Podcast
The Contractor Grow Show
Hosted by Mark Lamberth · EN
Are you a successful contractor, remodeler, or home service provider looking to elevate your business through smarter digital marketing? The Contractor Grow Show is your go-to resource for proven, actionable strategies to grow your business online.
Hosted every two weeks, this podcast dives deep into the digital marketing techniques that can help home service providers like you reach new customers, optimize lead generation, and boost revenue. Each episode features exclusive interviews with industry-leading experts, digital marketing pros, and high-performing contractors who are sharing their real-world success stories and game-changing strategies.
Whether you're already doing $1M in annual revenue or on your way, you'll learn how to leverage SEO, paid advertising, social media, and more to stand out in a competitive market. Get insights from entrepreneurs and contractors you’ve never heard from before—who are using digital marketing to push their business to the next level.
If you're ready to take your business to the next level with the latest digital marketing techniques tailored specifically for remodelers and home service pros, the Contractor Grow Show is the podcast for you!
33episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
How Neptune Builds Trust, Retrofits & Dream Homes in Los Angeles
5d ago00:18:08Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark Lamberth sits down with Boaz Hillel of Neptune Construction & Remodeling in North Hollywood, CA. Celebrating 18 years in business, Boaz shares how Neptune evolved from full-service remodeling into one of Los Angeles’ go-to FEMA-certified soft-story retrofit specialists—while still helping clients design and build their dream homes. Boaz dives into how he leads with values, trust, and transparency: from detailed 3D pre-design that reduces change orders, to a printed “trust packet” of licenses, insurance, certifications, and live client references. If you’re a remodeler or GC who wants better projects, better clients, and a better reputation, this is a masterclass in how to do it. Key takeaways: How Neptune grew over 18 years into a 5-star rated remodel + retrofit companyWhy ~60% of their work is now Los Angeles soft-story seismic retrofitsHow 3D design tools help clients decide everything before work startsThe “trust packet” Boaz brings to every estimate (licenses, insurance, real client phone numbers)Ways to protect and respect tenants during major building work (parking, access, trenches)Why Neptune limits active projects so Boaz can visit sites daily and maintain qualityHow long-term relationships with subs and inspectors support consistent resultsA values-first mindset: building a reputation that outlasts any single project
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How Capo Projects Wins Massive Institutional RFPs (Without Being the Cheapest)
2w ago00:22:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Adam Trimm of Capo Projects Group, a 30-person construction consulting and project controls firm based in San Clemente, California. Adam shares how his four-partner team supports data centers, utilities, hospitals, schools, and major civil projects across the U.S.—and why they’re often chosen over bigger competitors even when they’re not the lowest bid. They dig into how Capo Projects pre-positions for multi-million and billion-dollar opportunities, builds deep relationships with both contractors and institutional owners, and uses tech (including their PlanGo platform and AI experiments) to streamline scheduling and de-risk complex jobs. If you’re serious about moving up-market or competing on more than just price, this conversation is a playbook. Key takeaways: How four ex–heavy civil pros built a 30-person consulting firm over 13–14 yearsThe evolution from GC-focused work to 50–60% of revenue coming directly from institutional ownersWhy pre-positioning off capital improvement plans (CIPs) is critical before an RFP ever dropsHow they win RFPs on value, resumes, and risk reduction—not just low feesThe role of face-to-face site visits and relationship-building in landing massive projectsHow their PlanGo scheduling platform was born from internal needs, then spun out as a productWhere AI can (and can’t yet) replace the “salty 40-year superintendent” in project schedulingWhy investing thousands in travel and pursuit work upfront can transform your hit rate at the top end
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How a Navajo Contractor Is Redefining Remodels in Park City & Salt Lake
2w ago00:22:12Tap to summarizeNavajo contractor Eric Natay of Natay Construction shares how he’s redefining high-end remodeling in Park City and the Salt Lake area by bringing serious planning, integrity, and professionalism back to the trades. From growing up with a single mom in Utah and spending summers on the Navajo reservation, to quitting his job in March 2020 and building a company around process and respect, Eric’s story is as powerful as it is practical for builders. In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Eric breaks down the estimating and sales system that wins better clients, avoids ugly change orders, and actually increases project budgets—while keeping homeowners happy. If you’re a remodeler or custom home builder who wants fewer horror stories and more 5‑star reviews, this conversation is a blueprint. Key takeaways: How Eric’s Navajo heritage and upbringing shaped his mission to “break contractor stereotypes”The planning lessons he learned on the reservation that solved COVID‑era material shortagesWhy he focuses on remodels (not just new builds) to make the biggest impact for homeownersHis two-step estimating process: fast “projected estimate” then paid detailed preconstructionHow stacking small commitments builds trust and leads to bigger, better-funded projects
