Floor Academy: Recent Episodes
Floor Academy
Floor Academy's mission is to get the heart and soul of the industry, the installers, to stop playing contractor and to become better business owners. With each episode we explore different parts of operating a business so that yours can become more efficient and effective. The lessons learned come from your peers, competing to succeed in a variety of different markets so you can integrate them into your own.
Send us a text
How much does your workman’s comp cost you? What are you classifying your employees as? What are you subs classified as? Did you know that core tasks dictate classification and different classes have different rates? Someone in the field using dangerous power tools will cost you far more than someone in an office sitting at a computer. How do you figure out when you can change a classification and is all this penny pinching really worth it?
Brad Lenz and his wife Kerry own Rice’s More Than Floors which they acquired in 2016 from his parents. The store has a beautiful history dating back to 1968 where it started as a furniture and appliance business, later adding carpet. After finishing high school Brad started a tile installation business in 1998 and started adding employees in 2016. This was when the installation business and flooring store merged. The merger began a focus on technology and cloud based software to improve their systems and processes. Brad’s natural gift for problem solving has also helped find small ways to be more profitable along the way. One successful change implemented has been how employees are classified while they are working and making sure it is accurately kept track of.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Brad and I discuss how you can be more profitable with one simple change to how you classify your employees depending on the task they are working on.
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Uzin
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Send us a text
When are you big enough to get a second location? What are the challenges behind it? How do you manage two teams? There are a lot of things to make happen so that you can be successful. From dialing in sales processes to expanding your marketing in to a new area there is a lot to consider.
Chris Rogers is the owner of Wally’s Carpet and Tile in San Bernardino and recently opened up his second showroom. Starting out as an installer gives Chris a different perspective on running a retail shop. From how he handles paying employees and subs to his sales process, his unique vision has helped him grow a brand that has been around in California for 70 years. Looking to grow his presence and get in to having mobile showrooms an opportunity for a new location presented itself and couldn’t be passed up.
Listen in to this weeks episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Chris and I discuss how he knew he could take on a second location, what it took to get it open and how he is now managing multiple teams.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Send us a text
How do you manage your time in your business? How do you manage all the different hats you have to wear? Sales, installation, scheduling, finance, and marketing are just a few of them and they all require a different skillset. What if there was a better way to free up time where you could automate some of the processes as part of being an owner?
Brittany Murphy returns to the show as the founder of Marketing Mutt? With over a decade of experience she has created over 900 online marketing strategies for companies across the US. She focuses on helping small business owners getting their phones to ring with new leads by stepping up their marketing game. Growing up with her family in the trades led Brittany to start her marketing agency devoted to the trades and home services. Her foundation is developing marketing strategies and automated processes for owners looking to gain more time and money from their businesses. Through her marketing strategies, background in blue collar, and over a decade of experience, Brittany has helped local contractors close more leads, get more reviews and referrals, and streamline their marketing and sales processes. She is now here to help you do the same for your business so that you can learn while you earn and become more profitable with more free time.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Brittany and I discuss basic tools every business owner can implement into their toolbox to better manage their companies, free up time, and be more profitable.
Book an appointment with Brittany - https://marketingmutt.youcanbook.me/
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Send us a text
Do you sell installations or do you sell an experience? Answering that one question can quickly help you differentiate your company from the competition. What makes an install an experience? When does it start? What’s included? Is it really different than what the competition is doing?
Reggie Burke of Bayview Flooring in Port Angeles, Washington has over 10 years of experience in the flooring trade. Upon going out on is own after being trained by his father, Reggie was looking for a way to be different from the rest. Over the last two years he has honed in on creating a client experience unlike any other in the area when it comes to flooring installations. From the time the prospect first reaches out until the project is closed out, there are little differences that elevate the quality of service that is being provided.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as Reggie and I discuss how he has crafted a client experience that not only helps sell the value of his installations but makes it a no brainer to go with Bayview Flooring.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Send us a text
What changes about your marketing strategy as your business develops around you. What kind of tactics are required as a startup, survival, successful, scaling, or sustainable entity? More than likely referrals won’t be the only thing keeping you business alive past the survival stage.
Justin Shaw of Driven for Growth, returns to the show to help us answer the above questions with practical steps to help you move the needle. He works closely with entrepreneurs in the contracting space to implement strategies and systems for their continued growth. His approach is holistic and helps business owners develop the skills they need to transform their business so that it can truly reach its full potential.
Listen to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as we talk about practical steps to take at each stage of business.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a text
What changes about your marketing strategy as your business develops around you. What kind of tactics are required as a startup, survival, successful, scaling, or sustainable entity? More than likely referrals won’t be the only thing keeping you business alive past the survival stage.
Justin Shaw of Driven for Growth, returns to the show to help us answer the above questions with practical steps to help you move the needle. He works closely with entrepreneurs in the contracting space to implement strategies and systems for their continued growth. His approach is holistic and helps business owners develop the skills they need to transform their business so that it can truly reach its full potential.
Listen to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as we talk about practical steps to take at each stage of business.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
How do you grow an installation company to more than just installation? You get into the retail side of things and start selling products. It’s as easy as building a relationship with a local store for a kickback to being as complicated as opening up your own store from ground zero and building it up. There is a middle ground of finding a store that is for sale and buying a client base and some systems and processes to help make your life slightly easier.
Donald Perkins and his wife, Emily, purchased Carpetland of New England when they were presenedt an offer they couldn’t turn down. While selling material wasn’t exactly new to them, having a sales staff, retail location and subcontractors to complete more installs than they could handle was. It was a step up for them in their business journey that hasn’t come without a few surprises.
Listen in as we discuss what challenges they have faced acquiring the store, how it has changed their business logistically, and what the future looks like.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
How do you choose the right software for your business? Recommendations? Trial and error? Research? There are plenty of ways to attack it but one of the most important things to consider is whether or not it fits your business model. Not all software is created equally nor is it created to function as part of every industry.
Tom Strachan is the CEO of Service Buddy, and leads a dedicated team in transforming the way flooring companies manage their operations through technology.Their software platform is designed to simplify operations, enhance customer communication, and boost overall business efficiency. By focusing on customization, we empower our clients to reclaim valuable hours each week, allowing them to concentrate on what truly matters—providing exceptional service. Our software helps drive better profit margins for our clients.
Listen in to this week’s episode as Tom and I discuss how you need to vet software for your business before choosing a platform for the long haul.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
It’s not uncommon for me to hear from the audience or clients that they are technology adverse. With the average age of an installer in the industry being over 50 years old, it’s really no surprise that technology is not a major part of their business model or life. Couple that with the fact that technology and hand skills do not always go together and it’s a modern day recipe for disaster. There are simple and easy to use tools readily available to make your business more streamlined and user friendly. From booking software, measuring software and customer relationship management software, there is no reason to be afraid of your computer when you can save hundreds of hours of time a year with a small up front investment.
Victor Milazzo is the CTO of Kronos Software and IT/Ecommerce manager at Carpet To Go. He has helped develop the systems that have made flooring businesses run more efficiently through the simple use of technology to automate receptive tasks. This has allowed him to not only increase revenue through more sales but increase profit by reducing overhead costs as well.
Listen in to this week’s episode as Victor and I discuss some simple but very effective ways you can increase your productivity with some simple technology for your business.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
It’s not easy to grow a business and make it efficient. Many of us struggle to make it happen and it doesn’t help that the trades are full of guys with lots of pride and stubbornness. We often times get the mindset that we have to do everything on our own and that because we know our trade well, that we know how to run our business well. Knowing your trade and knowing how to run a business are two separate skills though and we have to normalize this.
Mike Somodean is the owner of MSCS Inc in Roswell Georgia. After moving from Romania in 2003, he started MSCS Inc in 2006 and hasn’t looked back. Along the way he has gotten married, had a son, made the NWFA 40 under 40, and even won NWFA Floor of the Year. Mike is also a NWFA certified installer, sand and finisher, sales advisor, and regional instructor. All of these accolades help push his craft and business forward but along the way he realized he couldn’t figure it all out himself and needed some help. Mike had to get out of his own way and let others step in with doing what they are best at.
Listen in to this weeks episode of the Floor Academy podcast as Mike and I discuss why he hired a business coach to move his business beyond where he was at. What changes he had to make before coming to that decision, and how it has impacted his professional and personal life.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
What is it that you actually sell as an installation contractor? If your answer is installs, you are dead wrong. That is what you do but it is not what you sell. You are selling a solution to a problem that someone has and providing them with value. Think about it, if you had a $100 bill in your hand, what would you trade it for? The value of the proposed trade would need to be worth more than the $100 bill or you wouldn’t make the trade. How can you present value to your prospects beyond the fact that you can install something?
Andrew Acker is the Director of Education for Schluter Systems and has been with them for 27 years. Previous to that he was a C54 licensed contractor and tile setter for 20 years. Andy also sits on the bored of directions for the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation. Part of being the director of education for Schluter involves Andrew creating content that empowers contractors attending workshops to be better positioned than their competition in their market. This comes in the form of providing value behind using the Schluter name such as receiving a comprehensive warranty, products that provide solutions to common installation issues, or getting the contractor up to speed with industry standards to allow them to provide quality installs that last a lifetime.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as Andy and I discuss why you have to stop selling installations and learn how to solve problems by presenting value beyond an exchange of goods for money.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Ardex Americas
TileTools.com
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Do you ever worry about the tax man coming after you? What about any other government agency? Do you even know who can and what it truly takes to avoid getting in trouble? I’m sure most of us pay our taxes correctly enough to remain under the radar but what about OSHA, or the Department of Labor or the Environmental Protection Agency? I never really thought to personally worry about it, but then it came to my attention I may not need to worry about myself or my team. It could come from a client or team members significant other. How are you staying protected and from who?
Pandy Pridemore is the Principal Consultant and Mediator for The Human Resource USA. With over 44 years experience including corporate and public sector human resources work, she even had a stint at her father’s small flower shop. The Human Resource USA offers short term, long term, and on call HR Services to small businesses. Pandy is not only a sought after speaker for human resources but also hosts a weekly cable television show and podcast where she discusses Ohio state and Federal level HR guidelines and practices.
Don’t miss this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Pandy and I discuss who you need to be looking out for, what documentation you need to protect yourself, and why HR is more that harassment complaints and even small businesses need some form of it.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
How many times do you follow up with a potential client before you move on? What kind of follow up system do you have? Does any of it involve education? Did you know that the average buying cycle for flooring is 6 to 12 months? How are you staying in front of your prospects so they will use you when they are finally ready?
Chris Frate, owner of Pasquale Floors in Cleveland, OH, has grown his business to have multiple crews offering sand and finish services. Started in 2001, its been a journey to get the system and processes in place that allow Chris to now focus on the business instead of the sanding and finishing. Wanting to develop a better way to close leads and stay in front of clients Chris went looking into drip campaigns to have an automated way to educate his prospects as well as stay top of mind with them.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Chris and I discuss what a drip campaign is, how to set one up, and some ideas to get you started on your own.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Struggling to manage just the field operations? What’s it like to add on the books, marketing, scheduling, deliveries, and bidding? Wearing all the hats is a difficult task that is only multiplied by the facts that we are not good at everything and we don’t enjoy everything. Did you know that you don’t have to do it all? Did you know that your struggles are not unique and many other owners are just like you?
Doug Howard is President of Growth Team Strategies, a consulting company specializing in growth planning, succession planning and business improvement.
For more than 30 years, he has worked with owners of growing businesses to help them overcome challenges and develop strategies for successfully navigating growth. He does this through training, webinars, writing, facilitated meetings and one-on-one consulting.
Doug is known for his entertaining yet informative approach to business ideas and strategies. He likes to bring complex business concepts into clarity with real life stories and recognizable examples.
Doug is a graduate of the Wharton School of Business. He previously owned a small business consulting company for 17 years with offices in Alabama, Arizona, Virginia and Maryland. He served as a Carroll County Commissioner for 8 years and even worked as the Director of Miller for several years.
Discussed this week on the Floor Academy Podcast, Doug and I break down how owners don’t need to wear all the hats and how to escape that trap.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
Schluter Systems
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Have you heard bad stories about useless business coaches who don’t produce results? Does the idea of hiring one just completely turn you off? I can’t blame you, not one bit. There are a lot of coaches out there but many of them are really just cheerleaders. They pump you up emotionally but don’t ever provide any tools to truly change the business. What is it that you are actually buying and what is that you are actually wanting? Does your business even need help?
Justin Shaw is the founder of Driven for Growth and the 90 Day Growth Engine Program. He works closely with entrepreneurs in the contracting space to implement strategies and systems for their continued growth. His approach is holistic and helps business owners develop the skills they need to transform their business so that it can truly reach its full potential.
This week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast has Justin and I discussing how you can vet potential coaches, what they need to bring to the table and most importantly what you need to bring to the table.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
I hear stories from retail store owners all the time on how potential subs come in and ask if they are hiring and then the follow up is how much do you pay. This is a horrible approach in my opinion as you are your own business and need to be telling them what you expect. Besides the pay portion though, what about asking what struggles they have with their current subs or what their most common callback complaints are? Can you find a unique niche to solve for the retailer?
Kevin Wielgus is the co-owner of Floors Come True with his wife Lisa. They are based in Plainfield, IL which is a suburb of Chicago and not a small market by any means. Their competitive advantage was easily figured out when they read the negative reviews of their competitors and started solving those exact complaints while delivering all the parts people liked about the other services as well. Completing the projects has led Kevin to need many crews and he is no stranger to thinning the herd to find the subcontractors for his business.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we talk about how you as a business owner and installation company need to approach retailers to find the best fit for each of you, maximize the partnership, and stand out from your local competition.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
Where do you even begin starting a business? Many of us just end up out on our own after we learn the skillset thinking that’s all we need. It’s not the case and business knowledge is not the first thing we often seek. This is a major problem for small business owners in general but is easily fixable.
Paul Wilke, is the owner of Masterpiece Floors in Corona, CA. With years of experience under his belt as a sand and finish craftsman, as well as, being an owner/operator as well as employing many and subcontracting to many, the grind finally got to him. Paul was fed up with the status quo and went looking for a better way to run his business. This is where he learned he is a 40 year startup. Nothing had really changed in his approach over 40 years but it has in the past few.
Tune in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast to hear Paul and I discuss what changes he made immediately to distinguish owning a business from owning a job, a few simple tips to make sure your business is taken seriously, and why you can never stop learning.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
We have all seen the jack of all trades guys, or the guy that offer carpet, hardwood, tile, sheet goods, etc. How about the guys and gals that are doing residential one week and commercial the next. Sure it can all be done but each thing is technically a different model and they all require knowing the ins and outs of each so that you can properly run your business as efficiently as possible. If they are being run as one in the same, it can lead to cash flow problems, scheduling issues, and more.
Mark Bischoff is the CEO of Starnet, a commercial flooring networking group for contractors and vendors. Through their program over 4 billion dollars in sales is done per year in labor and materials. Through his position, Mark has seen any number of business models in the flooring industry from union labor versus non union, subcontractor versus employee, and how commercial projects get run. He knows there are many ways to skin a cat but if you don’t know the rules of engagement, then the results will be sloppy.
Listen in to this week’s episodes of the Floor Academy podcast as Mark and I discuss what steps you need to take to define your business model, how you need to learn and manage your numbers and why going outside of your box isn’t always the best idea.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Send us a Text Message.
In most cases the sales persons handles the sales of a project. What happens if the installer can upsell a design floor while working on the project? What about the occasional neighbor asking for a bid? Can the installer cash in and get a small commission for their efforts on top of their labor pay? I say yes, and think we need to look at how manage our businesses differently.
Jerry Levinson, former owner of Carpets of Arizona and now business coach, disagrees with my above sentiment. Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we work through why having non sales people do sales is a good or bad thing and does it depend on your business model.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
The economy ebbs and flows which means our businesses do as well. Some are better at planning ahead than others. For those that may be struggling to find work right now with an economy with rampant inflation and the lower income levels and middle class starting to feel the squeeze, we need to get creative to find clients. It’s not the same as it was just 3 years ago where as long as you had a phone number and a pulse you could land a project. How do you find a way to separate yourself from the pack and stand out when so many are doing exactly what you do?
No stranger to Floor Academy, Ken Ballin, makes a return to spitball some ideas on getting creative to have your company be top of mind. Find out what we can change about our offers and how we present them, to hearing entirely new ways to sell something you are probably already offering. This week’s podcast is one you won’t want to miss even if you are busy.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Where do you actually make money? I used to think it was in the field. That was where I did the work that produced the revenue for the company. Therefore you make your money in the field. I learned that was a lie. Revenue is produced in the field but made behind the desk. When you truly know your numbers and study your business to know your costs, then you can create efficiencies to earn more and keep more.
Weston Zimmerman, a former landscaper/hardscaper and now CEO of SynkedUP, knows the above struggle all too well. Starting as a laborer with Tussey Landscaping he worked his way up to lead teams on award winning projects in his space. Looking for ways to help his company be more successful led Weston to dig in to the numbers. He quickly realized how important they were and how much you can affect a companies trajectory with them. This led him to create Synked up, which helps contractors get a handle on their finances to thrive instead of survive.
Listen in to this week’s episode as Weston and I discuss the importance of getting behind the desk a few hours a week to break down numbers, the importance of tracking production in the field, and how knowing the numbers will give you a confidence boost while bidding.
SynkedUP.com
Resources - https://synkedup.com/resources
https://howtopricemyjob.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/synkedup
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Where do you find employees? How do you recruit? How do you retain them? All great questions that are consistently asked. Most of the time we are finding guys and gals from current employees, online posts, or the fact that the neighbor kid needs some work. This works to a point but it doesn’t help us grow a mainstream presence or grow a larger reach for our industry.
