The Start Build Grow Show

Hosted by Randy Brothers

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Episodes

100

Latest episode

Aug 2026

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About the show

The Start Build Grow Show is all about recognizing elite roofing entrepreneurs and service providers who bring next-level strategy and solutions to our ever-evolving industry! Randy Brothers host new guests to the podcast every week to continue providing quality educational material to roofing contractors and their teams!

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60 recent

September 10, 2026Episode 30255 min

EP 302. Something BIG Is Coming to the Roofing Industry

In this special episode, I sit down with Ronnie Smith, founder of NXTLVL Solutions and the new CEO of The Roofing Academy , to share the story behind our decision to bring our two companies together—and why this partnership has been more than a decade in the making. Years ago, Ronnie was one of the first coaches I brought into my roofing company to help us improve our systems and processes. What started as a mentor-and-student relationship eventually became a friendship, a shared mission, and now a business partnership focused on helping roofing contractors build stronger, more sustainable companies. We talk about Ronnie's nearly two decades of experience in consulting, systems, technology, and business growth, including the lessons he's learned helping contractors scale through better people, processes, communication, and accountability . We also break down what this new chapter means for The Roofing Academy and NXTLVL Solutions , why our teams and strengths complement each other, and our shared vision for helping roofing contractors build businesses that create freedom instead of becoming another job. If you're a roofing contractor looking to scale your company, strengthen your systems, develop your team, and build a business that can operate without depending on you every day , this episode gives you an inside look at where we're headed—and why we believe we're just getting started.

September 3, 2026Episode 30131 min

EP 301. How Insurance Supplementing Has Changed and What Roofing Contractors Must Do to Stay Profitable

In this episode, I sit down with Phil Mihlstin , entrepreneur, former roofing contractor, and founder of Ideal Claim Solutions , to discuss how insurance supplementing has evolved —and what contractors need to do to protect their profitability in today's changing claims environment. Drawing from years of experience on both the contracting and supplementing sides of the industry , Phil explains why the insurance landscape has become more challenging , how carrier expectations have shifted , and why contractors can no longer rely on the strategies that worked just a few years ago. We dive into practical approaches for building stronger claim files , communicating more effectively with adjusters , and maximizing legitimate claim payouts without creating unnecessary friction. Phil also shares why successful supplementing goes far beyond submitting additional line items. We discuss the importance of documentation, consistency, operational processes , and understanding the reasoning behind every request. He explains how contractors can position themselves as trusted professionals while recovering the dollars they've legitimately earned on every project. Toward the end of the conversation, we explore the future of insurance restoration , including how technology, AI, and changing carrier practices are reshaping the industry, and why roofing companies that adapt their processes now will be in the strongest position to succeed in the years ahead. If you're a roofing contractor who wants to improve insurance claim profitability , strengthen your supplementing process , and stay ahead of the rapid changes affecting insurance restoration , this episode delivers practical insights you can apply to your business immediately.

August 27, 2026Episode 30044 min

EP 300. The 4 Pillars That Build Successful Entrepreneurs

In this episode, I sit down with Skylar Lewis , serial entrepreneur, bestselling author, CEO of Rise Up Kings, Superior Restoration, and 2DAYCEO , to discuss what it truly means to build a successful business without sacrificing the areas of life that matter most. Skylar shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to leading multiple thriving companies, while explaining why real success isn't measured solely by revenue , but by how well you lead yourself, your family, your team, and your community . We dive into the Four Pillars—Faith, Family, Fitness, and Business —and how keeping these priorities aligned creates sustainable growth both personally and professionally. He also breaks down the importance of purpose-driven leadership , developing the right daily habits , and building a business that supports your life instead of consuming it . Throughout the conversation, Skylar explains why personal development is one of the greatest competitive advantages an entrepreneur can have, and how becoming a better leader begins with becoming a better person . Toward the end of the conversation, Skylar shares practical insights on creating balance , leading with intention , overcoming limiting beliefs , and building a legacy that extends far beyond business success. If you're an entrepreneur or business owner looking to grow your company without losing sight of your faith, family, health, or purpose , this episode will give you a powerful framework for creating success that lasts in every area of life .

