The Contractor Grow Show

Title (max 100 chars) From Marketing Nerd to 200+ Yards a Week: How Chance Scaled Plano Landscaping Description In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Chance Killian of Plano Landscaping Company in Plano, Texas to unpack how he went from a marketing agency desk job to running three install crews, three solo maintenance routes, and servicing 200+ homes every week across Plano, Frisco, and McKinney. Chance shares how he used SEO, reviews, and consistent content to drive 60% of his business from online marketing, then backed it up with systems, processes, and rock-solid customer service. You’ll hear how COVID unexpectedly accelerated demand for outdoor living spaces, how Chance strategically schedules hardscape-heavy jobs in winter and plant-heavy work in spring/summer to stay busy year-round, and why he believes you must dial in operations before adding more trucks and guys. He also breaks down how he documents jobs in Jobber, tracks profit and loss on each project, and uses referrals as the “hottest leads” to keep high-quality work flowing in. Whether you’re a landscaper, hardscaper, or any home service contractor, this conversation is packed with practical insights on building a marketing engine, systemizing your workflows, and growing without burning out your team or your reputation. How Chance leveraged a marketing background to launch and grow Plano Landscaping Company Using SEO, Google reviews, and content so 60% of leads come from online search Staying busy year-round by scheduling hardscape vs. plant-heavy work by season Building systems and processes before scaling crews to avoid growing “too fast” How Jobber, photos, and detailed notes keep crews aligned and jobs profitable Tracking margins on every job to know when to raise or lower prices Turning exceptional service into repeat work and high-converting referral leads Balancing rapid growth with personal life while serving 200+ homes weekly

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with TJ Iacobucci of Mountain View Landscaping in Cromwell, Connecticut to unpack how a pickup truck and a 48" mower grew into a 40-person landscape team and a 120-person commercial snow operation across much of the state. TJ shares how his family business carved out a lucrative niche in large-scale maintenance and 24/7 snow removal for hospitals, convalescent homes, and major distribution centers—and why overservicing and smart equipment investments are central to their model. You’ll hear how he leads crews from weed‑whacker operators to six‑figure salespeople, why core values and culture now drive their hiring, and how mentorship through SIMA helps them systemize growth instead of chasing it blindly. If you’re a contractor looking to scale profitably without losing your soul—or your team—this conversation is packed with practical leadership, operations, and growth insights you can apply right away. Bullet points (6–8) How Mountain View evolved from a small family outfit into a multi-crew commercial maintenance and snow operation across Connecticut. The systems, staffing model, and equipment strategy that let them manage multi-acre sites and 24/7 snow for hospitals and distribution centers. Why TJ believes you must “want it to snow” to win in commercial snow and how SIMA mentorship shaped their approach. Leadership lessons from running 30–40 landscape staff and ramping to 120+ snow team members without losing culture. Using organization, margins, and capacity planning to grow without letting payroll and equipment costs erase profit. How treating every role—from litter pickup to six‑figure sales—with equal respect builds loyalty and word‑of‑mouth recruiting. Why TJ is formalizing core values now and using them as a filter for hiring, promotion, and tough decisions. The vision for Mountain View’s next 5–10 years and how they’re preparing the systems first so growth doesn’t break the business.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Colby Couch of TPMC (now part of Titan Industrial Group) to unpack how he went from being $250K in the hole to leading a $130M+ industrial construction and metal fabrication company—and why he’s now doubling down on focused, “good” growth instead of chasing everything that moves. You’ll hear how Colby builds food and beverage manufacturing facilities for giants like Tyson Foods and Gatorade, why this niche is so hard to break into, and the leadership moves that let him scale fast without blowing up his team or his margins. Whether you’re trying to get past $5M, stuck between $50M–$75M, or just want a clearer playbook for sustainable growth, this conversation is a masterclass in niching down, hiring better, and investing in true subject‑matter experts instead of trying to do it all yourself. What you’ll learn in this episode: How Colby grew his previous company from ‑$250K to $130M+ in just five and a half years Why niching into food and beverage manufacturing (instead of “doing everything”) led to faster, better growth The difference between “good growth” and “bad growth” for contractors trying to scale past $30M–$50M How to use subject‑matter experts and executive leadership training to level up your team Practical ways to retain road‑warrior field crews and communicate better with welders, fabricators, and installers Why breaking into large enterprise clients is mostly about reputation, relationships, and deep process knowledge The hidden pain of scaling from $50M to $100M—and why Colby is targeting a sustainable $30M–$40M first How TPMC combines in‑house stainless fabrication, process piping, CSA work, and construction management under one roof

