The Boost
Our guests include HVAC contractors, Roofing contractors, Garage Door contractors, Plumbing contractors, any many more...we explore growth, marketing, buying, and selling in home services. Lokal provides digital marketing for home service contractors that won’t leave you lost at sea.
Episodes
3 days ago
3 days ago
In this week’s episode, we chat with Ben Hummel, Vice President of Business Development at Legacy Service Partners.
Ben shares insights into Legacy Service Partners, a home services platform investing in HVAC, plumbing, and electrical contractors. Legacy Service Partners offers a unique approach to partnering with owner-operators in the home services sector.
The conversation covers various topics, including strategies for geographic expansion, the valuation of businesses in the market, and the importance of managing debt, and operational efficiencies in growing a business.
Key Takeaways:
Legacy Service Partners' Model
Succession Planning and Growth Strategy
Financial and Operational Preparation for Sale
Market Variability and Value Multiples
Advice for Potential Sellers
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Ben Hummel
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bhhummel/
Website: https://legacyservicepartners.com/
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Thursday May 09, 2024
Grocery Store Clerk Teaches a Lot of Great Skills and Lessons with Texas Medley
Thursday May 09, 2024
Thursday May 09, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Texas Medley, President & CEO of Medley Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
During our conversation, we discussed his journey from working in a grocery store to successfully establishing and running his own business. Texas emphasizes the value of hard work, learning from every job, and continuously striving to improve business operations while maintaining a focus on customer service and employee satisfaction.
Key Takeaways:
Learn how a simple grocery job can help you develop useful skills that can be useful later in life
Balancing profitability with fair pricing for customers
The impact of private equity firms entering the home service industry
Maintaining a personal connection with employees while holding them accountable
Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on the realities of starting a business
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Texas Medley
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/texasmedley
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/justintexas.medley.5
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👉 Connect with Medley Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Website: https://www.callmedley.com/
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
We explore leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession. Lokal works closely with HVAC, roofing, plumbing, garage door companies, and many other HS companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
Thursday May 02, 2024
Two Years to Make a Deal with Dad with Mike Prencavage Jr.
Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Mike Prencavage Jr., owner of The Family Plumber. In our conversation, we explore the challenges and complexities of executing a successful succession plan, especially when it involves family members. Mike Jr. provides a candid look at the ties that bind family and business, as well as the unique challenges that they bring.
Key Takeaways:
Navigating the emotional aspects and differing perspectives between a founder and the next generation
Strategies for determining a fair valuation, considering assets, customer base, and growth potential
Structuring payment terms, including upfront deposits, sweat equity, and potential early payoff penalties
The importance of documenting everything and setting clear action items during negotiations
The value of bringing in a third-party evaluator to provide an objective assessment
The benefits of leasing vehicles instead of purchasing them outright as the company scales
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Mike Prencavage Jr.
Website: http://www.thefamilyplumber.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/socalplumbguy/
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Growth as a HVAC Multi Franchisee Owner with Ryan Kletz
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Ryan Kletz, President of Classic Air Care, Inc. Classic Air Care owns and operates in 3 cities and 5 different offices for One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning.
In our conversation, we discuss the intricacies of acquiring and growing an HVAC business through franchising.
Key Takeaways:
The story behind Classic Air Care joining the 1-Hour Heating & Air Conditioning franchise system in 2004
Hear firsthand how the art of selecting the right locations goes beyond geography
How Classic Air Care evaluates potential acquisition targets and the challenges of replicating their culture across locations
The importance of having a defined leadership structure and streamlined processes when expanding to new markets
Valuable lessons learned from successful and derailed acquisition attempts
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Ryan Kletz
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-kletz-33775329/
Website: https://www.onehourcomfort.com
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Transferring Equity while Being the Only License Holder with Tom Lucas
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
Wednesday Apr 17, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Tom Lucas, Service Manager and Part Owner of Dayco Systems, live at CAAG in Savannah.
In our conversation, we explore Tom's journey to becoming a part owner of Dayco Systems and the ongoing negotiations to acquire full ownership from the company's founder, Dean.
