Mission Control Podcast

Michael Stearns

Welcome to the Mission Control Podcast! Your host, Michael Stearns has many years in the digital marketing business, so he has plenty of wins & failures to share on the show.

  1. 6D AGO

    Bradley Dillon | ROI of Integrity | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the  Mission Control Podcast, Mike interviews Bradley Dillon of Virginia-based Dillon Roofing, a company celebrating 30 years since its founding by Bradley's father. Bradley details his "earned, not given" journey from a decade-long laborer to partner, emphasizing his efforts to modernize the "old school" business through CRM systems, digital roof measurements, and social media branding. The conversation explores the "gift and curse" of perfectionism, the power of organic word-of-mouth growth, and Bradley's commitment to maintaining high-quality craftsmanship over rapid, impersonal scaling. Ultimately, Bradley shares how intentionality and community trust—exemplified by over 100 five-star reviews—drive a business model focused on lasting relationships rather than just transactions.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Dillon Roofing:  Website: https://www.dillon-roofing.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DillonRoofing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dillon_roofing TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dillonroofing   Bradley Dillon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BradleyLewisDillon/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bradley_dillon/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    1h 4m
  2. APR 15

    Aaron Christy | Winning at Roofing | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Aaron Christy to discuss the growth of Indy Roof & Restoration and the specific marketing strategies used to dominate the Indianapolis market. A major focus is placed on leveraging real estate agents as "power partners" to generate high-quality leads with a $0 cost per acquisition. Aaron also breaks down his Google review hacks, specifically how to secure five-star reviews from every inspection, even when no damage is found, to build massive online authority. The duo further explores modern sales approaches, emphasizing character-driven hiring to avoid "sleazy" tactics and ensuring long-term brand trust   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Links Mentioned in Episode:  Check out Sharky's: https://www.facebook.com/SharkysonBrookside   Indy Roof & Restoration: Website: https://indyroofandrestoration.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Indyroofandrestoration X: https://x.com/RoofIndy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@indyroofandrestoration LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/indyroofandrestoration/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/indyroofandrestoration   Aaron Christy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaron.christy.79 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronchristy/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency  Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.  Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/  Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    1h 13m
  3. APR 15

    Chris Zimmerman | Sell Value, Not Price | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike sits down with Chris Zimmerman, co-founder of Master Your Craft, where they "teach contractors how to fish" to proactively protect homeowners and advance the roofing industry. Chris shares his "long-sighted" philosophy on building a sustainable business, detailing how he pivoted his company from 90% storm restoration to 70% retail by prioritizing systems, core values, and strategic partnerships over short-term "microwave" gratification. From mastering the psychology of sales through active listening to reducing marketing spend to under 1% by targeting partners instead of just leads, this conversation offers a masterclass in protecting your reputation and achieving long-term success in the roofing space.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Chris Zimmerman: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.zimmerman.79 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris_zimmerman4 Master Your Craft: Website: https://www.masteryourcraftgroup.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/masteryourcraftgroup   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    1h 19m
  4. APR 1

    Matt Grassmyer | Proactive Roofing Sales | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the mission control podcast Mike sits down with Matt Grassmyer, the Director of Outside Sales at HailTrace, a weather consulting company specializing in severe weather forensics. Matt shares how roofing companies can master customer acquisition before, during, and after a storm. He explains that the biggest mistake roofers make is waiting for weather to hit before seeking new opportunities , emphasizing the need to build brand awareness 365 days a year. Matt highlights using HailTrace's technology to monitor past customers' neighborhoods, providing peace of mind and generating easy referrals. He also covers post-storm follow-up strategies and using sales feedback to build a purposeful content calendar.    Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Check out Opus Clips:  https://www.opus.pro/   Check Out Hail Trace: Website: https://hailtrace.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HailTrace LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hail-trace/ Instragram: https://www.instagram.com/hailtrace   Matt Grassmyer Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matt.grassmyer LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-r-grassmyer/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency   Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mission-control-podcast/id1646120629 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1VX3wdC4b2j5Fb1V9V9yNo?si=8e1b139e5f1a4e87

    17 min
  5. MAR 30

    Danny Shannon | 16 Years Sober | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode, Mike sits down with Danny Shannon, who joins the show from Australia to share his incredible journey from the depths of addiction to 16 years of recovery. Danny's struggle began at age 14, leading to a daily heroin habit by 15 and nearly two decades of cycles involving incarceration and substance abuse. Throughout the conversation, Danny dives into the reality of early recovery anxiety, the importance of daily inventories for staying on track, and the inspiration behind his innovative app, Encapsulator. This platform allows users to record raw video messages to their future selves as a therapeutic tool for accountability and tracking personal growth, reflecting Danny's mission to help others find lasting serenity. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 Danny Shannon: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danny.shannon.395 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dannyshannon1908 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dan_the_man_46_/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-a-shannon-05a109163/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@danny_shannon_1975 Encapsulator App:  Website: https://encapsulator.io/ About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    45 min
  6. MAR 21