Jim Tsigos of Tsigos Construction in Delran, NJ has been in construction for 24 years. No stranger to hiring people, he has had the same struggles as all of us. He has however, found a way to give back to the industry that provides for himself, his wife and two kids. Jim regularly volunteers at the local vocational school and other places to educate those around him. This knowledge is pulled from being a master carpenter, certified tile installer, and more. Giving back to his industry has been the most fulfilling thing Jim has done and produced the most fruit.
Listen in to this weeks episode of the Floor Academy Podcast to learn how you can give back to your community to improve your industry.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Traditionally in the trades, boys will follow in their father’s footsteps and pick up the family business. This is a timeless tale. Only in modern society has it begun to change where kids run off with their own ideas of what they want to become and accomplish. It’s not so bad overall, but how can we create the next generation of flooring professionals while still giving freedom of choice?
Dennis DiCarlo has built up a strong retail business and is now looking to expand it. Slowly but surely his kids have grown up and he was able to provide for them beyond basic needs included college educations. Life wasn’t always easy for Jackson and Chesney DiCarlo though, as they grew up knowing that if they wanted to make some money, there was always work to be done around the flooring store. They still needed to earn their own way. The store was never forced on them and they were allowed to explore other opportunities to be individuals. Now, after graduating college and experiencing adult life, both have opted to take up a part of the flooring business that their father continues to build beyond just retail sales.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast to hear how two young people are excited for their futures that they chose, how their upbringing helped them come full circle back to what helped support them, and what we can do to help encourage our own kids towards a path of success within the flooring industry.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the Show.
Starting a business is rough. Just because you know how to do something does not mean you know how to sell it. From there is only gets more complicated as you have to learn how to market yourself, what to charge, how to manage a schedule, and so much more. Everyone is told there is no money in construction unless you go out on your own and yet no one is telling you how to do it.
Natalie Hall, owns and operates Artistry in Tile in Hudson, WI. From the age of 12 she studied under her father to learn the trade. At 16 she spent five yeas in a restaurant learning all different positions before moving on to managing a gym cafe, then management at UPS and finally Target. She got her inner creative on by doing cake baking at decorating at a restaurant after her management stints. Finally she arrived back at the trades and wanting to take it seriously. It was no longer a way to drum up some extra cash on the weekends. The work is rewarding but managing the day to day has become overwhelming. Natalie is not unlike many new business owners I speak with.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as we discuss ways for her to better manage her time, get her company known, and not experience such extreme ups and downs.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
What’s the difference between being a painter, welder, plumber, framer, flooring installer, tile setter, or stone mason? What’s the difference between the country you live in compared to others around the world? Do you really think that your individual location, clientele opportunities, education opportunities and other conditions have that big of an effect on what you can accomplish?
Tom Cockerill is the co-owner of Cockerill & Co with his wife Sarah. They own and operate and hardwood sand and finish business in Darlington, England. Realizing the industry was suffering from more than a lack of technical skill and admittedly not being the best businessman himself, Tom went searching for answers and also started the UK Flooring Podcast. Learning from bankruptcy, he is now teaching other businesses how to be profitable, implement systems and processes, and mentoring the next generation of successful flooring companies.
This week on the Floor Academy podcast, Tom and I will discuss how even though our countries are far apart, we are not so different after all. Developed nation or not, we all seem to have very similar issues that need to be dealt with and we will be discussing where we all need to step up to help solve these issues.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
How much is too much? The pricing debate is proposed again. What should you be charging to complete your projects? Ken Ballin made a post about a bid for a $2500 backsplash and part of Facebook lost their minds. Listen in as we discuss why it is priced the way it is and how you need to price your work.
Support the show
How do you deal with pushy clients? How do you handle them controlling the project, materials, schedule, etc? Are you not the professional? What happens when trust is lost or not established? Sometimes you just have to fire your client and there is nothing wrong with that. Contracts have natural breaking points in them for a reason and it is ok to use them.
Sarah Thelen came up as a finish carpenter before moving into doing remodels under her company S. Thelen Construction in 2017. She is also CTI #1848 as of December 2022. Her experience in a male dominated industry led her to make sure her clients were comfortable with not only the work being done but herself as well. Her passion for bringing crazy ideas to life has helped build her brand while allowing her house the knowledge of technical specifications to make the end results successful.
Recently, Sarah found herself on a project with a repeat client that was constantly deferring to the designer. This situation strained her relationship with the homeowners. Laying out the situation led to making compromises she was not happy with and ultimately she had to make the decision to fire the client instead of continuing to work in an environment where she was not appreciated for what she was bring to the table.
This week on Floor Academy, Sarah and I discuss why we need to fire clients, what makes it hard, what the rewards of doing so are, and how this can help you actually grow your business.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I can’t trust anyone to do it as well as me. No one does it how I train them to do it. If I’m not there, they take shortcuts. No one will ever take as much pride in the company as I do. These are all complaints I see consistently from contractors who are struggling to grow their business and find a way to not only add additional crews but not be stuck in the field consistently.
Matt Garcia is the owner of Craftsman Hardwood Flooring in San Angelo, TX. Over the last 24 months he has looked at what he wanted his business to become and he has had to swallow a lot of tough pills. From realizing there were nearly no systems in place for how to acquire and train team members, to how they sold projects, to how they followed up and managed those projects. Every aspect of the business has been revamped in some way and is under the microscope for further inspection. 24 months ago if Matt wasn’t in the field, the projects weren’t completed. Now he has not only increased revenue and profit, but also increased how much his team members make.
Listen in to this episode of the Floor Academy podcast to learn how you can develop a business that will run without micromanaging every aspect of it.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
As a leader it can be hard to relate to your team at times. Whether it be because of interests, age gaps, maturity levels, or personality, it is something we need to learn to overcome. A team is only as good as their leader and if the leader is unable to find a way to connect, motivate, encourage, and build up their team, there isn’t going to much of a team for very long.
Alison Mullins is the author of “The Art of Selling: We Make Order Makers, Not Order Takers” & the founder of Rep Methods Sales Training. With over 20 years of experience in sales, merchandising, marketing, and content creation, she has built her business on the principles of selling. Alison has extensive knowledge and experience in stone, textiles, fashion, and luxury wholesale manufacturing. Pulling from the book Primal Leadership, Alison has been able to apply limbic resonance to her training methods to allow leaders to have a higher emotional IQ and better connect with their teams.
Listen in to this weeks episode of the Floor Academy podcast as we discuss what limbic resonance is, how to apply it to yourself, and what it can do for you, your company and your team.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Do you have competition locally or do you have trusted partners? What about nationally? Internationally? Are you utilizing your relationship building skills to get to know your product reps? Distributor employees? How are you growing your network to better empower your business?
Join Daniel and Jose Gonzalez of Preferred Flooring and Paul Stuart of Go Careera and myself as The Huddle and Floor Academy collide in this team up episode. We discuss the power of networking, how it has built our businesses and helped our lives, as well as, where we see the industry headed because of it.
You won't want to miss this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast. Listen Now!
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
TISE Resource Book
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
With over 3 billion dollars of failures annually in the flooring industry alone, the flooring tile and stone industry could stand a face lift. From the image of contractors and the level of respect they get, to the technical skills they display, and how their companies are run. The bar is easily stepped over these days by just showing up on time and doing what you say you will do, when you say you will do it. This doesn’t even yet include doing it right, sadly. Not a good look or great summary. We have to do better.
Paul Stuart is a cofounder of Go Carrera and owner of Stuart and Associates Commercial Flooring. With a vast experience from hand skills to business skills, Paul has been able to turn Stuart and Associates into a premier commercial contractor in the midwest. In order to continue competing at a top level and to help other businesses in the industry he created Go Carrera to assist in companies finding quality help that has the skills to pay the bills without you coming out of pocket for a failure.
Listen in as we discuss the state of the industry from our vantage points and where we think the needle can really get moved for companies looking to stand out and make a name for themselves.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Taking yourself to the next level on social media is no easy task. There are any number of ways to grow your audience from paying for followers to interacting with those around you, or even just putting your posts up and letting it grow organically. The views really come when people that want to see your content interact with it more often.
Shawna Bouchard is a Sr. Marketing Specialist for GoBoard at JohnsManville, we will be discussing the challenge growing your audience and keeping them engaged and sticking to your niche of clientele.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy podcast to grow your mind and your business.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I can’t find reliable help. How do I write a job description to attract people? How are you all finding employees? Everyone keeps quitting on me. What kind of SOPs do you all have in place? These questions and statements are some that I consistently see week after week in online flooring groups. One of the biggest issues small companies face are exactly these. Attracting and retaining good team members is a constant struggle even for the largest businesses, but there are ways to make it easier.
Sam Bruce is the current President of Visalia Ceramic tile and a 3rd generation partner. Started by his grandma and grandpa Martino in 1985, the company has grown to employee over 30 certified tile installers, be a 5 star contractor under the NTCA, and be locally and nationally recognized for their brand and projects. A key part to their success and being able to have so many CTI’s is that there is not only a clear hiring process but also a consistent training program that all tile finisher employees must complete. It wasn’t built overnight and it didn’t come easy but Visalia Ceramic tile also knew they did not need to reinvent the wheel.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy podcast as Sam and I discuss how they recruit new team members, successfully train them for everyone’s long term success, and then retain them through clear advancement goals.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
It's one of the largest hurdles in small business. How do you build past yourself? How do you get that second crew up and running and trust them when you can't be there? Where do you find them? What needs to be in place to hold them accountable?
Kara Allen is part owner of Spiegel's Flooring in Sandy Lake, PA since 2020, alongside her husband, Jason, who is the lead installer. While Kara runs the showroom, is the designer and project manager, Jason is out doing the consults and measurements and doing the installations. They have reached capacity of what the two of them can handle and need to find a way to expand the business to continue to grow it beyond what they are capable of.
Listen in as Kara and I discuss how they can ready their business for more growth. How they can look to hire qualified individuals that will fit their values, what types of systems and paperwork they need in place to manage additional crews and figuring out the best way to pay the crews. Should they be subcontractors or employees?
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
The internet will have you believe that if you hustle hard enough that you can accomplish anything. You can build a great business, you can have multiple successful side hustles, and plenty of time for your family as well. This attitude is super toxic and leads to a mindset that stops you from actually growing. If you work 16 hours a day or even 20 hours a day, then you can get 80 to 100 hours in a five day week. I'll even give you 7 days because you are a hustler, so that gets you 112 to 140 hours a week. If I can work my 10 hours 5 days a week and hire 4 people to each work 8 hours a day 5 days a week, then I am sitting at 50 hours for myself and 150 hours for the employees for a total of 200 hours per week. I may have made slightly less because I am paying out salaries but I would even dispute that. I've leveraged the time I have available to do higher per dollar transactions and multiplied my time by delegating.
Cody Cox is stepping up at Cox Tile which was founded by his father. After going to college to be a physical therapist he rethought what he wanted to do before grad school and jumped into the family business. This has led to him learning all of the tasks in the business and spending time in each department so that he earned the respect of everyone around him and wasn't just another SOB (Son Of A Boss). He's made a lot of changes within in the company and how it gets handled but he has also had to trust the team that was in place to execute those changes. It was always easy to do and even his own father was hesitant.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast to learn why Cody will not out work you but that he will out delegate you to get where he wants to go.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Going from owner operator to employer is a tough transition. It’s not easy to learn how to lead a team or to be able to communicate well with them. Most of us came from a system where we were not trained very well by our “leaders” and thus did not get the experience to manage a team properly. This leads to micromanagement and trust issues when you delegate out tasks. Even worse it leads us to believe that it’s not worth it to hire anyone and that we are better off just remaining as a one man show or possibly just having a helper that we never plan to fully train. There is a better way though and you can escape the grind of having to be a part of your business everyday.
Dennis DiCarlo is the owner of Kronus Software and Carpet To Go Flooring. Having started a flooring retail store, it wasn’t long before Dennis realized he couldn’t be in all places at the same time or even be capable of handling the workflow that he was developing. Bringing on staff was inevitable, however it didn’t go how he planned at first and was left doubling back constantly to button up tasks or to make sure it was done right the first time. This was not letting him or his team meet their full potential. Dennis learned that he needed to become a better leader and started investing in himself as well as technology to get him where he wanted go.
This week on Floor Academy Podcast Dennis and I will discuss what the standard shortcomings are when you are new to management, some simple changes you can make to how you delegate out tasks and communicate, and lastly how technology can provide you a system of accountability.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
A common excuse to not having a bookkeeper for a business is that there is worry about their access to your accounts. There is for sure a legitimate concern here but they can be mitigated by how you set the employee or outside contractor up. What are the ways you can control access? How do you need to monitor what they are doing? What do you need to understand about bookkeeping to hold them accountable?
Erin Albrecht of J&R Tile returns to the show to discuss how she had over 100k embezzled from her company. What happened? How did they get away with it? The employee was vetted and trained by her expert accountant mother. Erin’s and many others worst fear came true when it never should have happened.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss what happened, how to prevent it, and why you can’t let a setback keep you trapped in a perpetual state of worry.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
401K’s. Medical benefits. Paid time off. Sometimes the corporate world seems better than this self employed life. All of these things are accessible as small business owners though. You can do an IRA, get benefits and build in paid time off to your rates. There are other things we can do as well to build generational wealth and set ourselves for retirement. Whether it be growing our business to have systems to run without us, investing in properties, or fining other creative ways to use your profits, there are paths to help you live more comfortably.
Anthony Oliver of Oliver’s Tile in Woodland, CA has been at it since he graduated high school and his uncle’s brought him on board in ’99. Now he has brought his son in to his company to build something special that is not only for him but for his son’s future as well. Beyond building a tile company Anthony has used the money he has made in the trade to work in other areas of his live as well, mostly with property investments.
Join Anthony and I on this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss how you can use our lucrative trade to not only set yourself up but generations to come in your family.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
You’re probably like me and got fed up with working for someone else and decided to take your skillset and start selling your own projects. It’s a whole new ball game compared to just doing the work and one that takes a lot of effort to figure out successfully. From what to charge, how to negotiate, what to look for in clients, and more, learning sales is a completely different animal from the technical side of installation. Many of us never receive formal training or even pick up a book on how to do sales or even understand basic human psychology.
Mark Evans is a growth consultant, and author that accidentally found his way into the world of flooring. Mark has spent the past 10 years working with some of the fastest-growing companies in the United States and Europe including Inc. 5000 award winners, and private equity-backed companies. He's taking the knowledge he's gained over successfully building, launching, and growing 30+ sales teams and companies and applying that to the world of flooring and the multi-family market. He and his company SalesKit are based out of sunny Naples, FL.
Listen in to this weeks episode as Mark and I discuss how consultations and even initial inquiries need to be handled to better assess how you can help a potential client solve their problem, increase your close rate, and build more rapport with future clients. Don’t forget to subscribe to the Floor Academy Podcast and to leave a review.
Mark's White Paper for Floor Academy
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I heard a curious thing. Apparently is is a western civilization thing answer the question of "who are you" by listing out your job or something else that you do. Much of the world would start that off by saying I am the son or daughter of so and so. This led me to think about personal identity and especially as a business owner how it can affect us. From wanting to control everything, to advertising everywhere you go, and a company that always needs something, it's hard not to identify as the thing you are always doing. Is that healthy though?
Returning friend of the show, Ron Nash, is a husband, father, botanist, artist, photographer, dog trainer, mentor, teacher, avid reader and, oh yeah, the president of Laticrete North America. There is no shortage of things I have witnessed Ron take on over the years through his social media profiles. Some of it is for personal pleasure and some of it is for work but all of it brings him contentment.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast while we discuss why there needs to be an off switch on your work identity, how important it is to have something to do besides work, and why you can never stop learning or growing as a human.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
It’s very often that trades people live paycheck to paycheck or believe they have more money than they do and make purchases they really shouldn’t. Those boats, big trucks, and other toys always look so tempting and receiving that deposit check sure can bolster your bank account. That’s not where you should be making decisions from though. Actually knowing your expenses, how much money you really have in an account and holding back some retained earnings can change your life and your company. Everyone needs an F U bank account to bring them peace of mind and to allow them to bid from a place of confidence and authority.
Shane Hubenig has been a flooring installer for over 30 years in British Columbia. His father had a retail shop growing up and he spent time in the union. These days, Shane has his own company where he prefers to find high end residential remodel work. Along with a flooring company he has a couple of rentals and a multimillion dollar paint company with his brother. All of this has been funded by floors and money management.
Tune in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Shane and I discuss why you need an F U bank account, some money management skills, and a little bit of patience.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Kronus Soft
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many of us work for years to build amazing brand recognition in our market. It goes a long way in getting referrals and keeping that word of mouth of marketing a big component of lead generation. What happens when you look to start leveraging your brand though? How can you use your brand to strike up deals with brands from your industry? How can you use your audience to bring attention to other people’s brands while having the other company bring awareness to your brand? What kind of content are you making already that can be used in other places with little to no manipulation of the content to gain new avenues of growing your audience?
Jennifer Farrell is the founder of the award winning design firm Jennifer Farrell Designs. Her work has been featured in numerous publications and she has hosted or been a designer on dozens of television programs. With her experience and brand recognition she was able to develop Calibu Vineyard in partnership with The International Surfaces Event starting in 2021 This partnership had Michelle Swayze, the senior marketing manager at Informa, the owners of Surfaces, working closely with Jennifer to develop brand partnerships that made sense for all of the brands involved. Michelle was able to use her 20 years of experience marketing brands across all channels to develop beneficial relationships amongst all involved to not only raise awareness of the products involved but also the people.
Listen in to this week’s episode as we look at how you can use your brand to generate more awareness about yourself while helping other brands do the same.
