In this episode of Blueprint Boost for Contractors, we sit down with Mary Soldano, one of the nation’s top SBA 7(a) lenders, business broker, and now service business owner. Mary shares her unique perspective on what it really takes to buy, grow, and scale a trade business from navigating SBA financing to preparing for expansion.

With experience on both sides of the table funding deals as a lender and running her own service business, Mary offers practical insights contractors can use to secure capital, avoid common pitfalls, and build companies that last. Whether you’re thinking about acquiring a business, preparing for a sale, or simply looking to strengthen your growth strategy, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, we sit down with Charity Tovar, owner of Charity’s Plumbing Solutions, to discuss what it’s really like to be a woman thriving in the plumbing trade and why the industry needs more like her. Charity shares candid insights on how society has stripped some of the dignity from skilled trades, the dangers of our “quick fix” culture, and why plumbing is a long game that demands quality, patience, and expertise.

We’ll unpack why plumbing costs vary from company to company, the difference between online retail parts and contract-grade materials, and how “shopping down” for the lowest price often leads to bigger bills in the long run. Plus, Charity reveals her proven approach to helping customers understand the true value of professional plumbing work and how we can all play a role in elevating respect for the trades.

Whether you’re a homeowner, aspiring tradesperson, or just someone curious about the business side of plumbing, this conversation will change the way you think about the pipes and people that keep our homes running.

Show Notes:

Website: Www.Charitysplumbingsolutions.com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Charitysplumbingsolutions/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/charitysplumbingsolutions/

Contractors today are always on the lookout for features that bring value to homeowners while keeping projects on schedule and crews efficient. Wayne Feltman is someone who’s been bridging that gap for more than twenty-five years at VELUX, empowering builders, remodelers, and roofers to offer skylight solutions that are both practical and profitable.

This episode sheds light on overlooked revenue streams and builds contractor confidence around smarter home upgrades.

https://www.veluxusa.com/products/skylights

In this episode of Blueprint Boost for Contractors, we sit down with BEHR Excavation to explore what it takes to break ground literally and figuratively in the excavation business. From managing large-scale sitework projects to building a reputation rooted in quality, safety, and trust, BEHR shares insights on standing out in a competitive industry. Whether you’re a contractor looking to scale or simply love stories about moving earth and moving business forward, this episode delivers practical takeaways and inspiration.

In this episode, we’re joined by Anthony from Righttek to break down the fast-changing world of HVAC refrigerants. Anthony gives us a high-level look at A2L refrigerants, what they are, why they’re slightly flammable, and why they’re dominating industry conversations right now.

We explore the key differences between R-32 and R-454B, why manufacturers are choosing one over the other, and how current supply shortages are impacting contractors. Anthony also walks us through the critical new requirements for installation, labeling, and low-voltage wiring, plus the system controls designed to keep homeowners safe.

Whether you’re an HVAC tech still comfortable with R410a or a contractor looking ahead, you’ll get practical advice on the top three things to learn, training and certifications to consider, and how Righttek is helping the industry navigate this major shift.

In this episode of Blueprint Boost for Contractors, we sit down with Dan Thrasher, CEO of Thrasher Foundation Repair, to explore the powerful intersection of company culture, leadership development, and world-class customer experience. Dan shares how he helped grow the business from a 40-person operation into a 400+ employee powerhouse across multiple states without losing sight of what matters most: people.

From growing up in a house that doubled as the family business office to coaching baseball on the weekends, Dan brings a unique, grounded perspective on what it takes to build a company that lasts. Whether you’re leading a team of 4 or 400, this conversation will leave you inspired to elevate your business with intentional culture, servant leadership, and a relentless focus on delivering more than just a service.

In this episode, I sit down with Brynn Cooksey, one of the co-founders of Pro Contractors Network, to talk about the mission behind their new training organization built specifically for HVAC and plumbing contractors. We dive into the real challenges contractors face on the front lines from dispatch and sales to technical performance and marketing and how Pro Contractors Network is solving them with practical, scalable training solutions.

Show Notes:

Pro Contractors Network: proconetwork.com

In this episode of The Blueprint Boost for Contractors, we sit down with the founder of ServExtra Todd Liles to explore how one company is reshaping the future of training in the home service industry. From the roots of ServExtra’s creation to the core philosophy behind its programs, you'll hear how real-world experience and a passion for service excellence drive lasting results. We dive into what truly sets ServExtra apart, the evolving demands of today’s customers, and how balancing technical skills with top-tier customer care can transform a business. Whether you're a technician, owner, or service leader this episode is packed with insight and action you won’t want to miss.