Service Business Mastery for Skilled Trades: HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical Home Service

Skilled Trades Syndicate - Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch
  • 4.9 (88)
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  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Ready to revolutionize your home service business? Tune into the Service Business Mastery Podcast! We dive deep into automation and AI, including swarm agents, AI chatbots, and AI voice agents, to help you streamline and optimize your operations. Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or any other home service trade, we cover leadership, marketing, finance, pricing, and HR to give you the edge you need. Click here to transform your business and embrace the future today!

  1. 6D AGO

    Why Contractors Who Don't Own Their Customer List Will Lose

    Contractors who do not own their customer list will lose. As AI, search, and digital platforms continue to change, relying on Google, ads, or third party platforms puts your business at risk. In this episode of Service Business Mastery, we break down why owning your customer list is no longer optional for contractors and service business owners who want to survive and scale in the next decade. Joshua Crouch and Tersh Blissett sit down with Peter Murphy Lewis, founder of Strategic Pete, to explain how contractors can protect their business by building direct relationships with their audience, increasing client loyalty, and using AI driven systems without giving control to platforms they do not own. Search is changing. Ads are getting more expensive. Algorithms decide who wins and who disappears. If you do not own your audience, you are renting your business. This conversation explains exactly why owning your list matters more than ever and how contractors can start taking control now. What you will learn in this episode • Why contractors who rely only on ads and search are at risk • How AI is accelerating changes in customer acquisition • Why owning your customer list creates long term stability • How client loyalty protects your business during market shifts • The difference between renting attention and owning relationships • How to use content and systems to stay in front of your audience • Practical ways contractors can start building their list today This episode is for contractors and service business owners who want predictable growth, lower marketing risk, and long term control over their business. Timestamps 00:00 Why owning your customer list matters now 02:10 How AI is changing search and digital marketing 05:30 Why contractors lose when they rent attention 09:40 Client loyalty and long term business survival 14:30 Fractional leadership and strategic marketing explained 19:45 Why content builds ownership not dependence 25:20 Using systems to stay in front of your audience 31:40 How contractors can start owning their list 38:00 LinkedIn, partnerships, and direct relationships 43:10 Final lessons for contractors Follow the Host and Guest: Tersh Blissett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Josh Crouch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crouch/ Peter Murphy Lewis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermurphylewis/ Strategic Pete: https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-pete/   Connect with us on: • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-business-mastery • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@servicebusinessmastery • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/servicebusinessmasterypodcast This episode is kindly sponsored by: UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm priceguide   Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod Subscribe now to stay updated with Service Business Mastery on YouTube!

    46 min

  2. JAN 21

    How Contractors Can Automate Their Business Without Losing Control

    In this episode of the Service Business Mastery Podcast, host Tersh Blissett sits down with Ari Meisel, Founder of Less Doing and creator of the Optimize, Automate, Outsource framework. Ari is a globally recognized expert in business automation, productivity systems, and operational efficiency, with deep hands-on experience in the construction and skilled trades. Ari shares how extreme burnout and a Crohn's disease diagnosis forced him to redesign how he worked, leading to a system that allowed him to reclaim time, reduce stress, and build a business that runs without constant owner involvement. This conversation dives deep into automation for service businesses, decision-making systems, and what it really means to become a replaceable founder. In this episode, you'll learn: How to identify automation opportunities in your service business Why automating decisions is more powerful than automating tasks The "Replaceable Founder" mindset every business owner needs How automation reduces stress and increases scalability Real-world systems for reclaiming time without sacrificing growth If you're an HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or home service business owner feeling stuck in daily operations, this episode breaks down practical automation strategies, how to identify repetitive work, and how small system changes compound into massive time freedom. Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] "Ari's Impact on Email Automation" [06:15] "Masonry, Hardship, and Health Struggles" [07:25] "Optimize, Automate, Outsource Strategies" [12:32] Building Sustainable Generational Businesses [15:45] "Optimize, Automate, Outsource Effectively" [19:43] "Prioritizing Revenue in Business" [22:24] "Automation Enhances the Human Element" [25:52] "Asynchronous Communication Explained" [29:20] "Benefits of Solo Voice Recording" [30:46] "Creativity Comes with Movement" [36:38] Flexible Work Beyond Boundaries [39:12] iPhone Screenshot Automation Exploration [41:32] "Apps I've Used for Years" [46:54] Building Apps and Voice AI [47:38] "Switching to MEM AI Tools" [52:05] "Retirement via Automation Skills" [54:53] "Connect with Ari for Insights" Follow the Host and Guest: Tersh Blissett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Josh Crouch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crouch/ Ari Meisel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/productivity-coach-entrepreneur/   Connect with us on: • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-business-mastery • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@servicebusinessmastery • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/servicebusinessmasterypodcast This episode is kindly sponsored by: UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm priceguide Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod Subscribe now to stay updated with Service Business Mastery on YouTube!

