The Site Shed

Matt Jones - Helping Tradies Build Smarter, Scalable Businesses
  • 4.8 (16)
  • MARKETING
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY
The Site Shed

The Site Shed is a global podcast for tradies and trade-based business owners, designed to educate and inform around the topics that matter most in running a business.  Hosted by former plumber and digital agency owner Matt Jones, the podcast covers real-world conversations on apprenticeships, marketing, systems, technology, hiring, leadership, and more — all tailored to the trades.  Each episode features practical insights, honest lessons, and expert guests from across the industry. Whether you're a plumber, builder, electrician, landscaper, or any hands-on business owner, you'll find ideas and experiences you can apply straight away.  If you're ready to work smarter, not harder, The Site Shed offers tools, ideas, and perspectives to help your business move forward. 

  1. 3D AGO

    Your Branding MIght Be The Problem... Not Your Marketing | ft. Crystal Williams | Ep. 455

    In this conversation, Matt Jones and Crystal Williams delve into the multifaceted world of branding, emphasizing that branding extends far beyond just logos. They discuss the importance of building a brand identity that resonates with customers, the need for patience in seeing growth, and the significance of community engagement. The conversation also highlights the necessity of understanding the sales cycle, setting realistic expectations, and the role of digital presence in modern branding. Crystal shares actionable strategies for effective brand marketing, including the importance of consistency and creating a unique brand identity that stands out in a crowded market. 🎥Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/tOuyhc3rK60 ====== Timestamp Chapters ===== 00:00 – Intro with Crystal Williams 01:05 – What branding really means beyond a logo 02:41 – Branding as a long-term growth tool 04:52 – Branding vs. direct marketing mindset 10:17 – Crystal’s 10–12% marketing spend insight 13:23 – Real-world examples: billboards, jingles & mail 16:08 – Community involvement as branding 18:51 – Hard-to-measure strategies that still work 26:22 – Why brand drives better marketing ROI 29:07 – Lemon Seed’s “three-bucket” approach 31:20 – Final thoughts on patience and strategy ==== 🔧  What You'll Learn 🔧  ==== – Why branding is more than a logo – The difference between brand and direct marketing – What tradies get wrong about marketing – How to build a brand that makes people remember (and call) you – Lemon Seed's “three-bucket” marketing strategy 📚 Resources: – Crystal Williams: https://www.lemonseedmarketing.com/ – Connect with Crystal on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lemonseedmarketing Get FREE marketing insights for your business when you complete the Opportunity Scorecard - https://go.tradiewebguys.com.au/ Don't let your business fall behind—explore the power of AI with Tradie Hub. Visit tradiehub.net to see the innovative AI tools crafted just for tradies. Discover how you can stay ahead and transform your business with cutting-edge technology!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    54 min

  2. JUL 8

    AI For Tradies in 2025: How To Streamline Quotes & Save Up On Costs | ft. Roland Ligtenberg | Ep. 454

    In this episode, host Matt sits down with Roland, co-founder of Housecall Pro – a leading software solution for job management in the trades industry. Recorded after their chance connection at a trades event in Fiji, this conversation is a deep dive into how AI is transforming the home service sector. Roland shares the journey of how Housecall Pro began, what truly sets their platform apart, and how AI-powered features are empowering “standing jobs” (like plumbers, HVAC, and electricians) to cut down on admin work and focus more on growth. Matt and Roland unpack the practical ways that AI is making life easier for tradespeople, from automated customer service to intelligent business analytics and coaching. They discuss best practices for adopting new technologies in your business, the importance of staying curious, and how leveraging data can help tradies grow faster and smarter. Tune in to hear real-world insights, learn what’s next for AI in trades, and get tips on maximizing your own business potential in this rapidly evolving landscape! 🎥Watch the video version here: https://youtu.be/-XXVEhxU-vc ====== Timestamp Chapters ===== 00:00 AI Talk Leads to Unexpected Connection 04:57 AI: Impact on Jobs 08:20 AI-Powered Customer Service Solution 14:04 AI's Role in Business Growth 16:45 Startups’ Tech Advantage: Easier Operations 19:45 Embrace Curiosity in Business 22:23 "If It Ain't Broke, Explore" 25:40 "Optimize Time in Business" 29:46 Forward-Looking Strategic Planning 33:59 Integrating Human Touch in Automation 36:36 "Optimizing Business Processes with Data" 38:30 Optimizing Low-Intent Social Leads 41:43 "Explore Housecall Pro Demo" ==== What You'll Learn ==== ✅ How AI “team members” can fill admin gaps and stop missed leads ✅ Why your time is best spent on site, not stuck on after-hours invoicing ✅ Real-world results: 30% growth and more jobs booked—faster Get FREE marketing insights for your business when you complete the Opportunity Scorecard - https://go.tradiewebguys.com.au/ Don't let your business fall behind—explore the power of AI with Tradie Hub. Visit tradiehub.net to see the innovative AI tools crafted just for tradies. Discover how you can stay ahead and transform your business with cutting-edge technology!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    47 min

