
HVAC Masters Of The Hustle is Excited to have Jeff Matulich in the Hot Seat on Episode 303. EPIC2025 this week sets the Tone for being the BEST Trades event bringing thousands of contractors with ONE MISSION!!!! TO GET TO THE NEXT LEVEL!!!! Listen to...
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Jacob Moneymaker
This is H Vac Masters of the Hustle with your host, Jacob Moneymaker. Looking at the city like I already own it. What is up? You are listening to H Vac Masters of the Hustle podcast and here's your host, J Dub Moneymaker. And welcome to episode 303. And this podcast is brought to you by Nuva Thermostat. This is the thermostat made by the contractor for the contractor. And I got a great episode for you all. But we got a lot to uncover on this episode and I got a lot of traveling the next couple months, months and a half roughly doing some good speaking events. And this is the top speaking event that's on my list that I'm super excited about. And I'm not going to be the one that's going to be talking about it. I'm going to let the jet the pro, Mr. Jeff, I had you on the podcast about eight months ago and we were talking about Epic 2025, what it was going to be. Okay. But on this episode, I want to bring the full circle to a conclusion of everything that you had to do to prep for one of the biggest events that EGIA has ever put on. And I'm, I gotta say, first off, it's an honor to have you in the hot seat right now because I know you're going like a million miles per hour right now with so much going on.
Jeff
Yeah, absolutely. Right. So, yeah, we are incredibly excited that our EPIC 2025 conference is now really just two weeks away. So taking place in Orlando, Florida at the Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort, March 6th and 7th. First time that we've ever taken our Epic conference to the East Coast. So again, excited about that. But yeah, we're in the home stretch here and we're anticipating a sold out crowd on hand out there. And yeah, just a lot of different dynamics and things going on behind the scenes and getting prepped. But we are, we are anticipating putting on a fantastic show for all those that are going to be in attendance. We have a power packed lineup of speakers from the keynotes to the breakout sessions and yeah, looking forward to welcoming everybody out to Orlando here in a couple of weeks.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah, I just gotta highlight this event first off, because this is like he said, in Orlando, it's at the Disney World, the Yacht Club. And we got some great speakers that are going to be a part of it. You got Michael strahan, you got Mr. Nick, who comes with a very impactful story. Being born with no legs and no arms and the way that he sees life and how his positivity just goes throughout. You know, I mean, I, I had the opportunity to hear him speak, and so when I heard him, I was just. Just like, game changer of man. We put so much limitations on ourselves. And you have this gentleman that has all the excuses in the world, and he's so positive about, you know, what he sees in his intake. What was it like, Jeff, to get these speakers on, you know, this platform and come up with the list? Because, I mean, I'm looking at the list of speakers, and you have a massive, I mean, list right here.
Jeff
Yeah. So that's a. That's a big piece of the puzzle. Right. One of the first things that we do when we start planning is, is putting together our keynote lineup. And it is really trying to put a, you know, puzzle together. So there's. Everybody's got different schedules. Obviously, Michael Strand, sort of the headliner for this year. His schedule is incredibly busy. You know, funny story. So one of the big challenges, we had to change kind of the overall structure of the event to accommodate him because a lot of people don't know this, but he's actually going to be hosting. He's a host on Good Morning America. So the morning that he is scheduled to be our closing keynote speaker in Orlando, he is going to be in New York City that. That morning Good Morning America duties. So as soon as he gets done filming, he's jumping on a private jet and getting down to. To Orlando and is scheduled to arrive about two, two and a half hours before he hits the stage. So that was a big part of this is we knew we wanted Michael to be our closing keynote, and we actually had to extend Epic, make it a longer day, because typically what we've done in the past is the second day is just a half day. We end. We. We usually end the conference right around lunchtime. And so what we did this year to accommodate Michael Strahan and be able to get him there in time is we made that second day longer. So we're doing more breakout sessions. We got 16 breakout sessions. Typically, we would do 12 because we, we. We created another breakout session opportunity to kind of make the day longer so that Michael can get there. But. But yeah, so obviously everybody's really excited about Michael Strahan. He's going to have a lot to share with us. Has done so many things in his life. You know, his game show host, Good Morning America, hall of Fame football player. And, you know, he's. He's really involved in a lot of different business ventures and really become in some sorts of business mogul with his menswear line that