Get the Intel

Chad Gill
Get the Intel

This is the "Get the Intel," podcast, presented by VAs 4 Construction. This podcast is your go-to for straightforward advice and stories from the construction industry. Join us as we talk with contractors who share their experiences and experts who offer practical tools and techniques to help your business run smoother. Whether you’re looking to solve a problem or simply seeking inspiration, we're here to help you manage your work and enjoy life.

  1. DEC 9

    Boosting Profitability by Documenting Systems

    Adi Klevit is the leader and visionary of Business Success Consulting Group. Her twenty-five years of knowledge and experience as a trained industrial engineer, management consultant, and business executive give her a unique understanding of the challenges businesses face. Adi utilizes her practical know-how and wisdom to successfully help organizations and companies of any size dramatically improve their efficiency and performance. By leveraging her ability to understand business processes as well as people and drawing on her high-caliber skills in vital areas of personnel management, finance, and operations, Adi can help virtually any business owner achieve their goals and bring order to their lives.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  How documented business processes can save time, reduce costs, and improve efficiency. The key to identifying whether business challenges are related to your team or your processes. A simple, structured approach to documenting workflows that ensures consistency and clarity. Real-world examples of how process documentation boosts profitability in construction businesses. Top tools for process documentation, including Trainual and Sweet Process, tailored for growing businesses. Why well-documented processes are essential for scaling and staying competitive in your industry. Practical steps to identify high-impact areas for process improvements in your business today. In this episode of Get the Intel, host Chad Gill sits down with Adi Klevit, a returning  guest from the Business Success Consulting Group, to reveal why documented business processes are the secret weapon for scaling and sustaining growth. Tailored specifically for business owners, this episode dives into how clear, documented processes can boost efficiency, cut costs, and streamline knowledge transfer—ensuring your team operates at its best. Adi shares actionable strategies to differentiate personnel issues from process flaws, implement structured documentation practices, and leverage tools like Trainual and Sweet Process. Whether you're looking to scale your business or refine your operations, this episode provides practical insights to help you identify gaps and build a stronger, more resilient organization.   Outline:  ️Introduction and Background (00:03 - 09:01)   Process Implementation and Benefits (09:01 - 18:39)  Process Documentation Software and Getting Started (18:39 - 27:29)    Follow Adi Klevit here:  Website: https://bizsuccesscg.com/   Book a Call: https://bizsuccesscg.com/book-a-call/  Phone Number: 503-662-2911 (Call or Text)  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adiklevit/  Adi Klevit on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@adiklevit86

    28 min
  2. DEC 5

    Unlocking Ways to Financially Flourish

    Drake Gens is the Owner and CEO of FinTeam Business Consulting, a financial consulting firm dedicated to helping small businesses improve profitability, manage cash flow, and reduce debt. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, Drake specializes in providing personalized financial guidance through services such as cash flow forecasting, expense optimization, full accounting support, and custom reporting. With a focus on building trust and delivering actionable insights, FinTeam operates on a month-to-month pricing model, offering tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each client. Drake’s team also supports entrepreneurs with budget creation, KPI analysis, IRS audit prevention, and guidance for critical financial decisions. FinTeam is the go-to resource for entrepreneurs seeking clarity and control over their finances. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  The critical role of money in business and personal success. How to align your strengths with the right role in your business. Essential financial management practices, including recordkeeping and budgeting. Common financial pitfalls contractors face, such as late receivables and poor cash flow management. The impact of compensation structures on hiring and team growth. When and why your business might need a CFO. How the 'Drake Check' service can assess and improve your financial health.  In this episode of the Get the Intel podcast, host Chad Gill welcomes financial strategist Drake Gens from FinTeam Business Consulting to discuss vital financial management strategies for contractors. The conversation starts with an overview of the significant role money plays in business and personal success, highlighting the importance of aligning one's strengths with their business role. Drake shares essential financial management principles, including the necessity of maintaining organized records and budgeting for taxes, reporting, and lender requirements. He identifies common pitfalls, such as poor cash flow management and the impact of compensation structures on hiring. The episode also explores the pivotal role of a CFO, emphasizing when businesses should consider hiring one, particularly for preparing for mergers and acquisitions or seeking financial clarity. Finally, Drake introduces his 'Drake Check' service as a valuable tool for assessing financial health, concluding with actionable steps for listeners to enhance their financial practices.    Follow Drake Gens here:  Website: https://thefinteam.com/  Drake Gens on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drake-gens-cfa-39743916b/  The Drake Check: https://thefinteam.com/the-drake-check  Instagram: https://instagram.com/finteambusinessconsulting/?hl=en  Facebook: https://facebook.com/thefinteam