  3. JUL 1

    Streamlining Workplace Safety: WHS Compliance Tradies and Contractors | ft. Glen Fitzgerald | Ep. 453

    In this episode of The Site Shed, Matt Jones speaks with Glen Fitzgerald from Worx Safety about how tradies can tackle workplace safety compliance without drowning in paperwork. Glen shares how digital tools and automation can help simplify your WHS systems, reduce admin, and increase operational efficiency. They chat about the differences in compliance requirements for residential versus commercial businesses, the challenges of staying on top of paperwork, and what triggers a compliance audit. You'll hear practical advice on how business owners can automate induction, training, and documentation processes, plus insights into how technology—from digital software to potential AI solutions—is making safety more accessible and efficient for everyone in the industry. 🎧 Listen to the full episode here: https://tradie.wiki/listen ==== What You’ll Learn: ===== ✅ How to streamline WHS compliance using digital tools ✅ Common compliance mistakes and how to avoid them ✅ The future of AI in safety and contractor management ✅ Why automation is the key to simplifying your operations =====Timestamps: ===== 00:00 Intro to Glen Fitzgerald and Worx Safety 06:29 Workplace Incident Liability Concerns 08:40 SOP Implementation for Safety Training 12:32 Contractor Responsibility for High-Risk Work 15:31 Contractor Responsibility Increase Trend 17:23 "Prototype AR Glasses Hazardous" 20:43 Compliance and Training Essentials 25:19 "Safety Info Access Guide" If you're a trade business owner looking to stay compliant without sacrificing productivity, this episode is a must-listen. 📌 Learn more about Worx Safety: https://www.worxsafety.com.au 📌 Book a Free Demo: https://www.worxsafety.com.au/request-a-demo Don't let your business fall behind—explore the power of AI with Tradie Hub. Visit tradiehub.net to see the innovative AI tools crafted just for tradies. Discover how you can stay ahead and transform your business with cutting-edge technology!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    29 min

  4. JUN 24

    Why Your Marketing Feels “Icky” (And How to Fix It!) | Rai Cornell

    In this episode of The Site Shed Podcast, Matt Jones and Rai Cornell discuss the psychology behind marketing and why it can often feel uncomfortable or 'icky.' They explore the importance of authenticity, relationship building, and creating valuable content that resonates with audiences. The conversation delves into overcoming fears of content creation, the role of marketing beyond traditional ads, and introduces the 'Four M's' framework for effective marketing. The episode concludes with key takeaways for listeners to implement in their own marketing strategies. You can watch it on 🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/9Nro-yhQTxg Timestamp: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Rai Cornell 02:30 - The disconnect between sales and marketing 04:00 - Why "I hate marketing" is a red flag 08:00 - Why content doesn't have to include YOU on camera 11:30 - How to create content without stress or perfection 14:00 - Feel-Good Marketing: The 4 M's Framework 21:00 - Real-world examples of creative mechanisms 26:00 - How to build trust through relevance and consistency 30:00 - Final thoughts and resources 📚 Resources: Guest website: https://www.cornellcontentmarketing.com/demandgenkitELITE Method Framework: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Jjer_vwYii-nAGkAgy78mwof52PDpLns/view?usp=sharing📓 Read our blog on this podcast here: https://tradie.wiki/452-Why-Your-Marketing-Feels-Icky Don't let your business fall behind—explore the power of AI with Tradie Hub. Visit tradiehub.net to see the innovative AI tools crafted just for tradies. Discover how you can stay ahead and transform your business with cutting-edge technology!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    34 min