Check out our sponsors
Kronus Soft
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
How do you even know if your marketing company is taking care of you properly? What questions should you be asking them? What data are they showing you that means absolutely nothing? How can you know that your dollars spent are getting you a return?
Brittany Murphy is the marketing director at One Thing Marketing. They believe in transparency, education, and honesty, which is something not all companies hold as values. With her experience working with contractors from many fields and helping them build their businesses, she is here to share how you can hire a marketing company and make sure they are actually working for you, instead of just taking a slice of you pie each month.
Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Brittany and I discuss how you can be on top of your marketing game and start growing your business instead of taking a shotgun approach and hoping it works.
Check out our sponsors
Kronus Soft
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
It has been two years since we heard from Chuck Meyers in the metro Detroit, Michigan area. The first time he joined us, he didn't know he was going broke working for the retailers at the rates he was. He used Floor Academy's Business Budgeting calculator spreadsheet, got to know his actual numbers and present the store he subbed through some real data. They raised the rates for not only him but all of the guys across the board.
Now two years later, we check in on Chuck and Meyers Flooring. He is nothing but chiseled steel and sex appeal suplexing yard flamingos. Knowing his numbers has empowered him to find more of his own work, build his brand, hire employees, and start building a business instead of just owning a job.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we check in after two years and see how things have changed, what's been working to grow Chuck's business, and where he is headed to next.
Check out our sponsors
Kronus Soft
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
It's easy to get caught up in doing a project and to forget about protecting yourself. Whether that means putting on a mask to reduce dust intake, wearing your knee pads all the time, or even getting the proper tool for the job when another "will do", we only get one body and need to make it count.
Andrew Lewis of 2 Ezy Tiling in Victoria, Australia has been in the tile industry for nearly 20 years. Starting an apprenticeship after grade 12 and 4 years later he was out on his own being his own boss. With so much experience he is no stranger to knowing he needs to take care of himself with the right investments in to his health which can easily affect his wealth.
Join Andrew and I on this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss some simple ways to keep yourself healthy, be more efficient, and put more money in your pocket at the end of the day.
Check out our sponsors
Kronus Soft
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
The American dream is to make a name for yourself and to be able to take care of yourself and your family above a reasonable means. We have celebrities from all walks of life that we put in a limelight because they are making that dream happen. The advent of social media and short form media has brought on an entirely new segment of these celebrities that come and go as quickly as you can watch their videos. So...what is it that we really want? What is actually important and how do we get it?
Kevin Vogel, has been in the flooring industry for over 30 years. Working for carpet mills in his early days as a regional manager, he moved his way up the corporate ladder by playing the game correctly. Switching between companies and market segments always paid off as his skillset grew. There was even a family in there that got attention. Perhaps the world knew Kevin's timing and Covid intersected with him starting what he has called his sabbatical. Maybe it was a mid life crisis though. What happens when you step back from chasing a title, dollar amount, that shiny thing, or whatever material possession you have your eyes set on, and actually assess who you are, what you are, and where you want to go?
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Kevin and I discuss what stories we are telling ourselves. Life can be very rewarding when you have the right perspective and goals, but sometimes we let outside influences get in the way. Find your way along with us.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
A large issue many contractors have is scheduling. That task does not get any easier the more you grow. In fact, it generally becomes more complicated and troublesome. There are ways to manage it though, and to make the bumps in the road become less of a hurdle and more along the lines of speed bump.
Dirk Sullivan, is the owner of Hawthorne Tile in Portland, OR. No stranger to our industry or how it is run, he has been leading his company for over 20 years. Having grown it to a multimillion dollar company and working with a LOT of general contractors as a small part of a much larger project, Dirk knows what it takes to maintain a schedule. That was of course until Covid, and there seems to have been a shift in how projects take place.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Dirk and I discuss how he views that the landscape has shifted in scheduling projects, but also what ideas we can come up with to keep his pipeline flowing smoothly.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
When I first started Illustrious Hardwoods I made a guess to myself that it would take me 3 to 5 years to be able to develop a good work of mouth referral system for my business. I knew that I wasn’t going to blow up and be the most popular option in the community overnight. I also knew I was not going to reach that many people at first. If I averaged one project a week, that would only be 150 people in 3 years. If each of those people have a 10 person reach, then that is only 1500 people. My numbers did turn out that way and about 3.5 years in, the effort dedicated to being present online and having 1000 plus followers on my Facebook page plus having a reach from clients of 1500 plus people was making the phone ring more and more consistently. Knowing what I know now though, I think I could do it a little faster.
Kyle Hobby owns Southern Hobby’s in Plantation, FL. With 14 years in the tile trade and having moved the business once before, Kyle is no stranger to establishing himself in a market. We got in to a conversation online about charging for estimates and didn’t quite see eye to eye on the approach of how to make sure you get paid for your time, even if you are in a new market.
Listen in as we have a battle of the Kyles this week on the Floor Academy Podcast while discussing how best to establish a new business in a market.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
There is plenty in the flooring industry to take for granted. It is fairly recession proof, has a low barrier to entry, it is easy to control risk, and is generally very profitable. I don't think everyone feels that way though, nor would they want you to know these things. Whether it is manufacturers, suppliers, retailers or other installers, it seems many people want to keep their cards close to their vest.
Robert Baier is owner at Baier's Floorcovering and inspections. With 30 years of experience he is no stranger to the game and how it is play in front of others and behind closed doors. Whether he is looking at failed floors, talking with other owners in his area, or conversing with other installers, he sees plenty of places the industry can change from how inspections are handled, people are educated, or even how we all get paid.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we get a little spicy and poke the bear.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I’ve seen a lot of posts online where tradespeople actively discourage youth from getting in to the trades. They are hard, they will ruin you, there’s no money in them, etc. Why anyone would do something they hate so much is beyond me. I believe we all have a choice and can find things we love to do and enjoy them greatly. In fact, I’ve reinvented myself a few times. From film major and reality show camera operator, to flooring installer and boutique showroom owner, to now a guy that challenges the status quo of an industry that changed his life.
Matt Wentland is no different. Going to college and acquiring an elementary education degree, he quickly learned that corporate rules and roles were not his bag. He challenged himself to find other ways to make money doing things that fit his personality which aligned more with being very outgoing and creative. While never conventional such as vacuum salesman, brand icon, emcee, and “booth babe”, there has very often been a side of contractor sprinkled in as well. All of those paths allowed him to use his voice, his energy, and creative spirit to influence, educated and entertain his clients.
Listen in this week on the Floor Academy Podcast, as we hear form Matt on how he has made his chosen path fit him more than chasing a paycheck or settling for second best. Go Boards very own “booth babe” talks about his experience building a life full of passion and how he has been able to use his joys to make a living while also finding ways to partner with clients to advance himself as well.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Technical knowledge in the tile and flooring industry is a dime a dozen. Call any manufacturer and you will find training easily accessible. There are many 3rd party certifications as well. All of this is great for the industry as there is no excuse to do poor work. The technical side is covered very well. What is lacking with the technical side is the ability to sell it. Introducing The Hybrid and Advanced Systems Installation Event (THASIE) coming March 2024 in Fresno, CA. Not only can you learn some amazing technical details behind your tile installations but there will discussions on selling these techniques and options to your clients to help you grow your business.
THASIE is the brain child of Kris Blanchard, Mike Jarchow, and Brandt Garrison. Pooling their skillsets together and realizing a lack in education in the industry they are putting themselves out there to make it happen. Brandt is the owner of Garrison Tile and Renovation and CTI #1642 in Burley, ID. With his years of experience learning not only the technical details of products and installation standards, he has spent time to learn the basic science behind the products as well. This has allowed Brandt to make dreams come true for his clients while being able to maintain industry guidelines and standards so that warranties exist and everyone sleeps soundly at night.
Tune it to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss what THASIE has to offer you and how it can help you take your business up a notch with options you may have only dreamed about.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Reaching your target demographic isn’t always as easy as it seems. Just because you build it, does not mean he will come. You need to target your audience where they are at and offer to solve their problem for them. They may not even know they have the problem until you can tell them a story about someone else you helped serve and then they realize they are the exact same.
Jim Meng is no stranger to business having built a Plumbing and AC business over 20 years to 4 million in revenue. He then helped grow a home builder from 25 homes a year to 1474 and doing 272 million in revenue. Later he founded InVision Construction and over 13 years has completed 1300 projects. This brings us to 2015 when Mississippi Pro Design Center was started to be a one stop shop for flooring with a white glove customer service experience. The design center has since expanded to offer windows, doors, cabinetry, countertops and more.
David Webb was brought on to Mississippi Pro Design in August to be Jim’s right hand man. With over a decade of business to business sales and marketing experience his role is to get people in the door and make sure their experience is next to no one.
Mississippi Pro Design is currently struggling to bring people in through the use of radio, tv, and online marketing. Today we will be spitballing ideas on how they can better reach their target demographic, find ways to interact with the community, and let people know where they are and how to find them. Listen in to this week’s episode of the Floor Academy Podcast to get ideas on how to better reach your target market too.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many of us run what we would call successful companies. Some of us truly only own jobs that we make a good living from and others may have employees and delegate a bunch of tasks. No matter where you are at in the spectrum though, how many of us can truly step away from the company and it keeps going without you and sometimes, if not always, better than when you have your hands on the wheel?
Trask Bergerson is a partner in Bergerson Tile and Stone in Astoria, OR. With 3 generations now in the partnership, Bergerson Tile is no stranger to the local market or on how to make money. He will readily admit that they may have been doing a lot of it by accident though. It's not that there we not systems and processes in place, but they were sloppy and a lot of assumptions were made.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Trask and I discuss how Bergerson Tile and Stone has benefitted from taking a step back to analyze what they are really after, how they are delegating more than ever, and why you can only move at the pace of understanding.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
In my opinion the flooring and tile industry has one huge problem in it. The subcontracting model. You have a bunch of guys and gals that don't realize they are running a business, owning jobs and struggling to make it. Yes, there are success stories and you may be one of them, but paying a fair wage to employees and giving them opportunities to grow into new roles would do a lot more for the industry moving forward than the current system of everyone trying to fend for themselves.
Matt Plaskoff is the owner of One Week Bath in Van Nuys, CA. With over 35 years of experience in construction, 70 employees, 2 years as a consultant for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and a thriving business with a quick turnaround model, Matt knows why employees work better than subs and how important a training program is. Not only does he have control over the quality of work but he can insure everyone is constantly operating on the same page because they all learned from the same system. Little to no deviation means more consistent results.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Matt and I discuss how and why he settled on the employee model, and how he built a training program to insure the success of One Week Bath.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
IQ Power Tools
Check out our website and store
Support the show
We all know that when we look in the mirror, we need to admit we are our biggest problem. Most of us won't do it and place blame on outside circumstances instead of owning what is right in front of us. We may even read a book on mindset or go to a weekend conference and be fired up after completing the course. However, most of us never continue to do the work, and the real change only happens when you are consistent and experience hard times. How do you get to a place where you can maintain growth, be comfortable being uncomfortable, and confronting your fears or headtrash?
Kathy Case is the Director of Business Development for Quantify North America, a company that handles takeoff bids for commercial companies. With a family history that hit 100 years in 2023 she is no stranger to the commercial construction industry. Since 1979 she has been an estimator, installer, project manager, sales, and executive management. In the last 3 years she has really been able to make some moves that changed her life and business. In 2020 she dove into the self development world when Tony Robbins offered his first virtual event and she hasn't looked back since staying actively involved in his programs.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Kathy and I discuss what motivated the participation, why she hasn't quit and why she wishes she would have taken this step sooner.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
As the owner of J&R Tile in San Antonio, Texas, Erin Albrecht, is responsible for making sure the company is successful. Part of that success comes from your partnerships with your suppliers. Not all distribution houses are created equally as we will find out as we hear her story about a project turned sideways because of the contact at a distributor. Find out what kind of things we need to look for in a partnership, why a supplier may not be your best fit, and what to do when you aren't happy with the relationship.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
How are you making sure you company stands out? We all try to offer services but how can you make a shower or a floor stand out from the rest? What is different about your work from others?
Sometimes there is nothing different. The differences come from the information presented. Do you offer dustless services? Are you actually promoting them? What about the materials you use? What makes those unique and different from others on the market? How can you find ordinary everyday things to present as valuable up sells to your clients that your local competition is not?
Duane Paradis is the Technical Manager at JohnsManville with the GoBoard team. He has not only played a major role in converting the technology from the roofing industry to the tile industry, but also undertakes many technical duties with it. Products are not always what they are cracked up to be from appearance alone and Duane knows this more than most.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Duane and I discuss how we can take a seemingly ordinary run of the mill product seem extraordinarily different from the rest.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I called back my client twice and texted them but they didn't respond. I think I am going to move on. This is what I do and it's a horrible way to run your small business. I know this is what a lot of you do. How many leads were not ready to close yet, how many leads needed a little more info they never got, how many leads can't find your info 12 months later when they are ready. Not everyone wants to buy right NOW!
JR Pentolino owns and operates Design Windows and Doors in Ontario, CA. With 21 employees he is not only the visionary behind the company at this point but also the sales manager. On track to do 5 million in revenue this year with a goal of 6 million, it's no small operation anymore. JR has found a passion for lead management and knows how important it is to the success of his business.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss what a buying cycle looks like, why you need clients on a drip campaign, and how to rehash leads from the "dead". All of these tools will help your top line revenue grow and keep your schedule filled up. Don't miss your opportunity to set your business apart from the competition.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Tradespeople in general are a proud bunch. How could you not be when you spend time building things that make the world go 'round. Your communities just would not function without you. What better way to let that pride show through than putting egos up against each other to see who will be the best install in the country?
The National Installer of the Year Competition was revived in 2019 at the annual International Surfaces Event in Las Vegas, Nevada. It has spent the last few years not only growing in popularity at the show, but also in what is required to hold it. From a handful of entries to having to hold regional competitions to whittle down the competitors, the competition only continues to grow and attract attention.
What lies in the future for the event and why is it so important to the industry as a whole? Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Paul Treanor and Beth Miller discuss their roles with the competition, how they have seen it evolve and why the industry truly needs to embrace this event and blow it up.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
How do you go about training a new hire? If it is anything like the experience I got, it was discombobulated, unorganized and just tasks assigned as they came up. If there wasn't something for me to do, then I was told to watch. This experience is probably pretty similar to a lot of you. This however, is no way to train someone.
Mark Herakovic is the Installation Training Manager at MDG Flooring and has designed an actual program to bring up apprentices in a short amount of time and organized fashion. Gavin Swanson is his first trainee and has been able to succeed at his position not only because of the training he is getting but because of the support and culture behind him.
This week on the Floor Academy Podcast we will discuss building and implementing an actual training program in to your business, how to get quality feedback from trainees, and how to keep them excited. Don't miss this chance to learn how to build something to really separate your business from the others in our industry.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I can't find good help. No one wants to work. Everyone I hire does subpar work compared to me. These are all complaints I see from contractors looking to hire employees. They are valid complaints but no one is changing their hiring process. All of us keep going back to the same well and expecting a different result. Does that really make sense? What if there was a better way to attract, retain, and educate talent?
Randy Stanbury built Service Freight Systems from the ground up. With his previous experience in transportation sales, he knew that many companies complained about freight services never communicating with their clients. This led to much frustration on the clients end about not knowing what was going on with their shipment. Randy set out to build a freight company that was dedicated to service, hence the name. Communication would be paramount to their success. This commitment paid off and after many years of running the company and growing it to multiple millions of dollars, Randy was able to sell it and look at what else he wanted to do.
Now a business coach, Randy helps guide others through the different stages of business from the real world lessons he learned along the way, as well as, from the different businesses he helps excel in their fields. One of these pain points is often hiring team members. Not only do you not want A player talent for a long term employee, but you also want to make sure they are coachable. Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Randy and i discuss his approach to hiring talent that will grow with the company, how he keeps them engaged, and what kind of culture will help you retain the employees.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Support the show
Life is a fickle mistress, you never know what it is going to throw at you. The decisions you make today, effect who you become tomorrow. Nobody likes cranky old people but they didn't turn 75 and instantly become cranky. It was a lifetime of decisions that got them to that point. Who you want to be in the future starts today!
Jeremy Barker is a co-owner of Bathmatic in Ballantyne Country Club, NC. His life was seemingly normal until one day he became the one hand cut man. Despite what many would consider a disadvantage and having previously been "whole" but now "disabled", Jeremy has not let his accident be a setback or a limiting factor. If anything it has brought him an attitude of gratitude which he uses to influence those around him to live a better life.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast to hear Jeremy's inspiring story, why it important he keeps his sunny disposition, and why you need to take a page out of Jeremy's book.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
It's easy to believe that all you have to do is go out and sell a project, deliver a result that is satisfactory and you will get paid. Then you just rinse and repeat. This is how many small businesses operate and it will allow you to scale to a few employees but it will not work long term. Where is the culture coming from, what is the long term mission, what goals need to be met to move forward, and how is the money being managed?
Steve Keough has been in the construction industry for over 35 years running SLQK Enterprises. One of his companies under that umbrella is Electricians Get Leads.com. WIth 5 staff members, 1.2 million in annual revenue and 22 years in business, it didn't cover overnight or easy. It tooks years to accomplish and pain along the way with lots of learning opportunities and the ability to admit that things could be improved.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy podcast as Steve and I discuss simple steps you can take to implement changes into your business that will help you streamline operations, gain back your free time, and find more profit through efficiency.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
You learn a trade, start a business, and just keep going on your own. You can't talk with your employees, your spouse doesn't understand, and you're too busy to chat with other professionals in your field because you are always on the tools. This is no way to run a business or be a part of one. We are meant to be life-long learners. There is a reason the saying iron sharpens iron is still around and used. We need to surround ourselves with individuals who will push us to new heights.
