Advertise on podcast: The Start Build Grow Show

In this episode, I sit down with Parker Dolbin, Sr. Product Marketing Manager at JobNimbus, to talk about his journey from growing up in roofing and running his own company to shutting it down and eventually moving into the technology side of the industry.   Parker shares how burnout, inefficient processes, and the lack of the right systems made it difficult to scale his roofing business—and how those experiences completely changed the way he looks at operations today.   Now at JobNimbus, Parker uses his contractor background to help roofing and exterior companies work smarter with better systems, stronger processes, and technology built for the realities of the industry.   We also discuss what he learned from closing his business, why failure can be a turning point, and how contractors can avoid unnecessary burnout while building a company that can grow beyond the owner.   If you're a roofing contractor looking to improve your systems, streamline operations, and scale more efficiently, this episode is for you.

Introducing The Optimism We All Need Right Now with Simon Sinek from The Oprah Podcast. Follow the show: The Oprah Podcast BUY THE BOOK! Start with Why by Simon Sinek  https://amzn.to/4xQ0ETD Simon Sinek’s landmark New York Times bestseller Start with Why transformed how leaders, entrepreneurs and employees think - inspiring them to shift their focus from what they do to why they do it. Simon brought this revolutionary concept to life with his Ted Talk, "How Great Leaders Inspire Action" which instantly went viral - and now ranks as the fourth most-watched Ted talk of all time with more than 90 million views.  In this conversation, Oprah and Simon talk about how to feel more energized, optimistic and engaged in your work and life - especially at times of high anxiety and uncertainty. Simon answers questions from several viewers including a woman who is considering leaving her 9-5 job to become an entrepreneur, one who is still looking for her dream job at age 49 and another who is terrified about losing her identity as she faces retirement. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone who may be feeling a little lost and looking for clarity, direction and optimism.  00:00:00 - Welcome Simon Sinek, author of “Start with Why”  00:05:15 - The golden circle  00:09:15 - Asking for help 00:10:30 - Why vs. intention  00:13:30 - The thread of your life  00:17:40 - The age of the Influencer  00:20:10 - Optimism meaning 00:27:10 - Introverts and extroverts 00:28:40 - Blocking out doubt when chasing your why 00:32:30 - Jobs are not safe 00:34:50 - Find your guiding question 00:41:40 - Is a "dream job" a goal? 00:48:39 - The friend test  00:54:00 - The importance of relationships  00:55:20 - The key to finding your why 00:57:00 - A well-lived life Follow Oprah Winfrey on Social: https://www.instagram.com/oprahpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/oprahwinfrey/ DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

In this episode, I sit down with Erick Loden, former owner of Dave Loden Construction and host of From The Ground Up Show, to unpack his journey of buying, growing, and eventually selling a roofing company.   Erick takes us through his experience growing up in his family's roofing business, eventually taking over the company, and learning what it really takes to transition from working in the business to building something that can operate beyond the owner.   He shares how the company grew from approximately $1.2 million in annual revenue to $10 million, including the systems, processes, and focus on growth that helped take the business to the next level. We also talk about the importance of documenting what you know, creating repeatable processes, and developing a leadership teamcapable of carrying the business forward.   Erick also gives us an inside look at the process of selling the company, including conversations with multiple private equity firms, the challenges that came with those negotiations, and the decision to ultimately pursue an internal sale with members of his team and their families.   One of the biggest lessons throughout the conversation is that building a valuable business requires more than increasing revenue. You have to create something that can function without you—and give yourself the freedom to step away from the day-to-day operations.   Toward the end of the conversation, Erick shares what life looks like after the sale, his continued advisory role with the company, and how his experience ultimately inspired him to launch From The Ground Up Show to share the stories and lessons of other entrepreneurs.   If you're a roofing contractor looking to grow beyond the owner-dependent stage, build stronger systems, create a leadership team, or eventually position your company for an exit, Erick's story offers a firsthand look at what that journey can actually look like.

