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

    6 MAR

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

    20 FEB

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

    13 FEB

    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

  4. 6 FEB

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

    30 JAN

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

    16 JAN

    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
  7. Mastering the Craft: Chris Zimmerman's Blueprint for Roofing Success in 2026

    9 JAN

    Mastering the Craft: Chris Zimmerman's Blueprint for Roofing Success in 2026

    Guest: Chris Zimmerman Owner, At Your Service Roofing and RemodelingCo-founder, Master Your Craft (with John Lombard)15+ years in roofing industryOwens Corning Platinum Preferred ContractorBased in Cincinnati, OH with branch in ClevelandKey Topics Discussed: Industry Transformation (2024) Market down 20-40% for most contractorsChris achieved best year ever despite no major stormsThe "thinning of the herd" is finally happeningShift from storm-dependent to sustainable business modelsNew Ventures with John Lombard: Scientific Hail Damage Testing Service - Methodical testing to determine actual hail damage vs. "magnetic hail"AI-Powered Claims Assistance Tool - Downloads expertise from Chris, John, and industry leaders to help contractors communicate effectively with insurance carriersThe Great Pivot: Restoration to Retail Burned company to the ground (Labor Day 2024)Eliminated 2 of 5 divisionsComplete restructuring of leadership and processesUnified process for repairs, retail, and claimsEliminated door knocking entirelyFocus on referral partnerships over cold leadsThree Mindset Shifts for Retail Success: Price - You can charge premium prices in retail (just like restoration)Opportunity - Build referral networks, don't rely on door knocking or expensive marketingService - Run every appointment through the same process regardless of typeInsurance Industry Challenges: COVID doubled claim costs while premiums stayed regulatedCarriers forced into "poor behavior" due to financial constraintsFraud was "priced in" but became unmanageableHomeowners deserve indemnification regardless of carrier challengesCommunication is King: "If your skill level is a 4 and your communication level is a 9, your effectiveness is a 4" - John LombardUnderstanding the "why" behind strategies vs. memorizing scriptsMost contractors can't effectively "sell value"Industry Red Flags: "Insurance claim specialist" = UPA violationsFlexing on social media vs. building sustainable businessShort-term thinking vs. long-term wealth buildingLambos in year 2-3 = cash flow problems aheadAdvice for New Roofers: Develop strong work ethic firstRead books constantly (1% better with each one)Block out the noise and social media dramaTreat roofing as a career, not a jobBuild reputation over revenueFocus on long-term strategyTake advantage of training resources (NTS, Master Your Craft)Master Your Craft Details: Online community: $1,000-$1,500/month for 20 users15-35 pre-recorded 2-hour trainings3 new trainings monthly (Chris, John, + guest expert)Private trainings availableFree Owens Corning University classesIn-person classes: ~$500-600/ticketResources Mentioned: Master Your CraftNTS (National Testing Services)RSRA (Roofing & Siding Restoration Alliance) - Adam BensmanOwens Corning UniversityPower Home RemodelingKey Quotes: "Your reputation is your net worth""It's way harder to sell restoration than retail these days""The problem with arguing with a fool is that people from a distance can't tell who's who""Slow down, make your money, do good, help people out—that good's gonna come back to you""Keep it stupid simple" (KISS principle)

    55 min
  8. Every Story Matters: How to Build Your Brand Story and Write Your Book with Bill Blankschaen

    26/12/2025

    Every Story Matters: How to Build Your Brand Story and Write Your Book with Bill Blankschaen