sells at Menswearhouse and JCPenney and, you know, a lot of these major retailers. And he's got a skinn Caroline. So we're excited to learn more about that and his, his, his sort of business chops and we'll be talking to him about that at Epic. But then also everything that he can share around leadership and, you know, achieving the pinnacle of your chosen profession and time management and all these real valuable lessons that, you know, the, the business owners that are going to be in attendance at Epic can really take some nuggets from. So Michael is going to be great. As a closing keynote, you mentioned Nick Vujic is our opening keynote presenter and really widely considered one of, if not the top motivational speaker in the world. So he's going to be able to deliver a really powerful message to our audience. And like you mentioned, the fact he was born with no arms, no legs, has gone on to do amazing things in his life despite the challenges, is, is something that, you know, I think is really going to, to hammer home a real powerful message for our, for our audience. So he's going to kick things off for us. And then the other, the other speakers that we have on the key as far as the keynotes go is Ricky Kalman. So he's going to be the afternoon of day one. So Ricky is widely considered the sort of the number one hypnosis hypnotist in the world. He's also a motivational and mindset expert. He's really gets brought in a lot of times with these professional sports teams. He works with the Yankees, the Cincinnati Bengals and, and does work with them. And so he's going to be, he's going to be talking about mindset, but then also doing a performance up on stage where he's going to be hypnotizing, you know, some volunteers from the stage, really demonstrating the whole mindset power of influence through his hypnosis act. So that'll be highly entertaining.
Jacob Moneymaker
Are you gonna do it?
Jeff
I don't know. We'll see. We'll see. I got pulled up on stage last year with the Mentalist, but, you know, I, I don't know, I might sit this one out, but we'll see. I think it's about 12 people that we're going to bring up on stage as volunteers. So we encourage people that are there to, if you want to actually be involved, definitely have your opportunity there. And then finally, our last keynote Is Evie pompous? So Evie is a former Secret Service agent on the Presidential Protection Division. So she actually protected Obama, Clinton and both Bushes. And so she's gone on to be a co host on Raho Bravo TV Spy Games. And so what she's going to be talking about is, you know, communication and reading people and kind of de. Escalating conflicts and all that. And you know, one of the, one of the things that was kind of crazy the way it worked out is I'm sure we're all familiar with the attempted assassination on President Trump during the, the campaign.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah.
Jeff
So NBC in the coverage right after that and I had known we booked Evie obviously at this point, but Evie was like their go to expert that was talking that, that NBC brought on to talk about, okay, well what's happening and where were the breakdowns and, and all of this. So she, she's really been in the media spotlight as a result of that over the last several months or a few months ago as that transpired. But yeah, those are the four keynotes that we have and, and trying to get everything to work with everybody's schedules and you know that that's a big part of it. But, you know, sigh relief. It all came together and it should be fantastic. Speaking lineup, not to mention even, you know, the, the breakout sessions, which we're excited to have you, Jason, for the first time, are going to be excellent as well.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah. You know, one thing that you said is this is only two weeks away, 15 days away. And one thing that I'm sure you're doing is finalizing everything. So what does it take from, you know, dreaming and envisioning an event and then actually implementing the work for the last two weeks? Like what do you have left to make sure that this is a successful event?
Jeff
So it's all the behind the scenes stuff. So for example, I mean, I was just on a meeting where we're going through the packing list. What are we taking there? You know, we've got a run of show that's really breaks it down to minute by minute what's going on on stage, what's happening in the breakout rooms, what are we sending out through the mobile app, what are handouts that we're, you know, we're putting out at different things. So there's just so many different moving parts to it. And ultimately it's a really big success. At the end of the day, from an execution standpoint, if people don't really notice that anything went wrong. Right. If it, if it just comes across as, as Everything works seamless. That's really what we want. You know, we've got video assets that we're going to be showing throughout the two days, and. And it's just so many different moving parts. And now we're at the final stages of just making sure that we're not missing anything and that, you know, everybody that shows up in Orlando and joins us at. At the conference really has a fantastic time and walks away with a boatload of new knowledge that they can take back to their business.
