The Edge: Recent Episodes
Riley Sorensen, Connor Blas
Business - Talking about personal experiences and mindset in a variety of business contexts from 2 regional business consultants managing over 20+ businesses, and grossing over $2.5 million in serviced sales.
In this episode we have a good discussion about Riley's different hiring practices this year, and what he has been looking for in his hires. Last year his business had frequent struggles from not having the right people in place, and so we dive into his approach this year. We also discuss the topic of timing; it is an amazing time to bring people into your business as we are entering the summer time and people are looking for work - pay people well, and you will attract the right people! Enjoy this episode of the Edge Podcast!
We are incredibly excited to be back with another episode on the edge podcast! We have missed you all, and the ability to have great conversations on a weekly basis. Big changes to the podcast will be our intention to release an episode on a bi-weekly basis as we want to deliver incredibly relevant topics for you all - we will be recording on a weekly basis and releasing what we think is best - and believe that is best through a bi-weekly release! In this episode we catch up a little on some of Riley's recent purchases and changes financially and speak on the idea of comsistency in your efforts. That is all for now, and we hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast!
If you have any suggestions for what you'd like to hear, please reach out to us personally or through our instagram page @theedgepod
This week on The Edge we discuss the idea of accountability and fitting in a busy schedule around work. We discuss how to ensure you are staying organized regardless of what is going on outside of your business. We then get into a conversation about financials and ensuring you are timing you're spending and have a good understanding of how much money you have vs. when you should be spending it; we discuss knowing your budget and where and when to spend money. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
This week on the Edge Connor sat down with Skylor Holm to talk about his journey throughout Student Works.
Skylor has grown his business from $40k to $220k and this year is on pace to finish at over $300k. How you may ask? He focuses on people. Skylor breaks down his biggest business beliefs and what lead him to where he is now. This is an episode that you do not want to miss.
Enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we have a very conversational approach to remembering your why and how to use it to push yourself. We talk about having a deep understanding of your business and your growth you can continue to see. We really enjoyed this chat, and hope you are able to take something valuable away from it! Enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we chat about the point in your summer where you have the opportunity to step away from your business a little more, and delegate more things to your teams. We discuss the process of what this looks like, and how it can vary from team to team and franchise to franchise. We also discuss how this point in the summer can also be a continued grind to fill the remaining spots in your summer schedule, and to remember that at the end of the summer you will not regret working a little bit harder when you have an extra 5K in your bank account! We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
This week we have an exciting episode where we answer your questions! We had a great variety of questions submitted this week where we had the opportunity to chat about both our work life and personal life. There are quiet a few solid take-aways from the questions we were prompted with that we hope you are able to implement moving forwards. We end off with a fantastic question about why we continue to do this podcast each week, and what we are able to take away from it personally; we hope that you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we start off with a good update on how things have been going in our fitness journey over the past few weeks, and the turn around that we have both started again. In everything there will be ups, and downs, but continuing to push through and stay in your good habits will eventually get you to the destination you are aiming for. We then discuss the topic of scheduling and dive into the tactics that Connor uses to build his schedule - this schedule is CRAZY packed, and INCREDIBLY organized - and where he started from. We discuss the idea of starting small, and growing your organization from the basics that are repeating in your schedule every week like lunch, dinner, or workouts. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast, and hope to help you get one step closer to staying more scheduled personally!
In this episode we discuss a few stories about difficult clients that we have had to deal with them, as well as the best way to deal with them. We discuss the importance of doing it now, and how much easier it is to have hard conversations in person rather than over the phone or worse yet, over text. We hope you are able to take away a few pointers in dealing with your difficult clients and look forward to chatting again next week!
