Hammer & Grind : Built For Contractors

All Episodes

290 episodes

EP250: How Hyper-Targeted Marking Can Change The Game: Insights From Daniel Dixon

52 min

One of the biggest challenges many businesses face, especially in the early stages, is the urge to use a “shotgun” approach to marketing. When you're trying to attract anyone and everyone, it’s easy to spread your budget and efforts too thin. The result? Wasted ad spend, unfocused messaging, and campaigns that miss the mark. In this episode, Brad and Daniel talk about: Daniel Dixon’s journey and the story behind SendJim His experience in the home service industry Why targeted marketing consistently outperforms broad strategies Smart and effective local marketing tactics How automation can streamline and strengthen your marketing efforts The importance of tracking your numbers to know what truly works Ways to leverage customer relationships to encourage repeat business and upsells Mentioned: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sendjimautomation/ Website: https://sendjim.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/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Daniel DixonSendJimhyper-targeted marketing

EP249: Military Leadership Lessons for Small Business with Chris Hossfeld

63 min

Many people believe that being a leader is a fixed attribute that one either has or does not. But the truth is much more complex. In the area of effective leadership, ongoing self-improvement is not simply desirable; it is crucial. In this episode, Brad and Chris talk about: Importance of empowering team members and recognizing their strengths Distinction between leadership and management Key traits of effective leaders: vision, communication, and trust The significance of setting and maintaining standards The role of pre-planning in project success Conducting After Action Reviews (AARs) for continuous improvement Creating a safe space for team feedback and accountability Mentioned: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/barrel-strength-leadership/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/barrel_strength_leadership/ 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/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Chris HossfeldBarrel Strength Leadershipmilitary leadership

EP248: Turning Chaos into Clarity in Your Contracting Business with Jake Isaacs

50 min

In today’s fast-paced business world, clarity is everything. As companies grow, so does the complexity of their operations, and without structure, confusion quickly follows. In this episode, Brad and Isaac talked about: The role of an integrator vs. a visionary Importance of hiring and training for business growth The freedom formula for business owners Overcoming the scarcity mindset in hiring Creating a positive onboarding experience for new employees Insights on business efficiency and productivity Mentioned: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jake-isaacs-28071b41/ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jake.c.isaacs/rname Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jake.isaacs.56 YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachjakeisaacsname 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/) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy (https://acast.com/privacy) for more information.

Jake IsaacsGather the Kingsintegrator

EP247: Turning ADHD Challenges into Business Superpowers with Skye Waterson

44 min

ADHD impacts millions of people, shaping how they focus, prioritize, and stay productive. For many, it feels like being both the arsonist and the firefighter in their own life, like constantly sparking new ideas while scrambling to put out the flames of unfinished tasks. This nonstop cycle of excitement and overwhelm can leave individuals feeling frustrated or “not enough,” especially when they compare themselves to others who don’t face the same internal battles. In this episode, Brad and Skye talk about: Skye's journey from academia to entrepreneurship The impact of ADHD on business owners Importance of tailored systems for ADHD brains Strategies for prioritizing tasks and delegating effectively The role of operations assistants in scaling businesses Mentioned: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skye-waterson-026286204/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unconventionalorganisation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnconventionalOrganisation Link to Resources: 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.

ADHDSkye WatersonUnconventional Organization

EP246: How contractors can avoid costly insurance mistakes

25 min

Collecting subcontractor insurance certificates is one of the most critical responsibilities in the construction industry, yet it’s also one of the most overlooked. Many new contractors underestimate how important this step is, especially when navigating the complex requirements of workers’ compensation, general liability, and specialized coverage. In this episode, Brad talked about: Importance of insurance for contractors The audit process and its implications Collecting Certificates of Insurance (COIs) from subcontractors Workers' comp exemptions and state-specific regulations The significance of a reliable insurance agent Tips for organizing and tracking insurance documents Link to Resources: 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.