In January of 2022, Crystal Sims was in Las Vegas competing in the National Installer of the Year competition. She had huge support from her amazing family and fellow employees at Preferred Flooring. She was the talk of the show being the only woman to ever compete in the competition to this day. She had no idea what life had in store for her. She was able to meet Shannon Vogel of Reach Social and an instant connection happened. While family and friends were potting to make this chance meeting into something more Crystal had already decided to ask Shannon to mentor her and that was that.
Now a year and half later, the two have remained in constant contact, and Crystal isn't the only one on the receiving end. Listen in as we learn from these two phenomenal ladies why you need to be a mentor and a mentee. There are advantages to being on both sides of the coin and you can only gain all the useful nuggets by listening to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
The spouses role in a business can often go under appreciated. As business owners we don't always realize what it takes to run the other half of our lives and it's not always clear how much your spouse may be investing in you. I know for me this has been a major point of contention in my relationship with my wife and I am still figuring it out.
Listen in to this week's Floor Academy Podcast where my wife, Jamie Hedin, and I sit down to discuss what investing in your partner looks like. From the beginning she dropped everything to believe in me and trusted me to provide for her and our kids as our family grew. The ability for business to be successful was more dependant upon her than I probably ever admitted. Find out how the dynamics have played out for us, where you may be able to make improvements in your own relationship, and how you manage a better business while having a successful home life.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many of us have tried to scale our company but struggle to find reliable employees or subcontractors. We fail to be able to trust them to complete the work orders we provide. We feel as if we are the only ones capable of doing the project correctly and to the standards that the client expects. I can tell you that you will never scale past you and a crew or two if you feel this way and can't let go.
Jon Vanarthos owns and operates Gemini Home Remodeling in Fairless Hills, PA. He was always hands on in his company giving 150% with 13 employees until March 20th, 2020. He was T-Boned on his motorcycle moving at 45 MPH by a driver that wasn't paying attention. Jon was told he would never work again and had an 80% chance he wouldn't be able to move his leg again, and his spine was fused together. He was so scared that he lived in the hospital for 3 months. Ultimately, it led to the business being closed for an entire year, and a GoFundMe that raised $9000 to keep him afloat to some extent.
Fast forward a few years and Jon is walking, raising a family, running a business with four employees and enjoys more free time now than he ever has. Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we learn about how Jon had to let go in order to learn how to fully grow his company and regain his freetime instead of being a slave to his company.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many of us are so great at the trade we perform that we decide we can go and run our own business. How hard could it be? We already know the trade, we just have to sell projects, right? Do you really know how to sell though? It's more than just showing up and offering a service for a price. Let alone the million other things you take on as an owner when you form a company. Learning how to sell should be a top priority for any business owner though, because your business doesn't exist without sales.
Jim Upton is the owner of Tiger Mountain Tile, the writer of the DIYTILEGUY blog and The Grinder Newsletter. From humble beginnings in Issaquah, WA, Jim has been able to build himself a brand with steady work but it did not come without sacrifice. Investing in himself from the get go Jim sought out training to make him a better and more well rounded individual. Sales training was one part of this and greatly increased his success with potential clients closing more often.
Find out about Jim's success with sales training, how it has helped develop his business, and how he got real old school with pounding the pavement during The Great Recession, all in this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Business is not a one sided operation in that if you can understand the numbers that you will be successful. If your mind and body are not in it to win it, then your company can only go so far. Undoing your headtrash, getting rid of your limiting beliefs, eating right, focusing on your physical performance, and investing in you for the long term will get you running on all cylinders and give your company more success than you could dream of.
Amanda Vargas is an entrepreneur and coach, blending the nuances of business and health. Despite facing challenges such as being legally blind and living with Multiple Sclerosis, she has built several businesses, including Fettle + Fare, a health food restaurant in New Jersey which was named ‘Business of the Year’ in 2020 for how she navigated the pandemic.
Amanda successfully exited this business in March 2023 and now specializes in helping fellow business owners navigate the intricate balance between professional growth and personal well-being. With her unique perspective and extensive knowledge, she empowers her clients to prioritize their health while achieving remarkable business milestones.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we look at how Amanda has not let her diagnoses keep her down, how you can improve your position with relative ease and a little discipline, and how you can take a holistic approach to being an entrepreneur.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
I've seen a lot of requests from installers looking for work lately. I've talked with a few retailers that say things have slowed. I have also talked to a bunch of people that are busier than ever still. Our current market surely is a confusing one. After shutting down most businesses for a minute, turning on the printing press, and keeping everyone locked up many of us had tons of work. Now, many are trying to figure out how to pay the bills and where the next project is coming from.
Paul Trau is the managing partner of Retail Results, a consulting firm specializing in the retail home furnishings and the flooring industry. With time spent with The Carpet Guys, Empire, Mattress One, Flooring America and more he has not only seen a few economic cycles but worked on the sales and marketing through them. Listen in as Paul and I discuss his views about what he sees in our market, how you can help yourself stand out, and what kind of planning you need to have to weather storms.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
It's 2023 folks. I can't believe that this conversation even has to happen on the podcast. How an entire gender can be ignored by professionals they are asking intelligent questions to is beyond me. The only thing hotter than Phoenix currently is this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast.
Katie Sue, Jennifer Lynn Barker, Ashley Singer, and Jennifer Blumer join me this week to discuss their experiences at trade shows and supply houses. You will be appalled to find out how they are ignored, overlooked, or pushed aside for when a man enters the booth. These ladies can have an intelligent conversation about their industry, their processes, and their products and yet, no one is paying attention to them. I for one know of a few companies they will not be doing business anymore.
Listen in as we hear about their experiences, what they believe needs to change and how you can step up and make sure to support not only women in our industry but creating a better industry for all.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Google, Facebook, Instagram and now TikTok reign supreme as ways to engage with your audience and create leads. It wasn't that long ago though that a little extra money being spent on a yellow pages ad or a newspaper ad could get you all the leads you wanted. Much of the flooring industry still wants to operate like we do only deal with the yellow pages and newspaper ads.
Jason Kimmel is a 3rd generation flooring industry professional. Growing up in the Floors To Go franchise system that his grandpa created, he later ran his own store, until recently when he joined the team at Flooring Liquidators to handle their social media. Jason has seen a lot change in the industry from how his grandpa and father did business to how he has to now generate content to draw attention to Flooring Liquidators.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as we discuss what's changed in the industry, how you can keep up with current trends, and why you need to stay out front or risk running your company in to the ground.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
I bet you are like me. As long as the bank account has some money in it, there is some money in the savings account, and the bills are paid, then you feel pretty good about your company. This mindset is absolutely detrimental to small businesses. We have no actual idea what is happening within our businesses to know if we are stalled out, moving forward or shrinking. If we are counting on our profit and loss statements to tell us, then we are using a lagging indicator and it is already too late.
Jeff Provost, the owner of Key Performance Integrators, is a huge fan of scorecards. This simple tool can track some key areas of your business in real time to give you instant feedback on where the company stands and which direction it is moving. You can even make scorecards for different positions within your company so that your employees can know instantly know the impact they are having on the company.
Listen in to this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Jeff and I discuss some basics to add to your scorecard, what this info will empower you to do, and how it will allow you to set better and more powerful goals to catapult your business to a new level.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
How many of you are truly investing in your clients? I think many of us believe we are but most of us are probably only dealing with customers and making a transaction of services for a fee. This is not a great long term plan for repeat business, continued growth, and ultimately a successful company with a great legacy and local impact.
Seth Hanson, is the account manager at GoBoard a division of Johns Manville. His time is spent making sure his clients are happy and thriving by being able to sell his product. If Seth was not invested in making them successful, GoBoard would not have a leg to stand on.
We will chat about Johns Manville's core values which are People, Passion, Perform and Protect. Find out how these guiding values make it easy to make big decisions and lead the company towards being successful.
What values are leading your company? Do you even have any? How many people know them?
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, we will be joined by Matt Baer, owner of Elite Flooring Installations in Louisville, Kentucky, who has successfully built a thriving business despite facing challenges as a recovering addict. Matt believes in the potential of individuals in the construction industry, including those who may have struggled with addiction or have a criminal record. He will share his personal journey of overcoming addiction, finding support through recovery programs, and using his experiences to shape his business model.
Matt will discuss how the resources available through recovery programs have helped him establish a better business, not only for himself but also for his community. He will share insights on how hiring individuals in recovery or with criminal backgrounds can be a positive and impactful decision, including the benefits of providing second chances, fostering a supportive work environment, and promoting inclusivity and diversity in the construction industry.
Join us to hear Matt's inspiring story and learn how leveraging resources available through recovery programs can contribute to building a successful and socially responsible business in the construction industry. Gain valuable insights on creating a positive work culture, empowering individuals in recovery, and making a difference in your community through your business practices.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, we will be joined by Julie Howell, a senior project manager at Commercial Flooring Services in Denver, Colorado, who recognized the importance of soft skills in the flooring industry. Julie noticed that her young team members were skilled at their jobs, but lacked the necessary people skills to build and maintain relationships with clients, resulting in clients relying solely on her for their projects or questions. This realization led Julie to invest in training her team on soft skills to improve client satisfaction, ensure future work, and empower her team to work independently with multiple team members.
Julie will share her insights on the significance of soft skills in the flooring industry and how they can impact client relationships and business success. She will discuss her approach to training her team on soft skills, including effective communication, customer service, relationship-building, and problem-solving. Julie will also explain why she believes in providing thorough training to her team members, so they can excel in their roles and work autonomously with clients.
Don't miss this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast as Julie Howell shares her experiences and strategies for training her team on soft skills to enhance client satisfaction and improve overall business success. Learn about the importance of people skills in the flooring industry and how investing in soft skills training can benefit your team and your business. Join us to gain valuable insights on how to empower your team to build meaningful relationships with clients and excel in their roles.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, we will be joined by Sean Monett, the owner of Blackton Inc. in Orlando, Florida, who specializes in new construction with a focus on larger builders. Sean has recognized the importance of effectively managing teams and maintaining a harmonious work environment, as he understands that employees have their own lives outside of work and that interpersonal dynamics within the team can impact productivity and overall success.
Sean will share his insights on how to navigate the delicate balance between being too friendly with employees and being too strict, and how to effectively play the role of a psychologist to manage relationships within and outside of the office. He will discuss the importance of setting clear rules and expectations for employees while also fostering a positive and supportive work culture. Sean will also share tips on how to keep the team focused on the important aspects of the business and maintain productivity.
Managing teams can be challenging, and Sean will provide valuable insights on how to effectively handle employee complaints, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and create a positive work environment that fosters productivity and team cohesion. Join us as we delve into the intricacies of team management and learn from Sean's experiences in maintaining a successful flooring business while prioritizing employee well-being and team dynamics.
Don't miss this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast for valuable tips on effectively managing teams, establishing clear rules and expectations, and maintaining a positive work culture for your flooring business. Gain insights on how to navigate the challenges of team dynamics and create a productive and harmonious work environment for your team.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this week's episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, we will dive into how customer service and customer experience are different, what makes The Carpet Girls Experience so unique, and how you can build an experience unlike any other in your market, and lastly how it all needs a why.
In this episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, we will be exploring the difference between customer service and customer experience with our guest, Dianne Grossman, the creator of The Carpet Girl Experience and co-founder of The Carpet Girl in Springfield Township, NJ.
Dianne believes that customer service and customer experience are not interchangeable terms. She sees customer service as the act of resolving problems and ensuring customer satisfaction, while customer experience encompasses the entire journey from start to finish, including how the customer is handled, educated, and nurtured throughout the process.
Dianne will share her unique approach to creating an exceptional buying experience for her clients at The Carpet Girl, which has allowed her to grow her business and build a loyal customer base. She will discuss how she recognized the disparity between the decision-makers (mostly women) and the salespeople (mostly men) in the flooring industry, and how she leveraged this insight to create a buying experience unlike any other in her market.
Lastly, we explore the importance of knowing your "why" in business, as Dianne will share her experiences with her nonprofit organization and its powerful mission.
Learn more about Mallory's Army.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this episode, we will be discussing the role of technology in streamlining business operations, particularly in the contracting industry. Our guest, Jamie Hawk, is the founder and CEO of Altitude Operations, a company that helps business owners leverage technology to streamline their processes and gain more time to work on their businesses.
Jamie will share her insights on why smaller companies, including contracting firms, may not always utilize technology to its full potential. She will discuss common reasons such as concerns about expenses, lack of understanding on how to gain value from technology, and fear of technology itself. Jamie will also highlight the specific challenges that the flooring industry may face when it comes to adopting technology.
We will delve into the benefits of using technology to streamline business operations, including automating repetitive tasks, improving communication, and creating repeatable systems that can be easily followed by employees. Jamie will share her extensive knowledge of the tools and technologies available to businesses, and how they can be used to optimize processes and gain efficiencies.
We will also discuss the importance of taking a step back from day-to-day operations and working on the business as a whole, rather than just in the business. Jamie will provide practical tips on how business owners in the flooring industry can leverage technology to gain more time, improve communication, and create scalable systems that can drive long-term success.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
In this episode, we will be discussing the process of franchising a business and the importance of building a repeatable system for success. Our guest, Bryan Park, is the owner of Footprints Floors, a successful flooring business that he has successfully franchised to other contractors.
Bryan will share his journey of starting out as a sand and finish guy and eventually transitioning to sales and management before venturing out on his own in 2008 to start Footprints Floors. He will discuss the challenges and lessons learned in building a business that was scalable and replicable, leading him to the decision to franchise his business in 2013.
We will delve into the process of franchising, including the documentation and systemization required to ensure a consistent and repeatable process that can be replicated by franchisees. Bryan will share insights on how he developed a proven system that could be easily replicated, including operational processes, marketing strategies, and training programs for franchisees.
We will also discuss the benefits and challenges of franchising a business, including the importance of maintaining brand consistency, providing ongoing support to franchisees, and ensuring the long-term success of the franchise system. Bryan will share his experiences and lessons learned from franchising his business, including tips for aspiring entrepreneurs who are considering franchising as a growth strategy.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the showFloor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners.
I bet most of you believe in the saying “If you want it done right, do it yourself”. What a load of garbage. There is no way you can ever run an actual business by operating on that mentality. You may be able to own a job but you will never truly have a business.
Buddy Mitchell, is no stranger to building a business. With former businesses in deck building and basement buildouts and remodeling, they both grew to 4.5 million in revenue per year. Buddy then took a stint as an independent sales rep for Carpet Direct before starting Simply Floors with his wife Karen. You don’t get over 4.5 million in revenue let alone over 8 million without being able to buy back your time. It is going to take money to make money and Buddy has figured out how to hire, who to hire, when to hire, and when he needs to know he won’t be pulling any profit from the business for a while.
Listen in as Buddy and I discuss how you can buy back your time and know you will be ok on the other side of the transaction.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
If you want new blood in this business you are going to have to get dirty and solve the problem starting with yourself. While there are industry organizations working on it, they are not the cureall.
The Kentucky Floor Covering Education Committee was founded to solve the lack of trained talent in their area. It was not done by one person but by a community that came together. They saw the importance of trained professionals to solve a gap in our industry. Listen in as Bethany Mattingly, Rod Von Busch and I discuss how you can up the level of quality in your area while also attracting new talent.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Antiquated, unorganized, and inefficient. Rewarding, lucrative, and life-changing. These are words that come to mind for me when I think about the flooring industry. Upon entering it 7 years ago, I couldn't believe what I found contractors doing and thinking was professional. I couldn't believe that so many people wanted to be their own boss and yet had no idea how to manage a business, money, people, or time. I've come to find that many of the 2nd or 3rd generation folks I meet just chalk it up to the way the industry is. Then there are people like myself who stumbled into the industry and want to shake things up and do things that are outside of the box.
Matthew Saltzman is the CEO at Louisville Tile. He was hired in January 2022 to help the company expand its reach and enter new markets. With his previous experience working in capital markets and for major wall street firms, the small family-owned company believed Matt was the right man for the job. His previous jobs have him running his own company, Pallas Partners, until a merger with a larger firm offering the same services. Matthew has been a consultant and advisor for many public and private entities and has helped them all achieve their goals.
Listen in as I get Matt's take on the flooring industry and what he believes we need to do to strengthen it from the bottom up.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I've seen the same story way more times that I would like to think about posted to the online groups and it goes like this...I've been in the business for "blank" amount of years and it's time for me to move on. I will be selling all of my equipment for "blank" amount money.
It's a sad tale to me. 10, 20, 40 years in business doing a trade and at the end all you have to sell is your depreciating assets. This is why systems and processes reign supreme. You want to be able to sell the business as an asset and be able to show that when you invest X amount of money into it, then X amount of money comes out on the other side.
Dave Larson has done just that. He is part owner of United TIle & Stone and owner of Shower Concepts just outside of Denver, CO. United Tile & Stone wasn't always named that and Dave wasn't always part owner. Listen in to hear how he built a business worth selling, why and how he sold it to his employees, now partners, and what this means for him moving forward and looking into retirement in the future.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Do you struggle to trust others to complete projects that way you would? I think this is the biggest problem facing most small contracting businesses. No one will do it as good as you, right?
Shawna Bouchard is a Sr. Marketing Specialist for GoBoard at JohnsManville. She is one cog of many in a system that depends on people performing their duties. How do large companies make sure their employees perform to the standards needed and what can smaller companies do to emulate that?
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I'm sure most of us believe Gen Z is lazy. They just want to look at their screens and want everything handed to them on a silver plate. I believe we are looking at it all wrong and they are a product of their environment, which we created. In this talk I discuss what we need to do in order to reach the next generation of flooring professionals and how we can get them engaged and involved.
I apologize for the inability to hear the audience well, there are no microphones there. I did my best to hear everything and put it back in my answers.
