service Representatives, CSR Training, Revenue Generators, Booking Rates, Home Service Industry, Power Selling Pros, Pattern of Excellence, Brigham Dickinson, Booked by Power Selling Pros, Business Growth, Call Handling, Performance-Based Pay, Upselling Services, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse,

Show Information

Justin Deese

www.JustinDeese.com

Justin@JustinDeese.com

Service World Promo Discount Code: FREEDOM24

Summary

In this special 52nd episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese celebrates the podcast's one-year anniversary. Reflecting on the journey, he shares the significant moments and achievements over the past year, from partnering with Leap Partners to personal milestones such as his alcohol-free journey and numerous speaking engagements. Justin also talks about exciting upcoming events, including a keynote at Service World Expo and a live podcast stage appearance. This episode is filled with gratitude, personal growth, and future aspirations.

Takeaways

1. Reflecting on a Year of Growth: Celebrating the podcast’s one-year milestone, filled with meaningful interactions and feedback.
2. Partnering with Leap Partners: The positive impact of selling and partnering with Leap Partners on professional and personal fronts.
3. Alcohol-Free Journey: Insights into Justin’s decision to stop drinking, its challenges, benefits, and its impact on health and family.
4. Speaking Engagements: Enthusiasm for public speaking, memorable experiences at various events, and anticipation for upcoming keynotes.
5. Future Prospects: Excitement about upcoming engagements, particularly Service World Expo and live podcast events.

1. 00:02 - Introduction and Celebrating One-Year: Reflecting on reaching the one-year mark and initial thoughts.
2. 00:52 - Year in Review and Upcoming Events: Overview of the past year and exciting upcoming events like Service World Expo.
3. 03:17 - The Journey of Starting a Podcast: How the podcast began nine years ago and the influence of John Lee Dumas.
4. 05:40 - Partnering with Leap Partners: Details on selling the business and partnering with Leap Partners.
5. 06:46 - Alcohol-Free Journey: The decision to stop drinking and its personal and professional impacts.
6. 09:08 - Supportive Family and Personal Benefits: How the alcohol-free journey impacted Justin's family life and overall health.
7. 11:30 - Speaking Engagements: Experiences and excitement about public speaking events.
8. 13:45 - Live Podcast Stage and Future Plans: Anticipation for live podcasting at Service World Expo and other future plans.
9. 13:45 - Webinar and Book Updates: Updates on the book "When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse" and potential future releases.

Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Leadership, Growth, Positive Mindset, Business Strategy, Home Services Industry, Speaking Engagements, Leap Partners, Alcohol-Free Journey, Service World Expo, Live Podcast, Personal Growth, Professional Development.