Workers CompensationCertificates of InsuranceCOI

EP245: Lifestyle Creep: The # 1 Killer Of Contractor Success

31 min

Lifestyle creep often comes from the urge to show success through material things. Many contractors, after earning more, feel pressured to upgrade their lifestyle. This often leads to buying new trucks, bigger homes, or taking lavish trips as a way to demonstrate their financial progress. In this episode, Brad talked about: Definition of lifestyle creep and its impact on personal success for contractors Comparison of lifestyle creep to scope creep in business Psychological factors driving lifestyle increases among contractors Importance of financial discipline and delaying purchases Strategies to combat lifestyle creep. Link to Resources: 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.

Lifestyle CreepScope CreepFinancial Discipline

EP244: Why Referrals Are Drying Up (And How To Fix It)

38 min

Historically, referrals were the cornerstone of many businesses, particularly in industries like construction and home services. The idea was simple: provide excellent service, and satisfied customers would naturally spread the word. However, this model is becoming obsolete as the way consumers engage with services evolves. In this episode, Brad talked about: Reasons why referrals are drying up and how to effectively address this issue in your business. Understand why relying solely on referrals is not a sustainable business strategy. How modern homeowners shop and communicate differently. Five key reasons for declining referrals Actionable tips on how to market your business beyond referrals. How to turn clients into raving fans for better referrals. Link to Resources: 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.

referralscontractor marketinghomeowner shopping habits

EP243: The Cost of Chaos: Why Your Business Feels Like a Circus and How to Fix It

51 min

Many contractors are not genuinely running a business but rather managing a chaotic circus with a stressed ringmaster and a bunch of unorganized clowns rather than a legitimate business. This chaos is not merely a symptom of external factors but is primarily rooted in the absence of effective systems. In this episode, Brad talks about: Understanding why many contractors run their businesses like a circus. Common misconceptions about chaos, including hiring and customer issues. How a lack of systems leads to chaos and inefficiency. Key indicators that your business is disorganized. The hidden costs of running a chaotic business. Simple systems to implement for better organization and efficiency. The importance of proactive management in building a successful business. Link to Resources: 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.

Contractor Profit Blueprintsystemschaos

EP242: Turn words into wealth: Compelling Stories with Aurora Winter

43 min

Communication has a blueprint, much like building a house. You can’t put on the roof before you’ve laid the foundation. In the same way, you must follow a structure when communicating if you want to capture and hold someone’s attention. In this episode, Brad and Aurora talked about: The importance of the "hook" in communication Understanding the neuroscience of communication Crafting compelling stories for your audience Identifying your ideal client and setting boundaries The value of practice and preparation in communication Resources for improving your messaging skills Mentioned: Website: https://www.aurorawinter.com (https://www.aurorawinter.com/) LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/AuroraWinter YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/AuroraWinter Linktree: https://linktr.ee/AuroraWinter One Sheet with Sample Questions: https://aurorawinter.com/onesheet/Aurora-Winter-Impact-One-Sheet.pdf Turn Words Into Wealth Gift eBook for you: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/7o54im0y52 Magic, Mystery and the Multiverse Gift eBook for you: https://dl.bookfunnel.com/bd91o9fg2z Link to Resources: 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.

Aurora Winterneuroscience of communicationstorytelling blueprint

EP241: Stop Collecting Information and Start Taking Action

37 min

A lot of business owners confuse information gathering with quick action. They wait for the "ideal" piece of advice before acting, watching one more video, reading one more article, and attending one more webinar. But in real life, implementation is more important than knowledge. In this episode, Brad talks about: Understanding the difference between information and implementation problems in business. The importance of seeking actionable insights rather than accumulating knowledge. Four Main Levers: Mindset, Pricing/Sales, Systems/Time, and Team/Accountability. How to focus on solving major problems to eliminate smaller issues. The value of accountability and guidance in making effective business decisions. Link to Resources: 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.

implementationmindsetpricing

EP240: The Foreman Test: How to Identify and Develop Effective Leaders

43 min

Have you ever promoted someone because they were great at their job only to realize later that leadership requires a completely different skill set? It’s a common challenge in the construction industry, where technical excellence doesn’t always translate into effective leadership. In this episode, Brad talks about: Importance of hiring and developing foremen in the construction industry. Promoting the best worker to foreman without considering leadership potential. Understanding the difference between task-oriented and time-oriented individuals. Exploring three types of leaders: Structured, Adaptive, and Craftsman. Introduction of a simplified Myers-Briggs-inspired test to identify leadership styles. Strategies for developing effective leadership skills in foremen. Link to Resources: Take the leadership style test: www.hammerandgrind.com/foreman 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.

