Floor Academy - Helping flooring, tile and stone contractors own an asset
433 episodes - English - Latest episode: 5 days ago -Floor Academy is a podcast hosted by Kyle Hedin that provides small business information and guidance to flooring, tile and stone contractors on how to build a successful and sustainable business. The podcast aims to help contractors move from owning a job to owning an asset, by providing insights and strategies related to management, entrepreneurship, and networking.
Floor Academy covers a range of topics related to flooring, tile and stone business management, including small business advertising, paid traffic, and organic traffic. The podcast also provides information on promotional marketing, LLC setup, simple small business management, and networking strategies.
The podcast aims to help carpet, tile, stone, hardwood, floating floor, and many more types of contractors develop a deep understanding of business management, including effective networking and entrepreneurship strategies, which are crucial to achieving long-term success in the flooring industry. By discussing various topics related to small business management, such as finance, operations, marketing, sales, human resources, branding, advertising, interviewing, taxes, company structures, and more the podcast provides valuable insights to help flooring, tile and stone contractors become successful business owners by answering the question how do i market my small business.
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Episodes
Free Estimates? - Joshua Crossman - PTL Hardwoods
January 15, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.8 MBIn this episode, we talk with Josh Crossman, owner of PTL Hardwoods in Yelm, WA, and a member of the NWFA. Josh shares his business experience and the valuable lesson he learned about saving time on the road by charging for consultations. We delve into the importance of managing potential clients over the phone by actively listening to their needs, prequalifying them, and having a solid sales script to follow. By doing so, you can streamline the sales process, increase conversion rates, and ...
Free Estimates? - Joshua Crossman
January 15, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 48.2 MBIn this episode, we talk with Josh Crossman, owner of PTL Hardwoods in Yelm, WA, and a member of the NWFA. Josh shares his business experience and the valuable lesson he learned about saving time on the road by charging for consultations. We delve into the importance of managing potential clients over the phone by actively listening to their needs, prequalifying them, and having a solid sales script to follow. By doing so, you can streamline the sales process, increase conversion rates, and ...
1099 Subcontractors Versus Employees - Donald Perkins
January 08, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.2 MBIn the episode, Don and I also discuss the risks of employee misclassification for small businesses. Misclassifying employees as independent contractors can lead to significant legal and financial consequences, including penalties, back taxes, and lawsuits. These risks can be especially damaging for small businesses, which may not have the resources to pay for these costs. By partnering with employees and properly classifying them, small businesses can avoid these risks and ensure a more sta...
1099 Subcontractors Versus Employees - Donald Perkins - DFP Flooring
January 08, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 46.8 MBIn this week's episode, we are joined by Donald Perkins, owner of DFP Flooring in Covington, CT. Together, we explore and analyze the contrasts between 1099 subcontractors and employees, as well as the benefits of forming partnerships rather than just hiring staff. We also delve into the roles of distributors and reps in the flooring industry and how we can collectively strive to elevate the standards of the entire field. In the episode, Don and I also discuss the risks of employee misclass...
Finding Partners - Lisbeth Calandrino
January 01, 2020 07:00 - 1 hour - 47.9 MBThis week on the Floor Academy Podcast, we are joined by Liz Caladrino, a seasoned professional in the flooring industry with years of experience running furniture and carpet liquidation stores and serving as a consultant and business coach. Our conversation focuses on the importance of forming partnerships with people in the industry, rather than simply viewing them as employees, sub-contractors, or distributors. Liz shares her insights and strategies for building strong relationships with ...
Who Am I? - Kyle Hedin
December 25, 2019 07:00 - 31 minutes - 21.6 MBOn this week's episode, I am going solo for the first time due to scheduling constraints and the holiday season. I am taking this opportunity to share my personal background in the flooring industry, the inspiration behind my passion for education, and the direction I envision for the show's future. As a flooring installer, I know firsthand the value of staying up-to-date on the latest trends, techniques, and products in the field. This is why I am dedicated to presenting our listeners with ...
Who Am I? - Kyle Hedin - Floor Academy and Illustrious Hardwoods
December 25, 2019 07:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MBOn this week's episode, I am going solo for the first time due to scheduling constraints and the holiday season. I am taking this opportunity to share my personal background in the flooring industry, the inspiration behind my passion for education, and the direction I envision for the show's future. As a flooring installer, I know firsthand the value of staying up-to-date on the latest trends, techniques, and products in the field. This is why I am dedicated to presenting our listeners with ...
