To The Point - Home Services Podcast RYNO Strategic Solutions

Whispers of instability and challenges linger on the horizon for home services contractors for 2024. Projections paint a picture of uncertainty, making it clear that navigating the coming year won't be a walk in the park.
However, in the face of this impending turbulence, timeless lessons and proven strategies exist that can turn the tide in your favor.
It's not about merely weathering the storm; it's about seizing opportunities and emerging stronger on the other side.
As we gear up for what lies ahead, I had on Amanda Zink, President of Air Control Home Services in Mohave County, to share a few critical actions that contractors must embrace to not just survive but thrive in this unpredictable terrain.
The conversation touched upon the pivotal moment when Amanda and her brother assumed leadership of the business in 2019, just before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Amanda openly discussed the initial shock and uncertainty, emphasizing the significance of embracing discomfort for the sake of growth.
Looking forward, Amanda believes the key to winning in 2024 is prioritizing a back-to-basics approach for operations. Amanda acknowledged the tendency to overlook key performance indicators (KPIs) during prosperous periods, prompting a reassessment of metrics, particularly in the call center. 
The objective is to ensure optimal value delivery and operational efficiency in customer interactions.
She encourages leaders in this industry to overcome the hesitation of admitting challenges and reaching out to experienced individuals for guidance.
Don't miss out – hit play and embark on a journey that could redefine your trajectory for the next year!
This episode was sponsored by:
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
Key Takeaways
Intro (00:00)
Amanda Zink's journey in the trades (06:26)
Step out of your comfort zone to grow (10:41)
Importance of a peer group in the trades (21:05)
Female leadership in the trades (26:41)
Operational focus for 2024 (34:31)
Leadership training and technical skills development (38:25)
Why your call center is your first line of defense (42:55)
Marketing tactics to drive new business (45:27)
Sales by education (51:16)
Negotiation points to improve cash flow in 2024 (53:37)
Critical lessons to be successful in 2024 (01:03:22)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
Get in Touch with Amanda Zink:
Website: https://www.aircontrolaz.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aircontrolaz/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AirControlHomeServices/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/air-control-air-conditioning-inc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aircontrolaz
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@aircontrolhomeservices6480
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To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.

I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Claire Ferrara, the powerhouse President of Standard Heating and Air Conditioning up there in the Twin Cities.
We dove into the nitty-gritty of the Home Services industry, explored leadership strategies, and got real about the challenges businesses face, especially in today's market rollercoaster, and how to prepare for an unpredictable 2024.
Claire kicked things off by dropping some serious wisdom bombs on operational excellence. She stressed the need to know your numbers inside out, have a team that understands their roles, and keep a close eye on the cash flow – daily.
One golden nugget she shared – never, and I mean never, cut back on branding and awareness efforts. She delved into the importance of understanding your existing customer base and aligning marketing strategies with the preferences of the younger demographic.
The takeaway? 
Stay agile, know where you stand financially, and be ready to roll with the punches, whether it's a booming economy or a bit of a rough patch.
We then shifted gears to leadership training – a topic near and dear to my heart. We talked about the importance of ongoing training, covering everything from technical skills to soft skills, problem-solving, and processes.
As the Home Services industry continues to navigate uncertainties, Claire's lessons on adaptability, forward-thinking, and a people-centric approach are valuable for businesses aspiring to thrive in any economic landscape. 
Don't miss out—navigate the 2024 market with confidence!
This episode was sponsored by:
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
Key Takeaways
Intro (00:00)
The rich history of Standard Heating and Air Conditioning (06:47)
How Claire got into the trades (14:09)
Women leadership in the trades (19:15)
The operational focus for home services businesses in 2024 (23:16)
Workforce management in 2024 (29:31)
Taking feedback as a gift (31:51)
Simple strategies to win in 2024 (32:45)
Marketing strategies for a harder market (38:04)
Various calls to action that work (41:01)
Critical lessons to navigate a difficult market (47:16)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
Get in Touch with Claire Ferrara:
Website: https://www.standardheating.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StandardHeating
Twitter: https://twitter.com/StandardHeating
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/StandardHeating

To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.

➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
Steve Miles, VP&CEO of Jerry Kelly Heating and Air Conditioning, stands out as a visionary leader in the HVAC space.
His recent induction into the Contracting Business HVAC Hall of Fame speaks volumes about his game-changing contributions to the industry.
In this episode, Steve spilled the secrets behind his success.
Buckle up for a ride through his journey, where he's flipped the script on recession fears and business slowdowns.
Discover how he turned a potential downturn into a quadruple return by boldly investing in marketing during the 2007-08 recession and COVID period.
While competitors cowered, he seized the opportunity, doubling down on marketing to claim a substantial market share.
The message is loud and clear: when others retreat, charge ahead.
But to do this, you have to know your numbers and leverage technology to make informed decisions and maximize ROI. In addition, building robust relationships goes a long way in this industry.
Steve leaves listeners with a challenge for 2024 – pick your top five goals and pursue them with relentless passion.
Tune in to hear from the HVAC Hall of Famer and get to know his advice to contractors for 2024.
This episode was sponsored by:
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
Key Takeaways
Intro (00:00)
Steve Miles's journey in the trades (10:15)
Finding the right people (19:47)
Gain market share during business slows down (23:31)
Don't cut back on your marketing (29:25)
Make it simple (31:50)
Leading your team effectively (36:45)
Speed of service wins (41:35)
Cultivate those good relationships (45:40)
Take advantage of tech innovations (48:33)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
Contact Steve Miles:
Website: https://jerrykelly.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jerrykellyhvac/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jerrykellyhvac/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jerrykellyhvac?lang=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jerrykellyhvac
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jerry-kelly-heating-and-air-conditioning/

To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.

