• 61 | Are leaders born or are they made?| The Leadership Debate Unveiled
    2024/11/18

    Show Information

    Episode Number: 61

    Date: November 18, 2024

    Duration: 23:54

    Host Contact Information

    Host: Justin Deese

    Website: JustinDeese.com

    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

    Summary

    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, host Justin Deese explores the age-old question of whether leaders are born or made. He discusses the importance of leadership in today's world, particularly in the context of the gig economy and the increasing options available to individuals. Deese outlines various traits that contribute to effective leadership, such as charisma, confidence, emotional intelligence, resilience, empathy, problem-solving abilities, adaptability, and team building. He concludes that while some traits may be innate, most can be developed through experience and effort, emphasizing that great leaders are ultimately made through hard work and determination.


    Takeaways

    Leadership is more important now than ever.

    The gig economy has changed the landscape of work.

    Charisma can be both innate and learned.

    Confidence is often a learned trait.

    Emotional intelligence is crucial for managing teams.

    Resilience is developed through experience.

    Empathy can be cultivated over time.

    Problem-solving skills are essential for leaders.

    Adaptability is a learned skill necessary for growth.

    Leaders are made through hard work and determination.


    Chapters

    00:00 The Leadership Debate: Born or Made?

    07:02 Traits of Effective Leaders

    19:29 The Journey of Leadership Development


    Keywords

    leadership, born or made, traits of leaders, leadership development, emotional intelligence, resilience, adaptability, team building


    Transcript

    Justin Deese (00:06.465)

    Are they born or are they made? And I want to go over kind of some different approaches to thinking about it and have a good conversation with you about it.

    Justin Deese (01:02.552)

    Are leaders born or are they made? So today we're going to talk a little bit about leadership, specifically the question of, they, are leaders born or are they made? you know, this, this topic comes up pretty, pretty frequently. And, I really think it would just be a really good conversation and topic for us to talk about. And first off, I want to say this leadership as a, as a topic is just a, it's a huge topic, right?


    and it covers a lot of different areas and a lot of different angles. And so again, specifically, we're going to go into just a couple of things to kind of dive into more of the born or the made side of it. But here's my statement for you. My statement is this leadership right now is more important than it's ever been.


    I repeat that again to make sure you got that in your ear. It's leadership now is more important than ever. Now. I bet you're asking yourself the question, why, why would I say that? And to be honest with you, I'm glad you asked and I'm glad we're having this conversation because it's a it's a really good it's a really good question to ask. So I think one of the big topics on this is because.


    of what we have now in our world is people have more options than they have ever had before. I think a lot of times people talk about this gig economy, right? And they're like gig economy and if you don't know what that means, I'll give you the quick cliff note version, which is basically short-term work, right? So a gig economy is either short-term or...

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    24 分
  • 60 | High Fives and High Growth: How Levi Torres Transformed a Small Plumbing Business into an Industry Leader
    2024/11/07

    60 | High Fives and High Growth: How Levi Torres Transformed a Small Plumbing Business into an Industry Leader

    Show Information

    Episode Number: 60

    Date: November 11, 2024

    Duration: 31:37

    Host Contact Information

    Host: Justin Deese

    Website: JustinDeese.com

    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

    Guest Contact Information

    Guest: Levi Torres

    Company: High 5 Plumbing

    Guest Contact: Levi@High5Plumbing.com

    Guest Website: www.High5Plumbing.com

    Summary

    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese interviews Levi Torres, co-founder of High Five Plumbing. They discuss Levi's journey from a plumbing apprenticeship to starting his own company, the unique branding strategies that set High Five Plumbing apart, and the explosive growth the company has experienced by expanding into HVAC and electrical services. Levi emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision and mission, creating a culture of raving fans, and the necessity of implementing changes quickly to adapt to the market.

    Takeaways

    Levi started plumbing at 16 with an apprenticeship from his dad.

    High Five Plumbing was founded in 2012 with a unique brand identity.

    The transition to service plumbing was driven by cash flow issues.

    Building a brand around the concept of a 'high five' created a unique customer experience.

    The company experienced explosive growth after implementing a clear vision and mission.

    High Five Plumbing expanded into HVAC and electrical services in response to customer demand.

    Creating raving fans is essential for business growth in the service industry.

    The importance of having a culture that embraces change and innovation.

    Levi encourages business owners to seek help and implement new ideas quickly.