Floor Prep - Jeremy Waldorf
December 18, 2019 07:00 - 50 minutes - 34.4 MBThis week's episode features an insightful conversation with Jeremy Waldorf, an expert from Schonox, about the importance of subfloor preparation in flooring installation. As Jeremy explains, proper subfloor preparation can make all the difference in achieving a level, smooth surface for your flooring. Whether you are dealing with uneven concrete, moisture issues, or other subfloor challenges, there are solutions available to help you achieve a flat, stable base for your flooring. By investi...
Floor Prep - Jeremy Waldorf - Schonox
December 18, 2019 07:00 - 49 minutes - 34 MBThis week's episode features an insightful conversation with Jeremy Waldorf, an expert from Schonox, about the importance of subfloor preparation in flooring installation. As Jeremy explains, proper subfloor preparation can make all the difference in achieving a level, smooth surface for your flooring. Whether you are dealing with uneven concrete, moisture issues, or other subfloor challenges, there are solutions available to help you achieve a flat, stable base for your flooring. By investi...
Attacking the Top - Scott Zito
December 11, 2019 07:00 - 1 hour - 48.8 MBToday, we speak with Scott Zito of Bel Lavoro Carpet and Luxury Flooring in Olathe, KS. Scott and I spend our time talking about how we compete in the top 5% of the market and only look for clients who are seeking installers that will do the job to the highest degree of skill. We also discuss how we need to find more skilled installers to meet the increasing demand in this competitive market. By focusing on the top 5% of the market and seeking out clients who value high-quality installation...
Attacking the Top - Scott Zito - Bel Lavoro Carpet and Luxury Flooring
December 11, 2019 07:00 - 1 hour - 48.4 MBToday, we speak with Scott Zito of Bel Lavoro Carpet and Luxury Flooring in Olathe, KS. Scott and I spend our time talking about how we compete in the top 5% of the market and only look for clients who are seeking installers that will do the job to the highest degree of skill. We also discuss how we need to find more skilled installers to meet the increasing demand in this competitive market. By focusing on the top 5% of the market and seeking out clients who value high-quality installation...
"Social" Media - Ken Ballin - Skyro Floors
December 04, 2019 07:00 - 52 minutes - 36.3 MBIn this episode, we welcome back Ken Ballin, and delve into the topic of "Social" Media. As Ken explains, various social media platforms have different purposes and serve as powerful tools for expanding businesses in today's technology-driven world. However, he also emphasizes the importance of traditional methods such as hitting the pavement and networking. We discuss how to effectively use social media to establish a strong online presence, engage with potential clients, and showcase your...
"Social" Media - Ken Ballin
December 04, 2019 07:00 - 53 minutes - 36.8 MBIn this episode, we welcome back Ken Ballin, and delve into the topic of "Social" Media. As Ken explains, various social media platforms have different purposes and serve as powerful tools for expanding businesses in today's technology-driven world. However, he also emphasizes the importance of traditional methods such as hitting the pavement and networking. We discuss how to effectively use social media to establish a strong online presence, engage with potential clients, and showcase your...
Quality Installs, Tight Turnarounds, and Integrity - Roland Thompson
November 27, 2019 07:00 - 59 minutes - 40.9 MBThis week, we have the pleasure of speaking with Roland Thompson, an esteemed professional in the flooring industry and owner of Thompson's Flooring Installation and Consulting. Not only is Roland a highly regarded installer, but he is also a certified trainer for CFI and heavily involved in various other aspects of the industry. One of Roland's notable achievements is his involvement with the popular television show Restaurant Impossible, where he oversees all flooring installations. Despi...
Quality Installs, Tight Turnarounds, and Integrity - Roland Thompson - Thompson's Flooring Installation and Consulting
November 27, 2019 07:00 - 58 minutes - 40.4 MBThis week, we have the pleasure of speaking with Roland Thompson, an esteemed professional in the flooring industry and owner of Thompson's Flooring Installation and Consulting. Not only is Roland a highly regarded installer, but he is also a certified trainer for CFI and heavily involved in various other aspects of the industry. One of Roland's notable achievements is his involvement with the popular television show Restaurant Impossible, where he oversees all flooring installations. Despi...