    32 min
  3. NOV 20

    Reducing Burnout by Hiring Virtual Assistants

    Renee Hastings is the President and CEO of Executive Help Now, a virtual assistance service. She and her cohort of managers, specialists, podcast producers, and executive assistants provide administrative support, video podcast production support, and business consulting services to small business owners, content creators, show hosts, and busy executives. Renee’s entrepreneurial journey started in 1996. Against all odds, she holds a degree in Business Management, she’s been a Dale Carnegie Leadership Training Coach, and she’s appeared on NBC’s KCRA News 3 discussing the pandemic, business owners, and virtual assistance. Renee is now a sought-after inspirational speaker, podcast host, successful entrepreneur, philanthropist, and Small Group Bible Study Coach leading women along their spiritual journey. Leveraging over 15 years of administrative and business experience, Renee and her team give busy executives the ability to: eat more meals at home; take more vacations, and increase their productivity… because life’s too short to schedule your own meetings, book your own travel, find your own guests, produce your own show, and check your own email!   Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  How Renee Hastings transitioned from receptionist to CEO of Executive Help Now. The evolution of her virtual assistant business and the tailored packages offered. Key strategies for matching virtual assistants with clients to reduce burnout. A powerful success story of streamlining business operations for an overwhelmed client. The role of trust-building and technology in optimizing VA-client collaborations. Practical insights into the benefits of using virtual assistant services to boost efficiency.   In this episode featuring Renee Hastings, President and CEO of Executive Help Now, host Chad Gill delves into Renee's extensive 15+ years in business management and her journey from starting as a receptionist to founding her own virtual assistance business. The conversation highlights the evolution of her company, which began with hiring her first virtual assistant to manage growing workloads and has since developed tailored packages for clients. Renee shares success stories, including how her services transformed a client’s overwhelmed business operations, emphasizing the importance of finding the right match between virtual assistants (VAs) and clients to reduce burnout. The dialogue also covers the critical role of trust and technology in the VA-client relationship, advocating for flexibility and gradual trust-building as essential components of successful collaborations.    Outline:  ️Introduction and Background [00:02 - 11:03] Virtual Assistant Business Growth [11:03 - 20:14] Client Success Stories and VA Benefits [20:14 - 28:38] Trust, Technology, and VA Integration [28:38 - 35:20] Follow Renee Hastings here:  Website: https://executivehelpnow.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneehastings17/  Renee Speaks Podcast on Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@ReneeHastings  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/executivehelpnow/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExecutiveHelpNow  X (formerly Twitter): https://www.twitter.com/executivehelpnw

    36 min
  4. NOV 9

    Game-Changing Tech for Safer Workplaces: A Deep Dive into Workers’ Compensation

    James Benham, the co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge, a multinational tech company he bootstrapped from his college dorm to over 280 employees across three continents. James has been at the forefront of innovation, leading JBKnowledge to develop industry-leading software for the world’s largest insurance companies. He’s also the co-founder of Terra, a cutting-edge claims management software transforming the Property and Casualty insurance space. Beyond his work in tech, James is a bestselling author, host of the popular InsurTech Geek Podcast, and a sought-after speaker who’s taken the stage at over 400 conferences, including TEDx. In his spare time, James pursues many hobbies including flying airplanes, ballroom dancing, playing guitar, singing and geeking out on tech. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn: • James Benham's journey from bootstrapping JBKnowledge to leading a global tech company • Evolution from general enterprise software to specialized insurance tech solutions • The impact of Terra software in managing workers' compensation for construction groups • Advantages of self-insured groups (SIGs) for cost-saving and incentivizing safety • Key technologies in accident prevention, including AI and safety training tools • Common construction claims and strategies for reducing ladder and fall-related incidents • Challenges in construction, like low tech adoption and policy lapses among subcontractors • How self-insurance options can offer contractors financial benefits and improved coverage In the latest episode of the Get the Intel podcast hosted by Chad Gill, James Benham, co-founder and CEO of JBKnowledge, shares his journey from bootstrapping a tech company in a college dorm to leading a successful enterprise with 280 employees across three continents. He discusses his evolution in the software industry, transitioning from building general enterprise solutions to creating specialized products like Terra for the insurance sector, particularly focusing on workers' compensation. James Benham explains the benefits of self-insured groups (SIGs) and the importance of safety training and technology in accident prevention, with insights on common claims in construction and the pivotal role of innovative solutions like AI in enhancing workplace safety. He highlights the challenges faced in the construction industry, such as low technology adoption and policy under coverage, suggesting that contractors investigate self-insurance groups for cost-saving opportunities. Follow James Benham here: Website: jamesbenham.com James Benham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbenham/ JBKnowledge Website: https://jbknowledge.com/ Terra Website: https://terra.insure/ InsurTech Geek Podcast: https://insurtechgeek.com/

