The Kitchen Table

Ken Baden
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A show about business, sales, goals, and the pursuit of personal greatness, all where business gets done. The Kitchen Table.

  1. Buying, Building & Scaling Blue Collar Businesses | Ian McCarthy of Blue Claw Group

    17 AVR.

    Buying, Building & Scaling Blue Collar Businesses | Ian McCarthy of Blue Claw Group

    Guest: Ian McCarthy — President of Blue Claw Group LLC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ian-mccarthy-a08ab725/ Website: blueclawgroup.com | BidClout AI Estimating Tool (on homepage) YouTube: Ian Blue Claw McCarthy | Instagram: @blueclawgroup Host: Ken Baden — CEO/Owner of Baden Consulting and Potomac Custom Remodeling Website: badenconsulting.net | thekitchentablepodcast.net Companies Mentioned: Blue Claw Associates (landscaping & construction, Cape Cod/Nantucket/South Shore) Blue Water Pools (custom gunite pool company) Boston Tennis Court (pickleball, basketball & tennis court builder — 50-year-old acquisition) BidClout — Ian's AI-powered estimating software for landscapers Quick Calc — Ian's financial proposal/pricing app Goat Gang — landscape owner mastermind group Key Topics Discussed: Buying your first business vs. starting from scratch How Ian went $0 to $12M in 6.5 years across 3 companies Co-founding the National Basketball League of Canada AI in the blue collar trades: estimating, accounts payable, content creation "Know Your Numbers" workshop and why most contractors fly blind financially How to build referral pipelines through architects, builders, and designers Why brand trust and removing fear of risk wins higher-ticket clients Diversification vs. focus: the real debate for multi-business owners The robot/AI future of the trades and how to stay ahead     Timestamps 0:00 — Intro & Welcome: Ian McCarthy of Blue Claw Group  1:50 — Blue Claw's business overview: landscaping, pools & tennis/pickleball courts  4:10 — Ian's background: from CPA to buying a landscaping company for $25K  6:00 — The accidental acquisition: how Ian's first business deal happened  7:15 — Growing the landscaping company to nearly $4M in sales  7:45 — The unexpected pivot: buying a minor league basketball team (Kobe Bryant's father was coaching)  8:20 — Co-founding the National Basketball League of Canada  9:50 — Returning to the trades and launching Blue Claw Associates in 2018  11:25 — Zero to $12 million in 6.5 years across three companies  11:50 — How COVID became rocket fuel for Blue Claw's growth  15:00 — Watching the current market and how Ian is preparing for uncertainty  18:45 — Blue Claw's team: 75-80 employees, 35 trucks  19:30 — The consulting company: how "Know Your Numbers" was born  21:00 — Building referral pipelines through architects and designers (not lead services)  22:30 — The "Know Your Numbers" workshop and why the industry is underserved financially  25:00 — How AI is changing the blue collar space (operations, marketing, efficiency)  28:30 — AI search and why contractors need to start thinking about GEO (not just SEO)  30:45 — Ian's AI-powered future: rebuilding the office with AI tools  32:00 — The origin story of BidClout: from Spain trip inspiration to AI estimating software  34:00 — Pricing strategy: how to position as premium and remove client risk/fear  36:15 — Would Ian buy another business? What he'd look at next  39:30 — Focus vs. diversification: the real answer for multi-business owners  42:30 — The future of Blue Claw Group consulting and events  43:30 — Why many trade business owners fly blind on their numbers  47:00 — Where to find Ian, BidClout, and Blue Claw Group  50:00 — Closing thoughts & wrap-up

    51 min
  2. Zero Construction Experience to Eight Figures: How Jason Nemes Built Summit Solutions

    3 AVR.

    Zero Construction Experience to Eight Figures: How Jason Nemes Built Summit Solutions