Foreman hiringLeadership developmentTask-oriented vs time-oriented

EP239: The CORE 4 Method: Win Your Day Before It Starts

30 min

Do you start your mornings in chaos? Rushing out the door, skipping breakfast, and already behind before the day even begins? If you’ve ever felt like life is a constant fire drill, this episode will show you how to take control, create structure, and start living with purpose. In this episode, Brad talks about: Why your day actually starts the night before The four steps of the Core Four Method: Cut off distractions – How to shut down electronics and prep for tomorrow. Optimize sleep – Tips for better rest and creating a consistent bedtime routine. Rise with intention – Practical ways to protect your morning and avoid distractions. Energize body and mind – Fueling yourself physically and mentally for peak performance. The importance of building habits that stick How small, intentional changes can radically improve your productivity Link to Resources: Grab your free worksheet here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1a50b24gw-WP921BXD8G-jlos8TT0CHlH/view?usp=sharing 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.

Core Four Methodsleep optimizationmorning routine

EP238: Servant Leadership and Business Stewardship with Adam Weisner

49 min

Being indispensable is not the fundamental power of a leader; instead, it is the ability to create teams that function well without you. Leaders build strong teams that are prepared for expansion by encouraging collaboration and empowering others. In this episode, Brad and Adam talk about: Emphasis on stewardship and purpose beyond profit in business. Lessons learned from previous roles and the importance of being a dispensable CEO. Overview of the operating system designed for small businesses, focusing on execution and accountability. The significance of caring for employees and building trust. The importance of timely decisions and the impact on business and employees. Mentioned: Website: https://www.kingdommindsetstrategies.com/coaching TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thedispensableceo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedispensableceo/ Link to Resources: 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.

Adam Weisnerservant leadershipbusiness stewardship

EP237: Empowering women in leadership: Insights from Natasha Skolny

42 min

All of us have memories in our brains that have been influenced by our upbringing, experiences, and the culture we live in. Some of those stories push us forward. Others hold us back. These are limiting beliefs: invisible barriers that quietly sabotage growth, stunt leadership, and keep us from stepping into our full potential. In this episode, Brad and Natasha talk about: Challenges women face in construction leadership The impact of limiting beliefs and self-awareness Techniques for building confidence and resilience The importance of emotional intelligence in leadership Strategies for effective communication and team dynamics Mentioned: Website: https://www.theleadershipcabin.com/ LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaskolny Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theleadershipcabin (https://www.instagram.com/theleadershipcabin/?hl=en) Link to Resources: 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.

Natasha Skolnywomen in constructionlimiting beliefs

EP236: Burn the Ships: Why Going All In on Yourself is Crucial for Success

20 min

The biggest risk in life and in business is frequently not taking a chance on something you have never tried before, but rather not taking a chance on yourself. Too many entrepreneurs and contractors jump into business ownership but then refuse to make the necessary investments in their personal development. In this episode, Brad talks about: The importance of committing fully to your business and personal growth. Discussing the inherent risks of starting and running a business. Analyzing common excuses that prevent contractors from investing in themselves. The danger of prioritizing comfort over making necessary sacrifices for future success. Addressing unrealistic portrayals of success in the coaching and business world. Encouragement to stop making excuses and start taking decisive steps toward improvement. Link to Resources: 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.