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Jay Moore of Jay Moore Landscaping in Omaha, Nebraska, to unpack what it really takes to turn a bare lot or tired yard into a custom outdoor living space that fits how you actually live. Jay shares how his design-build-maintain team handles everything from new construction installs and total renovations to drainage fixes, privacy screening, pools, outdoor kitchens, and more—all tailored to each homeowner’s lifestyle and long-term plans. He also explains how 3D landscape design software has transformed his sales process, allowing him to present immersive designs, make changes fast, and keep projects moving without endless site visits. Along the way, Jay talks about building a reputation over decades, why he’ll lose money on a line item before leaving a client unhappy, and how that mindset keeps referrals and reviews strong in a competitive market. If you’re a contractor or landscape pro looking to elevate your design-build offering—or a homeowner wondering what’s possible in your own backyard—this conversation is packed with practical insights and real-world experience you can put to work right away. Bullet points (6–8) How Jay structures a design-build-maintenance landscaping company around lifestyle-driven outdoor spaces. New construction vs. renovation: assessing existing landscapes, what to keep, what to remove, and how to plan years ahead. Using 3D landscape design software to wow homeowners, speed up approvals, and close projects faster with fewer meetings. Designing and installing outdoor kitchens, pools, turf areas, privacy screening, drainage solutions, and high-impact hardscapes. Seasonal maintenance systems Jay uses to keep projects looking sharp and clients coming back year after year. The customer-first philosophy that has built Jay’s reputation in Omaha—even if it means sacrificing margin on a project. How Jay runs multiple crews, manages manpower, and still answers his own phone as the company’s lead designer. Why combining great work on-site with smart web presence and reviews keeps Jay Moore Landscaping at the top locally.

Calvin Winters of Bird Dog Construction Co. shares how he walked away from a stable county government procurement career to build a high-performance custom home and remodeling company serving the Green Bay, Wisconsin area. He breaks down his sub-based, low-overhead business model, how he stays hands-on without employees, and why communication and punctuality have become his key differentiators with homeowners who are tired of no-shows and ghosting contractors. You’ll also hear how his love of upland bird hunting inspired the Bird Dog brand, why he recently rebranded to better reflect his higher-end custom focus, and the building science and energy-efficiency details that set his projects apart in a market full of “standard” builds. Walking away from a county government procurement job to go all-in on construction flips and self-employment Running a sole proprietor, sub-based model that keeps overhead low while still delivering full custom homes and remodels What Calvin’s day actually looks like as CEO, salesperson, project manager, and finish carpenter on new builds The communication and punctuality systems that win him projects when other contractors don’t even show up or follow through How Bird Dog’s brand evolved from an outdoors-inspired logo to a higher-end identity that matches their custom, high-performance work The building science behind LP WeatherLogic sheathing, blown-in blanket insulation, and advanced air-sealing to prevent air and water infiltration in Wisconsin’s climate Why remodeling everything from 5-year-old homes to 1890s houses is a true niche — and how that shapes Bird Dog’s growth plans over the next few years

Discover how seminary‑trained owner Chris Tyrrell built Chris’ Garage Doors into a purpose‑driven, award‑winning garage door company serving the Greater Denver area while donating 3% of top‑line revenue to local nonprofits. In this episode, Chris shares how a “divine intervention” job installing 41 doors in Steamboat Springs launched his business, why his mission is to “make Colorado a better place to live,” and how he integrates faith, ethics, and community impact into every decision. You’ll hear how he balances profitability with integrity, grows slowly and intentionally, and turns a small W‑2 team into a long‑term asset that delivers nearly 300 five‑star reviews while supporting causes like food insecurity and mental health across Colorado. Key topics: How Chris went from earning a Master of Divinity to launching a residential garage door company with a mission bigger than profit. The origin story of landing a 41‑door apartment complex job that funded tools, truck, and launch with no debt or overhead. Why Chris donates 3% of gross revenue to Colorado nonprofits and has given more than $100,000 since 2019 to make the state a better place to live. The mindset and systems behind earning nearly 300 five‑star Google reviews as a small team serving the Denver metro area. How a clear purpose and ethical framework led to honors like the BBB Torch Award for Ethics and recognition as a CO—100 Community Champion by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Practical tactics for asking customers for reviews, using software for automated follow‑up, and keeping the process ethical and customer‑friendly. Why Chris prefers W‑2 employees over subs, how he thinks about slow growth, and what “trimming the fat” looks like during a reset season. How skills from running a small business translate into stronger leadership, preaching, and service inside his local church and the broader community.

