The Catalyst for the Trades

The Catalyst for the Trades.
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MARKETING

Are you driven to achieve more, push boundaries, and see real results in everything you do? The Catalyst is the podcast for the relentless go-getters, innovators, and leaders who are obsessed with turning vision into action. Join us as we dive deep into success stories, strategies, and insights from industry experts who have cracked the code on what it takes to ignite change and get results. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone determined to excel, this podcast will fuel your obsession with success. Listen in and become the catalyst for your own results.

  1. 6D AGO

    Climb to $10M: Inside the Workshop Event That Will Transform Your Business

    Sick of conferences that pump you up but don’t move the needle? Jennifer Bagley welcomes guest Chuck Staszkiewicz for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at Climb to $10M—the high-accountability, workshop-driven event hosted by The Opus & Golds Group. Jennifer and Chuck unpack what makes it different: capped attendance, curated experts, real implementation time, and a strict no-selling environment. You’ll hear how the agenda flows like a business supply chain—connecting marketing, sales, operations, HR, and finance—so you leave with clarity, content assets, and a plan your team can execute immediately. They dig into identity work for CEOs, adventure-based learning that cements lessons, and practical frameworks for maximizing any event before, during, and after you attend. If you lead a home service company and want results you can measure—not just motivation—this episode is your roadmap.  Seats are capped for maximum access and accountability. Bring your leadership team and leave with a plan, content assets, and systems you can execute immediately. Register now at climbtoriches.ciwebgroup.com Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction and catch-up 01:32 - Rethinking events: fixing what’s broken 02:52 - Small groups, big impact 04:23 - The expert lineup and session themes 07:22 - VIP Day and identity shifting 08:43 - Adventure learning in the field 12:47 - Bring your leaders, multiply results 15:07 - Strategic flow: supply chain logic for growth 16:40 - War-room style, real conversations 18:18 - Leave with marketing assets 20:13 - How to maximize any event 24:45 - High-Leverage Actions (HLA) 28:06 - Cross-industry insights 32:33 - The promise of Climb to $10M 33:07 - VIP ticket giveaway 35:35 - 2024 growth mindset. 40:18 - Event details and registration Guest: Chuck Staszkiewicz Founder, The Opus & Golds Group A serial entrepreneur with deep home service operations experience, Chuck focuses on practical systems and implementation that break plateaus and drive scale. Host: Jennifer Bagley Founder & CEO, CI Web Group; Featured Speaker at Climb to $10M A leading strategist on AI, marketing, and scale, Jennifer helps home service businesses implement systems, content, and tech for measurable growth. Relevant Links: Register for Climb to $10M (May 5-7): https://climbtoriches.ciwebgroup.comCI Web Group: https://www.ciwebgroup.comFind Chuck Staszkiewicz on Facebook for VIP ticket giveawayEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    41 min

