All Episodes

290 episodes

EP270: From Craftsman to CEO: Scaling AKN Interiors with Andrew Nuhfer

58 min

Discover how Andrew Nuhfer scaled AKN Interiors from craftsman to CEO, sharing leadership and remodeling sales training strategies tailored for contractors. In this episode, Brad and Andrew talk about: The importance of investing in a professional website and marketing The benefits of having an in-house purchasing manager Strategies for managing multiple projects simultaneously The significance of customer experience over product quality Insights on hiring and building a reliable team Mentioned: Website: https://akninteriors.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/akn_interiors/ Facebook (business): https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086213487334 Facebook (personal): https://www.facebook.com/andrew.nuhfer Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Want to go deeper? Check out the Contractor Profit Blueprint: https://www.thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/ Book a strategy call with Brad: https://hammerandgrind.com/qualification-website Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

AKN InteriorsAndrew NuhferPittsburgh

EP269: Unlocking Your Value: Time Tips to Boost Contractor Productivity

33 min

Master contractor time management with our essential tips for business owners. Learn how to optimize your schedule, prioritize important tasks, and enhance your daily productivity for sustained business success. In this episode, Brad talks about: Focusing on high-value tasks, not just doing more. Understand your Value Per Hour (VPH) to prioritize tasks effectively. Use time blocking to group similar tasks and minimize distractions. Implement the F.L.O.W. acronym: Focus, Leverage, Output, Win to evaluate tasks. Delegate low-level tasks to free up time for high-value activities. Protect your time and establish a disciplined schedule to maximize productivity. Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Want to go deeper? Check out the Contractor Profit Blueprint: https://www.thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/ Book a strategy call with Brad: https://hammerandgrind.com/qualification-website Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Value Per HourTime BlockingF.L.O.W. Acronym

EP268: Paul Sanneman shares how contractors can avoid these costly hiring mistakes

52 min

Hiring the right people is key to success in construction. Tune in for expert advice on avoiding common hiring mistakes and improving your contractor hiring process with actionable construction hiring tips. In this episode, Brad and Paul talk about: The importance of having a recruiting budget and hiring proactively The myths surrounding hiring and how to overcome them The significance of behavioral assessments and personality matching in recruitment Tips for creating a successful onboarding experience for new hires The benefits of hiring offshore talent and utilizing technology in the hiring process Mentioned: Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@BusinessSuccessTipsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/contractorstaffingsource/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/contractorstaffingsource LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/contractorstaffingsource Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Want to go deeper? Check out the Contractor Profit Blueprint: https://www.thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/ Book a strategy call with Brad: https://hammerandgrind.com/qualification-website Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Contractor Staffing SourcePaul Sannemanconstruction hiring

EP267: 5 Sales Training Tips Contractors Need to Boost Remodeling Sales

50 min

Discover 5 essential contractor sales training tips that can transform your remodeling business. From mastering sales techniques to closing more deals, this episode is packed with actionable advice to boost your sales performance and grow your contracting business. Perfect for contractors seeking proven sales tips. In this episode, Brad talks about: Why shifting from “selling” to becoming a trusted advisor changes everything How focusing on outcomes and client dreams leads to better conversions The importance of slowing down and truly understanding your client’s needs Why talking less can actually help you close more deals How to confidently guide every conversation toward a clear next step Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Want to go deeper? Check out the Contractor Profit Blueprint: https://www.thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/ Book a strategy call with Brad: https://hammerandgrind.com/qualification-website Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

sales trainingcontractor salesremodeling business

EP266: From Startup to Success: Chris McManus on Growing a Multimillion-Dollar Landscaping Company

49 min

You start with a plan and a lot of passion. But when things don’t go as expected, one lesson hits fast keeping overhead low can make or break your business. In this episode, Brad and Chris talk about: Turning a side hustle into a full-time landscaping business Costly mistakes and lessons learned along the way Why low overhead is key to staying profitable Simple marketing that actually brings in work Hiring the right people and building a strong team The vision for scaling and long-term growth Mentioned: Website: https://gclandscapinginc.com/ Instagram (Business): https://www.instagram.com/gclandscapinginc Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/chrismcmanus151 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gclandscapinginc Email: chris@gclandscapinginc.com (mailto:chris@gclandscapinginc.com) Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Chris McManusGC LandscapingWestern North Carolina

EP264: How Contractors Are Making Money With Government Jobs (Inside Peacock Floors with Daniella Devine)