Discover how Ken Foster built Terra Nova Ecological Landscaping into a 16‑person, full‑service ecological landscape company serving the Monterey Bay area with design, install, and maintenance since 1988. In this episode, Ken shares how his organic farming roots and permaculture teaching at Cabrillo College shaped a business that designs landscapes in harmony with nature while aligning deeply with Santa Cruz’s eco‑conscious community. You’ll also hear the story behind his bicycle‑powered maintenance service, his decades‑long ride to the Ecological Farming Conference, and his new book, “Confessions of a Bicycle Powered Landscaper,” now available through Bookshop Santa Cruz. If you’re a contractor or landscaper looking to differentiate with sustainability, or a homeowner wanting non‑toxic, wildlife‑friendly, fossil‑free landscaping, this conversation is packed with practical inspiration you can apply in your own market. Key topics: How Terra Nova grew from a two‑person partnership into a 16‑employee ecological landscaping company in Santa Cruz County. What “design, build, install, and maintain” looks like in a truly ecological, permaculture‑driven landscape business model. The origin story and operations of their bicycle‑powered maintenance service and why trucks are still used strategically for larger installs. How Ken’s advocacy helped secure a citywide ban on gas leaf blowers in Santa Cruz and why Terra Nova took the “no leaf blower” pledge. Ken’s annual 25‑year tradition of biking from Santa Cruz to the Ecological Farming Conference and how it fueled his new book. The evolution of his book from “Landscaping a New Earth” to “Confessions of a Bicycle Powered Landscaper” and how he finally got it published. How Terra Nova’s design questionnaire, raised bed installs, drip irrigation, and sheet mulching support low‑impact, food‑producing landscapes. Ways contractors can align their values with their branding, services, and local community to attract the right clients and team members.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Alan Lochridge, owner of The Stone Man in Charlotte, NC, to unpack how he’s built a highly reviewed, design‑build outdoor living company that homeowners love working with. Alan shares how he bought an existing stonework business, expanded into full backyard transformations, and positioned his team as a premium, reputation‑driven brand in a competitive market. You’ll hear how The Stone Man uses 3D design, daily communication, and rock‑solid systems to command higher prices, generate five‑star reviews, and keep great subcontractor crews for the long haul. Alan also talks about why outsourcing marketing was a game‑changer, how the Charlotte market shaped their service mix, and why serious fitness is part of how he shows up as a calm, decisive leader for his team and clients. If you’re a growth‑minded contractor who wants to elevate your brand, improve your client experience, and think bigger about the future of your company, this one’s for you. Bullet points How Alan bought The Stone Man and turned a custom stone shop into a full outdoor living brand. The 3D design and pre‑construction process that creates raving‑fan clients before the first shovel hits the ground. Why they’re unapologetically not the lowest bid—and how they still win great projects at premium prices. Systems for communication, daily site visits, and subcontractor relationships that keep projects smooth and profitable. How Charlotte’s climate and demographics shaped their move into pools, landscaping, and “holistic backyard” projects. Why Alan outsources marketing instead of DIY‑ing SEO and ads—and what that frees him up to focus on. The role of endurance training and early‑morning workouts in managing stress and leading with energy as an owner. Future growth plans, from maximizing the Charlotte market to potentially expanding into new cities like Raleigh or Greenville.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Joseph Vigier of Vizion Crane & Industrial Support in Houston, Texas, to unpack how he went from union crane operator traveling the country to owning a seven-crane fleet serving oil and gas, commercial construction, and major public projects across the region. Joseph shares the real numbers behind cranes that cost well into the millions, how a minority business opportunity contract gave him the foothold he needed, and why relationships and association involvement have driven growth more than any formal marketing so far. How Joseph went from running cranes nationwide as a union operator to launching Vizion Crane in 2010 The lessons learned from buying the “wrong” first crane, regrouping, and growing to seven machines in Houston What it takes to win and execute multi-year city and toll road contracts while balancing day-to-day rental work How minority business enterprise certification opened the door to a four-year city contract and real industry access The high-stakes reality of crane ownership: capital costs, insurance, and keeping equipment moving every single day Why Joseph leans on associations like Houston Contractors Association, Economic Alliance, and SC&RA to open doors How Vizion Crane supports oil and gas, commercial, and healthcare projects, including long-term hospital and elevator work Joseph’s next moves: moving into tower cranes, hiring marketing help, and keeping the phone ringing with referrals and repeat clients