  2. APR 1

    AI, Leadership & Next-Level Growth: Cameron Herold’s Playbook for Contractors

    Most contractors are either ignoring AI or getting distracted by flashy tools they don’t actually need. In this episode, Jennifer Bagley talks with Cameron Herold, the operational expert who helped build 1-800-GOT-JUNK and mentored industry leaders like Tommy Mello. They discuss why the "old-school" basics—like answering the phone and having branded trucks—matter more than ever in an automated world. You will learn how to identify which AI tools actually increase your profit margins, how to hire a team that embraces technology, and why your leadership style is the one thing that can't be replaced by a bot. What You’ll Learn The Revenue Filter: Why you should only use AI for tasks that directly increase sales or gross margins.The 3-Tier Growth Path: Why a small shop shouldn’t try to use the same automation as a $50M company.Hiring for the Future: A simple "Laptop Test" to make sure your next hire can actually use technology to save you time.Beating "Price Shopping": How to use ChatGPT in the house with the customer to upsell maintenance agreements and air purification.The Leadership Gap: Why delegating AI is smart, but "abdicating" (ignoring it and hoping someone else handles it) will kill your business.Timestamps 00:00 – Jennifer’s experience: Moving from a 320-person team to a 47-person AI-first company.04:10 – Cameron’s background: Scaling residential painting and junk removal to billion-dollar levels.08:27 – The Danger Zone: Why moving too slow—or too fast—with AI can hurt your business.11:00 – The Interview Secret: How to see if a candidate is actually tech-savvy in 5 minutes.18:44 – Customer Savvy: How to stop clients from using AI to talk you down on price.21:20 – Bronze, Silver, Gold: A realistic roadmap for contractor technology.33:16 – Easy Wins: Automating Google reviews to win more local jobs.40:03 – Performance Reviews: Using AI agents to give your team unbiased feedback.51:14 – Soft Skills: Why being a good boss is still your most valuable skill.56:38 – The Big Picture: Taking care of your people and your customers first.About Cameron Herold Cameron Herold is a world-renowned business coach and the founder of the COO Alliance. He specializes in helping "second-in-command" executives run the day-to-day operations of high-growth companies. He has authored seven business books and has a deep history in the home services industry. Free AI Mentor: AskCameron.aiWebsite: CameronHerold.comTraining: InvestInYourLeaders.comNext Steps Organize Your Tech: Visit Cameron’s websites and bookmark them for your next leadership meeting.Review Your Reviews: If you aren't using an automated system to get Google reviews, make that your priority this week.Subscribe: Follow Catalyst for the Trades on your favorite podcast app for more interviews with industry experts.Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    58 min

  3. FEB 18

    AI-First Growth for the Trades: Builder Market with Louis Vierra and Brett Taylor

    Most contractors know the feeling: you pay for leads that five other companies get, you chase calls late, and your software stack keeps growing—but not your margins. Builder Market’s Founder Brett Taylor and Co-Founder Louis Vierra come from the trades. They built an AI-first platform that keeps things simple: a free listing that customers can trust, pro-to-pro networking, a built-in CRM and pricebook, financing, and access to exclusive leads. You choose your zip codes and categories. You pay only for the real leads delivered. You get support when you set it up. Pair that with speed-to-lead automation and AI-first websites and content and you’ve got a system that responds in seconds, shows proof the customer can see, and builds visibility in both search and AI assistants. Less noise. More booked jobs. Timestamps 00:00 – Why the old model hurts contractors   01:16 – Brett and Louis: from jobsite to software   06:07 – What’s broken with Angie/Yelp and fragmented tech   10:24 – What Builder Market actually does (in plain English)   14:19 – Pricebooks, templates, and financing that don’t slow you down   15:23 – Find subs and GCs fast; work together in channels   17:16 – Claim your listing; setup in minutes; live help   20:21 – Consumer tools: AI planning, renderings, DIY guidance, product recs   22:04 – Becoming a trusted data source for AI assistants   25:50 – How exclusive vs. shared leads work; real-time auctions   28:36 – Speed-to-lead: reply in under 5 minutes (or in seconds with AI)   32:30 – Training and the Hydra ecosystem: content, agents, automation   36:09 – Third‑party validation + AI content = more visibility   40:04 – Why AI‑first beats legacy SaaS   42:00 – Using AI instead of adding office headcount   43:21 – Value-first approach and open feedback   44:44 – Costs: free to join; category-based lead pricing   47:19 – Disputes and refunds that respect pros   48:27 – 641,000+ pages indexed; tight geo coverage   50:07 – Brand mentions and content built with partners   53:29 – Final steps: claim, configure, connect Guest Details - Louis Vierra, Co‑Founder, Builder Market — Veteran GC; patents in construction project management; built Struxure, the engine behind Builder Market.   - Brett Taylor, Founder, Builder Market — Entrepreneur focused on fair, open pro-homeowner communication and smarter lead distribution. Relevant Links  - The Builder Market   - Just Start AI   - Catalyst for the Trades Podcast   - OnePath AI   - Hydra (CI Web Group)   - Pulse (CI Web Group)   Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    58 min