Support the show
Click flooring, housing developments by the thousands, prefinished hardwood, all of these things are turning flooring into a commodity. Is flooring not an artform though? Whether you are doing carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, or floating floors, there is an art to completing the project and making it happen with our available tools.
Lee and Jane Callewaert and Joshua Nordstrom are leaders in the tile artisan movement. They are doing better than Justin Timberlake at brining sexy back. Listen in as we discuss why the trades need to look sexy and focus on the art form instead of the belief that they are a commodity.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out The International Surfaces Lookbook here!
Check out the virtual estimates software here! Don't forget to create an account after submitting a sample estimate to get access to more features.
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
If you want your community to support you and your business, then you need to support your community with the funds they pay for your services. It will create a cyclical system in which you will both always look out for each other. If you missed the talk at Surfaces or just weren't able to make it to the show, here is your chance to hear the message.
Support the show
Markup and margin, they're the same thing, right? Both of them get you to a higher price that is passed on to the client but what do each of them really mean, what should we be operating on, what's a healthy percentage to be at, and how do we even figure out where we need to be?
Michael K Mcclanahan is no stranger to running a profitable business and none of that would have been possible without an understanding of markups and margins. Currently, he finds himself as the vice president of Flooring Install America and Virtual Estimates Now. Whether to help sell installs or provide the labor for them, when you don't know your numbers and how to be profitable, the company can not to continue to support its employees or clients. Listen in as Michael breaks down how we can insure our businesses get the cash influx they need from everything we do.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Navigating the employer employee relationship can be tough. I believe we often want our employees to succeed more than they want to succeed themselves. With those wishes we often times put ourselves in a bad position by advancing pay, allowing absences, or just going above and beyond for them when we know there will be no thanks or return on the investment.
John Steier is the owner of Steier Flooring in Algona, Iowa, a certified flooring installer, and an 18 year veteran of the floor covering industry. Through the years John has built up his business to needing help, whether they be subs or employees, it hasn't always worked out well. Tune in as John and I discuss why we can't play Captain Save A Ho with our team members.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
More money, more problems. You hear it all the time. Everyone talks about wanting to scale their business up but what happens when you don't feel like dealing with more issues and scale the business down.
Ron Teljeur, the owner of of Acorn Wood Floors just outside of Vancouver, once built it up to six crews using subcontractors. Between managing it all, putting out fires, and never touching the tools, he decided to scale it down to do what he loves.
Tune in as we discuss how the business grew, what it looked like, the problems encountered and how things are running much more smoothly now.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
What is the purpose of your website? Is it an online place holder? A photo gallery? Does it help make you look legit? Should it be producing phone calls, appointments or sales?
Daniel Moscovitch is the owner of Flooring Pros Marketing an online marketing company that specializes in web design and search engine optimization to make sure you phone is ringing. If you ask Daniel, he will tell you that if your website isn't selling, then it isn't operating correctly. Tune in to this episode to find out why your website is a powerful sales assistant and what you can do to up your website's performance.
Book an appointment with Daniel here!
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
After my discussion with Todd Saunders regarding the Floorcon event, Jerry Levinson reached out and asked if he could play 20 questions with me. I was more than happy to oblige and the following is that discussion.
Jerry is a business coach and consultant, former retail store owner and also owned a blinds business previously as well. His knack for marketing has helped him succeed in all his ventures.
Take a listen as we go back and forth about some of the finer points of installers in the flooring industry, what the relationship with retailers should look like, and how the gap can be bridged.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Foam versus Mud, tar versus roll on moisture mitigation, hand sewing versus hot iron seams and tape, there are lot of traditions in the flooring and tile & stone industries that are dying.
Mario TileGuy Garcia is one man that is making sure the tradition of mud stays alive. Through the annual MUD EVENT attendees learn how to not only mud a shower pan or a wall but the culture and traditions behind the techniques. It's a grassroots effort to bring one piece of an industry beyond its last mainstay location.
Listen in as Mario and I discuss this unique event, why having another tool in your toolbox is important and why he has been traveling all over for the last few months.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
What's it like to go from employee to owner of the business you were working for? Will the other employees respect you? What parts are overwhelming? How different of a skillset do you need?
Returning guest and friend of the show, Josh Hansman, found himself with a proposition from his former boss he couldn't refuse. After Josh's last appearance where he talked about what he thinks make a great employee and a previous conversation where he had said he doesn't want to be an owner again, things have changed. Listen in as we discuss why he accepted the change, what he sees as areas he needs to grow in and how the team around him has taken it.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Finding employees is tough but what if there was someone that could provide them without you having to search? Paying new hires can be a very unprofitable venture but what if there was a way to have someone else pay them well you trained them? Buying tools for a new person adds up very quickly but what if you could get those tools paid for by someone else?
All of this sounds too good to be true but it isn't. The federal government has funding in place to make sure you can onboard and train employees for 90 days at their expense and they will even allow you to buy a tool package for them. Erin Albrecht is a huge advocate for this program and method of growing your company. She has turned Van Church on to it as well. Listen in as the three of us discuss what this program is, where to find it, how to use it, and what other programs may exist to help you grow you company while overcoming the installer shortage.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Johns Manville
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Is there a flooring mafia? WIll there be a new flooring mafia? Is big tech going to take over the flooring industry?
Attending FloorCon 2022 put on by Broadlume was an interesting experience as a flooring installer. As a conference made for flooring retailers I was a bit out of place. I heard some things that made me wonder what people are really trying to accomplish. I reached out to Todd Saunders, the CEO of Broadlume, a company that encompasses web design, digital advertising, client management, estimating software, a selling system for four flooring brands, and more.to see if he would like to discuss my concerns and the results are this podcast.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
They're lazy. They don't want to work. They are on their phones all the time.
I've heard a lot of nasty talk about late millennials, Gen Z and Gen Alpha. It's nothing that wasn't said about any generation before them. They also are not lazy, they are a product of their environment. Listen in as Nick Hofmann, owner of Pokuna Tile, and I discuss how a recent career day went for his kindergartener son, what we need to be doing to grow new talent, and how the industry can successfully move forward from where we are currently at.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Online flooring sales are a growing space for the industry. What would it entail to be able to sell online? Who would your market be? Is it worth it to go national or could you manage just a local online business? How would the clients get the flooring?
WIth 25 years experience in global sales, marketing and branding, Bob Baldocchi knows his stuff. During his 15 years at Emser Tile he was the chief marketing officer and helped build out their e-commerce business. Now with On3, he is an owner and investor and working on building digital training solutions for the flooring industry. Listen in as Bob and I discuss how you can implement e-commerce into your retail business and what that would like.
ON3
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Are industry events necessary to attend? What do you gain by going to them? Are they really just for retailers?
The International Surface Event is returning to Las Vegas January 31st to February 2nd 2023. Listen in to Paul Treanor, the senior manager of content and community, and myself to find out what's happening at the show and why you need to attend.
Don't forget to use the code KYLE when registering for Surfaces so that you get your free exhibition pass!
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Do you ever get asked if your products are green? How will they affect the home environment? Do they have VOC's or do they have phthalates?
Graham Campobianco is 5th generation flooring professional and the Sustainability Manager for North America at Novalis Innovative Flooring. His role includes not only knowing how products impact the environment but also helping contractors work through the paperwork for LEED certifications. Listen in as we discuss how you can easily wade your way through the questions clients ask you about sustainability and get help from your manufacturing partners.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
I'm so sick of training people because they will just leave and do it themselves. I see this comment all the time. How about, I don't want to teach them everything because they will leave to go out on their own.
Having reliable employees is very difficult. Harder still is having employees that have an owners mentality. How do we get our employees to take pride in the business they represent? How can we get employees to own their problems instead of trying to pass the buck?
Dan Wall is the lead carpenter for Covenant Construction in Ontario, Canada. With 25 years in the construction field and 12 of them at Covenant, he has been a staple in their business and seen plenty of guys come and go. How has he helped nurture the new talent? What are his secrets to success of getting employees to take on an owners mentality? Listen in to find out on this week's episode of the Floor Academy podcast.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Does your construction company service multiple areas? Commercial? New build? Residential remodel? Do you have other services within your niche? Removal only? Cleaning? Epoxy coatings? When is it time to have these services become their own division? How do we set them up for success?
Chris Griffin is the Director of Innovation at Johns Manville. It is his responsibility to help encourage a startups growth while making sure they are on a path to success. What is he looking for to see how a division is performing? How does he know they are ready to leave the nest and fly on their own? What can we take away from this and apply to our companies to be better structured and organized?
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many flooring contractors are subcontractors. They get all of their projects from a workroom or a retailer. Not everyone is out there hunting down homeowners, general contractors and builders to build relationships and find work. It also isn't for everyone.
Justin Reilly has been in the flooring industry as an installer for 9 years. He has always been a subcontractor whether it be commercial or residential projects. Lately he has been wondering what it would take to go out on his own and start finding his own clientele. The bigger risk means a bigger reward but it also means a larger time commitment and less stability.
Listen in to this different approach to an episode as we work through Justin's questions and figure out if this is a move he wants to make or not.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Do you have a solid training plan for new hires? Do you have training that your office staff receives? Many contractors are lacking in this part of their business and just look for a body to fill a position when they need it filled and worry about the rest later.
Laura Fisher is co-owner of Fisher Global Developments which encompasses a few brands offering business suites, storage units, a podcast studio, and private jet acquisitions. Laura has been able to build a team around here that can run solidly, through her focus on training and operations management. Nothing is left up to chance. Listen in to find out how you can have less fires to put out through having better organization.
Check Laura out on her podcast.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many of us have companies that we started. We may even be scaling and have employees. How many of you have employees that know the vision, mission, and values of your company?
Russ Harlow is an army veteran, former rugby player, father of three, and owner of Reliable Remediation in Brooklyn, Connecticut. As part of a franchise model remediation company, Russ struggled within the brand as he grew and his core values didn't align anymore with the company. There were feelings of grief and loss as he was helped to realize it was time to move on from where he was at. Listen in to this week's episode where Russ tells us why core values are so important to a company and how you have to find the employees that identify with them as well.
Reliable Remediation
It's Just Business Podcast
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Many people are worried about the economic condition of our country right now. Pricing pressure is something we are going to all feel whether we are selling something or buying something. How do you navigate a difficult economy while maintaining a profitable company.
Ron Nash is the COO of Laticrete North America. Listen in as he guides us from his perspective of what he has seen contractors do and how he leads his company to manage these situations.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
As an owner operator, there isn't much to know about HR for a company other than getting yourself paid. What happens when you start adding employees? We as contractors don't generally get into the weeds with details. We figure it will just work out. Human resources is an area where we may not want to do that.
Dana Dowdell is the owner of Boss Consulting HR. She provides HR services for companies that can not afford or have no need for a full time human resources person. Whether you need an audit of your HR compliance, an employee handbook, or just to know where to even start navigating the waters, Dana and her team can help you figure out how to run a better functioning business.
Hear more from Dana on her podcast, It's Just business, here.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
In April 2021, Angelica Weber opened up her own design firm, Nico Tati Designs. Nico Tati Designs is a full service interior design company specializing in creative and functional space planning. Their ultimate goal is to make the design process, no matter the size, an enjoyable one for each of our clients while delivering superior value and attention to detail.
Delivering on that goal wasn't always easy. We all know the hustle it takes to start a company and the time suck it can become. As an entrepreneur, wife, mother, and her own self, it is easy to put things on the back burner and let them suffer for a while in the name of "it will be worth the sacrifice".
Angie talks about her experience reclaiming her time and making sure her business is there to support her goals instead of supporting her business. Her business has a place but it is not always first. That doesn't mean it is not successful. FInd out how Angie manages it all
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Do you think your privacy is safe? Do you even know what the terms of service say when you sign up for a website or social media platform? What are you risking as a small business by having your information cloud based?
John Barker has worked in the information technology field for over 20 years. He now works as a business and IT consultant helping businesses scale while focusing on their values. Listen in as John lets us know how we can better protect our small businesses from cyber security risks and why we should be more concerned with security than we are.
If you want more of John you can check him out on his podcast The Business Samurai. You can also get his free PDF just for our listeners about Cyber Risk Management Strategies here... https://consulting.barkerleadership.com/squeeze...
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Where does profit come from? Is it a first consideration for you or a last? How do you personally insure you are making one? What are you running a business if it isn't to insure you are a making a profit beyond your paycheck?
John Stricker is a certified Profit First Professional and runs Stricker Co Solutions, which offers accounting, bookkeeping and fractional CFO services. After realizing contractors struggle to manage their businesses he took an interest in servicing the hardwood flooring contractor in particular but also works with other contractors in the flooring industry. FInd out how he makes sure his clients have their profit first while also maintaining all of their other accounts so as to run a fiscally healthy company.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Of course you teach your crews not to stick their hands in the saw. They know long hair can get caught in a drill. Safety is often taught but not often focused on routinely.
Troy Pefley owns Royal Carpet One in Fernley, Nevada but has been doing carpet since 7 years old with his grandpa. He has taken a different approach to the standard retail shop and uses an employee model instead of a subcontracting one. Troy and I discuss how he manages the employees, insures safety is a priority, and makes sure they keep it top of mind so everyone can continue to be as successful as possible.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
The message of having contractors raising their price is an important one. However, just raising your price is not the only solution and will only take you so far. There has to be value in what you are selling.
Brett Spencer is the Vice President of Sales for Laticrete North America. Starting as a regional sales rep he was worked his up the ladder to his current position. Brett knows all about value creation and how to not only help contractors use it but also how it helps his team get their products into supply houses. LIsten in to learn how you can create more value for your clients but understanding their needs and delivering more than an installation.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Why do small retailers and contractors let the big guys "brainwash" the public into loving them? Lots of box stores offer some type of training to the public to help them facilitate their project and most contractors would say the training is garbage. Yet, the people with the proper skills are not doing anything about it. What can you do to better integrate with your community?
Caleb Blair is a former airborne infantry member and remodel contractor before settling into his current role of Founder and CEO at Monkeywrench Marketing. His years as a contractor led him to discover how much he loved marketing and it helped him build a successful company. He is now using the skills he learned to help others stand out in their community, so that they can be the contractor that is always top of mind.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Matt Thibeau runs Savant Marketing Agency in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Specializing in remodeling contractors whether in Canada or the U.S., he has mastered the systems to make sure he is providing the value needed to move his clients ahead of the rest in the digital landscape. Some of his techniques include the classic usage of google ads as well as landing pages. Listen in for an in depth overview of how these can help move your page higher in the search results as well as help you close leads.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Businesses are born from creativity but can become machines very quickly. William S. Burroughs said, "When you stop growing you start dying". Creativity will help encourage growth along but many times it is shutdown before it can even be offered. Contractors will stop their employees from voicing ideas for better methods or not let the new guy get two words in. This is harming your company.
Jeff Newcomer is the product manager of GoBoard for Johns Manville. He oversees the research and development, designing and marketing of GoBoard and their related products. Making sure his team is free to be creative is a key component to his success. Find out why he needs creativity and how he keeps his team motivated to stay in their creative spaces.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Angie Halford Ré knows what it takes to make life happen. As a single mom raising five kids life is no joke when you are the sole provider. Add in being a business owner on top of that and many of us couldn't even imagine keeping the wheels on the bus. Many of us have the luxury of a spouse to back us up with our journey through owning a business, listen in to Angie's story to hear how she has built such a successful brand and was her daughter's choice to be a prom date after her plans fell through.
Unique Mosaics
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Laticrete
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Dirk Sullivan is no stranger to creativity. From being a touring musician to running the only NTCA 5 Star Contractor business in Oregon, he knows how to make the clients happy with design. How is he able to sell what most think is a commodity? What lessons did he learn from his music career that carried over in to tile? How does one even gain the confidence to know what they are creating is worth more than what the market wants to price it at? Listen in to find out how Dirk Sullivan has capitalized on his creativity and isn't about to give it away now.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Does culture matter with a two to five man operation? Does your culture affect how the company runs? How does it influence the community?
Kerry O'brien Davis has been the head of company culture for a large tech company within the flooring industry. Listen in as we discuss why you need to build a positive culture within your business and for your community.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Joshua Turner is managing attorney at Turner Law Firm in Gilbert, AZ. Contracts are an important part of the business not only for you but for your clients. How can you make sure yours is up to snuff? How can you avoid lawsuits? Why would you want an attorney on retainer? Listen in to get these answers and more.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Rachel Berlin has worked for Precision Floors and Decor in Plymouth, WI for 6 years. Starting as a sales person and designer she has moved her way up the ladder as the company has grown to become the sales manager. With the growth has come a variety of people joining the team. Now the company has even opened a second location adding even more team members. When you team spans multiple generations and design styles, how do you handle who gets what client or making sure your clients are getting the best fit for them? Listen in to find out how she is solving this problem.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Paul Treanor is not only the the Senior Manager for Content and Community with Informa Markets, but also a certified Pilates instructor. What is Pilates? How can it help the longevity of your flooring career whether you are on the floor or in an office? Find out by listening in to this conversation.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Once on his way to being a doctor, Timothy Steudeman is now a budding tile contractor in northern Texas. How he arrived at this point in his life took some soul searching and big decisions about the direction he would lead his family. Now a happy certified tile contractor, ambassador for the National Tile Contractors Association, and active member of the Texas Tile Posse, find out what he has to say led him to this position and why it made the most sense.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Johns Manville
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Are trade organizations outdated or do they just suffer from keeping up with the times and not being able to evolve fast enough? Follow along with the multipart series as I interview different age groups and sectors of the industry to dig in and answer the above posed question.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Are trade organizations outdated or do they just suffer from keeping up with the times and not being able to evolve fast enough? Follow along with the multipart series as I interview different age groups and sectors of the industry to dig in and answer the above posed question.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Are trade organizations outdated or do they just suffer from keeping up with the times and not being able to evolve fast enough? Follow along with the multipart series as I interview different age groups and sectors of the industry to dig in and answer the above posed question.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Are trade organizations outdated or do they just suffer from keeping up with the times and not being able to evolve fast enough? Follow along with the multipart series as I interview different age groups and sectors of the industry to dig in and answer the above posed question.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Returning to the show once again is Ron Nash, President of Laticrete North America. With a very diverse background from botany, restauranteering, photography, sketching, and international business, Ron needs great time management skills. There are many distractions in life and there are many ways to feel accomplished in a day without actually doing anything. Listen in to get answers from a man who leads are very regimented life to get the most out of every day.