Burn the ShipsPersonal DevelopmentContractor Coaching

EP235: The Freedom Formula: Unlocking Success in your business

34 min

Most business owners start out chasing freedom, the freedom to control their time, make more money, and build a life on their own terms. But too often, that dream turns into long hours, constant stress, and a business that feels more like a prison than a pathway to freedom. So what separates those who actually achieve it from those who stay stuck? In this episode, Brad talks about: Essential components of desire, knowledge, and action that drive success. How your level of desire can impact your journey and why it’s crucial to have a strong motivation. Importance of having the right knowledge in your craft and business, and how to avoid getting stuck in analysis paralysis. Why taking massive action is the secret ingredient to achieving your goals, even if your desire and knowledge are average. How negative beliefs can hold you back and how to identify and overcome them to unlock your full potential. Link to Resources: 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.

Freedom FormulaLimiting BeliefsAnalysis Paralysis

EP234: Overcoming Failures and Finding Fit: Ryan Hogan on Entrepreneurship and Talent Acquisition

42 min

In business leadership, ego often does more harm than good. While confidence is necessary to lead, unchecked pride can quietly sabotage growth and stall organizational success. This is especially true in the blue-collar industry, where many owners carry the weight of “doing it all” themselves. In this episode, Brad and John talk about: Ryan's military background and its influence on his business journey Lessons learned from entrepreneurial failures and successes The importance of core values in hiring Balancing cultural fit and skill set in new hires Strategies for scaling a business and the role of partnerships Mentioned: Website: https://talentharbor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanehogan/ Link to Resources: 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.

Ryan HoganTalent Harbormilitary background

EP233: Breaking Free from the Chaos Trap: Strategies for Business Success with John Nieuwenburg

45 min

Are you drowning in the daily chaos of running your contracting business? Running a contracting business shouldn't feel like you're constantly putting out fires, yet that's exactly where most entrepreneurs find themselves. According to business strategist John Nieuwenburg, this isn't just bad luck. It's the "chaos trap," a destructive pattern that snares successful contractors when their time management, team systems, and financial controls fall out of sync. In this episode, Brad and John talk about: Introduction to John Nieuwenburg and his coaching background Understanding the "Chaos Trap": time, team, and money challenges The importance of proactive recruiting and building a strong team culture Delegation vs. abdication: effective management strategies Shifting from operator to owner mindset The value of systems and virtual assistants in business Mentioned: Website: https://w5coaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnnieuwenburg/ (https://www.instagram.com/johnnieuwenburg/?hl=en) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.nieuwenburg/ LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/business-coach-canada Link to Resources: 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.

John NieuwenburgW5 Coachingchaos trap

EP232: Eugene Gershman Explains Why Collaboration Wins in Construction and Development

47 min

What if you didn’t have to tackle your next real estate project alone? Joint venture partnerships between landowners and seasoned developers are on the rise, reducing risk and increasing project success. In this episode, Brad and Eugune talk about: Eugene's unique approach to partnering with landowners for development projects The importance of building strong relationships with general contractors and subcontractors Strategies for navigating construction challenges and avoiding common pitfalls Tips for creating a recession-proof business through effective marketing and financial management Insights on how to evaluate and select contractors for projects Recommended books for improving negotiation and business skills Mentioned: Website: http://www.giscompanies.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eg_developer/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Eugene-Gershman-Professional/61554299185446/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenegershman/ Link to Resources: 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.

Eugene GershmanGIS Companiesjoint venture

EP231: Why Every Contractor Needs a Specialized Tax Advisor: A Conversation with Cody Daniels

46 min

Taxes might not be the most exciting topic but they play a huge role in both personal and business finances. Whether you're an individual or a business owner, understanding how taxes work is essential. It’s not just about staying on the right side of the law, it’s also a key part of smart financial planning and growing your wealth over time. In this episode, Brad and Cody talk about: Introduction to Builders Tax Group and Cody's background Importance of understanding taxes for entrepreneurs Explanation of cost segregation and its benefits Common accounting mistakes contractors make Tax strategies for contractors, including R&D credits Overview of the One Big Beautiful Bill and its implications Importance of hiring a specialized tax professional Recommendations for effective tax planning Mentioned: Website: https://builderstaxgroup.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/builders_tax_group/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Builders-Tax-Group-61567222373060/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-daniels-btg/ Book: Laying The Foundation (https://www.builderstaxgroup.com/ebook) Link to Resources: 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.

Cody DanielsBuilders Tax Groupcost segregation