Beers With Contractors

Beers with Contractors

Welcome to Beers with Contractors. We're cracking a cold one and taking a deep dive into the foundations of your construction business, pun intended, to unearth the strategies, techniques, and insider knowledge that can take your contracting business to the next level. So, grab your favorite beer, pull up a seat, and let's have a chat about the nuts and bolts of the construction industry.

  1. 6D AGO

    S2 E52 - The Pricing Mistake That’s Quietly Killing Contractor Profits

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, host Will engages in a detailed discussion with Curt Kempton, the creator of ResponsiBid, to explore how contractors can enhance their bidding process to maximize client value. Curt emphasizes the importance of rapid communication, understanding client needs beyond their immediate requests, and offering multi-tiered solutions. The conversation delves into the psychology behind sales, the evolution of sales processes with technology, and the different challenges faced by companies at various stages of growth. Curt also shares insights from his transition from a window cleaning business to creating a successful software solution tailored for the cleaning industry, highlighting the importance of efficient workflows and modern customer service practices. The episode concludes with practical advice for leveraging technology effectively and overcoming industry resistance to change. 00:00 Introduction 01:02 The Psychology of Selling and Bidding 02:06 Anchoring and Value Proposition 04:19 Customer Behavior and Technology Adoption 07:47 Curt's Journey: From Mountain Biker to Business Owner 11:42 The Birth of a Software Solution 16:28 The Importance of Customer-Centric Sales 23:54 Understanding Emotional Sales 24:47 Sales Audit Quiz: A Tool for Business Assessment 25:25 The Importance of Sales Process Efficiency 28:36 Generational Shifts in Business Mindset 30:06 Embracing Technology in Business 33:30 Balancing Work and Life as an Entrepreneur 36:42 Scaling Business Beyond the Million Dollar Mark 39:44 The Growing Market for Home Services 43:26 Connecting with ResponsiBid 46:34 Conclusion Contact Curt Kempton at: Email: curt@symphosize.com Website: https://responsibid.com/ Link to Sales Audit Quiz for Home Service Pros: https://responsibid.com/2-minute-sales-process-audit-quiz/ Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    48 min

  2. 12/25/2025

    S2 E51 - How Smart Plumbers Are Hitting Seven Figures Fast

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Terry and Will sit down with Jim Parker, the owner of Jim's Plumbing Now, about the secrets behind scaling a plumbing business. Jim shares his top three pieces of advice for plumbing contractors looking to expand: utilizing dispatch software, joining networking groups, and establishing an office space. Jim also discusses the transition from working in the business to working on it, the importance of knowing your financials, and the role of faith-based leadership in building company culture. Tune in to hear about Jim's rapid success in Dallas-Fort Worth, his strategic use of technology and marketing, and his efforts to mentor the next generation of plumbers. 00:36 Key Advice for Growing a Plumbing Business 01:02 The Importance of Networking and Office Space 02:28 Transitioning from Worker to Business Owner 04:49 Overcoming Fear and Scaling the Business 06:17 The Role of Mentorship in Business Growth 13:22 Building a Strong Brand and Marketing Strategy 26:40 Faith-Based Leadership and Company Culture 31:03 Leveraging Technology for Business Growth 34:08 Empowering Young Tradespeople 34:59 Overcoming Fear of Mistakes 35:47 The Importance of Branding 37:06 Re-entering the Market 38:10 Building a Strong Team 39:48 Hiring and Training Insights 42:14 Advice for Aspiring Tradespeople 42:41 Preparing the Next Generation 47:03 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information Contact Jim Parker at: Email: jim@jimsplumbingnow.com Website: https://www.jimsplumbingnow.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JimsPlumbingNow Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimsplumbingnow_tx/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JimsPlumbingNow TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jimsplumbingnow_tx Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/jims-plumbing-now-carrollton Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    49 min