Find the graphic Ron refers to here.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Luke Wagner is a mortgage specialist with Cornerstone Home Lending. Like the flooring trade, mortgages are not something you seek out all the time. Luke has been able to build a brand and reputation that has clients coming back to him again and again. Listen in as we discuss how to build a business that values client relationships to truly build word of mouth marketing.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Danny Sherman started Megs Installations to offer certified installations in his area. It was about education and getting it done right the first time while offering outstanding customer service. Along the way he started a demo company and became a tool rep. The amount of plates were becoming too many to juggle. Danny and I will discuss how he came to the decision to close down the installation chapter of his life and focus on just selling tools.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
WIth 25 years experience in global sales, marketing and branding, Bob Baldocchi knows his stuff. During his 15 years at Emser Tile he was the chief marketing officer and helped build out their e-commerce business. Now with On3, he is an owner and investor and working on building digital training solutions for the flooring industry. Listen in as Bob and I discuss how you can implement e-commerce into your retail business and what that would like.
ON3
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show
Bill Parker owns Elite Tile just outside of Denver. Started in 1994 he has always promised great service to his clients and to perform better than the competition. After accepting a technical sales job with a manufacturer, Bill kept his company open to give his clients peace of mind that their warranties still existed. Listen in to find out why he went this extra mile and how you can outperform your competition as well.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Recorded live at Coverings 2022, Ken Ballin, Erin Albrecht, Trask Bergerson, and Joseph Mattice discuss why they choose to warranty their showers in different methods. No matter how you go about it though, there is valuable takeaways from this discussion about how you can better manage your own business.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Katie Ford recently decided she wanted a change in life. She decided to leave the corporate world to pursue other passions. Now a certified yoga instructor with her first wellness retreat under her belt, Katie still doesn't know what she wants but she is loving finding out. Listen in as we talk about her corporate career, what led her to "throw it all away", and what she is really looking to be passionate about.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Markus Dworowy is a 2nd generation master tile setter. Having learned from his father and wanting a different experience he came to the states. Using lessons from his father he has built up his own successful tile installation business. The secret to his success isn't really a secret at all. He puts people first and treats them as he would like to be treated. Listen in to find out how easy this system is and what it isn't just for his clients but his employees and family as well.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Having been an employee and an owner operator, Josh Hansman has settled on being an employee. We discuss what he thinks makes a good employee. What kind of effort should you expect? What kind of reliability? How much ownership should they have? Follow along to get some insights from a guy that gives 110% everyday.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Andy Mcwilliams is currently the technical manager and national trainer of North America for Novalis Innovative Flooring but was formerly an installer for many years. As an installer and now even more so as a technical rep he sees issues with installations everyday. Many times the installers say they don't know why it failed and they blame it on the product. Whether it be the actual flooring, a self leveling underlayment, adhesive, or another supply. Andy will help shed some light on why installers need to take back their trade through continuing education and just simply reading the directions or making a phone call when problems arise. It's up to us to get the rest of us trained as qualified labor.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
With a background in tile distribution as a sales rep, Brian and a partner left to start their own tile distribution business. That led them into getting into installation to further solve their builders needs to be a one stop shop for them. After buying out his partner, Brian has been able to evolve the business model to better fit his style and continues to grow the business. Listen in to learn how you can make builder work be a profitable side of your own business.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
As a second generation installer, Kenny Nix was able to learn a lot about installation and the business from his father. Opening up your own retail location comes with a unique set of issues though. Defining your ideal client is a very important part of a business model. Most contractors don't like the picky clients. The ones that want to look over your shoulder and check on your work. Kenny Nix is built differently and tells you why he loves his clients picky and regretful.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
When Crystal Sims was asked by her brother Daniel if she wanted to compete in the National Installer of the Year Competition at The International Surface Event, the answer was a resounding no. Daniel had won the previous year and wanted to encourage his sister to not only grow but show off her skills. He entered her anyways, broke the news to her and the rest is the history we will now learn about. The journey to competing for installer of the year was more than Crystal initially bargained for but now it has opened so many other doors that she couldn't get off this train if she wanted to. Listen in as she explains how one action she was resistant to has created some of the best moments in her life.
Preferred Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Recorded during The International Surfaces Event 2022, I talk about why building up your local flooring community is so important. Bringing manufacturer reps, retailers and installers together will make your not only business stronger but allow you all to accomplish more than you can on your own.
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Mark Herakovic has had a few positions within his retail store over the past two years. Going from installer, to operations manager and now in charge of training new installers. The retail store values what he brings to and just needed to find the seat on the bus for him. LIsten in as we discuss what has been going on with him lately and how that plays into past conversations we have had.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
After a post made in an online flooring group, Katie Marcotte realized women don't always feel comfortable knowing they can be in the room. With the help of Crystal Sims and Michelle Winters these three ladies will discuss what it means to step up and out into their fields as leaders.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Moving from Vietnam to Hong Kong to Canada to finally the United States Stephen Le has seen a lot of cultures. After finishing college he got involved with the family flooring business. Since then he has gone out on his own and runs his own show. Now he is starting to participate in his industry on a national level and letting his background help lead his way in providing value.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
As I walked the convention floor at Surfaces I asked some of my favorite people what their worst business decision ever was. Take a listen and perhaps save yourself some trouble.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Doug Lee has over 20 years experience in bookkeeping and many of them with construction companies. One of the best investments you can make is getting this chore off of your plate and letting an expert handle it. Bookkeeping is a valuable piece of your business as it lets you perform job cost analysis. With this kind of reporting you can take your business to the next level and truly know where you are making money and how much. Listen in as Doug helps us understand what we need to do in order to properly perform this work or have someone else do it.
Bookkeeping Done For You
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Michelle Winters, cofounder of the Women in the Flooring Business Facebook group, and I sit down and discuss why women need to be recognized in our industry. Listen in as she explains what the mission of her group is and where they are headed.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
There is life on the other side of addiction. Recovery is not the same for everyone. Each individual will have a unique journey. Shannon Huffstickler shares where she was at with addiction, what rock bottom looked like and how her recovery journey has looked up until now.
Help is available. Please reach out to me, a loved one, or a recovery operation if you need help.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Ken Ballin and I sat down at Surfaces to talk about why we don't think pushing the college agenda is wrong but misguided. Why can't you do both? Why is it that trades are looked down on? We answer these questions and more to help inspire our industry to get out there and make sure we are seen and valued.
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Behind many men is a strong woman completing the team. Jane Walker is no exception. Jim and Jane built Certified Flooring Installers from the ground up as a grassroots effort with the help of anyone willing to jump on the bandwagon along the way. Listen in to learn about the early days and why women play such an important role in our trade.
CFI
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event - Use code EXH2 for a free virtual or exhibition pass
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
With years of real estate knowledge, David Requa got into owning a flooring showroom and offering installation services. When that wasn't his cup of tea he realized that he was very successful using Facebook to advertise his company and started TraffikDigital to help other flooring dealers gain more business with leads often cheaper than google. Listen in as we discuss why Facebook advertising works and how you can be successful with it.
TraffikDigital
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event - Use code EXH2 for a free virtual or exhibition pass
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store @ https://www.flooracademypod.com
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Erin Albrecht is the new owner of J & R Tile in San Antonio, Texas. Started by John and Raymond Kotara over 30 years ago the business has always had a focus on education first, whether it be for the client or the installer. While growing the company it was apparent that systems and processes needed to be put in place. One of those was in the hiring process. Listen in as Erin talks with me about their hiring process and we run through a mock interview for her company.
J & R TIle
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event - Use code EXH2 for a free virtual or exhibition pass
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Chuck Meyers has been involved with flooring since 2008. By 2010 he was out on his own, doing his thing and subbing from stores in the metro Detroit area. Recently he has been having second thoughts about how his business was going and wanted to dig in to his numbers. Listen in as we discuss what he found when he used Floor Academy's business budget calculator.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Check out our website and store
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Jake Mitchell runs Ridgefield Industries in Crystal Lake, IL. As his business grew it became difficult to manage the employees. He knew something needed to change and started working on having regulations made up. Find out how it has helped communication and accountability.
Ridgefield Industries
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The International Surfaces Event - Use code EXH2 for a free virtual or exhibition pass
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Matt Garcia started off doing hard surface installs in California. When he decided to move his family to Texas he decided there had to be a better way to do things than to just subcontract work. Once establishing himself and finding a niche in the hardwood sand and finish world, he opened up his first retail location. Matt is now focused on getting his crews properly trained so that he can focus on managing people and the retail location. Listen in as we talk about what made him want to open a retail shop and how the transition from knees to retailer has happened.
Craftsman Hardwood Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Dan Welch, owner of Welch Tile in Kent City, Michigan joins us today. Welch Tile was founded in 1987 and continues to excel and set the standards in their area. Dan has a large team and faces the same struggles we all do when it comes to hiring young talent. He has one simple questions he asks himself though, would you work for you? Listen in to learn why this is a helpful question and get the answers to many more.
Welch Tile
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Melanie Towey breaks down the Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS) based on the book Traction by Gino Wickman. With years in management at different national companies, Melanie stepped away to follow her own dreams. Part of that dream is helping others make sure they are building successful and profitable businesses. Listen in as we go through the 6 steps of the EOS and how you can apply them to your business to accomplish your dreams.
By MelanieAnne
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we are joined by Jeffrey LaClair of Phelps LaClair in Phoenix, Arizona. Jeffrey is a partner at his law firm where they specialize in estate planning. While not a popular topic, it is a very important topic. Listen in as Jeff covers the basics of making sure your affairs are in order so that your loved ones are protected in the future.
Phelps LaClair
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we are joined by David Sandana of Diligence Flooring in Tacoma Washington. With over 15 years in the industry and a recession under his belt, David and I talk about building your business to weather the storms. From building up the war chest to making sure you have a strong company to stay busy when it is slow, listen in to find out how you can survive downturns in the economy.
Diligence Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we are joined by Billy Fritzel of Fritzel Flooring. At just 23 years old, Billy is out on his own with a crew and he is making sure they don't just nail the installation side. He has taken a huge interest in making sure that the business side is strong and that his business has a strong foundation. He has learned it is easier to set it up right the first time instead of trying to correct it down the road. Listen in as we talk about why he has chosen this path.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Nate Hall, owner of The Enchanted Floorist in Milwaukee, WI, returns for this weeks episode. He discusses how after being asked what he would charge a retail store to do some work by his wife, he actually calculated out what it cost him to do business. Realizing the going rate was going to keep him in the poor house, he made his own rates up and got retailers to agree to them. His rate sheet became a simple binding contract with the retailers. Listen in to see how he did it and how it changed the game for him.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Fred Hueston owns Stone Forensics which is a tile and stone inspection company. When things go horribly wrong Fred is the man you want on your side. He tells us about becoming an expert witness which can open up an entirely new revenue stream for companies or people looking to get off of their knees.
Stone Forensics
Stone and Tile Show Podcast
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
My apologies for the past two weeks on the audio quality. It is all my fault and you are all troopers for making it through the error. Thanks for continuing to listen.
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is the President of Laticrete, Ron Nash. Ron has been with Laticrete for 18 years and started in sales and has worked his way up. Recently he made a social media post about having a mental block about getting into shape. We get to talking about how to work through mental blocks, why physical health is important in a successful business, and why continuing to educated yourself will add depth to your personality.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Paddy McNicholas. Paddy runs MN Floor Training in the United Kingdom. After learning the trade and growing a business where he was competing at a high level doing intricate designs with LVT flooring, Paddy decided he wanted to pass on his skills to others instead of trying to be the best there is. Listen in as we talk through how the floor training center came to be, why it is important for the future of the trade, and how you need to look at what value training can bring to your life down the road instead of what it costs you today.
MN Floor Training
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Marquis Wright. Marquis owns and operates Mr. Wright Flooring in Jacksonville, FL. With a start under a single mom and not a lot of money he started making money at McDonalds to help out. When that career path didn't pan out, dice games in the streets turned to Texas hold'em poker games. With a family friend offering some flooring work on the side, it slowly turned into a full time thing. Listen in as we talk about how street smarts can make a business work. Business isn't always operated from a book smarts format learned at Harvard. Marquis talks about how and why he learned to run his business and how it sets him apart.
Mr. Wright Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Dr. Jo Kaleta. Dr. Jo owns and operates All Seasons Chiropractic in Gilbert, AZ. With a background in sports medicine she uses her chiropractic skills to holistically approach problems her clients have with their bodies. Listen in as we talk about how we can better care for our bodies from how we move them, to how we can take care of them with chiropractic care, and better maintain them with nutrition.
All Season Chiropractic
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Kristan Blanchard. Kris is a former marine, turned contractor, turned sales rep. In this eventful journey communication has been important but not always at the forefront. After getting married and divorced before he ever left the military in a standard 4 year contract, he was left with a sour taste in his mouth. Reconnecting with a childhood friend and his now wife opened his eyes to a lot of things though. Sometimes we have to admit we are the lowest common denominator. Listen in as Kris and I talk relationships, growth and communication.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
The Trade Labor Market Place
TraffikDigital
Flooring Domain
Snaptech
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Shannon Vogel. Shannon owns and operates Reach Social a social media advertising company specializing in organic content. Growing up her family owned a flooring store and what would now be considered a design center but she wanted to be a writer and then psychologist. Eventually the flooring world pulled her back in and those writing and psychology skills came in handy. Listen in as she breaks down why we need to be using social media and a very easy plan to produce a months worth of content in a flash.
Reach Social
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Paul Luccia. Paul owns and operates Cabot and Rowe and Built with Foam in Houston, TX. With his many years of experience he has learned to be the expensive guy in an area that isn’t always known for having work that goes for top dollar rates. Paul explains how to identify your ideal client, build a relationship with them, and sell your project without talking numbers. Listen in to start identifying how you can build a better business.
Built With Foam
Cabot and Rowe
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are PJ and Elouise Arthur. With over 50 years of experience in the carpet industry PJ runs the Natural Fiber Installer Certification school. Realizing there was a problem between how woven goods should be installed, the way they were sold, and how they were manufactured, PJ wanted to do his part to keep this part of the industry alive. Listen in as we discover where his passion came from, how he developed NFIC, and what the certification has done for the industry, the installers and him.
NFIC
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are Trask and Rogue Bergerson of Bergerson Tile and Stone in Astoria, Oregon. Is Gen Z lazy? What about Millennials? What is the secret sauce to get qualified and motivated employees? Trask has hired them and Rogue is on the cusp of being a Millennial and Gen Z. Listen in as we discuss their company dynamics, the values of different generations and how we can make it all come together to hopefully get a new generation in to an amazing industry.
Bergerson Tile and Stone
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is John P. D’Arco. John runs his own law firm specializing in real estate, estate planning and taxes. He is also a certified public accountant, and an enrolled agent with the IRS. I speak with John about the differences between enrolled agents, CPA’s and tax attorneys, as well as, some potential tax saving advice for your company. Don’t miss his quick tips at the end on what can really help your business out financially.
John P. D'Arco - (877) 559-4900
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Welcome to the Floor Academy Podcast. I’m your host, Jamie Hedin, wife of Kyle Hedin, owner of Illustrious Hardwoods in Phoenix, AZ. We are here to talk with the wives of flooring professionals to help you better understand what it’s like for us and our prospective of the industry. I want to encourage you to listen with open ears. This week I am speaking to Treva Blackburn wife of Rueben Potter owner of Floors by Southern Boys and Tanya Gonzalez wife of Daniel Gonzalez owner of Preferred Flooring.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Zach Storer. Zach has been involved in the film and television industry for over decade. Starting out as a production assistant driving a van and taking lunch orders he worked his way up the ranks to become camera operator and director of photography. The fast paced world, non consistent work schedule, constant traveling, and many times a toxic environment took its toll on Zach over the years. Be a fly on the wall as he opens up how the world broke him down and what he was able to do to find peace again.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Keaton Turner. Keaton is the founder of Turner Mining Group. They focus on contract labor to service the mines. Whether a client has one site in Michigan or 10 sites nationwide, Turner Mining Group has the teams in place to service you. Keaton and I spend out time discussing employees, loyalty, independence and risk taking. Listen in to learn some easy insights that can take your business to the next level.
Turner Mining Group
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks returning guest is Michelle Winters. Michelle owns and operates New Braunfels Flooring in New Braunfels, TX. She is also the founder of the Women of the Flooring Business group. Installers often say shops shouldn’t make money off of their backs. Retailers probably think they should often keep more of the pie. Michelle and I talk through some of the how’s and why’s to get this conversation moving in right direction. Listen in and let us know what you think.
New Braunfels Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jim Aaron. Jim has been a territory manager for William M. Bird and Mohawk before moving in to positions with the parent company of Carpet One. When the director position at the Floor Covering Education Foundation became available he wasn’t initially excited about it. After some wise counsel he was made aware of the what the position could actually accomplish. Listen in as we talk about what the FCEF’s goal is, how they are currently working to accomplish it, and why this isn’t their problem to fix but all of ours. Find out how you can get involved and make a difference right now.