Jacob Moneymaker
How many total EPIC events have you been a part of, Jeff?
Jeff
Oh, I've. I've. I've been a part of all of them.
Jacob Moneymaker
I've.
Jeff
I've always considered EPIC really my baby when it comes to, you know, was I came up with the idea, actually came up with the name for epic, which is an acronym. I always bring this up. The team laughs at me sometimes. But EPIC is an acronym that stands for Educating Professionals in Contracting, and so came up with that as the brand. We were doing regional conferences throughout the country and decided, hey, we want to do one big conference. And I think it was 2018 when we launched the first one, and we did it at the Cosmopolitan in Las Vegas, and then we went to Bellagio, Paris, Caesars, and then finally, for the first time last year, took it out of Las Vegas, and we were at the Disneyland Hotel down in Anaheim. And now we're going across the country, visiting the east coast for the first time and do it at Disney World. So I've been involved in all of them and really proud to see what it's become.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah, I'm super excited. You know, one thing that I tell, you know, a lot of people that I talk about is, you know, I look at EGIA Epic, like the pinnacle. You know, a lot of my mentors, Drew, Cameron, Weldon Long, Gary, Alex, all these are amazing trainers that are part of the organization that you guys have. And I always tell everyone to be able to be a part of the platform. You know, you and I have talked probably for the last three years, and it's not like you all let anybody on stage. You know, there's different things that you guys have to make sure that they align with your core values, your mission statement, everything like that. And you bring an event to the table, like you said, that people, it's going to be a buttload of information that people can bring back with them. And so I'm super honored to, you know, have the opportunity last year to be one of the podcasters at the event. But then even More of an honor to be able to be asked to do one of the breakout sessions, which I'm super excited about because we're going to be talking about processes, procedures, but then also selling to the different generation as well because as we know younger people are owning houses and you know, you got different technologies that are coming out and it's really a good idea to understand where is this industry going, you know, how do you present an amazing sales process to different generations that you might be dealing with. How do you become a chameleon? And so that's what I'm excited to be able to be dropping for the hour that I have. But I also want to talk to you about, you know, with this being the first one on the east coast, you know, how much stress has that been put on you? Because you said you've had multiple in Las Vegas, which is a hit, you know, a little jump away. Then we had one in LA or in Anaheim last year and now all the way in Orlando, Florida. So talk about the, the stress or the difference that that put on you.
Jeff
Yeah, so there it was definitely a risk. We know that we have sort of a built in base out here that plan to attend EPIC every year. So the sort of the west coast contingent of our members and so by taking it to the east coast we weren't sure sort of what the response was going to be. We've always had really good success in smaller events that we've done in Orlando, but nothing to this scale. But, but you know, we're basically going to sell this thing out. We're really down to our last few tickets. We were just kind of looking at the registration report earlier today and so we're really down to a little. Literally less than 20 tickets at this point remain for the event. So those are going to get gobbled up here in the next, you know, couple of days, if not today. So. So yeah, really was happy with the way that the, the overall registration and kind of came to be. But. But yeah, there's a lot of risk there. You know, kind of you take a leap of faith anytime that you move, you sort of change one of the dynamics or the, you mess with, you tinker with the formula so to speak. But. But yeah, there's little things we were talking before we started went on air here is, you know, you don't think about all the different things and kind of what, what changes. And we've got a U Haul that's leaving Sacramento next week to get out to Orlando cross country trip with all the materials that we need to execute the event. Whereas before we would just drive it, you know, five, six hours down to LA or you know, to Las Vegas. But now this is like a four day cross country trip that a few of our employees are going to be making. So yeah, it's those types of things. But yeah, it's all, it's all turned out well. But definitely took a leap of a leap of faith moving it across the country.