In this episode we discuss the idea of work/life balance and how it can be affected when work gets in the way. The conversation works around how it is okay to focus on one area for a little while to ensure it is in the place it needs to be, but not to forget about the life aspect in work/life balance. We then discuss how Riley solved his problem in hiring, and a few ways to get through the difficulties of labour shortages this year. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we discuss the concept of working through hard times. We get into a discussion on the past week that Riley has had in his business, and the difficulties that he has had to face. We work through the concept of focusing on what is in your control, while also positively reacting to the things that you are unable to control; dwelling on things not in your control will not do anything productive for you. We discuss how you may not be able to control everything that happens on a day to day basis, but you CAN control your mindset and how you decide to react to the things that happen in your life.
A great perspective brought up in this conversation was the question of “although all these things are happening, what is going right for you?” We find it is extremely important to not only focus on the negatives, but allow yourself to step back and see what is also going right for you. Life is sometimes about perspective, in the hard times you must allow yourself to see more than just the things that are going wrong. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we discuss the importance of growing, and to never stop learning - if you're not growing, you're dying. We discuss the idea of humbles beginnings and remembering that you are never "too good" for something. Remember the grind when you first started doing something? The 12-14 hour days, and the thrill you got off having a great day of sales, or fitness, or whatever else you were starting? Be humble in that nostalgia, and remember you are never too good to go back to those things that made you successful to get the most out of the opportunity that lies in front of you everyday. We hope you enjoy this episode of the The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we chat about how different people can be and that there is not a "one size fits all" approach with people; whether that is in your personal life or your work life. We discuss the idea that there are a variety of personalities out there, and the success that you will see working with an individual starts with understanding who that person is, and the connection that you have with them. In Student Works we have a fascinating program called Predictive Index that we use to depict an individuals attributes, and how you can successfully work with said person - this is what Connor is referring to with his character of Maverick. We hope you are able to think about those you have around you, and how to approach your interactions with purpose and a deeper understanding of who that person really is; watch your relationships start to thrive on a different level when you start to do this! We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
This week we had the opportunity to meet with Susan Saunders. Sue was rated in the top 10% of mortgage brokers in her company in 2021, which is the largest mortgage brokerage in Canada. She has been in the industry for over 20 years, and has been in the financial industry for over 30 years total. We had the opportunity to sit down and chat about the key points in planning early for big purchases like a home, as well as the importance of creating a workable budget for yourself early. We also got into the topic of credit, and it’s importance to start NOW; not only to start building credit young, but to be responsible with your money and she provided some great tips on how to do this. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
For more information or any questions to be directed to Susan, please email her at: sue@mymortgageline.ca or call her at 403-815-2559
In this episode we discuss the idea of sales and what it is really about; that sales is NOT about selling a person on a product or service, but is instead about building the trust in you and helping them solve a problem. We discuss a few concepts regarding selling technique and move into a discussion about the skill and ability to listen to others. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
We have a very introspective episode for you this week where we get into a bit deeper of a conversation about how to deal with different situations and what we have learned over the past few years - not only about our business but about ourselves and the direction that we are moving towards. We talk about the people in our lives that have impacted us, and those who have changed our perspective on what we expect in our day-to-day and in our long term goals. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast and are able to take away a few thoughts about who you are, and how you influence those around you.
In this episode we answer a variety of questions sent in from our listeners. We have the opportunity to discuss great questions pertaining to the work environment, but also our personal lives and what we hope to do in the coming years as individuals. Thank you again to all of our listeners for making this episode possible, and we love to hear the questions that you have for us - so if you have any further/follow-up questions you'd love to ask please send us a message on instagram @theedgepod. We hope you enjoy this episode, and have an amazing remainder of your week!
In this episode we discuss the idea of COMMUNICATION and the idea of lighting up your phone in all aspects in your business from calls to organization. We discuss the idea that it is never too late to catch up to a goal, and it comes down to a choice that YOU personally make in your life - to be or not to be organized. We all make decisions that affect our future, so choose to do something today that your future self would thank you for. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we discuss a variety of topics from Credit Cards, to Mortgages and future plans. We get into a discussion on understanding your money, and ensuring you are not only looking at your next year but 5 down the line. This was a great conversation with some pointers we hope you are able to take away and implement! Enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast.