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Adam Sherry, owner of Innovative Storage Systems in Central New Jersey, to unpack how he turned “pimping out” his own closet into a near seven‑figure custom storage company that beats the big franchises on speed, price, and reviews. Adam shares how his “measure today, quote tomorrow, install within a week” model wins millennial buyers who expect instant gratification, and why focusing on a tight niche of closets, pantries, and laundry rooms has kept his reviews at five stars for over 25 years. If you’re a contractor who wants to grow without becoming a bloated franchise, you’ll get practical insights on positioning, sales, and customer communication that you can implement immediately. In this episode, you’ll learn: How Adam cloned (and improved) the California Closets franchise model without buying a franchise. The “measure today, quote tomorrow, install in a week” promise that crushes 3–4 month lead times. Why narrowing to a profitable niche beats trying to “be everything to everybody” in home services. The pricing and discounting game big franchises play—and how a small shop can ethically undercut them. Why turning salespeople into designers (not designers into salespeople) is key to closing more jobs. Adam’s simple review‑getting system that keeps Google and Facebook packed with five‑star testimonials. How obsessive communication and owner follow‑up become a competitive advantage in a “no‑show” industry. What it really takes to scale from a one‑man shop to a near $1M operation without massive ad spend.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, host Mark Lamberth sits down with Joe Hyde, founder of Hyde Roofing LLC in Birmingham and Decatur, Alabama, to unpack how he went from white-collar wealth management to building a fast-growing, high-integrity roofing company. Joe shares how sleeping in a van as a traveling property adjuster, writing checks on storm-damaged homes, and watching low-quality roofs get installed sparked his mission to “be the roofer you can trust” and protect homeowners from cut‑corner work. You’ll hear how Joe leverages his adjusting background to advocate for homeowners on insurance claims, his obsession with speed to action when hail storms hit, and why unwavering integrity and professionalism are non‑negotiable for his team. He also breaks down his philosophy of “growing at the rate of opportunity,” staying family‑owned, and creating life‑changing careers for the next generation of roofing professionals. If you’re a roofer, contractor, or home service pro who wants to build a business that lasts, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, character, and serving your market. Bullet points (6–8) How Joe went from straight‑commission wealth management to founding Hyde Roofing in 2019. ​ The turning point: seeing cheap roofing systems installed on big insurance checks—and deciding to do things differently. Why his property adjuster background gives homeowners a powerful advocate during hail and storm damage claims. What “speed to action” really means when two‑inch hail takes siding off homes in rainy Alabama. How Hyde Roofing blends premium materials, fast response, and clear communication to earn long‑term trust. Joe’s approach to unwavering integrity, professional appearance, and changing the stereotype of roofers. Why he refuses to over‑hire and instead “grows at the rate of opportunity” to stay in business for decades. Joe’s vision for remaining a family‑owned company while creating more opportunity for the next generation of high‑performing team members.