Jacob Moneymaker
Now how many people total do you expect to be attending the event this year?
Jeff
Yeah, so we're going to be able to squeeze in 800 at this year's event. So it's a little bit smaller of a venue that we've had before. One of the biggest ballrooms that Disney had. We know we wanted to take it to Disney World and so really sort of limited on the, the venues that could accommodate us. And this is I think the second biggest venue ballroom that is available at Disney property. So. But yeah, we're maxing it out and we'll have, we'll have 800 people on hand for this year's event.
Jacob Moneymaker
Now what was it like for the marketing? With you being VP of marketing, what was it like for the marketing for that event? Because I mean I, I've personally have thrown events where, you know, 200 tickets are hard to sell, you know, let alone 800. So what is it that the marketing goes into that? Because I mean that, that is amazing. And to be able to create something like that, but not just to create something like that, but Jeff, to do it year after year after year after year is just completely mind blowing to me.
Jeff
Yeah, and that's one of the things is the, with the marketing, with this now, it, a lot of times it was harder to market it at the start of it, but now people put epic on their calendars every year and our members, as soon as we announce where it's going to be, they've circled that date and it kind of fills itself. At this point we really don't spend all that much in the way of advertising at all because we have this built in audience. But yeah, just a lot of email marketing that we do. Obviously we work with our presenters and you guys get the word out to your networks and just kind of off of that and communicating it with our members, it tends to fill up. So because we've been successful over the last six or seven years in doing this, it really kind of sells itself at this point in the marketing, believe it or not, is actually one of the easier sides of the overall execution of the Event.
Jacob Moneymaker
What is egia? When you guys put on epic, what are your thoughts with vendors? Because you guys do a lot of vendors there. You cater to your vendors, talk about what that is for sponsorships and to get those vendors and the right people. Right?
Jeff
Yeah, exactly. So this year we've, we have the most exhibitors and sponsors that we've ever had. And so I believe it's 78 spots that we were able to get into the room and set up. So we sold out of those over a month ago. Matter of fact, we have a waiting list established. But, you know, there's, there's more people that want to come and exhibit it sponsor at Epic that we unfortunately can accommodate. But, but yeah, so we've, we really try to work with the top solution providers in the industry, so ones that are really catering their product and service to home service contractors. And as you mentioned, you know, there's a lot of companies out there, but we do take quite a bit of time in making sure that the people that we invite to our party are, you know, in good standing in the organization, in the industry and you know, they have good reputations and they're reputable companies. So. But yeah, we have 78, as I mentioned, this year that are going to be attending. And so it's everywhere from like the top equipment manufacturers and H vac marketing organizations and just about every service that a business owner could potentially use in their business to, you know, optimize their, their overall operations and become more profitable, there's going to be solution providers there in almost every single category you can think about. So we're really excited about that. And that is a major aspect value add. And one of the big takeaways for contractors to attend. It's not only the educational content that they get in the breakout sessions and at the keynotes, but being exposed and learning more about these companies because every single one of those companies that are gonna be there can really help contractors in what they're doing in their business. So we make sure that we provide ample time for our attendees to visit with those exhibitors and sponsors that are at the event. And yeah, we've got a great group this year. They're going to be joining us and I think contractors are going to be very pleased to learn more about what they're able to offer.
Jacob Moneymaker
What type of energy are you going for at this event? Yeah. What do you envision?