    A strong brand identity can help differentiate a business in a competitive market.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to High Five Plumbing

    03:02 The Journey of Levi Torres

    05:56 Transitioning to Service Plumbing

    09:02 Building a Unique Brand Identity

    12:11 Explosive Growth and New Divisions

    15:01 Creating Raving Fans

    18:08 The Importance of Vision and Mission

    20:50 Expanding into Electrical Services

    24:04 Implementing Change and Seeking Help

    Keywords

    plumbing, business growth, brand identity, HVAC, electrical services, customer service, entrepreneurship, High Five Plumbing, Levi Torres, vision and mission

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    32 分
  • 59 | Recapping Service World: Key Takeaways and Insights with Kristen Deese
    2024/11/04
    Show Information

    Episode Number: 59

    Date: November 4, 2024

    Duration: 45:00

    Host Contact Information

    Host: Justin Deese

    Website: JustinDeese.com

    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com

    Co-Host Contact Information

    Co-Host: Kristen Deese

    Company: Virtual CFO for the trades

    Guest Contact: Kristen@KristenDeese.com

    Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com


    Service Nation:

    Michael Rudowitz

    mrudowitz@ServiceNation.com

    www.ServiceNation.com


    Summary

    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin and Kristen Deese recap their experiences at the recent Service World event. They discuss the highlights of the event, including the keynote speakers, workshops, and the importance of networking. The couple shares insights on finding your tribe within the industry and the value of engaging with others. They also reflect on their live podcast experience and the positive feedback received from the audience. In this conversation, Kristen and Justin reflect on their experiences at a recent industry event, discussing the emotional impact of influential figures in the trades community, the importance of avoiding overwhelm by focusing on key takeaways, and the power of vision boards in setting and achieving goals. They also explore the role of AI in modern business practices and share their excitement for future events and opportunities in the industry.

    Takeaways

    Service World continues to improve with each event.

    Keynote speakers can significantly enhance the event experience.

    Longer workshops allow for deeper learning and implementation.

    Networking is crucial for business growth in the home service industry.

    Finding your tribe can lead to meaningful connections.

    Live podcasts provide unique interaction opportunities.

    The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone.

    Audience engagement can transform a panel discussion.

    Disney properties offer a unique event atmosphere.

    Preparation and practice are key to successful presentations. The emotional journey of industry leaders can inspire others.

    Focusing on a few key takeaways can lead to better implementation.

    Vision boards are a powerful tool for goal setting and visualization.

    Celebrating small wins is essential for personal growth.

    AI is a valuable tool but should be used wisely.

    Technology is rapidly evolving and should be embraced.

    The importance of community and support in the trades industry.

    Future events provide opportunities for learning and networking.

    Personal growth and experiences are often more valuable than material items.

    Engaging the younger generation is crucial for the future of trades.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and Overview of Service World

    03:00 Keynote Speakers and Event Highlights

    05:58 Workshops and Training Summit Insights

    09:03 Networking and Finding Your Tribe

    11:59 Panel Discussion and Audience Engagement

    14:49 Live Podcast Experience and Reflections

    21:32 Emotional Reflections on Industry Impact

    24:01 Avoiding...

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    45 分
  • 58 | From $450K in Debt to Industry Leader: Joe Crisara’s Roadmap to Success
    2024/10/28

    Show Information

    Episode Number: 58


    Date: October 28, 2024


    Duration: 41:16




    Host Contact Information


    Host: Justin Deese


    Website: JustinDeese.com


    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com




    Guest Contact Information


    Guest: Joe Crisara


    Guest Contact: Joe@ServiceMVP.com


    Guest Website: www.ServiceMVP.com


    Gift to listeners: Free Book Offer-Email Joe@ServiceMVP.com and in the SubjectLine put FREE BOOK- FREEDOM BLUEPRINT




    Summary


    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, host Justin Deese interviews Joe Crisara, known as America's Service Sales Coach. Joe shares his journey from being $450,000 in debt to becoming a successful sales coach and author. He discusses the importance of value-based selling, customer communication, and the lessons learned from his struggles. Joe emphasizes the significance of securing payment before starting work and the personal nature of sales. He also explores the role of AI in enhancing service delivery and training in the industry.




    Takeaways


    It's not what you know, it's who you know.


    Making people laugh while learning increases engagement.


    Value-based selling connects with technicians.


    Customer communication is key to success.


    Don't start working until you secure payment.


    Sales is personal; build relationships with clients.


    Understanding your client's background is crucial.


    Offer premium, mid-range, and economy choices.


    AI can enhance human capabilities in service.


    Investing in training leads to increased sales.