Sales, Mentors and Follow Up - Rachel Berlin
November 20, 2019 07:00 - 54 minutes - 37.7 MBIn this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Rachel Berlin, the Sales Manager of Precision Floors & Decor located in Plymouth, WI. Rachel provided us with valuable insights on sales strategies, the importance of having mentors, and the benefits of following up with clients. We discussed several simple sales strategies that can help businesses increase their sales and enhance customer satisfaction. One of the key takeaways was the significance of listening to customers' needs and of...
Sales, Mentors and Follow Up - Rachel Berlin - Precision Floors and Decor
November 20, 2019 07:00 - 54 minutes - 37.3 MBIn this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Rachel Berlin, the Sales Manager of Precision Floors & Decor located in Plymouth, WI. Rachel provided us with valuable insights on sales strategies, the importance of having mentors, and the benefits of following up with clients. We discussed several simple sales strategies that can help businesses increase their sales and enhance customer satisfaction. One of the key takeaways was the significance of listening to customers' needs and of...
Tile Chicks! - Michelle Blomquist Hamilton - Tile Maryland
November 13, 2019 07:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBJoin us for this weeks episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, where we sit down with Michelle Hamilton, the owner and operator of Tile Maryland in Conowingo, MD. Michelle is also the founder of the Tile Chics Facebook group, which is focused on promoting women in the flooring industry. Michelle shares her goals for the tile trade and her vision for empowering women in the field. Tune in to learn more about Michelle's journey and her efforts to make a positive impact on the industry. http://...
Tile Chicks! - Michelle Blomquist Hamilton
November 13, 2019 07:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MBJoin us for this weeks episode of the Floor Academy Podcast, where we sit down with Michelle Hamilton, the owner and operator of Tile Maryland in Conowingo, MD. Michelle is also the founder of the Tile Chics Facebook group, which is focused on promoting women in the flooring industry. Michelle shares her goals for the tile trade and her vision for empowering women in the field. Tune in to learn more about Michelle's journey and her efforts to make a positive impact on the industry. http://...
Being the Young Guy - Ethan Abrudeanu - Broadleaf Hardwoods Co.
November 06, 2019 07:00 - 34 minutes - 23.4 MBIn this episode, Ethan shares how he has successfully closed contracts by focusing on the value of his products and services, rather than competing solely on price. He believes in educating his clients about the benefits of using premium hardwood products and the long-term savings they can provide. Ethan also discusses how he has learned to adapt and overcome challenges, such as being a young small business owner in a competitive industry. He shares his insights on building relationships wi...
Being the Young Guy - Ethan Abrudeanu
November 06, 2019 07:00 - 34 minutes - 23.9 MBIn this episode, Ethan shares how he has successfully closed contracts by focusing on the value of his products and services, rather than competing solely on price. He believes in educating his clients about the benefits of using premium hardwood products and the long-term savings they can provide. Ethan also discusses how he has learned to adapt and overcome challenges, such as being a young small business owner in a competitive industry. He shares his insights on building relationships wi...
How much should I charge for....? - Anthony Moses
October 30, 2019 07:00 - 33 minutes - 22.7 MBIn this episode, we speak with Anthony Moses, the owner of Simply Intricate Designs, a tile company based in Baton Rouge, LA. Anthony and I delve into the challenging topic of pricing - one that many small business owners struggle with. During our conversation, Anthony shares valuable insights and strategies on how to approach pricing in a way that is both profitable and sustainable for your business. He discusses the importance of understanding your costs, analyzing your competition, and s...
How much should I charge for....? - Anthony Moses - Simply Intricate Designs
October 30, 2019 07:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MBIn this episode, we speak with Anthony Moses, the owner of Simply Intricate Designs, a tile company based in Baton Rouge, LA. Anthony and I delve into the challenging topic of pricing - one that many small business owners struggle with. During our conversation, Anthony shares valuable insights and strategies on how to approach pricing in a way that is both profitable and sustainable for your business. He discusses the importance of understanding your costs, analyzing your competition, and s...
Growth and Evolution - Jesse Boswell - Floor Dozers
October 23, 2019 07:00 - 24 minutes - 16.7 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jesse Boswell, the founder of Floor Dozers, a unique demolition company that was born out of Jesse's experience in the tile installation business. Jesse's entrepreneurial spirit and determination to provide high-quality, specialized services to his customers has enabled him to rapidly grow Floor Dozers into a successful enterprise. During our conversation, Jesse will share valuable insights into his journey, and the strategies that have...