Jeff
Yeah, you know, I always. So my thing with like Epic and when I think about it is, you know, I, I want people to have the wow factor when they walk in, not just what does it look like, what does the room look like, the lighting, the sound. I really want, like, the hair on people's arms to stand up and get the chills, you know, when we kick things off and the videos start going. So we only call it epic. We want it to be epic. And so you can't call yourself epic if you don't deliver an epic experience. So I would say that that's, that's overall, we just want people to be. Have that wow factor. There's going to. They're going to have, you know, they're going to be experience some surprises that maybe they're not expecting this year. But. But yeah, so that, that's the biggest thing is, you know, we want people to walk away going, wow, they killed it. That was beyond my expectations. And really we want people to be reinvigorated, go back to their company with new ideas, new energy and things that they can do, you know, from what they've learned at the EPIC conference for a couple of days. But yeah, there's just a. You've been there, Jason, you know, multiple times. There is a great energy at the, at the event. People are there, eager to learn, meet new people, network. And I think, you know, more times than not, people leave with a renewed sense of energy and focus for what they can do moving forward in their businesses.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah, I, I agree with that, Jeff. You know, and with good energy also comes with good emceeing. Who's going to be emceeing the event this year?
Jeff
So your, your mentor, Weldon. Weldon Long is going to be the emcee again this year. So again, we love having Weldon as the, as the MC for this. He does a great job. So he's going to be kind of making sure that, you know, we're pushing the event along and people know kind of what's happening next. He part of Michael Strahan's closing keynote. Weldon's going to sit down with him and interview him up on stage and ask him questions that are relevant for the, the people in attendance. So he's got a big role there as part of Michael Strahan's kind of closing the session there. But yeah, we're really excited to have Weldon again and know he's going to do a fantastic job for us.
Jacob Moneymaker
One thing that you mentioned also is the great networking that you guys allow and you guys have established within the epic. And I gotta let everyone know if you are attending EPIC 2025 and you are an Introvert. Okay. Step outside your comfort zone. Get a little bit uncomfortable those next couple days, go shake hands for business owners because you all are bringing people all across the nation to one location. And if you don't think there's people that are struggling the same as you or, or have struggled and went through those barriers or obstacles, then you're absolutely crazy. Right? And this is what I really like about the events. Like, the speakers are great, the breakout rooms are great, but the networking, what value. You could go to an event just by talking to people and understanding, hey, you know what? The four minute mile is possible. Jeff, talk about the networking that you've seen at your event from people that you know, were never attended an event, you know, and walked into Epic and you're talking about the hair standing up and just going like, wow, this is great.
Jeff
Yeah, yeah. So when we, when we craft the agenda, we definitely want to, we always take into consideration like, are we providing enough networking opportunity here? So obviously our product and services showcase allows the opportunity as end of day one, where it's a couple of hours of visiting with our exhibitors and sponsors that are there, but then also an opportunity for the contractors that are in attendance to kind of meet each other. And like you said, one contractor that maybe is, you know, based out in the east coast could be talking to a contractor that's out on the west coast. And there's not that competitive nature there. Right. It's, it's, hey, what's working for you? Here's what's working for me out there. So we hear lots of stories of people walking away and that's the most valuable aspect of it, is the networking value of the event and alliances that can be created that are, you know, when people are there. And so a couple of really great networking opportunities this year, obviously our evening party. So our product and services showcase leads into our evening party. And this year we're doing our evening party inside Hollywood Studios, which is one of the Disney World theme parks. And so inside Hollywood Studios is a thing called the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular Amphitheater. And so our evening party is going to be inside that venue, really cool space. And so, you know, we'll have some surprise entertainment throughout the night. We're going to have open bar, drinks, food, just a great, great time. And that's a great opportunity for people to again, do that valuable networking. But beyond that, there's also some pre events that we've got going on. We actually have something called Contractor Connect Live. Drew Cameron, another one of your, your mentors Jason is, is going to be leading that. That's going to be a smaller group of contractors. And really what that is, is, is contractors sharing ideas, peer to peer education. A lot of the stuff that we do at Contractor University, it's instructor led. This is really, you know, it's the contractors learning from each other's and then in their, you know, different exercises that we go through. So that's a full day that's happening March 5, the day before it kicks off at the same venue, Disney's Yacht and Beach Club. But then we also have our golf tournament as well that's happening at Shingle Springs Golf Golf Course. And that is for a good cause. It's, we partner with women in H VACR to put that on. This is the fourth year that we've done a third or fourth year that we've done it. So if there's any golfers out there that want to attend, be sure to check that out. And it's tee off for the trades.com or you can go to egia.org or you, sorry, you go to epic2025.com and then click on the agenda and on the pre event tab there you'll see the golf tournament website. But that's another, that's another great opportunity for people to get out there and network with others in the, in the, you know, the industry. The URL actually is golf4trades.org so golf the number4trades.org and that's the golf tournament.