45 min

Public work in contracting opens the door to a wide range of opportunities, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. While many contractors assume federal jobs are the ultimate goal, there’s often more accessible, and practical opportunities closer to home. In this episode, Daniella and Brad talked about: Daniella's family history in flooring and the transition from retail to commercial work The benefits of working with government entities vs. private clients Understanding procurement processes at local, state, and federal levels Strategies for building long-term relationships with public institutions The importance of cash flow management and diversifying client bases Tips for small business owners on leveraging resources and support Mentioned: Connect with Daniella Website: https://thedanielladevine.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the.danielladevine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedanielladevine/reels/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniella-devine-62339a70/ Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Daniella DevinePeacock Floorsgovernment contracting

EP262 (Replay): The Harsh Realities of stating a Construction Business

37 min

Starting a business usually begins with excitement and big dreams. You imagine the freedom, the success, and the satisfaction of building something that’s truly your own. It’s easy to feel unstoppable in the beginning, but every entrepreneur eventually hits a different phase of the journey. In this episode, Brad talks about: Realities of starting and owning a construction business. Overview of the five stages: uninformed optimism, informed pessimism, valley of despair, success, and fulfillment. Common misconception of views in business ownership Personal anecdotes illustrating the struggles faced by contractors. How financial stability can alleviate stress and improve business operations. Introduction of the Profit Accelerator program for affordable business coaching. Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at https://hammerandgrind.com/iguide Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

construction businessemotional cycle of changevalley of despair

EP261: Building Trust and Value: Rick Storlie on Effective Client Conversion

50 min

Most builders are obsessed with getting more leads. More calls. More estimates. More “opportunities.” But here’s the hard truth: more leads don’t automatically build a better business. If you’re tired of running estimates for people who were never a good fit to begin with, this episode will help you rethink what growth should really look like. In this episode, Brad and Rick talk about: The evolution from lead generation to client acquisition Importance of establishing trust and authority in the market Differentiating between home builders and remodelers Strategies for attracting high-quality leads The significance of nurturing leads over time Understanding the sales cycle and conversion rates The role of effective marketing and operational readiness Mentioned: Website: BuilderLeadConverter.com (https://builderleadconverter.com/) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuilderLeadConverter Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builderleadconverter/ame LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickstorlie Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at hammerandgrind.com/iguide Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Rick StorlieBuilder Lead Converterclient acquisition

EP260: The Hidden Costs of Decision Fatigue: Why Contractors Struggle and How to Fix It

47 min

How many decisions have you already made today? In the contracting world, it never stops — hiring, scheduling, change orders, client questions, pricing adjustments. By the end of the day, your brain feels fried. And that mental exhaustion? It’s not weakness, it’s decision fatigue. In this episode, Brad talks about: Understanding why we make poor decisions later in the day. Definition of Decision Fatigue and its impact on contractors Mental depletion from constant problem-solving and lack of structure. Underpricing jobs, avoiding hard conversations, and impulsive purchases. Financial, leadership, and personal costs associated with decision fatigue. Standardizing processes, creating decision windows, and empowering your team to make decisions. Moving from being the problem-solver to a leader who delegates effectively Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by iGUIDE — the smarter way to capture, measure, and market your projects. With accurate floor plans, immersive 3D tours, and detailed property data, iGUIDE helps contractors and real estate professionals showcase their work with confidence and precision. Learn more at hammerandgrind.com/iguide Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Decision FatigueContractorsMental Depletion

EP259: One big lesson after 18 years: Kyle Hunt with remodelers on the rise

50 min

It's simple to become distracted by what other people are doing, particularly in competitive fields like building and remodeling. Flashy marketing, new advertisements, and cheaper prices can quickly grab your attention. If you’ve ever felt distracted by what the “other guy” is charging or promoting, this conversation will help you refocus on what truly matters. In this episode, Brad and Kyle talked about: Kyle's journey from working for a remodeling company to becoming a business coach. The significance of focusing on the positives and avoiding the trap of negativity. The importance of incremental growth and the "1% rule" in achieving long-term success. How to set realistic expectations when working with a coach and the value of vulnerability in business. The power of community and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals for support and growth. Mentioned: Website: https://remodelersontherise.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/remodelersontherise/ Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/remodelerscommunity/rname Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/remodelersontherise/ Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance — the smart, simple insurance designed for contractors and small business owners. Protect your business with fast, affordable coverage you can set up in minutes. Learn more at NEXTinsurance.com/hammer Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Kyle HuntRemodelers on the Risebusiness coaching

