Born For The Trades: A Home Service Podcast

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"Born For The Trades: A Home Service Podcast" is a weekly podcast hosted by Mandeep Bhalla that aims to inspire and educate home services business owners. Each episode features successful industry leaders, like Tommy Mello, Ken Goodrich, and more, who share their stories and provide valuable insights into the home services industries. Through its focus on the successes of well-known business owners, "Born For The Trades" provides a unique perspective on the home services industry and offers valuable insights and advice for those looking to grow their businesses.

  1. AI Meets the Human Touch: The Future of Customer Experience in Home Services

    11/13/2025

    AI Meets the Human Touch: The Future of Customer Experience in Home Services

    The world of home services is changing fast, and today on Born For The Trades, host Mandeep sits down with someone who’s been shaping that change for years. Brigham Dickinson, President of Power Selling Pros and founder of the Power Certification Program, returns to the show to dive deep into one of the hottest topics transforming every industry right now: artificial intelligence. Since 2009, Brigham has helped contractors across the U.S., Canada, and Australia turn their call centers into customer-experience powerhouses with a bold guarantee that teams will book at least 85% of their calls. But what happens when AI enters the picture? Can technology truly deliver the same “Wow!” moment that Brigham has built his entire philosophy around? In this episode, Brigham and Mandeep explore the crossroads of automation and authenticity. Brigham shares his candid take on AI chatbots and voice assistants, and whether they can ever match the warmth and empathy of a human voice. He believes technology should enhance human connection, not replace it, and he offers a powerful framework for how contractors can use AI to support their teams rather than distance themselves from their customers.  Listeners will get a behind-the-scenes look at the latest AI tools reshaping customer service, from smart call routing to emotion-recognition technology, and how these innovations can help home service businesses stay ahead of the curve. But Brigham doesn’t just focus on tools; he dives into mindset. He emphasizes accountability, excellence, and the idea that creating unforgettable experiences starts with genuine care for people. For Brigham, the key to future success isn’t choosing between humans and machines; it’s understanding how both can work together to create something even better. As he puts it, “AI can make us faster, but only empathy makes us memorable.” If you’re a contractor, business owner, or team leader wondering how to embrace AI without losing your human edge, this episode is a must-listen. You’ll walk away inspired to rethink your customer interactions, reimagine your call-handling process, and reignite that spark that keeps customers coming back again and again. Tune in to Born For The Trades and hear from one of the industry’s most passionate voices about what it really takes to deliver excellence in the age of AI because the future of home services isn’t just smart… It’s human. Support the show

    36 min

  2. 10/08/2025

    Door-to-Door Isn’t Dead: How Contractors Can Sell With Authority in 2025

    In this episode of Born For The Trades, Mandeep sits down with one of the most disruptive voices in sales today: Sam Wakefield. An international best-selling author, coach, and host of the Close It Now Podcast, Sam’s mission is to help contractors break out of the price-cutting spiral and start selling with confidence, authority, and real results.  Right out of the gate, Sam tackles a hot take that turns heads: door-to-door sales aren’t dead, they’re evolving. In fact, they're making a bold comeback. He explains how too many contractors rely entirely on digital leads and miss out on the power of real-world connections. The truth? The trades are about trust, and nothing builds it faster than showing up at the door, being human, and being helpful.  But don’t expect scripts and sleazy tactics here. Sam dives deep into his core belief that identity beats scripts every time. He explains what a “sales identity” really is, and why knowing who you are, and how you show up, will always outperform the perfect pitch. If you’ve ever felt like you're "faking it" during a sale, this part is a game-changer. One of the most practical segments? Sam’s take on the dreaded “three bids” objection. You’ll learn how to shift the narrative so you're not one of three; you’re the only choice that makes sense. Sam shares how contractors can move from competing on price to competing on value by reframing the way they educate and engage homeowners. He also shares real-world guerrilla marketing wins, including one story where a low-cost, boots-on-the-ground campaign outperformed a digital ad budget 10x its size. His philosophy is clear: don’t wait for leads. Create your own momentum. And he shows you exactly how to do it. For any contractor trapped in the "discount to win" mindset, Sam lays out a first step that’s simple, but not easy: stop chasing volume and start building authority. He shows how high-ticket sales aren’t about saying more; they’re about saying the right things, to the right people, with total clarity on value. Whether you’re a business owner, sales lead, or a technician trying to step into selling, this episode offers a fresh, no-fluff roadmap for turning shaky conversations into confident closes. This one’s for the contractors who are done racing to the bottom and ready to rise to the top. Support the show

