Join host Will Troup in Episode #10 of the Expanding Local Podcast as he talks with Brian Burton, General Manager of Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Phoenix and host of the Waste No Day podcast. Brian shares his evolution from plumber to mentor, highlighting how sales training, mindset shifts, and public speaking propelled him forward in the trades. He also explores the dangers of addictions—including video games—and the importance of transforming that energy into positive focus and personal growth.

Throughout the episode, Brian emphasizes the impact of mentorship and communication in achieving self-improvement goals. Learn why accountability and supportive work environments are crucial for growth, how to incorporate storytelling into your communication skills, and why maintaining a “backyard mentality” for your mind can lead to better habits and outcomes. Don’t miss Brian’s insights on balancing ambition with gratitude and finding meaningful goals to direct your energy toward a fulfilling career and life.

Key Takeaways

• How mentorship can reshape your career trajectory and mindset
• Effective sales skills and the role of public speaking in professional development
• Transforming addiction energies—like video game habits—into productive focus
• Building a positive environment in the trades through accountability and teamwork
• Harnessing communication, storytelling, and gratitude for deeper human connection

Tune in for a powerful conversation about conquering personal and professional obstacles, told through the lens of a seasoned pro who’s dedicated to helping others Waste No Day.

Join host Will Troup in Episode #9 of the Expanding Local Podcast as he interviews Mike Blumenthal, a trailblazer in local SEO since 1995. With decades of experience in digital marketing and an insider’s perspective on Google's influence, Mike offers home service businesses practical ways to stand out in increasingly competitive search results.

Discover how to optimize your online presence by understanding the customer journey—from initial inquiry to final sale. Mike explains why reviews and brand mentions can be game-changers for local rankings, plus how proactive lead management and fast response times can dramatically boost conversion rates. They also explore the evolving SERP landscape, the power of video content, and whether local services ads are worth the investment.

Episode Highlights

• How Google’s dominance shapes the local search ecosystem
• Consumer behavior trends that impact home service businesses
• The importance of external mentions and organic backlinks
• Balancing proximity, reviews, and a strong marketing strategy
• Why building trust with customers is crucial for long-term success
• Tactics for new businesses seeking visibility in crowded markets

From harnessing authentic reviews to employing strategic video marketing, Mike outlines a clear path to becoming a recognized brand in your area. Don’t miss these actionable insights on SEO, customer engagement, and the future of online discovery—especially if you’re serious about growing your home service business.

In Episode #8 of the Expanding Local Podcast, host Will Troup interviews Ryan Fenn, CEO of Chirp, a platform revolutionizing lead conversion for home service businesses. Ryan shares his entrepreneurial story—starting as a high school dropout-turned-successful founder—and reveals the core strategies that helped him build a thriving customer engagement system through text messaging, follow-up, and genuine marketing authenticity.

Discover how consistency in communication, combined with real human connection, can transform casual leads into loyal customers. Ryan dives into the essentials of tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), using automation wisely, and balancing advanced technology with personal touch. He also explains how to seed the idea of reviews early, maintain a solid customer list, and keep your business top-of-mind with effective tactics like direct mail and voicemail.

Tune in to learn:

• Why speed to lead is crucial for conversions
• How to find your ideal follow-up frequency without overwhelming prospects
• Ways to achieve authentic engagement and foster lasting customer loyalty
• The evolving role of customer service representatives in an automated world
• Why business mindset and health are pivotal for sustainable business growth
• How tools like Chirp integrate with existing software to streamline your processes

If you’re looking to sharpen your approach to lead conversion, enhance customer relationships, and grow your home service business authentically, don’t miss this insightful conversation with Ryan Fenn.