In this episode we start off by getting into the idea of delegation and the topic of being able to give responsibility away. We discuss Riley's production manager and how he implemented her into his business last year; as well as the effort and time put in prior to ensure she could be successful in the position. We then dive into the idea of attending company events and the importance of indulging in the culture around you. As put by a former hosts' trainer, never miss a time. We hope you enjoy the episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode Connor and I get into a discussion about the idea of procrastination and how it can impact the way you live your life. We discuss the idea of getting things done NOW, and how putting things in your schedule will allow you to be significantly more efficient; they say, if you want something done quickly give it to a busy person. We also talk about the topic of inner battles and the conflicts that can arise mentally from these - but also how you have the control of thinking positively or negatively in the situations that you are faced with. The mind is a very powerful thing. Forcing yourself to be positive and take positivity away from every situation that you face is something that takes practice and dedication, but can go a long way in the strength that you pose as an individual. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
We have a special episode for you all this week! We had the opportunity to sit down with a very well known, and record-setting alumni of Student Works Painting, John Morgan lll. We were excited to have him on the podcast this week and discussed a variety of diverse topics in our conversation. There is an immense amount of value packed in this episode; and whether you are a rookie or vet operator with Student Works Painting, or are just tuning in for the first time we hope you all are able to take a lot away from this episode, as we know that we sure did.
Enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
For more amazing content and conversation from John Morgan lll, please give his podcast a follow: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-weekly-call/id1485478809 - you can also search for them on Apple or Spotify @theweeklycall.
In this episode we talk about a variety of things from animals, to Connor's wild airport story, to the openness and transparency that is important to have with those around you. This is a very conversational episode and we hope you enjoy a little different of a format! This week we were keeping it light, and elude to a surprise for next week. Enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode, we break down Riley's week and talk about why he ended up going 0% on one of his quote days. We discuss why this could happened, what could have been missed, and the way to move forward when you do not see the success you would have hoped for. This is a great chat about how you can still see struggle when you have been doing something for a while, and how there is always room for improvements to be made! To end the episode we get into a super brief discussion about COVID-19 and the approaching lifting to restrictions in Alberta - and what this means for the future. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we dive into the ideas of hiring practices, and paying your people well. We discuss a variety of topics around the idea of having amazing people, and ensuring that they are being compensated for being an amazing employee - simply. Over the course of this discussion, we talk about how much a great painter can do for you (very transferable for every industry), and how they can be a make or break for your success over the summer. Pay to recruit amazing people and pay those people well, because at the end of the summer it will only lead to more money in your pocket. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we talk about a few changes in our lives recently - big and small. We delve into the idea of the prioritization of things in your life and how they play into how you choose to schedule yourself. When change happens, do you think of yourself as malleable or stuck? Keep in mind that change will continuously happen in your life... choose to be open to change and look on the positive side of what this can teach you, and how it can positively impact your life moving forward. We hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast!
In this episode we talk about the why behind things, and the importance of understanding why you are doing something. Setting goals in life starts with a why, and if you know that why, your goal becomes a lot easier to hit and push for. We discuss the set up meeting with our people and some of the cool things we have seen in the energy and ambition of this years operators! We also reference a book, start with why and have attached a link to purchase if you would like to read about it(we do not get paid on this, just a great lesson!):
https://www.amazon.ca/dp/1591846447/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_api_glt_i_BEE67EAGM7R5HMW6ST6K
In this episode we have a great discussion about our personal lives, and some of the changes that have been happening over the past few months. We get into a great conversation about health and proper eating, as well as delve into the financial aspect of rental properties and what we are hoping to do with our money in the coming years. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
Welcome to 2022. We missed you. We are SO excited to be back on the podcast, and have a lot of amazing content coming your way this year. After a break in the fall, we have recouped and have put together some great ideas for episodes this upcoming spring and summer for you all. In this episode we update you on what we have been up to, and provide some awesome insight on how to be positive, consistent, and see success in the upcoming year. We hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast, and are excited to be back for weekly episodes with you all. - Ri and Con
In this episode, Jacob and Connor dive into customer relations and rectifying mistakes made on job sites.