    41 min
  3. From the Trenches to Tech: AJ Jain’s Mission to Revolutionize the Trades with AI

    09/24/2025

    From the Trenches to Tech: AJ Jain’s Mission to Revolutionize the Trades with AI

    From the back office of a plumbing shop to the frontline of AI innovation, AJ Jain’s journey is anything but ordinary. In this episode, Mandeep sits down with the mind behind Broccoli AI, a platform that was literally built shoulder-to-shoulder with contractors, not in a Silicon Valley boardroom. AJ shares how a 4-hour daily commute, a hands-on plumber named Marcel, and a relentless obsession with solving real problems led to an AI platform now transforming the way home service pros do business. But this isn't just another tech story; it’s a blueprint for innovation grounded in grit and empathy. AJ dives into the early days of Broccoli AI, when he realized contractors didn’t need bells and whistles; they needed time back, smoother operations, and real, practical help. You'll hear how a single conversation with a plumber sparked the creation of a tool now used to automate everything from scheduling to customer follow-ups. Mandeep challenges AJ on the skepticism many in the trades have toward artificial intelligence. AJ doesn't dodge the question. Instead, he shares exactly why this tech isn’t just for big companies, and how contractors are using it today in ways even he didn’t expect. From voice-powered job notes to instant customer responses, this isn’t AI for the future, it’s AI for right now/  We also get a raw look at the missteps and tough lessons AJ learned while entering a world where trust matters more than trends. He opens up about what it takes to earn the respect of tradespeople, and why solving for the human, not just the process, is Broccoli’s North Star. If you're a contractor wondering whether technology has a place in your growth story, this episode will leave you fired up. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, AJ offers one simple, powerful piece of advice that might just change how you think about your next move. Visit www.broccoli.com for more info! This is the kind of episode that makes you believe that the trades aren't just evolving, they're leading. Support the show

    32 min
  4. Not Just for Tech Bros: How AI is Revolutionizing the Trades with Jonathan Mast

    09/10/2025

    Not Just for Tech Bros: How AI is Revolutionizing the Trades with Jonathan Mast

    Alright, trade pros, today’s episode of Born For The Trades flips the script on how you think about growing your home service business. We’re not talking about tools, trucks, or technicians. We’re diving into something most contractors don’t even realize they need: artificial intelligence. Mandeep sits down with Jonathan Mast, founder of White Beard Strategies and creator of the Perfect Prompting Framework. Jonathan has helped over half a million entrepreneurs and business owners take the guesswork out of using AI. His specialty? Making AI simple, practical, and wildly effective, even for garage door pros, HVAC companies, plumbers, roofers, and anyone else in the home service space.  In this episode, Jonathan debunks the biggest myth in the trades: that AI is just for tech startups. He shares real-world ways that home service business owners can use tools like ChatGPT or Claude to save hours of time, cut unnecessary costs, and even enhance the customer experience. Whether it’s automating basic office tasks, creating powerful marketing content, or improving lead follow-up systems, Jonathan shows you how AI can do the heavy lifting without replacing your team’s expertise. We also dig into the most common mistakes people make when diving into AI, and how Jonathan’s Perfect Prompting Framework helps business owners ask better questions, get better results, and avoid the trap of generic, useless outputs. If you’ve ever tried AI and felt underwhelmed, this conversation is a must-listen. Mandeep also presses Jonathan on a key issue: the role of human creativity. Jonathan makes it clear that AI is a tool, not a replacement for judgment, experience, or personality, and when used right, it can actually amplify your strengths as a business owner. You’ll also hear how AI is set to change local marketing over the next few years, and one powerful story of a small business that used Jonathan’s approach to completely turn things around. If you’ve been curious about AI but didn’t know where to start, or if you tried it and gave up, this episode is your guide to unlocking its real potential in the trades. Support the show