    Ken Baden and Jason Nemes first connected at the Blue Collar Ballers event in February of last year, and this episode is the payoff of several scheduling attempts that almost didn't happen. It's worth the wait. Jason's background is anything but conventional for a roofing CEO. He spent years building a 4,500-person downline in the health and wellness network marketing space, and still draws a six-figure annual residual from that work today. When a friend called him to start a roofing company, Jason flew to Oklahoma to learn the basics — door knocking, inspections, filing claims — and dove in headfirst. His first official company, Summit Solutions Roofing and Construction, launched at the end of June 2024 after a business partnership dissolved over equity disagreements. He's candid about the split, the half-million-dollar back-door he experienced from a rep he trusted, and how those hard lessons reshaped the way he moves in business today. Jason talks about the DFW market — one of the most saturated roofing markets in the country with roughly 8,000 companies — and how he managed to cut through by staying true to who he is on social media, paying people on time, and building a culture where team members feel seen, valued, and enrolled in the vision. Ken and Jason also get into the business side of growth: insurance vs. retail revenue, multi-state licensing in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and soon Florida and Arizona, goals of $20-30 million this year, the EBITDA benchmarks that make a PE exit viable, and what a real private equity deal looks like for a roofing company in today's market. The conversation closes on a personal and powerful note — Jason's recovery from drug and alcohol addiction, and how the same intensity and discipline that nearly cost him everything is now the fuel behind one of the fastest-growing roofing startups in Texas. Follow Jason: Instagram & TikTok: @TattedPrez Facebook: Jason Nemes Company Page: Summit Solutions Roofing and Construction Follow Ken & the show: 🌐 thekitchentablepodcast.net 🌐 badenconsulting.net

    43 min
  3. No Lead Left Behind: How Jesse Spiegel Is Systematizing Roofing with AI

    6 MARS

    No Lead Left Behind: How Jesse Spiegel Is Systematizing Roofing with AI

    Guest: Jesse Spiegel is the founder of NexLev Logic (nexlevlogic.com), an AI automation platform built exclusively for the roofing industry. With years of experience as a top-producing roofing sales rep — including $3.8M in a single storm season — Jesse turned his firsthand frustrations into a full suite of tools that help roofing companies communicate better, close more, and scale without the chaos. He currently manages roofing projects in both Colorado and Florida while growing NexLev Logic. Host: Ken Baden is the CEO and owner of Baden Consulting and Potomac Custom Remodeling. His podcast, The Kitchen Table Podcast, is where real business conversations happen in the trades and beyond. Topics covered in this episode: Jesse's origin story in roofing and his $3.8M Hurricane Irma experience Why great sales without great systems leads to broken promises How AI unlocked the ability to scale what Jesse was doing manually The 6 core modules of NexLev Logic's platform Speed-to-lead: why every second counts after a new inquiry comes in No Lead Left Behind: automated follow-up that runs forever until you get a yes or a no Subcontractor communication with built-in photo collection and Venmo incentives Real-time homeowner updates to reduce friction and build loyalty AI note-takers on sales pitches that analyze objections and send reps coaching tips Automated review capture that follows up persistently until the customer responds Ken's strategy: tighten operations before scaling to new markets The insurance restoration to retail roofing shift happening nationwide Why door knocking is still the greatest sales skill in the business

    37 min
  4. More Than a Body: The Faith-Based Fitness Brand Redefining Women's Apparel with Maryori Jones

    20 FÉVR.

    More Than a Body: The Faith-Based Fitness Brand Redefining Women's Apparel with Maryori Jones