In this special episode, I sit down with Ryan Clark, Member Success Coach at The Roofing Academy and one of the architects behind our Roofing Success System, to take you behind the scenes of what running a $5 million roofing company actually looks like—from the numbers perspective. Ryan brings years of experience in production, operations, and systems implementation, and together we walk through the key metrics every roofing contractor should be tracking to make better decisions and build a more profitable business. We discuss why successful companies don't rely on gut instinct, but instead use dashboards, scorecards, and financial data to understand exactly where the business stands every single week. We also give an inside look at the Roofing Success System and the CEO Dashboard we use inside The Roofing Academy to help contractors gain visibility into their sales pipeline, production, profitability, cash flow, and overall business performance. Ryan explains how having the right systems in place creates accountability across the entire organization and allows owners to scale with confidence instead of operating in constant reaction mode. Toward the end of the conversation, we share practical insights on implementing measurable processes, creating operational consistency, and building a business that runs on data instead of emotion—giving owners the clarity they need to lead more effectively and grow sustainably. If you're a roofing contractor who wants to understand your numbers, improve profitability, and build systems that allow your business to scale with confidence, this behind-the-scenes episode offers a practical look at the tools and frameworks used inside The Roofing Academy to help companies reach the next level.

In this special episode, I sit down with Ronnie Smith, founder of NXTLVL Solutions and the new CEO of The Roofing Academy, to share the story behind our decision to bring our two companies together—and why this partnership has been more than a decade in the making.   Years ago, Ronnie was one of the first coaches I brought into my roofing company to help us improve our systems and processes. What started as a mentor-and-student relationship eventually became a friendship, a shared mission, and now a business partnership focused on helping roofing contractors build stronger, more sustainable companies.   We talk about Ronnie's nearly two decades of experience in consulting, systems, technology, and business growth, including the lessons he's learned helping contractors scale through better people, processes, communication, and accountability.   We also break down what this new chapter means for The Roofing Academy and NXTLVL Solutions, why our teams and strengths complement each other, and our shared vision for helping roofing contractors build businesses that create freedom instead of becoming another job.   If you're a roofing contractor looking to scale your company, strengthen your systems, develop your team, and build a business that can operate without depending on you every day, this episode gives you an inside look at where we're headed—and why we believe we're just getting started.

In this episode, I sit down with Phil Mihlstin, entrepreneur, former roofing contractor, and founder of Ideal Claim Solutions, to discuss how insurance supplementing has evolved—and what contractors need to do to protect their profitability in today's changing claims environment.   Drawing from years of experience on both the contracting and supplementing sides of the industry, Phil explains why the insurance landscape has become more challenging, how carrier expectations have shifted, and why contractors can no longer rely on the strategies that worked just a few years ago. We dive into practical approaches for building stronger claim files, communicating more effectively with adjusters, and maximizing legitimate claim payoutswithout creating unnecessary friction.   Phil also shares why successful supplementing goes far beyond submitting additional line items. We discuss the importance of documentation, consistency, operational processes, and understanding the reasoning behind every request. He explains how contractors can position themselves as trusted professionals while recovering the dollars they've legitimately earned on every project.   Toward the end of the conversation, we explore the future of insurance restoration, including how technology, AI, and changing carrier practices are reshaping the industry, and why roofing companies that adapt their processes now will be in the strongest position to succeed in the years ahead. If you're a roofing contractor who wants to improve insurance claim profitability, strengthen your supplementing process, and stay ahead of the rapid changes affecting insurance restoration, this episode delivers practical insights you can apply to your business immediately.

In this episode, I sit down with Skylar Lewis, serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, CEO of Rise Up Kings, Superior Restoration, and 2DAYCEO, to discuss what it truly means to build a successful business without sacrificing the areas of life that matter most.   Skylar shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to leading multiple thriving companies, while explaining why real success isn't measured solely by revenue, but by how well you lead yourself, your family, your team, and your community. We dive into the Four Pillars—Faith, Family, Fitness, and Business—and how keeping these priorities aligned creates sustainable growth both personally and professionally.   He also breaks down the importance of purpose-driven leadership, developing the right daily habits, and building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. Throughout the conversation, Skylar explains why personal development is one of the greatest competitive advantages an entrepreneur can have, and how becoming a better leader begins with becoming a better person.   Toward the end of the conversation, Skylar shares practical insights on creating balance, leading with intention, overcoming limiting beliefs, and building a legacy that extends far beyond business success.   If you're an entrepreneur or business owner looking to grow your company without losing sight of your faith, family, health, or purpose, this episode will give you a powerful framework for creating success that lasts in every area of life.

