Hole in the Wall Business Podcast

Welcome to The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast with Bill and James. In this episode, we sit down with Bary El-Yacoubi, co-founder of Send Me a Pro—a fast-growing home services franchise blending technology, trust, and scalability. Bary shares how he went from personal trainer to building a tech-powered platform that helps homeowners find vetted professionals while empowering franchisees to grow...

We sit down with Justin Recca of Innovative Realty—an ex-police officer turned real estate broker and investor—who shares how he scaled his property management company from scratch to over 600 units using systems, automation, and a relentless work ethic. From self-showing tech to managing a high-volume portfolio with a lean team, Justin dives deep into what it takes to thrive in both residential a...

Welcome to The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast with Bill and James. In this episode, we sit down with Matthew Collins, founder of Collins Kitchen and Bath, to hear how he went from rock bottom—literally starting his business with -$1,000 in the bank—to building one of Central Florida’s most trusted renovation companies. We explore the gritty realities of entrepreneurship, why cheap work can cost...

In this episode, Bill and James sit down with Christian Touzet, majority owner of The Point Pub and Grill, to explore how a cozy neighborhood bar in Oregon evolved into a growing franchise model with nationwide potential. Christian shares how he went from corporate trainer to owner, why his pub concept is winning over communities, and what it takes to scale a food-service brand while staying hyper...

In this episode, we sit down with Ray Alvarez—founder of Shoot With Ray and a visual branding expert—to explore how small businesses can use professional photography to elevate their brand, build trust, and generate more attention online. From headshots to hero shots, B-roll to brand storytelling, Ray shares real-world strategies for creating content that turns scroll-stopping photos into real lea...

In this episode, James Groves and his business partner Bill DeMent dive deep into a foundational mindset that has shaped their success as small business owners: burning shoe leather. They unpack what it really means to get out from behind the desk, hit the pavement, and proactively build business through real-world relationship development. From cold calls and donut drops to intentional networking...

ent share their experiences in the small business and trade service industry as owners of Hole in the Wall drywall repair. They discuss their recent partnership with FranGrowth, a franchise development organization, and how it has impacted their business. Special guests Dan Glaser (President) and Andrew Mayers (Director of Franchise Development) from FranGrowth delve into the intricacies of franch...

Join James Groves and Bill DeMent on The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast as they dive into the age-old debate: Is it better to be an entrepreneur or an employee? As co-owners of Hole in the Wall drywall repair, James and Bill share their personal experiences, discussing the pros and cons of both career paths. They touch on financial freedom, job security, responsibility, and personal fulfillment...

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Hole-in-the-Wall Business Podcast with hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves. In this episode, they share their journey as small business owners in the drywall repair industry. Joining them is special guest Ewell Smith, a franchise consultant from New Orleans. Ewell shares his extensive experience in crisis management, marketing, and the trade association...

In this episode of the Home Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves sit down with Jacob Lane, Vice President of Growth and Operations at DBK Construction and Services. They discuss the journey of owning a small business in the trade service industry, the challenges, and the strategies for success. Jacob shares his personal story of how he got into construction despite attempting...

Join hosts Bill and James on the Home Wall Business Podcast as they discuss the trials, triumphs, and key lessons of running a small business in the trade service industry. In this episode, they welcome special guest Willie Santiago, owner of GSJ Services. Willie shares his fascinating journey from New York corporate travel agent to successful solo proprietor specializing in carpet cleaning, press...

In this episode of the Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves meet with Richard Di Biase, owner of Restoration One franchises in Central Florida. Richard shares his captivating journey from being a police officer in Canada to relocating to Florida to start a new chapter as a franchise owner. He discusses the challenges and rewards of entering the restoration business...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, Bill and James are joined by repeat guest Matt Snowberger, the owner of TNT Lawn Care. Matt shares his inspirational journey over the past year, detailing how he has grown his business by doubling his staff, enhancing company culture, and preparing to unveil new marketing strategies. Discover the challenges and strategies involved in scalin...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves are joined by Christopher Wherrell, a franchise consultant with The Franchise Consulting Company (FCC). Christopher shares his journey from being a business owner to creating a franchise and ultimately becoming a franchise consultant. He discusses the complexities of helping others find the ideal franchise...

Join hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves in this enlightening episode of the Hole in the Wall Business Podcast as they chat with James Hatfield, Chief Revenue Officer and Co-Founder of LiveSwitch. Discover how LiveSwitch is transforming home service businesses through instantaneous live video technology, enabling virtual estimates and saving time and resources. James shares his journey from painter...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill and James sit down with Scott Couchenour, a self-styled fourth quarter strategic coach specializing in helping entrepreneurs transition from business ownership to new life purposes. Scott discusses the emotional and strategic elements of navigating this significant life change, touching on rediscovering identity, financial freedo...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, co-hosts James Groves and Bill DeMent share their journey as small business owners of Hole in the Wall Drywall Repair. They discuss their experiences in franchising, from initial hurdles to major breakthroughs. This episode features a casual conversation with their outsourced CMO, Trish Murphy, who has played a crucial role in the company's...

In this episode of the Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts James Groves and Bill DeMent sit down with Jess Love, founder of Home Smiles, a home property maintenance company servicing homes and properties in over 30 states. Jess shares his journey from being a real estate attorney and litigator to creating a business that offers bundled maintenance services for property managers, saving on lar...

Join James Groves and Bill DeMent as they reflect on an incredible year of the Hole in the Wall Business Podcast. They express gratitude to their loyal listeners and recount the numerous insightful guests and topics they've explored in 2024. From business coaches to marketing experts, and inspirational franchise owners, discover the key takeaways and standout moments from over 120 episodes. Celebr...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts James Groves and Bill DeMent sit down with Joe Misiti of Building Talent Foundation. Joe discusses the foundation's efforts in recruiting employees for the trades across America and their innovative platform, JobsToBuild.com. Joe shares his personal journey, the foundation's mission, and various success stories, highlighting the impor...

In this episode of 'The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast,' hosts Bill DeMent and James Groves introduce two attorneys, Isela Simpkins, an estate planning lawyer with her own practice, IGS Legal, and Irech Colon Morales, an associate at Segarra and Associates specializing in family law. The conversation delves into the intricacies of estate planning, family law, prenups, divorces, and much more. B...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts James Groves and Bill DeMent welcome back Liz Leonard, a franchise advisor and author of 'Your Franchise Fast Pass".   Liz shares her journey from corporate healthcare to franchise business ownership, offering valuable insights into the world of franchising.   The discussion covers the challenges of starting a business, the benefits o...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill and James interview Ivan and Mariana Polic, founders of Shift Intelligence. With over 12 years of experience, Ivan and Mariana have helped small and medium-sized businesses scale, improve efficiency, and achieve successful exits. They share insights from their own journey in the aerospace industry where they tripled revenue and a...

In this heartfelt episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, hosts Bill Dement and James Groves sit down with Delbert Groves and Anita Held to discuss their inspiring missionary work in Zambia, Africa. Delbert, father of James, shares his 35-year journey in the mission field, collaborating with the United Methodist Church and building over 150 congregations and numerous facilities. Anita He...

In this episode of The Hole in the Wall Business Podcast, we sit down with Matthew Dusa, founder of Capstone Fire, a private fire rescue company that started with forest fires and has since expanded nationwide. Matthew shares his journey from being a firefighter paramedic to scaling and eventually selling Capstone Fire. He also delves into his role as an EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) impl...