  3. 12/18/2025

    S2 E50 - Stop Leaking 20% Of Your Profits

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Terry and Will sit down with Duane Deason, the Founder and President of The Efficacy Group and author of “Operationally Svelte”. Duane shares his expert insights on cost management and efficiency improvements. Duane also delves into common profit leaks in companies, the impact of a company's culture on cost control, and effective strategies for leveraging technology to reduce costs without sacrificing quality or headcount. He discusses the challenges and rewards of working with both private equity groups and mom-and-pop organizations, and highlights the importance of creating a cost-conscious culture to ensure long-term profitability and growth. 00:00 Introduction to Cost Savings 00:55 Challenges in Implementing Change 01:13 Entrepreneurial Influence on Business Efficiency 02:01 Growth and Organizational Waste 02:45 Balancing Spending and Results 05:21 Misconceptions About Cost Management 07:48 Leadership and Organizational Balance 12:03 Effective Cost Control Strategies 22:30 Real-World Examples of Cost Management 25:48 The Impact of Financial Decisions on Company Culture 26:27 The Technology Bubble and Its Implications 28:23 AI Bubble: Potential Risks and Opportunities 31:22 Cost-Saving Strategies for Contractors 32:02 The Value of Performance-Based Consulting 35:50 Leveraging Technology to Cut Costs 38:18 Common Profit Leaks in Businesses 41:41 Working with Different Types of Organizations 48:30 The Importance of Cost Management Centers 50:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell Contact Duane Deason at: Email: ddeason@efficacygroup.com Website: https://efficacygroup.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanedeason Link to Book “Operationally Svelte“: https://www.amazon.com/Operationally-Svelte-Increase-Enhance-Performance/dp/B0FRN125K1 Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    53 min

  4. 12/11/2025

    S2 E49 - Why 2026 Will Change Home Services Forever

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Terry welcome back Christian Olson from Footprint Capital. They dive into the future of the home services industry, predictions for 2026, and the impact of technology like AI on business operations. Christian shares valuable advice for small to mid-sized companies considering private equity and mergers, emphasizing the importance of understanding financials, branding, and having a solid succession plan. The conversation highlights the role of investment banking in finding the right fit for business transitions and discusses potential red flags and opportunities within the industry. Don't miss this insightful chat to learn more about operating and scaling a successful home service business! 00:00 Trailer 00:41 Welcome Back, Terry! 02:56 Meet Christian Olson from Footprint Capital 04:26 Christian's Journey and Expertise 07:57 The Role of Technology in Home Services 14:14 Understanding Private Equity 23:18 Preparing Your Business for Private Equity 29:45 The Foundation Repair Industry's Hidden Sophistication 30:04 Expanding Horizons: Insights from Other Industries 31:08 Influencer Marketing in Unexpected Places 31:47 The Importance of Branding and Visibility 36:28 Financials and Metrics: Preparing for an LOI 37:29 Adapting to Change: The Role of AI and Technology 41:13 The Emotional Side of Selling a Business 45:57 Finding the Right Fit: The Role of Advisors 58:11 Conclusion Contact Christian Olson at: Email: colson@footprintcapital.com Website: https://www.footprintcapital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christian-olson-68329b6/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/footprintcapital/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/footprintcapital/ Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    59 min

  5. 12/04/2025

    S2 E48 - Q&A Episode: Hiring, Pricing & Performance Pay

    In this Q&A episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will and Drake discuss critical aspects of growing a home services business. They address key management hires, the importance of standardizing sales processes, and the pitfalls and advantages of performance pay systems. The discussion also delves into effective vendor relationships, the significance of pricing strategies, and the impact of creating urgency in sales without compromising integrity. Will shares insights on avoiding common mistakes, navigating growth stages, and incentivizing employees effectively. The episode emphasizes the importance of solid business foundations and customer-focused practices for scaling success. 00:00 Trailer 03:44 Q&A Session Begins 05:17 Common Mistakes in Home Service Businesses 08:23 Stages of Business Growth 13:10 First Management Hire and Compensation 22:05 Equity and Partnerships in Business 27:32 Performance Pay for Frontline Employees 30:55 Spiffs and KPIs: Driving Better Results 31:47 The Pitfalls of Markup vs. Margin 34:15 Transitioning from Hourly to Performance Pay 37:40 Lowering Labor Costs Without Sacrificing Quality 41:10 The Importance of Pricing and Profitability 46:23 Building Strong Vendor Relationships 51:19 Red Flags in Home Service Sales Processes 59:37 Conclusion Find out where your labor should be: https://per4mance.io/contact-us Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    1h 2m