Enjoy this week's episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode, Jacob and Connor talk about setting their goals for next year. During the conversation, they dive into the realization that neither of them hit all of their goals in their first three years. This is a very value-packed episode that I promise you do not want to miss!
Enjoy this week's episode of theedgepodcast!
This episode is the first short solo episode of the series so far. Connor does a brief dive into his experience with transitioning through environments.
Listen to the entire episode to hear news on what is to come!
We hope you enjoy this episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode Connor and Jacob have a great discussion about their past and what experiences they have gone to get them in the positions they are in today. They both reflect on some opportunities they had to give up, and what they learned from it. There are some funny digressions in the episode relating to bugs strangely enough, but just an overall laidback chat. We hope you enjoy this episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode we chat about our personal lives and some of the more important things in our day to day, other than our business. We have a great discussion about some key topics this week and we hope you enjoy this week's episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode we were very excited to have Connor Blas join the podcast as a third host, something we have been anxiously waiting to reveal! We hope to bring some exciting new insight and perspective to the podcast with a variety of roles being on the podcast now. In this episode we talk about complacency and the idea of providing a good work environment for your teams as we enter the later portions of the summer season. We hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast! Also, with a new member comes a new design to the podcast - enjoy!
In this episode we have a variety of discussions about mid-summer problems, and how they impact our business. We also discuss the idea of competing businesses and the lack of understanding in the industry by owners and customers. This was a very relaxed talk and we hope you enjoy this discussion on theedgepodcast!
In this episode we have a great discussion about what we plan to do as we approach the later portions of the summer. We talk about the idea of filling your schedule NOW because the later portions of the summer is where you make the MOST money of the summer. Also, we discuss the post-summer activities that we plan to partake in, and why we want to spend the time this way. We hope you enjoy this relaxed episode of theedgepodcast! #GOYA
In this episode we have a good chat about the idea of profit in your business and come up with a few ideas on how to squeeze as much out of your summer as you can, lead wise. We also have a good conversation about the sign back papers we expect to come out and the idea about really thinking what is best for you, your future, and your potential growth both business wise and personally. We hope you enjoy this episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode we have an open discussion and just let the topics flow! We discuss the idea of keeping your painters around and why a midsummer raise can help show your appreciation. We also discuss the idea of turning points and how we still have over half the summer to do amazing things, and how it is all up to your own mindset of the situation to change things around; lastly we discuss burnout, and why it is important to push through the hard times. We hope to enjoy another episode of theedgepodcast!
In this episode we reflect a lot from last week's conversation that unfortunately got saved over... so I guess you could call this episode "I think we talked about this last week"! Thanks for all the patience, and we hope that you enjoy this great conversation on ratings, marketing, and making the most of your own personal situations. #TheEdgePodcast
In this episode we bring you a fantastic special guest, Max Shagaev. This individual is someone who had an incredibly difficult first year in operating his business with Student Works Painting, but found the courage to give it another shot to improve and has seen his business absolutely thriving in comparison to his first year in operation. We wanted to bring Max on to show how even though things may not go perfectly the first time, and although you may fail at something the first try, it does not mean that you are meant to give up. Max is a fantastic example of hard work, determination, and self-awareness for how a franchise owner is able to grow and learn how to be a better leader, and individual. We hope you enjoy this episode of The Edge Podcast!
In this episode we have an open discussion about a variety of topics from payrolls, to personal stories, experiences with other painting companies, and our respective situations at this point in the summer Vs. this point in previous years. We took the opportunity to just let the topics flow and tell a lot of personal stories that we hope you enjoy and may be able to take something away from! Let's get into it...