FCEF
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Brendan Hunt. Brendan lives in New South Wales, Australia and owns My Timber, a flooring store. With beginnings as a carpenter, to business owner with a crew of 15 he has had a journey that has taken him up and down mountains. When the carpentry business went south, he hopped into the corporate world and climbed that ladder. Noticing he was missing out on his kids life, he found a business to purchase but this time is was much different and he has time for his kids. Listen in as we discuss why successful businesses involve knowing more than the trade. From systems and processes to knowing human psychology, you are going to need more than hand skills.
My Timber
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Josh Funkhouser. Josh is a partner at Davidson and Funkhouser a law firm in Scottsdale, AZ. He specializes in business and real estate law. We look at the why’s and how’s of getting your business going the right way from the start, as well as, how some items may be ever evolving. This is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned.
Davidson and Funkhouser
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Mike Somodean. Mike owns and operates MSCS, Inc. in the northern suburbs of Atlanta, GA. Starting flooring in 2003 and getting serious about it in 2016 he has come a long way but he isn’t done yet. We get to discussing why your business needs systems. From figuring out your true expenses, to training, to setting goals. Without the systems you are choosing to fail. Listen in to learn how to succeed.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
As I wandered around the show floor at Surfaces 2021 I asked people what their best minute or two of business advice was. Listen to some very successful installers and business owners get you pointed in the right direction.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Katie Marcotte. Katie owns and operates Maine Modern Tile with her partner Eric in Otisfield, ME. Growing up she was encouraged to be what she wanted to be. This included learning trades from close relatives as well as having a feminine side as well. Of course being well rounded in some areas doesn’t mean we don’t have struggles elsewhere. Listen in as Katie and I talk about her struggles in school, addiction, and trying to keep a healthy work life balance while still being profitable.
Maine Modern Tile
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Eduardo Martinez. Eduardo owns and operates Martinez Commercial Flooring Services out of Fort Worth, TX. Growing up Eduardo learned the trade from his father. Eventually he went out to start his own thing and has grown it from working locally to traveling the country to keep his ever growing crew busy. Listen in as we talk about how a business is as unique as the individual that runs it and how that helps separate you in the market.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jean Gilman. Gil owns and operates US Fiberglass and Gelcoat in Chester, MD. This has been his way to bootstrap World Proof Products which is a flooring manufacturer. Gil and I spend our time talking about team building and finding the right connections. Listen in to learn why your question should be who not how.
World Proof Products
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jason McDaniel. Jason owns and operates Stoneman Construction as well as being the cofounder of the Global Tile Posse group on Facebook. Getting his start with countertops he took a job on a whim to set some floor tile from a general contractor. This led to man more jobs that focused on an all tile business. It wasn’t always to spec though. Listen in as Jason and I discuss communication issues via text based social media, why you need to keep scrolling or be helpful, and why your PROFESSIONALISM matters!
Global Tile Posse
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jon Namba. Jon is the owner of Namba Services, in Taylorsville, UT. He is also the the Editorial Director for Floor Covering Installer Magazine. From positions with the NWFA to CFI to CTEF, he has been a busy many making many connections. Last time Jon and I talked about investing in yourself. This time we discuss all of the options to invest in yourself. We go over a basic description of the current certifications available and compare and contrast any similar ones. Listen in to find a fit for you and then go get your learn on.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is your friend and mine, Ken Ballin. Ken owns and operates Skyro Floors on the Jersey Shore and no he doesn’t hang out with MTV reality show stars. We get to talking about what the industry has termed the “Installation Crisis”. How can it be fixed and what do we believe the solution is. Listen in to know what you can bring to the table and why you are so powerful.
Skyro Floors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Phillip Gladden. Phillip is a second generation installer. As soon as he could walk he was on job sites with his dad. After over 20 years of installing he was able to take a job with Crain as the Eastern Sales representative. Phil and i discuss investing properly in your tools and why the cost of some tools doesn’t need to scare you or seem that far out there.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week's guest is Wayne Lee. Wayne currently works for Middle Tennessee Lumber in sales and training. He previously worked at American Sanders and ran his own sand and finish business. One major thing has always made a difference in how Wayne has been successful has been the technical knowledge. Whether understanding the machine, the sandpaper, or how the wood reacts to the environment. Listen in to hear Wayne Lee just thinking out loud.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jake schlichte. Jake owns and operates North Country Hardwoods in Auburn, NH. With a grandfather that ran a store and a dad that did hardwood floors, Jake wasn’t lacking in the experience department from the get go. What has made the difference in his career so far? Being a risk taker. Find out why he says you have get comfortable being uncomfortable.
North Country Hardwoods
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Nathan Hyden. Nathan is getting ready to launch A Step Above Flooring in Lexington, Kentucky. We spend our time discussing what it takes to run a successful business, how to manage a partnership, and why confidence will take you way further than you know.
Hyden's Hardwoods
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are Jose and Daniel Gonzalez. These two brothers run Preferred Flooring in Grand Rapids, Michigan. For years they ran their business with paying their workers via a 1099. In 2015 after some advice from a larger company they subbed from all of their employees were moved to getting W-2s and being on payroll. This switch came with some huge considerations. Daniel and Jose took pay cuts, labor for projects had an increase, and not every employee was happy about it. Stay tuned to see how the change has positively affected their business and where the change will take them in the future.
Preferred Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Mario Fernandez. Mario owns and operates Fernandez Floor Covering in Corona, CA. Starting at a young and tender age with his father he helped install VCT flooring in military housing. At 18 he went full time with his dad and eventually went out on his own. After running his own and having a shop and then losing everything during the great recession, he has built it back up by being only a labor shop. Find out why Mario its functioning purely as a sub, how he has changed business strategies over the years, and things you can do to help motivate your employees.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Mark Herakovic. Mark is from West Farmington, OH and just recently became the operations manager for MDG Flooring. Throughout Mark’s career he has been an employee, self employed, and now management. We sit down to discuss the topic of work life balance.Are we the two guys to tackle this topic, probably not but listen as we openly discuss some shortcomings and how we and you can better manage your business and time.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Stephen Wood. Stephen owns and operates Great Alaskan Flooring Company on Kodiak Island in Alaska. After getting his start at the age 16 in Mississippi, Steven ended up in Alaska at private school. By 19 he had earned his GED and opened up his own showroom. He was being taught by the installers he employed as he worked alongside them on the projects he had sold. Listen in as we discuss he journey in the industry, the challenges he faces working in a remote and small location, and how customer service can be your best selling point.
Great Alaskan Flooring Company
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Marcos Guerequeta. Marcos owns and operates Local Flooring Group in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. He has taken the traditional method of owning a flooring store and flipped it on its head. After being able to carry some major brands when he first opened some of the good old boys club complained to their reps about him having product too. When he could no longer sell those products he flipped the script and developed his own. Marcos now imports his own flooring and sells smaller Canadian brands as well. This has given him what he sees as an advantage over his competitors in the market. Listen in to see how he has branded his store to attract consumers to it.
Local Flooring Group
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Karen Gross. Karen owns and operates MBD Flooring Services, which does inspections, concrete testing, and consultation services. Growing up Karen was always around flooring while hanging out with her dad. In 2012 he passed away and she stepped up to take over the company. She has invested in learning as much as possible and participates in an ANSI committee as well. Listen in as we talk about her passion for the industry, how to navigate projects so you have the documentation you need if an inspection is ever needed, and what to consider while working on projects.
MBD Flooring Service
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Martin Brookes. Martin owns and operates Heritage Marble and Tile as well as being the current president of the National Tile Contractors Association. After growing up in the UK and doing an apprenticeship for masonry, Martin moved to the U.S. He started in the commercial world doing large box stores and was quickly running the projects. After realizing the times frames were not his style he went out on his own in CA. When he ran into a problem on a project he was pointed in the direction of the NTCA to get the help he needed. A relationship was born at that time and has continued since. Listen in to learn what the NTCA has to offer you as a trade organization. I guarantee you it is more than just a few hundred dollars in vouchers.
Heritage Marble and Tile
NTCA
To get text updates from the NTCA text NTCA to 31996
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Shannon Huffstickler. Shannon previously The Tile Girl and now The Schluter Girl has run her own tiling business and is now the Social Media Community Liaison for Schluter Systems. We discuss the importance of communities. Whether you are participating nationally, internationally, or locally it can have an effect on you as an individual, your business, and even the local community you live in outside of your trade. Listen in to hear what your participation means and how it can help you grow.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Tim Brown. Tim owns Hook Agency which focuses on web design and SEO. After spending time developing leads for businesses under another business he went out on his own and like most of us learned that being a business owner is tough. Join us as Tim gives us some free insights into how we can improve our web marketing and websites, as well as discussing how important story is.
Hook Agency
Hook Agency Blog
SEO Basics
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Carl “The Flash” Leonard. Carl owns and operates Cutting Edge Tile in NJ. A part of the “Jersey Crew” that was the first CTI class to have everyone pass, his standards weren’t always that high. We spend our time discussing head trash, charging appropriately, firing clients, and just focusing on being a businessman first and a craftsman last. Keep listening so you can transform your business.
Cutting Edge Tile
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Liz Calandrino. Liz is a writer for Floor Covering News as well as a business coach and consultant. After conversation we had on the phone, I knew I had to have her back on the podcast. We discuss gender roles in the industry and how they can affect sales. Stay tuned for a lot of great stories with amazing insights.
https://www.lisbethcalandrino.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Seth Folkerson. Seth own SNF Floors in Plant City, Florida. Not being super interested in school Seth dropped out and got his GED while learning different trades. He finally settled into flooring with his now father in law before moving on to a second company to receive more training. Now out on his own and trying to build a brand the employee problem has shown up. Seth and I spend our time focusing on what we would like apprentices to know and what we think owners and lead installers should be teaching them. Listen in with your apprentice and let us know what you would add or change.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Derek Swegel. Derek owns Habit Hardwood Floors in Panama City Beach, Florida. After years of working with his brother in Kansas City, Derek and his wife decided they were ready for a change and headed to Florida. Is running a business stressful, depressing, difficult, rewarding, exciting, and many other things, yes, yes it is. Derek and I talk about our experiences with the ups and downs. Listen in to as two guys discuss their experiences openly.
Habitat Floors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Ken Ballin. Ken owns and operates Skyro Floors in West Creek, NJ. If there is a topic that is discussed to death online, it is estimates. So, Ken and I decided to tackle this subject and weigh in on different options of how to get to your bottom line number. Should it be itemized, a total sum only, detailed? Listen in to find out why communication matters, why you need to know your numbers and how your estimates are going to help you win the project.
Skyro Floors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Andy McWilliams. Andy is currently the technical rep for Novalis Floors International but was formerly an installer for many years. Managing a business is hard enough but when you throw employees into the mix it can really screw it up. Andy and I talk about how to hire and train apprentices for this trade. Listen in to find out why proper education is going to make a huge difference to your bottom line.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Sonny Callaham. Sonny started his flooring career in 1990 as an apprentice to a carpet installer. After a few transitions within the industry he found his calling on the adhesives side. Now the owner of Divergent Adhesives, he is also the co founder and Chairman of the board for the National Association of Floor Covering Technicians. Listen in to find out what NAFCT has planned to bring the industry together and make it more successful. We discuss what their mission is, who is helping make it happen, and where the value is in being a member.
N.A.F.C.T.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Sprigg Lynn. Sprigg owns and operates Universal Floors in Washington DC. Started by his father in 1953 it has had as many as 150 employees. Currently they are running around 40 employees and maintain the business through having great systems to keep everything in check. Listen in as we talk about why systems will make a difference to your business and why you need to have relationships with your fellow tradesmen and women.
Universal Floors Inc.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest Claire Karakey. Claire is a licensed professional counselor and owner of Claiborn Counseling. While receiving therapy as a child she realized how much of a gift it was and decided at 12 years old that she wanted to be able to help people in the same way. We spend our time discussing how can identify depression and addiction problems not only within ourselves but within others as well. How do we deal with this issues, stay tuned to find out.
Claibourne Counseling
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
The Trade Labor Market Place
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are Jamen and Chanel Carrizosa. Jamen and Chanel own and operate Icon Tile and Design in Seattle, WA. With over 20 years experience they focus on high end custom homes and spec houses. This has led to having a way of conducting themselves on the job site that makes them the consummate professional. We spend our time discussing how we can help the trade be more respected and bring a little more professionalism to the table. Listen in to take your game to the next level.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
Retail Lead Management
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Lorie Davidson. Lorie owns and operates Davidson Wood Flooring in Atlanta, GA. Starting out at 15 as a way to help his mom and going full time at 17, Lorie has gained 30 years of experience in the hardwood floor industry. It wasn’t until he got involved with classes and the online community that he saw his career really start to take off though. Listen in as we discuss humble beginnings, why you shouldn’t ever be afraid to ask for help and how you can help better the industry.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsor
Retail Lead Management
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Ansel Hall. Ansel is a business broker with Sunbelt Business Brokers in Phoenix. After a career in finance handling multimillion dollar mergers and acquisitions, he hung it up to start his own business. After selling his first business venture, Ansel bought into a car dealership and helped make it successful. Wanting to return to his roots but help small to medium sized business owners he found his job at Sunbelt. Listen in as we discuss why it is so important to begin with the end in mind.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Sergey Shlyapintokh. Sergey is the Director of Business Development at Thermosoft, a manufacturer of radiant heat systems. We discuss how radiant heat isn’t something to be afraid of, how it can add great value to your bottom line, and why building relationships outside of your direct industry can be beneficial.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Mr. Karma himself, Ken Ballin. If you don’t know who Ken is, he runs Skyro Floors on the Jersey Shore, as well as being a huge online presence and resource for anyone willing to reach out. Listen in as we discuss how what you put out into the world can help you build your business, why you don’t need to get angry about a guy asking what his pricing should be, and how you need to leave employees better than you found them.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Christopher Bock. Chris is part owner of Geronimo Floors in Marin County California. With 20 years of experience a recent mind shift has made him much more interested in building systems and owning a business instead of job. Listen in as we discuss some of the issues holding him back.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Schannon Violet. Schannon owns and operates That Tile Chick. After 4 years of schooling to be an accountant and 6 years being one, she said “this isn’t for me” and hung it up. She moved to Houston and started a home remodeling company with her partner. Listen in to find out how her accounting background has helped her grow her business, why drive and mindset make a huge difference, and how you can learn to be successful.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Dave Garden. Dave owns and operates Installation Services, LLC. in Detroit, MI. Starting out as a lone installer and now running a workroom that does installations for Lowes, Dave has come a long way. What has made the difference in being able to go from himself to roughly 200 crews? Setting the standard before ever arriving and laying a piece of floor covering. Listen in to learn what the standard is, how we can communicate it, and what your role is in making this industry successful.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Matt Garcia. Matt owns and operates Craftsman Hardwood Flooring in San Angelo Texas. After finishing high school early and not being super interested in college, Matt committed to being a 3rd generation flooring installer. After learning the ropes in California for many years, he made his way out to Texas for his wife to enjoy her family and to raise their kids. With no reputation to help build a business it was now time to sink or swim. Listen in to find out what kind of value additions Matt is using to separate his business from the pack.
Craftsman Hardwood Flooring
Instatgram
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
WarmStep
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Reuben Potter. Reuben owns Floors By Southern Boys and has been an installer for 23 years. With only a 6th grade education he has created not only a successful installation business, but also a YouTube channel and an online store. Listen in to find out why formal education isn’t everything it is cracked up to be and how you can still be successful in life.
Floors By Southern Boys Store
Floors By Southern Boys YouTube
Check out our sponsors
Retail Lead Management
Warmstep Heated Floors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Mike Somodean. Mike owns and operates MSCS Inc. in north Atlanta, GA. After emigrating from Romania and not returning when his work visa expired, Mike has been able to build the American dream through becoming a hardwood sand and finish craftsman. After years of running his business, getting more involved with the industry and learning business principles finally made sense to him. Where that has taken him in a short time has led to great growth and a few problems along the way. Listen in to see how Mike has solved his issues and what the number one key to his success has been.
MSCS Inc.
MSCS Instagram
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Michelle Winters. Michelle owns and operates New Braunfels Flooring in New Braunfels, TX and is also the creator of the Women of the Flooring Business group on Facebook. After partnering with a successful installer in her area to help him get a showroom, Michelle was one day out of the blue left with an entire company to run and no flooring experience. Through dedication, drive, and knowing that success exists she has been working hard to conquer the flooring world. The passion she has found for business has spilled out and she is also helping others to reach their goals and dreams. Listen in to hear an inspiring story, great business insights and learn how you can help change your industry.
Women of the Flooring Business
New Braunfels Flooring
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Thank you everyone for the support. I truly appreciate all of the listens, messages, emails, reviews, everything! Thank you to my sponsors and patrons on patreon. Thank you to all of my guests, this show would not be possible or nearly as interesting without you. You are all the true content creators of this endeavor. I just like to ask questions. Here is to another year!
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jon Namba. Jon is the owner of Namba Services, Inc. in Taylorsville, UT. He is also the the Editorial Director for Floor Covering Installer Magazine. From positions with the NWFA to CFI to CTEF, he has been a busy many making many connections. Find out why Jon says we need to invest in ourselves to get ahead. Listen in to find out how you can gain by giving back.
Check out this weeks sponsor at the link below to order your Stubbi Tools from the exclusive USA distributor, Preferred Flooring. Use the code LEARN to get 10% off of your purchase.
Stubbi Rollers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Matt Thibeau. Matt is from Ottawa, Ontario Canada. He runs Savant Marketing Agency and has a couple of marketing tips for us. Listen in to learn how you can better position your proposition, connect with more leads, and what it will take to run a successful ad campaign.
www.SavantMarketingAgency.com
Matt@MattThibeau.com
Check out this weeks sponsor at the link below to order your Stubbi Tools from the exclusive USA distributor, Preferred Flooring. Use the code LEARN to get 10% off of your purchase.