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Middleton and Tyler Buechler, co-founders of Make Taxes Fair, to uncover why so many business owners and contractors are paying far more in taxes than they legally need to.   Chris and Tyler bring decades of combined experience in accounting, tax strategy, entrepreneurship, and business growth. Their mission is simple: help business owners keep more of the money they work so hard to earn through proactive, legal, and ethical tax planning.   We dive into the biggest mistakes contractors make when it comes to taxes, the difference between tax preparation and true tax strategy, and why waiting until tax season is often too late to make meaningful changes. Chris and Tyler explain how the tax code is filled with incentives designed to encourage business growth, yet most owners never learn how to take advantage of them.   We also discuss how business structure, payroll strategies, tax credits, deductions, and long-term planning can dramatically impact profitability. They break down why the wealthiest business owners approach taxes differently and how contractors can start implementing proven strategies that reduce tax liability while remaining fully compliant. Toward the end of the conversation, we explore the mindset shift required to stop viewing taxes as an unavoidable expense and start treating tax planning as a critical part of business strategy and wealth building.   If you're a roofing contractor, entrepreneur, or business owner who feels like you're writing bigger checks to the IRS every year and wondering if there's a better way, this episode will give you practical insights and strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned profits and build a stronger financial future.

In this episode, I sit down with John Ravaris—author of Define Value, Drive Growth, founder of UVP Solutions, and a former executive in high-end residential construction—to tackle one of the biggest challenges contractors face today: standing out in a crowded market where everyone claims to offer the same thing.   John breaks down the three pillars of differentiation that help businesses separate themselves from the competition: culture, process, and competitive intelligence. We discuss why culture is the one advantage competitors can never replicate, how clearly defined processes build trust before a project even begins, and why understanding your competitors is critical if you want to win more opportunities.   We also dive into one of the most common mistakes contractors make during sales conversations—talking too much and listening too little. John explains why asking better questions, conducting a thorough needs assessment, and building proposals around what customers actually value can dramatically improve close rates and create a stronger client experience.   Toward the end of the conversation, we explore practical ways contractors can uncover what truly makes their company different, communicate that value more effectively, and stop relying on price as their primary sales strategy.   If you're a roofing contractor who feels stuck competing against dozens of similar companies, wants to improve sales conversations, and is looking for a clear framework to create meaningful differentiation in the marketplace, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can implement right away.

In this episode, I sit down with Gary Eastman, attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Axcess Surety and SwiftBonds, to break down one of the most misunderstood—and overlooked—topics in the construction industry: surety bonds.   Gary holds both a JD and an MBA, spent more than 17 years serving as General Counsel for national and international companies, including Fortune 500 organizations, and has helped more than 20,000 clients secure bonding on projects with a combined value exceeding $1 billion. His experience sits at the intersection of law, construction, finance, and risk management, giving him a unique perspective on how contractors can grow while protecting their businesses.   We dive into the three types of bonds every contractor should understand, how bid bonds protect project owners from unrealistic bids, and why many contractors leave significant opportunities on the table simply because they don't understand the bonding process. Gary also explains the 3% pricing rule, how contractors can build bond costs into their estimates, and why increasing bond capacity can open the door to larger projects, less competition, and stronger profit margins.   We also discuss how contractors can identify bonded project opportunities, research competitors through public records and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, and position themselves for commercial and government work that many competitors avoid because of the additional requirements.   Throughout the conversation, Gary shares practical insights on risk management, business growth, and why the contractors willing to master the details are often the ones who gain the greatest competitive advantage.   If you're a roofing contractor or construction business owner looking to move beyond competing on price, pursue larger projects, and better understand how bonding can accelerate your growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode, I sit down with Cory Cullather, Digital Sales Strategist at WebFX, to break down how AI is transforming the home services industry and what roofing contractors need to do to stay ahead.   With more than 15 years of experience in digital marketing and a deep focus on roofing and home service businesses, Cory shares a practical, no-hype perspective on what's actually changing—and what contractors can no longer afford to ignore. We discuss the growing influence of AI-powered search, why homeowners are increasingly relying on tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google AI Overviews, and how these platforms are changing the way customers discover and choose contractors.   We also dive into the evolution of SEO and the rise of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), exploring why traditional search strategies are being rewritten and what contractors can do today to improve their visibility in AI-driven search results. Cory explains how business owners can evaluate whether their marketing agency is adapting to these changes and what meaningful reporting and transparency should look like moving forward.   Toward the end of the conversation, we discuss how contractors can use AI internally as a business assistant by leveraging SOPs, meeting transcripts, company values, and operational data to improve decision-making, efficiency, and growth.   If you're a roofing contractor or home service business owner trying to understand how AI is changing marketing, lead generation, and customer behavior, this episode will give you a practical roadmap for staying competitive and positioning your business for the future.

In this episode, I sit down with Brie Reis, CEO of Elite Roofing & Solar, and Jenn Allen, Financial Systems Coach for The Roofing Academy and Founder of Lucid Co., to unpack one of the most overlooked—but most important—parts of running a successful roofing company: the financial side of the business.   Brie shares lessons from scaling one of the fastest-growing roofing companies in Colorado while navigating the real challenges that come with business growth, leadership, and building a sustainable company. Jenn brings over a decade of accounting and roofing industry experience to the conversation, breaking down why so many contractors struggle with cash flow, job costing, and financial systems that can't support long-term growth.   We dive into the good, the bad, and the ugly of construction finances, including why many business owners don't truly know their numbers, how poor financial visibility impacts profitability, and what systems need to be in place before a company can scale effectively. Jenn also explains how tools like QuickBooks, JobNimbus, and integrated financial reporting systems should work together, why clean bookkeeping alone isn't enough, and how contractors can build financial clarity and confidence in their decision-making.   Toward the end of the conversation, Brie and Jenn share practical insights on leadership development, accountability, business systems, and creating structure within a growing company—while also discussing the mindset shifts owners need to make if they want long-term business success and stability.   If you're a contractor, roofing business owner, or entrepreneur looking to improve cash flow management, understand your numbers, increase profit margins, and build a company that scales with confidence, this episode will give you practical strategies and real-world insights you can start applying immediately.

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Fenn, entrepreneur, marketing innovator, and founder of CHIIRP, to break down how businesses are losing massive opportunities through poor follow-up—and how AI and automation are changing that. Ryan shares his journey from building businesses in the service industry to creating systems that help companies automate communication, improve response times, and convert more leads without adding more chaos to their operations. We dive into why speed and consistency matter more than ever, how missed calls and delayed responses are silently costing businesses money, and why automation is becoming a necessity instead of a luxury. We also unpack how AI-powered communication tools are helping contractors and service-based businesses create better customer experiences while freeing up time for owners and teams to focus on growth. Ryan explains how automation can strengthen—not replace—the human side of business when implemented correctly. Toward the end of the conversation, Ryan shares valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, and building systems that allow businesses to scale without sacrificing customer relationships or team culture. If you're a business owner looking to improve lead conversion, streamline communication, and build a business that operates more efficiently in today's fast-moving market, this episode will give you actionable insights you can apply immediately.

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Hathaway, an experienced entrepreneur and business strategist, to uncover how service-based business owners can reclaim their time, scale effectively, and avoid burnout. Andrew shares his personal journey through extreme burnout, the mental and emotional toll of running a business without support, and the steps he took to regain balance while growing his ventures. We dive into actionable strategies for leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to generate leads, improve visibility, and automate routine business processes, showing how technology can be a true "power-up" for entrepreneurs. He also breaks down the importance of building a team that thinks ahead—starting with an exceptional executive assistant, even from overseas—and how delegation can free business owners to focus on high-impact tasks. Andrew explains why outsourcing, automation, and consistent content creation are essential in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Toward the end of the conversation, Andrew offers practical advice on time and energy audits, prioritizing work that drives both revenue and fulfillment, and how these steps create freedom in business and life. If you're a business owner looking to work smarter, scale faster, and avoid burnout while embracing the latest AI and automation strategies, this episode will give you a clear framework to start reclaiming your time and growing your business more strategically.

In this episode, I sit down with Brad Stevens, a serial entrepreneur and founder of Outsource Access, to break down how business owners can actually scale using AI, systems, and offshore talent—and why most entrepreneurs are doing it completely wrong. Brad shares his journey from launching businesses at a young age to building and scaling multiple companies across 18 countries, including growing Outsource Access to hundreds of team members in just a few years. We talk about why 2026 is the year of execution when it comes to AI, how offshore teams are changing the game for small to mid-sized businesses, and what it really takes to build a scalable operation without burning out. We also dive into the real story behind how Outsource Access was built—starting from a major business setback that forced Brad to rethink everything. From product failures and cash flow pressure to discovering the power of global talent, he breaks down how adversity led to one of the most impactful business pivots of his career. Brad shares how top operators are leveraging offshore teams not just to save money—but to increase efficiency, improve operations, and create true leverage inside their business. He also unpacks the biggest mistakes business owners make when hiring virtual teams, and how to actually build a high-performing remote workforce that drives growth. Toward the end of the conversation, we get into leadership, delegation, and why most entrepreneurs stay stuck doing everything themselves. Brad explains how to identify what you should not be doing, how to buy back your time, and how to build a business that isn't dependent on you for every decision. If you're a contractor or business owner looking to scale smarter, leverage AI and global talent, and build a business that can grow without you being the bottleneck, this episode will give you a clear framework to start building real leverage in your company.