    Jeffrey Teitelbaum | Cop Turned Roofer | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike welcomes Jeffrey Teitelbaum, the owner of RST Roofing and Renovation based in Decatur, Georgia. Jeffrey shares the fascinating story of his career pivot from serving as an Atlanta police detective to working as an insurance adjuster, and finally launching his own roofing company in 2019 just months before the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on his background in finance and business, Jeffrey discusses his "slow burn" approach to growth, emphasizing organic SEO and brand presence over high-pressure lead generation services. The conversation explores the operational challenges of running a business, including his recent transition to AccuLynx for better reporting and a more professional customer experience. Looking ahead to 2026, Jeffrey sets an ambitious goal to dominate his market through consistent video content, focusing on "what to expect" guides and social proof to build deep trust with the next generation of homeowners.   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5   Jeffrey Teitelbaum: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeffrey.teitelbaum.5 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-t-a3270b1a/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jefftee89/   RST Roofing & Renovations: Website: https://rst-roofing.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rstroofingco YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RSTRoofingandRenovations Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rstroofing/   RST Roofing and Renovations is a premier roofing contractor in Georgia serving the Metro Atlanta area. As an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor with an A+ BBB rating, they specialize in high-quality residential and commercial roofing solutions, including full roof replacements, leak repairs, and storm damage restoration. Serving cities like Decatur, Marietta, and Smyrna, RST is known for its expertise in navigating the insurance claim process and providing thorough roof inspections. Their commitment to transparency and craftsmanship makes them a trusted name for asphalt shingles, metal roofing, and TPO systems across the region.   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency   Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    33 min
  7. MAR 20

    George Schiano | Don't Be Cheap | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the Mission Control podcast, Mike Stearns welcomes George Schiano, the owner of Epic Exteriors in New Jersey. George shares the compelling story of launching his business six years ago, driven to start his own LLC the very night his previous employer announced a cut to his sales commissions. Starting with a hyper-focus on roofing, George explains how he organically expanded his services to include siding, windows, doors, and more by fulfilling the requests of past clients who already trusted his work. The conversation explores his unique sales strategies, such as leading with 48 months of interest-free financing, and the importance of taking full accountability, highlighted by a wild story of making things right after a nail gun accidentally fell through a client's ceiling. Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5 George Schiano: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/george.schiano.58 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-schiano-2b052b1a7/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schiano39/ Epic Exteriors: Website: https://epicexteriorsnj.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EpicExteriorsNJ/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@epicexteriorsnj Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/epicexteriorsnj About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI. Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/ Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast! New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    54 min
  8. MAR 11

    Pete McKendrick | Roofing's "High Floor" Strategy | Mission Control Podcast

    In this episode of the Mission Control Podcast, Mike Stearns sits down with Pete McKendrick, the Product Strategy Lead at Roofr, to break down the shifting landscape of the roofing industry as it enters 2026. Reflecting on a "stormless" 2025 that saw many contractors struggling with a lack of weather-driven sales, Pete emphasizes the critical need for robust internal systems and business diversification into services like siding and gutters to maintain profitability during down years. The conversation dives deep into the "high floor" strategy for 2026, touching on the rising costs of customer acquisition and the emerging influence of AI-powered search engines on homeowner behavior. Pete offers a powerful piece of leadership advice for the year ahead   Interested in learning more about Roofr? Get your first roof measurement report for free: https://shorturl.at/quCQ5  Roofr: Website: https://roofr.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getroofr Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getroofr/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@getroofr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/roofr/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkQY-QKisn1rQSLwVgPIydQ    Pete McKendrick: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pete.mckendrick.7 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-mckendrick-089079174/   About Michael Stearns & Ascend Digital Agency   Ascend Digital Agency is a premier roofing-exclusive marketing agency founded by Michael Stearns, host of the Mission Control Podcast. Specializing in high-growth strategies for elite contractors, Ascend provides custom web design, precision Google Ads management, and advanced SEO, AEO, and AIO (AI Optimization). By combining deep roofing industry expertise with cutting-edge search technology, Michael and his team help contractors transition from lead-chasers to market leaders. Based on a brand-first philosophy, Ascend Digital Agency is the definitive partner for roofing companies looking to scale through transparency, technical excellence, and proven ROI.   Work with Ascend Digital Agency: Website: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/ Request a Consultation: https://ascenddigitalexperts.com/contact/   Follow Michael Stearns: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstearns/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.stearns.16 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/   Follow Ascend Digital Agency: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeoffwithascend/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/takeoffwithascend/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ascenddigital   Subscribe to Mission Control Podcast!   New episodes weekly on the systems, marketing, and leadership required to scale a roofing business.

    23 min
5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Mission Control Podcast! Your host, Michael Stearns has many years in the digital marketing business, so he has plenty of wins & failures to share on the show.

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