Stubbi Rollers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Scott Humphrey. Scott is the CEO of the World Floor Covering Association or WFCA. After starting in his fathers carpet mill at 7 years old, he eventually found his way as a sales rep for Shaw. From there he was promoted to being in charge of hiring all sales reps for Shaw. The WFCA came calling about the CEO position and after some interviews he got the job. Now the WFCA is working on establishing the Floor Covering Education Foundation to elevate the level of installer that is in the industry and to bring installers and retailers together as partners. Listen in to learn what Scott thinks it will take to help bring respect back to our trade.
http://www.wfca.org
Check out this weeks sponsor at the link below to order your Stubbi Tools from the exclusive USA distributor, Preferred Flooring. Use the code LEARN to get 10% off of your purchase.
Stubbi Rollers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Barry Doveston. Barry runs Flooring Africa in Cape Town, South Africa. Their mission is to educate consumers and installers alike about proper installation techniques and differences in products. In Barry’s own words many laborers will steal with their eyes and call themselves an installer the next week. His goal is to bring top notch installation techniques to South Africa along with proper product knowledge. Listen in to hear how similar our situations are and how we can help him out.
https://flooringafrica.com/
https://www.instagram.com/flooring_africa/
Check out this weeks sponsor at the link below to order your Stubbi Tools from the exclusive USA distributor, Preferred Flooring. Use the code LEARN to get 10% off of your purchase.
Stubbi Rollers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are Jose and Daniel Gonzalez and Crystal Sims. Jose and Daniel own Preferred Flooring in Grand Rapids, MI which they started in 2010. In 2012 they brought in their sister Crystal to help them as well. Now Crystal runs crews while Daniel works on his own projects or runs another crew and Jose handles the estimates and a lot of the of office work. Listen in to find out how these 3 siblings manage to run a successful business together. Is there sibling rivalry and backstabbing? Find out now.
https://www.preferredflooringmi.com/
https://www.instagram.com/preferred_flooring_mi/
Check out this weeks sponsor at the link below to order your Stubbi Tools from the exclusive USA distributor, Preferred Flooring. Use the code LEARN to get 10% off of your purchase.
Stubbi Rollers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Bill Baillie is a full time physical education teacher and owns Bill Baillie Home Repair and Remodeling in Tom’s River, NJ. With a background in plumbing from hanging out with his dad as a youth, Bill has always loved working with his hands. In order to supplement his teacher income, Bill was doing handyman work which turned in much more over time. He is CTI 1394 which was more a test for himself than anything else. Keep listening to find out how Bill does projects with a limited time schedule, uses his CTI to his advantage, and balances his work and home life to keep everything running as smoothly as possible.
https://www.facebook.com/BillBaillieHomeRepairandRemodelingLLC/
https://www.instagram.com/billbaillie12/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jason Goldberg. Jason owns America’s Floor Source which has 6 stores in 4 markets and did 100 million in revenue last year. He also owns Retail lead management and The Trade Labor Market Place. Listen in as we talk about how Jason was fired from the family flooring business and built the juggernaut of a company he is operating today. What has made him so successful and how did he manage to develop the talent he needed? Listen in to learn the answer to those questions and more.
America's Floor Source
Retail Lead Management
The Trade Labor Market Place
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jason Wiseman. Jason is a financial professional with WealthWave. We talk about how we can make our companies more attractive to employees through some low cost options. Whether you offer casualty insurance, life insurance or simple IRA or 401k plans, there are ways to make your contracting business look way more appealing than the guy or gal next door. Employee satisfaction and loyalty is almost guaranteed to go up when you offer more than most others in business. Listen in to see how you can change your business.
https://wealthwave.com/jasonwiseman
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Josh Hansman. Josh is an amazing craftsman in the sand and finish side of the hardwood flooring world. We talk about why he enjoys being an employee instead of running his own show and how we can attract others like him to our company. Listen in as we discover what needs to change in this industry to entice loyal hardworking employees.
https://www.instagram.com/hansmanjosh/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Dakota Franklin. Dakota is 21 years old and an apprentice at Gates Floor and More in Warrensburg, MO. After three years installing so far, he has found an enormous passion for this industry. Listen in as we get some insights that may help us discover how we can better market the flooring industry as a career to Gen Z. Whether it be in how we communicate with them, award them small victories, or just find a different way to advertise the job. Find out what Dakota has to say right now!
https://gatesfloorandmore.com/home/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guests are Oliver and Breanna Ledbetter. For the past five years they have been working together as a couple and living together. They own and currently operate Little Tile Guy out of Hickory, North Carolina. We spend our time discussing their interesting team dynamic and how they make it work. Listen in to find out why communication is key not only in your marriage but in your business.
https://www.littletileguy.com/
https://www.instagram.com/littletileguy/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Michael Martin. Michael is the President of the National Wood Flooring Association or NWFA as it is more commonly called. We spend our time discussing the benefits of being a member of the NWFA and how it will not only better you but better the industry. Want to know where the NWFA is head in the future, stay tuned to find out.
https://www.nwfa.org/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Shawn Dressler owns and operates Flooring Inspirations in Janesville, WI. After getting his start at 18 in the union, he worked for a few different companies before moving off the floor and into commercial project management for a shop. When the shop went belly up, Flooring Inspirations was born. Shawn provides us with insights on what it will take to participate in the commercial flooring side of the trade and how we can get started.
https://www.flooring-inspirations.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Paul Pleshek. Paul owns and operates Floor Claims Solutions in Neenah, WI. After working in janitorial services and carpet cleaning, he found his way in to inspections for carpet. From his certifications from various bodies to be an inspector to his involvement in the industry on committees, Paul has a deep knowledge on flooring. We dive into some standards and why we need to follow them.
http://www.floorclaimsolutions.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This weeks guest is Jorge Perez. Jorge owns and operates Epic Hardwood Floors in Tacoma, WA. Before establishing Epic Hardwood Floors Jorge was traveling around the country with his enlisted wife. After years of going between employee and owner, they settled in WA and eventually Epic Hardwood Floors was born. Jorge’s tips for success include building relationships and adding the cherry on top. Listen in to find out how you can get raving reviews and fans.
https://epichardwoodfloors.com/
https://www.instagram.com/epichardwoodfloors/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Danny Sherman owner and operator of Megs Certified Installations and All Out Demo, as well as, rep for Taylor Tools and D Cut joins us this week to discuss his businesses growth. From being the installer to running a warehouse and multiple crews it wasn't built by dreaming about it. Listen in as Danny shares his insights on how we can get off our knees and build a larger business.
https://www.megscertified.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Shane Chandler has been working in the flooring industry since he was 16. Listen in as he tells us how he got his start, what some differences between the states and New Zealand are, and how young people are not just lazy in America.
Clockit Software
SC Flooring
FloorNZ
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Ron Nash, the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing of North America with Laticrete, joins us this week. Ron has a very interesting background from degrees in botany and general sciences to being a general contractor. Listen in as Ron breaks down how professionalism will result in more money in your pocket. Whether you are working for a store, on your own, or just an employee, these insights will help get you to the next level.
Laticrete University
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
My friend and Liberty Mutual insurance agent, Austin Thompson, joins us this week to explain how auto coverage works and what all the numbers really mean. We also touch on how to get extra things like tools covered and how that can help you save money.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Leonard Hall owns and operates Endurance Floor Company in Miami, Florida. After getting an offer to take over the company instead of returning to school to become a nuclear engineer, he had some ideas on the direction the company needed to go. Listen in as Lenny explains how he found a way to get into the high end custom sand and finish work and find, train and retain employees to keep him there.
https://www.instagram.com/endurancefloorco/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Luke Miller owned and operated Miller Tile before moving on to work on the Tile Money Podcast full time. Miller Tile was originally started in 2008 and short lived because of the great recession. Find out what mistakes Luke made and how we can learn from his mistakes to come out of countries current economic whoas riding the wave instead of being crushed by it.
https://tilemoney.com/
https://www.instagram.com/tilemoney/
http://thetilenation.com/
https://tilestonevirtualtradeshow.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
James Toal has been a part of the flooring industry for 35 years. After over 30 years as a sand and finish contractor he took a job with Loba Wakol as a technical representative. James details his experiences in furthering his education and how those opportunities helped take his career to greater heights. Listen in to see what changes you can make in how you operate.
https://www.instagram.com/jameslobawakol/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Joe and Hannah Dawson join us on the Floor Academy Podcast this week. Hannah started in the wood flooring world at the age of 3. Joe and Hannah discuss how she got her start and where she is going. Listen in as Hannah gives us some insights into how we can get the next generation excited about becoming installers.
https://www.instagram.com/woodfloorqueen/
https://dawsonhardwoodfloors.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
JC Braveheart out of Anchorage, Alaska joins us this week. He lets us know some insights into what could help develop the younger talent in the trade today. JC hits a prime demographic as he is on the cusp of being a Millenial and Gen Z. Listen in to find out how flooring saved JC's life.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Who's down with PPE? Every last homie! Jeremy Waldorf returns to the Floor Academy Podcast to talk about a very personal story and why PPE is so important. Join us as we navigate through his story and why you need to be using your equipment everyday for every purpose.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Today, we sit down and chat with George Lucker. George is in charge of sales and manufacturing for Edurus Tools by Gundlach. We spend our time talking about how George got involved with the flooring industry, why he puts the flooring installer above all else, and we even get a little bit of financial advice. Listen in to learn how to improve your relationships with your reps and how your future in flooring can go beyond your years on the floor.
http://www.benojgundlachco.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Edurus-Tools-2080879588893106/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Fred Hueston owns Stone Forensics which is a tile and stone inspection company. When things go horribly wrong Fred is the man you want on your side. He tells us how he became an inspector and why it is a viable option to get off the floor at some point.
Stone and Tile Show Podcast
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Heidi Cronin from the Ceramic Tile Education Foundation joins us to explain the advantages of getting your CTI. Don't know what a CTI is? Join us and learn how you can better yourself in the industry by obtaining one.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
We spend out time taking with Janice Nordmark of Bulletproof Bookkeeping in Mesa, AZ. She helps us understand a little bookkeeping 101 and why we may want to just hire out the service.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Nate Hall (The Enchanted Floorist) and Scott Zito (Bellavoro Carpet and Luxury Flooring) join me to discuss the beginnings of NFIC and what it can do for your career. Nate has been around for years and Scott is towards the beginning of his career and they each have something to add to the conversation. Besides being able to compete well at the top of the carpet market we get a few business tips as well.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floor Academy? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we talk with the three winners of the Installer of the Year Competition from Surfaces 2020. The winners were Mike Atkins of Atkins Flooring, Daniel Gonzalez of Preferred Flooring and John Fowler of Fowler Designs. We talk about why they entered, what it was like participating, and what this competition can do for the industry as a whole.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floor Academy Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we talk to Jason Goldberg owner of Tralama or the Trade Labor Marketplace. Announced at Surfaces 2020, it was a hug hit and lot of buzz has been generated about it so far. Do you need to be able to find a trade project? Do you need to be able to find laborers for your trade project? Well now you will have solutions on both sides. Listen in as Jason explains what the Trade Labor Marketplace is and how it works.
http://www.tralama.com
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floor Academy Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week I talk about my experience at Surfaces 2020.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floor Academy Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we have a little bit different of a format. During my stay in Forney, TX while taking the Hardwood and Laminate Certification for CFI, I was able to interview a few installers at the same time. Dan Churchill, James Salas and David Covarribias all talk about why they came to the certification class, what made it worth their while and what they will do to make their local market a better place. Find out why CFI may be the right choice for you.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week with talk with Jim Freeman of Metro Floors. Jim handles the escalated calls for Life Proof vinyl flooring and also helped right the instructions. From his extensive background in installation to maintenance, Jim helps us learn when we need to know we are in over our head and to call the number in the instructions or our local rep.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Josh Crossman runs PTL Hardwoods in Yelm, WA and is involved with the NWFA. His business experience has led him to save road time by charging for consultations. Find out how you can better manage potential clients over the phone by listening in.
https://ptlhardwoodfloors.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ptlhardwoodfloors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week on Floored-U-Cation Pro, Donald Perkins of DFP Flooring in Covington, CT joins us. Don and I discuss some of the differences between 1099 subcontractors and employees, partners instead of just employees, distributors or reps, and raising the bar in the entire industry.
http://dfpllcfloor.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode of Floored-U-Cation Pro we talk with Liz Caladrino. Liz has many years of experience in the flooring industry from running seven furniture and carpet liquidation stores to being a consultant and business coach. We spend our time talking about why you need to partner with people instead of just looking at them as employees, sub contractors, your distributors, etc.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week, I am all by myself for the first time. Scheduling has been a little difficult lately and the holidays have me with less time than expected. I go over how I got into flooring, why I am passionate about education and where the show is headed.
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
This week we talk with Jeremy Waldorf with Schonox. We discuss why subfloor preparation is such an important part of installing a floor. Find out how you can have an easier time getting your floors flat.
https://www.facebook.com/LegacyFloors
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Today, we speak with Scott Zito of Bel Lavoro Carpet and Luxury Flooring in Olathe, KS. Scott and I spend our time talking about how we need to find more installers to compete in the top 5% of the market.
https://www.bellavorocarpet.com/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we have our first returning guest, Ken Ballin, and we talk about "Social" Media. Different platforms have different purposes and there is always hitting the pavement and doing it old school. Find out how you can help grow your business in this technology driven world.
http://skyrofloors.com/index.html
https://www.instagram.com/skyrofloors/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
Today we speak with Roland Thompson of Thompson's Flooring, Installation and Consulting. Roland is also involved with many other aspects of the flooring industry including being a trainer for CFI. With a long career of proven quality Roland was able to get connected with the producers of Restaurant Impossible and now oversees all of the flooring installations for the show. With tight turn around times, Roland still makes sure to deliver a high quality product that will last for years and years.
https://thompson-flooring-installation-consultant.business.site/
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we speak with Rachel Berlin from Plymouth, WI. She is the sales manager for Precision Floors & Decor. We spend our time chatting about sales strategies, mentors and following up. You won't want to miss this episode.
http://www.precisionfloorsdecor.com
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode of Floored-U-Cation Pro we talk with Michelle Hamilton. Michelle owns and operates Tile Maryland in Conowingo, MD. She is also the found of the Tile Chicks Facebook group. Tiel Chicks is all about promoting women in the flooring industry. Find out what Michelle's goals are for the tile trade.
http://www.tilemaryland.com
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we speak with Ethan Abrudeanu of Broadleaf Hardwood Co in Chicago, IL. Ethan and I discuss what it was like for him being the young guy on the block not only in the professional world but also as a young business owner trying to win bids over guys with way more experience than him.
https://www.broadleafhardwoodsco.com/
https://www.instagram.com/broadleaf_hardwoodsco
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we speak with Anthony Moses of Simply Intricate Designs based in Baton Rouge, LA. Anthony and I broach the ever so challenging topic of pricing. How much do I charge for x, y or z? This guy is only charging this. Find out how you should look to setup your business and what you can do with your pricing.
https://simplyintricatedesigns.com/
https://www.instagram.com/simplyintricatedesigns
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we speak with Jesse Boswell of Floor Dozers. Floor Dozers is a speciality demolition company that evolved out of Jesse's tile installation business. Find out how he did it and what has helped him become so successful in such a short period of time.
http://www.floordozers.com
https://www.instagram.com/floordozers
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
We speak with Billy Graham of Legacy Flooring about branding, brotherhood in the flooring world and "babes". You're going to want to listen to the end of this one, as he has a special treat for you, that you won't want to miss.
https://www.facebook.com/LegacyFlooring/
https://www.instagram.com/legacy_flooring_socal
Need new headphones for working and listening to Floored-U-Cation? Check out ISOTunes using the link below. Amazing Bluetooth headphones that are OSHA certified. http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR
Help support the Floored-U-Cation Podcast through our Patreon. https://www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we talk with Mark Herakovic about camaraderie in the flooring industry and the trades at large. Find out what you can do to help elevate our trade to the next level.
Want to help support the show? Visit our Patreon page at www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Looking for a new way to listen to the show on the go? Check out ISOTunes bluetooth headphones. I personally have been using them for two years and wouldn't use anything else. Between the great connectivity and being OSHA certified for noise reduction, I wouldn't choose a different brand. Find out more by visiting http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR.
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this episode we continue our discussion with Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis. We cover their participation at the National Installer of the Year Competition at the Surfaces event. See what they have to say about the event and what it will do for the industry.
http://skyrofloors.com/index.html
https://www.instagram.com/skyrofloors/
https://eaglefloorcoveringsupplies.com/
Looking for a new way to listen to the show on the go? Check out ISOTunes bluetooth headphones. I personally have been using them for two years and wouldn't use anything else. Between the great connectivity and being OSHA certified for noise reduction, I wouldn't choose a different brand. Find out more by visiting http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR.
Want to help support the show? Visit our Patreon page at www.patreon.com/flooreducation
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)
In this first episode of Floored-U-Cation Pro we talk about the importance of certifications with installers Roy Allen Lewis and Ken Ballin. Both of them are accomplished in their own right. Learn more about each of them by visiting their websites.
http://skyrofloors.com/index.html
https://www.instagram.com/skyrofloors/
https://eaglefloorcoveringsupplies.com/
Looking for a new way to listen to the show on the go? Check out ISOTunes bluetooth headphones. I personally have been using them for two years and wouldn't use anything else. Between the great connectivity and being OSHA certified for noise reduction, I wouldn't choose a different brand. Find out more by visiting http://bit.ly/2P5A9pR.
Support the show (http://www.patreon.com/flooracademy)