August 20, 2026Episode 29954 min

EP 299. Stop Letting Taxes Leak Through Your Roofing Business

In this episode, I sit down with Chris Middleton and Tyler Buechler , co-founders of Make Taxes Fair , to uncover why so many business owners and contractors are paying far more in taxes than they legally need to. Chris and Tyler bring decades of combined experience in accounting, tax strategy, entrepreneurship, and business growth . Their mission is simple: help business owners keep more of the money they work so hard to earn through proactive, legal, and ethical tax planning . We dive into the biggest mistakes contractors make when it comes to taxes , the difference between tax preparation and true tax strategy , and why waiting until tax season is often too late to make meaningful changes. Chris and Tyler explain how the tax code is filled with incentives designed to encourage business growth , yet most owners never learn how to take advantage of them. We also discuss how business structure, payroll strategies, tax credits, deductions, and long-term planning can dramatically impact profitability. They break down why the wealthiest business owners approach taxes differently and how contractors can start implementing proven strategies that reduce tax liability while remaining fully compliant . Toward the end of the conversation, we explore the mindset shift required to stop viewing taxes as an unavoidable expense and start treating tax planning as a critical part of business strategy and wealth building . If you're a roofing contractor, entrepreneur, or business owner who feels like you're writing bigger checks to the IRS every year and wondering if there's a better way, this episode will give you practical insights and strategies to help you keep more of your hard-earned profits and build a stronger financial future .

August 6, 2026Episode 29839 min

EP 298. How to Differentiate Your Company in a Highly Competitive Industry

In this episode, I sit down with John Ravaris —author of Define Value, Drive Growth , founder of UVP Solutions , and a former executive in high-end residential construction —to tackle one of the biggest challenges contractors face today: standing out in a crowded market where everyone claims to offer the same thing. John breaks down the three pillars of differentiation that help businesses separate themselves from the competition: culture , process , and competitive intelligence . We discuss why culture is the one advantage competitors can never replicate, how clearly defined processes build trust before a project even begins, and why understanding your competitors is critical if you want to win more opportunities . We also dive into one of the most common mistakes contractors make during sales conversations — talking too much and listening too little . John explains why asking better questions , conducting a thorough needs assessment , and building proposals around what customers actually value can dramatically improve close rates and create a stronger client experience . Toward the end of the conversation, we explore practical ways contractors can uncover what truly makes their company different , communicate that value more effectively, and stop relying on price as their primary sales strategy . If you're a roofing contractor who feels stuck competing against dozens of similar companies, wants to improve sales conversations , and is looking for a clear framework to create meaningful differentiation in the marketplace, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can implement right away.

June 25, 2026Episode 29732 min

EP 297. How to Grow and Protect Your Business with Surety Bonds

In this episode, I sit down with Gary Eastman , attorney, entrepreneur, and founder of Axcess Surety and SwiftBonds , to break down one of the most misunderstood—and overlooked—topics in the construction industry: surety bonds . Gary holds both a JD and an MBA , spent more than 17 years serving as General Counsel for national and international companies, including Fortune 500 organizations , and has helped more than 20,000 clients secure bonding on projects with a combined value exceeding $1 billion . His experience sits at the intersection of law , construction , finance , and risk management , giving him a unique perspective on how contractors can grow while protecting their businesses. We dive into the three types of bonds every contractor should understand, how bid bonds protect project owners from unrealistic bids, and why many contractors leave significant opportunities on the table simply because they don't understand the bonding process . Gary also explains the 3% pricing rule , how contractors can build bond costs into their estimates, and why increasing bond capacity can open the door to larger projects , less competition, and stronger profit margins. We also discuss how contractors can identify bonded project opportunities , research competitors through public records and Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests , and position themselves for commercial and government work that many competitors avoid because of the additional requirements. Throughout the conversation, Gary shares practical insights on risk management , business growth , and why the contractors willing to master the details are often the ones who gain the greatest competitive advantage . If you're a roofing contractor or construction business owner looking to move beyond competing on price, pursue larger projects, and better understand how bonding can accelerate your growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights you can apply immediately.