  5. JUN 17

    Why You Should Never Rely on Ads for Sustainable Growth | ft. Rai Cornell

    We dive into the intricacies of modern marketing. In today's episode, titled "The Psychology of a Savvy Buyer: Appealing to Modern Informed Audiences," hosts Matt Jones and Rai explore the powerful connection between psychology and marketing. Joined by Rai from Cornell Content Marketing, they kick off a fascinating mini series about achieving 90% presold buys using psychology-driven strategies. This first episode unpacks how understanding the psychology of today's informed buyers can transform your marketing approach, and why building authentic relationships with your audience is crucial in standing out amidst the noise.  Listen to the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/MMNwPLMUD1w Timestamp: 00:00 From Psychology to Content Marketing 05:39 Developing Unique Business Mechanisms 07:30 "Stages of Change in Marketing" 13:36 "Answer FAQs with Content" 16:17 AI-Augmented Sales Qualification Process 19:47 Addressing Sticker Shock Early 21:28 "Lead Conversions: Warm vs. Cold" 27:32 "Effective Sales Conversation Strategies" 29:27 Template-Driven Sales Hilarity 33:54 Respect and Empower Your Buyers 35:28 Customer-Focused Case Study Approach 38:54 Visit SiteShare for Resources Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don’t get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!  Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don’t get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    25 min
  6. The Psychology Behind Creating Content that Sells | ft. Rai Cornell | Ep. 450

    JUN 11

    The Psychology Behind Creating Content that Sells | ft. Rai Cornell | Ep. 450

    We dive into the intricacies of modern marketing. In today's episode, titled "The Psychology of a Savvy Buyer: Appealing to Modern Informed Audiences," hosts Matt Jones and Rai explore the powerful connection between psychology and marketing. Joined by Rai from Cornell Content Marketing, they kick off a fascinating mini series about achieving 90% presold buys using psychology-driven strategies. This first episode unpacks how understanding the psychology of today's informed buyers can transform your marketing approach, and why building authentic relationships with your audience is crucial in standing out amidst the noise.  Listen to the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/MMNwPLMUD1w Timestamp: 00:00 From Psychology to Content Marketing 05:39 Developing Unique Business Mechanisms 07:30 "Stages of Change in Marketing" 13:36 "Answer FAQs with Content" 16:17 AI-Augmented Sales Qualification Process 19:47 Addressing Sticker Shock Early 21:28 "Lead Conversions: Warm vs. Cold" 27:32 "Effective Sales Conversation Strategies" 29:27 Template-Driven Sales Hilarity 33:54 Respect and Empower Your Buyers 35:28 Customer-Focused Case Study Approach 38:54 Visit SiteShare for Resources Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don’t get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    43 min
  7. From Dog Walks to Deal Talks: How Trust (and Pets) Helped Grow the Team | Ep. 449

    JUN 3

    From Dog Walks to Deal Talks: How Trust (and Pets) Helped Grow the Team | Ep. 449

    Welcome to another episode of The Site Shed! In Episode 456, host Matt Jones sits down with James Hearn of Silver Peak Construction for a powerhouse discussion on scaling a trades business, mastering the sales process, and the surprising role that customer rapport (and even a client’s pet preferences) can play in business success. James shares his journey from commercial projects and roadwork to mastering bathroom, laundry, and wet area renovations across Melbourne’s western suburbs and rural Victoria. You’ll hear real-world tactics Silver Peak uses—like ultra-fast quoting, rigorous client qualification, streamlined operations manuals, and detailed follow-up—to outpace the competition. Plus, discover why James screens customers based not just on budget, but even on whether they own dogs 🐶 or 🐱 cats!  🎥 Watch the video version of this podcast at https://youtu.be/xZ7rUaPe0Sk Timestamp: [00:00:49] – James’s Background & Silver Peak Construction’s Specialization [00:03:41] – Competing with Low Quotes & Value Proposition [00:05:12] – Lead Qualification & Sales Process [00:07:41] – Unique Client Qualification: Pets and Personality Fit [00:19:12] – Building & Scaling Through Systems and SOPs [00:23:23] – Evolution & Continuous Improvement of Processes [00:24:36] – Major Business Lessons: Screening Clients & Site Management [00:26:32] – CRM, Job Management, and Technology Adoption [00:39:57] – Communication, Handover, and Aftercare 👉 In this episode:  (with a BONUS TIP 🐾) ✓Qualifying the Right Clients ✓The Power of Discovery Calls ✓Pricing with Confidence ✓Personal Connection Matters ✓Systematize with Checklists ✓Fast and Transparent Quoting ✓Ongoing Process Improvement ✓Communication Prevents Problems ✓Stand Out Through Education ✓Follow-Up Drives Referrals If you’re a trades business owner looking to sharpen your sales, streamline your operations, and provide a truly standout customer experience, this episode is rich in practical, actionable strategies that work in 2024 and beyond. Tune in for fresh insights and inspiration to take your trade business to the next level—don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell for more Site Shed wisdom! #SalesProcess #CustomerQualification #LeadManagement #SalesClosing #CustomerRetention #T Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don’t get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    55 min
  8. Are You Still Losing Jobs with Outdated Pricing? How Instant Quotes Are Crushing Sales I ft. Josh Koplin | Ep. 448

