The Commercial Painting Podcast

Hosted by David Chism and Aaron Moore

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Latest episode

May 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.

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51 recent

June 16, 202644 min

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

Episode SummaryIn 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 TakeawaysLeadership 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 GuestEmily Howard on LinkedInConnect with Us⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEpisode Sponsors⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)DC Marketing GroupIf 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 TakeawaysWhere should usersstart with AI toolsHow should leadersbring AI to their companiesHow to form AIpoliciesConnect with Our GuestKathy Slowinski on ⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠The AI Boss⁠⁠Trilogy⁠ Connect with Us⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism⁠ Episode Sponsors⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The 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 TakeawaysThe value of hosting a AI HackathonHow to use agents to do admin workUsing AI to handle contract renewalsConnect with Our GuestKathy Slowinski on LinkedInThe AI BossTrilogy Connect with Us⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The 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 GuestsBen Maibach on LinkedInMichael Stephens on LinkedIn⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠ Connect with Us⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism Episode Sponsors⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The 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

ABOUTIn 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.TakeawaysBrazilian 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 GUESTLuke RinehartCONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEPISODE SPONSORS⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)DC Marketing GroupIf 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

ABOUTIn 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 Takeaways50% 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 GUESTJulie ZamskiPaul TrautmannSherwin-WilliamsCONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEPISODE SPONSORS⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)DC Marketing GroupIf you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

January 9, 202638 min

How AI is Transforming the SEO World with Aaron Cote

SUMMARYIn 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 TakeawaysAI 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 GUESTavisualglitch.comCONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEPISODE SPONSORS⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)DC Marketing GroupIf you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

November 17, 202543 min

A Special Episode with Co-host David Chism

ABOUTIn 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 GUESTS⁠DC Marketing Group⁠CONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David Chism⁠EPISODE SPONSORS⁠⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)⁠DC Marketing Group⁠If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

October 23, 202545 min

Developing Sales Teams That Know How to Hunt and Close

ABOUTIn this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, host David Chism welcomes Mike Green, a seasoned sales professional with a unique journey from college basketball to the commercial painting industry. Mike shares his story of transitioning from a potential career in professional sports to a successful role in sales and business development. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of self-generating leads, the importance of maintaining a consistent prospecting routine, and the value of building a strong referral network. Mike emphasizes the significance of having a structured sales process and the impact it can have on closing rates and overall business success.Throughout the conversation, Mike and David explore the dynamics of sales roles in the painting industry, highlighting the benefits of a hybrid model where sales reps are trained in both business development and estimating. They discuss the importance of hiring individuals with a competitive spirit and a proven track record, regardless of their prior experience in the trades. Mike shares insights on how to motivate sales teams to take initiative and generate their own leads, especially during slower seasons.The episode also touches on Mike's recent transition to the roofing industry, where he applies his sales expertise to train and lead a team at Ironhead Roofing. He reflects on the similarities between the two industries and the importance of having a system in place to ensure success.CONNECT WITH OUR GUESTSIronhead Roofingmike@ironheadroofing.comCONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEPISODE SPONSORS⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)DC Marketing GroupIf you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!

October 2, 202540 min

Remembering the Life and Work of Charlie Kirk

ABOUTIn this episode of the Commercial Painting Podcast, hosts David and Aaron discuss the recent events surrounding Charlie Kirk, exploring their personal reactions, the impact of his death, and the broader implications for free speech and faith in society. They reflect on the importance of civil discourse, the need for open conversations, and the lessons learned from Kirk's life and legacy. The discussion emphasizes the significance of standing up for one's beliefs while fostering understanding and respect among differing viewpoints.You’ll also hear:Why understanding the influence of public figures like Charlie Kirk is essential.Why the impact of Charlie Kirk's death has resonated deeply with many.How we are leading our businesses and families in light of this tragedy.The need for civility and respectful discourse in political discussions.Family discussions about values and beliefs are important for growth.CONNECT WITH US⁠⁠⁠Podcast website⁠⁠⁠Request a FREE 1-Hour Consultation with David ChismEPISODE SPONSORS⁠The Wooster Brush Company⁠⁠⁠⁠The Commercial Painting Industry Associate⁠⁠⁠ (CPIA)⁠DC Marketing Group⁠If you enjoyed this episode, remember to like, share, and subscribe!