    42 min
  5. Google Leads vs. Social Leads: What Actually Converts

    08/27/2025

    Google Leads vs. Social Leads: What Actually Converts

    Alright trade pros, buckle up for a no-fluff episode packed with gold. Today on Born For The Trades, your host Mandeep sits down with one of the most respected voices in garage door marketing, Robb Leishman. Robb is the Founder and Co-Owner of Legit5 Garage Door Marketing, the brains behind some of the most recognizable garage door brands out there. He’s a sales expert with a deep understanding of what actually converts in the real world. If you’ve ever wondered why some leads close fast and others fizzle out, this is the conversation you need to hear.  Robb brings his years of experience and hard-earned insights to the mic as we dive into a topic that’s become a battleground for many in the trades — Google leads versus social media leads. These two sources are not created equal, and Robb makes it clear why understanding the mindset behind each one is critical if you want to scale your business. You’ll learn how intent plays a massive role in the customer journey, and why chasing likes won’t always turn into dollars. Mandeep asks the tough questions. What’s the real difference between these two lead types? How should your team respond differently to a Google searcher versus someone who clicked a Facebook ad? Robb breaks it down with examples, calling out the biggest mistakes home service companies make when they treat all leads the same. From messaging and follow-up timing to which platform deserves your focus first, this episode gives you the tools to finally stop wasting money and start closing more jobs. You’ll also get a peek into Robb’s bestselling book Garage Door Gameplan and hear one tactic that applies directly to navigating the two very different lead mindsets. Whether you’re a new business owner or a seasoned pro trying to fine-tune your marketing strategy, Robb lays out a clear path forward that balances quick wins with long-term growth.  This isn’t just another marketing episode. It’s a wake-up call for anyone in the trades who’s tired of chasing leads that don’t convert. Robb’s insights apply beyond garage doors and can help any home service entrepreneur get smarter about where they spend their money and how they handle their prospects. Press play and get ready to look at your leads in a whole new way. Support the show

    47 min

  6. 08/13/2025

    From Rock Bottom to $94M: Aaron Gaynor on Purpose, Power & Reinvention

    In this episode of Born For The Trades, host Mandeep sits down with a true force in the home service industry: Aaron Gaynor, CEO and Founder of The Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians, which is a $94 million and growing business empire rooted in Ohio. But don’t let the success fool you…Aaron’s journey is built on failure, grit, and an unstoppable mindset. Aaron’s story is one of total reinvention. After losing everything during the 2007 crash, he rebuilt from scratch, and not just his business, but himself. From embracing high-level personal development (yes, he literally ran with the bulls) to building a powerhouse team culture, Aaron shares how purpose, not profit, became the driving force behind his comeback. In this candid and powerful conversation, Aaron explains how ECO University is creating real change in the trades by helping team members chase their goals, not just punch the clock. He dives deep into how giving employees personal purpose translates into unstoppable company culture and scalable growth. If you’re trying to push past that $2M or $5M ceiling in your business, his advice is real, raw, and actionable. Aaron also unpacks how entrepreneurial systems like EOS have helped him bring structure and clarity to a fast-scaling business, and why more home service companies should start thinking like CEOs, not just operators. From mindset to mechanics, this is a masterclass in what it takes to build something bigger than yourself. And of course, we dig into how AI is shifting the landscape of the trades, and what business owners need to do right now to stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re just getting started or trying to scale to the next level, this episode will leave you inspired, challenged, and ready to rethink what’s truly possible. Aaron doesn’t hold back, and after listening, you’ll understand why he was born for the trades. Support the show