    About Bill Blankschaen: Bill is the author of "Your Story Advantage" and owner of Story Builders, where he's spent 13+ years helping individuals and businesses develop their stories. He's worked with high-profile names like Dean Graziosi, John Maxwell, and Louis Howes, as well as countless businesses building their brands systematically. The Story Ecosystem Framework: Message Maker - Your core brand storyMessage Multiplier - Your book that scales your messageMessage Monetizer - Coaching programs, trainings, workshops, and digital coursesSeven-Step Brand Story Process: Bill walks businesses through a comprehensive process to develop their brand story, ensuring it resonates with their target audience and builds trust. Key Philosophy: "Your story is about you, but your story is not for you" - This mindset shift helps entrepreneurs focus on serving their customers rather than just promoting themselves. The Story Focus Question: If someone engages with your brand and forgets 99% of everything, what's the ONE thing you want them to remember? This becomes your "meaningful message." Book Resources: Get the book: yourstoryadadvantage.com (includes multiple free bonuses)Also available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Books-A-MillionSchedule consultation: mystorybuilders.com/storyTimestamps00:00:18 - Welcome and guest introduction - Bill Blankschaen from Orlando 00:00:56 - Ken's excitement about discussing story and brand over roofing 00:01:33 - The importance of building a personal brand 00:02:30 - Everyone has a distinct advantage through their unique story 00:03:03 - The Story Ecosystem: Message Maker, Message Multiplier, Message Monetizer 00:03:56 - Discussion of Bill's book "Your Story Advantage" 00:04:25 - Bill's 13+ years of experience working with major names 00:05:01 - Your breakthrough begins when you start with your story 00:05:43 - The importance of story for both influencers AND businesses 00:06:09 - Seven-step process for developing brand stories 00:06:18 - "Your story is about you, but not for you" 00:07:04 - Roofing example: Trust-based decision making 00:08:00 - Ken's positioning strategy for higher-end clients 00:09:07 - Being intentional about who you want to reach 00:09:46 - Copy-paste-tweak: Systemizing your brand story 00:10:38 - Defining your key demographic intentionally 00:10:46 - Case study: Multi-generational stone masonry company 00:12:01 - Reverse engineering marketing from your brand story 00:12:28 - The "Roof Wizard" character discussion 00:13:00 - Potomac Custom Remodeling brand strategy 00:13:56 - Everyone telling the same story across your organization 00:14:41 - Many businesses succeed accidentally 00:15:10 - Ken at the point of exhausting outbound marketing 00:15:30 - The power of brand recognition 00:16:00 - Access to the course and bonuses 00:16:22 - Working with both individuals and organizations 00:17:10 - Your key to success is focusing on your "neighborhood" 00:18:10 - The congressman story: "This book is for every American" 00:18:26 - Narrowing your focus to punch through Sheehan's Wall 00:19:01 - Puddle, pond, lake, ocean analogy for building audience 00:19:26 - Ken's two book ideas and the disconnect 00:20:05 - Why books differentiate service-based businesses 00:20:24 - "You've literally written the book on the subject" 00:21:00 - Business books vs. personal brand books 00:22:00 - "How to Roof Your Home" concept discussion 00:22:32 - Booklets that provide immediate value 00:23:00 - The face of the brand concept 00:23:40 - Allergist example with multiple locations 00:24:20 - The neglected origin story of companies 00:25:00 - Telling your story to resonate with customer problems 00:25:17 - Ken's company story training 00:26:00 - Ken's personal background story begins 00:27:00 - Car accident leading to addiction 00:27:12 - Three rehabs, jail, attempting to rob a store 00:27:46 - The oxycodone epidemic connection 00:28:00 - From homelessness to building businesses in 8 years 00:28:33 - Meeting his future wife (attorney) and avoiding bankruptcy 00:29:01 - Building multiple businesses from nothing 00:29:40 - The power of sharing difficult stories 00:30:00 - Bill's insight: Restoration and renewal theme 00:30:44 - Every story matters philosophy 00:31:20 - How to communicate difficult stories carefully 00:31:50 - The two book disconnect revealed 00:32:00 - Your story exists to support your message 00:32:24 - Ken's realization about combining the books 00:32:40 - Addiction's impact on American families 00:33:05 - Writing for both addicts and family members 00:33:45 - Work to be done compartmentalizing the story 00:34:00 - Chapters 4 and 5 on building books 00:34:20 - Six book starter questions 00:34:46 - Both/and thinking instead of either/or 00:35:00 - Ken's request for a signed copy 00:35:35 - Where to get the book and bonuses 00:36:22 - Schedule time to talk: mystorybuilders.com/story 00:36:40 - Business owners are building personal brands too 00:37:15 - Delivering tactical, actionable value 00:38:00 - The collaboration chapter: "If you want to elevate, you must collaborate" 00:38:46 - Entrepreneurs trying to do everything themselves 00:39:11 - Famous last words: "I'll just do it myself" 00:39:33 - Final advice for business owners: Start with your meaningful message 00:40:00 - The Story Focus Question explained 00:40:24 - If they only remember ONE thing, what should it be? 00:41:17 - The starting point for any business or brand 00:41:46 - Ken's timing: Five years in, ready for branding 00:42:00 - Final book promotion and excitement 00:42:27 - Where to connect with Bill 00:43:06 - The coincidence of James's encouragement this morning 00:43:27 - Bill's parting wisdom: Every story matters 00:44:06 - Your responsibility to contribute your best 00:44:24 - Episode wrap-up

    45 min
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About

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

Information

  • Creator
    Ken Baden
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    139
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2023 The Kitchen Table Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Kitchen Table