Jacob Moneymaker
Trades.Org I'm posting it up right now. Let's see, right there. Golf for trades dot org. Yeah, golfing's fun if you like chasing the ball. You know, I, I, I, I am not the best golfer. I've been golfing, Jeff, for 10 years and, and I have not been able to master. I'm not even gonna say master. I'm horrible at golf.
Jeff
Yeah, I'm, I'm with you.
Jacob Moneymaker
I mean, people not want to be on my team.
Jeff
Yeah, yeah, no, I'm, I don't get out there and hit the ball around. I mean, the extent of my golfing is occasionally going to like top golf. And yeah, it's not usually not pretty. So, so there's much more qualified golfers out there that can take those coveted spots in the tournament and I'll be cheering them from the sideline.
Jacob Moneymaker
So we talked about different activities that are going through the event, the entertainment, what has been like your most proudest moment of being able to put this event on this year.
Jeff
You know, it's always it, you know, to fill the event is, is something that we, you know, obviously we get very proud of because it means that, you know, whatever we're doing is working right. It's. People are interested in kind of what we've put together. But you know, I'm always, I just get really proud of the fact honestly of the, the team. I love seeing our team in action and putting it, having it all come together. We've got a fantastic team here at EGIA that are doing a lot of the work behind the scenes that don't get the credit. And so seeing the team really kind of work for this all year long and then execute on site is really rewarding and I get very proud of, you know, the work that they do. So there's countless names that are kind of working day in and day out to help put this, this event on, led by Tovia Walton, who's our senior director of events, Danny Rentsler, our creative director, Lucas Erbar, who's responsible for filling all of the exhibitor sponsor slots and, and so many more names that I could go on and on, but they do a fantastic job. They're really sort of the, the magic to all this. It wouldn't be possible without them. And you know, I've just, I get, I'm proud to see them, you know, excel in sort of our super bowl every year and really kind of walk away. And I love hearing, you know, the conversations that contractors have as they leave the event, talking about what a great experience it is and they can't wait to register for the next event. That's really rewarding when we hear that.
Jacob Moneymaker
One thing that I really like about EGIA and EPIC is, you know, you go to events sometimes and they're in Vegas or different locations across the nation, but it's not, it's business driven, but it's not with family. You know, one thing that I like seeing that EGIA has been doing is doing the family with it and, and making the family involved. You know, one thing that we'll be doing is bringing our kiddos as well as I'm sure you did last year. But being able to, to see, you know, like the look on my boys face, you know, dad being able to, to be able to talk in front of contractors so they could see also what we do. Now obviously kids aren't just gonna be walking around the event and everything. It's the after hours and parties and stuff like that, but that's what I really like to see is you bringing family oriented into the events as well.
Jeff
Yeah, that was a, that was a big strategic decision that we made a couple years ago when we took it out of Las Vegas. It was always a, you know, an adult conference, as pretty much all conferences are out there in the industry. And we knew when we were taking it to Disneyland, you know, we're like, well, what if we made it, you know, family friendly, really lean into this thing and invite people to bring their kids and make part of the overall agenda available to them. So you're right, we don't have kids at the actual conference. But the evening parties, we do invite, you know, people to bring their kids and, you know, just there's a registration option for them. So you'll see kids at the evening party this year. Jason, you remember last year's evening party when we were at, you know, the, the bowling alley out there in Downtown Disney. And that turned out great. I mean, in talking to people, they, they thought it was really unique and weren't sure how that was going to work out. But everybody that we talked to said, you know, that was, that was really neat being able to have, you know, kids there. So you can really make what you want of it. If you want to make it, you know, an event with your family, you can, if you're there, you know, to basically meet with other adults. There's that option as well. Yeah, we try to make it kind of, you know, leave it, leave it flexible for the people that are attending to get the most out of it they want. And so when you go to Disney, we thought that was the right move to, to, you know, create a scenario where kids can be involved in some aspect of it.