  6. 11/27/2025

    S2 E47 - Why Drywall Is the Most Misunderstood Trade in the Industry

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Terry and Will sit down with Justin Wright from Southwest Drywall. They discuss common misconceptions about the drywall trade and highlight the breadth of work involved, including framing, exterior facades, and acoustical solutions. Justin shares insights on the latest innovations in the industry, such as peel-and-stick FRP and energy-efficient acoustical tiles. The conversation also touches on the importance of relationships with GCs, the growth potential within the construction industry, and the impact of high school internships for encouraging young people to join the trade. With anecdotes about the challenges and rewards of a career in drywall, Justin emphasizes pride in craftsmanship and the diverse opportunities available in the field. 00:00 Trailer 00:57 Catching Up and Conference Tales 03:55 Introducing Justin Wright from Southwest Drywall 04:56 The Scope and Skills of Drywall Work 08:26 Challenges and Innovations in Drywall 11:24 Diverse Projects and Thin Brick Applications 14:58 The Evolution and Benefits of EIFS 21:53 Managing Relationships and Project Timelines 26:42 Respect and Integrity in Construction 27:30 Innovations in the Industry 29:33 Exciting New Technologies 35:03 The Value of Construction Careers 39:35 Inspiring the Next Generation 45:02 Lessons from Mistakes 49:02 Conclusion Contact Justin Wright at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-wright-93a556376 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/southwestdrywall/ Website: https://www.southwestdrywall.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/southwestdrywallOK/ Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    51 min

  7. 11/20/2025

    S2 E46 - Are We Failing the Next Generation of Builders?

    In this episode of Beers with Contractors, Terry welcomes Zach Simmons, founder and owner of Stronghold Construction, for an in-depth conversation about the construction industry. They discuss the disconnect young professionals face when entering the field, the importance of hiring problem solvers rather than just construction professionals, and the challenges small to mid-sized contractors encounter while competing with larger firms. Zach details their approach to hiring, emphasizing culture fit and realistic salary expectations. They also touch upon the importance of internships, the gap between educational curriculum and real-world practices, and Zach's personal experiences. The discussion wraps up with a mention of Zach’s own upcoming podcast, 'Constructive Criticism'. 00:00 Trailer 01:08 Podcast Beginnings and Challenges 03:23 Construction Industry Issues and Podcast Goals 09:44 Hiring Challenges in Construction 23:16 The Value of Young Talent in the Industry 24:54 Work-Life Balance in Construction 25:57 Career Progression and Expectations 26:45 Real-Life Success Stories 30:28 Challenges for Small to Mid-Size Contractors 32:40 The Importance of Industry-Education Collaboration 38:36 The Reality of Construction Education 45:35 Podcast Wrap-Up and Future Plans Contact Zach Simmons at: LinkedIn (Zach): https://www.linkedin.com/in/zacharyjsimmons/ LinkedIn (company): https://www.linkedin.com/company/stronghold-construction/ Website: https://www.stronghold.construction/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildstronghold/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BuildStronghold Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    49 min

  8. 11/13/2025

    S2 E45 - Celebrating 100 Episodes of Beers with Contractors

    In this milestone 100th episode of Beers with Contractors, hosts Will, Terry, and Drake reflect on their journey, sharing memorable moments, challenging guest experiences, and the evolution of their podcast. They discuss favorite episodes and the unexpected technical difficulties that have plagued them. Amidst the laughs and reminiscing, the hosts provide insights into the world of trade professionals and highlight standout guests and companies, emphasizing the importance of skill, passion, and the art of staying dedicated to one's craft. With a mix of humor, heartfelt gratitude to their listeners, and a few beers, this episode captures the essence of their podcasting adventure. 00:00 Trailer 01:59 Podcasting Challenges and Successes 07:10 Memorable Guests and Episodes 11:54 The Value of Sharing Knowledge 25:30 Admiration for Construction and Trades Companies 29:19 Business Growth and Niches 29:55 Insights on Spray Foam 32:16 Podcast Beginnings and Guest Stories 34:26 Challenges and Memorable Episodes 36:46 Podcasting Tips and Reflections 50:44 Wrapping Up and Future Plans Foundation Rescue Supply Link: https://www.foundationrescuesupply.com/ Contractors Kick Ass! Podcast Store Link: https://williamwalkerblake.com/store-1 The Worker Incentive Program that Contractors Love! - Per4mance Software https://per4mance.io - Pay for performance, not hours

    52 min
See All (108)

5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

Welcome to Beers with Contractors. We're cracking a cold one and taking a deep dive into the foundations of your construction business, pun intended, to unearth the strategies, techniques, and insider knowledge that can take your contracting business to the next level. So, grab your favorite beer, pull up a seat, and let's have a chat about the nuts and bolts of the construction industry.

Information

  • Creator
    Beers with Contractors
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    108
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Beers with Contractors
  • Show Website
    Beers With Contractors

You Might Also Like