    Guest: Maryori Jones | Founder, Ave Sportwear  Host: Ken Baden | CEO/Owner, Baden Consulting & Potomac Custom Remodeling  Podcast: The Kitchen Table Podcast | thekitchentablepodcast.net Key Takeaways: Ave stands for Agua Viva Empire — a faith-first brand for women of all body types The brand was born from Maryori's postpartum experience and the loss of identity many mothers face after childbirth She grew up between Honduras and Mexico and was selling fruit to help her family at age 6 — entrepreneurship has always been in her DNA Ave is strictly women's athletic apparel, designed to serve all body types and life stages She is also building a hair product line alongside Ave Sportwear Maryori and her husband (active military) are relocating to the Chicago area soon — Ave will continue to grow online Social media comparison is a real issue for women — Ave is a counter-cultural brand encouraging women to love themselves from the inside out First-generation immigrants often carry a stronger hunger and appreciation for opportunity in America Both Ken and Maryori connect over rebuilding their lives and how hitting rock bottom removes the fear of failure Resources Mentioned: Ave Sportwear: avesportwear.us State & Liberty (men's athletic-fit clothing, mentioned by Ken) Good Vibes Only (another clothing brand in the TKT circle)

    26 min
  5. ICE Raids, Insurance Wars, and the Retail Revolution: A Roofing State of the Union with your host Ken Baden

    13 FÉVR.

    ICE Raids, Insurance Wars, and the Retail Revolution: A Roofing State of the Union with your host Ken Baden

    EPISODE NOTESHost: Ken Baden — CEO & President, Potomac Custom Remodeling and Baden Consulting Format: Solo episode, no guest Runtime: Approx. 21 minutes People & Companies Mentioned: Dmitry Lipinskiy — Roofing Insights (hosted Ken on his podcast and radio show in Minnesota)Chris Simberman — industry contact discussing business pivotsNetwork shoutouts: John Cena, Chris Jericho, Adam Vidzeme, Brandon J., Todd Price, John McCainbridge, Adam Champagne, Tony Flahom, Kurt LindemannKey Topics: ICE enforcement & the Hispanic labor workforce — staffing, costs, and project timelinesCredit score landscape — 64% of Americans have a FICO above 700 (live ChatGPT lookup done on air)National roofing market dropped ~19% in 2025UPPA law — what it means for contractors working insurance claimsInsurance drop letters — companies requiring roof replacement within 30 days or canceling policiesRetail vs. insurance restoration — pros, cons, and why diversification is criticalWhat a working retail sales system looks like (lead gen, setter-closer model, 30–35% close rate)Super Bowl local ad spot secured a week before the game2026 mindset — down markets create market share opportunitiesBaden Consulting is currently accepting a limited number of clients per quarter. Reach out to Ken directly for availability or referrals to vetted industry consultants.

    22 min

  6. 6 FÉVR.

    The 78-Year-Old Engineer Who Cracked the Code to Financial Freedom with Ron Kmetovicz

    Guest Information: Name: Ron KmetoviczBook: Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial IndependenceWebsite: https://ghostmoneythebook.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ron-k-34218017/Background: Retired engineer, 20 years in Silicon Valley, consulting practice ownerCurrent Location: Reno-Lake Tahoe areaAge: 78 (still actively skiing, mountain biking, hiking)Key Concepts Discussed: Ghost Money StrategySeparate investment account from 401(k)/retirement fundsFocus on long-term compound growthBuilt to outlast inflationStarted early for maximum effectWhy Traditional Advice Falls Short401(k)s have limitations and restrictionsInflation erodes purchasing power over timeTraditional retirement planning may not provide true independenceNeed for additional wealth-building strategiesRon's Background & CredibilityPennsylvania farm boy upbringingPenn State engineering degree20 years in Silicon Valley with top talent and equipmentStarted consulting practice and multiple businessesSuccessfully mentored children and grandchildren through financial developmentBook OriginsWritten at age 78 as legacy document for great-grandchildrenBased on real experience mentoring family membersSimple, accessible approach to complex topicNot profit-driven—focused on helping youthInvestment PhilosophyAvoid gambling mentality (crypto, day trading, meme coins)Focus on steady, proven growth strategiesUnderstand the difference between investing and speculationStart early, stay consistentLife Philosophy: "Live Where You Play"Integrate work and lifestyle choicesReduce commuting and unnecessary travelBuild life around activities you loveFinancial independence enables lifestyle freedomActionable Takeaways: Start a separate "Ghost Money" investment account todayMake consistent contributions, no matter how smallFocus on long-term growth over quick winsUnderstand inflation's real impact on your purchasing powerAvoid the allure of day trading and crypto gamblingRead "Ghost Money" for the complete strategyConsider where you live vs. where you want to playResources Mentioned: Ghost Money: The Pathway to Financial Independence (book)Website: ghostmoneythebook.comAvailable on Amazon (search for Ron Kmetovicz to find the correct book)The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod (referenced by Ken)Warning for Book Buyers: There are other fiction books titled "Ghost Money" - make sure you're getting Ron Kmetovicz's book (spelled K-M-E-T-O-V-I-C-Z). Easiest way is to go directly to ghostmoneythebook.com.