    56 min

  3. JAN 14

    What Homeowners Actually Want From Contractors

    If you're in the skilled trades like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or any service where the phone rings with "Hey, my system isn't working," this episode of SBM, "What Homeowners Actually Want" with Zachary Dearing, co-founder of Mantel, breaks down real homeowner insights pulled directly from Mantel's survey data. The conversation translates the findings of the Mantel's survey "Homeowner Shopping Attitudes Report 2025" (https://www.usemantel.com/survey) into practical takeaways, making it a cheat sheet into how homeowners think, choose, and spend. Here's why you should listen, especially if you: Want to make more from every visit (yes, without feeling like a pushy home comfort advisor). Are stuck trying to grow your business, because you keep hearing "You're too expensive" or "Let me think about it." Need clarity on what ACTUALLY matters to modern homeowners. Spoiler: it's not just the dollar amount. Are tired of home comfort "gurus" who can't back up their advice with hard data. If you want real, actionable ways to improve your process before, during, and after the visit grab the report the team discusses at usemantel.com/survey. It's built on actual fieldwork, not fantasy. Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] "Service Business Growth Strategies" [04:52] "Self-Discovery in Decision-Making" [08:57] "Persistence and Overcoming Dyslexia" [10:48] "Overcoming Fears Through Automation" [16:22] "Customer Obsession and User Focus" [18:52] "Research-Driven Innovation and Giving Back" [24:00] "Homeowner Priorities vs. Contractors" [27:24] "Homeowners' HVAC Knowledge Gap" [30:18] "Call Tracking for Smarter Marketing" [31:30] "How Homeowners Find Contractors" [36:00] "Trust and Reviews Drive Choices" [40:52] "Home Recording Insights & Sales" [43:26] "Homeowners Struggle to Find Clarity" [47:46] "AI, Trends, and Future Insights" [49:52] "Empowering Contractors to Boost Sales" [51:55] Empowering Homeowners Through Visibility [57:29] "Embrace Change and Adaptation" [58:30] "Service Business Mastery Insights" Tersh Blissett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tershblissett/ Josh Crouch: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-crouch/ Zac Dearing: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-dearing-b761b825/  Connect with us on: • LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-business-mastery • TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@servicebusinessmastery • Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/servicebusinessmasterypodcast • Mantel Website - www.usemantel.com Homeowner Shopping Attitudes Report 2025: • Full Survey - https://www.usemantel.com/survey This episode is kindly sponsored by: UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm priceguide Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod Subscribe now to stay updated with Service Business Mastery on YouTube!

    59 min

  4. JAN 7

    Why Promoting Your Best Technician Almost Always Backfires

    Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte 🚀 Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod In this episode of the Service Business Mastery Podcast, we sat down for an insightful discussion with Justin Deese, host of the Freedom Blueprint podcast and creator of the Service Manager Academy. We talked about how to turn top technicians into effective service managers. Here's what we cover in this episode: Common mistakes we see when promoting technicians to managers How to set boundaries with coworkers, friends, and even spouses Leadership and communication tactics that actually work in the trades Essential tools and systems for running a high performing service team Creating a culture of accountability without micromanaging If you run a home service business like HVAC, plumbing, or electrical, this episode is packed with practical strategies and insights to help your managers succeed and your business grow. Timestamps ⏰(Video) 00:00 Leadership, Delegation, and Growth 04:06 Veteran in Home Service Industry 06:27 Life's Many Conversations on Walks 12:00 Boundaries Between Work and Life 14:18 Date Night Struggles 19:04 Leadership and Business Growth 19:51 Service Manager Academy Creation 25:13 Promoting Top Talent Pitfalls 28:47 From Chaos to Leadership 31:28 Encouraging Problem-Solving Independently 35:18 Streamlined One-to-One Accountability 36:32 Addressing Persistent Performance Issues 39:32 Exceptional Communication Drives Success 42:46 Service Business Mastery Advice This episode is kindly sponsored by: UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm priceguide Connect with us! Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates! Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com Affiliate links: Castmagic StreamYard IfTTT Zyra Talk

    45 min

  5. 12/31/2025

    Google vs ChatGPT in Local Search and What Actually Ranks in 2026 with Darren Shaw

    Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte   🚀 Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod __________________________________________   Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast! Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com   In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Darren Shaw. He is the founder of Whitespark, a company specializing in local SEO software and services, and a recognized local SEO educator with more than 45,000 newsletter subscribers, 10,000+ YouTube subscribers and 3,000+ email course sign-ups. He leads the annual Local Search Ranking Factors Survey, one of the most frequently cited resources in local SEO, and regularly speaks at local search conferences worldwide while contributing to leading SEO publications. With 27 years of experience in web development and SEO, his career began well before Google existed.   In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:  How Darren helped businesses improve local search rankings through reviews and content. Why customer reviews and video content are essential for standing out online. How AI tools are transforming local SEO and saving time on content creation. Why backlinks are becoming less important and reviews are gaining more focus. Practical tips for using smart marketing strategies to boost your business's growth.   Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] - Recap [02:11] - Episode Introduction & Meeting Darren Shaw [03:02] - Darren Shaw's Background and 25+ Years in Local SEO [06:79] - Importance of Review Recency in Local SEO [09:69] - The Decline of Backlinks in Local SEO [10:71] - Review Diversification and Google's Role in Reviews [18:10] - The Future of Search: Google vs. AI-driven Tools [20:47] - Content Relevance in the Age of AI and Google AI Integration [22:61] - The Role of YouTube in Local Search and Content Strategy [27:42] - Using Content, AI, and Videos for Effective Local SEO [35:67] - The Role of Email Marketing and Lead Magnets in Local SEO [46:20] - The Future of Local Search and Google's AI Integration If you found this conversation with Darren Shaw helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉). Links & References: LinkedIn:  Darren Shaw Whitespark   Website:  Whitespark   Youtube:  Whitespark   This episode is kindly sponsored by: Sera UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm priceguide Connect with us! Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates! Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com Affiliate links: Castmagic StreamYard IfTTT Zyra Talk

    50 min

  6. 12/24/2025

    2025 Recap for Service Business Owners to Learn Real Growth Wins and Apply Them in 2026

    Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte 🚀 Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod __________________________________________ Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast! Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett, Co-Founder & Chief Experience Officer at Trade Automation Pros, CEO of Service Emperor, Co-Host & Founder of Service Business Mastery Podcast, and Josh Crouch, Founder of Relentless Digital Marketing Solutions & Co-Host of Service Business Mastery Podcast, talk about the key strategies that can drive success for home service businesses. They share how pricing transparency, strong community connections, and effective marketing help businesses stand out and grow. They also discuss the role of AI tools in improving operations, saving time, and creating more content. Tune in to learn how to simplify your business focus and make smarter decisions for long-term growth. In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:  Why pricing transparency and clear estimates can drive more leads and build trust. How community involvement and networking help businesses grow. The importance of focusing on one thing and avoiding distractions for success. Why AI tools and automation are key to saving time and improving operations. How simplifying your marketing strategy can lead to better results.   Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] - Recap [02:36] - Episode Introduction [05:48] - Building Strong Customer Relationships [06:29] - Avoiding Information Overload & Staying Focused [10:08] - 20+ Events, Hosting Their Own, and Keynote Training [11:47] - Standout Events: BDR Spark, Branding & Differentiation [13:49] - AI Trend Fatigue & Contractor Skepticism [17:26] - Wearable AI 'External Brain' & Personal Productivity [20:25] - First Major Keynote: Nerves, Preparation & Delivery [23:01] - Speaking on Stage vs. Breakouts & Audience Dynamics [26:55] - Biggest Interview Surprises & Data from Homeowner Surveys [30:04] - Recommended Starting Episode for New Listeners [34:11] - Industry Challenges: Tariffs, Regulations & Consumer Shifts [37:34] - Embarrassing Moments On-Air & On Stage [40:11] - Favourite Podcast Moments & Listener Reflections [42:45] - Looking Ahead to 2026 & New AI Product Direction [46:18] - What Topics Should We Cover in 2026? [48:09] - Your 2026 Business Changes? Scaling Up or Down If you found this conversation helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉). Links & References: LinkedIn:  Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Trade Automation Pros Service Emperor Service Business Mastery Podcast Relentless Digital Marketing Solutions   Website:  Trade Automation Pros Service Emperor Service Business Mastery Podcast Relentless Digital Marketing Solutions   Youtube:  Service Business Mastery Podcast This episode is kindly sponsored by: Sera UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm Lace.ai priceguide Connect with us! Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates! Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com Affiliate links: Castmagic StreamYard IfTTT Zyra Talk

    55 min

  7. 12/17/2025

    Missed Calls in HVAC for Contractors to Stop Killing Growth by Fixing Operations - Crystal Williams

    Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte 🚀 Get Your 14-Day Free Trial with CallRail! 👉 Visit: https://www.callrail.com/sbmpod __________________________________________   Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast! Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com   In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett and Josh Crouch talk with Crystal Williams at AHR Expo 2025. She is the Co-Founder of Lemon Seed Marketing, Marketing Strategist at McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing & Co-Host of From The Yellow Chair Podcast. Crystal shares how she helped grow her family's HVAC business from a small operation into a $10 million company across three locations. She explains why strong branding, clear messaging, and solid operations must work together for long-term success. Crystal also talks about the power of local marketing, smart content strategies, and using AI tools to save time. Learn how to build a brand that stands out and keeps your business growing.   In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:  How Crystal helped grow a rural HVAC business to $10 million in sales. Why answering the phone and improving operations helps marketing work better. The value of branding with purpose and telling your company's story clearly. Tips for using local events, teams, and content to build strong community ties. How AI tools can help create content faster without losing your voice.   Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] - Recap [03:12] - Episode Introduction & Meeting Crystal Williams [06:01] - What Lemon Seed Does for Contractors [08:08] - Crystal's Background in HVAC and Business Growth [12:52] - Stop Blaming Your Digital Marketing Agency [17:35] - Repurposing Content with AI for More Reach [22:23] - From the Yellow Chair: Crystal's Own Podcast [26:36] - How to Avoid Losing Clients During a Rebrand [31:12] - Protecting Your Brand Reputation in the Field [35:50] - What to Expect in ROI from Branding [39:50] - Best ROI for Community Involvement If you found this conversation with Crystal Williams helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉). Links & References: LinkedIn:  Crystal Williams Lemon Seed Marketing McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing From the Yellow Chair   Website:  Lemon Seed Marketing McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing From The Yellow Chair Podcast   Youtube:  From The Yellow Chair Podcast This episode is kindly sponsored by: Sera UpFrog CallRail CompanyCam Visit CompanyCam and use code SBM for a free 2-week trial, 1:1 training and account setup, and 50% off your first two months! MarketStorm Lace.ai priceguide Connect with us! Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates! Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com Affiliate links: Castmagic StreamYard IfTTT Zyra Talk

    46 min

  8. 12/15/2025

    The Power of Reinvention for Female Leaders to Thrive After Fame & Find Purpose with Danica Patrick

    Learn how to automate tasks, save time, and increase your profit. No Coding required! 👉 Enroll Today - https://bit.ly/3CZTDte __________________________________________ Welcome to the Service Business Mastery Podcast! Visit our website for more episodes and insights! https://www.servicebusinessmastery.com   In this episode of the Service Business Mastery podcast, Tersh Blissett & Josh Crouch chat with Danica Patrick, Race Car Driver, Host of the Pretty Intense Podcast, an Entrepreneur, and Motivational Speaker at Service World Expo. She shares how she transitioned from a successful racing career to building her own business ventures. Danica explains how passion, vision, and strong teams are key to long-term success. She also discusses the importance of goal setting, staying true to your vision, and how to overcome challenges in both racing and business. Learn how belief in your goals and dedication can drive growth and fulfillment in your career.   In this episode, here's what you can expect to learn:  How Danica transitioned from a racing career to entrepreneurship. Why having a clear vision and staying dedicated is key to success. The importance of building strong teams and staying true to your goals. How to overcome challenges in both business and racing. Ways belief in your vision can lead to long-term growth and fulfillment.   Timestamps ⏰ [00:00] – Recap [01:08] – Episode Introduction & Meeting Danica Patrick [01:30] – The Road to Racing & Breaking Barriers [02:17] – Finding Success in Racing [03:56] – The Role of Timing and Luck in Success [06:58] – Transitioning to NASCAR [09:05] – Podcasting and Trade Show Conversations [09:54] – The Business Transition from Racing to Entrepreneurship [12:13] – Building a Team and Trust in Business [13:27] – The Struggles of Capital and Decision Making in Startups [15:19] – Black Mirror and Technology's Growing Influence If you found this conversation with Danica Patrick helpful, please leave us a review (5 stars would be greatly appreciated 😉). Links & References:   LinkedIn:  Danica Patrick   Website:  Danica Patrick Pretty Intense Podcast Connect with us! Tersh Blissett Josh Crouch Join the Service Business Mastery Facebook group for more updates! Visit our website: www.servicebusinessmastery.com Affiliate links: Castmagic StreamYard IfTTT Zyra Talk

    17 min
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4.9
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About

Ready to revolutionize your home service business? Tune into the Service Business Mastery Podcast! We dive deep into automation and AI, including swarm agents, AI chatbots, and AI voice agents, to help you streamline and optimize your operations. Whether you're in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or any other home service trade, we cover leadership, marketing, finance, pricing, and HR to give you the edge you need. Click here to transform your business and embrace the future today!

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