    22 min
  5. OCT 9

    Transforming Construction with Clear Processes

    Angel Kirk is a visionary leader and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the CEO and business coaching world. As the CEO of J. Lane Construction, Angel brings a wealth of knowledge in leading and running a construction company, while also coaching businesses globally through her partnership with Jesse Lane Consulting. She’s not only an expert in both the business and technical aspects of construction but also passionate about empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  Structuring processes to address challenges in general contracting businesses. Importance of working on the business, not just in it. The delayed yet essential nature of process implementation. Company culture as a key factor in hiring and retention. Open communication and leadership in improving team dynamics. Fostering team adaptability to improve operational effectiveness. The role of personality assessments and one-on-one meetings for enhanced communication. Continuous improvement and problem-solving within construction organizations. In the latest episode of the Get the Intel podcast, hosted by Chad Gill, guest Angel Kirk, a seasoned CEO and business coach with over 20 years of experience, shares her insights on the construction industry's unique challenges. As the CEO of J. Lane Construction and a partner at Jesse Lane Consulting, Angel emphasizes the importance of structuring processes within general contracting businesses to alleviate common pain points faced by owners who excel in their trades but struggle with business management. Throughout the discussion, she highlights the delayed but necessary nature of process implementation, drawing parallels to nutrition where results take time. Angel also underscores the significance of company culture and the critical role of hiring for cultural fit. She advocates for open communication and a team-oriented approach to continuously improve and address both process and people-related challenges within organizations.   Check out Angel Kirk and J. Lane Construction here:  Website: http://jlane.com  Angel Kirk on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theangelkirk/

    24 min
  6. SEP 13

    Hiring the Right People with Culture Index

    Tiffany Slowinski, a seasoned entrepreneur and co-owner of three successful franchises alongside her husband, Jake. As a mother of four spirited daughters, Tiffany finds inspiration in both her family life and professional career. With a background as a former Vice President of Sales for a national franchise, Tiffany possesses expertise in optimizing work culture and driving tangible results. Leveraging her Master's degree in Psychology from Columbia University, Tiffany integrates tools like the Culture Index to enhance team dynamics and productivity. She has a unique approach that focuses on cultivating a positive and productive workplace environment, with a particular emphasis on hiring, retaining, and empowering top performers.  Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  • The value of using the Culture Index to enhance communication and team productivity. • Why understanding innate traits leads to better job fit and overall team satisfaction. • The importance of data-driven hiring and the 92% validity rate of the Culture Index survey. • How to tackle turnover issues and ensure the right people are in the right roles. • Tiffany's services and how to get remote consultations to improve your team's dynamics.  In this episode, host Chad Gill interviews Tiffany Slowinski, an entrepreneur and co-owner of three franchises, who shares insights on utilizing the Culture Index to enhance team dynamics and productivity. Tiffany, with her background as a former VP of sales and a Master's degree in Psychology from Columbia University, explains how the Culture Index measures innate traits versus occupational behaviors, allowing companies to understand their teams better and optimize workplace culture without necessarily replacing staff. The conversation highlights the significance of data-driven hiring processes, emphasizing the high validity rate of the Culture Index survey, and the importance of aligning candidate profiles with job needs. Tiffany also addresses the challenges of turnover and the costs associated with hiring misfits, advocating for the right-fit approach to staffing.  Follow Tiffany Slowinski here:  Website: https://www.teamsparkadvisors.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyslowinski/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/team_spark_advisors/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TeamSparkAdvisors  Resources Mentioned: Culture Index: https://www.cultureindex.com/  Entrepreneurs’ Organization: https://hub.eonetwork.org/