    MAY 27

    Are You Still Losing Jobs with Outdated Pricing? How Instant Quotes Are Crushing Sales I ft. Josh Koplin | Ep. 448

    Join host Matt Jones as he sits down with Josh Coplin, co-founder of Eden, a startup focused on revolutionizing the HVAC industry with innovative tools like the Eden Instant Quote. In this episode, they delve into the evolving dynamics of sales processes, especially in the trades industry, and discuss how implementing on-site quoting can streamline operations and boost close rates. Josh shares insights on the significant changes in consumer behavior, particularly pre and post-COVID, and highlights the importance of adapting to a culture seeking instant gratification and greater control over purchasing processes.  Check the full episode on this podcast: https://youtu.be/_cc5189USiw Timestamp: 00:00 "Streamlining CRM in Trade Biz 06:19 "Importance of Persistent Follow-Up 07:32 Maximize Follow-Up for Sales Success 11:48 Instant On-Site Quoting Boosts Conversions 13:37 Improve, Don't Settle 20:24 CRM's Impact on Construction Businesses 23:47 Transforming Knowledge into Scalable Systems 25:39 Embracing and Adopting Technology 30:03 "Team Collaboration Enhances Customer Success Things you'll Learn in this Video: How on-demand/on-site pricing can increase your close rateWhy modern consumers expect instant, transparent quotesThe importance of streamlining your sales process for better resultsKey benefits of qualifying leads before site visitsHow online tools and automation save time and boost conversionsTips for leveraging content and video to build trust and educate customersWhy sharing prices up front helps eliminate poor-fit leadsSimple ways to create a smoother, more effective sales experienceWhether you're in HVAC or another trade, this conversation is packed with relevant strategies for optimizing your sales process by providing transparency, leveraging technology, and respecting your customer’s time. Tune in to discover how your business can benefit from these modern sales techniques and elevate your conversion rates. Alternative Titles:  How On-Demand Pricing Boosts Your Sales Conversion RatesStreamline Sales with Real-Time Quotes for Higher Closing Rates The Power of Instant Pricing in Closing More Deals Modernizing Your Sales Process with On-Demand Quoting Techniques From Lead to Sale: The Impact of Fast Quot Enjoyed the podcast? Take your trade business to the next level by incorporating AI! Don’t get left behind—explore Tradie Hub at tradiehub.net. Discover game-changing AI solutions designed to boost efficiency and growth for trade businesses worldwide. Check it out today!  🧰 Want Access To Tools & Training from Industry Leaders? Join Tradie Academy, our free community packed with templates, checklists, and resources shared by podcast guests, coaches, and successful tradies. 👉 Join free and grab your next growth tool. 📲 Stay Connected: Facebook: The Site Shed Instagram: @thesiteshed LinkedIn: The Site Shed Website: thesiteshed.com Join a global community of 6000+ trade professionals https://www.facebook.com/groups/TheSiteShed ⭐ Enjoyed This Episode? Leave us a review here! Google Facebook Spotify/Apple

    51 min
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4.8
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

The Site Shed is a global podcast for tradies and trade-based business owners, designed to educate and inform around the topics that matter most in running a business.  Hosted by former plumber and digital agency owner Matt Jones, the podcast covers real-world conversations on apprenticeships, marketing, systems, technology, hiring, leadership, and more — all tailored to the trades.  Each episode features practical insights, honest lessons, and expert guests from across the industry. Whether you're a plumber, builder, electrician, landscaper, or any hands-on business owner, you'll find ideas and experiences you can apply straight away.  If you're ready to work smarter, not harder, The Site Shed offers tools, ideas, and perspectives to help your business move forward. 

Information

  • Creator
    Matt Jones - Helping Tradies Build Smarter, Scalable Businesses
  • Years Active
    2016 - 2025
  • Episodes
    454
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Site Shed
  • Show Website
    The Site Shed

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