Jacob Moneymaker
Yeah, Jeff, you know, I know you're not going to, you know, drop the details of where 2026 Epic's going to be, but I'll tell you, all that's attending the event right when the event closes, that's when they drop it. And I can't wait to hear 2026 epic. And I just gotta say, Jeff, I got listeners, there's 80 listeners right now on this live stream all across the nation. What would you like for them to get out of this episode of H Vac Masters of the Hustle?
Jeff
Yeah, just, just. If you haven't heard of epic, epic2025.com, that's the big show that we put on every year and we invite you to come experience it if you're interested in two days of high impact learning networking, meeting with new product and service providers and having a little bit of fun. So like I said, we're down to the last few tickets that are available for this. We're probably going to have to announce that we're officially sold out in the next couple of days. But if you're. If you're at all considering it, we'd love to welcome you out there and look forward to seeing everybody there.
Jacob Moneymaker
And I promise you all, for everyone that's attending, it is event that y'all don't want to miss. It's going to be, AKA what they say. Epic. Let's go. Until next time. Y'all take care, and I'll see you all in two weeks. Epic. 2020.
Jeff
Sh.
Podcast Summary: HVAC Masters of the Hustle - Episode #303 with Jeff Matulich on EPIC2025 EGIA
Introduction
In Episode #303 of the HVAC Masters of the Hustle podcast, host Jacob "J Dub" Moneymaker sits down with Jeff Matulich to discuss the forthcoming EPIC2025 EGIA event. Released on March 3, 2025, this episode delves into the intricacies of organizing one of the HVAC industry's premier conferences, highlighting key speakers, event logistics, marketing strategies, and the unique value propositions that EPIC2025 offers to attendees.
Overview of EPIC2025 EGIA
Jeff Matulich elaborates on the significance of the EPIC2025 conference, emphasizing its scale and the excitement surrounding its relocation to the East Coast for the first time.
Jeff Matulich [01:58]: "So we are anticipating a sold-out crowd on hand out there... We are anticipating putting on a fantastic show for all those that are going to be in attendance."
The event is scheduled for March 6th and 7th at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort in Orlando, Florida. This move signifies a strategic expansion from its traditional West Coast venues, aiming to attract a broader geographical audience.
Keynote Speakers
A significant highlight of EPIC2025 is its impressive lineup of keynote speakers, each bringing a unique perspective and expertise to the table.
Michael Strahan
Michael Strahan, a renowned personality known for his role on Good Morning America, will serve as the closing keynote speaker. Jeff shares insights into the logistical efforts to accommodate Strahan's busy schedule, ensuring his presence at the event.
Jeff Matulich [03:55]: "We knew we wanted Michael to be our closing keynote, and we actually had to extend Epic, make it a longer day, because typically what we've done in the past is the second day is just a half day."
Strahan is expected to share his experiences in leadership, achieving professional pinnacles, and time management, drawing from his diverse career spanning sports, television, and business ventures.
Nick Vujicic
Widely regarded as one of the top motivational speakers globally, Nick Vujicic will open the conference. Born without arms and legs, Vujicic's story of overcoming insurmountable physical challenges and maintaining unwavering positivity is set to inspire attendees.
Jacob Moneymaker [03:55]: "We got Mr. Nick, who comes with a very impactful story. Being born with no legs and no arms and the way that he sees life and how his positivity just goes throughout."
Ricky Kalman
Ricky Kalman, an esteemed hypnotist and mindset expert, will present on the first afternoon. His sessions will encompass both motivational insights and a live hypnosis demonstration, promising an engaging and entertaining experience.