  4. JAN 14

    Women in Charge: How AI and Automation Are Powering Home Service Growth

    How do women in the trades go from underfunded marketing and clunky tech to dominating their local markets with AI and automation? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with three powerhouse home service entrepreneurs—Courtney Van Delden Supplee (Van Delden Wastewater Systems), Amanda Casteel (Cherry Blossom Plumbing), and Stephanie Allen (AirWorks Solutions). You’ll hear real stories of growth from women-led businesses in HVAC, plumbing, and septic services. The conversation dives into hard-won lessons on failed marketing investments, the leap from WordPress to Webflow, and how embracing AI content, dashboards, and automation turned their marketing from a liability into a lead machine. These women get candid about tech transitions, brand control, data-driven decisions, and how being first to adopt AI-powered web platforms gave them a 12-month head start on their competition.  Timestamps: 00:00 – Meet the Guests: Women Redefining the Home Services Industry 01:20 – Business Beginnings: Legacy, Pivots & Pandemic Launches 09:42 – Marketing Lessons: Tracking ROI, Attribution, and Broken Promises 20:28 – Why They Left WordPress: Moving to AI-Driven Web Platforms 29:33 – The 120-Day Ramp: Planning for Momentum and SEO Visibility 32:24 – AI vs. Human Marketing: Dashboards, Control & Training Smart Agents 35:00 – Trial and Error: Teaching AI, Managing Risk, and Staying Agile 40:33 – Content Repurposing at Scale: Blogs, Social Media & Link Building 45:00 – Brand Control: Managing Digital Assets and Image Guidelines 50:13 – Future-Focused: Compliance Automation and Smarter Processes 57:40 – Final Thoughts: Leadership, Feedback, and Scaling Together Guest Details: Courtney Van Delden Supplee Co-owner, Van Delden Wastewater Systems Fourth-generation owner of a septic services company in San Antonio, Courtney modernized a legacy business through AI-driven marketing, CRM tech, and deep customer trust. Amanda Casteel Co-owner, Cherry Blossom Plumbing Launched during the pandemic, Amanda helped scale Cherry Blossom Plumbing with smart digital strategies, strong client relationships, and a relentless focus on tech and transparency. Stephanie Allen CEO, AirWorks Solutions HVAC and plumbing leader from Alabama, Stephanie blends law and business acumen with grassroots and AI-based marketing to run a fast-growing, family-focused service brand. Relevant Links: Van Delden Wastewater SystemsCherry Blossom PlumbingAirWorks SolutionsCI Web GroupCatalyst for the Trades PodcastEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    59 min

  5. JAN 7

    From HVAC Technician to Tech-Savvy CEO: Robert Leath on Building a Future-Ready Trades Business with AI

    In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Jennifer Bagley is joined by Robert Leath, founder of a thriving HVAC business, and his dedicated account executive, Vee Nettles. Robert shares his raw and inspiring journey from working for a large corporation to risking it all to build his own company from the ground up. He offers a transparent look at the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, from securing funding and establishing a strong brand to embracing cutting-edge AI technology.  This conversation is a masterclass in modern trades leadership, covering the importance of a high-quality brand, the power of building genuine customer relationships, and the transformative impact of AI on marketing and operations. Robert's story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to excellence, anyone in the trades can build a successful and future-proof business. Key Topics & Timestamps 00:00 – Introductions: Meet Robert Leath and Vee Nettles 00:38 – The Leap of Faith: Robert's journey from employee to entrepreneur 03:25 – Funding the Dream: The risk and reward of self-funding 05:31 – Building a Premium Brand: Why high standards matter from day one 06:20 – Adapting to Technology: The evolution from traditional marketing to AI 29:00 – The Impact of AI: A flood of new leads from unexpected places 31:00 – The Power of Education: Why continuous learning is non-negotiable 44:00 – The Human Element: Why customer relationships are still king 01:22:00 – Final Advice: Why you just need to start Guest Details Guest: Robert Leath Title: Founder & CEO Robert Leath is a testament to the modern trades entrepreneur. After years in the HVAC industry, he took the bold step of starting his own company, building it on a foundation of high standards, exceptional customer service, and a forward-thinking approach to technology. His story is one of resilience, growth, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Guest: Vee Nettles Title: Senior Account Executive Vee Nettles is a key partner in Robert's success story. As a senior account executive at CI Web Group, she has helped guide Robert's business through the ever-changing landscape of digital marketing, from traditional websites to the new frontier of AI. Her expertise and dedication have been instrumental in helping Robert's business thrive. Relevant Links AirPoint Heating & Air ConditioningCatalyst for the TradesJust Start AICI Web Group Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    1h 19m

