The Commercial Painting Podcast

Hosted by David Chism and Aaron Moore

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Latest episode

Aug 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Commercial painting professionals and business owners! Are you looking for a place where you can sharpen your skills, find fresh insights, and get a pulse on the industry across the country? You found it. Listen in as David Chism and Aaron Moore discuss relevant commercial painting topics: marketing, sales, hiring, business development, technology, and more. They'll interview key thought leaders from across the country as well, each bringing a unique skillset and perspective to the discussion.

Listen to episodes

53 recent

September 10, 202655 min

From PPG to Pittsburgh Paints: Inside the Buyout, the Rebrand, and What It Means for Contractors with Todd Gatesy and John Moore

Episode Summary Two years after American Industrial Partners (AIP) acquired PPG's architectural coatings business and launched Pittsburgh Paint Company, Todd Gatesy and John Moore join the show to clear up the confusion contractors have been running into in the field. They discuss why some stores, trucks, and labels still say PPG, what's actually changed versus what hasn't, and how the distribution and dealer network works now. The conversation also gets into the private equity ownership timeline, rising raw material and paint prices, product quality, and where Todd and John see the biggest growth opportunities for commercial painting contractors over the next several years. Key Takeaways The AIP acquisition and the move from PPG to Pittsburgh Paint Company PPG vs. Pittsburgh Paint: what's still PPG-branded and why Store footprint (500+ stores, 2,500 independent dealers) and how the dealer network fills coverage gaps The rebrand: timeline, what's changing and why product formulas aren't changing Private equity ownership and what a future sale could mean for the company Why paint prices went up and why price increases don't come back down Connect with Our Guests Todd Gatesy: tgatesy@pittsburghpaints.com | 239-270-4621 John Moore: johnmoore@pittsburghpaints.com | 724-683-1807 Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

August 7, 202644 min

Building the Industry's Missing Room: The CPIA's Origin Story with Aaron Moore

Episode Summary After over 50 episodes of Aaron interviewing others, David flips the script in this special episode. From his multi-generational upbringing in Chicago to building a multi-city commercial painting business and co-founding the Commercial Painting Industry Association (CPIA), Aaron opens up about the decisions, planned and unplanned, that shaped his career and led to building the CPIA. Key Takeaways Why Aaron relocated his family out of Illinois, and how he restructured the business to run it remotely over several years The frustration that led Aaron and co-founder Steve Hester to start their own peer-group association (CPIA), and how it differs from typical "guru-led" masterminds An honest conversation about how Aaron and his wife have approached traditional roles, and how their kids have adjusted to his travel schedule What’s next for the CPIA Connect with Aaron Aaron Moore on LinkedIn Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

June 16, 202644 min

Find Your Authentic Voice: Leadership, Marketing, and AI with Emily Howard

Episode Summary In this episode, Emily Howard shares her journey from being an editor in the painting industry to exploring organic farming. She discusses the importance of storytelling in marketing, the impact of leadership styles on business success, and the role of AI in content creation. Emily highlights the need for authenticity in storytelling and the value of personal experiences in shaping business narratives. Key Takeaways Leadership styles significantly impact employee motivation and business success. Storytelling is crucial for marketing in the painting industry and elsewhere. AI can assist in content creation but should not replace authenticity. Building a brand requires consistent and authentic communication. Connect with Our Guest Emily Howard on LinkedIn Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

May 13, 202626 min

Part 2 - Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Actually Helping Businesses Grow with Kathy Slowinski (Part 2)

In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation. Key Takeaways Where should usersstart with AI tools How should leadersbring AI to their companies How to form AIpolicies Connect with Our Guest Kathy Slowinski on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠The AI Boss⁠ ⁠Trilogy⁠ Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism⁠ Episode Sponsors ⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

May 13, 202631 min

Part 1 - Beyond the Hype: How AI Is Actually Helping Businesses Grow with Kathy Slowinski

In this two-part episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Kathy Slowinski about her journey from family manufacturing roots to leading AI-driven business transformations. Discover practical insights on implementing AI in small and large organizations, managing drift, and fostering innovation. Key Takeaways The value of hosting a AI Hackathon How to use agents to do admin work Using AI to handle contract renewals Connect with Our Guest Kathy Slowinski on LinkedIn The AI Boss Trilogy Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, shareand subscribe!