2024 is poised to be a year filled with unique challenges and opportunities for contractors in the trades and home services.
At the Home Services Freedom Event, I hosted a marketing panel consisting of Eric Thomas - Rival Digital, Dave Carrol - Dope Marketing, Terry Biggs, and Katie Donovan.
The panelists unanimously agreed that 2024 is shaping up to be a marketing battlefield. It's a year when contractors, regardless of size, must be prepared to face the upcoming challenges. If you thought 2023 was hard, 2024 might even be more challenging.
What should contractors pay the closest attention to in their 2024 plan to secure success?
One way to be prepared is to double down on what's already working well in your business. In an era of uncertainty, it's essential to leverage and optimize your existing strengths. 
Instead of chasing new marketing ideas and services, refine and expand your successful strategies.
But the panel graciously shares some actionable marketing tips, particularly for contractors in the $ 0-3 million range who don't have huge marketing budgets.
This is an insightful panel discussion that any contractor will find valuable as we head toward an uncertain 2024.
Make sure to tune in and get ready for what's ahead.
This episode was sponsored by:
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
Key Takeaways
Intro (00:00)
Marketing in the trades in 2024 (10:09)
Difference between marketing and branding (12:25)
What contractors need to do in 2024 (15:03)
The customer is the hero, not you (26:23)
Get inspired by the competition (29:56)
Speed of service matters (32:48)
2024 is the year to get creative (37:39)
What is a lead and how to attribute it (41:04)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/

To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.

The trades industry has experienced a significant transformation in the way professionals engage with their audience and clients.
One prime example of how to harness the power of personal branding is Roger Wakefield, a renowned plumber and YouTube content creator with over 570,000 subscribers and more than 100 Million views. He is the largest plumbing content creator globally.
Roger has become a household name in the plumbing industry. He's the go-to expert for plumbing tips, tricks, DIY solutions, and insightful guidance for plumbers and other people in the trades. He's also a master of personal branding.
Even in the trades, individuals can create strong personal brands that attract clients and establish trust. The key is to provide value through education and content that resonates with their target audience.
Roger emphasizes "sales by education." Instead of pushing services, he advises people in the trades to educate their audience through videos, building trust and positioning themselves as the expert they turn to when problems arise.
It's a win-win strategy that benefits both professionals and the audience.
Tune in to this episode for a deep dive into social media marketing and personal branding with the expert himself, Roger Wakefield.
This episode was sponsored by:
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
Key Takeaways 
Intro (00:00)
Creating the biggest plumbing YouTube channel (01:52)
The best videos to make (15:45)
Building a relationship with your clients on social media (17:32)
Basic things to get started with content (20:31)
Sales by education (21:33)
Personal branding in the trades (24:24)
Shoot your origin story (27:51)
The 2 things you need to win on YouTube (32:42)
Careers without 4 years (45:04)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
Connect with Roger Wakefield
Website: https://www.rogerwakefield.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therogerwakefield/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RogerBWake
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rogerwakefield/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RogerWakefield
TikTok: tiktok.com/@therogerwakefield?lang=en

To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.

In this week's conversation, we have the privilege of hearing the fascinating journey of Brad Bacon, who transitioned from being a plumber to a successful home services entrepreneur.
Now, you might be wondering, who's Brad Bacon, and what can we learn from his story?
Well, you're in for a treat because Brad's journey is filled with insights, innovation, and a hearty dose of determination.
You'll quickly get to know why everybody loves Bacon!
Brad started as a plumber before advancing his career to become a manager at one of the largest plumbing companies in Texas.
In 2010, he took a leap of faith and started his own business.
Fast forward to the present, and this plumbing company has grown exponentially, achieving a remarkable annual revenue of $30 million.
This journey from modest beginnings to an industry heavyweight is an impressive testament to Brad's work ethic, drive, and willingness to learn.
He attributes a strong team culture as one of his pillars for success in the business. Many team members have remained with the company since its inception, a testament to the positive work environment and leadership.
Tune in to be inspired, gain valuable insights, and learn how Brad created a very successful Home Services business.
- Smart AC: https://smartac.com/
- Home Service Freedom: https://homeservicefreedom.com/
Key Takeaways 
Intro (00:00)
Everyone loves Bacon (02:14)
Brad's entry into the trades (05:06)
Growing to $30 million a year (13:47)
The trades career path vs college (17:30)
How Brad got into the meat business (22:54)
Motivation to run multiple businesses (33:01)
Passion for leadership (38:32)
Private equity in home services (49:50)
Work ethic - the key to success in the trades (55:52)
Additional Resources 
➡️ Schedule a FREE consultation here: https://rynoss.com/contact-us/
 Connect with Brad Bacon
Website: https://www.everyonelovesbacon.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baconplumbing/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BaconPlumbingHeatingAirElectric
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-bacon-b9410910a/

To The Point Home Services Podcast is a home services podcast that gets to the point! Focused on helping HVAC, plumbing, electrical, roofing, and many other HS companies grow exponentially.