  6. 12/31/2025

    What It Really Takes to Be a Woman in Business | Honest Leadership in the Trades with Kathryn Elizabeth & Laura Kelly

    What does authentic leadership actually look like for women in the trades? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, host Jennifer Bagley sits down with Laura Kelly and Kathryn Elizabeth for a direct, no-filter conversation about leadership, self-respect, and showing up fully as a woman in business. The discussion covers what it means to lead with honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable. Laura and Kathryn share real experiences with criticism, self-doubt, public speaking, and breaking outdated expectations—especially in male-dominated industries like HVAC, plumbing, and the trades. You’ll hear practical insights on setting boundaries, navigating feedback, building confidence, serving others without losing yourself, and surrounding yourself with people who support your growth. This episode is for women in business, female trades professionals, and leaders who want to build impact without pretending to be someone they’re not. Key Topics Covered Authentic leadership in the tradesWomen in business and entrepreneurshipHandling criticism and public visibilitySelf-respect, boundaries, and leadership mindsetOvercoming self-doubt and fearValues-driven leadershipCommunity, support systems, and personal growth Timestamps 00:00 – Authenticity and speaking truth in business (Laura Kelly & Kathryn Elizabeth)  03:00 – Handling criticism and swearing on stage  04:40 – Why leadership often means breaking the rules  05:04 – Self-respect and setting boundaries as a leader  07:30 – Being “heart-less” without being heartless (Kathryn Elizabeth)  10:44 – Authenticity, service, and leadership responsibility  11:56 – Confronting self-doubt and doing hard things anyway  13:00 – Behind the scenes of public speaking (Jennifer Bagley)  14:46 – Why serving from the stage isn’t about you  17:31 – Showing up for your audience—even if it’s one person  18:46 – Values, behavior, and creating a rich life (Laura Kelly)  22:08 – Progress over perfection and bouncing back  23:11 – The power of community and support systems  25:12 – Final thoughts: choose who you surround yourself with Guest Details Laura Kelly Industry leader and speaker known for her direct approach to leadership, tough conversations, and personal growth. Laura helps business owners and leaders identify their core values and build fulfillment in both life and work. Kathryn Elizabeth CEO, business builder, and speaker focused on real-world leadership. Kathryn is known for her honest take on decision-making, team building, and consistency, and for empowering women in the trades to lead with confidence. Host Jennifer Bagley Founder of CI Web Group and host of Catalyst for the Trades. Jennifer helps trades businesses grow through clear strategy, strong leadership, and authentic marketing. Relevant Links Connect with Kathryn Elizabeth Follow Laura KellyCatalyst for the TradesCI Web GroupEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    25 min

  7. 12/10/2025

    Gregg Schonhorn on Maximizing Business Value in the Trades: Preparing to Sell, AI, and Building for the Future

    How do you build a home service business that thrives today and is ready for a profitable exit tomorrow? In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Gregg Schonhorn of SF&P Advisors joins Jennifer Bagley to share proven strategies for maximizing business value, preparing to sell, and staying ahead with AI and tech adoption. Gregg combines 20+ years of Wall Street experience with deep knowledge of HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing industries. He breaks down financial skills contractors need, the right time to sell, and common myths about industry multiples. This episode also covers how AI will impact websites, marketing, and lead generation—plus what business owners can do now to stay competitive. If you’re thinking about selling your contracting business or want to build a more valuable company, this conversation is packed with clear, actionable advice. Key Topics & Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Gregg and the story behind the episode.02:48 – Career Path: From Wall Street to trades advisor.07:24 – What SF&P Advisors Does: M&A and exit planning for contractors.09:37 – Industry Multiples & Market Timing: When to sell your business.13:03 – Building to Sell: What separates high-value companies.17:15 – AI in Home Services: How tech is reshaping marketing.26:13 – The Future of Websites: AI training data and agentic tools.33:23 – New Business Models: Lead gen companies and tech-driven contractors.35:13 – Marketing Mindset: Why every trades business needs a CMO.36:44 – Cutting Through the Noise: Avoiding bad advice.41:07 – Personal Moments: Golf, family, and friendship.44:50 – When to Talk to Gregg: Preparing for valuation and due diligence.47:18 – Fractional CFOs: Why they’re critical for scaling.49:52 – Final Takeaways: Build relationships. Take action.Guest Details Guest: Gregg Schonhorn Title: Senior Advisor, SF&P Advisors Gregg Schonhorn has more than two decades of Wall Street experience and now helps HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and roofing companies plan and execute successful exits. As a senior advisor at SF&P Advisors—an M&A firm with over $3.7B in closed deals—he’s known for straightforward guidance, deep industry knowledge, and helping contractors make smart, strategic decisions about selling, scaling, or staying independent. Relevant Links SF&P AdvisorsConnect with Gregg Schonhorn on FacebookCatalyst for the Trades PodcastThe Opus & Golds GroupCI Web GroupEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    50 min