Key Takeaways:
Listen how Tom's decision to get the right type of license and speaking Portuguese with his wife in a buffet changed his life
Navigating the challenges of negotiating a fair deal
The importance of clear communication and setting expectations upfront
Plans for future growth through acquisitions, including expanding into plumbing and electrical
Lessons learned and advice for others considering buying an existing company
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Tom Lucas
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-lucas-a62257174/
Website: https://daycosystems.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dayco_systems/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daycosystems/
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/dayco_systems
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
From Sweat Equity to Success with Jacob Krauss
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
Wednesday Apr 10, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Jacob Krauss, Content Creator, Koolin’ with Kraus, HVAC Knights Co-Host, and Co-Owner, Bizzy Air.
Jacob discusses the unconventional path to business ownership, the challenges of rebranding and revitalizing a longstanding company, strategies for growth, and ways to engage with the community.
In our conversation, we uncover the ins and outs of acquiring and transforming a longstanding HVAC business into a modern, customer-focused business.
Key Takeaways:
The transition from B&G Air Specialists to Bizzy Air, and the vision behind the rebranding.
The importance of follow-ups and customer service in building trust and loyalty
Learn how Jacob used sweat to gain equity
Future goals for Bizzy Air, including reaching the million-dollar mark and expanding the team
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Jacob Krauss
Website: https://bizzyac.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/koolinwithkrauss_hvac/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCam5-STAaS2ddkKEYF9w8RA
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Navigating the World of Commercial HVAC and Refrigeration with Adrian Garcia
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
Wednesday Apr 03, 2024
In this week’s episode, we chat with Adrian Garcia, HVAC content creator, podcaster, owner and partner at Reliable Kitchen Services.
Adrian discusses the challenges and rewards of running a family business and how his father, a skilled electrician, inspired him to enter the world of commercial HVAC and refrigeration in the food service industry. Adrian offers a unique perspective on various subjects like branding, strategies for year-round profitability, the value of HVAC techs, and why quality and expertise are worth every penny.
Key Takeaways:
Adrian’s initial reluctance to take on a leadership role and how his perspective evolved over time.
The importance of not taking advantage of customers and maintaining honesty as a core business value.
How to survive and thrive during your slow season and the benefits of maintenance agreements.
How to use memes and content to educate and engage with the HVAC community
And much, much, more!
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: http://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Adrian Garcia
Website: https://www.reliablekitchenservices.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ReliableHVACR/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReliableHVACR1/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/reliablehvacr/
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
How ESOPs are cultural game changers with Loren Gardner
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
Thursday Mar 28, 2024
This week, we dive into a conversation with Loren Garder from Bergen Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling, exploring his journey as an educator in the trades.
Loren's early collaboration with his brother at Bergen led him to discover his passion for training aspiring tradesmen.
Under his guidance, Bergen's apprenticeship program evolved into the cornerstone of their culture, eventually expanding into the independent Blackhawk School of Apprenticeship, a crucial step for anyone joining Bergen.
The turning point came when Loren’s brother began transitioning the company into an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), enabling employees to own a part of Bergen.
This move not only cultivated a sense of ownership among the staff but also significantly enhanced the company culture, fostering a deep-rooted commitment to excellence in service, customer satisfaction, and mastery of their trade.
Tune in to hear Loren discuss how these initiatives transformed Bergen, creating a unified passion and dedication that resonates throughout the company.
A few key takeaways:
Empowerment through Education: Loren Garder's initiative to develop a comprehensive training and education program underscores the importance of continuous learning and skill development in professional growth and organizational success.
Culture Transformation via Ownership: The transition to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) illustrates how sharing company ownership with employees can transform a company's culture, fostering a sense of belonging, responsibility, and collective drive toward success.
Strategic Innovation in Business: The creation of the Blackhawk School of Apprenticeship as a feeder system for new talent highlights the value of innovative approaches to solving traditional business challenges, such as talent acquisition and development.
Impact on Service Quality and Customer Satisfaction: This suggests a strong link between employee empowerment, company culture, and the quality of service provided to customers. In Bergen, the shift to an ESOP improved company dynamics significantly and influenced the customer experience and business success.