    39 min
  7. From Wealth to Fulfillment: How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life with Saahil Mehta

    30 JANV.

    From Wealth to Fulfillment: How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life with Saahil Mehta

    Guest Background: Saahil Mehta - Based in Dubai (visiting New York during recording)Entrepreneur running three businessesSecond-generation entrepreneur (diamond trading business started by father at age 54)First-generation entrepreneur (hospitality business running ~17 years)Author of "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"Success coach and member of Dr. Marshall Goldsmith's 100 CoachesKeynote speaker with upcoming TED Talk (February 5th)Father and husband committed to family presenceKey Themes Discussed: The Success ParadoxAchieved seven-figure net worth by age 20Hit all conventional success markers by age 36Felt completely unfulfilled despite external achievementsThe danger of having "blinders on" focused only on wealth creationThe People Pleasing CrisisHow people pleasing became a life-threatening issueIgnoring personal needs and health for others' approvalThe cultural and familial conditioning around pleasing othersBreaking free from the need for external validationRock Bottom and AwakeningThe moment of realization that something had to changeConfronting the emptiness behind the success facadeThe courage to admit vulnerability and seek helpBeginning the journey of self-discoveryRedefining SuccessMoving from society's definition to personal definitionUnderstanding that success without fulfillment is hollowThe importance of aligning actions with valuesCreating a life of purpose, not just profitThe Zero Regret PhilosophyDecision-making framework based on avoiding future regret"If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again"Living intentionally rather than reactivelyTaking ownership of your choices and their consequencesDecluttering LifePhysical decluttering as a gateway to mental clarityIdentifying and releasing emotional baggageLetting go of limiting beliefs and conditioningCreating space for what truly mattersFamily and RelationshipsThe wake-up call about missing his children's childhoodChoosing presence over productivityBeing a better father, husband, and friendThe ripple effect of personal transformation on all relationshipsCoaching and MentorshipWorking with Marshall Goldsmith and the 100 Coaches communityHelping other entrepreneurs avoid similar pitfallsThe power of vulnerability in leadershipCreating sustainable success that includes fulfillmentPractical Transformation StepsStarting with self-awareness and honest assessmentFree complimentary webinar to kickstart the journeyDiscovery calls for personalized guidanceDaily practices for maintaining alignmentNotable Quotes: "If your decision will take you to potential regret, think again""I felt like a horse with blinders on - focused only on wealth creation""I've hit all the boxes but felt completely unfulfilled""At what expense are you achieving your success?""Your dad started a company at 54 - it's never too late""Success without fulfillment is just an expensive emptiness"Resources & Links: Saahil Mehta's Resources: Website: www.saahilmehta.com/successFree Complimentary Webinar: Available at above linkBook: "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saahilmehtaTED Talk: "How People Pleasing Almost Cost Me My Life" (February 5th, available online 60-90 days after)Social Media: Search "Saahil Mehta" on major platformsThe Kitchen Table Podcast: Website: thekitchentablepodcast.netHost: Ken BadenCEO/Owner of Baden ConsultingCEO/Owner of Potomac Custom RemodelingAction Items for Listeners: Immediate Actions:Reflect on your own definition of success - is it yours or someone else's?Identify one area where you're people pleasing at the expense of your well-beingConsider what "baggage" (physical or emotional) you might be carryingThis Week:Enroll in Saahil's free complimentary webinar at saahilmehta.com/successRead or purchase "Break Free: A Guide to Decluttering Your Life"Journal about a decision you're facing using the "Zero Regret" frameworkThis Month:Schedule a discovery call with Saahil if you're ready for transformationImplement one decluttering practice (physical or mental)Share this episode with an entrepreneur friend who might need to hear this messageLong Term:Watch Saahil's TED Talk when it goes liveRegularly assess whether your actions align with your valuesBuild a support system that encourages authentic successEpisode Insights: This episode stands out for its raw honesty about the dark side of entrepreneurial success. Saahil doesn't just share his story - he provides a roadmap for others to avoid the same traps. The conversation challenges conventional notions of success and offers a more holistic, sustainable approach to building both business and life. Key takeaways include the importance of defining success on your own terms, recognizing the warning signs of burnout and unfulfillment, and understanding that it's never too late to course-correct. Saahil's father starting a business at 54 is particularly inspiring for listeners who feel they've missed their window. The Zero Regret philosophy provides a practical framework that listeners can immediately apply to their decision-making process, while the emphasis on decluttering offers tangible first steps toward transformation.