In this episode we discuss the topic of delegation and what that looks like in different positions. When delegating we talk about the importance of moving in a structured format rather than completely handing all responsibility over and hoping it just goes well. The process of delegation looks different for everyone, but it is important to ensure it is done strategically, and this is what we talk about. Delegation is an extremely important and useful step in allowing yourself to grow as a business owner, leader, manager, or any other position where you are able to hand over a certain level of responsibility. We hope you gain some insight in this conversation, and continue to GOYA and SOYA!
If you really want to grow as an entrepreneur, you've got to learn to delegate"— Richard Branson.
In this episode we discuss the topic of Payrolls and the importance of taking advantage of being organized. We discuss how the payroll is a great reflection of how your business is operating. We also discuss the importance of taking part in the payroll events that our business sets up, as it is an amazing opportunity to discuss your business with multiple other people who are in the EXACT SAME POSITION AS YOU - Take advantage of the time to learn, grow, and laugh at the problems that we all face! We hope you enjoy this episode, and wish you the best of luck as you head into the most challenging time in the summer season!
In this episode we discuss the idea of being a leader in your business and the other aspects of your life. We talk about the importance of being level-headed in problem solving, and how true leadership comes from the way you are able to appropriately deal with problems. We discuss the idea of growth and opportunity, and how we are engulfed in a position that allows us to be a leader whether we like it or not - and that it is our responsibility to take this opportunity and impact those around us in a positive way. Sit back and relax, and enjoy this episode of the edge podcast!
In this episode we have a special guest on to discuss their success early in the 2021 year; in relation to previous years, they have completely surpassed their personal goals and aspirations for the year. This owner shares some very useful insightful knowledge about running a business and also discusses some of their shortcomings in previous years while also discussing what they plan to improve for 2021 production. We hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast and gain some valuable insight in your own business
In this episode we talk about the importance of organization during production. We discuss the importance in being organized and how it relates to the profit you realize over the course of the summer. Breaking it down to the expenses in labour and your paint bill will prove critical to your profitability percentage come September. We also touch on the importance of not letting leads slip through the cracks, and to ensure to follow up with everyone... Sometimes influx is not as important as conversion on the current leads you have. You have worked hard for them, so use them! We hope you enjoy this episode of the edge podcast, and wish you luck as you start your plunge in production!
Welcome back to another episode of the edge podcast! This week we talk about the balance of personal vs. business life and the importance of ensuring that you are leaving time for personal endeavours. We discuss the importance of balancing a busy schedule, while also ensuring that you are leaving time for the important things outside of work - like friends, family, hobbies, and more. We wanted to touch on the importance of balance as we enter a time where the business may be the main priority, but want to clearly define how important the personal things can be during this time. The healthier the mindset, and the cleaner the tool that you can be for your business, inevitably the better your business will be. We hope you gain a lot of insight in this episode, and are able to instil healthy habits as you enter this summer season! #GOYA #SOYA #Stayhealthy.
In this episode we dive deep on the topic of fear and the way that it has influenced the both of us in our business lives, and in our personal lives. We talk about the way that fear can be used as a tool, or how it can stop you from reaching your goals/potential. Jacob also discusses how his motivation and drive has been impacted over the past week. We discuss the importance of looking at things in a positive way and remembering that things are generally better than we assume them to be; especially when we are hard on ourselves, and take personal reflection more strictly than others. We hope you enjoy and are able to take something away from this episode of the edge podcast!
Happy Easter! In this episode we discuss the technicalities of production and what to expect in the coming weeks. As we are only a few weeks out from starting to actually complete work, the time is NOW to start getting organized and starting to understand what to expect. This episode we discuss a lot of small things to remember and gloss over our experiences in the past few summers. There is quite a few tips in this episode from things we have learned over the past few summers, so hopefully you are able to gain something from this episode and start preparing yourselves for the summer. Enjoy this episode of the Edge Podcast! If you have any suggestions or topics you would like us to cover please reach out and let us know! GOYA and have an amazing week.