Growth and Evolution - Jesse Boswell
October 23, 2019 07:00 - 24 minutes - 17.2 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Jesse Boswell, the founder of Floor Dozers, a unique demolition company that was born out of Jesse's experience in the tile installation business. Jesse's entrepreneurial spirit and determination to provide high-quality, specialized services to his customers has enabled him to rapidly grow Floor Dozers into a successful enterprise. During our conversation, Jesse will share valuable insights into his journey, and the strategies that have...
Branding, Brotherhood, and "Babes" - Billy Graham
October 16, 2019 13:00 - 48 minutes - 33 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Billy Graham, the founder of Legacy Flooring, who will share his insights on branding, brotherhood within the flooring industry, and and "babes". As a successful entrepreneur and industry veteran, Billy brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our discussion. He has been able to develop a strong branding strategy for his business, and fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among flooring professionals in his local area. Thr...
Branding, Brotherhood, and "Babes" - Billy Graham - Legacy Flooring
October 16, 2019 13:00 - 47 minutes - 32.6 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Billy Graham, the founder of Legacy Flooring, who will share his insights on branding, brotherhood within the flooring industry, and and "babes". As a successful entrepreneur and industry veteran, Billy brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our discussion. He has been able to develop a strong branding strategy for his business, and fostering a sense of camaraderie and support among flooring professionals in his local area. Thr...
Camaraderie in the Trades - Mark Herakovic
October 09, 2019 13:00 - 45 minutes - 31.4 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mark Herakovic, who will share his insights on the importance of camaraderie within the flooring industry and the broader trades community. Mark's experience and expertise make him an ideal guest to discuss this topic. He has been actively involved in the flooring industry for many years, and is passionate about elevating the trade to new heights. During our conversation, Mark will offer valuable advice on how we can all contribute to ...
Camaraderie in the Trades - Mark Herakovic - MDG Flooring America
October 09, 2019 13:00 - 45 minutes - 30.9 MBIn this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mark Herakovic, who will share his insights on the importance of camaraderie within the flooring industry and the broader trades community. Mark's experience and expertise make him an ideal guest to discuss this topic. He has been actively involved in the flooring industry for many years, and is passionate about elevating the trade to new heights. During our conversation, Mark will offer valuable advice on how we can all contribute to ...
National Installer of the Year Competition 2019 - Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis - Skyro Floors and Eagle Interiors
October 02, 2019 23:00 - 36 minutes - 24.9 MBIn this episode we continue our discussion with Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis. We cover their participation at the National Installer of the Year Competition at the Surfaces event. The National Installer of the Year Competition at the Surfaces event is more than just a showcase of the industry's top talent. It is a platform for promoting the flooring trade to a wider audience and encouraging future generations to pursue careers in this dynamic field. By highlighting the skills and expertise o...
National Installer of the Year Comeptition 2019 - Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis
October 02, 2019 23:00 - 36 minutes - 25.3 MBIn this episode we continue our discussion with Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis. We cover their participation at the National Installer of the Year Competition at the Surfaces event. The National Installer of the Year Competition at the Surfaces event is more than just a showcase of the industry's top talent. It is a platform for promoting the flooring trade to a wider audience and encouraging future generations to pursue careers in this dynamic field. By highlighting the skills and expertise o...
The Importance of Certifications - Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis - Skyro Floors and Eagle Interiors
September 22, 2019 00:00 - 24 minutes - 16.9 MBIn this first episode of Floored-U-Cation Pro we talk about the importance of certifications with installers Roy Allen Lewis and Ken Ballin. Both of them are accomplished in their own right. Learn more about each of them by visiting their websites. In today's competitive business environment, it is more important than ever to differentiate yourself from the competition. One effective way to achieve this is by obtaining industry certifications. Certifications demonstrate to your clients and ...
The Importance of Certifications - Ken Ballin and Allen Lewis
September 22, 2019 00:00 - 25 minutes - 17.4 MBIn this first episode of Floored-U-Cation Pro we talk about the importance of certifications with installers Roy Allen Lewis and Ken Ballin. Both of them are accomplished in their own right. Learn more about each of them by visiting their websites. In today's competitive business environment, it is more important than ever to differentiate yourself from the competition. One effective way to achieve this is by obtaining industry certifications. Certifications demonstrate to your clients and ...