    48 min
  7. Operational Freedom & Marketing That Works with April Edwards

    08/06/2025

    Operational Freedom & Marketing That Works with April Edwards

    In this latest episode of Born for the Trades, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with my good friend and fellow marketing powerhouse, April Edwards — founder of Deck Builder Marketers. April is a digital marketing expert with over 15 years of experience, and she’s made a name for herself by helping deck builders grow with clarity, strategy, and serious results. We’re both part of an incredible community that supports each other in business and beyond, and I’ve always admired her no-BS approach to marketing and her passion for helping tradespeople build freedom-driven businesses. We kicked things off by diving into her journey — how she transitioned from general digital marketing into carving out a niche focused exclusively on deck builders. April shared how she saw a gap in the market, recognized the opportunity to create real impact in a visual and in-demand trade, and went all in. That move led her to develop the Deck Builder Marketing System — a structured, proven formula that helps contractors dominate locally, boost their profits, and reclaim their time. One of the most insightful parts of our conversation was around the concept of "operational freedom." April broke down what that means for a deck builder — the ability to work on the business instead of being stuck in it — and how strategic marketing can be the key to unlocking that freedom. We also covered the common marketing mistakes she sees all the time in the home services space — like relying too much on word of mouth or not having a real strategy — and how contractors can fix these fast with just a few focused steps. Of course, I had to ask her to unpack her Deck Builder Marketing System in detail. She explained how it goes beyond just ads or SEO — it’s about building a full ecosystem that works together to attract, convert, and retain ideal clients. Since deck building is such a visual trade, we discussed the power of photos, videos, and content marketing. April shared real examples of how deck builders can leverage before-and-afters, project walk-throughs, and customer testimonials to instantly boost their credibility and stand out in a crowded market. We also talked about what the journey looks like when a business goes from “we need leads” to “we’re fully booked and building a brand.” April laid out how she helps contractors grow step by step, without getting overwhelmed by shiny new marketing trends. Finally, April shared a gold nugget for listeners — if you’re a deck builder (or in any trade, honestly) and you want to take your marketing seriously, start today. Pick one thing — update your website, claim your Google profile, post a project — just take action. This episode was packed with insight, stories, and real-world takeaways. April is a rockstar in the home service marketing space, and I’m grateful to call her a friend and peer. Tune in now, and don’t forget to share this with someone in the trades who needs to hear it! Support the show

    48 min
  8. Show Up and Scale: How Contractors Can Win Big with Social Media with Jen McKee

    05/21/2025

    Show Up and Scale: How Contractors Can Win Big with Social Media with Jen McKee

    What if the secret to scaling your home service business isn't more trucks or more tools—but showing up online with purpose? In this episode of Born For The Trades, host Mandeep sits down with Jen McKee, the sharp and savvy founder of Kee Hart Marketing, to explore why social media isn't just marketing—it's a business growth engine. Jen is no stranger to the spotlight. She’s a 5x award-winning marketer, a 2024 40 Under 40 honoree, and the creator of the Show Up, Stand Out, Scale framework that’s turning heads across the trades industry. From HVAC pros to electricians and landscapers, Jen has helped countless contractors transform their online presence into a lead-generating, talent-attracting machine. In this episode, she shares powerful insights on what makes social content pop in today’s crowded feeds—and how service professionals can take control of their brand voice. Mandeep asks all the right questions: Why is social media such a game-changer for the trades? How can small companies stay consistent without burning out? And what should you be filming today if you want to start making video content that actually moves the needle? Jen doesn’t hold back. She reveals the biggest mistakes she sees in contractor content, shares practical tips for turning culture into a recruiting magnet, and even gives listeners one simple action step they can take immediately after the episode to start improving their social presence. Whether you’re a business owner trying to scale or a marketer looking for smarter strategies, this episode will leave you inspired—and ready to show up and stand out. Support the show

    47 min
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About

"Born For The Trades: A Home Service Podcast" is a weekly podcast hosted by Mandeep Bhalla that aims to inspire and educate home services business owners. Each episode features successful industry leaders, like Tommy Mello, Ken Goodrich, and more, who share their stories and provide valuable insights into the home services industries. Through its focus on the successes of well-known business owners, "Born For The Trades" provides a unique perspective on the home services industry and offers valuable insights and advice for those looking to grow their businesses.

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