    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Joe Crisara


    03:15 The Journey Behind the Book


    06:17 Value-Based Selling and Customer Communication


    12:42 Lessons from Struggles: From Debt to Success


    18:40 Sales Strategies for Contractors


    30:12 The Role of AI in the Service Industry




    Keywords


    Joe Crisara, Service MVP, sales coaching, customer service, value-based selling, AI in service industry, contractor success, service training, communication skills, business growth


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    41 分
  • 57 | Live from Service World Expo 2024: Unlocking Industry Secrets with Legends John & Vicki LaPlant
    2024/10/21

    Show Information

    Episode Number: 57


    Date: 10/21/2024


    Duration: 47:10


    Host Contact Information


    Host: Justin Deese


    Website: JustinDeese.com


    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com


    Guest Contact Information


    Guest: John & Vicki LaPlant


    Guest Contact: vlaplant@servicenation.com


    Website: www.josephgrohfoundation.org


    Facebook: www.facebook.com/JosephGrohFoundation


    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/josephgrohfoundation/


    Summary


    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint Podcast, I get to interview industry LEGENDS John & Vicki LaPlant live from Service World Expo 2024. They discuss their journey in the home service industry, the importance of embracing technology, understanding financials, and planning exit strategies. The conversation also highlights the impact of the Joseph Groh Foundation, which supports individuals in the industry facing life-altering challenges. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of the industry and the importance of small businesses in the economy.


    Takeaways


    Running a home service business is challenging but rewarding.


    Embracing technology is crucial for efficiency and productivity.


    Understanding financials is key to business success.


    Planning for an exit strategy should start today.


    The Joseph Groh Foundation provides vital support to industry members in need.


    Networking and sharing experiences can lead to significant growth.


    The industry has seen transformative changes in leadership and culture.


    Small businesses are the backbone of the economy.


    Continuous learning and adaptation are essential for success.


    The future of the industry is bright with opportunities for young professionals.


    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to the Freedom Blueprint Podcast


    01:00 Live from Service World Expo 2024


    07:02 The Journey of John and Vicki LaPlante


    12:02 Embracing Technology in Home Services


    17:46 Understanding Financials for Business Success


    23:47 The Importance of Exit Strategies


    29:53 The Joseph Groh Foundation: Giving Back


    36:04 Looking Ahead: The Future of the Industry


    Keywords


    Home service business, Service World Expo, John LaPlant and Vicki LaPlant, financial management, exit strategies, Joseph Groh Foundation, industry insights

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    47 分
  • 56 | How to Identify and Solve Operational Issues: Kristen Deese the Virtual CFO for the trades
    2024/10/14

    Show Information

    Episode Number: 56


    Date: October 14, 2024


    Duration: 26:36




    Host Information


    Host: Justin Deese


    Website: JustinDeese.com


    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com


    Episode Guest Info


    Guest: Kristen Deese


    Guest Company:Virtual CFO for the Trades


    Guest Contact: Kristen@KristenDeese.com


    Guest Website: www.KristenDeese.com



    Summary

    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, Justin Deese and his co-host Kristen discuss the

    role of a Virtual CFO in small businesses. They explore the importance of financial management, the common challenges faced by business owners, and how a

    Virtual CFO can help identify operational and sales issues through financial analysis. The conversation also delves into pricing strategies, budgeting for profit, and the significance of awareness in managing finances effectively.

    Kristen shares insights on how to improve gross profit margins and manage overhead expenses, emphasizing the need for business owners to understand their

    numbers to drive profitability.



    Takeaways


    A Virtual CFO provides high-level financial strategic

    management without the cost of a full-time CFO.

    Many business owners lack accounting training, which

    can hinder their financial management.

    Understanding key financial concepts early can

    significantly impact business growth and profitability.

    Business owners often rely on bank balances, which

    provides a limited view of their financial health.

    Identifying gross profit margins can reveal areas for

    improvement in operations and sales.

    Pricing strategies are crucial; many businesses

    underprice their services, affecting profitability.

    Budgeting for expected profit can shift the mindset of

    business owners towards better financial management.

    Controlling overhead expenses is essential for

    maintaining profitability.

    Awareness of financial metrics helps business owners

    make informed decisions.

    It's important to prepare financials for tax time well

    in advance.



    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction to Virtual CFO Services


    04:10 The Importance of Financial Management for Small

    Businesses

    07:44 Identifying Operational and Sales Issues through

    Financial Analysis

    12:57 Pricing Strategies and Gross Profit Margins


    16:22 Budgeting for Profit and Managing Overhead

    Expenses

    20:23 The Role of Awareness in...