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Greg Culver from Pua Lani Landscape Design shares how he grew a boutique, high-end design-build landscape firm in Kailua, Hawaii from a one-man operation with a beat-up truck into a 40+ person team serving Fortune 500 executives, Hollywood clients, and luxury homeowners—without traditional advertising. You’ll hear how he navigates Hawaii’s strict regulations, labor shortages, and invasive pests while building a loyal team and client base that keeps the company thriving decade after decade. How Greg went from knocking on doors with a pick, shovel, and old truck in 1981 to leading a full-service design-build firm with 42 employees. Why Pua Lani targets high-end residential, second/third homes, and celebrity clients—and how that stabilizes revenue through economic ups and downs. The simple “do great work, let clients talk” referral system that allowed them to grow with virtually no advertising or paid marketing. The power of maintenance contracts for steady cash flow—and what Greg learned about cash flow the hard way during Hawaii’s boom-and-bust cycles. How they retain team members for 30+ years with old-school leadership: knowing families by name, caring in tough times, and creating multi-generational careers. The unique operational challenges of landscaping in Hawaii: high taxes, mandatory health coverage, plant shortages, and strict plant import rules. How Pua Lani is working with arborists to combat invasive pests like the coconut rhinoceros beetle that threaten Hawaii’s iconic palm trees and landscape industry. Why Greg brought in the next generation to modernize the business with a website and online presence—and how that opened the door to out-of-state luxury clients.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Chris Obry, owner of OBRY Brick & Landscape in Armada, Michigan, to unpack how he’s built a thriving, owner-operated hardscape and landscape construction business over nearly 30 years. Chris shares how starting on a sod farm led to a turf and landscape degree from Michigan State and eventually to launching his own company back in 1997. He explains why he’s stayed focused on design-build hardscapes—patios, walkways, outdoor kitchens, poolside living areas, and planting projects—without getting pulled into mowing, fertilization, and other maintenance work. You’ll hear how COVID accelerated demand for outdoor living, what today’s homeowners expect from premium backyard projects, and why “indoor amenities outside” has become the new standard in brick and landscape design. Chris also breaks down why he’s committed to remaining the direct point of contact—from the first site visit and design sketches to being on-site with the crew—and how that owner-accessible approach has fueled near-100% word-of-mouth growth and repeat projects for customers’ kids and second homes. He talks candidly about staying small by design, training lead guys to take on more responsibility, and planning for a smooth transition as he moves gradually from field work into more sales and leadership. If you’re a contractor who wants to grow through reputation, craftsmanship, and personal relationships (without turning into a faceless multi-crew operation), this episode is packed with practical insight you can apply to your own market. Bullet points (episode highlights): How Chris went from sod farm worker to Michigan State turf grad to launching OBRY Brick & Landscape in 1997. Why he stayed niche on hardscape and construction-focused landscaping instead of chasing recurring maintenance revenue. The owner-operated model: being the one who sells, designs, and works on-site—and why clients love it. How COVID and changing homeowner lifestyles exploded demand for outdoor kitchens, grill stations, fire features, and poolside living spaces. Designing functional outdoor “hubs” for families that entertain—separating kids, adults, dining, and lounge zones the right way. Working in a rural market northeast of Detroit while still taking on referral projects across the wider region when they’re a strong fit. Building a five-star, referral-driven reputation over three decades and now doing projects for customers’ grown children and second homes. Planning the next chapter: training lead crew members, shifting toward more sales, and keeping growth aligned with lifestyle and values.

Seth Raile of FAST-IR Inc. shares how whole-home energy audits using infrared imaging, blower door testing, and even drones help Denver-area homeowners eliminate drafts, fix comfort issues, and lower utility bills without wasting money on the wrong upgrades. You’ll also hear how his lean, family-run operation adds recurring revenue with swamp cooler maintenance and commercial fire extinguisher inspections while serving Colorado’s mountain communities. Why most homes (especially pre-2008) are leaking money through hidden insulation gaps and air leaks How infrared cameras, blower doors, and drones reveal problems without opening walls or tearing into finished spaces Simple upgrades that often beat new windows for comfort and 10–30%+ energy savings in older homes How to tap into Xcel Energy programs and BPI “house-as-a-system” standards to boost credibility and close more jobs Adding recurring revenue with evaporative/swamp cooler startups, shutdowns, and seasonal maintenance across greater Denver Building a zero-overhead, owner–operator model that keeps prices sharp while delivering premium communication and service Using fire extinguisher inspections to serve local businesses, stay compliant with NFPA 10, and fill your calendar year-round A behind-the-scenes look at Seth’s multi-generational “big house” triplex and how living arrangements can support a resilient contracting business

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark Lamberth sits down with Seattle remodeler and AmyWorks owner, Amy Ecklund, to unpack how she went from a science career and a shaky handyman franchise to building a women- and queer-owned remodeling company on track for $3M–$5M in revenue. Amy shares how she navigated the 2008 crash, pivoted from handyman work to high-value remodels, and is now systemizing her company so it can run without her as she prepares for retirement. You’ll also hear how Amy is launching a VIP home maintenance subscription that brings a licensed home inspector and quarterly maintenance visits into homeowners’ lives, preventing costly repairs before they happen. Along the way, Amy and Mark talk about awards, community work, and what it’s really like to be a woman in the trades while building trust with remodel clients. Bullet points How Amy went from science professional to handyman franchise owner to founder of AmyWorks in Seattle. The decision to shut down, pivot from handyman services to remodels, and rebuild into a multi‑million dollar company. Why systemizing operations and tracking KPIs is key to scaling toward $3M–$5M in revenue and an eventual exit. The origin story and structure of AmyWorks’ VIP Home Maintenance Plan and why prevention beats expensive emergency repairs. How being a women- and queer-owned remodeling company helps build instant trust with many homeowners. The role of community involvement, tiny home villages, and awards like Master Builders and Inc. 5000 in brand building. Amy’s take on marketing “by the numbers” and how coaching shifted her view of marketing from vague to data-driven. Why trusted vendor relationships (roofers, specialists, and more) are a powerful value-add for maintenance-plan clients

Plumbing growth without sacrificing craftsmanship. In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark Capehart of AR Mac Plumbing shares how he scaled from Arizona to Tampa, built a referral-driven business, and keeps standards sky-high while adding more trucks to the road. You’ll learn: Why Mark named AR Mac Plumbing for maximum visibility in old-school Yellow Pages and modern search. How storms and insurance work reshaped his Florida business from commercial-heavy to residential and back again. ​ The payment terms and phased billing strategies he uses so GCs fund jobs without upfront deposits. How he finds and develops young talent through high school trade programs instead of overpaying mediocre “managers.” ​ Why he refuses to compete on price, avoids track-home work, and focuses on inspectors complimenting his craftsmanship. The surprising reason national brands prefer his “non-local” LA number for Florida commercial projects. ​ His plan to add more trucks, expand licensing into multiple states, and grow steadily without losing control of quality. If you’re a contractor who wants to grow 10–40% this year while staying profitable and proud of your work, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, host Mark Lamberth sits down with Alan Ruttencutter of Service Plus Garage Doors in Seymour, Tennessee, to unpack how he built a thriving garage door company by doubling down on community, culture, and customer experience. Starting in 2009 at the height of the housing crisis with just himself and his wife, Alan has grown the business to a nine-person team serving a 50–60 mile radius around Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and the surrounding areas.​ Alan shares the simple systems and mindset shifts that turned Service Plus Garage Doors into a highly reviewed, referral-driven business, including how they collect Google reviews, why they invested in the largest garage door showroom in their market, and the community events that now function as local family traditions. If you’re a contractor or home service pro looking to stand out in your market without pushy sales tactics, this conversation is packed with practical ideas you can swipe and deploy in your own company.​ Bullet Points (show notes / description bullets) How Alan launched a garage door company in 2009 during the housing crash and grew to a nine-person team. The “treat them like family” service philosophy that drives referrals without high-pressure sales. The exact review process they use with QR codes, tech business cards, and name recognition to consistently earn new Google reviews. Why they invested in the area’s largest garage door showroom and how it helps homeowners see, hear, and feel doors before buying. The community-first events (Christmas, Easter, Valentine’s, Mother’s and Father’s Day) that turned Service Plus into a local tradition. How involving employees’ families, company picnics, and Christmas outings has helped retain long-term team members. Simple mindset shifts contractors can use to build trust, earn referrals, and become a true staple in their community.

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark sits down with Loannie “Luan” Reyes, co-founder and CEO of Authentic Elevator Services Corp., an eight-figure, family-owned elevator company serving New York, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico—with eyes on Florida and Connecticut next. Starting as an accountant with zero field experience, Luan learned the trade side-by-side with her husband, picked up the tools, became an inspector, and now leads a 25+ person team in one of the most specialized, male-dominated construction niches. You’ll hear how she builds a high-performing, loyal crew through intentional training, matching techs to the work they love, and treating people like humans—not numbers—while still maintaining strict safety and code compliance standards. Luan also breaks down how Authentic Elevator strategically expands into new markets without sacrificing service quality, why she invests heavily in education even when it means people may leave, and how that culture actually brings top talent back. Watch or listen in if you’re a contractor or trades business owner who wants to grow beyond a single location, create a culture people don’t want to leave, and build a company that clients and employees trust for the long haul. ​ Bullet points (6–8): How Luan went from CPA firm and admin background to hands-on elevator mechanic and inspector The moment she solo-fixed her first elevator and earned her place in a male-dominated field Building an eight-figure, multi-state elevator company with 25+ techs and strategic subcontractors Their in-house training “army” model and how they match mechanics’ strengths to the right roles ​ Why they invest heavily in education—even when trained techs leave—and why so many end up coming back Non-union, people-first culture: respect on the jobsite, zero yelling, and unwavering safety standards Strategic growth into New Jersey, Puerto Rico, and future branches in Florida and Connecticut without diluting service quality How Authentic Elevator gives back through industry associations, inspector certification, and developing women in the elevator trade

In this episode of The Contractor Grow Show, Mark Lamberth sits down with Brian Huelsman of Mile High Roofing Services in Westminster, Colorado to unpack how a small, family-run roofing and exteriors company has stayed A+ rated and highly reviewed for over 15 years in one of the most competitive, storm-heavy markets in the country. Brian shares how a bad early experience in roofing sales shaped his “do the right thing” philosophy, why he built Mile High around honesty and referrals, and how he helps homeowners navigate hail damage and insurance without upselling work that isn’t storm-related. You’ll also hear how Mile High handles solar detach/reset, leverages Heather’s real estate background on timing and transactions, and plans to scale while keeping their hands-on, local reputation intact. If you’re a contractor looking to grow with integrity—or a homeowner in Colorado’s Front Range wanting a trustworthy roofer—this conversation is packed with practical, real-world insight. How Brian went from unpaid roofing salesman to launching Mile High Roofing in 2010 with an A+ BBB track record and long-term local presence. The “do the right thing” mindset that drives referrals, five-star reviews, and repeat business across Westminster and Denver’s north metro communities. Why every hail-damage homeowner should work with a general contractor who understands insurance language—not just a roofer bidding off the adjuster’s first estimate. How Mile High coordinates detach and reset of existing solar systems without getting tangled in the risks of full-blown solar installation. The role Heather’s real estate experience plays in nailing inspection deadlines, transaction timing, and communication with agents and buyers. Mile High’s flexible service area—from Westminster and the North Metro Front Range to occasional out-of-state commercial projects when the numbers make sense. Why Brian is shifting from a lifestyle business he largely ran solo into growth mode with more salespeople and managers, and what that means for future opportunities.

Andrew “Drew” DiSilvestro Jr., President of AmeriTech Contracting, joins The Contractor Growth Show to reveal how a 2‑person SDVOSB exploded into an $195M inks / $85M+ revenue federal construction powerhouse in just a few years. Key takeaways include: How Drew took over a fledgling company from a sick founder and turned it into an 86‑person veteran‑focused operation with a massive federal backlog. Why systems—not heroes—are the real engine behind stratospheric growth, and how he built processes that don’t rely on any single person. ​ The smart financial strategy he used to scale: starting with low‑bond‑requirement service construction, stacking cash, and building banking and bonding credibility. Why culture and intangibles are non‑negotiable: hiring for attitude, training up, and firing fast when standards slip.​ ​ How you can hire ahead of revenue—securing A‑player talent early, then creating a roadmap so they slot in at the right time. ​​ The role of veteran leadership in shaping accountability, adaptability, and execution across a 22‑state federal construction footprint. ​​ Drew’s vision for the next 5–7 years: moving into private healthcare and life‑science work, expanding outside the U.S., and targeting $500M+ annual collected revenue. How to reward loyalty without paying for it, and why true loyalty is earned through consistent culture, clear expectations, and leadership from the top