June 11, 2026Episode 29632 min

EP 296. How AI Is Changing the Home Services Industry Forever

In this episode, I sit down with Cory Cullather, Digital Sales Strategist at WebFX, to break down how AI is transforming the home services industry and what roofing contractors need to do to stay ahead. With more than 15 years of experience in digital marketing and a deep focus on roofing and home service businesses , Cory shares a practical, no-hype perspective on what's actually changing—and what contractors can no longer afford to ignore. We discuss the growing influence of AI-powered search, why homeowners are increasingly relying on tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Google AI Overviews, and how these platforms are changing the way customers discover and choose contractors. We also dive into the evolution of SEO and the rise of Answer Engine Optimization (AEO), exploring why traditional search strategies are being rewritten and what contractors can do today to improve their visibility in AI-driven search results. Cory explains how business owners can evaluate whether their marketing agency is adapting to these changes and what meaningful reporting and transparency should look like moving forward. Toward the end of the conversation, we discuss how contractors can use AI internally as a business assistant by leveraging SOPs, meeting transcripts, company values, and operational data to improve d ecision-making, efficiency, and growth. If you're a roofing contractor or home service business owner trying to understand how AI is changing marketing, lead generation, and customer behavior, this episode will give you a practical roadmap for staying competitive and positioning your business for the future.

June 4, 2026Episode 29550 min

EP 295. The Financial Truth Nobody Tells Roofing Contractors

In this episode, I sit down with Brie Reis , CEO of Elite Roofing & Solar , and Jenn Allen , Financial Systems Coach for The Roofing Academy and Founder of Lucid Co., to unpack one of the most overlooked—but most important—parts of running a successful roofing company : the financial side of the business . Brie shares lessons from scaling one of the fastest-growing roofing companies in Colorado while navigating the real challenges that come with business growth , leadership , and building a sustainable company. Jenn brings over a decade of accounting and roofing industry experience to the conversation, breaking down why so many contractors struggle with cash flow , job costing , and financial systems that can't support long-term growth. We dive into the good, the bad, and the ugly of construction finances , including why many business owners don't truly know their numbers, how poor financial visibility impacts profitability , and what systems need to be in place before a company can scale effectively . Jenn also explains how tools like QuickBooks , JobNimbus , and integrated financial reporting systems should work together, why clean bookkeeping alone isn't enough, and how contractors can build financial clarity and confidence in their decision-making. Toward the end of the conversation, Brie and Jenn share practical insights on leadership development , accountability , business systems , and creating structure within a growing company—while also discussing the mindset shifts owners need to make if they want long-term business success and stability. If you're a contractor , roofing business owner , or entrepreneur looking to improve cash flow management , understand your numbers, increase profit margins , and build a company that scales with confidence, this episode will give you practical strategies and real-world insights you can start applying immediately.

May 28, 2026Episode 29454 min

EP 294. Stop Losing Millions Because of Poor Follow-up

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Fenn , entrepreneur, marketing innovator, and founder of CHIIRP , to break down how businesses are losing massive opportunities through poor follow-up —and how AI and automation are changing that. Ryan shares his journey from building businesses in the service industry to creating systems that help companies automate communication, improve response times , and convert more leads without adding more chaos to their operations. We dive into why speed and consistency matter more than ever, how missed calls and delayed responses are silently costing businesses money, and why automation is becoming a necessity instead of a luxury. We also unpack how AI-powered communication tools are helping contractors and service-based businesses create better customer experiences while freeing up time for owners and teams to focus on growth. Ryan explains how automation can strengthen—not replace—the human side of business when implemented correctly. Toward the end of the conversation, Ryan shares valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, and building systems that allow businesses to scale without sacrificing customer relationships or team culture. If you're a business owner looking to improve lead conversion , streamline communication, and build a business that operates more efficiently in today's fast-moving market, this episode will give you actionable insights you can apply immediately.

May 14, 2026Episode 29341 min

EP 293. How Business Owners Can Use Virtual Assistants & AI to Buy Back Their Time

In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Hathaway , an experienced entrepreneur and business strategist , to uncover how service-based business owners can reclaim their time, scale effectively , and avoid burnout. Andrew shares his personal journey through extreme burnout , the mental and emotional toll of running a business without support, and the steps he took to regain balance while growing his ventures. We dive into actionable strategies for leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to generate leads , improve visibility , and automate routine business processes, showing how technology can be a true "power-up" for entrepreneurs. He also breaks down the importance of building a team that thinks ahead—starting with an exceptional executive assistant , even from overseas—and how delegation can free business owners to focus on high-impact tasks . Andrew explains why outsourcing, automation, and consistent content creation are essential in today's rapidly changing business landscape. Toward the end of the conversation, Andrew offers practical advice on time and energy audits , prioritizing work that drives both revenue and fulfillment , and how these steps create freedom in business and life. If you're a business owner looking to work smarter, scale faster, and avoid burnout while embracing the latest AI and automation strategies , this episode will give you a clear framework to start reclaiming your time and growing your business more strategically.