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One Point of Contact, 42 States: How Soft Rock Wins Commercial Work With Analog Service
3w ago00:25:05Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark talks with David Konechne of Soft Rock Construction Management in Greenwood Village, CO, about how he and partner Jay Terry Hauge left a larger GC to build a 20-person firm that handles commercial projects from “birth to death” with a single point of contact. David explains why going “back to analog” with real phone calls—supported by smart use of tools like Procore—helps big clients like Belco, Crestone, Comcast, and Janus Henderson open sooner, save money, and feel truly heard on every project. How David saw large GCs fragment client relationships across business development, estimating, project management, and closeout—and why repeated client feedback of “we just want one person to call” sparked Soft Rock’s launch.The origin story of Soft Rock: leaving a previous firm, starting in David’s basement with four people, and growing to nearly 20 employees while keeping 90 percent of work coming from repeat clients.What “one point of contact” really looks like in practice: in-house permitting, tighter schedules, fewer hand-offs, and cutting a 12-week project to 10 weeks so banks and commercial clients can open doors and start ROI sooner.The communication playbook: when David stops emailing and just calls, how Procore daily logs, photos, and schedules let him instantly see which jobs need attention, and how monthly financial reviews flag projects that are drifting off-course.How his architecture degree from North Dakota State (with a focus on constructability and sustainability) helps him read plans faster, anticipate issues, and send RFIs with actual solution options and time/cost impacts instead of just dumping problems on architects.Running a healthy partnership: trusting a more experienced partner to make final calls, building buy-in before moving forward, and sending a transparent Friday company update so every superintendent and laborer knows where they’re headed next.Soft Rock’s range of work—from downtown Denver sidewalks poured in time for a Taylor Swift concert, to Comcast guard stations, to high-end law offices—and why David trains clients to call him directly instead of emailing or waiting for a chain of replies.Their operating footprint: licensed in 42 states but primarily focused along the Front Range from Cheyenne to Pueblo, following key clients while maintaining the responsiveness and relationship-based service that set them apart.
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From 26 Guys to a Tight Crew: Ben Russell on Profit, Boundaries, and Happy Employees
4w ago00:27:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Ben Russell of Russell Interior Systems in Escondido, CA, a specialty contractor focused on acoustical ceilings, T‑bar systems, and drywall in the greater San Diego area. Ben shares lessons from nearly four decades in the trades—from working for 10+ companies and serving as a field superintendent, to launching his own firm, scaling up to 26 people, and then intentionally shrinking to a lean, profitable crew. How Ben went from working in the field straight out of high school in the late 1980s to running T‑bar and acoustical ceiling crews, then stepping into a superintendent role for over 12 years before starting Russell Interior Systems in 2008–2014.Why he credits strong mentors at big companies for teaching him “good habits”—safety, profitability, and people management—and how he intentionally copied what worked while rejecting the bad examples.His philosophy of “stay in your lane”: only doing work they’re licensed and truly experienced for, saying no to high‑risk scopes like storefront glazing or complex custom door systems, and avoiding the temptation to chase every dollar.How he scaled up to a 26‑person company, then realized the stress, risk, thin margins, and constant manpower scramble weren’t worth it—and why he prefers a 3–10 person crew that can still hit the same profit with less chaos.The simple math that guides his decisions: choosing 1M at 20% profit over 2M at 10%, refusing to cut bids by 10–15% just to win work, and why landing more than 50% of open-market bids is a sign your prices are too low.How repeat property managers, long‑term commercial clients, and relationship-based work let him bid less, win more, and avoid the race-to-the-bottom “five bids” trap that eats office time and destroys margins.His approach to employee retention: fair pay, timely raises, not saving raises for when someone gives notice, buying lunch, paying a sick day here and there, and never dumping only the worst out‑of‑town or “crap work” on good hands.Practical red flags he uses to vet clients—especially slow-pay commercial accounts that drift past 45–60 days—and why he’s walked away from certain GCs only to see them later end up in Chapter 11, confirming his instincts about cashflow risk.