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    27 分
  • 55 | Building a Bench: Strategies for Proactive Recruiting in Home Services with Ryan Englin from Core Matterss
    2024/10/07

    Show Title:

    Building a Bench: Strategies for Proactive Recruiting in Home Services with Ryan Englin from Core Matters


    Episode Number: 55


    Date: October 7, 2024


    Duration: 29:05


    Host: Justin Deese


    Website: JustinDeese.com


    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com



    Guest: Ryan Englin


    Guest Company: Core Matters


    Company Website: corematters.com


    Podcast Host: Podcast Host- Titans of the Trades


    Author of: Hire Better People Faster


    Guest Special Offer: Copy of the book https://corematters.com/freebook/




    Summary


    In this episode of the Freedom Blueprint podcast, host Justin Deese speaks with Ryan Englin, author of 'Hire Better People Faster' and founder of Core Matters. They discuss the critical issues of hiring, recruiting, and retention in the home service industry. Ryan shares his journey from marketing to recruiting, emphasizing the importance of proactive recruiting, building an employer brand, and creating a supportive work environment. The conversation also highlights the significance of authenticity in recruitment and the need for businesses to engage their existing employees in the hiring process.




    Takeaways


    Hiring and recruiting are critical challenges in the trades.


    Recruiting should be viewed as a marketing activity.


    Proactive recruiting is essential; top talent is often not actively looking for jobs.


    Building a strong employer brand can attract passive job seekers.


    Authenticity in social media is crucial for establishing trust with potential hires.


    Creating friendships at work can significantly improve employee engagement and retention.


    Onboarding should focus on building relationships, not just training.


    Core Matters helps businesses by stopping the bleeding in their hiring processes.


    Teaching businesses to fish means implementing sustainable hiring practices.


    Leverage your existing team for referrals and insights into the hiring process.




    Chapters


    00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Hiring and Recruiting in the Home Service Industry


    03:04 Proactive Recruiting and Building a Bench of Passive Job Seekers


    07:43 Creating an Authentic Employer Brand


    14:17 The Importance of Onboarding and Relationship Building


    21:23 Stop the Bleeding: Filling Immediate Staffing Needs


    23:46 Teaching Businesses to Fish: Implementing Systems and Processes


    26:33 Leveraging Existing Employees for Referrals and Insights




    Keywords


    hiring, recruiting, retention, employer brand, onboarding, employee engagement, trades, business growth, Core Matters, Ryan Englin, Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse

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    29 分
  • 54 | Culture Matters: Lessons on Leadership and Team Building with Chris Gist
    2024/09/30

    Episode Number: 54

    Date: September 30, 2024


    Duration: 32:21


    Host: Justin Deese


    Website: JustinDeese.com


    Contact: Justin@JustinDeese.com



    Guest: Chris Gist


    Guest Company: Paradise Home Services


    Guest Contact: Chris.Gist@ParadiseHomeServices.com


    Guest Website: www.ParadiseHomeServices.com




    Summary


    In this episode, we dive deep into the essential elements of creating and maintaining a positive company culture. We discuss the importance of flexibility, celebrating team milestones, and setting core values that align with your company's mission. From breaking bread with team members to supporting a healthy work-life balance, you’ll hear firsthand experiences and actionable tips on keeping the camaraderie and positive environment alive while achieving rapid growth.




    Takeaways


    Flexibility and Core Values: How creating a flexible work environment supported by strong core values can lead to a thriving company culture.


    Celebration and Camaraderie: The impact of team gatherings and breaking bread on building bonds and enhancing team spirit.


    Visual Reminders of Core Values: Using visual aids to consistently reinforce the company’s mission and values.


    Empowering Team Members: Inspiring stories of team members who have grown within the company by embracing its culture.


    Maintaining Work-Life Balance: The importance of supporting a healthy work-life balance for overall team satisfaction and retention.




    Chapters


    [00:01] - Introduction and Welcome


    [00:35] - Discussing Company Culture


    [02:06] - Core Values and Team Dynamics


    [04:01] - The Importance of Flexibility


    [10:07] - Outside-of-Work Activities and Celebrations


    [13:53] - The Role of Brand in Culture


    [18:29] - Work-Life Balance in a Growing Company


    [21:36] - Empowering and Rewarding Team Members


    [24:51] - Inspiring Team Member Story


    [26:19] - Recreational Activities and Team Building


    [27:13] - Closing Remarks and Key Learnings




    Keywords


    Plumbing, HVAC, Air Conditioning, Electrical, Contractor, Freedom Blueprint Podcast, Justin Deese, Kristen Deese, When Your Business Partner is Your Spouse, Company Culture, Core Values, Flexibility, Team Building, Work-Life Balance, Leadership in HVAC, Scaling a Business, Positive Work Environment, Employee Engagement, Chris Gist, Paradise Home Services.

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    32 分