Jeff Matulich [07:55]: "He's widely considered the number one hypnosis hypnotist in the world... he's going to be talking about mindset, but then also doing a performance up on stage where he's going to be hypnotizing some volunteers."
Evie Pompous
Evie Pompous, a former Secret Service agent with experience protecting high-profile figures like Obama and the Bushes, will discuss communication, conflict de-escalation, and people-reading skills. Her recent media spotlight following the attempted assassination of President Trump underscores her expertise in crisis management.
Jeff Matulich [08:03]: "Evie was NBC's go-to expert... talking about, okay, well what's happening and where were the breakdowns."
Event Logistics and Preparation
With EPIC2025 two weeks away, Jeff outlines the meticulous planning and execution required to ensure a seamless experience for attendees.
Jeff Matulich [10:26]: "We've got a run of show that's really breaks it down to minute by minute what's going on on stage, what's happening in the breakout rooms... Everything works seamless. That's really what we want."
Key logistical aspects include:
Extended Schedule: To accommodate Michael Strahan, the second day of the conference has been extended with additional breakout sessions.
Team Coordination: Jeff praises the dedicated team members responsible for various facets of the event, from packing lists to on-site execution.
Jeff Matulich [29:59]: "I get really proud of the fact honestly of the team... They do a fantastic job. They're really sort of the magic to all this."
Marketing and Attendance
As the Vice President of Marketing, Jeff discusses the strategies that have evolved over the years to promote EPIC2025 effectively.
Jeff Matulich [18:03]: "With the marketing, we have this built-in audience. We really don't spend all that much in the way of advertising at all because we have this built-in audience."
Key points include:
Vendor and Sponsorships
EPIC2025 boasts a record number of exhibitors and sponsors, offering attendees a comprehensive range of solutions tailored to home service contractors.
Jeff Matulich [19:25]: "This year we have the most exhibitors and sponsors that we've ever had. We sold out of those over a month ago."
Highlights include:
Networking and Family-Friendly Aspects
Beyond the educational components, EPIC2025 places a strong emphasis on networking and creating a family-inclusive environment.
Jacob Moneymaker [24:12]: "If you are attending EPIC 2025 and you are an Introvert... networking, what value."
Key initiatives include:
Marketing Challenges and Successes
Jeff addresses the challenges faced when expanding EPIC from the West to the East Coast, including managing logistics for cross-country transportation of materials and ensuring venue suitability.
Jeff Matulich [14:53]: "There’s a lot of risk there... but it’s all turned out well."
Despite initial uncertainties, the marketing strategies have effectively garnered high registration numbers, with the event now predominantly relying on its established reputation rather than extensive advertising.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
As EPIC2025 approaches, both Jacob and Jeff express their enthusiasm and confidence in the event's success. Jeff highlights the collective efforts of the team and the continuous positive feedback from past attendees as testaments to the event's quality.
Jeff Matulich [35:09]: "Just, if you haven't heard of epic, epic2025.com, that's the big show that we put on every year... we’d love to welcome you out there and look forward to seeing everybody there."
Jacob encourages listeners to seize the opportunity to attend, emphasizing the event's comprehensive value—from high-impact learning and networking to fun and family-friendly activities.
Jacob Moneymaker [34:31]: "So I promise you all, for everyone that's attending, it is event that y'all don't want to miss. It's going to be, AKA what they say. Epic. Let's go."
EPIC2025 EGIA promises to be a landmark event in the HVAC industry, offering unparalleled opportunities for professional growth, networking, and inspiration. Attendees can expect a meticulously organized conference filled with top-tier speakers, valuable exhibitors, and an atmosphere designed to foster both learning and meaningful connections.
Notable Quotes
Final Thoughts
For HVAC professionals aiming to elevate their businesses and expand their networks, EPIC2025 EGIA stands out as a must-attend event. With its robust lineup of speakers, extensive exhibitor presence, and a focus on both professional and personal growth, EPIC2025 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience that aligns perfectly with the ethos of the HVAC Masters of the Hustle podcast.
For more information and to secure your spot, visit epic2025.com.