Don’t Get Left Out In The Cold

In this insightful discussion, we explore the implementation and impact of a four-day workweek in a plumbing business. The speaker shares personal experiences, employee feedback, and the business benefits of this innovative approach. From improved mental health and job satisfaction to a stronger recruitment strategy, this episode highlights why more companies are considering a shorter workweek.  ...

In this insightful podcast episode, the hosts discuss the latest changes and challenges in the heating and cooling industry since July. With boiler sales declining and interest in heat pumps growing, they analyse the impact of economic pressures, shifting government policies, and evolving heating technologies. They also question whether the government's ambitious heat pump targets are truly achiev...

In this insightful discussion, industry professionals explore the evolving landscape of heat pumps and renewable heating technologies, addressing market challenges, installer competence, and consumer education. They reflect on the failures of past initiatives like the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) and examine why many businesses remain hesitant to embrace heat pumps over traditional gas boilers....

In this thought-provoking discussion, two industry professionals explore the challenges and opportunities in the gas installation and maintenance sector. From the need for technological advancements in industry regulations (Gas Safe, MCS) to market fluctuations post-COVID, they discuss strategies for business adaptability, upskilling engineers, and diversifying services.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this insightful discussion, we break down the challenges and strategies behind growing a service-based business in the plumbing and engineering sectors. From customer acquisition and hiring skilled engineers to marketing pitfalls and innovative workforce solutions, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for business owners.   https://mr-group.co.uk/

In this episode, Mick & Lincoln dive into the major shifts in the heating industry since July. They discuss the decline in boiler installations, the growing interest in heat pumps, and the realities of transitioning to renewable heating technologies. With government policy changes impacting grants and electrification targets, the hosts question whether the industry is truly ready for these amb...

In this video, we discuss the process of selling a business, from showcasing its strengths to going to market and finding potential buyers. The review and selection process can take 9-10 months, and even when it moves quickly, things can still fall through at the last minute. Preparing to sell a business can take years, and we explore the emotional aspect—are you invested in the business or simply...

In this video, we discuss how to scale your business using debt finance and whether it’s the right option for our company. Richard breaks down debt finance and the importance of matching finance products to your specific needs. We also cover why it’s not wise to use a mortgage to buy a new car—this is why we have car finance and asset finance for things like office equipment. When you invest this...

In this video, we discuss the importance of having someone review your agreements and clauses to protect your business. Richard shares insights on 'poison pill' clauses—like one that ended a £30 million loan agreement, allowing the lender to take over the company if payments weren’t made by the due date. We also touch on default rates from quality lenders and the impact of buy now, pay later schem...

In this video, we dive into profit margins and share how our company is currently achieving a 10% profit. We discuss the benefits of being emotionally detached as a financial director and how it helps make better business decisions. Plus, we talk about our commitment deposit for boiler installations and how we ensure most of our customers have their new boiler fitted within 24-48 hours. 🚀💰   #Pr...

In this video, I share my experience as a business owner with an engineering background, thinking everything was going well until I bought a £40k van and realized we weren’t as successful as I’d thought. 🚐💭 The fast-paced nature of running a business can lead to impulsive decisions, and that’s why having expert guidance is so important. We talk about the benefits of getting a virtual finance dir...

💰 In this video, we break down the difference between financial controllers who excel at systems vs. those who bring deeper strategic thinking into sales. We share real-life examples from 9-figure companies and talk about how some directors can be uninspiring and drain the energy from the boardroom. Watch to learn how to recognise the right financial leadership for your business! 🚀   #financialg...

Welcome back, everyone! 🎥 In this video, we’re joined by financial expert Richard Jones. 💼 We discuss why business owners should consider hiring a Financial Director and the incredible benefits they can bring to your company. Richard also shares his extensive background as a Financial Director and his experience working for major companies. Don’t miss these valuable insights! 🚀 #financialexpert...

In this video, we dive into Joe Valente's exciting future plans, including big upcoming events with a business buying and selling expert. Joe shares how he learned to buy and sell businesses, a new area for him, as he only ever focused on growth. We discuss mid-market private equity and what it means for your business once it hits an EBITDA of 5,000 – companies at this stage can sell for up to 12...

In this video, Joe talks about how he’s raising his child with real-world lessons, bringing him into the boardroom to teach him that wins don’t come easy and that life isn’t about being handed everything. 🏆💪 Joe believes we need to give our kids reality checks to avoid entitlement and to show them how to go after what they want. 🛠️👊 He points out how the world has become softer, with people wan...

In this video, we discuss Joe's overheads, which total £600,000 a month—huge numbers until you're running a 7-figure monthly revenue. Joe shares his mindset as a 'billionaire in training,' where it’s all about adding a few more zeros. He challenges attendees at training days to determine their own worth, and most are surprised at how they undervalue themselves. It's all a game of zeros, and buildi...

n this video, we talk to Joe about Trade Mastermind and The Trade Group, including how our training team built an 8-figure business and how the Trade Group, which includes Trade Pod, Trade Design, and more, is set to scale to 9 figures. While our training program has a 24-month shelf life, we also discuss the importance of continued investment in our other businesses and the option to work with ou...

🎙️ We’re back with a very special guest—Joseph Valente, founder of Trade Mastermind and winner of The Apprentice! In this episode, we dive deep into Joseph’s incredible journey. From starting his first business at just 22 years old to building an 8-figure empire and now aiming for the next big milestone: 9 figures. 💼🚀 Joseph opens up about his vision to hit £100 million in sales or value, and ho...

In this episode, Michael Norris interviews Richard Jones, a financial expert, discussing the value of a finance director for businesses, debt financing, and preparing for selling a company.   Highlights:   💼 Importance of a finance director for strategic growth. 📈 Different types of debt financing available for businesses. 🔍 Understanding financial compliance versus strategic finance. 🏢 The si...

In this video, we explore the evolving challenges in the plumbing and heating industry, focusing on the need for adaptability, customer education, and a strong company culture. Highlights include staying ahead of competitors through innovation, the importance of educating customers, and fostering a positive company culture to retain employees. Key insights cover the necessity of evolving with indu...

In this video, we explore how running a plumbing and heating business demands ongoing learning in marketing and management to drive growth and prevent burnout. Highlights include the need to adapt to evolving marketing trends, invest strategically in marketing for revenue growth, and shift from a technical to a business mindset. Emphasising teachable processes, team building, and accurate data tra...

In this video, we discuss the challenges of running a plumbing and heating business, including low margins, high training costs, and inadequate government support. Highlights include the difficulty in recruiting skilled workers, navigating strict regulations, and the impact of low profit margins. The video also covers issues like insufficient training funding and intense market competition. Key in...

In this video, Chris shares his journey from school to entrepreneurship, highlighting his early ambition inspired by his parents and his experiences in property and construction. Despite attending a mediocre school and struggling with coursework, Chris excelled academically and pursued studies in construction and property management. Graduating during the 2008 recession, he faced a tough job marke...

In this video, we tackle the issue of ageism in the plumbing industry and stress the importance of value and pricing strategies for young business owners. Highlights include how ageism can affect pricing perceptions, the role of delivering high-value services, and the impact of successful partnerships, such as Joel’s with Woodcock Homes. Joel’s journey emphasizes the need for hard work, continuous...

In this video, we explore strategies to keep a heating company busy during summer, focusing on service plans, marketing, and new projects. Key tactics include implementing service plans to maintain steady business, targeting large projects like those at universities, and introducing new services such as power flushing. Emphasizing consistent marketing efforts, flexible pay structures, and careful...