EP258: Overcoming Challenges in Construction: Insights from Mark Story of Commercial Construction Services

50 min

What if the real reason your projects are behind, over budget, and full of tension isn’t a labor shortage, but a leadership and planning problem? In this episode, Brad and Mark Story talk about: Discussion on the shortage of tradespeople for large projects, particularly data centers and semiconductor plants. Mark explains how CCS helps project teams with planning, scheduling, and coaching to improve project outcomes. Importance of visual tools for effective communication among trades and project teams. Emphasizing the need for collaboration and respect for tradespeople to enhance productivity and project success. Mentioned: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-story (http://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-story-a557961b5/ame) You can email: mark@storyccs.com Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance — the smart, simple insurance designed for contractors and small business owners. Protect your business with fast, affordable coverage you can set up in minutes. Learn more at NEXTinsurance.com/hammer Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Mark StoryCommercial Construction Servicesdata centers

EP257: Profit is not a dirty word

42 min

Profit isn’t just a number on a spreadsheet. It’s what keeps your business alive. Everything feels rushed, tense, and reactive without it. When profit is missing, even good businesses end up in survival mode, constantly scrambling just to keep up. In this episode, Brad talks about: The importance of profit in business and why it’s often misunderstood. Common misconceptions about making money and the mindset of contractors. How financial stress impacts decision-making and business operations. The significance of knowing your numbers and pricing your services correctly. Practical takeaways for improving profitability, including raising prices and only taking profitable work. Introduction of a quiz to assess your business's financial health and identify profit leaks. Mentioned: Take the profit quiz at hammerandgrind.com/profitquiz, or text #QUIZ to 812-405-4610 to get the link. Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance — the smart, simple insurance designed for contractors and small business owners. Protect your business with fast, affordable coverage you can set up in minutes. Learn more at NEXTinsurance.com/hammer Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Profit marginsContractor pricingFinancial stress

EP255: Hiring, culture, and leadership: Insights from Nicolas Breedlove with playgroundequipment.com

40 min

Every business has its beginnings, and Nicolas Breedlove's began in a little bedroom at his parents' home. Nicolas demonstrates that great businesses don't need big beginnings by sharing the true tale of starting his playground firm from scratch. The connections he made along the road were more important than where he began. It serves as a reminder that trust, consistency, and treating coworkers fairly are the foundations of growth. In this episode, Brad and Nicolas talk about: Nicolas Breedlove from PlaygroundEquipment.com shares insights into the commercial playground equipment industry. Discussion on manufacturing, supplying, designing, and installing playgrounds across the U.S. How the company handles maintenance and the importance of trained installers. Nicolas's background in horticulture and the evolution of his business model. Insights on hiring, company culture, and lessons learned from past experiences. Nicolas shares books he's currently reading, including insights on software and entrepreneurship. Mentioned: LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-breedlove/ (http://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-breedlove/) Link to Resources: This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance — the smart, simple insurance designed for contractors and small business owners. Protect your business with fast, affordable coverage you can set up in minutes. Learn more at NEXTinsurance.com/hammer Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Help us get the word out to other contractors by leaving us a review or sharing our podcast! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Nicolas Breedlovecommercial playground equipmentAAA State of Play

EP252: Understanding The Five Money Personalities with Leanne Ozane

45 min

The majority of entrepreneurs do not face financial difficulties due to their poor mathematical skills. Their beliefs about it force them to struggle. Your "money personality" drives how you handle finances, charge for your work, and think about money. It may be more positive or negative to your company than you realize. In this episode, Brad and Leanne talk about: Introduction to Leanne and her work with service-based businesses The concept of "money personalities" and their impact on financial decisions Five psychological instincts affecting business owners The importance of financial boundaries and strategic investments Leanne's "Two Number Method" for managing cash flow Mentioned: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanneozainesmith/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/profitwithleanne/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leanne.ozainesmith/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@profitwithleanne Website: https://profitwithleanne.replit.app/ Link to Resources: Download Leanne's guide at gift.profitwithleanne.com (https://gift.profitwithleanne.com/) This episode is sponsored by NEXT Insurance — the smart, simple insurance designed for contractors and small business owners. Protect your business with fast, affordable coverage you can set up in minutes. Learn more at NEXTinsurance.com/hammer Grab Brad's tell-all book: The Contractor Profit Blueprint https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com (https://thecontractorprofitblueprint.com/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Leanne Ozanemoney personalitiesfinancial psychology