    42 min
  8. Lead Exponentially: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You | Reed Nyffeler

    16 JANV.

    Lead Exponentially: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You | Reed Nyffeler

    Guest: Reed Nyffeler - Author, franchisor operating in 49 states & 9 countries Books: "Transform Through Purpose" and "Lead Exponentially" Contact: readnyffeler.com Key Topics: Construction to franchise journeySecurity franchise model with proprietary softwareNew low-cost franchises: Filter Go, window cleaningFranchise vs. entrepreneur: personality determines pathLead Exponentially framework for delegationGreat Grandma vs. Grandma leadership analogy6-month test: Can your business grow without you?Stewardship of time and talent for next generation  Episode Timestamps[00:00:00] Introduction & Reed's Background [00:00:48] Construction Beginnings - Block layer at 14, father's home building business [00:01:51] Career Evolution - DeWalt Power Tools, early tech, Christmas lights [00:03:10] Discovering Franchising - The gap between skills and business knowledge [00:04:01] Franchise Value - Recipe for success, pricing, systems, exit strategy [00:08:00] Security Franchise Deep Dive - 49 states, Uber-like software, hundreds of millions in revenue [00:12:00] Target Audience - Military veterans and former police officers [00:15:00] New Low-Cost Franchises - Filter Go, window cleaning, no money down model [00:18:00] Cross-Selling Strategy - Leveraging existing clients for warm leads [00:20:20] Franchise vs. Entrepreneur - Personality assessment and path selection [00:21:40] Great Grandma Analogy - Recipe creators vs. recipe perfectors [00:24:00] The $20 Payroll Story - Learning what NOT to do [00:26:40] Lead Exponentially Framework - Six-month test: business vs. job [00:28:20] Teaching for Employee Benefit - Motivation beyond paycheck [00:31:00] Five Levels of Leadership - Aligning leadership with organization size [00:33:00] Where to Find Reed - Books, website, resources [00:35:00] Final Wisdom - Stewardship and multigenerational impact [00:36:15] Closing & Consulting Info

    37 min
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À propos

A show about business, sales, goals, and the pursuit of personal greatness, all where business gets done. The Kitchen Table.

Informations

  • Créateur
    Ken Baden
  • Années d’activité
    2023 - 2026
  • Épisodes
    141
  • Classement
    Contenu explicite
  • Copyright
    © 2023 The Kitchen Table Podcast
  • Site Web de l’émission
    The Kitchen Table

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