April 14, 202640 min

No Layoffs Since 1954: The Employee-First Culture of The Wooster Brush Company

In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, we talk to Ben Maibach and Michael Stephens from the Wooster Brush Company, discussing the company's rich history, employee-centric culture, and innovative products. They explore how Wooster Brush maintains its manufacturing in the USA, the importance of community engagement, and the balance between profitability and employee care. The conversation also touches on future trends in the painting industry and the leadership principles that guide the company. Key Takeaways · Wooster Brush has been in operation for 175 years, emphasizing quality and community. · The company employs around 600 people, primarily from the local area in Wooster, Ohio. · The company has not laid off any employees since 1954, showcasing job security. · Wooster Brush focuses on long-term employee relationships and community involvement. · Product innovation is driven by feedback from contractors and end-users. · Labor savings are achieved through efficient product design and quality tools. · The majority of Wooster Brush products are manufactured in the USA. · Automation and robotics are used to enhance efficiency in manufacturing. Connect with Our Guests Ben Maibach on LinkedIn Michael Stephens on LinkedIn ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ Connect with Us ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, share and subscribe!

March 9, 202645 min

The Black Belt Mindset: What Jiu-Jitsu Teaches About Leadership and Resilience with Luke Rinehart

ABOUT In this episode, David and Aaron talk to Luke Reinhart about `the world of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, exploring its origins, benefits, and the personal journey of Luke as a martial artist and business owner. They discuss how Jiu-Jitsu can empower individuals, particularly women, and how the discipline learned on the mat translates into valuable skills in business. Luke shares insights on building a successful martial arts academy, the importance of faith in personal growth, and the parallels between martial arts and entrepreneurship. Takeaways Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu originated from mixed martial arts and gained popularity through the UFC. Luke started martial arts at five years old, influenced by his father's teachings. Consistency and intentionality are key to success in both Jiu-Jitsu and business. Failure is a necessary part of the learning process in Jiu-Jitsu and business. Building a strong curriculum and systems is essential for running a successful martial arts academy. Conflict in Jiu-Jitsu mirrors challenges in life and business, providing growth opportunities. Hiring individuals with a martial arts background can bring discipline and resilience to a business. CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST Luke Rinehart CONNECT WITH US ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism EPISODE SPONSORS ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

February 5, 202642 min

Where Smart Commercial Painters Are Focusing Next — Insights from Sherwin-Williams

ABOUT In this conversation, Aaron, Julie Zamski, and Paul Trautmann discuss the pivotal role of Sherwin-Williams in the commercial painting industry, the current market trends, and the opportunities available for contractors. They discuss various sectors such as water and power, public works, and the importance of business development for smaller contractors. The discussion also covers challenges and opportunities in floor and roof coatings, the significance of networking and trade shows, and predictions for growth in various sectors including healthcare and hospitality. The conversation concludes with insights on upcoming opportunities related to the Olympics and stadium projects. Key Takeaways 50% of projects in the commercial sector are renovations. Data centers are a major growth driver for the future. Understanding product applications is crucial for contractors. Networking at trade shows is essential for business growth. The flooring business presents significant opportunities. Roof coatings can be a viable entry point for contractors. Education and training are vital for entering new markets. The upcoming Olympics will create new investment opportunities. CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST Julie Zamski Paul Trautmann Sherwin-Williams CONNECT WITH US ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism EPISODE SPONSORS ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

January 9, 202638 min

How AI is Transforming the SEO World with Aaron Cote

SUMMARY In this conversation, David and Aaron talk to Aaron Cote about the intersection of AI and SEO, discussing how AI is transforming digital marketing strategies, particularly for commercial painting companies. They delve into the importance of authenticity in content creation, the role of Google Business Profile, and best practices for leveraging AI tools effectively. The discussion emphasizes the need for a learning mindset in SEO and the significance of quality over quantity in content and reviews. Key Takeaways AI has significantly changed the landscape of SEO and content creation. Commercial painting companies can benefit from understanding their audience's problems. Authenticity in content is crucial for SEO success. Google Business Profile enhances credibility and trust for businesses. Quality of reviews is more important than quantity in today's market. AI can assist in content creation but should not replace human touch. CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST avisualglitch.com CONNECT WITH US ⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism EPISODE SPONSORS ⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ ⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) DC Marketing Group If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

November 17, 202543 min

A Special Episode with Co-host David Chism

ABOUT In this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, host Aaron turns the mic and interviews co-host David Chism, a fifth-generation painter and marketing expert. They discuss David's journey from San Diego to Maryland, the influence of faith on his business practices, and the evolution of marketing strategies in the painting industry. David shares success stories from his marketing firm, the impact of AI on marketing, and resources for contractors to enhance their marketing knowledge. The conversation concludes with insights into the growth of Chism Brothers Painting from retail to commercial painting. CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTS ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠ CONNECT WITH US ⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠ Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism ⁠ EPISODE SPONSORS ⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA) ⁠DC Marketing Group⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!