    33 min
  7. JUL 30

    Implementing EOS: Transforming Business Success

    Paul Meadows is a certified EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) implementer and the president of Integrated Technology Group, Inc., a role he has held for 16 years. With a rich background in IT spanning 25 years and extensive experience as a business owner and entrepreneur, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge and practical expertise to his work. As a seasoned EOS implementer, Paul has successfully guided numerous leadership teams in achieving their business goals. His academic credentials include an undergraduate degree in Business and Economics and a graduate degree in Executive Leadership, equipping him with a solid foundation to navigate the complexities of the EOS process. Paul’s lifelong entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to helping businesses thrive make him a highly effective and insightful guide in the world of EOS implementation. Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  • Insights from Paul Meadows' entrepreneurial journey and transition from IT to EOS implementation  • The critical role of EOS implementers in facilitating leadership teams  • How EOS helps businesses navigate challenges, including economic hurdles faced in 2020  • The structure and benefits of EOS across various industries  • The synergistic relationship between coaches and EOS implementers  • The importance of organizational core values and leadership in fostering a healthy company culture  • Key challenges in EOS implementation and the 'structure first, people second' approach  • The need for vulnerability and honesty in leadership discussions  In this episode, host Chad Gill interviews Paul Meadows, an experienced EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) implementer, who shares valuable insights from his entrepreneurial journey and his transition from IT to EOS implementation. Paul explores the critical role of EOS implementers in facilitating leadership teams, highlighting their importance in helping businesses navigate challenges, especially during the economic hurdles of 2020. He explains the structure and benefits of EOS, addresses common objections, and showcases its versatility across various industries.  The discussion also explores the synergistic relationship between coaches and implementers, emphasizing the significance of organizational core values and leadership in cultivating a healthy company culture. Paul outlines key challenges in EOS implementation, advocating for a 'structure first, people second' approach and stressing the need for vulnerability and honesty in leadership discussions. Action items from the session include exploring peer groups, considering personal coaching, implementing a business operating system, reinforcing core values, and evaluating the current organizational structure. Outline:  🎙️ Introduction and Background [00:03 - 10:32]  💼 EOS Implementation and Benefits [10:32 - 23:35]  🏗️ EOS Structure and Implementation Challenges [23:35 - 33:38]  🤝 Synergy between Coaches and Implementers [33:38 - 43:47]  📊 EOS Implementation Process and Challenges [43:47 - 51:25]  *** Welcome to Laminin Coaching's YouTube channel! Laminin Coaching revolutionizes construction business management by combining expert executive coaching with specialized remote support. Our services are crafted to tackle the unique challenges of the construction industry, offering a pathway to enhanced efficiency and leadership growth.  This episode is brought to you by VAs4Construction. VAs4Construction provide tailored support personnel for construction contractors. Whether as project admins, estimator support or executive assistants, leveraging remote personnel can keep your team doing what they love while getting the data you need.  Follow Laminin Coaching here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laminincoach/videos  Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5uX1Co3iAHjZdVZtWY7JeM  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/86906471/admin/feed/posts/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laminincoach/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/laminincoaching  X (formerly Twitter): https://twitter.com/LamininCoaching  Follow VAs4Construction here: Website: https://www.vas4construction.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vas-4-construction/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vas4construction/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560725886770  X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/vasconstruction?s=21  Follow Paul Meadows here:  Website: https://www.itghealthcare.com/   ITG on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/integrated-technology-group-inc/   Paul Meadows on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-meadows-1835658/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itgroupva   Resources mentioned in this episode:  Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS): https://www.eosworldwide.com/   J.J. Levenske on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjlevenske/   Traction by Gino Wickman: https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-book

    52 min
  8. JUL 24

    Growing Your Business Through Vision and Strategy

    JJ Levenske is the President and Co-Founder of Bleuwave, who brings over 28 years of experience in the construction and business solutions industry. Bleuwave is renowned for its comprehensive facilities-based solutions, combining capital, ecosystem, construction, and facility services to deliver innovative and sustainable projects. JJ is a passionate leader and entrepreneur, with expertise in business administration, project planning, and new business development. He also hosts the podcast MAC & Bleu, covering topics like economic development, leadership, and technology. JJ's goal is to elevate both his company and his community by sharing his valuable insights and experiences.    Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:  The background and rebranding of Bleuwave from its origins as School Builder. Bleuwave's growth strategy and their goal to reach $500 million in revenue. The role of technology and data management in Bleuwave's operations, including AI and VR/AR. Workforce development initiatives like Bleuwave University and the importance of company culture.   In this episode Chad Gill sits down with JJ Levenske, the president and co-founder of Bleuwave. JJ shares the journey of transitioning from School Builder to Bleuwave and discusses their comprehensive facilities solutions. We delve into their strategic growth plans, including the expansion into MEP services and their ambitious revenue goal of $500 million. JJ highlights the importance of technology and data management in their operations, with exciting plans to integrate AI and VR/AR technologies. Workforce development and company culture are key focuses, with initiatives like Bleuwave University and a strong emphasis on hiring for attitude.    Follow J.J. Levenske here:  Website: https://bleuwave.com/ Podcast https://macandbleu.com/  Bleuwave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bleuwave/  J.J. on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjlevenske/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQRNQbgnEMbXz25w6ZVn7BQ  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bleuwavegeneralcontracting/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bleuwaveconstruction/

    43 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

This is the "Get the Intel," podcast, presented by VAs 4 Construction. This podcast is your go-to for straightforward advice and stories from the construction industry. Join us as we talk with contractors who share their experiences and experts who offer practical tools and techniques to help your business run smoother. Whether you’re looking to solve a problem or simply seeking inspiration, we're here to help you manage your work and enjoy life.

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