  8. 12/03/2025

    Contractor Accounting Made Simple with Meaghan Likes of Likes Accounting

    CPA Meaghan Likes, founder of Likes Accounting, shares proven tips to help contractors clean up their books, simplify ServiceTitan integration, and gain financial clarity. In this episode of Catalyst for the Trades, Meaghan and Stephanie Allen of AirWorks explain how to turn accounting chaos into clarity, make data-driven decisions, and build a profitable, scalable business. In this conversation, Jennifer Bagley, CEO of CI Web Group and co-founder of Just Start AI, sits down with Meaghan and Stephanie to break down: Why clean books are non-negotiable—and how to get there, even if you’re starting in a “spaghetti mess”The keys to successful ServiceTitan integrations (without breaking your accounting)Proactive business decisions using data, not just hopePractical ways to safeguard profits regardless of market conditionsReal talk about industry trends, growth versus profit, and the power of collaboration👉 If you’re a contractor or owner/operator wanting clear financials, smarter systems, and a community of support to help you win—this is a must-listen episode. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Guest Intro: Meaghan Likes | Likes Accounting 04:05 – Cleaning Contractor Books: From “Worst Books Ever” to Clean Accounting 08:10 – ServiceTitan Integration Tips: Touchless Setup with QuickBooks 16:20 – Data-Driven Contractor Decisions: Growth, Profit & Trades Insights 25:12 – Leadership in the Trades: Team Building & Surviving Slowdowns 31:00 – AI & Automation in Contractor Accounting 39:07 – Key Takeaways 2024–2026: Contractor Profit & Growth Strategies Meaghan Likes Founder & CPA, Likes Accounting Meaghan Likes is an award-winning CPA and founder of Likes Accounting, specializing in accounting for contractors and the trades. She is recognized for helping businesses move from chaos to clarity, leading the way in ServiceTitan integrations, and building data-driven tools that help owners make proactive, profitable decisions. Stephanie Allen Owner & Operator, AirWorks Solutions | Co-Founder, Just Start AI Stephanie Allen has grown AirWorks Solutions into a leading HVAC company by focusing on top-tier systems and people. As co-founder of Just Start AI, she champions collaboration and technology to support contractors with practical financial strategies, strong operations, and clear paths to growth. Relevant Links: Likes AccountingBox for the Trades AirWorks SolutionsServiceTitanCatalyst for the TradesCI Web GroupEnjoyed this episode? Subscribe to "The Catalyst for Trades" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Share this episode with aspiring and established leaders, and stay tuned for more insights on driving business success and personal leadership growth.

    51 min
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About

Are you driven to achieve more, push boundaries, and see real results in everything you do? The Catalyst is the podcast for the relentless go-getters, innovators, and leaders who are obsessed with turning vision into action. Join us as we dive deep into success stories, strategies, and insights from industry experts who have cracked the code on what it takes to ignite change and get results. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader, or someone determined to excel, this podcast will fuel your obsession with success. Listen in and become the catalyst for your own results.

Information

  • Creator
    The Catalyst for the Trades.
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    54
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Catalyst for the Trades
  • Show Website
    The Catalyst for the Trades

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