The Candy Valentino Show: How This Broke Dishwasher Built a $250M+ Empire in Home Services with Tommy Mello

Release Date: March 24, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The Candy Valentino Show, host Candy Valentino sits down with Tommy Mello, the dynamic founder of A1 Garage Door Service, to explore his inspiring journey from a broke dishwasher to building a formidable $250 million+ empire in the home services industry. The conversation delves deep into Tommy's strategic approaches to business growth, leadership, employee empowerment, and personal development, offering invaluable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and business enthusiasts alike.

Early Beginnings and Entrepreneurial Spark

Tommy Mello's entrepreneurial journey is rooted in his early experiences and a relentless work ethic. Growing up in Michigan, Tommy witnessed his parents' struggles and learned the value of hard work from a young age. At just 12 years old, he began working as a dishwasher, where he not only earned money but also developed a keen sense for creating systems to maximize efficiency.

Tommy Mello [09:25]: "I always say revenue is for vanity and profit is for sanity. That's the foundation."

Tommy's early realization that hard work alone wouldn't sustain his financial freedom led him to aspire for a business that could generate income even while he slept. This mindset propelled him toward entrepreneurship, eventually leading him to establish A1 Garage Door Service.

Building the Business: Systems and Processes

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the importance of systems and standard operating procedures (SOPs) in scaling a business. Tommy emphasizes how establishing clear processes can streamline operations and ensure consistency across multiple locations.

Tommy Mello [05:45]: "It's not just about marketing to make the phone ring, but converting those leads into clients for life and giving that raving fan experience."

Tommy credits much of A1's success to the mentorship of Al Levy, who introduced him to the concept of SOPs. By documenting every aspect of the business—from how to handle customer calls to managing technician performance—Tommy was able to maintain high standards and facilitate seamless expansion into 23 states.

Tommy Mello [06:23]: "We have systems and processes for every single thing. But we really try to have a lot of empathy."

Leadership and Team Building

Tommy underscores the critical role of leadership in fostering a successful business. He likens himself to a sports coach, advocating for the recruitment of top talent and the cultivation of a team-oriented culture.

Tommy Mello [04:40]: "Leadership is a big deal. You build a team. You gotta be a great coach."

He also discusses the transition from being involved in every aspect of the business to delegating responsibilities effectively. By hiring experts in key areas such as finance and marketing, Tommy ensures that each department operates optimally without his constant oversight.

Tommy Mello [20:31]: "If you hate payroll or HR, circle the thing you can't stand and find the very, very best."

Employee Empowerment and Company Culture

A standout feature of Tommy's leadership is his commitment to employee success and personal development. He believes in creating an environment where employees can thrive both professionally and personally.

Tommy Mello [16:29]: "Everyone should be able to win. They should have good insurance and a safe car to drive and nice things."

By implementing programs like equity incentives and profit-sharing, Tommy aligns his team's goals with the company's success. He fosters a meritocratic culture where performance and dedication are rewarded, encouraging employees to aspire for higher achievements.

Tommy Mello [17:46]: "We're going to make sure they are accomplishing their dreams. They dream bigger."

Personal Development and Work-Life Balance

Tommy shares his personal philosophy on work-life balance, emphasizing the importance of designing a fulfilling personal life alongside business success. Influenced by mentors like Dan Martell, he focuses on "buying back time" to invest in personal growth and relationships.

Tommy Mello [13:59]: "I'm going to build my personal life up. You don't need to do laundry or mow your own lawn."

He openly discusses the challenges of balancing intense business growth with maintaining meaningful relationships, highlighting the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship.

Tommy Mello [27:03]: "I never wake up and I'm like, man, this is tough. I just have a really good mindset."

Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Mistakes

No entrepreneurial journey is without its hurdles, and Tommy candidly shares some of the obstacles he faced while scaling A1 Garage Door Service. From financial setbacks to operational inefficiencies, he emphasizes the importance of resilience and adaptability.

Tommy Mello [20:40]: "I was not good at financials, but I learned to be the master of what I'm great at and hire for everything else."

His proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous improvement has been instrumental in navigating the complexities of a rapidly expanding business.

Philosophy on Success and Legacy

Tommy's vision extends beyond mere financial success. He aspires to create a lasting legacy by positively impacting his employees' lives and fostering a supportive community within his company.

Tommy Mello [34:22]: "My family's everything. I tell clients, I'm doing this for my mom."

He reflects on the deeper meaning of success, prioritizing relationships and personal fulfillment over material gains. This holistic approach ensures that his business growth contributes to a balanced and meaningful life.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

Tommy Mello's story is a testament to the power of strategic planning, effective leadership, and a commitment to personal and professional growth. His ability to build a scalable business through meticulous systems, employee empowerment, and a positive mindset offers a roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs aiming to achieve sustained success.

Notable Quotes

• Tommy Mello [05:45]: "It's not just about marketing to make the phone ring, but converting those leads into clients for life and giving that raving fan experience."
• Tommy Mello [06:23]: "We have systems and processes for every single thing. But we really try to have a lot of empathy."
• Tommy Mello [16:29]: "Everyone should be able to win. They should have good insurance and a safe car to drive and nice things."
• Tommy Mello [27:03]: "I never wake up and I'm like, man, this is tough. I just have a really good mindset."
• Tommy Mello [34:22]: "My family's everything. I tell clients, I'm doing this for my mom."

Connect with Tommy Mello

For those inspired by Tommy's journey and eager to learn more, he can be found across various social media platforms and his website:

• Website: tommymello.com
• Newsletter: tommymello.com/news
• Social Media: LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok

Additionally, A1 Garage Door Service continues to expand, welcoming new employees and offering top-tier garage door solutions across multiple states.

This episode encapsulates the essence of entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting how dedication, strategic thinking, and a focus on people can transform a modest beginning into a thriving business empire. Tommy Mello's insights provide actionable strategies and motivational lessons for anyone looking to scale their own ventures.