And more!
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Loren Gardner
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorendgardner/
Website: https://apprenticeshipworks.trade
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apprenticeship_works/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61553685544705
Bergen Plumbing, Heating, & Cooling: https://noworrycomfort.com
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Where you Focus, Where you Grow with Tersh Blissett
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
Wednesday Mar 20, 2024
This week on our podcast, we recorded live at ACCA 2024 in Orlando. Our captivating conversation with Tersh Blissett, a vanguard in service innovation and co-host of the Service Business Mastery Podcast.
Tersh discusses his early curiosity that led him from tinkering to studying engineering at Georgia Tech, eventually finding his true calling in the trades.
He became co-owner at Tri-Star Heating, Air, and Plumbing before launching his own high-end HVAC company, Service Emperor, in 2019.
Distinct from Tri-Star’s high-volume approach, Service Emperor prides itself on meticulous attention to detail—ensuring technicians are not only skilled but also exceptionally respectful and mindful of the clients' homes, a necessity given the upscale Savannah residences they service.
Tersh began a podcast to highlight his journey starting and operating a new HVAC company. Podcasting about Service Emperor marked a pivotal moment for Tersh, igniting a passion that ultimately led him to focus full-time on the Service Business Mastery Podcast.
To maintain his businesses while dedicating himself to podcasting, Tersh enlisted trusted partners, offering equity to ensure both ventures thrived without his constant oversight. Emphasizing the mantra “Where you focus is where you grow,” Tersh has successfully expanded his podcasting career, now boasting over 200,000 monthly downloads.
A few key takeaways:
Passion and Purpose: Tersh’s journey from a kid with a curiosity to tinkerer, led to a very successful life as an entrepreneur in the trades.
Transition and Adaptation: Tersh has a unique ability to transition from one venture to another, adapting to new ideas, new roles, all while leveraging his skills and experiences to create value in different contexts.
Detail-Oriented Service: Tersh’s focus on the little things that matter to customers, like cleanliness and respect for clients' homes, emphasizes the importance of attention to detail in building a successful service-oriented business.
Value of Partnerships: Bringing in trusted partners to help manage and grow demonstrates Tersh’s value of partnerships and recognition that to scale and grow, it takes a team.
And more!
Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
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👉 Connect with Tersh Blissett
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tersh_blissett
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tersh_blissett
Service Emperor: https://serviceemperor.com/
TriStar Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical: https://tristarsavannah.com/
Service Business Mastery Podcast: https://servicebusinessmasterypodcast.com
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Join us this week as we talk to Nicholas Matos, owner of Reliable Heating and Cooling in Indian Trail, NC. Nick's path led him from Miami and the Marines to the world of HVAC business ownership. After learning finance at J.P. Morgan, he used his valuation skills to transform a struggling HVAC shop into a seven-figure success within his first year.
Nick closed his first small business deal quickly – and right in the middle of peak season! He skillfully negotiated favorable terms without external financing, recognizing the limited buyer pool and leveraging that to his advantage.
Nick shares insights on the challenges of valuing small businesses. He emphasizes both the importance of the buyer's vision for growth and the difficulty of reliable valuation due to inconsistent data.
Reliable's initial focus is on optimizing operations, streamlining pricing, organizing their CRM, and building a strong digital marketing presence.
Listen to our discussion for much, much more!
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Additional Resources
➡️ Schedule a FREE Marketing Assessment today: https://lokalhq.com/marketing-assessment/
-----
👉 Connect with Nicholas Matos
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-matos/
Website: https://relhvac.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reliablehvac_clt/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/relhvac
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The Boost, a podcast for home service contractors.
Join CMO of Lokal, Zach Wilson, as he explores leaders & innovators in home services, their personal journeys, thoughts and experiences with growth, marketing, and succession.
Lokal digital marketing works exclusively with contractors specializing in HVAC, roofing, plumbing, and garage door companies to conquer their local turf and grow exponentially.
All Aboard the Longship! Powered by Vikings™.
For marketing tips, follow Zach Wilson on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook.