Owned and Operated - A Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC Business Growth Podcast
John Wilson
The Owned and Operated Podcast is the go-to show for HVAC, plumbing, and electrical business owners who want to grow faster, increase profits, and scale smarter.Hosted by John Wilson and Jack Carr, real home service operators in the trenches. This podcast delivers 2x weekly, no-BS conversations on what’s actually working in the trades today. From lead generation and marketing to hiring top-tier talent and building scalable systems, every episode is packed with actionable strategies you can implement immediately.If you're an HVAC contractor, plumber, or electrician looking to grow your business, improve operations, and stay ahead in a competitive market, this podcast is for you.New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday.Learn more at www.ownedandoperated.com
Episodes
Mentioned books
7 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 34min
#226 HVAC Owner Makes $4M/Month (Here’s How)
Brian Sloan, a key player at TR Miller, discusses scaling their HVAC business to an impressive $4 million monthly revenue. He shares strategies for managing seasonal challenges, enhancing operational efficiency, and implementing membership plans for recurring income. Brian emphasizes the importance of hiring for growth, retention strategies for technicians, and the creation of clear career paths. He also touches on adapting sales techniques and navigating competition, providing a comprehensive playbook for anyone looking to elevate their service business.
Jul 18, 2025 • 25sec
BONUS EPISODE - Where is JackQuisitions??
Exciting news unfolds as a new channel dedicated to Jackquisitions is launched! Dive deep into the world of business buying with Jack’s unique insights. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the content by liking, following, and subscribing for the latest on acquisition strategies. This fresh channel promises to deliver engaging weekly updates and expert analysis, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs eager to grow their businesses.
16 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 44min
#224 Top Cash Flow Mistakes in Home Services and How to Fix Them
The hosts dive into the critical differences between cash flow and profit, revealing how misunderstandings can jeopardize a business. They share personal horror stories of cash flow struggles and emphasize the importance of automated savings and cash forecasting. Listeners gain insights on best practices for managing debt, navigating financial complexities, and making timely decisions to avoid cash crunches. With practical tips and real-life examples, this discussion is invaluable for anyone seeking to enhance their business's financial health and sustainability.
Jul 15, 2025 • 36min
#223 Can These WEIRD Ideas Turn Into Million-Dollar Businesses?
Explore the quirky intersection of passion and profit as the hosts dive into unique businesses, from running an online store for Magic: The Gathering to cultivating mushrooms and farming ants. Discover how niche interests can turn into lucrative ventures, with insights on balancing multiple income streams and the economics behind unconventional markets. Laugh along as they share personal stories and examine fascinating possibilities like ski wax brands and marinas, all while aligning business with lifestyle goals.
Jul 11, 2025 • 42min
#222 Leaving Finance to Build a Legacy in HVAC
In this insightful conversation, Thomas Beebe, a former financial advisor turned HVAC entrepreneur from Blair, Nebraska, shares his journey of stepping into his family's business. He reveals the unexpected challenges of active management versus his initial plans for passive income. Thomas discusses the importance of remote leadership, the strategies that helped grow his company's revenue from $400,000 to over $1 million, and valuable lessons from a friend's messy acquisition. Gain insights into building a profitable, people-first business while navigating the complex service industry terrain.
34 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 41min
#221 No More Tech Turnover: How to Hire and Keep the Best
Discover effective strategies for hiring and retaining skilled HVAC and plumbing technicians. Gain insights into creating a consistent recruitment process and the importance of year-round hiring. Learn about competitive compensation and the critical role of onboarding in employee retention. Explore the challenges of seasonal workforce dynamics and budgeting for future talent needs. This discussion also covers the integration of technology in recruitment and the balance between branding and lead generation for business growth.
Jul 8, 2025 • 39min
#220 Buy vs. Build: Start or Acquire Your First Business?
The conversation dives deep into the dilemma of buying vs. building a business in the HVAC and plumbing sectors. Insights unfold on the immediate advantages of acquiring an existing operation and the importance of specialized staffing solutions. The hosts tackle financial strategies, risks, and market conditions, emphasizing the need for understanding personal strengths and limits. Real-world stories illuminate the complexities of navigating entrepreneurship versus traditional employment, making it a valuable resource for aspiring business owners.
Jul 4, 2025 • 47min
#219 What It Really Takes to Buy a Local Service Business in 2025
Chris Barr, a savvy entrepreneur who acquired a pressure washing company, shares his insightful journey into business acquisition. He details how he structured his financing, combining cash and earnouts effectively. Chris emphasizes the importance of building the right team, selecting specialized advisors, and navigating the complexities of due diligence. He also provides tips on evaluating financial and legal risks while avoiding red flags. This conversation is a treasure trove for anyone looking to dive into local service business acquisitions.
6 snips
Jul 3, 2025 • 27min
#218 Why $20M Doesn’t Mean You’ve Made It
Exploring the reality of businesses making $20 million, the discussion highlights that revenue does not equal sophistication. Leadership challenges emerge as companies scale, requiring well-structured senior teams and effective delegation. The importance of internal promotions versus hiring externally is examined, along with the need for solid HR and marketing departments. Emphasizing leadership development, the talk reveals how a robust team can foster long-term growth and stability, proving that there's more to success than just hitting a financial milestone.
4 snips
Jul 1, 2025 • 34min
#217 We Hit $1M Profit — Here’s Exactly How We Did It
Discover the secrets to hitting the coveted $1 million in EBITDA in the HVAC industry. The hosts share their journey of overcoming operational challenges and maximizing sales efficiency. Learn about the importance of technician retention and how strategic automation can cut costs while boosting output. They break down the significance of data-driven decisions and the art of refining sales processes. Plus, explore how to create a thriving environment for top talent and the roadmap to achieving a $10 million revenue goal.