What does it mean to be smart with your money? That is the golden question... In this episode we discuss budgeting and the idea of spending money. Whether that spending be on personal experiences, investing, your business, we talk about the importance of being smart and budgeting yourself appropriately. We also discuss the idea of having a "rainy day fund" for those expenses you cannot see coming, and ensuring that you live below your means. We hope you get some value from this episode, and would love to hear your feedback on our approaches!
In this episode we have a very special guest, Connor Blas come on the podcast. We discuss the differences in his position and the new role that he has taken on as a business coach for 15 businesses in Northern Alberta. We have a great discussion about what he feels was missed in his own business and what he would implement in his business if he could go back and do it again. Enjoy another episode of the edge podcast!
In this episode we talk about a very important topic in comparing yourself to others - both upward and downward comparisons. We discuss the importance of ensuring that you are doing things for you, and not focusing on trying to relate to those around you. In this discussion we also touch on the importance of looking at others who are in a similar position to you - and if they are not, understanding that it would have a high inaccuracy to do so is important. Enjoy this episode of the Edge Podcast, and have an amazing week!
In this episode we discuss the notion of confidence and how it can affect your business, and those around you. We discuss the idea of being a leader to those around you, and what being a leader really means. After a tough week, Jacob realizes it is the confidence that was lacking in his quoting process, and has taken the necessary steps to correct his process and move forward. Enjoy another weekly episode of the edge podcast!
In this episode we have a great discussion above the value of school, and seizing opportunities that are presented to you. Jacob explains the purpose behind a post-secondary education and provides some insight on his experience with schooling. We discuss the value that a degree/diploma can play, as well as the opportunity without attending a post secondary institution. We hope you enjoy this episode, and if you have anything you would like to challenge us on in this discussion we would love to hear your feedback!
In this episode we discuss the idea of working around your environment and being able to adapt to the situations that are thrown your way. We also talk about the importance of knowing the necessary sacrifices one must take to grow and evolve as a business owner; how we must understand that time always comes from somewhere, and how it's your choice if you use that time to grow or if you use it for more personal means - but that it was your state of happiness that was the most important at the end of the day. We hope you enjoy another episode of the edge podcast, and have an amazing week!
In this episode we talk about the topic of intentions, and the role they play in your day to day life. In this discussion, Jacob talks about how his lack of intention behind his actions has led to a lower-than-normal mindset and charisma and we work through the why of the situation. We also discuss the importance of sticking to a schedule and ensuring there is purpose behind what you are doing - with the topic of urgency being subtly underlying. Lastly, we discuss the idea of the leaderboard in our company's website domain and the open mindset that you must have with regards to your placement on it, if at all. Thank you for tuning into another weekly episode, we hope you enjoy, and remember SOYA!
In this episode we delve into the mentor and mentee relationship. We discuss the nervousness associated with having someone who is there to push you and critique you, but how this ultimately is in the benefit of your growth as a business owner and as an individual. We also discuss the importance of being honest and true to yourself in your efforts, and by not being truthful you are simply cheating yourself. Grab your favorite cup of Jo, hit the road, and thanks for tuning in to another episode of The Edge Podcast!
Jump into an immersive discussion about how consistency is the most important part in our business; both Riley and Jacob share some personal stories about past experiences with consistency and how it has benefited our businesses. Dive in and take a listen to our first content only episode - Thanks for listening!
There is some really great information in here to take away and implement into your own businesses; whether you are a Student Works Operator or are in a completely different field of work. The core habits of staying organized, listening and following a plan, having a strong coach to push you, and working your butt off are all amazing habits to build! Thanks for listening, and we hope you are able to take something away from this great conversation. Special Guest Speaker - Jordan Kipnes (VP with Student Works West).
This is a brief introduction into who your hosts are, their upbringings, their future aspirations, and the common factor in how they both came to meet through a company named Student Works Painting West. Thank you so much for listening, and we are happy to have you follow our journey through 2021!