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From Helper to 90+ 5‑Star Reviews: How Abe’s HVAC Wins Detroit With Heart
Apr 2200:19:07Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark talks with Abe Eledlebi of Abe’s HVAC & Refrigeration in Metro Detroit about how he left a high-priced HVAC company in 2019 to build a people‑first service brand with nearly 100 five‑star reviews in a fiercely competitive market. Abe explains how business training, soft skills, and a genuine desire to serve let him charge fair prices, calm stressed homeowners, and still grow steadily with a small but mighty team. Why Abe left a previous employer he felt was overcharging, got his mechanical license, and launched his own company focused on value, communication, and respect instead of just lower prices.How his business degree and management courses shaped his philosophy of “reading the room,” de‑escalating tense situations, and negotiating solutions that leave customers feeling heard and taken care of.Investing in the next generation: visiting local HVAC trade schools, mentoring students in the field, and watching former apprentices thrive across the country while two now work full‑time on his team.The role of faith, charity, and community work in his business, from helping struggling homeowners during holy seasons to fixing serious issues for little or no charge when it’s the right thing to do.How Abe and his techs make customers feel safe and comfortable in their homes, from clean appearance and clear explanations to honest advice like “just change your filter” instead of pushing unnecessary replacements.Training a three‑person team to act as true ambassadors for the brand, plus Abe’s promise that if a client ever feels uneasy, he’ll personally come out—even at 2 a.m.—to handle the call himself.Lessons from “tens of thousands” spent on marketing, why reviews still drive most decisions, and why a good marketer plus a strong online reputation beat any ad spend on its own.Abe’s thoughtful growth mindset: building the business like a multi‑story building with solid foundations at each stage, while helping customers navigate rising equipment costs and new regulations without feeling blindsided.
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From 9/11 Rookie to Houston Leader: How Pintail Restoration Wins With Care and Follow-Up
Apr 1600:21:38Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark Lamberth talks with John Holt, co‑founder of Pintail Restoration in Greater Houston, about his 25‑year journey in restoration and why his company was built to “be the best, not the biggest.” John shares how treating every home like his mother’s, investing in reputation and online presence, and rigorously following up on leads has turned Pintail into a trusted, owner‑led 24/7 restoration partner across Houston, Cypress, The Woodlands, Tomball, Spring, and beyond. How John’s first day in the mold business was 9/11/2001, his 13 years in a national firm, and why he finally launched Pintail as a construction partner and then a full restoration brand.The founding philosophy behind Pintail: the industry didn’t need more franchises, it needed owner‑led companies that care as much about clients as the work—and why legacy matters more to him than chasing every dollar.What “treat it like your mother’s house” looks like in practice, from water, fire, and storm cleanup to full in‑house reconstruction and long‑term commercial projects across Texas.How Pintail works directly with insurers to build complete scopes, advocate for homeowners, and still stay profitable in a tighter, deductible‑heavy, TPA‑driven environment.The importance of having a strong website and reviews—including the 250K fire job John lost for not having a site—and how one email blast and one mold lead turned into over a million dollars in work.Why John believes marketing “works if you stick with it,” how he approaches PPC and other campaigns, and why he’s willing to commit a full year to test channels properly.Pintail’s sales process from the first call through a structured CRM pipeline, weekly pipeline reviews, and 5–7 follow‑ups so they’re the company that answers when the customer is finally ready to move forward.John’s vision for the next decade: growing from a strong, owner‑led mid‑size firm into a $20–50M operation while staying profitable at each stage and keeping the same hands‑on, integrity‑first culture.
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From Corporate Careers to Crisis Heroes: Micah & Jen’s 500+ Review Restoration Machine
Apr 900:27:16Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark talks with Micah and Jennifer Jefferson, franchise owners of Restoration 1 of West Denver, about how they left successful corporate careers to build a highly rated restoration company along the Front Range and into Summit County. They break down what it really takes to be a full-service, 24/7 “bad day” problem solver for homeowners dealing with water, fire, mold, and insurance chaos. How Micah went from 20 years in IT and corporate life to choosing a “recession-resistant” restoration franchise with the help of an entrepreneur coach.How Jen’s background at GE and in her own company shaped their focus on process, talent development, and knowing “what right looks like” inside a small business.Why Restoration 1 of West Denver is built as a true one‑stop shop: mitigation, asbestos handling, contents, and full rebuilds so clients don’t have to find separate contractors.The emotional side of restoration—helping first‑time and elderly homeowners navigate claims, shock, and disruption—and why that human support keeps them coming back to the work.How they work with insurance carriers as advocates to make sure clients are made whole, not shortchanged, and why that’s “not glamorous but necessary.”Their approach to hiring A‑players in a high‑turnover field: always recruiting, hiring slowly, firing quickly, and prioritizing passion, willingness to learn, and cultural fit over perfect résumés.The role of trusted subs and partner companies, including helping a house cleaner spin up a cleaning business that now supports large‑scale events like the Marshall Fire.How a long‑term focus on reputation, making things right when they miss, and staying customer‑centric has led to 500+ five‑star reviews and strong referral-driven growth in West Denver.
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From Software VP to 7 Kitchen Franchises: How Jeff Toren Scales Remodels, Sales Teams, and Cashflow Chaos
Apr 300:32:57Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, host Mark Lamberth sits down with Jeff Toren, franchise owner of multiple Kitchen Tune-Up and Bath Tune-Up locations serving the Main Line and greater Philadelphia area, and co-owner of Happy Life Kickboxing & Fitness. Jeff shares how he walked away from a successful enterprise software sales career and VP role to build a portfolio of seven Kitchen Tune-Up territories, five Bath Tune-Up territories, and a growing fitness brand—all while navigating the realities of cashflow, hiring, and scaling in the remodeling world. You’ll hear Jeff break down: Why he left corporate tech after becoming a VP of sales, and how a severance package plus a business coach led him into franchising instead of another job search.How his first year with Kitchen Tune-Up hit roughly 600K in revenue and why launching a gym franchise at the same time was “insane” in hindsight.Growing to seven Kitchen Tune-Up and five Bath Tune-Up territories around Philly, winning Bath Tune-Up Franchise of the Year (“Franny of the Year”), and building a business designed to be a long-term family legacy instead of just a sales job.The hidden difficulty of remodeling: economic cycles, seasonality, and the brutal importance of cashflow planning, savings, and lines of credit so a few slow weeks don’t wipe you out.Why owner-operators who do all their own selling typically cap around 1M, and how Jeff structures his commission, draws, bonuses, and incentives so top sales designers can earn more than he does while driving consistent growth.His “broken dreams boat” experience hiring salespeople, how a coach helped him overhaul his hiring process into a three-step filter (culture screen, tough skills interview, then Jeff), and why A‑players usually aren’t on job boards.The power of proactive recruiting through vendor partners, industry events, and networks—plus how one conversation with a tile rep led to a future 2M‑per‑year designer.How he builds a growth-minded culture with ongoing training, franchise programs, and external sales coaching so his team can handle losing 60–70% of bids without burning out.The vision behind Happy Life Kickboxing & Fitness, why he and his wife Penny only choose businesses that genuinely improve people’s lives, and how kitchens, baths, and fitness all fit into that mission. If you’re a contractor or home-service entrepreneur who wants to grow beyond the “one-man sales show,” hire true top talent, and survive the cashflow rollercoaster of remodeling, this conversation with Jeff is packed with honest lessons, cautionary tales, and practical strategies you can apply right away.
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How Conservation Construction Built an 8-Figure, 100+ Person Team With Subcontractors Who Never Leave
Mar 2700:20:06Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, host Mark Lamberth sits down with Jay McDade of Conservation Construction, a Denver-area window and siding company serving Colorado homeowners from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins and beyond. Jay shares how he went from working at one of the largest window and siding companies in America in the 1980s to launching a family-owned, highly reviewed replacement window business that’s held steady around eight figures in annual revenue with just over 100 people across Colorado and Texas. You’ll hear Jay break down: How he and his wife Lynn started by walking Hutchinson neighborhoods, handing out flyers, selling, and installing every job themselves.Why he rejected “cover the whole country” growth in favor of focusing on the Denver metro and Front Range—and how that created durable, referral-driven demand.The evolution of their window lines from Amerimax to today’s Inland windows, and why a double lifetime warranty (including labor for the original owner) has been a game-changer for trust and long-term customers.How Conservation Construction built a deep bench of subcontract installers who stay for decades, including Jay’s “trust but verify” approach, random install check-ins, and only keeping the true grownups who do it right even when nobody’s watching.The pros and cons of staying “stuck” around the 10M mark, why weather and cold snaps still move the phones, and how they manage stable, controlled growth instead of chasing every market.Jay’s life outside the business, from skiing and snowboarding to volunteering with the National Sports Center for the Disabled (NSCD) at Winter Park, helping adaptive skiers get onto the mountain. If you’re a contractor or home service business owner who wants to build a specialized, reputation-driven company with long-term subs, great reviews, and strong systems—without losing the personal touch—this conversation with Jay is packed with practical, real-world insight you can apply right away. Need new windows, siding, or exterior upgrades in the Denver metro or along the Front Range? Or looking for a long-term home with a stable, established team? Reach Conservation Construction at 303-237-1687, email Jay at jmcdadecc@gmail.com, or visit ConservationConstruction.com.
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